Senate Resolution No. 403
BY: Senator GRIFFO
COMMENDING Thomas Douglas Powers, Jr., upon the
occasion of his designation as Grand Marshal of the
2025 Utica St. Patrick's Day Parade
WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to pay tribute to
individuals of true purpose and worthy accomplishment who work
diligently to preserve and celebrate their rich cultural heritage; and
WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
commend Thomas Douglas Powers, Jr., upon the occasion of his designation
as Grand Marshal of the 2025 Utica St. Patrick's Day Parade on Saturday,
March 15, 2025; and
WHEREAS, The Utica St. Patrick's Day Parade started as a small group
of Irishmen marching through the historic Brewery and Arts District and
is now the third largest parade in New York State; and
WHEREAS, The tradition of the Utica St. Patrick's Day Parade is
steeped in more than 200 years of history with Grand Marshal John C.
Devereux leading the first march through the historic Brewery and Arts
District of Utica; today, the Utica Parade draws approximately 30,000
spectators as more than 5,000 marchers from across the State step off
from Oneida Square and head north to Genesee Street; and
WHEREAS, The Utica St. Patrick's Day Parade Committee designated
Thomas Douglas Powers, Jr., as one of the highly esteemed Grand Marshals
in recognition of his devotion and passion for the preservation and
celebration of the Irish culture in his community; and
WHEREAS, Tom Powers is a lifelong resident of Utica and long-time
contributor to the Irish community in the Mohawk Valley; he is a
successful entrepreneur, beloved community leader, and cornerstone of
the community for more than 25 years, earning him the honor of Grand
Marshal at this year's parade; and
WHEREAS, The owner of The Celtic Harp, a well-known Irish restaurant
and pub, Tom Powers has played an instrumental role in fostering a space
for the community to celebrate the Irish culture; his leadership extends
to his role as President of the Friendly Sons of St. Patrick, and he
received the 2023 Claddagh Award for his active support of the Irish
culture and traditions; and
WHEREAS, Tom Powers has always been more than just a business owner;
he is a true champion of Irish heritage in Utica and, very importantly,
a friend to all, as expressed by the members of the Parade Committee; he
has dedicated his life to supporting the Irish culture through his
iconic food, community leadership, and fundraisers for charity hosted at
The Celtic Harp; and
WHEREAS, It is only fitting that Utica residents honor the
remarkable contributions of Tom Powers by naming him Grand Marshal of
this year's parade; his involvement in the community and unwavering
support for Irish traditions make him the ideal choice; he will lead the
2025 Utica St. Patrick's Day Parade, a daylong event of celebration and
pride for all members of the Mohawk Valley community; and
WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that when
individuals of such noble aims and accomplishments are brought to our
attention, they should be celebrated and recognized by all the citizens
of the great State of New York; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commend Thomas Douglas Powers, Jr., upon the occasion of his designation
as Grand Marshal of the 2025 Utica St. Patrick's Day Parade; and be it
further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Thomas Douglas Powers, Jr.
