Senate Resolution No. 1671

BY: Senator GRIFFO

COMMENDING Bob Sullivan upon the occasion of his
designation as Grand Marshal of the 2026 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 Bob Sullivan upon the occasion of his designation as Grand
Marshal of the 2026 Utica St. Patrick's Day Parade on Saturday, March
14, 2026, in Utica, New York; 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 Bob
Sullivan 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, Bob Sullivan, owner of Sullivan Contracting of Sauquoit,
New York, has been a proud and enthusiastic participant in the parade
for years; his energy, spirit, and love for the event make him a natural
choice to lead the 2026 celebration; and

WHEREAS, Bob Sullivan has played a key role in advancing the Irish
community, including providing leadership and construction expertise
that helped secure a $125,000 grant for projects at the Irish Cultural
Center; and

WHEREAS, Bob Sullivan's company employs approximately 40 dedicated
people who he treats like family; and

WHEREAS, Alongside his wife Lisa, Bob Sullivan is deeply engaged in
the community, supporting food pantries, youth sports, first responders,
health research, children's charities, and annual Thanksgiving food
deliveries with the Ancient Order of Hibernians, as well as ongoing
involvement in other community events and fundraisers; and

WHEREAS, It is only fitting that Utica residents honor the
remarkable contributions of Bob Sullivan 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

2026 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 Bob Sullivan upon the occasion of his designation as Grand
Marshal of the 2026 Utica St. Patrick's Day Parade; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Bob Sullivan.