Assembly Resolution No. 773

BY: M. of A. Buttenschon

COMMENDING Frank Elias upon the occasion of his
designation as the 2025 Businessperson of the Year
by the Great Utica Chamber of Commerce

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize and
commend those individuals whose entrepreneurial spirit, dedication, and
service to their community contribute to the economic vitality and
growth of the Empire State; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
commemorate Frank Elias upon the occasion of his designation as the 2025
Businessperson of the Year by the Great Utica Chamber of Commerce, in
recognition of his significant contributions to the Mohawk Valley
region; and

WHEREAS, Frank Elias has served the best interests of the community
through his entrepreneurship, innovation, risk-taking, and unwavering
belief in the potential of Utica, New York; and

WHEREAS, Through his visionary leadership since founding Utica
Coffee Roasting Company in 2005, Frank Elias has propelled the company
to remarkable success while igniting a renewed sense of local pride and
economic revival throughout the region; and

WHEREAS, Utica Coffee Roasting Company has become a regional staple,
renowned for its commitment to quality, bold branding, and community
spirit, with a growing presence through multiple locations,
partnerships, and online sales; and

WHEREAS, Frank Elias has continually uplifted and empowered others
by forging meaningful partnerships with local artists, small businesses,
and nonprofits, developing workforce training programs, providing job
opportunities for young professionals, and supporting numerous community
events; and

WHEREAS, Committing himself to regional development, Frank Elias has
served as a mentor and catalyst for positive change, inspiring progress
and resilience throughout the Mohawk Valley by investing in the
community, creating jobs, supporting local business ecosystems, and
cultivating a shared sense of pride and identity; and

WHEREAS, Recognizing entrepreneurs like Frank Elias, who invest in
their communities and demonstrate leadership, affirms the power of local
entrepreneurship in driving long-term transformation and economic
success; and

WHEREAS, Honoring Frank Elias as the 2025 Businessperson of the Year
by the Greater Utica Chamber of Commerce is a testament to his
unwavering dedication, entrepreneurial vision, and indispensable role in
the vitality of the Utica community; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
congratulate Frank Elias upon the occasion of his designation as the
2025 Businessperson of the Year by the Greater Utica Chamber of
Commerce, and to commend him for his exemplary contributions to the
Mohawk Valley region; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Frank Elias.