Senate Resolution No. 1497 BY: Senator GRIFFO COMMEMORATING the 50th Anniversary of The Kopernik Association of Utica, New York WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize the achievements of those individuals and organizations that contribute substantially to their communities, thereby enhancing the well-being of the entire 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 the 50th Anniversary of The Kopernik Association of Utica, New York, to be celebrated on Sunday, October 8, 2023; and WHEREAS, The Kopernik Association has served the greater Utica area since 1972, devoting its efforts to promoting a better understanding and appreciation of Polish culture, history, and traditions, and contributions of Poles around the world; and WHEREAS, This momentous occasion of celebration and honor will reflect on the valuable work done and progress made by The Kopernik Association over the last five decades; additionally, the esteemed Kopernik scholarship awards will be presented to two worthy recipients at the commemorative event; and WHEREAS, The namesake of the Association, Mikolaj Kopernik, or Nicholas Copernicus, was a Polish astronomer whose heliocentric theory first placed the Sun, rather than Earth, at the center of our universe; there is a statue designed and erected by this devout organization in the park bearing his name on Genesee Street in Utica, New York; and WHEREAS, Over its distinguished history spanning 50 years, The Kopernik Association has undoubtedly promoted and preserved principles of Polish heritage, while keeping alive the time-honored traditions which story its expansive and beautiful past; and WHEREAS, The success of The Kopernik Association is in direct correlation to the efforts of its hardworking and dedicated staff, members, and volunteers, all of whom are considered integral parts of the success of the Association; their involvement is, and always has been, characterized by an impressive commitment, an unbridled enthusiasm, and an uncompromising standard of excellence in all endeavors on behalf of the business and the community it serves; and WHEREAS, It is with great pleasure that this Legislative Body acknowledges the exceptional Kopernik Association for its hard work and countless contributions, as well as its vibrant role in improving the quality of life in its community, fully confident that it will continue to enjoy the sparkling successes it has experienced thus far; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to commemorate the 50th Anniversary of The Kopernik Association; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to The Kopernik Association.