LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION acknowledging "RETURN THE F.A.V.O.R." and recog-
nizing it as a statewide program

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize and
acknowledge this unique and collaborative effort between business and
government that allows us to "return the favor" to the veterans who have
sacrificed so much to ensure our freedom; and
WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-
standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to honor the
Office of the Rockland County Clerk for creating the "RETURN THE
F.A.V.O.R." program and designate it as a statewide program; and
WHEREAS, The "RETURN THE F.A.V.O.R." program is a "win-win" situation
for veterans, who receive major discounts on goods and services, are
advised of available governmental and non-profit programs and services,
and business owners who enjoy the increased traffic and sales in their
stores; and
WHEREAS, The "RETURN THE F.A.V.O.R." program originated in Rockland
County in the Office of Rockland County Clerk Paul Piperato in 2008,
providing honorably discharged veterans with picture I.D. cards that can
be used at recruited local merchant businesses who agree to honor the
card by providing holders with a discount on goods and services; and
WHEREAS, Since 2008, 32 other counties in New York State have joined
Rockland in launching their own "RETURN THE F.A.V.O.R." programs; and
WHEREAS, To date, County Clerk Offices throughout New York State have
collectively recorded and registered approximately 5,000 veterans and
5,000 businesses that are participating in the program's discounts; now,
therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
acknowledge "RETURN THE F.A.V.O.R." and recognize it as a statewide
program; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to Paul Piperato, Rockland County Clerk.