Senate Resolution No. 241

BY: Senator GRIFFO

COMMENDING "Herb" Philipson's upon the occasion of
celebrating its 65th Anniversary

WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to recognize
those small businesses within the State of New York which contribute to
the economic health and vitality of the communities they serve; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
commend "Herb" Philipson's upon the occasion of celebrating its 65th
Anniversary; and

WHEREAS, In July of 1951, Herb Philipson opened his original,
5,000-square-foot Army and Navy Store in downtown Rome, New York; the
growth of the business brought an expansion in 1957 to a new
12,000-square-foot building, and then a 30,000-square-foot store which
served as headquarters of the growing chain; and

WHEREAS, In 1970, "Herb" Philipson's came to downtown Oneida, but
within 10 years outgrew the location on Main Street where a new, larger
store was built next door; by the end of 2007, there were stores in
Rome, Oneida, New Hartford, Herkimer, Watertown and Liverpool;
subsequent locations were opened in Newark, DeWitt and Oswego; and

WHEREAS, According to Herb's son and current company President Gary
Philipson, his father started small and worked hard to build the
business; Herb's philosophy of low prices gained him a reputation as the
"Price Fighter"; and

WHEREAS, Today, the prosperous business is known as the "outfitters
for the great outdoors," a nod to its commitment to giving their
customers everything they need in camping, fishing, hunting, and
sporting gear, as well as fashion and work apparel; it still has a
department with some old military-themed items to keep its past alive;
and

WHEREAS, An astute businessman, Gary Philipson is confident that the
company will remain strong; he prides himself on providing reliable and
friendly customer service, knowing his loyal patrons are his community;
and

WHEREAS, Small businesses such as "Herb" Philipson's exert a strong,
positive influence on the communities they serve and are a crucial
element in the economy of New York State; and

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that those
businesses which enhance the quality of life in their community and have
shown a long and sustained commitment to the maintenance of high
standards in their profession, certainly have earned the recognition and
applause of all the citizens of this great Empire State; now, therefore,
be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commend "Herb" Philipson's upon the occasion of celebrating its 65th
Anniversary; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Gary Philipson, President, "Herb" Philipson's.