LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION memorializing Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to
proclaim July 2014, as Free Community Paper Month in the State of New
York

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize official
months set aside to pay tribute to those journalistic entities which
have diligently and consistently recorded the history of their communi-
ties and brought local news and news of the larger world to their read-
ers; and
WHEREAS, Newspapers provide a tremendous service to citizens across
the State of New York by keeping them informed about current events; the
democracy of our State and Nation is strengthened by a responsible citi-
zenry which is actively engaged in reading and kept abreast of news
affecting their lives; and
WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-
standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to memorial-
ize Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim July 2014, as Free Community
Paper Month in the State of New York, in conjunction with the observance
of National Free Community Paper Month; and
WHEREAS, This observance provides the opportunity to recognize the
role free community newspapers play in providing comprehensive informa-
tion to consumers in the communities they serve; and
WHEREAS, "Our liberty cannot be guarded but by the freedom of the
press, nor that be limited without danger of losing it" (Thomas Jeffer-
son to John Jay, 1786); and
WHEREAS, The publishing industry of free community papers and newspa-
pers, made up of both small and large organizations, is an important
element in local communities throughout this nation; and
WHEREAS, Free community papers proudly serve the information needs of
their communities across this great land, while promoting local
commerce, free enterprise and public service; and
WHEREAS, As the industry will sponsor Free Community Paper Month
during July, 2014, it is fitting that recognition be given to this
special effort to salute these publications, their owners and staff for
the continued contributions to the growth and success of local communi-
ties through their publications; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
memorialize Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim July 2014 as Free
Community Paper Month in the State of New York; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to The Honorable Andrew M. Cuomo, Governor of the State of New
York.