Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver was joined by Governor George Pataki and comedian Jerry Stiller for a downtown shopping trip today to mark the start of three sales-tax-free days in Lower Manhattan.

"In the aftermath of 9/11, stores, restaurants and other establishments throughout Lower Manhattan experienced a huge loss in customer traffic, and many are still struggling," Silver said. "Stabilizing and revitalizing the area's residential and small business communities is an essential part of our rebuilding effort.

"Helping our local businesses recover from 9/11 also means that Lower Manhattan residents will continue to enjoy the benefits of a vibrant and robust neighborhood," Silver added.

Silver and fellow shoppers visited Harris Levy Fine Linens on Grand Street, J&R Home Entertainment Store on Park Row and Sinotique on Mott Street in Chinatown.

Purchases of goods and services up to $500 in the Lower Manhattan Resurgence Zone - all areas south of Houston Street - will be exempt from state sales tax for three three-day periods: June 9th through 11th, July 9th through 11th, and August 20th through 22nd. The city will lift its sales taxes during the same periods.

Silver first advanced the sales-tax-free days as part of a comprehensive program for Lower Manhattan revitalization released in March and made the plan a priority throughout budget negotiations. His persistence on behalf of the small businesses in his community ensured that the sales-tax-free days were included in the final enacted budget.

Silver is a life-long resident of Lower Manhattan and his legislative district includes the World Trade Center site and the downtown financial district. His office is located a few blocks from ground zero.

Note: Complete details on items included and other regulations regarding the sales-tax-free days can be found at http://www.tax.state.ny.us/PDF/memos/Sales/M02_2s.PDF.