Atlanta Journal

A California-based group is encouraging people to help New York by paying a visit.

The program, called EPICC, started in Irvine, Calif., but has spread throughout the country, said Mitch Goldstone, a city commissioner in Irvine and one of the co-founders of the plan.

EPICC is encouraging people to visit New York over the Veterans Day weekend.

"We want people to participate in the city's recovery," Goldstone said. "We want people to get back on planes, back in hotels and restaurants and stores." Goldstone said that up to 5,000 people from 23 states have booked trips to the Big Apple for the long holiday weekend. He said the group plans to meet in front of the New York Public Library to view the Veterans Day Parade, which will step off Sunday at 42nd Street and 5th Avenue.

For information visit EPICCUSA website.

New York Mayor Rudolph Giuliani is supporting the effort. In a letter dated Oct. 17, he wrote: "All New Yorkers have been touched by the encouragement and the generosity that people throughout the world have shown during these trying times, and now more than ever we look forward to welcoming visitors to our great city. The entire city and I thank you for your friendship and support, and we encourage all to take advantage of EPICC and enjoy a stay in the 'Capital of the World.' "