RESPONSE: The Federal Trade Commission has a Do Not Call List, which makes it easier for you to stop getting telemarketing calls you do not want. You can register online at www.donotcall.gov or by phone at 1-888-382-1222 from the telephone number you wish to register. Registration is free. You can also remove yourself from mailing lists by sending your name, address, telephone number, and your signature to: Mail Preference Service, Direct Marketing Association, PO Box 0914, Farmingdale, NY 11735-9014.
By placing your name in the DMA Do Not Mail List, you can expect within a few months to receive considerably fewer unwanted mailings. Your name remains on the list for five years. After that, you must repeat the process if you want to continue to be listed. For more information, see www.dmachoice.org.
DEAR SUN SPOTS: I am amazed at your ability to find information on many topics. We all have learned a lot from you. So here is my dilemma. I am a service-connected, disabled veteran of the Korean War and receive a 10 percent discount at Lowe’s, Home Depot, Kelly Auto Parts (VIP). There may be many other establishments that give this discount that I am unaware of. Can you find out? A VA card must be shown to receive this discount. Thanks. — No Name via mail.
ANSWER: Sun Spots has found lists that include more than 240 businesses that give discounts to those with military IDs. Some of the businesses on the list state that the percentage of the discount varies by location and some of the businesses state that the discount is given at the manager’s discretion so you might be able to get a military discount at a store in one city but not another. Some stores give discounts online only, some give discounts in-store only, and some give both. In addition to the stores you mentioned in your letter, Sun Spots found these:
1-800-flowers.com – 25% discount for all members of the Armed Forces, Veterans and their families at http://www.1800flowers.com/militaryusa or enter promotion code Militaryusa
99 Restaurants – 10% discount with Military ID for retired and active veterans.
Amtrak – 10% off.
Applebee’s – Discount varies per location, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
Arby’s – Discount varies per location, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
Burger King – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
Denny’s – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
GNC – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
Kohl’s – Up to 15% off at participating locations with military ID.
Payless Shoe Source – Up to 10% off; may vary by location.
Pizza Hut – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
From the lists that Sun Spots has read, veterans can ask at any establishment if a military discount is available. You can learn more about discounts for veterans by contacting an American Legion Post in your area. Call 207-873-3229 for more information.
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