The register at one lucky business in Sag Harbor won't stop ringing on May 6 when Cash Mob East End shows up.
A "cash mob," a variant of flash mob, is an event in which a large group descends on a small business with each person prepared to spend a predetermined amount of money there. Sag Harbor resident Laura Houston, the organizer of Cash Mob East End, said she was inspired after reading an article in The New York Times about a cash mob in Buffalo.
"I thought it would be perfect for the East End," said Houston, an East Hampton native who works for .
She said a cash mob struck her as an interesting way to bring the community together, get to know neighbors and do something good for the neighborhood.
The aim is to infuse cash at a business that could use a boost.
"$20 may not be much to you, but if you could get a group of 100 people together a $2,000 afternoon could make a big difference to one of these stores," Houston said.
Houston got in touch with Andrew Samtoy, who originated the cash mob movement in Cleveland, and he in turn put her in touch with Terri Hall, a employee who organized the Bellport Cash Mob. Hall offered her help and support, Houston said. And Jill Kampf, of East Hampton, designed the Cash Mob East End logo gratis.
Cash Mob East End will restrict its events to independently owned businesses that give back to the community. Stores must also carry merchandise in the right price range that is useful for both men and women.
For the inaugural mob, participants will meet at 3 p.m. on May 6 at the at the . They won't be told what business they're headed to until they arrive, but Houston said the business owner has advance notice, to prepare with enough stock and staff.
Mobbers are encouraged to wear costumes and bring signs to show their cash mob spirit.
Post-mob, the participants are invited to for an after-party with drink and appetizer specials, and the mobber with the most community spirit will receive a gift certificate for two to Muse.
For updates on future East End cash mobs, "like" the Facebook page: facebook.com/cashmobeastend.
