SYRACUSE -- For the first time in Central New York, a group that promotes local businesses is taking a concept that has worked in other cities and bringing it to Syracuse.
SyracuseFirst is organizing a "cash mob" called "Cuse Mob" this Saturday afternoon, May 5. SyracuseFirst is a not-for-profit network of locally owned, independent businesses and organizations dedicated to building a sustainable community by encouraging citizens to "Think Local First."
Craft Chemistry at 745 North Salina Street is home to numerous products designed and crafted by local entrepreneurs and artists. The company touts itself as providing an alternative shopping experience offering goods that are unique, original, inspired by contemporary trends, and can't be found anywhere else in the City.
On its blog, Syracuse First says, "This place rocks. If you haven't been, well, join us on Saturday and you'll see how awesome it is. Incredible local products, t-shirts, posters, jewelry, pottery - you name it - are just a part of the store."
"I think for my business, what I'm really looking forward to is getting new faces and people in the door so they can be exposed to what their neighbors are making," said Briana Kohlbrenner, owner of Craft Chemistry.
In this video, SyracuseFirst Executive Director Chris Fowler explains why he believes an event like this is so important.
Fowler tells CNY Central, "You've heard of a flash mob. This is a cash mob, and it is a little more important."
Fowler told CNY Central on Friday that he doesn't want to speculate on how many people might show up on Saturday, but knows the turnout could be overwhelming -- especially for such a small shop.
It's why people may have to wait outside in line before heading inside with their ten dollars.
What do you think of the "Cuse Mob"? Do you plan on going? Should folks buy local?
