'Cash Mob' Infiltrating Downtown Saturday Morning

Getting ready to find something for Valentine's Day? Join a mob heading downtown this Saturday morning.

No, the mob won't be looting stores, but rather showering local businesses with their cash.

Calling it a "cash mob," iloveriverhead founder Nancy Swett said she thought about holding one in downtown Riverhead after reading about one which occurred in Bellport on Jan. 28.

Anyone with $20 is asked to show up in the parking lot behind the old Swezey's at 11 a.m. on Saturday. From there, a group photo will be taken, maps will be given out, and at 11:15, a horn will sound, noting the start of the mob to spend their cash at local businesses.

Though short on notice, Swett said she wanted to get one in before Valentine's Day.

"Between loving your significant other, loving local businesses, and the iloveriverhead concept, I thought they all fit in pretty well," said Swett.

In a press release, Swett said the following: “This is the quiet season for East End businesses, and it can be even quieter downtown. It can be a very difficult time for local businesses. We hope a mid-winter boost will fortify our local downtown businesses until things pick up a little this spring and summer events begin.”

According to Bellport.com, over 100 individuals participated in Bellport's inaugural "cash mob." It notes the following "rules:"

• The local business is selected based on their support and contribution to the local community AND should be locally owned
• The selected business should be notified in advance so they can appropriately staff and prepare to service the number of expected customers
• The Cash Mob organizers are requested to alert local media so that the appropriate coverage might be given to the event
• Finally, it's suggested that a local "watering hole" be alerted as well and receive the cash mobbers of the event. This promotes yet another local business, creates a sense of community among the Cash Mobbers and....it's fun!