MEDIA RELEASE

Mama’s House Thrift Shop & 12-Step Bookstore in Waimea is gearing up for the Big Island’s first-ever “Cash Mob” 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Saturday, June 2.

The Cash Mob is at Mama’s House, in the industrial complex off Mamalahoa Highway, just past NAPA Auto and across from Kamuela Liquor Store.

“A Cash Mob is sort of the local business version of a flash mob,” executive director Beth Mehau said. “It’s a fun, fast way to encourage shoppers to ‘buy local’ by showing up and shopping en masse at a certain place and time. We’re really excited, and hoping it’s only the first of many local Cash Mobs yet to come in our community.”

According to www.NPR.com, the Cash Mob trend was started last fall by Buffalo, NY blogger Chris Smith. The idea was to stimulate small businesses economically, by giving them a sudden surge of customers.

Nearly 200 Cash Mobs have been planned since then in 35 states and several other countries. Hawaii’s first Cash Mob was March 24 at Agnes’ Portuguese Bake Shop and The Source health food store in Kailua, Oahu.

Although it’s an informal happening, according to www.CashMobs.com, there are three simple rules for Cash Mobbers: 1) Try to spend $20 at the business, 2) Meet three new people, and 3) Have fun

Afterwards, Cash Mobbers are invited to an “After Mob” 11 a.m.-2 p.m. at Solimene’s Italian Restaurant and Expresso Bar, for more socializing and no-host refreshments or lunch. Solimene’s is located in the Waimea Shopping Center (KTA-side).

To keep up with the Cash Mob at Mama’s House, follow @CMmamashouse on Twitter.

More than a thrift store, Mama’s House offers consignment furniture, art, hand-poured all natural soaps, hundreds of used books, affordable keiki clothing and unique recovery gifts. Its extensive recycling programs keep tons of reusable goods out of island landfills and provide work opportunity in a safe environment.

Mama’s House Thrift Shop & 12 Step Bookstore is a project of The Pantry 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that includes Waimea Artists’ Guild and other groups, serving community, supporting recovery.

For additional information, contact Beth Mehau at 887-2289.