A cash mob.

The idea was first pitched to me by then-Havre de Grace City Councilman Jim Miller in late January or early February.

The idea: to drive customers to a locally-owned business at a pre-planned time, much like a flash mob, to purchase items to help boost business at the establishment.

Pretty good idea, right?

Well Havre de Grace Main Street has a similar initiative underway in downtown Havre de Grace, boosting business with the "Mob The Merchant" campaign.

Two weeks ago, the mob hit Goll's Bakery. Saturday, they'll descend upon Java By The Bay.

So what if we started one here in Aberdeen? Where would you want to support? What merchant could use a short-term injection of business?

I realize Havre de Grace has a higher ratio of mom-and-pop shops than Aberdeen, but I know there are plenty of small businesses here in town that could use a jolt.

One Havre de Grace business owner that closed her doors earlier this year said she could have stayed afloat with another $20 a month from her regulars.

Let's keep that from happening again.

I'm willing to help start the mob.

Who's with me?

TELL US: Would you be interested in helping start a Mob The Merchant initiative in Aberdeen? Which businesses would you recommend? Leave a comment.