About 100 shoppers descended on Newton Highlands businesses on the first Saturday in May to participate in a Cash Mob, organized by the Chamber’s Shop Local Committee.

“A ‘cash mob’ is like a  ‘flash mob,’ except instead of asking people to breakout into a song or dance, we asked participants to fan out and show support of our local merchants by spending at least $10 at any Highlands shop or restaurant of their choice,” said Greg Reibman, president of the Newton-Needham Chamber. “We felt that was particularly important to do this spring, given the challenges merchants everywhere felt following a horrendous winter.”

Congressman Joe Kennedy, Newton Mayor Setti Warren and former Boston Bruins forward Don Marcotte were among those who came to kick off the Cash Mob, and do a some shopping themselves.

“One of the greatest things about Newton is how our community members—residents and businesses alike--pull together to generously support each other each and every day,” said Mayor Setti Warren. “Our local merchants lend so much to our community and truly help shape the character of each and every village. By supporting them, we are helping to ensure the vitality of our village centers through tough times, like this past winter.”

The event kicked off the Chamber’s celebration of Small Business Month and is part of a continuing effort dedicated to educating consumers about the value of spending locally.

“Small businesses are the backbone of our local economies. Regardless of their products or specialties, their success is critical to the economic future of our communities,” said Kennedy. “As this historic winter impacted shops and stores throughout Massachusetts, I encourage everyone in Newton and across our Commonwealth to support our small businesses this month and throughout the year.”