The Morning Call today has a featured story on an alternative currency that will allow people in the Lehigh Valley to trade for goods and services. Apparently the idea is picking up momentum and there have been several meetings in local municipalities about the idea. This is the 2nd story I have seen on www.mcall.com.
Ithaca, N.Y. already has such a system in place, called Ithaca 'Hours'. In Ithaca, an 'hour' is equivalent to $10. Their 'local currency' is printed on special paper and ink to prevent counterfeiting. Ithaca Hours started in 1991 and has been expanding ever since, according to the article.
Some forms of bartering have always been in existence between local companies for goods and services. I know my brothers have a local signage company and have periodically made 'deals' with other local businesses... such as creating signage in exchange for a landscaping project, etc...
Has anyone else seen or heard of this in their local communities?
Do you think it's a good idea? Do you think it will catch on?
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