PLATTSBURGH — For the month of August, area residents are encouraged to explore small businesses through the Plattsburgh Passport for a chance to win $1000.
The passport is a collaborative initiative between presenting sponsor Unitary America and the Plattsburgh Pulse to promote local engagement with and to highlight small businesses in and around the City of Plattsburgh. The passport is also made possible through the support of giveaway sponsor DK Rentals & Student Housing.
Plattsburgh Pulse founder Sarah Dorsett said Plattsburgh Pulse started with a goal to connect people with their community and this passport is an extension of that.
“The goal isn’t just to encourage residents and visitors to explore Plattsburgh,” she said in a statement sent to the Press-Republican. “It’s also about creating opportunities for businesses to work together and invite people back into the community in a fun, interactive way.”
Dorset said the passport is an attempt to tackle one of the challenges faced by smaller businesses in the age of social media, which is getting foot traffic through the door.
“In a post-COVID world, many people have become most comfortable at home and behind their screens. Our goal with Plattsburgh Pulse has always been to create experiences that encourage people to step back into their community and reconnect with the people and places around them,” she said.
Dorset said it’s encouraging to see businesses embrace the passport as a common goal.
“It’s about strengthening the community together. The businesses participating in the Passport understand that when the community succeeds, everyone succeeds,” she said. “They’re stepping up not just as business owners, but as community leaders, and that’s been one of the most inspiring parts of this initiative.”
Dorset hopes to host other community initiatives in the future and revealed plans for a holiday campaign.
“This is only the beginning,” she said, “… Our hope is to create experiences that keep people engaged with Plattsburgh year-round while giving residents, visitors and businesses new ways to connect with one another.”
Unitary America founder Garrett Monett said the passport is designed to encourage small business shopping.
“Small business is the lifeblood of the Plattsburgh area,” he said. “It is the foundation that this city is built upon, and I think issues like this, getting people out there, getting people exploring the area, shopping, are really important.”
He said that big box stores encourage routine shopping habits.
“We want people to explore their community that they’re part of, and just you know discover the area,” Monnett said. “that’s why like you have to collect stamps from like 20 different businesses because it helps people just get engaged, get around and it’s I mean it’s a win-win.”
Monnett emphasized that without small businesses, towns and cities everywhere would have the same big businesses.
“It gives each area its character, and I think that supporting those small businesses is really essential to keeping the charm and the character of that area.”
Caracciola’s Authentic Italian Deli owner Tommy Caracciola and manager Mikayla Conway said the passport is a great way to encourage people to explore and support local businesses.
“As a locally owned restaurant, we believe that when small businesses work together, everyone benefits. The Passport creates a fun reason for both residents and visitors to discover new places, shop local, and experience everything Plattsburgh has to offer. We’re proud to be part of an initiative that strengthens our local economy, builds community connections, and reminds people that supporting locals truly makes a difference. We look forward to welcoming both new and familiar faces through our doors,”
No purchase is necessary to participate in the passport initiative or to enter the $1,000 giveaway. Making a purchase at any participating Passport partner does not increase your chances of winning.
The inaugural Plattsburgh Passport promotion began August 1 and runs until Friday, August 28.
The $1,000 Giveaway Winner will be announced during the Fourth Friday Kickoff Event at the former Farmers Market building on Durkee Street on August 28.
How to Participate
1. Pick up or download an official Plattsburgh Passport.
2. Visit each participating Passport Partner during the promotion period.
3. Receive one official stamp from each participating Passport Partner.
4. Print your full name and phone number on your passport.
5. Submit your completed passport before the entry deadline.
Passports are available for pick up at El Dorado restaurant, while supplies last. A copy of the passport can also be downloaded on their website.
A bonus stop at the Plattsburgh Public Library has been added to the passport. While a stamp is not required for giveaway entry, participants are encouraged to collect a bonus stamp and explore the library.
For more information about the passport visit plattsburghpulse.com/plattsburghpassport