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Ithaca, N.Y., Forms Currency for Local Use Some communities around the U.S. are busy creating their own currencies, hoping to give local businesses a chance to compete against big box retailers. The local currency in Ithaca, N.Y., is called "Ithaca Hours." They are bought with U.S. dollars and can be traded with local shops for products or services.

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Ithaca, N.Y., Forms Currency for Local Use

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Jon Miller

Ithaca, N.Y., Forms Currency for Local Use

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Some communities around the U.S. are busy creating their own currencies, hoping to give local businesses a chance to compete against big box retailers. The local currency in Ithaca, N.Y., is called "Ithaca Hours." They are bought with U.S. dollars and can be traded with local shops for products or services. The southern Berkshire region of Massachusetts calls its currency "Berk-Shares" and in Traverse City, Mich., the currency is called "Bay Bucks."