Morro Bay gets rid of its junk by selling it
About eight years ago, several Morro Bay residents brainstormed a citywide yard sale. Ray Ladd noted other communities used the concept to attract visitors — avid treasure seekers who would visit, eat and shop.
Under President Ann Reisner, Morro Bay Beautiful took the lead and launched what is today themed “Morro Bay Beautiful Annual City-wide Yard Sale: Working with Our Chamber of Commerce.”
On Saturday and Sunday, more than 172 households, nonprofits and businesses have purchased a spot on the map, published and distributed by Tolosa Press/The Bay News.
This year’s headquarters, Pacific Locksmith at 332 Morro Bay Blvd., plans to have maps at 7 a.m. plus coffee and doughnuts for the first 100 visitors.
“My daughter (Juliana Epperly) and I have been knee deep in getting the citywide yard sale completed. It is the biggest one we have ever had. I’m hoping for a Guinness world record someday,” Reisner said.
Epperly, owner of Pampered Paws, saw her mother having so much fun with the yard sale, she wanted to help.
“Since December, I have spent 50 percent of my time on this,” she said, but admitted they are still having fun.
Both ladies credit Morro Bay Chamber of Commerce CEO Craig Schmidt and his staff for stepping up this year.
“This couldn’t have been done without their help: fielding phone calls (772-4467), taking reservations, doing map computer training, stapling yard signs, and gathering prizes from Dorns, Carla’s Kitchen and Beach Bungalows for the Treasure Hunt. Franklin Real Estate, El Dorado Broadcasting and Morro Bay’s garbage company help, too,” Epperly said.
Reisner defined the yard sale opportunity.
“It is discovering things you’re not looking for. I love my $2 Crock-Pot. My husband, Ron, bought Juliana an expensive shade umbrella for her dogs. They immediately tore it up. I found one for $10 — 10 feet, teakwood with a cement base — probably cost $300 and she still uses it.”
Larger yard sales often support nonprofits. Survive-Oars will raise funds for paddles, life vests and racing fees for cancer-survivor members. These sales are in bold on the map.
Some unique sale items Reisner mentioned include NASCAR memorabilia, antiques, a grandfather clock, Penn fishing reels and quilting fabric.
Reisner dubbed Judy Hall on Clarabelle Avenue as Queen of Yard Sales.
Hall instructs sellers, “Cut price in half of cost, then another 10 percent, have a grab bag at the end of the sale day, and offer freebies at the curb. They will disappear.”
“And if they don’t,” Reisner said, “Morro Bay’s large item garbage pickup is April 2 through 6. We always schedule the yard sale before the pickup. It’s in our mission to beautify Morro Bay, including recycling treasures or getting rid of junk.”
Reach Judy Salamacha at judysalamacha@gmail.com or 801-1422.
This story was originally published March 25, 2012 at 11:16 PM with the headline "Morro Bay gets rid of its junk by selling it."