Yard sale boosts business in Scott City

A few bucks went a long way in Scott City Saturday.

The official kickoff of the town's first citywide garage sale drew bargain seekers from all over Southeast Missouri.

The residents and business owners fared well, too. The residents got rid of items they no longer wanted while pocketing some cash in the process.

Some of the businesses benefited from increased traffic through the town.

Chaundra Mason, who helped organize the event, owns a flower shop in Scott City. She set up a rummage sale on the sidewalk in front of her business, earning $350 in nonfloral sales.

"Inside, we had some sales we wouldn't have had if not for this thing," she said.

Dot Black, a Cape Girardeau resident who used to live in Scott City, sale-hopped along the fog-filled streets Saturday morning.

"I'm looking for a crockpot," she said, while holding some sort of flower decoration. "I think it's great. I love yard sales. I got the day off today, so I'm enjoying it. It also brings the community together. You see a lot of people you haven't seen in years."

Not all shoppers are looking for the small items like crockpots or even medium purchases like bicycles.

Connie Cassout sold her husband's 1999 Honda V-Star motorcycle for $3,700.

"He just had to have it last year in August," Cassout said. "That didn't last long."

What may last over the years, however, is the citywide garage sale.

Mason said, if all goes well, efforts will be made to increase the event next year.

She said she hopes businesses will buy ads for fliers to help get the word out. She said businesses could offer specials over the weekend and take advantage of the increased traffic.

bmiller@semissourian.com

243-6635