ping pong table: Coast Guard families host yard sale before departure

By MIKE FORNES

Tribune Staff Writer

CHEBOYGAN - It could be the highlight of the yard sale season.

That's what Coast Guard families are saying as crewmembers of the original U.S. Coast Guard cutter Mackinaw prepare for their moves to other stations after the ship is decommissioned June 10. In all the years that the Coast Guard has had personnel stationed here, never has there been such a large departure of crewmembers at once.

“It's easier to sell things and move on than to transport a truckload of stuff halfway across the country,” said Information Tech. 1st Class Mike Locke, one of the Mackinaw crewmembers headed elsewhere. “Over time you figure it just costs less to buy the items new when you get to the next place.”

Barbara Locke, Mike's wife, said the one-of-a-kind Coast Guard Housing Yard Sale will be held from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. on Friday and from 7 a.m. until 1 p.m. on Saturday.

“There will be about 25 families participating,” Barbara Locke said. “We won't allow any early-bird sales.”

She said that Blackthorn Drive will be closed off to traffic during the event to allow for a pedestrian atmosphere where people can stroll along both sides of the street in the Coast Guard Housing complex off Loomis Street near Cheboygan Area High School to see what families have to offer.

“If they buy a large or heavy item, they can bring their vehicle in to load it up,” she explained.

Among the items offered for sale will be baby furniture and accessories, housewares and sports equipment.

“I know we have two high chairs, a bassinet, changing table, an abundance of baby girl clothes, a double stroller, walker and baby swing,” Barbara Locke noted.

Standard furniture items include four twin mattresses, three bar stools, a queen-size headboard, two kitchen tables - one with chairs, a roll-top desk, computer hutch, microwave cart, futon with mattress, wall unit and entertainment center.

“Among the housewares items are a microwave oven, three coffee pots, four window air conditioners, two space heaters, two sets of dishes, pots and pans, a television set, plus miscellaneous kitchen appliances and dishes,” she added. “There are also three bikes, a weight set, ping-pong table and a punching bag. I'm sure there will be more in the days to come.”