Raising money for Alcona's beautification
By Chris Simon

Photo by Chris Simon Alcona Business Association president Rick Ellis holds a sign for a giant garage sale taking place at the Crossroads Plaza May 24 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Alcona's largest garage sale will be helping to beautify the community.

The Alcona Business Association's sale will be back for another year, at the Crossroads Plaza Saturday May 24 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. The association held a similar garage sale during the Victoria Day long weekend last year, which raised about $1,300 for the beautification of Innisfil Beach Road.

ABA president and Adam and Eve Tanning, Tattooing and Piercing owner Rick Ellis says the money raised will help buy lighting, benches and other upgrades the the road, which is one of the town's main business and economic zones.

This year, the association hopes to raise over $2,000 through the garage sale.

"We originally did it to produce some income for the (Innisfil) Recreation Complex," he said. "It was so successful (last year) people were asking when we were going to do it again. We did a fall (garage sale), but this time we're using the funds that we raise for the street scape."

Over 40 people are expected to set-up tables at the event, said Ellis.

"We're really happy with how the town is growing and prospering and we want to have a hand in that," he said. "As business owners, we want to directly affect how this town is shaped and developed.

"We wanted to be proactive instead of reactive with the town."

A variety of items are expected to be sold, from antiques and clothes to electronics and furniture.

Spaces are still available for rental, at a cost of $25. For more information, call Ellis at 436-2826.