Operators hope flea markets will raise money

Operators of the Carson City Senior Citizens Center hope a series of flea markets will help raise the $69,000 a year needed to keep programs running.

Usually the center hosts one big parking lot vendor's sale. However, this year it has scheduled five sales, each to include an outdoor flea market and indoor antique sales. If the first five are a success, Site Manager Janice McIntosh will add dates to the schedule.

"Right now, we need vendors," said McIntosh. "We need to fill the (parking lot) spaces we have available outside, and table space we have available inside, in the cafeteria."

Cost of one space either indoor or outdoor is $15. At past sales, vendors have reserved up to four spaces. There is no limit on the amount of spaces that vendors may reserve, and they do not have to give up a percentage of their own sales. Food and refreshments will also be available for purchase.

"We are also accepting donations to sell through the Thrift Store," said Cheryl Wright, manager of the store.

"If someone has a garage sale and they have items left over at the end of the day, they can call us and we'll arrange to pick up their stuff, if it's in good condition, to sell through the Thrift Store. The Thrift Store will be open each Saturday a flea market is held."

Out of the $69,000 budget, the biggest expense is the Meals on Wheels program. The store's gross sales account for about $56,000. The difference is acquired through fund-raisers and donations.

"We need furniture," said McIntosh. "Nice furniture and things that won't fall apart. We'll have tole painted furniture by 'Sully,' one of our members. This is very unique furniture, similar to what you'd see in a Spiegel's catalog."

Other fund-raisers in the making include an Oktoberfest on Oct. 6, and a "Bluegrass in the Park" at the Governor's Mansion in late August.

"If there's one thing I've noticed about the community, they're here to help. It pleases me to see people smile and tell me they're happy.

"The Meals on Wheels program is one of the most costly to operate," said McIntosh. "We need all the help we can get."

Dates of the flea market/antique sales are April 29, May 13, May 20, June 3 and June 17. Hours are 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. For space information, call Wright at 882-0151 Monday-Saturday, or 883-0703 Monday-Friday.