Lots of folks who show up at yard sales are happy. Her purchase folds up–she enjoyed demonstrating it. All photos by Paul Goldfinger MD. Blogfinger Off-shore School of Medicine in Ocean Grove.
2023 May: We were worried about the weather, but all 37 sellers were thrilled to have a beautiful sunny day. Our sellers did well despite a large crowd attending the craft show on the Pathway. Those who enjoy yard sales are generally a different sort of customer.
Of course, parking was a challenge, but many yard sailors drove around town and pulled over for a quick look around.
Early arrivers were dealers who were seeking valuables such as jewelry, silver pieces, rare vinyl etc. They love to show up early while yard sailors are just setting up. They hope to find a Van Gogh for $25.00.
Many bikers came, but we met some people who were walking their way to all 37 sales.
I stepped out my front door at 7 am and there was a giant shiny red pickup truck. Two people got out, ready to shop, even though we weren’t to begin till 9 am. They hovered around as we brought out paint cans, old chairs, dishes, etc. They bought a giant railroad light from our neighbor, but nothing from us.
Another guy wanted to examine anything we had in silver. Eileen said it was all plate, but he insisted on checking 3 bowls for sterling. He concluded that each was worth $10.00, so off he went.
It was fun as all sorts of interesting people showed up including some out of towners. Some visitors told us that they were coming to the Grove since they were kids. I met a young Grover woman who bought books. Not too many books are sold at yard sales, but she loves to read. We had a nice conversation about words.
One neighbor came to our sale and talked about his work on Broadway “dressing” the stars. What a great job that must be!
Another retired actor/artist Carl Swenson can tell stories about when he was in the Fantasticks.
A couple of doctors came by and they agreed that healthcare was in trouble.
Some people did a drive-by visit, stopping their car, rolling down the window, asking something like, “Do you have any coins from the 18th century?” And then roaring off.
But it was fun, and here are a few scenes:
The OG Underground: blue hair. When we moved here there were no cool young people like this.
The OG Underground. These 3 young women breezed by, not at all interested in old dishes and pottery., but they caught the eye of this photographer. Paul Goldfinger action “street” photog with not a sign of shake.
Not all sale items were $1.00. Some serious purchases were occurring.
DANNY KAYE:
The demographics in the Grove have definitely been evolving: younger newcomers, sophisticated New Yorkers, COVID related, and influenced by the youthful and hip scene in Asbury Park.
In addition, real estate dynamics including high prices and a vibrant rental scene have also influenced the way that Ocean Grove is changing.
And despite the best efforts of the CMA to turn this town into a Christian seaside community, a more visible secular dynamic is taking hold.
OG Underground = cool young people. There have always been “cool young people” in OG.
If you need unsold stuff carted away, Victor Chik, a Grover, operates Estate Liquidators–732 682 8875