Selma is one of the many cities in Alabama that is taking part in the event, which is billed as the “World’s Widest Yard Sale.” The sale is set for Friday, April 17 and Saturday, April 18.

“It is just a day that people get out and they look for other people’s junk because it is a treasure,” said Cassie Richardson, who has opened up her yard for the sale the last three years.

Richardson is one of the many people that will be set up along U.S. Highway 80. The list of Selma businesses that are planning to participate includes the Selma Flea Market, GAW Trading Post, Gordon’s Antiques, On Site Collection and Angie’s Auction Company to name a few.

The yard sale was created four years ago by the Alabama Rural Development Office to promote the Black Belt region and stimulate its economy.

“All communities along U.S. Highway 80 are rich in culture, heritage and hospitality,” said Gov. Robert Bentley in a press release. “During the Historic U.S. 80 Hi-Way Sale, Alabama can share some of its best kept secrets. We welcome everyone to visit these unique towns and meet the wonderful people who live there. Whether you are from another part of the state or another part of the country, we think you will enjoy discovering this region while making new memories.”

While the sale has given people the opportunity to make some extra money, it has also forged lasting friendships that reach across state lines.

“It is the people that you meet that come from far and near, and it is the conversation that they bring with them from city to city and state to state [that I love],” Richardson said.

The Alabama portion of the yard sale will stretch from Cuba to Phenix City, and some of the other cities taking part in it are Tuskegee, Shorter, Demopolis, Livingston, Marion Junction, Camden and Greensboro. For more information about the sale and a full list of participating businesses, visit www.widestyardsale.com or www.hwy80sale.net.