By PETER GREER

greer@crescent-news.com

If you want to take part in this weekend's return of the World's Largest Yard Sale, you could just start at the beginning. In which case, you have two choices.

The village of West Unity is the northern-most town on U.S. 127 to take part in the sale, which runs Thursday through Sunday all along the highway. Area communities, including Sherwood, Bryan and West Unity, will be among the many towns taking part.

"We are the northern-most town on 127" to take part, said West Unity village deputy clerk Kim Grime.

Of course, those on the other end of the line are arguably just as correct in saying they are the starting point for the sale. But if you wanted to start at that end and wind up in northwest Ohio, then Gadsden, Ala., is a long way to travel.

The sprawling 654-mile tourist attraction features thousands of individual vendors selling thousands of different items. Farmers markets will also be open and selling produce.

While it has been around for a number of years, the yard sale has gained prominence in this area within the last few years.

"This is our first big year (in West Unity) for it," said Grime.

In West Unity alone, the village chamber of commerce has set up a welcome booth along the route, including a directory.

"The (West Unity United Methodist) church and the chamber are trying to do a map highlighting things for sale," Grime added.

Businesses and restaurants along and around 127 also hope for additional customers as a result of the sale.

One such person is Wayne Schmucker of Park Place, a store which offers ice cream, coffee and locally made crafts.

"I'll be working," Schmucker said. "Hopefully, they'll stop in for ice cream."

Elsewhere, Sherwood looks forward to its third consecutive year of participation in the sale, especially as it is the only Defiance County town on the route.

Multiple vendors will be set up at the Little Reservation Station playground (former location of Sherwood Elementary School), along with farmers market vendors. Spaces for vendors are 20 by 20 feet and will be available for $50 ($10 will be refunded if the space is left clean).

Those from Sherwood and elsewhere wishing to rent a space may contact Michael Sudholtz at 419-899-2908 or Joan Sliter at 419-899-3482 or 419-899-4927, or log onto www.SherwoodOhio.com.

Proceeds from space rentals will be used for local park improvements.

The village park board also will have antique folding chairs for sale during the four days.

Yard sale enthusiasts seeking bargains in the immediate area or who have the time and determination to cross multiple state lines may take part in the annual World's Longest Yard Sale beginning Thursday.