MARYSVILLE — The Marysville Goodwill, located at 9315 State Ave., opened its doors one hour early, at 8 a.m. on Aug. 13, to accommodate the estimated 75 shoppers that were literally lining up outside the store for the first day of its ninth annual "Western Days" sale.

David Sandler, spokesperson for the Seattle Goodwill, explained that the two-day sale has grown increasingly popular over the years, as customers from all across the region, and even other states, have come to browse through Goodwill's selection of western wear and merchandise.

Throughout the year, Goodwill collects many western-themed items donated by people in the community, including a huge selection of cowboy hats and boots, belts and buckles, jewelry and furniture, and many other products, and sells them during its "Western Days." Several horse saddles were also available this year.

"Cowboy boots are our number-one seller," Sandler said. "We have an even better selection and more items overall this year, thanks to a very generous community."

Lake Stevens' Donna Ohlemeier and Vashon Island's Cubby Holliday-Green attended their first "Western Days" this year. While Holliday-Green used the sale to supplement her shoe collection, Ohlemeier added to her wardrobe of western wear in general.

"I wouldn't miss this for the world," said Marysville's Linda Dolstad, returning for her third annual "Western Days," as she tried on cowboy hats.

On Aug. 14, a country honky-tonk band from Bellingham, called "Hoss," put on a free show in front of the store, as they did during last year's "Western Days."

The net proceeds from the "Western Days" sale supports Goodwill's free job training and education programs that help low-income and under-served people in the community find work and support their families.

"It's our busiest day of the year," Marysville Goodwill Store Manager Duane Bredin said. "This sale is really a big draw because people know they can outfit themselves in great western gear at prices they can afford. What’s more, people are supporting Goodwill's beneficial programs by shopping at the sale."

Contact Marysville Globe Reporter Kirk Boxleitner at kboxleitner@marysvilleglobe.com or 360-659-1300 Ext. 5052.

Comment on this story.

COMMENTING RULES: We encourage an open exchange of ideas in our online community, but we ask you to follow our guidelines for respecting community standards. In a nutshell, don't say anything you wouldn't want your mother to read. Please see our FAQ if you have questions or concerns about using Facebook to comment.