KINGSTON, R.I. – June 24, 2009 – The Sixth Annual Rhody the Ram Yard Sale on June 6 was a record-breaker. It drew its biggest crowd ever and raised a record $3,200.

This year’s total puts the Rhody the Ram Endowment at $30,000. The endowment was established five years ago to provide financial support for students who perform as Rhody the Ram mascot at University athletic contests and other events. Recipients must be at least sophomores in good academic standing, and can be a first-time mascot or someone already serving in the role. This provides for the recruitment of new mascots and/or the retention of new ones.

“We were busy throughout the day, but especially between 9:15 and 11:30 a.m., it was non stop,” said Gerri Beagle, human resources and business manager at the URI Foundation and co-coordinator of the event. “Because of the downturn in the economy, people came out looking for good bargains on quality items and got them. It helped that the weather was awesome.

“Even Rhody, who got a new look this year, did some shopping and found some great bargains too.”

In addition to University students, staff and faculty donations, local residents donated items for the sale, plus 17 individuals or groups rented tables for $25 to sell their own goods. Table rentals raised $425.

Beagle and co-coordinator Nancy Hawksley, URI recycling coordinator, worked with 10 volunteers from URI and the local community.

Everything left over at the end of the sale was donated to Big Sisters of Rhode Island, and prior to the event, non-perishable food and summer clothing items collected from students, faculty and staff were donated to the Johnycake Center. Also, used blankets and towels were donated to the Animal Rescue League of Southern Rhode Island.


“Not only did we raise money for the Rhody the Ram Endowment, we also helped two local service organizations,” Beagle said. “It was an awesome day all around.

Pictured above

GREAT FIND: Gary Kullberg, left, outgoing president of the URI Alumni Association, his wife Audrey and Robert Beagle, vice president for University Advancement, check out a vintage calendar. Photos courtesy of Gerri Beagle.

YARD SALE PARTNERS: Nancy Hawksley, left and Gerri Beagle, coordinators of the Rhody the Ram Yard Sale, pose among the goods offered at the event.