by ASHLEY MILLER

for the Sequim Gazette

You say “poe-tae-toe,” I say “poe-tot-toe.”

You say “garbage,” Gavin Wuttken, owner of Around Again, says “treasure.”

Around Again, at 765 W. Washington St., Sequim, is a used building materials, home furnishings and selected collectibles store. In addition to providing usable and recycled items at discounted prices and accepting donations, the eco-friendly business offers information, education and resources about conservation and environmental issues.

Since opening in Sequim about 1½ years ago, Around Again has kept 32,000 pounds of so-called “garbage” out of landfills, Wuttken said proudly.

“We find homes for stuff that still has life.”

As a nonprofit organization, the Around Again mission is help “green” the community. Volunteers sort through donations at the store and pick up items at people’s homes and businesses by request. Some donations are considered tax deductible, Wuttken said, and should be discussed with an accountant.

With an influx of new items almost every day, it’s easy for customers to become addicted, Wuttken said, stopping by the store regularly to seek out good deals.

“Every time you come in here, it’s packed with new stuff,” he said.

While customers are encouraged to stop by as often as they please, some people choose to monitor new items on the website. Just log on to www.aroundagainstore.org and click on “inventory catalog” or become a member and receive store updates via e-mail. Membership is free.

Not only is reusing and repurposing good for the planet, it’s fun, Wuttken said, showing off an old satellite dish he tiled and turned into a bird bath.

What’s the difference between reusing and repurposing? Reusing is when a person purchases a used item, such as a dresser, instead of buying a new one.

Repurposing is when unwanted items are used in new ways such as taking old wooden pallets and building a garden bench seat with them or using old dresser drawers as bookshelves, both of which are on display in the store. Reusing and repurposing are both effective types of recycling.

Around Again hosts regular workshops designed to help community members engage in repurposing projects.

Around Again also is a drop-off site for Use it Again clothes and shoes.

For more information, stop by the store during business hours, 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Monday-Saturday, or call 683-7862.