5) Am I going to find out that I desperately need it for some random odd reason one month after throwing it out?

Just seeing that cover of Baseball Digest brought back memories! As someone burdened by the ability to get nostalgic for the sandwich I ate yesterday, I find it hard to let go of stuff like that. But with books, magazines, mementoes, etc., I've been steadily tossing, recycling, and donating, using a sixth question:

Will I enjoy this during my "retirement" some 15-20 years down the line?

If I don't foresee using it at that point, then really, it's time to say aloha.

You have to ask yourself, what level of geek cred do I get from having these items in my home? If baseball in the 1970's is a frequent topic of discussion in your home. Having a reference library is important.

And - Are these items in the way? Under the steps sounds like an easy storage place. Out of the way, yet there if you need them. As long as your not on the short list for the next season of Hoarders, I say keep them. Or check with one of the many antique book and magazine sellers in the area and see if they have any value at all.

But just tossing them in the trash. That is kind of a slap in the face to the person who saved them all those years ago. YOU.

Steps from the beach - http://fibrowitch.blogspot.com/