Chamber preparing for expo

Local businesses are preparing to gather together to show off what Jay County has to offer.
More than 70 businesses will be on hand Saturday for the 2014 Jay County Business Expo and Home Show, hosted by Jay County Chamber of Commerce. The event will run from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Jay Community Center, 115 E. Water St., Portland.
“It is a great opportunity to come in and take a look at what our merchants have to offer,” said chamber executive directory Dean Sanders of the event that is held every other year. “We have a lot of businesses here in town that people are just unfamiliar with. … It’s a great way for them to find some hidden treasures.
“When we shop local, that money stays local and benefits the entire county.”
There are a wide variety of businesses that will be on hand for the event, including civic organizations, construction firms, banks and accountants and several in the medical field. Some will also offer give-aways, door prizes and discounts.
There will also be the opportunity to sign up to win a prize package from local businesses with a total value of nearly $300.
In addition to the opportunities for area residents, Sanders also sees the event as a chance to bring business leaders together.
“It’s the opportunity for them to network with other businesses they may be able to utilize,” he said. “It’s also a way for the businesses to find a way to collaborate with each other.”
The businesses will have booths set up in the large gym at the community center, while there will be food and entertainment in the small gym.
Entertainment begins at 11 a.m. with a visit from dogs from Jay County Humane Society. The Jay County High School robotics team will put on a demonstration at noon, and singers/musicians Ken Bentz (1 p.m.), Abby Muhlenkamp (1:45 p.m.), Garrett Blackford (2:30 p.m.), Holly and Jan Rittenhouse (3:10 p.m.) and Kayden Betts (4 p.m.) will also perform.
“It’s going to be a great event,” said Sanders. “I think we’re going to have a fantastic turnout.”[[In-content Ad]]