Business & Community Expo wrap-up

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It’s a wrap. The first Kimball Business & Community Expo of March 27, 2004, is now history. By all accounts it was a surprising success. Surprising in how much was accomplished by the Kimball Area Chamber of Commerce in a relatively short time, surprising in how well it all turned out, and surprising in how many people came out and appreciated it all. Nearly 500 visitors registered at the door, and there were many more who did not. All 60 booths were sold. The new gym at Kimball high school was transformed into a professional-looking exposition area. Even the weather cooperated – it was a cold, dreary, drizzly day – so people came out to the expo instead of being tempted to do lawn work. All in all, everything exceeded all expectations. Businesses new and old came out to show off, and hundreds of people from the community came out to appreciate them. The overwhelming response from visitor questionnaires is that residents support business in Kimball, are happy to see the variety of business we have here, and hope to see an increase in businesses as new housing is added to our community. Of course, this is exactly what the Kimball Area Chamber of Commerce is about and hopes to achieve – supporting existing businesses and attracting new ones. The kids’ area was another success. Children learned about electrical safety and how to escape a smoke-filled house. They also had a lot of fun with the various games and activities. Many of the businesses held drawings at the expo; these are listed in the box below. Congratulations to all those winners. If you missed the 2004 expo, you’ll just have to see it next year to believe it. You can mark your calendars for Saturday, March 26, 2005. Meanwhile, anyone can join the Kimball chamber at any time during the year. Dues are only $50 for most. Meetings are held at noon of the last Thursday of each month. For more information about the Kimball Area Chamber of Commerce, call (320) 398-3500.