Wednesday afternoon was the annual Clinton Area Chamber of Commerce Business Expo.

The new location was maybe the biggest change to the Expo this year and according to Executive Director of the Chamber, Marian Brisard, the change is a very good thing because it means there are more businesses taking advantage of the opportunity to be seen by the community for the free event. After a few years of the Expo's absence in the community, when it was brought back, it grew to the point they outgrew their old venue, the Clinton Jr. High School.

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The Chamber uses the opportunity to promote their events throughout the year and also their organizations, from the annual Chamber Dinner to the Agribusiness Banquet to their Haunted House. One organization they focused in on this year was their Lincoln Heritage Committee and promoting the history of Abraham Lincoln in DeWitt County.

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Organizers had a difficult time keeping a head count, mostly because of the flow of traffic to the outside exhibits but all indications are the event was a success for both the Chamber and those businesses and organizations on hand. Brisard feels the first time in the High School gym was a success as well.

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One highlight to the Chamber Expo this year was the introduction of the most recent recipient of the DeWitt County Development Council's Revolving Loan Fund. The DCDC introduced Don West of West Innovations in Clinton. West Innovations will be a retailer of home and building products.

Regional Radio News will have more on the introduction of West Innovations in the near future.

Again, all indications are the 2012 Clinton Area Chamber of Commerce Business Expo was a huge success for both organizers and those businesses and non-profit groups on hand.

Images Courtesy of EMC Photography