R.O.A.R. Expo draws thousands

Rec Center fills with families, free stuff
 
It was playtime for thousands at the 2022 Republic Area Chamber of Commerce Business Expo Saturday, Aug. 6, at the Republic Community Center.
With a line of parents and kids outside the building snaking all the way to Miller Road, the attractions of free swim, free school supplies and giveaways drew an estimated 2,500-3,000 expo goers looking to score free stuff—and fun. Also on site were multiple food trucks, bounce houses, a Republic Fire Department fire engine and a Convoy of Hope big rig.
“My heart was to serve our local community in a big way and in many ways,” said chamber Director Macy Mitchell. “No matter who someone is or where they’re from, getting our community in front of our hard working business owners while serving them, is key. I feel we accomplished this with an incredible turnout, with the hopes that all who came would not just build business relationships but personal relationships, while showing the community all that their local businesses have to offer them.”
Mitchell added that shopping local was a component to the event.
“This is not just about keeping money local into the future, but that they see their local businesses actually care for them. An event like this, based on giving back and smiles, I think proved just that,” Mitchell said.