While some may look to blooming crocuses or a robin’s warble, the Clarkston Connects Expo is the best signal that spring has arrived.
Building on the success of years past, the Community Expo returns to Clarkston High School on April 1 from 9 a.m.-noon.
‘The expo is just a fun day for the whole family. There are more things to do around Clarkston than you could possibly know,? Expo Coordinator Mary Przybycien said.
The formula remains the same this time for the expo ? organizers are making a bigger batch though. Over 50 exhibitors from in and around the Clarkston area are expected to fill the booths.
For some businesses, like O.A.T.S. (Offering Alternative Therapy with Smiles), the expo is a chance to fully introduce themselves to Clarkston. O.A.T.S. is one of the largest therapeutic riding barns in the midwest and is located off M-15.
‘We want to make sure the community knows we’re here and hopefully recruit some volunteers,? said Nancy Heussner, executive director and founder of O.A.T.S.
Some other exhibitions planned are the Oakland County 4-H club as well as an increased presence of youth sports organizations such as the Clarkston Select Soccer Club and Clarkston Chiefs? football teams.
While the expo’s booths satisfy individual tastes, an array of presentations and activities appeal to the masses.
New this year is an open gym featuring soccer and basketball shoot-outs, gymnastics and activities provided by Independence Township Parks and Recreation.
For small children yearning to be entertained, the Oakland County Parks? inflatable obstacle course will be on-site again.
Actors from the Renaissance Festival and costumed Disney characters will also be interspersed in the crowd to keep kids of all sized entertained as they peruse the exhibitions.
While the fun can be absorbed just by walking around the expo, a series of presentations are expected to draw the crowd together.
Some of the highlights of the presenters list include a demonstration by the Spraymasters professional water skiing team and to close the day’s festivities a performance by the Clarkston Community Band.
The expo also features fire and EMS trucks including the Springfield Township smokehouse fire simulator.
Another staple of the expo, door prizes, makes a triumphant return as well.
‘We have over 40 door prizes right now. That is close to one winner every three minutes. That’s going to keep the DJ busy,? Przybycien said.
Many local eateries donated gift certificates as door prizes, other lucky winners can take home free sports physicals or stays at a resort. There will also be a raffle for a free fantasy tea party.
The Masons will provide free child ID kits throughout the day as well.
For more information on the Clarkston Connects Expo, contact Mary Przybycien at 248-620-2224 or via email at mprzybycien@aol.com.