Once again parking spots around the Clearwater American Legion were tough to find a couple Sunday mornings ago, as community members came pouring through the doors for the annual Explore Clearwater/Clear Lake Business Expo and Legion made-to-order breakfast.

A record 24 business and organizations were on hand to promote themselves, including two that were participating for the first time, Four Seasons Builders and Grand Meadows Meats. Darlene and Ron Gruber, the owners of Grand Meadows Meats, recently purchased and renamed T&R Meats, and are excited to be part of the Clearwater community.

Along with fun freebies and information on their business, most tables offered prizes people could win, from gift certificates to specialty baskets filled with goods. Many of the businesses also brought along merchandise for people to purchase or try out.

“We had a great turnout,” said event organizer Morgan Nicka. “We’re looking forward to next year.”

Vendors this year included Riverside Nutrition, Cutting Edge Catering, American Heritage Bank, Irrigation Management, T&J Construction, Root of Wellness, Clearwater Family Chiropractic, Grand Meadow Meats, Mary Kay, Great River Regional Library – Clearwater, Danique- Beauty and the Beans, Lake Central Bank, Purple Prairie Botanicals, St Cloud Federal Credit Union, Sunset Ridge and Ranch, MN Wearables, Patriot News MN, Tri County Church, Oak Realty, TSA Help Desk, Four Seasons Builders, Renewal by Andersen, and Clear Waters Outfitting.

“We’re always welcome to new businesses, even if they’re not directly in the Clearwater Clear Lake area,” said Nicka.

Explore Clearwater/Clear Lake Business Expo has always been held in conjunction with the Clearwater Legion’s Sunday breakfast, bringing in crowds for both events. The delicious breakfast, served by the Legion and Legion Riders, was enjoyed by many, who later wandered through the Expo.

The business expo was begun by members of Clear Valley Business Connections (CVBC) to promote shopping local and has been an annual event with the exception of 2020. The organization began in 1987 and includes businesses from the cities of Clearwater and Clear Lake, and Clearwater, Clear Lake and Lynden Twps. The mission of the organization is to promote area businesses and provide an environment for them to communicate and network.

Nicka extends a thank you to the local community for their support. Anyone interested in participating in the expo next year is encouraged to call her at 320-761-5858.