Home and garden show offers wide range of ideas

CLEVELAND, Tenn. — From home building to interior and exterior design, lawns and landscaping, the 2008 home and garden show Saturday will offer anyone considering changes a chance to meet dozens of vendors.

After a year’s absence, the home and garden show is back. This year it’s at the Tri-State Exhibition Center.

Radio station Mix104.1 and the Ocoee Region Builders Association organized the event.

“We think the location is going to be a big boost this year,” said Chris Spors, president of the builders association. “Since it is just off exit 20 it will be convenient for anyone coming from Athens or Chattanooga and elsewhere to find,” Mr. Spors said.

“Both renovations and new homes have a lot of interest in the Cleveland region,” Mr. Spors said. “It’s spring and the flowers are blooming and that inspires a lot of people. Plus it’s a great time now, a buyers’ market.”

The radio station’s Ashley Rue said the home show has another benefit.

“You get to meet the vendor one-on-one. They are not somebody you found in the phone book, so you get to know something about them from the start,” she said.

With nearly 40 vendors, the show offers many service providers at one place and time, Mr. Spors said.

The radio station’s partnership with the builders association stretches over several years, owner Steve Hartline said.

For visitors there will be community causes to support as well, he said, including the local Bloodmobile and a Relay For Life team serving a pancake breakfast.

IF YOU GO

* What: Home show sponsored by Ocoee Region Builders Association and radio Mix104.1

* Who: Approximately 40 vendors, some with prizes and giveaways

* When: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday

* Where: Tri-State Exhibition Center, exit 20 from Interstate 75

* Admission: Free