Holmen expo organizers happy, despite drop in exhibitor numbers

Dave Mocco was rewarded for his volunteer work last weekend at Yes, Holmen. He was staffing the Lion’s Club booth at the 20th annual business expo when luck struck and he won the Nintendo Wii video game console from Coverra Insurance. All who went to the event hosted by the Holmen Area Civic and Commerce Association were rewarded with networking, games and a visit from Ronald McDonald.

Lisa Kind, organizer of the event for HACCA, said about 70 businesses and civic groups had booths, which drew about 1,000 visitors. In the past, though, the event routinely had 100 booths.

“We had good traffic flow, a good turnout, it was a nice day and there was no snow!” she laughed, reminiscing about past snowstorms.

Jason Grossklaus, business account executive for Altra Federal Credit Union was excited about the many business people he made connections with at the event. The credit union is building a new branch in Holmen that will open April 1.

“For me it was very beneficial,” Grossklaus said. He also said Sue Smith, who will be the personal banker when the credit union opens, was able to meet many of the residents of Holmen.

“It was good to just be there all day introducing ourselves to the community and answering questions,” Grossklaus said. “It was great for Holmen and great for a growing community.”

Jeff Asher, from Coverra Insurance, said he had the pleasure of being there to award the Wii to Mocco, and he was very pleased with the turnout.

“I thought it was a great success,” Asher said. “Nancy Luedke and Lisa Kind did a great job. We’re very glad we participated. We’ll definitely be back next year.”