The latest local news, weather and high school sports from the Heartland

OTTUMWA,IOWA -- Spring is almost here, and that means the 2011 Home Expo will soon begin in Ottumwa.

The Expo will be held at the Bridgeview Center and starts Friday.  It will continue througout the weekend. This year theme is "Southeast Iowa's Greatest Treasures."

The event will have 160 booths and 105 exhibitors showcasing different exhibits including gutters, landscaping, and roofs. Admission is only $5. Children ages 6 and under get in for free.

There will be something for people of all ages. The expo will have seminars all day saturday, as well as a play area for children. The Chamber and Exhibitors will also have hourly prize giveaways. Local and statewide artists will also be on hand to display their work.

Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Terry McNitt says the Expo helps local businesses.

"It's a great opportunity for businesses and organizations also to get out there and show the public what they have to offer. And we want them to get lots of business. We want them to be busy and we want our businesses to do well."

It also is the unofficial start to spring, according to McNitt.

"After a long winter, the home expo is a great way to come out and really start to get in the spring mood. It's time to start thinking about home repair, fixing your lawns and landscaping."

KTVO is one of the sponsors of the event along with KTOM/KLEE Radio, and members of our team will be there througout the weekend.

Visit http://ottumwahomeexpo.com/index.php for more information.