Local businesses will have the opportunity to showcase products and services Oct. 30 during the Dawson County Chamber of Commerce Business and Consumer Expo.

Celebrating its 12th year, the mini-trade show will be from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Lakeview Center on Dawson Forest Road.

An estimated 70 businesses will market their products and services for visitors' consideration.

Chamber officials said the expo is an ideal opportunity to meet Dawson County's finest business owners, managers and representatives.

"We are looking forward to the upcoming Business and Consumer Expo," said chamber president Christie Haynes. "This is a great opportunity for our local businesses to show off the services and products that they offer our citizens."

Chairwoman Jennifer Baker agrees.

"Our booths are always sold out, and we are able to provide a huge variety of vendors - so there is something for everyone. Consumers will benefit from having one-on-one time with the businesses to ask questions, get advice and learn more about their products," she said.

Sponsored by Northside Hospital's Dawson Medical Campus and Children's Healthcare of Atlanta at Forsyth, the expo will feature a variety of local businesses, ranging from banks and financial services to real estate professionals and nonprofit organizations.

Businesses will hand out samples, coupons and door prizes.

"We are blessed to live in a community that has so much variety in terms of products and services that are offered locally," Haynes said.

Once again, this year's expo will have a resource area for businesses and potential business owners. Representatives from regional and state agencies will be present to provide information and answer general business questions.

Admission is free and the event is open to the public. There is a $3 charge for food tickets, which treats guests to samples of a variety of specialties from local restaurants and caterers.

To learn more about the networking opportunity, call the chamber at (706) 265-6278.