BLACK EXPO ATTRACTS MERCHANTS AND BUYERS

More than 300 people filed into the Salvation Army gymnasium Saturday for the first Black Expo.

"The weather was great and we're excited about the Expo," said Calvin Bird, an organizer of the daylong event where about 20 exhibitors showcased their businesses and merchandise, including hats, cookies, artwork, music, jewelry and styling services.

The Expo provides an opportunity for black business owners to show their wares and let people know about them.

"We were well pleased with the event," said Paul Garland, another organizer.

The event was sponsored by the Coalition for Minority Affairs and was a spinoff of the Black Family Reunion, which attracted more than 3,000 participants last year.

Business owners from three states participated. "We had business people here from Cape Girardeau, Mo., Paducah, Ky., and Carbondale, Ill.," said Bird.

One of the busy booths was that of Anthony Q. Williams, artist, musician and evangelist, who was exhibiting his paintings, which ranged from contemporary to traditional.

Williams, a native of Poplar Bluff, has been in the Cape Girardeau area more than a year, working with a contractor at Procter & Gamble. Williams, a pianist, said he uses his music to enhance his ministry.

Another booth attracting attention was that of M.T.'s Fashions, which provides custom sewing. On display were a number of items -- ethnic hats and other garments, evening gowns, wedding attire and accessories.

Other booths displayed greeting cards, books, video and audio cassette tapes and hair styling.