Chamber's 24th annual business expo set at Crystal Springs Event is free and open to the public

Newton -- The Sussex County Chamber of Commerce EXPO has become as much a part of the fall landscape as the changing leaves. Now in its 24th year, EXPO is scheduled for Monday, Oct. 24, at the Crystal Springs Country Club in Hardyston from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Newton Medical Center–Atlantic Health Systems is the Main Event Sponsor.
The business expo, commonly referred to as EXPO, is open to the general public. Admission, parking and hors d'oeuvres are free. A complimentary shuttle service, sponsored by Atlantic Ambulance, will be available to bring attendees right to the front door from the parking area.
EXPO offers area businesses and non-profit exhibitors a chance to showcase their products and services to the approximately 2,000 people who typically attend the event each year. Tammie Horsfield, President of the Chamber, says “EXPO is different each year. We are always trying to offer new things to both our exhibitors and the general public.”
One of the most beneficial aspects of EXPO for area businesses, besides the chance to promote their company to the public, is the opportunity to network with other local businesses in the area. An exhibitor-only reception from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. offers company representatives a chance to relax, eat and talk shop with each other before the event opens to the public.
Mark Gruber, of Gruber, Colabella and Liuzza in Hamburg, and an exhibitor at last year’s EXPO, described his experience, saying, “The Expo topped our expectation. From the parking to food service, organization, facility, and atmosphere, the environment was perfect for showcasing our legal services to both vendors and the public.”
Horsfield always refers to EXPO as an “elegant” trade show. From the graciously appointed exhibit areas replete with soft carpeting, chandeliers and delicate wall coverings, to room names like the Emerald Ballroom, the Saratoga room and the Rotunda, to the white glove service at the food stations, the event welcomes attendees to relax and enjoy interacting with company representatives at their exhibits.
Industries typically represented include health care, computer services, home improvement and remodeling, senior services, interior decorating, solar energy, landscaping, performing arts, financial services, health and wellness businesses, veterinarians and other pet services. The Sussex County Sheriff’s Office is usually present too, promoting its Crime Stoppers program. So is the Newton Theatre, giving residents a sneak peak at upcoming concerts and events coming to the venue. Sussex County Miners mascot Herbie is there too, posing for photos with the attendees and promoting the professional baseball team at Skylands Stadium.
Reenee Casapulla, Recycling Coordinator & Safety Officer at the Sussex County Municipal Utilities Authority, agrees, “Participating in the annual Chamber Expo has provided the Sussex County MUA with numerous opportunities to highlight recycling activities for the county, meet local residents, network with local businesses and have a good time doing it!”
A limited number of booths remain available, and interested exhibitors can contact the Sussex County Chamber of Commerce at 973-579-1811 or email mail@sussexcountychamber.org for information. Exhibitor contracts are available at www.sussexcountychamber.org.
Additional event sponsors include Bentley Assisted Living, Bentley Commons at Paragon Village, Compassionate Care Hospice, First Hope Bank, Gruber, Colabella, Liuzza & Thompson, HQW Architects, JCP&L a First Energy Corp., and Laddey, Clark & Ryan, LLP.