Chamber expo enjoys a renaissance

Sussex County - Although the Sussex Tech Expo has been around for more than 25 years, this is only the second year since it was given a new lease of life having been taken over last year by the Sussex County Chamber of Commerce in partnership with Sussex County Community College. Previously a three day-event, the Expo had over the years had run its course and in 2004 was not held at all. This year, the Expo took place on Friday from 5 to 8 p.m. and on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. “This is only our second year running the Expo but already we have seen it grow and hope to see it return to what it once was,” said Tammie Horsfield, president of the Sussex County Chamber of Commerce. “We had over 1,000 people came through here on Friday night.” More than 80 local businesses were represented ranging from realtors to landscapers and building contractors to local recreational centers. The Expo also provided Sussex Tech with the opportunity to showcase its many outstanding vocational programs, such as the culinary program which runs a fully operational bakery and restaurant. “I had a wonderful shrimp dish here last night for dinner,” said local realtor Bill Croventhal on his return trip to the restaurant for lunch on Saturday. “I am very impressed by the standard of the food and the presentation.” While the new Expo still has a way to go before it returns to what it once was, there was a definite buzz in the air, indicating that vendors and visitors alike were happy to be there. “This is a great opportunity to be part of the Expo with all the other vendors, and at the same time support the education of the kids here at the Sussex Tech,” said Ann Marie Sciascia of Sciascia Photography in Newton.