Popular Business Expo Today

Brent Finlay was so impressed with the 2010 Oswego Chamber of Commerce Business & Consumer Expo, there was no question the would be back this year.

"We were there last year, and point blank, it is the largest event in the community," Finlay, executive director of the Oswego YMCA, and member of the expo planning committee, said. "We'll be sharing all the good things about the YMCA. It's almost a no-brainer (to have a booth)."

Hosted by the and sponsored in part by Oswego Patch, the event will be held from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday at th Oswego High School fieldhouse, 4250 Route 71. Admission is free, and door prizes and a $500 cash prize will be up for grabs to those who register, Steve Hatcher, chamber president, said.

"This is both a business and consumer show," Hatcher said. "No. 1, it allows our members and other businesses who wish to exhibit, to show what's the latest and greatest to offer the public and business people. It also affords the community the opportunity to see those products and services because it's free of charge."

Nearly all of the expo's 100 booth spaces have been filled with a variety of vendors, from banks, to chiropractors' offices, to salons and universities.

"It's pretty well-diversified," Hatcher said. "I think we have two banks this year, I think we have two hospitals, and two, maybe three, colleges. We don't have, (say), 20 landscapers. It's really diversified."

At least six months of planning by chamber committees go into the expo, Hatcher said, adding the event has gone on for at least six years. The committee strives to make the show professional by hiring a company to set up the fieldhouse.

Julie Hanley, receptionist at , 1039 Station Drive, said the business has participated in the expo at least two years in the past and plans to make the most of the exposure renting a booth should bring the salon.

"We're going to do demonstrations of facials, makeup application, hairstyling, and eyelash perming and tinting," Hanley said. "We will show what's new and what promotions we have going on. We take it as an opportunity to meet new people and promote the business and look for potential clients."

Finlay said while the YMCA will give away a short trial membership to one lucky expo visitor, its main focus is encouraging expo patrons to look at all of the program and services they offer.

"Really, it's about sharing the great programs we offer the community. It's a lot about the YMCA," he said. "We look for people to have a conversation with us. We really want to talk to you and make a difference in your life and our family's lives."

The organization will also be offering information on upcoming summer camps and a new pool agreement, Finlay said.

In addition to the booths, the Expo will showcase an art exhibit and  competition featuring artwork by local students. Coordinated by the , the sideshow will showcase either two or three dimensional art judged by local artists, Hatcher said.

"We've got about 100 exhibits there that kids will display," he said, adding the participating grade levels will mainly be of the elementary and junior high level.

Prizes will be awarded to different age groups and categories.

Whether you come for the art show or to learn about local businesses, Hatcher said there is something for everyone.

"I can't think of a better way to spend a better way to spend a bit of time and become educated and have a great time," Hatcher said.

For more information on the expo, visit the Web site at www.oswegobusiness.org.