Spring Expo plans nixed by city
By SHANNON CRABTREE scrabtree@leader-news.com

The city of El Campo canceled its scheduled Spring Expo Monday and is now trying to determine whether it was lack of interest, bad timing or some other issue which prompted the poor vendor response.

The city had been offering free booth space and free admission for the expo which was targeting home improvements, lawn and garden and outdoor activities such as RVing and boats.

But only 14 vendors expressed any interest in attending the event.

"I got a bunch of promises to be there, but they never came through," Community Service Director Leonard Sternadel said.Why the event didn't garner enough interest is a concern, he added.

"I'd love input. They can call me at City Hall 541-5000," Sternadel said.

"I want this thing to work for the citizens of El Campo - whatever it takes.."

The March 15 & 16 event clashed with the Heat It Up for Hospice fundraiser locally as well as interest in the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo and the traditional season for lawn work.

"We will look at rescheduling. Maybe this wasn't a good time. Maybe late spring would be better or maybe earlier," Sternadel said.

"This one didn't make, but we're not giving up yet."