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The Pahrump Valley Chamber in cooperation with the Pahrump Nugget hosted the annual BizExpo at the Nugget Events Center the first weekend of May.

I know from past experience the work that has to be done to put together a major event like this. Kudos to everyone at the Chamber, Lori Dollar and her staff at the Pahrump Nugget and all the businesses and organizations that participated in this venture.

It was truly a worthwhile and fun time for all who attended. I can't tell you how many folks attended the Expo; I can say there was a steady stream of people stopping at various booths.

The Pahrump Bakery, a fairly new business in Pahrump had a constant crowd. After trying their samples, I can see why. Definitely a great addition to Pahrump. The new Rent-a-Center also participated, displaying some really neat electronics and furniture you can rent or rent-to-own.

Representatives of Pahrump Alliance Valley Economic Development (P.A.V.E.D.) also attended. If you haven't seen their plan for the new fairgrounds, you are missing out. There is something for everyone: a water park, ball fields, a 4-H area and equestrian area, even a BMX race track and a place to fly model airplanes. Someone put their thinking cap on, too, and I think this would be fantastic for Pahrump, kind of a one-stop for fun and excitement place.

Some businesses and organizations participating in the Expo were new to the area and some have been in Pahrump for years and wanted to be a part of this local event.

Bob and Denise Plinkington, the dynamic duo of Homeland Heroes were there. I'm sure you have seen their publication around town. Their motto is "Serving those who Served." Great people doing great things to honor and recognize our veterans.

Bob hosts "Veterans Affairs" a TV show that airs every Friday night at 7 p.m. on Channel 30/62. Last Friday's guest was the new commander of the Disabled American Veterans Chapter 15 of Pahrump, Bob "Sarge" Ahrendt. I have met Bob and am impressed by his enthusiasm and desire to help those in need. I am sure we all know someone who could benefit from both of these fine organizations.

Frontier Door & Windows, Perfectly Stoned Countertops and Impressions, all had booths displaying their wares. If you are building or remodeling your home, these three businesses offer really cool and great quality doors, windows, countertops and window coverings.

Pahrump Steel was also in attendance. They have been in the valley for as long as I can remember and specialize in steel buildings.

Need new furniture after you remodel? Be sure to stop by Frazier Furniture, a long-standing business in Pahrump with a beautiful showroom located on Calvada Boulevard. They have nice furniture and a knowledgeable and helpful sales staff to assist you with your home furnishing needs.

For our four-legged family members, Royal Canine Villa and Acme General Store were present. Royal Canine Villa is a boarding facility with a twist, offering day care, overnight or long-term care for your precious pup as "doggies need vacations too." Acme General Store has pet foods and supplies and has been in Pahrump for years.

Pahrump Copies & Copiers, a relatively new business to Pahrump, offers printing and they are authorized dealers for several copier suppliers.

Need maintenance or service for your copier? Give Mike a call at Pahrump Copier Services LLC.

There were many health and wellness businesses and organizations represented, including Desert View Regional Medical Center, Nathan Adelson Hospice, Curves of Pahrump, Visiting Angels, Addus Health Care, All Valley Home Health Care & Nursing, No to Abuse, Specialty Medical Center and Advanced Chiropractic.

The local banks also attended and consisted of Wells Fargo, Nevada Federal Credit Union, Community Bank, 1st International Bank and Nevada State Bank.

Insurance companies, from American Family Insurance, Secure Horizons to State Farm were in attendance.

There were some long-standing businesses in the valley including Mark's Service Center, Saitta Trudeau Chrysler-Jeep-Dodge, Pahrump Rentals and Hardware, D&D Tire, Storage Solutions, B's Embroidery, Pahrump Valley Auto and Bernina Sewing Center to name a few.

Furnace Creek Inn & Ranch Resort, Seibt Desert Retreat, and Going My Way Travel were on hand to help you plan your recreational activities or vacations. J Mar Customs, a company that builds custom motorcycles, also had a booth. Watch out Orange County Choppers, J-Mar has some pretty cool bikes.

One highlight of the Expo for me was a visit with Linda Kass. Linda is a great lady; she works for Valley Electric and never has a bad word to say about anyone. I love talking with her. Her pride and optimistic outlook on Pahrump is fantastic. She is a natural ray of sunshine. Linda was so proud and appreciative of the VEA Ambassadors helping work the co-op's booth.

These are members that learn all about the co-op, the different programs and events offered by VEA, then share that info with friends and neighbors. She also commented on how great the Expo was this year and how busy it was.

I also had a nice visit with Kari Frilot, CEO at Pahrump Valley Chamber of Commerce. She told me she would be leaving Pahrump at the end of the month. She will be moving to Carson City to take a job with the Nevada Commission on Tourism. What a loss for Pahrump. Kari has done an excellent job in Pahrump and I will miss her. I can certainly see why the Nevada Commission on Tourism would want her on board. Pahrump's loss will be Nevada's gain.

I know I missed some businesses and associations that attended the Expo. This was the 10th annual BizExpo, attracting 101 vendors and was by far the best Expo to date. Everyone I spoke with felt the same way.

Thanks again to the Chamber, the Nugget and all who participated. If you missed the Expo this year, be sure to attend next year. You won't be disappointed. Thanks also to everyone who visited the Pahrump Valley Times booth and the other vendors present.

This Saturday is the Chili Cook-Off at Petrack Park from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. You don't want to miss this. I am told there will be vendors present, this should be a good time for all.