An expo-type fair will once again attempt to bring the campus and community together today.

The Merchant’s Fair, sponsored by the Bowling Green Chamber of Commerce, the Student Union and Mainstreet Bowling Green, was canceled during its original date, Sept. 11, as a result of the Trade Center bombings.

The fair, located in the Grand Ballroom of the Student Union, will feature numerous retailers and volunteer organizations from the city of Bowling Green. Students will be able to receive food, valuable coupons, as well as register for several prize drawings.

“It is a way to invite the students to the community,” said Jen Ruhe, director of the Bowling Green Chamber of Commerce.

Businesses such as Marco’s Pizza, Meijer, Staples Office Supply and Panera Bread all planned to participate in the original fair and will be present today to give the students a sample of what the community has to offer.

New additions to the fair include the Bowling Green Lincoln Mercury and Jeep dealership, a Tupperware dealer, and the Elks Banquet Facility. The Wood County Nursing Home will also be present to offer possible internship positions for students interested in nursing and dietetics. Volunteer opportunities may also be available.

“Our experience has been that they are excited about the University population sampling their goods,” Ruhe said.

According to Ruhe, Bowling Green merchants understand students are important to their businesses. Many merchants come year after year.

In the past, the fair has been “positive for the community,” said Staples employee Mike Sureli. He is encouraged that this opportunity exists to bring the campus and merchants together. Staples will emphasize some of its lesser-known features at the fair.

Also, volunteer organizations, such as the Children’s Resource Center, will give students a glimpse of how they can personally become involved within the community of Bowling Green.