Shotland described the fair as a “community expo” at which merchants and professionals can showcase their wares and services for residents. Shotland has a strong message for residents: “Shop locally.”

“I’m not saying spend 100 percent of your money in town,” he said. “Spend a percentage.”

Shotland noted that Merrick boasts five distinct, vibrant business districts, on Merrick Road, Merrick Avenue, Sunrise Highway, Babylon Turnpike and Jerusalem Avenue.

Chamber members, Shotland and Mills both noted, are often the first to give to local organizations when they fundraise, from school sports teams to the Boy and Girl Scouts. Shopping locally, they said, helps support the businesses that support the community.

As it has for the past 15 years, the Merrick Herald — now the Herald Life — will have a booth at the fair. Please stop by and chat with our editors, reporters and sales representatives about the community issues that are important to you. We’ll also be handing out copies of the paper free, along with other giveaways.

Fair proceeds go to fund the chamber's annual holiday lights program, for which lighted snowflakes are put up throughout the business community from Thanksgiving through the end of January, Mills said.