Nov. 4--Help wanted.

It's been a while since that sign was abundant in the region, but the Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce says dozens of employers who are actively hiring will set up booths at the Job Fair & Business Expo on Nov. 12.

The event will get under way at 10 a.m. and run until 5 p.m. at the old Robinson's May building at the Westfield shopping mail, 2525 El Camino Real in Carlsbad. Admission is free for attendees.

Among the companies confirmed to attend are Aflac; Acushnet; Northwest Mutual Financial Network; Time-Warner Cable; Tri-City Medical Center; Macy's; Sears; Wells Fargo; and the California National Guard.

"People who have been laid off and are in transition can find out what their options are," said Toni Padron, the chamber's executive vice president and chief operating officer.

Thus far, 62 companies are signed up for the fair and expo. Chamber spokeswoman Angela Holman said she is confident 100 companies will be registered by event day. Some companies wait until the last minute, she said. Previous fairs have attracted 100-plus exhibitors and 1,000 attendees.

Given the wobbly state of the recovery, Holman said the chamber considered cancelling the exposition portion of the event, which offers networking and marketing opportunities. However, the chamber decided to include it after receiving many phone calls asking that it be retained.

Booth space is still available. Chamber members pay $350 for space; nonmembers pay $495.

The North County Times is among the sponsors of the event.

E-World Recyclers also will set up at the expo and collect old computers, televisions, fax machines, copiers, cameras, music systems and other electronic discards. There is no charge for disposal.

Some food vendors will give away samples.

Call staff writer Jeff Rowe at 760-740-5417.

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