The Orange County Fair & Exposition Center (OCFEC) is really all about community and what our programs mean to the community. Our mission statement sums up our position as we take on new endeavors, hone our existing programs and build events based on what the community represents.

Our mission is simple:
OCFEC provides educational, entertainment and recreational opportunities for the general public and preserves the heritage of California agriculture. This is accomplished while promoting and showcasing the talents, interests and accomplishments of the citizens of California, especially Orange County residents.

We're pleased to announce that the Orange County Market Place, Tel Phil Enterprises, Inc., was the successful competitor in the recent swap meet lease bid. The new contract commences August 1, 2005, for five years with a five-year option to renew. Tel Phil has an excellent record of providing quality customer service and an excellent, innovative customer experience. Their commitment to quality and excellence is long-term and we're looking forward to developing opportunities to create new and synergistic programming into the future. The goals of the Tel Phil proposal align with those of OCFEC in that we strive to provide value driven opportunities for a positive customer experience. For a list of special events and special Market Place features, check out the OC Market Place website at www.ocmarketplace.com.

Another mouth-watering event this season is America's Zesty Best Food Show featuring a delicious assortment of good food, good music and the best zesty cuisine in the country. Vendors with products from mild to wild will be offering samples to all comers June 17-19.

And of course, we will continue to bring Southern California residents events and attractions that they have come to expect including the 26th annual Youth Expo. Youth Expo is a free event sponsored by OCFEC, dedicated to all that's wonderful and exciting about kids. It is chock-full of opportunities for local youth artists, crafters, writers, jazz artists, performers and many other types of exhibits and contests to showcase the talents and achievements of our young people.

Other events that you will want to check out are the America's Family Pet Expo from April 15 - 17, Extreme Motorsports Expo from May 13 - 15 and numerous Speedway events taking place in the Grandstand Arena.

All revenues generated from the annual fair and year-round events are reinvested in educational and community programs as well as in our facilities. Since completing the master plan work last summer, we have been planning and working with architects on two significant capital projects. No plans are finalized as of this date, but we are looking forward to a refurbishment of the Pacific Amphitheatre and the building of a new exhibit hall. More details to come in the future but these two projects are examples of how the OCFEC plans to reinvest in a large way in new and enhanced facilities.

Becky Bailey-Findley
CEO / General Manager
Orange County Fair & Exposition Center