Smile and say cheese" is a phrase floating around the Fair these days, and
for good reason. Our Youth Expo theme art says "Smile" with an
image of young teens grinning for the camera.

I love this theme for several reasons - it's universal and spirited, but mainly it reminds me of all the memories I have of this wonderful place and the smiles I've seen on so many faces as they enjoy everything our facility has to offer. It's fitting, too, because it's these smiles and
memories I'll cherish when I celebrate my last Fair as CEO this summer.

I've been with the OC Fair & Event Center full time for 21 years and have
witnessed firsthand the strides we've made in becoming a remarkable force in the community. As CEO for the last 15 years, I had the joy of being part of the first Youth Expo, the groundbreaking for Centennial Farm and Millennium Barn, and the launch of the Ranch After School Program. I've also seen the Fair transform from a week long celebration to a 21 day festival that is one of Orange County's most eagerly awaited annual events.

I have been so fortunate to be a part of the many changes our facility has
undertaken as part of our Master Plan, which has included the reopening of the Pacific Amphitheatre, the removal of old buildings and the creation of new facilities.

I'm so proud of this organization, its positive influence and ongoing stewardship in the Orange County community and beyond. I want to say thank you to the surrounding community for supporting us and our goals to provide educational, entertainment and recreational opportunities for the general public and to preserve the heritage of California agriculture through Centennial Farm and its programs.