PUBLIC NOTICE: OPPORTUNITY TO HELP SHOWCASE MAINE

February 3, 2014

For more information contact: Jessica Nixon at: 207-287-3494

AUGUSTA - The Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry (DACF) is inviting Maine businesses and organizations to apply for exhibit space in the State of Maine Building at the 2014 "Big E." The Big E will be held from September 12 thru September 28.

The Eastern States Exposition (Big E) takes place every September in West Springfield, Massachusetts. Last year's attendance set a new record, with 1,481,917 fairgoers passing through the Big E gates over seventeen days. The State of Maine building showcases Maine foods and products, as well as features information on Maine's many recreational and vacation opportunities. Built in 1925, the building is one of six exibition halls representing each of the New England States. The Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry takes pride in the operation and management of the building and Maine's participation in this annual event.

The DACF is providing Maine businesses and organizations with the opportunity to rent commercial space in the State of Maine Building. More than 850,000 of the fairgoers visit the state buildings located on the Avenue of States, affording a tremendous opportunity to promote Maine and Maine products.

The Department's goal at the Big E is to exhibit, publicize, and advertise Maine's products and resources in agriculture, commerce, culture, food, fisheries, forests, wildlife, recreation and tourism. By presenting fairgoers with a balance of educational and commercial exhibits, participants exemplify Maine and its unique way of life. Only items which are produced, grown, crafted, manufactured or significantly altered in Maine may be sold in the Maine building.

The deadline for completed applications to be received is Friday, February 21. An informational session is scheduled for Wednesday, February 12th at 11:00 in Augusta. Advance registration is required by calling (207)287-3494 or emailing: jessica.l.nixon@maine.gov .

All applications will be reviewed by an advisory committee which will recommend exhibitors best suited to meet the goals of the building. The Department will select exhibitors to participate in this years' event, and notify them by Friday, March 7.

For more information about the Big E, please visit http://www.thebige.com. Exhibitor Application Packets are available by contacting the Department, or online at: http://www.maine.gov/dacf/ard/marketpromotion/easternstates_expo.shtml