I'm happy to report that a friend and former Milwaukeean, Patrice Harris, is on her way back to Milwaukee.

Harris is the new Public Relations and Communications Director for Wisconsin State Fair Park, but she comes to State Fair from Red Bull North America, Inc. where she was the Field Marketing Manager for Central Ohio. Prior to Red Bull, Harris served as the Director of Marketing and Public Relations for Milwaukee World Festival, Inc., the organization that produces Summerfest.

In a news release, Executive Director Randy Prasse said, "Her enthusiasm, energy and excitement about the Fair, her hometown of Milwaukee, and the entire state of Wisconsin were evident throughout the interview process. Her background in special events, marketing and public relations will be a terrific asset in her role with the Park."

Having worked with Patrice at both her Summerfest and Red Bull gigs, I can say that OMC is happy to have her back. She feels the same, "I am thrilled to join the team at Wisconsin State Fair Park," said Harris. "Randy, Chairman Martin Greenberg, and the entire staff at the Fair Park have a vision and level of dedication and excitement that is contagious. Their ongoing efforts have positively turned the Fair Park around and that's nothing short of impressive. So many people have a memory tied to State Fair because it is an incredible, family friendly event – truly the Grand Champion of Summer. I'm looking forward to being a part of creating those memories."

Harris will assume her new role on June 4.