Contacts:
Allison Klein
Wisconsin State Fair Park
Public Relations Manager
414-266-7060
Susie Falk
for U.S. Cellular
414-291-7620
Wireless Carrier to Serve as First Presenting Sponsor of 155-year-old State Fair
WEST ALLIS, Wis. (March 20, 2006) –Wisconsin State Fair and U.S. Cellular announced today they have signed an extensive three (3) year agreement that will make U.S. Cellular “Presenting Sponsor” of the Wisconsin State Fair. The three-year agreement, valued at more than $1 million, marks the first time in the State Fair’s 155-year history that it has had a presenting sponsor.
In addition to serving as “Presenting Sponsor” of the Wisconsin State Fair, which will be reflected in the brand new logo and signage, the agreement includes:
• U.S. Cellular will serve as the sponsor of the “U.S. Cellular Main Gate,” formerly named the Millennium Gate;
• U.S. Cellular will operate the U.S. Cellular State Fair Store in the foyer of the Wisconsin Exposition Center during the 11-day annual State Fair;
• U.S. Cellular Plaza, which will be newly developed for the 2006 Fair, will be operated daily with family activities and interactive displays occurring during the 11-day State Fair;
• U.S. Cellular will also gain prominent logo inclusion on the I-94 Electronic Message Center.
“This is a clear indication that we have turned the place around, and the corporate community is recognizing this is a good place to spend its money,” stated Marty Greenberg, chairman of the Wisconsin State Fair Park Board of Directors. “Although Wisconsin State Fair and U.S. Cellular have created a corporate partnership, it is better defined as a philanthropic partnership, one that truly benefits both the Fairgoers and U.S. Cellular’s wireless customers. By forming this partnership, both organizations can achieve the common goal of enhancing the lives and experiences of customers.
Kathy Hust, vice president of U.S. Cellular’s Central Operations, said, “U.S. Cellular is a company that is very committed to staying connected to our communities. For four years now, we have been a sponsor of the Wisconsin State Fair, and we’re excited that our sponsorship dollars will enhance the Fair to make it a more enjoyable experience for Fairgoers.
Additionally, the contract calls for a majority of dollars to be reinvested back into Fair programming, community outreach, maintaining affordable tickets prices and continuing to keep the State Fair the premier family event of the summer in the state of Wisconsin. This partnership allows U.S. Cellular to say ‘thank you’ to its customers and its community.”
When learning of the new partnership between Wisconsin State Fair and U.S. Cellular, Governor Jim Doyle stated, “The State Fair is a wonderful part of the fabric of Wisconsin, in large part because the Fair has remained affordable for the majority of Wisconsin families. I am pleased that U.S. Cellular has agreed to be the presenting sponsor of the Wisconsin State Fair and will support our efforts to keep the State Fair affordable for Wisconsin families.”
As of Sept. 30, U.S. Cellular, the nation’s sixth-largest wireless service carrier, provided wireless service to 5.3 million customers in 25 states. The Chicago-based company operates on a customer satisfaction strategy, meeting customer needs by providing a comprehensive range of wireless products and services, superior customer support and a high-quality network.
The 2006 Wisconsin State Fair is slated for August 3 – 13 so come out, and “Experience It”! Don’t miss the ½ Price Fair Deal promotion, April 1-30. For the most up-to-date information on events held at Wisconsin State Fair Park, call 414-266-7000, or visit us online at www.wistatefair.com.
