State Fair hurts some local businesses

WEST ALLIS -- You won't hear much of the cling of beer glasses, or bar laughter at State Fair Inn. The restaurant sits directly across from State Fair Park, but it’s empty.

Owner Bill Potocic plans to open late and close early during the fair, as crowds bypass his place for festival fun. He says it happens every year.

10.0pt;font-family:\"Microsoft Sans Serif\",\"sans-serif\"\">\"I always say, I love to see it come and I love to see it go, because I miss the old crowd,\" Potocic said.

10.0pt;font-family:\"Microsoft Sans Serif\",\"sans-serif\"\">It’s the same story doors down at Senor Sol Mexican Restaurant. A couple families sat outside enjoying a bite to eat, but inside, there wasn’t a soul.

10.0pt;font-family:\"Microsoft Sans Serif\",\"sans-serif\"\">\"People come for the fair food. They want things you do once a year, something you don't get at normal places or regular menu,\" owner Antonio Escobedo said.

10.0pt;font-family:\"Microsoft Sans Serif\",\"sans-serif\"\">Escobedo watches his sales drop at least 30-percent. To break even, he’s selling parking spaces and offering food discounts.

But, despite the inconvenience you won’t hear either owner complain. They say they welcome the change in pace, and new faces. Ten days later, it’s back to normal.

10.0pt;font-family:\"Microsoft Sans Serif\",\"sans-serif\"\">\"It's great for the community, and the little bit we have to put up with, it's probably worth it,” Potocic said.

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