THE BALLOON MAN

Legion Fair in Millington pinning hopes on drier draw

Charles Lehman, 23, of Johannesburg, South Africa (far left), leads a crew of contractors setting up a ride Tuesday for the American Legion Fair at USA Stadium in Millington. After a rainy event washed out attendance last year, organizers are hoping the weather cooperates and crowds return.
By Erica Horton, horton@commercialppeal.com
Memphis Commercial Appeal
May 11, 2011
Despite a $10,000 shortfall and flooding in its inaugural year, the American Legion Fair returns to Millington this week.
The 10-day fair runs Thursday- May 21 at USA Stadium.
The fair was started as a fundraising idea, said Lee Buchschacher, chairman and president of the American Legion Fair committee and a former Marine. But last year, it rained three of the four days the fair was open and Naval Support Activity Mid-South in Millington was underwater due to flooding.
Instead of the the 30,000 visitors organizers were anticipating, just 6,000 came through the gates, resulting in a $10,000 loss for the event.
Buchschacher said an improved economy and fewer people affected by flooding in the Millington area this year should yield a greater turnout than last year. "But, it's bad to have high expectations because they are easily dashed," he said.
So far, organizers have spent $60,000 on entertainment and advertising for this year's fair compared to $50,000 last year, but Buchschacher said the money is a long-term investment to help more people and charities sponsored by the American Legion.
Money raised from the fair will go to national and local efforts by the American Legion.
read more at:http://www.commercialappeal.com/news/2011/may/11/legion-fair-pinning-hopes-on-drier-draw/