By Brent Frazier
MANCHESTER, Tenn. – The mayor of this city is debunking the
long-standing myth that Bonnaroo actually brings the economic boon many had
first thought.
"I can't say we're dead, but yeah – we're not as busy (now
that) Bonnaroo is here," said Lisa Rouvelas, owner of J&G Pizza and
Steakhouse right off Interstate 24.
Rouvelas admitted Saturday nights are typically
standing-room only; but on this Saturday evening, there were more empty tables
than customers.
"People are just afraid to get out," said Betty Superstein,
the mayor of Manchester, adding that there's proof in sales numbers that local
businesses might actually lose money the week of Bonnaroo.
Superstein added that many local merchants have shared that
they "might as well close for the week of Bonnaroo."
The four-day music fest, now in its 11th year
and said to draw some 80,000 fans, wraps Sunday evening.
