Rain chases away business for vendors

MOBILE, Ala. (WALA) - The weather in Mobile did not deter parade fans, but it dampened some business.

 As the rain fell and parades rolled, the fans begged for throws. Some vendors begged for business.

“This Mardi Gras been wet,” said Fred Appling, an eight-year veteran t-shirt vendor with Little By Little LLC.

“It's been really disappointing,” said Jamie Waknitz, owner of carnival rides, games, and food stalls.

Waknitz has traveled from Minnesota to Mobile since 2007. He hauls several carnival rides, games, and food stands to the Mardi Gras event.

“The rain’s [keeping] everyone away this year,” said Waknitz.

His carnival rides and games line Royal Street near Fort Conde. He said the rain chased away his customers.

Waknitz said he uses a diesel generator that burns about 10 to 12 gallons per day.

“I put $350 in the generator, and I haven't made that back today,” said Waknitz.

He was optimistic that people would show up to play.

Rain also forced at least one t-shirt vendor to take cover for awhile.

“We’re out here with the people. They want to be here. We're here for them, you know. They want the shirts. We want to be here for them. That's what we do,” said Appling.

Appling has sold t-shirts during Mardi Gras for about eight years. He said sales are down by 75 percent compared to previous years.

“A wet shirt is no good. So, I'll stay under the shed while we can,” said Appling.

Appling sells t-shirts made by the Mobile company Little By Little. He planned to go back to selling once the rain slowed.

Some area restaurants and bars also said business is down this Mardi Gras. Some said it’s due to the rain.