Rain dampens weekend events but not spirits



MILWAUKEE (WITI) -- Surprisingly strong thunderstorms rolled through southeast Wisconsin Friday morning, June 21st, moistening weekend events such as Greek Fest and the Lakefront Festival of Art.

The wet weather is familiar to folks attending the 51st annual Festival of Art.

"It's a baptism' of sorts for the Festival, so we're really excited," said Kristin Settle. "The best part about Lakefront, though, is that it's tented. All of the artists' booths are tented and secure so none of the art gets wet. Everybody can still continue to shop."

The morning storm in Menomonee Falls silenced radio station FM 102.1 from the airwaves for about ten minutes around 10 a.m.

"You could actually hear the rain in the studio. It was that loud," said Jacent Jackson. "We have a backup transmitter that we went onto. We operated at lower power for a good chunk of the afternoon.

With the potential for rain continuing throughout the weekend, organizers of State Fair Park's 48th annual Greek Fest suggest patrons come prepared.

"We're welcoming everyone to come down to our free festival this weekend. You know, just throw an umbrella and a rain coat in the car and you'll do fine," said one organizer.

Greek Fest organizers say they said a prayer to be able to handle whatever weather comes their way this weekend.