Great American Eclipse: West Plains, Mo., small businesses get much-needed boost amidst eclipse celebrations [Video]

WEST PLAINS, Mo. (KY3) – As we approach the Great American Eclipse, many cities in the path of totality are already kicking off their celebrations.

West Plains is in the middle of its three-day eclipse party, and with tens of thousands estimated to make the journey to the small town, it will have a big impact on small businesses.

Small business owners are probably having a better time than anyone else around here. They’re telling KY3 that they’ve been struggling, as many others are struggling around the country, but with the influx of tens of thousands of new people. They say they’re getting a much-needed shot in the arm.

Hundreds came out for Saturday afternoon’s Sunshine Festival in West Plains. People came out to enjoy the sun and spend a little cash with the local small businesses. It’s an influx of cash that they say they sorely need.

”It has …