SAN ANTONIO - These are tough economic times. Many people are wondering what they would do if they lost their job. So - What would you do to make money for yourself or your family?
News 4 WOAI tracked down a man who dances on the side of the road as a career. And he's not only supporting himself, he's helping attract customers to local businesses.
Allen Long has been strutting his stuff for eight years. And he's so popular, local businesses wait on a long list to book him.
He started his sign-holding career more while working for a temp agency.
"Just to stand there and waive, it can be boring - very boring. But for me, I wanted to make the sign talk,β Allen told us.
Allen said his style of dance is a mixture of all the greats.
"Little bit of James Brown, Elvis and Jackie Wilson. I even throw in a little Michael Jackson,β Allen noted.
One of the four businesses Allen dances for is Sugarbakers off Basse near The Quarry.
Diane Harris, Sugarbakers Manager, bragged about their walking sign, "We've had people come in here after they've seen him and say that guy just made my day!"
Now-a-days, local businesses, like Sugarbakers, have limited advertising budgets. Harris explained to News 4 WOAI using Allen is cheaper than a magazine or local newspaper ads and they instantly see results.
"I think more and more, because of the price of advertising and this economy, I just think that a lot of people will think about using that kind of advertisement," Harris predicted.
Allen long is booked solid until Thanksgiving.
"It's my job to get people into the place of business,β Allen explained. βIt's up that place to hold on to that customer."
