Better Business Bureau to Offer Fair "Tips on a Stick"

Editor's note: The Wisconsin Better Business Bureau wrote this press release.

Deep fried bacon with gravy. Deep fried oysters. Deep fried peanut butter cups. These are some of the new foods “on a stick” that people can enjoy at the 2011 Wisconsin State Fair. But, if they’re looking for a healthier alternative, the BBB recommends that consumers try the BBB “Tips on a Stick.”

Although not fried, and technically not edible, the Better Business Bureau’s consumer “Tips on a Stick” will help consumers from getting a bad taste in their mouths. Every day at the Fair, the BBB will hand out a “Tip on a Stick” — advice from the BBB about the latest scams that will make fairgoers smarter consumers.

The tips come on a small piece of cardboard attached to a stick, which doubles as a fan that people can use to stay cool.

The “Tip on a Stick” fans will be at the Wisconsin BBB’s booth, number 819 in the Expo Center at the Fair. While at the BBB Booth, consumers can get information about how to spot and protect themselves from the Top 10 Scams of the Year, and how they can access BBB Business Reviews from their mobile phones. In addition, kids can play the game “Half-Minute to Win it” for a prize.

“This is our first time we’ve had a booth at the Wisconsin State Fair, and we’re incredibly excited,” said Randall Hoth, Wisconsin BBB president and CEO. “We hope to meet everyone who comes to the fair.”

The Wisconsin State Fair runs from August 4 through 14 at State Fair Park in West Allis.

While shopping at the Fair, the BBB offers this advice for consumers:

• Prior to making a purchase, get the company's refund and exchange policy — in writing, if possible.
• Obtain the company's physical location and telephone number, in case you need to return or exchange an item after the event.
• As with any purchase, it makes sense to comparison shop. Keep in mind, however, that the least expensive item may not always be the best value. If you are making a large purchase, don't be afraid to leave the fairgrounds to do some research.
• Don't be pressured to buy. After the demonstration or sales pitch, walk away from the sales person to give yourself some time to think about the purchase.
• Ask the vendor if a sale price will be honored after the fair — if so, you will not feel pressured to purchase the item "on the spot."
• It's important to note that the Federal Trade Commission's "cooling-off rule," which normally allows consumers three days to cancel a purchase, does not apply to the following purchases at fairs:
  • Purchases under $25
  • Goods or services not primarily intended for personal, family or household purposes
  • Insurance, securities, or real estate
  • Motor vehicles
  • Arts and crafts

For more information or further inquiries, please contact the Wisconsin BBB at www.wisconsin.bbb.org or 414-847-6000.