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Chicago Restaurant Owners Fear Loss Of Business Over NATO Summit

CHICAGO (CBS) -- Chicago restaurateurs are concerned about losing business during the NATO summit.

Their concern: Patrons are saying they're either avoiding downtown or leaving town.

Reservations that weekend--the summit officially runs May 20-21--are down.

LISTEN: WBBM Newsradio's John Cody Reports

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And they are worried about whether patrons will be able to walk in or their delivery people will be able to get around as NATO delegates arrive.

"We see very little activity on the days around this event," said Glenn Keefer of Keefer's Steakhouse. "Conversely, the days around the restaurant show are extremely busy."

NATO host security chief Arnette Heintze says the concerns are unfounded.

"We're telling you, stay open," he said. "There are going to be plenty of business opportunity that day."

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