KANSAS CITY, Mo. — So much is at stake on landing the Republican National Convention, economic impact, global exposure, that the effort locally has been bi-partisan. Democrat leaders have joined Republican leaders in the effort to land the convention.
We all know that this convention has been widely anticipated for civic leaders on both sides of the political spectrum. One local business owner says it shouldn’t be any different when it comes to business.
Even before the selection committee arrives, workers are smoothing out the welcome for Kansas City to host the 2016 Republican National Convention. Convention goers will likely fan out, even to an artsy area most would consider a bit “left” leaning, like the Crossroads District.
There you’ll find Grinders delicatessen, known for its trendy looks, live music and delicious food.
“Grinders is one of those crazy places where everybody goes just to have a good time. We produce a great experience,” said Grinders’ owner Stretch.
FOX 4 caught up with Stretch at his soon to be opening restaurant in Lenexa. He says politically he could fall on either side of the fence, but admits he tends to be more liberal. Just don’t expect his beliefs to impact his bottom line
“With all your businesses downtown, you’ve got your red, you’ve got blue, you’ve got your rainbow colors going on down there. We’ve got everything happening, but everybody should just focus on the green, and having a good time and showing that Kansas City is a player,” he said.
Stretch has his fingers crossed, hoping for the RNC in Kansas City. He says Grinders is prepared to roll out the red carpet and roll in the dough.
“The whole convention, I mean they love food, everybody has to eat. Grinders is going to just go over the top because we provide that service,” he said.
And the green would be big based on Tampa’s 2012 RNC experience. The city got more than an estimated $250 million in economic impact. An estimated 15,000 media members would descend on KC, with a global audience lending priceless exposure.