Excitement was apparent for local business owners who were paid a special visit this past week.
Before she arrived at the Emporia Granada Theatre to close out her “Healthy Workers, Healthy Economy” Medicaid expansion town hall tour Kansas Governor Laura Kelly made a stop at a trio of downtown businesses all owned by local entrepreneurs. The list included Trox Gallery and Gifts, the Sweet Granada and the Axe Shedd.
Trox owner Kaila Mock says in addition to showcasing her business, her time with the governor provided an opportunity to shed light on the entire local art community.
Sweet Granada owner Kim Redker says Governor Kelly showcased a great interest in both the business and its employees.
KVOE has also reached out to Axe Shedd owner Calebh Shedd for his thoughts on the visit.
During her comments at the Granada Thursday morning, Governor Kelly thanked each of the businesses for their hospitality and commended Emporia Main Street Director Casey Woods for “making Emporia the blueprint for the Kansas Main Street program and growing downtown businesses.”
In a news release from the governor’s office, Woods stated his appreciation for the governor’s visit and her efforts to expand Medicare for all Kansans and the benefits it would bring to small business owners and entrepreneurs. Woods states, “Emporia Main Street understands the importance of quality health care options for our Kansas entrepreneurs and their employees. We can better support our small businesses by increasing access to health care and getting more of our workforce covered under Medicaid expansion.”
Photos courtesy of the office of Kansas Governor Laura Kelly.
Kansas Governor Laura Kelly meets with Axe Shedd owner Calebh Shedd.
Kansas Governor Laura Kelly meets with Sweet Granada owner Kim Redeker.
Kansas Governor Laura Kelly meets with Trox Gallery and Gifts owner Kaila Mock.
