KANSAS CITY, MO (Feb. 21, 2017) – Jackson County Executive Frank White, Jr., will present a proclamation to Leon Stapleton, owner of Leon’s Thriftway grocery store, for decades of continuous service to the community at 9:00 a.m., Feb. 22 at 4400 E. 39th Street, Kansas City, MO.
What: Jackson County Executive to recognize Leon Stapleton
When: 9:00 a.m., Wednesday, Feb. 22
Where: Leon’s Thriftway, 4400 E. 39th Street, Kansas City, MO
Who: Jackson County Executive Frank White, Jr.
Leon Stapleton, local business owner
White will formally recognize Stapleton for his achievements in helping to desegregate the local grocery industry through his ownership and operation of Leon’s Thriftway, a fixture in the local community since 1968. Stapleton, who was the first African-American owner of a chain supermarket in Kansas City, overcame barriers of racism, poverty and competition over the years while serving community residents who might not otherwise have a place to shop.