Charlotte To Host 2012 DNC Convention

As events go, this is the big enchilada. In September of 2012, Charlotte will be at the center of the political world when the Democratic National Convention takes place at Time Warner Cable Arena. Charlotte beat out St. Louis, Minneapolis and Cleveland for the honor.

First Lady Michelle Obama made the announcement in an e-mail to party officials. “Charlotte is a city marked by its Southern charm, warm hospitality and an ‘up by the bootstraps’ mentality that has propelled the city forward as one of the fastest-growing in the South,” Mrs. Obama wrote. “Vibrant, diverse, and full of opportunity, the Queen City is home to innovative, hardworking folks with big hearts and open minds. And of course, great barbecue.”

It will be the first political convention of a major party held in North Carolina. "We're honored that the Democratic National Committee chose Charlotte," Mayor Anthony Foxx said in a statement. "We have an unmatched opportunity to show the world what a beautiful, energetic, innovative and diverse city we are building in Charlotte."

The convention is expected to bring 35,000 visitors into the city, with an economic benefit of $150 million. Most importantly, it will put Charlotte, and the state of North Carolina on the world stage. "This is fantastic news for North Carolina, regardless of your political party," said Governor Bev Perdue.

The 2012 convention is scheduled to begin on Labor Day, September 3, 2012.