GOP convention not boom for Tampa merchants

TAMPA, Fla. (AP) -- Republicans say they are the party of business, but so far their national convention hasn't been the boom some Tampa merchants dreamed of.

What is now Hurricane Isaac kept some visitors away and Tampa's downtown streets are quiet. Some stores have been nearly empty. Even regulars stayed away Tuesday because of warnings about traffic congestion.

Restaurants that stocked up on extra food and hired more help are worried their investments won't pay off. Some owners say there is no chance they will make a profit this week.

Jeff Morzella had hoped the convention would double business. But on Monday, only 75 customers ate in his restaurant compared to 400 patrons on a typical day.