Momentum - Business to Business Online Magazine MOMENTUM January 2019 | Page 21

Business Advocacy Matters By: Ashlea Quinonez Memorial Hermann Health System [email protected] In an era where we are constantly busy with life’s obligations – running businesses, trying to start new businesses, carving out time for our families, as well as numerous other commitments – it’s tempting not to add more to our plate. But who better to be more involved in civic engagement and advocacy on behalf of our businesses, industries and communities than you, the people who are most invested? Decision makers at all levels of government (local, state and federal) need people like you. They need to know your story and to understand your journey. They need to comprehend how their decisions impact your businesses and your community. Who better to tell your story than you? Advocacy may sound challenging, but at its heart, advocacy is simply telling a story. Yes, there are facts, figures and financials involved, but it’s the story that makes all the difference. Perhaps it’s a story that depicts how an onerous ordinance or regulation delayed your project; or maybe it’s a story of how local and state government coordinated to move a project or initiative forward; or it could be a story yet to be told. I applaud the League City Regional Chamber of Commerce for making business advocacy a priority and for being intentional in our advocacy efforts. The Chamber provides numerous opportunities for members and the community at large to get informed, to engage, to speak out and to share their stories. Chamber members are welcome to join us at monthly Legislative Affairs Committee meetings where you can learn how to be effective advocates. You are also welcome to participate in Galveston County Day on March 6, 2019, a phenomenal opportunity to join other business and community leaders in advocacy with the Texas Legislature. Over the course of 2019, this column will focus on various business advocacy efforts underway and their impacts on us. We’ll focus on various industries and the legislative and regulatory issues impacting their operations and bottom lines. We’ll also focus on initiatives important to the future of our communities. Business advocacy matters and good advocacy is impactful. Consider adding advocacy to your plate. Consider telling your story. Consider taking time to influence our decision makers. If not you, then who? SOTO FINANCIAL & INSURANCE / ALLSTATE INSURANCE It is never too soon or too late to take control of your financial future. Raymond Soto, CRPC, can help you maximize the potential of your capital resources to provide for a more rewarding lifestyle; have a comfortable and dignified retirement with no worries about outliving your money, and be protected from misfortune and liability along the way. Call to set up an appointment to consult with Ray. 2047 W. Main Street, Suite C-8 * League City, TX 77573 281.554.5487 * fax [phone] * [email protected] 20 MOMENTUM / January 2019