The SCORE 2014 Issue 3 2014 | Page 17

U.S. congressional candidate Ryan Zinke speaks to some of the 40 couples who attended a fundraising event hosted by Buffalo Wild Wings® franchisee Brad Anderson. developed a professional and personal relationship with Rep. James Lankford, R-Oklahoma. Both he and his wife have volunteered their time and donated to his campaign to replace Sen. Tom Coburn. If you’re considering taking the plunge into political activism, but just haven’t made the leap, heed the advice of those who have been there. “The first step is always the scariest,” says Pancake. “It can be intimidating walking into those offices, but once you get a couple of meetings down and realize they are just people, it’s easy.” Lynn believes the main apprehension behind making those first steps is that as franchisees, the goal is to serve wings and beer and make people happy, no matter their social or political beliefs. “As business owners, we don’t want to talk politics for fear of offending one group or another of our guests.” Despite that, he made the decision to take a stand for policies that support franchisees and encourages others to do the same. “It’s normal not to be involved, but we simply can’t survive under the pressure that the government puts on our businesses.” Anderson’s take is a bit blunter. “As the saying goes, if you don’t like something, do something about it,” he states. In other words, if you’re not part of the solution, you’re part of the problem. Nothing could be truer when it comes to politics. It can be tempting to sit back and lament what’s happening in Washington, D.C., but unless you’re making an effort to change the landscape, you’re effectively giving your approval of the status quo. The time is now to get inspired, take action and make a difference! S Elizabeth Lowman is the FBS director of marketing and communications. Lowman can be reached at 678-797-5161 or [email protected]. (L-R) Rep. James Lankford and franchisee Ed Lynn enjoy a good-humored moment during a meeting in his Washington, D.C. office.   www.kdkanopy.com 800.432.4435   Excelling at Providing Small Business Owners the Capital they Need to Grow. To discuss how TD Bank can help develop  a personalized plan for you, contact     Business Development Officer:   15 SCORE | 2014 Issue 3 the Come See Our Digital Store Front for Outdoor Canopies and Accessories   Brian Misenheimer  1‐704‐707‐6559 or   [email protected]    Visit us at Booth   #408.