What role in the community do you think convenience stores should play?

My neighborhood c-store when I was growing up in Phoenix was a fixture in the fabric of our community. Today’s objectives and expectations are even higher: partnering with the community on charitable missions, selling healthy food options and household items on the go, retailing age-restricted products responsibly, employing area residents, providing critical goods in emergency situations and more.

What does NACS political engagement mean to you, and what benefits have you experienced from being politically engaged?

Because information is power, political engagement matters enormously. Advocacy is the most important component of association membership in my view. When we tune in and speak up, we can make a difference, but if we don’t, no one else will on our behalf.

What federal legislative or regulatory issues keep you up at night?

A one-type-fits-all approach to the nation’s future energy supply is my big picture concern. Convenience stores need a level playing field to provide the fuel and food that customers want, whatever that fuel future looks like.

What c-store product could you not live without?

Absolutely nothing beats a fountain Diet Coke.