I was heartbroken watching the videos and images coming out of downtown San Antonio Saturday night. I've always considered San Antonio to be this big melting pot of people and cultures that get along so well! AND, we never have those typical police issues like other cities. Saturday night was different - and as pointed out to me by many, these were NOT the peaceful protesters who started out at Travis Park. I recognize that, and I stand with the protesters...change is needed, to move forward. It will only make it better. But, I cried...as I drove through downtown and saw both the results from the riots, and the preventative measures taken by businesses who have already been hit hard this year.
BUT...my tears changed to happy tears, as I saw hoards of volunteers out cleaning the downtown area of a city they love. I drove by and saw Spurs star Lonnie Walker handing out water, and picking up a pressure washer. I saw McDonald's giving away free meals to the volunteers....THIS is San Antonio. Don't let a few detractors take away from this great city on the rise. San Antonio is my home, I've lived here almost as long as anywhere in my life, and I'm proud of the way we handle situations like this, and come together.... #SAStrong