How has San Antonio changed since you grew up here?
The city has definitely matured as a group and tourism destination. San Antonio’s rich heritage and culture have always been at the forefront of its appeal, but it took time for the city to develop as a global destination. Growing up, San Antonio was more of a regional play, and less known nationally and abroad.
The transformation began in the 1980s with former mayor Henry Cisneros, whose vision for cultural and economic expansion set San Antonio on a course of dramatic and lasting change. That, plus the development of River Walk, elevated the city’s national profile. The commensurate evolution of the city’s group and travel industries in turn exposed more people to the city, leading to today, when there is just so much to discover, learn and remember.
What makes San Antonio special?
The hospitality. Take the River Boats, which have special meaning for me. I celebrated my wedding with dinner on a River Boat. As we cruised by the Arneson River Theatre in the heart of downtown, the band there played Here Comes the Bride. Then, by custom, patrons at Dick’s Last Resort pelted us with dinner rolls—which my mother threw back at them! It’s that spirit of fun that makes San Antonio so rewarding for visitors and delegates.
What are some personal favorites around town?
Casa Rio on the River Walk, from 1946, is an old favorite for great Tex-Mex food and an energetic atmosphere. I always loved the Pearl Brewery, which of course has changed dramatically since, and I am a die-hard fan and disciple of the San Antonio Spurs. As the most successful team in any sport over the last 17 years, their team culture is my inspiration for life and learning—and a model for business in any field.