SA to DC Group Welcomed by Secretary of Housing and Urban Development

SA to DC attendees were treated to welcoming remarks from former San Antonio Mayor, Julian Castro, who new serves as the United States Secretary of Housing and Urban Development. Castro began his remarks by commending the SA to DC organizers, the San Antonio Chamber of Commerce, the San Antonio Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, and the Free Trade Alliance on perfecting the art and science of making sure San Antonio's voice is heard. Because San Antonio is a growing, prosperous city and looks like the America of tomorrow, Castro said, "It makes a big difference to folks here in Washington D.C., to hear your voice."

Castro congratulated the city of San Antonio on securing funding for our federal courthouse, which will ultimately benefit our entire community. He also thanked the San Antonio Chamber of Commerce's Immediate Past Chairman, Henry Cisneros for his term and continued contributions to San Antonio.

After watching the presentations and overviews from our issues teams, Castro reminded the crowd that, "The squeaky wheel gets the grease, but it is not enough to just squeak. You have to be smart and you have to be prepared. And, that's what I know you are here." He also reminded everyone on the importance of being up to date on the issues, focused on what San Antonio needs to grow and prosper, ready to make the case and follow up.

In closing, Castro expressed his pride in what is happening in San Antonio and added, "I hope the city will continue to invest in people and brainpower to ensure we have what is necessary to prosper in this 21st century global economy."