What a day and what a crowd! Even though we got there two hours early, there was already a huge line of people around the building and stretching down the street a couple of blocks. We were told the place held 3K people and after awhile it became apparent not all there would get in. The street was blocked off and speakers set up outside; overflow crowd spilled into the street.

My daughter and I got in and found a seat fairly close to where Obama would speak. This is an outdoor venue and the weather was perfect. I looked around at the crowd and was happy to see such a diverse group of people; many different races and many different ages, all here together to hear Barack Obama.

We were entertained by various local political folks including our own Charlie Gonzalez who told a little story of when he was 12 and went to 'work' with dad Henry B. Gonzalez. At the end of the story, he said he is proud to support Obama and believes he is a product of what his father fought so hard for all of his life. Lots of cheers!

We waited and waited then noticed the crowd out on the street sounded really worked up; we could hear a very familiar voice in between the cheers. Obama had gone out into the street first to greet those who could not get in. We listened and waited some more then after about 20 minutes it was our turn.

Barack Obama gave an abbreviated speech (the one we are familiar with) for about 40 minutes, changing up parts of it to speak directly to San Antonians. When he mentioned George Bush would not be on the ballot this year, we yelled and he said "ya'll need to take him back" and we screamed "NO, WE DON'T WANT HIM" then everyone had a good laugh. There were moments of laughter throughout; Obama has a good sense of humor which sometimes isn't seen on TV.

After his speech, he answered questions from the crowd for over an hour. They were not planted questions, he randomly called on people himself. Each answer he gave was detailed, on various issues like healthcare, public school funding, the war, VA benefits and taxes. For those who say Obama doesn't talk policy and give details, they should have been there. He definitely knows his stuff.

If Obama had called on everyone we'd still be sitting there; I wish he could have. It was off to Houston next where he'll be this evening for returns out of Wisconsin and Hawaii.

My daughter and I are now home, exhausted but happy; it was a great experience for her. Now it's off to work for the next couple of weeks and with Texas's help, Barack Obama will be the Democratic nominee for President of the United States of America.

Here's a few pics I took - enjoy!!!


Waiting in line (my daughter & me)


The crowd


Charlie Gonzalez

Barack Obama: