San Antonio Express-News (Sunday)

WW H-E-B D?

- Joe Lazor

I am embarrasse­d by our top three state “leaders” — Greg Abbott, Dan Patrick and Ken Paxton. In their defense, it is difficult to be an effective leader as followers of Donald Trump, who is only concerned with … well, Trump! Rather than just criticize, I wanted to offer a different model of leadership for the three — H-E-B.

This past week I was shopping at the Lincoln Heights H-E-B about 7:30 a.m. For some reason, I reflected on what was going on. A lot of restocking, not many customers, but a lot of activity — getting ready.

It occurred to me that we all take much for granted in this everyday situation. When I drove up there was no wall around the property, no gate where I had to show proof of citizenshi­p. The first “partner” I saw wished me good morning. I felt welcomed. I didn’t have to produce my birth certificat­e to enter the restroom. When I was searching about in the produce section, help was offered before I asked.

I flashed back to a year ago when the roads were frozen and the power was off. And, yes, there were empty shelves in the store, but we were assured more was on the way. In fact, they worked tirelessly and quietly to fill that promise. Such could not be said of the statewide leadership, offering blame and excuses while Texans were literally freezing to death. I trusted H-E-B because this organizati­on has a long history of commitment to South Texas and each local community.

I want Texas to be successful and better than its current trajectory. A suggestion: Ask, what would H-E-B do?

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