The San Antonio Zoo sparked viral buzz by lampooning NBA star Kawhi Leonard’s alleged involvement in a $28 million fake tree-planting scheme, poking fun at his departure from the Spurs and supposed ties to the LA Clippers.

 

In a playful video, zoo staff conduct mock “interrogations” about fake trees and Leonard’s whereabouts, blending sharp Spurs pride with light satire targeting the Clippers.

 

Fans cheered the zoo’s creative local humor, but some critics argue it trivializes serious fraud claims and puts a family-friendly venue in the national spotlight for the wrong reasons.

 

The allegations center on Leonard’s rumored secret endorsement through Aspiration, a supposed tree-planting firm allegedly used by Clippers owner Steve Ballmer to skirt salary cap rules — claims both deny.

 

This controversy highlights the fine line local institutions walk when sports drama, legal risks, and online culture collide.

Texas schools are at the center of a heated debate after several districts found ways to relax the state’s phone ban during the school day.

 

North East ISD and Alamo Heights ISD redefined what counts as the “school day,” allowing students to use phones at lunch or when switching classes.

 

Some parents cheer this move as a fair way for kids to check in or unwind, while critics argue it undermines the intent of House Bill 1481, meant to reduce distractions and bullying.

 

Educators note a calmer atmosphere with fewer in-class disruptions, but new concerns crop up during allowed phone breaks, like kids glued to screens.

 

Families, lawmakers, and teachers remain split: Is this flexibility a necessary adjustment, or a loophole that threatens student focus and safety?

 

This ongoing local push-and-pull reveals deeper questions about school autonomy, effective rules, and student wellbeing.

A late-night shotgun blast rocked a quiet Southwest Side street, sending a man to the hospital with a critical head wound.

 

Though now in stable condition, the victim has refused to talk to police, stirring heated debates among residents.

 

Some neighbors see his silence as self-protection, fueled by fear of retaliation or mistrust of authorities.

 

Others argue that without his help, the shooter remains at large, turning anxiety into daily reality for the community.

 

Attempts by investigators to unravel the cause—a heated dispute that escalated—have stalled without the victim’s testimony.

 

Supporters of his choice stress the community’s right to privacy, pointing to past cases where cooperation led to more risk.

 

But critics maintain that silence only deepens trouble in neighborhoods grappling with violence.

 

This ongoing standoff highlights urgent local debates over trust, justice, and the complex links between individual choices and community safety.

In a Southwest Side San Antonio neighborhood, emotions are running high as the Party for Socialism and Liberation (PSL) canvasses local streets, distributing flyers about residents' rights during ICE encounters.

 

Following a tense Labor Day weekend where Guatemalan children faced near-deportation before judicial intervention, PSL activists like Ilse Martinez and Nicholas aim to empower working families with information, urging calm and preparedness amid rising ICE activity.

 

For some, such as Linda and her family, the outreach brings relief and hope, reinforcing that community members are hard-working neighbors, not criminals.

 

But skepticism simmers among others, including Jenna and Lorraine, who believe the flyers threaten law enforcement's role and could encourage rule-breaking.

 

As detentions increase and local holding spaces fill, the debate over security and civil rights intensifies.

 

The neighborhood remains divided, grappling with whether grassroots actions mean greater empowerment or unwanted disruption.

A growing debate over the popular “Edgar” haircut—marked by short sides, a layered top, and blunt bangs—has erupted in schools from El Salvador to Texas.

 

Beloved by many Latinx teens, the style faced official backlash when El Salvador’s education chief, José Mauricio Trigueros, banned it in public schools, calling it disruptive and linking it to gang stereotypes.

 

Some Texas communities have echoed these concerns, especially after a festival shooting reportedly involving a teen sporting the cut.

 

Supporters argue the ban promotes discipline and order, while critics see it as discriminatory and culturally insensitive, unfairly targeting Mexican-American youth.

 

In neighborhoods like San Antonio’s Marbach Road, the haircut is both joked about and fiercely defended as harmless self-expression.

 

As more schools weigh similar policies, families and students remain divided, sparking an urgent conversation about identity, fairness, and who gets to define what’s “acceptable.”

San Antonio City Hall is gripped by a fierce debate over animal welfare and political process.  

Mayor Gina Ortiz Jones abruptly pulled a proposed ordinance that would fine residents up to $2,000 for abandoning animals, just before a critical vote.  

This proposal, backed by Councilwoman Marina Alderete Gavito and championed by Animal Care Services Director Jonathan Gary, aimed to address rising cases of animals—ranging from puppies to ponies—being dumped across the city.  

Supporters argue it's essential, as animal rescues see heartbreaking cases like six neglected puppies recently found by the Animal Defense League of Texas.  

Mayor Jones insists the plan must restart through the proper committee, citing a need for new council input.  

Critics, including council members Marc Whyte and Teri Castillo, accuse her of stalling urgently needed reforms.  

As tensions rise, San Antonio faces a pivotal moment in shaping city policy—and the fate of its animals hangs in the balance.

Just outside San Antonio, vibrant tiny home neighborhoods are springing up, changing empty lots into thriving enclaves.

 

With prices under $200,000, models from builders like Lennar in Bexar County attract first-time buyers, veterans, and those seeking relief from soaring rents.

 

These compact homes—some just 350 square feet—feature efficient designs, cozy living, and small yards, capitalizing on the growing desire for a more minimalist lifestyle.

 

San Antonio’s escalating home prices, up more than 20% lately, mean these modest options open doors for many who’d otherwise be priced out.

 

Supporters tout their affordability and simplicity, but skeptics caution that limited space may not suit growing families or remote workers, and worry that looser county rules bypass important standards.

 

Still, as the city grapples with a housing crunch, the tiny home movement’s momentum raises pressing questions about balancing affordability with long-term community needs.

Lily and Jake set out for a romantic adventure through San Antonio, discovering its most enchanting spots together.

 

They drifted along the River Walk on a candlelit boat tour, immersed in lantern light and gentle melodies.

 

Exploring The Pearl, they savored gourmet tacos beneath glowing string lights, raising glasses to new experiences.

 

Wandering the tranquil grounds of San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, the couple found beauty and history among the timeless arches of Mission San José.

 

High above in the Tower of the Americas, city lights and a vivid sunset gave their evening a magical aura.

 

In the Japanese Tea Garden, koi ponds and bamboo groves lent a dreamlike serenity, while a swan boat ride in Brackenridge Park brought laughter.

 

They ended at the Majestic Theatre, swept away by live music and the elegance of a bygone era. Their San Antonio journey created lasting memories, weaving love with the city’s rich culture.

San Antonio offers unforgettable family adventures, bursting with activities for kids of all ages.

 

Little Mia and her brother Jake kick off their journey at the DoSeum, where engineering zones and robot fun inspire future inventors.

 

The adventure continues at the San Antonio Zoo, as Mia marvels at exotic animals and feeds brilliant lorikeets.

 

Inclusive play shines at Morgan’s Wonderland, a park welcoming all abilities.

 

At the Witte Museum, dinosaur fossils and interactive villages make history come alive for curious minds.

 

Water thrills and dolphin encounters await at SeaWorld, with smiles stretching wide on wild rides.

 

Brave spirits soar at Six Flags Fiesta Texas, where kid-friendly coasters and confetti cannons deliver pure excitement.

 

Finally, a River Walk cruise transforms sightseeing into an enchanting, storybook journey.

 

Families leave with lasting memories — and can’t wait to return for more Texas-size fun!

San Antonio invites newcomers with a blend of warmth, history, and vibrant community spirit.

 

Maria, a young teacher, found herself enchanted by the city’s scenic River Walk, where sparkling waterways and laughter from lively cafes set a magical tone for each day.

 

After sunset, she enjoys classic Tex-Mex dishes—sizzling fajitas and tamales that remind her of family tradition and local roots.

 

Historic landmarks like the Alamo and Spanish colonial missions inspire awe and pride, connecting Maria to the community’s enduring legacy.

 

Spring’s Fiesta celebrations, bursting with colorful parades and music, deepen her sense of belonging and unity.

 

Cultural gems such as the McNay Art Museum and creative Blue Star Arts Complex light up Maria’s weekends, while families cherish the city’s parks, playful splash pads, and the San Antonio Zoo.

 

Rooted in appreciation for military heroes at Fort Sam Houston, the welcoming spirit here makes every resident feel at home.

San Antonio locals: Ready to shake up your routine without straying far from home? Discover five exciting getaways just a short drive away, offering adventure and relaxation for every mood.

 

The iconic San Antonio River Walk on South St. Mary’s Street is just five minutes from downtown. Imagine drifting on colorful barges, sampling tacos at vibrant riverside cafes, or soaking up live music beneath glittering lights.

 

Natural Bridge Caverns, only 25 minutes north, invites thrill-seekers underground. Explore dazzling caves, then challenge yourself on zip lines and rope courses with sweeping Hill Country views.

 

For outdoor lovers, Government Canyon State Natural Area in Helotes features limestone trails, ancient fossils, and serene picnic spots amid scenic vistas.

 

Guadalupe River State Park, about 40 minutes away, offers tubing, riverside hiking, and shady escapes beneath towering cypress trees.

 

Don’t miss the legendary Alamo at Alamo Plaza—step into Texas history and find inspiration just minutes from home.

 

Your next local adventure awaits—no suitcase required!

San Antonio sparkles with history, flavor, and unmistakable Texas hospitality.

 

This city’s vibrant soul shines brightest in its small businesses — from cozy cafés to soothing spas — creating unforgettable experiences for locals and visitors alike.

 

Mi Tierra Café y Panadería has dazzled with Tex-Mex plates and festive mariachi tunes since 1941, while The Woodhouse Spa invites you to unwind with luxurious massages and glowing skincare essentials.

 

The Big Bib BBQ dishes up smoky, wood-fired brisket sandwiches, and Bakery Lorraine delights with fresh French pastries in a riverside haven.

 

Serenity Nail Bar offers vegan polish pampering, and the historic Schilo’s deli, open since 1917, serves nostalgic root beer and sandwiches.

 

At June’s Day Spa, soothe your senses with organic teas, facials, and massages.

 

Each shop weaves warmth, flavor, and relaxation into San Antonio’s colorful fabric—celebrating the city’s lively heart, one visit at a time.

Immerse yourself in San Antonio’s timeless charm, where echoes of history blend seamlessly with its lively present.

 

Wander the River Walk at dusk, gliding beneath lantern-lit skies that cast shimmering reflections on tranquil water.

 

Soar to panoramic heights in a downtown tower, glimpsing vast horizons and winding cityscapes that redefine your perspective.

 

Stand before the legendary Alamo, feeling the palpable bravery etched within its weathered stones.

 

Cycle along leafy trails, passing grand live oaks and historic missions that invite quiet contemplation with every pedal.

 

Savor a vibrant brunch at the Pearl District, where farm-fresh flavors spark joyful conversation and uplift your spirit.

 

Experience the magic of live performances in an elegant, historic theater as spotlights illuminate captivating emotions.

 

Join the dynamic flow of Market Square’s festival nights, dancing to pulsating rhythms beneath a canopy of colorful flags.

 

In San Antonio, heritage and vitality interlace, crafting experiences that linger in memory and beckon you home again.

San Antonio shines as a city where heritage, vibrant culture, and Tex-Mex flavor merge, producing leaders and innovators recognized far beyond Texas.

 

Julian Castro launched from mayor to national figure, advocating for equity as U.S. Secretary of Housing and Urban Development and presidential hopeful.

 

Henry Cisneros left a legacy in urban development, first as mayor and then as HUD Secretary under President Clinton, shaping policies that echoed nationwide.

 

Spurs legend George "The Iceman" Gervin transformed the game with his scoring style, amplifying San Antonio’s sports prestige.

 

Grammy-winning artist Christopher Cross put the city on the musical map, while Robert Cade revolutionized athletic hydration with Gatorade.

 

NFL great Darren Woodson and NBA Hall of Famer David Robinson both brought championship glory and leadership home.

 

These trailblazers underscore the powerful impact of San Antonio roots on the world stage, inspiring pride and future generations locally.

San Antonio’s heavy-metal fans are coming together to honor Ozzy Osbourne after his emotional farewell show.

 

Locals are fondly reflecting on Ozzy’s wild history with the Alamo City, recalling everything from his 1982 arrest at the Alamo cenotaph and decade-long ban to his grand return with a $10,000 apology in 1992.

 

On August 2, The Rock Box will ignite the scene with “THE CRUE and OZZMOSIS,” a raucous tribute night for both Motley Crue and Osbourne, promising high-octane energy reflective of both icons.

 

At Hogwild Records, Osbourne and Black Sabbath gear is flying off the shelves, with staff scrambling to restock popular T-shirts, reissues, and exclusive memorabilia.

 

From intimate sidewalk vigils to wall-shaking concerts, San Antonio proves once again it’s genuinely the heavy-metal capital of the world.

Every Wednesday at 7 p.m., downtown New Braunfels buzzes with energy as the NBTX Run Club gathers outside the Pour Haus for their weekly run.

 

Founded in December 2023 by Hunter Boltz and Bibian Cespedes, the club now attracts hundreds with its lively themed runs, raffles, and a welcoming atmosphere fueled by a dynamic social media presence.

 

Runners and walkers choose from several scenic routes — including a 2-mile walk and 4- to 5-mile loops winding through the city’s historic heart.

 

This surge in participation mirrors a global enthusiasm for community running groups.

 

For newcomers, the club provides a vital way to meet neighbors as New Braunfels continues to grow.

 

While some residents worry about downtown traffic safety, city officials are already planning sidewalk and signal upgrades.

 

The club partners with nonprofits like the Humane Society of the New Braunfels Area and aims to host its own 5K.

 

Wednesday nights here now offer more than fitness—they build connections.

San Antonio’s volleyball scene is buzzing as VYPE SATX opens voting for the 2025 Preseason Libero/Defensive Specialist Player of the Year fan poll.

 

From July 11 to July 18, fans can cast their votes online for the top defensive players who keep rallies alive with quick reactions and relentless effort.

 

Schools throughout the area are spotlighted, bringing well-deserved attention to liberos and defensive specialists often overlooked for their vital roles on the court.

 

To ensure a fair competition, VYPE is cracking down on any automated or fraudulent voting methods, emphasizing genuine, enthusiastic support from the community.

 

The poll is managed entirely by VYPE Media staff, promising integrity and authentic representation of local passion.

 

The winning player will gain recognition across VYPE’s platforms—plus serious hometown bragging rights.

 

Cast your vote now and help set the tone for San Antonio volleyball’s 2025 season.

Boerne is experiencing major growth in healthcare facilities as the One Seven Business Park prepares to open at 5 Coughran Road near the I-10 and Texas 46 intersection.

 

The 40,000-square-foot campus will feature five buildings for both healthcare specialists and professional offices.

 

Shell spaces launched in May 2025, and a $120,000 interior build-out is set to finish by September, meeting the urgent needs of a swelling local population.

 

Boerne has grown from 17,865 residents in 2020 to an estimated 21,774 in 2023, with more than 25,000 expected by 2026.

 

In addition, the new Boerne Emergency Room will offer 24/7 emergency care by late 2025, and Baptist Health System has plans for a full-service hospital nearby.

 

These ambitious projects are turning Boerne into a dynamic healthcare hub, providing residents with convenient, high-quality care close to home.

Ozzy Osbourne, legendary rock icon, has died at age 76, prompting an outpouring of condolences from the Alamo in San Antonio.

 

Local officials reflected on Osbourne’s complicated legacy with the site, recalling his infamous 1982 arrest for urinating on the revered Cenotaph monument near the historic landmark.

 

This act led to a ten-year ban from city-owned venues and deep hurt among San Antonio residents devoted to the Alamo’s legacy.

 

However, in 1992, Osbourne returned to apologize to then-Mayor Nelson Wolff, expressing genuine remorse.

 

In 2015, he visited the Alamo grounds with his son Jack, demonstrating a newfound respect and willingness to learn the site’s profound history.

 

The Alamo’s recent tribute emphasizes Osbourne’s transformation and the importance of forgiveness—highlighting San Antonio’s commitment to reconciliation and honoring those who make amends.

The San Antonio MasterSingers are opening auditions for their 2025–26 concert season, searching for talented vocalists from across the community.

 

Audition dates include Friday, August 16, at 7:00 PM, and Saturday, August 23, at 10:00 AM, both at Trinity University’s Porter Memorial Library.

 

Candidates will be assessed through a vocal warm-up, a prepared solo in any style, and simple sight-reading by the chorus leadership team.

 

Singers from all musical backgrounds are welcome, though classical choral experience is helpful.

 

Accepted members will prepare a diverse repertoire, from Baroque to contemporary, with rehearsals starting in early September.

 

Participants perform in major concerts at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church and the Tobin Center for the Performing Arts, and enjoy coaching, discounted music, and social events.

 

Register by August 9 with a résumé of vocal experience for your audition slot.

 

Questions may be sent to auditions@mastersingers.org.

Texas State University has bolstered its 2026 football recruiting class with a major commitment from Savion Barthelemy, a 6-foot-3, 280-pound defensive lineman out of Belle Chasse, Louisiana.

 

Barthelemy selected the Bobcats over North Texas, Louisiana, and Troy, following a surge of interest sparked by his unique size and athleticism.

 

Impressing coaches with his high school versatility at both tight end and defensive line, Barthelemy ultimately flourished on defense, attracting attention for his strength and adaptability.

 

Head coach G.J. Kinne pointed to Texas State’s upcoming move to the Pac-12 — a shift expected to elevate the program’s profile and offer recruits a chance to compete against elite teams.

 

With 15 commitments, Texas State’s 2026 class now ranks third in the Sun Belt Conference and 90th nationally, heightening excitement for the season opener against Eastern Michigan on August 30.

 

Barthelemy’s arrival signals growing momentum and strengthens the Bobcats’ defensive line for the future.

Joey McGuire, head coach of the Texas Tech Red Raiders, is unapologetic about the university’s aggressive Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals and revenue-sharing strategies, dismissing criticism as “comical.”

 

At the Texas High School Coaches Association convention in San Antonio, McGuire emphasized that athletic director Kirby Hocutt and major donor Cody Campbell carefully planned NIL contracts for both returning stars and new recruits long before new regulations began.

 

He argued that large budgets have always fueled college football’s top programs, and the controversy only arises because Texas Tech is a “new money” challenger upending traditional power structures.

 

McGuire’s leadership has led to three straight winning conference seasons. He remains committed to leveraging financial foresight and resources to chase a Big 12 Championship, defiantly positioning West Texas as a rising force in collegiate athletics.

Downtown San Antonio is set to undergo a dramatic change as the Historic and Design Review Commission has given initial approval for the 213-foot “Grandisimo” observation wheel in the St. Paul Square Historic District.

 

Developed by Icon Experiences, this towering attraction will be positioned near Hoefgen Street and the Robert Thompson Transit Station, offering impressive views of the Alamodome and the iconic Tower of the Americas.

 

The project also features a family-friendly plaza, including a carousel, mini golf, shaded seating, concessions, and bathrooms—all designed to breathe new life into a currently vacant lot.

 

James McKnight, representing the developers, noted that while this marks the first approval step, further details such as materials and lighting will follow.

 

If final approvals come through, construction could start later this year, making “Grandisimo” a fresh landmark and gathering place for locals and tourists alike.

The famous red-and-white stunt bicycle from Pee-wee’s Big Adventure has officially arrived at The Alamo in San Antonio, decades after stealing scenes in the beloved 1985 film.

 

This distinctive Schwinn, central to Pee-wee Herman’s wild search, is now on display for a limited time at the Ralston Family Collections Center, allowing fans to relive a quirky piece of cinema history.

 

By fall 2027, it will become a centerpiece at the upcoming Mays Family Legacy Gallery inside the new Alamo Visitor Center and Museum.

 

The new gallery will spotlight The Alamo’s unique influence on pop culture and generations of moviegoers.

 

A special public screening of Pee-wee’s Big Adventure is also in the works at the renovated Plaza de Valero, with more details to come.

 

The bicycle will remain on display above ground—true to the film’s iconic joke that The Alamo has no basement.

The World Heritage Center in San Antonio debuted a trio of state-of-the-art LED video installations in early 2025, captivating visitors with an immersive exploration of the city’s historic Missions.

 

Local experts worked together to install vivid, high-resolution LED walls that bring centuries-old stories to life with remarkable clarity and color.

 

Nestled beside Mission Marque Plaza, the 6,000-square-foot center houses nearly eight million pixels across 206 square feet, spanning custom-designed digital frames that showcase the region’s rich past.

 

Guests are drawn into dynamic narratives: archival photos, animated maps, and video montages illuminate the cultural, architectural, and daily life woven through San Antonio’s five UNESCO-listed Missions.

 

Led by a renowned creative firm, the project uses modern technology to deepen emotional connections—whether re-creating 18th-century mission scenes, tracing the San Antonio River, or featuring interviews with descendants and local artists.

 

These groundbreaking displays invite families to experience, not just observe, the enduring stories of San Antonio.

San Antonio’s Lone Star neighborhood is rapidly transforming, shedding its industrial image for a lively, modern urban identity.

 

At the heart of this change is the long-vacant Lone Star Brewery site, set to become the expansive Lone Star District thanks to developers GrayStreet Partners and Midway.

 

The ambitious redevelopment spans 32 acres and will feature residences, offices, retail, and entertainment spaces, with the first phase targeted for completion in 2025.

 

New hotspots like Kunstler Brewing and Dos Sirenos Brewing are drawing crowds and energizing local nightlife.

 

Despite this momentum, parts of the neighborhood—especially near Burbank High School—retain more modest homes and echoes of the past.

 

Still, Lone Star remains a magnet for creatives and families seeking affordability, authenticity, and a sense of community in San Antonio.

 

Planners are embracing the area’s heritage, while ushering in connected, people-friendly spaces and vibrant new businesses.

What began in 2014 as a casual Facebook page celebrating local food has evolved into the influential “San Antonio Restaurants” group, now with over 300,000 enthusiastic members.

 

Led by Alan and Beverly Williams and food writer Susie LaFredo, the group energizes the city’s dining culture through vibrant online discussions and in-person gatherings.

 

During the COVID-19 crisis, members rallied support for area eateries, boosting takeout sales and giving struggling restaurants a crucial spotlight.

 

The group has since grown beyond social media, expanding into a print magazine, a podcast, and TV segments that highlight local favorites.

 

Recent openings like Tacos on the Street—relocated from Mexico to Stone Oak—and Primo’s Italian restaurant near St. Mary’s Strip reflect the city’s dynamic food scene.

 

San Antonio International Airport’s upcoming local dining additions further showcase how community passion is transforming the city into a true culinary destination.

San Antonio’s dining scene surprises with a vibrant tapestry of international flavors that reach far beyond famed Tex-Mex classics.

 

Seoul Asian Food Market & Café on Rittiman Road welcomes visitors with homemade Korean favorites, from bulgogi to kimchi fried rice, all in an unpretentious setting.

 

Simi’s Indian Cuisine on Fredericksburg Road caters to lovers of rich curries, fresh naan, and aromatic biryani—perfect for vegetarians and spice fans.

 

Northwest San Antonio’s Singh’s Cantina crafts brisket bánh mì and house sauces, blending Vietnamese and Southern soul food for creative comfort.

 

For Afghan cuisine, Azro Authentic Afghan Cuisine offers tender kabobs and a warm, familial ambiance on NW Military Highway.

 

Other beloved spots include La Frite Belgian Bistro, Sichuan House, historic Schilo’s Delicatessen, and The Guenther House by the river.

 

These hidden gems capture the diverse spirit of San Antonio, inviting locals to savor global traditions right at home.

San Antonio will soon welcome Tacos On The Street, a celebrated taquería from Puerto Vallarta, opening its first U.S. location this August at Stone Oak’s 22026 U.S. Highway 281 North.

 

Established in 1993, this taquería is known for its charcoal-grilled carne asada tacos, crafted with thinly sliced, high-quality beef and handmade tortillas pressed daily from a unique nixtamal masa blend.

 

Diners can savor three house-made salsas—avocado verde, tomato cruda, and a smoky chile de árbol—plus creative drinks like margaritas and the signature Jamaica Mezcalita.

 

San Antonio will also see its debut of Van Leeuwen Ice Cream, featured on the dessert menu.

 

The vibrant interior, designed by Joel Mozersky, showcases ceramics from Cerámica Suro and a striking mural by artist Don Mos, blending Puerto Vallarta’s tropical spirit with Texan flair.

 

Anticipation is building for this new destination, promising another exceptional addition to San Antonio’s renowned Mexican culinary scene.