Cover Story
Best of San Antonio 2024
With more than 300 years of history, it stands to reason that San Antonio is a city full of icons. Think of the Alamo and its presence on movie screens, in history books and as part of our nation’s lore. Or the Tower of the Americas that dominates our skyline. Or the River Walk that…
Kamala Harris pledges to support federal cannabis legalization
The promise comes as part of a package of initiatives aimed at building support among Black men.
San Antonio-based H-E-B asking for nominations of top teachers for annual award
H-E-B has awarded more than $14 million in funding to finalists, winners and their schools since introducing its Excellence in Education Awards.
Queer students look for alternatives after Texas A&M ends transgender health care services
The students saw the move as part of a political environment that has become increasingly hostile against LGBTQ+ people in Texas.
San Antonio Museum of Art to host spooky Japanese-themed events next week
The events include a free screening of Japanese horror classic Ringu, the inspiration for U.S. blockbuster The Ring.
Bad Takes: Despite claims Trump is attacking the ruling class, he is the ruling class
For all his populist posturing, Don the Con is a vehicle for an economic status quo that rewards the wealthiest 1%.
Shiner’s Spoetzl Brewery adding cocktail lounge and restaurant
The expansion comes just a few months after the brewery behind Shiner Bock beer opened a distillery and barbecue spot.
San Antonio-based Burger Boy opening its first Windcrest store
The new location, scheduled to open next year, will be the chain’s 10th.
San Antonio students are heading back to campus as COVID-19 infections rise
Colleges and local school districts say they’re taking precautions and warning those who feel ill to stay at home.
Assclown Alert: Demanding a fully armed State Fair with Texas AG Ken Paxton
Paxton threatened to sue the city of Dallas after the State Fair of Texas implemented a gun ban in response to a shooting at last year’s gathering.
The Black Crowes will play San Antonio in November without Aerosmith
The blues-rock band was scheduled to play Frost Bank Center on Nov. 3 before Aerosmith abruptly retired.
San Antonio city staff drawing up plan to phase out horse-drawn carriages
A council committee voted unanimously to get the plan moving forward, and the full council could vote on it as early as October.
San Antonio boy makes final round of USA Mullet Championships
This round of voting ends Aug. 21 with winners announced Aug. 28.
Texas ranks second-worst for women’s equality in new study
Texas women’s access to healthcare, jobs and political representation all dragged down the state’s overall score.
Retirement of CEO at San Antonio’s USAA comes amid other top-level departures
The management exodus also comes as the company has faced lawsuits and issues with regulators.
Texas A&M San Antonio opens new rec center, residence hall in major expansion
The university has a total of $126 million in new facilities in various states of development.
Study ranks San Antonio Spurs’ front office among cheapest in NBA
Even so, some of the league’s biggest-spending teams have failed to win championships or even make the finals.
Home Run Dugout plans indoor baseball simulation venue in San Antonio
The venue will feature more than 30 virtual batting cages, a biergarten, a full service restaurant and three bars.
San Antonio chicken restaurant owner arrested on cocaine trafficking charges
Members of SA’s legal community are reportedly comparing the restaurant owner to Breaking Bad‘s Gus Fring.
Free speech groups challenge Texas law requiring parental consent for kids’ social media
Tech groups have also sued to block the state law from going into effect Sept. 1.
Soul Asylum’s runaway train makes a stop at Paper Tiger this Wednesday
The Grammy-winning band will be joined on the lineup by local indie rockers The Cinderleaf.
San Antonio ISD invites public to give input on fate of closed campuses
SAISD will hold seven public meetings over the next two weeks to provide updates and seek input.
San Antonio’s Quarry Hofbrau & Beer Garden renovating its historic 97-year-old building
This is the restaurant’s first extended closure since it opened 14 years ago.
San Antonio’s new doom metal bar Torche is already closing down
Upon receiving a citation from the city, the would-be venue is shutting down after just a few weeks in business.
A South Texas school district received a request to remove 676 books from its libraries
The request came from a local pastor who is part of a group that trains people to “defend their freedom and liberty.” Other faith leaders have pushed back.
Turning trauma into activism: She’s fighting for reproductive rights in Texas and beyond
Amanda Zurawski, whose lawsuit challenging state abortion bans was ultimately rejected by the state’s high court, wants Republicans to rue Roe’s demise come November.
San Antonio police officer fired for failing to search man who later shot himself
The 19-year-old suspect fatally shot himself with a gun hidden in his clothes during intake at the Bexar County Jail.
Texas AG Ken Paxton sues Houston immigrants’ rights org over political speech
Attorney General Ken Paxton has targeted similar organizations that aid migrants at the border. The lawsuit appears to be the first to focus on political speech and rules that govern nonprofits.
Austin police are looking for a serial killer, and it’s not the ‘Rainey Street Ripper’
The person of interest is a short Hispanic male and could be connected to the sexual assaults and deaths of two Central Texas women.
13th Floor Haunted House San Antonio unveils new nightmares for this Halloween season
The spooky attraction is celebrating 15 years of scaring San Antonio senseless.
Ted Cruz mocked for retweeting account called ‘Ted Cruz Sucks Balls’
The Texas Republican’s other social media blunders have frequently grabbed headlines.
Texas election officials are dealing with a flood of challenges to voter registrations
Conservative groups and individual activists have targeted tens of thousands of Texans over their eligibility. But state and federal protections are in place.
San Antonio Spurs to play highest number of nationally televised games in 3 years
The Silver and Black only appeared in four nationally televised games in 2022, the season before the arrival of Victor Wembanyama.
San Antonio’s Smoke Skybar will host breakdancing competition this weekend
The event is being billed as an afterparty for Freeman Coliseum’s Freestyle Explosion.
Texas sues Biden again to block federal protections for transgender workers
The Texas Attorney General is following his familiar playbook by taking the case to a federal judge with a record of rulings against the Biden administration’s agenda.
Burgers Boy’s University of Texas at San Antonio store finally opening next week
The Alamo City-based chain also has a ninth store in the works at Potranco Road and Texas State Highway 211.
Owner of San Antonio restaurant chain Lucy Cooper’s sells two locations
Chef-owner Braunda Smith will continue to operate the original restaurant on San Pedro.
Texas DPS dodges transparency in Uvalde — again
Director Steve McCraw reinstated a Texas ranger he’d fired over the response to the Robb Elementary shooting. The ranger’s appeal could have brought scrutiny on his agency.
New San Antonio Missions ballpark would raze low-income downtown apartments
An official with Weston Urban told City Council the development group would immediately notify Soap Factory residents about their possible displacement. Residents say they received no notice.
San Antonio’s Alamodome warns of rush hour traffic delays before Friday’s Journey concert
The venue says more than 35,000 people are expected to attend the show, which also includes Def Leppard and Steve Miller Band.
San Antonio detective suspended over claim he told ex-girlfriend to kill herself
The 17-year-force veteran was also disciplined for allegations that he asked other police for help under false pretenses.
Federal judge in Texas expands ruling that blocks Biden administration protections of LGBTQ students
The decision in the case brought by the Texas Attorney General preempts any future Title IX regulations that extend federal protections to LGBTQ students.
Board reprimands San Antonio Councilman Marc Whyte for ethics violations
As a result of details revealed during the hearing, a prominent local attorney suggested he may pursue an ethics complaint against Councilman Manny Pelaez.
San Antonio U.S. Rep. Castro seeks recommendations of Latinx songs for Library of Congress
Last year, Daddy Yankee’s “Gasolina” — a submission by the congressman — made history as the first Reggaeton song to be preserved in the Library of Congress.
San Antonio’s Briscoe Museum closes film series with Killers of the Flower Moon
The Oscar-nominated Martin Scorsese film will screen on Sunday, and tickets are included in the museum’s admission price.
South San Antonio library offering ‘type-in’ this Saturday
The throwback experience will allow visitors to create written works with vintage typewriters.
Journey is still believin’ — and on its way to San Antonio this Friday
The classic rock band is part of a package tour with Def Leppard and the Steve Miller Band.
Paramount+ show 1923 will shoot in San Antonio
The city’s Department of Arts and Culture worked to bring shooting for the Yellowstone prequel here.
High-end steakhouse Isidore opens in San Antonio’s Pullman Market
The eatery is the latest high-concept restaurant to celebrate local ingredients in the gourmet grocery.
Texas regulators put the brakes on plan for controversial wastewater permit north of San Antonio
Builder Lennar Corp. sought to dump wastewater into Helotes Creek. A judge will now decide the fate of that plan.
Luminaria dedicates mural to 53 migrants who died in tractor-trailer left in San Antonio
The mural was commissioned by Bexar County Commissioner Rebeca Clay-Flores on the second anniversary of the tragedy.
Councilwoman Adriana Rocha Garcia enters San Antonio mayoral race
If elected, she would be the first Latina to hold the office.
Sen. Ted Cruz’s campaign says it will return tens of thousands in illegal donations
The GOP senator’s campaign made the promise after federal regulators asked it to explain suspicious contributions by 45 individuals.
Texas likely undercounting heat-related deaths
Deaths from heat are notoriously difficult to quantify because of how complex and subjective the process is. It leaves officials with an incomplete picture of who heat kills.
Penn & Teller bringing magic and laughs to San Antonio’s Majestic Theatre
The duo, known for their success in Vegas and on TV, celebrate 49 years of professional partnership this year.
Unsafe Space: Director Fede Álvarez aims for effective mix of horror and action in Alien: Romulus
The new installment in the sf-horror franchise opens this Friday.
New on Netflix: Emily in Paris goes to, uh, Italy; Laci and Scott Peterson’s dueling docs
What to watch this week on all the streaming platforms.
Nearly half of San Antonio landlords offering concessions as housing market slows
More rentals hit the market in June than during any other month in the past 50 years.
Mexican convenience store chain OXXO expanding into Texas
The OXXO brand is moving north of the border for the first time.
San Antonio River Walk resort Club Wyndham La Cascada plans $4 million renovation
The full renovation of the condominium resort will include bathrooms, kitchens, carpet, fixtures and more.
Police investigating weekend shooting of two dogs on San Antonio’s North Side
While social media influencers have said four dogs have been shot, SAPD officials said they only have reports of two.
Judge blocks Texas from releasing this year’s school accountability ratings
The ruling marks the fifth consecutive year Texas families have not received a full picture of their schools’ ratings, which are used to determine how they are performing.
Despite Abbott’s threats, rural Texas Republicans still skeptical of school vouchers
State Rep. Matt Schaefer, who didn’t vote against vouchers last session, railed against them during a Monday hearing.
San Antonio’s Retama Park will host wiener dog races this weekend
Sit, stay and see which doggo reigns supreme.
Defense Department’s 2026, 2028 Warrior Games coming to San Antonio
The games were supposed to take place in the Alamo City in 2020 but were canceled by the pandemic.
Teachers now free to violate separation of church and state, Texas education official says
The revelation came during a heated discussion on Texas’ new Bible-centric public school reading lessons on Monday in Austin.
Live Music in San Antonio This Week: The Pharcyde, Mohama Saz, There I Ruined It
Kitschy singer-songwriter and social-media personality Ian McConnell is also stopping in SA on his coast-to-coast tour.
Chick-fil-A opening new San Antonio-area location, this one in Universal City
This will be the 35th area Chick-fil-A, and it’s scheduled to open next summer.
Tiger Woods-owned golf venue will debut in San Antonio this fall
The multi-million dollar venue will include 18-hole miniature golf courses plus a full-service restaurant, a bar and entertainment spaces.
San Antonio-raised Nava Mau is first trans Latina to earn Emmy nomination
Mau received a Best Supporting Actress nomination for her role on the black comedy Baby Reindeer.
JD Vance posed for photos in front of Alamo after high-dollar San Antonio fundraiser
The vice presidential hopeful stopped in the Alamo City as part of a fundraising tour through Texas.
San Antonio is the seventh-most dangerous city for pedestrians, new study finds
Pedestrian crashes increased last year, according SAPD numbers.
‘Vibe shift’: Young Texas voters, motivated by Kamala Harris, lock into the presidential election
Some young voters who are upset about the Biden Administration’s handling of the Israel-Hamas war say they’re still hesitant about the vice president.
San Antonio goth nightclub Cream no longer plans to open larger St. Paul Square location
In a Sunday social media post, the owners revealed that the deal has fallen through.
Two Texas women ask feds to ensure hospitals offer life-saving abortions despite state ban
The two women said they almost died because hospitals repeatedly turned them away during ectopic pregnancies.
Bad Takes: If the U.S. values its Olympic athletes, they should receive a living wage
More than half of these high-performance athletes make less than $50,000 a year, and more than a quarter of them earn less than $15,000.
Bottoms up! Whiskey Business returning to San Antonio’s Witte Museum later this month
Attendees sample a wide array of whiskies, bourbons and scotches while tasting food from SA’s hottest restaurants.
San Antonio restaurant Aguachile’s deft way with Mexican-style seafood worth the admission price
Though pricey compared to less-ambitious Mexican restaurants, this spot delivers fresh and impressively presented seafood.
Texas’ youngest students are struggling with their learning, educators say
A national study found young children are faring worse academically than their peers before the pandemic. The problem’s scope in Texas is unclear.
When summer heat hits my Texas prison
High temperatures and scarce air conditioning cause tempers to flare for prisoners and guards alike.
Federal court orders regulators to fix process, reconsider gas export projects in South Texas
This week’s ruling was the latest twist since cities and groups in Texas’ Rio Grande Valley sued to block the projects.
San Antonio Botanical Garden to host immersive spooky events for Halloween season
Costumed actors will provide immersive experiences throughout the park during the events, which range from wholesome to hellish.
Sebastian Maniscalco bringing his stand-up comedy show to San Antonio’s Frost Bank Center
The About My Father star’s new tour will bring him to the Alamo City on Sunday.
San Antonio Zoo offering special back-to-school discounts
The zoo is offering buy-one-get-one free on ticket sales all month long along with other discount deals.
Analysis: What really may be behind San Antonio’s new non-stop route to Boston
Delta’s new route may be less about SA’s status as a sought-after destination and more about the airline’s effort to dominate one of the nation’s most lucrative markets.
PETA slams SeaWorld San Antonio after death of infant dolphin
It’s the second dolphin death at SeaWorld San Antonio in two years.
San Antonio Zoo named nation’s third-best in Newsweek reader’s poll
The award from the national publication comes as the zoo continues to expand and upgrade its facilities and attractions.
Two separate Bexar County Sheriff’s Office applicants arrested for child porn on their phones
The illegal material was turned up when their phones were searched during the application process, records show.
Man arrested after series of toilet bombings at San Antonio Wash Tub carwashes
The suspect reportedly rigged toilets to explode when unsuspecting people sat on them.
Patti Austin, Branford Marsalis among acts in new season at San Antonio’s Carver Center
Retro-soul heavyweight Lee Fields, innovative multi-instrumentalist Chief Adjuah and a flamenco performance on the history of punk are also part of the schedule.
Gov. Greg Abbott orders Texas’ public hospitals to start reporting costs of treating migrants
Advocacy groups said the mandate, which could affect 200,000 people in San Antonio, doesn’t make sense and is another effort to scapegoat migrants for political gain.
San Antonio’s first CosMc’s location to hold grand opening this weekend
The store, located on the far West Side, soft-launched Thursday.
San Antonio mayoral hopeful calls fellow council member a ‘poverty pimp’ during pay debate
The comment came as council engaged in a heated debate over whether to amend the city charter to give elected leaders a pay raise.
Keith Urban, Dwight Yoakam among first acts unveiled for 2025 San Antonio Rodeo
Tickets for the event, which gets underway in February, are already on sale.
Delivery service Favor crowns six San Antonio restaurants as winners in its annual awards
Winners were chosen for best Mexican food, Italian food, barbecue and other categories for each of Texas’ primary markets.
Feds ask Ted Cruz’s campaign to explain dozens of illegal donations it received
A letter from the Federal Election Commission raises concerns that dozens of donors to the Texas Republican exceeded federal legal limits.
Bexar County committee member booted for calling commissioner a ‘crusading c—‘
Rebeca Clay-Flores, the only woman serving on the court, called out the frequent sexism she’s encountered in the role.
Around 2/3 of Texas teachers say they’re thinking of leaving the profession
Teachers cited low pay and attacks from elected leaders as the primary reasons why they want to quit.
Immigrant advocates begin documenting civil-rights abuses under Texas’ Operation Lone Star
Activists say they now have a ‘documentation tool’ to record complaints from asylum seekers who say they suffered abuse by Texas Guard troops.
Nine out of 10 Texans say housing costs too much, poll finds
Some Texas lawmakers have signaled an appetite to tackle the state’s housing affordability crisis when they convene next year.
San Antonio’s Haus of Etchcraft presenting Second Saturday showcase for emerging artists
The event will include a live sound meditation from Rabbit Hole 7 and live painting from artist Adam De La.
Poet Sasha West to present San Antonio workshop on channeling climate concerns into writing
The event will take place this Saturday at Gemini Ink.
Assclown Alert: Railing against sin with recently arrested North Texas pastor Terren L. Dames
The pastor, who accused transgender people of ‘spitting in God’s face,’ was busted as part of a police prostitution sting.
If Texas were a country, it would be sixth in the world for Olympic medals
Texas-tied athletes have taken home more Olympic medals than Japan, South Korea and Canada.
San Antonio Parks and Recreation extends season for seven public pools
The pools will remain open on weekends through Sept. 15.
San Antonio’s new minor-league ballpark is opening in 2028, letter from local leaders says
The 4,500-seat ballpark will be funded by publicly issued bonds, according to a letter sent to the MLB last month.
San Antonio Democrat chastised for changing her name has used it professionally since 2015
‘I just think it’s very weird that Republicans have zeroed in on my name,’ Texas House District 118 candidate Kristian Carranza said.
Fired San Antonio poet laureate sues the city over his removal
Nephtalí De León is seeking $7,000 in damages and for the city to retract its statement explaining his firing.
Texas schools got billions in federal pandemic relief. It is coming to an end as the school year starts.
Educators say they’ll struggle to keep the programs they created with those funds, highlighting their precarious situation without more state help.
San Antonio’s inaugural Xicanx Month celebrates power, scope of the Chicano Arts Movement
Artpace, the Contemporary at Blue Star, Dock Space Annex, Ruby City, Urban 15 and other venues are taking part in the celebration.
There’s reason to doubt the numbers San Antonio leaders will use to tout a sports district
Two of the consultants tied to the city’s proposed ‘Project Marvel’ have oversold the economic impact of previous projects, including SA’s Grand Hyatt.
Post-metal supergroup SUMAC will melt minds at San Antonio’s Paper Tiger Wednesday night
Portrayal of Guilt and Trigger Object will also join the Canadian-American headliner.
Visit San Antonio paying $270,000 for city’s restaurants to appear in Michelin Guide Texas
Dallas, Fort Worth, Austin, Houston and Texas’ tourism-promotion organization also ponied up money to be included.
Texas is among the worst states for distracted drivers, new study finds
More than 11% of fatal collisions in the Lone Star State are attributed to distracted drivers.
San Antonio’s USAA to pay $64.2 million to settle claim it overcharged service members
The settlement would settle a three-year-old class-action suit accusing USAA of sticking service members and veterans with excessive fees.
Bexar County GOP accuses Democrat of changing name to appeal to Latino voters
Texas House District 118 candidate Kristian Carranza legally changed her last name from Thompson in 2023, and Republicans now say they may file a lawsuit.
San Antonio’s Paper Tiger hosting ska-punk bill with the Suicide Machines this Friday
The Detroit-based headliners will be joined by Big D and the Kids Table, Kill Lincoln and We Are The Union.
K-pop group Seventeen will bring its boy power to San Antonio’s Frost Bank Center this fall
The group’s two Alamo City dates are the only Texas stops on its latest tour, which will only hit five U.S. cities.
Live Music in San Antonio This Week: 10cc, Mike Dimes, Ultra, Drake White
Texas blues legend Van Wilks will also perform as part of Sam’s Burger Joint’s 25th anniversary celebration.
New exhibition by San Antonio artist Justin Korver peels back the layers of camouflage
The show opens Wednesday at Fl!ght Gallery and will be open by appointment through the end of the month.
New San Antonio conversation series EDTalks (But Mostly Listens) debuts Wednesday
Artist Ed Saavedra will hold four events highlighting local activists and personalities — and police-reform advocate Ananda Tomas is the first.
Legendary Texas metal venue The Lost Well to close
The owner of the Austin music venue’s space has sold it to a developer.
San Antonio-based Archie’s Fine Coffee opening downtown location
The ‘Amsterdam-style’ cafe is also known for its CBD infusions, coffee cocktails and spiked energy drinks.
Cost of proposed San Antonio sports district could be as high as $4 billion
A newly uncovered email from a top city employee suggests the cost of upgrades beyond a new Spurs arena would be massive.
The consequences of Texas’ abortion ban goes beyond women’s right to choose
Medical professionals are leaving the state, leading to a decline in women’s access to routine reproductive health care, advocates maintain.
Former San Antonio Mayor Julian Castro recalls experience being vetted as potential VP
Castro, who was considered as a potential 2016 running mate for Hilary Clinton, shared his thoughts as Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris zeroes in on a running mate.
Cruising Kitchens consolidates locations with new facility on San Antonio’s West Side
The new facility will bring 100 new jobs to San Antonio’s West Side, officials said.
Acclaimed San Antonio-area burger spot Alamo Springs Cafe permanently closed
The Fredericksburg burger joint is the latest in a wave of local restaurant closures.
H-E-B opens another True Texas BBQ location in San Antonio
This marks the fourth location for the much-praised barbecue chain in San Antonio.
San Antonio Spurs fans turn out to see ‘The Iceman’ coach BIG3 team at Frost Bank Center
George Gervin’s Ghost Ballers lost to the Dr. J-led Tri-State, failing to land a spot in the league’s semifinals.
San Antonio woman arrested on allegations she threatened Donald Trump
Washington, D.C., police say Christina Montoya, 41, also faces two gun charges.
San Antonio’s McNay Art Museum showing Japanese film classic Samurai I on Sunday
The 1954 film is known for its impressionistic color cinematography.
Funds to help low-income Texas families with summer electric bills are stretched thin
A federal program helps people in poverty cover the costs of heat and cooling. But advocates say it disadvantages states like Texas, even though extreme heat is a key cause of weather-related deaths.
Aerosmith cancels rest of farewell tour, including San Antonio date
The band said it’s retiring from the road because singer Steven Tyler hasn’t recovered from a vocal cord injury suffered last year.
Climate progress requires uniting against political violence and conspiracy thinking
Sure, political violence is wrong; but also: it doesn’t work.
Voting Rights Act doesn’t protect coalitions of racial or ethnic groups challenging political maps, appeals court rules
In a lawsuit challenging redistricting in Galveston County, the 5th Circuit said the protections afforded to a single racial group don’t apply to multiple groups who collectively claim voting rights violations.
San Antonio Zoo receives $10,000 donation from local brewery
The donation is part of a collaborative sales partnership between the zoo, Freetail Brewing and Silver Eagle Beverages.
San Antonio lands another Mexican budget airline route to Guadalajara
Word of the new route comes as other carriers scale back flights at San Antonio International.
San Antonio’s South BBQ asks for help after smoker stolen from parking lot
South BBQ and Kitchen is offering $2,000 to anyone with information that leads to the recovery of the 6,600-pound smoker.
Three U.S. citizens freed in historic prison swap being evaluated in San Antonio
The trio landed around 3 a.m. Friday to be taken to a site at Brooke Army Medical Center.
San Antonio-area restaurant rumored to be haunted is closing, going up for sale
The historic Fluff’s White House Cafe will serve its last customers this Saturday.
Country star Zach Bryan breaks attendance record at San Antonio’s Frost Bank Center
The singer-songwriter’s Wednesday show eclipsed a 2002 record set by George Strait.
The Get Up Kids will play San Antonio’s Paper Tiger in late August
The emo band is performing its pivotal album Something to Write Home About in its entirety.
Colin Allred keeps Kamala Harris at arms length as he makes a play for the center
U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz, who is facing off against Allred in his reelection campaign, has worked to tie Allred to Harris’ political record.
Justice Department finds Texas juvenile detention centers violated youth offenders’ rights
The DOJ found that officers overused pepper spray, kept youths in prolonged isolation and failed to protect them from sexual abuse.
San Antonio Spurs hosting third-annual Back to School Bash at Frost Bank Center
Those register will receive free school supplies, vaccines and vision checks.
Report: San Antonio rent declines nearly 3% over past 12 months
The cost of rent in Texas’ major cities declined across the board due to oversupply, bucking the national trend.
Bimbo Bakeries closing San Antonio production facility, laying off 138
The facility’s parent company, Mexico’s Grupo Bimbo, earlier this year said it will restructure its North American operations.
Unregulated oilfield power lines are suspected of sparking Texas wildfires
No state agency is taking responsibility for making sure the privately built lines that power many oil and gas sites are safe. Such lines have been blamed for sparking two recent Panhandle fires.
Top candidate for San Antonio Animal Care Services director was once under criminal investigation
Montgomery County ACS Director Aaron Johnson was investigated on claims he forged documents and improperly put down 70 animals, but he was ultimately cleared.
San Antonio-area cat sanctuary launches online fundraiser for second location
Bear Den Cat Sanctuary’s founder hopes to raise $1 million to buy another 25 to 30 acres in Comal County.
Nearly all funds paid to Ted Cruz-tied PAC through podcast deal have gone to his reelection bid
So far, San Antonio-based iHeartMedia has funneled $786,000 into a Cruz-tied fundraising entity as part of its deal to distribute the senator’s podcast.
H.P. Lovecraft-inspired bar and gallery opening Friday in San Antonio
New doom-metal haunt Torche will hold a grand opening this Saturday with live music, food and vendors.
Three University of Texas at San Antonio athletes competing in the 2024 Paris Olympics
A UTSA trainer also will be on the medical staff for the U.S. Paralympic Team.
South San Antonio comfort food mecca Bobbie’s Cafe relocating to Embassy Oaks
The longtime cafe’s owners said they also plan to open a new South Side location.
San Antonio soul legend Sunny Ozuna holding meet and greet at Janie’s Record Shop
Ozuna will appear Saturday at the historic Tejano record store, which also is celebrating its 39th year in business this week.
Study: Undocumented workers in Texas pay $5 billion annually in state and local taxes
The study comes as Gov. Greg Abbott advocates for the mass deportation of undocumented workers.
Halloween cocktail pop-up will take over San Antonio’s Three Star Bar this fall
Black Lagoon, a pop-up concept launched by bar-industry veterans Erin Hayes and Kelsey Ramage, will hit SA as part of a 35-city tour.
Donny Osmond plays San Antonio’s Tobin Center this Thursday
The show will feature an interactive portion in which audience members can request any song from his six-decade career.
Texas’ floating barrier in the Rio Grande can stay for now, appeals court says
After Texas deployed the barrier, a panel ordered it removed. The full appeals court says it can stay while a lower court hears a case on the merits.
San Antonio’s La Panadería Bakery Café opening first Southtown store
The move comes as the chain also expands into the Pearl area and Stone Oak areas.
Off-duty San Antonio Airport Police Officer arrested on DWI charge
Deputies made the arrest after getting a call about a customer passed out in the drive-thru of a McDonald’s restaurant.
San Antonio bar and venue Jaime’s Place brings in Burger Foos pop-up to run its kitchen
The Westside bar will celebrate the kitchen takeover this Thursday by giving away tickets to its upcoming Los Yesterdays show.
Lawsuit accusing Texas of exposing prisoners to deadly heat bolstered by autopsy reports
New evidence suggests the core body temperature of at least two dead inmates reached triple digits, despite TDJC denying that heat has killed any prisoners since 2012.
As I Lay Dying playing San Antonio’s VIBES Live this Sunday
The band is touring in support of ‘Burden,’ its first single in five years.
Bexar County Commissioner Tommy Calvert voices support for Biden’s SCOTUS plan
On Monday in Austin, Biden proposed limiting Supreme Court justices to 18-year terms, among other changes.
San Antonio police spent $28,000 on officers’ controversial Dubai trip
Eight SAPD officers participated in a SWAT competition that included cops from countries with poor human-rights records.
Government Hill bar and DIY music venue Snake Hill Social Club closing
The bar developed a cult following despite being open for fewer than two years.
In Austin, Biden slams ‘extreme’ U.S. Supreme Court
Biden asked Congress to pass a constitutional amendment to end to presidential immunity during a speech to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the Civil Rights Act at the Lyndon B. Johnson Library.
Documentary featuring San Antonio band Pariah to debut this week at San Antonio Film Festival
The film discusses the gnarly legacy of infamous Austin rock and metal venue The Back Room.
Bad Takes: Right-wing extremists flock to YouTube for its persuasive power
‘These people might present themselves like jokes, but their ambitions are very very serious,’ said journalist and antifascist activist Ash Sarkar.
Discount carrier JetBlue will no longer fly out of San Antonio
The airline will end flights from San Antonio International to Boston and New York this fall.
Live Music in San Antonio This Week: Zach Bryan, Ice Cube, Dave Alvin-Jimmie Dale Gilmore
Grupo Tan Tan is also bringing the fara-fara fun to SA music fans this week.
Texas residents affected by a third of all food recalls from past five years, according to study
Researchers also found that the state was the third-highest producer of recalled food during that time.
City of San Antonio seeking public input in survey about horse-drawn carriages
The city survey is open to public commentary on the hotly debated issue until August 13.
San Antonio Spur Sean Elliott recovering after Apple Watch detects heart issue
Medical pros at Methodist Healthcare were able to shock the NBA champ’s heart back into rhythm.
Tank drops from tractor-trailer rig, blocking I-10 in San Antonio
The M109 Howitzer’s presence on the highway dropped it down to one lane on Sunday afternoon.
Texas Water Board details how it will spend $1 billion for water infrastructure projects
About $45 million will go to Texas towns with fewer than 1,000 residents — a boon for municipalities without a viable tax base.
Blue Box Bar at San Antonio’s Pearl development will close at end of August
The craft cocktail destination was the second Pearl fixture to announce its closure last week.
Brazilian steakhouse chain Avenida Brazil has opened its first San Antonio restaurant
The family-owned Houston chain specializes in all-you-can-eat dinners featuring grilled meats and an extensive salad bar.
Texas among states with highest percentage of low-wage workers, new study finds
Low-wage workers in the Lone Star State are disproportionately women and people of color, according to the study by anti-poverty group Oxfam.
Lawyer for former Delia’s Tamales workers says he wouldn’t rule out FBI raid being tied to lawsuit
FBI agents raided the San Antonio Delia’s location on Wednesday along with stores in McAllen and Pharr.
I started reporting on the dearth of reproductive health care. Then I had my own emergency.
Texas Tribune journalist Jayme Lozano Carver has written about health care for years. Most recently, she reported on how little access there is for women and new moms in the Texas Panhandle.
Greg Abbott compares Hamas attacks to Texas border crossings at sheriffs’ conference
The governor’s comments followed a screening of raw Oct. 7 footage for Texas lawmen.
Sunday event at San Antonio’s McNay will blend Upward Mobility exhibition and poetry
San Antonio Poet Laureate Eduardo “Eddie” Vega and other local poets will participate in the multimedia event.
Texas teachers stand behind Kamala Harris after years of feeling targeted, neglected by Republicans
At a gathering for teachers in Houston, educators saw Harris as a potential ally at a time when conservatives push for changes in Texas classrooms.
San Antonio Reggae Festival taking place this Saturday at Rosedale Park
This year’s lineup of musical acts includes Lutan Fyah, Droop Lion and the Contrabandits.
San Antonio Spurs’ Gregg Popovich toasts Tim Duncan before every dinner, Steve Kerr says
Kerr’s comments came during a recent episode of the NBA DNA Podcast.
Texas sues Biden administration over confidential contraception for teens
Federal clinics in Texas are already required to get parental permission to prescribe birth control after a 2022 court ruling.
San Antonio mayor makes U-turn with his support for Missions’ new ballpark
City staff are expected to outline a potential agreement for the $200 million project next month.
Mexican drug cartel honchos arrested after their plane lands in Texas
The son of kingpin ‘El Chapo’ and the co-founder of the Sinaloa Cartel were taken into federal custody Thursday.
Where to watch the Paris Olympics in San Antonio this weekend
Today’s Opening Ceremony will be on view at The Rock at La Cantera, Barrio Dogg and more.
Acclaimed San Antonio restaurant Botika closing after eight years in business
The colorful and stylish restaurant at the Pearl is known for its innovative take on Peruvian cuisine.
Other airlines trying to sink American’s proposed direct flight from San Antonio to D.C.
Both United Airlines and JetBlue argued that the Alamo City shouldn’t get the direct flight to Reagan National in Washington, D.C.
Luminaria shining spotlight on San Antonio artists with exhibition and youth poetry slam
The exhibit will feature the work of prior Luminaria artists including Cruz Ortiz, Ruth Leonela Buentello and others
Another judge rejects Texas AG Ken Paxton’s suit to shut down decriminalization policy
The case’s dismissal is the second courtroom defeat for Paxton as he’s sought to shut down municipal marijuana reform policies.
San Antonio-Austin supergroup En Orbito bringing psych-cumbia afrobeat to Levitation
Austin’s annual psychedelic festival will once again fall on the Halloween weekend.
Texas officials order closure of San Antonio massage parlor over human-trafficking concerns
State officials ordered San Massage Spa in Castle Hills to shut down for six months.
All South Texas Delia’s Tamales locations reopened after FBI raid
All six Rio Grande Valley locations and one in San Antonio confirmed that they are open for business.
Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick doubles down on Obama ‘fourth-term’ conspiracy theory
Patrick maintains that Barack Obama “set up” Biden during the debate so Michelle Obama can run for president.
San Antonio’s Stable Hall putting together street team to distribute posters for cash and concert tickets
The venue is adding to its promotions team to ensure its posters and promo materials are distributed throughout the city.
San Antonio Public Library holding free screening of sf-horror classic Alien on Friday
The movie is part of the library’s Friday Retro Movies for Adults series and will screen at the Collins Garden branch.
U.S Rep. Lloyd Doggett took a political risk by calling on Biden to step aside. It worked.
In a Q&A, Doggett, 77, discusses his role in the recent chain of historic events and his feelings about where the party goes from here.
Chicago preparing for migrant influx after Gov. Greg Abbott threatens to send more buses
The city is preparing to host the Democratic National Convention in August.
ACLU of Texas: 51 school districts not following state law banning hairstyle discrimination
The Texas CROWN Act, passed in May 2023, bans school districts from prohibiting students from wearing afros, cornrows and other hairstyles historically associated with race.
Veteran stand-up Kathleen Madigan performing Friday in San Antonio
The Missouri native has racked up praise from high-profile comics including Lewis Black and Ron White.
Best Hair Salon
Ysassi & Co.
Best Photographer
Anthony Garcia, JojoDancer Photography and Video
Best Family Friendly Restaurant
Pinstack
Best Fried Chicken
Southerleigh Fine Food & Brewery
Best Burger
Burger Boy
Best Korean Restaurant
Kpot Korean BBQ & Hot Pot
Best Hospital
University Hospital
Best Family Attraction
San Antonio Zoo
Best Sunday Fun Day
Elsewhere Garden Bar & Kitchen
Best Tourist Attraction
San Antonio River Walk
Best Furniture Store
Winner: Period Modern 4347 McCullough Ave. (210) 902-1217 periodmodern.com Established in 2011 by Ted Allen, Period Modern has always been the go-to spot in San Antonio for Midcentury Modern American and Scandinavian gems from the 1950s through the 1970s. Allen has recently broadened his scope, sourcing and adding pieces from Belgium, France, Germany and Mexico,…
Best Event Venue
Majestic & Empire Theatres
Best HVAC/AC Company
Air & Plumbing Today
Best Attorney
Law Office of Jesse Hernandez
Best Ramen
Bakudan Ramen
Best Seafood
Sea Island Shrimp House
Best Tacos
Taqueria Datapoint
Best Churros
The House Of Churros
Best Med Spa
Magnolia Medical and Aesthetics
Best Museum
Witte Museum
Best Thrift Store
Texas Thrift Store
Best Sports Bar
Slackers Bar SA
Best Fitness Studio
JKFitness
Best Barbershop
Fineline Barbershop
Best Local Radio Show
Live On Air With Rita, KLMO-FM
Best Solar Company
Advanced Solar & Electric
Best Antique Store
La Segunda Bartique & Gallery
Best Indian Restaurant
Tarka Indian Kitchen
Best Late Night Place To Eat
Whataburger
Best Place to Watch a Movie Outside
The Pearl
Best Preschool/Daycare
Imagination Child Development Center
Best Sustainable/Environmentally Friendly Business
Alamo Beer Co.
Best Dive Bar
Bang Bang Bar
Best Gay Bar
The Bonham Exchange
Best Place to People Watch
The Pearl
Best Dermatologist
Dr. Annabelle Garcia at Sonterra Dermatology
Best IV Hydration
Drip IV Lounge
Best Plastic Surgeon
Dr. Manuel A. Lopez, Advanced Aesthetics Lopez Plastic Surgery
Best Visual Artist
Ray “Tattooedboy” Scarborough
Best Frutería
Las Nieves Fruit Cups & More
Best Caribbean Restaurant
The Jerk Shack
Best Wine List
Copa Wine Bar & Tasting Room
Best Bloody Mary
Liberty Bar
Best Plant Nursery
Rainbow Gardens
Best Clothing Boutique
Chasing Camilla
Best Nonprofit Organization
San Antonio Feral Cat Coalition
Best Yoga Studio
Black Swan Yoga
Best Locally Made Product
Kiolbassa Smoked Meats
Best Drag Performer
Kristi Waters
Best LASIK Provider
Parkhurst NuVision LASIK Eye Surgery
Best Chef
Ana Sofia Sada, Culinary Institute of America
Best Plumbing Company
Air & Plumbing Today
Best Barbacoa
Rios Barbacoa
Best Tamales
Delia’s Tamales
Best Coffee Shop
Summer Moon Coffee
Best Motorcycle Shop
Caliente Harley-Davidson
Best Craft Beer Selection
Burleson Yard Beer Garden
Best Karaoke Bar
Dad’s Karaoke
Best Flea Market
Traders Village San Antonio
Best Margaritas
El Mirasol
Best Bartender
Fernanda Sabag (Bonham Exchange)
Best Car Wash
The Wash Tub
Best Community Activist
Councilman Jalen McKee-Rodriguez
Best Food Truck
The Baked Bird
Best Snack
Lily’s Cookies
Best International Market
Tim’s Oriental & Seafood Market
Best Latin American Restaurant
Luna Rosa Puerto Rican Grill y Tapas
Best Ice House
The Friendly Spot
Best Bar Food
Bar Loretta
Best Happy Hour
Slackers Bar SA
Best Dog Park
Hops & Hounds
Best Chiropractor
San Antonio Family Chiropractic
Best Mascot
The Coyote, San Antonio Spurs
Best Bank
Randolph Brooks Federal Credit Union
Best Restaurant for Special Diets
Hash Vegan Eatery
Best Barbecue
Smoke Shack BBQ
Best Charcuterie
Cured
Best Wings
Wayne’s Wings
Best Eyelash Studio
Beauty Your Way SA
Best Movie Theater
Alamo Drafthouse Park North
Best Pet Boarding
Lucy’s Doggy Daycare & Spa
Best Barre Studio
Pure Barre Alamo Heights
Best Local Celebrity
Kristi Waters
Best Aesthetician
Kristin Gonzales, Alluring Aesthetics
Best Italian Restaurant
Paesanos
Best Hot Chicken
Pete’s Hot Chicken
Best Thai Restaurant
Thai Dee
Best Comfort Food
Max and Louie’s New York Diner
Best Place to Work
H-E-B
Best Salsa Dance Company
Esta Noche Dance Company
Best Tanning Salon
Confidence by Mariah Ashlen
Best Urban Legend
Ghost Tracks
Best Home Decor Store
Period Modern
Best Instagram Influencer
S.A. Foodie
Best Movers
Einstein Moving Co.
Best New Restaurant
Cuarto De Kilo
Best Food Truck Park
1604 Cantina Food Truck Park
Best Soul Food
Tony G’s Soul Food
Best Juice Shop
Queen Bee Juicery
Best Mediterranean Restaurant
Pasha Mediterranean Grill
Best Cocktail Bar/Cocktails
The Modernist
Best Record Store
Southtown Vinyl
Best Comic Book/Game Shop
Heroes & Fantasies
Best Patio
Elsewhere Garden Bar & Kitchen
Best Hotel Bar
Sternewirth Tavern & Club Room
Best Local Clothing Designer
Hunsen Abequeer
Best Meteorologist
Bill Taylor, KENS
Best Donut Shop
The Original Donut Shop
Best Adult Store
Sexology Institute
Best Artisan Market
Brick at Blue Star
Best Vegan Restaurant
Thai Topaz
Best Podcast
The Taco Stand Podcast
Best Car Dealership
Alamo Auto Plex LLC
Best Bar
Elsewhere Garden Bar & Kitchen
Best Piercing Studio
Buddha Box Studios
Best Urgent Care Center
Texas MedClinic
Best Music Venue
Boeing Center at Tech Port
Best Cosmetic Surgery
Advanced Aesthetics Lopez Plastic Surgery
Best Nail Salon
NYON by Whitney
Best Pizza
Mattenga’s Pizzeria
Best Salsa
Rosario’s ComidaMex & Bar
Best Breakfast Tacos
Pete’s Tako House
Best Chicken Fried Steak
Josephine Street
Best Crawfish
Smashin Crab
Best Pet Boutique/Pet Supplies
Fine Whine and Lickers Dog Bar & Spa
Best Micheladas
The Friendly Spot
Best Consignment Store
Too Good To Be Threw
Best Drink Specials/Cheap Drinks
La Tuna Ice House
Best Bowling Alley
Pinstack
Best Local Filmmaker
CJ Goodwyn
Best All-Time Spurs Player
Tim Duncan
Best Realtor
Alyssa Oliver
Best Bakery
La Panadería
Best Steakhouse
Bohanan’s Prime Steaks and Seafood
Best Book Store
Half Price Books
Best Menudo
Mi Tierra Café y Panadería
Best Community Theater
Magik Theatre
Best Dance Club
The Bonham Exchange
Best Bar Games
Slackers Bar SA
Best Flower Shop
San Antonio Flower Co.
Best Drag Show
SA Papis Just the Tip
Best Dentist
Kara Tapangan, Sonterra Dental
Best News Anchor
Isis Romero, KENS
Best Enchiladas
Blanco Cafe
Best French Fries
Mr. Juicy
Best Hot Dog
The Dogfather
Best Vegetarian Restaurant
Green Vegetarian Cuisine
Best Politician
Ron Nirenberg
Best Local Business Initiative
San Antonio Economic Development Department – Buy Local San Antonio
Best Mural
Wemby by Michael Sanchez
Best Tattoo Shop
Twisted Tattoo
Best Art Gallery
McNay Art Museum
Best New Bar
Let’s Be Honest
Best Local Poet
Andrea “Vocab” Sanderson
Best Pet Groomer
Lucy’s Doggy Daycare and Spa
Best Puffy Tacos
Henry’s Puffy Tacos
Best Sandwiches
Gino’s Deli at Stop & Buy
Best Brunch
Magnolia Pancake Haus
Best Vietnamese Restaurant
Pho Kim Long
Best Date Night Restaurant
Paesanos
Best Country Bar
Thirsty Horse Dance Hall & Saloon
Best Spa
Loma de Vida Spa & Wellness
Best Local Brewery
Freetail Brewing Co.
Best Vintage Shop
Hello Tallulah
Best Liquor Store
Spec’s Wines, Spirits and Finer Foods
Best Dermatology Practice
Dermatology Associates of San Antonio
Best Orthodontist
Hulme Orthodontics
Best Sports Personality
Victor Wembanyama, San Antonio Spurs
Best Concha
La Panadería
Best Ice Cream
Lick Honest Ice Cream
Best CBD Shop
Bee’s Wellness Cafe
Best Mexican Restaurant
La Fogata Mexican Cuisine
Best Playground
Yanaguana Garden at Hemisfair
Best Children’s Store
Crib & Kids
Best Place to Get Pampered
Magnolia Medical and Aesthetics
Best Pet Adoption
San Antonio Feral Cat Coalition
Best City Park
Brackenridge Park
Best Dry Cleaner
Five Star Cleaners
Best Roofing
Roof Chiefs TX
Best Stand-Up Comic
Alvin “A.P.” Perry
Best Sushi
Godai Sushi Bar & Japanese Restaurant
Best Bicycle Shop
Blue Star Bike Shop
Best Chinese Food
Hung Fong Chinese Restaurant
Best Comedy Club
Laugh Out Loud Comedy Club
Best Place To Get A Piñata
Amols’ Party and Fiesta Favors
Best Smoke Shop
Smokerz Paridize
Best Farmers Market
The Pearl Farmers Market
Best View
Tower of the Americas
Best Wine Bar
Copa Wine Bar & Tasting Room
