April in San Antonio is shaping up to be a month filled with vibrant events and important developments. From community gatherings to significant legal rulings, here’s a roundup of the latest news from the city and surrounding areas.

Upcoming Events & Festivals

Siclovia & Community Recreation

The popular Siclovia event will once again transform San Antonio streets into car-free zones for cycling, walking, and recreation. This initiative promotes community engagement and healthy lifestyles.

Poteet Strawberry Festival

The Poteet Strawberry Festival is back, offering visitors the sweet taste of Texas with fresh strawberries, carnival rides, and family entertainment. The festival celebrates the region’s agricultural heritage and provides a platform for local farmers and artisans.

Fiesta San Antonio

Fiesta, a cornerstone of San Antonio’s cultural identity, will bring colorful parades, lively parties, and a diverse range of special events to the city. The festivities showcase the city’s rich heritage and offer something for everyone.

Weather Outlook

The upcoming week’s weather forecast includes expected rain, potentially impacting the planning of outdoor activities.

Legal & Governmental Updates

Johnson Amendment Lawsuit Dismissed

A lawsuit challenging the Johnson Amendment – a decades-old law preventing nonprofits from endorsing political candidates without losing tax-exempt status – was dismissed by District Judge Cam Barker. Plaintiffs, including Texas churches and national Christian groups, argued the law violated their First Amendment rights.

The case saw shifts in support, initially with the Department of Justice seeking dismissal under the Biden administration, then revival by the Trump administration. A proposed consent judgment, allowing churches more freedom to engage in political speech, was ultimately rejected by the judge, who cited concerns about interfering with taxation and proper venue.

Americans United for Separation of Church and State praised the decision, calling it a “strong bulwark against religious extremism.” Reports from the Texas Tribune and ProPublica have documented instances of churches violating the statute, highlighting ongoing tensions surrounding the Johnson Amendment.

Rearrest of Michael Hernandez

The Bexar County DA’s office confirmed the rearrest of Michael Hernandez in Love County, Oklahoma.

Local News & Community Updates

A JCB plant in San Antonio is set to become the company’s largest facility worldwide. Tragically, a 15-year-old student died by suicide after shooting a teacher, prompting discussions about school safety and mental health.

  • The City of San Antonio clarified that the Ackerman Road dip falls under Kirby’s jurisdiction.
  • Weather Authority’s Adam Caskey is providing updates on the approaching cold front.
  • A bank teller and a police officer collaborated to prevent a scam.
  • The family of Christopher Preciado reacted to the guilty verdict in his trial.
  • The Castle Hills Police Department reported the death of an armed suspect involved in a shooting.
  • New Braunfels ISD is reportedly pulling and restricting more books than publicly disclosed.
  • A 74-year-old woman was struck while crossing South General McMullen.
  • Vehicle owners in Bexar County may face new costs due to potential emissions testing requirements.
  • A San Antonio attorney admitted to stealing over half a million dollars from children's inheritance.