River Rhythms: Local Wednesdays at Otto’s Ice House
Pack your bags (or just your appetite)—Otto’s Ice House has officially unveiled the full lineup for Local Wednesdays. This free, all-ages live music series is the perfect excuse to spend your midweek evenings on the scenic banks of the San Antonio River. (Otto’s Ice House, 2026)
The series is already in full swing, featuring a diverse range of local talent every Wednesday this month.
🎤 The Lineup
Mark your calendars for these upcoming performances:
Otto’s is more than just a venue; it’s a community hub designed for trading tallboys and making memories. While you soak in the tunes, you can dive into their signature menu.
Must-try items include:
Cantina Queso (The ultimate crowd-pleaser)
Hill Country Deluxe Smashburger
Otto’s Last Shot
Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly outing or a spot to grab an ice-cold drink with friends, the riverside atmosphere at Otto’s provides the perfect backdrop.
📍 Plan Your Visit
Where: Otto’s Ice House 111 Newell Avenue San Antonio, TX 78212
When: Every Wednesday in May Cost: Free!
The Joe Panther Band will be performing at Otto’s Ice House on May 27. Photo: Otto’s Ice House
Keenan L. McBride’s new book on how how art, culture, and empathy build powerful leaders. Photo: Amazon
Book Spotlight: Virx-Leonatus Culture: The Codex
By Keenan L. McBride
Synopsis
The Virx-Leonatus (VX) Culture Codex is more than a book; it’s a guide for the individual seeking mastery of presence, intellect, and character. While many manuals focus strictly on career or influence, The Codex argues that true power lies in the architecture of one’s culture. (Amazon, 2026)
Within these pages, McBride outlines the foundational pillars of VX culture:
Disciplined Confidence: Power without the need for noise.
Elevated Courtesy: Transforming simple manners into magnetic charisma.
Strategic Empathy: Using emotional intelligence as a core strength.
The Aesthetic Catalyst: Leveraging art, history, and beauty to deepen wisdom and broaden perspective.
The Lion’s Philosophy
Inspired by the lion, Virx-Leonatus teaches that true strength is quiet, sovereign, and patient. The lion doesn’t roar to prove dominance; its presence alone commands respect. This philosophy serves as a blueprint for modern leadership: ambition balanced by humanity, and influence rooted in genuine regard for others.
“This is the Virx-Leonatus standard. A lifestyle. A discipline. A legacy in the making.”
For the rising leader or the cultured professional, this codex offers a manual for gaining trust without force and loyalty without demand. It’s a necessary tool for anyone ready to lead with both mind and heart.
About the Author
Keenan L. McBrideis the Owner and Founder of Success Strategy Training and Development, LLC and the creator of the Virx-Leonatus Culture lifestyle brand. With over 30 years of experience across various industries, Keenan has dedicated his career to building and delivering customized curricula for leaders at all levels. (Virx-Leonatus Culture, 2026)
Professional Credentials & Highlights:
Certified Professional in Training Management (CPTM) via Training Industry Inc.
Certified Virtual Facilitator (CVF) via Inifac.
Professional Image Consultant Certification via IAPO.
Author of the “Lennox Lee Teaches Me” children’s book series.
Creator of “The Leader’s Image in Action,” a popular LinkedIn newsletter focused on leadership development.
Keenan’s extensive background, from manufacturing leadership to working with the State Technical College System, allows him to blend practical business strategy with the refined principles of the Virx-Leonatus lifestyle.
Ready to elevate your presence?Virx-Leonatus Culture: The Codex is available now for those seeking to turn quiet strength into irresistible authority.
Celebrate with Cinco in the Sun at Tenfold Rooftop at Kimpton Santo San Antonio. Photo: Kimpton Santo, used with permission.
Celebrating Cinco de Mayo: History, Heritage, and San Antonio Hotspots
Cinco de Mayo commemorates Mexico’s 1862 victory over French forces at the Battle of Puebla. While it is a relatively minor holiday in Mexico, it has grown into a major celebration of Mexican-American culture and heritage in the United States.
From parades and mariachi music to traditional foods like mole and tacos, the day highlights cultural pride and community unity. If you’re looking to celebrate in the San Antonio area, local businesses are rolling out the red carpet with exclusive specials. (Kimpton Santo San Antonio, Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa, The Gunter Hotel, The Jerk Shack, Rosario’s ComidaMex & Bar, Muck & Fuss/2026)
Location: 295 E. San Antonio St., New Braunfels, TX 78130
Pro Tip: Since many of these events fall on a Tuesday, reservations are highly recommended where available. Celebrate responsibly and enjoy the rich flavors of San Antonio!
Adam Scott stars in Hokum, now in theaters. Photo: NEON
The Unseen Terror: Why Supernatural Horror Still Haunts Us
Supernatural horror films tap into fears that transcend the physical world. Unlike realistic horror, which relies on tangible threats like serial killers or survival scenarios, supernatural horror explores the unknown. It leans into ghosts, demons, curses, and otherworldly forces that defy both logic and human control.
This genre appeals to a deep-seated psychological unease: the unsettling idea that forces beyond our understanding are lurking just out of sight, watching and waiting.
The Evolution of the Eerie
Over the decades, the appeal of supernatural horror has evolved alongside our cultural anxieties:
Early Era: Films often reflected religious fears or moral consequences, portraying evil as a direct result of sin or a terrifying glimpse into the afterlife.
Modern Era: As society became more secular, the focus shifted toward internal struggles. Today, supernatural threats often serve as metaphors for trauma, grief, and the fragility of the human mind.
These movies stand the test of time because they confront us with the limits of human understanding. They invite viewers to imagine a world where the rules of physics and logic no longer apply, making the fear feel existential and lingering long after the credits roll.
New Movie Spotlight: Hokum
If you’re looking to test your nerves with the latest in supernatural cinema, Hokum is now playing in theaters.
Synopsis
Written by Damian McCarthy, the film follows novelist Ohm Bauman (Adam Scott) as he retreats to a remote inn to scatter his parents’ ashes. His stay takes a dark turn as he becomes consumed by local legends of a witch haunting the honeymoon suite. Before long, disturbing visions and a shocking disappearance force Bauman to confront the darkest corners of his own past. (IMDb, 2026)
Film Details
Category
Information
Director/Writer
Damian McCarthy
Starring
Adam Scott, Peter Coonan, David Wilmot
Genre
Supernatural Horror
Rating
R
Runtime
1h 47min
Bottom Line:Hokum promises to be a gripping addition to the genre, blending isolation with the psychological weight of the past. Catch it on the big screen… if you dare.
Continue the Fiesta festivities with the Children’s Ballet of San Antonio’s spirited Don Quixote. Photo: Children’s Ballet of San Antonio, used with permission.
Celebrate Post-Fiesta Magic with Don Quixote at The Majestic
San Antonio’s Fiesta season might be winding down, but the celebration isn’t over. Join the Children’s Ballet of San Antonio (CBSA) for a vibrant production of the legendary masterpiece, Don Quixote, running May 8–9. (Children’s Ballet of San Antonio, 2026)
Performed at the stunning Majestic Theatre downtown, this production is the perfect bridge between the city’s festive heritage and Mother’s Day weekend. It’s a fun-filled experience for the whole family, featuring charming characters, a romantic score, and the hilarious antics of the world’s most famous bumbling knight. Tickets are available online.
A Night in Old Spain
If you love the colorful dresses and party atmosphere of San Antonio’s Fiesta, you won’t want to miss this. Set in a timeless Barcelona plaza, Don Quixote follows:
The Lovers: Kitri and the poor barber Basilio, who are desperately trying to elope.
The Knight: The comically delusional Don Quixote and his trusty sidekick, Sancho Panza.
The Journey: A madcap adventure featuring fortune tellers, circus acts, and of course windmills.
“It is the rare classical ballet that is joyful and comedic. The whole production feels like a celebration. No one dies or is betrayed, and there is a happy ending.” — Vanessa Bessler, CBSA Founder and Artistic Director
This production adds modern flair to the 100-year-old choreography with aerialists, acro performances, and a contemporary dance number. Show up early to browse the special souvenir market and take photos with the cast,
From Russia to South Texas
While Don Quixote is a natural fit for South Texas with its Spanish heritage and cape-whipping toreros (bullfighters), the ballet actually has deep Russian roots. First popularized by the legendary Anna Pavlova in 1924, it remains a living link to the famed Russian Imperial ballet style.
Even if you lean more “rodeo” than “ronde de jambe,” you’ll be mesmerized by the “Dance of Espada and the Toreros,” a showcase of pure charisma and athleticism.
Viva Virtuosity!
Don’t let the word “Children’s” fool you, these dancers are world-class. The young company members of CBSA have earned over 100 placements in prestigious competitions this season alone.
The choreography is famously demanding. The duet between Kitri and Basilio is considered one of the ultimate tests of a dancer’s ability, featuring:
Dizzying pirouettes
Soaring leaps
Feather-light lifts
Many of these performers have received invitations to train at European powerhouses like the Royal Ballet of London and the Dutch National Academy.
Better Than Brunch: Make it a Mother’s Day Tradition
Skip the standard brunch line and treat Mom to an afternoon of high-quality art. CBSA is an internationally recognized nonprofit dedicated to providing young performers with professional-level stage experience. Under Vanessa Bessler’s inclusive leadership, the production celebrates the joy of dance across all ages.
Event Details
Date
Time
Friday, May 8
7:00 p.m.
Saturday, May 9
2:00 p.m.
Location: The Majestic Theatre 224 E. Houston Street San Antonio, TX 78205
Note: The Souvenir Market and Cast Photo op opens one hour prior to showtime.
About the Children’s Ballet of San Antonio
The award-winning CBSA is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that produces professional-level productions showcasing San Antonio’s most talented youth. Their mission is to inspire the pursuit of excellence and prepare children for creative lives through elite training and performance opportunities.
Texas-based country artist adds another chart milestone to a catalog forged alongside outlaw legends. Photo: InPerpetuity Entertainment
Danny Griego’s “Angelina” Skyrockets: A New Milestone for the Outlaw Country Artist
Nashville, Tenn. — Country singer-songwriter Danny Griegois reaching new heights as his latest single, “Angelina,” climbs to No. 24 on the Billboard Adult Contemporary (AC) chart and No. 13 on the Mediabase AC chart. (Aristo PR, 2026)
The track, a captivating blend of Latin, Americana, and Griego’s signature outlaw country influences, is rapidly gaining momentum across the airwaves.
A Steady Climb to the Top
Recorded at the legendary Dark Horse Studios in Franklin, Tennessee, “Angelina” was co-written by Griego alongside Jerry Crutchfield and Mark Nessler. Since its AC chart debut on April 4, the track has seen a steady rise, fueled by heavy rotation on 28 Mediabase AC stations.
Key markets showing major support (with over 50 spins each) include:
Huntsville & Phoenix
Omaha & Tucson
Reno & Atlantic City
Nassau, Bridgeport, and Johnson City
This Top 25 placement adds to Griego’s impressive Billboard résumé, which already includes recognition as a Top 10 Billboard recording artist.
The Story Behind the Song
“Angelina” is more than just a chart-topper; it is a haunting, emotionally driven ballad that explores the ripple effects of heartbreak.
“‘Angelina’ is a song that’s always felt personal to me,” says Griego. “I’ve often wondered if Angelina would be the love of my life.”
The song tells the story of a woman shaped by the early loss of her father, a wound that leads her to build walls and move through relationships, leaving a trail of broken hearts in her wake to protect her own.
Music with a Mission: Freedom Horse Ranch
Beyond his musical achievements, Griego is deeply committed to service. He is the owner and operator of Freedom Horse Ranch, a 501(c)(3) organization in Weatherford, Texas.
The ranch is dedicated to helping:
Veterans & First Responders
Individuals with physical or cognitive challenges
Those seeking emotional recovery
Through therapeutic equine-assisted activities and outdoor experiences, the ranch provides a sanctuary for healing, confidence-building, and growth.
A Voice for Veterans
Griego’s advocacy for the military is a cornerstone of his career. He frequently performs at military bases and has released powerful tracks like “Lady Liberty” and “Twenty-Two” (a collaboration with K.P. Fitz highlighting the Veteran suicide epidemic).
About Danny Griego
Born in Arizona and based in Texas, Danny Griego’s sound is a rich tapestry of outlaw, cowboy, and Latin influences. His journey is one of incredible resilience: after surviving a lightning strike during his college years, he taught himself to fingerpick on his grandfather’s nylon-string guitar as part of his rehabilitation.
Notable Discography:
Destination (2007)
Cowboys, Outlaws & Border Town Dogs (2014)
22 (2018)
“You Never Stop Loving Somebody” (2019)
“Angelina” (2024/2026)
With a full slate of touring and new music on the horizon, Danny Griego continues to prove why he is one of the most authentic voices in modern Americana.
Otto’s Ice House announces live music series and a steak night event. Photo: Otto’s Ice House, used with permission.
Live Music & Live Fire: What’s New at Otto’s Ice House
Located right on the banks of the San Antonio River, Otto’s Ice House is more than just a place to grab a tallboy, it’s becoming the city’s go-to spot for community, culture, and incredible flavors. There are two major events coming up that you won’t want to miss. (Otto’s Ice House, 2026)
🎸 Introducing: Local Wednesdays
Announcing the launch of Local Wednesdays, a free, all-ages live music series highlighting the incredible talent right here in San Antonio.
This five-week series kicks off with Wally Robles on the backyard stage. Whether you’re a fan of Americana, country, or soulful acoustic sets, their rotating lineup has something for everyone.
Kickoff Date: Wednesday, April 29
Time: 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
The Vibe: All-ages, free entry, and diverse local acts.
Bonus: The series continues every Wednesday throughout the month of May
Featured Artist: Wally Robles– A Texas-born powerhouse, Wally Robles brings over a decade of experience to the stage. His genre-defying style pulls inspiration from the 1950s all the way to modern hits, ensuring a performance that feels both nostalgic and fresh.
🔥 Special Event: Steak Night with Levi Goode
Get ready for live-fire cooking. On Thursday, May 7, Otto’s will host a special Steak Night featuring their founder, three-time James Beard Award nominee Levi Goode, and the Goode Co. culinary crew.
Traveling in from Houston, the team will be using a Mill Scale pit to showcase authentic vaquero-style cooking. This event serves as a delicious preview before the crew heads to Lockhart Rising on May 9.
The Featured Plate ($26):
10 oz. Picanha Steak: Smoked and finished over mesquite.
Sides: Chile pequin chimichurri, ranchero potatoes, and a monkey bread roll brushed with persillade butter.
Note: Steak Night starts at 5:00 p.m. and runs until sold out. Show up early!
🍔 Sip & Snack
While you enjoy the music or the mesquite smoke, their full menu will be available all day. Pair your evening with house favorites like:
Food: Cantina Queso, Hill Country Deluxe Smashburger, or Redfish on the Half Shell.
Drinks: The Damn Goode Margarita, a classic Michelada, or an ice-cold beer.
📍 Plan Your Visit
Otto’s Ice House 111 Newell Avenue San Antonio, TX 78212
Event
Date
Time
Local Wednesdays Kickoff
April 29
6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Steak Night
May 7
5 p.m. – Sold Out
May Music Series
Every Wed. in May
6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
About Levi Goode – A fifth-generation Texan, Levi Goode has spent his life honoring the diverse culture of the Lone Star State. From Gulf Coast seafood to mesquite-smoked BBQ, Levi is committed to preserving the hospitality and rich traditions that make Texas dining legendary.
**Spanish Version** – The year is 2040, and the scales of justice are being recalibrated. In a world where the line between silicon and soul is blurring, Juan Manuel Sánchez Fernández delivers a gripping futuristic legal thriller that explores the fragile boundary between technology and humanity.
Synopsis: Justice Reborn
Justice has changed: lawyers are no longer only human. After the mysterious murder of a brilliant lawyer from Almeria, an unscrupulous corporation decides to create AGF 40, the first robot lawyer with a built-in human brain.
The mission seems straightforward: relive the victim’s final moments to identify the murderer. However, within the machine, something awakens that was never part of the code: conscience, ethics, and memory. In a system corrupted by power, AGF 40 faces a dangerous dilemma: obey its creators or seek the truth, even if it leads to its own destruction. With the help of Natalia Domene, a young lawyer struggling between reason and heart, AGF 40 discovers that justice does not always reside in codes, but in the difficult decisions that define us as humans. (Amazon, 2026)
The Review: A Cyborg’s Quest for Truth
The Catalyst
The story opens with a shock: Aniceto Gázquez Figueroa is assassinated in a public restaurant during a business meeting. The investigation, led by Sgt. Castillo and Lt. Rupérez, yields frustratingly few clues, only a specific gun type and a getaway car.
Aniceto’s family donates his brain to Novus Robotics, headed by the narcissistic Edward Carver. The result is AGF 40 (named after the donor’s initials and the year of creation), a cyborg intended to revolutionize the Spanish justice system.
Man vs. Machine
It begins as a corporate experiment and quickly evolves into a complex moral struggle. AGF 40 realizes that Novus Robotics intends to use him for financial gain rather than the betterment of humanity. This realization prompts a daring escape.
The narrative shines as AGF 40 reunites with his former law partner, Natalia Domene. Together, they navigate a legal landscape that forces both characters and readers to confront uncomfortable questions, including the ethical minefield of defending those they believe are guilty.
Character Dynamics
AGF 40: A groundbreaking blend of code and memory. His evolution from a calculated tool to a moral agent drives the tension of the book.
Edward Carver: While character development is lean in some areas, Carver stands out as a “Dr. Frankenstein” figure. He is a complicated, narcissistic visionary who views his creation with a mix of pride and growing dread.
Natalia Domene: She provides the emotional heartbeat of the story, representing the human struggle between logic and compassion.
Final Verdict
Sánchez Fernández’ prose is vivid and descriptive, utilizing a non-linear narrative to keep the reader off-balance. “Castillo exhale un suspiro frustrado y miró por la ventana, observando cómo las olas del mar de Cabo de Gata hacían bailar la noche oscura.”
While the setting is sci-fi, the themes are deeply rooted in contemporary concerns about AI replacing human professions, from maids and guards to, eventually, lawyers.
Robolex ultimately asks: Is justice defined by rules, or by the courage to challenge them?
For fans of: Science fiction, legal procedurals, and philosophical thrillers.
Key takeaway: A detailed look at the intersection of bio-engineering and the law.
“Por primera vez desde su reactivación, AGF 40 sintió una punzada de duda. ¿Era él, el mismo abogado que alguna vez luchó por la justicia? O era simplement una version mejorada de un hombre que ya no existía.”
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4 out of 5.
About the Author
Juan Manuel Sánchez Fernández is a practicing lawyer from Almeria with over two decades of experience, including defense work in high-profile murder cases. He turned to writing as a therapeutic hobby during a personal crisis, leading to the success of his debut novel, El Abogado Adicto.
His second novel, El Abogado y La Mafia, has reached international audiences across North America, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia. Robolex continues his streak of blending deep legal expertise with high-stakes storytelling.
How Leaders Close the Innovation Gap and Outpace Disruption
By Kris Poria and Jeff Penrose
Synopsis
In a world where technology evolves faster than organizations can adapt, most leaders face a widening gap between what they know they must achieve and what their systems can actually deliver. Traditional R&D, consulting, and procurement models were never built for today’s exponential pace of change and the cost of inaction has become catastrophic. (Amazon, 2026)
The Innovation Intelligence Advantage reveals a breakthrough solution: an entirely new organizational capability that helps enterprises, governments, and defense agencies stay ahead of disruption – Innovation Intelligence.
Drawing on real-world experience building the EarlyBirds Operational Innovation System, authors Kris Poria and Jeff Penrose show how organizations can:
Eliminate innovation blind spots.
Sense global shifts before competitors or adversaries.
Build resilient, sovereign supply chains.
De-risk multi-year programs with live intelligence.
Rapidly adopt emerging technologies.
Transform strategy into a dynamic, evidence-based capability.
Empower a future-ready workforce.
Unlock continuous innovation as an operational discipline.
With clear frameworks and practical insights, this book introduces the four mechanisms that redefine how organizations operate. Together, they form a living intelligence system that accelerates decision-making, strengthens resilience, and creates permanent strategic advantage.
The future belongs to those who can see change coming and act. Innovation Intelligence shows you how.
Whether you lead a Fortune 500 company, a government agency, a defense organization, or a large-scale transformation program, this book offers a proven path to outpace disruption and thrive in a volatile world.
About the Authors
Kris Poria – Kris is the Co-founder and CEO of EarlyBirds, leading a global Open Innovation and Intelligence Ecosystem. His mission is to help enterprises, governments, and defense organizations discover emerging technologies, anticipate disruption, and maintain a competitive advantage in a rapidly evolving world.
Jeff Penrose – Jeff is the Co-founder and COO of EarlyBirds. An ICT specialist with deep international experience across the private and public sectors, Jeff has held senior executive and technical roles focused on solving complex problems. He holds a Graduate Diploma in Executive Leadership and is a staunch advocate for continuous learning.
For fans of A Man Called Ove, Shelby Van Pelt’s debut novel is a charming, witty, and compulsively readable exploration of friendship, reckoning, and hope. This heartwarming story traces a widow’s unlikely connection with a giant Pacific octopus, and it is finally making its way to the silver screen.
🎬 The Netflix Adaptation
The beloved novel has been adapted into a Netflix original movie featuring a powerhouse cast and creative team:
Starring: Sally Field as Tova and Alfred Molina as the voice of Marcellus.
Director/Co-Writer: Olivia Newman.
Release Date: May 8, 2026.
📖 Book Overview: A Tale of Eight Arms and One Big Secret
After Tova Sullivan’s husband passed away, she began working the night shift at the Sowell Bay Aquarium. Keeping busy has always been Tova’s way of coping, ever since her eighteen-year-old son, Erik, mysteriously vanished on a boat in Puget Sound over thirty years ago. (Barnes & Noble, 2026)
While mopping floors and tidying up, Tova becomes acquainted with Marcellus, a curmudgeonly giant Pacific octopus. Marcellus is more observant than anyone can imagine, but he wouldn’t dream of helping his human captors, until he forms a remarkable bond with Tova.
Ever the detective, Marcellus deduces exactly what happened the night Tova’s son disappeared. Now, he must use every trick his aging invertebrate body can muster to unearth the truth for her before it’s too late. It is a gentle reminder that taking a hard look at the past can help uncover a future that once felt impossible.
📽️ Movie Snapshot
The film captures the essence of the novel, focusing on the life-changing discovery Tova makes through the unlikely bonds formed during her quiet night shifts. (IMDb, 2026)
Feature
Details
Genre
Drama
Rating
PG-13 (Thematic material, strong language, brief drug use)
Runtime
1hr 51min
“Sometimes taking a hard look at the past can help uncover a future that once felt impossible.”
SA Examiner 