Experience the ultimate genre-mashup. ‘Art Show! With Captain Skinner’ blends the soothing vibes of Bob Ross with the cosmic gore of The Evil Dead. Photo: ETCH, used with permission.
🎨 ART SHOW! WITH CAPTAIN SKINNER: Bob Ross Meets The Evil Dead… In Space
Get ready to paint some happy little nightmares. If you’ve ever wondered what would happen if a PBS instructional show was hijacked by cosmic horror and psychedelic chaos, your questions are about to be answered in the most vibrant, gory way possible. (EG PR, 2026)
ARTSHOW! WITH CAPTAIN SKINNER has officially landed.
The Premise: Cosmic Chaos Meets Canvas
Premiering on YouTube and Substack, this series follows the doomed misadventures of a television crew trying to film a “how-to” art show in the furthest reaches of outer space.
Captain Skinner and his tiny crew—including a stop-motion Space Cowboy—battle more than just perspective and lighting. They are constantly thwarted by:
Unpredictable meteor showers
Intrusive, existential thoughts
The stark horror of an uncaring cosmos
The Format: The series consists of 10 episodes, each roughly 15 minutes long. Every episode features Skinner creating a stunning, unique piece of artwork amidst “hyper-phantasmagorical” slapstick and body horror. It’s a love letter to classics like The Joy of Painting and The Secret City, but drenched in gore and off-the-wall comedy.
The Masterminds Behind the Madness
SKINNER (Co-creator / Writer / Star)
Skinner is a legendary artist and a self-described “manifestation of psychedelic nightmare experiences.” His influence spans global murals, skateboards, and toys.
Music Pedigree: Created art for Grammy-winning albums (High on Fire, Mastodon).
Screen Credits: Hosted shows for Super Deluxe and created commercial experiences for Adult Swim and Warner Brothers.
ALLEN CORDELL (Co-creator / Writer / Director)
An award-winning filmmaker with a penchant for the weird and beautiful.
Directorial Portfolio: Music videos for Beach House, Dan Deacon, and Girl Talk.
Film: Directed the acclaimed short The Lizard Laughed.
Produced by ETCH
This series is brought to life by ETCH, an independent production powerhouse specializing in the provocative and the horrific. The team includes:
Philip Gelatt: Emmy and WGA Award-winner (Love Death + Robots, The Spine of Night).
Will Battersby & Morgan Galen King: The creative forces behind The Spine of Night.
ETCH is dedicated to “putting the dark magic back into moving images,” focusing on creative control and innovative distribution.
📅 Mark Your Calendars
New Episodes: Weekly starting Friday, March 6
Where to Watch: YouTube and Substack
First episode premiered February 13
“Skinner exists as a bizarre mixture of entertainment and visual intensity.”
Book Review: Piper at the Gates of Dusk by Patrick Ness
In Piper at the Gates of Dusk, Patrick Ness returns to the beautiful and brutal landscape of New World, the setting first introduced in the Chaos Walking trilogy (The Knife of Never Letting Go). This continuation feels urgent and intimate, bridging the gap between a scarred past and an uncertain future. It will be released on April 7, 2026.
A New Generation in a Fragile Peace
Set twenty years after the original trilogy, the story follows Todd and Viola’s sons, Ben and Max. Having grown up untouched by the violence that shaped their parents, the brothers now navigate a peace that feels increasingly thin.
The novel opens with a heart-pounding sequence: a figure the boys call a “god” emerges from the woods, leveling trees in its path. Ness’ prose captures the sheer scale of the terror:
“Like a mountain coming at you, like the whole landscape peeling up into the sky, as if someone’s grabbed the far corners of it like a blanket and pulled it into the air, and all you can do is watch your death come at you, because there’s nowhere to stand, nowhere to run–.”
While they survive the encounter, Ben is left injured, forcing Max to leave his side to find help, setting the emotional and narrative stakes early.
The Evolution of “Noise”
For those new to this world, Noise is the telepathic broadcast of thoughts. When settlers first arrived, men’s thoughts became public, while women’s remained private. While a “cure” was eventually developed, it came with side effects. For Ben, it affected his vocal cords; unable to speak, he relies on a communication device and sign language.
Now, a new threat is emerging:
Nightmares: Young people are experiencing terrors believed to be brought on by Noise.
Paranoia: As suspicion falls on indigenous people and rumors of an ominous object in the sky swirl, the adults’ fragile truce threatens to unravel.
The Weight of Legacy
The story is told through dual first-person perspectives, offering a poignant look at what it means to inherit a hero’s history. Ben carries Viola’s analytical strength and navigates the world through logic and sign language while Max inherits Todd’s impulsive bravery and is driven by action and the need to protect this brother.
Ness’ vivid language propels the action:
“The scream comes again, louder this time, like a siren blaring right in your face but filled with terror and pain.”
Themes: Fear as a Weapon
When children begin to vanish, the “uneasy truce” of New World collapses. Ness uses Noise as a brilliant and painful metaphor for the modern mental health crisis and the corrosive power of internalized fear.
In this new saga, Noise becomes a targeted psychological weapon used to create chaos and spread propaganda. It is a haunting examination of how quickly communities turn on one another when fear is weaponized.
Final Thoughts
Overall, Piper at the Gates of Dusk is a gripping and atmospheric science fiction novel. It explores whether the stories we tell ourselves are meant to protect us or if they are the very things keeping us in the dark. Epic and deeply personal, it stands confidently on its own while honoring the emotional legacy of the original trilogy.
Recommended for readers who enjoy:
Thought-provoking discussions on xenophobia and disinformation.
Imaginative world-building and sci-fi landscapes.
Nuanced explorations of gender identity and family legacy.
“They want the comforting lie, the one that lets them sleep at night. They want to know who their enemy is, because they’re never, ever going to believe it’s themselves.”
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4 out of 5.
*Thank you to Sara DiSalvo for the gifted ARC for review consideration. I haven’t been compensated for this review and all views and opinions expressed are my own.
Esencia announces Lunar New Year celebration on February 24. Photo: Clint Walker, Charlie Walker Creative, used with permission.
Ring in the Year of the Fire Horse at Esencia
A Lunar New Year Celebration at The St. Anthony
The St. Anthony, a Luxury Collection Hotel, invites guests to an elevated culinary journey to celebrate the Lunar New Year at the newly opened restaurant, Esencia. The evening will blend tradition, prosperity, and community through the artistry of James Beard–nominated Chef Leo Davila. (St. Anthony, 2026)
Experience a thoughtfully curated, family-style dinner designed to honor the heritage of the Year of the Fire Horse.
The Evening’s Highlights
The festivities kick off with a lively cocktail hour followed by a traditional Lion Dance, a symbol of power and wisdom, before settling in for a multi-course feast.
Prosperity Crudo Platter: Smoked seafood, citrus ponzu, and house pickles.
Char Siu–Style Pork Belly: Served with leafy lettuce and a savory glaze.
Longevity Noodles: A unique blend of Texas Chinese BBQ and house chorizo.
Peking-Style Duck Breast: Accompanied by plum sauce and soft bao buns.
Golden Veggie Fried Rice: Topped with crispy garlic and sesame.
Event Schedule & Location
Date: Tuesday, February 24, 2026
Location: Esencia at The St. Anthony | 300 E Travis St., San Antonio, TX 78205
Schedule
5:30 – 6:30 PM | Cocktail Hour (Beverages available for purchase, with optional wine, cocktail, and sake packages)
6:30 – 7:00 PM | Traditional Lion Dance Performance
7:00 – 8:30 PM | Multi-Course Family-Style Dinner
Ticket Options
Choose the experience that best suits your evening. Please note that prices are subject to taxes and fees (++) and can be purchased via Eventbrite.
General Admission | $85++
Reserved seating for the evening’s festivities.
Discounted valet parking ($10).
The VIP Experience | $150++
Preferred seating for the dinner and performance.
Two complimentary cocktails during the cocktail hour.
Complimentary valet parking.
Reserve Your Table: Tickets are available now. Don’t miss this one-night-only celebration of unity and good fortune!
The new album will be released March 3, 2026. Photo: Google
The Latin Rock Titan Returns: Juanes Announces New Album ‘JuanesTeban’
The wait is almost over for fans of the Colombian legend. Juanes has officially announced that his 12th studio album, titled JuanesTeban, is set to drop on March 6. (Hits Daily Double, 2026)
Alongside the announcement, the Latin rock icon released a teaser trailer giving fans a glimpse into what’s being hailed as one of his most personal projects yet. The LP was co-produced by Juanes himself and the reigning Latin Grammy Producer of the Year, Nico Cotton (known for his work with Aitana and Nathy Peluso).
A “Kaleidoscope” of Sound
According to Juanes, this album is a return to his roots, blending his signature rock style with the rhythmic soul of Latin America.
“It’s like a kaleidoscope of my many moods: joyful, enthusiastic, melancholy,” Juanes shared. “I wanted to make the kind of album that would take me back to the land of dancing and cumbia – the feeling of Latin America, the root of folklore.”
Tracklist Teasers & Collaborations
The album features high-energy collaborations and soulful solo tracks, including:
“Muérdeme” (featuring Bomba Estéreo)
“Una Noche Contigo”
“Hagamos Que”
“Cuando Estamos Tú Y Yo”
Upcoming Tour Dates & Honors
It’s going to be a massive spring for the “A Dios le Pido” singer. Before the album even hits shelves, Juanes will be honored by Univision at Premio Lo Nuestro with the Lifetime Achievement Award on February 19.
He is also set to headline some of the biggest stages in the world:
Viña del Mar (Chile)
Vive Latino (Mexico)
El Carnaval de Barranquilla (Colombia)
Movistar Arena (Madrid, Spain)
About Juanes
With a career spanning over two decades, Juanes remains one of the most influential figures in music history. Since his solo debut Fíjate Bien in 2000, he has secured 26 Latin Grammy Awards and sold over 15 million records worldwide.
Ready to listen?JuanesTeban is available for pre-order.
Corinne at Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa is a local spot offering drink specials this week. Photo: Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa, used with permission.
With National Drink Wine Day (Wednesday, February 18) and National Margarita Day (Sunday, February 22) just around the corner, San Antonio’s top restaurants and hotels are rolling out festive, limited-time offerings. From iconic margaritas to curated wine specials and tequila tastings, these spots are serving up plenty of reasons to raise a glass.
Here’s where to celebrate in San Antonio and surrounding cities:
🍹 The Gunter Margarita at The Gunter Hotel
Available Sunday, February 22 Locations: Keystone Club, Bar 414, and Jots 📍 205 E Houston St., San Antonio, TX 78205
The historic The Gunter Hotelis debuting a limited-time cocktail for National Margarita Day: The Gunter Margarita. Crafted with Combier liqueur, Altos tequila, agave, and fresh lime juice, this $13 cocktail is available throughout the hotel, including the lobby bar, Keystone Club, speakeasy Bar 414, and restaurant Jots.
National Drink Wine Day Wednesday, February 18 | 11 AM – 11 PM 📍 431 S Alamo St., San Antonio, TX 78205
At Dean’s Steak & Seafood, guests can enjoy ½ off select wine bottles all day long. Available in both the bar and dining room, it’s the perfect excuse to uncork a favorite midweek, whether paired with a classic steak or enjoyed in the restaurant’s cozy Riverwalk atmosphere.
🌆 Mile High Margarita Flights at Tenfold Rooftop
National Margarita Day Sunday, February 22 | All Day 📍 431 S Alamo St., San Antonio, TX 78205
Celebrate above the skyline at Tenfold Rooftop with their Mile High Margarita Flights.
Offerings include:
$16 Frozen Margaritas
$16 Rocks Margaritas
$22 Mile High Flight (four 4 oz. signature margaritas)
It’s a one-day-only tasting experience designed for sharing or sipping solo while taking in sweeping city views.
Corinne is also serving up the $5 La Villita Margarita, a bright and refreshing cocktail finished with a subtle mezcal mist, a perfect way to toast the occasion.
House Muck-a-Rita – $4.95 Made with Cazadores Reposado and served on the rocks with a choice of salt, sugar, or tajín
House Frozen Muck-a-Rita – $6.95 The same classic flavor in a blended, ice-cold format
It’s a refreshing way to celebrate just outside San Antonio.
Whether you’re toasting with a bold red, savoring a classic margarita on the rocks, or sampling a flight with skyline views, San Antonio is ready to celebrate in style. Cheers to a week filled with good pours and even better company. 🍷🍹
‘A Dangerous Diagnosis’ is the new thriller novel by Shantanu Rai. Photo: Barnes & Noble
New Book Spotlight: A Dangerous Diagnosis
Get ready for a gripping addition to your thriller shelf! This Tuesday, February 24, marks the release of A Dangerous Diagnosis, the timely debut medical thriller by practicing physician Shantanu Rai.(Sharkpoint Studio, 2026)
Whether you’re a fan of high-stakes medical dramas or legal thrillers with a heart, this is one release you won’t want to miss. It is currently available for pre-order.
The Story: Luxury Medicine Meets a Deadly Conspiracy
Brilliant diagnostician Dr. Sanjay Patel has come a long way from his dreams of serving the needy. These days, he treats the global elite, traveling by private jet and receiving payments in cash-stuffed designer totes.
But his high-flying life is grounded when his estranged mentor, Dr. Tom Carpenter, collapses from a fatal stroke. His final act? A cryptic message scribbled on a prescription pad: “Page Dr. Sanjay.”
The mystery pulls Sanjay back to Boston’s Mount Beacon Hospital, the very place that nearly destroyed his career. There, he must face his past in more ways than one, reuniting with cancer researcher Emma Carpenter-Flores, Tom’s daughter and the woman Sanjay left behind a decade ago.
Together, they uncover a trail of disturbing cases that put them directly in the crosshairs of a powerful medical-industrial complex. In a race against time, Sanjay and Emma must risk their lives to expose a truth that could shatter the foundations of modern medicine.
Perfect for fans of: Robin Cook, The Lincoln Lawyer, House, and HBO’s The Pitt.
Core Themes
A Dangerous Diagnosis dives deep into the complexities of the modern healthcare world, exploring:
Moral Injury: The psychological toll on providers within a broken system.
Ethics vs. Profit: The tension between patient care and corporate greed.
Redemption: A second chance at a lost legacy and a lost love.
Systemic Injustice: Uncovering the hidden flaws within the healthcare machine.
Meet the Author: Shantanu Rai
Shantanu Rai is a physician and writer who uses fiction to illuminate the hidden struggles of the American healthcare system. Drawing from years of frontline patient care, Rai blends his medical expertise with a lifelong love for Bollywood films and classic whodunits.
When he isn’t at the hospital or at his desk, you can find him hiking, enjoying a family movie night, or refueling with a strong cup of chai. A Dangerous Diagnosis is his first novel.
The Gunter Hotel is offering delicious options for Lenten season. Photo: The Gunter Hotel, used with permission.
Savor the Season: Fat Tuesday & Lenten Specials in San Antonio
With Fat Tuesday (February 17) and Lent (starting February 18) just around the corner, San Antonio’s premier hotels and restaurants are rolling out exclusive seasonal menus. From decadent Mardi Gras cocktails to fresh seafood deals, here is your guide to navigating the best flavors in the city this spring. (The Gunter Hotel, Kimpton Santo San Antonio, Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa, St. Anthony Hotel, La Panadería – 2026)
Enjoy a sophisticated meal featuring a caviar velouté, herb crust, and shaved garlic Brussels sprouts. It’s a light yet indulgent way to observe the season.
Toast to Mardi Gras with a decadent blend of Frangelico, Brugal rum, seasoned heavy cream, and a whole egg. It’s the ultimate liquid tribute to the classic carnival treat.
Whether you are stopping in for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, Gallery on the Park is offering a curated selection of both light and indulgent seafood options designed to balance rich Texas flavors with seasonal traditions.
La Panadería is putting a coastal spin on their famous baking. Their Fiesta Lobster Roll is served on a signature spiral croissant and features:
Sautéed lobster with chipotle mayo
Fresh herbs (dill, parsley, chives) and lemon zest
Served with a fresh house salad
Whether you’re indulging in a final Fat Tuesday feast or looking for your new favorite Lenten Friday tradition, San Antonio’s culinary scene has something spectacular waiting for you. These seasonal specials won’t last long, so be sure to grab your reservations early!
‘Threshold’ will premiere on Peacock on February 23. Photo: Brinkema Brothers Productions, used with permission.
The Struggle Behind the Smile: New Documentary ‘Threshold’ Premieres Feb 23
I’m excited to announce the upcoming premiere of Threshold, a powerful feature documentary chronicling the life of Olympic legend Jessie Diggins. The film will debut on Peacock on Monday, February 23rd, strategically timed to coincide with the Winter Olympic Games. (EG PR, 2026)
At a Glance
Premiere Date: Monday, February 23rd on Peacock
Directed by: Lars Brinkema and Torsten Brinkema
Featuring: Jessie Diggins
Executive Producers: Torsten Brinkema, Patrick Dempsey
Music by: Julianna Barwick & Mary Lattimore
Running Time: 85 minutes
The Story: Beyond the Gold
Threshold is the story of the most decorated American cross-country skier ever, Jessie Diggins, and the painful fight with an eating disorder that occurred at the very peak of her career.
This is more than a sports story; it is a visceral, human account of vulnerability and recovery unfolding in real-time. Through unprecedented access to Jessie and the U.S. Ski Team, the film explores a disorder that often hides in plain sight, yet remains tragically misunderstood in professional athletics.
A Season Lived in Real-Time
The film unfolds over a single, high-stakes season, intercutting present-day vérité footage with decisive moments from Jessie’s past. It traces how a relentless pursuit of perfection led her to believe that controlling her body mass was the only key to success.
From grueling races above the Arctic Circle to the first World Cup on American snow in over 25 years, the documentary tracks the mounting pressure of elite sport. Ultimately, Threshold is a film about hope, proving that relapse is not failure and asking for help is not a weakness.
About the Subjects
Jessie Diggins | Olympic Gold Medalist
A three-time Olympic medalist, Jessie is known for her legendary ability to enter the “Pain Cave” during the closing moments of the world’s most grueling races. As the reigning two-time World Champion, she will compete in an extraordinary six different events at the 2026 Olympic Games.
Off the snow, Jessie is a fierce advocate for:
Mental Health: Managing and speaking openly about eating disorder recovery.
Sustainability: Raising awareness about the effects of global warming on winter sports.
Resilience: Sharing her experience on teamwork and mental toughness.
Lars Brinkema | Director & Cinematographer
Based in Los Angeles, Lars Brinkema began his career in photojournalism documenting the Minneapolis community’s resilience following the murder of George Floyd. His award-winning short, I Pray, set the stage for his feature directorial debut with Threshold.
When Jessie entrusted Lars with her story, the project became a personal mission rooted in his commitment to intimate, character-driven storytelling that fosters genuine social change.
“By allowing herself to be seen, Jessie offers something rare to those living in silence: proof that you can reclaim your health and your dreams.”
The Study at Dean’s. Photo: Kimpton Santo, used with permission.
More Valentine’s Day Ideas in San Antonio 💕
San Antonio is turning up the romance this Valentine’s season. From heart-themed desserts and intimate chef-driven dinners to luxe hotel packages and festive Galentine’s gatherings, the city is full of ways to celebrate love — whether that’s with a partner, your best friends, or yourself.
Here’s your guide to more Valentine’s happenings around town.
🍰 Bakery Lorraine
Valentine’s & Galentine’s Treats 📅 February 1 – 15 📍 All Bakery Lorraine locations
Bakery Lorraine is offering a collection of sweet (and slightly edgy) Valentine’s treats perfect for gifting or indulging.
One highlight? Proceeds from the chocolate cherry macaron will benefit the San Antonio Food Bank throughout February, so your dessert does some good, too.
Available In-Store:
Sugar Skull Shortbread Cookies – Vanilla shortbread decorated with fondant and royal icing accents (individually bagged and gift-ready).
“Love You to Death” Vanilla Raspberry Skull Cakes – Moist vanilla cake with tart raspberry filling and buttercream flower eyes.
Heart Shortbread Cookie Stack – Pink vanilla shortbread cookies tied with string.
Dark Cherry & Chocolate Tiramisu – Coffee-soaked ladyfingers layered with dark cherry compote and mascarpone.
Raspberry Rose Japonaise – A delicate macaron filled with raspberry rose and mascarpone, topped with fresh raspberries and rose petals.
Celebrate Galentine’s in garden glam style with creative cocktails, interactive games, and playful activations. Expect a lively atmosphere designed for connection and fun.
Highlights Include:
Photo station
Temporary tattoo station
Lip gloss charm station
Bic lighter decorations
Hair tinsel & braid bar
Large Confession Burn Book
Card games at every table, including “We’re Not Really Strangers”
📅 Saturday, February 14 🎹 Live music from 9 PM – 12 AM
Toast to friendship at this speakeasy-inspired lounge inside The Gunter Hotel.
San Antonio–born pianist and vocalist Chris Guerrero will perform classic and guest-requested love songs, blending refined jazz with crowd-favorite sing-alongs.
Esencia is offering prix fixe menus ideal for couples and Galentine’s gatherings alike. Guests can enjoy shared appetizers, two entrées, and a shared dessert, thoughtfully crafted and priced per person.
📍 111 Newell Ave, San Antonio, TX 78212 🕚 Open daily at 11 AM
Located in the Historic Pearl District, Otto’s Ice House offers a casual, riverside setting perfect for low-key Valentine’s plans.
For something sweet, Goode Co.’s Brazos Bottom Pecan Pies are available to ship nationwide. Each pie comes in a handcrafted keepsake box with one of three limited-edition messages:
“Pie Love You”
“Ride or Pie”
“Bless Your Heart”
💲 $60 per pie
Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a luxe dinner reservation, or a festive Galentine’s night out, San Antonio offers something for every kind of love story this season. 💗
Ana Cristina Cash explores her roots in her new album. Photo: Gina Binkley, used with permission.
A Fusion of Heritage and Harmony: Ana Cristina Cash Releases New Bilingual Album, The Sunshine State
Acclaimed songstress Ana Cristina Cash has officially released her latest project, The Sunshine State. A masterful blend of her Cuban-American roots and her home in the heart of country music, this bilingual album is now available across all major streaming platforms. (Aristo PR, 2026)
Recorded at the legendary Cash Cabin Studio in Hendersonville, Tennessee and produced by John Carter Cash and Willie Breeding, the album is a testament to Ana Cristina’s versatility. Listeners can expect to hear her remarkable vocal range on full display, transitioning effortlessly from a resonant contralto to a soaring soprano.
The Duality of Sound
Having spent over a decade in Nashville, Ana Cristina’s artistry is firmly grounded in country music. However, her Spanish lineage provides a distinct depth that sets this project apart.
“That duality is present in everything I do,” says Ana Cristina. “I’m proud to be an American living in Nashville… and equally proud of my Hispanic culture. I grew up speaking both English and Spanish at home, so it felt natural to record Spanish versions of several of my songs.”
Track Highlights
The album serves as a cultural crossroads, featuring a mix of English, Spanish, and Spanglish tracks:
“Daybreak” / “Un Break”: The breezy opening single and its Spanish counterpart.
“Florida Girl”: A heartfelt nod to her roots.
“Cheap Margaritas”: Available in both the original and a playful Spanglish version.
“Last Call”: A fiery track featured in both languages.
Brand New Tunes: Including the nostalgic “Janice” and “Don’t Give Up.”
Inspired by the Everglades
Much of the album’s imagery is drawn from Ana Cristina’s childhood in rural West Miami. She recalls a time when the area was “wild and untouched,” bordered by the Florida Everglades.
“The first home I grew up in… I only had four neighbors, a dirt road, orange trees in the backyard, and our own chickens,” she notes. “That formative period of my life influenced so much of this record.”
About Ana Cristina Cash
Ana Cristina’s career began at the age of six. By 15, she had signed with Sony Music Latin. Her career is marked by historic milestones, including:
Historic Performances: The first Hispanic American to perform the “Star-Spangled Banner” at a presidential inauguration (2005).
Iconic Venues: Performances at the Country Music Hall of Fame, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and Madison Square Garden.
Nashville Legacy: Married to John Carter Cash since 2016, she continues to record at the historic Cash Cabin Studio and recently signed a global publishing deal with BMG Rights Management.
The Sunshine Stateis out now. Experience the soulful blend of country and Latin influences today.
The Sunshine State tracklist:
“Daybreak”
“Cheap Margaritas”
“Florida Girl”
“Janice”
“Last Call”
“Don’t Give Up”
“Un Break (Daybreak Versión En Español)”
“Cheap Margaritas (Spanglish Version)”
“Tu Última Llamada (Last Call Versión En Español)”
SA Examiner 