7 Best Ways to Kick Off Summer in San Antonio This Memorial Day Weekend

Tenfold Rooftop Bar at Kimpton Santo San Antonio – Riverwalk. Photo: Kimpton Santo San Antonio, used with permission.

San Antonio Memorial Day Weekend Guide: Rooftop DJs, Pool Parties, and New Hotspots

With Memorial Day Weekend marking the unofficial start of summer, San Antonio is buzzing with energy. Whether you are a local planning a staycation or a visitor exploring the Alamo City, top local establishments are rolling out the red carpet. From rooftop DJs and curated cocktail tastings to resort-style pool days and exciting new venue launches, here is how you can celebrate the long weekend in style. (La Panadería, Miles, The Newstand Coffee & Sandwiches, Kimpton Santo San Antonio, Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa, Pearl, The Gunter Hotel, 2026)

Bakery Lorraine, Otto’s Ice House, and Freight Fried Chicken will be open for business on Memorial Day for guests looking for places to dine with loved ones. Corinne San Antonio located inside Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa will also be offering its brunch menu from 7a.m. – 3p.m. on Memorial Day.

🍹 Sips & Snacks

La Panadería

What: Seasonal Drinks Launch & Memorial Day Brunch When: Launching Friday, May 22 & Friday, May 29 (Available all summer)

Just in time for the warm weather, La Panadería is introducing a limited-time lineup of seasonal beverages blending citrus, spice, and refreshing summer flavors. They will also be open on Memorial Day hosting a spectacular brunch.

  • Launching May 22:
    • La Panadería Mont Blanc: Vanilla-orange cold brew topped with orange cold foam and fresh orange zest.
    • Matcha Mont Blanc: An iced matcha latte topped with orange cold foam and orange zest.
  • Launching May 29:
    • Spicy Sparkling Pomegranate Lemonade: A refreshing mix of jalapeño simple syrup, lemonade, and pomegranate syrup topped with sparkling water. Bonus: This mocktail can be made alcoholic by adding tequila.

The Newstand Coffee & Sandwiches

What: National Wine Day Celebration When: Monday, May 25

Celebrate National Wine Day with a specially curated wine experience helmed by Advanced Sommelier & Beverage Director Austin Tabbone. The Newstand’s menu breaks wine down into approachable, fun categories like Bubbles and Sweets, Red and Berry Fruited, Weighty and Textured, and The Weird Reds. Pair your glass with refined light bites like a cheese board, house-made Focaccia, or stuffed dates for the perfect date night or girls’ night out.

🏖️ Poolside Vibes & Rooftop Parties

Kimpton Santo San Antonio – Riverwalk

What: Tenfold Spin & Swim: Lover’s Rhythm Edition When: Sunday, May 24 | 3:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Summer returns with a sunset state of mind at Kimpton Santo’s skyline celebration. Hosted atop the Tenfold Rooftop Bar in collaboration with For Lovers Only and Release The Rhythm, guests can enjoy panoramic views, poolside energy, and flowing Aperol cocktails.

  • The Beats: Soundtrack provided from day to dusk by DJ Cura, DJ Natvillain, DJ OmgNini, and DJ Retrostatic.
  • Admission: Tenfold access is free and open to the public (space is limited; reservations via OpenTable are highly encouraged).
  • Pool Access: Non-hotel guests can access the pool via ResortPass. For May 24, Day Passes are $80 and private cabanas are available for $300.

Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa

What: Summer Reset: Garden + Pool Kickoff When: Sunday, May 24 | 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Join Plaza San Antonio poolside at the Anaqua Garden Bar for a sun-drenched sanctuary experience featuring live music from DJ Mars and curated cocktail tastings by High Desert Vodka.

  • Featured Cocktails:
    • Desert Bloom: High Desert Vodka, lemon, prickly pear, agave, elderflower liqueur, soda.
    • Anaqua Crush: High Desert Vodka, cucumber juice, lemon, agave, yuzu.
    • Desert Water: High Desert Vodka, lemon, prickly pear, lime, soda.
  • Admission: Access to Anaqua Garden Bar is free and open to the public (space is limited; reservations via OpenTable encouraged).
  • Pool Access: Non-hotel guests can access the adjacent pool via ResortPass. For May 24, Day Passes are $40 and cabanas start at $100.

💡 Locals’ Tip: Summer Kick-off with ResortPass Can’t make it this Sunday? Both Kimpton Santo and Plaza San Antonio offer ResortPass access all summer long.

  • Kimpton Santo: Features the tallest luxury open-air rooftop pool in the city. Standard summer day passes start at $55; cabanas start at $100. Book Here
  • Plaza San Antonio: Enjoy a lush garden oasis, spa, and pool nestled between Downtown and Southtown. Standard summer day passes start at $30; cabanas start at $50. Book Here

🎶 Live Music & Festivals

Pearl Fest

What: A District-Wide Live Music Festival When: Saturday, May 23 | Starting at 11:00 AM Where: Pearl Parking Lot (under Highway 281), 303 Pearl Pkwy

Pearl Fest is bringing over 15 bands to the heart of the Pearl district, headlined by the legendary Los Lonely Boys.

  • 11:00 AM (Free): The music kicks off during the weekly Farmers Market with a free, open-to-the-public stage at Pearl Park.
  • 4:00 PM (Ticketed): Doors open for the main stage under the 281 highway. Day-of tickets are $35 (available in person at the gate).
  • District-Wide Free Showtimes:
    • Sternewirth (Hotel Emma): The Pertnears (2 PM – 5 PM), Diego Martinez (6 PM – 9 PM), DJ Cura (10 PM – 1 AM).
    • Yellow Rose by Kendra Scott: Live music from 3 PM – 5 PM.
    • Pullman Market (Karnes Patio): Live DJ from 3 PM – 10 PM.
    • Otto’s Ice House: Josh Baca and The Hot Tamales (6 PM – 10 PM).
    • Stable Hall: Reverend Horton Heat at 8 PM.
    • After-Parties (10 PM): Keep the night going at Cape Bottle Room and Jue Let.

🏨 Staycations & New Openings

The Gunter Hotel

What: “Where Summer Comes Alive” Staycation Package When: Bookable now through August 31

Looking to extend your holiday weekend? The Gunter Hotel in downtown San Antonio is debuting a brand-new summer travel package.

  • The Deal: Book two nights and get a complimentary third night.
  • Perks: Includes discounted valet parking ($39/night) and access to the hotel’s unique Vinyl Library Experience, where you can check out up to three vinyl records to enjoy right in your room.
  • How to Book: Head to the “Offers” page on the Gunter Hotel Website.

Miles

What: Grand Opening / Memorial Day Weekend Celebration When: Soft opening Friday, May 22 Where: 1170 E. Commerce St.

The East Commerce corridor has a brand new rhythm. Say hello to Miles, a high-energy bistro and cocktail-forward neighborhood bar from Dreamers & Doers Hospitality Group. Inspired by the legendary jazz innovator Miles Davis, the space is anchored by an expansive 360-degree central bar designed for late-night conversations and sharing elevated small plates.

  • Hours: Post-holiday weekend, Miles will be open weekly from Wednesday through Monday, 5:00 PM to midnight (extended until 1:00 AM on Fridays and Saturdays).
  • Reservations: Secure your spot now via Resy.

Award-Winning AI Podcast Suspicious Minds Launches Season 2 Ahead of Tribeca 2026

The chart topping, award winning podcast returns to explore AI and the apocalypse. Photo: Agoric Media, used with permission.

Suspicious Minds Podcast Selected for 2026 Tribeca Creators Market as Season 2 Premieres

NEW YORK — Suspicious Minds, the critically acclaimed Top 100 charting podcast series, has officially been selected for the 2026 Tribeca Creators Market, taking place June 8–10 in New York City. (EG-PR, 2026)

Produced by Agoric Media in partnership with Wondermind (the mental health media company co-founded by Mandy Teefey and Selena Gomez), the exciting announcement perfectly coincides with the launch of Season Two: AI and the Apocalypse, which premiered on May 21 on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and all major platforms.

Exploring AI, Anxiety, and the End of the World

Fresh off two Webby Award nominations (Best New Podcast in News, Business & Society and Podcast: Documentary), Suspicious Minds has established itself as one of the most original projects exploring how artificial intelligence is transforming human life.

While Season One examined the emergent phenomenon often referred to as “AI Psychosis,” Season Two takes a larger, more existential view: What does the age of AI mean for our collective psychology and sense of the future?

AI and the Apocalypse is a deep investigation into humanity’s oldest and most persistent fear: the end of all things. The series asks not just whether AI could end the world, but why humans have always needed to imagine that it might, and what that obsession reveals about meaning, mortality, and the strange moment we are all living through.

Across eight episodes, the season dives into:

  • The deep history of apocalyptic thinking
  • The psychology of dread and doomsday prepping
  • Transhumanism and anti-natalism
  • Pro-extinctionism and the art we create to face what we most fear

The Minds Behind the Show

Host and Creator Sean King O’Grady spent two years speaking with the world’s leading philosophers, scientists, psychologists, historians, and theologians.

As with Season One, the new episodes are anchored by the thinking and contributions of Dr. Joel Gold and Ian Gold, PhD—the brilliant brothers who coined “The Truman Show Delusion” and authored the book Suspicious Minds: How Culture Shapes Madness. Together, they examine whether AI represents a genuine existential threat, and what it reveals about the human psyche that so many of us are now living inside that question.

Executive Production Team

  • Executive Producers: Mandy Teefey, Selena Gomez, Jonathon Glucksman, David Tuohy, Feras M. Shammami, Jesse Ford, and Molly Borman.
  • Producer: Jesse Ford.

Heavy-Hitting Guest Lineup

This season features an incredible roster of expert interview subjects, including:

  • Timothy Morton – Author of Hyperobjects and Hell: In Search of a Christian Ecology
  • David Benatar – Antinatalist philosopher and author of Better to Have Never Been
  • Professor Judith Wolfe – St. Andrews School of Divinity
  • Sheldon Solomon – Psychologist and founder of Terror Management Theory
  • Dr. Michael Ferguson – Harvard Neurospirituality Lab
  • Dr. Samuel Justin Sinclair – Psychologist and Writer for The Bulletin of Atomic Scientists
  • Nolen Gertz – Author of Nihilism and Technology
  • Johann Hari – Author of Stolen Focus
  • Malo Bourgon – CEO of the Machine Intelligence Research Institute
  • Emily Ray and Robert Kirsch – Authors of Be Prepared
  • Kelly Bulkely – Psychologist and renowned Dream Expert
  • James Cussen – Creator of The Living Philosophy on YouTube and Substack
  • Dorian Lynskey – Author of Everything Must Go

From the Creators

“Humans have been thinking about a catastrophic end to our species since we first started throwing paint on the walls of caves. Each generation believes it might be the last. But I keep wondering — in an era of compounding existential threats… if this time we might be right. What does it mean to be living through such a moment? And how do we face our own deaths while holding the prospect of the end of all human life?”

— Sean King O’Grady, Host & Creator

“Right now, millions of people are walking around with an anxiety about the future that they can’t quite name. I’ve always believed that naming what you’re feeling is the first step to doing something about it. That’s why we made Suspicious Minds: AI and the Apocalypse — to take something so new and so frightening and make it human.”

— Mandy Teefey, Executive Producer & Co-Founder of Wondermind

Award-Winning Storytelling

The series’ Tribeca Creators Market selection brings Suspicious Minds to one of the most prestigious independent media markets in the world, backed by heavy critical acclaim.

Award CompetitionCategoryResult
2026 Telly AwardsSeries – Non-ScriptedWinner (Bronze)
2026 Telly AwardsSeries – DocumentaryWinner (Bronze)
2026 Telly AwardsCampaign – Health & SafetyWinner (Bronze)
2026 Webby AwardsBest New Podcast (News, Business & Society)Nominated
2026 Webby AwardsPodcast: DocumentaryNominated

About Wondermind

Wondermind is the world’s first comprehensive and multifaceted mental fitness ecosystem. The company is on a mission to destigmatize and democratize mental health while normalizing and advancing the topic of mental fitness through candid conversations and expert-backed insights. Comprising three verticals — content, editorial, and product — Wondermind provides the tools and language necessary to make navigating your mental health a little easier.

Host and Creator Sean King O’Grady. Photo: Agoric Media, used with permission.

Interactive Dinosaur Exhibition Coming to San Antonio: STEM Fun at The DoSeum

The DoSeum announces Dinosaurs in Motion exhibition. Photo: The DoSeum, used with permission.

Roaring into San Antonio: Interactive ‘Dinosaurs in Motion’ Exhibition Opens at The DoSeum!

Get ready to experience dinosaurs like never before! This summer, The DoSeum is bringing a breathtaking fusion of art, science, and history to San Antonio with the debut of Dinosaurs in Motion. (The DoSeum, 2026)

Running from May 23 through September 7, 2026, this highly interactive exhibition is fully included with general admission.

Where Art Meets Engineering

Sponsored by the H-E-B Tournament of Champions Charitable Trust, Dinosaurs in Motion is an amazing blend of science, art, and innovation. The exhibition features 14 life-size, interactive dinosaur sculptures crafted entirely from recycled metal.

Created by the late artist and master sculptor John Payne, the exhibit invites families to take the reins. Visitors can use levers, pulleys, and remote controls to set these massive kinetic sculptures in motion, learning the mechanics behind the art.

What Kids (and Parents!) Can Expect:

  • Become an Apprentice: Kids can step into the role of an apprentice to John Payne, exploring the unique artistic and engineering skills required to build these intricate works.
  • Hands-on STEM Learning: Additional stations throughout the exhibit offer opportunities to experiment with interactive art and science projects, reinforcing critical STEM concepts through play.

A Word from The DoSeum

“The exhibition Dinosaurs in Motion embodies aspects of The DoSeum’s mission perfectly. Our team was drawn to the exhibition’s exciting mix of materials science, natural history, arts and interactivity. The themes and ideas presented in Dinosaurs in Motion inspired The DoSeum team to plan and develop a summer full of related program experiences. We’re excited for our guests to join in them.” — Dan Menelly, CEO of The DoSeum

Plan Your Visit

Dinosaurs in Motion is created and produced by Imagine Exhibitions Inc., with sculptures by John Payne and Studio Properties LLC. Special thanks to the H-E-B Tournament of Champions Charitable Trust for making this one-of-a-kind experience accessible to San Antonio families.

About The DoSeum

Celebrating its 10th anniversary (with roots dating back to 1995 as the San Antonio Children’s Museum), The DoSeum has grown into one of the nation’s top children’s museums. Boasting 68,000 square feet of indoor exhibits and 55,000 square feet of outdoor space, it serves as a premier educational resource designed to spark curiosity and ignite imaginations.

Location & Contact:

  • 📍 Address: 2800 Broadway, San Antonio, TX 78209
  • 📞 Phone: (210) 212-4453
  • 🗓️ Exhibition Dates: May 23 – September 7, 2026
Photo: The DoSeum, used with permission.

Victoria Cardona’s Que Pasó: Chart-Topping Album Meets Live-Looping Mastery

Victoria Cardona releases a solo video series performing songs from her debut album Que Pasó. Photo: Dreamspider Publicity, used with permission.

Artist Spotlight: Victoria Cardona is Redefining the One-Woman Band

West Palm Beach, Fla. — Based out of South Florida, Victoria Cardona is a Cuban American singer/songwriter, guitarist, and multi-instrumentalist who is rapidly turning heads in the music world. (Dreamspider Publicity, 2026)

Her live looping performances are a true sonic and visual experience, taking the audience on a ride through the mind of a spontaneous improvisationalist. With the aid of the Boss RC-600 loop pedal, Victoria masterfully stacks intricate layers of guitar, bass, percussion, and vocal harmonies. The result? A rich, massive backdrop for her smokey alto vocals and ripping lead guitar solos.

The Critical Success of Que Pasó

Victoria recently released her debut studio album, Que Pasó, to critical acclaim across Latin and world radio and media. The record has put up some seriously impressive numbers on the charts:

  • #1 on The Roots Music Report’s Top 50 World Album Chart (holding the top spot for three consecutive weeks).
  • Top 20 on the NCAA (North American College and Community) Radio Chart for 20 weeks, peaking at #10.
  • Currently Climbing: The album is now making fresh waves on Americana and Triple A radio.

Que Pasó Fast Facts

FeatureDetails
ProducerTim Goodman (Founding member of Southern Pacific)
Tracklist8 original tracks + 3 creative covers
The SoundA blend of Cuban rhythms, jazz, rock, and world influences

The album features a powerhouse lineup of legendary guest musicians, including Jimmy Haslip on bass, Jimmy Branley on drums, Justo Almario on horns, Bill Payne on piano, Francisco Torres on trombone, and Tim Goodman pulling multi-instrumental duty on organ, mandolin, guitar, marimbas, and synthesizer.

From Studio Elegance to Live Looping Mastery

While Que Pasó showcases Victoria’s music with the lush backing of a full studio band, she is best known for the raw energy of her live-looping solo performances.

To bridge these two worlds, Victoria recently filmed an exclusive solo performance showcasing the songs from Que Pasó at The Grange in Martha’s Vineyard.

What’s Next: She will be releasing a series of videos from this session across her social media platforms and YouTube. The series kicks off with her original song “Ghost” and will drop every other week.

It’s one thing to deliver a stellar studio record, but it’s another talent entirely to recreate that dynamic, full-band sound completely solo on stage.

Roots, Rhythm, and Global Influence

Victoria’s Cuban roots and deep familiarity with multicultural genres provide the driving inspiration for her music. She delivers a heavy rhythmic undertone fused seamlessly with jazz, blues, soul, Afro-Cuban, Afro-Caribbean, salsa, and rock ’n’ roll.

  • The Upbringing: Growing up in a traditional Cuban household, she was heavily influenced by legends like Celia Cruz, Buena Vista Social Club, and Gloria Estefan.
  • Modern Inspiration: Today, she closely resonates with culturally conscious contemporary acts like Bad Bunny and Peso Pluma.

After formally studying jazz guitar in Florida and Minnesota, Victoria developed her signature live-looping, one-woman-band project. International tours have already taken her across Europe, while her relentless performance schedule throughout the Southeast U.S. continues to sharpen her unique, boundary-pushing sound.

Follow Victoria Cardona on YouTube and social media to catch the bi-weekly Martha’s Vineyard video series!

ThoroughFare Austin: New Mueller Hybrid Bakery & Café Announces Block Party

Austinites invited to join the newly opened bakery, café, deli and grocery for a lively block party. Photo: Meraki Narrative, used with permission.

** Update: Due to forecasted inclement weather, this event has been rescheduled for Thursday June 4, 2026. ** 5/20/2026

Neighborhood Spot ThoroughFare Announces Epic Mueller Block Party

If you haven’t checked out ThoroughFare yet, now is the perfect time. The newly opened bakery, café, deli, and grocery hybrid has quickly become a favorite daily ritual for Mueller residents since quietly opening its doors in March. (Juice Consulting, 2026)

To celebrate, they are throwing a massive neighborhood Block Party, and you’re invited!

The Details: When & Where

  • Date: Thursday, May 21
  • Time: 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM
  • Location: Mueller Neighborhood, 1905 Aldrich St. (Next to the Thinkery)
  • RSVP: Click here for the public RSVP link

The event will feature a total takeover of the Aldrich St. walkway by ThoroughFare and an incredible lineup of adjacent local businesses.

What to Expect

Whether you’re bringing the family, heading out for date night, or just love good food, there is something for everyone:

  • Good Vibes: A vinyl-curated DJ set from Dart Collective.
  • For the Kids: Complimentary face painting.
  • ThoroughFare Exclusives: Fresh bread and cookie tastings, plus $2 off wine by the glass and draft beer.
  • Shopping Perks: 20% off all Made In Cookware and fun merch giveaways to grab as you roam.

Participating Vendors & Pop-Ups

ThoroughFare is teaming up with neighborhood favorites to bring you awesome activities, freebies, and discounts:

  • The Thinkery & Toy Joy: Hosting a “Franken-TOY” pop-up where guests can build and take home their own custom toys.
  • Buddy Bear: An arts-and-crafts station pop-up for both kids and adults.
  • Veracruz All Natural: Serving up complimentary samples of their famous agua frescas.
  • Aviator Pizza: Featuring free merch, swag, pizza giveaways, and a prize wheel spinner.
  • Nando’s Peri Peri Chicken: Catch their mascot on-site, grab food samples, and spin their prize wheel.
  • Lick Ice Cream: Scooping up sweet discounts at their ice cream cart.
  • Blue Lacy: Offering exclusive dine-in discounts.
  • BD Riley’s Irish Pub: Serving up discounts on adult beverages.

What is ThoroughFare?

Brought to you by the team behind the nationally recognized Austin bakery ThoroughBread (named by Food & Wine as one of the 100 Best Bakeries in America), ThoroughFare is an elevated food shopping experience.

The new space features:

  • A Full-Service Drink Bar: Serving coffee, matcha, smoothies, and fresh juices.
  • A Café & Bakery: Serving up signature toasts, sandwiches, soups, and salads.
  • The Market: Stocked with 170 house-made products including condiments, salad dressings, butters, jams, and nut butters, all of which are the exact same ingredients they use on their own café menu.

The ThoroughFare Promise: They pride themselves on making as many products as possible completely in-house. That means zero seed oils, artificial additives, preservatives, colors, flavors, gums, or fillers. No shortcuts. Just real food.

The Story Behind the Concept

The seed for ThoroughFare was planted back in 2015 during a trip to Maine taken by Co-Founder and CEO Ryan Goebel and his mother. Eating almost entirely from local producers, Ryan noticed the food tasted richer and left them feeling noticeably better.

He realized the magic lay in how the food was produced and the short distance it traveled to the table. Ryan brought this holistic philosophy back to Austin, opening ThoroughBread in 2018 to immediate critical acclaim. ThoroughFare is the natural evolution of that dream, reimagining the way grocers operate by letting you take home the exact ingredients used in their kitchen.

“This began years ago with a simple belief – that food should just be food. Made with real ingredients, without unnecessary shortcuts, and brought to people at its best. ThoroughFare is built on that standard, and we’re proud to finally open our doors and share it with our community.” — Ryan Goebel, Co-Founder & CEO

See you at the block party!

Make sure to RSVP and come hungry. What vendor are you most excited to check out? Let me know in the comments below.

The Blueprint for Cybersecurity Leadership: ‘The First 100 Days of the New CISO’

‘The First 100 Days of the New CISO’ by JC Gaillard is a practical roadmap for real and lasting cybersecurity leadership. Photo: Amazon

Book Spotlight: The First 100 Days of the New CISO

A Leadership Guide to Lasting Impact

By JC Gaillard

When a new Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) steps into the role, their first 100 days don’t just set the tone—they can define their entire legacy. (Amazon, 2026)

In The First 100 Days of the New CISO, seasoned cybersecurity leader and consultant JC Gaillard offers a pragmatic, experience-driven guide to succeeding in those crucial early months and beyond. Drawing on over two decades of advising major global organizations, Gaillard helps CISOs, executives, and boards understand what true leadership in cybersecurity looks like: calm, structured, and aligned with business priorities.

This is not another technical manual. Instead, it is a leadership guide grounded in governance, culture, and the realities of corporate life, serving as a definitive blueprint for the next decade of cybersecurity leadership.

Inside the Book: What You’ll Discover

The book is structured like a consulting playbook and written in clear, disciplined prose. Inside, you’ll find the perspective and tools needed to turn uncertainty into direction, including:

  • The Blueprint for Timing: How to navigate the first 6 days, 6 weeks, and 6 months with clarity and composure.
  • Stakeholder Management: How to build trust and credibility across the organization before trying to drive major change.
  • Business Alignment: Proven techniques for aligning security with business strategy and corporate governance.
  • Boardroom Success: How to communicate effectively and confidently with boards and executive committees.
  • Culture Over Tools: Why culture, rhythm, and proportion matter far more than tools or technology.
  • Lasting Transformation: Understanding what differentiates true, long-term security maturity from short-term, reactionary activity.

Who This Book Is For

Whether you are stepping into the hot seat for the first time or overseeing the person who is, this guide offers invaluable insights:

  • Newly Appointed CISOs seeking a structured, strategic start to their new role.
  • Experienced Security Leaders looking to strengthen their corporate influence and organizational impact.
  • CEOs, CIOs, and Board Members who want to understand what truly effective security leadership looks like.
  • Consultants & Governance Professionals focused on organizational resilience, trust, and transformation.

“If you want to lead with confidence, build maturity, and leave a legacy that lasts beyond your tenure, The First 100 Days of the New CISO will show you how.”

About the Author

JC Gaillard is a leading strategic advisor and a globally recognized cybersecurity thought-leader with over 25 years of experience and a track record of driving fundamental change across global organizations.

He is the Founder and CEO of Corix Partners, a UK-based boutique management consultancy firm and thought-leadership platform. Corix Partners focuses on assisting CIOs and other C-level executives in resolving complex cybersecurity strategy, organization, and governance challenges.

‘Volk’ by D. Werkmeister Review: A Gripping Philadelphia Crime Thriller

‘Volk’ by D. Werkmeister is a fresh reimagining of the werewolf mythos. Photo: Paste Creative Book Tours, used with permission.

Book Review: Volk by D. Werkmeister

Part of Paste Creative Book Tours

Photo: Paste Creative Book Tours

The Predator Meets the Procedural

FBI Agent Terri Watson is working the biggest case of her career. As she tracks the flow of dirty money around the world to take down a powerful Russian money launderer, her investigation collides with a series of horrific murders.

Something is out there, stalking the streets of Philadelphia. When Terri comes face-to-face with the beast, she discovers an explosive secret—one that powerful men will kill to keep hidden. Her investigation reveals there is more to this predator than meets the eye. Much more. (Amazon, 2026)

The Story

The journey begins in Siberia, 1994, where a team of archaeologists led by the young genetic biologist Peter Lavroski discovers a preserved wolf carcass.

Fast forward to Philadelphia, 2017, where an unknown creature is on the prowl. After witnessing a convenience store robbery, it tracks the criminal into the shadows, leaving a trail of blood in its wake.

  • The Agent: Special Agent Terri Watson is buried in records, hunting for evidence against a local money launderer.
  • The Partner: Marc Peterson, a Philly detective and FBI task force officer, is busy investigating the string of grisly alleyway murders.
  • The Wildcard: Dieter Schnoll moves “dark money” for the world’s shadiest characters. But when a client puts his life in the crosshairs of the creature, he is forced into an unlikely alliance with the FBI.

Together, they must track the beast and dismantle a Russian criminal organization before the body count rises.

Review

In Volk, D. Werkmeister delivers a gripping thriller that blends crime, horror, and conspiracy into a suspenseful masterpiece. The hunt for a Russian financier quickly descends into a fight for survival against a predator that defies conventional logic.

A Fresh Perspective on the Beast

Right from the beginning, the tension builds through the creature’s first-person point of view. Surprisingly, the beast is conflicted and nuanced:

“A wave of loneliness falls over me like a shadow.”

Compelling Characters

Terri Watson is a standout protagonist—intelligent, determined, and believable under pressure. As she uncovers the connections between organized crime and the supernatural, the narrative shifts seamlessly from the clinical world of “dirty money” to the blood-slicked streets of Philadelphia.

Atmospheric Writing

Werkmeister uses vivid, poetic language to ground the horror:

“The rain makes little popping sounds as it pelts the Gore-Tex hood. I pause, listening intently: no sound other than the rain. I sniff the air deeply invigorated by the fresh, damp smell.”

The Verdict

Without spoiling the twist, this is a fresh, modern reimagining of the werewolf mythos. It strips away tired tropes in favor of a grounded, conspiratorial plot. It’s an exciting, chilling read that proves the most dangerous monsters often hide behind fur and finance.

  • Most Unexpected Reaction: Feeling genuine sympathy for the creature and its tragic history.

Volk by D. Werkmeister is an exciting and chilling read that successfully mixes crime fiction with supernatural terror. While some scenes are graphic, they serve the story’s dark tone effectively. Fans of supernatural werewolf thrillers with dark twists will appreciate the layered mystery and explosive revelations.

“Death is as relentless and unconquerable as the tide of the ocean. You can’t control it; you just have to learn to live with it. It is the dark shape that hides in the shadows, always present but unnoticed – until it comes for you.”

Rating: 5 out of 5.

Get your copy of Volk today!

About the Author

D. Werkmeister is an award-winning author and a retired FBI Agent. He brings 21 years of street experience in Philadelphia to his writing, including eight years on the FBI SWAT team. A former Marine Corps officer, his supernatural thrillers have earned a Claymore Award and a bronze medal from Readers’ Favorite. When not writing, he enjoys hiking, traveling, and spending time with his family.

Photo: Paste Creative Book Tours

** Thank you to Stephanie Caruso, Paste Creative Book Tours, and D. Werkmeister for the gifted copy for review consideration. I haven’t been compensated for this review and all views and opinions expressed are my own.

Sight Unseen (2026) Movie Review: A Nerve-Rattling Rural Nightmare

Sight Unseen will be available on digital and on demand on May 19. Photo: One Tree Entertainment

Movie Review: Sight Unseen

Every Gift Has a Price

The Synopsis

Three siblings inherit their estranged father’s rural cabin after his mysterious death. But the longer they spend in the house, the more apparent it becomes that someone, or something, still lives there. (One Tree Entertainment, 2026)

Sight Unseen traps viewers in a rural nightmare where something waits in the dark. You can’t hide from what you can’t see.

Film Credits

  • Release Date: Digital and On Demand — May 19, 2026
  • Written & Directed by: Stephen Packhurst
  • Starring: Lauren Pisano (Law & Order), Daniel Burns (Inventing Anna, Insomnia), and Kellie Spill.

Atmosphere & Tension

Sight Unseen is a tense and atmospheric horror thriller that leans heavily into isolation and the fear of the unknown. It begins as an uncomfortable family reunion and quickly spirals into something far more terrifying. As strange noises, missing objects, and unsettling encounters mount, it becomes clear the siblings are not alone.

The film’s atmosphere is its greatest asset. The rural setting feels cold, empty, and claustrophobic all at once. By keeping the “presence” largely obscured, the director taps into the primal fear that our imagination is far scarier than any physical monster.

The Verdict on Dread: Rather than relying on cheap jump scares, the cinematography turns darkness into a living threat. The true star, however, is the sound design. Every creaking floorboard and distant whisper builds a layer of anxiety that makes the tagline feel like a personal threat.

The Sibling Dynamic

The emotional weight of the movie rests on the shoulders of the three leads. Their chemistry feels authentic, with years of resentment and unresolved trauma bubbling to the surface.

  • Grounded Performance: Their bickering provides a realistic contrast to the escalating supernatural absurdity.
  • Personal Stakes: Their fractured relationships make the survivalist nightmare feel earned, turning a standard family drama into a fight for their lives.

Final Thoughts

While some plot beats may feel familiar to veteran horror fans, Sight Unseen succeeds through sheer mood and suspense. It is an eerie, nerve-rattling experience that keeps audiences guessing until the final moments.

The takeaway? Some doors are better left locked, and the secrets we inherit can eventually hunt us down.

**Thank you to One Tree Entertainment for the screener link for review consideration. I haven’t been compensated for this review and all views and opinions expressed are my own.

The Faust Hotel Reopens: A New Era for New Braunfels’ Historic Landmark

Newly renovated Faust Hotel in New Braunfels announces May 19 opening. Photo: Jason Risner, used with permission.

A New Chapter for a Texas Icon: The Faust Hotel Reopens May 19

History meets modern luxury in the heart of New Braunfels. Lark Hospitality, in partnership with the Duettra family and their investors, is thrilled to announce the official reopening of The Faust Hotel on Tuesday, May 19, 2026. (Lark Hospitality, 2026)

Originally opened in 1929 as The Traveler’s Hotel, this nearly century-old landmark has undergone an extensive renovation to transform it into the premier boutique destination of Central Texas.

Modern Comfort, Historic Soul

The refreshed Faust Hotel features 45 modernly appointed guest rooms designed for the discerning traveler. Whether you’re staying for a weekend getaway or a special event, every room is equipped with:

  • Premium Sleep: King beds with high-quality linens.
  • Luxury Baths: Walk-in showers featuring custom vanities and complimentary Lockwood products.
  • Top-Tier Tech: 55-inch streaming-ready TVs and complimentary Wi-Fi.
  • In-Room Amenities: Nespresso coffee makers and retro Frigidaire mini-fridges.

For those seeking extra space, the hotel offers nine spacious junior suites and six corner suites that can be expanded into three-bedroom layouts with separate living areas.

BOOK YOUR STAY HERE

Dining & Drinks: Introducing Wilhelm & Werner

Opening alongside the hotel is the signature restaurant, Wilhelm & Werner. Described as a Texas Brasserie with European influences, the menu offers refined takes on Lone Star classics.

  • Hours: Tuesday – Sunday | 5:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
  • Service: Dinner service by reservation only.
  • Reservations: BOOK VIA OPENTABLE

Coming Soon

The excitement doesn’t stop at the lobby. Keep an eye out for the upcoming grand openings of:

  • The Magnolia Patio: The perfect spot for al fresco relaxation.
  • Walter’s Speakeasy: A hidden gem tucked away in the basement.

A Legacy Continued

The reopening is more than just a business milestone; it’s a tribute to the community’s heritage.

“This project has been a labor of love for our friends and family, and it holds a great deal of importance to many in New Braunfels. We are thrilled to be able to carry on the legacy of the Faust Hotel and can’t wait for the community to see it.” — Andy Duettra, Owner

The Faust Hotel
240 S Seguin Ave
New Braunfels, TX 78130

Legendary Tony Rice 1977 Self-Titled Album to Be Reissued for 75th Birthday

Tony Rice’s 1977 self-titled album returns on vinyl and digital. Photo: Craft Recordings, used with permission.

Bluegrass Legend Tony Rice’s 1977 Masterpiece Returns for 75th Birthday Celebration

Los Angeles, CA — In celebration of what would have been influential bluegrass guitarist Tony Rice’s 75th birthday, Craft Recordings has announced the return of his seminal 1977 self-titled album. (Craft Recordings, 2026)

Out of print for more than 40 years, Tony Rice captured a pivotal shift in bluegrass toward a more expansive, ensemble-driven sound. Featuring a “who’s who” of bluegrass legends, the record remains a cornerstone of the “new acoustic” genre, seamlessly blending bluegrass standards with contemporary compositions.

The Definitive Reissue

For the first time in decades, fans can experience this foundational recording in its purest form.

  • Release Date: June 5
  • Format: Vinyl (featuring AAA mastering) and Digital (Standard/Hi-Res)
  • Audio Quality: Cut from the original tapes with all-analog (AAA) mastering by Kevin Gray at Cohearent Audio.
  • Packaging: A faithful replication of the original 1977 jacket design.
  • Listen Now: Rice’s take on the traditional folk ballad “Banks of the Ohio” is available to stream today.

Pre-save/Pre-order the album here

A Revolutionary Force in Bluegrass

Tony Rice (1951–2020) was more than just a guitarist; he was an innovative force who shaped the very sound of modern bluegrass.

Born in Virginia and raised in Los Angeles, Rice first rose to prominence in Louisville, KY, as the lead vocalist and guitarist for J.D. Crowe’s legendary group, The New South. In the mid-’70s, Rice returned to California to join the David Grisman Quintet, where he began incorporating jazz, classical, and other sophisticated styles into his playing.

The Birth of “New Acoustic”

Released during his tenure with Grisman, Tony Rice was the guitarist’s third studio album and his first for Rounder Records. It stands as a prime example of the “new acoustic” style—an improvisation-driven blend of bluegrass, jazz, and prog-rock played on wholly acoustic instrumentation.

The album features an incredible lineup of collaborators:

  • Larry Rice: Mandolin
  • J.D. Crowe: Banjo, Backup Vocals
  • Jerry Douglas: Dobro
  • David Grisman: Mandolin
  • Darol Anger: Fiddle
  • Todd Phillips: Bass
  • Richard Greene: Fiddle

Together, they artfully blend tradition with progression, moving from Bill Monroe’s “Big Mon” to contemporary compositions like Grisman’s “Rattlesnake.”

An Enduring Legacy

Rice’s influence cannot be overstated. Ricky Skaggs once hailed him as “the single most influential acoustic guitar player in the last 50 years.”

Over a four-decade career, Rice released over a dozen solo albums—including the acclaimed Church Street Blues (1983)—and over two dozen collaborative titles. A GRAMMY® Award winner and International Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame inductee, Rice’s distinctive touch and harmonic complexity continue to influence generations of pickers worldwide.

Tony Rice Track Listing (Vinyl)

Side A:

  1. Banks of the Ohio
  2. Rattlesnake
  3. Mr. Engineer
  4. Plastic Banana
  5. Don’t Give Your Heart to a Rambler
  6. Farewell Blues

Side B:

  1. Way Downtown
  2. Stoney Creek
  3. Hills of Roane County
  4. Eighth of January
  5. Big Mon
  6. Temperance Reel