Brent Barry and Simon Pagenaud at the press conference at the McNay Art Museum. Photo: Alison Narro/Circuit of The Americas, used with permission.
On Wednesday November 14 at a press conference event at the McNay Art Museum, Circuit of The Americas, IndyCar driver Simon Pagenaud, retired Spurs player Brent Barry and Red McCombs announced that tickets are now on sale online for the IndyCar CLASSIC event to be held at Circuit of the Americas from Friday March 22 through Sunday March 24, 2019. (Circuit of the Americas, 2018)
The IndyCar CLASSIC Series will make its debut on the Circuit of The Americas track. The Austin race will be the second of the series and will include the stars comprising the iconic Indianapolis 500. In addition to witnessing premier-level open-wheel racing in Austin, fans will get the chance to experience English rock band MUSE perform on the Super Stage at Circuit of The Americas on Saturday, March 23.
North America’s top open-wheel racing series, IndyCar CLASSIC is the newest race to join Formula 1, World Rallycross and Pirelli World Challenge at Circuit of The Americas in showcasing this state-of-the-art motor sports facility.
Circuit of the Americas
9201 Circuit of the Americas Blvd
Austin, TX 78617
Bellino Ristorante Italian in Corpus Christi is a gem of a restaurant with good food and good ambiance.
Corpus Christi may be a coastal city, but dining options are not just limited to seafood. There are plenty of Italian restaurants besides the usual chain restaurants. Bellino Ristorante Italiano has two locations in Texas: Corpus Christi and Graford. It offers a strong Sicilian influence and is owned by Sicilian Chef Francesco Inguaggiato, who was born and raised in Palermo, Sicily. Featuring Authentic Italian and Sicilian cuisine and an extensive list of imported Italian wines, they offer classic dishes that re deeply rooted in both Italian and Sicilian culture.
The Corpus Christi location is in the corner of Alameda & Doddridge in the Village Shopping Center and by outward appearances, it looks no different than the surrounding shops and restaurants. But inside, it is warm and inviting, with the tantalizing scents of garlic and olive oil to greet customers. The décor is colorful and is reminiscent of old Italy with its paintings and rustic lighting. Our visit was on a Thursday at noontime, so there were not too many customers and it was peaceful and quiet.
We started with a glass of Moscato while looking over the menu since this was our first time there. Cheyenne, the server was helpful when we asked questions about specific dishes and brought over bread and olive oil as starters while the food was served. I ordered the Caprese Panini which consists of a Ciabatta bread with mozzarella, seasoned tomatoes and basil pesto with house salad and chips. The salad was fresh, the bread was crispy and not too hard and the mozzarella was creamy and perfectly complemented the basil pesto. The chips looked out of place in this gorgeous Italian meal but since it is the lunch menu, that is understandable. My husband ordered the Capellini con Aglio e Olio, Angel hair with garlic, extra virgin olive, red pepper, topped with parmesan and added shrimp. The shrimp was adequately cooked and while the angel hair had the perfect combination of olive oil, garlic and parmesan, it had a clump of uncooked pasta.
The dishes are prepared fresh, so the wait took a few minutes longer than most, but we got bread and oil refills three times and Cheyenne was diligent in keeping us updated. The menu is extensive, so we will definitely be back to enjoy taste different dishes.
Cost: $$$$ Overall Experience: **** (four out of five stars)
Bellino Ristorante Italiano 3815 S Alameda Corpus Christi, TX 78411 (361) 814-89
The Chanukah lighting ceremony is set for Monday December 3. Photo: Pearl, used with permission.
The Pearl continues to host a variety of events and activities to celebrate the season. Coming up next is the Holiday Night Market this month followed by Chanukah and a Posada in December. Everyone is invited to celebrate the joys of the season at the trendiest place in town which also happens to be family and pet friendly. All events are free and open to the public. (Pearl, 2018)
HolidayNight Market: Starting November 29
Pearl is excited to host a holiday night market every Thursday starting November 29 through December 20 from 4p.m. to 8p.m. with Farmers Market vendors, additional craft vendors, live music and holiday activities. Stock up on gifts from handmade soaps to artisan goat cheese and gourmet dog treats. Pearl will also light up the property Thanksgiving weekend to kick off the holiday season. The dates for the holiday night market include November 29 and December 6, 13 and 20.
Chanukah: December 3
Pearl welcomes back the 4th annual holiday tradition in partnership with Young & Jewish San Antonio (YJSA) with the Chanukah Menorah lighting celebration on Monday December 3. The festivities at Pearl will bring the entire San Antonio community together from 6p.m. to 7:30p.m. The Menorah at Pearl will be lit each evening of Chanukah.
Posada: December 19
Inspired by the Mexican tradition of Las Posadas, Pearl host its second annual traditional Posada on Wednesday December 19 from 6:30p.m. to 9p.m. Community members are invited to join the posada and become pilgrims traveling by candlelight. Las Posadas is a nine-day Christmas celebration in Mexico and Latin America, centered on the ritual re-enactment of Mary and Joseph’s quest to find lodging in Bethlehem. The evening includes children’s crafts, piñatas and custom Mexican treats of buñuelos, tamales and Mexican hot chocolate. This event is free and open to the public.
Pearl Brewery
303 Pearl Parkway, Suite 300
San Antonio, TX 78215
(210) 212-7260
Cherry Redbud is one of the seasonal beers introduced for the fall season. Photo: Kirsten Kaiser, used with permission.
Independence Brewing Co. is excited to announce the fall release of three seasonal beers just in time for colder weather. The Autumn lineup introduces two brand new fruit-infused variations; Cherry Redbud Berliner Weisse and Tangerine Highboy Double IPA. The Independence team also welcomes back the seasonal classic, Shiny Diamonds Ale, an increasingly popular session IPA. (Independence Brewing Co., 2018)
Cherry Redbudis inspired by the traditionally tart and lemony German beer with round cherry finish. Its subtle wheat maltiness has a delicate mix of fresh sweet and tart cherries, making Cherry Redbud a highly effervescent, easy-to-drink brew with a refreshing finish perfect for the crisp fall air. Cherry Redbud brings a deeper, sweeter flavor to the already robust Berliner Weisse-style beer.
Highboy Double IPA takes on a citrusy profile in the form of the Tangerine Highboy Double IPA, a resinous, fully-juiced beast of a beer that’s been double dry-hopped with loads of late-addition hops and souped-up with fresh tangerines. Made with a blend of Centennial, Citra, Amarillo and Summit hops, Tangerine Highboy brings together the old school West Coast Double IPA, East Coast IPA haze craze and a grove of ripe tangerines all packed into one bracing beer.
Shiny Diamonds is a hoppy ale mingling rich flavors with a clean finish, inspired by the heavy metal glam and soulful finesse in the song “Holy Diver” by Dio. Shiny Diamonds has fresh herbal and tropical flavors producing mild grapefruit notes followed by a clean, dry finish. Simple, yet as intricate and multifaceted as a skillfully cut gem, Shiny Diamonds is as complex as it is flavorful.
These seasonal exclusives will be available throughout the winter on draft at Independence Brewing Co.’s brewery and at local bars and grocery stores. Shiny Diamonds and Cherry Redbud will be available in six-packs and Tangerine Highboy Double IPA will be available in four-pack, 16oz tallboy cans.
“Each of the three fall releases brings a completely different flavor profile to the table. You have the heavy taste of hops in the Tangerine Highboy Double IPA, the crisp, fruity notes of Cherry Redbud and the dry, tropical taste of Shiny Diamonds to round it out.” – Head Brewer Brannon Radicke.
Independence Brewing Co. is a local craft beer brewery and taproom located in Southeast Austin, Texas. Founded by Amy & Rob Cartwright in 2004, Independence Brewing Co. has grown from a small mom, pop, and dog operation to a team of 40 people producing more than 17 thousand barrels a year with distribution throughout Texas and Arkansas. Independence Brewing Co. is now one of the largest and most beloved breweries in Central Texas.
Vincent Ingala will be performing at this year’s holiday tree lighting at La Cantera Resort & Spa. Courtesy photo, used with permission.
La Cantera Resort & Spa, a Destination Hotel, sets a sweet and soulful tone for the holiday season as it hosts a free jazz concert by Vincent Ingala on Thursday November 29 from 7p.m. to 9p.m. The Grinch is sure to steal hearts as he joins Santa for the annual holiday tree lighting ceremony at 8p.m. on Plaza San Saba. Guests will be able to enjoy free holiday treats, children’s activities and photos with Santa. Donations will be accepted and proceeds will benefit the San Antonio Library Foundation. (La Cantera Resort & Spa, 2018)
Vincent Ingala is a twenty-something music prodigy who has catapulted to the top of the Billboard Contemporary Jazz charts, garnering three Billboard #1s and eight top 10 hits. Handpicked to open for Dave Koz at the age of 16, Ingala is an old soul with a musical identity and wisdom well beyond his years. His musical influences span the worlds of jazz, R&B, disco, pop and beyond. A virtual one-man band playing everything from tenor saxophone, piano and drums to guitar, bass and lead vocals, Ingala possesses ingenuity, extraordinary versatility and an endless supply of inspiration.
La Cantera Resort & Spa 16441 La Cantera Pkwy Plaza San Saba, just off the main lobby San Antonio, TX 78256 (210) 558-6500
The North Star Mall holiday parade will be on Black Friday, November 23. Photo: North Star Mall, used with permission.
This year’s North Star Mall annual holiday parade will honor hometown heroes. “Celebrating Our Hometown Heroes” is the theme for the parade which will feature representatives from the United States (U.S.) Air Force, U.S. Navy, U.S. Army, San Antonio Police Department, Bexar County Sheriff’s Office, San Antonio Fire Department, The Salvation Army and Elf Louise. (North Star Mall, 2018)
The public is invited to join Santa and Mrs. Claus for the Christmas Celebration Parade at 10a.m. on Black Friday, November 23. The parade starts in front of Dillard’s and winds its way through the mall to Santa’s home for the Holidays in front of Macy’s at IT’SUGAR.
Parade participants:
Brackenridge High School March Band, under the direction of Alfonso Alvarado
United States Air Force, Army and Navy representatives
San Antonio Firefighters representatives
San Antonio Police Department representatives
Bear-a-me, Build-A-Bear Mascot
The Cookie Man, Great American Cookie Company
Chick-fil-A, “eat mor chikin!” Cow
Android characters, Think Geek
Melinda Lou “Wendy” Morse, Wendy’s Restaurant
Elves, Elf Louise Christmas Project
Salvation Army
Mrs. Claus and Santa Clause
North Star Mall
7400 San Pedro Ave
San Antonio, TX 78216
(210) 340-6627
‘Anastasia’ will play at the Majestic Theatre in February and tickets are now on sale. Photo: Gayle McCracken, used with permission.
Individual tickets for the tour of the critically-acclaimed Broadway production of ‘Anastasia’ went on sale Friday November 9 as part of the 2018-2019 North Park Lexus Broadway in San Antonio season. ‘Anastasia’ will play eight performances at the Majestic Theatre Tuesday February 5 through Sunday February 10, 2019 at 7:30p.m. Tuesday through Thursday; 8p.m. on Friday; 2p.m. and 8p.m. Saturday and 2p.m. and 7:30p.m. on Sunday. Tickets start at $40 and are available by Ticketmaster online, by calling (800) 982-2787 or by visiting the Majestic Box Office. The Majestic Box Office does not accept single ticket orders over the phone; all ticket sales must be made in person. Majestic Box Office hours are 10a.m. to 5p.m. Monday through Friday. Orders for groups of 10 or more may be placed by calling (210) 226-5967. (Broadway in San Antonio, 2018)
From the Tony Award®-winning creators of the Broadway classic Ragtime and inspired by the beloved films, ‘Anastasia’ is the new Broadway musical that’s “one of the most gorgeous shows in years!” (New York Observer). This dazzling show transports audiences from the twilight of the Russian Empire to the euphoria of Paris in the 1920s, as a brave young woman sets out to discover the mystery of her past. Pursued by a ruthless Soviet officer determined to silence her, Anya enlists the aid of a dashing conman and a lovable ex-aristocrat. Together, they embark on an epic adventure to help her find home, love, and family. ‘Anastasia’ features a book by celebrated playwright Terrence McNally, a lush, new score by Stephen Flaherty – music and Lynn Ahrens – lyrics and direction by Tony Award-winning director Darko Tresnjak.
Shake Shack is one business offering veterans special offers on Sunday November 11. Photo: Shake Shack, used with permission.
Veterans Day is observed annually on November 11 and honors military veterans – those who served in the United States Armed Forces. This year it falls on Sunday and many area businesses have special offers for all veterans and active duty military. (Shake Shack, Fast Eddie’s, Pluckers Wing Bar, 2018)
Shake Shackwill be treating all veterans and active duty military with a free scoop of Shake Shack Custard (in-shack only) at ALL locations excluding stadiums, ballparks and airports.
Shake Shack
7427 San Pedro Ave, Suite 107
San Antonio, TX 78216
Fast Eddie’s
7616 Culebra Rd, #103
San Antonio, TX 78251
Pluckers Wing Baris excited to announce that veterans and active duty military eat free all day on Veterans Day. With a valid military ID, guests can enjoy a complimentary entree, side and a non-alcoholic beverage from Pluckers’ extensive menu (up to $15) when dining at the restaurant.
The Pluckers menu includes their trademark wings paired with signature sauces such as Buffalo, Spicy BBQ, and Spicy Ranch, along with unique flavors, like Fire in the Hole, Ginger Peach Sriracha, Gochujang, and Spicy Mandarin; appetizers like fried pickles and Holy Macaroni; great sandwiches and burgers like the Buffalo Chicken Sandwich and the Bypass Burger topped with bacon, cheddar, grilled onions, and jalapeños; signature salads; and epic sides like waffle fries, macaroni and cheese, and homemade potato chips.
Pluckers Wing Bar
14881 IH 35
North Selma, TX 78154
Krause’s Café will host a fundraiser on Sunday to benefit area veterans and their families. Photo:Krause’s Café, used with permission.
This Sunday November 11, Krause’s Cafe and Biergarten will honor Ben H. Dorcy III and local veterans by hosting ‘Benefit for the Brave.’ The evening will be filled with live musical performances, including Cody Canada, Kevin Galloway and more and will run from 5p.m. to 9p.m. Family and friends can enjoy a Sunday evening filled with German food, music and family fun. Tickets start at $25 and are available online. All proceeds will benefit the New Braunfels Area Community Fund and Canada/Kelly Veteran’s Fund which supports and aids Comal County veterans and their family members in need. (Krause’s Café and Biergarten, 2018)
During the event, active military and vets with ID can take advantage of $15 tickets at the door and half off food.
Krause’s Café is a New Braunfels historic restaurant that opened in 1938 and ran successfully until 1995. Recently it reopened and while keeping true to the original traditions it now has a ‘biergarten,’ live music and more. The menu reflects its German heritage and South Texas flavors while offering over 70 beers that include local, regional and international options as well as cocktails and wines on tap.
Krause’s Café & Biergarten
186 S. Castell Ave.
New Braunfels, TX 78130
‘School of Rock’ is now playing at the Majestic Theatre through November 11. Photo: Evan Zimmerman, used with permission.
Now playing at the Majestic Theatre is ‘School of Rock,’ The New York Times Critic’s Pick and the best reason to visit the theater this weekend. It plays until Sunday November 11 with showtimes Friday at 8p.m., Saturday at 2p.m. and 8p.m. and Sunday at Sunday at 2p.m. and 7:30p.m. Tickets start at $40 and are available through Ticketmaster online, by calling 800-982-2787, or by visiting the Majestic box office. ‘School of Rock’ is the hilarious new musical based on the hit movie of the same name and follows Dewey Finn, a wanna be rock star who poses as a substitute teacher and turns a class of straight A students into a guitar-shredding, bass-slapping, mind-blowing rock band in an attempt to win the upcoming Battle of the Bands contest.
‘School of Rock’ is a rock musical with music by Andrew Lloyd Webber, lyrics by Glenn Slater and a book by Julian Fellowes. This high-octane smash features 14 new songs, all the original songs from the movie and musical theater’s first-ever kids rock band playing their instruments live on stage. The story begins as the band No Vacancy is performing and the band’s guitarist Dewey Finn repeatedly tries to upstage the lead singer “I’m Too Hot for You” and as a result gets kicked out of the band. Out of the band and without a job, he dreams of becoming a superstar “When I Climb to the Top of Mount Rock.” Posing as Dewey, his roommate, he takes a substitute job at the prestigious Horace Green School and takes over the music class. He sets up the students as band members: Zack on electric guitar, Katie on bass, Lawrence on keyboard and Freddy on drums with Shonelle and Marcy as back up singers. They turn out to have amazing talent for music and performance and eventually music class takes over their daily school lives. When they fail to win the Battle of the Bands, Dewey assures everyone that winning did not really matter because they accomplished something even more special.
The voice over at the beginning of the show assures the audience that the kids do indeed play their own instruments and they do not disappoint. From the band members to the singers and dancers, their talent is on par with the adults yet each one shines on their own, especially Leeanne Parks as Katie and Mystic Inscho as Zack. With the performances of No Vacancy at the beginning and the end, the show has a rock concert feel to it. Show highlights include “Stick it to the Man” when Dewey explains to the students that “the man” is responsible for everything wrong with the world and he and the students get mad and shout about how they are going to stick it to the man; and “If Only You Would Listen” when the frustrated students sing about how much they have to tell their parents and the world, if only they would take the time to listen to them. Even those who have not seen the movie will find this musical delightfully entertaining. The music, dancing and singing combined with heart and humor makes ‘School of Rock’ the kind of musical the entire family can enjoy and ‘rock out’ to. Definitely a must-see.
SA Examiner 