Day: March 21, 2020

Renowned geneticist makes her debut as novelist with ‘Double Blind: The Icelandic Manuscript Murders’

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Sara Winokur’s ‘Double Blind: The Icelandic Manuscript Murders’ is the geneticist’s debut novel and will be available on Tuesday March 31. Photo: google

Sara Winokur is a Ph.D. molecular geneticist and the author of the Icelandic mystery, “Double Blind: The Icelandic Manuscript Murders.” In the past, she has worked on DNA analysis of human genetic diseases and she was part of the team that discovered the genes associated with Muscular Dystrophy, Huntington’s Disease, and Dwarfism. Dozens of her articles have been published in scientific journals. Her research has appeared in Human Molecular Genetics, Nature Genetics and Cell Stem Cell. Sara remains a well-respected figure in the scientific community. (Black Château, 2020)

Twenty years after a young boy disappears in the chill of North Iceland, a mysterious poem lands on the desk of his twin sister Brynja, a forensic geneticist, and rekindles her hopes that her brother might be alive. As Brynja unravels the clues, more poems arrive, each bearing dire consequences for those who receive them: the guard of the medieval manuscript of Icelandic sagas that possibly has the answer to her burning question, the prime minister’s secretary and the local pastor. Fighting the visual auras that have plagued her since childhood and now threaten everything she holds dear, Brynja must summon the strength to navigate the twisted labyrinth of the poet’s mind and confront the dark secret buried in her family’s past. Dubbed “a riveting mystery tale with a compelling lead character” by Kirkus Reviews, “Double Blind: The Icelandic Manuscript Murders” immerses the reader in the surreal landscapes and rich culture of Iceland. It is a wild ride from rural farmsteads to icy fjords to the high-tech world of DNA forensics lead by a strong female character.

“Because I’m so passionate about travel, culture, and landscapes, it can’t help but be a big part of my writing. When I wrote Double Blind, I tried to integrate the science of genetics and Icelandic culture with the story,” – Sara Winokur.

“Double Blind: The Icelandic Manuscript Murders” is available on pre-order in digital version on Amazon and will be officially released on March 31, 2020.

Pearl retailers now offer curbside service

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The Pearl is now offering customers curbside service for selected retailers. Photo: Pearl, used with permission.

Pearl is continuing its dedication to small businesses by organizing curbside pickup for property retailers amid COVID-19. (Pearl, 2020)

Beginning on Friday, March 20, the following retailers will be offering curbside service:

Retail curbside pickup will be every Friday from 2p.m. to 3 p.m. (prior to Pearl Farmers Market curbside pickup starting at 3p.m.) in front of the Pearl Stable, located at 307 Pearl Pkwy, San Antonio, TX 78215. Additional online, delivery and curbside pickup options may be available per retailers; please consult individual stores for available options.

 

Whataburger offering temporary curbside service

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Whataburger is offering temporary curbside service. Photo: Whataburger, used with permission.

Whataburger is now offering temporary curbside service during select hours. Drive-thru will be available 24/7 while dining rooms remain closed. As communities work together to help curb the spread of the COVID-19 virus, Whataburger remains committed to serving our customers, many of whom are working long hours and caring for their families at home. To help, Whataburger has kicked off a temporary new curbside service. Instead of walking your order to your table, they will be walking it to your car. This service is available between 8a.m. and 8p.m. to guests who order online or on the Whataburger App. (Whataburger, 2020)

If you drive an oversized vehicle – such as an 18-wheeler or a firetruck – you can place an order online, park your vehicle nearby and walk up to our curbside employee to pick up your order.

This service is available ONLY between the hours of 8a.m. and 8p.m. for the safety of guests and employees. Whataburger restaurants continue to offer a full menu in the drive-thru 24/7.

“As families and communities adjust to the changes around them, we’re proud to continue to offer a warm meal and a kind word. Above all, we’re committed to a safe experience for our Family Members and guests.” – Rob Rodriguez, Whataburger’s SVP and Chief Restaurant Officer.

To use Whataburger curbside service:

  • Between 8a.m.-8p.m., order online or on the Whataburger App, available on the Apple Store and Google Play
  • Select your preferred Whataburger location.
  • Create your customized online order.
  • Select the Curbside pickup method when prompted.
  • When you arrive at your Whataburger, tell the employee at the curbside pickup area your name, and that you placed your order online.
  • You will be directed to the designated curbside parking spaces.