Pluckers is hosting a holiday lunch this Saturday for families of Boysville. Photo: Pluckers, used with permission.
In the spirit of the holiday season, local businesses often give back to the community by hosting events, volunteering and giving out gifts. Pluckers Wing Bar is excited to announce that they will spread holiday cheer by providing lunch for families from Boysville at the Pluckers Selma location on Saturday, December 22 at 12p.m. This year, employees from the Selma, San Marcos and Oak Hill locations will donate holiday gifts for children who attend the holiday lunch. (Pluckers Wing Bar, 2018)
Boysville is a nonprofit whose mission is to provide a safe family environment for children in need by offering food, shelter, clothing, medical services and education services. Boysville is able to provide the basic necessities needed to make the child feel safe and comfortable and teach them to become an active part of society.
Owners Mark Greenberg, Dave Paul, and Sean Greenberg, 2017 Ernst and Young Central Texas Entrepreneurs of the Year, opened their first Pluckers restaurant in Austin in 1995. Pluckers is known for its famous wings served with a choice of more than 20 homemade sauces. It has the perfect combination of homemade food and atmosphere for sports fans to keep up with their favorite sports teams and games. Offering guests a fun, laid-back atmosphere where friends, family, and co-workers can enjoy a great meal and watch sports, Pluckers has been named in USA Today’s “Top Ten Wing Restaurants” and ESPN’s “Top 5 Sports Bar in North America,” along with being named one of “Austin’s Best Places to Work” in 2017 and 2018 by the Austin Business Journal and Dallas Observer’s “Best Sports Bar.”
Pluckers San Antonio
14881 Interstate 35 N
Selma, TX 78154
Maya Abelow, Roy Bumgarner and Alex Phillips in the Woodlawn Theatre’s production of ‘Annie.’ Photo: Woodlawn Theatre, used with permission.
After a successful run at the Woodlawn Theatre, this is the final weekend to catch ‘Annie,’ the family friendly musical about the spunky little orphan Annie who must endure life at an orphanage headed by the despicable Miss Hannigan. The final three performances on Friday, Saturday and Sunday are sold out; however, there will be Balcony seats available for Saturday and Sunday shows only and guests may purchase those tickets in person, first come, first served, one hour prior to showtime at the box office.
After the Overture, ‘Annie’ begins at the Municipal Girls Orphanage in 1933 where eleven-year-old Annie calms the youngest girl Molly after she awakens from a nightmare “Maybe.” Annie makes an unsuccessful escape attempt to try and find her parents and after being caught by Miss Hannigan, the girls are forced to clean up before their day of sweatshop duties begins “Hard Knock Life.” Later in the day, as Miss Hannigan flirts with Mr. Bundles the laundry man, Annie climbs into the laundry basket and escapes the orphanage. Now out on the streets, she runs into a friendly stray dog and comforts him by telling him of better days to come “Tomorrow.” She is eventually caught and sent back to the orphanage where Grace Farrel, assistant to the billionaire Oliver Warbucks, picks her to spend the Christmas holiday at this mansion. After she wins the hearts of everyone at the mansion, she finds a new home alongside the loveable mutt Sandy once it is revealed that her parents died when she was a baby “A New Deal for Christmas.”
Last Saturday’s performance played to an eager and packed house as fans of all ages came to see the musical about a spunky and optimistic orphan Annie whose life changes in ways she never dreamed possible. During this run, Maya Abelow and Alex Phillips took turns playing the title role and this time it was Alex Phillips’ turn at the spotlight and she did not disappoint. From the first notes of “Maybe” the orphans take center stage and all eyes are on them as they perform the audience favorite “Hard Knock Life.” Alex is a darling as Annie and her rendition of “Tomorrow” brought thunderous applause from the audience. Show highlights include “Little Girls” by Miss Hannigan and “Easy Street” by Miss Hannigan, Rooster and Lily. Melissa Gonzalez’ comical portrayal of Miss Hannigan is spot on and Jake the dog steals the scenes as Sandy. Alex Phillips and Roy Bumgarner as Oliver Warbucks have excellent on-screen chemistry and bring the story of Annie brilliantly to life. ‘Annie’ is a timeless story filled with humor, heart and catchy tunes that will resonate in the hearts and minds of audience members long after the show is over. It is a must-see holiday tradition the entire family can enjoy.
Bakery Lorraine has gingerbread macarons available. Photo: Bakery Lorraine, used with permission.
Area restaurants and bars are having Christmas specials to make the season merrier. More details are available online. (Meadow Neighborhood Eatery + Bar, Bakery Lorraine, Krause’s Café, Supper at Hotel Emma, Esquire Tavern, 2018)
MEADOW NEIGHBORHOOD EATERY + BAR
This Sunday December 23 from 10a.m. to 2p.m. is the final Santa Brunch. It will feature holiday cocktails including hot toddies, bourbon eggnog, peppermint Irish coffee and cranberry mimosas that pair perfectly with brunch staples at Meadow. Parents can enjoy brunch while the kids enjoy a special visit from Santa Claus for pictures. There will also be sugar cookies for the kids to decorate while they wait. All images will be sent by email and can be used for holiday cards, printing and more. Images with Santa are free with a brunch reservation.
Meadow Neighborhood Eatery and Bar will host a pre-fixe Christmas Eve Dinner on Monday, December 24 from 5p.m. to 8p.m. Reservations will be required for Christmas Eve Dinner with pricing at $39 per person plus tax and gratuity. The dinner menu will have several options that include Fried Chicken with braised greens, chow chow and hot sauce honey, Striped Bass with hoppin’ John, grilled bok choy and radish, Eight Layer Chocolate Cake with candied orange and Montenegro and more. There will also be a children’s menu available.
Meadow will have a full Christmas meal available for order. The meal feeds 10 people for $135 and includes a honey baked ham dinner, roasted Brussel sprouts with dried cherries and pecans, mashed potatoes, roasted root vegetables, Texas mushroom gratin and Bread Box dinner rolls. Orders can be placed now until Thursday, December 20. Pick up will be Monday, December 24. Meadow will be closed on Christmas Day.
BAKERY LORRAINE
Will have pies, Buche de Noels and limited-edition holiday-themed macaron boxes available for order at all of their locations across the city and in Austin. Inside the Buche de Noels are a vanilla mousse, cherry compote and a chocolate sponge soaked with kirsch syrup. This is by special order only for $45 and are now available for pickup. The pies will be $26 each and customers are able to place orders now through Thursday, December 20. Pick up day will be Sunday, December 24, Christmas Eve. There will be additional pies for sale that Wednesday on a first come first serve basis. Bakery Lorraine will also have newly released, house-made jams that make excellent stocking stuffers. They are priced at $6 each and flavors include Raspberry Hibiscus and Spiced Mango and Guava.
KRAUSE’S CAFE
Jolly ‘Krause Klaus’ will visit Krause’s Café throughout the month of December and prices for getting a picture taken with Santa are $10 and $5 for reprints. Bring the family and enjoy a German platter while getting Christmas photos done. Families can enjoy a taste of Germany with the Munich Platter which features pork belly, pork shank, chicken schnitzel, assorted sausages, sauerkraut, red cabbage and dunkel reduction (serves up to six, $70). For a German-Texan twist, groups can try the Solms Platter of grilled quail, tenderloin skewers, kartoffel poppers, assorted sausages, barbecue shrimp and brussels sprouts (serves up to six, $85). Krause’s Café also recently launched hot winter drinks for adults including a Hot Toddy, German Glühwein (mulled wine), Salted Caramel and Cream, Spiked Hot Chocolate and more. Homemade hot chocolate for the children is now available too.
SUPPER AT HOTEL EMMA
Will host a Christmas Eve dinner featuring a whole bronzino special, available from 5p.m. to 10p.m. Chef John Brand has curated an exclusive menu that highlights the silver-skinned, European fish. Holiday inspired sides will accompany the Bronzino, creating a unique Christmas Eve dish.
ESQUIRE TAVERN/DOWNSTAIRS AT ESQUIRE
Guests can experience a very traditional Egg Nog whipped up by the folks behind The Esquire in San Antonio based upon a recipe which dates to the 1700s. It was common to prepare Egg Nog well in advance of consumption of holiday libations and this year’s Egg Nog was made in November. Esquire’s Egg Nog will have rested for a little over a month developing complexity before guests can get their hands on it, beginning on December 18 while supplies last and available at both The Esquire Tavern and Downstairs at The Esquire. This classic Egg Nog uses Paul Beau VS Cognac, Four Roses Bourbon, El Dorado Demerara Rum, milk, cream, sugar and eggs and it is spiced with cinnamon, star anise and nutmeg.
Esquire Tavern’s cocktail menu features other festive cocktail choices like a traditional Hot Toddy. A staple for cold weather and the holidays, Esquire’s Hot Toddy is $9; cozy up with the spirit of choice: apple brandy, bourbon whiskey, or esquire rum blend no. 9 with honey, lemon, allspice; served warm.
SweetFire Kitchen at La Cantera Resort & Spa is having its Christmas Day Feast on December 25. Photo: SweetFire Kitchen, used with permission.
Christmas Day is fast approaching and for those who prefer to eat out on the big day, SweetFire Kitchen at La Cantera Resort & Spa will be having a Christmas Day Feast on December 25 from 11a.m. to 8p.m. Price is $65 for adults, $26 for children 5 to 12 and free for children 4 and under. Reservations available through open table or by calling (210) 558-2479. (SweetFire Kitchen, 2018)
Christmas Day Feast Menu: Raw Bar
Crab claws
Gulf oysters on the half shell
Old Bay Poached Gulf Shrimp
Chipotle cocktail sauce, mignonette & lemon aioli
Cheese & Charcuterie
Selection of regional cheeses
House made & locally sourced cured meats
Pickled vegetables, Dark ale grain mustard, seasonal preserves
Candied pecans & Texas wildflower honey
Assorted breads & crackers
Salad Table
Spinach & frisee, pomegranate, butternut squash, feta cheese, molasses dressing
Local greens & charred endive, walnuts, green apples, parmesan, cider vinaigrette
Broccoli, country ham, cherry tomatoes, grilled onion, house ranch
Carving Station
Bourbon Glazed Turkey Breast & turkey roulade, cranberry sauce & giblet gravy
Salt & Herb Crusted Prime Rib, creamed horseradish & au jus
Porchetta, fall fruit chutney
‘Kinky Boots’ will be playing at the Majestic Theatre in June and tickets go on sale Friday December 21. Photo: Gayle McCracken, used with permission.
Troika Entertainment is thrilled to present ‘Kinky Boots,’ Broadway’s huge-hearted, high-heeled hit about the friendships we discover and the belief that you can change the world when you change your mind. It is making a return engagement in San Antonio for four performances at the Majestic Theatre, Friday June 7 through Sunday June 9. Tickets go on sale Friday December 21 at 10a.m. Tickets start at $40 and are available in person at the Majestic Theatre Box Office, online or by calling (800) 745-3000 to charge by phone. The Majestic Box Office does not accept single ticket orders over the phone; all ticket sales must be made in person. Orders for groups of ten or more may be placed by calling (210) 226-5967. Performance times are 8p.m. on Friday; 2p.m. and 8p.m., Saturday and at 2p.m. Sunday. (Troika Entertainment, 2018)
‘Kinky Boots’ is based on the 2005 movie of the same name by Geoff Deane and Tim Firth. The film was inspired by true events and tells the story of Charlie Price who inherits a gentleman’s shoe factory from his father. It takes place in Northampton where Charlie is struggling with the family business of Price & Son. To save the business he pairs up with a cabaret performer named Lola who needs a pair of sturdy new stilettos. Together they develop a plan to produce a line of high-heeled boots and end up discovering that they are more alike than they thought.
The winner of six 2013 Tony® Awards, including Best Musical, ‘Kinky Boots’ features a Tony® Award-winning score by Cyndi Lauper, a book by Tony® Award-winner Harvey Fierstein and direction and choreography by Tony® Award winner Jerry Mitchell. The National Tour is produced by Troika Entertainment and includes the creative team of Tony® Award winner David Rockwell (Scenic Design), Tony® Award-winner Gregg Barnes (Costume Design), Tony Award-winner Kenneth Posner (Lighting Design), Tony® Award-winner John Shivers (Sound Design), Josh Marquette (Hair Design), Brian Strumwasser (Make-up Design), Joy Dewing Casting and Wojcik|Seay Casting (Casting), DB Bonds (Associate Director) and Rusty Mowery (Associate Choreographer).
Majestic Theatre
224 E Houston St
San Antonio, TX 78205
(210) 226-5700
‘Say What You Mean’ is the intriguing new book by Oren Jay Sofer on improving communication skills. Courtesy photo, used with permission.
Oren Jay Sofer is the founder and Guiding Teacher of Next Step Dharma, an innovative online course focused on bringing the tools of meditation to daily life, and co-founder of Mindful Healthcare. He holds a degree in comparative religion from Columbia University and is a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner, a Certified Trainer of Nonviolent Communication and leads mindful communication retreats and workshops throughout the United States. His new book “Say What You Mean: A Mindful Approach to Nonviolent Communication” is a practical guidebook for having more effective and satisfying conversations.
Communication is an important part of everyday life with speech being one of the most effective and widely used forms of communication. Words have the power to heal or destroy and it is up to the individual to determine what kind of vibe he or she wants to give out to the world. In the Introduction, Oren Jay Sofer writes that during his life’s journey, he has worked to integrate his understanding of Buddhist meditation and Nonviolent communication. The book as a whole is a collection of three distinct streams of practices: mindfulness, Nonviolent Communication and Somatic Experiencing (emphasizes the role of the nervous system regulation in resolving trauma). They are tools for deepening self-understanding and transforming habits of communication. The three steps of communication include: lead with presence, come from curiosity and care and focus on what matters. These steps form the basis of “Say What You Mean” and divide the book into four parts: The first step: lead with presence, The second step: ‘come from curiosity and understanding,’ The third step: ‘focus on what matters’ and ‘bringing it all together.’ Useful indices at the end include Notes by Chapter, Glossary, Resources and Index of Practices by Topic.
There is always room for improvement when it comes to communication. In “Say What You Mean,” Oren Jay Sofer offers the reader a practical and useful guide to improving this often overlooked but vital skill. In today’s volatile environment, it has become more important than ever to be able to communicate clearly and in a non-violent manner to ensure everyone is heard. The author has done an impressive job of laying out the elements of communication in simple and easy to understand terms. Highlights include ‘emotional agility’ in Part Three where it states that defining emotions is a critical part of communication and ‘the flow of dialogue’ in Part Four where the author summarizes the different components of dialogue: speak, listen and rest in presence. The chapters are peppered with practice exercises, Q and A from real people, principles and key points to summarize the material along the way. Especially helpful are the quick reference guides at the end: Summary of Principles and Useful Communication Phrases. “Say What You Mean” is recommended for readers who wish to improve their communications skills as well as their interpersonal skills while getting to know themselves.
“If you take nothing else from this whole book, I hope you will take with you the importance the intention to understand, to come from curiosity and care, has in your interactions.”
*The author received a copy of this book for an honest review. The views and opinions expressed here belong solely to her.
Twang products make fun holiday host or hostess gifts or easy stocking stuffers. Photo: Twang, used with permission.
Twang, a family owned business based in San Antonio, is rooted in the Latin tradition of adding citrus and salt to food and beer; this drink ritual can be observed on the streets of Mexico and Texas. Gift ideas for the holiday season for cocktail enthusiasts and beer drinking friends include cocktail rimming blends to beer salt. Twang brands make for fun holiday host or hostess gifts, colorful party punch or easy stocking stuffers. (Twang, 2018)
Twang-A-Rita ($3.99 per bag) is a cocktail rimming blend made of cane sugar and kosher salt. Impress guests with festive winter cocktail recipes enhanced by Twang-a-Rita. Beer Salt ($12 for a 6 count) is a citrus-flavored salt used to dress the rim of longnecks and beer mugs. Twang’s products are the perfect stocking stuffers and conversation starters at Christmas parties or Secret Santa exchanges. Various Twang brands are sold in 46 states across the country and can be purchased online, on Amazon and in stores like H-E-B and Walmart.
Recipes: TWANG CRANBERRY MIMOSA
Yield: 1 serving
Ingredients
• Twang-A-Rita Unwind Lime
• Simple syrup
• 1-part Deep Eddy Cranberry Vodka
• 2 parts cranberry juice
• 1-part brut champagne
• ½ cup fresh cranberries
Instructions
1. Place Twang-A-Rita Unwind Lime on a small plate. Rim glasses with simple syrup then press rims into the Twang-A-Rita.
2. Pour Deep Eddy Cranberry in a champagne flute, then pour cranberry juice and top with champagne.
3. Serve immediately. Garnish with cranberries.
TWANG WINTER MARGARITA
Yield: 1 serving
Ingredients
• 4 oz. coconut milk
• 2 oz. tequila
• ½ cup ice
• 2 oz. fresh orange juice
• 1 oz. cup Triple Sec
• Twang-A-Rita Golden Roar
Instructions
1. Combine coconut milk, tequila, ice, orange juice and Triple Sec in a shaker. Blend until smooth.
2. Place Twang-A-Rita Golden Roar on a small plate. Rub a lime wedge around rims of glass and then press rims into the Twang-A-Rita.
3. Pour margarita into the glasses and enjoy.
Make gift giving easier with Hiatus Spa + Retreat. Photo: Hiatus Spa + Retreat, used with permission.
This holiday gift giving season, Hiatus Spa + Retreat has customized holiday packages and specials to cater to that special someone. From the Merry & Bright, to the Warm & Cozy, these spa deals are perfect for anyone who loves to be pampered. (Hiatus Spa + Retreat, 2018)
The Merry & Bright
Two is better than one. Pick any two Essential Services–The Signature Massage, The Tailor Made Facial, The One & Only Mani-Pedi, The Body Glow or The Body Wrap—to make it a special day. 2 or more hours, $179 (up to $220 value)
The Mistletoe Kiss
Right place, right time. Start with a reinvigorating Monthly Retreat and after a cocktail, settle in for The Best Facial Ever. 3 hours, $319 (value, $380)
The Peace, Love, & Joy
The three most in-demand services —The Signature Massage, The Tailor Made Facial and The One & Only Mani-Pedi — are bundled up and tied with a bow. 3.5 hours, $269 ($320 value)
Let It Glow! Let It Glow! Let It Glow!
The Body Glow, The Spotlight Massage (30 minutes) and The Sparkler Facial (60 minutes) will combine their magical powers to warm anyone up and give them a rosy glow to fight off even the chilliest winter days. 2+ hours, $239 ($290 value)
The Warm & Cozy
The Hot Stone Massage (90 minutes) is paired with The One & Only Mani-Pedi for some serious self-care, feel-good me-time. A nap and a hot toddy? Score. 3 hours, $219 ($275 value)
Hiatus also has these four unique new services available:
• The Epic Mani-Pedi: Seasonal ingredients and a handcrafted polish exfoliate hands and feet; deep hydration renews dry soles and an extra massage with hot stone. Sparkly new nails – and bubbly – are the grand finale. It’s just that. Epic. (110 minutes $140; H-Circle $109)
• The Turkish Delight: Transports guests to a Turkish hammam. Includes alternating bowls of warm water, minty suds, a full-body clay mask, a drizzle of warm body oil and a head-to-toe massage. (80 minutes $175; H-Circle $129)
• The Perfect Body Lift: Lift body and soul with this anti-aging, micro-circulating treatment focused on cellulite deposits and less-than-tone skin. Helps stimulate, lift, tighten and revitalize the contouring areas of the body. (60 minute $155; H-Circle $119)
• Brow and Lash Love:
o Brow or Lash Tint ($30 | add-on $25)
o Brow and Lash Tint ($50 | add-on $40)
o H-Circle members receive 20% off
Hiatus Spa + Retreat
312 Pearl Pkwy, Building 4, Ste 4112
San Antonio, TX 78215
(210) 202-3355
The Old West Christmas Light Fest is now open until December 30. Photo: Old West Christmas Light Fest, used with permission.
Old West Christmas Light Fest brings the holidays to life with drive-thru light displays and an Old West town filled with lights, music, food and fun and now it is at all-new location, Enchanted Springs Ranch, 242 Hwy 46 W in Boerne. Guests can enjoy dazzling lights, visit Santa, snap holiday photos and play games and other family friendly activities as Christmas Light Fest celebrates five years of bringing holiday magic to San Antonio and the Hill Country. (Old West Christmas Light Fest, 2018)
The 2018 event is open from 6p.m. to 10p.m., Thursday through Sunday evening until Sunday, December 16 and EVERY night December 20 to December 29 including Christmas Eve and Christmas night.
Spread throughout a 40-building Old West town brought to life with the magic of holiday lights, activities include drive-thru light displays, walk-around lights and experiences in a recreated Old West town, featuring a walk-through light tunnel, family games, a light maze for kids, a scavenger hunt, a mechanical bull ride, trampoline bungee jumping, cookie decorating, holiday movies, face painting, ornament decorating and more. There is live music every Saturday night and Santa is at his favorite ranch to hear holiday wishes through Christmas Eve. Photos with Santa are free.
Tickets are available online and are $15 per adult and $10 per child ages four and older. Children under four are free. Tickets at the gate are $17 per adult and $12 per child (tax included). A Family 5-Pack is available online only for $49. Members of the military—active duty, guard, reserves and all retired service members—as well as first responders and their families receive a $5 discount throughout the holiday season. Guests who bring a nonperishable item to donate to the San Antonio Food Bank and receive $2 off their ticket. Season passes are also available for $45 per person. Onsite parking is free.
Old West Christmas Light Fest
Enchanted Springs Ranch (exit 540 off of I-10)
242 Hwy 46 W
Boerne, TX 78006
Pluckers Wing Bar’s infamous sauces are available for gift giving this holiday season. Photo: Pluckers, used with permission.
Pluckers Wing Bar recently launched their mobile application, now available on Google Play and iTunes, that allows Pluckers fans to order takeout, unlock new challenges and earn points. Just in time for the holidays, Pluckers Wing Bar is thrilled to announce that they will be running a holiday promotion through Christmas Eve on e-gift cards that can be purchased directly from the app or online, as well as physical gift cards available in-store. (Pluckers Wing Bar, 2018)
e-Gift Cards:
When a guest purchases an e-Gift card of $25 or more, 20% will be gifted to the purchaser’s Pluckers card on January 1, 2019.
Physical Gift Cards:
When a guest purchases a physical gift card of $50 or more, 10% will be gifted to the purchaser’s physical gift card on January 1, 2019.
The Pluckers’ Club card, signature rewards program and membership, can be purchased on the app for just $20 — members can enjoy a variety of rewards, including, but not limited to, free birthday meals, invitations to exclusive events, food and drink specials, and more. The Pluckers Club (Lite) is free on iTunes and Google Play and will allow users to partake in the challenges but does not include the membership perks.
Pluckers Wing Bar’s infamous sauces are perfect for gifting. Known for its famous wings served with a choice of more than 20 homemade sauces, Pluckers Wing Bar sells their most-popular sauces at all restaurants and online for $5.99 each.
Flavors include:
• Honey BBQ
• Spicy BBQ
• Baker’s Gold
• Buffalo: Hot, Medium, Mild
• Fire in the Hole
Pluckers Wing Bar is known for its famous wings served with a choice of more than 20 homemade sauces. It has the perfect combination of homemade food and atmosphere for sports fans to keep up with their favorite sports teams and games. The iconic menu includes fan favorites like Fried Pickles, Holy Macaroni – fried macaroni and cheese, the Bypass Burger topped with bacon, cheddar, grilled onions and jalapeños, and the Buffalo Chicken Sandwich – fried chicken breast tossed in wing sauce topped with a choice of ranch or blue cheese dressing. Wings are available in bone, boneless or grilled and paired with signature sauces like Buffalo, Spicy BBQ and Spicy Ranch, along with such unique flavors as Ginger Peach Sriracha, Gochujang and Spicy Mandarin.
SA Examiner 