Author: Sandra Cruz

Blogger, book reviewer, artist, poet, avid reader and nature/animal lover.

Spring into Luxury: April Happenings at Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa

Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa announces upcoming events including trivia night, happy hour, spa specials, and more. Photo: Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa, used with permission.

Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa, Autograph Collection is welcoming spring with a lineup of exciting seasonal experiences. From indulgent dining at Corinne to wellness-focused events at The Spa, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this April. (Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa, 2025)

Corinne San Antonio Shuck & Sip – The newly launched ‘Shuck & Sip’ happy hour began last week and will kick off every Friday at 5p.m. with $1 oysters and $5 bubbles. Delicious cocktails and signature dishes will also be available for enjoyment, including favorites like the La Villita Margarita, Braised Prime Rib, and Verlasso Salmon. Reservations are recommended.

Anaqua Garden Bar Trivia Night in Anaqua: Once Upon a Game Night – Enjoy the thrill of competition with the FREE Disney-inspired trivia night, “Once Upon a Game Night” from 6p.m. to 9p.m. on Thursday, April 17. Guests who bring the most knowledge on Disney fairy tales, fantasy films, and animated adventures will have the chance to win exciting prizes while enjoying themed cocktails crafted exclusively for this one-night-only event. Walk-ins for this event are welcome, but reservations are highly recommended and can be made on OpenTable. 

Music Under The Stars – Leon Sanchez will be performing during Plaza San Antonio’s Music Under the Stars on Thursday, April 24, from 8p.m. to 10p.m.. This FREE event offers the perfect opportunity for guests to unwind after a long week in Anaqua’s breezy pavilion. Featured cocktails and bites for guest enjoyment include Thai Shrimp Cocktail, Guacapoke, Margaritas in Mexico and Pretty Fly For A Mai Tai. Walk-ins are welcome, but reservations are recommended and can be made through OpenTable.

The Spa at Plaza San Antonio Poses at The Plaza – EnergyXFitness will lead a relaxing 60-minute yoga flow session on the peaceful Oasis Lawn on Sunday, April 27, from 11a.m. to 12p.m. This event is designed to help participants unwind and rejuvenate while surrounded by the natural beauty of the hotel’s outdoor space. The event includes all-day access to the hotel’s pool, fitness center and Zen Lounge, as well as a guaranteed reservation at Corinne San Antonio. Guests are also invited to attend the Anaqua Tea Ceremony following yoga at 12p.m.

Guests may also enjoy a 25% discount on spa services booked the same day. Guests should bring their own yoga mat (limited mats available for rent). Attendees can purchase their tickets for $15 via the Eventbrite.

Fiesta Feet Spa Special – Enjoy the Fiesta Feet Spa Special available for booking now through Wednesday, April 30. Locals and visitors alike can take advantage of this exclusive promotion to pamper themselves before the festivities or after a long day of exploring Market Square. Priced at $145, the treatment includes a soothing steamed towel wrap followed by an invigorating scrub. To wrap up the experience and prepare guests for endless Fiesta fun, a refreshing minty masque and hydrating butter will be applied to ensure soft, smooth and revitalized feet. Bookings can be made on their website or by calling the Spa Plaza San Antonio at 210-353-8016. Discounted valet parking is included with the treatments.

Fiesta Skin Detox Special – Kick off the festive season with the 50-minute Fiesta Skin Detox service. Available for booking now through Wednesday, April 30, both locals and visitors alike can rejuvenate after celebrating. Priced at $145, the service includes a hyaluronic acid treatment, followed by a boost of vitamins D and C to revitalize the skin. Guests also have the option to add additional spa services at checkout for their convenience. Bookings can be made through their website or by calling the Spa Plaza San Antonio at 210-353-8016. 

National Tea Day: Anaqua Tea Ceremony – Enjoy curated tea this National Tea Day on Monday, April 21, with Plaza’s Anaqua Tea Ceremony, a FREE tea service taking place at 7:30a.m. Guests are encouraged to gather under the shade of the magnificent 50+ year-old Anaqua tree to indulge in curated tea mixes while embracing the rich history of the property. Following the ceremony, guests are invited to extend their relaxation with a rejuvenating spa service or delicious cocktail in Anaqua Garden Bar’s pavilion, ensuring the serenity continues all day.

Earth Day: Week-long Spa Promotion – In commemoration of Earth Day on Tuesday, April 22, guests who book a service for the week of Earth Day, Sunday, April 20 through Saturday, April 26, will receive 25% off a singular Spa treatment. This is not applicable to retail and cannot be combined with any other discounts or packages. Guests can just mention Earth Day when booking over the phone or type that into their booking notes if booking online. Bookings can be made through their website or by calling the Spa Plaza San Antonio at 210-353-8016.

Plaza San Antonio Hotel Packages Brunch & Bliss Weekend Package – The Brunch & Bliss weekend package offers an unforgettable culinary experience at Corinne San Antonio, Plaza Hotel’s premier restaurant. Guests who choose this package will receive a $60 brunch credit at Corinne, along with complimentary valet parking. Please note that this promotion is applicable only for bookings made on Saturdays or Sundays and for rooms featuring a king-size bed. Customers can secure additional information and take advantage of this package through the booking link.

Stay For Breakfast (Kids Eat Free) – Children can enjoy culinary delights with the Stay for Breakfast hotel package. When guests purchase this package, kids eat free at Corinne San Antonio, which includes two kids’ meals and two kids’ drinks. The menu features tasty options like banana pancakes and breakfast burritos. This promotion is only available for those booking Double Queen rooms with utilization limited to Friday and Saturday. Customers take advantage of this package through the booking link.

Cabana Experience Package – The full-day Cabana Experience Package is perfect for those looking to relax by the pool. Upon booking, guests receive a $50 food and beverage credit that can be spent while dining at Corinne San Antonio or by enjoying a beverage at Anaqua Garden Bar. Additional perks within the package include the luxury of early check-in, based upon availability. Guests must book one room for three nights, three days in advance for the promotion to apply. Bookings and stays must be made between now and Tuesday, September 30. Customers can secure additional information and take advantage of this package through the booking link.

Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa
555 S Alamo St
San Antonio, TX 78205

Valet parking is available at the hotel at $15 for a three-hour duration.

Raw, Real, and Relentless: De’Wayne Delivers with ‘highway robbery’

De’Wayne ushers in a new era with electric single ‘highway robbery,’ out now via Fearless Records. Photo: Shai Lev, used with permission.

Los Angeles, CA – Houston-born and Los Angeles-based rock star De’Wayne is ushering in a new era of music with the electric single “highway robbery.” Accompanied by a striking music video that brings the song’s rebellious spirit to life, De’Wayne is setting the stage for a bold new chapter. (Big Picture Media, 2025)

This song is a high-energy anthem that captures De’Wayne in his purest form, blending shimmery guitars, soulful funk-infused vocals, and irresistible, two-step-ready drums. Produced in collaboration with Dylan Bauld (flor) the track channels influence from Ohio Players to Nina Simone to Bruce Springsteen while remaining unapologetically modern and true to himself.

“The title was inspired by a heartfelt connection with my partner. She didn’t literally steal my heart—but I left the door wide open for it. I wrote this song as a poem first, and it evolved into this rock’n’roll soul influence. It feels good to be locked in!” – De’Wayne

Following the release of his 2024 EP I Want You More Than Anybody Wants You, De’Wayne has solidified himself as a force to be reckoned with. Constantly pushing boundaries, he is redefining Black rock music one song at a time.

With “highway robbery,” he establishes himself as a fearless trailblazer in rock, fusing genres with raw authenticity. De’Wayne is on a mission to show the world that neither people nor music should be confined to one box.

Shedding any and all creative inhibitions, De’Wayne plays rock ‘n’ roll spiked with funk, R&B, alternative, and magic. Accessing the duality of humanity, he harnesses the divine feminine through musicality manifested loud with no shortage of soul, sex, sweat, and style.

Emerging in 2017, the Houston-born and Los Angeles-based singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and producer has amassed tens of millions of streams across Stains [2021], My Favorite Blue Jeans [2022], and I Want You More Than Anybody Wants You EP [2024].

In the wake of the latter, UPSET placed him on its cover and urged, “it’s time to sit up and pay attention” to De’Wayne. KERRANG! went as far as to christen him “one of the most electrifying new performers in the alt. world today.” He has established himself as the rare force of nature equally comfortable on a track with either Chase Atlantic and Masego, IDKHOW, Waterparks, grandson, WILLOW, Good Charlotte, and Tom Morello of Rage Against The Machine.

Beyond headlining packed shows on multiple continents, De’Wayne and his band have ignited festival stages at Gov Ball, Lollapalooza, Reading & Leeds, Bonnaroo, and BottleRock.

His music may have brought him close to the divine feminine in the past, but he finally learned how to open his eyes and gently embrace it—which is exactly what he does on his new music. Inspired by Lenny Kravitz, Parliament Funkadelic, Marvin Gaye, Ohio Players, Bill Withers, Nina Simone, Prince, Brandon Flowers, and Bruce Springsteen, he levels up as a proud black man, a son, a friend, a leader, an artist, and lover.

Celebrate Easter in Style: San Antonio Businesses Bringing the Holiday to Life

Bakery Lorraine’s Two-Layered Moist Carrot Cake. Photo: Bakery Lorraine, used with permission.

Easter is a cherished holiday celebrated worldwide, symbolizing renewal, hope, and resurrection. For Christians, it marks the resurrection of Jesus Christ, making it one of the most significant religious events of the year. Beyond its spiritual meaning, Easter brings people together in joyful celebration. Traditions vary globally—from sunrise church services to colorful egg hunts, festive meals, and spring-themed decorations. Many enjoy brunches filled with seasonal dishes, while others gather with family for large dinners. In some cultures, parades, dances, and special pastries mark the occasion. Regardless of tradition, Easter serves as a time of reflection, unity, and new beginnings.

If you’re in the San Antonio area, or plan to be during the upcoming holiday weekend, here are some ways you can celebrate Easter in the Alamo City. (Bakery Lorraine, Tenfold Rooftop Bar, La Panadería, Dean’s Steak & Seafood, Chef Jason Dady Restaurants, Hotel Contessa, Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa, Omni La Mansión del Rio, 2025)

Bakery Lorraine – Bakery Lorraine is offering a delightful selection of seasonal pastries to celebrate Easter, including:

  • Easter Chick Tart ($7.50) features a whimsical design with raspberry jam, vanilla sponge cake, and a refreshing lime mousse
  • Easter Nest Tart ($7.00) combines a rich caramel chocolate filling with Cadbury Milk Chocolate Eggs and a crispy fillo dough topping
  • Easter Bunny Carrot Cake ($7.50) is a moist blend of pineapple, coconut, walnuts, and fresh carrots, finished with cream cheese frosting and playful white chocolate bunny ears
  • Easter Egg Moon Pie ($5.50) offers a nostalgic twist with graham cookies, marshmallow, and white chocolate
  • Flower Macaron with Lemon Ganache ($4.00) is a refreshing, tangy treat with a smooth lemon filling

For those seeking a complete Easter experience, Bakery Lorraine offers the Easter Box ($25), which includes one of each of the featured treats—Easter Chick Tart, Easter Nest Tart, Easter Bunny Carrot Cake, and Easter Egg Moon Pie. The Easter Box is available now for pre-sale orders, with store pickup on April 18-20, and limited quantities will be available for in-store purchase.

Additionally, Bakery Lorraine is offering their Two-Layered Moist Carrot Cake in 7” & 9” sizes ($50/$70), made with pineapple, coconut, walnuts, and fresh carrots, topped with cream cheese frosting and mini macarons. Whole cakes are available for pre-sale online now through 4/16, with pickup available at all Austin, Boerne, and San Antonio locations on April 19-20 only.

Tenfold Rooftop Bar at Kimpton Santo – Tenfold brings two exciting cocktail offerings to Easter brunch this year. The Bunny Blanco ($16) combines 400 Conejos Mezcal with carrot, lemon, ginger, and sparkling wine for a unique, vibrant drink. The Tenfold Tulip ($15) is a beautiful blend of Teremana Tequila, lime, agave, butterfly pea tea, and tonic, creating a striking, flavorful sip. Both cocktails will be available for guests to enjoy Easter weekend from Friday, April 19, to Sunday, April 20. Reservations are encouraged and can be made online through OpenTable.

La Panadería – La Panadería is offering their fan-favorite Brunch on Easter Sunday from 7a.m. to 4p.m. at all four San Antonio locations. The brunch menu features signature dishes like Fiesta Lobster Benedict, Tequila Butter Steak and Eggs, LP Waffle Croissant, and Ranchero Eggs Benedict, alongside unique twists on traditional bites like Tortas and Ensaladas. Guests can also enjoy mimosas and cerveza with their meal.

Dean’s Steak & Seafood at Kimpton Santo – Dean’s Steak and Seafood is offering a unique, Easter Sunday cocktail: the Springtime Spritz ($15). Crafted tableside with Ketel One Botanicals, St. Germain, Washington Peache, and house bubbles, this refreshing cocktail is the perfect way to celebrate the season. Alongside their iconic brunch menu served until 3p.m. this exclusive cocktail will be available all Sunday, April 20, adding a festive touch to any Easter gathering at Dean’s. Reservations are encouraged and can be made through OpenTable.

Chef Jason Dady Restaurants is thrilled to offer special coursed brunches at Jardín and Tre Trattoria this Easter Sunday, April 20. Each restaurant will also offer kids’ menus for those 10 and under, making these brunches perfect for families to celebrate the spring holiday together. Jardín will exclusively offer a four-course, Mediterranean-inspired brunch menu for $49.95 per person. Tre Trattoria will serve a four-course, Italian-focused brunch for $54.95 per person.

Optional wine pairings are available at both Jardín and Tre Trattoria for $29.95 per person. Tax and gratuity are not included. For those interested in dining at Chef Jason Dady’s other concepts, Two Bros BBQ, Range and Tre Pizzeria will all remain open for regular service on Easter Sunday.

Hotel Contessa
Easter Bunny Happy Hour | Saturday, April 20 | 3p.m. – 5p.m.
The Easter Bunny is hopping into Ambler Bar for a uniquely San Antonio pre-Easter celebration. Friends and neighbors can pop by for specialty drinks and deviled egg specials. There will be photo opportunities with the Easter Bunny while enjoying Ambler’s festive atmosphere. It’s a grown-up Easter celebration with all of the fun and none of the early morning egg hunt.

Easter Sunday Brunch | Sunday, April 20 | All Day
Experience a San Antonio Easter tradition reimagined at Ambler Bar. Chef Mike Collins has curated a special brunch menu featuring seasonal Texas ingredients and festive spring flavors. Meals will be paired with their handcrafted Easter cocktails for the ultimate Sunday celebration.

Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa, Autograph Collection
Corinne Easter Brunch – Indulge in a chef-curated brunch featuring seasonal favorites this Easter Sunday, April 20. From 10a.m. to 3p.m., guests can look forward to chef-carved ham, shrimp cocktail, cinnamon rolls, a mimosa and juice bar, and much more. The Easter Bunny will also be present for delightful family photos. Pricing for the Easter brunch is $65 per adult and $17 per child (10 & under). Reservations are highly recommended.

Easter at Ostra at Mokara Hotel & Spa – Ostra’s limited-time Easter menu includes a Beet Cured Ocean Trout served with Everything Bagel chips, orange marinated sun gold tomatoes, whipped chive cream cheese and dill. A Salad Nicoise also graces the holiday selection, with seared Ahi Tuna, haricot vert, fingerling potatoes, heirloom tomatoes, a soft-boiled egg, baby cucumbers, baby lettuces, marinated olives and red onion. Easter Brunch at Ostra is $55 plus tax per person. 

The Spring festivities continue at the bar with the Peeps Spritz, a 2025 “Easter basket candy” must-have according to Forbes. Crafted with Lalo Tequila, Cointreau, lime, Topo Chico and Dr. Pepper, and topped with a Peep, this cocktail is a signature treat for this time of year. All weekend long, families and couples can experience exquisite seafood cuisine at this AAA Four Diamond riverfront restaurant at Mokara Hotel & Spa. 

Four Brothers at Omni La Mansión del Rio – Flavors of the South with a Tex-Mex flare take over the Easter Brunch menu at Four Brothers, the stunning on-site restaurant at Omni La Mansión del Rio. This three-course style menu begins with Street Corn Deviled Eggs topped with roasted corn, jalapeño and cilantro followed by a Chicken and Corn Bread Waffle served with a side of blueberry compote, maple syrup and jalapeño butter. The dessert course is appropriately named the Easter Basket, a pineapple upside-down cake topped with a cremé cheese mousse and candy eggs. The three-course brunch is $65 plus tax per person; Brunch is served all day. 

To sip on Easter flavors, the Cotton Tail delivers a taste of Spring in a glass with Brugal 1888 Rum, pineapple and real coconut topped with whipped cream and jelly beans. 

The Cost of Conscience: Exploring Justice and Corruption in ‘The Middleman’

‘The Middleman’ is Mike Papantonio’s new thought-provoking legal thriller. Photo: Barnes & Noble

“The Middleman” by Mike Papantonio is a gripping legal thriller that explores the high-stakes world of whistleblowers, corruption, and corporate greed. Drawing heavily from real-world headlines, the novel weaves a fast-paced narrative that’s as timely as it is thrilling. Papantonio, a renowned trial lawyer, uses his insider knowledge of the justice system to craft a story that feels disturbingly authentic.

The plot centers around Amy Redmond, the president of EirePharma, the Redmond family business and a powerful Pharmacy Benefit Manager (PBM). EirePharma was recently taken over by the charismatic CEO Connor Devlin who she suspects of using racketeering practices—and perhaps murder—to raise the prices of insulin for his own profit that ultimately harms consumers.

Amy is engaged to Connor but she tentatively decides to become a whistleblower as she tries to gather evidence to make sure Connor pays for his crimes. Nicholas “Deke” Deketomis and his law firm have a reputation for taking on America’s Big Pharma, so when Deke’s college friend and Amy’s cousin Matt Redmond presents him with a case of possible fraud, he agrees to investigate the matter. Amy is caught in the middle of a deadly game of wills between a formidable gangster, who in the eyes of the public is a respected businessman, and a law firm that is determined to investigate and uncover Connor’s crimes.

As the stakes rise, the characters are drawn into a deadly game of cat-and-mouse, where truth comes at a steep price. Murder, manipulation, and lies blur the lines between right and wrong, keeping readers on edge until the final page. The narration is non-linear, providing the necessary character development to make them relatable. There is not much court drama and the language doesn’t include too much legal terminology; instead, it focuses on the intense relationship between Amy and Connor, as Amy tries to gather the necessary evidence to convict him and Connor’s use of mobster-like tactics to preserve his way of life. Papantonio doesn’t just tell a story—he delivers a wake-up call about the consequences of unchecked power and the courage it takes to stand against it.

Overall, “The Middleman” is a suspenseful blend of mystery and moral urgency. By exploring the themes of family, friendship, justice, and good vs. evil, it creates a compelling and thought-provoking story. With sharp dialogue and a plot full of twists, this book is recommended for fans of John Grisham or anyone intrigued by the dark intersections of law, politics, and corporate influence.

*The author of this blog received a copy for an honest review. The views and opinions expressed here belong solely to her.

Rating: 5 out of 5.

Related post: Mike Papantonio’s ‘The Middleman’: A Legal Thriller That Hits Close to Home

The Price of Belonging: Exploring Selfhood in the Digital Age

‘Searches: Selfhood in the Digital Age’ is the new book by Vauhini Vara. Photo: Barnes & Noble

Books that explore the human condition in the digital age offer profound insight into how technology reshapes identity, connection, and meaning. Some examine AI’s emotional entanglement with humans, blurring the lines between empathy and programming, while others critique our obsession with surveillance and digital transparency. These narratives question what it means to be human when algorithms influence choices, relationships, and self-worth. As artificial intelligence grows more integrated into daily life, literature becomes a crucial mirror, reflecting both our fears and hopes for the future.

New this month, from the author of “The Immortal King Rao,”finalist for the Pulitzer Prize, is “Searches: Selfhood in the Digital Age,” a personal exploration of how technology companies have both fulfilled and exploited the human desire for understanding and connection. (Penguin Random House, 2025)

“Searches: Selfhood in the Digital Age” by Vauhini Vara

When it was released to the public in November 2022, ChatGPT awakened the world to a secretive project: teaching AI-powered machines to write. Its creators had a sweeping ambition—to build machines that could not only communicate, but could do all kinds of other activities, better than humans ever could. But was this goal actually achievable? And if reached, would it lead to our liberation or our subjugation?

Vauhini Vara, an award-winning tech journalist and editor, had long been grappling with these questions. In 2021, she asked a predecessor of ChatGPT to write about her sister’s death, resulting in an essay that was both more moving and more disturbing than she could have imagined. It quickly went viral.

The experience, revealing both the power and the danger of corporate-owned technologies, forced Vara to interrogate how these technologies have influenced her understanding of her self and the world around her, from discovering online chat rooms as a preteen, to using social media as the Wall Street Journal’s first Facebook reporter, to asking ChatGPT for writing advice—while compelling her to add to the trove of human-created material exploited for corporations’ financial gain.

Interspersed throughout this investigation are her own Google searches, Amazon reviews, and the other raw material of internet life—including the viral AI experiment that started it all. “Searches” illuminates how technological capitalism is both shaping and exploiting human existence, while proposing that by harnessing the collective creativity that makes humans unique, we might imagine a freer, more empowered relationship with our machines and, ultimately, with one another.

Vauhini Vara has been a reporter and editor for The Atlantic, The New Yorker, and the New York Times Magazine, and is the prize-winning author of “The Immortal King Rao” and“This is Salvaged.”

“Vara humanizes the influence of technology in highly personal terms [and] projects what the future holds as tech oligarchs gain political influence. . . . Provocative, challenging, and concerning, Vara’s clever, eye-opening approach brings home the often uneasy confluence of individual desire, social benefits, and corporate ambition.”—Booklist, starred review

“Tragic, funny, and relatable[, SEARCHES] is by turns absurd and insightful, engaging with the ethics of algorithms, surveillance, and privacy in a meaningful way. . . . A must read.” —Library Journal, starred review

“Readers will be profoundly moved by this remarkable meditation.”—Publishers Weekly, starred review

Local Spotlight: How Harlingen Community Theatre Breathes New Life into ‘Godspell’

Gospell is now playing at the Harlingen Community Theatre.

This year the Harlingen Community Theatre is celebrating its 50th Season and its current production is Godspell. Godspell, the beloved musical with music and new lyrics by Stephen Schwartz and book by John-Michael Tebelak, has charmed audiences since its debut in 1971 with its joyful energy, imaginative staging, and heartfelt message. Drawing inspiration from the Gospel of Matthew, the show reimagines biblical parables with a modern twist, blending pop-rock music, imaginative characters, and a vibrant, communal spirit. Its universal message of love, compassion, and forgiveness—values that transcend religion and remain deeply relevant today.

Locally, it opened on Thursday April 10 and features a talented cast that brings this classic musical to life. Over the years, Godspell has retained its appeal through its adaptability and emotional sincerity. Each production is encouraged to reflect the times, making it ever-fresh for new generations and this one is no exception. There are a couple of added scenes and dialogue to add relevance to modern times and the cast is encouraged to bring their own flavor to the scenes.

Stephen Rodriguez is a natural in the role of Jesus and David Laughlin’s portrayal of Judas is haunting and poignant. The show’s upbeat songs like ‘Day by Day’ and ‘Prepare Ye’ resonate across eras, reminding audiences of the enduring power of kindness and connection in an often divided world. Highlights include when Jesus defends the woman accused of adultery by challenging those accusing her that if any one them is without sin, to cast the first stone. He does this by playing a card game with them in which they are each given a card that has the word ‘SIN’ on it. Another is in Act Two, the emotional ‘Beautiful City’ by Jesus, which turns the tide of the show and sets the stage for the heartbreaking finale. The catchy musical numbers, humor, and humanity makes it a must-see production.

In today’s society—marked by social unrest, isolation, and a longing for meaning—Godspell serves as both a celebration and a call to action. Its themes of community, inclusion, and moral courage strike a powerful chord. Whether experienced as a nostalgic favorite or a first-time discovery, Godspell continues to inspire reflection and hope, proving that its message is not just timely, but timeless.

There are still two chances to catch this unforgettable production: Saturday and Sunday at 2:30p.m. General admission tickets are $25 for adults and $10 for children and are available online and in person an hour before showtime.

Cast:
Jesus – Stephen Rodriguez
John the Baptist/Judas – David Laughlin

Vendors and Customers:
Xochitl Carmona, Alyssa Christiansen, David Dillon, Beth Ensign, Kathy Eunice, Justin Evans, Vicky Fultz, Amy Gonzalez, Ariel S. Gonzalez, Jorge Gonzalez, Stephanie Jackson, Trinity Minson, Carmen Montalvo, Ian Montalvo, Damian Moseley

Gospell stage.

Harlingen Community Theatre
1209 Fair Park Blvd
Harlingen, TX

‘It’s Our Time’: A Fresh Take on Love, Laughter, and Second Chances

Written and directed by Joy Hopwood, It’s Our Time will be available starting April 15, 2025. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Romantic comedies, or rom-coms, hold a timeless charm that continue to captivate audiences. Blending humor with heart, they offer a lighthearted escape into worlds where love triumphs and laughter heals. Viewers are drawn to the chemistry between characters, the witty dialogue, and the hopeful endings that promise happiness despite obstacles. Rom-coms often mirror real-life relationships, making them relatable while still idealized enough to be comforting. Their universal themes of connection, vulnerability, and second chances resonate across cultures. In an often chaotic world, romantic comedies provide a feel-good refuge—a reminder that love, with a little humor, can be beautifully uncomplicated.

For fans of romantic comedies, here’s a new one that will be available on digital and on demand starting April 15, 2025: It’s Our Time.

It’s Our Time: Filmmaker Emilia Kong is about to be evicted and her screenplay might just be her ticket to success. But when her ruthless script funding officer falls for her best friend, Emilia’s plan spirals into a hilarious mess of misunderstandings, friendship, and love. It will be available on digital and on demand on April 15, 2025. (One Tree Entertainment, 2025)

Written & directed by Joy Hopwood
Starring Peter Thurnwald (XO, Kitty), Tiana Hogben, Bianca Bradey

It’s Our Time movie still. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Celebrate Fiesta Season: Magik Theatre Presents Two Bilingual Productions

Magik Theatre presents ¡Lotería: Game On! and Tomás and the Library Lady. Photo: Magik Theatre, used with permission.

(San Antonio, TX) – Spring is in the air in San Antonio and at Magik Theatre, where children and their families are invited to celebrate the city’s rich cultural heritage with two bilingual productions for Spanish and English language learners and speakers of all levels. (Magik Theatre, 2025)

Magik’s mainstage play ¡Lotería: Game On! closes out the beloved children’s theatre’s milestone 30th season from May 3 to June 1, 2025. Additionally, Magik is pleased to present Tomás and the Library Lady as its Spring 2025 touring production for regional schools, community organizations, and special events. Both plays move seamlessly between English and Spanish dialogue and feature traditions or historic figures dear to San Antonio’s Hispanic community, wrapped in Magik’s signature creative fun.

Launching on the last weekend of Fiesta, ¡Lotería: Game On! is a great way to party down with little ones, complete with an opening night celebration on May 3 in Hemisfair Park. Performances later in the season have plenty of fun in store, too, with Magik’s backstage experience add-on, allowing guests a glimpse behind the curtain during a cast meet-and-greet and guided tour as they savor a post-show paleta.

Written by Mabelle Reynoso for audiences ages 6+, ¡Lotería: Game On! brings the competitive fun of the classic Mexican card game to the stage in a whimsical, immersive experience. Blending fantasy, humor, and cultural traditions, the bilingual story follows Mexican-American siblings Sam and Kris as they work together to rescue their father from the mysterious realm of Lotería. When they brush off their dad’s attempts to spend quality time together, Sam and Kris have no idea he’s about to disappear through a pillow-fort portal to magical Lotería land. During their quest to bring their dad home, the pair encounter characters based on familiar Lotería cards like La Rana, El Gallo and La Mano, and must cooperate and think fast to outwit Lotería’s rules.

The set design by Lucian Hernandez draws viewers into Lotería’s mystery, while Yesi Tafur’s costumes reflect the cards’ iconic visual language. Lucero Garcia and Maryann Valerio play Sam and Kris respectively, while Gabriel Itzcoatl Luera takes on the role of Dad. They deftly navigate a script that intentionally weaves together both Spanish and English.

JOIN MAGIK ON THE ROAD WITH Tomás and the Library Lady

Tomás and the Library Ladyisbased on the inspiring true story of Crystal City-native Tomás Rivera as written by author and poet Pat Mora and adapted for the stage by José Cruz González. The bilingual play focuses on the special friendship between Tomás, the son of migrant farm workers, and the kind librarian who helps him unlock a love of reading. Together, they discover the transformative power of books, which eventually propels Tomás into a groundbreaking career in higher education. The real-life Tomás became the first Mexican-American chancellor of a University of California campus, and many of his family members are still in the South Texas area. His daughter, Ileana Rivera Liberatore, even taught Magik’s managing director Mel Zarb-Cousin in high school.

It’s no surprise, then, that Tomás and the Library Lady is already popular around town: the San Antonio Public Library and the NCAA’s literacy initiative Read to the Final FourⓇ have both booked several performances of the play, which is available to visit campuses and community centers from April 7 through July 20th then again in the fall, September 8 through October 12th in celebration of National Hispanic Heritage Month. Each production offers TEKS-based digital resource guides and an after-show Q&A session between audience and cast, with optional workshops led by Magik Theatre Teaching Artists. More information about Magik on the Road is available online.

Both productions’ creative, heartwarming approaches to our region’s unique culture make them ideal for celebrating the end of the semester, San Antonio’s most vibrant season, and the promise of summer fun. Help Magik send off its legendary 30th season in style!

“These joyful, high-energy shows celebrate the power of storytelling, the resilience of family, and the traditions that shape our lives. Each play reminds us that family is not just about where we come from, but the stories and traditions that keep us connected.”— Anthony Runfola, Magik Theatre Artistic Director

SPECIAL EVENTS  & ADD-ON EXPERIENCES

¡Lotería: Game On! Sneak Peek | Saturday, April 12, 10:30a.m.

Curious about the making of the play? Be the first to witness the behind-the-scenes magic of ¡Lotería: Game On! at the Sneak Peek where attendees can glimpse into the world of theatrical production and interact with Magik’s talented cast and crew during an intimate Q&A session. Light refreshments will be provided, making it the perfect morning outing for families, friends, and theater enthusiasts alike. The event is FREE and open to the public. Reservations can be made HERE.

Magik Story Time at Yanaguana Garden | Tuesday, April 29, 10a.m.

Magik Theatre joins Hemisfair’s weekly Story Time series with a reading of “Lotería” by Karla Arenas Velenti. Little ones can head to Yanaguana Garden on Tuesday, April 29 where Magikal friends bring everyone’s favorite Mexican card game to life from the page before it officially hits the stage.

Opening Night Party in the Park –  Saturday, May 3, 1:30p.m., show at 3p.m.

Attend a puro San Antonio pachanga to kick off ¡Lotería: Game On!. In partnership with Hemisfair, the Fiesta fun continues in Hemisfair Park with street fair snacks, jugos and a Hemisfair-inspired special edition Lotería game and coloring craft. DJ Mayhem will spin live Latin beats to motivate little movers in a boogie book battle dance off to see who has the right stuff to win a copy of “Lotería” by Karla Arenas Valenti. The pre-show party is free and open to the public.

Backstage Experience Add-On (Available after every performance excluding other special events)

Enhance your visit to Magik Theatre with our Backstage Experience for only $20 per person. This exclusive add-on includes an onstage meet and greet with the cast, where you can snap photos and share special moments with your favorite characters. Plus, enjoy a 15-minute guided tour of the set, props, and rehearsal space led by a Magik Theatre performer offering a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the magik of theatre. And, enjoy a tasty paleta as San Antonio gets back to its warm temps.

Please note: We are unable to accommodate guests with wheelchair needs for this experience. All patrons under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

Magik Theatre Birthday Parties (NOW available after main stage performances)

And now, families can make their little one’s special day truly magikal with a hassle-free Magik Theatre birthday party right after one of the main stage shows. Magik Theatre birthday party packages include complimentary child tickets, discounted additional tickets, a private party space, and festive decorations. Kids will enjoy a show themed craft, digital invitations, and a birthday backdrop with props. Plus, the birthday child gets an exclusive backstage experience and a Magik Theatre gift. Up to ten additional party guests can join the backstage experience for an additional charge. Best of all, Magik handles setup and cleanup so parents can focus on making memories.

SPECIAL PERFORMANCES

Educator Appreciation Day – Saturday, May 10 at 2p.m. – Educators and school faculty are eligible for one free ticket to this performance with proof of I.D. Additional tickets are available to purchase for these performances at a discount of 20% off the regular ticket prices.

Sensory Friendly Performance – Saturday, May 17, at 10a.m. – Audience members on the autism spectrum and those with sensory sensitivities can take in a special performance of ¡Lotería: Game On! designed just for them. Kids and adults are free to be themselves in this relaxed, judgment-free theatre experience that is a perfect introduction to attending a performance.

ASL Interpreted Performance – Saturday, May 17, at 2p.m. – Patrons who communicate with ASL can attend this performance featuring Robert Cardoza, the San Antonio theatre community’s primary American Sign Language interpreter.

Pay What You Wish Performance – Sunday, May 18, at 3p.m. – As part of Magik Theatre’s mission to make theatre accessible to everyone, the organization holds one donation-based performance. Tickets are only available at the door on February 8.

Military and First Responders Appreciation Day – Saturday, May 31 at 2p.m. – Service members with a valid military ID can purchase discounted $18 tickets to this performance.

TICKET OPTIONS

Magik Theatre offers multiple ways for patrons to experience the best children’s theatre in San Antonio. Magik is a cherished arts institution that has been providing families with professional, accessible, literature-based theatre and education since 1994. Located in Hemisfair Park, families can catch the show, enjoy a day of play exploring Yanaguana Garden, grab a meal at one of the many restaurants on site and make Magikal memories. Flex Passes and single ticket sales are available now.

MAGIK THEATRE

A professional theatre for young audiences established in 1994, Magik Theatre’s mission is to create theatrical experiences that ignite imagination, spark curiosity, inspire empathy, and foster a lifetime love of learning in young people.

Four Tips for Improving User Experience in Your Online Store

These tips for improving user experience can make all the difference. Photo: cottonbro studios/Pexels

User experience is everything when it comes to running an online store, and is something you should prioritize from the very beginning. When it comes to physical stores, everyone knows the importance of having a great-looking interior full of great products and enticing deals, and the same goes for the online environment.  

Of course, that’s easier said than done, and in the beginning, it’s completely normal to stare at your landing page, wondering where to start or how to go about improving your first attempt. 

This article is here to aid you. Here are four top tips for helping you design or redesign your website so that people want to shop there.

1. Start with Navigation

While having an aesthetically appealing site is important, you shouldn’t try to run before you can walk. Creating a site that’s nice and easy to navigate should be your first port of call. 

First and foremost, you need to make sure that your potential customers have a clear path to the items you’re selling. It’s best to organize everything into a few broad but distinct categories with easy-to-use drop-down menus, and you could also use color, texture, and images to segment things in unique ways (and don’t forget to have a prominent search bar).

2. Developing a Quick, Easy, and Secure Checkout Experience

You should always endeavour to optimize your checkout experience where you can, as this element forms the very core of your online store. If it’s too long-winded and complicated for your customers to pay for the goods or services they want, they’re much more likely to abandon their shopping cart. 

For one, you should always offer a guest checkout option, as many people don’t want to go through the hassle of creating an account. More generally, try to minimize the number of steps involved as much as possible and work to reduce those clicks.

3. Provide Personalized Recommendations

Personalized recommendations are a big part of the retail experience, and it’s no different in the online world. 

If you have the option, use a recommendation engine on the back end of your site to offer customers unique recommendations based on what they’ve previously browsed for and bought. You can implement these tools throughout the search page and also at the cart to entice shoppers with last-minute purchases.

4. Improving Loading Speed

And finally, it’s key to remember that we live in a world where people’s attention spans are greatly reduced from what they were even ten years ago, so make sure your website loads nice and fast. 

You can improve speeds in a number of ways, such as by compressing images (but without compromising on quality) and using a website hosting service that’s known for utilizing fast and reliable servers. 

Wrapping Up

Hopefully, you now have a solid idea of how to better design your website to be conducive to long-term customers. Start by getting that all-important smooth navigation down, and systematically work through the list until you have a site to be proud of. Good luck!

Collaborative Post

Alternative Rock Band Downward Unveils Surprise Album

Downward’s new album Downward (LP2) is available now. Photo: Downward/Audiotree

The Oklahoma-based alternative rock band Downward recently unveiled a surprise LP, Downward (LP2). It’s available to stream and can be purchased through New Morality Zine. (Big Picture Media, 2025)

Formed in 2015 in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Downward began as a collaborative project among friends aiming to blend their diverse musical tastes. The band is made up of Drew Richardson on Guitar/Vocals, Tollie Pugh on Drums, Hunter Senft on Guitar, and Severin Olsen on Bass.

Downward’s first self-titled debut LP came out in 2018, laying the foundation for their evolving sound—balancing ethereal melodies with crushing heaviness. They followed up in May 2020 with 2 Songs, a two-track 7″ that further explored the interplay between light and heavy sonic textures. Their 2022 EP, The Brass Tax, marked a significant step forward. Incorporating bold sonic experimentation, the EP saw the band incorporating near pop-like sensibilities while maintaining their signature weight and atmosphere. In 2023, Downward teamed up with Texas-based band Trauma Ray for the release of Split, further expanding their sound while moving beyond their slowcore influences.

In their sophomore self-titled album, Downward (LP2), the band has fully stepped beyond the confines of any singular scene, delivering a rock record that feels undeniably modern. Having refined their signature balance of airy melancholy and crushing weight, LP2 sees Downward embracing a newfound sense of expansiveness. While the influence of post-hardcore and alternative remains, this album is a bold statement of evolution—one that showcases a band no longer bound by expectations. It carries a sonic clarity that enhances its depth, making each moment resonate with intention.

Standouts on the album include the self-reflecting track “Perfect Food,” which blends abstract imagery with emotional vulnerability. The song speaks to a complex relationship where connection and distance intertwine, exploring the push and pull of desire and resistance.

“‘Perfect Food’ is one of the last couple of songs we wrote for the album, and in the grand scheme of the record, it might be the most ‘business as usual’ song for us. In the back of my head I knew we needed a song like this in the tracklist somewhere. We played through it a couple of times, and I just got hit with this “Oh yeah, I’m definitely in the right band” feeling. It really changed my mood and gave me a bit of confidence when we went in to record.”-  Drew Richardson, Downward guitarist and vocalist

Kendal Osborne and the band recorded the new album, and they tapped into collaborators including Dave Collis and Sean Hallock from Slow Mass (IL). LP2 was mixed and mastered by Corey Coffman from Gleemer (CO). It carries a sonic clarity that enhances its depth, making each moment resonate with intention, boasting a total of ten tracks.

Downward (LP2) tracklist:

  1. Request Made
  2. Wind Up
  3. Absolute Value
  4. Line
  5. Darkscreen
  6. Ibex
  7. Out of Luck
  8. Perfect Food
  9. The Waltz
  10. Rival

Downward’s dedication to their craft has cultivated a devoted following, with multiple vinyl pressings selling out and thousands of listeners engaging with their music online. Their commitment to authenticity and quality continues to set them apart, solidifying their place as one of the most compelling forces in modern alternative music.