On Saturday April 8 Rainforest Cafe will host an egg-cellent Easter Adventure. Photo courtesy of Rainforest Cafe, used with permission.
Rain Forest Cafe: A Wild Place to Shop and Eat in downtown San Antonio is getting into the Easter spirit by hosting Cha! Cha!’s Egg-Cellent Easter Adventure this Saturday April from 8a.m. to 10a.m. Children and families are invited to spend a morning with Cha! Cha! and the Easter Bunny for a special buffet. This brand new breakfast buffet menu features favorites such as scrambled eggs, pork and turkey sausage, pancakes, hash browns with diced peppers and onions and biscuits and sausage gravy. This event will also include a family friendly Easter egg hunt, Easter basket raffle and complimentary goodie bags filled with additional treats and prizes for the children. Tickets are available online. (Rain Forest Cafe, 2017)
Rain Forest Cafe – River Walk
110 East Crockett
San Antonio, TX 78205
(210) 277-6300
Finalists advance to 2017 WhataGames Finals in April. Photo courtesy of Whataburger, used with permission.
Whataburger recently announced the 23 teams advancing to compete during the 2017 WhataGames Finals. Created in 1996, WhataGames is a company tradition committed to enhancing the Whataburger experience for team members and customers. Finalist advanced by proving their knowledge and expertise in operations, company history and customer service. The WhataGames Finals are the featured event during the Whataburger Family Convention which will be held in April at the Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center in Grapevine, Texas. This convention hosts Whataburger corporate and regional representatives, franchisees and suppliers and the WhataGames national finalists. (Whataburger, 2017)
The 23 finalist teams advanced from a pool of 126 semifinalists who beat out their competitors among Whataburger’s more than 800 restaurants in 10 states. Teams will face off during three days of high-intensity elimination rounds at the WhataGames Finals where one team will be awarded the Gold Medal and honor of being named WhataGames 2017 Champion. Whataburger will also award more than $200,000 in cash prizes to all members of the Gold, Silver and Bronze winning teams including those who stayed back to operate and manage their stores while their peers represented them in the competition.
Finalists from South Texas include: Unit 1008 from18303 W Interstate 10, San Antonio, Unit 839 from 2203 E Evans Road, San Antonio, Unit 740 from 6100 FM 802, Brownsville, Unit 777 from 3580 W Alton Gloor Blvd, Brownsville, Unit 4 from 510 S 14th St, Kingsville and Unit 631 from 10315 S Highway 6, Sugar Land.
Whataburger has been making burgers since 1950 when Harman Dobson opened a humble hamburger stand in Corpus Christi, Texas. He wanted customers to take one bite and say “What a burger” so he named his stand on Ayers St “Whataburger.” Since then Whataburger now has over 700 locations across the country and continues to deliver fresh, made to order meals everyday with superior customer service. Community support includes charitable giving and volunteerism to nonprofit organizations that focus on children’s charities, cancer research, hunger assistance, disaster relief and military support.
‘Sister Act, The Musical’ opens at the Woodlawn Theatre on Friday April 7, 2017. Photo courtesy of Woodlawn Theatre, used with permission.
Coming up this month at the Woodlawn Theatre is the local production of the Broadway Blockbuster ‘Sister Act, The Musical.’ This family friendly musical is a premiere for San Antonio’s local theatre community and opens on Friday April 7 and will run until Sunday May 7, 2017. Show times are every Friday and Saturday at 7:30p.m. and Sunday at 3p.m. On Sunday April 16 the 3p.m. matinee performance will be replaced with a special Easter evening performance at 7p.m. Tickets are now on sale and are available online or by calling the box office at (210) 267-8388. Prices are $18 for students and children, $24 for seniors and military and $29 for adults. Groups of ten or more receive a 20% discount. Please note that a $3 service fee applies. Woodlawn Theatre’s exclusive 2017 Fiesta medal will be available for purchase at the theater for $10. (Woodlawn Theatre, 2017)
Based on the 1992 hit movie starring Whoopi Goldberg, ‘Sister Act’ is the story of Deloris Van Cartier who works as a singer in a nightclub. When she witnesses a murder she is put in protective custody in the one place no one will look for her – a convent. Disguised as a nun, at first she finds it hard to fit in with the rigid lifestyle of the convent and the uptight Mother Superior. She soon finds that she can use her singing ability to help the choir and in turn breathe new life into the church. When she blows her cover she has to go on the run but her new found friendship with the nuns turns out to be a lifesaver. This hilarious and glorious tribute to friendship stars Sherry Gibbs-Houston, Kate Ragan, Anna Gangai, Krystal Newcomer and Bryd Bonner. It features original music by Tony® and eight-time Oscar® winning composer Alan Menken.
The television adaptation of The Midnight Texas Trilogy will premiere on NBC on July 25. Photo: amazon.
Fans of True Blood might recognized the name Charlaine Harris as the author of “The Southern Vampire Mysteries” which was later adapted into the highly popular HBO series. She is The New York Times’ best-selling author of mysteries that includes several series of books with the most recent being The Midnight Texas Trilogy. The series includes “Midnight Crossroad,” “Day Shift” and “Night Shift.” It has been adapted into a television series and will premiere on NBC on July 25, 2017 and will star François Arnaud as Manfred Bernardo, Dylan Bruce as Bobo Winthrop and Parisa Fitz-Henley as Fiji Cavanaugh.
According to Amazon, Midnight, Texas is a small quiet town where most of its inhabitants have chosen to live there because it is one of the best places to hide. Being normal is strange and only outsiders fit in. “Midnight Crossroad” is the first book in the series and introduces the characters. In this small town it citizens are stranger than usual. Bobo Winthrop is the proprietor of the local pawn shop and knows something about everyone because everyone has secrets. The new tenant in the pawn shop’s basement only comes out after dark and Fiji Cavanaugh claims to be a witch. When Bobo’s girlfriend Aubrey disappears, people start to ask too many questions and that leaves everyone concerned that their own pasts will be exposed along with Aubrey’s.
Before turning to fiction writing, J Patrick Black worked as a bartender, a small town lawyer, a home builder and a costumed theme-park character. “Ninth City Burning” is his debut science fiction/fantasy novel for young adults about a post-apocalyptic Earth still dealing with centuries of war with aliens.
In “Ninth City Burning,” cities have vanished due to world-wide destruction caused by aliens known as Valentines. These aliens were named after the day in which the attacks began when they brought with them a weapon so strong it was considered magical. It is known as ‘thelemity’ and it is a universe altering force. Some humans developed the ability to control this weapon and have used it to fight back and are trained in elite military academies. Those who do not support the war effort are exiled to the wilds of a ruined Earth. The war has been going on for five centuries but now the enemy’s tactics have changed and humans are in for a new attack. Jax is one of those cadets training for future military action and him, along with other fighters, have to work together one last time before the aliens completely destroy what is left of their homes.
Young readers are the target audience for “Ninth City Burning” but anyone interested in science fiction and fantasy novels will find it interesting. The action is fast paced and character driven since it is told in the first person view of multiple young characters who are well developed. The author did an exceptional job of giving them each a backstory so that the reader can identify and empathize with them as they struggle to survive. His version of the futuristic Earth is detailed and intriguing and even though it is 485 pages long it should appeal to fans of “The Hunger Games,” “Ender’s Game” and similar books.
*A copy of this book was given for an honest review. The opinions expressed here are solely the author’s.
Ribbon cutting ceremony at the new James Bowie exhibition at The Alamo. Photo: Sandra Cruz
Sunday March 26 was the official opening of ‘James Bowie: Man, Knife, Legend,’ the new exhibition hall at The Alamo. This new exhibition presents the life of the legendary Alamo defender and his famous knife. The ribbon cutting ceremony consisted of speeches by Bryan Preston, Dr Bruce Winders and others and after welcoming visitors to the grounds the ribbon was cut and it was officially opened to the public. This impressive exhibition includes displays of the various Bowie knives and their history. Visitors can learn more through translucent video touch screen technology that includes interactive video and text.
James Bowie was born in Kentucky and played a prominent role in the Texas Revolution. He is a legendary figure in Texas history and a folk hero of American culture. His transformation from normal citizen to a legend began ten years before his death at the Alamo. The legendary knife has deep roots throughout American history and culture throughout the years. Guests are able to learn about Bowie’s story and the history of the iconic knives that bear his family name. They can also learn about the frontier blacksmithing process and discover the many ways that the Bowie knife has appeared in contemporary culture, including movies. This exhibit is now part of the Alamo experience and is free and open to the public.
The Alamo
300 Alamo Plaza
San Antonio, TX 78205
(210) 225-139
TheSpring Jazz at The Falls is back at La Cantera. Photo: The Shops at La Cantera, used with permission.
Spring Jazz at The Falls is back at The Shops at La Cantera this April. This is a series of free outdoor concerts at The Falls whose goal is to showcase and foster an appreciation for all forms of jazz through free, quality live musical performances. These concerts will be on Wednesdays from 7:30p.m. to 9:30p.m. on April 5, April 12 and April 19. They are free and open to the public but no outside coolers or pets allowed. Guests may bring their own blankets and chairs. Chair placement begins one hour prior to show time. This year’s performers include San Antonio’s own Wednesday Ball and Roger Tamez as The Show, Latin Grammy nominated composer and guitarist Sergio Lara and acoustic jazz guitarist Peter White. Schedule is subject to change. (The Shops at La Cantera, 2017)
Wednesday April 5 – Wednesday Ball and Roger Tamez as The Show. This duo is the ultimate dance, soul and R&B band and features vocalist Wednesday Ball, a local MacArthur High School graduate, and the talented Roger Tamez, another San Antonian and multi-instrumentalist. Their influences include Jill Scott, Mary J Blige, Stevie Wonder and others.
Wednesday April 12 – Musical artist and composer Sergio Lara. He is a renowned guitarist and composer who was nominated for a 2001 Latin Grammy for Best Pop Instrumental Album. He has contributed to more than a dozen CD compilations with musicians like Dave Brubeck, Pat Matheny and Ottmar Liebert.
Wednesday April 19 – Acoustic guitarist Peter White. As a versatile and prolific multi-instrumentalist, the British native’s career has consisted of folk rock and keyboardist for and co-writer with Al Stewart. He released his first solo album in 1990.
The Shops at La Cantera
15900 La Cantera Pkwy
On Main Street near Bar Louie
San Antonio, TX 78256
(210) 582-6255
Sandra Cisneros’ ‘The House on Mango Street’ is back for a limited run at The Classic Theatre. Photo courtesy of The Classic Theatre, used with permission.
Back by popular demand this April is ‘The House on Mango Street’ at The Classic Theatre of San Antonio. This return engagement is for a limited run and will consist of only seven shows from Thursday April 6 through Saturday April 15. ‘The House on Mango Street’ was adapted from Sandra Cisneros’ book by Amy Ludwig. It is the story of Esperanza Cordero whose neighborhood is one of harsh realities and harsh beauties. She is determined to “say goodbye” to her impoverished neighborhood by turning to a life on the streets. Major themes include her quest for a better life and the promise she makes to come back for those she left behind. Esperanza is a young Latina coming into her power and finding out what she will become. Show times are Thursday, Friday and Saturday at 8p.m. and Sunday at 3p.m. There will be no show on Easter Sunday April 16. Ticket prices are $25 for general admission, $20 for senior, military, educator or SATCO and $10 for students. They are available online or by calling the box office at (210) 589-8450 (The Classic Theatre, 2017)
The Classic Theatre of San Antonio
1924 Fredericksburg Rd
San Antonio, TX 78201
(210) 589-8450
Cork Bar’s Primavera Cocktail. Photo courtesy of Hotel Contessa, used with permission.
It is now officially spring and several bars and restaurants in town have updated their menus to offer patrons spring drinks. Each of these new cocktails feature bright flavors that will help ease the transition to warmer weather. The following is Paramour’s Spring Cocktail Menu and cocktail recipes from the Cork Bar at Hotel Contessa and Boiler House Texas Beer & Wine Garden. (Giant Noise, 2017)
Paramour Spring Cocktail Menu
Cocktails – Missionary Reach, Smoke vs Sea, Coupe de Grâce, You Can’t Handle the Proof, De Novo Punch, A Brand, New Dance, Down South Smash, Just a Friend, Subpoenaed in Texas, Sequestered in Memphis, Walls Are, For Tyrants, One For Mahler!, G.I.L.F, Barrel Aged – Old Fashioned, Hanky Panky, Martini
Food is offered until 10p.m and incudes Charcuterie Board – a selection of cured meats and cheese, Prosciutto Sliders- prosciutto, warm brie and lemon basil aioli and Bar Snack Trio that includes chili rosemary mixed nuts, marinated olives and sweet and spicy peppers.
Paramour 102 9th St, Suite 400 San Antonio, TX 78215 (210) 340-9880
Primavera (Spring) Cocktail
Cork Bar at Hotel Contessa’s Featured Cocktail
March and April
1.5 oz Seersucker Southern Gin
1 oz Simple Syrup Shrub: white vinegar, infused cucumber, rosemary and ginger candy
Topped off with 1 oz ginger beer
Garnished with cucumber slice, sprig of rosemary and lemon twist
The Hotel Contessa 306 W Market St San Antonio, TX 78205 (210) 229-9222
Boiler House’s ‘Come Rum with Me Julep’
2oz Bullit Bourbon
½ oz Ron Zacapa 23 yr old
Solera Rum (to float)
½ oz Honey Simple Syrup
10 mint leaves, plus more to garnish
Boiler House Texas Beer & Wine Garden 312 Pearl Parkway. Building 3 San Antonio, TX 78215 (210) 354-464
Jazz, TX is hosting ‘The Real La La Land’ on April 5, 6 and 7. Photo courtesy of Jazz, TX, used with permission.
Coming up in April at Jazz, TX is the musical revue ‘The Real Life La La Land’ from Wednesday April 5 through Friday April 7, 2017. It mirrors the inspiration of the critically acclaimed musical movie La La Land and it is told from the perspective of former jazz club bartender and singing waiter Dave Damiani. Dave Damiani and Graham Fenton met over 10 years ago at Miceli’s Restaurant in Hollywood where they were working as singing waiters. Their ultimate dream is to bring back the class, style and swagger of places like the 500 Club and The Copacabana. Straight from Las Vegas it will feature Jazz, TX club owner Doc Watkins and special guests Graham Fenton, star of Las Vegas’ Jersey Boys, Dave Damiani, from Sinatra 100, CBS Vegas, Bijon Watson, trumpet player featured in La La Land and Watkin’s orchestra. They will be performing songs from famed jazz artists like Frank Sinatra, Frankie Valli, Dean Martin and Nat “King” Cole as well as melodies from the movie. There will be two sets each night, one at 7p.m. and the other at 9:30p.m. Tickets are $25 each and are available online. (Jazz, TX, 2016)
Jazz, TX is the Pearl’s newest upscale music venue owned and operated by renowned musician Brent “Doc” Watkins. It is in the cellar of the Bottling House and hosts musical acts ranging from jazz to blues, big band, Texas swing, salsa, conjunto and Americana including Doc Watkins. Business hours are Tuesday through Saturday and aside from music, guests can enjoy a wide variety of food, beverages, wine and spirits.
Jazz, TX
312 Pearl Pkwy, Building 6 Suite 6001
San Antonio, TX 78215
(210) 332-9386
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