Author: Sandra Cruz

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

Exploring the Final Frontier of Crime: The Risks and Realities of Criminal Activity Beyond Earth

‘Space Piracy: Preparing for a Criminal Crisis in Orbit’ by Marc Feldman and Hugh Taylor. Photo: Amazon

Space exploration offers tremendous opportunities for scientific discovery and technological advancements, but it also brings potential risks. As nations and private corporations compete for control over space resources, the possibility of space-related crime and corruption increases. The privatization of space may lead to monopolies, enabling unethical practices. Piracy in space, including the hijacking of satellites or spacecraft, could emerge as new threats. Furthermore, the militarization of space might escalate tensions between countries, potentially leading to conflicts or even war. While space exploration holds vast promise, these negative consequences must be carefully managed to prevent harm to humanity.

The Center for the Study of Space Crime, Piracy, and the Governance’s new book “Space Piracy: Preparing for a Criminal Crisis in Orbit” is a comprehensive exploration of humanity’s potential for criminal activities in outer space. It will be released on February 11, 2025. (Center for the Study of Space Crime, Piracy, and Governance, 2024)

“Space Piracy: Preparing for a Criminal Crisis in Orbit” is a forward-thinking resource that considers, analyzes, and provides solutions to the influence of the dishonorable side of humanity in the realm of outer space, where potential for crime, corruption, piracy, and war increases as the exploitation of space as a commercial resource continues to develop. This book blends the authors’ knowledge with that of subject matter experts to deliver a holistic understanding of criminality in space and help readers broaden their horizons beyond their own area of specialization.

Some of the topics explored in this insightful book include:

  • Space hacking, from software, data, network, and hardware risks to existing cybersecurity standards and practices in space
  • Criminal organizations that might pursue criminal activities in space, including cartels, kidnappers and devicenappers, and governments
  • Laws and treaties relevant to space crime, such as the Communications Satellite Act and the Outer Space Treaty of 1967

Filled with practical, thought-provoking knowledge and guidance, “Space Piracy: Preparing for a Criminal Crisis in Orbit” earns a well-deserved spot on the bookshelves of professionals working in the best of humanity’s institutions, including law and intelligence services, finance, insurance and risk management, corporations, and the sciences, who seek to combat what the worst of us may be dreaming up.

“This is a serious meditation on a space future that is all too plausible. Anyone concerned with building a safe and robust space economy―lawmakers, policymakers, law enforcement, CEOs, space – security officers, and the USSPACECOM and US Space Force commanders―should read this book. A well-researched and fascinating synthesis of the history and current-day piracy, privateering, organized crime and syndicates, cyber-crime, private security companies―and how and why they might plausibly move to space.” – PETER GARRETSON, Senior Fellow in Defense Studies, American Foreign Policy Council and Author of “Scramble for the Skies: The Great Power Competition to Control the Resources of Outer Space” and “The Next Space Race: A Blueprint for American Primacy”

The publication of the book is part of the launch of the Center for the Study of Space Crime, Piracy, and Governance (CSCPG). The Center is an independent, nonpartisan think tank whose purpose is to serve as a policy resource for government officials and business executives on issues related to space governance, sovereignty, commerce, law, crime, and piracy. 

CSCPG was recently featured in Space War in reference to its paper on the potential for a hostage crisis in space. 

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Tech and Tensions: ‘Sentience Hazard’ and the Fight for AI Supremacy

‘Sentience Hazard’ is the exciting new science fiction thriller by Alexandru Czimbor. Photo: Reader Views

Speculative fiction books exploring science fiction and artificial intelligence (AI) captivate readers by presenting futuristic worlds where technology evolves beyond human control. These narratives often explore the ethical dilemmas, power dynamics, and societal shifts brought on by AI, sparking questions about humanity’s future. Themes such as sentience, autonomy, and the consequences of machine learning challenge readers’ perceptions of technology and its role in society. AI-driven speculative fiction offers thrilling, thought-provoking plots, while engaging readers’ imaginations and fears about a rapidly advancing technological landscape. This blend of innovation and existential uncertainty is what makes the genre so compelling.

I recently read and reviewed “Sentience Hazard” by Alexandru Czimbor for Reader Views and highly recommend it for fans of speculative fiction centered around artificial intelligence.

Alexandru Czimbor is an award-winning author who was born and raised in Transylvania, Romania during the oppressive communist regime of Nicolae Ceaușescu. He has lived in the United States since 2001 and spends his summers in Europe. Alexandru taught at a Romanian university, worked in the software industry, and has been an executive since 2011. He has a master’s degree in computer science and studied at UTCN Cluj-Napoca and ETH Zürich. In his latest book is “Sentience Hazard,” a tense global standoff looms as China’s superior AI technology threatens to tip the scales of power. (Barnes & Noble, 2025)

“Sentience Hazard” – Set in 2053 and amidst the chaos of an AI standoff, Zhèng Yang, a renegade Chinese scientist unveils vital intel, sparking a race against time. As the US scrambles for a solution, François DeSousa, a maverick French genius and Professor Ian Ndikumana, a Scottish-African professor offer controversial expertise. Love, sacrifice, and ingenuity converge in a battle for humanity’s future.

The US and Chinese artificial beings, developed with radically different principles, share one essential quality: their cognitive abilities go well beyond those of any human being. The future of the world hangs in the balance. Can humanity survive the clash between two sentient forces of its own creation?

Finalist in:

  • 2024 Cygnus Science Fiction Awards
  • 2024 Independent Author Network Book of the Year Awards
  • 2024 American Writing Awards
  • 2024 Literary Global Book Awards

Recipient of:

  • Literary Titan Book Award
  • Outstanding Creator Award
  • Pinnacle Book Award
  • Firebird Book Award
  • Book of the Earth Award
  • 2024 BREW Science Fiction of the Year

Twists, Turns, and Terrors: ‘The Damned’ is the Newest Nordic Thriller Masterpiece

The Damned, the new chilling Nordic thriller, will be released in UK and Irish cinemas on January 10, 2025. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Psychological thrillers explore complex human emotions, fears, and motivations, often blurring the lines between reality and illusion. These films go into the minds of characters, creating an atmosphere of tension, suspense, and unpredictability. The appeal lies in the psychological manipulation, where viewers become immersed in a web of deception, unreliable narrators, and mind games. The genre stimulates intellectual engagement, as it challenges perceptions and provokes deep thought about human nature. Audiences are drawn to the psychological complexity and emotional intensity, seeking both excitement and the thrill of solving mysteries within the narrative.

Vertical has announced that Thordur Palsson’s ominous and chilling thriller The Damned will be released in UK and Irish cinemas from 10th January 2025. (Strike Media, 2024)

Starring Odessa Young (The Staircase, Mothering Sunday) and Joe Cole (Peaky Blinders, Gangs of London), The Damned is a tense psychological horror film that follows 19th-century widow, Eva. She is tasked with making an impossible choice when a ship sinks off the coast of her isolated fishing outpost during the middle of an especially cruel winter.

With provisions running low, Eva and her close-knit community must choose between rescuing the shipwrecked crew and prioritizing their own survival. Facing the consequences of their decision and tormented by guilt, the inhabitants wrestle with a mounting sense of dread and begin to believe they are all being punished for their choices.

Following its premiere in November, the Cork International Film Festival 2024 awarded an Honourable Mention to The Damned commenting ‘The Damned is a juggernaut of a film, breathing fresh life into a well-trodden genre. Its powerful use of the landscape and compelling performances make it truly deserving of this Special Mention.’

Inspired by the Westfjords of Iceland in the 1800s, The Damned takes place in an unforgiving, almost unlivable setting, yet one that is steeped in immense beauty and turbulent folklore.

For director Thordur Palsson (The Valhalla Murders), himself a native Icelander, it was this folklore and mythology that led him to develop the idea that would later become The Damned. Growing up in Iceland, family members would often share gruesome tales of ghosts, demons and evil spirits.

‘Every Icelander has heard all kinds of different variations of the truth – all elements of our history that have been passed down. One of these stories was about a ship that sank off the shores of Iceland, with all survivors being killed by the natives. Having known of this, I started to write a story relating to it and kept fleshing it out, adding darker elements.’ – Thordur Palsson

Rooted in the depths of Norse Mythology, The Damned features haunting performances from Rory McCann (Game of Thrones), Siobhan Finneran (Happy Valley), Turlough Convery (Belfast), Lewis Gribben (Somewhere Boy), Francis Magee (The Tourist), and Mícheál Óg Lane (Calvary).

Calling Local Artists: Showcase Your Talent in New Public Mural Project

St. Paul Square and Centro San Antonio partner together in search of local artists for its first-ever public mural project. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

SAN ANTONIO, TX – St. Paul Square, San Antonio’s historic downtown district evolving into a world-class entertainment and cultural arts destination, is excited to announce a new partnership with Centro San Antonio as the two local organizations work together to commission the creation of a new public mural, a first of its kind for the 100-plus-year-old district. (St. Paul Square, 2024)

This mural will become a landmark attraction within St. Paul Square, marking a significant step in revitalizing the District by paying homage to the local businesses, communities, diverse cultures, and historical milestones that have defined its community over past decades. 

To accomplish this goal, St. Paul Square and Centro San Antonio are actively requesting proposals from qualified San Antonio-based artists to create a new mural on an 11×38′ wall located near St. Paul’s Square’s central outdoor courtyard, offering a potential budget of up to $15,000 with installation in March 2025.

Dubbed “Ole Night at St. Paul Square,” this new mural open-call project will look to ultimately create a new outdoor art installation that will serve as a centerpiece for visitors and locals alike, offering a nostalgic glimpse into the rich history of this beloved area while symbolizing St. Paul Square’s transformation into an entertainment, culinary, and nightlife, and tourism destination.

The deadline to apply is 6p.m. CST on Friday, January 24, 2025. Finalists will then be selected in late January, with a selection announced in February. More information on the project can be found online.

“St. Paul Square is thrilled to host this artist open-call opportunity alongside our colleagues at Centro San Antonio, as we look to shine a light on all of the incredible artistic talent found here in San Antonio. By honoring the contributions of our early residents, artists, entertainers, and business owners who built St. Paul’s Square legacy, this project will celebrate the vibrant and diverse cultures that make this District a growing destination for entertainment, hospitality, community, and creativity.” – Don Thomas, managing partner at St. Paul Square

“We’re incredibly excited to collaborate with St. Paul’s Square on their new cultural initiative; our goal is to find opportunities for local artists and create vibrancy in San Antonio’s urban core, so supporting St. Paul’s Square leadership in their mission to fill the district with art is a perfect match.” – Andi Rodriguez, Vice President of Cultural Placemaking at Centro San Antonio

This mural open-call project was created in collaboration with Centro’s Art Everywhere Program, which celebrates San Antonio artists by applying a public art mindset through partnerships with private property owners and businesses to match local creatives with art opportunities. Since its inception in 2020, Art Everywhere has been responsible for 175+ art installations and counting across San Antonio.

Originally founded in 1778, St. Paul Square is a historic multi-acre district found near downtown San Antonio, Texas, located just one hundred yards north of the Alamodome and a short walk from the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center.

The District’s name is derived from Old St. Paul Methodist Episcopal Church constructed in the late 1800s. With a rich background rooted in San Antonio’s history, St. Paul Square is developing today into a vibrant entertainment and cultural arts district that showcases the beautiful history and diversity of the Alamo City. It is home to a wide variety of businesses including locally-owned restaurants, bars, nightclubs, and coffee shops as well as performance venues, hotels, retail, offices, and more.

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‘On My Own’: Harrison Lipton’s New Anthem of Self-Discovery

Harrison Lipton masks post-breakup sadness with cheeky humor on ‘On My Own.’ Photo: Eciaus Booth, used with permission.

Breakup songs hold a unique appeal for listeners, offering emotional catharsis and a sense of solidarity. These songs often explore themes of heartache, loss, and personal growth, providing an outlet for listeners to process their own emotions. The relatable lyrics and powerful melodies resonate deeply, allowing individuals to feel understood and less alone in their struggles. Whether through soulful ballads or upbeat anthems, breakup songs help listeners navigate the pain of relationships ending while offering hope for healing and new beginnings. The universal nature of heartbreak makes these songs timeless and comforting during times of emotional turmoil.

The Brooklyn-based musical jack-of-all-trades Harrison Lipton recently released his cheeky new breakup anthem “On My Own” via Amuse. The facetious, 70s-inspired dad rock song uses the all too familiar coping mechanism of poking fun at inherent sadness to make it through the day. His voice full of smooth earnestness, Lipton ushers listeners towards the greener grass on the other side. (Big Hassle, 2024)

“The song started in a small bedroom studio in Carroll Gardens during a session with Aidan Ludlam of the booyah! kids, who uses lyrics like an impressionist painter uses paint. He helped me balance the dissonance between being dumped and finding how to be okay with it.” – Harrison Lipton

Shot on 16 mm film, the official music video was directed by Yishen Wang. An ode to the city and people of New York, Lipton finds himself lost in a sea of recognizable faces, even Times Square’s Naked Cowboy.

“…feels like a rarity, transposing of-the-moment sounds into a dusted-off paean to a romance lost in memory and feeling.” – NPR

“An artist whose stylistic tenacity is fabulously muddled, Lipton floats between genres, brushing against indie, alternative and bedroom pop with a driven psychedelic influence flowing through the hazy soundscapes.” – The Lines of Best Fit

Fresh on the heels of landing songwriting and production credits for indie-rock sensation Yot Club and Atlantic Records six-piece MICHELLE, among others, Lipton has made a name for himself as a rapidly ascending, go-to creative collaborator. His recent work as a songwriter and producer has earned him shoutouts in HYPEBEAST, The Line of Best Fit, and Sirius XM’s Life with John Mayer.

Now with the focus shifted to his own releases, Lipton unveiled “Synchronized Swimming,” with its captivating accompanying music video, back in September. Exploring romance coyly nestled within the metaphor of synchronized swimming, listeners witness Lipton’s proven songwriting and production talent in raw form. Complete with dusty piano, laid-back Khruangbin-like drums, and an underwater guitar solo, the final touch is the perfect pairing of background vocals from MICHELLE’s Layla Ku. 

“On My Own” keeps building the world “Synchronized Swimming” started, putting forth a distinctly clean and modernized late 70s aesthetic.

Harrison Lipton is a 30-year-old singer, songwriter and producer. The Brooklyn artist’s musical flair resides in the intersection of indie, R&B and 70s soft rock. Lipton prides himself on fully realizing a track from start to finish, leading the charge with songwriting, producing, and mixing, as well as creative direction. Lipton’s music is a product of his singular imagination, presenting a style that is sincere, authentic and all his own. His music has been featured in NPR and Early Rising as well as on numerous editorial playlists such as Apple Music’s Late Night Menu and Spotify’s Fresh Finds and Chill Vibes. Now focusing on new singles leading toward a larger project, Lipton emerges as a promising and unique voice, blending soulful vocals with singular and catchy production.

Courtesy photo, used with permission.

The Ultimate Guide to New Year’s Eve Festivities in San Antonio

Tenfold Rooftop rings in the new year with savory bites, vibrant cocktails, and the best views in the city. Photo: Garrett Smith, used with permission.

New Year’s Eve celebrations are a global tradition, marked by diverse customs and festivities. In cities worldwide, crowds gather for fireworks displays, like those in Sydney and New York. Many people enjoy family gatherings with food, drinks, and games, while others attend elaborate parties or live concerts. In Spain, it’s customary to eat 12 grapes at midnight, symbolizing good luck for each month of the year. In Japan, people visit temples for prayers and reflection. Whether through fireworks, quiet reflections, or festive parties, New Year’s Eve offers a unique blend of joy, hope, and cultural significance.

One of the biggest ways to celebrate the new year in San Antonio is going downtown for the big fireworks display. As someone who has attended once or twice, I can tell you that it’s one of the city’s biggest parties, besides Fiesta, that is. If you’re still looking for ways to ring in the new year, consider the following events. (Kimpton Santo, Hotel Emma, Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk, 2024)

** Kimpton Santo **

Kimpton Santo in San Antonio, TX has announced its New Year’s Eve Celebration (12/31). The new downtown hotel, which opened in August 2024, is throwing a lavish bash at its Rooftop bar, Tenfold, with limited tickets available for the celebration.

Tenfold Rooftop rings in the new year with savory bites, vibrant cocktails, and the best views in the city. Don’t miss the first ever Black & White Party at Tenfold Rooftop. Interested guests can choose between a NYE Pre-Party and Midnight Party, with ticket options of General Admission or reserving a VIP table for four. Price varies between $100 to $1800 based on the chosen party and ticket option. The Pre-Party is from 3p.m. – 7:30p.m. and the Midnight Party goes from 8p.m. to 1a.m. on December 31.

General admission tickets include globally-inspired small plates from the signature 10x Tour Menu,  complimentary coat check and a live DJ set. The VIP table option adds on tickets for up to four guests at a reserved table, cocktail service, and a complimentary bottle of bubbles for the table. Choose how you want to experience the most elevated New Year’s Eve party in San Antonio.

Dean’s Steak & Seafood is celebrating New Year’s Eve early with more brunch. Make the most of time with friends and family as the holidays wrap up. The classic brunch is extended through Wednesday, January 1.

Kimpton Santo Hotel
431 S. Alamo St.
San Antonio, TX 78205

** Hotel Emma **

Hotel Emma, Texas’ only AAA Five Diamond Hotel nestled in San Antonio’s Pearl District, is ringing in its 10th anniversary year in 2025 with a full schedule of events this winter and it all begins with a New Year’s Eve Cellar Select 7-Course Dinner.

December 31 | New Years Eve Cellar Select 7-Course Dinner 

Newly appointed Executive Chef Geronimo Lopez is putting on a seven-course show in the Hotel’s Elephant Cellar which faces the exhibition wine cellar and was built in 1938 – a space as historic as it is grand. Cocktail hour begins at 7p.m.

The experience is underlined by exquisite spirit pairings with each course, kicking off with 2015 Dom Pérignon Chardonnay & Pinot Noir Blend brut Champagne coupled with potato blinis and sturgeon caviar. Other highlights include a fitting 7 Fishes Risotto for the second course, alongside a Double Eagle Very Rare 20-year Bourbon.

There are Two Ways to Take Part in the Exclusive Experience: 

December 31 | New Year’s Eve at Sternewirth 

At Sternewirth, limited tickets are available to hear Diego Martinez & Band from 8:30p.m. to 2a.m. Reservation-only mezzanine booths are available amidst the space’s signature refurbished cast iron fermentation tanks. Complete with complimentary Champagne and oysters, the event gives first priority to hotel guests – so it’s best to book a room and make it a staycation. Tickets are $25pp. 

Hotel Emma
136 E Grayson St.
San Antonio, TX 78215

** Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk **

This holiday season, Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk invites both local guests and travelers to experience a festive lineup of seasonal feasts, activities, and events bringing the spirit of the holidays to life with memorable celebrations. Highlights include the Moon’s Daughters’ infamous NYE Rooftop party.

Thompson San Antonio’s New Year’s Eve celebration at The Moon’s Daughters promises to be the most anticipated event of the year. Guests can enjoy breathtaking panoramic city views from the 20th-floor rooftop terrace, live entertainment from DJ Catwalk, champagne toasts, and more at Downtown San Antonio’s premier NYE celebration. Catwalk is a dynamic DJ, producer, and creator from San Antonio, known for high-energy sets and a unique blend of genres. An “open-format” artist, she seamlessly mixes old and new sounds, delivering fresh, surprising performances every time. Her two singles, “Here We Go” and “Faster (feat. Nick Mery),” are available on all major platforms.

From these special events and dazzling décor to its full-service spa and luxurious accommodations, Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk invites travelers and the local community to rejoice with loved ones this holiday season.

Celebrate New Year’s Eve at The Moon’s Daughters. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

‘Change of Heart’: Cristina LePort Blends Medicine and Mystery in Her Latest Thriller

Cristina LePort’s new medical thriller ‘Change of Heart’ will be released in February. Photo: Barnes & Noble

Medical thrillers blend the high-stakes tension of thrillers with the intrigue of medical science. These novels often involve intense situations, such as dangerous viruses, unethical experiments, or life-and-death medical dilemmas, creating a gripping sense of urgency. The appeal lies in the combination of suspense, intellectual challenge, and emotional investment. Readers are drawn to the complex characters—doctors, patients, and scientists—navigating moral gray areas, and the fast-paced plots keep them on the edge of their seat. Additionally, the real-world connections to medical advancements or crises make the stories feel both thrilling and plausibly terrifying, heightening their impact.

These are some of my favorite novels to read and Robin Cook’s were some of the first ones I picked up. Since then, there’s been Michael Palmer, Patricia Cornwell, Kathy Reichs, and Tess Gerritsen. A couple of years ago, I read Cristina LePort’s debut novel “Dissection” and was thrilled to have another such author on my must-read list. Her next one, “Change of Heart,” comes out in February and takes readers into the shadowy underbelly of organ trafficking, revealing the lengths to which people will go to secure life-saving transplants. So if you’re a fan of gripping medical thrillers, I wholeheartedly recommend her novels. “Change of Heart” will be released on February 4 and is available now for pre-order on Barnes & Noble.

Cristina LePort, MD is a renowned cardiologist and a respected author, known for her compelling medical thrillers that explore the high stakes of medical crises and moral conflicts. Born in Bologna, Italy, she new resides in Southern California and combines her medical expertise with her narrative prowess to create stories that are informative and engaging. (Meryl Moss Media Group, 2024)

“Change of Heart” – In the bustling heart of New York City, a young medical student’s life is tragically cut short, though her heart continues to beat, holding the promise of life for another. Detective Kirk Miner is called to the scene and quickly uncovers a chilling conspiracy involving organ donations and high-stakes crime. As the investigation unfolds, Miner realizes the case is far more complex and dangerous than it initially seemed.

Enter FBI Agent Jack Mulville, who steps in to supervise Special Agent Charlotte Bloom as they join forces with Miner. Together, they unravel a web of corruption, revealing that Amy Winter’s death is connected to a ruthless organ trafficking ring. Amy Winter, a promising pre-med student, is found dead under mysterious circumstances. Her death triggers an investigation that pulls Miner, Mulville, and Bloom into a labyrinth of deceit and desperation. As they dig deeper, they discover that Amy’s heart is not just a donor’s gift but a coveted prize in a deadly game controlled by criminals willing to kill to keep their secrets hidden. Amidst the danger, they face moral dilemmas and personal risks, pushing them to their limits as they strive to protect innocent lives and dismantle a powerful criminal network.

“Change of Heart” is a gripping medical thriller that intertwines the intricacies of modern medicine with the relentless pursuit of justice. Cristina LePort, M.D., masterfully combines her medical expertise with edge-of-your-seat storytelling, delivering a novel that will keep you turning pages long into the night. Dr. LePort is an accomplished physician with a passion for weaving medical knowledge into thrilling narratives. Her extensive background in medicine lends authenticity and depth to her stories, making the Miner & Mulville series a unique blend of fact and fiction.

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Sunray: Fallen Soldier – A War Veteran’s Quest for Justice and Redemption

The action thriller Sunray: Fallen Soldier is coming to digital platforms and select cinemas next month. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Military themed action thrillers captivate audiences with their thrilling storylines, high-stakes conflicts, and intense combat sequences. These films often explore themes of heroism, sacrifice, and camaraderie, resonating with viewers who admire resilience and bravery in the face of adversity. They include gripping narratives where soldiers confront dangerous missions, engage in epic battles, and navigate moral dilemmas. Audiences are drawn to the raw emotional intensity of these stories, as well as the adrenaline-pumping action that showcases tactical precision, creating a powerful connection to the characters and their struggles.

Sunray: Fallen Soldier is an action thriller that will be available on digital platforms and select cinemas across the UK and North America on January 24, 2025. It is now available for pre-order on digital download in the UK and US. (Strike Media, 2024)

Sunray: Fallen Soldier – A war veteran calls on friends from his past to hunt down those responsible for the death of his daughter. Along the way, he learns more about himself than he anticipated as a violent crime syndicate unravels in his wake.

After dedicating his entire life to service in the armed forces, Andrew Coleman now struggles to slot back into a world he no longer recognizes. Forced to confront the death of his daughter following a fatal encounter with drugs, he becomes hell-bent on finding those responsible.

With nothing to lose, a violent criminal underworld unravels in his wake. Set against a backdrop of realistic, fast-paced action, guided by high-quality military drills; and created by UK Armed Forces veterans, Sunray challenges the perceptions of mental health and the struggles that soldiers face when re-integrating back into civilian life.

A film by James Clarke and Daniel Shepherd and starring Tip Cullen, Tom Leigh, Steven Blades, and Daniel Davids, Sunray is created by and stars a collective of former British Royal Marines Commandos – the UK’s elite amphibious special operations capable commando force.

Written, directed, produced, edited, and acted by UK Armed Forces veterans, the Sunray team has lived and experienced the direct effects of conflict including the loss of friends.

Veterans were employed across the production both on and off screen. The film is supported by a multi-national veteran and active armed forces community who want more awareness for the sacrifices made by soldiers and the effects of PTSD.

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Couture on Tour Brings Emily in Paris to San Antonio: A Must-See Fashion Experience

Couture on Tour: An Emily in Paris Experience. The beloved Netflix series Emily in Paris is going on tour with a theatrical Parisian fashion show event. Photo: ATG Entertainment, used with permission.

San Antonio, TX – Bonjour Emily in Paris lovers! Couture on Tour: An Emily in Paris Experience is bringing the fan-favorite Netflix series, produced by MTV Entertainment Studios and creator Darren Star (Beverly Hills, 90210, Sex and the City, Younger), across the country with 25+ tour stops this Spring and Summer 2025. From their fashion to the dreamy Parisian scenery, this unique sidewalk-to-stage event, brought to you by Atomic Venus Media in partnership with Paramount, is coming to San Antonio on May 19, 2025. Tickets are now on sale. (ATG Entertainment, 2024)

“My own adventures deeply inspired my journey in crafting Emily in Paris in Paris during my 20s,” said Darren Star. “I am thrilled that fans will be able to enjoy an experience that will transport audiences into Emily’s enchanting world. As we celebrate the fourth season now streaming on Netflix and the exciting renewal for a fifth season, the profound connection fans have with the characters is what gives this series its enduring appeal. I am excited for this elevated live event for Emily in Paris enthusiasts across the nation.”

Atomic Venus Media (AVM), founded by former WME agent ElizBeth Jones, produces custom content, tours, and experiences around popular film and TV properties. AVM brings over 100 years of combined entertainment expertise to the stage. “I could not be more thrilled to launch AVM’s first large tour with Emily in Paris,” says Jones. “Bringing Darren Star’s incomparable writing and character development to life through a female-led production company is deeply meaningful. As he has proved time and time again, Fashion is Art and Art is for Everyone. This tour will captivate audiences in ways they haven’t seen before. As live experiences become the future bedrock of our industry, we are creating Couture on Tour to be a unique standout, offering fans a chance to journey into Emily’s world.”

The theatrical fashion show will have theaters across the country pulsing with the ambience of La Trompette Bleue while pieces from Emily in Paris, inspired by costume designer – and Couture on Tour Creative Consultant – Marylin Fitoussi take the stage. Beyond the fashion show, the Emily in Paris Experience will bring to life the streets of Paris and transport visitors into Emily’s world. Visitors will also have the opportunity to dip into Emily’s wardrobe, immerse themselves in scenes from the show and take home a piece of Paris with items from on-site displays and shops.

“The beauty and fashion of Emily in Paris will make for a unique and whimsical in-person experience for fans,” said Marie Marks, SVP of Themed Entertainment, Paramount. “We are thrilled to partner with Atomic Venus to bring the style of Paris to the streets of the US.” Couture on Tour: An Emily in Paris Experience will kick off in Spring of 2025 and will travel across the states to cities such as Denver, Atlanta, Nashville, Kansas City, St Louis, Milwaukee, Ft Lauderdale, and more. Tickets are now available for purchase and start at $40 in select markets. All markets will include a VIP ticket which will include a fully curated experience and keepsake items.

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Max Wareham’s Daggomit!: The Story Behind His Debut Album

Banjo player, songwriter, and author Max Wareham announces debut, Peter Rowan-produced album Daggomit! Photo: Sasha Pedro, used with permission.

Whether on archaeological digs or translating medieval poetry, the past has always been a north star for banjo player, songwriter, and author Max Wareham. His commitment to early innovators of the banjo shines on Daggomit!, his debut album of soulful original songs, highlighted by the hard-driving chemistry of Nashville’s preeminent bluegrass stars. Wareham tours nationally with the Peter Rowan Bluegrass Band, bringing his creativity to the Telluride Bluegrass Festival, Ryman Auditorium, Merlefest, Green Mountain Bluegrass Festival, IBMA Bluegrass Music Awards, and many more, as well as with his own band, Max Wareham and the National Bluegrass Team. (IV PR, 2024)

“It brings me back to my childhood,” says Max Wareham of his new single “Lonesome Blues, I’m Coming Home,” “camping in the woods of New York state and longing for a simpler time.” Forever a student of bluegrass tradition, Wareham has tapped into a very real feeling that can be found all the way back before the genre had its name; part nostalgia, part yearning. 

“I wrote this one a while back,” says Wareham. “Then I took it to Peter Rowan, who proceeded to disassemble it completely and put it back together in a way that made more sense.” The tutelage of his bandleader boss Rowan helped to hone Wareham’s arrangement into a beautifully simple melody with ample room for instrumental embellishment and crystalline harmonies by former members of the Grammy-nominated band, Po’ Ramblin’ Boys, Laura Orshaw and Josh Rinkel. 

MAGNET Magazine shared an early premiere of “Lonesome Blues, I’m Coming Home.” Fans can stream or purchase “Lonesome Blues” at this link.

“Lonesome Blues, I’m Coming Home” is the latest single from Wareham’s upcoming debut album, Daggomit!, which was produced by Rowan and is due out on February 21. Fans are encouraged to check out Wareham’s previously released single “Hard Times Are Far Behind” at this link and pre-order or pre-save Daggomit! ahead of its February release right here.

Wareham is currently touring with Max Wareham & the National Bluegrass Team, featuring international mandolin prodigy Jean Baptiste Cardineau, singer and guitarist Walker Russell, and Boston bass stalwart Emma Turoff. Tour dates for Warham & the National Bluegrass Team as well as Wareham’s appearances with the Peter Rowan Bluegrass Band can be found online.

Produced by legendary grasser Peter Rowan and recorded by multi-Grammy-winning engineer Sean Sullivan, Daggomit! features Chris Eldridge and David Grier on guitar, Laura Orshaw on fiddle, Chris Henry on mandolin, Mike Bub on bass, and Larry Atamanuik on snare drum; a group of stars making the initial listen of the album worth the price of admission, alone. But fans will undoubtedly stick around for the stories Wareham tells throughout the 13-song collection. Stories from a lifetime of experiences and feelings that together tell the story of exactly what makes Max Max. 

Daggomit! tracklist:
Walking In Jerusalem
Lonesome Blues, I’m Coming Home
The Black & Gold
That’s Just Part Of It
Heartaches
Rexford Falls
Gone, Baby, Gone
I Remember
Hard Times Are Far Behind
Cattails
Bar Blues
Drifting Too Far From The Shore
Miles

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