Jim Lauderdale’s new album My Favorite Place will be released June 21, 2024. Courtesy photo, used with permission.
Jim Lauderdaleis the Grammy Award winning singer, songwriter, and performer known as one of Americana’s most steadfast champions. Put him in a room with a killer band and a near-as-can-be-perfect country tune, and one would be hard-pressed to find a better combination in all of current-day music. Luckily, that’s exactly what happened when Mr. Americana took to the studio to record “I’m A Lucky Loser.” Flanked by Chris Scruggs and Kenny Vaughn on electric guitars, Wes L’angolis on acoustic, Will Van Horn on pedal steel, Micah Hulshcer on piano, Pat Bubert on drums, and equally stellar touring band members Jay Weaver, Frank Rische, and Lillie Mae Rische, Lauderdale took to Nashville’s famed Blackbird Studios to track the lilting, cheeky ode to luck, both good and bad. (IV-PR, 2024)
“I’m A Lucky Loser” is the latest single from Lauderdale’s upcoming LP, My Favorite Place—out June 21. Continuing a string of stellar releases with his touring band, The Game Changers—Craig Smith (Guitar), Frank Rische (Guitar), Jay Weaver (Bass), Dave Racine (Drums), and the extraordinary Lillie Mae Rische (Vocals)—along with some of Music City’s favorite ringers like the cast of “I’m A Lucky Loser,” My Favorite Place is pure Jim Lauderdale country; his legendary voice carrying a new batch of stories, all framed by pure pedal steel, fiddle, and the tightest rhythm section this side of the Grand Ole Opry.
To hear the new single live, fans can check out Lauderdale’s recent performance and interview on RFD-TV here.Fans can stream or purchase “I’m A Lucky Loser” at this link, hear Lauderdale’s previously released singles, “You’ve Got A Shine,” and “Mrs. Green” at their respective links, and pre-order or pre-save My Favorite Place, ahead of its June 21 release right here.
My Favorite Place tracklist: My Favorite Pace Mrs. Green The Lightning Tree You’ll Be Gone By Then Sweethearts Remember Don’t You Treat ‘Em That Way Baby Steps I’m A Lucky Loser We Ought To Celebrate You’ve Got A Shine What’s Important After All
Catch Jim Lauderdale on tour. A full list of Lauderdale’s tour dates can be found below or online.
June 13 – The Colonial Theatre – Phoenixville, PA ^ June 14 – Ardmore Music Hall – Ardmore, PA ^ June 15 – Godfrey Daniels – Bethlehem, PA June 22 – Grand Ole Opry House – Nashville, TN June 27 – ROMP – Owensboro, KY * July 30 – Pickin’ in Parsons Bluegrass Festival – Parson, WV August 31st – Thomas Point Beach Bluegrass Festival – Brunswick, ME * September 13 – Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion – Bristol, TN September 27 – IBMA Bluegrass Live – Raleigh NC September 28 – IBMA Bluegrass Live – Raleigh NC October 10 – Eddie’s Attic – Decatur, GA ! October 13 – CaveFest – Pelham, TN
^ With Los Lobos * With The Po’ Ramblin’ Boys ! With Lillie Mae
Corinne San Antonio offers its delectable brunch with honest food for dad to enjoy. Photo: Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa, used with permission.
Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa,the recently opened Autograph Collection hotel in downtown, is pleased to share its Father’s Day (June 16) offerings to pamper dads this season. Bridging Downtown and Southtown neighborhoods, the Plaza San Antonio’s lush garden oasis and reimagined environment is a sanctuary of connectivity with extraordinary cuisine, culture, creativity, and community. Dad can enjoy an onsite garden oasis bar, pool, spa, and a lively restaurant with honest food and drinks ranging from hearty to healthy. Below is a breakdown of the specials available for Father’s Day. (Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa, 2024)
Nestled within the historic grounds of San Antonio’s only Autograph Collection Hotel, The Spa Plaza San Antonio offers a restorative approach to health and wellness. To help pamper dads, local or visiting, the hotel will offer a Gentleman’s Refresher Pedicure at its luxurious spa to be booked for only $50. This refreshing pedicure is targeted to the guy on the go with tired toes. Service begins with a warm salt soak, followed by a refreshing lower leg and foot scrub. Hydrating massage cream is worked into the lower legs and feet after cuticle work, nail work, and dead skin is polished off. Please note that this service is not only for men, but it does not include any kind of nail polish.
Guests can upgrade the pedicure service with a Specialized Treatment Mask add-on for only $40. The specialized sheet masks are excellent for infusing skin with deep hydration, as well as potent ingredients like neroli, maple water, comfrey, and slow-aging ingredients, to leave skin feeling clean and immediately glowing. The treatment can be booked online or by calling directly at 210-353-8016.
In addition to the unique offerings at the hotel’s Spa, guests can celebrate dad and elevate the day with a Corinne San Antoniofeast. With a modern, comfortable design and refreshing menu that offers a new take on San Antonio dining, Corinne provides a perfect place to gather for Father’s Day brunch or dinner. A delicious Steak Skillet is highlighted on the brunch menu and served with chimichurri, sweet pepper, grilled onion, grilled mushroom and a sunny egg. Dinner highlights a 16oz Linz Heritage Angus Bone-In Ribeye served with red chile truffle butter and crispy potatoes.
To cap off the delightful meal, guests can then head over to Anaqua Garden Bar for a celebratory drink with dad. Anaqua Garden Baris a hidden gem located in the heart of Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa’s garden oasis. Inspired and named after the property’s champion Anaqua tree, this garden bar features a menu highlighting the fusion of Japanese flavors with Latin tradition, botanical cocktails and lush seating to celebrate dad.
Limited Time Specialty Spa Treatment: *Available starting now during Spa operating hours
Corinne San Antonio Sunday Brunch Hours: 7a.m. – 2p.m.
Anaqua Garden Bar Sunday Hours: 11a.m. – 10p.m.
The Spa Plaza San Antonio & Corinne San Antonio 555 S Alamo St San Antonio, TX 78205
Valet parking is available at the hotel at $15 for three hours.
Photo: Whataburger, used with permission.
For the WhataDad in your life, consider these gifts from Whataburger. Golf polos, YETI tumblers and pickleball sets are just a few of the quintessential, dad-approved presents to make the Gift Guide this year. There’s something for every dad too — the golfer, the fisherman, the outdoorsman, and even the dad who says he “doesn’t need anything.” (Whataburger, 2024)
All Father’s Day items are available online at the WhataStore, and orders must be placed no later than June 12 for deliveries to arrive before Father’s Day.
Here are some gift ideas:
Proud WhataDads can sport a head-to-toe Whataburger ‘fit with the extra soft, black WhataDad Tee from Tumbleweed TexStyles, 100% Beef Staunch Hat, the Texas Burger Shorts, and Flying W athleticsocks. The moisture-wicking Texas Standard Polo will have Dad feeling dapper and looking cool at fancier events.
If your dad’s favorite time is tee time, the Day Dot Golf Polo,Otterbox ® Golf Kit, Flying W-marked Titleist Velocity Golf Balls and 24/7 Staunch Collection Hats will impress his buddies at the golf course. Plus, the new Fairway Wood Golf Cover will look great on the back of a cart.
For dads who love to cast a line, the Igloo Kooltunes Stereo Cooler holds all the essentials for a day on the boat, and the WhataDad 30 oz. Orange YETI Rambler ® Tumbler will keep his drink hot or cold from sunrise to sunset. The Green Fishing Shirt will catch compliments with its classic design, yellow rose embroidery, performance fabric and pearl snap closure.
If your dad loves the great outdoors, the Whataburger Flag Straw Hat will keep him shaded while mowing the lawn, hiking or grilling for his favorite campers. The navy, cotton-poly blend WhataDadtee from Tumbleweed TexStyles will keep him comfortable while camping, practicing his serve with the Day Dot Pickleball Set or playing with the pet he swore he “didn’t want.”
‘Chilla Gorilla & Lanky Lemur Journey to the Heart’ is the new children’s book by Kimberly Snyder and Jon Bier. Photo: Amazon
Children’s books hold an enchanting power, transporting young minds to realms of imagination and wonder. With vibrant illustrations and captivating stories, they weave magical tales that ignite curiosity and nurture creativity, instilling a lifelong passions for reading. They teach valuable lessons about friendship, bravery, and kindness, fostering empathy and understanding. Whether exploring fantastical worlds or navigating everyday challenges, children’s books spark joy and inspire dreams, laying the foundation for a lifetime love affair with literature and the boundless realms of imagination.
In this enlightening and playful story by New York Times best-selling author Kimberly Snyder and Jon Bier, wise old Chilla Gorilla teaches his young friend Lanky Lemur how to use his heart’s wisdom to transcend intense emotions, such as frustration, anger, and fear, in order to experience harmony, tranquility, and joy.
The one simple saying that can help kids navigate big feelings
Simple tips to teach children to meditate
Meditation can be FUN: Six tips to help your kids be mindful but have fun while doing it
Heart-Based Living and Family Wellness:
What is heart-based living, and why is it so needed today?
The beauty in slowing down: tips for creating a sense of calm and relaxation for the whole family
Simple everyday ways to increase PEACE and JOY in your family
Starting Meditation for Kids:
At what age should kids start to meditate?
Why has meditation been so challenging, and how does Chilla teach differently and more effectively?
About the authors: Kimberly Snyder is a multiple-time New York Times bestselling author, spiritual and meditation teacher, international speaker, nutritionist, and holistic wellness expert. She has authored six books, which have been translated into several languages, including “Radical Beauty,” which she co-authored with Deepak Chopra, and “You Are More Than You Think You Are: Practical Enlightenment for Everyday Life.”
Jon Bier is a serial entrepreneur, strategist, angel investor, and Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Jack Taylor, a full-service public relations and communications agency. Jon is a bar-admitted, non-practicing attorney who lives in California and Hawaii with his wife, Kimberly, and their two boys.
‘Bold & Easy Coloring Book’ is fun for adults and kids. Photo: Amazon
Coloring books offer a serene escape into a world of tranquility and creativity. They allow for creative expression without pressure and provide a mindful reprieve from the chaos of daily life. Engaging in the simple act of coloring promotes focus and mindfulness, allowing worries to melt away as strokes of color fill the page and fostering a sense of calm and relaxation. Through the gentle rhythm of coloring, stress dissipates, leaving behind a peaceful mind and rejuvenated spirit. In this meditative journey, the canvas becomes a sanctuary for self-expression and inner peace. With a wide variety of themes available, from intricate mandalas to whimsical animals, these books cater to many tastes and can be enjoyed for short bursts or longer sessions.
Coloring books for relaxation and mindfulness activities have surged in popularity in recent years as a simple and effective way to unwind. The repetitive motions of coloring and the focus required to stay within the lines can induce a meditative state, promoting relaxation and reducing stress.
“Bold & Easy Coloring Book” by Inkers Fun contains large print designs that both adults and children can enjoy, but the thick lines are suitable for beginners. The theme is ‘Food & Snacks’ and it features 50 food and snack images. On one page is the numbered image with a description and the image to be colored is on the opposite page. I like that the description guides us regarding which colors to use, for example, image 34 “A bottle of refreshing water with lemon slices and mint leaves” Of course, they’re just suggestions, you can always be an original and use unique colors. The designs are big so it doesn’t take too long to finish. The blank pages at the end are an excellent way to make sure the color ink doesn’t bleed through, just cut and place the page behind the design you’re working on. The overall size is not too big or bulky, making it easy to handle, especially if children are using it.
Overall, this “Bold & Easy Coloring Book” is an excellent way to relax and be creative, regardless of age. So next time you need a break from the daily grind, grab some crayons, or markers, and let your worries melt away. Hopefully, it won’t make you hungry looking at all those snacks.
*The author was contacted for an honest review of this book. The views and opinions expressed here belong solely to her.
The Girl In The Trunk stars Katharina Sporrer and Caspar Phillipson. Courtesy photo, used with permission.
Thriller movies captivate audiences with heart-pounding suspense, intricate plots, and unexpected twists. They explore the darkest corners of human psyche with themes of danger, deception, and moral ambiguity. From psychological thrillers that dig into the depths of the mind to action-packed thrillers with adrenaline-fueled sequences, the genre offers a diverse array of experiences. They are some of the most popular movies because they immerse audiences in a world where nothing is as it seems, leaving them exhilarated and enthralled.
With that said, if you’re in the mood for a claustrophobic thriller, there’s a new movie available now for digital release in the UK, Ireland, USA, and Canada. (Strike Media Ltd, 2024)
The Girl In The Trunk Strap in, and let this enigmatic new thriller take you for a ride. Starring Caspar Phillipson (Jackie, Blonde) and Katharina Sporrer (Genius), and written and directed by Jonas Kvist Jensen, this tight tense thriller will leave you on the edge of your seat.
A woman finds herself kidnapped and entrapped in the enclosed space of a speeding car’s trunk, wearing her wedding dress, and with her phone as the only available tool. The situation deteriorates gradually as a failed escape attempt costs the life of an innocent bystander.
With the clock ticking towards a slow death from heat exhaustion in the Texas desert, a psychotic kidnapper at the wheel, Amanda is forced to make her own luck in the end. A dangerous game of questions and deadly consequences – to be played over the phone with the mysterious kidnapper – seems the only way to maybe discover his true identity, getting help or simply fighting her painful way towards a fleeting chance of escape.
Contemporary at Blue Star presents Xicanx: Dreamers + Changemakers | Soñadores + creadores del cambio. Photo: Contemporary at Blue Star
Contemporary at Blue Star is honored to present Xicanx: Dreamers + Changemakers | Soñadores + creadores del cambio,opening Friday, June 7, 2024, from 6p.m. – 9p.m. at the Contemporary. The opening night will also include a performance by Robert Jose Gonzalez at 8p.m. As the exhibition title suggests, the artists in this exhibition are dreamers and changemakers. Of Mexican American origin, they self-identify as Xicanx, a term that crosses national borders and gender lines to encompass a multi-generational experience. This exhibition uses the term Xicanx to refer to Chicano, Chicana, and Chicanx. The term reflects those who fought for and claim this designation and incorporates the ‘X’ from the Spanish transcription of the Nahuatl sound ‘ch.’ Nahuatl is one of the major Indigenous languages in Mexico. The ‘x’ on the end signals gender-neutral and non-binary inclusivity. (Contemporary at Blue Star, 2024)
Opening Night: Friday, June 7, 2024 | 6p.m. – 9p.m. Performance by Robert Jose Gonzalez at 8p.m. | Free and open to the public On View: June 7, 2024–October 6, 2024
The original conception of this exhibition came from a desire curators Jill Baird and Greta de León had to share the overlooked histories of American civil rights, including the Chicano/a civil rights movement of the 1960s and 70s, called El Movimiento. The installation at Contemporary at Blue Star is particularly significant due to El Movimiento’s roots in San Antonio, and the West Side of the city. From fighting for labor rights to equality for students, the work of San Antonio activists (and artists) played a crucial role in El Movimiento.
Some of the artists in Xicanx, began their work as part of El Movimiento. Much of the artwork created during this time sought to do the very things that this exhibition does: educate about the social inequity of Xicanx peoples, their history, and the importance of their culture. Other artists define themselves through their indigenous roots, and a younger generation expands the idea of Xicanx Art while continuing the work of addressing personal, social, and political issues of today.
In their curatorial statement, Baird and Greta note the importance of this work, “Artists were a major and critical part of El Movimiento over 50 years ago, and they continue to be strong activists fighting for equality and against racism and discrimination. Being Chicano or Xicanx* is an identity all of the artists in this exhibition choose. It is more than being just Mexican American; it is accepting the responsibility to fight for their community, their culture and their civil rights. The artists in this exhibition are dreamers and changemakers.”
Alongside the artwork are quotes, speeches, or sayings from prominent Xicanx authors, scholars, and exhibiting artists. A projection displays the work of murals across the United States, showcasing the reach and breadth of Xicanx voices in public art.
Xicanx: Dreamers + Changemakers | Soñadores + creadores del cambio was originally produced and presented by the Museum of Anthropology (MOA) at UBC and The Americas Research Network (ARENET), and curated by Jill Baird, former Curator of Education, MOA + Greta de León, Executive Director, ARENET. The presentation at Contemporary at Blue Star has been organized in collaboration with Mary Heathcott, Executive Director Contemporary at Blue Star; Jacqueline Saragoza McGilvray, Curator and Exhibitions Director, Contemporary at Blue Star; and Jon Hinojosa, President, CREO Consulting.
Contemporary at Blue Star presents exhibitions with artists from San Antonio and around the world sharing their global perspectives that encourage understanding, empathy, change, and action, fulfilling our mission to inspire, nurture, and innovate. Like most non-collecting contemporary art spaces, the Contemporary contributes fresh insights and perspectives on larger issues affecting society and culture by highlighting trends, movements, and conversations happening in art. Admission to the Contemporary is always free.
Contemporary at Blue Star 116 Blue Star San Antonio, TX 78204 (210) 227-6960
L Cuzidora is a proud rat mother from Transylvania, Eastern Europe. She studied Sociology and Environmental Sciences and wishes she’d had started writing at an earlier age. Now she’s determined to make up for all the years spent jumping from one passion to another and devotes herself to exploring even more flawed characters. Her book “Autumn Blooms Red”(Red Gladiola Book 1) centers around Avril and Irina’s relationship in a dystopian society.
Synopsis: It’s been a decade since Avril’s family was exiled to Ordea’s smallest province. While not entirely stripped of power, her mother’s bitterness blinds her to Avril’s needs. So when an old friend of her mother’s shows up with plans of rehabilitation, Avril is quick to join. As months pass and no concrete steps are taken, her own approach becomes ever more reckless. After all, she can count on her parents’ support. But what’s the weight of family in a society striving towards equality?
Orphaned at a young age, Irina clings to her family’s traditions in a secular world. She finds little comfort in the State’s promises of safety, determined, despite the risks, to help those unable or unwilling to live by the party directive. To her, Avril is a special sort of circumstantial victim, one who’s not even aware of her imprisonment. But when her faith revolves around leading others onto the right path, who’s to watch that she won’t lose herself? (Amazon, 2024)
Review: “Autumn Blooms Red” by L. Cuzidora is an intriguing story that explores the elements of romance, mystery, and self-discovery. Set against the backdrop of a militaristic society complete with parades, soldiers, one child policies, and food rations, it follows the journeys of Avril and Irina. Avril’s family has been exiled and her mother has selfish motivations that don’t include Avril. Irina was orphaned at a young age and struggles to survive emotionally in a repressive society. They seem like polar opposites, but they find each other.
The narration is in the first person point of view and the chapters are short and alternate between the two, so readers get an insight into their specific mindset. While the main characters are deeply developed and relatable, the secondary characters have their own compelling stories and motivations, adding depth and dimension to the narrative.
The author’s prose is rich and beautifully poetic, filled with vivid imagery, which paints a picturesque landscape that effortlessly transports readers into the heart of the narrative: “Orange light knives through the shutters of our bedroom. I’ve exhausted every corner of my pillow, searching for a cool spot.” She expertly weaves twists and turns that keep the suspense alive and make the action flow effortlessly through the pages.
Overall, it’s a poignant and compelling story about resilience and the power of human connection. It will no doubt linger in the hearts of readers long after they’ve turned the final page. It is an easy read and recommended for readers who enjoy dystopian fiction filled with flawed characters amid unique worlds and settings.
*The author was contacted for an honest review of this book. The views and opinions expressed here belong solely to her.
Lord Buffalo’s new album Holus Bolus will be released July 12, 2024. Photo: Metal Injection
Austin heavy psychedelic-Americana band Lord Buffalorecently released a new single from their forthcoming album Holus Bolus. CvltNation shares “I Wait on The Door Slab” single HERE. Also now streaming on Bandcamp and all DSPs HERE. (US/THEM Group, 2024)
Metal Injection previously launched the title track and official video for “Holus Bolus” HERE.
Lord Buffalo is Daniel Pruitt (guitar, bass, piano, vocals, melodica), Garrett Hellman (guitar, sub-bass, piano, synths), Patrick Patterson (violin), and Yamal Said (drums, percussion).
Lord Buffalo is heavy in the way that ghosts are heavy… in the way that billowing dust is heavy.
That is to say, the Austin, TX Psych-Americana band’s music impacts hard, though it seems impossible to touch. Their sound flows through us, it doesn’t invite the Pavlovian response of typical heavy rock music
Perhaps it’s fitting then that their new album Holus Bolus takes its name from an antiquated term meaning “all at once.” It materializes instantly from the first notes of the opening title track, like a dark grey haze drawing listeners in with the band’s deft juxtapositions of droning violin, guitars, drums and vocals. It draws equally from Morricone and Badalementi as from Sabbath and Swans.
While the quartet trudges the same murky waters as dark emotive brethren David Eugene Edwards/Woven Hand, Chelsea Wolfe, Emma Ruth Rundle, Earth/Dylan Carlson, Echo & The Bunnymen, and Nick Cave, their creative interplay of Middle Eastern influence with a distinctly Western feel takes listeners in entirely new directions as the album envelops them. Holus Bolus was recorded by Danny Reisch and Max Lorenzen at Good Danny’s in Lockhart, TX. Mixed by Danny Reisch. Mastered by Max Lorenzen.
“While the making of this record feels a bit like a sleep-deprived hallucination to me. Listening to it now, I find it strangely hopeful — there’s a kind of release that you hit in exhaustion. I think the record knew what it was after, even if we didn’t. It felt very much like the record just appeared one day, holus bolus.” – Daniel Pruitt
Holus Bolus will be available worldwide on vinyl, CD, and digital via Blues Funeral Recordings on July 12,2024. Pre-order HERE.
Artist: Lord Buffalo Album: Holus Bolus Label: Blues Funeral Recordings Release Date: July 12, 2024
Courtesy album photo, used with permission
Holus Bolus
Slow Drug
Passing Joy
Malpaisano
I Wait on the Door Slab
Cracks in the Vermeer
Rowing in Eden
“Known for their atmospheric spin on folk-rock, at times sounding like the Anthology of American Folk Music beamed from outer space.” — NPR Music
“A dusky, moody, roots-quaking disc of tension and release.” — Austin Chronicle
“Lord Buffalo masterfully mixes straightforward, stoner-tinged rock with more violin-driven post-rock tones into one beautifully captivating sound that everyone should be familiar with.” — Metal Injection
“Perspective Investments in Airbnb for beginners” by Oscar Ray.
Airbnb revolutionized travel accommodation by connecting travelers with unique lodging options worldwide. Founded in 2008, it allows individuals to rent out their properties, offering diverse choices from cozy apartments to lavish villas, often at competitive prices. Hosts can monetize their spaces while guests enjoy personalized experiences beyond traditional hotels. Airbnb’s platform fosters cultural immersion, enabling travelers to live like locals and discover hidden gems. However, its rapid expansion raised concerns about housing affordability, neighborhood disruption, and safety. Despite controversies, Airbnb continues to reshape the hospitality industry, catering to adventurous spirits seeking authentic stays and forging connections across borders.
Synopsis: Oscar Ray “Perspective Investments in Airbnb for Beginners”is an essential guide for anyone looking to dive into the world of short-term rental investments using Airbnb. Authored by seasoned investor Oscar Ray, this book offers a comprehensive, step-by-step roadmap tailored for beginners. It details the newest strategies to not only get started but also to thrive in building a profitable short-term rental business.
From understanding the basics of Airbnb and real estate investment to mastering the complexities of property management and guest relations, this guide covers all the crucial areas. It is packed with practical advice, useful tips, and industry tricks that are designed to help readers navigate their way through the competitive market. Readers will learn how to identify promising properties, set competitive pricing, enhance guest experiences, and manage bookings efficiently. The book also discusses the importance of online marketing and how to use social media to boost your property’s visibility. (Amazon, 2024)
Review: This extremely useful guide is aimed at investors and homeowners who want to learn about the history of Airbnb and gives “insights and strategies needed to navigate the exciting world of Airbnb investments.” The main objective is to help readers learn all about Airbnb and how to use it to create passive income by providing key strategies for maximizing rental income. Readers will learn how to create a high quality detailed listing that draws traffic, how to provide an exceptional guest experience, and, most importantly, how to handle challenges and regulations such as zoning laws, and management duties.
Who will benefit from this book? Beginners get the basics of Airbnb and how to get started in their successful investment journey. Seasoned Investors get advanced strategies such as market analysis techniques and insights on optimizing operations. Entrepreneurs get advice on building their rental business, whether it involves single or multiple properties.
This guide also includes tools and resources such as checklists, the software needed, and case studies and real world examples of successful investors – their strategies and lessons learned. There’s also a glossary of terms related to Airbnb and real estate investment in case some of terms used seem unfamiliar.
It is divided as follows with chapters that include:
Introduction Chapter 1 – The History and Growth of Airbnb Chapter 2 – Legal and Regulatory Considerations Chapter 3 – Criteria for Choosing Profitable Properties Chapter 4 – Designing and Furnishing Your Rental for Comfort and Appeal Chapter 5 – Providing Exceptional Guest Experiences for Positive Reviews Chapter 6 – Methods for Acquiring Additional Properties Chapter 7 – Handling Difficult Guests and Resolving Conflicts Chapter 8 – Long-term Strategies for Building a Sustainable Rental Business Chapter 9 – Emerging Trends in the Sharing Economy and Short-Term Rental Market Appendices – Resources for Airbnb Hosts (Websites and Platforms, Community Support and Learning)
Overall, “Perspective Investments in Airbnb for Beginners” is an outstanding user manual for readers interested in using Airbnb to create passive income or as an investment option. Standout chapters include Chapter 4 – Setting Up Your Airbnb – how to create a listing by using high quality photographs and how to create a welcoming atmosphere on the property; and Chapter 7 –Navigating Challenges and Risks – dealing with difficult guests and preventative measures to take that will ensure a smooth transaction. I highly recommend this book for anyone who is considering going into the Airbnb business. The material is easy to understand and the chapters are conveniently organized to make it easy to reference as needed and the resources listed in the appendix provide much needed support. It is a definite must have for investors of all levels.
*The author was contacted for an honest review of this book. The views and opinions expressed here belong solely to her.
Killers of the Flower Moon is one of the movies that will be featured in this summer’s Briscoe Summer Film Series. Photo: Briscoe Western Art Museum, used with permission.
Stampede into the Briscoe Western Art Museumfor a wild summer of survival. From hands-on workshops and book signings, film screenings and conversations about wildlife and conservation to the museum’s beloved National Day of the Cowboy celebration, the Briscoe is the place to be to survive this summer. (Briscoe Western Art Museum, 2024)
The exhibition’s title references Charles Darwin’s On the Origin of Species, which had a revolutionary impact on how people from Western cultures envisioned our relationship with the other animals on Earth. In the post-Darwin era, a group of classically trained painters now known as the “Big Four” emerged and helped establish a vision of wildlife and nature that remains with us today. German Richard Friese (1854–1918) is the Big Four’s elder, followed chronologically by Swede Bruno Liljefors (1860–1939), German Wilhelm Kuhnert (1865–1926), and German-American Carl Rungius (1869–1959).
The Rijksmuseum Twenthe in Enschede, Netherlands, and the National Museum of Wildlife Art are the only two museums in the world to hold masterpieces by each member of the group. Survival of the Fittest brings together the best paintings from these two esteemed institutions for the first time. Along with the 45 works featured in the exhibition, the Briscoe will feature eight works by Robert “Bob” Frederick Kuhn (1920-2007), on loan exclusively to the Briscoe to showcase how Kuhn – one of the most prolific American wildlife artists – was greatly influenced by the Big Four. Separately, the Briscoe’s permanent collection includes “Rainbow Rams” by Carl Rungius, giving everyone 54 wildlife works to explore.
The Briscoe is hosting a preview party to open the exhibition, followed by a series of events that feature the exhibition curator and other special guests. Opening events include:
• Survival of the Fittest – Exclusive Preview Party Thursday, June 13, 6p.m. – 8p.m.
The event includes complimentary valet, beer, wine, specialty cocktails, and light bites. Tickets are $25 for museum members and Contributing and President’s Society membership tiers receive two tickets. Museum members may upgrade their membership by calling 210.299.4499. Nonmembers may purchase tickets for $35. Tickets are available online.
• Survival of the Fittest: A Tour on the Wild Side Exhibition tour and book signing with curator Adam Duncan Harris Friday, June 14, 1p.m. – 2p.m., included with museum admission
Enjoy a tour of the exhibition with curator Adam Duncan Harris as he dives into the lasting impact of the Big Four and places their paintings in an international context – and how these paintings invite visitors to reflect on their relationship with the natural world. Harris will also sign copies of his book, “Survival of the Fittest: Envisioning Wildlife and Wilderness with the Big Four, Masterworks from the Rijksmuseum Twenthe and the National Museum of Wildlife Art,” available in the Briscoe’s Hendler Family Museum Store.
• Film Screening, Conversation and Tour: The Role of Artists in Wilderness Conservation – “There is a Place on Earth” Curator Adam Duncan Harris and filmmaker Ellen van den Honert Saturday, June 15, 1:30p.m., included with museum admission
Dive into the role artists play in wilderness conservation through “There is a Place on Earth,” Dutch filmmaker Ellen van den Honert’s beautiful and poetic journey around the world, meeting artists and conservationists who share extraordinarily creative work and a commitment to the environment. Following the screening, Harris and van den Honert will answer audience questions, then lead a tour of the exhibition.
• Watercolor Workshop: A Study of the Animal Form A hands-on session for all skill levels with artist Teal Blake Thursday, June 20, 6p.m. – 8p.m., $25 for members, $45 for non members
Award-winning artist and member of the Cowboy Artists of America Teal Blake returns to the Briscoe for a night of watercolor painting, guiding inspiring artists and providing instruction in how to portray the animal form with watercolor paint on paper. The workshop is for all skill levels and watercolor kits, brushes and paper are included. Pre-registration is required.
Following the Survival of the Fittest opening events, the Briscoe will be the place to be throughout the summer. Other activities on tap include:
Make this Summer One for the Books: Literary Cinema The Briscoe’s Summer Movie Series explores western movies based on popular novels on the third Sunday of June, July, and August. A short presentation begins at 1p.m., followed immediately by the screening. Each movie is included in general museum admission, with complimentary beer courtesy of Ranger Creek Brewery, wine and movie snacks. Pre-registrationwith an online museum admission ticket purchase is encouraged to save your seat. Museum members may enjoy the series for free as part of their Briscoe membership.
o Briscoe Summer Film Series: Giant (1956) Sunday, June 16, 1p.m. – 4p.m., included with museum admission
Spend a Giant Father’s Day at the Briscoe with dad enjoying this classic American epic brought to life with Rock Hudson, Elizabeth Taylor, and James Dean. All attendees will be entered to win a trip to stay at the Hotel Paisano in Marfa, Texas, where Hudson, Taylor and Dean stayed during filming, and tickets to the Museum of the Big Bend in Alpine, Texas. Tickets may be purchased online.
o Briscoe Summer Film Series: News of the World (2020) Sunday, July 21, 1p.m. – 4p.m., included with museum admission
Based on the 2016 novel by Paulette Jiles, Tom Hanks portrays an aging Civil War veteran who must return a young girl who was taken in by the Kiowa – and raised as one of them – to her last remaining family. Everyone who attends the screening will receive a free copy of the book. Tickets may be purchased online.
o Briscoe Summer Film Series: Killers of the Flower Moon (2023) Sunday, August 18, 1p.m. – 4p.m., included with museum admission
Directed by Martin Scorsese and based on the non-fiction book by David Grann, this Oscar-nominated film shares the story of a series of murders of members of the Osage after oil was discovered on tribal and. The movie stars Leonardo DiCaprio, Robert De Niro and Lilly Gladstone. Come to the movie with three books to donate to the San Antonio Independent School District Foundation’s Book Buddies program and receive a free copy of “Killers of the Flower Moon,” filling your bookshelf while sparking a love of reading for SAISD children in grades K-8. Tickets may be purchased online to guarantee your seat.
The Briscoe presents its annual National Day of the Cowboy celebration on Saturday, July 27, 10a.m. – 4p.m. at the museum. The free community event, which includes free admission to the museum and its exhibitions, features indoor and outdoor activities across the museum’s River Walk campus for cowpokes of all ages to enjoy and explore the west. This year’s celebration spotlights cowgirls and their role in roping, riding and taming the West to inspire young cowgirls – and cowboys – to follow their western dreams. Saddle up with your family and head west for a free day of fun you won’t forget.
SA Examiner 