Author: Sandra Cruz

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

Upcoming new album release: Playing Favorites – Sheer Mag

Sheer Mag releases new single/video for ‘Moonstruck’ from their new album Playing Favorites. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Sheer Mag is a rock band from Philadelphia that combines 1970s rock and punk elements and has worked hard to carve out a clear singular position within the canon of contemporary rock. Effortlessly switching between the refined flourishes of a “connoisseur’s band” and the ecstatic colloquialism of populist songwriting—yet displaying no strict loyalty to either camp—their sound, while often referenced, is unmistakably and immediately recognizable as theirs alone. On Playing Favorites, Sheer Mag’s third full-length and first with Third Man Records, the band capitalize on a decade’s worth of devotion to their own collective spirit—a spirit refined in both the sweaty trenches of punk warehouses and the larger-than-life glamour of concert halls—emerging with a dense work of gripping emotions, massive hooks, and masterfully constructed power-pop anthems. This is the record the Philadelphian rock and roll four-piece has always been destined to make. (Another Side, 2024)

Playing Favorites elevates their signature approach to rock and roll to lushly cinematic new heights. Their latest single “Moonstruck” lives up to its titular reference of Hollywood-sized surprise romance and spools out a charming story of desire. Fans can pre-order/pre-save Playing Favorites here.

“‘Moonstruck’ is about how invigorating it is to have a new crush. After too long lost in the wilderness, it’s gratifying to find a beacon of tenderness to help reorient yourself in the maze of love. Written in 2021 and originally intended for a disco EP, ‘Moonstruck’ has been reworked as a more expansive and lush arrangement and features some of our favorite guitar work on the new record.” – Matt Palmer, guitarist and lyricist

The album burns with a sweetened gratitude for the lot one has been given in life: the luck of coming up punk; the luck of living an unalienated life; the luck of feeling love, and losing love. It is undoubtedly a record by the same Sheer Mag that audiences have spent the last decade falling in love with. In fact, for all of its sonic departures and evolutions, this record is perhaps the most “Sheer Mag” release yet. Not so much a return to form, but rather a realization of those greatest promises that the band has up until now only hinted at. With Playing Favorites, Sheer Mag cater to their tastes and their tastes alone: so long as they continue to do so, the future of rock and roll, that great human tradition, is in the best of hands.

Sheer Mag will embark on an extensive headlining tour this spring that will kick off in D.C. late March and will take them coast to coast through early May. They have confirmed performances at NYC’s Bowery Ballroom, a hometown show at Philadelphia’s First Unitarian Church and more. Tickets and updates are available online. 

Playing Favorites track listing:
01 – Playing Favorites
02 – Eat It and Beat It
03 – All Lined Up
04 – Don’t Come Lookin’
05 – I Gotta Go
06 – Moonstruck
07 – Mechanical Garden (Featuring Mdou Moctar)
08 – Golden Hour
09 – Tea On The Kettle
10 – Paper Time
11 – When You Get Back

Sheer Mag tour dates:
Mar 29: Washington, DC – Songbyrd
Mar 30: Carrboro, NC – Cat’s Cradle – Back Room
Mar 31: Asheville, NC – Eulogy
Apr 01: Nashville, TN – The Blue Room at Third Man Records
Apr 02: Atlanta, GA – The Masquerade, Purgatory
Apr 04: New Orleans, LA – Siberia
Apr 05: Houston, TX – The End
Apr 06: Austin, TX – Far Out Lounge
Apr 07: Dallas, TX – Double Wide
Apr 09: Mesa, AZ – The Underground
Apr 10: Tucson, AZ – Club Congress
Apr 11: San Diego, CA – The Casbah
Apr 12: Santa Ana, CA – Constellation Room
Apr 13: Los Angeles, CA – Lodge Room
Apr 15: San Francisco, CA – Rickshaw Stop
Apr 17: Portland, OR – Star Theater
Apr 18: Seattle, WA – The Vera Project
Apr 19: Boise, ID – The Shredder
Apr 20: Salt Lake City, UT – Kilby Court
Apr 22: Denver, CO – Hi Dive
Apr 24: Omaha, NE – Reverb Lounge
Apr 25: Minneapolis, MN – 7th St. Entry
Apr 26: Madison, WI – High Noon Saloon
Apr 27: Chicago, IL – Sleeping Village
Apr 29: Kalamazoo, MI – Bell’s Eccentric Cafe
May 05: Somerville, MA – Crystal Ballroom
May 06: East Haven, CT – Beeracks
May 08: New York, NY – Bowery Ballroom
May 10: Philadelphia, PA – First Unitarian Church
May 01: Toronto, ON – Velvet Underground
May 03: Buffalo, NY – Mohawk Place
May 04: Troy, NY – No Fun
May 31 – Jun 02: Northampton, MA – Field Day Music Festival

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Book review: ‘The Girl from Wudang’ by PJ Caldas

‘The Girl from Wudang: A Novel About Artificial Intelligence, Martial Arts and Immortality’ by PJ Caldas. Photo: Amazon

PJ Caldas, a.k.a PJ Pereira, the author of multiple best-selling novels in Brazil, was named one of the most important writers of the 21st century by the Dictionary of Brazilian Literature. He published four books inspired by the mythology carried to the country by the African diaspora and reached the top five best-selling titles multiple times. PJ is also a martial artist with 40 years of experience in combat sports, including kempo, karate, tai chi, and Brazilian jiu jitsu. In 2023 he was named Jury President of the Artificial Intelligence Awards at the Art Director’s Club and curated a Global immersive exhibit of designers collaborating with AI, called ADC101+1, as a way to explore the use of this emerging technology as a creative tool. His new book “The Girl from Wudang” is a story about immortality, martial arts, and AI that will change the way you look at life, science, and the crazy times we are living in.

“The Girl from Wudang” – My Name is Tigress and I am immortal. This is my story. Embark on a mind-bending journey with Tigress as she navigates the confusing jumps of conscience that throw her between tender moments of her childhood practicing Tai Chi in China, the most violent cage fights in California, and a secret lab where scientists experiment with her brain. She was raised in a traditional Chinese setting, immersed in Tai Chi and the Dao, but life soon takes her to California where she gets involved in professional fighting, which she loves. The story begins with an internet Blackout and Tigress is watching it unfold on television in her Oakland home and then decides to go for a jog around the neighborhood. Trouble always seems to find her, or she goes looking for it, but either way, she gets involved in a brutal street fight. Then there is a flash and she is transported to another location. This is Tigress’ life, and she shares her experiences as well as the journey that completely changes her life.

In “The Girl from Wudang,” PJ Caldas gives readers a look into the life of a confident, strong, and self-reliant fighter who evolves from a street fighter to a selfless immortal being. She is a trained fighter, and at first she is smug, but her intent is to teach women to fight: “When it comes to fighting, here’s the difference between a guy and a girl: we know they underestimate us. And I love to make them regret that.” Searching for a way to alleviate her chronic headaches, she allows herself to be part of an experiment and that is where cutting edge technology steps in. Tigress is telling her story, so it is in the first person point of view and the narration, especially the fight scenes, are highly descriptive: “My heels smash his sternum, making a crack and a puffing sound, though momentum and idiocy keep pushing his hips forward.” At first, the footnotes seem out of place, but they become useful when explaining Chinese culture and the author’s thought processes and other background information. The action is fast paced but the sudden jumps in location can seem confusing and some of the fight action is bloody and violent. Regardless, this speculative science fiction novel expertly combines ancient traditions, modern day technology/science, spirituality, and martial arts. It is a must read for fans of cyberpunk and science fiction thrillers by William Gibson and Stieg Larsson.

“This strange dimension where I live, this place nerds call ‘the cloud’ isn’t the Dao of my ancestors. Though, from where I stand, I can hear everything.”

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

Rating: 4 out of 5.

Celebrate Valentine’s Day with sweets and special treats

Sweeten your Valentine’s Day with special offerings from Bakery Lorraine. Photo: Bakery Lorraine, used with permission.

Valentine’s Day is right around the corner, and if you are still looking for inspiration on how to celebrate the big day, here are a couple of suggestions from Bakery Lorraine and iFLY Indoor Skydiving. Whether you like celebrating with something sweet or looking for something adventurous, unique, and special to do with a significant other or friends, read on for more details. (Bakery Lorraine, iFLY Indoor Skydiving, 2024)

Bakery Lorraine is adding an extra touch of romance to the big holiday. For foodies looking forward to delectable Valentine’s sweets, Bakery Lorraine has pastries exclusive to the Valentine’s Day holiday available in-store at all locations.

The sweets include: 

  • Strawberry Pop Heart
  • Heart Moonpie
  • Japonaise
  • Berry Tart

In addition to themed desserts, Bakery Lorraine is offering Valentine’s Day bouquets with macarons for pre-order now online until 12p.m. on Sunday, February 11. Pickup is on Valentine’s Day at the Bakery Lorraine location noted on the order.

For guests in San Antonio, Bakery Lorraine at Pearl will have a flower pop up tent from 4p.m. to 7p.m. on Valentine’s Day (February 14) with beautiful florals available for purchase.

Bakery Lorraine is a San Antonio favorite and nationally recognized pastry shop famous for its colorful macarons and exquisite French pastries. Owned by chefs Anne Ng, Jeremy Mandrell, and operator Charlie Biedenharn, Bakery Lorraine was named one of the best new bakeries in the U.S. by Food & Wine as well as one of the “13 Destination Bakeries” by Conde Nast Traveler. Bakery Lorraine serves handmade French pastries and macarons using the finest ingredients. The bakery serves an all-day menu including items like its Croque Madame, the quiche Lorraine, an assortment of salads and soups and artisan sandwiches. Bakery Lorraine has four locations in San Antonio including one in the Historic Pearl district, one in the Medical Center, one in the RIM shopping center, and one inside The DoSeum. Bakery Lorraine also has an Austin location at the Domain NORTHSIDE and a Boerne location.

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In celebration of Valentine’s Day, iFLY Indoor Skydiving is spreading the love by offering a special “Love Is in the Air” package for first-time flyers that includes four flights and two videos shared by two people. This package is a perfect idea for adventurous couples, friends, and families seeking a thrill this Valentine’s Day. Whether it’s for a unique Valentine’s Day date night or a one-of-a-kind Valentine’s Day celebration, iFLY brings loved ones together for an unforgettable experience.

The exclusive package is available for purchase online and at iFLY tunnels from now through February 19. Flights must be purchased, booked and used at a participating U.S. iFLY Indoor Skydiving location within the promotional timeframe (2/1/24 – 2/19/24) for flights to be redeemable.

iFLY is a sports and recreation company with the mission to deliver the dream of flight. The company pioneered the body-flying “indoor skydiving” experience and is the world leader in vertical wind tunnel technology. Guests don’t need to be athletes or in the best shape of their lives. iFLY’s world-class instructors are pros at making flying safe and fun for everyone. Prices vary per iFLY location.

Austin-based iFLY Holdings, LLC, is the world leader in the design, manufacturing, sales and operations of wind-tunnel systems for indoor skydiving. The company has flown more than 9,000,000 people in a dozen countries and at sea since launching the modern vertical wind-tunnel industry in 1998. iFLY has over 70 facilities operating worldwide and close to 40 in the U.S. iFLY supports and utilizes the safety and training guidelines set out by the International Bodyflight Association (IBA) to ensure the safety and progression of the sport of indoor skydiving.

For a totally unique Valentine’s Day gift idea, consider iFLY Indoor Skydiving. Photo: iFLY Indoor Skydiving, used with permission.
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New book release: ‘Dr. King Goes to India! A Cool Kids’ Guide’ by Cara Reese

‘Dr. King Goes to India! A Cool Kids’ Guide’ by Cara Reese. Photo: Amazon

I’ve been an avid reader all my life and some of my favorite memories as a child are linked to books in one way or another. Books make such wonderful gifts, especially for children. Not only are they entertaining, they can also be used as educational tools to help them expand their vocabulary and teach them how to be kind and responsible citizens. In today’s new book news, Cara Reese has a new children’s book out, “Dr. King Goes to India! A Cool Kid’s Guide.” It is all about Dr. King’s trip to India, so if you’re looking for the perfect book for the child/children in your life that will teach them about Dr. King’s experience in India and his nonviolent philosophy, consider this new title, especially during Black History Month. Pick up your copy today – it is available on Amazon.

Martin Luther King Jr. was a Christian minister, activist, and political philosopher who was one of the most prominent leaders in the civil rights movement from 1955 until his assassination in 1968. (Wikipedia)

Cara Reese has roots in St. Louis, Chicago and Dallas/Ft. Worth. She received her B.A. in Humanities and her M.A. in Developmental Psychology from the University of Texas at Austin. A third-generation educator who’s endlessly inspired by the power of historical picture books, she studied children’s literature at Columbia University. Cara lives in Atlanta and remains perpetually in awe of the city’s rich history. When the stars are perfectly aligned, she enjoys globe-trekking with her amazing family, staring for hours at the ocean, or aspiring to make the perfect kale chip. Cara Reese’s first children’s book, “Black Artists Rock! A Cool Kids’ Guide A-Z,” earned the coveted Kirkus star. “Dr. King Goes to India! A Cool Kids’ Guide,” has earned the Kirkus starred review and is Cara’s second children’s book. Read an interview with the author on Kirkus Reviews.

“Dr. King Goes to India! A Cool Kids’ Guide” – In this vibrant and lyrical text, the little-known story of Dr. King’s exhilarating and life-changing journey to India is finally told. Inspired by Gandhi’s nonviolent philosophy, Martin and his wife, Coretta, jet set across the globe to the wondrous land of India. Traveling by planes, trains and boats, their colorful month-long adventure would change them forever. This compassionate and deeply touching story is a testament to the power of Gandhi’s and King’s nonviolent philosophy to connect people across continents for a common goal: justice.

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New thriller movie release: Trunk: Locked In

The claustrophobic German thriller Trunk: Locked In is now available to view on Amazon Prime. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

If you enjoy action and thriller movies, today’s new movie release might interest you. Trunk: Locked In is a movie about a woman who wakes up disoriented in a locked trunk with no idea about what is going on or what to expect. This high octane rollercoaster ride of a movie follows a young woman in a race against time for survival. Sounds interesting, doesn’t it? It’s in German with English subtitles, but I like discovering thrilling foreign movies and subtitles are no problem for me. I know what I’m watching this weekend.

Outside the Club is excited to announce the global release of their latest feature, Marc Schießer’s pulsing thriller Trunk: Locked In, as an Original feature on Prime Video. Trunk: Locked In is available on Prime Video in over 240 countries and territories around the world. (Justin Cook PR, 2024)

Trunk: Locked In was written and directed by Marc Schießer, making his feature directorial debut after his work on the German series “Wishlist.” Schießer and his partner Tobias Lohf produced under their Outside the Club banner. Award-winning Berlin actress Sina Martens (The Perfumier, Tatort) headlines the single location thriller, with Artjom Gilz, Luise Helm and Poal Cairo in other roles. Trunk: Locked In made its world premiere at Filmfestival Cologne and went on to win the Best Thriller Feature at Nightmares Film Festival.

Trunk: Locked In – 28-year-old medical student Malina wakes up disoriented in a locked trunk and must realize with horror that she is missing more than just the memory. With her phone as the only connection to the outside world, the intelligent young woman wages a desperate fight for survival while the vehicle races relentlessly toward a terrible secret. Even if she makes it – she will never be the same.

95 minutes/Germany
German with English subtitles

Celebrate the month of love at Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk

Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk has Valentine’s Day and Galentine’s Day specials to help you celebrate in style. Photo: Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk, used with permission.

Now that February is here, it’s time to start planning for this month’s celebrations. Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk is having Valentine’s Day / Galentine’s Day specials this month. So whether you are celebrating with your Valentine or want to plan a special occasion friends, here are some ideas if you plan to be in San Antonio. (Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk, 2024)

For the Couples

Couples can book the new SuiteHeart Romance Package for a $200 Property Romance Credit to be used at the full-service Thompson San Antonio Spa, dining at signature restaurant Landrace, minibar, or parking. Guests will also arrive to a beautiful rose petal setup and a bath/shower welcome amenity for deserving R&R with their loved one. Offer Code = SATROM for Booking Dates: 1/4/2024 – 2/14/2024; Stay Dates: 2/9/2024-2/18/2024.

Couples can also indulge in the epitome of romantic bliss with the property’s highly sought-after Cabana Cuddle Up, an experience that seamlessly melds ultimate relaxation with unparalleled luxury. Begin your journey with an opulent 80-minute massage for two in the exquisite couples’ room, where tranquility and connection intertwine. Following the rejuvenating session, continue the enchantment as you and your favorite person nestle into the sumptuous embrace of one of the poolside daybed cabanas. Here, amid the soothing ambiance, revel in the shared joy of sipping on chilled champagne and partaking in a curated picnic, where every bite is a celebration of love and indulgence.

For the Gals

Perfect for Galentine’s Day with friends and family, up to 20 guests can have private access to Thompson San Antonio Spa when booking The Late Night Escape Spa Party package. You bring the party, and Thompson brings the pampering.

This package includes access to all spa facilities (Eucalyptus Steam Room, Dry Sauna, Scrub Bar, Locker Rooms, Relaxation Area, and the showstopping Cenote Pool Deck), complimentary champagne, handcrafted dessert board, massage services for up to two hours by one expert therapist, and valet service. Guests can call the spa at 210.942.6027 to book the experience and discuss how they can customize their special Galentine’s celebration.

Not to be missed: cocktails, live music and twinkly city and star views at The Moon’s Daughters, the enchanting indoor-outdoor rooftop restaurant and bar floating high above the River Walk that dazzles from its 20th-story perch over the city.

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‘Don’t Let The Pigeon Drive The Bus!, The Musical’ at the Magik Theatre

Get on board ‘Don’t Let The Pigeon Drive The Bus!,’ a rollicking musical based on Mo Willems’ contemporary classic. Photo: Magik Theatre, used with permission.

Coming up at the Magik Theatre, hop on an unforgettable ride in ‘Don’t Let The Pigeon Drive the Bus! The Musical!,’ a hilarious play based on the beloved book by Mo Willems. When the Bus Driver has a crisis that threatens to make her passengers late, a determined Pigeon sees his chance to take the wheel. It’s up to the audience to convince him that even though it’s not the best idea, there is something he can do. With catchy songs, colorful characters, and a heartwarming message about responsibility, this production promises to be a joyous experience for young audiences and adults alike. Even VIA, San Antonio’s transit authority, is joining in the fun with a bus-themed opening night party at Hemisfair Park to get the show rolling. (Magik Theatre, 2024)

Featuring a hilarious script co-written by Willems and Tom Warburton, catchy songs by Deborah Wicks La Puma, and an innovative mix of actors and puppets, ‘Don’t Let The Pigeon Drive the Bus! The Musical!’ plays off Willems’ madcap rhythm and playful vibe.

“In order to give the musical a dramatic arc, Willems has explored WHY the Pigeon cannot drive the bus. He also creates conflict around the Pigeon finding his ‘thing.’ Everyone seems to have one except for the Pigeon. Can the bus driver help the Pigeon figure it out?” – Anthony Runfola, Magik Theatre Artistic Director

Local musical theatre veteran Heather Hooten and Charlie Smith play the wily Pigeon and put-upon Bus Driver, respectively. Costume designer Marshall Chase and accomplished set and lighting designer Katherine Stepanek recreate Willems’ signature visual style for the stage. The result is a gleeful, engaging performance sure to delight fans of musical theater and Mo Willems alike. As always, local students are well taken care of, with matinee performances and a digital resource guide customized for educators. Suitable for children ages 4 and up, ‘Don’t Let The Pigeon Drive The Bus! The Musical!’ is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI), who also supplies all authorized performance materials.

Special Events and Performances
Opening Night Party in the Park | Saturday, February 10, 4:30p.m., show at 6p.m.
Get your little ones in their finest duds and frocks to join the flock (and Pigeon himself) as Magik rolls out the red carpet for this big shot event. Guests will enjoy live music by Billy Ray Shepherd, interactive crafts, live pigeons, raffle prizes, and a special treat courtesy of party partner Hemisfair. Thanks to show sponsor VIA Metropolitan Transit Authority, pint-sized bus enthusiasts can explore VIA’s fully restored, vintage 1966 GMC Dreamliner bus parked outside the theatre, meet the organization’s mascot Primo, and grab a snack from VIA’s bus shaped Grillig food truck.

In celebration of Black History Month, Magik goers can take in VIA’s temporary exhibit highlighting the role of transit in the Civil Rights Movement and the many African American trailblazers whose contributions made a long-lasting impact on the industry. At 5:30p.m., special guest Jeffrey C. Arndt, VIA President and CEO will start the journey with a special story time reading of Willem’s cherished tale, ‘Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus!’

Educator Appreciation Performance | Sunday, February 11, 3p.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 50% off the regular ticket prices with promo code THANKYOU50.

Sensory-Friendly Performance | Saturday, February 24, 10a.m.
Audience members on the autism spectrum and those with sensory issues can take in a special performance designed just for them. Kids and adults are free to be themselves in this relaxed, judgment-free theatre experience.

Pay What You Wish Performance | Sunday, February 25, 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 25.

American Sign Language Interpreted Performance | Saturday, March 9, 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.

Transit Driver Appreciation Discounts | Sunday, March 17, 3p.m. (Closing Day) and Beyond
Magik celebrates San Antonio’s hard-working transit drivers with special discounts on its closing day performance, Sunday, March 17. With proof of I.D., all transit drivers (including taxi, trolley, bus and rideshare drivers as well as pilots) are eligible for a 15% discount off the regular ticket price by using promo code TDAD15. It’s Magik’s way of kicking off Transit Appreciation Day, celebrated every March 18, to thank and appreciate transit drivers around the nation.

As a special thank you to the show sponsor, VIA Metropolitan Transit Authority, all VIA employees are eligible for 20% off the regular ticket price through the run of the show by using discount code VIA20 with proof of I.D.

Purchase bundles, flex passes, and single tickets online, via phone (210) 227-2751, and in person at Magik Theatre’s Box Office (420 S Alamo, 78205). Box Office hours are Monday-Friday, 9a.m. – 5p.m. If a child under 2 uses a seat, even a car or booster seat, the patron must pay for a general admission ticket. Group rates are available for parties of ten or more people. For further inquiries, contact Magik Theatre.  

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‘Don’t Let The Pigeon Drive The Bus’ opening night

Book review: ‘Rethinking Transportation’ by Ansh Verma

‘Rethinking Transportation’ is Ansh Verma’s new book all about transportation. Photo: Amazon

Ansh Verma is a researcher + author + philosopher based in Dhanbad, Jharkhand (India). He researches almost everything that can be observed, felt and/or read, including technology, politics, divine, war, behavioral, engineering, investing, military, finance, and mathematics. Post graduation, Verma has almost 20 years of experience in thinking/making sense of the world. His new book “Rethinking Transportation” focuses on the topic of transportation, the problems in the current transportation system (congestion, pollution, and parking difficulties) and the need for innovative solutions.

“Rethinking Transportation” emphasizes the importance of reimagining transportation for a better future and discusses the potential for innovative solutions to address these problems. Ansh Verma introduces a personal patent in the automobile field and explains how this invention can revolutionize transportation, addressing many of the challenges previously highlighted. There is a detailed examination of the patent, explaining how it works and the potential impact it could have. He includes real-world case studies and success stories of innovative transportation solutions to demonstrate how these solutions have made a positive difference. The book maps out the steps required for the widespread adoption of this new mode of transport, including collaborations, regulations, and public perception. (Amazon, 2024)

The author begins with Introduction: Setting the stage where it is noted that population growth and urbanization have put a strain in the public transportation infrastructure. Chapter 1: The Problems with Traditional Transportation highlights the fact that the individual suffers the most due to longer commutes, limited access to reliable transportation, and the pollution that comes with increased vehicles on the road and therefore, “…traffic congestion perpetuates social inequity.” How can we address these problems? One solution is innovation. According to the author, in Chapter 2: The Call for Innovation, “Innovation in transportation plays a pivotal role in shaping a more sustainable and efficient future.”

The rest of the book is divided as such:

Chapter 3: A New Vision for Transportation
Chapter 4: Patent In Focus
Chapter 5: Benefits of the New Mode of Transport
Chapter 6: Overcoming Challenges and Resistance
Chapter 7: Case Studies and Success Stories
Chapter 8: The Path to Adoption
Chapter 9: Environmental and Societal Impact
Chapter 10: The Future of Transportation

Overall, not only does “Rethinking Transportation” presents an excellent examination of the problems with modern transportation, but it offers solutions. It is heavily researched and contains information that anyone interested in innovations in the transportation industry will find helpful. It is definitely a must read.

*The author was contacted for an honest review of this book. The views and opinions expressed here belong solely to her.

Rating: 4 out of 5.

Hate Ends Now: The Cattle Car Exhibit opens in San Antonio

The Holocaust Memorial Museum of San Antonio will host the Hate Ends Now: The Cattle Car Exhibit from January 29 through February 20, 2024. Photo: The Holocaust Memorial Museum of San Antonio.

The Holocaust Memorial Museum of San Antonio, a department of the Jewish Federation of San Antonio presents the Hate Ends Now: The Cattle Car Exhibit in San Antonio and South Texas from January 29-February 20, 2024. (Komet Communications, 2024)

Opening night – Monday, January 29 at 5p.m.

Featured Speakers: (in order of appearance):
Nehemia “Nammie” Ichilov, President and CEO, Jewish Federation of San Antonio
Leslie Davis Met, Director, Holocaust Memorial Museum of San Antonio
Mayor Ron Nirenberg, City of San Antonio
Todd Cohn, CEO, Hate Ends now

Holocaust Memorial Museum of San Antonio
12500 NW Military Hwy.
San Antonio, TX 78231

The Hate Ends Now Exhibit is presented through a traveling cattle car replica with moving holographic images and narration by survivors. During a 30-minute, 360-degree immersive presentation for groups of 20-30, students and visitors will be exposed to the development and aftermath of the Holocaust through a collection of imagery and footage dating from 1933-1945. It includes recorded testimonies of Holocaust survivors sharing their personal stories in a holographic virtual presentation. The exhibit will encourage visitors to reflect on the depth of evil while inspiring thoughtful conversations about genocide and indifference.

The cattle car exhibit will be in San Antonio from January 29-February 6 open for free public tours, private tours, visits to local middle schools, and Trinity University. Following its tour in San Antonio, the exhibit will spend two days respectively in Austin, Corpus Christi, McAllen, and Laredo.

Title Sponsors include: The Lubetzky Family Foundation, Texas Holocaust, Genocide and Antisemitism Advisory Commission, Texas Historical Commission. Additional support of the exhibit from The Bar-Yadin Family Foundation, Arlene and David Starr, Spurs Sports and Entertainment, and Dr. Elizabeth Glazier and Dr. Michael Piesman.

The Holocaust Memorial Museum of San Antonio, the only museum of its kind in South Texas, opened its doors in 2000. Since then, thousands of guests have continued to visit and engage in interactive educational programming, customized tours, and intergenerational discussions, bridging the lessons of the past to a brighter future.

Through its customized tours, intergenerational conversations with survivors and their children, and creative educational programming, the Holocaust Memorial Museum aims at forming a community of “Upstanders” throughout South Texas – those who stand up for each other and are not bystanders. Today, the Holocaust Memorial Museum impacts over 40,000 students and visitors annually.

New book release: ‘Neon Lights and Plane Tickets’ by Eli Alemán

‘Neon Lights and Plane Tickets: A Cosmic Poetic Prose Collection’ Photo: Eli Alemán, used with permission.

Poetry is a type of artistic writing meant to stir a reader’s emotions or imagination. It is very near to my heart because it is the first type of writing I used to express myself. Combined with science fiction, one of my favorite genres of novels, it makes for a unique reading experience. This is the case in today’s new book release: “Neon Lights and Plane Tickets” by Eli Alemán. It is a sci-fi poetic prose collection with themes of horror, science fiction, and urban legends and poems such as: District, Phantasmagoric Reverie, The Bloody Birth of Conscience, and Layers of Silence. If you love poetry and science fiction, this is one poetry collection that should be next on your TBR (to be read) list. “Neon Lights and Plane Tickets” is available on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, and Goodreads. Pick up your copy today and experience this fascination book of poetry. 

Eli Alemán has been an avid reader since childhood, spending countless hours immersing herself in fantastic worlds and daydreaming of being a part of them. An adventurous and curious spirit led her to become a world traveler and a scientist. She is a microbiologist currently working on marine biology research. She loves nature and the ocean. Despite her field’s logical and analytical nature, her artistic heart beats strong. Eli Alemán is an award-winning artist and now author. Her favorite genres are science fiction, fantasy, horror, and comedy.

“Neon Lights and Plane Tickets” – Neon Lights and Plane Tickets is a sci-fi-themed collection of poetic prose, featuring tales of cosmic horror and galactic urban legends. Explore lush and vibrant cities across the universe, the terrifying creatures they hide, and their inhabitants’ adventures (or misadventures, as the case may be). Bright neon lights and illusions of technological advancement are fine distractions to keep their rotting societies hidden within their foundations—reflections on the intricacies of human nature. (Amazon, 2024)

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