‘Impact of New Technologies on Society: A Blueprint for the Future’ by Siddhartha Paul Tiwari. Courtesy photo, used with permission.
Siddhartha Paul Tiwari is an award-winning technologist known for his understanding of the ever-evolving world of technology and how it impacts society. Driven by a passion for technology, he strives to provide his readers with the most accurate and up to date information possible. In his new book “Impact of New Technologies on Society: A Blueprint for the Future,” he focuses on technology and the growing influence it has on society, politics, and our economy. He is making his book available for free online. (Siddhartha Paul Tiwari, 2022)
“Impact of New Technologies on Society: A Blueprint for the Future” – We already see the impact of emerging technologies on our lives and the economy in many different ways, particularly when it comes to the way we live our lives and the way we work. Because of this, there is fierce competition among companies across the globe in order to ensure that they are able to benefit from the new technological developments. Globally, the United States and Asia are emerging as the two global leaders in this area.
Over the years, there has been a significant change in the landscape of emerging technologies since Alan Turing first asked in the 1950s if machines could think like humans. Emerging technologies will enhance economic growth and efficiency in the future. It is possible to greatly improve decision-making when large amounts of data are analyzed by improving efficiency. It is likely that new products and services, new markets, and new industries will be created as a result, which will in turn boost consumer demand and generate new revenue streams. On the other hand, emerging technologies may also have a profound effect on society and the economy. The creation of superman-like organizations could negatively affect the economy, according to several researchers. It may even lead to a wider gap between developed and developing countries, as well as a rise in the demand for workers with emerging skills and technologies, thereby creating job losses. The latter trend may have a significant impact on the labor market in the long run.
Lone Star belt buckle. Photo: Lone Star Brewing, used with permission.
Lone Star Brewing has launched a special line of merchandise inspired by throwback Lone Star designs from the 1960s and 1970s. The merchandise items include shirts, hats and a brand new belt buckle. The merchandise is available for purchase online starting now until it sells out. (Lone Star Brewing, 2022)
The merchandise line was created in partnership with O.G. Lone Star, a purveyor of vintage Lone Star memorabilia. The new limited shirts, hats and belt buckle are inspired by the nostalgia of the retro Lone Star branding. Only 100 belt buckles will be sold and come with a certificate of authenticity. The items were all created with the help of Morgan Mercantilebased in Fort Worth, Texas.
“The 1960s and 70s produced plenty of classic Lone Star branding that have since become highly sought after items in the decades following,” said Senior Marketing Director, Emily Hoyle. “Knowing that, we wanted to give a nod to that nostalgia and reproduce some of the retro items just in time for holiday gift giving. We’re excited to bring a little joy and a little bit of Lone Star to folks this holiday season.”
The new brass belt buckle is reminiscent of old Lone Star beer signs that can still be found in bars throughout the state. The shirts and hats are reprints of previously retired designs.
Lone Star Brewing Co., the makers of Lone Star Beer “The National Beer of Texas” and Lone Star Texas Light Beer, has been proudly brewing beer in Texas since 1884. Since its founding, Lone Star has partnered with local communities throughout the state, supporting Texas-specific charities and organizations. Lone Star Brewing Co. is owned by Pabst Brewing Company, one of the largest independently owned American brewing companies.
This year’s events include a special shopping event, a festive mariachi showcase and the 8th annual Chanukah at Pearl celebration. Photo: Pearl, used with permission.
Pearl is excited to announce this year’s holiday programming. In addition to the Wednesday Holiday Night Markets in December, Pearl will also host a holiday shopping event featuring artisan gifts, exclusive promotions, extended hours and more, as well as the property’s 8th annual Chanukah celebration and a new, festive mariachi showcase. (Pearl, 2022)
“From our beautiful holiday lights, Christmas tree, retail specials and restaurant offerings, combined with some of our most cherished annual traditions, like Holiday Night Markets and our Chanukah celebration in partnership with Young & Jewish San Antonio, Pearl is always a special place for friends and family to gather and celebrate during this season. This year, we are also thrilled to celebrate with a new Canciones de Navidad mariachi music showcase.” – CEO Mesh Milsap
See below for specific information on Pearl’s 2022 holiday programming:
Tastemakers – Thursday, December 8, hours vary per shop Various locations throughout the property This year, Pearl is encouraging its guests to support local businesses with a holiday shopping event featuring hand-picked gifts, exclusive promotions, extended hours, and more from retailers like Curio, Niche, Larder, LeeLee, The Twig, Adelante, Feliz Modern, Rancho Diaz, The Tiny Finch, Dos Carolinas, Ruby Road Gems and Ten Thousand Villages. Select retailers are making shopping easy with curated gift ideas for him, her, kids and more throughout the shops.
Some of the specials from the retailers include: • Feliz Modern: 10% off carts over $150 • Larder: 15% off beer and wine • Niche: 20% off full priced merchandise • Ten Thousand Villages: Spend $50 and get a tote for free • Rancho Diaz: 10% off carts over $150
Canciones de Navidad – Thursday, December 15, 6:30p.m. to 9p.m. 1100 Springs Plaza This year, Pearl is introducing a new mariachi music showcase called Canciones de Navidad (The Songs of Christmas). The mariachi concert will feature the festive musical stylings of Mariachi Azteca de América, Guadalupe Cultural Arts Mariachi Academy, Mariachi Oro from Burbank High School and Mariachi Hacón from Harris Middle School. Guests can expect to hear familiar holiday songs and enjoy light snacks and drinks from La Gloria and Chilaquil in 1100 Springs Plaza.
Chanukah at Pearl – Wednesday, December 21, 6p.m. to 8p.m. Shade Structure (located near Boiler House) Pearl is excited to host the 8th annual Chanukah at Pearl celebration this year in collaboration with Young & Jewish San Antonio, Rabbi Eli Block, musician Yaakov Chesed and Chef Jason Goldblum. On the evening of Wednesday, December 21, guests are invited to gather at Pearl to enjoy the lighting of the menorah and a special message from Rabbi Eli Block. Guests will also be able to experience traditional Chanukah music and kosher foods including matzah ball soup as well as some south Texas favorites like churros and tamales. Mayor Ron Nirenberg will be in attendance to give special remarks. The menorah at Pearl will be on display at the shade structure from December 18 through the 26.
Whiskey Worth Knowing tasting event. Photo: Twin Liquors, used with permission.
Twin Liquors is hosting a Whiskey Grand Tasting Event and a raffle opportunity to purchase a bottle of Old Forester Birthday Bourbon in preparation of the Holiday season. There will be tasting stations located around the store that will feature Old Forester 86*, 100*, and 1897 Bourbon, Woodford Reserve Bourbons and Rye, Jack Daniels Single Barrel Whiskey, Slane Irish Whiskey and GlenDronach 12 yr. Single Malt Scotch. An engraver will be on site to personalize bottles, so make sure to bring your gift list. (Twin Liquors, 2022)
The event is taking place on Thursday, December 8 from 6p.m. to 8p.m. at Twin’s #68 store at 12955 San Pedro Avenue in San Antonio. Guests must be 21+ to participate and each person in attendance will receive 1 raffle opportunity and must be in attendance to win. Events subject to change without notice.
Born and raised in downtown Austin, Texas in 1937, family owned, Twin Liquors began as one small store and has emerged into a “home grown,” successful Austin company. Twin Liquors has a unique and well-respected reputation throughout the United States for having impeccable team members, outstanding customer service, conveniently located stores, extensive selections of fine wines and premium spirits from around the world, and substantial community involvement.
Joaihú Craft Brazilian Cacao is a direct origin, craft chocolate company whose mission is to create the finest Brazilian tree-to-bar chocolate. Photo: Joaihú, used with permission.
Joaihú, a Direct Origin, Tree To Bar chocolate from the old-growth rainforest in Bahia, Brazil, hit shelves in stores this month throughout Central Texas and is available online across the US. CEO, Austin native, and songstress Kate Robberson says, “The story behind Joaihú is rich, much like the flavor it draws from the soil of the Atlantic Coastal Rainforest. It’s an honor to continue to build bridges between communities through sharing culture, art, and now chocolate.” Robberson’s business partner and Joaihu’s Co-founder, Charles Stewart, are explorers at heart. They have each traveled the world pursuing their individual passions: biology, music, community building, language, herbal medicines, and eventually –– cacao. They saw how deforestation and other unsustainable harvest methods were running rampant in the region and wanted to create a better, more equitable way for the earth and local community to share the tradition and artistry of chocolate. From there, the two chose to plant their chocolate grove in a climate that would yield craft-quality cacao and simultaneously allow them to bolster climate protection efforts. (Joaihú, 2022)
Joaihú is an ancient Tupi word that means “to love and be loved.” It is a verb, a way of being, a mutual care and respect that serves as the guiding philosophy for how the company treats its workers, its customers, and the earth. Joaihú is also the middle name of Stewart’s newborn son. He and Robberson ensure their entire team works in only the safest conditions and earns more than fair wages.
“I built this business with my son in mind. I want it to be sustainable –– not just ecologically, but in every aspect: socially, economically, environmentally, personally –– so that it will not only benefit my family, but the community at large, for generations.” – Charles Stewart
Joaihú’s farm, Fazenda Boa Vista, enjoys sweeping views of the rainforest and ocean, far from harmful toxins and pollution. To honor the precious surrounding ecosystem, Stewart enlisted a pair of visionary farmers to mentor him and help strategically design an agroforestry project that supports the forest’s natural rhythms. Their farmers are intentionally trained to be minimal and non-invasive in their maintenance of the grove, carefully trimming rotting limbs and only using organic methods of fertilization to keep the trees healthy and strong.
The farm’s zero carbon footprint, regenerative agriculture practices and encompassing state-recognized wildlife preserve all speak to Joaihú’s commitment to serve as stewards of the earth. Joaihú aims to work in harmony with nature, respecting the give and take between harvest and growth instead of trying to standardize it.
Joaihú produces one of the purest expressions of Brazilian cacao on the market. Their award-winning chocolatier, Diego Badaró , minimizes additives to focus on the cacao trees as the primary source of flavor, meaning that vintages differ. Joaihú currently offers three percentages of chocolate ranging in intensity from 75% to 85% and 100%. The 100% bar is considered medicinal grade –– one of the most authentic Brazilian cacao bars available on the market. Each is wrapped in fully compostable packaging and share the complex and vibrant nutrient-rich flavors imparted by the Atlantic Coastal Rainforest.
Joaihú will be having a brand launch party on December 3, 2022 at Central Market North (4001 N Lamar Blvd) in Austin, Texas from 6p.m. to 9p.m. to celebrate the release of the chocolate in-stores. The event will showcase the Brazilian culture the founders fell in love with, featuring live musical performances from Grupo Massa from 5:30p.m. – 6:30p.m. and Ley Line from 7p.m. – 8p.m. Guests will be able to enjoy Joaihú’s three chocolate expressions at the event while getting to experience an authentic aspect of Brazilian life.
Joaihú Craft Brazilian Cacao is now distributed in stores across Central Texas, including Central Market, Tiny Grocer, Thom’s Market, Quickie Pickie, Try Hard Coffee, and Dia’s Market. It is also available online nationwide with direct-to-consumer shipping .
iFLY Indoor Skydiving will have holiday gift packages available as well as Black Friday and Cyber Monday offers. Photo: iFLY Indoor Skydiving, used with permission.
In celebration of the holiday season, iFLY Indoor Skydiving will be offering unique gift experiences, including three special Gift of Experience packages, that will run from November 3, 2022 through January 2, 2023 featuring savings up to 35%. In addition, the leader in wind tunnel systems for indoor skydiving will offer a Black Friday Offer from November 24, 2022 through Cyber Monday featuring savings up to 50%. (iFLY Indoor Skydiving, 2022)
The three “Gift of Experience” packages include The Exclusive Gift featuring four flights, two high flights, and two videos shareable by two people; The Elevated Gift featuring four flights and two videos shareable by two people; and The Essential Gift featuring two flights for one person. Shop online or at participating iFLY locations to save up to 35% on the gift they will remember this holiday season. Guests who purchase online will receive vouchers delivered directly via email and all in-store purchases receive their choice of a free holiday gift box with their purchase.
The Black Friday Offer features 50%-off savings and includes 10 flights shareable by up to five people, five high flights, five photos, and five videos (flight bookings valid Monday through Friday). The Black Friday Offer will be available exclusively online.
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 do not need to be an athlete or in the best shape of their life. iFLY’s world-class instructors are pros at making flying fun for everyone.
As temperatures drop, this is a fun and safe activity to do indoors with your loved ones. In fact, iFLY’s wind tunnels have a fresh air advantage over other experiences. Advanced wind tunnel technology provides guests with clean air while flying by recirculating and refreshing the air from outside the iFLY facilities. Tested and proven, iFLY’s wind tunnels create an environment at least 10x fresher than the average store or gym when guests are flying—even at slow wind speeds.
Prices vary per iFLY location. More information is available online.
Gift of Experience Packages: Available to purchase at all participating U.S. iFLY Indoor Skydiving locations and online from November 3, 2022, through January 2, 2023 and can be flown starting January 2, 2023.
The Exclusive Gift: promo valid to fly Monday-Sunday
The Elevated Gift: promo valid to fly Sunday through Friday
The Essential Gift: promo valid to fly Monday through Friday
Black Friday: Available to purchase exclusively online from November 24, 2022, through November 28, 2022 (Cyber Monday) and can be flown starting November 24, 2022, through May 26, 2023
Blackout dates include December 19, 2022 through January 1, 2023
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 with 33 wholly owned in the US. 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. iFLY makes the dream of flight a reality by giving their customers “wings” in a safe and reliable environment.
Bakery Lorraine’s Lemon Meringue Mummy Tart. Photo: Bakery Lorraine, used with permission.
Bakery Lorraineis excited to announce that their Halloween treats are back this year for some spooky fun everyone can enjoy. From Friday, October 28 until Monday, October 31, fun Halloween treats will be available at all Bakery Lorraine locations. The delectable pastries are sure to satisfy any Halloween sweet tooth craving whether at a Halloween themed party, welcoming trick-or-treaters, or just enjoying a solo spooky treat. (Bakery Lorraine, 2022)
Their Halloween offerings include the below pastries:
• Black Cat Tart ($6) – Chocolate mousse tart with vanilla filling • Lemon Meringue Mummy Tart ($6) – Lemon curd topped with meringue and two chocolate chips for the mummy’s eyes • Chocolate Caramel Tart ($6) – Caramel filling topped with chocolate ganache • Voodoo Doll Gingerbread Cookie ($5) – Gingerbread cookie dipped in a rich dark chocolate • Ghost Moon pie ($5) – Homemade graham cookies with a honey marshmallow filling dipped in a white chocolate • The Great Pumpkin Mac – Pumpkin spice macaron shell with a creamy buttercream center. Macarons are priced at $2.65 each or available to be included in their assortment boxes. Assortment boxes can be purchased in two different sizes, holding 6 macarons for $14.00 or 12 macarons for $26.00.
Bakery Lorraine also recently announced that its new Boerne location will officially open to the public on Tuesday, November 1, 2022. Bakery Lorraine in Boerne will feature the bakery’s full menu including macarons, pastries, sandwiches, salads, and more.
Owned by chefs Anne Ng, Jeremy Mandrell, and operator Charlie Biedenharn, Bakery Lorraine has quickly become a sensation in San Antonio. It 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 and recently made Southern Living’s list of the South’s Best Bakeries in 2022.
In addition to the famous Parisian macarons and divine pastries, like the pain au chocolat, the Boerne location will also feature breakfast items, including the breakfast parfait, the quiche Lorraine, and breakfast sandwiches. Bakery Lorraine will offer a variety of savory lunch dishes, including an assortment of salads and soups, and artisan sandwiches. Bakery Lorraine also offers wine and beer service.
Grand Opening – Tuesday, November 1, 2022 Regular hours of operation are as follows: Monday – Thursday: 7a.m. to 6p.m. Friday – Sunday: 7a.m. to 8p.m.
Location: Bakery Lorraine 134 Oak Park Dr. Boerne, TX 78006
Bakery Lorraine 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.
Big Country Organic Hard Seltzer is made with organic cane sugar produced using environmentally sustainable methods in Guarambare, Paraguay. It is the first and only Fair Trade Certified, USDA Organic libation of its kind in the US. Photo: McKenna Hixon, used with permission.
Big Country® Organic Hard Seltzeris the first and only hard seltzer to carry all three of the most distinctive and well-respected certifications in the food and beverage industry — USDA Organic, Non-GMO Project Verified, and Fair Trade Certified. Big Country® is also a proud member of the Go Texan program, which supports Texas agriculture. (Big Country Organic Hard Seltzer, 2022)
The organic hard seltzer is made at Willard’s Brewery, the only Certified Organic brewery in Texas, located in Austin. Big Country® recently announced the statewide launch of its hard seltzer’s new variety 12-packs with prominent placement in HEB, Whole Foods, Trader Joe’s, Sprouts, and Total Wine & More locations throughout Texas. The 12-packs showcase Big Country®’s recently refreshed package design and feature four new flavors –– Blackberry Grapefruit, Passionfruit Kiwi, Prickly Pear Peach, and Watermelon Pineapple.
Founder and CEO Bill Gillies started Big Country Foods Inc. as a supplier of organic ingredients over nine years ago. Gillies wanted to further his vision of bringing more clean ingredients to the market by providing consumers an organic hard seltzer, different from the rest. As a consumer, Gillies had always been selective about the ingredients in his food and drink. This personal concern led him to take what he calls “the path of most-resistance” when sourcing only the cleanest ingredients for Big Country®.
Big Country’s quality ingredients stand out in the highly competitive hard seltzer category. Its flavors are crafted by nationally acclaimed mixologist, Ricky Cobia. In addition to their unique flavor profiles, Big Country takes pride in their proprietary brewing process they like to call the “Cane to Can” approach. This allows Big Country to control the entire brewing process, ensuring transparency and quality in every batch.
Big Country® Organic Hard Seltzer is distributed statewide in Texas through Ben E. Keith Beverages. The new variety 12-packs are currently available on shelves in major Texas retailers including Whole Foods Market, Trader Joe’s, Sprouts Farmers Market, HEB and Total Wine & More.
Big Country is perfect for today’s health-conscious consumer, with each can only containing 90 calories, 0g sugar, 1g carb, and 4.5% ABV. In addition, by purchasing Big Country® Hard Seltzer, consumers are giving back through the Fair Trade USA® program, which supports safe working conditions for farmers, protects the environment, builds sustainable livelihoods, and allows farmers to earn additional money to empower and uplift their communities. Since inception, Big Country Fair Trade purchases have sent over $91,000 to the farmers.
Big Country® Organic Hard Seltzer is the only Fair Trade Certified™ libation of its kind in the US. Their Fair Trade commitment means every can puts fair wages directly into the hands that harvested its ingredients. It also ensures farmers work in safe conditions, protect the environment, build sustainable livelihoods, and earn additional money to empower and uplift their communities.
Since 2013, Big Country has worked with partners in Paraguay to import ingredients including a variety of organic sugars. Now, their seltzers are brewed in Austin, Texas with organic alcohol from fermented Big Country Cane Sugar.
In 2020, Big Country® Foods Inc. welcomed Big Country® Beverages (@bigcountrybeverage) to their organic family of products. BCHS is thoughtfully crafted by their skilled brew master and artisan mixologist, who have used their combined 25 years of experience to create the most delicious and unique flavors on the market.
Each 12-ounce can contains 90 calories, 0g sugar, 4.5% ABV, and is gluten free. Flavors are:
• Prickly Pear Peach ––Two of Texas’ favorites fruits come together to create a juicy and satisfyingly sweet pairing of cactus pear and sun-ripened peach. Truly unique and truly Texas.
• Passion Fruit Kiwi –– The Southern hemisphere shines with tangy tropical passion fruit complementing the tart sweetness of ripe kiwi in this refreshingly balanced, citrus forward flavor.
• Blackberry Grapefruit –– Rich, earthy blackberries mingle with the sharpness of fresh grapefruit to make this one of Big Country’s ® boldest flavors.
• Watermelon Pineapple –– Bright, vibrant pineapple blends beautifully with notes of vine-ripened watermelon to showcase the tropical warmth of a long, Texas summer.
Big Country ® Organic Hard Seltzers are available in grocery and liquor stores statewide in Texas and retails for $18.99 per 12-pack. They are also available for sale online in applicable states (valid ID required, 21+ only).
Ford’s 2022 F-150 Lightning. Ford’s team will be onsite with F-150 Lightning trucks and guests will have the opportunity to be driven around a test track. Photo: Ford, used with permission.
Pearl is excited to welcome Ford to the property as they debut their first electric pick-up truck, the 2022 F-150 Lightning®. The Ford team will be onsite at Pearl starting Wednesday, May 4 at 3p.m. for a limited time as they showcase the all-new electric truck, its features made possible by electrification and its smart digital technologies. On select dates, Ford will have professional drivers giving rides to individuals around a special circuit at Pearl. (Ford, 2022)
Ford will begin their activations onsite at Pearl beginning on Wednesday, May 4. Rides with professional drivers on the test track as follows: • Wednesday, May 4 from 3p.m. to 8p.m. • Thursday, May 5 from 3p.m. to 8p.m. • Friday, May 6 from 12p.m. to 6p.m. • Saturday, May 7 from 9a.m. to 8p.m. • Sunday, May 8 from 9a.m. to 6p.m.
Ford’s activations will take place throughout the property (312 Pearl Parkway, San Antonio, TX 78215), including the Cellars Pavilion, Pearl Park and Pearl Parkito. The rides will be located in the parking lot behind Best Quality Daughter (602 Avenue A, San Antonio, TX 78215).
Pearl is a dynamic neighborhood built around the historic Pearl Brewery, which operated from 1883 to 1999. Located just north of downtown San Antonio on the banks of the San Antonio River, it is home to architecturally significant buildings like the brewhouse and stable—both built in 1894—and numerous plazas. Today, Pearl is home to dozens of unique culinary concepts, one-of-a-kind retail, weekend markets, residential communities, innovative office tenants, the San Antonio campus of the Culinary Institute of America, and the award-winning Hotel Emma. Pearl is a vibrant district where community gathers to play, work, and live; it is a place where things are made and celebrated with purpose and sincerity.
WB Liquors & Wine Representatives John Herrmann, Owner & CEO and Vanessa Munson, Vice President with Home For Our Troops Representatives Matthew Murphy, Corporate Partnership Manager, and Bill Ivey, Executive Director and Marine Corporal Travis Echols, HFOT 2017 recipient and New Braunfels resident.
WB Liquors & Wine, a San Antonio family-owned company, recently hosted a check ceremony, presenting its 2021 WB Cares program fundraising efforts to Homes For Our Troops (HFOT), with the final amount revealed to be $152,000. (WB Liquors & Wine, 2022)
This year’s fundraiser was strong, surpassing the $100,000 mark with this final push for donations. HFOT is a nonprofit organization that builds and donates specially adapted custom homes nationwide for severely injured post-9/11 Veterans to enable them to rebuild their lives.
This year’s fundraising efforts will go to building a home for Texas veteran Marine Corporal Raymond D. Hennagir IIIwho was severely injured in an improvised explosive device (IED) explosion while serving on his second deployment in Iraq. The blast resulted in the loss of both his legs and several fingers on his left hand. Last summer, Hennagir competed at the highest-level winning silver as part of USA’s Wheelchair Rugby team at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games.
WB Liquors & Wine has helped Texans across the state celebrate their special occasions for more than 50 years. As a family-owned business, the brand specializes in convenient locations and a great variety of liquor, beer and wine – along with fast, personalized and expert-level service. As of October 2021, WB Liquors & Wine operates 59 locations across Texas, which includes 34 WB Liquors & Wine stores and 25 WB Liquor stores adjacent to COSTCO.
SA Examiner 