Category: Community news

Hiatus Spa + Retreat debuts MedSpa treatments at San Antonio location

MedSpa treatments include Botox and Dysport Injectables, Dermal Fillers, Chemical Peels, and more. Photo: Molly Culver, used with permission.

Hiatus Spa + Retreat, the award-winning Texas day spa with eight locations across the state, is excited to announce their San Antonio location is adding MedSpa treatments to its extensive book of services starting Monday, June 14, 2021. Hiatus’ MedSpa services are helmed by Dr. Holly A. Barko, who is a double board-certified anesthesiologist; and anti-aging and function medicine expert and San Antonio Master Injector Melissa Schnelle, LVN. (Hiatus Spa + Retreat, 2021)

After a successful career in a private practice anesthesiology group, Dr. Holly Barko decided to study aesthetics, functional, and anti-aging medicine in order to intervene early and help patients look and feel younger, optimizing their wellness with a personalized care plan. San Antonio Master Injector Melissa Schnelle is a graduate from Galen College of Nursing as a Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) in the state of Texas with a history in plastic surgery and the cosmetic industry. Bringing over 15 years of experience to Hiatus, Schnelle is an accomplished injector and facial-mapping artist who enjoys working with both men and women to achieve their desired aesthetic goals.

In celebration of the San Antonio MedSpa launching this month, Hiatus will offer H-Circle Member pricing on all MedSpa treatments now through July 17. H-Circle is a fresh subscription model that simplifies regular relaxation and empowers guests to own their self-care and enjoy affordable, regular access to a spa lifestyle. H-Circle members will receive the best pricing available on all MedSpa services. The membership is typically $69 per month, which includes special discounted pricing for members on all spa treatments and 10% off all retail products.

The Texas-born day spa will offer injectables, dermal fillers, dermaplaning, chemical peels, and micro-needling treatments, in addition to the fifty-plus signature spa treatments, all complete with a high-touch experience that is personalized from start to finish. 

Hiatus’s MedSpa treatment descriptions are as follows:

  • Injectable Neurotoxins offered in either Botox or Dysport.
  • Dermal Fillers offered in either Juvederm or Restylane.
  • DermaPlaning features the removal of dead skin cells and facial hair to promote deeper product penetration, reduce the appearance of acne scars, and improve skin texture.
  • MicroNeedling features microneedles up to 2.5mm that stimulate collagen production and treat and improve acne scarring, fine lines and wrinkles, loose skin, skin texture, and pore size.
  • Medical-Grade Chemical Peels feature a variety of formulations and concentrations to target various skin concerns by resurfacing the uppermost layer of skin to reveal a new, healthy complexion underneath, encourage cell turnover, promote collagen, and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Hiatus Spa + Retreat was founded in Dallas in 2007 by longtime friends Sheila Garrison, Kristin Heaton Peabody, and Bill Garrison. With eight locations across Texas, eight years on Inc. 500’s fastest-growing companies, and an innovative spa subscription model, Hiatus Spa + Retreat is a fresh kind of full-service spa that has changed the wellness industry. Powered by products with real green ingredients and a high-touch experience, Hiatus’s personalized approach to wellness is driven by the view that regular relaxation should be an empowering part of a healthy, happy lifestyle.

“We are so thrilled to expand our MedSpa offerings at our Pearl location in San Antonio. With the great success we’ve had with MedSpa treatments at our Inwood location, we knew that our San Antonio spa was next to continue these offerings. We can’t wait for Dr. Holly Barko and Melissa Schnelle to lead the MedSpa and introduce the treatments to our devoted H-Circle Members and new guests of the spa.” – Hiatus Co-Founder Sheila Garrison.

The Classic Theatre announces 2021 – 2022 season

Season 14: Love & Marriage – performances will be at the San Antonio Botanical Garden. Photo: google

The Classic Theatre announces 2021-2022 Season, Season 14: Love & Marriage. Performances will be Thursdays through Sundays at San Antonio Botanical Garden located at 555 Funston Pl. San Antonio, TX 78209. Tickets available online. (The Classic Theatre, 2021)

As You Like It by William Shakespeare, September 9-26, 2021
Season 14 opening show
Rosalind’s uncle is placed on the throne and she is immediately banished from court. With her best friend and uncle’s daughter Celia by her side, she runs into the forest of Arden for refuge, only to catch the lovesick eye of another banished youth named Orlando. The result is a hilarious conglomeration of cross-dressing, foolery, melodic songs, questionable poetry, and laughs aplenty. Will love always win or are we merely mad? As You Like It is an entertaining and touching exploration of life, death, love, family, and the bonds that tie us together.

A Doll’s House, Part 2 by Lucas Hnath, February/March, 2022
In A Doll’s House, Part 2, many years have passed since Nora’s historic exit. Now, there is a knock on that same door. Nora has returned, but why? And what will it mean for those she left behind?

Misalliance by George Bernard Shaw, May, 2022
Hypatia, the daughter of a self-made underwear mogul, is bored with the stuffy attitudes of the aristocracy. She is anxious to shape her own new world. Suddenly, an airplane crashes into the family estate. With new and attractive characters thrown into the mix, traditional norms get overturned as women become the ardent hunters and men their hapless prey. This fast-paced romantic comedy is Shaw’s ironic debate about marriage, the “New Woman,” and the distance that exists between parent and child.

Flex Passes
Click here to purchase a Season 14 (2021-2022) Flex Pass.
Please contact our box office for more information at 210-589-8450.

Ticket Policies
• Each Season 14 production will be performed at the San Antonio Botanical Garden.
• In order to gain access to our Season 14 Theatre in the Rough productions, you do NOT need to purchase a separate ticket to the Botanical Garden.
• Please make accommodations to bring your own seating (i.e. chairs and/or blankets).
• It is required that you wear a mask upon entrance to the performance, and throughout, unless you are eating or drinking.
• All seating areas are arranged beforehand to adhere to 6 feet of physical distancing.
• Ticket sales are final. There are no refunds. Plays, dates, and artists are subject to change without notice.
• The Classic Theatre of San Antonio reserves the right to refuse admission to anyone.
• No refunds will be issued to latecomers.
• Cell phones and/or recording devices are not permitted to be used outdoors during a performance. Use of such devices may result in ejection without refund.
• Please do not text during the performance – it is distracting to actors and audience members alike.
• The Classic Theatre of San Antonio reserves the right to make schedule and production changes. When possible, we will call all ticket holders regarding the cancellation of a specific performance.
• Children under the age of four will not be admitted to performances at The Classic Theatre of San Antonio.
• There is no dress code, although many patrons dress in business casual for regular performances.

The Public Theater of San Antonio announces 2021-2022 season

The Public Theater of San Antonio’s 2021 – 2022 season announcement. Photo: The Public Theater of San Antonio

Live theater is back in San Antonio and The Public Theater of San Antonio recently announced their 2021 – 2022 season. Ticket information is available online. (The Public Theater of San Antonio, 2021)

tick, tick…BOOM! – September 10 to October 17
His girlfriend wants to get married and move out of the city, his best friend is making big bucks on Madison Avenue and, yet, Jon is still waiting on tables and trying to write the great American musical. Set in 1990, this compelling story of personal discovery is presented as a rock musical filled with instantly appealing melodies and a unique blend of musical theatre styles.

Plaid Tidings – November 19 to December 19
At first, Francis, Jinx, Smudge, and Sparky are not sure why they have returned to Earth for another posthumous performance, but a phone call from the heavenly Rosemary Clooney lets them know that they are needed to put a little harmony into a discordant world. Sprinkled among the Christmas offerings are audience favorites, like their riotous three-minute-and-eleven-second version of The Ed Sullivan Show – this time, featuring the Rockettes, the Chipmunks and The Vienna Boys Choir, as well as a Plaid Caribbean Christmas that puts the “Day-O” in Excelsis.

35MM: A Musical Exhibition – January 14 to February 20
A picture is worth 1,000 words — what about a song? Can a picture inspire a song or fifteen? In 35mm, each photo creates a unique song, moments frozen in time; a glimmer of a life unfolding, a glimpse of something happening. A stunning new multimedia musical which explores a groundbreaking new concept in musical theatre. This intricately woven collection of stories told through song re-imagines what the modern American musical can be.

She Loves Me – March 25 to May 1
Set in a 1930s European perfumery, we meet shop clerks, Amalia and Georg, who, more often than not, do not see eye to eye. After both respond to a “lonely hearts advertisement” in the newspaper, they now live for the love letters that they exchange, but the identity of their admirers remains unknown. Join Amalia and Georg to discover the identity of their true loves… and of all the twists and turns along the way.

A Bronx Tale The Musical – May 20 to June 26
Based on the critically acclaimed play that inspired the now classic film, this streetwise musical will take you to the stoops of the Bronx in the 1960s—where a young man is caught between the father he loves and the mob boss he’d love to be. Featuring a book by Academy Award nominee Chazz Palminteri, music by Oscar, Grammy, and Tony Award winner Alan Menken, and lyrics by Grammy Award winner and Oscar and Tony Award nominee Glenn Slater, A Bronx Tale is a story about respect, loyalty, love, and above all else: family.

Once On This Island – July 15 to August 21
Ti Moune, a peasant girl, rescues a wealthy boy from the other side of the island, Daniel, with whom she falls in love. Unbeknownst to Ti Moune, the pompous gods who preside over the island make a bet with one another over which is stronger, love or death, the stakes being Ti Moune’s life. When she pursues Daniel, who has returned to his people, Ti Moune is shunned because of her lowly status. Her determination and capacity to love, though, is not enough to win Daniel’s heart, and Ti Moune pays the ultimate price; but the gods turn Ti Moune into a tree that grows so strong and so tall, it breaks the wall that separates the societies and ultimately unites them.

Celebrate Father’s Day at the Briscoe Western Art Museum

Westerns, Whiskey, and deals make the Briscoe a must for Father’s Day. Photo: Briscoe Western Art Museum, used with permission.

Give dad a blockbuster Father’s Day at the Briscoe Western Art Museum where summer fun includes Hollywood Westerns shown in their full glory during the museum’s Summer Film Series. Let dad kick back and enjoy the 1970 classic “Little Big Man” at the Briscoe’s draft house-style film screening, served with a side of whiskey tasting courtesy of Ranger Creek Distillery. Father’s Day is also Locals Day at the Briscoe, where all Bexar County residents receive half off of general admission. Locals can enjoy the museum and the movie for $6. General admission to the museum, including the film, is $12. Or gift dad a museum membership so he can enjoy the Summer Film Series and more Western fun for free all year long. (Briscoe Western Art Museum, 2021)

Treat Dad like a king with a free whiskey tasting from Ranger Creek Whiskey and free Ranger Creek Beer paired with fantastic barbecue available onsite. Enjoy the 1970 classic, “Little Big Man,” the story of Jack Crabb telling the tale of his life being raised by Native Americans and fighting with General Custer. The film and tasting is Sunday June 20 at 1p.m.

Ranger Creek is San Antonio’s award-winning “brewstillery,” handcrafting beer and whiskey with love, attention, and Texas attitude. Ranger Creek Distillery makes award-winning Texas bourbon, single malt and rye whiskey, all grain-to-glass spirits made in small batches using Texas ingredients. The Father’s Day whiskey tasting will feature an array of Ranger Creek’s lineup, as well as free Ranger Creek beer.

The Summer Film Series is the perfect complement to the Briscoe’s summer exhibition, Still in the Saddle: A New History of the Hollywood Western, on view through September 6. Showcasing the cinematic art and storytelling of the Western, the Briscoe has transformed into a 1960s movie theater, welcoming everyone with a red carpet, velvet ropes and the unmistakable smell of popcorn. The exhibition includes almost 60 vintage original movie posters as well as movie costumes and dozens of authentic lobby cards. Display screens throughout the exhibition feature film clips illustrating representative moments of the genre and costumes worn by John Wayne in the movies “Chisum,” “The Cowboys,” and “The Undefeated” are on display.

Still in the Saddle was organized by the Briscoe with guest curator Dr. Andrew Patrick Nelson, a historian of American cinema and culture, film programmer, museum curator, and media commentator. Nelson is Chair of the Department of Film and Media Arts and Associate Professor of Film Studies at the University of Utah, as well as the author and editor of numerous books and essays on Western cinema, including “Still in the Saddle: The Hollywood Western, 1969-1980” and “Contemporary Westerns: Film and Television since 1990.”

The Summer Film Series continues with “True Grit” on July 18, “The Long Riders” on August 22, and “The Shootist” on September 5. Each film is free with museum general admission and as always, museum members enjoy the museum and film for free. Briscoe Summer Cinema passes include three films for $25 or enjoy all five films for $50 and receive an individual museum membership, granting you unlimited access to the Briscoe’s exhibitions and programming throughout the year. Tickets are available online, while Summer Cinema passes are available by calling 210.299.4499.

To further celebrate dads, the Briscoe is offering Father’s Day membership specials that include a year-long membership to the museum, as well as gifts for dad to sit back and enjoy. The membership specials are available online, with pickup from the Briscoe’s Museum Store in time for Father’s Day.

Package options include:

• “The Duke”: Allow dad to head West with an individual membership, along with a Briscoe Western Art Museum t-shirt and a Briscoe trucker cap from the Briscoe’s Museum Store, $65.
• “The Cowboys”: Duo membership includes museum admission for two adults, as well as a Briscoe Western Art Museum t-shirt, a Briscoe trucker cap, a pair of Texas Navy Men’s Socks, and a Blue/White Camp tin coffee cup, $85.
• “The Plainsman”: A family level membership that includes admission to the museum and events for two adults and all children/grandchildren under 18, as well as a Briscoe Western Art Museum t-shirt, a Briscoe trucker cap, a pair of Texas Navy Men’s Socks, and a Blue/White Camp tin coffee cup and “The Chisolm Trail” by James E. Sherow, $100.

All membership options include unlimited admission to the Briscoe and free or discounted admission to its events, as well as invitations to private member-only events. Full membership benefits are available online. Memberships are instrumental support that help the Briscoe continue to share the art, history and culture of the American West and are tax deductible.

The Briscoe Western Art Museum is dedicated to preserving and presenting the art, history, and culture of the American West through engaging exhibitions, educational programs and public events reflective of the region’s rich traditions and shared heritage. It is located on the San Antonio River Walk at 210 W. Market Street in the beautifully restored 1930s former San Antonio Public Library building. Named in honor of the late Texas Governor Dolph Briscoe Jr. and his wife, Janey Slaughter Briscoe, the museum includes the three-story Jack Guenther Pavilion, used for event rentals and programs, and the outdoor McNutt Sculpture Garden.

 

Celebrate Fiesta with La Panadería’s Fiesta-themed pan dulce

La Panadería’s festive Fiesta-themed croissant. Photo: Giant Noise, for La Panadería, used with permission.

Fiesta is back and arriving just in time for Fiesta 2021, San Antonio staple La Panadería will release a festive Fiesta-themed croissant, available at its Broadway, Houston St. and La Cantera Heights locations exclusively during Fiesta June 17-27. A sweet addition to any Fiesta celebration, La Panadería will offer its popular Tres Leches Croissant filled with strawberries and cream and adorned with Fiesta-colored frosting. The Fiesta treat will be available to order online and in-store. (La Panadería, 2021)

Since opening La Panadería in San Antonio in 2014, the Cáceres brothers’ mission has been to share Mexico’s “Bread Cultura,” bringing the art of their beloved pan dulce items to the Texas market that have since become a culinary staple for residents and visitors to San Antonio alike. La Panadería has seen great success in San Antonio and has shown resilience throughout the uncertain times the global coronavirus pandemic has brought on. The bakery, which specializes in handmade bread, pan dulce and pastries inspired by Mexico’s Golden Era, or Epoca de Oro, draws influence from French, Italian and American bread making techniques. La Panadería’s unique approach to breadmaking includes a minimum 48-hour fermentation process that results in artisan bread and pastries unlike any other. All three of La Panadería’s locations offer indoor and al fresco dining as well as online ordering.

Father’s Day specials and gift ideas in San Antonio

Bakery Lorraine’s Tobacco Bourbon Macarons. Photo: Halee Holland, used with permission.

With Father’s Day right around the corner, local businesses have special offerings and specials for the big holiday. (Twang, Bakery Lorraine, The Jerk Shack, Hopscotch, EVO Entertainment, La Panaderia, Peeler Farms Wagyu, Lone Star Beer, San Antonio Museum of Art, 2021)

Twang
Twang, the San Antonio based makers of seasonings, beer salts, cocktail mixes and more, is making Father’s Day gifting easy with the creation of its Father’s Day Buckets.
The package includes:
o Beer Salt Bucket
o Beer Salt Bandana
o Beer Salt Hat
o 2 Beer Salt Pint Glasses
o 2 Camo Holster Koozies
o 1 Pickle Beer Salt Bottle
o 1 Lemon-Lime Beer Salt Bottle
o 1 Lime Beer Salt Bottle

The Father’s Day bucket will retail for $29.99 online on Twang’s site while supplies last. Orders over $40 are eligible for free shipping. This is a limited quantity item.

Bakery Lorraine
In honor of Father’s Day, Bakery Lorraine will offer Tobacco Bourbon Macarons available only on Saturday, June 19 and Sunday, June 20 at all Bakery Lorraine locations. The Tobacco Bourbon Macaron is made with steeped loose leaf tobacco from Club Humidor that enhances the tobacco flavor. The limited time macarons are available at all Bakery Lorraine locations in Austin and San Antonio. The macarons sell individually for $2.65, in a six pack for $13, or a 12 pack for $26.

The Jerk Shack
The Jerk Shack’s family packs are designed to feed groups of six, making them the perfect option for a Father’s Day gathering. Guests can order Jerk Ribs, Jerk Tacos, and Jerk Chicken with shareable sides to feed the group. Orders can be placed prior to Father’s Day as the Jerk Shack will be closed for the holiday. Jerk Ribs with four sharable sides ($55), Jerk Tacos with two sharable sides ($45), Jerk Chicken with three sharable sides ($45)

Hopscotch
In celebration of Father’s Day (June 20), Hopscotch is recognizing dads for all their hard work. Dads can use the code PARENTSROCK at checkout to receive 20% off their ticket order for the gallery every Sunday in June. Dads can also enjoy live music from Brass Tacs, complimentary Pop Rocks candy and drink specials on June 20. The 20% off tickets offer is valid on Sundays in June of 2021 only.

EVO Entertainment
In honor of Father’s Day on June 20, 2021, EVO will offer 25% off pitchers of beer at EVO’s Schertz, Kyle, and Springtown locations, as well as 25% off bowling games; discount is valid through in-store and online purchase. Offer is valid on Father’s Day only.

La Panadería
With a recently opened third location in La Cantera Heights, La Panaderia is serving up brunch all over San Antonio this Father’s Day. Treat dad to a delicious brunch and try one of the quirky new croissants – “The Elvis” made with peanut butter whipped cream, bananas and bacon. The new La Cantera Heights location also serves up boozy coffee and mimosa kits!

Peeler Farms Wagyu
Peeler Farms Wagyu offers the finest in local, ethical and delectable Wagyu cuts that are both tender and flavorful. Load dad up with greatest meats for his grill this Father’s Day.

Lone Star Beer: High Desert Days
For beer-loving dads, Lone Star Brewing just released the latest in its culture series, High Desert Days. The new beer is meant to celebrate and embody the spirit and taste of Texas’ Big Bend region and is a smooth, wheat-style beer with an ABV of 4.6% brewed in the Hill Country of Austin with the finest ingredients Texas has to offer. The beer is brewed with white wheat and Pilsen malt and then finished with hibiscus and agave nectar. High Desert Days has a unique-to-Texas flavor that provides a crisp and refreshing taste with sweet honey-like notes from the agave and tart, herbal, almost cranberry-like flavor from the hibiscus. Grab a six-pack or two this year by using Lone Star’s beer finder tool on its website.

San Antonio Museum of Art
This Father’s Day, treat dad to an annual membership to the San Antonio Museum of Art (SAMA). Featuring latest exhibitions such as Movie Metal and America’s Impressionism, there is something for every art lover to enjoy.

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Hopscotch June events include live music and new installation

New cocktails at the Hopscotch Lounge: the Fiesta Frozen and the Pride Paloma. Photo: Hopscotch, used with permission.

Hopscotch, the new immersive art gallery in downtown San Antonio, is excited to announce a variety of programming, specials, and more for the month of June including new drinks and events for a cause. The gallery will also be opening its interactive LED ball pit for guests to enjoy later this month. See below for more information on what to expect from Hopscotch in June. (Hopscotch, 2021)

Hopscotch’s June 2021 offerings include:

New Cocktails at the Hopscotch Lounge
In celebration of Fiesta’s return to San Antonio and Pride Month, Hopscotch is introducing two new cocktails to its bar menu during the month of June. The Fiesta Frozen, Hopscotch’s take on the beloved Mangonada, will be available for guests to enjoy while they partake in the festivities, while the Pride Paloma, with a rainbow gummy bear garnish, celebrates Pride Month. Portions of the proceeds for both specialty cocktails will be donated to Pride Center San Antonio. Both cocktails retail for $12.

Hopscotch Live Sundays – Live Music on the Patio every Sunday
Guests can visit Hopscotch to hear various live music acts each weekend such as the musical stylings of Jose Amador, Denise Ramirez, Brass Tacs, and more. Visitors to Hopscotch can listen to Latin Jazz and other local favorites on the Hopscotch patio while sipping on a cocktail and enjoying food from the Backwoods BBQ & Tacos food truck and fan favorite ChipKabobs. There is no cover charge to attend. Jose will be performing at Hopscotch on the following dates:
• Sunday, June 13, 2021- Jose Amador & TERRA NOVA
• Sunday, June 20, 2021 – Brass Tacs Father’s Day Set
• Sunday, June 27th, 2021 – Denise Ramirez Pride Set

Movies by Moonlight in Travis Park – Tuesday, June 15 Pre-Movie Happy Hour at Hopscotch from 5p.m. to 9p.m. After a COVID hiatus last year, Movies by Moonlight return to Travis Park. These free family-friendly films screen every Tuesday in June and July. Downtown Tuesday parking is free in COSA facilities (parking map) and food trucks will be onsite. Guests are encouraged to bring chairs and blankets.

Hopscotch is teaming up with Tito’s Handmade Vodka to provide a lively happy hour atmosphere in the Hopscotch Lounge for guests before they watch their favorite movies. Guests can be on the lookout for fun spiked and nonalcoholic drink specials, sno-cones, popcorn, live music, and more.

June:
15 – The Sandlot
22 – Onward
29 – SING (Sing Along)

July:
6 – Aquaman
13 – The Goonies
20 – Raya and the Last Dragon
27 – Moana (Sing Along)

The Future is Freedom – Thursday, June 17 at 6:30p.m.
Black Freedom Factory is hosting a Juneteenth celebration at Hopscotch that recognizes the organizations that help build avenues toward freedom. The event will feature food and drinks from Tony G’s Soul Food Restaurant and Chef Robbie Rodgers, as well as live music and more. All proceeds from the event will help fund The Texas Heat Wave Project & Corazon San Antonio.

Ball Pit Opening – Friday, June 18
Hopscotch will officially open its crowd-favorite LED ball pit starting Friday, June 18. Guests to the gallery can embrace their inner child by wading through the giant ball pit while enjoying the constantly changing colors. The ball pit is one of a few installations that were a part of the original Hopscotch popup in Austin in 2019.

Parents Rock! – Sundays in June 2021
In celebration of Father’s Day (June 20), Hopscotch is recognizing parents for all their hard work. Dads and moms can use the code PARENTSROCK at checkout to receive 20% off their ticket order for the gallery every Sunday in June. Parents can also enjoy live music from Brass Tacs, complimentary Pop Rocks candy and drink specials on June 20. The 20% off tickets offer is valid on Sundays in June of 2021 only.

Saint City Supper Club – Awkward Prom 2 – Thursday, June 24 at 7p.m.
Hopscotch is partnering with Saint City Supper Club to host Awkward Prom 2 at the gallery, which will feature dancing, drinks, and food from Chef Mark Garcia. The event is an opportunity to relive prom as an adult while benefiting the Saint City Culinary Foundation, an organization that provides support to people working in the culinary industry. Tickets to the event are $50 per person and can be purchased here.

Third Eye Awakening – Every 4th Saturday in May – August at 8:30a.m.
Guests are invited to make their way down the Hopscotch rabbit hole and unroll their mat in a consciously curated yoga and art experience designed to awaken the mind and body while inspiring the soul with the immersive masterpieces at the gallery. Inspired by the mural Conscious by local artist Los Otros, the yoga class led by Mobile Om will interweave breath, mindful movement, and meditation into a holistic experience aimed to unlock guests’ connections to their third eye consciousness, the home of their intuition and imagination. After a blissful savasana, guests can awaken their taste buds with a refreshing Rabbit Hole Rita to sip while they enjoy exclusive access to browse the Hopscotch gallery. Mobile Om Yoga will set up at Hopscotch every fourth Saturday over the summer. The yoga sessions begin at 8:30a.m. and space is limited. Guests are required to bring their own mats. Dates for Third Eye Awakening include:
• Saturday, June 26, 2021 – Pride Edition
• Saturday, July 24, 2021
• Saturday, August 28, 2021

Tickets for Third Eye Awakening are $45 and are available online. 

Hopscotch is an immersive and experiential brand that brings together artists in collaborative environments to create distinctive shared experiences. Co-founded by entrepreneurs Nicole Jensen and Hunter Inman, Hopscotch provides distinct experiences through the curation of local-centric, immersive, and experiential art. Hopscotch creates platforms for local, national, and international artists to experiment with a wide spectrum of mediums and technology. Hopscotch’s aim is to elicit a sense of joy and wonder in the curated spaces, where guests may explore beyond their day to day reality. Hopscotch strongly believes in cultivating lasting relationships and a synergy with artists and their communities.

Krause’s Café & Biergarten welcomes summer with free live music

The New Braunfels-based restaurant will host an array of live bands in June. Photo: Krause’s Café & Biergarten, used with permission.

Krause’s Café & Biergarten is hosting a variety of live music throughout June including The Dirty River Jazz Band (June 11), crowd favorite the Lederhosen Junkies (June 19), Reggae Festival featuring Mighty Mystic and Jah Sun & The Rising Tide (June 24), Julian Escobedo (June 26), and more. Below is a condensed list of exciting June happenings at Krause’s Café & Biergarten. A full list of upcoming events is available online. (Krause’s Café & Biergarten, 2021)

The Dirty River Jazz Band – Friday, June 11
The Dirty River Jazz Band brings their swinging sounds of New Orleans Jazz back to Krause’s Café. The show starts at 7p.m. Guests can enjoy German-inspired fare from Krause’s full food and drink menu while listening to this eclectic band’s toe tapping sound. This event is free and open to the public.

Rochelle & The Sidewinders – Friday, June 18
Rochelle & The Sidewinders is an award-winning, high-energy blues band based out of Austin Texas, and will rock the Krause’s Biergarten at 7p.m. This event is free and open to the public.

Lederhosen Junkies – Saturday, June 19
Enjoy live music all day with New Braunfels favorite the Lederhosen Junkies, this dynamic accordionist will take the stage at 2p.m. Stay for the day and enjoy an evening performance by the Off The Grid Band at 6p.m. This high-energy band plays a variety of music styles including country, classic rock, Cajun, and zydeco. This event is free and open to the public.

Reggae Festival – Thursday, June 24
Krause’s Café & Biergarten is proud to host Reggae Festival featuring Mighty Mystic and Jah Sun & The Rising Tide. Mighty Mystic will groove audiences with their universal sounds and bring good vibes to the stage from 4:30p.m. to 6:30p.m. Enjoy the celebrated sound of California Reggae artist Jah Sun & The Rising Tide from 7p.m. to 10p.m. This event is free and open to the public.

Soul Sessions – Friday, June 25
Guests are invited to experience the funky fresh sounds of Soul Sessions, a unique group of Central Texas’ top R&B, Soul, and Funk musicians taking the Krause’s stage at 7p.m. This event is free and open to the public.

Julian Escobedo – Saturday, June 26
Julian Escobedo will headline the Krause’s stage at 7p.m. He is best known for his 11 year run playing bass, singing background, writing and arranging for Grammy Award winning Tejano/Country star, Emilio Navaira. This event is free and open to the public.

Krause’s Café & Biergarten is a New Braunfels historic restaurant opened in 1938 and successfully run until 1995. Today, Krause’s Café honors the previous traditions of the restaurant with the addition of a ‘biergarten,’ live music, and more. The menu reflects New Braunfels’ German heritage as well as South Texas flavors. Over 70 beers are available on tap with local, regional, and international options. The restaurant also features cocktails and wines on tap. Krause’s Café is located at 186 S Castell Ave, New Braunfels, TX 78130, next to the popular New Braunfels Farmers Market.

Jah Sun & The Rising Tide. Courtesy photo

First impression: Raw Xocolat

Raw Xocolatl in Brownsville. Photo: Sandra Cruz

I love weekends because I get to explore not only my town but the surrounding cities in the hopes of finding new and interesting places to shop or eat, especially if it is a small, locally owned business. Sunday I headed over to Brownsville to check out a new, at least to me, health food store/chocolate shop. From what I understand, Raw Xocolat has been around for some time, selling their goods online and in farmers markets but they recently got a brick and mortar in Brownsville. I am in constant search for healthier food options and when my nephew recently pointed this one out to me, I could not wait to try it. I mean, chocolate, raw goods, healthy snack options, this place was calling my name.

It was not hard to find and luckily there was no waiting because, again, I prefer to do my shopping early in the day. I was not sure what to expect, but I was pleasantly surprised when I saw tables for dine-in and a menu that offers drinks and pastries, along with their chocolate products. The interior is brightly lit and beautifully decorated with a combination of chocolates and coffee bean products, coffee mugs, and other knickknacks. The black and white color palette gives it an aura of elegance and sophistication. I was already hooked and decided to try a sampling of several items.

From comments on social media, I knew that their Aztek Gold beverage is one of their best sellers, so I ordered mine on ice with almond milk. I am not thrilled that there is a .75 extra charge for the almond milk but for now that is not important. This drink is their version of Golden Milk, an Indian beverage that is hyped for its healing, anti-inflammatory properties due in part to the curcumin found in turmeric. Turmeric has been used for thousands of years to treat conditions such as breathing problems, joint pain, fatigue, digestive issues, and more. The other spices it contains are ginger and cinnamon, both of which are also known for their anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory benefits. My husband ordered it hot with regular milk. I was not disappointed at all. It is so delicious, whether iced or hot.

I needed something to eat with my Aztec Gold so I ordered two of their tamales: the bean and cheese and the (vegan) jack fruit with red peppers. For dessert, I ordered two Madeleines, two macarons (French pastries), a chocolate biscotti, and a 2oz. vegan white chocolate Matcha spread for use at home. Everything is reasonable priced, so I ended up spending $23.82, not including the tip afterwards. That is not too bad because everything is so delicious and I am definitely coming back for more. I have found my go-to place for scrumptious chocolates and treats, and of course, those vegan tamales alone are worth a return trip.

The vegan white chocolate Matcha spread, Madeleines, macarons, chocolate biscotti, and hot Aztek Gold. Photo: Sandra Cruz

A big thank you to the staff and owner Jesse who took the time to talk to me and patiently answered my questions about this family-owned business. According to them, their recent ‘soft opening’ was a success and business is going well. Everyone is so courteous and attentive so if you come in and are unsure what to order, they take the time to explain their products. It is rare to have a shop in Brownsville that sells these types of quality products, so do yourself and your taste buds a favor and shop small, shop local. Your community will thank you and so will Raw Xocolat.

$$

Business hours:
Monday – Friday 9a.m. to 8p.m.
Saturday 10a.m. – 8p.m.
Sunday 10a.m. – 8p.m.

Raw Xocolat
500 E. Morrison Rd. Ste. H
Brownsville, TX 78526

Rating: 4 out of 5.

Summer events at the Briscoe Western Art Museum

The Briscoe’s Sculpture Garden at night. Photo: Briscoe Western Art Museum, used with permission.

Summer fun takes on a Hollywood flavor as the Briscoe Western Art Museum showcases the cinematic art and storytelling of the Western. From an actual red carpet, velvet ropes and the unmistakable smell of popcorn to film clips rolling throughout the exhibition, the Briscoe transforms into a 1960s movie theater for its new exhibition, Still in the Saddle: A New History of the Hollywood Western, now at the Briscoe until September 6, 2021. To add even more blockbuster fun to the exhibition, the museum is hosting a stellar line-up of programming and events to further bring the Hollywood Western to life. (Briscoe Western Art Museum, 2021)

Summer of Cinema Events Line Up:

Trivia with a Western Twist
Wild West Trivia at the Briscoe
Friday, June 11, 7p.m. – 9 p.m.

Enjoy a fun night of Western trivia and test your smarts at the Briscoe’s first Wild West Trivia Night. Bring your friends to create a team or join a table of soon-to-be-friends and test your Western smarts. Teams will revel in some friendly competition to score prizes while enjoying food, beer, and wine under the stars in the McNutt Sculpture Garden. Gather your posse, grab margaritas from La Gloria’s margarita truck onsite and see who ends the night still in the saddle, with the top three teams taking home prizes. Participants must be 21 to attend. Tickets are $10 for members, $25 for future members, and include two drink tickets.

Popcorn, Beer and Cinematic Art: Summer Film Series

Perfectly paired with the exhibition, the Briscoe’s popular Summer Film Series returns with an eye toward the West. The Summer Film Series features an iconic film on the third Sunday of each summer month, with Briscoe guest curator Dr. Andrew Patrick Nelson introducing each movie and explaining how it relates to Still in the Saddle. Nelson, the guest curator of Still in the Saddle, is a historian of American cinema and culture, film programmer, museum curator, and media commentator, as well as the Chair of the Department of Film and Media Arts and Associate Professor of Film Studies at the University of Utah and the author and editor of numerous books and essays on Western cinema.

Each film is free with museum general admission and as always, museum members enjoy the museum and movie for free. Briscoe Summer Cinema passes include three films for $25 or enjoy all five films for $50 and receive an individual museum membership, granting you unlimited access to the Briscoe’s exhibitions and programming throughout the year. Tickets are available online, while Summer Cinema passes are available by calling 210.299.4499.

Father’s Day Special “Little Big Man”
Sunday, June 20, 1p.m.

Bring Dad to an afternoon at the movies with a Texas twist: a side of barbecue and whiskey. Father’s Day is Locals Day at the Briscoe, where all Bexar County residents receive half off of general admission. Enjoy the museum and the movie for $6. Treat Dad like a king with a free whiskey tasting from Ranger Creek Whiskey and free Ranger Creek Beer, perfect to wash down the fantastic barbecue onsite. Then enjoy the 1970 classic, “Little Big Man”, the story of Jack Crabb, looking back from extreme old age, telling the tale of his life being raised by Native Americans and fighting with General Custer.

“True Grit”
Sunday, July 18, 1p.m.

Grab a beer with The Duke and enjoy 1969’s “True Grit”, where John Wayne’s performance as U.S. Marshal Rooster Cogburn earned him an Oscar. Popcorn, candy, and free beer from Ranger Creek, alongside fantastic food truck fare, make it a perfect way to enjoy a classic.

“The Long Riders”
Sunday, August 22, 1p.m.

Escape the August heat with an afternoon at the movies with 1980’s “The Long Riders”. Grab your brother and watch real-life brothers portray the Jesse James gang in a sympathetic portrayal of the brothers who begin their legendary bank raids because of revenge. Brothers James and Stacy Keach star as Jesse and Frank James; David, Keith and Robert Carradine play Cole, Jim and Bob Younger; Dennis and Randy Quaid play Ed and Clell Miller, and Christopher and Nicholas Guest play Charlie and Bob Ford.

“The Shootist”
Sunday, September 5, 1p.m.

Close out the summer with John Wayne in his final film role in 1976’s “The Shootist”. Wayne portrays a dying gunfighter spends his last days looking for a way to die with a minimum of pain and a maximum of dignity. Still in the Saddle closes on Labor Day and this last film of the summer series is a great way for a fantastic exhibition to ride off into the sunset.

Cinematic Books

Briscoe Virtual Book Club: “True Grit” by Charles Portis
Tuesday, July 6, 6:30p.m.

The museum’s virtual book club will focus on titles that have become blockbuster movies including “True Grit” by Charles Portis in July, then “Blood Meridian” by Cormack McCarthy in September. There is no charge to participate in the book club.

An oasis of Western beauty just off the River Walk, the McNutt Sculpture Garden and the museum grounds feature 32 sculptures portraying various aspects of Western life. Inside the museum’s beautifully restored historic home inside the former San Antonio Public Library building, the Briscoe’s collection spans 14 galleries, with special exhibitions, events and a fantastic museum store, providing art, culture, history and entertainment. Museum hours, parking and admission details are available online. Per the latest CDC guidelines, vaccinated guests are welcome to enjoy the museum and Jack Guenther Pavilion without a mask. The Briscoe respectfully requests all non-vaccinated guests wear face coverings.