‘Going Dark’ is George Mehok’s new novel. Photo: Amazon
Technothrillers merge high-stakes suspense with cutting-edge technology, creating narratives that captivate readers with their intricate plots and believable scenarios. These stories often revolve around themes like cyber warfare, artificial intelligence, or advanced weaponry, reflecting contemporary fears and ethical dilemmas. Authors meticulously research scientific concepts, ensuring authenticity while weaving in thrilling action and unexpected twists. The genre explores the impact of technology on society, often showcasing characters who navigate complex moral landscapes. With their blend of realism and adrenaline, technothrillers not only entertain but also provoke thought about our rapidly evolving technological landscape and its potential consequences. It’s a gripping exploration of innovation and intrigue.
There’s a new book coming out in November that mixes technothrillers, historical fiction, and terrorism storylines: “Going Dark” by George Mehok. This debut thriller spotlights the dangers of the internet and how the past shapes our future. It is recommended for fans of Dan Brown, Steve Berry, and Stephen Hunter.
George Mehok is an author, technologist, and entrepreneur with a distinguished career in designing software and leading high-performing teams in the financial services, telecommunications, and aerospace industries. An avid storyteller, George weaves his real-world knowledge into gripping narratives, crafting thrilling plots that captivate readers. “Going Dark,” the first in Mehok’s Liberty Unit series, combines his extensive technology background with historical intrigue, presenting a captivating blend of modern-day suspense and revolutionary-era secrets. The release date is November 12, and it is available for pre-order on Amazon. (Meryl Moss Media, 2024)
“Going Dark” – When a sinister cyber-terrorist scheme poised to plunge America into unparalleled digital darkness surfaces, Paul Knox, a seasoned cyber forensics expert, finds himself thrust into a clandestine conflict spanning generations.
As Knox examines the intricate and dangerous web of cyber intrigue, he confronts both the mission’s high stakes and his personal demons, including the unwitting involvement of his estranged daughter, Emma. Emma becomes a central figure in a game of digital manipulation, where each move carries the potential to reshape history—and change America forever.
Intertwined with this contemporary narrative is the historical origin story of the Liberty Unit. In 1781, amidst the throes of the American Revolution, John “Jack” Jouett embarks on a perilous journey to deliver crucial encoded messages that hold the power to sway the course of the war and safeguard the life of a future American president.
In an era dominated by the internet and malevolent hackers, insidious threats lurk unseen, while the keys to triumph often lie in the past. Effortlessly blending dual timelines, “Going Dark” is a propulsive deep dive into the clandestine world of hacking and terrorism, underscoring the fragility of a society reliant on technology.
Freddy Fender: Celebrating the Life and Legacy of Baldemar Huerta is currently in view until November 9 at the San Benito Cultural Heritage Museum.
Freddy Fender was a celebrated American singer and songwriter known for his unique blend of country, rock, and Tejano music. Born on June 4, 1937 in San Benito, Texas, he gained fame in the 1970s with hits like “Before the Next Teardrop Falls” and “Wasted Days and Wasted Nights.” Fender’s soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics resonated with a diverse audience, bridging cultural gaps. He was a key figure in the Chicano music movement, showcasing the rich heritage of Mexican-American artists. Despite personal struggles, his legacy endures, influencing generations of musicians and leaving an indelible mark on American music.
The San Benito Cultural Heritage Museum is proud to present the first ever Freddy Fender Estate-sanctioned exhibit that spotlights musical trailblazer Freddy Fender, the stage name of Mexican American icon Baldemar Huerta, and coincides with the 50th anniversary of the recording of the album “Before The Next Teardrop Falls.” (San Benito Cultural Heritage Museum, 2024)
Freddy Fender: Celebrating the Life and Legacy of Baldemar Huerta will be on exhibit from now until November 9, 2024. It is part of the ongoing collaboration between Veronique Medrano, a local archivist and musician, and the San Benito Department of Cultural Arts.
The opening reception took place on Thursday September 26 and began with speeches from co-curators Veronique Medrano and Aleida Garcia, San Benito Mayor Ricardo “Rick” Guerra, and City Manager Fred Sandoval. At the well-attended event, guests were able to enjoy DJ-provided music and light snacks while browsing the exhibit hall and mingling with fellow fans of Freddy Fender and community members alike. It’s always enlightening to learn new and/or lesser known facts about musicians and whether you’re a fan or not, Fender’s influence in music is undeniable. This exhibit is the first of its kind in San Benito and the Rio Grande Valley, so if you’re a music fan, a fan of Freddy Fender, or music history in general, I encourage you to stop by see it for yourself. The pictures and displays bring his story to life.
The exhibition walks visitors through the history of San Benito’s hometown hero and Fender’s impact on pop, Tejano, country, and rock music worldwide. Guests to the museum can view this once in a lifetime collection of objects and memorabilia as well as a selection of private collection artifacts including a commemorative plaque of Fender’s star in the Hollywood Walk of Fame, wardrobe worn during the filming of videos and movies, like The Milagro Beanfield War, and concert posters.
Some of the categories in the exhibit include:
“Wasted Days and Wasted Nights” Fame Interrupted Fender Beyond Music Los Supergroups
Guided tours and in-person access are available. Virtual programming, such as video presentations, interviews, and virtual tours will be available through the museum’s social media platforms.
Museum hours: Monday through Thursday 10a.m. – 4p.m. Fridays 10a.m. – 1p.m.
San Benito Cultural Heritage Museum 250 East Heywood San Benito, TX 78586
Sandra Cruz and Aleida GarciaCo-curators Aleida Garcia and Veronique MedranoFreddy Fender’s star on the Hollywood Walk of FameExhibit informationGuests to the exhibit
Catch the world premiere of Lyric & the Keys, a new musical about unlocking your full potential. Photo: Magik Theatre, used with permission.
San Antonio, TX –What better way to celebrate the unique vision the Magik Theatre brings to San Antonio’s performing arts community than by kicking off its latest season with a world premiere of an original musical? Lyric and the Keys will premiere on September 28 and will run until October 13. (Magik Theatre, 2024)
Lyric and the Keys tells the story of Lyric, a second-grader struggling to read and too intimidated to ask her new teacher for help. With the support of the school janitor, Mr. Hartley, and his homemade junk robot, Lyric finds the courage she needs to overcome her literacy challenges. With a childhood-centered production, catchy melodies, and a positive message celebrating diverse learning journeys, Lyric and the Keys is a perfect showcase for Magik’s mission to provide high-quality theatre for young audiences.
Lyric’s story is inspired by the play’s author, Roxanne Schroeder-Arce, now the associate dean of the University of Texas College of Fine Arts’ teacher preparation program. Growing up in a rural trailer park with a single mother whose formal education stopped at eighth grade, Schroeder-Arce struggled to find her place at school.
“My teacher was nothing like my mom, and while she was nice to me, I was deeply intimidated by what I perceived as her perfection and couldn’t learn from her. Lucky for me, the janitor at my school (who talked and dressed more like my family members) saw me struggling to read and stepped in to help. Lyric and the Keys is about how anyone can be a student and a teacher to anyone else.” – Roxanne Schroeder-Arce
Music is a big part of Lyric and the Keys—Lyric’s mom Melody expresses herself through singing and playing her guitar. Renowned singer/songwriter Jenn Hartmann Luck proved to be an ideal collaborator in developing the score and musical numbers. Like Melody, Luck writes her music on guitar and, along with arranger Ezri Killeen, decided that the best way to honor Lyric and Melody’s musical bond was through a single acoustic guitar played live on stage.
“What I really love about the evolution of this musical is that while it is inspired by Roxanne’s life, Lyric is her own little girl. She is so smart, and she comes from a difficult situation, and she finds a way to overcome it with the support of the adults in her life. Everyone who comes to see Lyric and the Keys will leave feeling inspired and challenged.” – Jenn Hartmann Luck
Hannah Rodriguez plays Lyric and Amy Bouquet plays Mr. Hartley’s junk robot, CC the Confidence Cat. Benjamin Bazán portrays Mr. Hartley, Clarissa Ramos is the teacher Miss Reed, and Tory Ross plays Lyric’s mom Melody. The crew includes Director Anthony Runfola, Playwright Roxanne Schroeder-Arce, Composer and Lyricist Jenn Hartmann Luck, Set Design by Christopher Boneta, Lighting Design by Sarah Elliot, Costume Design by David Arevalo, Zach Walsh as Sound Designer, Kristi Smith as Music Director, Tanesha Payne as Choreographer, Arrangements and Music Assistant, Ezri Killeen. Lyric & The Keys is presented by Show Sponsor H-E-B.
As with all Magik productions, the organization offers multiple ways for the community to engage with Lyric and the Keys, from a party in the park on opening day to performances geared towards special needs audiences.
SPECIAL EVENTS AND PERFORMANCES
Opening Party in the Park | Saturday, September 28, 4:30p.m., show at 6p.m. Enjoy an evening of family fun in Hemisfair Park, celebrating the world premiere of Lyric and the Keys. Live music, treats, and a kid-friendly guitar-themed craft help kick off Magik’s new season.
Pay What You Wish Performance | Sunday, September 29, 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 September 29.
Sensory-Friendly Performance | Saturday, October 5, 10a.m. Audience members on the autism spectrum and those with sensory issues can take in a special performance of Lyric and the Keys designed just for them. Kids and adults are free to be themselves in this relaxed, judgment-free theatre experience.
American Sign Language Interpreted Performance | Saturday, October 5, 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.
Educator Appreciation Performance | Sunday, October 6, 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 20% off the regular ticket prices.
Military Appreciation Day | Saturday, October 12, 2p.m. Service members with a valid military ID can purchase discounted $18 tickets. All audience members can arrive early to catch pre-show entertainment from The HoneyBs, a trio whose three-part harmonies recall the Andrew Sisters’ WWII swing.
SEASON SUBSCRIPTION PRICING Four Show Subscription $70 per person (Savings of 30% off single ticket prices) Three Show Subscription $55.50 per person (Savings of 26% off single ticket prices) Season ticket holders will also have access to sneak peek performances, special VIP invitations and other surprises throughout the season. No fees to exchange unexpired tickets to another date. Expires June 1, 2025.
FLEX PASS PRICING – Ten Flex Passes $190 A Flex Pass is a package of 10 tickets that can be used for any production at Magik Theatre. Flex passes can be used any way patrons wish throughout the season. Use them one or two at a time, or all together. No fees to exchange unexpired tickets to another date. Expires June 1, 2025.
SINGLE TICKETS • $25 for adults • $20 for children (ages 3-17), Military, Seniors, Educators & Students • Children under 2 years old are free.
Purchase season subscriptions, 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 questions and further inquiries, contact the Magik Theatre.
Things Will Be Different will be available in UK & Irish cinemas on October 4, 2024. Courtesy photo, used with permission.
London, UK: Lightbulb Film Distribution is thrilled to share the news that their dark and twisted sci-fi horror, Things Will Be Different, will be in UK & Irish cinemas starting October 4, 2024. (Strike Media Ltd, 2024)
From the minds that brought you Loki and the distributor who released Hundreds of Beavers into the UK, comes a bold, new, time-travel thriller, starring Adam David Thompson, Riley Dandy, Justin Benson, and Sarah Bolger.
Things Will Be Different – After evading police following a robbery, two estranged siblings lay low at an abandoned farmhouse. But when a mysterious force emerges, it makes the pair question everything about themselves – and each other.
Synopsis: When estranged siblings Joseph (Adam David Thompson) and Sidney (Riley Dandy) rendezvous at a local diner after a close-call robbery, they hightail it to an abandoned farmhouse that transports them to a different time in order to escape the law. Their getaway is derailed when an unknown and cryptic metaphysical force emerges and blocks them from returning home. Trapped on the puzzling plot of land, their captor makes it clear that no one can leave until their deadly demands are met. What results from their entrapment not only bends the forces of spacetime–forcing the two to question everything they know about their own reality–but pushes their familial bonds to the breaking point. (Rotten Tomatoes, 2024)
Michael Felker’s debut feature Things Will Be Different is a twisty science-fiction thriller. The film was produced by Rustic Films, the team behind Something In The Dirt (2022) and The Endless (2017).
Following its World Premiere at SXSW in March and the UK Premiere at FrightFest, Things Will Be Different will be in UK & Irish Cinemas starting October 4, and on Blu-ray & Digital starting November 18.
Cast: Adam David Thompson, Riley Dandy, Chloe Skoczen, Justin Benson and Sarah Bolger. Run Time: 102 Mins Genres: Horror, Sci-Fi, Thriller
Things Will Be Different still. Courtesy photo, used with permission.
Empire State is available now. Courtesy photo, used with permission.
Los Angeles – Singer-songwriter Greg Copeland is a Southern California native whose depth of feeling for music—and natural ability to conjure it up with spare, graceful melodies and lyrics that are plain spoken poetry—has been in inverse proportion to his body of work. His comfortable, yet candid, way with words make his new EP a welcome addition to his catalog of music. He has a natural ability to conjure up spare, graceful melodies and evocative lyrics that are plain spoken poetry. His genuine sentiments and strength of character, together with the intricate nuances of these musical compositions, create a vividly illustrative sound that allows him to shed light on difficult circumstances. His latest EP, Empire State was released on September 6, 2024. (Dreamspider Publicity, 2024)
The collection of songs exudes a sense of urgency and presence. Empire State takes place right this minute. Copeland’s characters and narratives “volunteer” themselves to be bared to the world through song and often recur throughout his catalog of music. Like a sentinel keeping watch, his songs are a report back to the listener, as inspiration for writing seems to bubble up from within. Copeland says, “When the odometer clicked over to 2000, I somehow started writing again. Don’t know why, just had to, and the three subsequent recordings are what matter to me most at this point.”
After a 26 year hiatus since his 1982 debut Revenge Will Come, Copeland went back into the studio and reemerged with his second release, Diana and James (Released 2008 on Browne’s label Inside Recordings). This triggered new writing towards a collection of songs that led to his third album, The Tango Bar, in 2020.
Empire State is out now on Copeland’s own independent label, Franklin & Highland Recordings, and internationally with Hemifrån/Paraply Records (Non-U.S. Territories).
Tyler Chester produced both Empire State and The Tango Bar and feature longtime comrade and producer of Copeland’s 2008 release Greg Leisz on pedal steel and mandocello, among other instruments. Chester, a multiple Grammy-nominated producer, session musician, multi-instrumentalist, and composer, also plays keys throughout Empire State as well as bass on the first track. Returning from previous albums to join them are longtime Jackson Browne sideman Val McCallum on electric and rubber bridge slide guitar; Jay Bellerose on drums and percussion; and Jennifer Condos on bass. Sara Watkins joins on fiddle for a track.
Empire State tracklist: 1. Boon Time 2. We the Gathered 3. 4:59:59 4. Coyotes 5. Empire State
Greg Copeland. Photo: Chris Schmitt, used with permission.
‘Lost in Thought’ is Deborah Serra’s new book. Photo: Amazon
Literary fiction explores the complexities of the human experience, often prioritizing character development and thematic depth over plot-driven narratives. The themes are often identity, society, and morality, inviting readers to reflect on their own lives. Another noteworthy work of literary fiction coming out next month is “Lost in Thought” by Deborah Serra. It is available for pre-order on Amazon.
“Lost in Thought” dares us to question our unconscious decisions and ask: Does your mind wander? Where does it go without you? (Meryl Moss Media, 2024)
Deborah Serra was a recipient of the Hawthornden Literary Fellowship and a semifinalist for the Faulkner-Wisdom Creative Writing Award. She has been published in several literary magazines and is an editor with the ethics and short story magazine After Dinner Conversation. She has been nominated for the O. Henry Prize. Deborah has two previously published books, “Primal” (a thriller) and “2 Broads Abroad” (a humorous travel memoir). On assignment, she has written ten TV films and numerous episodes and spent two years on staff. She has worked for Showtime, CBS, NBC, Sony, Fox, and Lifetime. Her new book “Lost in Thought” will be out October 22, 2024.
“Lost in Thought”– Ilana has an enviable job as production manager at the Lyric Opera House, a committed relationship, a cozy Greenwich Village apartment, wonderful friends, and the satisfying feeling of accomplishment. But the questions growing insistent inside her are about to shift the trajectory of her life.
Are Ilana’s questions due to her scientist boyfriend’s research on how people make their decisions, or is she suffering suppressed grief from the death of her mother? Adopted as an infant, she becomes curious about who she would be if she’d grown up with her birth family. Is she truly who she thinks she is? Has she ever freely chosen anything at all?
When Ilana learns that her birth mom owns an Irish pub upstate, well, what could be the harm of stopping in for a drink? Entering the pub has surprising consequences. She’s knocked over in a brawl, and so what begins as curiosity about her origins, evolves into a traumatic shift in her world. After the dust settles, something new takes its place. Something unexpected. Something that looks a lot like freedom.
“Lost in Thought will take you on a fascinating journey between your heart and your mind, your conscious and your unconscious. You won’t stop thinking about what it means for you. What you do next with your own life is up to you…or is it?” —Lawrence Kasanoff, Film Producer True Lies, President, Threshold Entertainment, Production Manager, Platoon, Dirty Dancing
F. Javier Gutierrez’s rural thriller The Wait (La Espera) opens in theaters ahead of North American Video On Demand release. Courtesy photo, used with permission.
Horror movies tap into our primal fears, exploring the unknown and the supernatural. They often feature suspenseful plots, chilling soundtracks, and eerie visuals that keep audiences on the edge of their seats. From classic slasher films to psychological thrillers, horror explores the themes of isolation, madness, and the monstrous. Iconic characters, like vampires and ghosts, symbolize deeper anxieties, while jump scares and tension build a visceral experience. Whether through the lens of societal fears or personal nightmares, horror movies not only entertain but also provoke thought, allowing us to confront our fears in a safe space. They remind us of our humanity in darkness.
There’s a new horror movie coming out today, Friday September 20 from F. Javier Gutierrez. If you enjoy horror movies set in desolate places, consider checking out The Wait (La Espera). It’s in Spanish with English subtitles.
Los Angeles, CA – Following a North American premiere at Fantastic Fest and an award winning festival tour that included screenings at Sitges, Shanghai, Vancouver, and Oldenburg, Film Movement has announced the official release ofThe Wait (La Espera). The rural thriller is the latest film from Spanish cult filmmaker F. Javier Gutierrez (Before the Fall, Rings). (Justin Cook, PR, 2024)
The Wait will open theatrically in select markets this Friday, September 20, including Los Angeles, Miami, San Antonio, Houston and Fresno. On October 4, audiences across North America will be able to rent or own The Wait on Cable VOD and Digital HD, including Apple TV, Prime Video. and Fandango at Home.
The Wait is produced by Gutierrez’s Unfiled Productions, Nostromo Pictures (Buried, Penny Dreadful), and Spal Films (Before the Fall). The folk horror tragedy stars Victor Clavijo (Before the Fall), Ruth Diaz, Manuel Moron, and Luis Callejo (Below Zero).
The Wait, set in the remote, magical, and forgotten Andalusian countryside has been described as a “love letter to the horror/fantasy genre,” as well as Gutiérrez’s “most intimate and brutal film” to date.
Deep in the Andalusian countryside, Eladio (Clavijo) has been hired to watch over the hunting grounds of Don Francisco’s estate, somewhere in rural Spain. The estate is divided into ten hunting stands, spaced far enough apart to avoid incidents. After three years of service, Don Carlos — Don Francisco’s second in command — offers him a bribe to add an additional three stands to the property. Eladio initially hesitates, but his wife eventually convinces him to take the money. Eladio’s greed has unfortunate consequences that drag his entire family to perdition, and plunging him into the depths of guilt, hatred, and revenge.
The Wait (La Espera): 100 minutes / Spain Spanish w/ English subtitles
Ahead of the release, Gutierrez enthused, “I’m truly excited to share with American audiences this unsettling story of guilt, loss, revenge, and class divides. Deeply human and rich with symbolism and biblical references, The Wait is my most personal and uncompromising film to date. I extend my heartfelt thanks to Film Movement for making this possible and for their unwavering support and dedication to filmmakers and film lovers around the world.”
The Wait (La Espera) Theatrical Screenings: Los Angeles: Regal Edwards South Gate Miami: Regal Southland Mall Houston: Regal Benders Landing San Antonio: Regal Cielo Vista Fresno: Regal Manchester – Fresno
“Clavijo gives a gripping performance as a man driven to desperation in more ways than one….” — Joseph Perry, Horror Fuel
“A slow burn film done right …” — Emilie Black, Cinema Crazed
“…Best enjoyed for its haunting visuals and grime embedded aesthetic. It is precise filmmaking on many levels.” — Nadine Whitney, AWFJ.org
“A brooding, potent tale of calamity, loss, revenge, and class divides. It would do it a disservice to call it merely a horror film, as there is so much more here and plenty of food for thought.” — Martin Unsworth, Starburst
Still from The Wait. Courtesy photo, used with permission.
Laurie Lewis will receive a 2024 IBMA Distinguished Achievement Award and is on tour with new album. Courtesy photo, used with permission.
BERKELEY, Calif. — With five decades of music-making to her credit, multi-GRAMMY nominee Laurie Lewis has emerged as both a successor and contemporary of the many greats in bluegrass, old-time, and folk music. Unafraid to venture beyond established boundaries, she has carved out her place as a uniquely singular vocalist, songwriter, instrumentalist, and frontwoman in genres revered for their adherence to tradition, authenticity, and the canon of the forebearers. (Dreamspider Publicity, 2024)
The International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA) has announced that Lewis will receive a 2024 Distinguished Achievement Award at the IBMA Bluegrass Music Awards taking place Thursday, September 26, at the Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts in Raleigh, North Carolina.
A two-time IBMA Female Vocalist of the Year, she also won the coveted Song of the Year award for her rendition of the now-standard ‘Who Will Watch the Home Place?’ She has sung and recorded with Linda Ronstadt (“Pretty Bird”), and set poems by Wendell Berry to music—at his request (“Burley Coulter’s Song for Kate Helen Branch”). She’s influenced and inspired folks like guitarist phenom Molly Tuttle—one example of an entire generation of pickers and singers who call her a mentor. Ultimately, Lewis occupies a unique, superlative niche in American roots music that is all her own.
Lewis released her 24th album, TREES, on May 31 on her own label, Spruce and Maple Music. With it, she presents a profound and multifaceted perspective with life, nature, loss, and grief. While deeply reflective, this set includes danceable music that drips with community and never feels burdened by its subject matter or apparent solitude. These songs—seven originals and a handful of covers—aren’t too concerned with genre, especially given that bluegrass and old-time tend to spout from Lewis like a bubbling mountain spring, in so many distinct manifestations.
Her band includes Lewis on guitar and lead vocals throughout (along with fiddle on one track), Hasee Ciaccio on bass, Brandon Godman on fiddle, Patrick Sauber on banjo, and George Guthrie on guitar and banjo. Special guests on the album include Andrew Marlin on mandolin, Sam Reider on accordion, and Nina Gerber on guitar.
Trees tracklist: 1. Just a Little Ways Down the Road 2. Enough 3. Texas Wind 4. Why’d You Have To Break My Heart 5. Quaking Aspen 6. Trees 7. Long Gone 8. Hound Dog Blues 9. The Banks are Covered in Blue 10. Down on the Levee 11. The Day is Mine 12. Rock The Pain Away
Laurie Lewis Tour Dates: 9/17-20 – Bluegrass on Whitewater – Rogue River, OR 9/22 – FreshGrass Festival – North Adams, MA 9/25-26 – IBMA Conference – Raleigh, NC 9/27 – IBMA WOB Festival – Raleigh NC 10/5 – Hardly Strictly Bluegrass – San Francisco, CA 11/2 – McCloud River Mountain Music – McCloud, CA 11/8 – The Old Steeple – Ferndale, CA 11/9 – Soper Reese Theatre – Lakeville, CA 11/30 – Freight & Salvage – Berkeley, CA
Laurie Lewis. Photo: Irene Young, used with permission.
Hispanic Heritage Month is in full swing at Pearl. Other events include Mariachi Mondays, Mercadito Cultural Night Markets, and Music on the Springs. Photo: Pearl, used with permission.
San Antonio –Pearl is celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month with a vibrant lineup of events throughout September and into mid-October. Visitors can enjoy Mariachi Mondays featuring pop-up performances in Pearl Park, Mercadito Cultural night markets on Wednesdays showcasing Hispanic chefs and artisans, and Music on the Springs every Friday evening with live entertainment. These events aim to highlight the rich cultural heritage of the Hispanic community in San Antonio through music, food, and art. (Pearl, 2024)
Mercadito Cultural Wednesday, September 18 & 25 from 5p.m. to 9p.m. Pearl Farmers Market presents “Mercadito Cultural” on September 18 and 25. Join Mercadito Cultural to celebrate the talented chefs, artisans, and captivating performances that showcase the richness of Hispanic culture including live performances by Mariachi Las Alteñaseach week. Starting Wednesday, October 2, these will transition into Harvest Markets that take place each Wednesday through the month of October.
Music on the Springs Every Friday through November 29 from 5p.m. to 8p.m. Taking place every Friday at 1100 Springs Plaza, Pearl is hosting Music on the Springs featuring artisans, vendors, food and live music.
“This time of year gives us a wonderful chance to reflect on San Antonio’s place in the world with its unique and vibrant identity, shaped by the rich cultural stories and traditions that are deeply intertwined with our city’s Hispanic heritage. Our month-long celebration is all about creating meaningful connections and partnerships that highlight the spirit of San Antonio. The events and programs we’ve planned are designed to showcase the richness and diversity of our community, inviting everyone to share in our authentic selves.” – Mesha Millsap, Pearl CEO
Mariachi Mondays Every Monday thru October 14 6p.m. to 7p.m. Pearl continues the celebration all month long with a series of vibrant pop-up mariachi performances throughout Pearl Park. These lively musical events will take place all month long, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of mariachi music and its significance to the community.
Visitors can enjoy the enchanting sounds of traditional mariachi groups as they perform in various locations around the park, creating an immersive experience that celebrates the spirit of the month. Pearl aims to foster a sense of community and connection through these performances, inviting both locals and visitors to join in the festivities and appreciate the artistry and passion of mariachi musicians.
“Always Pa’delante” Mural Installation Now through October 15, 2024 – Pearl’s Shaded Structure Pearl is showcasing a new mural by renowned Oaxacan artist Edefroy “Froy” Padilla through October 15 in celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month. Titled “Always Pa’delante” (or “Always Forward”), the mural features notable figures César Chávez, Frida Kahlo, Gabriel García Márquez, and Selena, on a tandem bicycle, symbolizing Latino political and cultural achievements.
Padilla, known for portraying Mexican icons as Hollywood movie characters, completed the mural last week. The mural will remain on display at Pearl through October 15 and will serve as inspiration for future generations.
A tandem bike featuring César Chávez, Frida Kahlo, Gabriel García Márquez and Selena. Photo: Pearl, used with permission.
Movie Mondays are Coming Back Every Monday starting October 14 thru December 9, 2024 – 7:30 p.m. to 9p.m. Movie Mondays will make their return just in time for cooler weather. Movie titles to be announced – follow Historic Pearl on social media for more details.
Pearl is a dynamic neighborhood built around the historic Pearl Brewery, located just north of downtown San Antonio on the banks of the San Antonio River. Pearl is home to architecturally significant buildings like the brewhouse and stable—both built in 1894—and numerous plazas. It is a vibrant district where the community gathers to play, work, and live; it is a place where things are made and celebrated with purpose and sincerity.
Wineville is available to view on Video on Demand/Digital. Courtesy photo, used with permission.
Horror movies captivate audiences by tapping into our primal fears and anxieties, using suspense, surprise, and the macabre to elicit strong emotional responses. From classic monsters and haunted houses to psychological thrillers and supernatural entities, these films explore the darker side of human imagination. They often reflect societal fears and personal anxieties, offering both a mirror and an escape. With their eerie soundtracks, unsettling visuals, and intense narratives, horror movies create a unique blend of entertainment and terror. They not only provide a thrill but also a cathartic experience, allowing viewers to confront their deepest fears in a controlled environment.
If you like horror movies, there’s a new one out this month. Dark Star Pictures has released the 70s-inspired, wine-soaked horror/slasher Wineville. It is available on VOD/Digital and Physical Media including Fandango at Home, Apple TV, and Google Play Movies & TV. (Gold Dust PR, 2024)
Wineville is the directorial debut from producer/star Brande Roderick who is best known for her role as Leigh Dyer on the television series Baywatch. Roderick has also appeared in various films, TV and reality shows, including Starsky and Hutch, The Nanny Diaries, and Celebrity Apprentice. Roderick will appear in Hulu’s upcoming four part docu series After Baywatch: Moment in the Sun.
Set in the 70s, Wineville follows a woman who, after escaping her abusive father as a teen, is forced to return to the family vineyard to settle his affairs upon his death. She discovers that the dark secrets she left behind have only grown more sinister over the decades, fermenting into violence and death.
Additional cast includes Carolyn Hennesy (General Hospital, Cougar Town), Texas Battle (Hard Kill, Coach Carter), Casey King (Star Trek: Pickard) and Keaton Roderick Cadrez. Wineville was written by Richard Schenkman (The Man From Earth), who also produced alongside Roderick, Robin DeMartino, and Todd Slater.
“Wineville was influenced by 70s horror classics like The Texas Chainsaw Massacre and The Last House on the Left. I wanted my first feature to be not only in the horror genre that I loved so much growing up, but to also pay homage to the flavor and style of that decade’s films that made such an impact on me.” – Brande Roderick
Shot at the historic Galleano Winery, the film references the Wineville Chicken Coop Murders, one of California’s most infamous true crime cases. The heinous crimes garnered significant notoriety due to their brutal nature and the subsequent investigation, which ultimately led to the renaming of Wineville to Mira Loma.
Wineville Rated R for graphic violence, graphic language, intense themes of incest, and sexual content. Run Time: 1hr 40 min
SA Examiner 