Bahnbrëcker’s Slow River Blend. Photo: Bahnbrëcker, used with permission.
Bahnbrëcker is a new spirits brand founded by an eclectic group of friends who wanted to pay tribute to their unique Texas town of New Braunfels. The town was founded by German pioneers in 1845 where the Comal and Guadalupe rivers meet. What better way to capture the spirit of New Braunfels, they thought, than with an easy drinking craft whiskey. They called it Bahnbrëcker, meaning ‘trailblazer’ in German, and like New Braunfels, it is a quirky combination of German engineering and Texan swagger. (Bahnbrëcker, 2021)
Slow River Blend, Bahnbrëcker’s first launched product, is a smooth Hefeweizen-Style Whiskey distilled from Texan and Midwestern winter wheats with notes of lemon peel, clove, caramel, and vanilla. The uniqueness of the Hefeweizen flavorings makes for a perfect gift for cocktail enthusiasts looking to expand their profile. Slow River Blend is available for nationwide shipping. Bahnbrëcker is co-founded by country music star Randy Rogers, Eric Chase, Cary Schindler, Ash Wineinger, Michael Devers, and spirits-industry veteran Steve Luttmann.
See below for cocktail recipes that are sure to be the star of any holiday party.
Cocktail Name: Only on the Weekends
Ingredients: • 2oz. Bahnbrëcker Slow River Blend Whiskey • .75oz. lemon juice • .75oz. simple syrup • 1 bar spoon raspberry preserves • 1 bar spoon cranberry preserves • Ice
Preparation: • Add raspberry and cranberry compote to bottom of rocks glass • Add ice to glass • Pour remaining ingredients over the ice • Garnish with a lemon wheel and mint sprig
Cocktail Name: Mr. Claus’ Rock
Ingredients: • 2oz. Bahnbrëcker Slow River Blend Whiskey • .25oz. Shiner Holiday Cheer simple syrup o Equal parts Shiner Holiday Cheer and sugar • 4 dashes angostura bitters • Orange zest • Ice
Preparation: • Create a Shiner Holiday Cheer simple syrup o In a medium saucepan add Shiner Holiday Cheer and bring to a boil. o Slowly add in an equal amount of sugar and stir until the sugar has dissolved completely • Add ice to a rocks glass and pour Slow River Blend, angostura bitters and Shiner Holiday Cheer syrup and stir • Top with an orange zest garnish
New Year’s resolutions meant to better yourself. Photo: google
The year is almost over and a new year on the horizon means people are looking forward to new beginnings. Making New Year’s resolutions is one way to greet the new year and improve your life. Some of the most popular include getting in shape, getting organized, and finding a better job. In the spirit of new beginnings, I wanted to look into unconventional resolutions, while shining the light on some of the tried and true ones that are worth mentioning.
Better fitness This often includes a combination of getting in shape and losing weight. One way to help you stick to an exercise routine is to have a workout friend. Another is to find an activity you enjoy, otherwise you will get bored and lose interest. I am particular to roller skating and riding my bike. Accountability is important to help you stay on track of your wellness goals and fitness technology like Fitbit is fast becoming the norm. While exercising is important for improved health, you will get better results if you combine it with cutting calories – it is all about moderation.
Live life to its fullest This does not necessarily mean making major life changes, but rather enjoying the life you already have. Do not wait for special occasions to give someone a gift. Celebrate the small moments. Create your own opportunities by taking action instead of waiting for life to come to you. When all else fails, make a bucket list. Carpe diem!
Accept change Life is full of changes; it is inevitable. It is what helps us grow because we become exposed to new ideas and experiences that come along the way. Embrace life’s little surprises and strive to think positively about changes. When life throws me a curveball, I just say to myself “Plot twist,” and move on.
Be kind to yourself Do not be so hard on yourself, we are not meant to be perfect. Let go of what you cannot control and try to get past what hurt you in the past, including heartbreaks, disappointments, and anger. Stop trying to please everyone and learn to say ‘no’ to make room for more important matters in your life.
Be empathic Try to see life through other people’s eyes. When we only see our own perspective, we tend to be judgmental and close-minded. Like my father always told us while we were growing up, “if everyone were the same, this world would be a very boring place.”
Better money management To help you make better financial decisions, consider setting a budget and looking for ways to cut costs or make extra money. This includes everything from selling your unwanted possessions to consignment shops to buying from thrift stores. It is surprising the excellent deals you can find at Goodwill. Remember that just because something is on sale it does not mean you have to buy it.
Give back to your community Depending on how much time you have to give, consider taking time out to volunteer. It does not take much to practice random acts of kindness and make someone’s day. Donating to charity organizations makes you feel better and is an excellent way to declutter your home. Nonprofit organizations that support your skills or values are always appreciative of your time and money.
Manage your stress Stress management and reduction techniques like meditation and yoga can do wonders for your nervous system. To keep yourself focused, practice mindfulness – the state of being in the present and aware of your thoughts, feelings, and sensations.
Know your limits This is especially true during a major life event like moving to a new home, whether across town or across the country. We do not always have to do everything ourselves. To make moving easier and less stressful, consider hiring movers to handle the load. If you are in the Dallas area, consider Youngstars Moving & Delivery.
Youngstars Moving & Delivery specializes in local and long distance moving. The company is made up of movers with years of experience in the moving industry and pride themselves in competitive prices and above all, customer satisfaction. Moving can be a pain and their goal is to make your move as painless as possible. They are committed to providing service of the highest quality, paying particular attention to working efficiently while keeping the lines of communication with clients clear and concise. Their mission is simple: to provide high-quality services in a timely manner. Their team caters to each project’s specific needs to ensure excellence. If all you need is movers to do the heavy work, Moving & Delivery has labor movers in Dallas. Fee includes tools and dollies. There is a two hour minimum charge. Packages range from one mover for $45 an hour to 6 movers for $210 an hour, whatever it takes to get the job done.
Youngstars Moving & Delivery, for all your moving needs. Photo: Youngstars Moving & Delivery, used with permission.Youngstars Moving & Delivery offers residential and commercial moving services. Photo: Youngstars Moving & Delivery, used with permission.
Bakery Lorraine’s gingerbread men. Photo: Bakery Lorraine, used with permission
For the month of December, Bakery Lorraine is adding new items such as a hazelnut tart and rum cake in addition to the classic gingerbread man, Buche de Noel, and apple pie options. No masterpiece is made instantly, so their specialty desserts require at least a 72 hour advance notice. Available for takeout to share with family and friends at home, you can check for their availability and order online or you can call a location directly to place an order. (Bakery Lorraine, 2021)
December 2021 Menu:
Redberry Tart – Vanilla mascarpone filling with fresh raspberry
Chocolate Caramel Tart – Caramel filling topped with a chocolate ganache and mini chocolate macaron
Gingerbread Man – Spicy gingerbread cookie dipped in dark chocolate
Sacher Torte Cake
Opera Cake
Red Velvet Cake – Layered with a light cream cheese frosting
BUCHE DE NOEL (Available December 13 – 31) for $48 – Black forest Christmas log: Tart cherries, vanilla mousse, chocolate sponge cake soaked in a spiced kirsch syrup *mushrooms may vary*
Apple Cranberry Pie for $26
Dutch Apple Pie for $26
Whiskey Pecan Pie for $26
Bakery Lorraine is a San Antonio favorite and nationally recognized pastry shop famous for its colorful macarons and exquisite French pastries. Owned by chefs Anne Ng, Jeremy Mandrell, and operator Charlie Biedenharn, Bakery Lorraine was named one of the best new bakeries in the U.S. by Food & Wine and CNN’s Eatocracyblog, as well as one of the “13 Destination Bakeries” by Conde Nast Traveler. Bakery Lorraine serves handmade French pastries and macarons using the finest ingredients. The bakery also serves breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner, including items like its breakfast parfait, the quiche Lorraine, chicken potpie, an assortment of salads and soups, and artisan sandwiches. Bakery Lorraine has three locations in San Antonio including one in the Historic Pearl district, one in San Antonio’s Medical Center, and one in San Antonio’s RIM shopping center, including now an Austin location at Domain NORTHSIDE.
Taco Cabana’s birria quesadillas and tortilla soup will be available through January 2022. Photo: Taco Cabana, used with permission.
Starting December 15 and arriving just in time for the winter season, Taco Cabana guests can enjoy the new birria quesadilla served with warm birria broth and a returning favorite, tortilla soup, at all Taco Cabana Texas locations. (Taco Cabana, 2021)
Taco Cabana’s birria quesadilla features seasoned shredded beef, melted Monterey Jack cheese and Pico de Gallo between two warm flour tortillas, perfect for dipping in the accompanying traditional warm birria broth. Another classic favorite is back at Taco Cabana – TC’s tortilla soup, featuring a savory broth made with shredded chicken, tomatoes, onion and garlic, and topped with crispy corn tortilla strips, a blend of Jack and Cheddar cheeses, cilantro, and served with lime wedges.
Perfect for keeping cozy in-restaurant or at home, Taco Cabana’s birria quesadilla and tortilla soup can be ordered in-restaurant, via online ordering for front counter pick-up, in the drive-thru or by mobile order when using the MY TC!® App or online through January 2022.
Taco Cabana, a subsidiary of YTC Enterprises, LLC, was founded in 1978. The brand specializes in Tex-Mex-inspired food including enchiladas, fajitas, quesadillas, flautas, tacos, flour tortillas and a selection of made-from-scratch salsas and sauces. Restaurants feature open-display cooking, a selection of bottled beer and $2 tequila margaritas, patio dining, drive-thru windows, delivery and catering. As of December 1, 2021, Taco Cabana operates 142 company-owned restaurants in Texas.
The North Pole Nopal is taking place this Saturday December 11, 2021. Photo: San Antonio River Foundation, used with permission.
Join the San Antonio River Foundation (SARF) on Saturday, December 11, from 10a.m. to 2p.m. for the inaugural North Pole Nopal outdoor market and holiday concert. This family-friendly event will feature a native tree giveaway from our partners at the City of San Antonio Parks and Recreation Department, local artisans and food vendors, music from the AM Project, and a performance from the San Antonio Brass Band. (San Antonio River Foundation, 2021)
As a part of this family-friendly event, SARF will be giving away 400 trees at 10a.m. at Confluence Park through a partnership with the San Antonio Parks and Recreation Department.
AVAILABLE TREES – Crape Myrtle – Bald Cypress – Dogwood – Chinkapin Oak – Texas Red Oak
The San Antonio River Foundation is kicking off the holiday giving season at North Pole Nopal with a call for funds to support its end-of-year appeal. The end-of-year appeal is to help support the nonprofit’s mission to preserve, enhance, and transform the San Antonio River Basin for its youth and families. SARF, the only non-profit focused on the San Antonio River, has welcomed more than 60,000 students and community members to Confluence Park through free community programming and educational field trips. The San Antonio River Foundation has a vision to inspire stewardship of the entire 240-mile-long river and the native ecology it supports.
Confluence Park 310 Mitchell St. San Antonio, TX 78204
Parking for the event can be found at the following lots: CPS Energy: 613 Mission Rd. San Antonio, TX 78210
The San Antonio River Foundation’s mission is to preserve, enhance, and transform the San Antonio River Basin as a vibrant cultural, educational, ecological, and recreational experience.
MAX’s Wine Dive has their famous Southern Fried Chicken dinner to go. Photo: Beccca Wright, used with permission.
MAX’s Wine Dive is celebrating the holidays with their famous southern fried chicken family dinner. Spoil your family with a southern fried chicken family dinner at MAX’s Wine Dive which includes famous fried chicken, classic sides, homemade desserts, southern-style biscuits, and of course, champagne for $115 an order. Today until January 1, celebrate the holidays’ MAX’s Wine Dive style with champagne and fried chicken because “why the hell not?” (MAX’s Wine Dive, 2021)
MAX’s Wine Dive Holiday Famous Fried Chicken Family Dinner includes:
Twelve-piece Max’s Famous Southern Fried Chicken 6 Southern Style Biscuits with Chipotle Honey
Choice of 2 Family Sides Sweet Potato Mashers, Mashed Potatoes, Seasoned Braised Collard Greens, Jalapeno Cheddar Grits, Truffle Max n’ Cheese (+6)
Choice of 2 Desserts Pumpkin Spiced Bread Pudding or Big Ass Chocolate Brownie Served a la mode 1 Bottle of Prodige Blanc de Blancs Add additional Chicken Pieces for $5 each
Jerry Lasco, founder of MAX’s Wine Dive restaurant moved to Houston from New York City with his wife, Laura, in 2001. After 9/11 Jerry transitioned from airline pilot to full-time restauranteur and opened the first MAX’S location in 2006—naming it after Max, his then three-year-old son. Taking inspiration from Jerry’s favorite NYC hangouts serving gourmet food and wine in unpretentious and comfortable environments, MAX’s was the first restaurant in Houston to serve award-winning comfort food with a curated wine list. Hence the MAX’s mantra was created “FRIED CHICKEN AND CHAMPAGNE?…WHY THE HELL NOT?!”
Adam Shoenfeld’s new solo album All the Birds Sing will be out in January. Photo: LYRIC Magazine
In 1994, at 20 years old, Adam Shoenfeld moved to Nashville and soon integrated himself into the music community. He formed a band with “Big Kenny” Alphin called LuvjOi, which became one of the most popular draws on Nashville’s rock scene in that era. When Big Kenny then formed country duo Big & Rich with John Rich, they enlisted Shoenfeld to play guitar on their 2004 breakout hit, “Save a Horse, Ride a Cowboy.” Around this same time, Shoenfeld and Rich teamed up to write a hit for Faith Hill, resulting in her 2005 No. 1 single, “Mississippi Girl.” He will release his first solo album, All the Birds Sing, in January 2022. (Adam Shoenfeld, 2021)
From the first notes of Shoenfeld’s new record – out January 28 via Lozen Entertainment Group/Copperline–the musicianship and wealth of drawn influences are readily apparent. Spending the last two decades bringing his rock-leaning sound to Nashville’s premier country music scene and his last nine years in Tim McGraw’s touring band, Shoenfeld has channeled all of these words and melodies of his own for something brand new; something apart from his country “day-job.” “I love getting to play guitar for people and making a living doing that,” he says. “It’s the best job in the world, but I’ve always been an artist at heart.” The Boot premiered the first single from All the Birds Sing, “The Sky is Falling Down” paired with an exclusive interview with Shoenfeld. Although the ELO-string section-influenced song alludes to the chaos in the world, there is a silver lining in its message. Fans can hear “The Sky is Falling Down” now at this link and pre-order or pre-save All the Birds Sing ahead of its January 28 release right here.
Although he opted out of becoming known as a country artist, Shoenfeld’s playing has shaped the genre for decades now. He believes that being around the industry for this long, watching what artists go through, gave him the confidence to step out as a solo performer. “It’s all built up to this point where I’m like, ‘You know what? I need to do this. I need to put it out there to see if I can touch some people with this music,’” he says. From the rock anthem “Getting to Me” to the poetic songwriting of “Say a Word,” Shoenfeld is doing exactly that. The cornerstone of All the Birds Sing is the poignant title track, which he wrote in ten minutes in a hotel room, in tears, for someone close to him who was going through a tough time. However, its tender lyrics resonate in his own life too.
All the Birds Sing Track list: The Sky is Falling Down Gettin’ to Me All the Birds Sing Eleven Son Pave Those Highways Lose to Win Her Song Norwegian Wood Say a Word
Agarita celebrates San Antonio Museum of Art’s 40th anniversary with free community concert. Photo: Agarita
An innovative chamber ensemble dedicated to producing bold, collaborative musical events, Agarita offers a new way to experience classical and contemporary music. Rooted in San Antonio and founded by Daniel Anastasio (piano), Marisa Bushman (viola), Ignacio Gallego (cello), and Sarah Silver Manzke (violin), Agarita nourishes the local community through artistic collaborations, community engagement, and free, adventurous programming. (Agarita, 2021)
Agarita was recently named San Antonio Magazine’s Best of the City 2021: Culture winner for its collaboration with area partners. It works intimately with local artists of various genres to weave cross-artistic narratives for each concert. Agarita’s past collaborations have included the McNay Art Museum’s Pop América exhibit, lighting artist Chuck Drew, Cameron Beauchamp from the Grammy Award-winning vocal group Roomful of Teeth, chef Elizabeth Johnson and Pharm Table restaurant, poet Laura Van Prooyen, sculptor Danville Chadbourne, educational arts institution SAY Sí, and the Luminaria Contemporary Arts Festival for a concert inside San Antonio’s historic Mission San José.
As a nonprofit organization, Agarita believes that the arts should be accessible to everyone in its community. Agarita presents free public concerts, performs at local schools, and offers opportunities for other artists through its collaborations. The next event will take place on Sunday, December 12 at the San Antonio Museum of Art.
Agarita Celebrates SAMA’s 40th! Date: Sunday, December 12, 2021 Time: 11a.m. – 12:15p.m. Location: San Antonio Museum of Art, 200 West Jones Ave, San Antonio, TX 78215 Collaborator: Highlights of SAMA’s permanent collection Description: Agarita returns to the San Antonio Museum of Art for a concert celebrating the museum’s 40th anniversary. Musical selections will reflect artworks on display in the special exhibit. This concert is FREE and open to the public.
From now until December 24, customers can participate in the fundraiser to benefit Home for Our Troops. Photo: google
As part of its WB Cares program, WB Liquors & Wine is launching the final phase of its 2021 fundraiser to benefit Home For Our Troops (HFOT) – 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. (WB Liquors & Wine, 2021)
This year, WB Liquors & Wine has been supporting Marine Corporal Raymond D. Hennagir III of Arlington, Texas. Marine Corporal Hennagir was serving on his second deployment in Iraq, when he was severely injured in an improvised explosive device (IED) explosion. The blast resulted in the loss of both his legs and several fingers on his left hand.
WB Liquors & Wine has been raising funds for HFOT and Marine Corporal Hennagir since August. The family-owned company is excited to finish this year’s fundraiser strong and surpass the $100,000 mark with this final push for donations. Customers can donate at any WB Store or WB Liquor Sales location across Texas now through Friday, December 24.
“We can’t thank our communities enough for the support we’ve received so far. Building homes like this will restore some of the freedom and independence that Veterans like Marine Corporal Raymond Hennagir sacrificed while defending our country.” – John Herrmann, president of WB Liquors & Wine
The Wheel of Time is a fantasy series by Robert Jordan. The television adaptation is now available on Amazon Prime Video. Photo: amazon
Robert Jordan was an American author of epic fantasy. He is known best for his series the Wheel of Time (finished by Brandon Sanderson after Jordan’s death) which comprises 14 books and a prequel novel. He is one of several writers to have written original Conan the Barbarian novels. The Wheel of Time was adapted into a television series and released through Amazon Prime Video last month. The series follows Moiraine, a member of the Aes Sedai, a powerful organization of women who can use magic. She takes a group of four young people on a journey around the world, believing one of them might be the reincarnation of the Dragon, a powerful individual prophesied to either save the world or destroy it. It stars Rosamund Pike as Moiraine. (amazon, 2021)
The Wheel of Time is a series of high fantasy novels set in an unnamed world that, due to the cyclical nature of time as depicted in the series, is simultaneously the distant past and the distant future Earth. It draws on numerous elements of both European and Asian mythology, most notably the cyclical nature of time found in Buddhism and Hinduism, the metaphysical concepts of balance and duality, and a respect for nature found in Taoism. Its story of creation has similarities to the Abrahamic religions’ “Creator” (Light) and Shai’tan, “The Dark One.” It was also partly inspired by Leo Tolstoy’s War and Peace (1869). The Wheel of Time is notable for its length, detailed imaginary world and magic system, and large cast of characters. (Wikipedia, 2021)
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