A Magical Night Awaits – Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon: The Super Live Shines in San Antonio

The Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon North American Tour will make a stop at the Majestic Theatre on March 18, 2025. Photo: Bond Theatrical, used with permission.

Following its sensational month-long engagement in London, Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon: The Super Live, the world-wide smash hit 2.5D musical sensation based on the wildly popular manga (comic book), will launch a North American tour this March with technical rehearsals and previews held in Pittsburgh, PA and an official opening on March 15 in Austin, TX and in partnership with SXSW (South by SouthWest). The tour includes a stop in San Antonio at the Majestic Theatre on March 18, 2025. (ATG Entertainment, 2025)

With book, lyrics and direction by Kaori Miura (Musical: The Prince of Tennis, Tokyo Revengers The Musical), choreography by Satomi Toma, and music by Go Sakabe and KYOHEI, the visually stunning show follows the stories of Usagi Tsukino, a teenage girl who transforms into the heroic Sailor Moon. Together, with her fellow Sailor Guardians, she battles many dark forces to protect the Earth from evil.

With a mix of action, heartfelt moments, and iconic music, this production sees the manga characters brought to life on stage, in an epic story-telling live show experience guaranteed to wow audiences night after night, creating an unforgettable experience for fans and newcomers alike. Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon: The Super Live will be performed in Japanese with English subtitles.  

“At its very basic, ‘Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon’is about 5 girlfriends banding together to fight for what they believe in… that’s timely,” said writer and director Kaori Miura.  “Sailor Moon and her fellow guardians are equipped with powers that help them defeat evil and the characters are imbued with the self-determination to have agency and make their own confident decisions. In short, they are the ultimate example of ‘girl power.’”

The show’s North American engagement of Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon: The Super Live, is strictly limited, with previous engagements in New York City and Washington, D.C. selling out in record time. Ticket prices range from $45-$179 (will vary from city to city) including a VIP package designed to create enchanting fan experiences. For the San Antonio show, tickets are available online through the Majestic Theatre.

One of the most popular Mangas of all time, “Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon”is a global cultural phenomenon.  Created by Naoko Takeuchi, Sailor Moon began as a manga in 1991 in Japan in a girls’ comic magazine published by Kodansha and has since sold over 46 million copies world-wide and has been translated into over 17 languages. It has been adapted as an anime and a live-action tv series which has aired in over 40 countries.

Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon: The Super Live premiered at the AiiA 2.5 Theater Tokyo in August 2018. Following its European premiere in Paris in November 2018, the show had its US premiere in Washington D.C. and New York in March 2019 which sold out within minutes, drawing audiences from over 40 states. It has since played a hugely successful run in Taiwan. 

South Texas AuthorCon: A Celebration of Stories, Creativity, and Community

This year’s South Texas AuthorCon featured a variety of authors from the Rio Grande Valley.

Author events, such as book signings, readings, and meet-and-greets, offer readers a unique opportunity to connect with the creators behind the stories. These events are important because they foster personal interactions, allowing authors to share insights, inspiration, and behind-the-scenes details of their work. For readers, attending author events provides a chance to engage with their favorite writers and discover new ones across all genres. The appeal lies in the sense of community and connection that forms, making the reading experience more intimate and memorable. These events also encourage a deeper appreciation of literature and the creative process.

This month, the city of San Benito hosted the second annual South Texas AuthorCon at the San Benito Plaza. The two day event brought readers of all ages to meet authors of all genres, purchase books, and get author autographs. The first day was geared solely towards students while the second day was open to the public and all together, authors, artists, and guests made this event a success.

Before the event, Beyond Borders Books held a writing contest. Valley View High School student Mariano Moreno won the 2024 Creative Writing Contest for his poem “¿Dónde están mis hijos?” which he recited that day.

Many thanks to the authors and artists for their patience in meeting everyone and taking their time to tell their story and answer questions. This event was an opportunity for me to discover authors I hadn’t hear of and meet fellow bibliophiles. I met a handful of authors from several genres including memoirs, children’s books, and YA novels.

Some of the authors included:

Thomas Ray Garcia – “The River Runs” Short story collection. This collection presents insights into Texas-Mexico border culture, highlighting tales of resilience while refusing to shy away from the omnipresent reality the river imposes. Written from 2015 to 2020, these stories resist a singular vision of the border, centering the Rio Grande as a site of transformation.

Monica Velasquez – “The Wait Until Sunday for Pan Dulce.” Children’s book. A little girl waits patiently everyday just to get to Sunday, when the family eats sweet bread. Her feelings change day by day in which she dreams of eating different types of “pan dulce.” The book is a rhyming book for children or children at heart. Different types of Mexican sweet bread are beautifully drawn, bringing the book to life.

Cassie Bleu Davila – “I’m Not Waiting for My Mom To Die.” Memoir. When Cassie was 7 years old, she had to leave the only place she had ever known after her mom married a US citizen. Now living in the United States, she puts on a fake smile for everyone, but behind closed doors her life is a nightmare. She is hiding the deepest darkest secret that nobody could imagine. The only person that knows about her secret is her mom. But if her own mom won’t help her, who will?

Rosario Ozuna – “The Tears Behind the Smile: Poems and Reflections from the Heart”– Literary fiction. These poems and reflections mirror daily obstacles and several of our deepest daily emotions, which sometimes we keep chained up within our soul. Several of the themes in this book are kept in our hearts in silence. Many of these experiences are painful, distressing, and even make us cry and doubt, but they also help us to believe in ourselves. Without these sunny and blue situations, we wouldn’t know how to move forward and make the best of these circumstances. This book also debuts ten Spanish poems. Facebook profile

Jaime Perez – “A Risky Yet Worthwhile Endeavor,” “The Vacant Space,” and “Through You.” Fiction.

P.L. Blair – She is author of the Portals series, novels that blend fantasy, detective mysteries and an occasional touch of horror.

Rosa Estela Mora – “Becoming Sofia Bosco” and “The Sofia Bosco Effect” – Teen and YA Fiction.

Patty York Raymond – “It’s Too Windy” “Hay Mucho Viento!” Children’s books. The story is about family and how establishing long lasting traditions leads to developing close family ties that last a lifetime. Jessica and David can’t wait to swim in the grandparents’ pool. But how long will they have to wait? It’s Too Windy is accompanied by a music CD.

Angela Rosko – “Hello Grace” and “Grammy Misses Gracie.” The Adventures of Gracie and Grammy series of children’s books.

Margarita Longoria – “Living Beyond Borders: Growing up Mexican in America” YA short story collection. In this mixed-media collection of short stories, personal essays, poetry, and comics, this celebrated group of authors share the borders they have crossed, the struggles they have pushed through, and the two cultures they continue to navigate as Mexican Americans.

Naivi Vera – “El Maravilloso Mundo de Susy: La Pequeña Hormiga Aventurera” “The Wonderful World of Susy: The Adventurous Little Ant” Children’s book. “El maravilloso mundo de Susy, la hormiguita aventurera” is a Spanish-English bilingual children’s book that teaches children values like bravery and teamwork. Through this bilingual tale, they will discover how fun the world of ants can be. In this magical illustrated story, children will learn in a fun and simple way how to overcome big challenges and achieve more when everyone can contribute their part by working together, helping each other, and contributing to nature.

‘Two Truths and a Lie’: The Mind-Bending New Science Fiction Novel by Cory O’Brien

‘Two Truths and a Lie’ will be out on March 4, 2025. Photo: Barnes & Noble

Science fiction books captivate readers by offering thrilling escapes into worlds of limitless possibilities. They ignite imaginations with futuristic technologies, interstellar voyages, and encounters with alien civilizations.Beyond mere escapism, sci-fi often serves as a mirror to our own society, exploring complex themes like technological advancement, social justice, and the human condition. Readers are drawn to the genre’s ability to pose “what if” questions, prompting reflection on our present and potential futures. From dystopian warnings to utopian dreams, science fiction offers a unique lens through which to examine humanity’s place in the cosmos. Its enduring appeal lies in its power to both entertain and provoke thought.

Coming out next month is the new cyber punk science fiction novel by beloved internet humorist Cory O’Brien.

Cory O’Brien is the author of “Zeus Grants Stupid Wishes” and “George Washington Is Cash Money.” He has written for numerous award-winning video games, including Monster Prom and Holovista, and designed multiple tabletop games, including Inhuman Conditions and Hand to Hand Wombat. His new novel “Two Truths and a Lie” introduces an unforgettable investigator to the drowned streets of L.A. in a hugely imaginative and heartfelt blend of noir and cyberpunk. It will be released on March 4, 2025 and is available for pre-order. (Penguin Random House, 2025)

“Two Truths and a Lie” – In a mostly underwater near-future Los Angeles, aging combat-drone veteran Orr Vue now lives a simple and small life, trading snippets of what’s become the most valuable currency: information. So when the cops show up at his door looking for data on a murder he’s not even aware has happened, things get interesting for the first time in 25 years.

At first, Orr is happy to exchange whatever he knows about the demise of InfoDrip’s top exec to buy booze and pay rent on his memory storage, but that plan goes to hell when Orr’s old boyfriend, Auggie Wolf, shows up as the number one suspect. Forced to stretch his atrophied spy skills and take his illegal horde of drones out of retirement alongside his busted knees, Orr finds himself in the crosshairs of the militarized police, a family of megarich corporate heirs, a clan of emancipated AIs, and a cult. Barely avoiding getting killed with every clue he collects, Orr realizes he’s uncovered not just a murder, but a conspiracy that threatens Auggie’s very existence. Ahh, the things we do for love…

But in a world where memories can be bought and sold, how can you truly know who anyone is—or what you yourself are capable of? Fast paced, funny, and shockingly romantic, “Two Truths and a Lie” is Raymond Chandler reinvented for the 22nd century.

EARLY GLOWING REVIEWS

“O’Brien’s (George Washington Is Cash Money) fiction debut is a highly intriguing vision of the near future that examines the role of memory in a functional aspect, which also underscores the utility of forgetting: Funes the Memorious by Jorge Luis Borges meets Total Recall by Philip K. Dick, with a wry narration that balances the grim reality.”- Library Journal’s December Debut of the Month Pick & Starred Review

“A stunning achievement, Two Truths and a Lie is many things at once: a hilarious satire, a gripping thriller, a meditation on memory and identity, and a love story that will have you wiping tears from your eyes, all set in a carnivalesque future where the darkest dreams of capitalism have come true. Like other great comic novelists—Thomas Pynchon, Rachel Yoder, Charles Yu—Cory O’Brien balances humor and pathos to marvelous effect, a literary magician who can do almost anything on the page.” – Scott Guild, author of ‘Plastic’

CORY O’BRIEN AUTHOR TOUR

Tuesday, March 4 – 7p.m. PT:
Mysterious Galaxy | San Diego, CA
In-Person Solo Author Event, followed by Audience Q&A and Book Signing
Address: Mysterious Galaxy Bookstore | 3555 Rosecrans St | Suite 107 | San Diego, CA 92110

Wednesday, March 5 – 4p.m. ET:
WORD | Brooklyn, NY
In-Person Stock Signing
Address: WORD | 126 Franklin St | Brooklyn, NY 11222

Wednesday, March 5 – 7p.m. ET:
POWERHOUSE Arena | Brooklyn, NY
In-Person In Conversation with Mattie Lubchansky, followed by Audience Q&A and Book Signing
Address: POWERHOUSE Arena | 28 Adams St | Brooklyn, NY 11201

Thursday, March 6 – 6:30p.m. ET:
Literati Bookstore | Ann Arbor, MI
In-Person Solo Author Event, followed by Audience Q&A and Book Signing
Address: Literati Bookstore | 124 E Washington St | Ann Arbor, MI 48104

Friday, March 7 – 6:30p.m. CT:
The Book Cellar | Chicago, IL
In-Person Solo Author Event, followed by Audience Q&A and Book Signing
Address: The Book Cellar | 4736 N Lincoln Ave | Chicago, IL 60625

Sunday, March 9 – 4p.m. CT:
Bucket O’ Blood Books and Records | Chicago, IL
In-Person Solo Author Event, followed by Audience Q&A and Book Signing
Address: Bucket O’ Blood Books and Records | 3182 N Elston Ave | Chicago, IL 60618

Wednesday, March 12 – Time TK:
Union League Club of Chicago | Chicago, IL
In-Person Solo Author Event, followed by Audience Q&A and Book Signing
Address: Union League Club of Chicago | 65 W. Jackson Blvd. | Chicago, IL 60604

Saturday, March 15 – 1p.m. CT:
Highland Park Public Library Author Fest X Secret World Books | Highland Park, IL
In-Person Author Fest Event Participation
Address: Highland Park Public Library | 494 Laurel Avenue | Highland Park, IL 60035

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The Power of Reflection: My Review of ‘Lost in Thought’ by Deborah Serra

‘Lost in Thought’ is the inspiring new novel by Deborah Serra. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Deborah Serra is a recipient of the Hawthornden Literary Fellowship, a semifinalist for the Faulkner-Wisdom Creative Writing Award, and nominated for the O. Henry Prize. She has been published in literary magazines and is an editor with the ethics and short story magazine, After Dinner Conversation. Serra is the author of the thriller, “Primal,” and the humorous travel memoir, “2 Broads Abroad.” Her latest book is “Lost in Thought,” a novel about unconscious decision making and the illusion of free will.

“Lost in Thought” – Ilana works at Lyric Opera House and is in a committed relationship with Adam, a neuroscientist, for the last 3 years. They live in a cozy Greenwich Village apartment where they often share meals with friends as they engage in stimulating conversations. She’s adopted, and the questions inside of her are growing insistent including who would she be if she’d grown up in her birth home? Is she truly who she thinks she is? Has she ever freely chosen anything at all? Are these questions in part due to Adam’s research on how people make their decisions. It could also be suppressed grief from the death of her adoptive mother. Her inner dialogue is affecting her daily life: “Her thoughts were loud and they drowned out her words.”

When Ilana learns that her birth mother Fiona Shannon owns a pub in Albany, she figures what harm could there be in casually dropping by for a drink? To see, just to see. What begins as curiosity about her choices evolves into a traumatic shift in her world. She loses control of her life and then chaos breaks out.

Review:
The story begins as Ilana is taking the elevator to her office in the 12th floor. A germaphobe by nature, it intensified by Covid and it shows in every part of her life. She’s the production manager at the opera house and the job requires a sense of authority. To everyone around her, she seems calm and confident, but it’s only a front. She was raised to act confident regardless of her situation, and in her line of work, emotions are a sign of defeat and she refuses to show any weaknesses.

Her adoptive mother died of Covid months ago after being on a ventilator for months. She wasn’t allowed to visit her in person and she helplessly watched her die through her iPad. This experience still haunts her and is slowly chipping away at her confidence and total belief system. She desperately wants to know more about her birth family, if she has any of their traits, physical or otherwise. Her best friend and ex-boyfriend William tries to convince her that her personality is the sum of her experiences, which sets forth the nature vs nurture debate. That impulsive trip to see Fiona and her husband Shea O’Holleran will change her life in ways she never saw coming.

This combination of women’s literature and literary fiction is a compelling exploration of the subconscious mind and how unconscious processes shape our decisions, often without our awareness. The novel invites readers into the life of Ilana, who embarks on a journey of self-discovery after realizing that much of what she believed to be her free will was, in fact, influenced by external forces and internal biases. Serra cleverly examines the illusion of choice, presenting a narrative that challenges the notion that we are fully in control of our actions.

The writing is introspective and open, combining scientific concepts with philosophical musings in a way that’s thought-provoking yet not overly dense. The novel’s pacing keeps readers engaged, blending character-driven drama with intellectual inquiry. As Ilana confronts the complexities of the human mind, the book raises important questions about responsibility, autonomy, and the nature of free will. With highly descriptive language, the action flows easily through the pages: “The industrial breezes from cars and buses and subway vents blew hot into her face, grabbed her silk skirt, and whipped the loose strands of her hair.”

Overall, “Lost in Thought” is a stimulating read that challenges perceptions and invites reflection on the unseen forces that guide our choices. It explores the themes of family, identity, love, and friendship. By making abstract ideas concrete, it offers a relatable and human story while tackling deep philosophical themes. Readers are left questioning their own thought processes and the extent to which they truly have control over their lives. It is recommended for readers who enjoy intellectual literary fiction that features smart and relatable characters.

“Now, her mind was relentlessly chewing. It was thrilling but like a horror film. She asked herself why she was going down the dark basement stairs.”

*The author received an ARC in exchange for an honest review. The views and opinions expressed here belong solely to her.

Rating: 4 out of 5.

American Dreamer: Chasing the American Dream with a Twist of Dark Humor

American Dreamer will be available for download in the UK beginning March 17. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Dark comedies blend humor with darker, often taboo subjects, offering an unpredictable and thought-provoking viewing experience. They appeal to moviegoers who enjoy humor that challenges societal norms, pushing boundaries with themes like death, tragedy, or the absurdity of life. The contrast between the heavy subject matter and comedic delivery creates a unique emotional dynamic, allowing viewers to laugh at uncomfortable situations while contemplating deeper issues. This genre often attracts audiences who appreciate satire, irony, and the discomfort of confronting life’s harsh realities with humor, providing a cathartic release and a more nuanced reflection of the human condition.

London, UK – Plaion Pictures is thrilled to announce the UK release date for American Dreamer, which will be available on digital download from 17th March. (Strike Media, 2025)

Based on a true story, American Dreamer is the story of Dr. Phil Loder (Peter Dinklage), a low-level, adjunct professor of economics, whose grand dream of owning a home is tragically out of reach…until an incredible, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity comes his way when a lonely, childless, near-death widow (Shirley MacLaine) offers Phil her sprawling estate for pennies. But Phil quickly learns the deal is too good to be true and the American dream is not quite what it used to be.

From the writers behind St. Vincent and Hidden Figures, you’re invited to the open house for American Dreamer. Featuring hilarious supporting performances from Matt Dillon (The House That Jack Built), Danny Glover (Lethal Weapon), Danny Pudi (Community), Rebecca Olson (Kung Fu) and Kimberly Quinn (The Starling), is this American dream too good to be true?

Release Date: 17th March
Formats: Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play, Virgin Movies, Sky Store, and Rakuten.
Directed By: Paul Dektor
Produced By: Theodore Melfi, Kim Quinn, Paul Dektor, Peter Dinklage, David Ginsberg, Toyo Shimano, Kevin Root
Cast: Peter Dinklage, Shirley MacLaine, Matt Dillon
Run Time: 98 mins

Ruthless Pursuits and Twists: What Makes ‘Neon Prey’ a Captivating Thriller

‘Neon Prey’ by John Sandford. Photo: Barnes & Noble.

John Sandford is the pseudonym of John Roswell Camp, an American author and journalist. Camp is the author of more than fifty-four published novels, all of which have appeared, in one format or another, on the New York Times best-seller lists, many debuting at #1. In addition to the Prey, Virgil Flowers, and Letty Davenport novels, all part of the Prey universe, he is also the co-author of three young-adult books in the Singular Menace series, written with Michele Cook, and co-author of the science-fiction thriller “Saturn Run” with Ctein.

“Neon Prey” is the 29th novel in the Prey series. Clayton Deese is a small-time criminal, muscle for hire when his loan shark boss needs to teach someone a lesson. Now, seven months after a job that went south landed him in jail, Deese has skipped out on bail, and the U.S. Marshals come looking for him. They don’t care about a low-level guy–it’s his boss they want–but Deese might be their best chance to bring down the whole operation.

When they track him to his rural Louisiana cabin, they find a jungle full of graves behind a dirt trail. Now Lucas Davenport is on the trail of a serial killer who has been operating for years without notice. The killer is ruthless, and–as Davenport will come to find–full of surprises. (Barnes & Noble, 2025)

Review:
“Neon Prey” is a gripping thriller that has Lucas Davenport, now a US Marshal, pursuing a cunning serial killer with a long history of eluding capture. The story begins with the discovery of a gruesome crime scene and quickly spirals into a tense, high-stakes hunt for a killer whose motives and methods remain elusive. Davenport, always a sharp and resourceful investigator, follows a trail that stretches across states, using his expertise and determination to connect dots that others have missed. Together with two of his most trusted agents, Rae Givens and Bob Matees, as well as the FBI Agent in charge Tremanty, they are hot on Deese’s trail, who is now part of a home invasion burglary ring.

Sandford’s writing is fast-paced and immersive, drawing readers into the intense atmosphere of the investigation. With highly descriptive language, the fights scenes come to life: “Paine rolled up on his side, not screaming but choking and in pain, and with Deese’s pant leg now up, Paine, with no other weapon, bit him on the calf, like a feral tomcat, wrenching his head from side to side as his teeth sank in.”

The detailed character development is impressive—especially of Davenport, who continues to evolve throughout the series. He’s a man of deep intellect, but also someone who struggles with personal demons and moral ambiguities, making him a complex and compelling protagonist. Deese, the antagonist, is equally well-written, with a chilling presence that makes every encounter feel high-stakes.

This suspenseful crime thriller is filled with twists and turns as the hunt for a sadistic killer takes Davenport to the neon lights of Las Vegas. It explores the themes of good vs evil, revenge, death, and friendship and while it does have its dark moments, the satisfactory conclusion is worth the ride.

Overall, with its intricate plot and twists and turns, as well as Sandford’s sharp, engaging prose, “Neon Prey” is a standout in the crime genre. Though it’s a stand alone novel, it continues Lucas Davenport’s journey as a US Marshal. It’s a thrilling, intelligent read that will satisfy both long-time fans of the series and newcomers alike.

“He slipped the tan ski mask out of his pocket, pulled it over his head, turned towards the door and knocked, raising the cane, ready to kick it open. Like many perfect plans, his didn’t go quite right.”

Rating: 4 out of 5.

Sundays at the Square: Music, Food, Yoga, and Fun for All

Explore admission-free outdoor Farmers Market, plus Sunday Yoga at The Spire, live local music and more at St. Paul Square. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

SAN ANTONIO, TX – St. Paul Square is thrilled to announce the expansion of their Sunday community programming, now known as “Sundays at the Square,” taking place weekly each Sunday from 10a.m. to 2p.m. near downtown San Antonio. (St. Paul Square, 2025)

Following an outpouring of positive feedback from the community during the first few weeks of this family-friendly event series that featured an outdoor Farmers Market and morning yoga, organizers at the historic St. Paul Square have partnered with a pair of local small businesses – Juntos San Antonio and Mobile Om – to elevate the Sunday event series for San Antonians.

With support from Juntos San Antonio, the expanded outdoor market will feature an even greater variety of San Antonio-based vendors and pop-up shops offering seasonal organic produce; artisanal food; baked goods and pastries; coffee, tea, and specialty drinks; locally handcrafted goods; and more. Attendees of all ages can also enjoy live music as they stroll through the district’s charming courtyard, while leashed dogs are more than welcome to join in the Sunday festivities.

Local yoga enthusiasts can enjoy donation-based, all-level friendly classes hosted by Mobile Om, a San Antonio based yoga collective who have been uplifting the city’s local wellness scene for over a decade. Weekend classes will take place each Sunday at 11a.m. inside The Spire, one of St Paul Square’s many historic event spaces. Classes are available on a first come, first served basis based on venue capacity.

This expanded weekly showcase advances St. Paul Square’s mission to transform the historic district into a vibrant destination for food, entertainment, and cultural arts, by fostering community connections and supporting local businesses in San Antonio and its surrounding markets.

St. Paul Square
Farmers Market: St. Paul Square’s Outdoor Courtyard, 117 Heiman Street
Morning Yoga: The Spire, 230 Center Street

Originally founded in 1778, St. Paul Square is a historic multi-acre district found near downtown San Antonio, Texas, located just one hundred yards north of the Alamodome and a short walk from the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center.

The District’s name is derived from Old St. Paul Methodist Episcopal Church constructed in the late 1800s. With a rich background rooted in San Antonio’s history, St. Paul Square is developing today into a vibrant entertainment and cultural arts district that showcases the beautiful history and diversity of the Alamo City.

The Seldom Scene Reimagines a Classic: A Bluegrass Twist on Bob Dylan’s ‘Farewell, Angelina’

The Seldom Scene gives fans a new take on a long-beloved Bob Dylan Song. Photo: Jeromie Stephens, used with permission.

Bethesda, MD -This month, The Seldom Scene released their delicate and masterful version of the timeless classic “Farewell, Angelina.” Written by Bob Dylan for his widely-lauded album Bringing It All Back Home (1965) and famously recorded by Joan Baez, the haunting waltz is still being resurrected six decades later. And not just by US-based songwriters like Jeff Buckley and John Mellencamp—the song has been carried through France and Italy (“Adieu, Angelina,” “Addio Angelina”), India, Sweden, and beyond. The Seldom Scene’s elegiac interpretation glides through intimate conversation between words and strings. (IV PR, 2025)

“This song, written in 1964, is another gem by Bob Dylan,” says Seldom Scene bassist Ronnie Simpkins, whose daughter insisted the band give the song their own treatment. “I’m glad we listened!” he laughs. Basing their arrangement more on Mellencamp’s 1997 Rough Harvest version than the original, the 53-year-running quartet originally from Bethesda, Maryland, gives “Farewell, Angelina” space to breathe and blossom. The track opens with Ron Stewart deftly picking the guitar in duet with Bluegrass Hall of Famer Dudley Connell’s rich, soft voice. One by one, dobro, fiddle, mandolin, and acoustic bass add subtle new layers to the story without overtly announcing themselves. The Seldom Scene’s poignant arrangement gives depth and texture to the song’s surreal poetry.

“Farewell, Angelina” is the latest single from the Seldom Scene’s forthcoming album, Remains to Be Scene—out March 14 on Smithsonian Folkways. Continuing their long-running legacy of pulling gems from outside of and within the bluegrass canon and reimagining them in what is now the Seldom Scene’s signature style, Remains to Be Scene features an interpretation of Jim Croce’s “A Good Time Man Like Me Ain’t Got No Business (Singin’ the Blues),” a pair of songs by Bob Dylan: “Walking Down the Line” and, of course, “Farewell Angelina,” while also revisiting a fan-favorite, “White Line,” from the iconic Live at the Cellar Door album and paying tribute to their inspirations, Flatt & Scruggs, with “Hard Travelin’.”

Americana UK shared an early listen. Today, fans can stream or purchase “Farewell, Angelina” and pre-order or pre-save Remains to Be Scene ahead of its March release here.

Remains to Be Scene tracklist:
Last of the Steam-Powered Trains
Crossroads
A Good Time Man Like Me Ain’t Got No Business (Singin’ the Blues)
Hard Travelin’
Farewell Angelina
Walking Down the Line
Lonesome Day
I Could Cry
White Line
Show Me the Way to Go Home
The Story of My Life

Self-produced with engineering and mixing by Jim Robeson at his studio The Bar in Rockville, Maryland, Remains to Be Scene caps the end of an era for the group in many ways. The album is dedicated to the memory of Bluegrass Hall of Famer and Seldom Scene cofounder Ben Eldridge, who retired from the group in 2014. But Eldridge remained a major presence and friend to the band, penning heartfelt liner notes for this album before his passing in April 2024. 

Also notable is that Remains to Be Scene marks the final album for Dudley Connell, another Bluegrass Hall of Famer as a member of the Johnson Mountain Boys. Connell wrapped up a Seldom Scene tenure of nearly three decades on guitar and vocals with his retirement at the end of 2024. “Twenty-nine years, dude, that’s a long, long time,” Connell says with a laugh. “No regrets, I’ve loved every minute of it, and it’s been a real joy working with these guys for so long. But I want to get out while I still have my mobility and can travel, walk my dog, things like that.”

The Seldom Scene has mostly stayed close to home in the greater Washington, D.C. vicinity for most of its 53 years of existence. Even as the progressive bluegrass quintet’s lineup has turned over multiple times from those early days, The Scene has maintained an admirably high standard of musicality and artistry, on record as well as onstage at live-residency venues like The Birchmere in Alexandria, Virginia.

The band makes old songs sound brand new while putting a bluegrass spin on some of the least-likely cover songs in the genre. Those virtues are all in place on Remains to Be Scene, their 24th album, released on Smithsonian Folkways, on which they cover everybody from Bob Dylan to The Kinks with customary flair. The album is also another milestone effort for the Scene — the first since the passing of co-founder Ben Eldridge (who penned liner notes before his death in April 2024) as well as the last for longtime Scene member Dudley Connell, who is retiring after 29 years in the band. As usual, the rest of the Scene is taking those departures in stride. One way or another, The Seldom Scene will go on. 

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National Margarita Day: Taco Cabana’s Big Red Margarita, Delicious Cocktail Recipes & Top Margaritas By State

Taco Cabana’s iconic margarita featuring Big Red. Photo: Taco Cabana, used with permission.

National Margarita Day, celebrated on February 22, is a beloved occasion for cocktail enthusiasts, particularly fans of the refreshing margarita. This vibrant holiday offers a chance to honor the iconic drink, typically made with tequila, lime juice, and triple sec, enjoyed in various styles from classic to frozen. For many, it’s a fun, festive day to gather with friends, explore different variations, and savor their favorite margarita concoctions. Bars and restaurants often offer special deals, making it a go-to event for those seeking to indulge in the tangy, citrusy goodness of one of the world’s most popular cocktails.

Casino.org is a leading online resource for casino enthusiasts, offering comprehensive information and guidance to gamblers worldwide. The website provides reviews of online casinos, ensuring players can make informed decisions about where to play. It serves as a trusted hub for both new and experienced gamblers looking for valuable insights. (Casino.org, 2025)

With National Margarita Day around the corner, they are celebrating by revealing America’s favorite margaritas. By using Google Trends, they found the most sought after margaritas in each state.

Here are the top 5 margaritas:

  1. Skinny margaritas
  2. Classic margaritas
  3. Spicy margaritas
  4. White Christmas margaritas and virgin margaritas
  5. Mistletoe margaritas, pomegranate margaritas, and frozen margaritas

See the full study here, along with details on which margarita each state prefers and a fun infographic.

If you’re a fan of Taco Cabana, margaritas, and Big Red in Texas, Taco Cabana (TC) is excited to announce the return of its Margarita featuring Big Red just in time to celebrate National Margarita Day (February 22). The margarita will be a limited-time offering that blends two Texas favorites: Taco Cabana’s classic margaritas and Big Red’s iconic soda. (Taco Cabana, 2025)

In collaboration with the team at Keurig Dr Pepper, Taco Cabana has crafted a one-of-a-kind, innovative experience to give margarita lovers a delicious new twist on the classic margarita. Guests can purchase this offering in the following sizes:

  • Single Serving – Perfect for a quick, refreshing drink.
  • Margarita Yard – For those who want to indulge in the ultimate margarita experience.

Taco Cabana’s Margarita featuring Big Red will be available starting Friday, February 21 just ahead of the holiday for a limited time only. Guests must be 21+ to purchase. Margaritas must be purchased alongside a food item at Taco Cabana.

Menu items are available for in-restaurant dining, drive-thru, online ordering for front counter or curbside pick-up, and through the MY TC!® App or TacoCabana.com for mobile orders..

National Margarita Day: Saturday, February 22, 2025
*Available starting February 21 just ahead of the holiday
**Available for a limited time only

If you prefer to make them at home, here are some recipes from Cantera Negra Tequila, including a cult classic, winter twist and traditional margarita. Cantera Negra is additive-free and celebrity-free ultra-premium tequila made from 100% fully mature blue weber agave, hand-crafted in small batch quantities from 40 years of family tradition in Mexico and sourced from rich volcanic soil.

Their award-winning portfolio of additive-free tequilas includes Silver, Reposado, Añejo and Extra Añejo, and Café, premium coffee liqueur known for its distinctive character and refined taste. Their aged tequilas are aged longer than standard and perfect for both sipping and cocktails in the colder months – check out Reposado in the Winter Marg recipe below. (Cantera Negra Tequila, 2025)

Winter Marg

Let every sip warm you up from the inside out. A perfect combination of Cantera Negra Reposado, fresh lime and blood orange juice, complemented by a flavorful winter spice rim.

  • Ingredients:
    • 1.5 parts Cantera Negra Reposado Tequila
    • 0.5 part Fresh lime juice
    • 0.5 part Fresh blood orange juice
    • 0.5 part Agave syrup
    • 0.75 tsp Vanilla extract
  • Directions:
    • Rim a rocks glass with winter spice mix.* Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake vigorously. Strain into prepped rocks glass over fresh ice. Garnish with a cinnamon stick.
    • *Winter spice mix: .5 tsp salt, .5 tsp sugar, .25 tsp cinnamon, and .25 tsp chili powder

Tommy’s Margarita

This go-to cult classic is known as a “Tommy’s Margarita” and is a bartender favorite.

  • Ingredients:
    • 2 parts Cantera Negra Silver Tequila
    • 1 part Fresh lime juice
    • 0.5 part Agave nectar
    • Blood orange slice for garnish
  • Instructions – Add all ingredients to cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake vigorously. Strain over ice in a half salt rimmed rocks glass and garnish with blood orange slice.

Cantera Margarita

Traditional margarita recipe but with orange bitters to give a nice orange essence without any added sugar.

  • Ingredients:
    • 2 parts Cantera Negra Silver Tequila
    • 1 part Fresh lime juice
    • 0.5 parts Agave syrup
    • Orange bitters
  • Instructions – Shake and strain over ice in double rocks glass. Add 2 dashes of orange bitters.
Cantera Margarita. Photo: Cantera Negra Tequila, used with permission.

A Murder Mystery with a Supernatural Twist: Reviewing Marty Roppelt’s ‘Last Words’

‘Last Words: A Supernatural Murder Mystery’ by Marty Roppelt. Photo: Amazon

“Last Words: A Supernatural Murder Mystery” is a murder mystery novel by Marty Roppelt. It follows Chicago police Detective Myles Hanson as he navigates a world of crime and unsettling revelations. After a nighttime raid on a drug lab ends in a deadly shootout that claims the life of an undercover detective, Myles transfers transfers out of the Organized Crime Unit.

On his first night in the Violet Crimes Unit, Maria Peski, a midwife with a normal quiet life is savagely murdered. Back at the station, while filling out the paperwork and listening to music on his headphones, he hears static and voice calling his name. From there, he begins to experience haunting visions and auditory hallucinations that include voices and static on the digital recorder that he uses to take notes.

When a second murder rocks the city with startling similarities, Myles is forced to accept what he fears most: some clues lie beyond the realm of the living. As the line between the supernatural and the real begins to blur, Myles realized that he is hearing the final words of the murder victims, fragments of their unfinished thoughts. Those voices give him clues to help him solve their murder. Together with his new partner Hank ‘The Tank’ Brewer, they race against time to catch the vicious killer before he strikes again.

Marty Roppelt’s new novella takes readers on an eerie journey into the world of the paranormal and crime-solving. As Hanson begins to have paranormal experiences, he must navigate the fine line between solving the crime and protecting his sanity.

Roppelt’s writing is atmospheric, creating a tense, thrilling narrative that keeps the reader hooked. The blending of the supernatural with a traditional murder mystery provides an intriguing twist, adding an extra layer of suspense to the already gripping storyline. Myles Hanson is a well-crafted protagonist, balancing the skepticism of a seasoned detective with the growing realization that the paranormal forces at play are very real. The suspenseful plot twists keep the reader guessing until the end.

The pacing of the novel is steady, allowing the mystery to unfold gradually, and Roppelt’s descriptive narrative of the killer’s viewpoint as he is getting rid of the evidence and then preparing to strike again is unsettling but gripping. The language while describing Myles’ hallucinations is vividly descriptive: “The woman – Maria Peski- stared back at him in the mirror. Dead eyes, frozen deep in their sockets, gazed through him.” The narrative is in the third person point of view that alternates between the characters and towards the end, it hints at an unreliable narrator when the police is interviewing a witness who crossed paths with the killer.

Overall, “Last Words: A Supernatural Murder Mystery” explores the themes of good vs evil, identity, and family. The unique premise of a haunted detective elevates this novel beyond the typical whodunit. Judging by the ending, this is only the beginning of Detective Myles Hanson’s paranormal experiences. It’s a captivating read for fans of both supernatural thrillers and crime mysteries by authors like James Patterson and John Sandford.

“Meandering through the growing crowd as carefully and slowly as he could, he positioned himself to within an arm’s length of his intended victim’s back. He stopped there. How easy it would be to simply stab her in the liver from here, and be done with her…”

Rating: 5 out of 5.

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