Healing Through Sound: Dr. Stephen Porges’ Revolutionary Safe and Sound Protocol

‘Safe and Sound: A Polyvagal Approach for Connection, Change, and Healing’ is the transformative new book by Dr. Stephen Porges. Photo: Barnes & Noble

Mental health awareness is crucial in today’s fast-paced world, where stress, anxiety, and depression are increasingly common. Recognizing the importance of mental well-being helps reduce stigma and encourages people to seek help. Various therapy methods are available, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which focuses on changing negative thought patterns; dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), used for emotional regulation; and art therapy, which provides creative outlets for expression. Mindfulness-based therapies and medication management also play vital roles. Addressing mental health is essential now more than ever, as it promotes resilience, healthier relationships, and improved quality of life in an increasingly complex society.

In today’s book news, “Safe and Sound” is the new book by Dr. Stephen Porges where he addresses Safe and Sound Protocol as another means of therapy.

Safe and Sound Protocol is a groundbreaking therapy based on the Polyvagal Theory developed by Dr. Stephen Porges. Now, together with researcher Karen Onderko, they have written “Safe and Sound: A Polyvagal Approach for Connection, Change and Healing.” (Sounds True, 2025)

In this new book,Porges and Onderko offer a glimpse into this innovative approach, highlighting not only the origin of SSP and its best practices, but also real-life stories of transformation and healing. SSP is backed by neuroscience and this technique aids in stress reduction and mental wellness. It’s gaining traction for its effectiveness in treating various mental health conditions.

Stephen W. Porges, PhD, is author of “The Polyvagal Theory” and creator of the Safe and Sound Protocol. He’s a professor of psychiatry at the University of North Carolina and Distinguished University Scientist at Indiana University, where he’s founding director of the Traumatic Stress Research Consortium.

Karen Onderko, a cofounder of Polyvagal Institute, helped bring the Safe and Sound Protocol from the research lab to clinicians, who then enabled people to experience the benefits of improved nervous system regulation.

From Polyvagal Theory pioneer Dr. Stephen Porges comes a new resource sharing the origin and best practices of his groundbreaking new protocol, and highlighting real-life stories of transformation and healing.

“Safe and Sound” – We all want to live and share our truth, but when we don’t feel safe, it can be impossible to fully express or even know who we really are. The nervous system impacts daily well-being, to our benefit or detriment. Understanding how may be key to truly knowing yourself and better supporting the challenges holding you back.

The Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) is a groundbreaking therapy based in Polyvagal Theory, which looks at the role the autonomic nervous system and vagus nerve play in regulating health and behavior. SSP involves listening to music that’s been filtered to prioritize frequencies of human speech, providing auditory input that enables the nervous system to reset to its homeostatic state.

Porges and Onderko offer a glimpse into this innovative approach, highlighting not only the origin of SSP and its best practices but also real-life stories of transformation. They showcase clinical evidence demonstrating SSP’s impact on emotional dysregulation, social interaction difficulty, and auditory sensitivity, providing a comprehensive understanding of its therapeutic potential.

Some features and conditions addressed include:

• Depression
• Perfectionism
• Addiction
• Suicidal ideation
• COVID recovery
• Navigating gender identity
• Living with Parkinson’s disease
• Hypermobility
• Autism
• ADHD
• Dyslexia

Whether patient, family member, friend, or clinician, you’ll find a deeper understanding of the nervous system and tools for a more resilient experience. Illustrating the incredible range of application and how autonomic regulation can lead to significant improvements—from stress and anxiety to grief and trauma—”Safe and Sound” demonstrates how SSP can promote a state of safety and calm, facilitating the foundation for long-awaited healing.

Inside the Analyst’s Chair: Joan Peters’ Raw and Riveting Journey in ‘Untangling’

‘Untangling: A Memoir of Psychoanalysis’ is the new book by Joan K. Peters. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Psychoanalysis, a deep exploration of the unconscious mind, offers a powerful path toward mental health and self-awareness. Rooted in the belief that unspoken thoughts and early experiences shape our behaviors, it invites individuals to uncover, confront, and integrate hidden parts of themselves. In a time when mental health is gaining long-overdue attention, talking openly about therapy and inner struggles is vital. It reduces stigma, encourages others to seek help, and reminds us that healing often begins with honest conversation. Embracing psychoanalysis and mental wellness isn’t just personal—it’s a collective step toward a more compassionate, self-aware society.

The new memoir “Untangling: A Memoir of Psychoanalysis” dares to tell the patient’s side of psychoanalysis. It’s available now wherever books are sold.

Joan K. Peters was born in New York City and got her Ph. D in comparative literature from The University of Chicago. She’s published a novel and two books about women and work and is a professor emeritus of literature and writing at California State University at Channel Islands. She lives in Ojai with her husband, her dogs, and her chickens. In her much-anticipated new book “Untangling: A Memoir of Psychoanalysis,” she focuses on her experience in psychoanalysis at two different points in her life, comparing two different theoretical and technical analytic views, from the vantage point of her experience as a patient. (CS Lewis Publicity, 2025)

“Untangling: A Memoir of Psychoanalysis” – With the drama of a novel it tells the story of a turbulent and transformative psychoanalysis in this first ever in-depth patient’s account. Joan K. Peters’ story lays bare the inner workings of this complex treatment, which takes place behind closed doors, is rarely spoken about, and is largely unknown outside of professional circles.

A polished, poetic, and often funny writer, her willingness to expose her own demons brings psychoanalysis to life, from the intense strife to the fierce love that can develop between patient and analyst. Joan’s first analyst, Lane, helped Joan alleviate tormenting and recurring nightmares and to find herself by discovering her family’s secret past. Her second analyst, Kristi, guided her through the frightening depths of that past to a yearned-for freedom.

In another first, Kristi writes an afterword about the challenge of analyzing Peters. Unique in its reach, “Untangling”reveals the mysteries that lurk beneath the surface of our psyches.

Psychoanalysis is full of mysteries — it taps into the subconscious more than any other form of therapy and sets up a unique relationship between analyst and patient. No one really knows exactly how or why it works, just that it does. But one patient, in candidly revealing her own journey, invites readers into that very private patient experience as she grapples with hidden and haunting demons.

Whether due to taboo, fear, shame, or reluctance, very few patients have shared their journey of psychoanalysis with others, let alone written about the experience. Too many people are unaware of the transformative powers that this penetrating, multi-layered therapy has.

In her unique memoir, written in the narrative style of Mary Karr, the author recounts her two analyses — one when she is in her twenties and another in her sixties — that form one continuous story of immense discovery and healing. She dramatizes firsthand accounts of how she and her two very different analysts unlocked the traumas, losses and terrors of her past – enabling her to confront and understand them, and finally feel free to fully enjoy her life.

Author Joan K. Peters. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Healing Towers: When Therapy Turns to Terror

Healing Towers is available to rent or buy. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Why do we love horror movies so much? Could it be that by tapping into our primal fears, they offer a safe space to explore the unknown and confront anxiety? Moviegoers like the genre’s ability to thrill, shock, and provoke deep emotional responses. From supernatural terrors to psychological thrillers, horror evolves with cultural shifts, reflecting society’s fears and concerns. Its relevance endures because it pushes boundaries, sparks conversation, and allows viewers to experience fear without real danger. Whether through jump scares or creeping dread, horror remains a cathartic experience for many, making it a timeless and ever-popular genre that continues to reinvent itself for each new generation.

Now available on digital and on demand is the new horror movie Healing Towers. It is available to rent or buy on Amazon Prime Video and Fandango at Home.

Healing Towers is directed by Shuja Paul and stars Andrew Keegan, William McNamara, and Nikki Leigh.

The only cure is waking up…

A detective’s search for his missing daughter uncovers a horrifying link to a twisted psychiatrist’s dream therapy treatment, where deranged patients are forced to enact their darkest fantasies on innocent victims. (One Tree Entertainment, 2025)

Healing Towers still. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

‘The Last Real Showgirl’: Diane Christiansen’s Ode to Showbiz Survival

‘The Last Real Showgirl’ by Diane Christiansen. Photo: Amazon

“The Last Real Showgirl” by Diane Christiansen is a dazzling, heartfelt memoir that takes readers behind the velvet curtain of old Vegas glamour and other such clubs around the world, including Paris, Montreal, The Bahamas, Puerto Rico, and New York. With charm, wit, and vulnerability, Christiansen recounts her journey from a small Illinois town girl to a star showgirl in the golden age of Las Vegas-like entertainment. Her voice is unapologetically authentic, brimming with the confidence of a woman who knows she lived a life few could imagine.

It begins in 1969 when Diane auditions, with butterflies in her stomach, for the Rockettes at Radio City Music hall as a 17 year old high school student. Her first professional job takes her to Montreal, where the training was so intense, she often wishes she could quit and go back home. The thought of returning to a turbulent home life was her incentive to tough it up and keep going. Her persistence pays off, as she is soon traveling the world from one exotic locale to another, all the while dating some of the men she meets along the way. All in all, she was a dancer, a showgirl, and an actress, and ultimately, the #1 acting coach in Hollywood.

The chapters are short and the first person narrative is immersive and engaging. With vivid language, her story unfolds as readers get glimpses of her struggles: “It had profoundly quenched my parched soul like an endless fountain of inspiration and had given me a glimpse of the reality to all my dreams of becoming a great dancer and actress.”

Highlights include Chapter 3: Meet My Mom & Dad where she gives her parent’s backstory and the home life she was fleeing and Chapter 12: Insomnia that describes her struggle with diet pills and the insomnia they caused her.

Christiansen manages to capture the sparkle and grit of showbiz. She doesn’t shy away from the sacrifices and pressures that came with the spotlight, nor does she downplay the camaraderie, artistry, and pride of being part of a now-vanishing world. Her stories are vivid and entertaining, painting a portrait not just of herself but of a bygone era where beauty, discipline, and performance reigned.

Overall, “The Last Real Showgirl” is a celebration of resilience and self-definition. Diane Christiansen’s story is a love letter to showgirls past and present—a reminder that strength can be found in sequins, and history can be told through high kicks and hard work. A captivating read, it’s recommended for readers intrigued by performance, identity, and the magic of old Las Vegas.

“With each storm, we grow a little more into the soul we are meant to become, like branches on a tree that have been struck by lightning. I could feel the accelerated growth inside me at this juncture.”

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

Savor the Flavors: Hotel Emma’s Upcoming Culinary Experiences

Upcoming tastings and celebrations at Hotel Emma include a wine tasting and a Mother’s Day brunch. Photo: Booking.com

Culinary events are a feast for the senses, drawing food lovers into a shared celebration of flavor, creativity, and culture. From food festivals and chef showcases to wine tastings and cooking classes, these gatherings offer a chance to explore new tastes and connect with fellow enthusiasts. It’s not just about the food, but in the experience—watching skilled chefs in action, discovering unique ingredients, and bonding over a mutual passion for food. Culinary events create a vibrant community, where stories are swapped over shared plates and every dish becomes a memory. For foodies, it’s pure edible joy.

Hotel Emma will be hosting several seasonal culinary events this month and the next – from tasting the Sonoma Coast without leaving San Antonio to meeting the team behind the iconic tequila brand El Tequileño, there’s a lot to look forward to. (Hotel Emma, 2025)

Friday, April 25 at 7p.m. in the OAK Room | Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir Tasting Feat. Littorai Wine
Sternewirth Bar Lead David Young will lead guests through a tasting of four exceptional single-vineyard Pinot Noirs from Littorai’s sustainable, family-run winery on the Northern California coast. Each wine will be thoughtfully paired with bites curated to complement these vintages, including the 2002 Littorai “Les Larmes” Pinot Noir and 2014 Littorai “Cerise Vineyard” Pinot Noir. Join the waitlist here. Tickets sell for $175.

Friday, May 2 at 6p.m. in the Elephant Cellar | El Tequileño Dinner
To kick off Fiesta season, join Hotel Emma for a vibrant evening celebrating Mexican cuisine and world-class tequila. Meet the family behind El Tequileño and enjoy a tasting of four tequilas from their historic “La Guarreña” distillery.

Executive Chef Geronimo Lopez and Chef de Cuisine Ralph Montes have created a multi-course pairing menu inspired by the culinary heritage of Guadalajara—think aguachile-dressed oysters, “Carne en su Jugo,” classic buñuelos, and more.

The evening begins at 6p.m. with a reception in Hotel Emma’s Courtyard featuring Global Brand Ambassador Georgina Salles and Master Distiller Tony Sales, who will answer questions and sign complimentary bottles. Cocktail Hour begins at 6:30p.m. with Emma’s signature La Babia Margaritas, followed by dinner at 7p.m.

Tickets:
Reception & Dinner: $175, see here.
Cocktail Hour & Dinner Only: $125, see here.

Sunday, May 11 at Various Seating Times in the Elephant Cellar | Mother’s Day Brunch
Celebrate Mom with an indulgent brunch at Hotel Emma, featuring chef-run stations and an expansive buffet. From Belgian-style waffles and a raw bar to carved meats and chimichurri-grilled vegetables, every detail is designed to delight. Additional highlights include ceviche platters, morning pastries, and exotic fruits like Rambutan and Soursop drizzled with lime and Tajín.

Seating Times: 10a.m. 1p.m., or 3p.m.
Tickets: $125 per person | $50 for 10 & Under | see here.

Hotel Emma
136 E Grayson St
San Antonio, TX 78215
(844) 845-7384

Hotel Emma

Psychedelic Revival: The Brian Jonestown Massacre Drops a Hypnotic New Single

The new release sets the tone for a massive North American tour this fall. Photo: Joe Eley, used with permission.

The Brian Jonestown Massacre announces a new single, ‘Makes Me Great / Out Of Body,’ on red transparent 10” vinyl, due to be released on April 25th via Anton Newcombe’s record label A Recordings. Fans can pre-save it here. (Magnum PR, 2025)

Following a hugely successful UK and Europe tour earlier this year, the band will return to North America this fall for an extensive run of live shows, including two dates with special guests, Cast, making their first US appearance in nearly 30 years. Tickets on sale now.

It’s been over 30 years since Anton Newcombe – frontman, songwriter, composer, studio owner, multi-instrumentalist, producer, engineer, father, force of nature – and his band The Brian Jonestown Massacre released their first single She Made Me / Evergreen. Released in 1992, as the British music press descended on the US to anoint the next US guitar band as flavor of the month and major labels were on the hunt for the compliant hopefuls to be their latest quick fix, Anton Newcombe had an idea: say no.

As leader of the Brian Jonestown Massacre, Newcombe had already established himself as a visionary songwriter, a man to whom making music wasn’t a lifestyle choice or a hipster haircut but the very fabric of existence itself, and he had observed in silent horror as his peers meekly consented to everything – yes to contracts, yes to management, yes to suggestions, yes to this, yes to that, yes, yes, yes. But he was different. Anton Newcombe was going to say no to everything. “I just knew I would be more successful in a certain way by saying no, just being contrary because I figured that if people liked me they were gonna like me anyway,” he says. “Or dislike me. It doesn’t matter.”

Much of this was documented on the controversial documentary ‘Dig!,’ which is still hailed as one of the best rock documentaries ever made, and celebrates its 20th Anniversary this year with the remastered, expanded version “Dig! XX.”

Brian Jonestown Massacre’s shoegazing-tinged debut album Methodrone was released in 1995 and since then numerous band members have joined Newcombe on his sonic escapades, but he has remained the sole constant, the creative mastermind at the centre of one of music’s most fascinating bands. There have been a further 20 albums under the Brian Jonestown Massacre moniker since then, each embarking on their own mind-expanding adventure and exploring the outer realms of rock’n’roll; psychedelic rock, country-blues, snarling rock’n’roll, blissed-out noise-pop and more.

Along the way, Newcombe has established himself as a once-in-a-lifetime talent who saw the direction in which mainstream indie-rock was heading and opted to take the long way round. He’s emerged as a revolutionary force in modern music, an underground hero. There was no other way, this was how it had to be. “My only option with everything in life has always been that you just jump into the fire,” he declared. “It doesn’t matter what it is.”

It’s with that spirit that he’s hopped around the globe, from the West Coast to New York, from Manhattan to Iceland, and then to Berlin, where he’s lived for 15 years and has two flats, one to live in and one that’s been converted into his studio.

Brian Jonestown Massacre released their 20th full-length studio album The Future Is Your Past, in February 2023 on Anton’s record label, A Recordings. In 2022 / 2023, they completed a massive world tour that saw them play 34 dates in North America, 25 dates across Europe and 16 dates in the UK. Towards the end of 2024, they released ‘Don’t Look At Me’ ft. Aimee Nash. It is a delicious slice of hypnotic shoegaze with Nash lyrically casting a spell with the mantra “Do No Harm.”

There is no such thing as a defining statement in Anton Newcombe’s world anymore, just more chapters that contribute to the tale. “Nobody can stop me, I’m not asking somebody, I’m not making the rounds at Warners, saying ‘please put out my record!’ It’s just for me,” he says. He hopes he can be an inspiration to others. “I would love to see more groups, people playing music in the UK and everywhere else because I really enjoy it. That’s the only reason I need. It’s the only reason to do stuff.” That hits to the core of what makes Anton Newcombe and Brian Jonestown Massacre tick. He’ll keep jumping in that fire. That’s how he rolls. Savor it.

PRESS FROM THE BJM’S JAN / FEB UK TOUR

“Brian Jonestown Massacre have a cult following big enough to warrant the publication of an acclaimed memoir by percussionist Joel Gion and big enough that this large UK tour includes a date at Brixton Academy… Newcombe is really adept at coming up with melodies and guitar figures that sound immediately familiar, as if you know them already from a song you can’t quite place – a genuine skill.” – Guardian

“The Brian Jonestown’s ability to create an immersive live experience remains unparalleled and this Brixton gig was a masterclass in psychedelia, intensity, and raw musical craftsmanship.” – Music News

“A night of hypnotic grooves, kaleidoscopic guitars, and the kind of immersive psychedelia that only they can provide… The Brian Jonestown Massacre’s live show is not just a performance – it’s an experience. At the O2 Institute Birmingham, they proved once again why they remain one of the most compelling acts in modern psychedelic rock. Newcombe’s vision, combined with the band’s tight musicianship, created a night of sonic transcendence that few in attendance will soon forget.” – RockShot

Fiesta Deals You Can’t Miss: San Antonio Businesses Celebrate with Exclusive Offers

Twang, the official beer salt of Fiesta 2025, will set up a tent with tastings at several Fiesta events. Photo: Twang, used with permission.

Fiesta San Antonio 2025, running from April 24 to May 4, is the city’s premier 11-day celebration of culture, history, and community. With over 100 events, highlights include the Battle of Flowers Parade on May 2, the illuminated Fiesta Flambeau Parade on May 3, and the Texas Cavaliers River Parade on April 28. Culinary delights abound at A Night in Old San Antonio (NIOSA), April 29–May 2, featuring iconic dishes like chicken-on-a-stick. The festival kicks off with Fiesta® Fiesta at Travis Park on April 24, offering live entertainment and family-friendly activities. Proceeds support local nonprofits, embodying Fiesta’s “Party with a Purpose” spirit.

Celebrate the city’s biggest party with these local businesses:

The Spa Plaza San Antonio at Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa: Fiesta Feet & Skin Detox Specials
Unwind and relax after a long day of walking the vendor stalls at Market Square. The Spa Plaza San Antonio is offering tired toes a foot-focused massage service and refreshing facial to choose from this Fiesta season. The Fiesta specials are available to book the entire month of April. (Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa, 2025)

Kimpton Santo Hotel: Viva Fiesta Hotel Package
Fiesta 2025 is almost here. Experience the city’s biggest and most anticipated event like never before with Kimpton Santo’s Viva Fiesta Package. Join Kimpton in the heart of downtown for San Antonio’s annual 11 day city-wide celebration—a local tradition for over 130 years. Each year during Fiesta the city is buzzing with parties, parades, art exhibitions, concerts, foodie festivities, Mexican Charreada events, and more. Experience the culture, charm, and traditions of the Alamo City. Guests that book a stay during Fiesta 2025 (April 24 through May 5) will receive two official Kimpton Santo 2025 Fiesta Medals and two local German-style beers and commemorative Fiesta-inspired party cups. Booking is available online. (Kimpton Santo Hotel, 2025)

La Panadería: Pan Dulce Fiesta Medal
This Fiesta season, La Panadería is offering a new Fiesta 2025 medal showcasing some delicious pan dulce. Stop by any La Panadería location now through Fiesta to purchase one of its beautiful Fiesta medals. Priced at only $10, the medals are a perfect addition to this year’s celebrations. The medal showcases the iconic Panadero logo with dangling Tequila Almond Croissant, Concha, and Oreja. (La Panadería, 2025)

Bakery Lorraine: Pop Tart Fiesta Medal + Fiesta Pastries
Bakery Lorraine pays tribute to one of the fan favorite pastries with their Bakery Lorraine Pop Tart Fiesta Medal 2025. Designed by DeuxSouth Creative, produced by SA Flavor and photographed by Ben Yanto Visuals, purchases can be made for $12 each online or in stores at all Bakery Lorraine locations. Proceeds from the medals will go towards Fiesta Cornyation. (Bakery Lorraine, 2025)

Additionally, Bakery Lorraine has the below pastries available in stores:

Cascarones Moon Pie – Priced at $5.50 each, they’re available beginning the week of April 21.
Mangonada Macaron – Priced at $3 each, they’re mango flavored macarons infused with chamoy.
Fiesta Macaron Boxes (6ct) – Beginning Monday, April 21, guests can purchase these limited-time bright and colorful Fiesta themed boxes with the purchase of six macarons.

Twang: Official Beer Salt of Fiesta
Twang is proud to be the official beer salt of Fiesta 2025. Guests can find Twang set up at a tent with tastings available at the Fiesta events below. (Twang, 2025)

Fiesta Fiesta on Thursday, April 24
Oysterbake on Friday April, 25 & Saturday, April 26
Battle of the Flowers on Friday, May 2 at the Sponsor Village area
Fiesta Flambeau Night Parade on Saturday, May 3 at the Sponsor Village area

Gunter Hotel: Historic Hotel Fiesta Medal
The historic Gunter Hotel is excited to offer a beautifully crafted Fiesta medal this year. Priced at only $10, guests can purchase the medal at the front lobby of the recently renovated hotel. With the hotel’s iconic musical heritage, Gunter is giving proceeds from all medal purchases to Musical Bridges Around The World. (Gunter Hotel, 2025)

The Newstand: Fiesta Medal, Limited-Time Treats and Exclusive Merch
The Newstand is set to celebrate its very first Fiesta with a medal that is hot off the press. The coffee and vintage shop has also collaborated with Southtown Supply Co. to present 100 limited-time merchandise boxes set to include a “Tow-Shirt” (available in crop and t-shirt styles), a custom Newstand-branded glass cortado mug, a 2025 Newstand Fiesta medal, and freshly-baked Concha. (The Newstand, 2025)

InterContinental San Antonio Riverwalk: The Secret Garden Room + Fiesta Medals
Alamo City’s latest luxury hotel hosts The Secret Garden Room at High Praise Rooftop Bar. For a limited time, guests can experience more than 10 specially curated and colorful cocktails inspired by natural elements while enjoying breathtaking views of the San Antonio skyline, including: “Crimson Petals,” “Blush & Bubbles,” “Garden Glow,” “Poison Ivy,” and more. Imbibe with Spring and Summer vibes while indulging in special pop-ups from partners like Kendra Scott, Valentina Paloma, and Texicanas on select dates. Make a reservation to experience Fiesta’s elevated oasis. While on-site, guests can also purchase the InterContinental Fiesta Medal. (InterContinental San Antonio Riverwalk, 2025)

Omni La Mansión del Rio and Mokara Hotel & Spa: Fiesta Spa Treatments, Special Menus, River Parade Riverfront Stays & Packages, and Fiesta Medals
Alongside the brightly colored fiesta medals, both Omni La Mansión del Rio and Mokara Hotel & Spa are just steps away from the iconic River Walk, ideal for easy access to River Parades and NIOSA. To enjoy the Fiesta festivities from the comfort of a 4.5 star hotel room, Omni La Mansión del Rio offers riverfront stays with unobstructed views of the river and just steps from the Selena Bridge. (Omni La Mansión del Rio/Mokara Hotel & Spa, 2025)

Mokara delivers the Fiesta! Package, including complimentary valet parking, a Mokara Hotel & Spa Fiesta medal and a $50 credit to dine at Ostra, the high-end riverfront seafood restaurant.

The 2025 Texas Cavaliers River Parade allows guests to choose to indulge in the limited-time Fiesta Menus available at Mokara’s Ostra or Four Brothers at Omni La Mansión del Rio with a guarantee of the best seats to watch this year’s River Parade while dining; options for River Parade seating only are also available. Across the river, the Spa at Mokara is offering limited-time Fiesta-themed treatments like the “Show Me Your Chanclas,” a pedicure appointment set to have guests ready for sandal-wearing fun, or the “Fiesta Flow Massage” meant to melt tension and promote circulation for non-stop excitement.

The Newstand’s Fiesta 2025 medal. Photo: The Newstand, used with permission.

Phosphorus and the Pulse of the Planet: A Look at Jack Lohmann’s ‘White Light’

‘White Light’ by Jack Lohmann. Photo: Amazon

Phosphorus is a vital mineral that plays a crucial role in everyday life. It is essential for the formation of bones and teeth, working alongside calcium to keep them strong and healthy. Phosphorus also helps the body produce energy by aiding in the conversion of nutrients into ATP, the main energy source for cells. Additionally, it supports kidney function, muscle contractions, and nerve signaling. Found in foods like meat, dairy, nuts, and legumes, phosphorus is a key part of a balanced diet. Without it, many of the body’s essential systems would not function properly, highlighting its importance to overall health.

For readers interested in the subject, the new book “White Light” by Jack Lohmann might be of interest.

Jack Lohmann is a science writer and author of “White Light.” Lohmann has been awarded the John McPhee Award for Interdisciplinary Reporting. He received his undergraduate degree from Princeton University where he majored in English and Environmental Studies. He currently lives in Scotland. (Pantheon Books/Penguin Random House, 2025)

“White Light” – A profound and lyrical reflection on the cyclical nature of life, what happens when we break that cycle, and how to repair it—told through the fate of phosphorus: in our bedrock, in our fertilizers, in our food, and in our cells.

“There would be no life without constant death.” So begins Jack Lohmann’s remarkable debut, “White Light,” a mesmerizing swirl of ecology, geology, chemistry, history, agricultural science, investigative reporting, and the poetry of the natural world. Wherever life has roamed, its record is left in the sediment; over centuries, that dead matter is compacted into rock; and in that rock is phosphate—one phosphorus atom bonded to four oxygen atoms—life preserved in death, with all its surging force.

In 1842, when the naturalist John Stevens Henslow, Darwin’s beloved botany professor, discovered the potential of that rock as a fertilizer, little did he know his countrymen would soon be grinding up the bones of dead soldiers and mummified Egyptian cats to exploit their phosphate content. Little did he know he’d spawn a global mining industry that would change our diets, our lifestyle, and the face of the planet.

Lohmann guides us from Henslow’s Suffolk, where the phosphate fertilizer industry took root, to Bone Valley in Central Florida, where it has boomed alongside big ag—leaving wreckage like the Piney Point disaster in its wake—to far-flung Nauru, an island stripped of its life force by the ravenous young industry. We sift through the Earth’s geological layers and eras, speak in depth with experts and locals, and explore our past relationship with cyclical farming—including in seventeenth century Japan, when one could pay their rent with their excrement—before we started wasting just as much phosphate as we mine. Sui generis, filled with passion and rigorous reporting, “White Light” invites us to renew our broken relationship not just with the Earth but with our own death—and the life it brings after us.

PRAISE FOR ‘WHITE LIGHT’
“A surprisingly riveting look at the role of death, in life, as illustrated via a single element.”
—Kirkus Reviews

“In this winding debut history, science writer Lohmann traces how phosphorus has shaped the natural world and human history. […] A stimulating study.”
—Publishers Weekly

“Via lyric, literary prose and journalistic storytelling, Lohmann lays bare a hidden ecological tragedy for scientifically curious readers.”
—Library Journal

“Lohmann robustly reports on the serious health hazards and environmental consequences of phosphate mining and processing.”
—Booklist

From Bellechester to London: A Heartfelt Tale of Purpose and Passing the Torch

‘The Doctor of Bellechester’ is Book 1 in the Dr. M.E. Senty series by Margaret A. Blenkush

Margaret A. Blenkush is a lifelong learner who earned an M.A. in Theology from St. John’s University, Collegeville, MN, and an M.L.I.S. from UW-Milwaukee. Suffering a life-changing illness in 2005, she received a medical retirement from her dream job. Always a Benedictine in her heart, she became an Oblate of St. Benedict’s Monastery, St. Joseph, MN in 2010. A Minnesota twin by birth, she enjoys retirement, gardening, volunteering, sudoku puzzles, hot fudge sundaes, and the changing seasons. She shares her childhood home with her nephew and two pet rabbits.

Her debut novel “The Doctor of Bellechester” is Book 1 of 2 in the Dr. M.E. Senty series.

“The Doctor of Bellechester” – Dr. Harold Merton, the kind and caring General Practitioner (GP) for the village of Bellechester, is worried because a near-fatal case of pneumonia last winter has made him think about the future. If something happened to him, who would take over his practice? Rarely leaving his beloved home in the Shropshire Hills, Harold courageously ventures into 1959 London to find a junior doctor to mentor and who will one day take his place. With the aid of his classmate, Dr. Basil Applegate, who is now Director of Junior Doctors, Harold hatches a plan to discover the most suitable candidate. What could possibly go wrong?

Upon his arrival in London, Harold meets a self-assured, young American woman, Emme. Her act of kindness sets off a chain of events that interweaves their lives in a way neither expected. Hidden identities and unexpected changes to plans lead to three memorable days for both Harold and Emme.

Review:
This is a women’s fiction story that captures the heart and soul of medicine in post-war Britain. Set in 1959, the story follows Dr. Harold Merton, a seasoned country physician from the fictional village of Bellechester, who journeys to bustling London’s Mother of Mercy Hospital in search of a junior doctor to mentor—someone who will carry forward his legacy of compassion, dedication, and community care.

It takes place in the span of three days and begins as Dr. arrives at the hospital on a hot summer day and is overwhelmed by the sights and sounds of the big city. Frozen with doubt, a young woman (who turns out to be Emme), approaches him offering help. They get to know each other and that fateful encounter will change both of their lives forever.

Dr. Merton is a character of deep integrity, and his mission is not just professional, but deeply personal. Through his search, readers are introduced to a range of young doctors, each reflecting the shifting ideals and ambitions of a new generation. Authoritative yet tender, the prose evokes a bygone era with authenticity, capturing the emotional weight of mentorship, the quiet dignity of service, and the timeless value of human connection in healthcare. It stresses the frustrating attitude towards women in medicine in the 1950s.

The narrative is dialogue driven and the action develops at a comfortable pace to allow Dr. Merton to get to know Emme. With vivid language, the settings comes to life: “He knew he should move, but the soles of his shoes seemed to have melted into the sidewalk and the hypnotic doors had put him in a daze.” The characters are well-developed and relatable while the different medical personalities reflect how varied their reasons are for entering the medical profession. It explores the themes of friendship, identity, compassion, and courage.

Overall, “The Doctor of Bellechester” is a tribute to country doctors and a reflection on legacy, vocation, and the healing power of mentorship. It’s a moving, memorable read and recommended for readers drawn to stories of purpose and humanity. Since it’s a quick and cozy read, it’s suitable for book clubs or classroom teaching and includes discussion questions at the end.

“As if she needed encouragement for what lay ahead, the cardinals and the robins voiced their support in song. Their messages of merriment and hopefulness were impossible to miss.”

Sequins, Spotlight, and Stories: A Look at Diane Christiansen’s Dazzling Memoir

‘The Last Real Showgirl: My Sequined ’70s Onstage’ by Diane Christiansen. Photo: Amazon

Showgirls are known for their dazzling blend of beauty, confidence, and theatrical glamour. Their elaborate costumes, precision choreography, and magnetic stage presence create a spectacle that celebrates femininity, fantasy, and performance art. Often associated with Las Vegas or classic cabarets, showgirls evoke nostalgia for a bygone era of entertainment while continuing to evolve with modern flair. Visually appealing, they also possess a charisma and skill which they bring to the stage. Audiences are drawn to the magic, energy, and escape showgirls offer—a vibrant celebration of artistry, elegance, and the enduring power of performance.

If you’ve ever been curious about what it’s like to be a showgirl, consider the new memoir by Diane Christiansen. “The Last Real Showgirl: My Sequined ‘70s Onstage” gives readers an insight into the reality of being a showgirl in the ’70s — in the heyday of star-studded productions from Paris to Las Vegas. It’s a true story, by a real showgirl, that’s filled with surprises. (CS Lewis Publicity, 2025)

Diane Christiansen‘s career has spanned five decades as an actress, dancer, author, director, producer, writer, costume designer, and studio owner. She is an acting coach to many acclaimed actors on television shows like Euphoria, This is Us, Dickinson, Stranger Things, Sandman, Quantum Leap and countless other well-known and popular TV shows and movies.

“The Last Real Showgirl: My Sequined ‘70s Onstage” by Diane Christiansen – During the 1970s, showgirls represented the pinnacle of club and resort entertainment. In the modern age, very few shows left in Las Vegas, the resorts, or Paris feature showgirls at all. This memoir presents in her own words the life of Diane Christiansen, the last real showgirl.

As a teenager, desperate to get out of Illinois and into the glittering world of professional dance, Diane visits Montreal and discovers the electrifying world of French Cabaret. This kicks off a chain of events which finds her, before long, in Paris, dancing with a giant seahorse on her head at the world-renowned Lido de Paris. From opium dens in Paris to comedy clubs in the Bahamas, the arc of Diane’s dazzling career spans the globe, all before she is 28. This insider perspective on the industry presents the singular life of the last real showgirl, while also capturing the swansong of a thrilling era in stage entertainment.

Showgirls were powerful women in charge of their own careers — and well-paid, valued players in the flashy world of sequins, feathers, step-kicks, and lavish productions. Most were classically trained dancers who traveled the globe and planned their post-showgirl futures well in advance. They were nothing like the forlorn characters in recent movies.

In her candid, rollicking memoir, Diane Christiansen recounts her years as a showgirl — an iconic symbol of sexy, top-shelf entertainment rarely seen today. She offers an insider’s view to the alluring world of elaborate costumes, dance routines, the meaning of “Semi-Nude” and “Nude,” and life backstage, onstage and offstage. She delves into loves, losses, and her high-flying life.

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