Tag: art

Inside the Origin of Jimmy Buffett’s Legend: Occupational Hazard Documentary Spotlight

Occupational Hazard is releasing in major cities in early September timed to Jimmy Buffett Day (September 4). Photo: Michael Ochs Archive, used with permission.

Documentary Film Spotlight: Occupational Hazard: The First Coral Reefers

Greene Street Entertainment, in association with Confluence Productions, presents Occupational Hazard: The First Coral Reefers—a feature documentary that journeys back to the 1970s and early 1980s to tell the origin story of Jimmy Buffett’s original Coral Reefer Band. (EG-PR, 2026)

Set against the creative backdrop of Key West, the film explores the musicians, friendships, touring years, and studio sessions that helped shape Buffett’s legendary sound. It is the story upon which the “Parrot Head” empire was built, told directly by the people who laid the foundation.

The Release Schedule

  • Key West Special Screenings: Opens September 5, 2026
  • Theatrical Rollout: Select cities (including NYC and LA) to follow
  • TVOD Release: Nationwide across the US and Canada in November 2026

Behind the Magic

Narrated by Academy Award winner Jeff Bridges, Occupational Hazard captures the camaraderie, chaos, and magic of an era that thrived on freedom and lived without a rulebook. Through rare, never-before-seen archival footage and deeply personal interviews with founding members, tour managers, producers, and music legends, the film offers fans an intimate look at the volatile beauty of a musical moment that couldn’t last, but changed everything.

Fresh off its premiere at the Santa Barbara International Film Festival 2026, this festival favorite has picked up accolades across the country and stands as a candid, heartfelt tribute to Buffett and his original crew.

Film Fast Facts

  • Title: Occupational Hazard: The First Coral Reefers
  • Runtime: 92 minutes
  • Country: USA | Year: 2026
  • Director: John H. Cunningham
  • Producers: John H. Cunningham, Ted E. Haynes
  • Narrator: Jeff Bridges
  • Featured Appearances: Kenny Chesney, Mac McAnally, Keith Sykes, and members of The Coral Reefer Band

About the Subjects & Filmmakers

Jimmy Buffett (1946–2023)

Singer/songwriter Jimmy Buffett regaled audiences for over five decades with songs about the faces and places he encountered along the road less traveled. Combining Hemingway’s eye for detail with Mark Twain’s mischievous humor, Buffett’s music celebrated the hustlers, beach bums, and pirates of the world through timeless themes of escapism, wanderlust, and unbridled curiosity.

John H. Cunningham (Director & Producer)

John H. Cunningham is a filmmaker and USA TODAY bestselling author of the 12-book Buck Reilly adventure series and The Last Raft. Before transitioning to fiction and film, Cunningham spent 35 years in commercial real estate, serving as Executive Vice President at Alexandria Real Estate Equities in NYC. Splitting his time between Virginia and Key West, he combines deep business acumen with a passion for compelling storytelling.

Courtesy photo

Indie Horror Spotlight: ‘Hellbilly Hollow’ Brings Practical Gore and Heavy Metal to Theaters

The blood-soaked Southern throwback horror film will be released in select U.S. theaters on September 25, 2026. Photo: Bald Man Films/Convoke Media, used with permission.

THE BACKWOODS GET BLOODY: “HELLBILLY HOLLOW” TRAILER DROPS AHEAD OF SEPTEMBER THEATER RELEASE

One of the South’s most iconic haunted attractions is about to become the setting for an all-new generation’s nightmares.

Bald Man Films and Todd Slater’s Convoke Media have officially unleashed the first trailer for “Hellbilly Hollow,” a blood-soaked Southern throwback horror reminiscent of cult classics Terrifier and Friday the 13th. Filmed on location at the real-life Hellbilly Hollow haunted attraction in Vincent, Alabama, the film slashes into select U.S. theaters via Atlas Distribution Company on Friday, September 25. (Cinematic Red PR, 2026)

Check out the trailer breakdown, storyline, and behind-the-scenes details below.

The Synopsis: Real Scares in the Alabama Backwoods

In Hellbilly Hollow, a team of paranormal YouTubers ventures deep into the Alabama backwoods to film at a haunted attraction the night before Halloween. They soon encounter a sinister presence far more frightening, and deadlier, than specters and staged scares:

  • Tickles: A disfigured, childlike clown.
  • Bull: His manipulative caretaker brother.

One by one, the investigators and local thrill-seekers fall victim to the siblings’ sadistic games inside the attraction’s real-life haunted barn, hayride, and scare zones.

From Commercial Shoot to Southern Slasher

The idea for the film took root on-site at the attraction, where director Kevin Wayne was initially filming a commercial. After envisioning a sinister figure hunting victims through the haunt’s eerie backwoods setting, the concept evolved into a full-length feature.

“I’ve wanted to make a horror film for a long time – but not just any horror film. With ‘Hellbilly Hollow,’ I saw a chance to tell a true Southern horror story – one that’s sinister and twisted, atmospheric and character-driven, not just reliant on jump scares and gore.” — Kevin Wayne (Director / “Tickles”)

“We came up with a slate of outrageous, never-before-seen kills. From day one, we knew this would be the start of something bigger – a series of films built around a place, two complex, deranged siblings, and the culture they inhabit.” — Kurt Deimer (Producer / “Bull”)

Practical FX, Heavy Metal, and Carnage

Designed to deliver authentic throwback thrills, Hellbilly Hollow turns carnival mechanics into lethal traps. Engineered by executive producer and production designer Mike Denard, the set features customized, practical set pieces including:

  • Wack-a-Troll
  • High Striker
  • Acid Darts
  • Car Dunk Sequence

The Sound of Horror:

Supercharging the scares, the film features an original score composed by Roy Mayorga (Ministry), sound design by Tom Boykin (John Wick: Chapter 4, The Last of Us), and eight original songs performed by rock artist and co-star Kurt Deimer.

Cast and Crew Highlights

  • Cast: Kurt Deimer, Kevin Wayne, Danny Vinson, Sandra Ellis Lafferty, Megan Alexandrea Weaver, Hallie Shepherd, Trey Miller, and Keller Fornes.
  • Director: Kevin Wayne
  • Writer: Bernadette Chapman
  • Producers: Kurt Deimer, Todd Slater
  • Director of Photography: David Brower
  • Executive Producers: Michael T. Clarke, Mike Denard, Andy Gould, David Miller, Tim Miller, James Srygley, Kevin Wayne, and Brandon Evans.

ABOUT BALD MAN FILMS

Founded by Cincinnati-born rocker, actor, and producer Kurt Deimer, Bald Man Films specializes in producing genre content. The company is the culmination of Deimer’s unconventional journey from the school of hard knocks to entrepreneur, rock musician, actor, and film producer.

ABOUT CONVOKE MEDIA

Convoke Media is a strategic investment and content company operating at the intersection of film, television, digital media, and institutional capital. Recent films include, The Optimist, Flyover, Scare BnB, Paul & Greg & Amelia, & Don’t Log Off. Founded by veteran media executive Todd Slater, the company focuses on the development, financing, and scaling of premium content with global commercial potential.

Hellbilly Hollow still. Photo: Bald Man Films/Convoke Media

Catch Texas Soul, Blues & Stand-Up Live at Paper Tiger’s ‘La Noche del Tigre’

The new live music and comedy series ‘La Noche del Tigre’ is coming to Paper Tiger. Photo: The Krishna Company, used with permission.

🎸 Live Music & Comedy Collide: Announcing ‘La Noche del Tigre’ at Paper Tiger

San Antonio, get ready! The Krishna Company is proud to present the launch of La Noche del Tigre, a brand-new live music and comedy series bringing high-energy performances to Texas. (The Krishna Company, 2026)

The inaugural show lands at the iconic Paper Tiger in San Antonio, featuring a stacked lineup of six Texas and nationally acclaimed musical acts alongside two powerhouse stand-up comedians.

Whether you’re in it for the soulful Texas vocals, heavy rock riffs, or non-stop laughs, this is a night you won’t want to miss.

📅 Event Details & Tickets

  • When: Thursday, August 20, 2026
  • Time: Doors open at 6:00 PM | Show starts at 7:00 PM
  • Where: Paper Tiger — 2410 N St Mary’s St, San Antonio, TX 78212
  • Tickets: $25 Advance | $30 Day-of (At the door)

🎤 The Lineup

Featured Music Acts

Tameca Jones

A long-time favorite in San Antonio, Texas soul singer and songwriter Tameca Jones has shared stages with heavy hitters like The Black Pumas, Gary Clark Jr., Leon Bridges, and Willie Nelson. You might recognize her emotive single “Sandman” from Hulu’s Black Cake, or her Adele-influenced single “So Gone” off her highly anticipated debut album, Plants & Pills (2024). Tameca is currently working on her follow-up album, slated for 2027.

Blackillac

Voted Austin Music Award’s “Best Hip Hop/Rap 2020,” this southern duo is making serious waves. Formed in 2018 by rappers ZEALE and Phranchyze under the guidance and production of 4x Grammy winner Gary Clark Jr., Blackillac built their roots in Willie Nelson’s historic Arlyn Studios. Releasing new tracks monthly, the duo is getting ready to drop their debut album featuring long-awaited collaborations with Clark Jr.

Eric Tessmer

Dubbed the “Best Guitarist in Austin” by The Austin Chronicle and a “working-class guitar hero” by the Austin American-Statesman, Tessmer is an Austin-based blues force. Inspired by Led Zeppelin and Jimi Hendrix, his sound is dark, moody, and packed with an edgy guitar virtuosity you have to hear live.

SANA SANA

SANA SANA is a cross-cultural musical experience formed by three artists whose lives were shaped by borders both visible and invisible. Their nostalgic, rhythm-rich sound reflects the nuance of being raised in the U.S. by Latino parents and immigrants—capturing the feeling of existing between two homes. It’s music made for anyone who lives in the “in-between.”

Abomic Toms

Hailed as Los Angeles’ bright new rising stars, rock & roll trio Abomic Toms recently opened for legends Billy Idol and Joan Jett at the LA Forum. Composed of Brandon Bernath (vocals/bass), Ashley Valentine (drums), and Willem Wolfe (guitar)—son of Billy Idol himself—the band is proving that rock-and-roll excellence runs in the family.

James Bullard

Raised in West Texas and bouncing between Austin and L.A. since 1999, James Bullard comes from a deeply musical family, performing since age five. Over the last decade, he has collaborated extensively with West Coast and Texas songwriters. Now residing in Austin, he continues to bring rich, authentic songwriting to the stage.

Featured Comedians

Nacya Marreiro

A multi-talented comedian, actress, and writer, Nacya has taken her stand-up worldwide—from NYC’s The Stand to LA’s Laugh Factory and The Comedy Store, as well as Austin’s Creek and the Cave. You can catch her 2021 YouTube comedy special or check out her lead role in the Amazon Prime comedy film “Moving Valentine.”

Chris Tellez

Known for his dark, dry wit and masterful storytelling, Chris Tellez is a comedian to watch. Recently featured on Comedy Central, Chris has performed at top festivals including Colossal Clusterfest, Moontower, and Oddball. He’s shared the stage with comedy giants like Nate Bargatze, Nick Thune, and Big Jay Oakerson.

🎟️ Don’t wait until it’s sold out! Grab your advance $25 tickets now and join us for an unforgettable inaugural night at Paper Tiger.

Special thanks to the event sponsors: Nomad Sound, Attal Recordings, Jam Comedy, and GK Ventures.

San Antonio Events Roundup: Free Movies, Shiner Launch Party, & New Seasonal Bakes

Otto’s Ice House is hosting a Dandelion and Denim Country Night event celebrating Shiner’s new Ella Langley collaboration. Photo: Otto’s Ice House, used with permission.

What’s Happening in Alamo City: Film Screenings, Country Nights, & Seasonal Coffee Bakes

Looking for the best local events and seasonal eats around town? From a star-studded documentary screening on the Museum Reach to denim-and-drinks along the river, and new artisan treats to fuel your week, here is your guide to what’s happening in San Antonio.

🎨 Free Documentary Screening: Georgia O’Keeffe: The Brightness of Light

Catch a free evening of film and fine art at the San Antonio Museum of Art (SAMA). SAMA is hosting a special screening of the feature documentary Georgia O’Keeffe: The Brightness of Light, exploring the vibrant life and legacy of one of the twentieth century’s most iconic American artists. (San Antonio Museum of Art, 2026)

Directed by Academy Award winner Paul Wagner, the film features narration by Hugh Dancy and the voice of Claire Danes as O’Keeffe. Following the film, SAMA’s Kelso Director Emily B. Neff, a premier O’Keeffe scholar, will lead an insightful post-screening discussion.

  • When: Tuesday, August 11, 2026 | 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. (Doors open at 5:30 p.m.)
  • Cost: FREE
  • Good to Know: Auditorium seating is limited and strictly first-come, first-served.
  • Location:

San Antonio Museum of Art
200 W. Jones Ave., San Antonio, TX 78215
📞 (210) 978-8100

🤠 Dandelion & Denim Country Night at Otto’s Ice House

Dust off your favorite denim attire and head to the riverbanks! Otto’s Ice House is hosting a Texas-style celebration to launch Shiner’s new Dandelion Honey Kölsch—an exclusive collaboration with breakout country star Ella Langley. (Otto’s Ice House, 2026)

Expect a live DJ spinning Ella Langley hits, local popup vendors, and a social media giveaway at the start of the night for a chance to win a $150 Otto’s gift card. Come hungry and thirsty: Otto’s full food and drink lineup will be available, including signature bites like the Hill Country Deluxe Smashburger and the SOTX Hot Chicken Sandwich, alongside specialty cocktails like the Damn Goode Margarita.

  • When: Thursday, August 13, 2026 | 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
  • Cost: FREE entry
  • Dress Code: Your best denim attire.
  • Location:

Otto’s Ice House
111 Newell Avenue, San Antonio, TX 78212

☕ New Brews & Seasonal Bites at Bakery Lorraine

Beloved local artisan hotspot Bakery Lorraine is giving coffee and pastry lovers a reason to celebrate with fresh permanent menu additions and limited-time summer flavors across all locations. (Bakery Lorraine, 2026)

The New Permanent House Blend

In partnership with Texas roaster Merit Coffee, Bakery Lorraine is debuting a new signature house blend. Sourced from small farms in Brazil and Colombia, this roast features rich tasting notes of milk chocolate, toffee, and black cherry. It’s crafted to shine whether ordered as a classic drip coffee or espresso base.

Limited-Time Seasonal Menu

  • Peach & Blackberry Syrups: Add a splash of summer to any handcrafted drink—including lemonades, iced black teas, matcha, or lattes.
  • Peach Mango Scone: A buttery, flaky seasonal pastry packed with sweet peaches and tropical mango.
  • Where: Available across all Bakery Lorraine San Antonio locations for a limited time.
Photo: Bakery Lorraine, used with permission.

Award-Winning Documentary ‘To Use a Mountain’ Premieres at DCTV in NYC

Peace activists standing at the entry to the Nevada National Security Site. Photo: To Use a Mountain, LLC, used with permission.

New Documentary Spotlight: TO USE A MOUNTAIN

Facet, Narrow Vision Endeavors, and Correspondent Productions Present:

TO USE A MOUNTAIN

  • Director, Cinematographer, Editor: Casey Carter
  • Producers: Colleen Cassingham, Jonna McKone
  • Executive Producers: Brett Story, Maida Lynn, Ryan Krivoshey
  • Format: Feature Documentary | USA, 2025 | 99 Minutes

Release & Screening Information

  • Theatrical Release: Opens theatrically at DCTV in New York on Friday, August 21, with a regional theatrical expansion to follow.
  • VOD Release: Coming in 2027 via Grasshopper Film.
  • Community Screenings: TO USE A MOUNTAIN is currently screening with frontline communities across the country confronting issues of nuclear waste, nuclear weapons production, and next-generation nuclear projects initiated in response to the energy demands of the AI data center boom.

Festival Accolades

  • Visions du Réel (Switzerland) — World Premiere | Special Jury Award, International Competition
  • Dallas IFF (Dallas, Texas) — Documentary Feature Competition
  • DOXA (Vancouver) — Best Feature Honorable Mention, ParaDOXA Forum
  • IDFA (Amsterdam) — Best of Fest
  • Big Sky (Missoula, Montana) — Official Selection
  • And many more…

Synopsis

In 1982, six rural communities across the United States were notified that all of the nation’s nuclear waste might be buried beneath them forever. (EG PR, 2026)

Faced with a mandate to isolate the waste for 10,000 years, the Department of Energy mapped, analyzed, and assembled its assessments, while the unsuspecting stewards of sacrificial territory found themselves fighting for their homes, health, history, and dignity.

In the end, one site was chosen: a desert ridge in Nevada called Yucca Mountain, on the unceded lands of the Western Shoshone. After decades of controversy, construction at Yucca Mountain was halted, and to this day, no permanent solution has been devised for America’s 90,000 tons of high-level nuclear waste.

Against the impassive logic of government analysis and archives, TO USE A MOUNTAIN assembles a people’s history of resistance and stewardship through a visceral journey across the landscapes, ecologies, and personal histories of the candidate sites. Farmers, miners, citizen scientists, Native American leaders, and activists—each with a story bound to this enduring threat—stand in stark contrast to the cold, silent machinery of bureaucracy, in a meditation on resistance, memory, and the timeless struggle between power and place.

About the Filmmaker: Casey Carter

Casey Carter is a filmmaker and interdisciplinary designer whose work engages nonfiction storytelling in film and video, photography, data visualization, and cartography. His work centers around themes of governmentality, geography, environmentalism, and personal subjectivities.

Prior Work & Background

His short films—TWO BOYS AND A DREAM (2023), TWO PRISONS (2020), and THE RIGHTS OF NATURE (2019)—have screened at festivals including Revolutions Per Minute, SF Shorts, Salem, Ashland Independent, and Hong Kong Film Art.

He holds a B.S. in Physics and a B.S. in Photography from Middle Tennessee State University, as well as a Master of Architecture from the University of Michigan.

Grants & Recognition

His work has been supported through grants and fellowships from institutions including:

  • Sundance Documentary Film Program
  • International Documentary Association (IDA)
  • UnionDocs Center for Documentary Art
  • New York Foundation for the Arts
  • The Marble House Project
  • Monson Arts
  • The Redford Center
  • SFFILM
  • Flies Collective
Photo: To Use A Mountain, LLC

San Antonio’s Iconic Gunter Hotel Joins Marriott Bonvoy After Major Renovation

In celebration of this milestone, the hotel debuts a special limited-time room package designed to introduce guests to the reimagined property. Photo: Daniel Kelleghan Photography, used with permission.

San Antonio’s Historic Gunter Hotel Joins Marriott’s Tribute Portfolio Following $57M Renovation

San Antonio’s historic skyline just got a major refresh.

The Gunter Hotel has officially transitioned to Gunter Hotel, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, joining Marriott Bonvoy’s global collection of independent properties renowned for their character, design, and local roots. (Gunter Hotel, 2026)

The milestone marks an exciting new chapter for the downtown icon following an extensive $57 million renovation. Originally established in 1909, the hotel has welcomed guests for over 116 years, beautifully balancing its rich heritage with a sleek, modern guest experience.

“We are thrilled to officially join Tribute Portfolio and become part of Marriott Bonvoy’s global family of independent hotels. This transition allows us to preserve the unique spirit and legacy of The Gunter while introducing our story to a broader audience of travelers seeking authentic, memorable experiences.”

— Jiwon Choi, Gunter Hotel Owner and Managing Director at Axle Capital

Where History Meets Music

Located in the heart of downtown San Antonio, the reimagined Gunter Hotel features 311 thoughtfully designed guest rooms, including 30 suites, alongside four distinct dining concepts: Jots, Keystone Club, Bar 414, and Paris Baguette.

Paying homage to its storied musical legacy—including the legendary 1936 blues recording session by Robert Johnson—the property now offers:

  • A state-of-the-art on-site recording studio
  • A curated vinyl record library
  • In-room record players for guest enjoyment

Limited-Time Room Offer: Restored. Reimagined. Remarkable.

To celebrate its official debut, the Gunter is offering a special package available to book now through December 31, 2026 (blackout dates apply).

The package includes:

  • Up to 26% off the Best Available Rate
  • A complimentary champagne toast for two upon arrival
  • Full access to the hotel’s Vinyl Library
  • Free entry to weekly live music performances
  • Late checkout (subject to availability)

What’s Cooking Inside: Summer Treats & Hamilton Cocktails

Whether you’re visiting San Antonio or live right down the street, there are plenty of delicious reasons to step inside the Gunter this season.

1. Paris Baguette’s Summer & Boursin Menu

Located inside the hotel—just steps from the Riverwalk—the French-Korean bakery Paris Baguette is dishing out seasonal specials through Tuesday, August 25.

Lemon Blueberry Collection

  • Lemon Blueberry Mochi Donut
  • Lemon Blueberry King Cream Donut
  • Lemon Blueberry Tart & Chiffon Cake
  • Drinks: Iced Blueberry Macchiato, Iced Matcha Latte, Blueberry Lemonade Refresher

S’mores Collection

  • S’mores Supreme Croissant & Belgian Waffle
  • S’mores Chocolate Marshmallow Layer Cake
  • Drinks: Iced S’mores Latte & S’mores Frappe

Savory Boursin Garlic Cheese Collab

  • Smoked Salmon & Boursin Garlic Cheese Croissant
  • Grilled Chicken & Boursin Garlic Cheese Wrap
  • Boursin Garlic Cheese Quiche with Grilled Chicken
  • Boursin Garlic Cheese Salad
Photo: Paris Baguette, used with permission.

2. Themed Cocktails for Hamilton at the Majestic

Broadway’s Hamilton is taking the stage at San Antonio’s Majestic Theatre, located directly across the street from the Gunter.

To mark the occasion, the hotel’s elegant Keystone Club is serving up two exclusive Hamilton-themed cocktails:

  • 🏛️ Founding Father Fizz ($15): No. 3 London Dry Gin, St-Germain, lime juice, simple syrup, and Prosecco.
  • ⚔️ The Revolution ($16): Buffalo Trace Bourbon, Green Chartreuse, sweet vermouth, and bitters.

Whether you need a pre-show drink or a post-curtain nightcap, Keystone Club is the ultimate theater-night pit stop.

Plan Your Visit

  • Location: Downtown San Antonio, TX (across from the Majestic Theatre)
  • Book the Package: Visit the Gunter Hotel’s website to lock in up to 26% off your stay.

What’s Happening at The Faust Hotel: Free Live Music & New Brunch Menus

The Faust Hotel in New Braunfels hosts recurring music series across the Magnolia Patio. Photo: The Faust Hotel, used with permission.

Live Music & New Menus: What’s Happening at The Faust Hotel This July

Exciting news out of historic downtown New Braunfels! This month, The Faust Hotel, the city’s newly renovated landmark destination, launched a recurring, free live music series on the Magnolia Patio, the hotel’s lush outdoor lounge. (The Faust Hotel, 2026)

Gather your friends, grab a craft cocktail, and enjoy light bites under the stars. Here is everything you need to know about what’s coming up at The Faust.

🎶 Live Music on the Magnolia Patio

  • When: Thursday through Saturday, 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM
  • Where: The Magnolia Patio at The Faust Hotel
  • Cost: Free admission!

This month’s diverse lineup spans everything from pop-country fusion and Americana to R&B and soul. Line-up subject to change. Here is the upcoming schedule so you can plan your weekends:

Upcoming Shows

DateArtistGenre & Vibe
Thursday, July 9Bru TunesVersatile South Texas musician specializing in violin and guitar.
Friday, July 10Nate GuthrieCentral Texas Americana singer, guitar picker, and mandolin player.
Saturday, July 11Guy VincentRising San Antonio country artist performing soulful southern tunes.
Thursday, July 16Soul SessionsHigh-energy R&B, soul, and funk music group.
Friday, July 17Kristen ForemanTalented Nashville vocalist rising fast in the country music scene.
Saturday, July 18Lacy BrinsonSan Antonio country vocalist known for versatile sets and empowering themes.
Thursday, July 23Mariana & MarciaGenre-bending duo performing jazz, pop, boleros, and bossa nova.
Friday, July 24MC & the MystyxFemale-fronted band delivering a powerful blend of blues, rock, and Americana.
Saturday, July 25Elysha LeMasterLocal New Braunfels favorite performing an eclectic blend of pop, rock, and country.
Thursday, July 30Tiffany DawnFour-piece cover band playing nostalgic country, Latin, jazz, and rock favorites.
Friday, July 31Austin GilliamSkilled guitarist and singer blurring the lines between rock and country.

🍽️ New Lunch & Weekend Brunch at Wilhelm & Werner

The music isn’t the only thing fresh at the hotel. Wilhelm & Werner, the hotel’s signature Texas-style brasserie, has just introduced highly anticipated lunch and brunch services focusing on fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

Elevated Midweek Lunch

  • When: Tuesday through Friday | 10:30 AM – 2:30 PM
  • The Vibe: An elevated yet approachable dining experience in a relaxed, historic setting. Perfect for business lunches or a leisurely midday escape.
  • Menu Highlights: Tuna Niçoise, Fried Gulf Fish Sandwich, and a rotating soup of the day.

Texas-Style Weekend Brunch

  • When: Saturday & Sunday | 10:30 AM – 2:30 PM
  • The Vibe: A warm, inviting weekend atmosphere featuring refined takes on classic comfort foods and perfectly paired morning sips.
  • Menu Highlights: Duck Confit Hash, Caprese Benedict, and a crowd-favorite Cinnamon Roll Pancake Flight.

Planning to Dine? While walk-ins are always welcome, they highly recommend making a reservation ahead of time on OpenTable to secure your table.

Visit The Faust Hotel

📍 229 South Castell Ave., New Braunfels, TX 78130

About the Hotel:

Originally opened in 1929 and now part of the boutique hotel portfolio of Lark Hospitality, The Faust Hotel stands as a landmark destination blending timeless Texas charm with modern hospitality. It offers a welcoming retreat just steps from downtown New Braunfels and the scenic banks of the Comal River.

New Selena Exhibition Opening at San Antonio’s Briscoe Museum This Summer

Selena Forever/Siempre Selena opens on June 4, 2026. Photo: Briscoe Western Art Museum, used with permission.

Briscoe: New Selena Exhibition & Summer Film Series

The Briscoe Western Art Museum in San Antonio is set to celebrate the enduring legacy of the Queen of Tejano music with Selena Forever / Siempre Selena, a special photographic exhibition opening June 4, 2026, in the museum’s Kate Marmion Gallery. (Briscoe Western Art Museum, 2026)

Featuring photographs by acclaimed San Antonio photographer John Dyer, the exhibition captures Selena at a pivotal moment in her rise to international stardom. It offers an intimate look at an artist whose talent, charisma, and determination transformed Tejano music and helped redefine representation for Mexican American women in popular culture.

📸 The Exhibition: Selena Forever / Siempre Selena

Photographed by Dyer on multiple occasions between 1992 and 1994, this showcase brings together some of the most recognizable and widely published images of Selena’s career. It is considered the most complete and comprehensive exhibition of large-scale Selena portraits ever presented.

Visitors can expect:

  • Monumental Portraits: Iconic large-scale images from her rise to stardom.
  • Boutique Photographs: Never-before-seen, intimate snapshots.
  • Historical Ephemera: Magazine covers and memorabilia offering an expansive look at her life and artistry.

On Display: June 4, 2026 – Jan. 4, 2027

Carrying the Spirit of the West

“Selena was a trailblazing Tejana whose influence reached far beyond music,” says Liz Jackson. “She embodied the independence, determination and entrepreneurial spirit that have long defined the American West, while proudly carrying her culture and community with her every step of the way.”

At a time when Tejano music was largely dominated by men, Selena broke barriers with confidence and authenticity. Much like generations of Tejanos who helped shape Texas through perseverance and innovation, Selena forged her own path while carrying the traditions of her community forward.

About the Photographer: John Dyer

John Dyer is a Texas-based photographer renowned for documenting the people, culture, and spirit of the American Southwest. His work has been exhibited in prestigious institutions nationwide, including the National Portrait Gallery, the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, and the McNay Art Museum. Dyer’s work documenting Selena remains some of the most iconic imagery associated with the beloved cultural icon.

🎬 Briscoe Summer Film Series: “Siempre Tejano”

To complement the exhibition, the Briscoe’s annual Summer Film Series will present Siempre Tejano, celebrating Selena, Tejano music, and the cultural legacy shaping Texas today.

The Details:

  • When: The third Sunday of June, July, and August at 2:00 PM.
  • Perks: Included with general admission. Tickets include complimentary beer provided by Ranger Creek and classic movie snacks. (Pro-tip: Purchase tickets in advance online)

Film Lineup:

DateFilmDescription
Sunday, June 21Selena y Los Dinos (2025)A Netflix documentary tracing the band’s rise from local South Texas gigs to international fame, featuring rare archival footage from the Quintanilla family archive.
Sunday, July 19Selena (1997)The beloved feature film starring Jennifer Lopez charting Selena’s extraordinary journey. Inducted into the National Film Registry, it famously features San Antonio’s own River Walk.
Sunday, Aug. 16Take It Away: The Rise and Fall of Tejano Hollywood (2025)An acclaimed documentary exploring the influence of legendary TV host Johnny Canales, whose variety show helped launch the careers of countless Tejano artists.

🏛️ More to Experience at the Briscoe This Summer

Located right on the River Walk near La Villita in downtown San Antonio, the Briscoe preserves the art, history, and culture of the American West. Beyond Selena, visitors can experience massive programming updates this summer:

Landmark Exhibition: Tejano Legacy: Another American Origin Story

Opening July 24, 2026 (running through Jan. 18, 2027), this is the most ambitious exhibition in the Briscoe’s history.

  • Features more than 100 rare artworks and artifacts.
  • Includes pieces loaned from Mexican institutions—considered national historical heritage—on display in the U.S. for the very first time.
  • Don’t Miss: The museum’s annual National Day of the Vaquero / Día Nacional del Vaquero celebration on July 25.

Tejano Legacy National Tour Dates

Can’t make it to San Antonio? The landmark exhibition will be hitting the road to introduce audiences across the country to the story of Tejano identity:

  • March 4 – September 5, 2027: Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West (Scottsdale, AZ)
  • October 30, 2027 – February 13, 2028: Bullock Texas State History Museum (Austin, TX)

🎟️ Admission Deals & Discounts

The Briscoe is offering several free and reduced admission opportunities throughout the summer:

  • Kids 12 and under: Always FREE.
  • Active-Duty Military Families: FREE via Blue Star Museums through Labor Day.
  • Bexar County Residents: Monthly free “Locals Days”.
  • Community Programs: Proud participant in Museums for All and Museums on Us.

Plan your summer visit to the Briscoe and immerse yourself in the vibrant history, art, and music that define Texas,

Photo: Briscoe Western Art Museum

Magik Theatre Summer Camps 2026: San Antonio’s Best Youth Theatre Programs

Magik Theatre unleashes super charged summer camps, including musical theater camp. Photo: Magik Theatre, used with permission.

Beat the Summer Heat with Magik Theatre’s 2026 Summer Camp Blockbusters

Attention parents! The region’s hottest ticket in summer childcare is back and better than ever. The Magik Theatre, San Antonio’s premier theatre company for young audiences, has officially unveiled its 2026 summer camp program featuring a back-to-back schedule of blockbusters, more convenient schedules, and a newly renovated, icy-cool facility. (Magik Theatre, 2026)

Whether your child is a fresh preschool graduate stepping onstage for the first time or a seasoned high school performer, Magik has a stage waiting for them.

Why Choose Magik Theatre Camps?

At the heart of every Magik camp is a core mission: to ignite imagination, spark curiosity, inspire empathy, and foster a lifelong love of learning.

Magik’s teaching artists are a rare combination of working performers, skilled technicians, and seasoned arts educators. By weaving social-emotional learning into every session, they build confidence and creativity in a way that’s genuinely fun, deeply engaging, and surprisingly educational.

Plus, thanks to recent renovations, campers will enjoy enhanced accessibility, safety, softer theatre seats, and, most importantly, brand-new HVAC to keep everyone cool during the San Antonio summer.

🎭 2026 Camp Lineup by Age Group

From June to August, Magik Theatre is offering flexible one- and two-week sessions tailored to every age and interest. (Note: All campers must be fully potty-trained to participate).

🧸 Little Legends (Rising K – 1st Grade)

  • The Vibe: Creative play, imagination, and storytelling.
  • The Themes: Inspired by children’s favorites like Bluey, Paw Patrol, and classic tales of pirates and fairies.
  • The Schedule: Half-day, two-week sessions running from June 8 through July. Sign up for one, or book all four to cover your summer.

🌟 Rising Stars (Elementary Ages)

  • The Vibe: Mainstage musical sessions designed to let young talents shine.
  • The Themes: Eight themed options catering to whatever they’re obsessed with, from Wicked and K-Pop Demon Hunters to Legos and Pokémon.

🎬 Drama Crew (Middle Schoolers)

  • The Vibe: Skip the acting and dive behind the scenes.
  • The Focus: A technically focused camp featuring music, puppetry, prop making, lighting, and sound design.

🎤 Intro to Musical Theatre (Rising 9th – 12th Graders)

  • The Vibe: High-energy skill-building for teens.
  • The Focus: Master the elements of modern musical classics like Beetlejuice and Mean Girls, concluding with an exciting end-of-session showcase.

🎭 Center Stage Players (High Schoolers)

  • The Vibe: A special series of Saturday workshops for serious high school actors looking to hone their craft.
  • The Focus: Deep dives into character work, script analysis, and public speaking, all without the burden of memorizing lines. Features a must-see evening performance on August 1.

🗓️ Special Specialty Weeks

Don’t need a full two-week commitment? Check out these standalone options:

  • Theatre Explorers Camp (June 1–5 | Grades K–8): Perfect for those who want to dip a toe into the theatre world. Introduces newbies to theatre basics through games, voice/dance exercises, and acting activities.
  • Summer Send-Off (August 3–7 | Rising K–8th): Beat the dog days of August with a camp that focuses on stagecraft, heavy on the “craft,” including puppetry, costume design, and more.

🚙 Perks for Parents: Stress-Free Logistics

Magik has designed this supercharged season with busy families in mind:

  • Consistent Schedules: Mainstage Musical, Drama Crew, and Intro to Musical Theatre all run for two weeks from June 8 – July 31 (9a.m. – 4p.m.).
  • Extended Care: Optional extended care is available one hour before and one hour after standard camp hours.
  • One Stop, Multiple Kids: Camps for different age groups are held at the same location with the same start times. No convoluted commutes.
  • Discounts: Save money with sibling and multi-session discounts.

🎟️ Spaces Are Limited—Book Your Spot Today

Because the Magik team took time earlier this year to revamp programming during building renovations, this year features the widest variety of day camps in recent history.

But hurry, Magik’s day camps are some of the hottest tickets in town and prone to sell out quickly.

👉 View Session Availability Here and Secure Your Family’s Summer Fun Today

About Magik Theatre

Established in 1994, Magik Theatre is a professional theatre for young audiences. Our mission is to create theatrical experiences that ignite imagination, spark curiosity, inspire empathy, and foster a lifetime love of learning in young people.

ThoroughFare Austin: New Mueller Hybrid Bakery & Café Announces Block Party

Austinites invited to join the newly opened bakery, café, deli and grocery for a lively block party. Photo: Meraki Narrative, used with permission.

** Update: Due to forecasted inclement weather, this event has been rescheduled for Thursday June 4, 2026. ** 5/20/2026

Neighborhood Spot ThoroughFare Announces Epic Mueller Block Party

If you haven’t checked out ThoroughFare yet, now is the perfect time. The newly opened bakery, café, deli, and grocery hybrid has quickly become a favorite daily ritual for Mueller residents since quietly opening its doors in March. (Juice Consulting, 2026)

To celebrate, they are throwing a massive neighborhood Block Party, and you’re invited!

The Details: When & Where

  • Date: Thursday, May 21
  • Time: 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM
  • Location: Mueller Neighborhood, 1905 Aldrich St. (Next to the Thinkery)
  • RSVP: Click here for the public RSVP link

The event will feature a total takeover of the Aldrich St. walkway by ThoroughFare and an incredible lineup of adjacent local businesses.

What to Expect

Whether you’re bringing the family, heading out for date night, or just love good food, there is something for everyone:

  • Good Vibes: A vinyl-curated DJ set from Dart Collective.
  • For the Kids: Complimentary face painting.
  • ThoroughFare Exclusives: Fresh bread and cookie tastings, plus $2 off wine by the glass and draft beer.
  • Shopping Perks: 20% off all Made In Cookware and fun merch giveaways to grab as you roam.

Participating Vendors & Pop-Ups

ThoroughFare is teaming up with neighborhood favorites to bring you awesome activities, freebies, and discounts:

  • The Thinkery & Toy Joy: Hosting a “Franken-TOY” pop-up where guests can build and take home their own custom toys.
  • Buddy Bear: An arts-and-crafts station pop-up for both kids and adults.
  • Veracruz All Natural: Serving up complimentary samples of their famous agua frescas.
  • Aviator Pizza: Featuring free merch, swag, pizza giveaways, and a prize wheel spinner.
  • Nando’s Peri Peri Chicken: Catch their mascot on-site, grab food samples, and spin their prize wheel.
  • Lick Ice Cream: Scooping up sweet discounts at their ice cream cart.
  • Blue Lacy: Offering exclusive dine-in discounts.
  • BD Riley’s Irish Pub: Serving up discounts on adult beverages.

What is ThoroughFare?

Brought to you by the team behind the nationally recognized Austin bakery ThoroughBread (named by Food & Wine as one of the 100 Best Bakeries in America), ThoroughFare is an elevated food shopping experience.

The new space features:

  • A Full-Service Drink Bar: Serving coffee, matcha, smoothies, and fresh juices.
  • A Café & Bakery: Serving up signature toasts, sandwiches, soups, and salads.
  • The Market: Stocked with 170 house-made products including condiments, salad dressings, butters, jams, and nut butters, all of which are the exact same ingredients they use on their own café menu.

The ThoroughFare Promise: They pride themselves on making as many products as possible completely in-house. That means zero seed oils, artificial additives, preservatives, colors, flavors, gums, or fillers. No shortcuts. Just real food.

The Story Behind the Concept

The seed for ThoroughFare was planted back in 2015 during a trip to Maine taken by Co-Founder and CEO Ryan Goebel and his mother. Eating almost entirely from local producers, Ryan noticed the food tasted richer and left them feeling noticeably better.

He realized the magic lay in how the food was produced and the short distance it traveled to the table. Ryan brought this holistic philosophy back to Austin, opening ThoroughBread in 2018 to immediate critical acclaim. ThoroughFare is the natural evolution of that dream, reimagining the way grocers operate by letting you take home the exact ingredients used in their kitchen.

“This began years ago with a simple belief – that food should just be food. Made with real ingredients, without unnecessary shortcuts, and brought to people at its best. ThoroughFare is built on that standard, and we’re proud to finally open our doors and share it with our community.” — Ryan Goebel, Co-Founder & CEO

See you at the block party!

Make sure to RSVP and come hungry. What vendor are you most excited to check out? Let me know in the comments below.