It's Chile's moment right now. Why? IT LOOKS LIKE ANOTHER PLANET- Mars rovers get tested here, enough said. It's the most otherworldly landscape on the surface of this planet, a place where salt flats stretch flat and white to the horizon, where geysers erupt from the earth at dawn at 14,000 feet of elevation, where the Valle de la Luna turns amber and rose and impossible gold as the sun drops behind the Andes each evening. WINE WILDNESS-The Colchagua Valley, Maipo Valley, and Casablanca Valley are producing wines that now appear on the lists of the most serious restaurants in New York, London, and Tokyo. The Carmenere grape, once thought extinct in Europe and quietly thriving in Chilean soil for 150 years before anyone noticed, has become one of the most exciting varietal conversations. DEEPLY DARK SKIES- The Atacama is home to some of the world's most powerful telescopes are here for exactly that reason but even with an iPhone, you're able to capture amazing photos of the Milky Way while Torres del Paine in Patagonia produces the kind of dramatic, granite spire, wind swept, light shifting landscape that photographers plan entire trips around. CULINARY DEPTHS NOBODY SEES COMING -Santiago is one of the most exciting food cities in the Americas right now and it has been almost entirely discovered by the rest of the world only in the last five years. A culinary journey through Chile moves from Santiago's restaurant scene to vineyard lunches in the valleys to asado dinners in Patagonia where the lamb has been slow roasting over open fire since morning. Vivaterra can plan some excellent itineraries for your trip! |
Friday, May 22, 2026
Travel Tidbits - Atacama
Music Minute - Field & Stage Music Fest (July 17-19, Birmingham AL)
The World Deer Expo, the largest hunting expo in the world, is officially expanding into nighttime entertainment with the launch of the inaugural Field & Stage Music Fest — a brand-new country music concert experience taking place July 17–19 at Legacy Arena at the BJCC in Birmingham, Alabama.
Festival organizers today unveiled the first wave of artists set to headline the debut event, including country hitmakers Jake Owen, Eli Young Band, and The Oak Ridge Boys — with additional artists and special guests to be announced in the coming weeks.
Created as an extension of the annual World Deer Expo experience, Field & Stage Music Fest was designed to unite the worlds of outdoor culture and live country music into one immersive weekend destination.
“For years, fans have asked us to bring nighttime concerts to World Deer Expo weekend,” said Bob Coker, Founder of the World Deer Expo. “We listened. Partnering with Producer Monica Fitzgibbons, Field & Stage Music Fest is our answer — a first-of-its-kind experience where the excitement of the expo seamlessly flows into live music each night. From Expo to Encore, the experience never stops.”
The newly announced headliners bring decades of chart success and fan-favorite hits to Birmingham:
Jake Owen — Jake Owen is gold and platinum-selling recording artist with 10 No. 1 singles, and more than 2.5 billion U.S. on-demand streams.
Eli Young Band — Multi-platinum group known for four No. 1 hits and ACM/CMA Award-winning success
The Oak Ridge Boys — Legendary group with 17 No. 1 hits, Grammy Awards, and more than 41 million albums sold
Festival organizers emphasize that this announcement represents only the beginning of the lineup rollout, with additional performers, attractions, and festival experiences still to come.
Field & Stage Music Fest also arrives during a milestone moment as the nation approaches the celebration of America’s 250th anniversary, with organizers planning to honor veterans, patriotism, and the traditions that connect the country music and outdoor communities.
Tickets and additional festival announcements are available at:
FieldandStageMusic.com and TicketMaster.com
# # #
ABOUT FIELD & STAGE MUSIC FEST:
Field & Stage Music Fest is a premier country music festival created to extend the excitement of the annual World Deer Expo into a one-of-a-kind nighttime entertainment experience. Founded through a partnership between World Deer Expo founder Bob Coker and veteran entertainment executive Monica Fitzgibbons, the 3-day concert fest kicks off at Legacy Arena at the BJCC in Birmingham, Alabama. The festival blends live country music, outdoor culture, and Southern hospitality into a multi-day destination event. Designed around the concept “From Expo to Encore,” Field & Stage Music Fest brings together music fans, outdoor enthusiasts, families, and visitors from across the country for an immersive weekend unlike any other.
For more information: FieldandStageMusic.com
ABOUT THE WORLD DEER EXPO:
World Deer Expo is the largest hunting expo in the world and has served as a cornerstone event for outdoor enthusiasts for more than four decades. Founded by Bob Coker, the expo annually attracts exhibitors, industry leaders, celebrities, and attendees from across America to the Birmingham–Jefferson Convention Complex. The event celebrates hunting heritage, outdoor traditions, conservation, family entertainment, and the lifestyle that unites generations of sportsmen and outdoor communities. For more information: WorldDeerExpo.com
ABOUT JAKE OWEN:
Jake Owen is a country music super star whose career includes a collection of gold and platinum records, 10 No. 1 singles, and more than 2.5 billion U.S. on-demand streams. The ACM Award winner is signatured by his laid-back style and chart-topping hits including "Barefoot Blue Jean Night,” "Beachin’,” "Anywhere With You," "Alone With You" and "The One That Got Away.” The recording artist, headlining entertainer and actor has released ten studio albums, including his most recent, the critically-acclaimed DREAMS TO DREAM album (co-produced alongside Shooter Jennings). Owen has headlined tours around the world. He launched his “Dreams To Dream" tour in February 2026.; the 12-date tour canvassed Washington DC, York, PA, St. Paul, MN and Des Moines, IA. Beyond the stage, Owen is a music business executive, philanthropist, and father of two, serving as a partner in Nashville-based Good Company Entertainment and founder of The Jake Owen Foundation, a charity organization that provides financial support to children suffering with life threatening and catastrophic childhood diseases, as well as youth organizations in his hometown of Vero Beach, Florida.
ABOUT ELI YOUNG BAND:
Led by an unmistakable vocal and bringing a Texas-rock edge to modern country for 25 years, the Eli Young Band's never-changing lineup of Mike Eli, James Young, Jon Jones and Chris Thompson have spent decades on the run, growing from hometown heroes into globe-trotting, chart-topping pioneers. Founded in Denton, Texas, and rising to become arena-packing icons of the state’s independent country scene, EYB’s 2005 album Level launched the band into the mainstream, followed by three career Billboard Top 5 albums including the No.1- 110,000 Towns and Platinum Life At Best. Boasting back-to-back Number One singles with the 5X Platinum “Crazy Girl” in 2011 and 3X Platinum “Even If It Breaks Your Heart” (2012), plus the Platinum Number One “Drunk Last Night,” 2X Platinum Number One “Love Ain’t” and more, the band’s unbroken streak of success has now led to a millions-strong fandom.
ABOUT THE OAK RIDGE BOYS:
Theirs is one of the most distinctive and recognizable sounds in the music industry. The four-part harmonies and upbeat songs of The Oak Ridge Boys have spawned dozens of Country hits and two Pop smashes, earned them Grammy, Dove, CMA, and ACM awards and garnered a host of other industry and fan accolades. Every time they step before an audience, the Oaks bring four decades of charted singles, and 50 years of tradition, to a stage show widely acknowledged as among the most exciting anywhere. Their string of hits includes the Country-Pop chartbuster Elvira, as well as Bobbie Sue, Dream On, Thank God For Kids, American Made, I Guess It Never Hurts To Hurt Sometimes, Fancy Free, Gonna Take A Lot Of River, and many others. In 2009, they covered a White Stripes song, receiving accolades from Rock reviewers. The group has scored 12 gold, three platinum, and one double platinum album—plus one double platinum single—and had more than a dozen national Number One singles and over 30 Top Ten hits.
Book Nook - Affinity
.jpg)
In a democratic socialist reimagining of 21st-century America, narrator Hugh, a journalist for a radical newsmagazine, discovers the subject of his newest assignment, Wystan Fitzroy, dead when he arrives for an interview. Wystan is a tech billionaire and creator of Affinity, a major social media platform. Upon learning of Wystan’s role in starting the very magazine he works for, Hugh embarks on a journey to discover the ways Wystan influenced the 21st century.
Buy Affinity here.
Matthew Sam Prendergast is a professor of composition and creative writing at a Midwestern university. He holds a degree in philosophy from the University of Illinois and an MFA in writing from Vermont College of Fine Arts. He has published numerous works of short prose and poetry. He lives in Chicago with his dog and cat.
Healthy Habits - Pregnancy Week by Week
Save the Storks announced the launch of “Pregnancy Week by Week: Dr. Hutson’s Guide,” a new weekly video series designed to equip expectant mothers with compassionate, medically accurate and life-affirming pregnancy information.
The series features Dr. Karysse J. Hutson, DO, FACOOG, board-certified Ob/Gyn surgeon and national medical director of Save the Storks. Across 40 weekly videos, Dr. Hutson answers common pregnancy questions tied to each stage of pregnancy and explains what mothers can expect during their pregnancy journey.
The new initiative comes as many women report hesitating to ask questions or share concerns with medical providers during pregnancy and childbirth. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly half of mothers surveyed said they held back from discussing concerns during pregnancy or delivery.
The CDC reported women often feared embarrassment, worried about appearing difficult or felt their healthcare providers seemed rushed.
“We wanted women to have immediate access to trustworthy, compassionate and life-affirming information wherever they are searching for answers,” Dr. Hutson said. “Many young women today search for health information through video platforms. We recognized there was a major need for pregnancy content that both supports mothers and affirms the value of their children.”
Each video addresses one commonly asked question related to a specific week of pregnancy. Topics include warning signs of preeclampsia, fetal development milestones, signs of labor, when to go to the hospital and what happens if a baby arrives past the due date.
For example, in the week 20 video, Dr. Hutson explains the baby’s development midway through pregnancy:
“Your baby at 20 weeks is about 10 and a half inches and about 10 to 11 ounces, about the size of a banana,” Dr. Hutson said. “So, the baby can hear you and feel you, and will sometimes push back when you push on the baby. This is a fun time to start interacting with your child.”
The videos will be available free of charge through the Save the Storks YouTube channel. The organization will also distribute the series through its national network of pregnancy health clinic partners and mobile medical clinics for use with patients and families seeking additional education and support.
“Women deserve to feel informed, respected and empowered throughout pregnancy,” Dr. Hutson said. “This series was created to walk alongside mothers with practical guidance, medical insight and encouragement during every stage of pregnancy.”
The launch reflects Save the Storks’ broader mission to provide women with compassionate care, practical support and resources that help them make informed, life-affirming decisions.
“Pregnancy can bring uncertainty and questions, especially for women who feel unsupported or overwhelmed,” Dr. Hutson said. “We hope these videos help mothers feel more confident, more informed and more connected throughout their pregnancy journey.”
To watch the “Pregnancy Week by Week: Dr. Hutson’s Guide” video series and learn more about commonly asked pregnancy questions, visit the Save the Storks YouTube channel.
Save the Storks exists to ensure that no woman facing an unplanned pregnancy ever feels alone. Save the Storks is a national nonprofit dedicated to empowering women with compassionate care, accurate information, and practical support so they can make informed, life-affirming decisions. Through partnerships with pregnancy health clinics, a growing network of mobile medical clinics delivering women’s healthcare directly to communities in need, and a digital platform providing always-on access to real care and real options, Save the Storks creates a story of hope for women and families across the nation.
Learn more about Save the Storks at www.savethestorks.
Caring Causes - Zakat Foundation of America Day of Service
During the sacred Hajj season and the Islamic holy days of Dhul Hijjah, Zakat Foundation of America is mobilizing volunteers across the United States for a nationwide Day of Service on May 24th, 2026, an initiative expected to benefit more than 4,000 people in 25 cities. The campaign also marks 25 years of the organization’s humanitarian impact in the United States and around the world.
Muslims around the world observe Dhul Hijjah as a sacred season of worship, generosity, and service. The Prophet Muhammad (on him be peace) taught that “there are no days in which righteous deeds are more beloved to God than these ten days,” inspiring increased charitable action and community support during this time.
Volunteers, families, mosques, and community partners will distribute hot meals, groceries, hygiene kits, healthy snack bags, and children’s goodie bags to families facing hardship, unhoused individuals, refugees, and underserved communities across the country.
Marking 25 years of impact, the nationwide initiative highlights Zakat Foundation of America’s commitment to uplifting families and strengthening communities during the sacred days of Dhul Hijjah. It reflects the organization’s continued efforts to bring hope and relief to those experiencing hardship across the United States.
The campaign comes at a time when many American families continue to face rising food insecurity, housing instability, and economic hardship. Through grassroots outreach efforts like this one, Zakat Foundation of America aims to bring both immediate relief and renewed hope to communities in need.
Community members interested in volunteering or learning more about local distribution events email Nayma Kose, Outreach & Community Engagement Director, at nayma@zakat.org
***
Zakat Foundation of America has been featured in the press including CNN Max, Fox News, WGN, ABC and NBC, among others. Media including photos and videos are available on the organization's website and social media. Additional media requests or interview requests can be submitted to lindsey.b@zakat.org
Founded in 2001 by Khalil Demir, Zakat Foundation of America is a 501(c)3 NGO that helps generous and caring people reach out to those in need. Zakat Foundation of America’s mission is to address immediate needs and ensure the self-reliance of the poorest people around the world. Zakat Foundation of America conducts humanitarian assistance programs in more than 45 countries on five continents. For more information, please visit ZAKAT.org or call 1-888-ZAKAT-US
Enriching Education - Inside the Murdaugh Murders: Reporting a Southern Scandal
Alex Murdaugh's murder conviction has been overturned by the South Carolina Supreme Court, and with renewed attention on the case, Alcatraz East Crime Museum is opening a new temporary exhibit examining the infamous true crime story that stunned the nation.
The exhibit, titled “Inside the Murdaugh Murders: Reporting a Southern Scandal,” will debut June 5, 2026, and remain on display through June 2029. It explores not only the murders of Maggie and Paul Murdaugh, but also the extensive financial crimes and corruption uncovered during the investigation.
"This story reflects the intersection of legacy, influence, and accountability in a way that resonates far beyond South Carolina," said Ally Mills, artifacts and programs manager at Alcatraz East Crime Museum. “It also underscores the role of investigative journalism in uncovering corruption and bringing attention to the misdeeds of individuals often seen as untouchable.”
This exhibit centers on former South Carolina attorney Alex Murdaugh, whose murder conviction was recently overturned after he was serving two life sentences for the deaths of his wife, Maggie, and son, Paul. In addition to the murder case, the exhibit examines the victims impacted by Murdaugh’s financial crimes, for which he is currently serving a 40-year federal sentence.
To bring this story to life, the museum collaborated with award-winning journalist Mandy Matney, creator and host of the Murdaugh Murders Podcast. First released in 2021, the podcast brought widespread public attention to the Murdaugh family saga and became a major force in uncovering details of cases surrounding the Murdaugh family. The exhibit, opening June 5, 2026, highlights the impact of investigative reporting while exploring themes of institutional power, corruption, influence, and accountability.
A few of the artifacts included in the exhibit are:
- Maggie Murdaugh’s Golf Cart
- Murdaugh Murders Podcast Microphones
- Murdaugh Family Bible
"This case draws in audiences because the core issues of the case extend far past one community and reflect broader societal ideas," Mills said. "We are pleased to provide guests with the opportunity to explore the story in greater depth and engage with the artifacts connected to the case.”
Alex Murdaugh’s murder trial was in 2023 and lasted six weeks. After the jury deliberated for just three hours, they found him guilty. The South Carolina Supreme Court reviewed the case following allegations of jury tampering. On May 13th, the court unanimously voted to overturn the conviction, citing “shocking jury interference.”
The museum features over 100 exhibits and interactives, as well as four temporary exhibit spaces, showcasing many famous items, including Al Capone's rosary, Ted Bundy's dental molds, and Charles Manson's acoustic guitar. This top museum is open daily at 10 am. The last tickets are sold 60 minutes before closing. These interactive experiences are available for an additional fee for birthday parties, school groups, scouts, team building, or other special events. To get a discounted rate for groups of 15 or more, complete the online form and allow up to 72 hours for confirmation. For more information about tickets, discounts, temporary exhibits, and all the museum has to offer, visit the website: https://www.alcatrazeast.com.
Alcatraz East Crime Museum has updated its board of crime experts, which includes Derwin Bradley, a retired master police officer; James R. Knight, a crime writer; Robin Maynard, a certified crime scene investigator in Florida; Derek Newport, a law enforcement veteran who worked for the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation for 20 years; and Judge Belvin Perry, Jr., who presided over the notorious case against Casey Anthony, among others.
About Alcatraz East
Alcatraz East is the most arresting crime museum in the United States. Guests of all ages can embark on a unique journey through the history of American crime, crime-solving, and the justice system. Through interactive exhibits and original artifacts, Alcatraz East is an entertaining and educational experience for all ages - so much fun it's a crime! This family attraction is at The Island's entrance, 2757 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN. The last ticket is sold 60 minutes before closing. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.alcatrazeast.com.
Healthy Habits - Nutrition and Hair Loss
Hair loss has long been viewed as primarily genetic or cosmetic. But the growing rise in hair thinning across America may actually reflect something much larger - the damaging impact processed foods and chronic inflammation are having on overall health. Ultra-processed diets contribute to inflammation and hair loss, especially among younger Americans. Americans are “overfed but biologically undernourished,” consuming diets loaded with ultra-processed foods, inflammatory oils, sugars, preservatives, and chemicals that can negatively affect metabolism, hormones, circulation, and nutrient absorption. One of the earliest visible signs is hair thinning and accelerated hair loss — increasingly showing up in younger adults as well as women.
I had a chance to interview Dr. Keith Kantor of Regen Therapeutics, a nationally recognized leader in hair loss prevention and a leading nutritionist. He says unlike ‘Ozempic hair’ and other hair loss, that returns in about 6 months, hair loss from processed foods do not grow back unless there is a strenuous hair restoration program instituted. He says many are turning to regenerative because of this aspect.
How can nutrition affect hair loss?
Hair follicles are some of the most active cells in the body, so they need a steady supply of nutrients, oxygen, and blood flow to stay healthy. When someone is not getting enough protein, iron, zinc, healthy fats, or certain vitamins, the hair is often one of the first places the body starts to “cut back.” The result can be thinning, shedding, slower growth, or weaker hair strands.
One thing people don’t always realize is that stress plays a major role too. We are seeing more people using GLP-1 weight loss medications, and while these products can help with weight reduction, rapid weight loss itself can create stress on the body. Stress hormones like cortisol can affect circulation and nutrient delivery to the hair follicles, while also triggering shedding. In many cases, it is not just the medication itself, but the combination of stress, reduced calorie intake, and sudden nutritional changes that affects the hair.
What are some early signs of hair loss?
People usually notice more hair in the shower drain, on the pillow, or in their brush before they notice true bald spots. Hair may also start looking thinner around the part line or temples, or it may simply lose volume and fullness. Some people notice their ponytail feels smaller or that styling becomes harder because the hair no longer has the same density it once had.
How can people prevent nutrition-related hair loss?
The best approach is balance and consistency. A healthy diet with enough protein, healthy fats, fruits, vegetables, and minerals is important. Crash dieting and extreme calorie restriction can create stress on the body and often lead to shedding several weeks or months later. Staying hydrated, managing stress, sleeping well, and keeping hormone levels balanced can also make a big difference.
I also tell people not to chase every supplement they see online. If nutrition alone was severely deficient enough to dramatically affect hair, it would usually be affecting many other systems in the body too. Hair health is often a reflection of overall health and stress levels.
How do processed foods lead to hair thinning?
Highly processed foods tend to be low in nutrients and high in sugar, unhealthy fats, preservatives, and inflammatory ingredients. Over time, this can increase inflammation and stress within the body, which may negatively affect circulation and follicle health. Processed foods can also contribute to insulin spikes, hormone imbalance, and weight fluctuations, all of which can indirectly affect the hair growth cycle.
If hair loss or hair thinning has already occurred, what are some things people can do?
The first step is finding the reason for the hair loss. Sometimes it is stress-related, hormonal, genetic, nutritional, or related to medications or illness. Once the cause is identified, treatment becomes much more effective. This is why I personally do every consultation.
At Regen Therapeutics, we focus heavily on regenerative approaches designed to help strengthen weakened follicles and improve the environment around the hair root. We commonly combine regenerative biologics with supportive therapies and high-quality DHT blockers when appropriate. The earlier treatment begins, the better the chances are of preserving and improving existing hair.
How does Regen Therapeutics stand out from other clinics that do hair restoration?
One thing that makes Regen Therapeutics different is that we focus on advanced regenerative therapies and individualized evaluations instead of a one-size-fits-all approach. Every patient is personally evaluated by me and I explain what I realistically believe can be improved.
We use the highest-quality umbilical cord-derived amniotic mesenchymal regenerative biologics along with supportive therapies designed to improve scalp health and follicle function. We also focus heavily on patient comfort, natural-looking results, and long-term maintenance.
Most importantly, we believe honesty matters. If we do not think someone is a good candidate, we tell them. Setting realistic expectations and developing a personalized plan is one of the biggest reasons patients trust us.
Regen Therapeutics
6065 Roswell Road, Suite 580 Sandy Springs, GA 30328 www.regentherapeuticsatlanta.com