Brand New Student Housing
Like us at Facebook.com/PointeSanMarcos
4 BOBCATFANS | SMTX | 08.13
08.13 | SMTX | BOBCATFANS 5
| Contents | BACK TO SMTX | August 2013 |
20 @bobcatfans
12 /bobcatfans
BOBCATFANS Magazine The Tidbits................................................................. 08 Inside Look................................................................. 10 Green Parrot............................................................... 13 Bar Tour..................................................................... 16 Name Changers......................................................... 20 Athlete Profile............................................................ 30 Football Schedule Poster........................................... 32 SMTX Magazine Happenings................................................................ 06 Taxes.......................................................................... 08 Back Stage................................................................. 10 City Manager.............................................................. 12 Superintendent........................................................... 16 Chewed & Brewed..................................................... 20 Chief of UPD............................................................. 28 Finer Points............................................................... 30 6 BOBCATFANS | SMTX | 08.13
About The Covers It’s the annual Back to SMTX issue! Time to look at a little bit of our past and peek at the plans for our future. The ten year anniversary of the “Name Change” and the soon-to-be retired City Manager Jim Nuse’s thoughts on San Marcos tickled our imagination. BOBCATFANS Cover Photo of Dominguez, Doerr & Fisher Photographed by Eric Morales SMTX Cover Illustration of The City of OZ by Will Bowling
Publisher Rick Koch @rickkoch Art Director Will Bowling @wbcreative Photo Editor Eric Morales @ericmphotoTX Events Johnell Huebner @johnellhuebner Development Steve Huskey @wizardofgoogle Design Intern Zak Dennis
Feature Writer Diana Hendricks Contributors Katie Lewis Hilda Helsing Mark Hendricks Tiffany Matthews Steve Helsing Torrie Martin Ralph Meyer Xander Peters Advertising 361.236.5624 rick@bobcatfans.com Feedback @bobcatfans bobcatfans@gmail.com
Copyright 2013, BOBCATFANS LLC 139 E. Hopkins Suite B San Marcos, TX 78666. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part is prohibited. BOBCATFANS | SMTX Magazine is a private company and is not affiliated with Texas State University.
08.13 | SMTX | BOBCATFANS 7
SMTX | Tidbits
THANK YOU MAIN STREET’S KELLY FRANKS
Old Main Make Over
If you’ve been on campus in the past few months, you’d have a hard time not seeing the iconic Old Main cloaked in scaffolding. The $3.5 million Old Main roof repair project includes the replacement of the actual roof as well as minor structural repairs to the roof’s underlying layer, in addition to both damaged and deteriorated wood framing. The project is 15% complete and is projected to be complete before the year-end.
FUZZLE TUBES
It’s a freaking Fuzzle man! One of the coolest inner tubes around. The Fuzzle Tubes are an interlocking floating puzzle of fun, created by Innovated Water Sports. There really is no limit to how many tubes you can connect together. More info, fuzzletube.com
8 BOBCATFANS | SMTX | 08.13
One of the famed “Legends of San Marcos,” and San Marcos Main Street manager, Kelly Franks, retired at the end of June, after 25 years of leading the successful downtown historic preservation and revitalization program.
BOBCAT BALLPARK is tops Bobcat Ballpark’s pageantry is known by more of the world thanks to Stadium Journey. The ballpark was named the 38th best College Baseball Park in the nation for 2013! The criteria for critique were based on food and beverage, atmosphere, neighborhood, fans, access, return on investment and extras. The ballpark scored high in all areas, validating what many fans already knew.
Franks was designated as one of the “Legends of San Marcos” in 2011 by the Heritage Association for her amazing contributions to the city.
ALL STAR GOLD Yeah, he’s a Bobcat!
Samantha Armbruster, owner of Social Media Sisters, has been named to succeed Franks as the Main Street Manager.
The twenty-five year old, first baseman, Paul Goldschmidt, was drafted by the Diamondbacks in the eighth round of the 2009 MLB Draft.
She looks to fill Franks’ mighty big shoes. We wish them both the best!
Texas State University has an alumnus who plays for the Major League Baseball team, Arizona Diamondbacks.
The rising star performed well enough to play in the 2013 All-Star Game on July 16, going 1 for 2, hitting a double. The Diamondbacks are currently in a neck-andneck race for their division.
| By Staff |
CHECK OUT OUR NEW FURNITURE & HARDWOOD-STYLE FLOORS
first stop on shuttle bus route + resort-style amenities + private living + fully furnished APPLY ONLINE TODAY @ THEOUTPOSTSANMARCOS.COM 51 2 . 392 . 7678 • 16 47 P O S T ROA D limited time offer. rates, fees & amenities subject to change. see office for details.
08.13 | SMTX | BOBCATFANS 9
SMTX | Inside look
Cleaning your water and the world Visual Filter Monitor
The Green Ticker
Alerts when replacement is necessary
Displays number of plastic bottles saved from waste
Bottle Filling Unit Includes an electronic sensor for touchless activation with auto 30 second shut-off timer
Drinking Spout Pours at a cool 50 degrees Fahrenheit
You may have noticed a couple of new water fountains around campus. The Elkay EZH20 Water Cooler and Bottle Filling Stations provide cool filtered water for drinkers on-the-go and those needing an immediate sip. The no-touch sensor activation with automatic shut-off capabilities pleases the germaphobes. The Filter Monitor System is cool because you always know you are drinking clean and cold water. Our favorite part is the Green Ticker, which counts the quantity of 16 oz. bottles that have been saved.
Notes | High tech h20
Cost $1600-ish (depends on model) Where you can find on campus • LBJ Student Center • Rec Center Scan to SEE IT IN ACTION
| By Katie Lewis | 10 BOBCATFANS | SMTX | 08.13
08.13 | SMTX | BOBCATFANS 11
12 BOBCATFANS | SMTX | 08.13
The Green Parrot
Celebrates 30 Years of serving San Marcos By Katie Lewis
One of the most nostalgic bars in San Marcos is also one of the oldest places to kick back, relax and enjoy a seriously amazing, and potent, Long Island Iced Tea or Mai Tais. For 30 years, The Green Parrot has stood on the San Marcos Square and passed the test of time. Not only has it been serving drinks for three decades, but it hasn’t changed much since it opened its doors in 1983. This humble bar is intimate and genuine. You won’t find the bright lights or uncomfortable seating like in more modern bars. The Parrot’s charming, dive-like atmosphere comes complete with old-fashioned service, a deep soul and a truly vibrant history to back it up. | Photo Eric Morales | Owner Eric White reminisces on the last 30 years while keeping his secrets
Corvette Z06 7-liter engine and 515 horses
| Photos Eric Morales | | BOBCATFANS 13 08.13 | SMTX
Its not the size of the stage but who has played on it, Randy Rogers did last fall.
The Black Tais, deliciously potent signature drink of The Green Parrot
It’s one of the best-kept secrets in town, however, it seems that they might want to keep it that way. In the course of attempting to research this locally adored, laid-back bar, I have had little luck. The Parrot isn’t tangled up in the social media world and has hardly any presence on the Internet.
“I want people to feel like they can kick back and relax. I want After chatting with the current owner, Eric White, I learned a people to thing or two about the history behind one of the oldest bars come in on the beloved Square. As it turns out, thirty years ago, and feel two years after brothers Rick Travis and Rob Huhe opened welcome the San Marcos upscale favorite, Palmer’s Restaurant, Bar and com& Grill, the brothers with mysteriously different last names took the plunge into opening a welcoming, warm and fortable intimate bar: The Green Parrot. It was an instant success to enjoy with the students and the locals alike, and a favorite with themthe Greeks. selves It was The Parrot’s humble beginnings that successfully and have wove it into the very fabric that makes San Marcos what a drink.” it is, and they did it with consistent friendly service, an In a day and age where you can get the scoop on any thing, any time, anywhere, The Green Parrot has succeeded in staying below the radar. While this may be frustrating when trying to do some research, there’s an old-school charm that cloaks The Parrot in nostalgic excitement. Time has stood still inside the bar, and it accomplishes something special: a nice reflection of old San Marcos.
assortment of up-and-coming live bands and of course, the local favorite, Long Island Iced Tea, and their signature Mai Tai and Black Tai drinks. So, do you want to know what makes The Parrot’s Mai Tais and Black Tais so special? Me too! It just so happens that’s another secret. Yep, San Marcos’ best-kept secret has a secret of its own. These authentic Hawaiian drinks are always potent and reliably delicious.
14 BOBCATFANS | SMTX | 08.13
While talking with Eric about the story that makes The Parrot unique, his face lit up at the memories of some of the awesome musicians that have come through The Parrot doors. From Blue October to HoneyBrowne, The Parrot has seen its fair share of amazing live music, but White’s favorite thus far has to be Randy Rogers from the famed Randy Rogers Band. “[Former manager and friend] Austin Anderson actually grew up with Randy Rogers,” said White. “I’ve actually become friends with him, and it’s awesome because every time he’s in town, he always ends up at The Parrot.” With big names circulating through the door, top-secret drinks being prepared behind the bar and a friendly staff, it would seem that the past thirty years have done The Green Parrot and locals well. The bar really does take you back in time once you step through that front door, under the same neon sign that’s shone brightly for three decades. It’s that kind of personal experience and great memories that keeps people coming back 30 years later. And that’s what White wants you to feel. “I want people to feel like they can kick back and relax. I want people to come in and feel welcome and comfortable to enjoy themselves and have a drink.” You may be wondering how you can learn more about this place. Well, you actually have to go visit them, sit down, have a cold one and see for yourself. The Green Parrot is full of 30 year’s worth of memories, make a few more of your own.
The Green Parrot Celebrates it’s 30th Anniversary In August!
08.13 | SMTX | BOBCATFANS 15
- PROMOTION -
SMTX
Eat’em UP & drink‘em down Bobcat Nation Sports Bar & Grill 700 North LBJ, Suite 109 We have spirits, yes we do! To get your fix of some true Texas State Bobcat pride, find your way to Bobcat Nation Sports Bar & Grill. If you’re feeling a little daring and want something a bit more exciting, order up their signature Hot Bobcat --a sizzling mixture of Rebecca Creek Whiskey, a splash of Coca-Cola and fresh chopped jalapeños with garnish. This drink is delicious and will make your lips tingle.
The Hot Bobcat
OF
SMTX BARS
16 BOBCATFANS | SMTX | 08.13
| Photo Eric Morales |
SMTX
C
FT s A R ail t
k Coc BEER
Shade 127 E. Hopkins St.
San Marcos’ newest open air bar sits atop of the Black Rabbit, and boasts the feel of a rooftop garden in the city. Their signature Craft Cocktails are made to order using the best components, including top shelf ingredients and unusual spirits.
78666
2013
CLASS act
LIVE
MUSIC SM T X
Vodka Street Global Bistro and Bar
Taxi’s Piano Bar
! 70
Craft Beer
Sean Patrick’s Irish Pub & Texas Grub
202 N. LBJ Dr.
202 N. LBJ Dr., Suite-A
202 E. San Antonio St.
It’s a place that provides San Marvelous with a different sort of feel from the rest of the food and drink establishments on the square. The kind of place where you can enjoy a Moose Drool or Austin Amber, or select a special vodka for your cocktail. The relaxed, yet sexy and elegant, atmosphere gives way to a beautiful bar, filled with good selection of beers and cocktails.
Live music is best in a basement and even better on the square. Taxi’s Piano Bar is a charming, bare-bones type of a place where music and friends come first. Listen to live music, laugh at comedy shows, and sing to Karaoke, all while having a beer or taking a jello shot.
Home to 70 craft beers on tap from all over the world, 30 of which are from the great State of Texas. Sean Patrick’s has a real charm that is so uniquely their own. The personality of this joint oozes out of the brick walls, and it truly embodies what an Irish pub is all about: friendly service, a great time, and an over the top selection of high quality brews and specialty spirits. If you want to taste how good Irish whiskey gets, they will be more than happy to show, just ask for the whiskey menu and pull up a seat at the bar. It’s a true Irish pub with exciting drinks and tasty grub.
!!!
!!!!
08.13 | SMTX | BOBCATFANS 17
- PROMOTION -
THE BEST OF
Fun & Games The Black Rabbit Saloon 127 E. Hopkins St. Come drink and play on the square at The Black Rabbit Saloon, offering one of the most unique and exciting nightlife experiences around. Where fun & games meet a wide selection of flavorful cocktails, it’s a “big kid’s” game room. Drink signature Sasperilla cocktails, roll Skee-ball, throw darts or challenge yourself with any number of their ol’ school video games.
House of
Sports & drinks
Harper’s Public House 139 E. Hopkins St.
To p 1 0
Margarita N LA
T
E
O
PE
Chimy’s Cerveceria 217 E. Hopkins St. Did you know that you could get a margarita worthy of the Texas Monthly Top 10 right here in San Marcos? Well, get on down to Chimy’s Cerveceria for The Cadillac--a magical, mouth-watering, refreshing and simply delicious blend of Cazadores Reposado tequila, Cointreau Noir, fresh squeezed lime juice, sweet-and-sour mix and their secret ingredient, a splash of Sprite! Get your glass with a salt rim and indulge in one of the best drinks in the State! While you’re at it, grab some chips and sample from their awesome salsa bar, or go nuts and order the nachos, served on a beer tray.
18 BOBCATFANS | SMTX | 08.13
If there’s a game on, they’ve got it on at Harper’s Public House. Sports fans feel at home and like to pull up a stool at the friendly island bar. They’ve got spots fans covered for every NFL, MLB and NBA game. Sundays in the Fall is a football fantasy geeks paradise. The bartenders are knowledgeable, the buckets are cheap and the atmosphere is laid back. You can’t leave without trying one of their Mexican Martinis! Careful, they’re dangerous!
y
Dance part Texas Music Theatre 120 E. San Antonio St.
The Texas Music Theatre isn’t just a world-class venue for amazing acts, it’s where you go in San Marcos to dance. And it’s 18 & UP! When you decide you need a girl’s night out to have fun and let loose, this is the place where a full dance floor is an amazing experience. On Thursday, Friday and Saturday put on your dancing shoes and step inside this historic building with state-of-the-art sound. Dance and watch the crowd begin to build. The more the merrier.
08.13 | SMTX | BOBCATFANS 19
THE NAME CHANGE By Rick Koch
20 BOBCATFANS | SMTX | 08.13 | Photo Eric Morales |
ERS
TEN
YEARS AGO... It’s 2003, summertime at Southwest Texas State University, with enrollment numbers nearing a record number of 25,000 students. Debate over a possible name change is reaching a fever pitch. The Associated Student Government, with the help of student groups and alumni, are working diligently to set the university on a new course. Their sights are set squarely on the university’s double directional name which has stood in some form since 1899. It’s a sacrifice they are willing to risk. They believe dropping the moniker is inline with the past president’s vision to join the statewide conversation of top tier universities.
“One of the first problems facing the school at San Marcos was choosing a name, and indeed throughout its sixty-five year history, it has been a school in search of a name...Some day the college will find a more suitable name.” Lyndon Baines Johnson: The Formative Years By Pool, Craddock & Conrad Southwest Texas State College Press copyright 1965
There is some outcry for no change, but the ball is already in motion at the Texas State legislature. Bills submitted to drop the “Southwest” title renaming the university, Texas State University-San Marcos, are being considered. What surprises most watching from the sidelines is that the university’s governing Board of Regents did not approve of the legislation while the new university president silently maintains neutrality, unwilling to make a decision for or against the debate. The students of Southwest Texas State University are leading the charge for the name change. It is a movement that has been brewing for four years; some argue from the founding of the university’s existence. The school at San Marcos is on the verge of a historical change as passionate and pride-filled students push hard against all odds to claim the future they feel their university deserves.
08.13 | SMTX | BOBCATFANS 21
WHAT’S IN A NAME? 1999-Talk of a possible name change begins percolating on campus. It is a topic of conversation that previously gained momentum in the past, but for some reason, now the idea is beginning to secure traction. Attitudes among the student body, in regards to their university, are dramatically changing, alongside admission standards, number of applications and enrollment. Students are pondering the following question: Does the current name adequately reflect the present day thriving institution of higher learning or does the double directional name – Southwest – infer an institution of less significance and cause it to be perceived as inconsequential by outsiders? Agreement on hand is that it is time to adopt a new brand, one that will bring deserved recognition due to the university and which can easily be achieved once the name “Southwest” is removed. Ten years earlier Dr. Jerome Supple is Southwest Texas State University’s 8th president. He begins with a graduation rate just north of 50%. The board of regents has recently fired his predecessor, and he inherits a university with a party school image and
considered by some as a fallback institution. For a university founded in 1899 with a history of great pride, it is at an impasse. Supple feels it is time to uncover the weaknesses, figure out solutions, and set out on a new course. The faculty is challenged to aim for and achieve a 75% graduation rate. T. Cay Rowe, then director of Media Relations and Publications, recalls, “I remember Dr. Supple remarking that he wasn’t sure his plan to up admission standards to increase the retention rate would work or not. He figured at first it would create a dip in enrollment, but the end result would mean a higher graduation rate.” Supple put his theory to the test while creating the university’s first doctoral programs, spending unprecedented amounts on research, and raising more than five times the goal of its first major gifts capital campaign. The results paid dividends in the quantity and quality of students applying. By 2001, Southwest Texas State University was the third most applied to college in the state, after UT and A&M respectively. While transferring to another university was once part of the college culture, it was becoming less and less attractive. A decade worth of
“We couldn’t let the momentum die; we were going to keep pushing with everything we had.”
“Supple asked the deans what they thought of the name Texas State University and to his surprise they all reacted in favor of it.”
transformational effort began to breed a new kind of student, one with no desire to leave but who desired more. Dr. Jerome Supple’s vision and leadership brewed what might be considered the greatest generation of students to walk the campus since the days of LBJ. To check for agreement and test the idea, Supple began to ask the question, “What’s in a name?” Rowe recalls, “When Dr. Supple asked the deans in a meeting what they thought of the name Texas State University, he was shocked. They all reacted in favor of it. He said he knew this was important because deans don’t agree on anything.” He gave speeches to groups of alumni all over the country talking about the positive growth of the university. He stressed the importance of the name for the university’s future. To a group of San Marcos professionals, Supple admitted that most people he talked to were in favor of the change, and those he hadn’t talk with were against it. It was a just a matter of effective communication on the university’s end. The message was not lost on the student body and debate over the issue led to greater support in favor of it. It was exactly what the students had been looking for as student opposition was greatly outnumbered. The Associated Student Government passed legislation in favor of a name change year after year. Melissa Ruud (now McGuire), the 2001-02 ASG President, championed the name change with a newfound zeal. “It was the first time I was ever really passionate about something. I worked harder than I ever had, and I believed in what we were doing for ourselves, the alumni and the future of the university,” says Melissa, “It made me a better person.” Years of overwhelming support from every area of the university including its deans, athletics, development, and the Alumni Association meant a final push forward
22 BOBCATFANS | SMTX | 08.13
08.13 | SMTX | BOBCATFANS 23
from President Supple. The day of reckoning came in February 2002 on the campus of Sam Houston State University. Spirits were high as Supple, key faculty members, and student leadership representatives presented the name change proposal to the Texas State University System Board of Regents. Feasibility studies and years of growing support were on their side. They believed it would pass, at the very least by a close margin, followed by the regents sending it on to the state legislature for approval into law. It came as a shock to the presenters when waves of dissent washed over them. Representatives from Sam Houston vehemently objected, stating publicly that the request would benefit one university at the expense of the others in the system. Student leaders from each sister institution made it clear to the regents that they were collectively opposed to the measure. As if that weren’t enough, Texas Southern University, an institution outside the system, sent representatives to warn of the harm the name change would have on them and their acronym TSU. What had been thought to be a done deal turned into a blood bath. Ultimately the regents denied the request, using Supple’s upcoming retirement as a reason to postpone the decision, allowing his successor to have time to decide if he or she desired to pursue the issue. In a guest column to the University Star, Melissa McGuire expressed her displeasure at what she witnessed during the meeting, “I question the validity of [the regents’] argument because why would we want a president who does not believe in and support what a majority of the university population supports?” Four years earlier Supple had been diagnosed with cancer and recently had made the announcement that he would retire before the start of the 2002 fall semester. “It will be like swinging the best dance partner ever into the arms of another, a heartwrenching experience. I still believe I have the best job in the world, but it can’t go on forever,” Supple said in an address to university staff, announcing his retirement. After 13 years of leadership and vision, all momentum of a name change rested in the hands of a president still to be hired.
TWO NEW PRESIDENTS. In a letter written to ASG Senator Robert Doerr on March 6, 2002, Dr. Supple explained the challenge ahead. “The regents heard a united campus voice from the students, faculty, staff, alumni board, and development that we believe this change is extraordinarily important and the right thing to do to move SWT forward. Two other universities, including a sister institution, spoke against the change, attempting to advance the logic that changing our name would hurt them. We hope to convince them that this is not the case...We may be calling on you again soon when we go back to the board and then to the legislature. I deeply appreciate the passion and love you show Southwest Texas by your work on her behalf.” 24 BOBCATFANS | SMTX | 08.13
TS Baseball Cap
Robert Doerr lobbied for the Texas State University name change during the 2003 legislative session.
Less than two months later, Doerr was elected ASG president. He recalls the first time the name change was presented to him having a “knee-jerk” reaction to oppose it and joining the Associated Student Government to stop it from happening. However, after further investigation, he believed it was not only a good idea, it was the right thing to do. Doerr was not alone, as his ASG Vice-Presidential running mate Justin Fisher was also in full agreement. They planned to make the most of their year in office, picking up where outgoing ASG President Melissa McGuire had left off. Doerr wasn’t the only new president on campus. That same fall of 2002 President Denise Trauth officially took office on August 7, becoming the university’s 9th president. The regents unanimously chose Trauth over two other candidates and challenged her to take the university to new heights. When questioned about the name change, Dr. Trauth would not publicly take a stand, informing those who asked, like the Austin American Statesman, that she needed time to fully explore the issue before coming to a definite decision. The new president clearly needed to navigate the situation carefully. There were concerns about upsetting alumni, hurting the institution financially, and her recent employers had just sent a clear message they had no desire to hear of the matter anytime soon. However, many viewed the regents as simply stalling a university at the request of other universities’ self-interests and insecurities. At the time, Southwest Texas State University made up 44% of the systems budget and 39% of its students. They were double the size of their second largest sister institution, but the opposition saw that as an unlikely reason for allowing the adoption of the name—Texas State University. It was viewed as a move for “Flagship” status
The Southwest Texas State Baseball Team prior to the name change wore caps with the initials ‘TS’. Officially the initials were noted as ‘ST’, standing for Southwest Texas...but the obvious support for the Texas State name change shined through.
100 Year Commemorative Medallion On September 9, 2003, students and faculty celebrated the new name. Medallions handed out to the crowd commemorated the first 100 years of classes for the university at San Marcos. It reads: “Honor The Past, Claim The Future.”
A Name In The Making The above logo was seen around campus and on clothing and stickers following the turn of the century. Students were issued a CD containing useful university information in 2002, this is the sleeve it came in.
08.13 | SMTX | BOBCATFANS 25
“Wentworth explained to them, ‘the regents don’t change the names of universities, the legislature does.”
“We lobbied all the senators and representatives for months on end and found a lot of people in the legislature who had connections to the school.”
in a system that historically never recognized any of its institutions as such. In late 2002, right before Christmas break, it was clear President Trauth was not in a position to move the measure forward. Instead it would have to wait until the 2005 legislative session. Dr. Supple’s departure clearly left remnants of a university embracing change. The baseball team had switched the initials on their caps from SWT to TS, although at the time they claimed it was “ST” meaning Southwest Texas...it was not fooling anyone. The university adopted a new logo where the word “Southwest” was written in small type above a extremely large “Texas State.” Stickers with the new logo were handed out in the quad and sold at the bookstore. Some students would cut off the “Southwest” to place “Texas State University” proudly on their cars.
bent on their duty to represent the wishes of the students and university. He believed in the overwhelming support garnered for the university name change displayed just 10 months earlier. “We couldn’t let the momentum die; we were going to keep pushing with everything we had,” says Doerr.
SILENCE IS GOLDEN. Time was running out, and the options were few for the student leadership team. Without the vocal support of the new university president or its governing body, the name change was moving further out of reach of the 2003 legislative session that was about to begin.
After what transpired at the regents’ meeting at Sam Houston, Doerr, Fisher and the rest of the ASG had begun to lose faith, not in the cause, but in those whose approval they were seeking. A major concern was an obvious lack of Bobcat representation on the regents. Of the nine member board, only two were thought to be open to the change, one of which was an alumnus, a paltry number for a university making up almost half of the system’s budget.
Tuition deregulation was a hot button topic at the time, and student leaders met with senators and representatives from all around the state. It was during a visit with State Senator Jeff Wentworth, who represented San Marcos, that Robert Doerr and Justin Fisher were given the opportunity to share their thoughts, as well as frustrations on the stalemate of the name change.
The students’ loud and clear battle cry was being drowned out by politics. But the student body had a shrewd and savvy leader in Robert Doerr, one who quickly was gaining an understanding of politics, by working alongside the newly elected State Representative Patrick Rose. Doerr, along with advocates of the proposed change, were hell
Wentworth listened intently and then shared a story of his own about his time as a student at Texas A&M College in the 1970’s. Doerr recounts the story, “After proudly showing us his ring, he explained how a state senator back then was proposing a bill to sever the title “A&M” and change the name to Texas State
26 BOBCATFANS | SMTX | 08.13
“After the initial excitement wore off, I realized I needed to exercise some decorum and inform President Trauth of what was happening”
University. Wentworth and a friend got wind of it, and they drove down to Austin to say their peace. After an unsuccessful visit with the Senator, the two then shared their thoughts with the Governor who gave them advice on how to mobilize an effort to show strong support against it. The Governor then asked which one of them was the student body president and the head of the corps of cadets. Neither, they replied, they were both in the band. The two returned weeks later with signed petitions and strong student backing. Luck would have it; they ran into an Associated Press reporter who took great interest in their story. (In the days before Internet and social media, AP coverage was as good as gold and meant instant exposure.) The story ignited the A&M alumni base, and the only change to the university name came in the next session when the word “College” was replaced by “University.” It was a lesson in student power that Doerr and Fisher took to heart. The duo returned to school and began to solidify the numbers in favor of the name change. Thousands signed petitions. The ASG held an emergency vote on yet another resolution in favor of the name change; this time it passed 34-0. They raised 1.4 million dollars from invested alumni to cover the university’s financial cost, which was estimated at $350,000 to change out everything on campus labeled “Southwest.”
08.13 | SMTX | BOBCATFANS 27
Once all the I’s were dotted and the T’s crossed, Doerr and Fisher marched back into Wentworth’s office with overwhelming evidence of student and alumni support. Wentworth agreed to author a bill in the senate and helped them find support on the house side from Bobcat alumni and House Representative Vilma Luna. “After the initial excitement wore off, I realized I needed to exercise some decorum and inform President Trauth of what was happening. On the drive back to San Marcos, I called her office and as politely as possible told her of what was happening. I knew I was putting her in a tight spot, but we needed to do this regardless,” said Doerr. “Shortly after, the regents wanted to have their say and Senator Wentworth explained to them, ‘the regents don’t change the names of universities, the legislature does.’ ” On March 5, 2003, Wentworth filed Senate Bill 928, and the next day held a press conference with students rallying behind him. According to the Austin American Statesman, “noticeably absent from the celebratory press conference announcing the bill was President Trauth, who was at the capital that day testifying about the school’s budget needs.” Trauth explains, “The students have a sense of urgency. I don’t have that same sense of urgency. They’re not doing anything wrong. They’re doing something they feel very strongly about.” “When President Trauth didn’t come out in opposition to the bill, I knew we had a much better chance. I really believe it helped us. I took the silence as support from a president in a tough spot,” says Doerr. The bill rested on the blood, sweat, and tears of ASG leadership, the student body and supportive alumni. Doerr wrote passionate pleas to the student body in the University Star, outlining the plan of action, giving updates on the progress and passionately urged supporters to be vocal. Robert Doerr, Justin Fisher, and newly elected incoming ASG President Ernie Dominguez spent the summer at the capital aggressively lobbying support for Texas State University. “We lobbied all the senators and representatives for months on end and found a lot of people in the legislature who had connections to the school, whose kids were going there or had been a part of the university at one time. On occasion in the evenings up at the capital, we’d see some of them wearing the Texas State t-shirts we handed out. We had momentum on our side and alumni who lobbied their connections for support created a very concerted effort,” says Doerr.
28 BOBCATFANS | SMTX | 08.13
THE NEXT 100 YEARS. On June 18, Governor Rick Perry signed Senate Bill 928 and House Bill 1961 into law during the 2003 legislative session. It was official! The school at San Marcos had a new name, a more fitting name for the next 100 years. Robert Doerr, Justin Fisher, Ernie Dominguez and students past and present had flexed their collective muscle. “If you think Student Government doesn’t have power at the university, this is the perfect case to prove otherwise,” says T. Cay Rowe. “We watched and secretly cheered on the student leadership. We had just 10 weeks to change the name.” A president who had been playing the role of Switzerland was now free of the sticky debate. “We go forth optimistically embracing our new name. The larger challenge now is to get all the constituencies of the university to focus on the future and go forward together,” said President Trauth, as quoted in San Antonio Express News the day after the bill signing. On September 1, 2003, the name Texas State University – San Marcos went into effect. The university allowed past graduates to request a new diploma with the new name, free of charge. However, there was debate over whether or not to charge. Rowe explains, “To our surprise, the university fielded over 10,000 requests when only expecting a few hundred.” On September 9, President Trauth and ASG President Ernie Dominguez celebrated the name change on the steps of Old Main. It was the 100th year anniversary of the first day of classes at Southwest Texas State Normal School. The message the university delivered was appropriate: “Honor The Past, Claim The Future.” Ten years later the Texas Legislature is changing the name of the school at San Marcos one more time, dropping the often debated “– San Marcos,” and cementing a name that effectively epitomizes a university that has become an undeniable rising star in the State of Texas under the leadership of Supple, Trauth and its student body. Welcome to San Marcos, home of TEXAS STATE UNIVERSITY.
08.13 | SMTX | BOBCATFANS 29
SMTX | train hard. Eat fresh.
Profiles
Robin Seiffert
Kristen Taylor
Robin Seiffert & Kristen Taylor
Junior, Robin Seiffert, 20 and Kristen Taylor, 21, are members of the Texas State Gymnastics Team. Both girls started the sport at a very young age, with the desire to have a blast with friends and do cool flips. But like any other sport, there’s a turning point where it goes from being recreational to being a way of life. College competition wasn’t always in their sights. In fact, for Taylor, she specifically planned NOT doing gymnastics in college, but when she arrived on campus, she couldn’t help herself. “I love the sport too
30 BOBCATFANS | SMTX | 08.13
much not to do it,” said Taylor. “This sport is genuinely addictive. I have tried to quit so many times, for various reasons, but I just love it too much.” The favorite parts of gymnastics for these girls are slightly different though. For Seiffert, she loves to get away from it all. No matter what is going on in her life, she can zone out and leave the world behind. “Yeah, it can be stressful, but it’s more of a stress reliever. I love it,” said Seiffert.
notes | Hitting the mats
Texas State University has a 45-yearold nationally ranked gymnastics club that competes in the Texas Gymnastic Conference as well as the National Association of Intercollegiate Gymnastics Clubs conference. They face off against teams from Texas A&M, University of Texas and Texas Tech University.
For Taylor, the friendships she’s made in the gym have proven to be the best and most solid friendships she’s ever had. “Other friends kind of come and go, but I always know my gymnastics friends will stick around for good,” said Taylor. It’s safe to say that these girls are able to balance their flexibility and power both in and out of the gym.
| By Katie Lewis Photo Eric Morales |
Texas State Gymnastics Club txstategymnastics.com Practices Monday -Thursday 7-9 pm in Aqua Sports Center _________________________ Gymkatz Program txstategymnastics.com/katz-info.php
Texas State Gymnastics Club offers gymnastics classes for kids all semester long. Camp Pricing 1 class per week - $90 2 classes per week - $170 3 classes per week - $255 4 classes per wee - $340
sign a lease & get a
$600 GIFT CARD or new low rates
+ S AV E $ 2 5 0 W I T H Z E R O D O W N
速
unique cottage floor plans. designer interior finishes. private backyards. pet friendly.
retreatsanmarcos.com 5 1 2 . 7 5 7. 8 9 8 0 | 5 1 2 C R A D D O C K A V E
Rates, fees and deadlines are subject to change. See office for details. Limited time only. Select floor plans. While supplies last.
08.13 | SMTX | BOBCATFANS 31
32 BOBCATFANS | SMTX | 08.13
08.13 | SMTX | BOBCATFANS 33
NOW OPEN
4 BOBCATFANS | SMTX | 08.13
08.13 | SMTX | BOBCATFANS
Events & Happenings
| August 2013 |
Guests can purchase tickets online or by calling 512.353.1420 Individual ticket: $30 Couples ticket: $50
The 4th Annual Taste of Hays County
The annual Taste of Hays County boasts a fourth year of great food and fun. This event is a culmination of all of the great “tastes” Hays County has to offer; the divine food, native musical talent, local commerce and silent auction filled with items from local merchants all in benefit of United Way of Hays County. Tickets are available online at unitedwayhaysco.org
August 17th, 6pm
@ Duchman Family Winery 13308 FM 150, Driftwood
Jenni Finlay Promotions Anniversary Party Come celebrate Jenni Finlay Promotions’ 7th Anniversary at legendary Cheatham Street Warehouse, with a line up to include: James McMurty, Shinyribs, Brennen Leigh and Noel McKay, The Will Callers, Jess Klein, HalleyAnna, Lilly Hiatt, Dustin Welch and Javi Garcia!
August 8th, 8pm
@ Cheatham Street Warehouse, 119 Cheatham Street, San Marcos
18th Annual Two Ton Tuesdays
If you haven’t caught the Two Ton fever yet, grab your dancing shoes and get ready. Come early for Swing Dance Lessons from 6 to 7pm ($8 per person). Awesome, huh?
August 8th, 8:30pm
@ Gruene Hall 1281 Gruene Road, New Braunfels
The Peddler Show
An arts & crafts fair that serves as a Marketplace that offers a one-of-a-kind shopping experience. Whether you are in the market for unique jewelry, personalized gifts or something creative. Adult admission $6 Children under 5 are Free.
August 9th -11th, All Weekend @ Many Texas Retail Stores San Marcos & Beyond
August 9th - 11th , All Day @ 375 S. Castell Avenue New Braunfels
Summer Commencement
Congrats Texas State Graduates! It’s time to walk right into the real world, but first we celebrate. Open to faculty, staff, students, family, friends & those with general interest in watching Bobcats wearing caps & gowns jump into the river.
August 9th, All Day
@ Strahan Coliseum 700 Aquarena Springs, San Marcos
Tax Free Weekend No taxes? Yes, please! Get your shop on at San Marcos Outlets and local shops this special weekend. Most clothing, footwear, school supplies, and backpacks
6 BOBCATFANS | SMTX | 08.13
priced under $100 are exempt from sales tax during the annual weekend holiday. Shoppers are estimated to save over $74 million in state and local sales tax.
COME AND TASTE IT Come And Taste It
Meet Texas’ best winemakers and craft brewers at The Grapevine. Throughout the year, eleven wineries and their winemakers are showcased on the patio and garden of this popular tasting room in Gruene Historic District. With The Grapevine’s new addition of select craft beers on tap,
each month will also feature one brewery which will offer samples alongside the wine. Complimentary tastings of the craft beer and three of the wineries newest releases, top-selling and hardest to find wines will be offered. The event features live music and prize giveaways.
campus and others return to the fountain of youth for another year in paradise. Of course this means an increase in traffic and chances are high a newbie will drive the wrong way down a one-way street.
@ The Grapevine 1612 Hunter Road, New Braunfels
The Damn Quails
August 15th, 5pm
August 17th - 18th, All Day @TXST Campus, San Marcos
Want to hear Damn Good music? Described as a young band with an old souls, they blend the rich sounds of soul, blues, country, folk, and a little bit of rock.
August 23, 10:30pm
@ Cheatham Street Warehouse 119 Cheatham Street, San Marcos
Classic Car Cruise-In Night
Do you have a classic car? Bring it on! Don’t have one? That’s OK too! Just bring yourself! Dick’s Cruise-In Night is free, and open to everyone! Car lovers, this is your chance to take a step back in time to see some of the best cars in history.
Aug 17th, 5pm
@ Dick’s Classic Garage Car Museum 120 Stagecoach Trail, San Marcos
Old Gruene Market Days
Nearly 100 vendors offer uniquely crafted items, collectibles and packaged Texas foods. Free admission.
August 17th -18th, 10am
@ Gruene Historic District 1724 Hunter Road, New Braunfels
Students Move In
It’s that time of year for SMTX to come alive again. New wide eyed students move to
COOL is always in session at
Races at Central Texas Speedway
Live music, volleyball, yummy concessions, and a bar will be available to enjoy throughout the evening of racing. Tickets are $20 and can be purchased online or at the door. Children 12 and under are always FREE!
August 24th, 5pm
@ Central Texas Speedway 24801 Interstate 35, Kyle
self-serve frozen yogurt
Tyson Faifer Comedy Showcase
He’s an “easy on the eyes” stand up comic based out of the DFW area with unique points of view on Maroon 5, the world of Hip Hop, dating, pop culture, working with kids, Truck Month and so much more. Tyson started from the border now he’s here… catch him and a bunch of other comics while you can!
August 28th, 9:30pm @ The Green Parrot 124 N LBJ, San Marcos
Blacked Out - 2 Year Anniversary
San Marcos’ longest running monthly event celebrates two years of lasers, gogo dancers, body paint, Co2 Cannons and cheap drinks. Brought to you by I AM SAN MARCOS.
August 29th, 9pm
@ Nephews 100 N Guadalupe, San Marcos
350 N. Guadalupe St. (Guadalupe & University) 512-667-6720 08.13 | SMTX | BOBCATFANS 7
SMTX | Local
Fight TAXES with taxes
The San Marcos City Council is steadily piecing together a new ordinance, allowing the fire department to charge a fee for responding to motor vehicle accidents. Be that as it may, a heavy majority of homeowners insurance already permits the city to charge when firefighters respond. It’s the commuters, those passerby’s with their windows down, paralleled north and south on the double backbone of San Marcos, the city officials are gunning for to ante up. A measure of this nature doesn’t constitute as ground breaking though. Neighboring cities, such as Georgetown, Round Rock and Cedar Park, are already amongst the over 200 other fire departments in Texas who have implemented fees
8 BOBCATFANS | SMTX | 08.13
with success. But as for carrying out a similar ordinance in San Marcos, officials claim as high as $100,000 could be redeemed in the wallets of community tax payers. However, you may or may not have a bill waiting at your doorstep. No matter if you’re a local resident, commuter, or vacationer, those uninsured or those whose insurance company doesn’t comply with coverage could possibly be billed directly if involved in an accident. City Councilman Shane Scott, Place 6, stated this move for revision is a way for the fire department to make a claim on your insurance while going through city ordinances. Even if the motorist is uninsured, it’s still possible to find a claim---something many of people are unaware of. The department is now trying to utilize this in order to generate more money out of routine traffic calls. Moreover, Scott said he would approve of the ordinance if it allowed for the insurance companies
of those involved to cover the cost. “If they try to take it any further than that and it leads to debt, then I’m not behind it at all.” In all, the city of San Marcos isn’t shooting to punish those who dwell these loosely combed hills, but merely seeking to replenish a valuable resource preoccupied by the ones who avoid local taxation and deem themselves the fender-bending unfortunate. The odds, the numbers and the savings speak for themselves. Will the councilmen rally with torches and pitchforks to hunt down any Joe Schmoe who sideswipes another car when switching lanes? Hardly. Although, the following six months will serve as a ironing board for details pertaining to the new ordinance. All the while within the realm of possibility, you may want to start leashing your household cat before it gets stuck in the top of another tree, and before pulling out in
between traffic, we all might want to make extra sure to look right, then left, then right again.
notes | Know who represents you
If there was ever a better time to not text in traffic, flip through those boring Top 40 radio stations, or fiddle with your iPod while carousing around this particular college town; then it’s now.
Mayor Daniel Guerrero dguerrero@sanmarcostx.gov Place 1 Kim Porterfield kporterfield@sanmarcostx.gov Place 2 Jude Prather jprather@sanmarcostx.gov Place 3 John Thomaides jtcitycouncil@gmail.com Place 4 Wayne Becak wbecak@sanmarcostx.gov Place 5 Ryan Thomason rthomason@sanmarcostx.gov Place 6 Shane Scott sscott@sanmarcostx.gov
| By Xander Peters Photo Eric Morales |
08.13 | SMTX | BOBCATFANS 9
SMTX | back stage
Roger Sellers Texas State graduate, Roger Sellers, has played official showcases during SXSW and has headlined many local shows in San Marcos and Austin, and he performed in front of nearly 6,000 people as an opener at Ghostland Observatory’s show at Whitewater Amphitheater last summer. He was seen performing by Aaron Behrens (of Ghostland) at Mohawk during last year’s SXSW, who then modestly introduced himself at the end of Roger’s set and asked him personally. How does a thing like that happen to someone like Roger? Well, he works really really hard and happens to be really good at what he does. That tends to gets noticed. EM: The process? RS: I just let something take over. There’s something that my mind doesn’t even understand. It’s a mystery. EM: There’s just an order of things. The craft of creation, of art, is not to make anything new, but to take what already exists in the universe and call attention to it. It’s like, “I’m going to take these notes, this one and that one and put them together and say, hey, check this out.” Even in terms of photography, you’re just isolating a moment and showing to everyone. RS: Dude, I’ve always said that. Music is already there. It’s in our minds and hearts, it’s this thing that’s constantly there. Yeah, like Moments… It’s mostly field
10 BOBCATFANS | SMTX | 08.13
recordings put into a work. Taking all these elements from life, it’s like a journal. EM: And, with 8 Songs, you recorded a new song every week for eight weeks right? RS: Yeah, that was awesome. That was one of the most fun things I’ve ever done. I had a huge writer’s block, and I needed a challenge. I just needed to do something and do it quickly. The whole idea was scary and fun. It forced me to write. The first song on the album is like a waterfall. I probably finished that song in 2 hours, and it’s one of my best songs, I think. EM: Nick Cave writes songs from 9 to 5, like a job. That’s what 8 Songs was like? RS: Some of it was hell. I had
to write it, master it. I didn’t think I was going to be able to do it at times. Some parts of the process weren’t very fun… There was pressure and frustration. I did Sincere for Austin Remix, and I remember sitting there with my pedal board and keyboard and experimenting for hours and hours just trying to start something. And, that’s the hard part, starting when you’re forcing yourself is really tough! But, once you find this thing you’re emotionally connected to, it becomes easy. EM: What do you think when people compare you to Sufjan Stevens? RS: It’s valid. I don’t want to sound like Sufjan, but there’s a lot of similar instrumentations and layering. My first album,
especially, the layering…That’s when I was learning how to do it. At that important, learning part of my life, I was listening to Sufjan a lot. I wouldn’t say that 8 songs sounds at all like Sufjan. But the older stuff, yeah. It’s totally ok for people to say that. And, I love Sufjan Stevens. I have him to thank for a lot. Which goes back to Philip Glass and Steve Reich. Those are his heroes. So, studying your hero’s heroes? Getting to that mindset… I met Steve Reich and asked him about Sufjan Stevens. He was like, “I’ve heard of Sufjan Stevens, I’ve never met him but I heard he likes my music.” I got to meet Sufjan’s hero before he did. It was like relaying a message to him for Sufjan [laughter].
| Photo & Interview by Eric Morales |
08.13 | SMTX | BOBCATFANS 11
“After two and a half years as city manager of San Marcos, Jim Nuse has learned a lot about this community. He sits back in his chair and smiles, “It took a while to understand San Marcos. I’ve said it a lot of times, whether or not it’s accurate, but San Marcos is a lot more like Oz than Kansas.”
the city
manager of Oz | By Diana Hendricks and Mark Hendricks |
He explains, “You drive down here, and you see the big red roof on the hill, and you see the beautiful historic downtown, and you see the outlet malls and the great hotels. You see all that stuff, but there’s a whole other community that holds that stuff all together. Just really trying to understand how it’s made up, and how the different neighborhoods work, and who are the people who are passionate about the different concepts of the community and how we can make it better—I think that has been my greatest challenge.” 12 BOBCATFANS | SMTX | 08.13
Photo Eric Morales
Nuse and his wife, Daisy, moved here in December 2010, after a successful 30year career in Round Rock city government. The New England native went to Laramie, Wyoming, on scholarship to play football for the Wyoming Cowboys and earn a degree in history. He came to Texas and attended the LBJ School of Public Affairs at the University of Texas and professed to be a singersongwriter, a career dream that has grown into a pleasurable lifelong hobby. “I remember entering an Austin songwriter competition in the early ‘80s, at a little place called Emma-Joes. Several people played ahead of me, but I had a pretty good song. And I got up and did it, and think I pretty much nailed it. And I went to put my guitar away and came back in time to hear the next guy, whose name was Robert Earl Keen. And next up was a girl named Nanci Griffith.” Nuse doesn’t recall who won that contest, though a couple of years ago he ran into Keen at an event. Keen also remembered the contest—quickly admitting he didn’t win either. Losing to such stiff competition may not have been a watershed moment for Nuse, but he did redirect his career compass and move into another passion that became his life’s work— public service. He went to work in Round Rock in June 1983, and was in the public works department for two decades before accepting the job of city manager in 2002. This was a time of historic growth for the Williamson County community, as Round Rock’s population grew from 13,000 to 101,000. “I always said to myself that 100,000 would be a good population threshold to end my career on,” Nuse says. “I was kind of done in Round Rock. I didn’t quite know what I was going to do, but I knew it was time to step down and let someone else take that city to the next level. The city manager’s job in San Marcos came up a month or two after I’d put in my notice at Round Rock, and I had some friends down here who said, ‘Boy, you need to check that out.’” Nuse looks around his office, with an aerial view of the city covering one wall and an old guitar leaning in the corner beside his desk. “I really love what I do. Public service is where my heart is. I thought maybe I could offer to come down here and help out a little bit for a while. There are so many wonderful things about San Marcos—the river being one of them, of course, and the university. I had been working with Dr. (Denise) Trauth and others on the opening of the Texas State campus in Round Rock so I knew a lot about what they were doing, and I knew a lot about the community, and it just seemed like a good place to land for a while.”
Nuse is only the sixteenth city manager San Marcos has had in its 162-year history. He is unique in his style and delivery, sort of a cross between a community cheerleader and an offensive lineman, and he comes to San Marcos with more experience than any previous holder of this job.
THE JOB As we trek down memory lane, Nuse pauses to answer the most complex question of the interview. “What does the San Marcos City Manager do? Hmmm. Okay. The quickest answer is that there are about 550 employees and 160 million dollars’ worth of budget. We provide services from police and fire to streets and utilities, parks, library, and most of the basic services that people who live in a community expect to have. The city manager makes sure it is run efficiently and at the wishes of the citizens and the council.” Nuse was hired on December 6, 2010. He recalls the first meaningful action in the new job. “It was 1-11-11. I’d been here about a month. We got the council together and all sat down in a room and went through an exercise where they came up with the five strategic initiatives. Everyone came together and bought off on that. For two years that has been pretty much the north arrow – the ‘north star’ that we have focused on here.” Those five strategic initiatives have helped to blaze the path that San Marcos has traveled in the two years since. Nuse explains, “They are sound finances, customer service, strong infrastructure, protecting the river, and trying to do something about gaining back the middle class in San Marcos, to regain the balance of apartments and single family dwellings. A lot of people were concerned that the middle class was sort of draining away from here. And we were charged with figuring out what we can do to change that.” Nuse considers the progress made with these five strategic initiatives by far the city’s greatest accomplishment in recent years. “We really have made some headway in all areas,” he says, as he explains each accomplishment. Finances: Reducing our debt from 62 cents out of every tax dollar we collected three years ago to where we are now. We are 50/50 on that now, and I think we have done a lot on our finances. Customer service: The Citizen’s Survey just came back from our customers—the citizens—about how we get stuff done. When the fellow came in to talk about the results, he said we set the standard in San Marcos for customer service. Customer
service is the one thing we have complete control over here. We can make that happen or we can make that not happen. I am glad to see it’s happening now. Infrastructure: If you drive through San Marcos, you can see we have torn apart almost every street in town right now. We have lots and lots of construction going on. So building the strong infrastructure is going well. Protecting the River: We finally passed the new river ordinance. Things that have been in the works for twenty years for protection of the river are finally in place. That has been fabulous. The Middle Class Initiative: We developed the Core Four group—which is leaders from the four enduring entities in San Marcos—the city, the county, the school district, and the university. And we focused on education. That focus came down to Universal Pre-Kindergarten for all students, not just financially disadvantaged, and I think that was the number one issue people told us we needed to get resolved. And now the community is behind it. The school bond for universal pre-K passed, 58-42%, and that is pretty darn close to a landslide.
“the school district and the city are serving the same master. We are both serving the citizens, and all the money comes out of their pockets one way or the other. ” EDUCATION Nuse takes the education conversation a step further, explaining, “The bottom line is that if these kids are successful by the time they are in 3rd grade, the chances of them being successful for the rest of their educational career goes way, way up. I’m really proud of the citizens for passing the bond, and proud of the school district for taking that initiative. Dr. Trauth and Gene Bourgeois at Texas State get a lot of credit for that. Dr. Trauth truly led the charge on improving education in San Marcos through Core Four. She set the agenda and brought the information to the table, and it’s going strong. And that will make a difference in this community. That is probably the biggest thing that has come out of that first 1-11-11 meeting—to build our economy and gain back 08.13 | SMTX | BOBCATFANS 13
the middle class.” So does Nuse believe that the city should be interested in or responsible for educating our kids? Isn’t that the school district’s job? He answers quickly and succinctly. “You bet it’s our job. It’s a trite statement, but it takes a village to raise a kid. It really does.” He adds, “It’s tough, but the two entities—the school district and the city—are serving the same master. We are both serving the citizens, and all the money comes out of their pockets one way or the other. And we both have a mission to grow our community in a strong and healthy way.” Why the fuss? Nuse leans forward and scratches out a diagram on the back of a report as he explains, “A better educated workforce is going to lead to a place where businesses are going to want to come and build better jobs and want to do business. Better jobs will mean a stronger middle class. A stronger middle class will strengthen the schools. We have all these issues going on, and the Core Four decided that we are going to nail down education, and all the other elements will ramp up after that. You can’t attract good jobs if you don’t have good education, and if you don’t have good jobs, you are not going to have good housing because you don’t make enough money because you don’t have a good education… You nail one of those elements down and the rest of them are going to get fixed too – and we are going to fix it. And we as a community are starting with supporting education.”
MASTER PLAN Aside from a handful of people who attend city council meetings religiously, a lot of citizens turn a deaf ear to talk of master plans and smart codes, charter reviews and zoning commissions. But unless you’ve been under a rock for the last year or so, you had to have heard some of the talk about the new master plan. Nuse says, “The Master Plan for a community really is the ‘be all- end all,’ at least for a while. It’s the rule book for how a community moves forward; it is the overall vision of community. We have a new master plan, developed by thirty-something citizens who have ownership and passion for this community. We didn’t bring some hot shot consultant from Paris, France, to tell us what San Marcos needed to look like when it grew up. We asked our citizens, and they built our master plan.” He adds, “And it was not an easy process. It was painful and messy at times, and people
14 BOBCATFANS | SMTX | 08.13
were worried at times about how it was going to turn out but it turned out really great. It gives us a good vision of where growth centers are, where business centers are, and where areas of stability should be. Given that guidance, then we can start moving forward.” So why change it? “Our last master plan was seventeen years old, and it had been amended so many times. It started out as a Chevrolet and ended up as a Dodge. The parts got inter-swapped so many times that it just wasn’t really a current vision. The new master plan is available on our website; it’s easy to follow and read. And I am really proud of what the community has done,” he says. Can we talk about planning without drawing that line in the sand and standing on one side or another? Nuse nods. “Maybe I am too Pollyanna-ish. But I really believe that the new community vision of the master plan is going to help that a lot. We finally have very clear guidelines of what mixes and what doesn’t mix. I have great faith in the real guidance of the master plan.” Development vs neighborhoods—do we really have to draw a line? He shrugs and continues, “Some people are suspicious of growth, and others are concerned about whether they should make an investment in our town. Each side has an appropriate level of anxiety over what’s been going on. And hopefully with good evenly adhered to guidelines, everyone ought to be able to take a deep breath and feel some security in their investments.”
POPULATION So what about these headlines regarding population trends—are we really the fastest growing community in the US? Nuse says, “I don’t honestly know. It’s great press, though. I had thought in the last census that we would be a little stronger than where we were. We have a service population that is really substantial, and that is an important concept. We have a lot of people who come in every day—students come in every day, probably 18,000- 20,000, and visitors and tourists who come in and use our services and leave. They are not counted in the population, but they are here and we have to provide infrastructure to support them.” Describing service population, he says, “We are providing water, sewer, streets, for this transitory population and they are here in the day and gone at night. So when you include that population, we are probably somewhere around 75,000 during the day. 18,000-20,000 students plus the tourists at the outlet malls, which I have heard is anywhere from ten to twelve million people a year that come through there, and the
activities that go on at the conference center. So on any given day there are a lot of people who come through and utilize the services of the community. “ He continues, “And then you have a smaller group—latest population figure I have is 50,001—the group who lives here and pays property taxes, but the rest of those people are bringing important sales tax revenue into the community. We take in about $15 million in property taxes. But our budget is $158.2 million. Sales tax pays a lot of bills. Sales tax makes the difference between $15 million and the almost $160 million that it takes to run this city. That is where that service population comes in and pays their fair share.” What about community involvement? Are we engaged enough? Nuse is quick on this answer: “I went to the Chamber of Commerce Luau a couple of weeks ago. I can go to some functions and know everybody. But I remember thinking I really didn’t know that many people in the room. There are a lot of people who are engaged in this community in things that you or I don’t see on a regular basis.” He says, “Go through the neighborhoods and see all the activity. Go down to the Little League fields at the end of CM Allen, and you will see them overflowing with kids and parents. There is a lot of engagement; some is more visible than others. And some people are just working so hard to make ends meet that when they have time off, they just have to rest and try to focus on family and things of that kind. I think there are a lot of people who do a lot of unselfish things in this community to make San Marcos a better place to live.” Nuse looks out the window and thinks for a moment, “There is a lot of community engagement out there from all parts of town and from all ages. And I’ve got no issues with what some people call the “vocal minorities.” It’s good to have people who participate and ask the hard questions. It makes for better answers and makes the policy better.” Nuse is a short-timer now. He sent a letter of resignation to the city council, stating that he will stay through the end of the fiscal year and plans to try retirement again. What advice does he have for the next city manager? He thinks for a while and then says, “Just listen. Take your time and listen to the people who have been here, catch up on documents and the history and the voices of the people. We have a truly great staff. I’d say to initially follow their lead, and when it comes time to lead, they will follow.”
Walk right in.
No appointment needed. Open late and weekends.
512.353.6425
M-F 9 a.m. - 9 p.m. Sat/Sun 8 a.m. - Noon 1941 North IH35, Suite 101A on the frontage road at Wonder World Drive
The hands behind our da Vinci Robotic Successes belong to a dad, husband, golfer and wakeboarder
Now oering virtually scarless surgery through single-site da Vinci procedures.
Dr. Erik Anderson, General Surgeon, is now performing more successful single site procedures than any other physician in the Austin-SA region. Find out why more people choose da Vinci Robotic surgery at Central Texas Medical Center.
ctmc.org 08.13 | SMTX | BOBCATFANS 15
“We are going to make a major impact. I predict that in three years we truly will be the learning community of Central Texas.”
The superintendent Mark Eads has a very large family, and he wouldn’t change that for the world. “I am the father of 7,600 kids and 1,150 employees
students. That is what I pray every morning,”
– and, if I treat it that way, I will always do my job
said Eads.
right. My primary responsibility is to take care of our students and provide the education they deserve, then take care of financial responsibilities, take care of staff, lead by example and have a passion for what I do. I want to make the best decision each day for our
16 BOBCATFANS | SMTX | 08.13
Eads, superintendent of the San Marcos Consolidated Independent School District, says the same principles that define him as a father guide him in his professional life.
| By Diana Hendricks Photo Eric Morales |
Eads became the SMCISD superintendent in May 2011, after serving in the same position at Snyder, Texas. Although he holds a master’s degree in education, his undergraduate degree is in banking and finance. He spent five years in the financial world before moving into teaching in the South Texas town of Alice. The change in career paths brought with it an initial salary hit, but Eads said it proved to be very rewarding. “I taught math and business and quickly realized that education was my passion. I was hired by my alma mater (Tuloso Midway in Corpus Christi) and became an administrator there for three years,” he said. From Alice and Corpus Christi came stints in Central and South Central Texas as an administrator before eventually landing in Snyder and now San Marcos, where he hopes to remain. “The location is ideal. We (Eads and his wife, Shawna, his high school sweetheart) always loved San Marcos. Growing up, we spent time here. Shawna and I were both certified in SCUBA right here in the San Marcos River when we were younger. It is a central location for our grown children and families. And we just knew that this was where we wanted to live,” said Eads. While the location may have been ideal for Eads and his family, he knew the school district in San Marcos was not without its very real challenges. The first thing he did on the job was to take a two-day tour of the district with two of his employees, following the actual school bus routes. He says that tour was a “tremendous eye-opener.” “I realized there are a lot of people who really do not know what San Marcos is like. Even people who have lived here a long time don’t see the challenges. It’s like we live in this square, this shell. What we see is not always what we get. Riding those routes was sad. Listening to Ernest (Martinez) and Randy (Holt) tell stories about kids struggling without shoes and food, much less educational tools at home. What really hit me was that we have children with extreme poverty issues in our hometown,” he said. “That was a big ‘ah-ha’ moment for me. Yes, I knew there was poverty based on reports. I knew that we had 72 percent of our students economically disadvantaged. But, until you see it, you don’t realize what poverty really looks like in our community.” In fact, Eads says poverty is the biggest challenge the SMCISD faces. He said that since that initial tour of the district bus routes, he has spoken with many longtime residents of San 18 BOBCATFANS | SMTX | 08.13
“As we have been working to improve the schools and engage the community, San Marcos has turned a corner and bought back into our school district. We have business leaders, citizens, parents and church leaders knocking on the door and wanting to help. ” town. Any person 18 or younger can receive a hot meal free of charge.
Marcos who are unaware of the city’s poverty issues. “Most people don’t have any reason to drive through those areas. They are off the beaten path and hidden from our vision of what San Marcos looks like. But these are our children, and a lot of them are hungry. It’s really hard to learn when you are hungry,” said Eads. To address the issue, the district implemented a universal breakfast program last fall, providing free breakfast for all students. The result has been improved attendance, increased classroom attention and a decline in tardiness and behavior issues. The district has also initiated a “Purple Bus” meals on wheels program for kids. It runs Monday through Friday during the summer and stops at six locations around
“I realized there are a lot of people who really do not know what San Marcos is like. Even people who have lived here a long time don’t see the challenges. It’s like we live in this square, this shell. What we see is not always what we get.”
An issue that Eads identified as the district’s second greatest challenge when he arrived has since become, he says, its greatest strength—community engagement. “I am overwhelmed by the community support that has grown in the last two years. I never dreamed I would have more people who want to help than we have places for them to help. As we have been working to improve the schools and engage the community, San Marcos has turned a corner and bought back into our school district. We have business leaders, citizens, parents and church leaders knocking on the door and wanting to help. The momentum is going in the right direction for our schools,” he said. Community engagement was on public display in the spring as the school district sought support for a $77 million bond package for a new pre-kindergarten cam-
pus, a football stadium and other facility improvements. The discourse was lively and spirited, and in the end, the bonds passed, clearing the way for future improvement within the district. During the campaign, Eads spoke to many community and civic organizations in the district. “Oh my gosh, I spoke to more than 30 groups, and overwhelmingly, 90 percent of the people we spoke to supported the district and the bond and saw the value and positive impact it would have on the district and community. It was exhausting and rewarding at the same time. It felt good. Since the election, I have had people tell me they didn’t support the bond but are glad it passed,” he said.
“We are the fastest growing community in our region and, with that growth, comes a lot of new students who are not performing at grade level.”
With the passage of the bond package comes an era of opportunity for the San Marcos district, Eads said. “Build it and they will come. We are going to make a major impact. I predict that in three years we truly will be the learning community of Central Texas. Our relationship with Texas State University, the county and the city has been tremendous, and for us to all come together with the same vision to improve every entity we are associated with is wonderful. We will have a major impact in three years. Watch us,” he said. San Marcos was recently recognized as the nation’s fastest growing city and that fact alone presents its own set of challenges.
“We are the fastest growing community in our region and, with that growth, comes a lot of new students who are not performing at grade level. Some people don’t realize that we get a lot of students who move into our district who are academically two or three grade levels behind. But we are accountable for those students,” Eads said.
“We are improving, but not at the rate I want us to improve. But we are making changes that are going to increase the rate of improvement. Our Academy structure at the high school is one way. We are making changes in our relationships with Austin Community College and Texas State to increase the number of dual credit course offerings. Our new all-day universal pre-k programs, supported by Core Four – Texas State University, Hays County, the City of San Marcos and SMCISD – will have a tremendous impact on our community,” he said.
Eads said he is proud that the district remains on solid financial ground. “We are doing extremely well. We benefited from laws of the last two years, and we are strong financially with a health fund balance. That has not always been the case. But the past six years has seen a rise in our fund balance. The previous administration did well, and we have continued to overproject expenses and underestimate revenues. That is why we have been able to add to the fund balance each year,” he said. “Meeting the district’s goals of continued improvement will take teamwork,” said Eads. And a key member of the team is the local community. “Support our programs, be participants, be boosters, offer financial support for individual programs. Anyone can be a booster. Talk positively about us. There is still a small group that continues to focus on the negatives, and they will always be there. But if we will rise together as a community and focus on the positive, we will exceed our expectations. Let us – the faculty and staff of the school district – continue to handle the negatives and improve our district and fix what is not working. We cannot do it overnight, but we are making progress. It’s our job and our responsibility. We will make you proud. I promise,” he said.
Eads said that challenges present opportunities for continued improvement and added that the district has had many accolades and points of pride recently. “The orchestra has had such a positive impact on the community and district. Our UIL Academic team won the District 25-5A Academic Championship this year and our UIL Speech and Debate team won district, regional and state level competitions, with one student, Devon von Miller, winning his second state UIL Lincoln-Douglas Debate championship. We have National Merit Scholar finalists and all-state musicians. Our student organizations are competing at state conferences and our LULAC student chapter was named Chapter of the Year at the state LULAC conference this year,” he said.
Because Confidence is Beautiful. Dr. Mohan is a Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon. He is also fellowship trained in Hand and Reconstructive Microsurgery. He is Board Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery.
Students in the SMCISD are improving in the classroom and on the athletic fields. Eads gives the lion’s share of the latter improvement to new SMCISD Director of Athletics Mark Soto.
SURGICAL PROCEDURES l l
“This year, we had cross country, boys’ basketball, baseball, softball, track, power lifting, tennis, swim and golf have participants in district, regional or state competitions. Under the new leadership of Mark Soto, we are focused on character first, academics and athletics. By doing that, he has already transformed our athletic program in one year. We have more students participating in athletics overall and specifically in football than in recent years. Some sports tripled in participation this year,” said Eads. What is the key for future success in the SMCISD? Eads says the answer is simple: continued improvement.
Pradeep Mohan, M.D.
l l
l l
l l
Breast augmentation, lift, reduction Tummy tuck Liposuction/liposculpture Arm lift, eye lift, face lift, nose shaping, brow lift, thigh lift Post-bariatric surgery Reconstruction including breast, upper and lower extremity, facial and wound Hand and wrist surgery Botox R , facial filler
AT LIVE OAK HEALTH PARTNERS
512.353.6444 www.liveoakaesthetics.com 1305 Wonder World Drive in San Marcos 08.13 | SMTX | BOBCATFANS 19
SMTX | chewed and brewed | August 2013 |
The Local Smoke
The grilled rabbit loin with roasted beets, beet purée, pecans, homemade ricotta, crispy kale and basil is a seriously mind-blowing find. The rabbit is juicy and flavorful with a touch of sweetness.
Food Trailer Tanger Outlet Mall 4015 IH35 South (512) 484-9269
Parking Plenty of parking
Casual Attire People who crave awesome, truly locally sourced and innovative food welcome
Hours 10 a.m. – 9 p.m., daily The Local Smoke creates daily menus highlighting the produce grown by Joe Posenecker with meats, dairy and fruit from the San Marcos markets
The Local Smoke The food they’re serving at Local Smoke is always fresh, locally-sourced and organic. This “Hill Country Cuisine,” as owners Kevin Callahan and Joe Posenecker call it, comes by its name honestly. Every single leaf of lettuce, radish, beet and stalk of asparagus comes from the family farm in Buda and other local area farms. The Local Smoke’s daily menu is based on what is harvested that morning, and the meat is as fresh as it comes. There’s something so completely different about fresh produce and meat. Each dish has deep and interesting flavors, exciting textures and perfect colors. Each plate is just plain amazing any way you look at it.
The Good Grub Guide highlights the dishes and neighborhood favorites in the area’s food scene. They are reviewed and selected by the editorial staff.
20 BOBCATFANS | SMTX | 08.13
KEY
Delivery Happy Hour Outdoor Seating
$$$ Most Entrees over $20 $$ Most Entrees $10 - $20 $ Most Entrees under $10
| By Katie Lewis Photo Eric Morales |
08.13 | SMTX | BOBCATFANS 21
BOBCATFANS | SMTX | Good Grub Guide Hays County BBQ & Catering With excellent reviews across the board, and a TEXAS MONTHLY TOP 50 pick, this is pit BBQ done with true central Texas tradition. The house made cheddar & jalapeno sausage is simply amazing. Their slow smoked brisket, turkey, ribs and chops satisfy every time. Lunch and dinner Mon-Sat. 2601 Hunter Road, San Marcos (512) 392-6000 $ Milt’s Pit BBQ Located in the downtown district, it’s barbeque Kyle residents visit over and over again. They’re the ones with the finest sauce you never saw coming. Lunch and dinner Tues-Sun. cash only. 208 W Center Street, Kyle (512) 268-4734 $ BYOB
Frito Pie Pizza Pie @ Gumby’s One of the most iconic and loved meat dishes in the great State of Texas isn’t a big fat steak or a juicy piece of brisket, it’s the Frito Pie. Who doesn’t just adore those curly, crunchy, salty corn chips, doused with mouth watering, meaty and spicy chili, and topped with a layer of gooey cheese, crunchy jalapeños and peppery red onions? What if I told you that you can have this amazing, crunchy, salty and delectable deliciousness on a pizza? Well, you can at San Marcos’ #1 pizza place. The chili is warm and perfectly meaty and makes a great sauce on their signature chewy and airy crust. This Frito Pie is a bold twist on an old favorite and will debut on Gumby’s menu in August!
AMERICAN Cool Mint Café Just off campus is a slightly hidden 1920’s Arts and Crafts Bungalow style café. With fine dining in mind, Cool Mint chef serves only the freshest ingredients. Lunch and dinner Tues-Sat. 415 Burleson St, San Marcos (512) 396-2665 $$ Gills Chicken A San Marcos original, Gill’s serves up crisp, golden, and super juicy fried chicken. While you’re there, sink your teeth into the southern staple, fried okra. It truly is something to rave about. Lunch and dinner daily. 2550 Hunter Rd, #1112, San Marcos (512) 353-3113 $ Grins Grins is a true San Marcos icon that continues to be enjoyed by several generations of students and locals. Head on over and order a juicy burger or mouth-watering chicken fried steak. Don’t forget to grab a frosty margarita and dine on their outdoor patio. Lunch and dinner daily. 802 N LBJ, San Marcos (512) 392-4746 $ 22 BOBCATFANS | SMTX | 08.13
Gristmill Located along the Guadalupe River in historic Gruene, this massive restaurant is perfect for a family outing. It has a cheerful and warm atmosphere, and as for the food--it’s just plain delicious. Be prepared though, there is usually a wait, but it’s well worth it. 1287 Gruene Rd, New Braunfels (830) 625-0684 $$
ASIAN A-Tan Asian Bistro & Sushi Bar This little Asian bistro has, simply put, the best darn sushi in New Braunfels. The food at A-Tan is consistent, fresh and inspired. Their most popular roll, the Guadalupe, is not only huge, but ultra delicious. Craving soup? Their egg drop is certainly one-of-a- kind. 1528 Common Street, New Braunfels (830) 620-1888 $$$ How Do You Roll? How Do You Roll is an interactive fusion sushi joint where you pick the ingredients for whatever taste you’re in. Each roll is made quickly from fresh ingredients, right before your eyes. Choose from a large selection of sauces, wraps and toppings. Try the
420 roll. You won’t regret it! How Do You Roll is delicious, inexpensive and fun. 420 University Drive, San Marcos (512) 393-2221 $ Prik Nam Pla Thai Cuisine Prik Nam Pla has quickly become known for their traditional and mouthwatering curry dishes and lip-smacking fish cakes. The service is consistently accommodating and ultra friendly. Lunch and dinner Mon-Sat. 1917 Dutton Drive, Ste 104 San Marcos (512) 396-9919 $ BYOB
BARBECUE Cooper’s Old Time Pit BBQ Want to talk about amazing dry-rub barbeque? Head on over to Cooper’s Old Time Pit BBQ. The best time to go is during the weekend, where you can order their ever so succulent, off-the-bone pork chop. This chop is SO flavorful you wouldn’t even want the sauce. 1125 Texas 337 Loop New Braunfels (830) 627-0627 $$
BREAKFAST & TACOS Lolita’s Café This taco stand is arguably the Mecca of San Marcos breakfast tacos. With their two drive-thru windows, and a walk up service area, it’s always easy to grab and go. All of the ingredients are prepared fresh daily, bright and early every morning. You’ll never be disappointed. If you’re SUPER hungry, try their Burrito California, packed full of rice, beans, pico, lettuce and your choice of meat, but don’t forget to ask for extra napkins! 1501 Aquarena Springs, San Marcos (512) 392-3441 $ Pike Restaurant & Antiques Formerly an old Ford dealership, the atmosphere is both vintage and exciting. This place is fantastic for brunch. Their omelets are especially delicious. Breakfast and lunch daily. 386 W. San Antonio St, New Braunfels (830) 387-4594 $$
GLOBAL
Euro Café & Market Now here’s a local joint where you actually want to try something new every time you go back. The menu features authentic Mediterranean-style entrees, including Gyros, kebabs and delicious inspired specials. 350 North Guadalupe Street, San Marcos (512) 392-6044 $ Vodka Street Conveniently located on The Square, this classic bistro and bar serves up amazing tapas, burgers, and Sun-
08.13 | SMTX | BOBCATFANS 23
BOBCATFANS | SMTX | Good Grub Guide day brunch. The food is beautifully presented and along side the more elevated and inventive dishes, they serve up old-fashioned favorites. Dinner daily. Sunday brunch. 202 North LBJ Drive, San Marcos (512) 396-4260 $
ITALIAN ilario’s This quaint little trip to Italy is great for any occasion. The menu features old style pizzas and an array of popular Italian dishes with delicious garlic bread at a reasonable price. They’re also serving up some local TX wine. Lunch and dinner daily. 5401 S. FM 1626, Kyle (512) 268-3300 $ Italian Garden With just a short walk from campus, this little restaurant has become a local staple. They’re serving up consistently delicious dishes that are easy on the pocketbook. Lunch and dinner daily. 415 North LBJ Drive, San Marcos (512) 392-8730 $
MEXICAN Chimy’s Cerveceria This is what you get when you blend a fun college bar with a mouth-watering Mexican food joint. Chimy’s is perfect for a quick bite or relaxing with a stiff margarita after a long day on the river. Come on by to watch the game while scarfing down ridiculously delicious fajita nachos. Lunch and dinner Mon-Sat. 217 E. Hopkins, San Marcos (512) 216-6175 $ Garcia’s Mexican Food Restaurant Garcia’s is Tex-Mex at its finest. Now with two locations in San Marcos, it’s easy for you to try their terrific chips and flavorful salsa. Dive into their terrific fajitas and cheesy enchiladas. Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily 1917 Dutton Drive, San Marcos (512) 353-0099 $ Zookas Ultimate Burrito Can you guess what the most common response to hearing the word ‘Zookas’ is? “Obsessed!” Zookas puts other
24 BOBCATFANS | SMTX | 08.13
Buffalo Burger @ Vodka Street Global Bistro and Bar Vodka Street Global Bistro and Bar, located right on the San Marcos square, offers a whole different kind of vibe and menu than the rest of the offerings around. The Buffalo Burger, a seasoned beef patty, topped with homemade crunchy potato chips, blue cheese sauce and buffalo sauce, garnished with blue cheese crumbles and green onions on a jalapeño-cheddar bun doesn’t just sound remarkable, but visually, it’s a burrito chains to shame. Serving up endless combinations with unusual sauces and wrap flavors, this is truly the ultimate burrito shop. Lunch and dinner daily 312 University Drive Ste A San Marcos (512) 353-3913 $
PIZZERIA Brewster’s Pizza Take a drive through the Hill Country and stop for an amazing pizza and inventive house-brewed craft beer. The Omnivore Pie, complete with spinach, is a favorite. You can customize your pie with a wheat crust for a slight flavor twist. Lunch and dinner Tues-Sun. Tues-Sun. 9595 Ranch Road 12, Wimberley (512) 847-3299 $$ Gumby’s Pizza & Buffet Gumby’s is a typical college pizza joint, but with a hot lunch buffet and a beautifully fresh salad bar. There are daily specials and who can forget the famous Stoner Pie. Gumby’s is perfect to soak up the booze after a night out on the town.
stunner. This is one impressive burger. The crunchy chips complement the creamy cheese and spicy buffalo sauce perfectly. The meat is flavorful and juicy, and each hand-made patty is cooked to order. If you’re looking for the perfect beer to pair with a burger like this behemoth, the bartender suggests a sweet and hoppy beer to balance the flavors just right.
Lunch buffet daily. 403 North Guadalupe Street San Marcos (512) 754-8629 $
PUB/SPORTS BAR Center Field Sports Bar & Grill This sports bar is both warm and inviting with its delicious array of spicy wings and juicy burgers. Watch out though, their huge portions of French fries are extremely addicting! You’ll have plenty to sit through an entire game. Lunch and dinner daily. 200 West Center Street, Kyle (512) 268-1400 $ Mozie’s Bar & Grill You’ll always find yourself standing in some true history when you’re in the cozy town of Gruene. Mozie’s Bar & Grill is part of that history. The space, while narrow and long, is a perfect setting to eat delicious food. You can’t go to Mozie’s and not get the amazing Shiner beer-battered onion rings and famous fish tacos!
Lunch and dinner daily. 1601-A Hunter Road, New Braunfels (830) 515-1281 $$ Sean Patrick’s Located on The Square, this beautiful Tex-Irish pub features the largest tap beer selection in all of Hays County. From their delicious Guinness Burger to the more traditional Bangers & Mash, Sean Patrick’s has something for everyone to enjoy. Lunch and dinner daily 202 East San Antonio Street, San Marcos (512) 392-7310 $
SANDWICHES Mochas and Javas A local favorite for studying, web surfing, or catching up with friends, this coffee shop serves a variety of heavenly panini sandwiches. Breakfast and lunch daily. 700 N LBJ Drive #103, San Marcos (512) 396-5282 $
08.13 | SMTX | BOBCATFANS 25
BOBCATFANS | SMTX | Good Grub Guide Pedestrian Café Located in Mimi’s Trailer Park, this food truck combines an array of robust and fresh flavors to form an epic meal. Each dish is hearty with various sides to accompany whatever your heart desires. Lunch and dinner daily. 301 N Guadalupe St., San Marcos (512) 618-5411 $ Which Wich Sure, here’s one of your typical sub sandwich food chains, but they really do have a crispy style and distinct zest of their own. Which Wich is quick, close to campus and, of course, affordable on any budget. Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. 302 University, San Marcos (512) 396-4924 $ The Leaning Pear Venture out into the beautiful hill country and make sure to stop at The Leaning Pear. The chef has the gift of fusing flavors that will surpass your imagination. There isn’t a dish that will disappoint. Lunch daily, dinner Fri-Sat. Closed Tuesday. 111 River Rd, Wimberley
(512) 847-7327 $ Naturally Featuring outstanding homemade quiche and yummy sandwiches, this place is great to take the edge off during your lunch break. The salads and smoothies are a great alternative for a healthy meal as well. Lunch Mon-Sat. 1102 N. Walnut, New Braunfels (830) 214-6300 $
STEAKS & SEAFOOD Bordeaux’s Serving up filet mignon and fresh seafood like it’s nobody’s business with sides that are just as scrumptious. Located in the heart of Kyle, Emeril Lagasse has dined there to enjoy Chef Larson’s menu. Dinner Mon-Sat. 108 West Center Street, Kyle (512) 268-3463 $$$
KOBE Steakhouse Hibachi grill for Steaks & Seafood, terrific sushi, happy hour and Asian cuisine all in one! KOBE serves up any combination you’re craving. Lunch and dinner daily. 515 Springtown Way, San Marcos (512) 396-7200 $$ McAdoo’s Seafood Company This Cajun style seafood restaurant and bar has wonderful food and impeccable service to go along with it. Have a drink at the bar while you wait to be seated, then enjoy fresh oysters, fish, or crawfish. Overall, it’s a great fine dining experience for a night out on the town. Lunch and dinner daily.
196 Castell, New Braunfels (830) 629-3474 $$$ Myron’s Prime Steak House Sophisticated and upscale, yet relaxed, this prime steakhouse offers succulent steaks and seafood. The menu is a-la-carte, so everyone can experience a little bit of everything. Dinner daily. 136 North Castell Avenue, New Braunfels. (830) 624-1024 $$$
BLUE MOON SEASONALS
Blue Moon is a great go-to beer. But if you’ve never tried their seasonal brews you are in for a treat. Sean Patrick’s has their rotating seasonals on tap as well as many others. Ask for help pairing a pint with the outstanding pub food.
26 BOBCATFANS | SMTX | 08.13
34
Ralph Meyer CHIEF OF UPD 17 years with Texas State University Police Department 29 years with Texas Department of Public Safety Master’s degree from Texas State University in Public Administration
Set up your RAVE account
“The university is a city within a city and can experience the same type of crimes as in any municipality.”
How long have you been with Texas State University Police Department (UPD)? I’m starting on my 18th year with Texas State which has proven to be an exciting venture in my life, and I hope to continue for several more years.
What brought you to UPD? After a fruitful career at Texas Department of Public Safety, I was looking for a new challenge, something that was similar to what I was doing but with a different atmosphere. Working at Texas State University with the University Police Department was definitely a change that I embraced openly and have never looked back.
What’s the most rewarding part of your job? (Joys/Successes?) The reward is to be associated with young and inquiring minds that, for the most part, have a positive attitude that the world is out there waiting for them to achieve their dreams. Being able to bring a large degree of safety and security to the University community and to continue to maintain a positive attitude of the students and staff, I would definitely have to say is a success I have enjoyed.
What have been some of the biggest challenges in running UPD? As in any business, the challenge is to have adequate resources and personnel to provide for a safe and secure environment where everyone, including the parents of our students, feels safe in leaving them on their first experience of being on their own.
Tell us about the Bobcat Bobbies. Do you find this program to be successful? The Bobcat Bobbies have been in service since 1988 and remain one of the department’s most popular programs. They are an important addition to the safety and security of campus. They are also a welcoming presence to anyone who is on campus in the evening. It is likely that the demand for this service will continue to increase. In order to prepare for that increase, an intern analyzed the work load and response time of the Bobbies last spring semester. While the results showed that they are doing an excellent job, we hope to use the data to adjust staffing levels to peak periods and get even better efficiency. Talk about the Office of Emergency Management and TX State’s RAVE emergency program. The Office of Emergency Management (OoEM) provides education and guidance to the community on how to protect themselves
during a crisis event. In addition, the OoEM plans, exercises and documents for emergencies, and all documentation is compliant with the National Incident Management System (NIMS). Being NIMS compliant provides a structured response that is used nationwide during emergencies. The OoEM manages the campus wide notification systems, most of which is controlled by a single interface hosted by RAVE Mobile Safety. The system offers notification by email, text, Twitter, Facebook, AlertUS desktop and RSS. The RSS channel can be subscribed to directly, but it is also pushing to a web page that the public has access to at any time. The system is also expandable and may be put in control of the BRG Emergency Signboards, campus electronic signage and the Talka-Phone Wide area Emergency Broadcast System (WEBS). Having a single point interface allows for a much faster response to emergency messages sent to the community.
What is the best way for students to sign up for the RAVE program? At the current time, the university pushes all student, faculty and staff email addresses into the RAVE system; all other methods are an “Opt In” process. Because the university pushes email addresses into RAVE, every individual in the community has an account which they can access at any time via the internet. From the university homepage you can look under on-line services and look for “TXState Alert System.” This allows for direct login into one’s account with your NetID and password.
With all the college emergencies facing university life today, how do you feel about the safety of the students at Texas State University, and how can the students help keep this campus safe? If you see something, say something. We encourage all students, faculty and staff to contact UPD when they observe anything they feel is out of place or abnormal. While our patrol officers do a great job of patrolling our campus, they cannot cover the entire campus at all times. We have to rely on the public making us aware of incidents when they observe them. All of our officers at UPD receive continual training for Critical Incidents and Mental Health issues. We also work closely with the ALERRT Center and train with them on new techniques and issues when responding to active shooter situations. What is the best way to stay safe on campus? Be aware of your surroundings at all times. Be observant of what is taking place around you. Report any suspicious activity you may observe.
| Interviewed by Katie Lewis Photo Eric Morales |
Are there any new rules students need to know about when they are coming back on campus? Contacting University about false alarms such as bomb threats, etc. This is now a state jail felony if the report is an institution of higher education, and Texas State aggressively prosecutes any such crimes.
How many officers do you have on staff? Police Officers: 36 (Note: In 2012, UPD was funded 3 additional Police Officers.) Guards: 10 Staff: 14 TOTAL STAFF: 60 Student Workers: 28
What’s it like to run a police department on a college campus? What’s different about a city or county police department? One key difference is that the university “owns” much of the property that we patrol. That gives UPD a much different level of access and responsibility concerning the property than you would normally see in a city. We have a greater need to make sure our students have a great learning experience while they are at Texas State University.
How has the growth at Texas State affected the department? Has it been a difficult change? Growth is always difficult, especially when the department staffing is not growing at the same pace. The university is a city within a city and can experience the same type of crimes as in any municipality. The changes in the generations have also created some issues. Each generation seems to be more dependent on others (parents, guardians, other family) which makes it difficult at times to teach them the importance of being responsible for their actions. The department always tries to work with our community as teachers delivering a message and does everything it can to make the community more comfortable in their interaction with officers. There was about a decade that the University population grew and the UPD staffing did not. UPD was beginning to feel the strain that caused. There have been some additions to the department staffing in the last year that have helped alleviate that strain. While the growth and constant construction certainly has presented challenges, it has also brought opportunities. There are improved facilities, services, prestige, and a growing collegiate atmosphere that all work to facilitate the services of a community policing focused department like this one.
08.13 | SMTX | BOBCATFANS 31
This is a model, not a skateboarder. But, don’t be fooled. There are plenty-a-babe out there who can shred on a skateboard. This is not a guy-only endeavor. #skateboardinggirl
Get fit. Only a lazy would drive the half-mile it takes to get from anywhere to anywhere else in little San Marcos. Lower your carbon footprint, learn a new skill, and burn some calories. We can’t all win the genetic lottery, but I do know some serious skaters who are pretty ripped.
This is a really hot girl on a vintage skateboard. Not sure if anyone will even notice these words accompanying the photo, but just in case, here are a few things to keep in mind if you decide you want to start riding a skateboard.
Of SKATER STYLE
The finer points Safety First Avoid impact with… well, anything. Be safe, look twice. Don’t assume drivers, cyclists, pedestrians or anyone else has seen you. Don’t rely on “right of way” to protect you because a brain hemorrhage is a brain hemorrhage and ain’t no one got time for that.
Skaters, like any other subculture, have specific lingo and etiquette. No one is handing out rulebooks so pay attention to what others are doing at the skatepark and follow suit...or don’t.
Longboard - smoother, easier ride. Best talk to the experts at the local skate shop to find which board, types of wheels, etc., are the best fit for your level and style of skating.
Short vs Longboard Short - smaller, allows for more precision-based movements (i.e. tricks).
| Photo Eric Morales |
Notes | on the board
A 31-inch board with 60 millimeter wheels.
Unless you want leather feet or broken toes, we suggest something with leather uppers, laces, and polyurethane (rubber) soles. Vans, Etnies, Converse, Nike, etc.
Style? Wear whatever the hell you want. Hipster skinny jeans, shorts, we don’t care. And, no one else cares either. Your style is your style. Just make sure you can move freely.