September 2015

10 YEARS AGO - A TEAM TO BE REMEMBERED

TEXAS STATE superfans SEPTEMBER | 2015

2

BOB CATFANS | 09.15

4

BOB CATFANS | 09.15

a

ck

Av

e

N LB

Cr

o dd

JD r

Ol d Ra nc h Ro ad 12

M

oo

re

St

E Hopkin

VISTAS SAN MARCOS

Ho W

TM

pk

ins

ity Dr

St

s St

Univers

S LBJ Dr

Experience the best in college living.

O FFICIAL STUDENT H O U SI NG PAR T NER O F TEXAS STATE AT H LET I CS

Apply online today at

VISTASSANMARCOS.COM

You’re going to love it here . ®

The best college experience starts at Vistas San Marcos — the best in college living for Texas State University students.

Our Academic Success Center with iMacs and free printing, group study lounge and Wi-Fi hotspots keep your studies on track, while our organized recreational activities keep you connected to your friends — and help you make new ones.

You’ll love the fully furnished modern living spaces that are available, fully equipped kitchens and stay-fit amenities, including an 24-hour fitness center and swimming pool.

And, you can rest-assured knowing our professional on-site management and maintenance, and friendly 24/7 on-call staff, are always on duty.

SPACES FILLING FAST – APPLY NOW

VISTASSANMARCOS.COM 401 North Fredericksburg St 512.667.7726

Where students love living.® AMERICANCAMPUS.COM B O B CAT FA NS | 09.15 5

Amenities are subject to change. Limited time only.

PUBLISHER

Rick Koch ART DIRECTOR

Will Bowling MANAGING EDITOR

Tiffany Koch COPY EDITOR

Steven F. Helsing CONTRIBUTORS

Xander Peters Jordan Gass-Poore Katelyn Fagan Kristen Sowell Heather Yzaguirre Andres Sotomayor Eric Morales Parker Thornton Travis Emery Luciano Guerra Russell Wilde Steven Ryan ACCOUNT MANAGER

Jordan Desormeaux ADVERTISING INQUIRIES

512.619.0494 info@smtxmagazine.com WRITE TO US

Tell us what you really think. Send your raves, rants or questions to smtxmagazine@gmail.com or bobcatfans@gmail.com Please include name and daytime phone number, and remember that letters are subject to editing for clarity and space.

DIGITAL SUBSCRIPTIONS

Receive issues on your phone or tablet text: SMTX to:77948

Copyright 2015, BOBCATFANS LLC 139 E. Hopkins Suite B San Marcos, TX 78666 All rights reserved.

Reproduction in whole or part is prohibited.

Not affiliated with Texas State University.

Printed In USA - Locally Operated

6

BOB CATFANS | 09.15

ad

do

ck

Av

It’s the time of your life.

Live it right.

e N LB

Cr

JD r

Co

Rd

14

0

Ol

University Dr

d Ra nc h Ro ad 12 M

SANCTUARY LOFTS

oo

re

E Hopkins

St

Universi

OFFICIAL STUDENT HOUSING PAR TN E R OF TEX AS STATE ATHL ETICS

W

Ho

pk

ins

ty Dr

S LBJ Dr

St

St

TM

WALK TO CLASS P R I V AT E B E D S & B AT H S A V A I L A B L E F U L LY F U R N I S H E D A PA R T M E N T S A M E N I T I E S F O R F I T & H E A LT H Y L I F E S T Y L E C A B L E T V, I N T E R N E T & T R A S H I N C L U D E D

Apply online today at

THESANCTUARYLOFTS.COM

You’re going to love it here . ®

Going to Texas State University is the experience of a lifetime.

Live it right at Sanctuary Lofts. Stay fit with our 24-hour fitness center and swimming pool. Unwind with friends in the recreation center, or cook up a gourmet meal in your fully equipped kitchen.

And when it comes to study, do it right with our 24-hour Academic Success Center with iMacs and free printing, Wi-Fi throughout the clubhouse and internet access included in every apartment.

SPACES FILLING FAST – APPLY NOW

THESANCTUARYLOFTS.COM 350 North St 512.392.9066

Where students love living.® AMERICANCAMPUS.COM

Amenities are subject to change. Limited time only.

B O B CAT FA NS | 09.15 7

BOBCATFANS | ATHLETES

While he stays on Texas lakes for most of the year, wakeboarding has taken Guenther to lakes all over the country. This past summer he competed in WWA regionals on a private lake in Denver, Colorado encircled with snow-topped mountains, giving an epic background to summer wakeboarding.

Profiles

“WE TAKE AS MUCH PRIDE IN TEACHING SOMEONE WHO NEVER BOARDED BEFORE HOW TO RIDE AS WE DO IN MEMBERS WHO GO OUT THERE AND WIN COMPETITIONS. IT’S ALL ABOUT SPREADING THE LOVE FOR THE SPORT OF WAKEBOARDING.”

WIZARDS OF THE WATER | By Heather Yzaguirre | Photos Andres Sotomayor |

TXST Wakeboard Team Prepares for Competitions After a fall that could have left him floating on the sidelines, Jack Guenther has spent the past year recovering and is ready to get back on the board.

Life on the lake is all Guenther knows, and he doesn’t just enjoy the ambiance. “I have lived on the lake my entire life and my parents were throwing me out behind the boat on a pair of skis when I was about 6 years old.”

He got his first wakeboard when he was 12; he’s now 22, going into his tenth year riding. Guenther started the Texas State Wake team just over 3 years ago as a sophomore and has served as president ever since. In addition, he rides for the Empire Wake Collegiate League and competes in the World Wakeboard Association during the regular summer season.

8

BOB CATFANS | 09.15

A little over a year ago Guenther took a major spill when attempting to do a 720 (two full spins). He tore his ACL, MCL and meniscus, which make up the center of the knee. Guenther underwent full knee reconstruction surgery and spent 6 months out of commission. With that kind of injury it’s hard to imagine a comeback, but a year later he’s riding harder, faster and stronger.

“As you become a better wakeboarder you actually learn how to fall properly so it isn’t as bad. I actually see some of the worst falls from beginners because they don’t know how to avoid the bad falls.”

Going into his senior year he’s very excited for the upcoming year. The club has gone from being just a student organization to being an official university club sport and grown from 40 to 70 members. They have qualified for collegiate nationals in the past but haven’t attended because of financial constraints. The club’s goals are to become competitive in the league and meet their goals as a growing club sport in terms of finances, marketing, and community support.

Fans are welcome at all events, which take place at Texas Ski Ranch in New Braunfels. The biggest event is a tournament in the spring that brings wake clubs from universities all over the state.

Who can join Texas State Wake Club: Any registered student. All skill levels are encouraged. There are 3 memberships: Boat Team $250, Cable team $250, Basic Team Membership $75, Combination Boat and Cable $400 To enroll contact txstwake@gmail.com

That being said, like most extreme sports, with great risk comes great reward. The more you’re able to overcome mentally the more you’re able to accomplish. Creating barriers denies you the chance to succeed. Convince yourself to try a new trick and eventually you’ll nail it. Don’t be scared of getting hurt.

Stay calm in competition, and your focus will pay off.

Guenther’s climactic trick is called a Moby Dick; it’s a back flip 360, a full spin. It’s quite a sight, and if you don’t know it’s a trick it looks like pure chaos. It’s hard to imagine but continuing his competitive career he sees even more wild tricks than that, like 1080s (3 full spins) and double flips.

Texas State Wake txstwakeboard.wordpress.com

The place – and space – for college living.

Apply online today at

OFFI C I A L STU D ENT HOU SI NG PA RT NER OF TEX A S STA TE A THL ETI C S

BISHOPSSQUARE.COM MINUTES TO CAMPUS

AMENITIES FOR A FIT & H E A LT H Y L I F E S T Y L E

A SPIRIT OF COMMUNITY

A C A D E M I C A L LY ORIENTED ENVIRONMENT

F U R N I S H E D P R I V AT E B E D S & B AT H S

INDIVIDUAL LIABILITY LEASES

HARDWOOD-STYLE FLOORS

R O O M M AT E M AT C H I N G AVA I L A B L E

SPACES FILLING FAST – APPLY NOW

You’re going to love it here . ®

An off-campus community designed for college living, Bishops Square gives you the place — and space — for the balanced lifestyle you’re looking for.

BISHOPSSQUARE.COM 109 Craddock Ave 512.878.8728

Where students love living.® AMERICANCAMPUS.COM

Amenities are subject to change. Limited time only.

B O B CAT FA NS | 09.15 9

BOBCATFANS | BACKSTAGE

CROOKS MAKES COUNTRY MUSIC DANGEROUS AGAIN | By Heather Yzaguirre |

SIX-PIECE COUNTRY ENSEMBLE FROM AUSTIN ARE RAPIDLY GROWING INTO A CLASSIC ACT. “YOU DON’T HAVE TO HIDE YOUR FEELINGS IN TIRED METAPHORS AND YOUTHFUL WHINING. YOU CAN GET STRAIGHT TO YOUR POINT, AND IF NO ONE LIKES IT, THAT’S FINE.” As native Texans – and one native Kentuckian – their toughest times come in winter, when they’re touring the northern parts of the country. They once got caught in a blizzard while driving through Colorado when their tour van stalled out. With the snow rising around them and no sign of life in the battery, they decided to abandon ship. The only place in sight was a gas station, where they ended up spending the night. The band spent the better part of the next day digging out their snow buried van.

Still, through the tough times they’re able to take a step back, have a laugh, and be thankful they’re on the road doing what they love to do.

Since acquiring a booking agent they’ve played on stages as grand as the Moody Theater, where greats like Jerry Jeff Walker and Willie Nelson have played. Big venues are a thrill for them, but they bring the same funky energy no matter where they’re playing. Among venue favorites for them is (no surprise here) historic Gruene Hall, where the space is tailored for dancing and movement.

These boys just want to have fun! Crooks, a band with wild roots, takes the best parts of several genres and make each performance an audience-pleasing jam session.

The band started with Josh Mazour and slowly attracted members who grew up immersed in different musical styles, each contributing something different. They ended up a magical mix of genres, their overarching sound rooted in classic outlaw country. Elements of tejano, conjunto and mariachi are prominent and not only make them stand out, but give them a unique flare. Accordion player Anthony Ortiz owns and embodies the sound, jumping around stage, moving into the crowd and dancing theatrically. They’re all comfortable on stage; the sense of movement then translates to the crowd.

CMT praised their music as “rugged and lonesome, the style of country music that makes you want to keep your tab open.” But front man Josh Mazour describes his style more simply as unapologetic country songwriting.

Crooks’ style has attracted more than just fans; the legendary Texas Tornadoes’ accordionist Flaco Jimenez made a guest appearance on their 2012 album, The Rain Will Come. American Songwriter Magazine called them “a driving piece of country noir” that same year.

10 BOB CATFANS | 09.15

Straight-up lyrics, energetic music, and lots of dancing are all part of the performance, but the greatest part is the unpredictability. Band members rotate on stage, each contributing in multiple ways, flowing on and off stage. Their songs are varied, all different, but transition seamlessly. The band creates such a buzz it’s hard to not have a good time at one of their shows.

Since 2012 Crooks has been touring and working on their new album Wildfire, now available on their website. It’s an important album for them, the first since cutting the strings of security and diving into music as a sole profession. With their ability to walk the line between preserving the outlaw sound with rock and grunge undertones, then throwing in elements of tejano and mariachi, their seat at the top of modern country is waiting. /CrooksCountry @crookscountry crookscountry.com

S T U D E N T A PA R T M E N T S

RATES STARTING AT

$699!

BRAND NEW FOR A NEW YEAR! » » » » » »

Studio, 1 & 2 BR Floor Plans Hardwood Floors Furnished & Unfurnished Homes Walk-in Closets Full-Size Washer & Dryer Included Walk/Bike/Shuttle to Texas State University

» » » » »

Amazing Pool with 3 Sun Shelves 3,000 Sq. Ft. Fitness Center Outdoor Living Areas with Flat Screen TVs Free High-Speed Internet & WiFi Cyber Café Computer Lab with PCs & Macs

» Dog Park

UptownSanMarcos.com

1354 THORPE LANE • SAN MARCOS, TEXAS 78666 • 512.667.9189 Located at the edge of campus, between Bobcat Stadium & I-35

B O B CAT FA NS | 09.15 11

BOBCATFANS | MIXOLOGY

Pass the Courvoisier @ CHANCES R Photo by: Parker Thornton

Sidecar ¾ oz Cointreau ¾ oz lemon juice 1 ½ oz Courvoisier Shake ingredients and double strain. Pour into a sugar rimmed chilled martini glass. Garnish with a lemon twist.

Changes R 138 S. LBJ (Look for the horseshoe)

12 BOB CATFANS | 09.15

Courvoisier is a brand of cognac made in France. It enjoyed a revival in popularity after Busta Rhymes’ 2002 hit song “Pass the Courvoisier, Part II”.

QUICK FACT The most expensive Sidecar in the world can be found at the Ritz Hotel in Paris and will set you back $1,670. It features a rare 1830 Ritz Reserve Cognac that survived WWII. There are only a few bottles in the world and it is made from vines harvested prior to an insect plague in the 1860s, so the grapes used to make this Cognac no longer exist.

®

Extraordinary spaces for extraordinary living.

OFFICIAL OFF-CAMPUS HOUSING PARTNER OF TEXAS STATE ATHLETICS

Apply online today at TM

RETREATSANMARCOS.COM CLOSE TO CAMPUS

F U L LY F U R N I S H E D C O T TA G E S INDIVIDUAL LIABILITY LEASES A M E N I T I E S F O R A F I T & H E A LT H Y L I F E S T Y L E A C A D E M I C A L LY O R I E N T E D E N V I R O N M E N T

You’re going to love it here.

®

Going to college at Texas State University is extraordinary—how you live it should be too. The Retreat’s fully furnished, modern living spaces feature enhanced privacy for comfort and study, amenities promoting health, fitness, and socialization, and professional onsite management.

And, we make sure you also have the resources you need to succeed. Our Academic Success Center with iMacs and free printing; group study lounge and internet access included in every unit help you stay connected to your studies — not to mention your friends and family.

SPACES FILLING FAST — APPLY NOW!

®

RETREATSANMARCOS.COM 512 Craddock Ave 512.757.8980

Where students love living.® AMERICANCAMPUS.COM

Amenities are subject to change. See office for details.

B O B CAT FA NS | 09.15 13

6

BOBCATFANS | FASHION

1

7

4 2

10 1) Marc by Marc Jacobs Olive Green Stretch Striped Patch Dress $198

11

marcjacobs.com

5

PEAK INTO FASHION WEEK | Styled by: Kristen Sowell |

In September, the greatest designers in the world flock to New York to showcase the upcoming pieces from their collections. Shop these designer fashions for your own fresh, offthe-runway look!

BUDA'S OUTDOOR BIERGARTEN! Joyfully serving comfort food, craft beer, cocktails, and wine.

2) J. Crew Boyshirt in Geo Brushstroke $98.00 jcrew.com

3) Lacoste Colorblock Wool Sweater, Ocean/Vanilla $155.00 lacoste.com

4) Banana Republic Factory Soft Pant $39.99 bananarepublic.com

5) Rag & Bone Shaw Mule Wedge Heels $250 rag-bone.com

6) Kate Spade Cat’s Meow Mouse Bag $278 katespade.com

9

3

7) Rag & Bone Floppy Brim Fedora- Olive $135 rag-bone.com

8) Tommy Hilfiger Serape Bangle $39 tommyhilfiger.com

9) Kate Spade New York Rumsey Watch $125 zappos.com

ARCADE • PARTY ROOMS • FREE LIVE MUSIC • OUTDOOR LASER TAG

www.pinballzkingdom.com 15201 S. IH-35 • BUDA, TX 512- 523-4080

10 MIN. NORTH Exit 220 on IH35

14 BOB CATFANS | 09.15

10) Calvin Klein Deep Red Pilot Colorthin Sunglasses $155

8

calvinklein.com

11) Nicole Miller Ombré Chain Fringe Earrings $13 jcpenny.com

| Words & Photos Eric Morales |

BOBCATFANS | FOOTBALL

“WE HAVE TO LEAVE NO DOUBT, WE’VE GOT TO WIN MORE GAMES.” -COACH FRAN

THE BOBCATS JUMPED FROM 64.3 PLAYS A GAME TO 76.7, AN UNDERLYING CAUSE FOR THE OFFENSE’S SUBSTANTIAL IMPROVEMENT.

Aerial photo by Russell Wilde

2015 FOOTBALL PREVIEW

SUNBELT BOWLS CAMELLIA BOWL (MONTGOMERY, ALABAMA)

| By Steven Ryan | Photos Luciano Guerra |

CURE BOWL (ORLANDO, FLORIDA)

To bowl or not to bowl?

That is the question.

The Texas State Bobcats fell just short of their ultimate goal last season despite finishing with a 7-5 record, a mark that usually warrants a bowl invitation. It was the second straight year Texas State was bowl eligible but not picked for a game.

To say the Bobcats were snubbed would be fair, but head coach Dennis Franchione isn’t making any excuses.

“What that means next time is that we have to leave no doubt,” Franchione told the San Antonio-Express News last December. “We’ve got to win more games.”

With the way things have been going, Texas State might do just that. The Bobcats have improved every season since joining the Football Bowl Subdivision (college football’s highest level of play) in 2012. They’ll look to continue on that trajectory in 2015 with an offense that could be one of the best in the state. Led by dual-threat quarterback Tyler Jones and a pair of bruising running backs in seniors Robert Lowe and Chris Nutall, Texas State’s up-tempo attack will be tough to stop this fall.

Last year’s unit improved across the board, going from 23.9 points per game to 33.8, 326.3 yards per game to 464.3, and 5.1 yards per play to 6.1. With seven returning

16 BOB CATFANS | 09.15

GODADDY BOWL (MOBILE, ALABAMA) NEW ORLEANS BOWL (NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA)

RETURNING BOBCATS WHO MADE ALL-SUN BELT CONFERENCE LAST SEASON DAVID MIMS, SR.

starters on that side of the ball, don’t expect those numbers to go back down.

Franchione revamped the offense last spring by putting an emphasis on speeding up the tempo and running more plays. The Bobcats jumped from 64.3 plays a game to 76.7, an underlying cause for the offense’s substantial improvement.

“The balance we had was great,” Franchione told the San Marcos Daily Record. “I felt like the plan we devised in the offseason was a good one. The numbers seem to bear that out.”

(1ST TEAM DB)

ADRIAN BELLARD, SR. (2ND TEAM OL)

TYLER JONES, JR. (HONORABLE MENTION QB)

ROBERT LOWE, SR. (HONORABLE MENTION RB)

RYAN MELTON, JR. (HONORABLE MENTION OL) C.J. BEST, SR. (NEWCOMER TEAM WR)

The Bobcats kickoff the season with a treacherous opener against three-time national champion Florida State on the road, but return to San Marcos the following week for the first home game at Bobcat Stadium against Prairie View A&M on Sept. 12.

2014 Bobcat Stadium Flyover vs. Navy

NOT BOBCATFANS HAPPY WITH |YOUR HOUSING? BACKSTAGE

Immediate move-ins available.

VISTAS SAN MARCOS

Apply online today at

AMERICANCAMPUS.COM F O R M E R LY S M S T U D E N T H O U S I N G . C O M

BISHOPS SQUARE

SANCTUARY LOFTS

College communities to fit your lifestyle, & your budget. All just steps to campus.

• • • • • • •

Great locations to campus Fully furnished apartments, townhomes & cottages available Amenities for a fit & healthy lifestyle Academically-oriented environments Professional, on-site management & maintenance Individual liability leases Roommate matching available

SAVE UP TO $300 WITH REDUCED FEES

THE RETREAT O F F IC IA L S T U DE N T H O U S IN G P A R T NER O F T E X A S S T A T E A T H L E T IC S

Where students love living. ®

B O B CAT FA NS | 09.15 17

Fees & amenities subject to change. Limited time only. See office for details.

“He made the offense so easy to understand.”

Thomas Keresztury Offensive lineman

“I don’t want people to think of our season as a high point, but rather a turning point for Texas State Football. “

Barrick Nealy, Quarterback

Randy Moshier, Tight End

Students rush the field after winning their first SLC Championship.

David Simmons Linebacker

SHOW ’EM STATE!

The Team Who Played To Be Remembered And Changed A University.

By Rick Koch

The crowds aren’t roaring as a 100 year old university plays its first season under a new name. It’s the birth year of “Texas State Football” and a group former Bobcat tight ends, unceremoniously dismissed because the new head coach’s offensive scheme didn’t require their services, are in the stands booing and heckling. Not the opposing team, but TXST’s new starting quarterback.

It’s 2003 and change is in the air at the newly named Texas State University. Long gone are the glory days of Bobcat Football’s ’81 & ’82 Division II National Championships under legendary coach Jim Wacker. The newly minted university president hires a new coach, Manny Matsakis, from the Texas Tech staff to lead an ailing football program into a new era.

The Division I-AA Bobcats haven’t sniffed a conference title since moving up from D-2 nearly two decades earlier. Saying past crowd attendance was abysmal is an understatement. Bobcat Stadium had bigger crowds on Friday nights when the local San Marcos High Rattlers commanded the gridiron. Saturday’s SWT crowd often consisted of the band, Strutters and players’ parents. The 90’s and early 00’s were the low point and apathy was at an all time high.

As it turned out, Matsakis had a flair for creating buzz, holding marketing strategy 18 BOB CATFANS | 09.15

Photos Eric Morales and Don Anders

meetings every week with his staff during the off season with the goal of packing 15,000 seat Bobcat Stadium.

Seizing on the opportunity to piggy back with the momentum of a university name change, the coach held a vote in the quad on a new logo for the helmets. Annotated as the “Supercat”, the new Bobcat logo is a far cry from the steroid injected cartoon Bobcat of the 90’s. With “SWT” on its way to the history books, Matsakis’ new Supercat logo was at the right place at the right time.

Unfortunately for Matsakis, his antics and flair for drama were short lived. Garnering press in the Austin-American Statesman by having his staff walk on hot coals couldn’t save his position when losses mounted and allegations of recruiting violations courtesy of the University of Houston began to fester.

The ’Cats finished the 2003 season 4-8 (1-4 in conference) and Matsakis and the Athletic Director were given their walking papers.

In his place, on February 5, 2004, Texas State hired alumnus, former player and Jim Wacker disciple David Bailiff, a larger than life coach who commanded a room, could make you feel as if he’d known you for years, and was what his past players commonly referred to as a players’ coach.

Bailiff immediately brought back use of the Tight End position. Randy Moshier was on the squad two years earlier when told he and his fellow tight ends were no longer needed un-

der Matsakis’ high flying offense. Disgruntled and admittedly jealous, the dismissed players watched the Bobcats from the stands during the 2003 season, unabashedly heckling Matsakis’ quarterback recruit Barrick Nealy.

A year later, Moshier got a call from Bailiff’s staff asking him to return. He took the bait and to this day is one of Nealy’s best friends.

The 2004 schedule was one of the most challenging in Division I-AA. It included Big 12 opponent Baylor and five teams ranked in the division’s top 25. The team posted a 5-6 record in Bailiff’s first year, falling just short of the school’s first winning season since 2000. Highlights included snapping a 17-game road losing streak and heading into the final game still in contention for a conference championship.

When the team traveled to Boone, North Carolina to face perennial power Appalachian State that year, it clicked for Moshier just how good this team could be. On the road they went toe-to-toe with a Division I-AA football juggernaut and lost a squeaker 41-34. That’s when he knew the team was a force to be reckoned with. Expectations for 2005 grew for a team that would return to the field with 27 seniors.

The last missing piece came when Tom Herman, now Houston’s head coach, joined the coaching staff in 2005. According to Barrick Nealy, Herman made the offense all come together. “He made the offense so easy to understand.” This despite the fact Herman had no experience for the position he was hired for.

Tom Herman Now head football coach at U of H

”I think I learned a lot from osmosis,” Herman told Bruce Feldman of Fox Sports recently. ”I’d never coached quarterbacks and never called plays a day in my life. David Bailiff hired me and we go 11-3, and Barrick Nealy breaks all kinds of QB records. I grinded.

I got my hands on every drill tape I could. I went to clinics. Every brain I could pick, I picked. And I wasn’t too proud to ask the kids.”

The school’s 2006 Football Media Guide describes the aura that fell over Bobcat Stadium in 2005 as akin to a heavy morning fog that sometimes settles on the valleys of the Texas Hill Country. If by heavy fog they mean dense fan passion, then yes, what happened that season was unlike anything witnessed in decades, if ever.

Fans became believers, and expectations from the cheering section built when, in week 3, the Bobcats traveled to Kyle Field to face Texas A&M. Due to Hurricane Rita’s impending arrival the game was moved up from Saturday to Thursday night. Aggie ticket holders weren’t going to get a chance to see the game so Fox Sports obliged to air the game regionally. Despite the 13 point Texas A&M win, the Bobcats gave the Aggies almost more than they could handle.. Barrick Nealy threw for nearly 400 yards and led a dynamic team to the greatest moral victory in school history.

It was a game that is still talked about, and most casual sports fans often mistake it as the time Texas State beat Texas A&M. Texas State won nine straight home games to claim their first Southland Conference football title after nearly 20 years of membership. Fans filled the stands, setting four of the top 10 all-time attendance records, two coming in back-to-back sellouts for the first time in school history. All three home playoff

Special Champions Edition

Tuesday, November 22, 2005

FINALLY!

GREAT LOCATIONS

University Star special addition

games were broadcast nationally on ESPN2 and tailgating started on Friday night. The atmosphere was electric. Tickets to the home playoff games were scalped on Weekend of Champions eBay for quadruple their face value.

IS NOW HIRING!

Adam D. Brown/Star photo

Inside: Volleyball brings home SLC title; Women’s basketball KO’s OK State in season opener

The magical 2005 national championship run came to an end on a cold night in December with a heartbreaking overtime loss to Northern Iowa. The Bobcats were one game away from playing familiar foe Appalachian State in a rematch on a neutral field for the national championship.

The team that wanted to be remembered did more than that.

In their wake they changed the school’s athletic landscape. The excitement generated from the monumental run where fans young and old rushed the field on three separate occasions didn’t end there. Student body presidents ran on platforms dedicated to Texas State becoming a Division I/FBS athletic program. New stadium seating and luxury boxes were erected along with new expectations for the future.

• Both Full And Part Time Positions Available • Fun And Creative Work Environment

• Advancement Opportunities •

Flexible Schedules

• Aggressive Pay

Call 512-553-8788 for more information, and to apply

Randy Moshier put it best when he said, “I don’t want people to think of our season as a high point, but rather a turning point for Texas State Football. If in ten more years you don’t see our school accomplishing greater things on the field, then we as a team didn’t do as much as I’d hoped.”

B O B CAT FA NS | 09.15 19

"Each year it got more elaborate until I got to where I am now."

THe Pro man

Landon Cole

@landoid

s n a F r e p u s

Photos: Eric Morales

S WAIT ALL THESE FAN

AME DAY A

WEEK FOR G

of 2015, and I duated in May arine Corps ra g I , TX n to the M easan I’m 27, from Pl inal Justice. I was also in e. m at ri St C s in xa d e to Te majore s before I cam us for four year Can you give

eatest thing What’s the gr s have you ar otball? ye Fo y at an bc m How about Bo ST TX r fo out Bobcat up ab g been dressin The greatest thing and fast ch mu w ho ? is games Football , but ars ye past few r fou the all er I dressed up we’ve grown ov grow. re elaborate to mo e t nu go it nti ar co d ye each years an I w. no a bigger am I g ttin ere ge until I got to wh Moving to FBS, resemble g and to itin ru tfit ou rec r my tte be led mode stadium, t. tha to rodeo clowns. coaching all add

20 BOB CATFANS | 09.15

T AT WHAT

E THE BES ND THEY AR

g tips? some tailgatin your favorite ve ha You have to classic tailgate drink and some ple with a good sim it food. Keep . After you get a burger or hotdog , start playing wn do s couple drink le ho or throwing washers or corn it’s time to walk en a football. Th getting all the around and start re’s a lot of free the d free stuff. An collection of free stuff. I have a big . irts sh d koozies an

THEY DO

"it takes more thAn a little paint to be a Bobcat Fan. you have to have a little crazy in you."�

New to the game Cody Coburn

@codycoburn64

a Fe, Texas.

I am from a small town called Sant struction Con I am an electrician, majoring in agement.

Man & nce Scie What’s the greatest thing about Bobcat Football?

The energy that each and every student has when there is a touchdown

How many years have you been dressing up for TXST games?

Last year was my first year

What is the best moment of a game day for you?

Kickoff, for sure.

Eat ‘em Up Cats!

How long does it take you to get ready?

It takes about 40 minutes to get completely painted and to let the paint dry out a bit.

Can you give us some tailgating tips?

If you tailgate bring friends, water, and lots of energy!

(Be sure to rest beforehand) B O B CAT FA NS | 09.15 21

e c a f " h The "o r

Austin Hunte

@ahunter27t

I am a semi-pro kart ra cin well as a delivery drive g driver from Houston as r for Erberts and Gerb erts.

How many

years have you been dressing up for TXST games?

I have been dressing up for 2 years.

Joining the Loud Crowd help ed me find others passionate about TXST and helped me let my fand om out!

How long does it tak e you to get ready?

About 30 minutes

"With football being so big in Texas you know everyone will be at the game".

lo

22 BOB CATFANS | 09.15

What is the best mome nt of a game day for you?

When the entire stadium is yelling OHHH TXST on opening kick off

I’m majoring in I’m from Conroe, TX. tion. Right now I Healthcare Administra rts and outdoors work for Academy Spo a discount on Texas which is great to get State apparel.

The Proud Sandy DiBato

What’s the greatest thin g about Bobcat Football?

That we are an unknown. I love that we get to shock people on a yea rly basis.

@sdibartolo

e How many years hav up ing ess dr n you bee for TXST games? r.

Going into my third yea take How long does it ? dy rea t ge to u yo I About 30 minutes before get n the ate tailg to out go That’s painted up at tailgate.

I’ve rs hou the ing lud inc not put into multiple pairs of s I’ve painted shoes and tutu me. and nds frie made for my What’s the greatest thing about Bobcat Football? er.

Everyone coming togeth big in With football being so ne will Texas you know everyo be at the game.

What is the best day moment of a game u? for yo Tailgating is a lot of fun ne, hanging out with everyo but kickoff has to top nt everything. The mome ne the game starts everyo . ted uni and ped is so pum me Can you give us so s? tip ng ati lg tai Loud crowd (@ o TXSTLoudCrowd) is wh We h. wit ate I always tailg drinks always have food and We s. tos bag n with the bea the see we e onc und aro lk wa the all get to full parking lot is free stuff.

"Who doesn’t like seeing your professors getting drunk tailgating with their students!?"

e c a f e m a G Taylor Ladika

@taylorladika

st a p s n a f r e p su

I was born around till in San Jose, Californ ia m I keep myse y family found hom and moved lf busy jug e in Boern manager at e, g San Marvelo ling a few jobs, the Texas.

Leija Battah st ore u s, a s a Promo Promotion Model wit computer s a n d h m ore. My ma science an jor is d a minor in How many Culinary A years rts.

State pride. have

you been dressing up for TXST games ?

I moved to Sa n Marcos, TX over a year and a half ag o and have been dr essing up for Texas State games ever sin ce!!

How long does it take you to get ready?

I’m a girl, of co urse, so I like to take m y time to show som e Texas

To get fully dressed, fresh out of the shower, ab out 3045 minutes. Th e time doesn’t matte r when you are pre ga ming!

What is the best moment o f a game day for yo u?

The tension be tween rivals before kic koff would probab ly be the best moment

Can you g ive us some tailg ating tips?

1. Don’t forget to hydrate

2. Always mak e sure to show your Bo bcat Spirit 3. Have the tim e of your life, we are in college and these are the best years of our liv es

B O B CAT FA NS | 09.15 23

2015

BOBCAT FOOTBALL Sep. 5 Sep. 12 Sep. 19 Sep. 26 Oct. 10 Oct. 24 Oct. 29 Nov. 7 Nov. 14 Nov. 19 Nov. 28 Dec. 5

at Florida State Prairie View A&M Southern Miss at Houston at UL-Lafayette South Alabama at Georgia Southern New Mexico State Georgia State UL-Monroe at Idaho at Arkansas State

2014 Sellout Crowd vs. NAVY Photo by Russell Wilde

Tallahassee, FL San Marcos San Marcos Houston, TX Lafayette, LA San Marcos Statesboro, GA San Marcos San Marcos San Marcos Moscow, ID Jonesboro, AR

7 pm 6 pm 6 pm TBA TBA TBA 6:30 pm TBA TBA 8:30 pm TBA 4 pm

ESPNews ESPN3 ESPN3

ESPNU

ESPNU

FLIP BACK TO

BOBCATFANS

FLIP TO

SMTX

TEN WAYS TO GET OUT AND HAVE FAMILY FUN ON A BUDGET TOP FUN WITHOUT BREAKING THE BANK

MEET &GREET

San Marcos

KAYAKING FOR GOLD

SEPTEMBER | 2015

SMTXMAGAZINE.COM

3

LOUNGE

R B E A L E

C

TE

10

22

Contents | SEPTEMBER 2015 |

YEARS $10 BOWLS ALL MONTH LONG

SMTX

BOBCATFANS

6. WHAT’S NEW

8. WAKEBOARDING

8. WEEKENDS

10. CROOKS

10. GRACE PARK

12. CHANCES R

12. KAYAKING

14. FASHION WEEK

14. FAMILY FUN

16. FOOTBALL PREVIEW

22. MEET & GREET

18. REMEMBERED 20. SUPERFANS

October 2015

24. POSTER

PUFF PUFF PASSIN’ SINCE 2005

smtxmagazine.com

#AfterpartySMTX 'til 4AM Every Fri/Sat Night

@smtxmag smtxmag

Downtown #SMTX • 512-393-5001 • @TheStratLounge SMTXMAGAZINE.COM

4

bobcatfans.com @bobcatfans bobcatfans

SMTXMAGAZINE.COM

5

YOUR TOWN

WHAT’S NEW SMTX NEW BUSINESSES IN THE SAN MARCOS AREA ENTERTAINMENT

RETAIL

BEAUTY

FOOD

EDUCATION

THUMBS

UP & DOWN Jobs San Marcos City Council voted 7-0 to offer tax incentives in hopes of attracting a distribution warehouse for Amazon. Should the company choose the city, as many as 350 jobs would be created.

The Kiss Texas State made national headlines when Physics faculty members Donald Olson & Russell Doescher used scale models, mirrors and picture shadows to determine the famous V-J Day photo of a sailor and woman kissing in Times Square was taken at 5:51 PM on August 14, 1945. The findings discredited several people who claimed to be the unknown sailor and woman in the photo.

FROZEN CAVE Cool treats are a must to survive a Central Texas summer! The Cave will cool you off with gelato, frozen yogurt and other dessert-type yummies.

700 N. LBJ Drive Suite 104, San Marcos | 512-392-4410 THE PARLOUR SALON Same shopping center as Frozen Cave, different services. A new unisex salon close by the Texas State campus. Haircuts starting at $25 with mani/ pedi, waxing and other services also available.

700 N. LBJ Drive Suite 110-C, San Marcos | 210-861-5579 THE WATER TREE One filter on a tap won’t do! The Water Tree specializes in natural alkaline antioxidant water.

Buy individual bottles for a dollar a gallon, get a filtered showerhead for your bathroom or a system for your entire house.

6160 Jack C. Hays Trail, Kyle | 512-931-1512

ALTMEYER & LEWIS BREWING COMPANY Making good clean beer everyone will enjoy is the mantra for this new production brewery set to open soon. The core beers include The Traditional, Prince Albert bock, Texas Red and one called Ringer IPA. Tours will be available on Saturdays, taps will be open Thursday-Saturday nights and live music will also be offered.

15898 Texas Highway 123, San Marcos RAISING CANE’S CHICKEN FINGERS Why should wings get all the specialty plugs?

Chicken fingers want to get in on the action too!

This chain restaurant opens in October in the old Arby’s location with chicken fingers and sandwiches, fries, cole slaw, fresh squeezed lemonade and sweet tea.

928 Highway 80, San Marcos | 866-552-2637 LONE STAR DELIGHTS Lone Star Kettle Corn is a featured attraction at outdoor events throughout the area. The sweet, fresh popcorn is now available at a stand-alone site, along with gourmet fruit ices and coffee.

Three flavors of kettle corn available starting at just $3.

108 S. Front Street, Kyle | 817-905-8327

BUSINESS NEW IN TOWN? LET US KNOW info@smtxmagazine.com SMTXMAGAZINE.COM

6

Water We Got it The latest US Drought Monitor Report shows that almost 98% of the Lone Star State is no longer considered to be in drought conditions, the best percentage in

No Bull!

There’s no shortage of bull heard on the Texas State campus, whether it be from students or professors. Still, that doesn’t mean REAL bulls are welcome.

A runaway bull spent about 15 minutes wandering the western part of the campus July 22nd before being captured and returned to his owner, who didn’t even know it was missing until he read about it on his Twitter timeline.

10-15-2015

WHY WAIT?

SAN MARCOS’ ONLY FREESTANDING

EMERGENCY ROOM! WE STRIVE TO ELIMINATE ALL WAIT TIME, UNLIKE THE AVERAGE HOSPITAL EMERGENCY ROOM!

SMTXMAGAZINE.COM

7

WEEKEND HAPPENINGS | SEPTEMBER | HAND-PICKED CENTRAL TEXAS EVENTS

FRIDAY, 4TH – SUNDAY, 6TH FAMILY:

LEGO KIDSFEST

WEEK

1

Interactive LEGO extravaganza featuring life-sized LEGO models, the biggest pile of LEGO bricks you will ever see, LEGO & DUPLO construction areas, building & racing competitions, & classes from Master builders.

Friday through Sunday at Austin Convention Center, $22.50 adults/$19.50 children, legokidsfest.com

BBQ:

HILL COUNTRY BBQ & CHILI COOK-OFF

This BBQ and chili cook-off awards thousands of dollars in prize money and is a qualifier for a national BBQ competition. The event also features a car show and food & craft vendors. Friday & Saturday at Texas Music Park, New Braunfels, Free to the public, lonestarbarbecue.com

FESTIVAL:

THEATRE:

Three day campout music festival in a natural amphitheater. Limited tickets sold resulting a rare, no lines, no crowds, family friendly music festival. Bring your own food, drinks, and camping gear.

Saturday & Sunday at Four Sister Ranch, Utopia, $169+, utopiafest.com

A musical under the stars.

Awarded best local musical in 2014, this year’s EmilyAnn musical is a local adaptation of the long-running 70’s stage show. Friday through Sunday at EmilyAnn Theatre, Wimberley, $15, emilyann.org

UTOPIAFEST

FRIDAY, 11TH – SUNDAY, 13TH

SPORTS:

TXST FOOTBALL

WEEK

2

Bobcat football home opener against Prairie View A&M. Saturday at Bobcat Stadium, San Marcos, $15+, txstatebobcats.com

ENTERTAINMENT:

RODEO

40 Professional Bull Riders compete at the annual Fredericksburg PBR. Saturday at Gillespie County Fair Grounds, Fredericksburg, $20+, gillespiefair.net/pbr

SHOPPING:

ART SQUARED

Local artisans exhibit and sell their work. Live music in the afternoon. Saturday at San Marcos square, Free, artsquaredsmtx.com

GODSPELL

WINE:

DRIPPING WITH TASTE WINE & FOOD FESTIVAL

Over 30 local wineries & breweries, cooking & cocktail demonstrations, distillery tasting room, grape stomping, cigar room, 40 food and craft vendors, live music, door prizes, and people’s choice voting.

Saturday at Dripping Springs Ranch Park, $40 advance/$50 at the door, destinationdrippingsprings.com

FRIDAY, 18TH – SUNDAY, 20TH SPORTS

JUNIOR TEXAS WATER SAFARI

WEEK

3

Canoe & kayak race from San Marcos City Park to the bridge at Staples, the first 16 miles of Texas Water Safari course. Unlike the marathon of the 260-mile long Texas Water Safari, this is a sprint race with a 3 hour cut-off. Saturday at San Marcos City Park, $25, texaswatersafari.org

FESTIVAL:

TEXAS MEADFEST

Taste mead (honey wine) from 8 different Texas meaderies/ wineries, food vendors, live music, amateur homebrew mead competition, and honey tastings. Tickets include a souvenir wine glass and 8 tasting tickets. Saturday at Rockin’ R, New Braunfels, $20 in advance, texasmead.org

COMMUNITY

CLASSIC CAR CRUISE IN NIGHT

An outdoor party with burgers and live music, and free admission to the Classic Car Museum. Saturday at Dick’s Classic Garage, San Marcos, Free, dicksclassicgarage.com

FRIDAY, 25TH -SUNDAY, 27TH

WEEK

4

FESTIVAL: COMAL COUNTY FAIR & RODEO Carnival, rodeo, bull riding, live music, exhibits, kids’ activities, baby barnyard, food vendors, and more. Friday through Sunday at Comal County Fair Grounds, New Braunfels, $7 adults/$3 children, comalcountyfair.org

FESTIVAL: FAJITA FIESTA Competitive cookers compete in categories from fajitas to margaritas while spectators enjoy live music, food booths, games, a jalapeno eating contest, mariachi groups, and arts & crafts vendors. Friday & Saturday at Buda City Park, Free, budachambertx.com/ fajita-fiesta SMTXMAGAZINE.COM

8

SPORTS: SPRING LAKE TRIATHALON A rare privilege to swim in the protected Spring Lake at the Meadows Center is offered during this triathlon. 500 meters swim, 14 mile bike, 5k run. Saturday at the Meadows Center, San Marcos, $85, rotarysanmarcos.com/rotarytri.html

SPORTS:

TXST FOOTBALL

Bobcat football against Southern Miss. Saturday at Bobcat Stadium, San Marcos, $15+, txstatebobcats.com

EDUCATION: LITERATURE FAIR Meet Mexican-American children’s books authors and illustrators, watch performances, and participate in family activities. Saturday at San Marcos Public Library & San Marcos Activity Center, Free, riverabookaward.org

CENTRAL TEXAS CONCERT CALENDAR SEPTEMBER 2

KYLE PARK Country The Marc, San Marcos SEPTEMBER 4

READER FEEDBACK ASAP FERG Hip Hop The Marc, San Marcos SEPTEMBER 5

BRETT BARROW Americana/Jazz Wake the Dead Coffee House, San Marcos CHASCA Rock Stonewall Warehouse, San Marcos BOB CHEEVERS Americana Tavern on Main, Buda BIG SEAN Hip Hop Whitewater Amphitheater, New Braunfels SEPTEMBER 8

THE O’S Americana Cheatham Street Warehouse, San Marcos Ellen Ygnacio @MrsYgnacio SEPTEMBER 9 @smtxmag The buffalo kahuna at THE DEER the big kahuna Folk is the Taxi’s Piano San Marcos #smtxbestburger and ofBar, course the original big kahuna burger!

SEPTEMBER 18

CODY BRYAN BAND Country Cheatham Street Warehouse, San Marcos DEAD TREE DUO Aggressive Acoustic Superfly’s Music Emporium, San Marcos SEPTEMBER 20

BELIEVING FOR BRYLEIGH BENEFIT CONCERT Various Texas Country Music Pour Haus, New Braunfels SEPTEMBER 23

CHRIS KNIGHT

John Salazar Folk Rock

@_johnsalazar River Road Ice House, New Braunfels @SMTXmag Cheeseburger at Cafe on SEPTEMBER the Square 25 B.B. LEE 3 Blues Pinballz Kingdom, Buda

Cody K Day

THOM SHEPHERD @CodyKaes Country @SMTXmag Mercer#SMTXBestBurger?

Dance Hall, Dripping Springs - Is this even a real question?

SEPTEMBER 26 Taproom!! @TaproomTX LEON RUSSELL Rock & Roll Gruene Hall, New Braunfels LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK info@smtxmagazine.com SMTXMAGAZINE.COM

9

LOCAL ARTIST

ON BEING AN ARTIST They don’t call it starving artist for nothing.

Society makes you earn it. If you love it, you bleed for it. You starve for it.”

Most of Park’s designs end up on cut paper, because that’s how she visualizes them early in her process. She uses India inks, graphic tools, and also works with stained glass. As you can see, much of her inspiration comes from animals and from life. “[I’ve done] art since I was a little kid, and started doing it professionally when people started paying me for it,” said Park.

At age 25, just before getting married, she had her first local art show at Tantra Coffeehouse and sold out. Her success eventually led her to become Tantra’s art curator.

Making a living in a small town is challenging. Making a living anywhere as an artist is nearly impossible. Park credits having a great support system of family and friends, and she was able to scrape by as a starving artist. Her devotion has since paid off.

“It’s been great. I don’t really have to advertise, and I have more work than I can actually finish right now. Luckily, people are really patient with me,” she said graciously. “I work on commission and I do branding and logos as well,” she laughs. “It pays more than the music, that’s for sure.”

Her last regular job was being a barista.

“Art and music were always more important, and I realized that everybody does something for eight hours a day. I need to put forth the time, get a repertoire together, get a portfolio and I can do this!”

“I still live by meager means, but it’s enough for me.”

Artist Spotlight: Grace Park

By Eric Morales

Park arrived at Texas State University in 2008. When she finished her degree she traveled and toured as a musician, landing back in Austin, but eventually came back to the beauty of San Marcos.

Photos Eric Morales

Talented San Marcos Artist-Musician moving from starving to successful

“I find a lot of peace in the pace of life here,” she said. “I still go to Austin a few times a week to play shows and for band practice, but I always get to come back here to reset.”

When asked about any advice for artists beginning their path, Park said: “Keep making it! They don’t call it starving artist for nothing. Society makes you earn it. If you love it, you bleed for it. You starve for it.”

If you haven’t already given yourself a chance to become completely enamored by the delicate, yet powerful voice that the multi-talented Grace Park commands, do so soon. But for the moment, focus your attention right here, on what you can see.

“I still live by meager means, but it’s enough for me.”

There is a definite playfulness to be found in Park’s work. At the surface her work may seem simple, almost cute in some cases. It is when you look closely that the details of her intricate world begin to tell unfathomable stories, filled with a profound beauty. But, don’t take my word for it. See it for yourself. Park’s work is on display at The Root Cellar through August.

SMTXMAGAZINE.COM

10

SMTXMAGAZINE.COM

11

ON THE RIVER BEN KVANLI’S CANOE/KAYAK HONORS -Olympian in 1996 -Extreme Kayak World Champion in 2001 -5th in Pan American Championships 2005 -US National Champion 2005 & 2008

“Once you get them into a kayak and they become more and more comfortable, it’s like a new person emerges.”

Kayaking For Gold

By Heather Yzaguirre | Photos Travis Emery

When lounging on Bikini Hill or floating aimlessly at the will of the current aren’t enough, adventure awaits you at the Olympic Outdoor Center.

Sitting on the riverbank east of Rio Vista is the greatest resource for stand up paddleboards and kayaks in the area.

The term resource is used intentionally here, because Olympic Outdoor Center doesn’t just rent equipment. The same team that trains Junior Olympic and Paralympic athletes year round offers beginners instruction on the very same waters.

Ben Kvanli is the world-class expert whitewater kayaker and ACA whitewater instructor who founded the center in 1994 as the Red River Race Team, a non-profit offering classes and competitions. He represented Guatemala at the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta, placing 33rd out of 44 in the final standings.

After competing in the Olympics he developed a program to train hopeful Junior Canoe and Kayak Olympians, becoming an official U.S. Olympic training site in 2007. Athletes train year round, competing for the chance to represent Team USA at Olympic and World Cup events. An annual summer camp introduces kids to the world of kayaking, teaching them how to develop a powerful paddle, safety guidelines like how to roll over safely, and a passion for kayaking that will last a lifetime.

The center also founded Veterans Adventure, a chapter of Team River Runner, an organization that provides paddle instruction to war veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan as part of their physical therapy. “Once you get them into

a kayak and they become more and more comfortable, it’s like a new person emerges,” Kvanli explained.

The Memorial Day flood was a huge wakeup call for the center, which has endured 3 major floods since the land was bought in 2001.

According to Kvanli, “We live in a different world now, you know, and I think the city needs to make a decision on whether we’re going to protect this side of town, or just let it go.”

Directly behind his property is the massive 306-apartment, 1,000-bedroom complex that’s been highly controversial since plans were introduced in 2012.

However, Kvanli had high praise for the drainage system they built.

It prevented both rivers from rising simultaneously by pushing the water in a single direction. That made all the difference not just for the apartments, but for the surrounding neighborhood as well.

If you take a kayak out to the eastern part of the river – and beware, tubing is prohibited in this area – you’ll have to dodge debris, navi-

SMTXMAGAZINE.COM

12

gate around overgrown brush and duck unkempt trees and vines.

The water is teeming with turtles and wildlife, and it feels like a different world.

Look up into the massive Cyprus trees and you’ll still see stark reminders of the flood. “You can see 17-18 feet in the trees there’s debris from the flood sitting there, that’s how high the water got out here,” said Kvanli.

He isn’t discouraged by the flood, but uses it as motivation to envision the next step in the Olympic Outdoor Center, which continues to grow, encompassing a wider variety of specialties. He hopes the city continues its immense growth while maintaining its identity, which the Olympic Outdoor Center is symbolic of.

The Olympic Outdoor Center rents out kayak and stand-up paddleboard equipment by the half and full day with monthly memberships for locals. More importantly, they offer expertise, instruction and knowledge of the local rivers in a fun and friendly way.

SMTXMAGAZINE.COM

13

by Katelyn Fagan

1. San Marcos Public Library

Story time, crafts, LEGO mania, movies, yoga and puppet shows. The San Marcos Public Library is a great place to take your children all year round as they constantly offer great free events for yourself, your kids and the whole family, not to mention free book, movie and audio rentals.

Free for all ages.

Open 9am-9pm Monday-Thursday; 9am-6pm Friday; 10am-6pm Saturday; 1pm-6pm Sunday 625 E Hopkins St., San Marcos

2. The Meadows Center

If your children love nature, the free aquarium at the Meadows Center offers an educational look at native aquarium animals. After visiting the aquarium discover more about the local ecosystem with the glass bottom boat tours, and guided (or unguided) tours on the Wetlands Boardwalk.

Free Entrance $9.75 adults; $8 Seniors (62+); $6 Kids (over 2) for Glass Bottom Tour. Groupon specials often available.

Open daily from 9:30am-5pm 6601 University Drive, San Marcos meadowscenter.txstate.edu

3. McKenna Children’s Museum

Perfect for babies through early grade school, the McKenna Children’s museum is a great place for families to come pretend, explore, learn, and play.

$7.50 per person. Children under 12 months are free.

Groupon specials often available.

Open Daily 10 am – 5 pm. Closed Sunday.

801 W. San Antonio St, New Braunfels mckennakids.org

4. Cabela’s

Not only is this a great place to shop for just about every sporting good you’ll ever need, it’s a great free place to visit as a family. With an aquarium full of huge live fish, turtles, and eels, along with stuffed wildlife animals and birds displayed throughout the store and a large animal gallery, Cabela’s is the great free “zoo”.

Free for all ages Open 9am-9pm Monday through Saturday and 9am-7pm on Sunday 15570 S IH 35 Frontage R, Buda cabelas.com

SMTXMAGAZINE.COM

14

5. Wonder World Park

Open every day of the week, Wonder World Park offers a guided tour of the earthquakeformed Wonder Cave, the 190 foot high Tejas Observation Tower, an Anti-Gravity House, a train ride, and even a petting park in a package deal. Print a discount coupon online before your visit for $3 off before 11am or $2 off after 11am, good for up to six people.

$22.95 Adult; $14.95 Seniors 65+; $15.95 Kids 6-12; $8.50 Kids 3-5; Military discounts offered.

Open 8am-8pm Everyday 1000 Prospect St., San Marcos wonderworldpark.com

6. Parks and Rivers

This area is blessed with a multitude of great parks and rivers. Fischer Park in New Braunfels offers fishing ponds, over two miles of trails, playgrounds, and a free sprayground. Landa Park in New Braunfels features 51 acres of outdoor fun with walking trails, a miniature train, paddleboats, swimming, and multiple playgrounds. Then there are the clear warm waters of the San Marcos River which is always free to splash and swim, tube, kayak, and paddleboat in. You can rent tubes at the Lions Club or fill up your own for free at HEB.

7. Central Texas Wing of the Commemorative Air Force

What kid doesn’t love airplanes? For the flight enthusiasts in your family, a visit to the Central Texas Wing is a must! With free admission (suggested $3 donation) you can go on guided tours and even go inside classic WWII airplanes.

No Entry Fee. $3 recommended donation.

Tours and events may be extra.

Open 9am-4pm Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday 1841 Airport Dr. Building 2249, San Marcos cafcentex.com

8. Spring Loaded Trampoline Park

For kids 6 and up, Spring Loaded in New Braunfels offers two hours or more of trampoline fun! They frequently offer discounts and deals, as well as smaller time slots to play in for less. $12/2hr session; $20 All Day pass; or $8/1hr session; $6/30min Monday-Thursday $15/2hr sessions; $30 All Day pass; or $10/1hr; $8/30 min Friday through Sunday Open 10am-9pm M-S (Summer) 11am5pm Sundays. Sessions begin on odd hours.

6700 North IH 35, New Braunfels springloadedparks.com

9. Pinballz Kingdom

This is a great place for some tactical laser tag, arcade gaming, mini bowling, go karts, dining, live music, and more. It’s a one-stop destination for families with children 11 and older.

Free entry. $5-25+ depending on activity Open 10am-12am Sunday through Friday, 10am-1am Saturday (Summer Hours) 15201 S IH 35, Buda pinballzkingdom.com

10. Bounce Off The Walls

Hoppin’ House in Buda and The Jumpy Place in New Braunfels and Kyle offer affordable fun for the kids to burn off some energy on giant inflatables. All offer special discounts throughout the week to lessen the cost of admission and free Wi-Fi so you can work while the kids play. Just be sure everyone, including the adults, brings socks.

Jumpy Place

$8 Children 12 months – 10 years. $2 Military discount.

Daily Specials offered.

Open 10am-6pm Monday, Wednesday, Thursday; 10am-7pm Friday and Saturday; 12pm-6pm Sunday.

Closed Tuesdays.

1145 TX-337 Loop, New Braunfels or 241 Weldon Johnson Way, Kyle thejumpyplacetx.com

Hoppin’ House

$5.50 for children under 3; $7.50 for children 3-11.

Open 10am-7pm Monday through Thursday; 10am8pm Friday; 3-8pm Saturday, 3-6pm Sunday 5151 B Industrial Way, Buda hoppinhouse.com

SMTXMAGAZINE.COM

15

YOUR TRUSTED GUIDE TO THE VERY BEST OF SMTX

Crown Trophy Crown Trophy is America’s largest franchised retailer of trophies and awards. Since 2002, Crown Trophy is your locally owned and operated neighborhood store selling exclusive products at prices lower than other stores. Now to better serve our central Texas customers, we are proud to announce our new San Marcos branch at 900 Bugg Lane Suite 235. We’re committed to great customer service and community involvement. Give us the opportunity to impress you and your winners.

San Marcos Convention & Visitor Bureau The San Marcos Tourist Information Center has brochures and information on local dining, shopping, attractions, hotels and events. You can pick up free local, area, trail, bike and Texas maps. Visit our website, toursanmarcos.com, for the most up-to-date San Marcos events plus lists the newest restaurants, pubs, shops and attractions for an easy click to find something different to do. Follow @TourSanMarcos on all social media sites for pictures, videos and where-to-go ideas for the city we all love. We are #SMTX.

APROVED

SMTX FUN FACT

“Where Everyone Wins” is our Crown Trophy Philosophy Contact 512.233.4774 crowntrophy.com Location 900 Bugg Lane, Suite 235 San Marcos 78666

KnD’s Resale N More

Moe Better Burgers

Locally owned resale boutique in the beautiful heart of San Marcos. We sell trendy boutique style clothing as well as used name brand clothing at an affordable price. We buy, sell, and trade clothing as well for cash or store credit. Our top selling items are our Texas State gameday dresses come end of summer. We are fully stocked with racks of these fashionable, perfect for tailgating, dresses. You can even design your own dress by bringing in your favorite t-shirt and material, or you can pick some of ours! Don’t forget to find us on Instagram at KnDs_resale_n_more or on Facebook to check out some of the previously made custom dresses.

We promise to provide the best hamburgers in Hays County. We begin with 100% fresh beef, the freshest vegetables, and hand cut sides. Whether you want a juicy burger, an all-beef hotdog, or some crispy chicken fingers, we’ve got you covered! Come enjoy a side of fries, tots, rings, or even fried pickles to pair up with your favorite dish. To ensure the ultimate freshness, we never start the cooking process until you design your very own customized MoeBetterBurger!

SMTX FUN FACT

KnD’s stands for Kristan & Della, a mother and daughter team both born and raised in San Marcos.

Contact (512)557-5058 KNDsResaleNMore Location 312 N LBJ San Marcos 78666

SMTX FUN FACT

We have visitors stop in from all over the world. Australia, Germany, Scotland, South Korea, Mexico and Denmark are just a few places people have been from in the past few months.

Contact 512.394.5930 toursanmarcos.com Location 617 I-35 North San Marcos 78666

SMTX FUN FACT

Open daily so you can satisfy a craving whenever it strikes.

Contact 512.393.2221 moebetterburgers.com Location 420 University Drive San Marcos, 78666

SMTXMAGAZINE.COM

16

D

YOUR TRUSTED GUIDE TO THE VERY BEST OF SMTX

San Marcos Main Street Program Unique, beautiful and lively, Downtown San Marcos offers something for everyone. Since 1986, the San Marcos Main Street Program has been committed to featuring events, promotions and business resources to show off and support historic downtown. Visit the Main Street Program office at 317 N. LBJ Dr. for visitor information and to learn how you can get involved. For a calendar of events and business directory, visit our website or call our office.

Lolita’s Café Lolita’s is famous for our delicious breakfast tacos. With fifteen different breakfast tacos to choose from and nine different lunch tacos, Lolita’s has something for everyone. We handmake our flour tortillas and use all natural ingredients, both of which are key ingredients to the best taco possible! Our hard work and dedication to serving you the best food possible is what keeps customers lining up to get their fill of some great Mexican food from Lolita’s Café!

SMTX FUN FACT

APROVED Downtown features over 300 local businesses that provide everything from coffee to shopping to salon services to shoe repair and more.

Contact 512.393.8430 sanmarcostx.gov/mainstreet Location 317 N. LBJ Drive San Marcos 78666

Contact 512.393.344 Lolitas-Cafe Location 1501 Aquarena Spring’s Dr. San Marcos 78666

Heart and Soul Tattoo Shop

Louie’s Oyster House Louie’s Oyster House and Beer Garden offers over 100 beers along with a full bar! If oysters are your thing there are plenty to choose from, but if not, no worries! There are also other Surf or even Turf options! We pride ourselves on serving the very best American, Cajun, Seafood, and Southern food we can. Come enjoy the beautiful San Marcos weather while you eat in our covered outdoor seating area. We can’t wait to serve you!

SMTX FUN FACT

Founded by the owner 10 years ago, and people still can’t get enough tacos!

SMTX FUN FACT

Voted back to back as best seafood in Hay’s County!

Contact 512.878.8862 louiessanmarcostx.com

At Heart and Soul Tattoo we focus on top quality tattoos, and great customer service! With a combined experience of over 30 years, we can execute any style that you may be looking for.

We consider ourselves custom artists. We will draw whatever ideas you come up with, and work with each client to make sure that you are getting the perfect tattoo for you. Conveniently located close to I35. Call or stop by, and let us give you your new favorite tattoo. Take this ad and receive $20 off of a tattoo of $100 or more!

Location 119 E Hutchinson St. San Marcos 78666 SMTXMAGAZINE.COM

17

SMTX FUN FACT

The owner Brian Price has 20 years of experience tattooing on two continents.

Contact 512.392.9993 heartandsoultattooshop.com heartandsoultattooshop Location 718 E Hopkins St San Marcos 78666

YOUR TRUSTED GUIDE TO THE VERY BEST OF SMTX

Mochas and Javas

Rhea’s Ice Cream Rhea’s Ice Cream parlor is a small locally owned creamery based around a collection of unique flavors perfected by Rhea herself for over ten years. Flavors like avocado coconut, caramel sea salt, and circus animal cookie stand on their own as a delicious treat but can also be served in a house made waffle cone, as an ice cream sandwich between two fresh baked cookies, as a milkshake or served over a hot brownie.

Mochas and Javas was established in 2003 with the goal of creating a comfortable, community gathering place where extraordinary beverages and food, and legendary customer service could be enjoyed. Our staff is encouraged to educate our guests about our products, rather than merely selling. All of our beans are roasted locally and weekly which ensures our coffee is always fresh, and is one of many ways we support local businesses.

SMTX FUN FACT The two owners of Rheas Ice Cream play in a band called The Refrains.

Contact 512 .667.7598 Rheas-Ice-Cream

Contact 512.396.5282 (JAVA) www.mochasandjavas.com Location Three San Marcos locations with our 4th opening soon inside the main HEB in San Marcos.

Location 318 N LBJ San Marcos 78666

Root Cellar Bakery & Catering Co. We’re located on the corner of Hopkins and LBJ, right on the square in downtown San Marcos! Stop by for a delicious cup of our fair trade organic coffee, handcraft your own cup of tea from our loose leaf tea bar, or let us make you a warm latte. We serve fresh baked breakfast pastries and desserts, as well as a selection of Gluten Free options. Interested in hosting a private party? Email for rental information, and come celebrate with us!

SMTX FUN FACT We are the largest independently owned coffee shop in San Marcos. The owner grew up in San Marcos, class of 1984 of the SMHS.

Blooming Day Spa Blooming Day Spa provides a unique and exclusive day spa experience where you will always be our only guest. We offer massage, mini facials, body wraps, and many other treatments. Located in the historic district near downtown San Marcos, you will leave feeling relaxed and rejuvenated after your massage.

Our cozy home setting is designed to keep you at peace and undisturbed. During your massage and body treatments, expect all local organic bath & beauty products to be used.

SMTX FUN FACT We were voted Best Catering Company in Hays County!

Contact 512.667.6120 www.rootcellarcafe.com Location 142 N LBJ San Marcos 78666

SMTXMAGAZINE.COM

18

SMTX FUN FACT

Did you know there are 650 muscles in the human body?

Contact 512.392.9529 blooming-day-spa.com Location 505 W. San Antonio St San Marcos 78666

YOUR TRUSTED GUIDE TO THE VERY BEST OF SMTX

SMTXMAGAZINE.COM

19

YOUR TRUSTED GUIDE TO THE VERY BEST OF SMTX

Josie’s Frozen Yogurt

Taxi’s Piano Bar

At Josie’s Self-Serve Frozen Yogurt, we’re different because we care! We care about the choices you make when it comes to tasty treats. We focus on providing you with the healthiest and best tasting yogurt. We only use PURE CRYSTALLINE FRUCTOSE in our yogurt, which yields up to onethird fewer calories and less sugar content than our competitors. There is NO High Fructose Corn Syrup (HFCS) in our frozen yogurt. Healthy and responsible choices start at Josie’s

Looking for more than just a drink? Come to Taxi’s...SMTX’s only underground bar. A multioption entertainment venue-4 bars in one basement featuring a live music room, karaoke/ comedy lounge, pub, and arcade/pool room. Live music nightly by central Texas’ finest rock, TX country, funk, hip hop, Americana, or sing-along piano bands. You want to be a star? Walk into the karaoke room and show us what you got!

EVERYBODY is SOMEBODY at Taxi’s!

SMTX FUN FACT Josie’s provides a healthy, fun, and delicious dessert alternative!

SMTX FUN FACT The building where Taxi’s is located, used to be a morgue.

Contact 512.393.2228 josiesyogurt.com

Location 420 University Drive San Marcos, 78666

Contact 512.392.3031 taxispianobar

The Veranda When you are looking to enjoy the San Marcos nightlife, head on over to The Veranda Roof Top Patio. Our daiquiri bar is fully stocked so we can make you some delicious specialty drinks.

Our amazing view of the Square and our DJ’s playing a great mix of songs gives you the premier atmosphere to dance with your friends. The Veranda is the place you will want to come back to again and again when you are looking to have some fun.

SMTX FUN FACT The tallest rooftop bar in San Marcos with the best view period!

Location 202 N. LBJ Dr. Suite A San Marcos, 78666

Contact 512.878.2448 harpersbrickoven.com

Location 139 E. Hopkins San Marcos, 78666

Harper’s Sports Pub

Stratosphere Lounge

My Emergency Room 24/7

Whether you are looking for the ultimate sports bar in downtown San Marcos, or you are craving some mouth-watering brick oven pizza to share with the family, Harper’s Public House is where you need to be! We have daily drink specials as well as Happy HourAPROVED every day. Come and enjoy the game on one of our many flat-screens while munching on some of the best brick oven pizzas and baked wings in Texas.

The Stratosphere Lounge opened its doors in October of 2005, and has been serving the finest hookahs in San Marcos ever since. Owners Michael and Rayda set out to create an atmosphere that would set TSL apart from other hookah lounges. Relax and socialize by day with a chill vibe, daily Happy Hour APROVED from 6-7 pm, and BYOB until 2AM. Late nights get cranked up a notch as TSL is host to #AfterpartySMTX every Friday and Saturday until 4AM.

Tired of waiting for your healthcare? Our freestanding emergency room is always open and never has a long wait. Emergency room physicians and nurses are available 24 hours a day to treat any condition that may arise. We have on-site x-ray, CT, ultrasound, and laboratory to give our patients convenient, quality care they need right away. If you haven’t been in our facility, we welcome you to come take a quick tour anytime. When your next emergency happens, why wait?

SMTX FUN FACT Built in 1873, Harper’s is in the oldest building on the square.

SMTX FUN FACT Opened in 2005, making us the first hookah lounge in San Marcos. We celebrate 10 years this October!

SMTX FUN FACT We are the only freestanding emergency room in San Marcos!

Contact 512.878.2448 harpersbrickoven.com

Location 139 E. Hopkins San Marcos, 78666

Stratosphere LOUNGE

Stratosphere

Location LOUNGE Contact 235-B North LBJ Dr 512.393.5001 (Next to Stratosphere Stellar Cafe) Stratosphere LOUNGE LOUNGE thestratospherelounge.com San Marcos, 78666

Stratosphere LOUNGE

Stratosphere LOUNGE

SMTXMAGAZINE.COM

20 LOUNGE

LOUNGE

Contact 512.392.7800 myemergencyroom.com

Location 2810 South Interstate 35 San Marcos, 78666

SMTXMAGAZINE.COM

21

YOUR TRUSTED GUIDE TO THE VERY BEST OF SMTX

Stellar Café Since we opened in 2013, Stellar Café’s goal has been to bring the best coffee and tea brews to SMTX. We have combined a 1920’s / European café atmosphere with quality products, which makes for the perfect place for studying, business meetings, or just enjoying the company of friends. For us it’s not just about giving you caffeine but the Best Cup in Town. It’s not just coffee, It’s STELLAR!

Location 235-A North LBJ Dr (Next to Stratosphere) San Marcos, 78666

Sights and Sounds of Christmas

Sights and Sounds of Christmas is coming once again! We will be open December 2nd through the 5th. Come enjoy make memories on the ice skating rink. Take a journey back in time at our Town of Bethlehem, and don’t forget about our carnival! The kids can take free pictures with Santa and Mrs. Claus, enjoy arts and crafts, and a petting zoo. There are plenty of other Sights and Sounds to enjoy, so there is sure to be something for everyone!

SMTX FUN FACT Sights and Sounds of Christmas was founded in December of 1986.

Contact 512.710.XMAS (9627) sights-n-sounds.org

San Marvelous, Inc. is an active lifestyle brand that was made to honor the greatest college town of all time! In San Marcos we love floating the river, going to tailgates, eating lots of pizza, and crashing pool parties! The next time you are in Downtown San Marcos come get your t-shirts, running shorts, swimsuits, Polos, and other cool must haves! We love Texas State and all of our amazing customers, so ask us how you can get your FREE GIFT! SMTX FUN FACT The San Marvelous brand started out as a simple shirt, but quickly evolved into so much more!

SMTX FUN FACT The Stellar Café is owned and operated by a Texas State Alumni.

Contact 512.757.8569 www.thestellarcafe.com

San Marvelous Clothing

Location 401 E. Hopkins San Marcos 78666

Contact 512.757.8686 sanmarvelous.com

Location 326 N LBJ San Marcos 78666

MoBettaCutz Barbershop The #1 barbershop in San Marcos, owned by Mario Wiggins. Top destination for Texas State Athletes, including Craig Mager of the Chargers, Joel Wright of the Utah Jazz, Joplo Bartu of the Atlanta Falcons, and Darryl Morris of the Houston Texans Come get your weekly dose of sports talk, or just come to get a few laughs to brighten your day. Ask anyone on campus or at the square where the best barbershop in town is, and if they know betta’ they’ll say Mobettacutz Barbershop.

SMTX FUN FACT Play some football, basketball, soccer, or boxing on our PlayStation!

Contact 512.353.CUTZ(2889) MobettacutzBarbershop

!

Location 302 W. Hopkins Suite #5 San Marcos 78666

Gumby’s Pizza

LBJ St Block Party

Gumby’s Pizza is made with fresh ingredients on dough that is prepared, in store, daily so it is never frozen. This gives you one of the freshest crusts you can find. In addition to our dough, we prepare our ranch, pizza sauce & Pokey Butter instore daily. We prepare our fresh produce daily for the best pie possible. Each pie is hand tossed and made to order with pride. Come try a slice, or even a whole pie, for yourself!

Who’s ready to party? The business owners of our own LBJ St. are putting together a block party for you! Join in on the fun on the first Thursday of every month from 6 – 9 p.m. There will be special discounts at various stores during the event.

Plenty of free food and beer for anyone who attends, and of course no block party is complete without music! Don’t get left out of the fun. See you at the party!

SMTX FUN FACT Gumby’s Pizza and Wings – San Marcos is a locally owned and operated restaurant by Texas State Alumni.

Contact 512.754.8629 www.gumbyssanmarcos.com

SMTX FUN FACT The LBJ St Block Party was created by the owner of San Marvelous Clothing.

Location 411 N Guadalupe St. San Marcos 78666

SMTXMAGAZINE.COM

22

Contact 512.757.8686 customercare@sanmarvelous.com

Location All of N LBJ St San Marcos 78666

SMTXMAGAZINE.COM

23