February 2014 by BOBCATFANS

FEBRUARY | 2014

5101 IH-35 South San Marcos, TX 78666 512-392-1999

02.14 | SMTX | BOBCATFA NS

4 BOBCAT FA NS | SMTX | 02.14

02.14 | SMTX | BOBCATFA NS

6 BOBCAT FA NS | SMTX | 02.14

02.14 | SMTX | BOBCATFA NS

|EVENTS & HAPPENINGS| | FEBRUARY 2014 |

NBA’s Jeff Foster Jersey Retirement

Johannes Moller, Classical Guitarist

Texas State athletics is proud to announce the jersey of former men’s basketball player Jeff Foster will be retired during halftime of the men’s basketball game against Louisiana-Lafayette. Following Jeff ’s career at Texas State, he went on to play 13 seasons in the NBA, all with the Indiana Pacers, after being drafted with the 21st pick in the 1999 NBA Draft. February 8, 4:30pm @ Strahan Coliseum 700 Aquarena Springs Drive, San Marcos

With over 500 appearances in Europe, Asia and the Americas, this young Swedish guitarist and composer has been a self-taught composer since the age of 12. Moller experiments in various styles and techniques. Arrive 30 minutes prior to start, seating will begin at 5:45. February 24, 6-7pm @ Music Building Recital Hall (MUS 236) 601 University Drive, San Marcos

Baseball Opener vs Michigan The Texas State Invitational ushers in a new season of baseball as the Bobcats play host to Air Force, Washington and Michigan. February 14, 3:30pm @ Baseball Ballpark 225 Charles Austin Drive, San Marcos

Midnight River Choir Come hear one of the fastest growing country bands from Austin, Texas, Midnight River Choir, for only five dollars. Admission is 18+.. February 4, 8pm @ Cheatham Street Warehouse 119 Cheatham Street, San Marcos

8 BOBCAT FA NS | SMTX | 02.14

Valentine’s Burlesque Show A sensual burlesque show takes the stage on the national day of love followed by an electrifying performance by Henry + Invisibles. February 14, 9:00pm @ Taxi’s Piano Bar 202 N. LBJ, San Marcos

Stolen Education-Film and Special Speaker The documentary Stolen Education will be screening at the Alkek Teaching Theater followed by a Q&A with the producer, Dr. Enrique Aleman Jr. Stolen Education is about the discrimination of Mexican American students who had to attend three years of first grade to overcome their “language problem” in Driscoll, Texas, in the late 1950s. The screening is free and open to the public. February 6, 6:30-8:30pm @ Alkek Teaching Theater 601 University Drive, San Marcos

Water by the Spoonful A play about the search for meaning by a returning Iraqi War veteran in his hometown of Philadelphia. Written by Quiara Alegria Hudes, Water by the Spoonful, won the 2012 Pulitzer Prize for Drama. February 6-8, 7:30pm February 9, 2:00pm @ Theater Center 601 University Drive, San Marcos

Faculty Chamber Players Come enjoy live music from Texas State’s faculty chamber players. Tickets are available at the door and based on a first-come, firstserve basis. Arrive 15 minutes prior to the start of the program. February 11, 8-9pm @ Music Building Recital Hall (MUS 236) 601 University Drive, San Marcos

Somebody Called A play written and directed by Eugene Lee who is a prominent actor and playwright. Somebody Called is a tale of two preachers set in the mid-1950s in the all-black town of Boley, Oklahoma, during the onset of the

civil rights movement towards integration in America. February 19, 7:30-10:30pm @ Theater Center 601 University Drive, San Marcos

McCoy’s Cares 5K & Fun Runs

Runners include canine friends, kids/families, and a stroller derby, oh, and the competitive 5 K with awards! February 22, 6:45 am @ 1350 N. I-35, San Marcos

Faculty Artist: Karla Hamelin, cello An accomplished Canadian cellist and avid chamber musician, Karla Hamelin’s ability to play a broad and diverse spectrum of repertoire has made her a sought-after performer. February 27, 8pm @ Music Building Recital Hall (MUS 236) 601 University Drive, San Marcos

Executioner Tour with Excision, Dirtyphonics, and ill.Gates Come check out Canada’s own Excision who is known for becoming one of the biggest dubstep acts of North America. The French artist, Dirtyphonics, merges heavy bass music, dubstep, and electro to create a unique style of music. Also from Canada, ill.Gates regularly tours across the world playing some of the biggest electronic festivals. February 21, 9pm @ The Marc 120 E. San Antonio Street, San Marcos 02.14 | SMTX | BOBCATFA NS

SM TX | BACK STAGE

THE LOVE ME TENDERS | facebook/ thelovemetenders |

While sitting on the patio of Wake The Dead Coffee House and drinking hand craft beer I met with the trio that is the newly formed band The Love Me Tenders. The band includes the infamous Mich D. White, Dana Dacy, and Chris Truan. All three live in San Marcos and graduated from Texas State University. The three have been working together at Wake the Dead Coffee House for two years, and for the past two years, they have been talking about starting a band together. Mich and Dana were busy with other projects until recently, but once they started playing together, they realized they could create something unique because of their diverse music talents and Mich’s extensive collection of music equipment. Some of their influences are Beat Happening, The Oh Sees, The Modern Lovers, The Strange Boys, and The Boredoms. The Love Me Tenders can be classified as psychedelic garage-rock, but they believe the songs should be over in four minutes. The group benefits as a trio because they can all play several instruments. The sound of each person’s instruments, whether it be guitar or drums, comes through equally and everyone’s part really counts. Dana play bass, guitar and sings; Mich plays organ, keyboard, bass, guitar, and sings; Chris plays drums and adds some ooohs and ahhs to the tracks.

I like having input, writing music is like a canvas, putting on colors and taking them off, someone puts in their opinion and it’s always something you didn’t expect it to be.” -Dana

10 BOBCAT FA NS | SMTX | 02.14

Mich uses vintage sound equipment such as a Yamaha EMXIII mixer from the 70’s because the lo-fi quality and the spring reverb give their songs a psychedelic sound. When Mich is playing the keyboard, he uses a vintage Casio CTK45, because it has good sound quality and doesn’t sound toy-like. To add to the psychedelic feel, they sometimes use a Roland space echo. Dana and Mich collaborate on the song writing process even though they don’t always see eye to eye. The name, The Love Me Tenders, was Dana’s idea and was influenced by the Elvis song “Love Me Tender.” For the future, the band hopes to record an album, but until then, check out The Love Me Tenders live at Triple Crown on February 22.

| By Emma Shields | Photos Eric Morales |

02.14 | SMTX | BOBCATFA NS

12 BOBCAT FA NS | SMTX | 02.14

It only seems natural for what was once known as a sleepy college town to flourish - targeted as the fastest growing city in the United States last year. More than six months since San Marcos received the accolade, the city has continued to maintain the right amount of leverage to steadily grow at its current pace, all while coping with the boom of our population’s density. That being said, the potential of San Marcos is on the table. The first open Texas gubernatorial election since 1990 falls in this year, with gears grinding in between red and blue, both trying to pick up speed. Our native state—as well as five others— has already agreed to host military test sites for drones in 11 cities across the Lone Star’s geography, furthering unmanned aircraft’s development for commercial use. But as for elsewhere and beyond, NASA aims to include an unmanned flight test of the Orion spacecraft early on for research that could send mankind deeper into space than ever before.

As for the worldwide Catholic Church, Pope Francis will welcome his first anniversary as the denomination’s leader with the title “single most influential person of 2013.” While in regard to our own self-preservation, after 13 years of war, the United States will seek to make a final withdrawal of troops from Afghanistan by the end of December 2014. Most of that may seem removed from the City of San Marcos. However, these events represent a

By : Xander Peters

02.14 | SMTX | BOBCATFA NS

process of progression and the inevitable shift of occurrence that serves as a reminder—in both our immediate lives and the entire globe’s—that change is upon us. It goes without second thought, the backbone of the city relies on the river. And like many others, City Council member Lisa Prewitt, Place 1, invests a significant amount of importance towards keeping the river flowing, managing the quality and quantity of the water and protecting the endangered species that inhabit it. But even though Prewitt appreciates the physical beauty behind the city’s most popular attraction, she also recognizes the river for another one of its notable amenities—the economic incentive behind the natural resource. “I, personally, feel that if we preserve and keep it very specific towards the types of development that we would allow on the river, then we can utilize it as an economic driver to create more green spaces as well as expand our park lands as our population rises,” Prewitt says. By the end of the summer 2014, an estimated $1.57 million project is scheduled to be completed underneath the San Marcos River Bank Stabilization and Access Point Project. This project help to design and construct new entrances along the riverbanks to implement more protection of endangered species in the water, while also providing a dog beach area and means to fight the river’s erosion along its dirt walls. Further measures, such as the Habitat Conservation Plan, will implement a restoration fee towards any person who has a permit to pull water out of the Edwards Aquifer. Granted, the initiative to keep the city’s environment as clean and “green” as possible seems to be thriving. Yet, with a burgeoning increase in quantity across all means throughout the city, a considerable amount of traffic, not water, has also begun to flood the streets of San Marcos. And of course, it is blatantly obvious that

14 BOBCAT FA NS | SMTX | 02.14

when you combine a limited amount of space with a mile of impatient college students waiting on a train to pass, the result equals out to something local residents are all too familiar with—afternoon road congestion. The problem is sticking out directly in front of us like a sore thumb. But, what

But the onset of route renovation doesn’t end with just traffic redirection on Aquarena Springs. Throughout 2014, city officials have also set the standard to embark on building the FM 110 Loop, which will trace the eastern side of the city from McCarty Lane in Austin all the way down to Yarrington Road on the outskirts of town. Officials hope to see the addition of FM 110 spur bring not only residential growth but also commercial growth as well.

“It’s going to be a—ah—headache. There’s going to be a lot of challenges by building a bridge.” do we do? Well, we tear up more roads around the city to make the traffic even worse, naturally. When considering the tremendous amount of demand in public roadways, which the high fluctuation in both residential occupants and Texas State students have triggered, the city itself has been forced to dive even deeper into the midst of numerous infrastructure improvements to meet the population’s needs—such as, the Loop 82 Bridge over the railroad, (what will commonly come to be known as the Aquarena Springs Bridge), that plans to break ground at a later date in the calendar year. Unfortunately though, the current Aquarena Springs Road is still one of the major gateways in and out of the city’s interior. Councilman Jude Prather, Place 2, admits, “It’s going to be a— ah—headache. There’s going to be a lot of challenges by building a bridge. But in the end, after we put extra emphasis on the architectural details, then the ability to drive down Aquarena Springs without a train stopping at the railroad tracks will be an added benefit to our town.” Prather considers the upcoming construction process very similar to a situation that he and other residents dealt with during his own undergraduate education in San Marcos—when the bridge was built over Wonder World Drive, which, before then, it was only a two-lane road between empty fields.

Nevertheless, as getting in and out of San Marcos by automobile could possibly provide a series of heightened complications and anxiety in the coming months, there may still be a silver lining on the horizon when it comes to the future of transportation and vehicle accommodation altogether in the city, especially downtown. Do you recall those one-way streets named LBJ and Guadalupe, the ones planted directly in the nucleus of the city? You know, the streets you may or may not have accidentally taken a wrong turn into oncoming traffic not long after moving to San Marcos. Regardless, in cooperation with the new Complete Street Ordinance, stating that every time the city builds or completely remodels an existing roadway, then the design must accommodate many different kinds of users. And as for those same pesky parallels of road, the one-way streets will be nothing but a figment of the past before 2014 is over. But not only does the Complete Street Ordinance bury the one-way directions of San Marcos’ past, the ordinance will also see to it that the nuisance of downtown parking issues can be relieved. Beware though, the idea of neighborhood parking permits is on the rise due to an overflow in students parking in residential areas close to the University as is possible conversation

| Photos Eric Morales |

“We keep seeing these articles about how San Marcos is the best place to live and raise a family in Texas. Well, I hear it, but I want to see more of it.”

“If we could wave the magic wand, then we would have that rail system now, and we would have all of these complete streets now, but—that’s not the way it works,” “We have to plan for it as new growth comes in.”

Place 3 John Thomaides

Place 2 Jude Prather

“I think one of the biggest “I think one of the economic incentives we biggest economic can do is to create more of incentives we can a sense of placement and a docommunity is to create that more livable more of a sensein,” of will bring businesses placement and a more livable community that will bring businesses in.”

Place 1 Lisa Prewitt

“As the U.S. economy starts to grow, we will see a decrease in the student society. I don’t think the (student population) will become any less, but I don’t think it will continue to hit those numbers like it has year after year.”

Place 6 Shane Scott

02.14 | SMTX | BOBCATFA NS

about integrating University and city bus services, Prewitt mentions.

Then comes the rising issue regarding housing throughout San Marcos. In general, the whole corridor that contains our city is growing at a rapid rate. This only provides more of a reason to keep the development fine-tuned, especially when considering the balancing act between protecting the environment and housing growth—which, both elements have been a constant battle over the years.

From there, the city can expect to witness the same ordinance assist towards more vertical development and redefining the public realm of downtown—all of which Councilman John Thomaides, Place 3, believes firmly to be both necessities and proactive steps for the community. Some of which, as instructed by the Complete Street Or- “San Marcos has an image and its own dinance, personality,” Prather says. “We respect the entails beautiful, natural environment that we’ve been that all roadblessed with. And we try to protect and enhance ways and as much of that as possible.” sidewalks The university, according to Councilmust be built and designed with man Shane Scott, Place 6, is actually bicyclist and pedestrians in mind as what’s accountable for the rising well as automobiles. “It all goes back population in the direct area. “The to quality of place,” Thomaides says. influx we’re seeing of students is “And quality of place is having things nothing but a by-product of what to do; it’s having great restaurants; we’re seeing in the slope of the U.S. it’s having a vibrant nightlife life; economy,” Scott says. “Any time it’s having great shops and places to the economy goes down, then your meet your daily needs; it’s having a education system increases. That walkable and bicycle friendly comchanges now. As the U.S. economy munity.” starts to grow, we will see a decrease in the student society. I don’t think In a way that seems to almost the (student population) will become compliment the revisions of in-town any less, but I don’t think it will contransportation issues, the City of tinue to hit those numbers like it has San Marcos was the first to sign a year after year.” contract—followed by our big neighbor to the north, of course—with the And with that fact out in the open, Austin-San Antonio commuter rail. one of the city’s prerogatives for 2014 By doing so, the city agreed to desigwill have to make sure all of the extra nate specific zones to help fund the multi-family housing that has been system as well as define the amount approved does not overrun the marthe city would have to pay and when ket, eventually flooding it. The prices it would have to be procured in order of rent could possibly become very to have access. This measure is sure low, which could be positive. But at to entice the remainder of public the same time, it could also possibly entities up and down the railway sysattract a lot of low-income housing tem eventually, Thomaides predicts. and project type environments later on. “If we could wave the magic wand, then we would have that rail system However, Scott maintains an alnow, and we would have all of these ternative theory towards the city’s complete streets now, but—that’s not future. In his eyes, San Marcos could the way it works,” Thomaides says. actually become the Beverly Hills of “We have to plan for it as new growth Central Texas by way of the upperclass investing in “scraper homes,” comes in.” where they would pay $350,000 for

16 BOBCAT FA NS | SMTX | 02.14

a lot, scrape it and build a million dollar home. If this were to happen, the tax rate would skyrocket, leaving little who could actually afford to live here. All in all, this is only the start for this particular city in the Hill Country. San Marcos is still very different than a lot of the big, scary world out there. As for many of the circumstances that were previously addressed—such as the economy, potential of the city, the university, and of course the river—there is no sense in expecting these initiatives to be taken care of overnight. Whether it be five, maybe ten, years away before we reach those goals is not the point to be made. What it will take is the incremental improvements to our community for us to actually cross that finish line only to go chasing after the next. There’s a case in point of the way that Austin has developed over the years. By becoming a true job-creating machine, like our state Capitol has, high-end companies have realized the quality of place, the quality of people and the talent that the employers need. They all want to be in that particular city, and we, the residents of San Marcos right down the road, are a natural extension of that. By use of some of the same unique environmental features that Austin has, there is no reason that we can’t replicate that same success. Until then, though, it will be imperative for the community and the developers to recognize these one-of-a-kind features in San Marcos—the college town atmosphere, the environment, the quality of neighborhoods—those are all vital in creating a future that we all want to see for our city. So, the next Beverly Hills or not, this place is always going to have that special sense of character and that’s not just by chance. You have to work to maintain that. The city is not overdeveloped, it has heart, it has soul, and that’s what we need to continue to remember and maintain.

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 oďŹ&#x20AC;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 02.14 | SMTX | BOBCATFA NS

Ever wonder what the City Planner of San Marcos is thinking? I met up with Matthew Lewis, our San Marcos City Planner. We had a conversation during which I asked him to tell me about his Ideal Vision for San Marcos, the city we all love and live in. It was refreshing to hear someone talk about the future of San Marcos with such enthusiasm as he jumped from topic to topic.

“We’ll never be Austin, we’ll never be San Antonio, because we are San Marcos. The people here make up San Marcos, our culture and our funky character.”

18 BOBCAT FA NS | SMTX | 02.14

| Interview and Photo Eric Morales |

The best way for a city planner to implement stuff is to dream big. Start with audacious goals and then you build them into the community. I picture I-35 corridor being a beautiful place that’s connected with a streetcar. Imagine being in a streetcar driving up LBJ, imagine beautiful housing, people out on their front porches, streets full of people walking, riding their bikes up to the square, and you’re just cruising in this streetcar. Imagine an outdoor café on the sidewalk as you’re walking by. That’s idealistic, and it has potential to occur here. The only thing stopping it is that we’re not bringing this up more regularly. We have to be bold in our ideas. We should be planning the city of 2055, not 1995 or 2015. It needs to be planned for the next generation and the lifestyles they are going to want. That’s really a truly futuristic city, and the framework is here. We’ve got everything we need. The idea of a thriving economy, diverse modes of transportation, diverse socio-economic classes intermingled seems farfetched, but there are communities that have done this. So, it’s not a matter of if, but when. We have to integrate good design and create cities that are made for people of all walks of life—people who can live their entire life cycle in a community, growing from high school to college, etc. One of the challenges as a community, however, is the community taking pride in itself. The students are part of the community while they’re here, and it’s irresponsible to treat them as if they are outsiders, and as transients. They feed the local economy, especially in the downtown area. That mindset hasn’t worked since 1899, and it’s not working now. I realized this idea of pride when I was visiting Vancouver. I saw a guy in a wheelchair, raking

leaves into a dustpan. A shop owner came out and helped this man throw the leaves into a trash can. Then I turn the corner and this old dude had set all of his groceries down and picked up a newspaper that had fallen and put it back into place. I challenge everyone to do that. Man, if you see trash out there, pick it up! If we take pride, it will spread. Let’s preserve the lungs of the city! We’ve got these great greenbelts around our city core and this beautiful river that’s extremely sensitive that needs to be integrated in and respected. We need to have the community get involved. This should be a community conversation. And, we’ll never be Austin, we’ll never be San Antonio, because we are San Marcos. The people here make up San Marcos, our culture and our funky character. …I think the ideal city is a balance of place, from urban to rural. You should be able to live in San Marcos, in all of those environments. We have rural and farming. We need to provide the same opportunity for those who want to live in an urban environment. I know it seems that we’re all about density and mixed use, but that’s an element of our populace that we’re missing. And these people want urban living probably at a higher rate than they want suburban style living. … The main thing is fixing our public realm, our street network and public infrastructure in order to make it easier to walk or bike, or commute by car. Once we have that done, you’ll see a very clear transition in development patterns and you’ll have a healthier community. People will opt to ride bikes because it’s safe. Your streets will be filled with people, and there’s nothing more positive than that.

02.14 | SMTX | BOBCATFA NS

Jared Miller says his first order of business towards San Marcos will be to not do anything.

For him, it’s all about getting to know the community and council members as well as possible before any wheels can start to turn. Why? B ecause the newly instated City Manager needs to know what he will have to work with in his toolbox.

“I believe in rolling up my sleeves and getting to work.” 20 BOBCAT FA NS | SMTX | 02.14

Welcome to San Marcos! In your own thoughts, what’s your initial interpretation of a city like San Marcos? San Marcos is a unique, beautiful community that has so much to offer—a great university, beautiful river and setting, cultural diversity, historic downtown and famous outlet malls. I am impressed by the commitment of the City Council to advancing this community and responding positively to the challenges and opportunities of growth, while preserving the significant natural resources and cultural assets of the city. What initially brought you to seek the position here in San Marcos? San Marcos is known to be an exciting, fast-growing city in the heart of one of the fastest growing regions in the nation. Offering my service as city manager gives me the opportunity to lend my experience to the city organization and community as well as an opportunity for personal growth. What do you think made yourself stand out as the chosen candidate for city manager? I was impressed by all the candidates for city manager and the high level of skills they offered. I think Council saw that I could bring some specific skills in economic development, capital project planning, financial management, planning and development, organization and community engagement. At the end of the day, when you have a pool of well-qualified candidates, the selection often boils down to fit. I feel that Council felt that my leadership and engagement style was a good fit for the community and for the organization. What kind of relationship are you looking to build with the community? I tend to be “all in” when it comes to community engagement—whether it’s my involvement with my two sons at school, involvement at church, service opportunities and visible participation in community events and activities. My wife, Kristin, and I have always been deeply committed to our community and will be very engaged in San Marcos. From an outsider’s point of view coming into the city of San Marcos, what would you say is the biggest challenge the city currently faces? Managed growth. We need to continue implementing the Vision San Marcos Comprehensive Plan, investing in infrastructure to improve our utilities and roadways, support public and community services, as well as public safety, and in-

vest in economic development to create jobs and opportunities for our citizens. Our partnerships with San Marcos Public Schools, Texas State University and Hays County are critical as we work together. How do you, or those closest to you, describe your management style? I believe in rolling up my sleeves and getting to work. I am a clear communicator. I guide and assist as necessary, but I work to train and empower staff to accomplish objectives and to pro-actively address challenges. I work hard to create an environment where mutual confidence exists between me and key personnel. I divert praise for success to my team and accept responsibility for challenges. And on that note, what are some of the first actions you plan to implement on the city, and do you have any timelines? The first 100 days or so will be best characterized as a familiarization, assessment, and planning process. Immediate and intentional planned meetings with Council, staff and the community will provide me with a clear understanding of objectives, coupled with a historic and social context that will facilitate the planning and implementation process. Barring unforeseen challenges, I would not plan to make any dramatic changes to the organization during this 100-day period. In which ways could the city immediately improve upon? It is premature at this point to make that type of assessment. I will want to take some time to evaluate opportunities for improvement. How do you balance keeping the city inline with the direction and momentum of your predecessor and setting your own tone? San Marcos has strong momentum going forward on a variety of areas given the strategic goals set by the City Council and the effective ways that my predecessor, Jim Nuse, and the City team have carried them out. I look forward to getting to know the goals, hopes and challenges faced by our citizens and city organization. In 3-5 years, where could you potentially see the city? Continuing on the path of sound finances, great customer service, improving our infrastructure, managing growth, environmental protection, improving our educational system and supporting the middle class.

| Interviewed by Xander Peters | Photos Eric Morales |

How will this job differ in difficulty as compared to any of your other city official positions? Every community brings its own unique challenges and complexities. While Central Texas is different from the Metroplex in many ways, the core services provided by the municipal organizations are similar, and I have a good base of experience to build on as I familiarize myself with the organization and become a part of our community fabric. Ultimately, serving the citizens remains the bottom line for any city manager. What kind of responsibility comes with the position of City Manager in the nation’s fastest-growing city? We have a lot of competition for economic development in a region with incredible appeal across the U.S. This means we have to juggle a lot of balls in the air at one time and move effectively to respond to a broad range of issues—from education, to transportation, to economic development and enhancing job opportunities for a diverse population in a university town with fast-growing enrollment. The San Marcos city staff provides a broad variety of services to the community and that requires a wide range of expertise and understanding within the organization. Are there any certain aspects that you’re excited to see progress in San Marcos? I see so much potential in San Marcos—for economic development, working with neighborhoods, sustaining our incredible environmental assets, the growth of housing opportunities and community development. As far as your personal life goes, what do you hope for both you and your family to take from San Marcos? Kristin and I, as well as our sons, are excited about moving to San Marcos. We plan to invest ourselves in the community, church, schools, work and service opportunities. We are committed to San Marcos and those investments will be transformative for the rest of our lives. When people hear the name “Jared Miller” long after your tenure here as City Manager is over, how would you like to be remembered? That Jared Miller made San Marcos a better place to live, learn and work.

02.14 | SMTX | BOBCATFA NS

Chewed & Brewed | UNDER 500 CALORIES |

Tantra Coffeehouse

not far or full of calories, then

If what you’re craving is something hearty and full of flavor but not full of calories, then, head to Tantra Coffeehouse for a surprisingly filling sandwich, the Pita Perfection. Nestled inside a warm pita, this sandwich is crafted with tons of grilled zucchini, seasoned squash, crunchy carrots, fresh basil, bright spinach, juicy tomatoes and a zesty and garlicky roasted red bell pepper spread. Just skip the chips, and you’ve got a full belly for less than 450 calories. 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.

22 BOBCAT FA NS | SMTX | 02.14

KEY

Delivery Happy Hour Outdoor Seating

$$$ Most Entrees over $20 $$ Most Entrees $10 - $20 $ Most Entrees under $10

| Dish Reviews By Katie Lewis |

02.14 | SMTX | BOBCATFA NS

| SMTX | GOOD GRUB GUIDE 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 $$

Louie’s Oyster Bar and Beer Garden After the holidays, some of our belts may have mysteriously gained an extra notch or two, so to aide in your slim-down efforts, head over to Louie’s Oyster Bar and Beer Garden and chow down on two blackened fish tacos. That’s right. Two. And guess what? They’re mind-meltingly delicious, full of spice and interesting textures. These tacos do not skimp on the good stuff, while still being good for both you and your waistline. 490 Calories

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 $$ Gill’s Fried 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 $

24 BOBCAT FA NS | SMTX | 02.14

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 $ 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

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. 1612 S. IH35, 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

B R E A K FA S T & TA C O S 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

02.14 | SMTX | BOBCATFA NS

| SMTX | GOOD GRUB GUIDE 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 Sunday 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 $

I TA L I A N 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 $

26 BOBCAT FA NS | SMTX | 02.14

Taqueria La Fonda During these beyond-cold winter days, sometimes all you want to do is to curl up with a hot bowl of soup and find yourself in a world comfort. Head to the humble little taqueria off I-35 S, Taqueria La Fonda, for a big bowl of their famed menudo. The sultry, deep and intoxicating caldo (broth) warms your mouth to depths of your soul, and the tender tripe and seasoned hominy will fill you up, while the warmth and spice of the soup will make you feel cozy and comfy. And what’s more, menudo has been said to be a true hangover cure. It takes days to properly make, and only seconds to devour, so go on and dip those corn tortillas in, and add it to your list of hearty meals under 500 calories. 490 Calories

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 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 $

PIZZA 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. 9595 Ranch Road 12, Wimberley (512) 847-3299 $$

02.14 | SMTX | BOBCATFA NS

| SMTX | GOOD GRUB GUIDE 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. Lunch buffet daily. 403 North Guadalupe Street San Marcos (512) 754-8629 $

PUB/SPORTS BAR Centerfield 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 $

28 BOBCAT FA NS | SMTX | 02.14

SANDWICHES

STEAKS & SEAFOOD

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 $

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 $$

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 $

Louie’s Oyster House Serving up oysters on a half shell and fresh seafood with sides that are just as scrumptious. The street tacos satisfy diners who like the taste of beef as well as fish. Lunch and dinner daily. 119 E. Hutchison Street, San Marcos (512) 878-8862 $

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 $

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 $$$ Myron’s Prime Steak House Sophisticated and upscale, yet relaxed, this prime steakhouse offers succulent steaks and seafood. The menu is a-la-carte, so everyone can experience a little bit of everything. Dinner daily. 136 North Castell Avenue, New Braunfels. (830) 624-1024 $$$

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 $

Treff’s Tavern Watching your weight doesn’t have to cramp your style. Don’t let your diet keep you from letting loose and getting drinks with your friends. Come find yourself playing an arcade game or scrolling through the jukebox over at Treff ’s Tavern with a Dragon Baby in your hand. The combination of Dragon Berry Bacardi rum, orange and cranberry juices with a splash of Red Bull not only fits your waistline-management needs, but it tastes out of bounds, like a juicy Starburst of joy. So feel free to enjoy yourself! Under 200 Calories.

02.14 | SMTX | BOBCATFA NS

Happy Hour Specials | FEBRUARY 2014 |

SHOWDOWN Known for its kicked up bloody marys and hipster vibe, the Showdown bar is a long time San Marcos staple. Enjoy the “Happy Minute” specials daily. 207 E. Hutchison St. San Marcos, Texas 78666

30 BOBCAT FA NS | SMTX | 02.14

RESTAURANTS BOBCAT NATION

$1 Frozen ‘Ritas (Tue) $2 U Call It (Wed 6pm) Daily @ 3pm – 7pm 700 N LBJ (512) 667-6393

CHIMYS CERVECERIA

$.99 Crispy Tacos Wells & Margarita Specials Mon–Fri @ 4pm – 7pm 217 E Hopkins (512) 216-6175

GRIN’S

Food Specials $.99 Margaritas $5 Baby Beer Buckets Mon-Th @ 2pm - 10pm 802 N. LBJ Dr. (512) 392-4746

GUMBY’S

LOUIE’S OYSTER HOUSE $3.99 Street Tacos $2 Domestic Bottles $2.50 Wells $3 Infused Liquors Daily @ 4pm – 7pm 119 E. Hutchison St. (512) 878-8862

LOS CUCOS

SEAN PATRICK’S

Half Price Appetizers 50¢ Wings $1 Off ALL 100 Drafts $1 Off Specialty Drinks $3 Off All Pitchers Mon-Fri @ 3pm - 7pm 202 E. San Antonio St. (512) 392-7310

$1.99 Margaritas 99¢ Domestic Pints Mon-Tues all day Wed-Fri ‘til 7pm 1617 Aquarena Springs Dr. (512) 805-2444

TRES HERMANAS

PALMER’S

VODKA ST.

$3 and $5 specials Mon-Fri @ 3pm - 6pm 218 Moore St. (512) 353-3500

$1.50 Ziegenbock Daily 403 N. Guadalupe St. (512) 754-8629

$2 Drafts, $2.50 Wells $7.50 Pitchers Mon-Fri @ 4pm - 7pm 2550 Hunter Rd. (512) 878-2405 Half Price Appetizers $3 Wells, $1 Off Drafts Mon-Fri @ 3pm - 7pm 202 N LBJ Dr. (512) 396-4260

BARS BLACK RABBIT SALOON $1 Off Everything $2 Off Specials

Mon-Fri @ 5pm – 8pm

127 E. Hopkins St (512) 667-6313

BARFISH LOUNGE

$3 Kamikaze Shots $3 Red Snapper Shots All Day, Everyday

141 E. Hopkins (512) 558-7399

GRAY HORSE SALOON $2–$5 Specials

All day, Everyday

1904 Ranch Road 12 (512) 878-8080

HARPER’S PUB

JACK’S ROADHOUSE

TREFF’S TAVERN

Mon-Fri til 7pm

Daily @ 1pm – 8pm

$2 or less Specials 1625 Hunter Rd. (512) 392-3340

RILEY’S TAVERN

Various Specials Daily

8894 FM 1102 Hunter TX (512) 392-3132

SHOWDOWN

804 Chestnut St. (512) 353-1594

TRIPLE CROWN

$1.75 Shiner & XX $2.50 Big Bark & Guinness $1.75 Wells Mon-Fri @ 5pm - 8pm

206 N. Edward Gary St. (512) 396-2236

Happy Minutes Specials

ZELICKS

207 E. Hutchison St. (512) 392-7282

Mon-Fri @ 3pm - 7pm

3-3:15pm, 5-5:15pm, Daily

TAXI’S PIANO BAR

$2 Wells & Dom Bottles

$1 Jello Shots $2 Wells

139 E. Hopkins St. (512) 878-2448

202 N. LBJ Dr. (512) 392-3031

3pm – 7pm Daily

$1.75–$3 Specials

Various Specials

336 W. Hopkins St. (512) 757-8787

Mon-Fri @ 6pm - 8pm

02.14 | SMTX | BOBCATFA NS

Flip over to BobcatFans

MORE DRAMA The Construction, The Secrecy, And The Generous Alumnus Who Made The New PAC Her $8 Million Dollar Curtain Call.

FINER POINTS

Sending the right flowers on Valentineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day

FEBRUARY | 2014

CAKE BOSS

Flour + Eggs + Care = Art

BASEBALL POSTER Take a date to opening day February 14 vs Michigan

PRIVATE SHUTTLE PRIVATE BATHROOMS

24 HOUR CLUBHOUSE RESORT STYLE POOL

3-6 BEDROOM UNITS SWIM UP CANTINA BAR

LEASING OFFICE: 326 N. LBJ DRIVE C APSTONE C OTTAGES O F SM. COM

512.754.3333

4 BOBCAT FA NS | SMTX | 02.14

02.14 | SMTX | BOBCATFA NS

|CONTENTS| | FEBRUARY 2014 |

BOBCATFANS

SMTX

08. PIKE’S PLACE

08. HAPPENINGS

10. LOCAL GEMS

10. LOVE ME TENDERS

12. CAKE BOSS

13. THE FUTURE IT’S ON THE LINE

10. FLOWER POWER

18. MAN w/ a PLAN

17. TXST’s NEW P.A.C. NO PRESS ALLOWED

22. SUBWAY DANCER 32. BASEBALL POSTER TACK IT TO YOUR WALL

6 BOBCAT FA NS | SMTX | 02.14

HOW HE SEES SMTX

20. JARED MILLER Q&A

24. APARTMENT LIVING

@bobcatfans

/bobcatfans

NEW CITY MANAGER

22. UNDER 500 Calories

/smtxmagazine

COVERS BOBCATFANS The new Performing Arts Center at Texas State University SMTX The future of San Marcos is blurry but always worth a look.

PU BL IS H E R

CON TRIBUTORS

Rick Koch @rickkoch

Pam Bowen Tiffany Matthews Katie Ogletree Chris Pike Xander Peters Jordan Gass-Poore Emma Shields Christieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Jewelry The Floral Studio

ART DI R E CTO R Will Bowling @wbcreative

P HOTO E DI TO R Eric Morales @ericmphotoTX

E V E N TS Johnell Huebner @johnellhuebner

D E VEL O P ME N T Steve Huskey @wizardofgoogle

ADVERTISIN G 361.236.5624 rick@bobcatfans.com

FEEDBACK @bobcatfans bobcatfans@gmail. com

Copyright 2014, 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.

02.14 | SMTX | BOBCATFA NS

SM TX | PIKE’S PLACE 8 BOBCAT FA NS | SMTX | 02.14

| Illustration Chris Pike |

02.14 | SMTX | BOBCATFA NS

BLING BLING Our oldest ancestors sought all sorts of stones. At the beginning of the Neolithic period, men could already distinguish between certain sparkling, or richly colored stones, to which they attributed supernatural powers.

Aquamarine

It symbolizes happiness and eternal youth. It is viewed in Christian symbolism to bring moderation and control of passions to its owner. It is a gentle and peaceful gemstone, and it is said to fortify one’s sense of self-esteem.

Diamond

Emerald

The diamond is the symbol of a sixty-year anniversary. However, diamonds symbolize more than romance. For centuries, diamonds have been a symbol of excellence and purity. Because of its unmatched hardness and clarity, it also symbolizes power, strength, brilliance and unparalleled beauty. Throughout history many regarded them as magical.

The wonderful green color of emerald is unparalleled in the gem world. It is not surprising then that emerald is classified as one of the traditional four precious stones along with sapphire, ruby and diamond. Emerald is for commemorating the 20th and 35th wedding anniversaries.

Amethyst

Amethyst has always been linked to the thinking process, ensuring clarity of vision. It inspires creativity, courage and valor.

Rubies

This stone can command the highest per-carat price of any colored stone. This makes a ruby one of the most important gems in the colored stone market. In its purest form, the mineral corundum is colorless.

Making The Cuts

A defining characteristic of a diamond is its cut. While high grades of color, clarity, and carat weight contribute to a diamond’s appeal, it’s the cut that determines the symmetry of the stone’s facets, its overall proportions, and its ability to reflect light...or BLING!

Marquise

The Marquise cut provides good brilliance and color. It is gorgeous when used as a solitaire or when enhanced by smaller gems.

10 BOBCAT FA NS | SMTX | 02.14

Round Brilliant

Optically the most efficient, the Round Brilliant boasts one of the best recoveries for well-shaped diamonds which translates into good value for consumers. Also known as Round or American Standard, the design provides the gem’s maximum sparkle.

Princess

This relatively new cut often finds its way into solitaire engagement rings and is flattering to a hand with long fingers. Because of its design, this cut requires more weight to be directed toward the gem’s depth in order to maximize brilliance.

Triangle

It may be a traditional triangular shape with pointed corners or a more rounded triangular shape. It is for the adventurous and works very well with light colored gems such as aquamarines and white sapphires.

| Photo Eric Morales | Story by: Katie Ogletree |

02.14 | SMTX | BOBCATFA NS

Edible Artistry from Penningtonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Cakes

12 BOBCAT FA NS | SMTX | 02.14

ince humble beginnings in 1962, Pennington’s Cakes has continued to provide award winning cakes to the fine folks of Central Texas. Three classically trained bakers at San Marcos’ première bakery make this daunting task look easy. Between the 200 or so weddings and the near 1000 celebration cakes they craft every year, Pennington’s Cakes has the skills, know-how, and creativity to make even your most imaginative cake dreams a joyful reality. Pennington’s Cakes are artfully decorated and memorably presented with the utmost care. It started fifty-one years ago when Ms. Dorothy Pennington began making delicious and beautiful cakes from her home for friends and family. Her cakes became highly sought after, and even became the talk of the town. Eventually, her kitchen became way too small for her stacks of order slips and sweet ambitions, so she brought her recipes, craft and love to a bakery in San Marcos. Today the folks at Pennington’s continue baking all their cakes fresh to order, using Dorothy’s original recipes with quality ingredients, never skimping on their “tender loving care.” Their cakes go far beyond just being a sweet treat. They’ve become a beautiful and mouth-wateringly luscious art form. When it comes to the design process, current owner and head baker Stephen Horn says, “We take design ideas from the customer, either photos or for weddings, design styles and consult using photos of cakes we have previously created. Then it’s just a matter of brainstorming the best design to fit the customer’s wishes.” In talking about trends in the world of sweet treats, Horn explains that like fashion, what is popular in cakes may not be so the next year. “Wedding cake shapes change in popularity based on trends in fashion, colors as well. Thirty years ago, we were making nothing but tiered (columns between) cakes, very ornate with lots of lace and ribbon, or cakes shaped like church buildings. Today, it’s mostly stacked cakes (no columns separating the tiers) with simpler design, streamlined but elegant. Fresh

flowers have replaced sugar flowers as preferred adornment,” said Horn. But when it comes to today’s favorites, Horn describes the most in demand designs. “A very popular design style these days is country rustic, with lots of burlap or old lace designs,” said Horn. “On the other end of the spectrum, ‘bling’ cakes are very popular with lots of diamond banding and jewel accents. Color choices range from black and white with gold or silver accents to soft pinks or purple tones.” When it’s all said and done, taste trumps. The bakery’s most popular flavors are a white wedding cake with pineapple filling and their moist strawberry swirl cake. And like design, flavor favorites change from time to time based on popular tastes, but as Horn explained, these two have been perennial favorites. What are the head baker’s favorite flavors? “That’s like asking which kid I like better,” he remarked. But at the end of the day, Horn does have his go-to. “I am partial to our rich yellow cake with a chocolate ganache filling.” From Pennington’s Cakes legendary wedding cakes, spirit -filled graduation cakes, and a couple hundred retirement and birthday varieties in between, millions of memories have been made from their handcrafted, delectable desserts in San Marcos and beyond.

Awards Ben E. Keith Food Show “Novelty Cakes” First Place Brides’ Choice Award 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013 Best of Hays County “Best Desserts” 2008, 2010, 2011, 2012 “Best Bakery” 2012

| By Katie Ogletree | Photo Eric Morales |

02.14 | SMTX | BOBCATFA NS

Red Rose The traditional symbol for love and romance and a time-honored way to say â&#x20AC;&#x153;I love you.â&#x20AC;? The red rose has long symbolized beauty and perfection. A bouquet of red roses is the perfect way to express your deep feelings for someone special.

Pink Rose These are a symbol of grace and elegance. The pink rose is often given as an expression of admiration. Pink roses can also convey appreciation as well as joyfulness. Pink rose bouquets often impart a gentler meaning than their red counterparts.

Orange Rose With their blazing energy, orange roses are the embodiment of desire and enthusiasm. Orange roses often symbolize passion and excitement and are an expression of fervent romance. A bouquet of orange roses will send a meaningful message.

14 BOBCAT FA NS | SMTX | 02.14

FINER POINTS

Ranunculus This flower symbolizes radiant charm. It conveys a message that you are radiant with charm or you are attractive.

OF FLOWERS

On Valentineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day, the flowers you give or receive have meaningâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;good or bad. Understand their meaning and send the correct message. These are all excellent choices.

Iris Few other flowers can match the elegant beauty of the iris. Representing faith, hope, and wisdom, the iris is a flower that can be used for many different occasions. While it is most known for its distinctive blue varieties, the iris can also be found in other colors such as yellow and white.

Tulips With their flower meaning being perfect love, tulips can impart a sense of grace and elegance wherever they are displayed.

Gerbera Daisies The fifth most popular flower in the world, gerbera daisies can mean innocence, purity, and cheerfulness.

02.14 | SMTX | BOBCATFA NS

BISHOPSSQUARE.COM

TEXAS-SIZED TOWNHOMES

SAVE $300 WITH REDUCED FEES

close to campus • on shuttle bus route • private bedrooms & bathrooms • fully furnished • 24-hr fitness center computer center • swimming pool • pet friendly • gated community • individual leases • roommate matching available

512.878.8728 • 109 Craddock Avenue limited time only. rates, fees & deadlines subject to change. see office for details.

16 BOBCAT FA NS | SMTX | 02.14

09.13 | SMTX | BOBCATFANS 16

O F F B R O A D WAY

THE NO-ACCESS GRANTED; INSIDE LOOK

-To some degree, the only way to know for certain that the Performing Arts Center’s facilities are competitive to other universities is on April 7, when the Texas State Department of Theatre and Dance performs its spring musical, “Anything Goes.”

Few have seen inside Texas State’s new Performing Arts Center. No tours or press are allowed inside the Performing Arts Center until the building dedication on Feb. 27 for university faculty, staff and invited guests. A stroll down the sidewalk beside the center off University Drive may warrant a photo opportunity or a peek into every accessible nook and cranny of the 43,700 square foot structure, which includes a recital hall, theater, dressing rooms, offices and rehearsal space that has been the subject of discussion and debate for years.

| By Jordan Gass-Poore | Photo Eric Morales |

02.14 | SMTX | BOBCATFA NS

The new and much anticipated Performing Arts Center will house a 400-seat theater for award winning productions, plus plenty of parking space.

John Fleming, chair of Texas State’s Department of Theatre and Dance, said that before this ‘no access’ mandate was instituted he would occasionally escort university students into the center. After all, Texas State students are the people who will be taking advantage of and utilizing this space the most. The Performing Arts

“We’re getting nationally recognized for degree programs and as a department as a whole, that just keeps feeding the growth,” Fleming said. In what may have been a less controversial setting, Fleming said he would occasionally participate in hard hat walk-throughs of the structure. His first visit inside the “substantially complete” center was in September, when it was transferred from Hunt Construction to the university.

“We’re getting nationally recognized for degree programs and as a department as a whole, that just keeps feeding the growth,” Fleming said. Center was deemed necessary by university officials to help foster and support one of the nation’s leading fine arts programs. The lively Sarah Mullinnix, acting senior, said she decided to attend Texas State in the spring of 2011 because of its theater department and for the opportunity to perform on stage in the new center. “It drew me here, rather than UT,” said Mullinnix, whose mother is a Texas State alumna. “Texas State’s known for its theater department and the number of programs within it. … I’m really proud.” Mullinnix, who cited fellow curly haired actor/ comedians Gene Wilder and Gilda Radner as inspirations, added that the faculty and staff in the Texas State Department of Theatre and Dance provide opportunities for students’ voices to be heard and work to find them the help they need to succeed professionally in a close-knit, family dynamic.

18 BOBCAT FA NS | SMTX | 02.14

“People who have walked into the building are really impressed,” Fleming said. And an October tour of the center left the project’s lead donor, Patti Strickel Harrison, “speechless” he said. Harrison’s PSH Foundation donated $8 million to the Texas State Pride in Action Campaign that launched the construction of the Performing Arts Center in January 2008. The building’s 400-seat theater is named in her honor. Fleming believed the estimated total cost of the theater was about $23 million, with the remainder acquired through other outside donations and state funds. Besides the theater and recital hall, the Performing Arts Center consists of a 455-vehicle parking garage, a south chill plant, and street and ground improvements, totaling more than $83 million, according to Texas State’s Office of Facilities Planning, Design, and Construction Project Status Report from November.

Flipping through the fall 2013 briefing brochure for the Texas State Performing Arts Center, it’s apparent that many of the building’s features can be appreciated by both the technologically inclined and lovers of the arts across multiple disciplines. Two concert grand pianos and a harpsichord with an early 18th-century Franco-Flemish design will be featured in the 300-seat recital hall in the center, which, along with the theater, will be LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certified. Fleming, who has been actively involved with the project since plans for the center were announced in spring 2008, said he feels fortunate that Texas State officials have strongly included faculty in the university’s School of Music and Department of Theatre and Dance in many aspects of the center. He said they were involved in choosing the architectural firm who was hired, provided feedback on feasibility and planning documents as well as material orders, like the more than $400,000 worth of lighting equipment. “It’s a beautiful space, and I’ve said we need to make sure it’s equipped properly.” To some degree, the only way to know for certain that the Performing Arts Center’s facilities are competitive to other universities is on April 7, when the Texas State Department of Theatre and Dance performs its spring musical, “Anything Goes.” A portion of this Golden Age musical, which centers on the madcap antics aboard an

L I M I T E D T I M E – R AT E S A S L O W A S $ 4 9 9

THEOUTPOSTSANMARCOS.COM

SAVE $340

WITH ZERO DOWN NEW HARDWOOD-STYLE FLOORS & LEATHER-STYLE FURNITURE

close to campus • covered shuttle bus stop • fully furnished • private bedrooms & bathrooms • washer & dryer 24-hr fitness center • computer center • theater room • sand volleyball & basketball courts • individual leases

512.392.7678 • 1647 Post Road

limited time only. rates, fees & deadlines subject to change. see office for details.

02.14 | SMTX | BOBCATFA NS

Boogie-Woogie (piano-based blues) fan and former Texas State student, Patti Strickel Harrison, donated $8 million to launched the construction of the Performing Arts Center. The building’s 400-seat theater is named in her honor. psychiatrist. She was part of the first group of women to live in Beretta Hall, fondly remembering the building’s Mexican tile. “It was just a new world to me,” said Harrison. “I met a lot of good friends.” Many of her friends were English majors and could work and study from their dorms or the library, unlike Harrison, who was mainly confined to the lab, she remarked with a chuckle. ocean liner bound from New York to London, will be performed as part of the opening events of the center on Feb. 28 and March 2. “Anything Goes” was chosen in part because of Harrison’s love of musical theater, Fleming said. Harrison, a Port Neches native, grew up surrounded by music. Her mother was a piano teacher, and while she took a few lessons, she said she would have rather played boogie-woogie, a piano-based blues, as opposed to the more formal, classical variety that was traditionally taught. Her love of music extended to her formative years as a Port Neches High School student, where she played tenor saxophone for the band. Although her parents didn’t attend college, they expected Harrison and her younger brother to go. A neighbor of the Harrison’s attended Texas State, then Southwest Texas State Teachers College, a school that lived up to her expectations after visiting the campus. The summer before Harrison moved to San Marcos to attend Texas State, her mother, father and younger brother died in a vehicle accident. From her father’s vehicle dealerships in Port Neches, Harrison inherited a car and money for tuition. Harrison attended Texas State pre-med from 1947-1948 with aspirations of becoming a

20 BOBCAT FA NS | SMTX | 02.14

Her time at Texas State wasn’t all work and no fun. Harrison said at the time there were no Greek organizations on the Texas State campus. Instead, she became a member of the women-only Charles Craddock Literary Society. Having a car on campus, a rare feat at the time, also led to memorable trips with friends, one of which would change Harrison’s life forever. It was a spring afternoon when Harrison and her friends piled into her 1942 Mercury, ready to explore the Texas Hill Country. They eventually wound up in Wimberley, a place that continues to enchant Harrison. Harrison recently sold her home in Wimberley, after living there for more than three decades. She moved to Las Cruces, NM, partly because of a new business venture, with hopes of returning to Texas in the future. Her success as an entrepreneur may be based on a confidence and independence that doesn’t seem to lose sight of others – a generosity that looks toward investing in the future. These traits led to Harrison receiving one of the first medical technology degrees offered, having first read about the field from a brochure in former Texas State Dean Mary Brogdon’s office, she said. For nine years, Harrison worked as a medical technologist at Hermann Hospital in Houston, later becoming the technical director of its blood bank instead of enrolling in medical

school. This turned out to be a positive move. After Harrison left Hermann Hospital, she partnered with friends in New Jersey (and moved there too) to form the company Spectra Biologicals that went into competition with Johnson & Johnson. Two winters in the Garden State proved to be all Harrison could handle and she moved back to Houston. “I’m a Texan and I always will be,” she said. Spectra Biologicals was sold four years after she returned to Texas, when she formed a new company in Dallas. That company was soon sold too, with Harrison selling mutual funds, performing well in the stock market and forming another company with friends along the way. Harrison also found love during her return to Houston from New Jersey, marrying dentist Raymond Harrison in 1972. Raymond died three years later, but Patti Harrison remained close to his daughter, Mary Jane, who would go on to teach for 17 years with Houston Independent School District and become the executive director of Harrison’s PSH Foundation in Wimberley. The PSH Foundation, which has since ceased operations, was established in 2001 to provide scholarships and other funds for Texas State. The Mary Jane Hamilton Memorial Presidential Endowment, which Harrison established after Mary Jane died from ovarian cancer in 2003, continues to award funds to students in the Texas State College of Education. By 2008, Harrison said she was “very much involved with Texas State,” having donated funds to the university for about 15 years. But Harrison said it was time for her to close the PSH Foundation and “take care of that particular part” of her life. All these years, Harrison explained that she was looking for a way to give back to the community by bringing it together. The dedicated 84 year old Texas State Bobcat found the answer with the Performing Arts Theater Center.

02.14 | SMTX | BOBCATFA NS

SUBWAY | TRAIN HARD. EAT FRESH.

Profiles

DESIREE KASTELNI K Aspiring New York Rockette A dancer since the age of four, Desiree Kastelnik dances every day, spending at least 30 hours a week practicing. This summer she will travel to New York City to try out for the legendary Rockettes, who are best known for their high-leg kick. She is a part of the Merge Dance team through Texas State, majors in dance education, takes technique classes, and teaches dance classes in San Marcos and San Antonio. She was drawn to Texas State because she wanted to be a Strutter, and several of her previous dance teachers had attended Texas State. She was a Strutter her freshman year and then joined the Merge Dance team. Merge, which is a part of the Texas State dance program, puts on several shows a year focusing on modern and contemporary dance. Desiree is affluent in every genre of dance, but her favorites are jazz, ballet, tap and classical. Some of her influences include Sadie Hawkins, Joey Dowling, Bob Fosse, and Martha Graham. Joey Dowling, who she met at a dance convention, has influenced her to constantly challenge herself and to never be content. As far as future plans, Desiree has a lot of them. She plans to live in New York City for the summer and attend the Broadway Dance Center’s summer dance program. Eventually she would like to combine her dance education major and business minor to open a dance studio. The university’s Department of Theatre and Dance will have its inaugural performance in the center, the Golden Age musical, “Anything Goes,” on April 7.

22 BOBCAT FA NS | SMTX | 02.14

“I SP ECIFICA LLY LIKE TO FO CU S O N JA ZZ, BA LLET, A ND TA P, I’M M O R E O F A CLASSICA L DA NCER . CO M ING TO TEX AS STATE H AS H ELP ED M E CO M E INTO TH AT M O D ER N A ND CO NTEM P O R A RY WO R LD . B U T YO U STILL H AV E YO U R H O M E, LIKE WH AT YO U LOV E TO D O .”

| By Emma Shields | Photo Eric Morales |

L I V E G R E AT

LIVE RETREAT A P P LY TO DAY & S AV E $1 5 0 W I T H Z E R O D E P OS I T

close to campus • roommate matching available • resort-style pool • fitness center • media room private bedrooms & bathrooms • unique townhome floor plans • furnished or unfurnished available

RETREATSANMARCOS.COM 512.757.8980 • 512 Craddock Avenue limited time only. rates, fees & deadlines subject to change. see office for details.

02.14 | SMTX | BOBCATFA NS

PROMOTION

San Marcos Apartment Living Spotlight

great locations Pick Your Pad Like A VIP! AND IT’s FREE, FREE, FREE! Too many apartment options? Not sure who has the best move in deals? Great Locations Apartment Locating provides a listing of every property that meets your criteria as well as all the pricing specials and they do it for free. The agents are actually licensed realtors that work with the apartments to help future residents �ind the best �it. They are the Wikipedia of apartment complexes with a database of photos, policies and pricing for each complex.

If you want a comprehensive list of all the apartments, houses, duplexes and rentals available in San Marcos, swing into their of�ice. You don’t need an appointment and the search only takes a couple of minutes.

When you tell a friend about Great Locations you even get a $50 Visa gift card just for the referral.

It’s FREE

mygreatlocations

1515 Aquarena Springs Dr 512-878-2233 mygreatlocations.com Rates: FREE! | Words & Photos Eric Morales |

PROMOTION

San Marcos Apartment Living Spotlight

CAPSTONE COTTAGES

THE NEXT BIG THING “Are you looking for the next BIG thing in student housing? Look no further! Capstone Cottages of San Marcos is a brand new student community opening fall of 2014 for the students of Texas State University. With your very own private shuttle, state of the art fitness center, frisbee golf course, walking and jogging trail, resort style pool, free tanning and so much more, why would you want to live anywhere else?

Private Shuttle to and From Campus

Capstone Cottages offer 3-6 bedroom cottage style homes, furnished and unfurnished packages, and an optional utility package. No worries, Capstone Cottages will provide free cable and internet to all cottages as well. Capstone Cottages is here to help create the college living experience you have been looking for. Don’t miss out on your chance to live where life is BETTER! Stop by our leasing office today and take a look at our model, and pick out your future HOME!”

Upscale Amenities

Utilities Packages Included

Cottage Style Community Multiple Floor plan Options.

TAKE A VIRTUAL TOUR!

/SanMarcosCottages

326 N LBJ Dr.

512.754.3333 capstonecottagesofsm.com Rates as low as $535

PROMOTION

San Marcos Apartment Living Spotlight

The Retreat Experience The Good Life Ask around, The Retreat is like nothing else San Marcos has to offer in student living. Take advantage of unmatched amenities and college eventsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; everything you want and need in one place is why The Retreat has been voted the best student community in the nation! Relax with our world class amenities including a gorgeous fitness center, rec room, resort-style pool, free tanning, sand volleyball, basketball and so much more. The Retreat offers furnished or unfurnished cottagestyle accommodations with designer interior finishes in a variety of floor plans to choose from, individual liability leases, with cable and high speed internet are included.

Resort-style pool with sun deck NEW Bus stop Fitness center Free tanning Horseshoe pit Recreation center Billiards Media room Golf simulator iPad bar Sand volleyball court and more...

TAKE A VIRTUAL TOUR!

SanctuaryLoftsApartments

512 Craddock Avenue 512.757.8980 retreatsanmarcos.com Rates as low as $544

02.14 | SMTX | BOBCATFA NS

PROMOTION

San Marcos Apartment Living Spotlight

Bishops Square Live Close. Live college. Live like you mean it at Bishops Square, were you will have the privacy and lifestyle you deserve with you, the college student, in mind. Bishops Square offers townhome-style apartment homes in a variety of floor plans to choose from, individual liability leases and cable and high speed internet are included. Take advantage of our convenient location and unmatched amenities—everything you want and need in one place makes Bishops Square the best in college apartments! Bishops Square is located close to campus and is on the bus route. At Bishops Square, you will also enjoy our amenities including a huge clubhouse complete with a state-of-the-art fitness center, business center, theater room, sand volleyball court, resort-style pool and much more.

Gated community On shuttle bus route Roommate matching available Computer center Coffee bar

Swimming pool ose to campus • on shuttle bus route • ro Barbeque grills

Sand volleyball d community • 24-hr fitness center • comp court Our professional on-site staff is dedicated to serving your needs and arranging both social and educational activities to help you meet other residents and enjoy your college experience. There is no reason to look elsewhere, apply today!

24-hour fitness center

A P P LY TO D AY & S A V TAKE A VIRTUAL TOUR!

Pet friendly

512.878.872

BishopsSquare

109 Craddock Avenue 512.878.8828 bishopssquare.com Rates as low as $529

28 BOBCAT FA NS | SMTX | 02.14

02.14 | SMTX | BOBCATFA NS

PROMOTION

SanSan Marcos Marcos Apartment Apartment Living Living Spotlight Spotlight

THE Outpost Less Pay. More Play. The Outpost is the BEST DEAL in student living! You will have the privacy and lifestyle you deserve without breaking the bank. The Outpost also offers fully furnished student apartments in a variety of floor plans to choose from, individual liability leases, and cable and internet are included.

Free tanning

With a convenient location and unmatched entertainment and amenitiesâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;everything you want and need is why so many disire to make The Outpost their college home. The Outpost is conveniently located on Post Road and is on the Texas State bus loop and CARTS. You will also enjoy the endless amenities including a fitness center, recreation room, theater room, resort-style pool with a private sun deck, and so much more.

Theater room

A top-notch professional on-site staff is dedicated to serving your needs. There is no reason to look elsewhere, apply today and reserve your space at San Marcosâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; most valued student housing community!

Billiards table Air hockey Shuffle board On shuttle bus route Individual leases Computer center Recreation center 24-hour fitness center

TAKE A VIRTUAL TOUR!

TheOutpostSM

1647 Post Road 512.392.7678 theoutpostsanmarcos.com Rates as low as $509

30 BOBCAT FA NS | SMTX | 02.14

PROMOTION

San Marcos Apartment Living Spotlight

Sanctuary Lofts Your Eden Awaits Live Close. Drive Less

Built around a historic downtown San Marcos church, we are Walk to class the sanctuary you have been waiting for. Take advantage of our convenient location and unmatched amenities—everything you Swimming pool want and need in one place makes Sanctuary Lofts the utopia in 24-hour SMTX apartment living!

fitness center

No worries here as cable and internet are included along with peace of mind individual liability leases. Sanctuary Lofts offers fully furnished student apartments in a variety of floor plans to choose from, and you will enjoy our amenities including a fitness center, recreation room, resort-style pool with a private sun deck, and so much more.

Tanning rooms

At Sanctuary Lofts you will have the privacy and lifestyle you deserve in a community that is built specifically with you, the college student, in mind. Our professional on-site staff is dedicated to serving your needs to make sure you enjoy your college experience. Apply today and reserve your space at San Marcos’ most “righteous” student housing community!

Wi-Fi hotspots

Billiards Golden Tee & Big Buck Hunter arcade games

TAKE A VIRTUAL TOUR!

Individual leases

SanctuaryLoftsApartments

350 North St 512.392.9066 thesanctuarylofts.com Rates as low 02.14 as $569 | SMTX | BOBCATFA NS

32 BOBCAT FA NS | SMTX | 02.14

02.14 | SMTX | BOBCATFA NS