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|CONTENTS| | MARCH 2014 |
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26
BOBCATFANS
SMTX
08. PIKE’S PLACE
08. HAPPENINGS
10. PEDDLE POWER
10. SUPERCAPACITOR
12. THE GEORGES
12. DIETITIAN Q&A
14. RIPPER’S KNIFE
14. GREEN MAN
16. HAPPY BARFISH
16. BUS STOP
18. THE O.R.
19. SMTX GREEN
20. MARDI GRAS
24. SALAD BAR
32. THE “C” WORD
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/bobcatfans
/smtxmagazine
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COVERS Photography by Eric Morales
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 Nancy Young
ART DI R E CTO R Will Bowling @wbcreative
P HOTO E DI TO R Eric Morales @ericmphotoTX
E V E N TS
ADVERTISIN G
Johnell Huebner @johnellhuebner
361.236.5624 rick@bobcatfans.com
D E VEL O P ME N T
FEEDBACK
Steve Huskey @wizardofgoogle
smtxmagazine@gmail.com 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. SMTX | BOBCATFANS Magazine is a private company and is not affiliated with Texas State University.
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SM TX | PIKE’S PLACE 8 BOBCAT FA NS | SMTX | 03.14
| Illustration Chris Pike |
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SUBWAY | TRAIN HARD. EAT FRESH.
Profiles
“IT FEELS R EA LLY G OOD WH EN YO U ’V E TR A I NED A ND YO U ’V E WO R K ED R EA LLY H A R D ; IT FEELS G O O D TO W I N.”
CINTHIA PEDRAZA Winning The Open Road The Texas State Cycling team has been around since the 1980’s - peddling up and down the peaceful winding roads of Central Texas Hill Country with anywhere from five to twenty members. Cinthia Pedraza, a 22 year old Houston native, is president of the Texas State Cycling team, and has been training and racing bikes seriously for two and a half years. Averaging 250 miles a week, the Texas State double major (Spanish & Geography), puts in serious training time out on the road. Cinthia explores the vast lushness of Texas countryside on long rides by herself, and in the company of teammates and friends. “The best places to ride are pretty much anytime I’m in the middle of nowhere, no cities, just a super long road, Wimberley during the springtime is really nice but pretty much all bike rides are really nice as long as you’re not in a city getting honked at constantly.” Between studies, work, and the duties of being team president, it takes serious time management skills to ride a couple hundred plus miles every week. “Sometimes it’s so easy to chill and just say I’ll do it tomorrow...It’s about finding it in yourself to just push...and just tell yourself that you want to be better, there’s a reason why you’re training.” Look for Texas State Cycling on Facebook to hear about team meetings, group rides, and upcoming races. FB/TexasStateCycling
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| By Emma Shields | Photo Eric Morales |
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THE GEORGES | thegeorgesband.com | facebook/thegeorgesrockabilly |
The older generation feels nostalgia, and the younger kids are intrigued by a type of music they have never heard before. Meet a true Rockabilly group who frequently tear up dance floors of legendary Texas venues like Gruene Hall. Playing music at a dance hall isn’t an easy feat; sets usually last for about three and a half hours. However, performing at a dance hall is fun for lead vocalist, Jason George, who understands people came to move and dance and have a good time. Rockabilly, as described by the band, is the good early country music. It’s a melodic blend of catchy, danceable music that gets folks a movin’ and a shakin’. Influenced by the Beatles, Jason named the group after George Harrison. The Georges’ full length album, “Cool Your Heels,” contains all original songs, but when rockin’ at dance halls, added to their sets are
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covers from the likes of Buddy Holly, Johnny Cash and Elvis. The group has undergone a few member changes since they recorded their album, but they now play with two of the original members from “Two Tons of Steel,” another infamous dance hall band from the Texas hill country. Not only are they into playing music for people to dance to, Jason is also quite a dancer himself. He and his wife frequent halls where they go Georges dancing together.
Wat c h T h e M A RC H 2 7, 7 p m K e e p S a n M a r c o s B e a u t i f u l Originally from all over the states, the members of The Georges now reside in Concert Series the San Marcos area. at P l a z a P a r k
| By Emma Shields | Photos Eric Morales |
(Left to Right ) Dennis Fallon, Chris Dodds, Jason George, and Aaron Covington.
SM TX | BACK STAGE On the upright bass is Aaron Covington, who played the part of Jerry Lee Lewis’ bassist in the movie Walk The Line.
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SM TX | INTERESTING OBJECT
LISTON K NI FE A SHARP HISTORY Robert Liston (1797-1847), a Scottish surgeon renowned for his speed and precision in surgery, invented this double edged amputation knife. It is made of steel with a nickel-plated handle. Nickel plating was introduced in the 1890s and meant that the knife could be boiled without it rusting and was therefore ideal for aseptic surgery. The knife was made by Down Bros, a leading surgical instrument maker. A Liston knife was the weapon of choice of the infamous Jack the Ripper, a London serial killer, in 1888. It is thought Jack the Ripper may have had some surgical and anatomical knowledge due to the way he mutilated his female victims. Although it is called the Liston amputation knife, it is actually used to cut through large muscle tissue.
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| Photo Eric Morales | Story by: Katie Ogletree |
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Happy Hour Specials | MARCH 2014 |
BARFISH LOUNGE Offering an inviting atmosphere with a little something for everyone, many of the dowtown regulars call Barfish home. Enjoy your favorite sports on the largest HD screens in town or just sit back and relax as the fast and friendly staff take care of you beverage needs, shotbar included. No matter what your interest, The Barfish Lounge has it.
141 E. Hopkins San Marcos, TX 78666
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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
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Wireless Digital Surgery Clock Timer functions are used when performing time sensitive procedures. The digital surgery clock ensures the correct time is listed on all documentation created by the various healthcare providers during the surgery.
Overhead Surgical Lights Provide cool, shadow-reduced, color-corrected, visible illumination of the surgical field or the patient for the operating room staff.
Monitors placed on the anesthesia machine allow the monitoring of the patient’s blood pressure, heart rate and rhythm, the rate, pattern and depth of respirations, carbon dioxide levels, amount of anesthesia gases delivered during surgery and oxygen saturation.
Electrical Isolation Transformer isolates the OR suite’s electric source and provides electrical grounding for the various electrical equipment used in the room.
Anesthesia Machine is designed to provide a continuous supply of medical gases mixed with anesthetic gases to keep the patient anesthetized or as commonly referred to as “asleep.”
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FINER POINTS
Operating Rooms While a bit eerie, surgical care and its safe delivery affect the lives of millions of people. About 234 million major operations are performed worldwide every year.
X-ray View Box X-rays are used to diagnose a problem, to ensure proper alignment, or to tell if effective treatment has occurred.
Stainless Steel Instrument Table Commonly referred to as the “back table” in surgery. It’s home to specific sterile surgical instruments, fluids, medication and supplies indicated for the surgery.
Electric Surgical Table Referred to as the “surgical bed,” it can support up to an 1100 lb patient. This electric bed with a */pressure management table pad can be raised, lowered, tilted side to side and transformed into a variety of configurations to accommodate the patient’s body positioning needs and proper alignment during surgery.
| Photo Eric Morales | CMTC O.R. Room |
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Marching Down Historic Belvin Street AT NOON SATURDAY MARCH 1 The Parade route Runs the length of Belvin Street (From Bishop to Scott Street)
In Honor of his majesty The Parade will stop for a toast and the Mayor’s reading of the Royal proclamation. 2014 KING & Queen OF Carnival In San Marcos BIll Pennington and Shirley Rogers
NO Parking on Parade route
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A M DAY
S E U AT T
F
h t 4 RCH
It’s Okay, Everyone is doing it! 24 BOBCAT FA NS | SMTX | 03.14
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“Our research is interesting because it has the c-word, CANCER.�
The | Words & Photos Eric Morales |
WORD | By Xander Peters | Photos Eric Morales |
To the naked eye, the annual report from the American Cancer Society speaks volumes—out of almost 1.7 million cases of cancer yet to be diagnosed, an estimated 585,720 will result in death, which boils down to approximately 1,600 casualties per day. Even though the race for a cure is still being run, the possibility of innovative treatments towards the disease is on the rise. Some of whom are discovering noteworthy medical breakthroughs in our own backyard at Texas State University.
“Our
“It makes you want to go in the lab and do work, try to reach that next milestone...Even when you hit a wall, adversity builds character.” Doctoral student Travis Cantu is garnering attention for his research, using bursts of light to kill cancer cells.
The LIGHT Alternative Before beginning his doctoral degree in the MSEC Program at Texas State University, Travis Cantu earned his Bachelor’s and Master’s from University of Texas-Pan American in Edinburg.
“Our research is interesting because it has the c-word: ‘cancer,’” says Travis Cantu, a doctoral student in the Materials Science, Engineering and Commercialization (MSEC) Program at Texas State. Cantu’s research focuses on the creation of synthesized chemical polymers, (a series of tiny molecules), capable of conducting photo-thermal energy, (a reference to the use of electromagnetic radiation). If injected into the body, the polymers seek out the area where any cancerous growths are and deliver
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concentrated bursts of heat and light, further killing cancer cells without the use of toxins, such as in chemotherapy. For instance, if a person were to be diagnosed with Stage One cancer and another with Stage Four, then the two are basically given similar chemotherapy treatments. Granted, each individual person would receive a little less dosage and the other a little more, but the actual site where the cancer lies isn’t targeted specifically. In this case, for the person with Stage One diagnosis, an alternative treatment could be tremendously useful, in that the cancer site could be targeted and removed from that area.
The research is a strategy of localized therapy. Compared to the contemporary chemotherapy treatment, this strategy could possibly prevent the type of “overdose” admitted to rid of cancerous cells, killing even the healthy ones—as well as other common side effects, such as hair loss, fatigue, anemia, loss of appetite and more. However, to say that this innovative treatment method is polished and ready for the pharmaceutical assembly line, just yet, would be to tell a blatant lie. In every sense, it is all still at the level of a hypothesis, yet it is garnering tremendous interest in the field of cancer medicine.
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Between Cantu, his lab, Dr. Tania Betancourt and Dr. Jennifer Irvin, both faculty in the MSEC Program, there is a specific correlation. If the ideas behind their shared research is successful, then
Dr. Betancourt, a biomedical engineer, and Dr. Irvin, a polymer chemist. Under the expertise of Dr. Irvin on how to synthesize polymers and Dr. Betan-
“People say I need to slow down. But it’s because I have all of these ideas in my head that I just want to get out before I forget them” an alternative method for cancer reform could be used either by itself or with a combination of other treatments in the not-to-distant future. Due to the excitement surrounding MSEC Program’s research, Cantu has been invited as an honorary speaker for the American Chemical Society’s (ACS) Exposition in Dallas this March, where he will present his own findings to fellow researchers, educators and companies in the industry.
The Research The MSEC Program—which is tailored uniquely as an interdisciplinary effort between the university’s biology, chemistry and biochemistry, physics, engineering technology and business schools—was still relatively fresh on its feet when Travis Cantu joined. It was in this variation of opportunity, where students can potentially take their studies from the lab and to the market, a learned entrepreneurship in science, that led Cantu to being included in one of the initial batches of students in August 2012. Then, as time would tell, Dr. Betancourt approached him with a research article about the usage of photo-thermal therapy (PTT), an effort to target certain tissue or cells using a specific kind of light for the treatment of various medical conditions—including cancer. His challenge: to try to develop a type of new nano-materials that could be made from synthetic polymers but could also absorb light and then be used for PTT, developing a new type of particle. Cantu would have to start from scratch and build up from the chemicals, to the polymers, to the nano-particles, to actually testing it on cells. He would explain and shape the research method between
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of cancer. If successful there, then the chance of moving forward by seeing how they can replicate the material consistently will be the task at hand. Although, to meet that eventual goal in the project, there are a series of other variables involved—external funding, timing when publishing research, collaboration with other universities to gain access to animal facilities for testing and other technologies, as well as eventually running clinical trials at hospitals in the very distant future.
court’s direction to make materials do certain things, they would instruct Cantu and tell him to go make it. Throughout the research Cantu has played a significant role in the entire process. “From the very beginning,” says Dr. Betancourt, “he definitely was excited to get on. He participated a lot; he helped us put in a proposal to get funding internally—where we received $16,000 between three of us to fund the technology up to this point.” And as of now, Cantu is helping write a new proposal to get much more funding from an external source for the sake of the research’s progression.
That being said, the tedious nature of progression in these sciences requires patience. With funding from the Research Enhancement Program and the Partnership for Research and Education in Materials (PREM) already, and more external grants to come—Cantu, accompanied by both of his bosses, plans to continue furthering their research as far as possible until the day arrives when his doctoral degree is earned, and he has to leave the research and MSEC Program behind. Nevertheless, a project to this capacity is just as much about the now as it is about the later.
The Race
As for the now, Dr. Irvin, who will also be giving a talk at the ACS National Meeting, comments on how great of an opportunity it is to present in front of this caliber of scientific professionals.
There is a lot of hype about individualized medicine at the moment. And to be included in that hype requires miles upon miles of trial, error and tribulation. The idea of making a purely organic material—something that the body will recognize and remove quicker, a localized treatment for cancer—is, to an extent, an entirely new approach. Yet, it will be years until any of these methods can be tested on animals and even a decade before trial runs on people can commence. To date, those behind the research have yet to even know exactly how localized this type of reform would be, if it is toxic to the cells on its own, how much heat is going to be given off around it and so forth. But the idea behind it, where a more efficient way to target cancer cells or other diseases during treatment is a possibility, remains to float barely out of reach in the future’s abyss. The next step will be to conduct cell studies, to see how well the material behaves in the mimicking environment
“Usually when graduate students go to these conferences, they’ll give a poster (presentation),” she says. “Which is fine, but that’s a level below giving a talk.” At the very least, recognition at this level shows that all of the focus the university is placing on research has been successful, while simultaneously working towards a united goal.
The Spotlight When Travis Cantu gets nervous, he has a tendency to talk fast. “People say I need to slow down. But it’s because I have all of these ideas in my head that I just want to get out before I forget them,” he says. In fact, as far as he is concerned, the recognition they have gotten for their research has been on the verge of awkward, describing himself as the type to lay low. Even if he has received the spotlight and a reputable award for
“If you can make a difference in some people’s life, then that’s important.”
Dr. Betancourt B.S. Chemical Engineering, Texas A&M University 2002 M.S. Biomedical Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin 2005 Ph.D. Biomedical Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin 2007 Postdoctoral Research Fellow, The University of Texas at Austin 2008
Projects in Dr. Betancourt’s laboratory include: Aptamer-based responsive nanostructures that can be activated by disease-specific molecules, and the applications of these functional materials in targeted drug delivery, bioimaging, and biomolecular sensing.
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working in the area of polymer engineering, although Cantu wouldn’t tell you that on his own.
adverse times coming up soon, and we’re just going to face them and suck it up.”
He’s the type of guy who doesn’t even care to have cable, so he had no idea people would recognize him at the grocery store after a local news station picked up a story about their research; the type of guy who would not have even guessed that if you Googled his name, then page after page would pop up; the type of guy who doesn’t really believe in luck—because, according to him, why would you need luck when you have skill? “It makes you want to go in the lab and do work, try to reach that next milestone and get to that next point and say we’re progressing. Even when you hit a wall, adversity builds character,” Cantu continues. “We’ll probably face some
To the very definition, whether you include the fact that he is trying to make a significant difference or not, Cantu is your average fellow that believes in life outside of his work. “I’m not the book kind of person where I’m just sitting there reading, reading, reading,” he says. “Yeah, I do a lot of reading, and I do a lot in the lab, but… life’s too short for that. I just have to do my work, stay on task, get done what I can, but still enjoy life and have some fun.” “The ultimate goal would be to get this material we’re making and see it all the way to market. Realistically, that could be twenty years in the making. There’s people who are way ahead of us already—not the same kind of research,
Dr. Irvin
B.S. in Chemistry 1991 Texas State University; Advisor: Dr. Patrick E. Cassidy M.S. in Chemistry 1993 Texas State University; Advisor: Dr. Patrick E. Cassidy Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry 1998 University of Florida; Advisor: Dr. John R. Reynolds Post-Doctoral Fellow; 1998-2000, Sandia National Laboratories, Livermore, CA
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but trying to find a cure.” “I mean, to be able to contribute and maybe someday say, oh, I helped, even though it was very small, I helped contribute. It’s a good feeling, right?—it’s an accomplishment.” And to compliment his modesty, even after all of the positive reception from the scientific community, the doctoral student realizes that it’s not just about him—it’s about Dr. Betancourt and Dr. Irvin, too, because they’re also building their careers. It’s a working relationship, as he explains it, where all parties are receiving a sense of worth from the project—and that includes getting across the fact that Texas State University and the MSEC Program can produce meaningful research with the hope of saving lives.
Our research is focused in two distinct areas: electroactive polymers and nanoparticle modifications.
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|EVENTS & HAPPENINGS| | MARCH 2014 |
Mardi-Crawl
Louie’s Crawfish Boil
A pub crawl with beads, beer and boisterous bars on the square. Starting on Hutchison Street you are invited to join the crowd as you travel around downtown winning prizes along the way. A costume contest rewards those who get into the spirit of Mardi Gras. Consider it practice for Fat Tuesday with a few twists. (BFM Page 22) March 1, 8pm @ Downtown The Square, San Marcos
It’s crawfish season and it won’t be missed at Louie’s Beer Garden. Join the pot-boiling fun every other Saturday this spring, and get your hands messy with a cold beer by your side. March 8 & 22, All Day @ Louie’s Beer Garden 119 E Hutchison, San Marcos
Mistick Krewe of Okeanos Parade
Moe’s Better Half Marathon
Mardi On The Square V
For the second year in a row, the residents in the historical district of San Marcos are hosting a family friendly parade to celebrate the joy of Mardi Gras. The marching parade will showcase the Rattler Band, Mardi Gras enthusiasts in full costume and the 2014 King and Queen of Mistick Krewe of Okeanos. Like Carnival, it’s a colorful parade that is sure to continue growing in the coming years. March 1, 12pm @ Belvin Street Historic District, San Marcos
Over the last 30 years, Moe’s Better Half Marathon has evolved into one of the more popular road races in central Texas. Named after San Marcos running guru and race director Dr. Moe Johnson, MBHM is known for its challenging and scenic course and often colorful race management. The half marathon is run on a certified course of rural roads southeast of the Tanger Outlet Center. It is an outand-back course that includes a loop of approximately 9 miles. March 2, 7am @ Tanger Outlet Center IH-35 Exit 200, San Marcos
For five years downtown has been doing it’s part to make Ash Wednesday a mandatory day-off for TXST students celebrating the fattest night on the square. Let nothing get in the way of a good time Study early, celebrate hard, and stay up late! March 4, 10pm @ Downtown The Square, San Marcos
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Juilliard returns to Texas State
San Marcos GAME NIGHT
Performers from the Juilliard School return to Texas State University for their 7th joint performance. The University Encore series boasts a collaboration that will include even more leading artists from Juilliard. Admission is $5 for children and students, $15 for general seating and $25 for reserved seating. VIP tickets are available for $40 and include a reception immediately preceding the concert. March 6, 7:30pm @ Evans Auditorium 601 University Drive, San Marcos
Come join in the fun at a new comedy event modeled after the hit NBC show “Hollywood Game Night.” The San Marcos version is hosted by local comics Kelly Stone and Michael Nieto. The comedy show allows two contestants to add hilarity to their everyday lives in a night of fun and celebration as they play along with some of their favorite local celebrities and compete to win prizes and bragging rights. Admission free for 21+. March 5 & 19, 8:30pm @ Triple Crown 206 N Edward Gary, San Marcos
The Old-Fashioned BBQ Bash On the final day of the NBBQA National Conference and Trade Show, barbecue enthusiasts from the general public are invited to join a special celebration focused on the art and enjoyment of barbecue. Enjoy “How to Q” demonstrations, live music, the latest BBQ gadgets and participate in a “people’s choice” competition for best sauce. March 8, 11am-3pm @ Embassy Suites Conference Center 1001 E McCarty Lane, San Marcos
GO TOPLESS.
Funktion Fridays DJ Phildafunk and Interscope hip-hop artist Ray C make you sweat to a mixed of energylaced dance beats on the largest dance floor in San Marcos. Celebrate a birthday in style with a VIP private lounge and request songs for your clique. The night is yours to laugh and dance. Fridays, 9pm @ The MARC 120 E San Antonio, San Marcos
self-serve frozen yogurt
Wine & Art Walk The event features works from local artists hosted inside more than a dozen downtown establishments serving a variety of wine and hors d’oeuvres at each location. Live art demonstrations and live music will also take place throughout the evening. Tickets for the event are $20 in advance and $25 the day of the event, and the price includes a commemorative wine glass. Check-in on the Hays County Courthouse grounds. March 7, 5:30-8:30pm @ Downtown The Square, San Marcos
350 N. Guadalupe St. (Guadalupe & University) 512-667-6720
CATERING • CAKEBALLS FUNDRAISING • PARTIES
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BO BCATFAN S | LOCAL TECH
THE SUPERCAPACITOR It’s the potentially high-speed, high-density energy storage material that could not only change the electric car industry, but the ‘Green’ energy market as a whole. energy-storing abilities of the former up a notch: storing a significantly more powerful charge in a smaller package. The CCTO supercapacitor could compete with devices already in use, as well as operate at much higher temperatures than standard silicon circuits.
”TIGHTLY LINKED” The following CCTO properties increased or decreased in tandem. The challenge lies in finding the right process to optimize the desired levels of each. This is the key to unlocking the material’s energy storage potential. Permittivity – is the physical property of the material that allows it to store energy—the higher permittivity the better the storage. These days, it does not take much more than the mere mention of “green energy technology” for people’s ears to perk up. Everyone at your local coffeehouse seems to be an expert. Yet, when it comes topics of green-living, what if something with a little more stealth were contributed to the conversation? For instance: Recently published in AIP Advances, a journal by the American Institute of Physics, is the idea that “supercapacitors” used as a “practical energy-storage material” could perhaps create a boom in green energy technology. Like a, Tesla using it in all of its cars - kind of boom. In all honestly, the very term “supercapacitor” brings to mind an object Batman might keep in his secret lair. The paper’s lead author, Dr. Raghvendra Pandey, in collaboration with Dr. William “Bill” Stapleton 10 BOBCAT FA NS | SMTX | 03.14
and other Texas State researchers of the Ingram School of Electrical Engineering, demonstrate the level of potential supercapacitors have for storing energy. “Efficient, high-speed, high-density energy storage is important to many fields, and supercapacitors offer this,” Stapleton said. “Fields such as ‘green’ energy and electric vehicles could benefit immediately from the use of these materials.”
A BETTER BATTERY Capacitors (of electronic circuits) function similar to batteries: storing an electrical charge that can be quickly distributed to power devices, like camera flashes. These “so-called” supercapacitors, derived from the material calciumcopper-titanate (CCTO), kick the | By Xander Peters |
Loss Tangent – is how efficiently energy can be moved in and out of the capacitor, and how much is lost in the process. A “leaky” capacitor lacks the ability to hold a stored charge. Ideal CCTO material should be capable of achieving high permittivity while maintaining low loss tangent, which would make them suitable for storing energy at the desired levels for various industrial applications. TXST’s published research on CCTO Supercapacitor
Health Check
Central Texas Medical Center
Event will take place Monday, April 14 at Embassy Suites
HealthCheck Sponsors
HealthCheck Blood Screening $
45
San Marcos Daily Record www.sanmarcosrecord.com
includes complete lipid panel, metabolic panel and complete blood cell count
Pre-Event Community Blood Draws
Draws are held 7-10 a.m. Please fast for 8-12 hours. CTMC Community Classroom 1301 Wonder World Drive Feb. 21, 28 Mar. 7, 14, 21, 28
Kyle - Plum Creek CTMC Office 151A Kirkham Circle March 19
Lockhart -Live Oak Health Partners 1711 C South Colorado Street March 17
Wimberley Community Center 14068 Ranch Road 12 March 24
Call 512.753.3818 to register. Learn more at ctmc.org.
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Balance, Moderation & Variety Adequate nutrition gives you more energ y and focus, helps maintain a healthy weight and body image, and prevents illness, both acute, such as common colds, and chronic, such as diabetes and heart disease.
A clinical dietitian at Seton Medical Center Hays, Morris holds a Bachelor of Science in Food & Nutrition along with a Dietetic Internship from Texas State University. She has researched the feeding practices of infants and toddlers, as well as worked in product development for an organic baby food company founded in Austin called NurturMe.
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If you could tell people one thing to start doing to have a happier and healthier life, what would it be and why? Try new things and get involved in your food. Take an active role in what you put in your body, because you DO have the ability to optimize (or sabotage) your personal health and wellbeing. It just takes time and effort. What is your number one tip for healthy eating? Portion control.
tion control is the key here. Make sure the majority of your meal consists of plenty of nonstarchy vegetables (leafy greens, tomatoes, onions, cucumbers, etc.) and lean protein sources (grilled chicken, fish, beans, nuts, etc.) when you eat pasta and potatoes. What ‘s the best vegetable to eat? There is no single vegetable that can provide you with everything you need. We need a variety of ALL kinds of fruits and vegetables. That being said, I always go for dark leafy greens like kale, spinach, and collards when I want something particularly nutrient dense.
cholesterol. To cut down on your consumption of trans fats, eat more foods in their whole or natural forms. Should I really buy everything organic? Buying organic products is not only good for you, but it also helps support ethical and ecological farming which is more sustainable than conventional methods. However, if your tight on budget, some foods are more important to buy organic than others in terms of your health. Fresh fruits and vegetables are of top priority to buy organic. Each year the EPA puts out a list of “Clean 15” and “Dirty Dozen” to help guide your purchases of raw produce. More processed items such as canned vegetables and snack foods are less important to buy organic. But don’t let buying only organic produce prevent you from buying fresh produce at all. We can all use more fresh fruits and vegetables, even if they are conventionally raised.
Does a healthy diet mean no pizza and ice cream?
Is all meat bad?
Not necessarily. There is a place for pizza and ice cream in our diet, if we only consume them in moderation. Perhaps once every 1-2 weeks. You can also make your pizza healthier by choosing a vegetarian option with whole grain crust and lots of veggies. Cutting out the sausage and pepperoni will cut way down on calories from fat. Make sure you eat ice cream in small portions and savor each bite.
Absolutely not. Nutritionally, meat prepared with little added fats is our best source of protein, which can help keep us full for longer and prevent overeating. There is some controversy to the way meat is processed (for example, added antibiotics and hormones) which is a whole other discussion. To be safe, try to find cuts of meat that are free from added antibiotics and hormones. Pasture raised is always a plus too!
I need to lose weight. Is a low-carb or fat-free diet better?
How much water do you need to drink each day?
What are the three healthiest foods you can buy on a budget?
No single “diet” will allow you to lose weight and keep it off. The best diet for weight maintenance is a well-balanced one. Both carbs and fat are important to our body’s health and should be included in our diet, in moderation. Always choose a whole grain carb as opposed to a refined carb (whole wheat pasta vs white pasta; brown rice vs white rice) and choose more healthy fats like those found in fish and nuts. A good rule of thumb is to choose more fats that are liquid at room temperature (olive oil) and not solid (butter). Limit fried foods and choose baked or grilled options.
On average, we need about 8 cups of water each day. If you are particularly active or you’re spending a lot of time outside, you’ll likely need a little more.
Beans, frozen vegetables (without added sauce or salt), and eggs
Are pasta and potatoes fattening? Eaten in excessive amounts, the carbohydrates will lead to weight gain. Por-
What is the most important point to remember about nutrition? Balance, moderation, variety! I’ve heard that people should cut back on how much trans fats they eat but I’m confused about what trans fats are and what foods have them. Trans fats are not found in nature. They can only be present in foods that are packaged and processed. They are harmful to us because they are the only kind of fat that decreases our good cholesterol while increasing our bad
| Interviewed by Xander Peters | Photo Eric Morales |
Best to consume for great skin? Drink plenty of water and eat plenty of heart healthy (omega 3) fats found in fish and nuts.
Should I worry if my child is a picky eater? No, being a picky eater during childhood is very common and practically a right of passage. The important thing is not to give up! It can take up to 15 exposures of a single food before a child accepts it, so you must have perseverance. Offer foods (particularly vegetables and fruits) that your child doesn’t like in new creative ways. Eventually you’ll find one that clicks!
If you would like to get advice on proper eating habits visit your doctor and ask for a referral to see a Registered Dietitian (RD).
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The
Green
San
M arcos Tx
1995
“We get stuff here from businesses that you would never imagine someone would have thrown away.”
Last year, Kyle Hahn’s Business helped recycle approximately 30 million pounds of material.
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Green guy is selling the roof tiles from Old Main for $3.00 for one. $10.00 for 10, $15.00 for 20 and so on. Bulk orders can go all the way down to $0.25 each.
The treehouse was built by two art students, that were brothers, in 1998. it took about 4 months.
You can’t miss the tree house made out of wire and scrap metal. Or will you realize the office you are walking into is the inside an old H-E-B refrigeration truck, adorned with some of the most peculiar items found throughout the years—from a brass elephant to an antique hair dryer to many other bits of history lining the walls. You name it, Green Guy Recycling probably has it. Walking the grounds you see everything from old boats, to hundreds of old public telephones, to boxes upon boxes of wire, cords, light bulbs, and more brass and copper than you could imagine. Opened in 1995, Kyle Hahn, owner of Green Guy Recycling on Hwy 80, has grown the business from a drop-off center to a buy-back and resale wonderland. The facility takes in about 80,000 to 100,000 pounds of recyclables daily. Customer “drop-offs” average150-200 per day, the busiest traffic being on Saturdays. Just over two decades ago, Hahn attended Texas State as an engineering major and worked at the on-campus recycling program center. At the time there was a very real need to not being met, according to Hahn, because the city and county couldn’t agree on who was responsible for making the next move towards a recycling facility. Although the city had established a curbside program, only single-family homes were able to use the city services and were limited to
what they could put in small recycle tubs, mainly newspapers and certain types of bottles.
In 2005, an unfortunate car accident took the life of Smith and his family. “He did a really amazing thing helping me get started with it,”
“Everyone was pointing fingers and here I was a student worker thinking, ‘This is crazy,’ I’ll just do it if they won’t do it.” Hahn was happy to figure out a solution. “Everyone was pointing fingers and here I was a student worker thinking, ‘This is crazy,’ I’ll just do it if they won’t do it.” He knew this was what he was meant to do and he started the venture with his friend, Steve Smith. They found an abandoned building and worked out a great deal with the landowner. Not only were they building a business, they were going around and picking up locals’ recycling. They started picking up everything that you could imagine from tires, scrap metal and old appliances. Fast-forward to today, 19 years later, and Green Guy Recycling now has 22 employees. Just last year they helped recycle approximately 30 million pounds of material.
| By Nancy Young | Photos Eric Morales |
Hahn said. “He sacrificed pay, and both of us just struggled for the first couple of years.” Hahn is happy to have whomever wants to come and bring new treasures. There are so many items that people bring to Green Guy Recycling that He can’t seem to call scrap metal. One of the newest items bought is the tiles from Old Main’s roof after the renovation this past summer. They have been selling and mailing the steel tiles all over the country to former Texas State students. They placed a post on Facebook, and it took off. “We get stuff here from businesses that you would never imagine someone would have thrown away,” Hahn said.
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The seven cameras on every bus are capable of taking photos over 4 lanes of traffic.
WHEN THE LIGHTS ARE A’FLASHING, DON’T BE A’PASSING! All 82 SMCISD school buses are equipped with seven cameras. The new law fines drivers $300. 2,100+ violations and counting this year so far.
San Marcos City Council passed a city ordinance Jan. 7 for the installment of cameras on San Marcos Consolidated ISD school buses. The new law will fine drivers $300 if they pass a stopped bus unloading or loading children on either side of the road. Busguard, a company located in the Dallas metroplex-area, has installed a total of seven cameras on the outside of all 82 SMCISD school buses. They can monitor four lanes of traffic in both directions. These cameras will document a car passing by, and if Busguard technicians believe it to be a violation, they will send the video to the San Marcos Police Department. “If (SMPD) concurs that it is a violation, a citation will go to the registered owner of the vehicle,” said Carter Hutson, transportation director at SMCISD. “If any vehicle passes one of our school busses that is stopped, where the stop sign with the red lights is on, by state law you are not supposed to pass them.” Chase Stapp, San Marcos assistant chief of police, said that the bus will always unload and load closest to the shoulder of the road, but the lanes on the opposite side where the bus is loading and
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unloading have to stop as well. “The intent is to increase awareness and compliance with the law,” Stapp said. “The more information we can get out there, the better.” Hutson said that since the beginning of the school year there have been over 2,100 violations (as of print date). Busguard did not charge anything for the installment of the cameras, which was around $8,000 for each school bus. Of that $300 citation, Busguard will keep 75 percent of the fine. The city and school district will split the remaining 25 percent. “This whole project, the purpose for us, is not about the money,” Hutson said. “It’s about the safety of the kids, and that’s the bottom line.” So driver beware, no matter which direction you are driving, when you are approaching a bus that has the stop sign out with the red lights on, make sure you stop or you might be one of those receiving a $300 fine for failure to comply with the State law.
| By Nancy Young | Photos Eric Morales |
“This whole project, the purpose for us, is not about the money, It’s about the safety of the kids, and that’s the bottom line.”
The lights were flashing “stop” when this San Marcos bus was struck recently. The good news is no one was seriously hurt.
Carter L. Hutson San Marcos CISD Associate Director of Transportation
STOP MEANS STOP According to Carter Hutson, the most dangerous place for kids getting on and off the bus are on the I-35 frontage roads and Aquarena Springs Drive. Many people don’t stop when there is a turn lane in the middle of the road or on interstate frontage. (Below is an illustration showing when you can and can’t pass a bus when the lights are on)
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THE
SAN MARCOS RIVER, RIVER, GARDENS, GARDENS, AND AND LAND LAND
The San Marcos River has brought a steady stream of people from diverse backgrounds and varied interests into the local environment. Some whose efforts are focused on preserving the river by working toward uniting the community through festivals; and those who have focused their attention on the land itself, by protecting its use, and toiling over it until it bears fruit.
| By Jordan Gass-Poore | Photos Eric Morales |
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“If Poteet can have a strawberry festival, if Luling can have a watermelon thump, shouldn’t San Marcos have a celebration about its endangered species?”
Texas Wild-rice (Zizania texana) Listed Endangered, 4/26/1978
The San Marcos Springs are rich in history Discoveries from the area include ancient Clovis spear points and Mastodon bones. Archaeological studies indicate a history of human habitation spanning back over 12,000 years.
It begins further upstream. Spring Lake, the iconic pool fed by more than 200 springs, is believed to be one of the longest continually inhabited sites in North America. Visitors of The Meadows Center for Water and the Environment, formerly known as Aquarena Center, can see the springs in all of their bubbly glory. The daily glass bottom boat tours, which began in 1951, are sometimes people’s first educational experience with nature. Aquarena Center was established as an educational center in 1994 when Texas State University purchased the land. Following the university’s educational evolution and a $1 million donation from the Dallas-based Meadows Foundation in August 2012, the center was renamed The Meadows Center for Water and the Environment, after a 2002 and 2005 name change. The center continues to work toward ensuring sustainable water resources, and restoring the springs property to its natural state.
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Ashley Wright
texaswildricefestival.org FB/TexasWildriceFestival
Ashley Wright, a former Meadows Center employee, remembered the epiphany she had as a glass bottom boat tour guide. Wright had spent many days educating the public about the endangered and endemic species of the upper San Marcos River, one of the most biologically diverse aquatic ecosystems known in southwestern United States. But she realized that the majority of the San Marcos residents she knew hadn’t been to the center and didn’t know much about the unique resource that runs through the city – their city. A city that’s home to the fountain darter, Comal Springs riffle beetle and dyropid beetle, Peck’s cave amphipod, San Marcos gambusia and salamander, as well as the Texas blind salamander and wild rice. Out of the eight endangered species, the Texas wild rice stood out to the Texas State alumna because of its symbiotic relationship with the river and, in turn, humans.
This aquatic grass wiggles its strands underneath a small portion of the constantly cool San Marcos River, completely immersed in its swift current. Floods and recreational river users can uproot the plant, while drought can dry it out or expose it to herbivores. “Texas wild rice requires a steady current of water to stay alive, and because of that, there are limitations on how much water can be taken from the springs to ensure the plant’s survival,” said Wright of her reasons why she is raising awareness and working to protect it. The idea for the inaugural Texas Wild Rice Festival was just a dream she had. That is until December 2012. Wright said she began collaborating with friend and former Meadows Center coworker, Samantha Beasley, on the festival, which aims to show what’s possible when a community celebrates and educates. “If Poteet can have a strawberry festival, if Luling can have a watermelon
thump, shouldn’t San Marcos have a celebration about its endangered species?” Wright said. Through a series of events, Wright said she met several influential people in the local environmental communities, some of whom urged her to have the inaugural festival last August. There wasn’t enough time. So, the festival was put on hold and promoted at a one-time-only River Awareness Day last August at City Park. More than 40 booths wound through City Park and workshops on homemade sunblock to composting took place throughout the day. The only problem was the view. Wright said people enjoyed the festival but weren’t able to see or interact with the river. That’s why this year the inaugural event will take place April 11 and 12 at Sewell Park. San Marcans will still have the opportunity to make the festival their own by sponsoring a booth, donating to the online Indiegogo campaign and attending the event itself. “… Because of the way our city’s growing so quickly and so rapidly, we want to build a bridge for everybody to come together over
water,” said Wright, adding that the more people know about the river, the more likely they will be to make informed decisions about local development. Since 1998, the San Marcos Greenbelt Alliance has been working with developers, the City of San Marcos, Hays County and other governmental entities to help protect the water supply and habitat of native animals and plants through the creation of interconnected parks and natural areas. Todd Derkacz, president of the San Marcos Greenbelt Alliance, said that natural areas remind and keep people in tune with nature. The Pennsylvania native said it’s when people have a personal respect for nature and live those values that they can become a part of the larger conversation. And Derkacz wanted to continue to live those values and become a part of the conversation that was happening in San Marcos. He remembered hearing the call to action by the founder of the San Marcos Greenbelt Alliance at the annual Sights and Sounds festival. The San Marcos Greenbelt Alliance and its members have advocated and campaigned for natural areas in San Marcos for more than a decade. There are currently five natural areas
in the city. The organization continues to work toward expanding the Purgatory Creek Natural Area so the trails can lead people to the San Marcos River. Expansion in other local natural areas is also expected. Derkacz can be seen riding his bike from his sustainable home to local coffee shops to pick up used grinds for composting. He said his wife, Betsy, is a certified master composter. “We’re very aware of our carbon footprint,” Derkacz said. San Marcos resident Leah Gibson is also mindful of her steps. As manager of the Dunbar Neighborhood Garden, Gibson said she has learned to work with nature, not against it. This Texas State alumna walks about a block every day, when the weather is permitting, to her garden plots, the place where she has grown produce for years now and where she grew the flowers for her wedding. Her thumb got a little green eight years ago when she purchased a plot at the San Marcos Community Garden behind St. John Catholic Church. “This community is really phenomenal,” Gib-
“We’re very aware of our carbon footprint.”
Todd Derkacz
smgreenbelt.org FB/SMGreenbeltAlliance
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Leah Gibson
Dunbar Neighborhood Garden Manager smgardens.org/dunbar FB/DunbarNeighborhoodGarden
Elaine Johnson
The San Marcos Community Garden Manager
son said. She was 20 years old and admitted that she didn’t know a thing about gardening. As the seasons changed and the person she took to the garden on a first date turned into her boyfriend then husband, Gibson committed herself to gardening and helping to choose which direction the City of San Marcos goes. Last month, the Dunbar Neighborhood Garden installed a permaculture-based orchard or, what Gibson described as a “mini food-forest,” using native and adapted fruit-bearing trees and edible perennials (think apple trees). Because the garden is on city property, Gibson said it’ll be the first public orchard in San Marcos and that the bulk of the food produced will be donated to the Hays County Food Bank to supplement the organization’s existing garden plots that are already producing fruits and vegetables for its clients. Gibson added that the public orchard will eventually serve as an educational exhibit.
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Another garden, The San Marcos Community Garden also provides food to the Hays County Food Bank, according to garden manager Elaine Johnson. Though many plants have suffered this winter, Johnson said she was able to take 40 pounds of food from abandoned garden plots to the food bank. Johnson, making sure to not step in ant piles that litter the 30-year-old garden, said she is looking forward to the spring with the hopes that her two plots – and the others that remain in the garden – will once again flourish. Dunbar opened in May 2012, followed by the Alamo Neighborhood Garden. Now, Gibson said, there’s a need for a third neighborhood garden, hopefully on the city’s east side, because more people are empowering themselves through gardening and becoming more food self-sufficient.
Wright has seen San Marcos change during the seven years she has called the city home. She goes with the flow even when she’s travelling— showing people she meets pictures of and discussing the San Marcos River. This body of water is her identity and the identity of the city and all of its inhabitants big and small. It is this spirit of solidarity that has kept Wright on a path of environmental education. She is working with the San Marcos Arts Council and the San Marcos Nature Center to get the employees and students of San Marcos Independent School District involved with the Texas Wild Rice Festival. “… They’re all about giving children the power to make a decision and giving children the power to affect the future and especially the children that live here are the next wave to come after us, I mean, it’s good to plant the seed.”
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Chewed & Brewed | EAT YOUR GREENS |
BRICK OVEN BISTRO If a traditional salad is what you crave, then Brick Oven Bistro has what you need, only taken up a notch. Their gorgeous Headwater salad explodes with color, texture and flavor. Between the tender organic spring greens, fresh chopped vegetables, sweet dried cranberries, crunchy nuts, salty croutons, and creamy cheese, this salad has the traditional salad nailed. Top with some chunky blue cheese dressing, and you’ve got a dangerously delicious salad that’ll help you feel full of life and good about what you’re eating. Pro tip: Brick Oven Bistro is BYOB. So get your friends together, grab a six pack or a bottle of wine, and enjoy a dazzling salad while making yourself at home in their cozy and comfortable dining space.
Headwater Salad
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.
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KEY
Delivery Happy Hour Outdoor Seating
$$$ Most Entrees over $20 $$ Most Entrees $10 - $20 $ Most Entrees under $10
| Dish Reviews By Katie Ogletree |
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| SMTX | GOOD GRUB GUIDE 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? 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 $$
Seaweed Salad @ JAPAN LATINO When you think of salad, you probably don’t immediately jump to seaweed and squid, but after tasting the salad duo, you may find yourself salivating at the mention of it. The crisp and crunchy seaweed salad is vibrant in appearance and in taste. The bright green salad is both salty and sweet and tastes of the ocean. Bonus—it’s super healthy and full of nutrients like fiber and iron. As for the squid salad, don’t be afraid. The citrusy and spicy salad is refreshing and bright. Each bite is a scrumptious adventure in flavor, and once again, it’s full of healthful benefits. Head out to Japan Latino to dive into the energetic flavors the ocean provides through their seaweed and squid salads.
AMERICAN Cool Mint Café Just off campus is a slightly hidden 1920’s Arts and Crafts Bungalow style café. With fine dining in mind, Cool Mint chef serves only the freshest ingredients. Lunch and dinner Tues-Sat. 415 Burleson St, San Marcos (512) 396-2665 $$ 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 $
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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 $$
ASIAN A-Tan Asian Bistro & Sushi Bar Simply put, the best darn sushi in New Braunfels. The food at A-Tan is consistent, fresh and inspired. Their most popular roll, the Guadalupe, is not only huge, but ultra delicious. Their egg drop is certainly one-of-a-kind. 1528 Common Street, New Braunfels (830) 620-1888 $$$ Japan Latino Those choosing not to judge a book by its cover enjoy some of the best tasting sushi Hays county has to offer. Don’t know what to order? May we suggest the off-menu Sunshine Roll. YUMMY! 1328 N IH35, San Marcos (512) 878-1455 $
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 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 $
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| SMTX | GOOD GRUB GUIDE 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 $
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Seared Ahi Tuna Salad @ THE BIG KAHUNA Sometimes, there’s nothing more delicious or satisfying than a beautifully seared slab of ruby red tuna, on a bed of crisp and bright leafy greens, crisp veggies, nutty sesames, dressed simply, spiked with a touch of wasabi. If you are at all timid when it comes to eating raw fish, I think this is something The Big Kahuna can actually sell to you – it’s fresh, flavorful, and the steak-like sear seals the deal. Plus, you can’t go wrong with their crunchy, tart, sweet and sour papaya salsa that accompanies this beautiful dish. Each bite of this salad will send your taste buds on a complex journey, through the several layers of flavors. So head out to The Hitch food trailer park and grab a seat at a purple picnic table for this delicious Hawaiian-inspired salad.
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 $$
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Cobb Salad @ THE LEANING PEAR Have you ever had a salad that brought you to your knees? A salad that becomes the reason for returning to a restaurant? Yes. A salad? The Leaning Pear Café in Wimberley has that salad. Their Cobb Salad is chock full of tender leafy greens, sharp cheese, crispy bacon, creamy avocado, tasty grilled chicken and crunchy jicama, and it’s all tossed in a homemade zesty chipotle ranch dressing. This salad is beautifully balanced and bursts with flavor. If you ever wanted to know what the perfect salad looks like, head out to the gorgeous Leaning Pear Café on the river in Wimberley to find out for yourself. It’ll keep you coming back for more.
Same Day Medical Care M-F 9 a.m. - 9 p.m. Sat/Sun 8 a.m. - Noon 1941 North IH35 Wonder World frontage road
512.353.6425
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 set-
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ting to eat delicious food. You can’t go to Mozie’s and not get the amazing Shiner beer-battered onion rings and famous fish tacos! Lunch and dinner daily. 1601-A Hunter Road, New Braunfels (830) 515-1281 $$ Sean Patrick’s Located on The Square, this beautiful Tex-Irish pub features the largest tap beer selection in all of Hays County. From their delicious Guinness Burger to the more traditional Bangers & Mash, Sean Patrick’s has something for everyone to enjoy. Lunch and dinner daily. 202 East San Antonio Street, San Marcos (512) 392-7310 $
SANDWICHES Mochas and Javas A local favorite for studying, web surfing, or catching up with friends, this coffee shop serves a variety of heavenly panini sandwiches. Breakfast and lunch daily. 700 N LBJ Drive #103, San Marcos (512) 396-5282 $
Pedestrian Café Located in the Tanger Outlets food 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. 4015 IH 35, San Marcos (512) 618-5411 $ Which Wich Sure, here’s one of your typical sub sandwich food chains, but they really do have a crispy style and distinct zest of their own. Which Wich is quick, close to campus and, of course, affordable on any budget. Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. 302 University, San Marcos (512) 396-4924 $ The Leaning Pear Venture out into the beautiful hill country and make sure to stop at The Leaning Pear. The chef has the gift of fusing flavors that will surpass your imagination. There isn’t a dish that will disappoint. Lunch Tues-Sun, Dinner Tues-Sat. Closed Monday. 111 River Rd, Wimberley (512) 847-7327 $ Naturally Featuring outstanding homemade quiche and yummy sandwiches, this place is great to take the edge off during your lunch break. The salads and smoothies are a great alternative for a healthy meal as well. Lunch Mon-Sat. 1102 N. Walnut, New Braunfels (830) 214-6300 $
STEAKS & SEAFOOD 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 $$ Louie’s Oyster House Serving up oysters on a half shell and fresh seafood with sides that are just as scrumptious. The street tacos satisfy diners who like the taste of beef as well as fish. Lunch and dinner daily. 119 E. Hutchison Street, San Marcos (512) 878-8862 $ McAdoo’s Seafood Company This Cajun style seafood restaurant and bar has wonderful food and impeccable service to go along with it. Have a drink at the bar while you wait to be seated, then enjoy fresh oysters, fish, or crawfish. Overall, it’s a great fine dining experience for a night out on the town. Lunch and dinner daily. 196 Castell, New Braunfels (830) 629-3474 $$$ Myron’s Prime Steak House Sophisticated and upscale, yet relaxed, this prime steakhouse offers succulent steaks and seafood. The menu is a-lacarte, so everyone can experience a little bit of everything. Dinner daily. 136 North Castell Avenue, New Braunfels. (830) 624-1024 $$$
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