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Contents

| JUNE/JULY 2015 |

SMTX

BOBCATFANS

6. FEEDBACK

8. BE SOCIAL

7. WHAT’S NEW

10. GOLF

10. HAPPENINGS

12. BACKSTAGE

12. BOOTS

14. BOATS

12. BLUE MOON

16. FASHION

12. CAMPING

18. ARTIST

21. FOOD

18. SUMMER FUN

Get SUBS C FO R R I B E FREE Txt: SMT X to :7 7948

21 The magazine of san marcos DELIVERED TO YOUR TABLET OR SMARTPHONE

smtxmagazine.com @smtxmag smtxmag

COVERS

bobcatfans.com

BOBCATFANS - Photograph by Eric Morales, 6.1 Hemi Jeep Rubicon courtesy Shane Fraser.

@bobcatfans bobcatfans

SMTX - Photograph by Andres Sotomayor at Gilligan’s Island, 17.5 miles from San Marcos.

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202 E SAN ANTONIO ST, SAN MARCOS, TX 78666 PHONE:(512) 392-7310 SMTXMAGAZINE.COM

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LETTER FROM THE PUBLISHER

READER FEEDBACK

WITH A HEAVY HEART FOR MY HOMETOWN Just as this issue was about to go to print, disaster struck our community.

I have been a resident of this area for half of my life; I have seen it flood before.

My freshman year at Texas State, I witnessed first hand the destruction of the flood of ‘98. But the Memorial Day flood of 2015 is unlike anything any of us have seen before. Our hearts are hurting for the victims of this tragedy. As a monthly magazine, we do not typically cover time-sensitive news stories. By the time the issue is in your hands, the articles would be old and outdated.

However, the devastation of this flood is different; it has transformed our community, physically and emotionally. Due to time constraints, besides this letter and a tidbit or two, the June/July issue of SMTX | BOBCATFANS Magazine does not reference the flood. The August issue will highlight the heroes of our community: the people and businesses that rose to the challenge, rolled up their sleeves, and helped their neighbors. As you read this magazine we hope the lightheartedness and cheerfulness in its pages will be a respite for your mind, a break from the sorrow. It may take years before our community recovers. My hope is for homes, parks, businesses, and rivers to be restored quickly, physically healing our community. But I also hope our loving community continues its post-flood mindset. Let’s hold on to the selflessness, charity, and kindness being expressed by so many and come out of this stronger than before.

Rick Koch

The May issue received just the right amount of love and loathing.

We enjoy hearing your feedback; the good, the bad, and the sweet nurturing words of encouragement.

BY EMAIL

Your magazine which arrived today is trash. “Swimsuit Issue”?

“Big Ass Beer”? Is this what Texas State is about? I am 70 years old. Do you think I want this in my home?

- Frances McNair

TWITTER

@TRISSA_K: Why does the lady on @BobcatFans newest issue look middle aged? I feel as if they should keep it local with college aged girls in it. @THEWARRIOR_KD: Also @SMTXmag I witnessed this bachelor on the square, he’s no catch, treats peers terrible because they “owe him” #smtx

FACEBOOK SAJA CARPENTER on River Etiquette For Dummies WTF, no. I’m offended that this would be written for a college kid such as myself. I’m not a dumb-ass, I don’t need terrible jokes to get me to see a point.

And I curse like a sailor but I did not find it necessary to see it in every point.

LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK info@smtxmagazine.com

Publisher

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YOUR TOWN UPCOMING CONCERT CALENDAR AUSTIN SAN MARCOS NEW BRAUNFELS

June 16 RANDY ROGERS Cheatham Street Warehouse SAN MARCOS

June 19 & June 20 CORY MORROW ALBUM RELEASE PARTY Gruene Hall

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

BEAUTY HOME

FOOD

NEW BRAUNFELS

June 23 BRIAN WILSON WITH RODRIGUEZ Frank Erwin Center AUSTIN

THUMBS

UP & DOWN Growth The Hays County area is exploding in growth and that’s good news for homeowners. The average market value of a Hays County home increased 12.8 % in the last year, according to the Hays Central Appraisal District.

Hays CISD saw the biggest property increase at 16.52 %. .

A Hand Up Central Texans look out for each other and there was no better proof than the continued response to the Blanco River flood Memorial Day weekend. So many citizens, civic organizations and businesses are stepping up to help flood victims. A BIG BIG thumbs up!

June 25 HANK WILLIAMS JR Whitewater Amphitheater NEW BRAUNFELS

June 26 & June 27 THE AVETT BROTHERS Whitewater Amphitheater NEW BRAUNFELS

June 26 – June 28 BIGFEST! ‘15 Cheatham Street Warehouse SAN MARCOS

July 10 BOB SCHNEIDER WITH TOSCA STRING QUARTET Long Center AUSTIN

July 12 ROB THOMAS WITH THE PLAIN WHITE T’S ACL Live at the Moody Theater AUSTIN

July 16 LADY ANTEBELLUM Austin 360 Amphitheater AUSTIN

July 17 KELLY WILLIS & BRUCE ROBISON Gruene Hall NEW BRAUNFELS

July 19 SMASHING PUMPKINS ACL Live at the Moody Theater AUSTIN

July 23 CHICAGO AND EARTH, WIND & FIRE Austin 360 Amphitheater AUSTIN

July 26 FALL OUT BOY AND WIZ KHALIFA Austin 360 Amphitheater AUSTIN

HOMEBREW SUPPLY This shop sells supplies for home brewing beer, such as recipe kits, grains, yeasts and malts.

130 E. San Antonio St., SMTX | 877-800-2294 homebrewsupply.com THIS & THAT Not quite sure what you’re looking for? This shop has a “this and that” for just about everyone: indoor and outdoor furniture, plants and new and restored goods. Other services include computer repair.

12205 Hwy. 21, Niederwald | 541-1419 thisandthattexas.com FIREHOUSE SUBS Founded by a fireman in 1994, this chain serves hot sub sandwiches, chili and chips, among other food items. The company, with more than 1,000 franchise locations in the country, provides funding, resources and support to first responders.

2586 S. I-35, Ste. 102, San Marcos | 353-3473 firehousesubs.com MWS BBQ & CATERING This barbecue food truck trailer, located at Down South Railhouse, offers brisket, ribs, pulled pork, sausage, sandwiches and nachos, among other items.

107 E. Center St., Kyle | 618-7418 facebook.com/mwsmokers BUSINESS NEW IN TOWN? LET US KNOW info@smtxmagazine.com

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Traffic On The Way While the end result will be an Up, the beginning of construction of the Aquarena railroad overpass is sure to cause traffic headaches in San Marcos for the next two years.

EVENTS & HAPPENINGS | JUNE/JULY |

COMMUNITY WIZARD OF OZ Fridays & Saturdays June 5 – July 4 8:15 pm Come skip down the yellow brick road with Dorothy, Scarecrow, Lion and Tin Man at this outdoor amphitheater. The 2014 winners of Broadway World Austin’s Best Musical in Austin and the Surrounding Areas are bringing a new the musical to Wimberley with a cast of 50 talented actors.

Opening night will feature a party in Munchkin Land with the cast, complete with candy goody bags, and an ice cream bar. Tickets are $15 each, $10 with student ID. Opening Night is $25, $20 with student ID. @EmilyAnn Theatre, Wimberley SUNDAY CINEMA AND SOCIAL ON THE SQUARE Sunday, June 14 2:00 pm Ride on over to the courthouse square on Flag Day Sunday, June 14, for a free popcorn and a free screening of a documentary film about the early days of the Republic of Texas and Hays County.

Written and directed by Hays County documentary film maker Richard Kidd, and produced by Kate Johnson, chair of the Hays County Historical Commission, Edward Burleson: Soldier and Statesman tells the story of the “hero of thirty battles who was never known to retreat.” Following the 30-minute screening, homemade cobbler will be served from a chuckwagon on the courthouse lawn. Mmmmm! @The Marc, San Marcos

OUTDOOR SPORTS ARTS FUNDRASIERS MOVIES IN YOUR PARK Every Tuesday in June and July Sunset Come early, bring your blankets and lawn chairs, pick your perfect spot and enjoy the free movies & festivities. Enjoy pre movie games being one hour before sunset. Concessions will be available for purchase. Visit toursanmarcos.com for a list of movies each week. @Plaza Park, San Marcos SUMMER IN THE PARK CONCERT SERIES Every Thursday This Summer 7:30 pm – 9:30 pm Start the weekend early with free live music in the park every Thursday night! Visit smpaa.com for a list of performers each week. @Plaza Park, San Marcos SUMMER MOVIES FOR KIDS Various Weekdays This Summer 10:00 am Several local theaters are offering $1 screenings of children’s movies this summer. Starplex in San Marcos, Creekside in New Braunfels, and EVO in Kyle offer screenings on Tuesday mornings.

Drafthouse in New Braunfels has children’s screenings every weekday for a $1-$3 donation to a location nonprofits (you pick the price) for ages 3 and up. @Various Central Texas Theaters 42ND STREET MUSICAL 7:30 pm on 6/19 - 6/20 & 6/25-6/27 2:30 pm on 6/20 - 6/21 & 6/27-6/28 Lee Coleé Studios and her annual Musical Theatre Boot Camp, will perform the classic Broadway SMTXMAGAZINE.COM

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Musical “42nd Street.” TV’s “Friday Night Lights” actress Kathleen Griffith is slated to be assistant director and Sam Heaton, a classically trained operatic bass and a former Camp alumnus will be music director. Tickets are $16-$18 each. @Price Center, San Marcos STOCK CAR RACE Saturday, June 20 & July 18 3:00 pm Come experience the best in extreme side-by- side racing. Along with races, the track will feature food vendors, classic cars, live music and much more. It’s fun for the whole family. It’s not Daytona, but it’s local and it costs a lot less than that NASCAR race!

Tickets start at $15 each. @Central Texas Speedway, Kyle CLASSIC CAR CRUISE IN NIGHT Saturday, June 20 & July 18 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm The third Saturday of every month, Dick’s serves up hamburgers from Henry’s Restaurant and cranks up the live jams starting at 6 pm. Plus you get free admission to the Classic Car Museum. @Dick’s Classic Garage, San Marcos 4TH OF JULY PARADE, BANDSTAND, AND FIREWORKS Saturday, July 4 9:15 am & 6:30 pm Fun for the entire family! Everyone is welcome to walk or ride in this patriotic themed parade.

After the parade enjoy a patriotic program and bandstand. In the evening enjoy live music at 6:30 in Landa Park and a fireworks show at 9:15. @Main Plaza in the morning & Landa Park in the evening, New Braunfels

SUMMERFEST Saturday, July 4 6:00 pm – 10:00 pm Celebrate Independence Day on the banks of the San Marcos River! SummerFest features a patriotic parade, children’s costume contest, live music, fireworks, food, and activity booths.

Fun for the whole family. @Plaza Park, San Marcos TRI FOR OLD GLORY Sunday, July 5 5:30 am A triathlon around the beautiful manmade ski lakes that make up San Marcos River Ranch. Two race options available. Swim 500m/1500m in the open water of one of the man-made ski lakes. Bike 11 mile/23.5 miles on a loop course on lightly traveled roads with rolling hills. Run 5K/10K in a loop course around the ski lakes that finishes under towering pecan trees next to the river. @San Marcos River Ranch, Martindale CATCH ME IF YOU CAN Weekends July 10 – August 2 Fridays & Saturdays at 7:30 pm, Sundays at 2:30 pm An engaging musical about a teenager with boyish charm, a big imagination and millions in forged checks who successfully poses as a pilot, a doctor and a lawyer -- until an FBI agent catches up with him and the two form an unlikely friendship. Tickets are $22 each, $15 with student ID @Wimberley Playhouse, Wimberley JAWS ON THE WATER Saturday, July 11 8:30 pm Alamo Drafthouse’s Rolling Roadshow is bringing their legendary event to the Hill Country. Those of you brave enough to float in the murky waters of a man-made lake and watch JAWS on a giant outdoor screen will have an evening you will never forget. Buy tickets quick, this will sell out! (The June 27th showing is already sold out). Tickets are $30 at rollingroadshow.com and include movie admission and inner tube. @Texas Ski Ranch, New Braunfels TEXAS HILL COUNTRY OPERA PRESENTS DOC WATKINS AND HIS JAZZ TRIO Saturday, July 11 8:00 pm Summer Songs and Apple Pie! Texas Hill Country Opera presents Doc Watkins and his Jazz trio for a relaxing evening of Jazz at its best, light opera to cool you on a hot Summer Night, and hot apple pie and ice cream to fill you with a taste of Texas Hill Country Summer musical hospitality. Tickets are $20 for adults and $10 for students. @The Brauntex Theatre, New Braunfels

KYLE MARKET DAYS Saturday, July 11 9:00 am – 1:00 pm Kyle’s monthly market days feature farm to market items, local arts and crafts, live music, and food trucks.

Shop local and don’t miss out on the fresh kettle corn! @City Square Park, Kyle CONCERTS FOR A CAUSE Saturday, July 11 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm Every month, Concerts For A Cause puts on live concerts to raise money for various Hays County charities.

In July, Brotherhood of the Girl will be playing to benefit PAWS Shelter & Humane Society. @Down South Railhouse, Kyle

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

DIVE IN MOVIE Friday, July 24 8pm Why watch a movie in a theater when you can watch one in a pool?! Bring a tube or a small float, or a chair and sit back in the serene setting of a pool while watching The Pirates! Band of Misfits. Tickets will be distributed starting at 7pm, the first 230 guests will be admitted. Concessions will be available. @City Pool, Kyle

Arcade • Party Rooms • Free Live Music • Outdoor Laser Tag

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

10 MIN. NORTH Exit 220 on IH35

WHOLESALE JEWELRY & GIFT SHOW Friday, July 24 – Sunday, July 26 Hours vary each day Thousands of products, all at Low Wholesale Prices! Willkommen to a little bit of old Germany smack dab in the middle of Texas’ Hill Country.

Shoppers can enjoy a getaway day or weekend shopping at our fantastic event. 40+ wholesale exhibitors with a little variety for everyone. Beads, findings, fine and fashion jewelry, fashion accessories, gift items, gourmet, imported international items and more. $5 admission. @Convention Center, New Braunfels

SMILE BRIGHTER FOR LESS MONEY

LONE STAR GOURD FESTIVAL Friday, July 31 – Sunday, August 2 Hours vary each day Historically used as functional vessels for food and water, artists now carve and paint gourds into high-dollar art. The Lone Star Gourd Festival is the biggest gourd gathering in the State. The event features a gourd art competition, vendors, classes for all skill levels, demonstrations, and more.

Visitors may participate in judging for the people’s choice award during the show. $5 admission, 17 and under free with adult. @Convention Center, New Braunfels

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SAN MARCOS FAMILY DENTISTRY

FREE TEETH BLEACHING STRIPS, DENTAL CHECK-UP, AND X-RAYS WITH A $90 PROFESSIONAL TEETH CLEANING.

OFFER EXPIRES JUNE 31,2015 NEW PATIENTS ONLY SOME RESTRICTIONS APPLY.

GENE MILLIGAN, D.D.S.FAMILY DENTISTRY 1430 OLD RANCH ROAD 12 WSAN MARCOS, TX 78666 512.392.6739 • SANMARCOSFAMILYDENTISTRY.COM

DOWN THE ROAD “Everyone should get boot whispered at least once in their life,”

including boots, which routinely sold well. An established dealer taught Ulli the vintage boot trade in 1990.

Three years later, Bill and Ulli put boots on the ground in Wimberley when they opened the Wild West Store. Two years later, they relocated to their present location.

Sole Mates: How Wimberley’s Wild West Store Was Won

By Jordan Gass-Poore’ Photos Andres Sotomayor

Good shoes have taken Wimberley resident Ulli Johnston to good places.

Ulli Johnston has an almost psychic ability to match the perfect pair of boots with a customer, an act that one customer in 2006 dubbed “ boot whispering.”

Johnston, AKA the Boot Whisperer, can look at a customer’s legs and the arches of their feet and find them the perfect pair of boots. Size doesn’t matter: she can gauge a customer’s boot size at a glance.

The more than 700 boots at the Wild West Store tell the story of Johnston’s journey from Texas tourist to business owner. From the beat-up to the hand-tooled beauties, boots line every nook and cranny of the German expatriot’s store off the Wimberley Square.

Ulli and her husband Bill used to travel across Texas selling vintage and antique items at events,

Tips: There’s a certain sound that’s made when someone puts their foot into a boot that’s too big -Ostrich skin is harder to scuff -Litmus test: if your toes aren’t happy the boots aren’t for you -Rubbing alcohol inside the boot can stretch the boot shaft to help get your foot inside -Landis and Austin Shoe Hospital handles boot repairs -Most boot beginners assume a pointy toe is uncomfortable, but that’s not always the case -Boots with a shorter shaft are better to wear in warm weather SMTXMAGAZINE.COM

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Her large inventory, which includes some Western clothing and accessories, spills out onto the store’s porch.

There’s short boots and tall boots, square-toed and pointy-toed, boots made of leather, ostrich and lizard skin and vintage boots that have never been worn.

A good pair of boots “changes your posture. You walk differently. They become a part of you,” Johnston said.

They don’t make boots like they used to, Johnston lamented, because in the late 1980’s boot manufacturers began to move overseas and the overall quality declined.

The proof is in the boot shaft: a pair of rare 1940s Tony Lamas have a leather boot shaft that feels like a stick of butter, compared to a more modern pair with a fake leather boot wildweststore.com Open by appointment only Please call 512-847-1219

shaft that feels like cardboard.

Most vintage boots in Johnston’s store show superior craftsmanship and have their original heel and sole. That’s why customers from around the globe buy and trade boots from the Wild West Store.

“The bar’s set very high now,” Johnston said of the quality of boots the store will take in trade with customers.

Although Johnston sports a pair of sneakers for workouts and Crocs for the garden, she said she owns 35 pairs of boots to do everything else.

The boots are displayed in her home’s living room because “you don’t want to hide them in a closet.” They’re works of art.

There is a pair of boots for everyone, Johnston insisted, sometimes multiple pairs.

To see Johnston in action, you can make an appointment with her by phone or email, or stop by the Wild West Store when there’s a sign outside that reads “The Boot Whisperer Is In.” “Everyone should get boot whispered at least once in their life,” Johnston said.

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LOCAL He adds, “It also didn’t hurt that we were sipping a few Blue Moons (beers) at the moment.”

rimmed frames with 18 karat trim, created by the legendary frame designer, Archie Brower.

The glasses they sell are not simply corrective lenses, but uniquely individual products of creativity and style. Many are decades old, others almost a century. These relics hail from a time when

Michael obtained his collection of Brower designs through a friend in San Francisco. One day, an elderly man walked through the door of his eyewear shop and said, “I don’t know if you’d be interested in knowing this, but I designed that pair of glasses in your front window in 1953.” The man was Archie Brower.

The two talked and by the end of the conversation, Brower agreed to give up a 42-year-old stash of his own original designs.

“Make the distinction, there is a huge difference between vintage eyewear and just old stuff,”

One day, Michael got a call from his friend in San Francisco.

“We’ve hit the mother lode,” he said.

eyeglasses were considered jewelry- frames molded from silver, aluminum and 14 karat gold; lenses ground from glass by the hands of craftsmen.

“There is a huge difference between vintage eyewear and just old stuff,” Michael says, in a

Looking Through The Lens Of The Past

By Jon Wilcox Photos Andres Sotomayor

Vintage eyewear makes Blue Moon a stand-out among optical stores.

Right off the Square, tucked in a corner off of San Antonio Street, sits a spare, cinderblock shop, painted blue and white. Inside, row after row of eyeglasses hang from the walls. Outside, a dazzling moon shines sapphire from an enormous mural stretching across one entire wall.

Welcome to Blue Moon Optical—not your everyday eyeglasses store, but a purveyor of true vintage, where old and forgotten spectacles shine again.

“We wanted something whimsical,” Michael Duffy says when asked about the name. “We wanted to have offerings that were unusual, the kind of product that you would only see once in a blue moon.”

The Duffys are currently negotiating with the producers of a new Steve Jobs biopic to find historically accurate pieces of eyewear. tone somewhere between serious and sarcastic. He opens a box containing several pairs of small, wire-framed glasses. Surprisingly, they show no sign of damage or age.

“I think these are probably as recent as the 1930’s, but maybe older,” he says.

Michael works among a network of vintage eyewear aficionados, trading with vendors and collectors across the nation. He plucks a pair of 50-year-old, shiny, black-

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Blue Moon’s inventory is incredible, but Blue Moon’s first concern is providing excellent service at fair prices. They also sell ordinary glasses and contact lenses, too.

Purchasing eyeglasses is often a humdrum process, a reality they sorrowfully lament. Nevertheless, they strive to bring a little whimsy back into the world of corrective eyewear.

“You’ll notice on some of this stuff the intricacies, the stone work, the filigree, and the detailing,” Michael says. “150 years ago, if you needed a pair of glasses you went to the jeweler. This is when eyewear was considered an art.”

There’s something in the way Michael and Patrick look at a decades-old pair of glasses. Like they, themselves, are relics from another time. Perhaps they might have been happier living out their lives in the past.

On second thought, that’s exactly what they’re doing every day.

“150 years ago, if you needed a pair of glasses you went to the jeweler. This is when eyewear was considered an art.” bluemoonoptical.com 121 W San Antonio St. San Marcos 512-982-9242

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Working for the

Weekend

By Xander Peters

Beer, s’mores and Nature, oh my!

From a laidback spot for popping a top in a fold-out chair, to the RV cities, here’s our guide to summertime camping season in every bit of its glory.

There must be a bit of pioneer left in our DNA because there’s something all too rewarding about driving that last spike in the ground, then stepping back to gaze upon your accomplishment: your campsite. That feeling, the warmness of pride that glows up and down your spine, is the sign of a weekend warrior.

It’s camping season again; time to strap the tents and coolers on the car, shove your screaming kids into the backseat and turn off your smart phone. But first, take our advice on where to camp this outdoor season.

GILLIGANS ISLAND

Family Owned and Operated Since 1981 Riverside Camping - Rafts & Toobs - Bath House & Showers - Cabins, RV & Tent Sites - Group Rates Available Parking & Shuttles

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Gilligan’s Island Without the laugh track

For over 30 years Gilligan’s Campground has remained a family owned and operated business in New Braunfels just off of the Guadalupe River. The folks over at the campground are laid back, with only a few loose rules to follow: no dogs, no glass, no Styrofoam and no fireworks or firearms.

It’s also good to know that the can ban and ice chest ban do not apply in this portion of the Guadalupe river, so feel free to pack up the colas and brews and cruise the river comfortably! This is probably why the lively college crowd has a tendency to frequent this spot. So families, consider this a forewarning: expletives and wild behavior may be ahead, but they do implement a midnight quiet time.

Contact Call 830-964-2456 Both cabin and campsite rentals available upon request Location 9360 River Road, New Braunfels 78132 25.5 miles from San Marcos

What to Expect They have 23 primitive camping tent sites, 5 cabins and 6 drive-up sites with hookups. If you choose to camp primitively, don’t worry, it’s not too primitive.

There is a centrally located bathhouse and restrooms.

Rental equipment includes tubes and rafts. They include shuttle service, parking, and they can even tailor a float trip for you depending on how long you’d like to be on the river.

Reservations are recommended; first night’s cost serves as a deposit and is due within 14 days of booking. Full payment for visit is due upon arrival by check or money order, but no credit or debit cards here!

While you’re around Once you make it to New Braunfels, or if you and your friends happen to get a wild hair one evening, hop over to historic Gruene Hall for an evening of two-stepping and cold beer in the oldest dance hall in Texas.

Leisure Resort The San Marcos River never fails Tucked away in a 150-year-old pecan orchard off of the San Marcos River, the Leisure Resort provides a quiet, shady spot to stretch out in a lawn chair and kick back for a bit. Their mission for the past 40 years has been, and will always be “to provide a superb natural environment for families to enjoy and reconnect with one another.”

Quiet time is at 10 p.m.—meaning this may not be the best bet for a weekend spot for the wild ones. In other words, it’s the ideal destination for almost any family get-together. For those who are planning on staying wet over the course of the weekend, the float down the river is only 30 to 45 minutes long, give or take. They offer tube rental and river shuttles. That makes it easy to do it time and time again, or at least until your float-thirst is quenched.

This park has tons of other activities as well, including basketball, sand volleyball, horseshoe pits, children’s playgrounds, fishing and nature trails. Bring the furry friends along; they even have a pet park here and Memorial Day through Labor Day they have Saturday Night Hayrides.

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What to Expect Leisure Resort has primitive camping, drive-up RV camping with or without hookups, country cabins and tree house rentals available.

You can also rent out a clubhouse fully equipped with full kitchen, buffet table, tables and chairs, TV and projector system, WIFI, fireplace, covered porch and deck with picnic tables and an outdoor kitchen. You’re covered for all entertaining possibilities.

Rentals are limited to sports equipment and tubes.

Contact Call 512-213-0112 for reservation or toll free at 800-248-4103 Location 1 River Lane, Fentress 78622 17.5 miles from San Marcos

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Blue Hole Regional Park A Texas treasure In 2005, the City of Wimberley put up a fight to save the Blue Hole from residential development, which led to an unprecedented win for the community as well as a new 126-acre park.

Today, events like the Wimberley Arts Festival are held at Blue Hole annually, combining the locals’ love of arts and their natural surroundings. The big draw of the park is still its namesake, the crystal clear waters of the natural swimming hole. They have a beautiful flagstone deck to leap into the water or a ladder if you prefer to just climb in or out. The bathrooms are always fresh and clean and it’s yet another pristine example of the Hill Country’s natural beauty.

Be sure to take a late evening stroll down one of the many world-class hiking trails to watch the sun set. You’re bound to catch a few baby deer run by. If you happen to be staying on a Friday night, take a blanket with you to lie on to enjoy one of the free concerts in the park.

Bastrop State Park Rising from the ashes

There’s an almost haunting charm that hangs over Bastrop State Park these days— one that’s hung over the park ever since the entire “Lost Pines” region suffered in the course of the September 2011 wildfires, a natural disaster that affected 96 percent of the park’s more than 6,000 acres. Still, even in the wake of Mother Nature’s wreckage, each passing season a new layer of wildlife flourishes throughout the scarred landscape.

Like the birds building new homes in the ashen trees, the number of people who have returned to spend time in the park has steadily increased. To date, most of the trails, campsites and facilities have reopened to the public.

Upon arrival, choose from an afternoon of hiking, a picnic, canoeing, fishing along the banks of Bastrop State Park Lake, biking, perhaps a long scenic drive or a swim in the world’s largest spring-fed swimming pool.

Bastrop State Park offers it all.

Contact Call 512-213-0112 for reservation or toll free at 800-248-4103 Location 1 River Lane, Fentress 78622 17.5 miles from San Marcos

What to Expect Primitive camping, drive-up RV camping with or without hookups, country cabins and tree house rentals are available. Also available is a clubhouse fully equipped with full kitchen, buffet table, tables and chairs, TV and projector system, WIFI, fireplace, covered porch and deck with picnic tables and an outdoor kitchen, perfect for any party.

Rentals are limited to sports equipment and tubes.

While you’re around Check out the array of other outdoor and recreational areas within a 50-mile radius of Lost Pines including Lake Bastrop, a body of water suitable for an assortment of sports and activities; as well as Somerville State Park and Trailway, McKinney Falls State Park and Monument Hill and Kreische Brewery State Historic Sites.

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What to Expect Blue Hole Regional Park only offers overnight primitive camping to groups of 8 or more. This restriction makes for an exclusive camping experience, which is quite a treat considering the spectacular location. The primitive walk-in sites do not have water, electricity, and do not allow campfires. Restrooms are nearby. Campers still pay an admission to the swimming area and the swimming capacity restrictions still apply.

While you’re around If nature walks just aren’t doing it for you, head over to Wimberley Zipline Adventures to get your kicks.

Contact 512-847-0025 Location 333 Blue Hole Lane, Wimberley 78676 14.9 miles from San Marcos

SMTXMAGAZINE.COM

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FOOD | Reviews By Jill Weddle |

| THREE WAYS TO BRUNCH |

WHEN IT’S JUST PAST BREAKFAST TIME BUT NOT QUITE LUNCH, YOU NEED A FOOD ESTABLISHMENT WITH PLENTY OF OPTIONS. THESE THREE DOWNTOWN DIVES SERVE BREAKFAST ALL DAY LONG TO MEET YOUR BRUNCH (AND BRINNER) NEEDS.

THE BIG & HEARTY @ CAFE ON THE SQUARE

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.

Tip: Breakfast

is served all day

SMTXMAGAZINE.COM SMTXMAGAZINE.COM

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Café on the Square is the place to go for comfort food. There’s no doubt you’ll meet a longtime local here – the waitresses know all the regulars by name. Order a southern favorite: chicken fried steak and eggs – with toast, home fries and plenty of gravy, which will leave you stuffed. We also recommend indulging in a side of blueberry pancakes. And if you can pull yourself away from the traditional American fare that screams Paula Deen (mmm, butter...), the other side of the breakfast menu includes breakfast tacos, migas, huevos rancheros, and other Mexican favorites. You may have to loosen a notch on your belt as you leave Café on the Square, but there’s no judgment here – just good old home cookin’.

126 N LBJ Dr San Marcos (512) 396-9999

SMTXMAGAZINE.COM

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GOOD EATS

THE LIGHT & HEALTHY @ TANTRA COFFEEHOUSE

THE “I NEED A TACO” @ TORCHY’S TACOS

If a small bite is what you’re after, Tantra Coffeehouse is an outstanding route to take. Everything about Tantra is organic, including the historic house it’s situated in. Walking around, you’ll find local art and funky furnishings, as well as college students studying in between classes. Fourlegged friends are welcome in the large outdoor beer garden. For a fresh and healthy brunch, try the yogurt parfait with fruit and organic hemp granola. Fresh bagels from Austin based Hot Jumbo Bagel are available and the breakfast tacos are made with local tortillas and cagefree eggs. Although the menu has plenty of vegetarian fare, there’s meat, too. The blackened salmon tacos, served with pico de gallo, avocado and spinach are a local favorite. Caffeinate with a housemade hibiscus mint tea or an espresso drink.

Torchy’s, the latest addition to the local taco scene, knows how to brunch. They didn’t hold back when they renovated the old Post Office into a sleek and shiny eating space with an indoor/outdoor bar. They serve all the traditional morning cocktails (mimosas, bloody marys, sangria, and tequila sunrise), and they’re only $3 on the weekend. Take your guests here for a classy south of the border brunch. We ordered the Democrat (shredded beef barbacoa, avocado, cheese and onions on a corn tortilla) and the Monk Special (bacon, egg, cheese, and green chiles). The menu has a mix of unique ingredients like fried avocados and simple favorites like chicken fajitas, all of which are packed with flavor.

With a huge bowl of green chile queso and a waitress making sure your chip basket is full, you’ll be more than satisfied.

217 W Hopkins St, San Marcos (512) 558-2233

336 W Hopkins St, San Marcos (512) 757-8787

Tip: Very dog frendly and

Tip: Ask about the Secret Menu

great iced coffee

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BOBCATFANS SMTX FLIP BACK TO BOBCATFANS FLIP BACKTO TO FLIP

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BACKSTAGE WITH THE LONESOME HEROES

A BETTER VIEW INTO SPRING LAKE JUNE/JULY | 2015

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PUBLISHER

Rick Koch ART DIRECTOR

Will Bowling COPY EDITOR

Steve Helsing CONTRIBUTORS

Xander Peters Tiffany Matthews Jordan Gass-Poore Brodie Corinth Heather Yzaguirre Andres Sotomayor Ashley Haguewood Eric Morales Jon Wilcox Robert Lerma Vicki Guerra

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BEING SOCIAL #TXST #SMTX

San Marcos ‫‏‬ @CityofSanMarcos @TourSanMarcos created this image to show our love for the city & county. THANK YOU to everyone! #SMTXFlood #SMTX Mackenzie @MECarhart Always listen to the wise and insightful insurance marquee boards #SMTX

Madison Boyle ‫@‏‬MadisonBoyle1 Happy birthday George Strait and God bless Texas.... State #TXST #KingOfCountry San Marcos Photos @smtxphotos At the end of this day of tragedy and destruction, something beautiful. #smtx #txst Ishmael @Ish_46 One officer said this is worse than the 1998 floods and they had to use this to rescue residents this morning. #smtx

LADIES Tuesday $19.95

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BOBCATFANS | ATHLETES In high school, Monzingo sent numerous college golf coaches e-mails, in the hopes that they would either review her resume or watch her play and decide they wanted her on their team.

Profiles

Head Texas State Women’s Golf Coach Mike Akers must have liked what he saw because Monzingo joined the university’s team in fall 2013.

Her initial reaction: “I was very excited and was ready to get to San Marcos and compete at the collegiate level.”

Since then, the team, comprised of four other players, has earned second place honors at the Sun Belt Conference tournament each of the past two years.

The team keeps its expectations high and is striving to compete in and win the national championship. “At the collegiate level it’s very hard to do this, so much time and effort has to be put in to come out on top,” Monzingo said.

“The collegiate field is so competitive, but if we work hard and put low rounds together consistently we could possibly do it.”

For the second straight year the Bobcats finished runner-up, and had three players inside the top 15.

MATY MONZINGO | By Jordan Gass-Poore | Photos Ashley Haguewood |

Prepping for a golf tournament begins months in advance.

“It isn’t just a week before thing.”

“AT THE COLLEGIATE LEVEL IT’S VERY HARD TO DO THIS, SO MUCH TIME AND EFFORT HAS TO BE PUT IN TO COME OUT ON TOP.”

Monzingo gets in the swing of things by sticking to a weekly schedule that includes time to practice golf, workout and rest. “To compete (at) a high level you must be willing to sacrifice a lot out of your schedule,” Monzingo said.

Repetition is key: hitting golf balls on the range, putting and working on other areas that need improvement have been keys to her success in the sport.

Monzingo was six years old when her dad Lynn, former assistant men’s golf coach at Oklahoma University, taught her to play. As a youth, she would spend her summers playing golf, eating lunch with friends and then playing more golf at Trophy Club Country Club in Trophy Club, Texas.

10 BOB CATFANS | 06.15

That optimism carries over into Monzingo’s academic life, where missing class for tournaments may mean struggling to catch up with assignments. On the links, the struggle can be with Monzingo herself. “I have such high expectations for my golf game and when I don’t perform my mind gets in the way.”

Swing funks mean Monzingo needs to keep practicing – or take a break.

Before golf season begins the Texas State Women’s Golf team has an annual gathering on Lake McQueeney and participates in a friendly match against the university’s men’s golf team.

Monzingo’s ultimate goal is to be a professional golf player on the LPGA tour. To get there, she’d like to win U.S. and state amateur titles and qualify for the U.S. Women’s Open.

For now, she’s taking it one shot at a time.

TXStateBobcats TXSTATEBOBCATS.COM

B O B CAT FA NS | 06.15 11

BOBCATFANS | BACKSTAGE so much, members do gigs for other bands, some playing 7-10 shows a week- everywhere from the Lion’s Club to Gil’s Broiler. They’re staples in local spots Triple Crown, Cheatham Street and Tantra, along with White Horse in South Austin.

Like many of the other great San Marcos bands, their fuel is the love of music. It’s what makes the SMTX music scene special; it’s full of people who aren’t driven by dreams of fame and fortune, but by that quintessential love. That makes it a city where you can randomly show up somewhere and see great, live music with a sound that’s not trying to be like anyone else. Bands like The Lonesome Heroes are a big part of that.

If you want to catch a show, check out their Facebook page. You’d best catch them soon as they’re going on tour and will reach a whole new audience in Australia later this year.

THE LONESOME HEROES | By Heather Yzaguirre | Photo Andres Sotomayor |

WITH INFLUENCES RANGING FROM THE MAGNETIC FIELDS TO GRAM PARSONS TO WALT WHITMAN, THE LONESOME HEROES DESCRIBE THEIR SOUND AS COSMIC AMERICAN MUSIC. THEY ARE LIKE AN EVOLVED AMERICANA THAT PULLS IN BOTH ROCK AND COUNTRY INFLUENCES. While the band has been touring for two years, a version of it has been around for nearly a decade. After all that time of trying to play music professionally, lead singer Rich Russell says that it’s just become a daily function. “It’s all I’ve been doing, and all I’ve ever wanted to do. It just feels like a part of life that I need to have.”

“IT’S ALL I’VE BEEN DOING, AND ALL I’VE EVER WANTED TO DO. IT JUST FEELS LIKE A PART OF LIFE THAT I NEED TO HAVE.” Thursday, June 25th, 2015 Triple Crown San Marcos SAN MARCOS, TX - 10pm 206 N Edward Gary St San Marcos, TX 78666 Price: $5

< The Lonesome Heroes “Can’t Stand Still” LP whatbangrecords.com $12

Their tour schedule is vast and includes an annual summer trip up through Wyoming and further west, when the weather is pristine and the scenery inspirational. They’ve performed over 1,000 shows across 28 states, from here to Washington State.

Nick Lochman, bass and vocals for the band, is a native San Martian, and says the city feels most like their home, a place where they come to recoup and regain inspiration. “It’s like our incubator; the river is a huge part of what makes it that.”

They’re a great band to check out live, because they’re seasoned and comfortable on stage. They love playing music

12 BOB CATFANS | 06.15

lonesomeheroes @lonesomeheroes thelonesomeheroes.com

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BOBCATFANS | ON THE WATER

EXTREME MAKEOVER: BOAT EDITION FAMOUS GLASS-BOTTOM BOATS TO BE UPGRADED. Glass-bottomed boats have been a tradition at Spring Lake (formerly Aquarena Springs) for 70 years. This year, visitors will notice the boats are beginning to receive a makeover.

Over the next four years, the five boats in the fleet will gain new hulls of fiberglass to replace the current wooden hulls. The new hulls will increase the life of the boats and decrease annual boat maintenance and restoration costs.

The first new boat, originally custom-built in 1953, will hit the water this summer. In addition, all the boats in the fleet will sport new signage this year, emblazoned with the logo of The Meadows Center.

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| Words & Photos Eric Morales |

BOBCATFANS | FASHION

Photography by: Eric Morales Styled by: Dana Dacy at Trash Idol

BE AN ANIMAL

Summer Layers

Get Wild with Summer Layers and Upcycled Fashion

Striped Top (thrift store find)

Red turtleneck upcycled

by Trash Idol Light fur vest by Forever 21

High Fashion isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t about being safe or fitting in. Fashion is art.

Art is expression. Take risks, stand out. Above all: Be yourself.

Blinking Sunglasses (halloween find)

Trash Idol works on custom designs, embroidery, alterations and resale.

Toeing the line between consumerism and art.

Hair is an Accessory.

Featured is a layered, summer punk rock look made entirely of inexpensive thrift store finds and repurposed materials.

Ring

by Hot Topic Stick on Nails

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in your power to do something cool with it!

Bracelet is upcycled from an old police utility belt

You can recycle your older winter wear Red turtleneck was a long sleeve, leggings were tights Shoes by Reebok Classics Cotton gym shorts by Spalding

16 BOB CATFANS | 06.15

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BOBCATFANS | ARTS trator pen tool because of a gym-related concussion) and then he quit the institute in search of his own private Wonderland. “Do or die,” Duncan said.

Do mode is definitely switched to on.

As creative director of Outlandish Apparel, an online lifestyle brand that he co-founded, he’s assembled a team of artists to create clothing and organized community art shows. “We’re recognizing as artists we can’t do it alone,” Duncan said.

Outlandish Apparel is a springboard for his work, which he describes as a mix of street and pop art, with characters that reflect humanity. “It goes back in time, while taking steps forward,” he said.

HIS OWN PRIVATE WONDERLAND | By Jordan Gass-Poore’ |

New Braunfels Artist Johnny Duncan’s Outlandish Look on Life As a child, New Braunfels resident Johnny Duncan’s grandfather would describe characters for him to draw on tracing paper. Together they created a colony of gingerbread men and other fantasy worlds.

At the time, Duncan didn’t think this activity would lead to a career as an artist. The compliments he received for his drawings by his peers in elementary school didn’t convince him either. It wasn’t until he was 13, when he discovered street art in the video game “Tony Hawk’s Underground 2”, that drawing became more than just a pastime.

“Bigfoot One changed my life,” said the 22-year-old Duncan of the California-based artist who had characters in the game.

Unlike his mythical moniker, Bigfoot One is not unapproachable or scary. Duncan said they’ve had e-mail exchanges. He’s also received props from Bigfoot One for his tattoo of one of the artist’s characters.

Duncan’s characters spiraled out of his notebooks and onto New Braunfels High School classroom dry erase boards and desks.

18 BOB CATFANS | 06.15

In May Duncan took millions of steps forward when he participated in Illustrated 2015 in London, an event that brings together contemporary and street artists from around the world.

“I DIDN’T LIKE ART CLASSES, I DIDN’T LIKE BEING TOLD WHAT TO DO.”

This wasn’t graffiti. This was Duncan’s outlet for artistic expression. It was either this or art class. “I didn’t like art classes,” said Duncan, known professionally as Jenkins2D. “I didn’t like being told what to do.”

Duncan had his own set of rules that didn’t quite fit the standards. “I just wanted to run around in Wonderland,” he said -- with a pit stop at the Art Institute of Austin.

A representative from the institute came to his high school economics class and preached the gospel of graphic design.

So Duncan joined the flock. His horde of cool, colorful characters joined him for the ride. Those makeshift Sharpie and Photoshop designs he was doing in high school improved at the institute.

He came, he saw, he conquered (but might not have mastered the Adobe Illus-

“No Passion, No Point” Watch Johnny create an original piece on a three story building.

@jenkins2d jenkins2d.com

B O B CAT FA NS | 06.15 19

ANSWERS TO

”WHAT IS THERE TO DO THIS SUMMER?” 3. GO ON A

4. WATCH A MOVIE

NATURAL BRIDGE WILDLIFE RANCH (SAN ANTONIO)

PLAZA PARK (SAN MARCOS), LAKE KYLE (KYLE)

Exotic animals eating out of your hand from the comfort of your air conditioned car makes a perfect adventure on a hot summer day. Start your safari with plenty of animal food purchased at the park entrance. Drive through Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch where hungry antelope, bison, and elk (just to name a few) will happily eat out of your hand.

An ostrich may stick its neck into your car and taking a selfie with a zebra is priceless. The ranch has the only set of living twin giraffes born in the US, a petting zoo, a lemur island and much more. This is not your everyday zoo, it’s a Texas safari you won’t forget.

Hot Texas summers mean the perfect time to enjoy the outdoors is after the sun has gone down. Bring a blanket and lawn chairs to watch a family friendly movie under the big Texas sky on a large inflatable screen after the sun sets. The free summer movie series is every Tuesday in San Marcos and the 2nd Friday of each month in Kyle.

Visit toursanmarcos.com and cityofkyle.com for a schedule of films.

1.

2. FLOAT TEXAS

SAN MARCOS, COMAL, GUADALUPE, & FRIO RIVERS

SAFARI, TEXAS STYLE UNDER THE STARS

RIO VISTA PARK & OLYMPIC OUTDOOR CENTER (SAN MARCOS), TEXAS SKI RANCH (NEW BRAUNFELS)

The only thing better than tubing a Central Texas river is tubing all of them!

The tricky part is choosing the body of water, length of float and level of convenience you require, as in whether or not to rent tubes and use shuttle services. Either way, witnessing the scenic rolling hills along the Frio for the first time can be a religious experience; it’s like being baptized in Lone Star pride. For even more adventure, rely on your own transportation and gear for less crowds and greater seclusion with Mother Nature. Of course, if you’re seeking a more jubilant float where your survival is not tied to the number of empties in your cooler, stick with the expertise of a river outfitter. Just float Texas baby!

WORLD RENOWNED WATER SPORTS

It may be a strange sight to see but pay a visit to Rio Vista Park on the right day and you’ll see people surfing the river. When water levels are just right the man-made kayak shoot doubles as a wave simulator- pretty gnarly.

Next door, Olympic competitors come to San Marcos year round to train at the Olympic Outdoor Center. It’s a top instructional center for kayaking and provides instruction and equipment for stand-up paddle boarding, sit-on-top kayaks, fishing kayaks and whitewater kayaks.equipment for stand-up paddle boarding, sit-on-top kayaks, fishing kayaks and whitewater kayaks. Drive north of New Braunfels to find Texas Ski Ranch, a 70-acre action sports facility. It is rated one of the top facilities in the world for wakeboarding. They offer lessons for beginners and coaching for more advanced riders.

20 BOB CATFANS | 06.15

5. TOUR THE WINE 6. LIBATIONS COUNTRY IN YOUR AL FRESCO OWN BACKYARD

DRIFTWOOD ESTATE WINERY (DRIFTWOOD), THREE DUDES WINERY (SAN MARCOS), VINEYARD AT GRUENE (GRUENE ) Fredericksburg is famous for its wineries and is worth the trip, but there are many wineries even closer to home.

The small town of Driftwood has 4 wineries and some great places to dine, making it the perfect winery staycation.

For some excellent wines at a good value and beautiful vistas of rolling hills and the vineyards below check out Driftwood Estate Winery. Or stay in San Marcos and listen to the soothing sound of the river below as you enjoy wine from Texas grapes at Three Dudes Winery. Historic Gruene has several tasting rooms including the Vineyard at Gruene which features a lovely veranda.

There are wineries in Wimberley and New Braunfels as well, several options in your own backyard.

THE SQUARE (SAN MARCOS), DSR (KYLE), WILLIES JOINT (BUDA) From the finest open-air bars downtown to laid-back tree-riddled pastures, the best part of the summer is finding a new outdoor spot to sip on cocktails or ice cold beer. With an old rusted tin roof and rustic wooden walls, the newly opened Down South Railhouse (DSR) is a family friendly bar and dance hall with a football field’s worth of outdoor space for the kiddos to run around. Up the road, situated under beautiful historic oak trees is Willie’s Joint Bar & BBQ. Operating out of a 1940’s ranch-style house it offers outdoor seating with fire pits and the lingering smell of smoke permeated meats; 21+ after 9pm. The Square downtown offers almost as many outdoor options as they do drinks.

Often perceived as college occupied territory, it is Hays County’s best kept secret for young professionals to drink above the trees on rooftop bars and patio terraces at half the price of Austin.

7. GET YOUR

ADRENALINE PUMPING

WIMBERLEY ZIPLINE (WIMBERLEY), SKYDIVE SAN MARCOS (SAN MARCOS) At Wimberley Zipline you’ll soar 100 feet in the air on ziplines that reach 30 miles per hour! The longest of the 10 ziplines is 3 football fields long, with all 10 ziplines totaling a mile of thrills.

You’ll soar above the treetops while taking in breathtaking 15-mile views of the Wimberley Valley. If you want the thrill of a lifetime, go skydiving! Skydiving anywhere provides a wonderful view, but over the Hill Country it’s indescribable. Rolling hills, explosive sunsets, and winding rivers give this dive an edge over any other. Skydive San Marcos has over 30 years of experience, and that’s good when you’re jumping out of a plane.

8.

SWIM IN A WATERING HOLE

STOKES RIVER PARK (SAN MARCOS), JACOB'S WELL & BLUE HOLE (WIMBERLEY) A natural swimming hole makes for a memorable afternoon away from it all.

North of Wimberley you’ll find Jacob’s Well, a natural spring just above the largest underwater cave in Texas. A jump off of the surrounding rocks into the clear water seems like you’re going to fall down an endless hole. Make a reservation in advance as the number of swimmers per day is limited. In San Marcos, a hidden gem is Stokes River Park, where you can swim in a cove below a 30 foot high waterfall. This park is not as easily accessible but worth the effort since it’s hardly ever crowded. If you plan ahead and have a car parked in a good spot, you can even float to this secret treasure and drive yourself back to reality.

For an easy to find swimming hole don’t miss the crystal clear waters of Blue Hole in the center of Wimberley. This city park has bathrooms, picnic areas, trails and even an amphitheater around this natural swimming hole. Get there early, since they often reach capacity.

9. TAKE A SCENIC DRIVE

IN THE HILL COUNTRY

SAN MARCOS, WIMBERLEY, BLANCO, FISCHER Forget I-35. Choose an out of the way lunch spot in the Hill Country just so you have an excuse to drive there. Make a day of it and take a 75 mile loop through the Texas Hill Country. Here’s a drive offering outstanding views of Devil’s Backbone, eroding Edwards Plateau, and the 400-mile-long Balcones Fault through expansive rolling hills and curvy roads: from San Marcos take Ranch Road 12 to Wimberley, then take FM 2325 to Blanco. To get back to San Marcos take Highway 13 through Fischer..

B O B CAT FA NS | 06.15 21

14. PICNIC

10. LIVE OUT YOUR

RACE CAR DRIVING DREAMS

CENTRAL TEXAS SPEEDWAY (KYLE), LONGHORN RACING ACADEMY (SAN MARCOS)

Go-kart isn’t the right word for the small racecars you can drive at Central Texas Speedway. Hitting speeds up to 65 mph while sitting just one inch off the ground gives you the speed sensation of going 100 mph+ on a stock car racetrack. Or drive the car of your dreams at Longhorn Racing Academy. This isn’t just a joy ride. Before you get behind the wheel, professional instructors expand your driving skills and knowledge in the classroom. There are insane cars from all over the world to drive in, among them the Ferrari 430 F1, McLaren MP4-12C and Porsche 911 GT3.

WITH A VIEW

5 MILE DAM & RIO VISTA PARK (SAN MARCOS), LANDA PARK (NEW BRAUNFELS) Texas summers can be brutally hot, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a meal outdoors. Find a shady spot under a giant cypress tree along a cool Texas river and have an old-fashioned picnic. Make a day of it by getting there early and claiming a spot with a popup tent, a grill and the works. Everyone else will be jealous, especially if you string up a hammock. Don’t settle for lunch in your kitchen when you can relish in a picnic overlooking the beautiful rivers of these Hill Country parks.

15. GO

SPELUNKING

11. SHOP THE

MARKET DAYS OF CENTRAL TEXAS

WIMBERLEY, GRUENE, FREDERICKSBURG

12. HILL COUNTRY BREWERY TOUR

MIDDLETON BREWERY (SAN MARCOS), REAL ALE (BLANCO), JESTER KING (DRIPPING SPRINGS)

If you can’t find it at Market Days, you don’t need it. These monthly shopping meccas pop up and attract thousands of shoppers looking to score unique gifts and goods. You’ll love the custom crafts, vintage furniture, and quaint garden decorations that can be found at these markets. From high end antiques to Pinterest projects calling your name, it feels like HGTV has come to life with all the possibilities.

NATURAL BRIDGE CAVERNS (SAN ANTONIO), WONDER WORLD PARK (SAN MARCOS) It’s amazing what lies beneath the ground we walk on. Natural Bridge Caverns is one of the largest caverns in the state of Texas. This awe-inspiring site offers something for everyone, from a traditional cave tour, to a tour by lantern, to a true spelunking experience exploring undeveloped caves with only the light of your helmet to guide you.

Over in San Marcos, the Wonder Cave at Wonder World Park is the only earthquake formed cave open for public

viewing. See what an earthquake on the Balcones Fault Line is capable of creating. After your underground tour travel 190 feet above ground into the observation tower for some spectacular views.

16. ENRICH YOUR

MIND AT LOCAL HISTORY MUSEUMS

CENTRAL TEXAS WING & LBJ MUSEUM (SAN MARCOS)

Don’t just look at photos of historic World War II planes, check them out in real life at one of the last remaining actively used World War II hangars in the US. Even better, don’t just look at a World War II plane, take a ride in one!

Central Texas Wing is a living museum where you can ride in an actual B-25 bomber. After your WWII exploration, skip ahead a couple of decades and discover the LBJ Museum. This museum is a smart, entertaining and interactive experience dedicated to the early years President Johnson spent attending what is now Texas State University. It’s as much about the political and social life of America at the turning point of the 60’s as it is about the life of our 36th president, and includes engaging exhibits on subjects like Civil Rights and the Vietnam War. One of the more popular exhibits includes actual recordings of the President’s phone calls.

13. KAYAK UNDER

THE LIGHT OF A FULL MOON

MEADOWS CENTER (SAN MARCOS) Spring Lake at the Meadows Center, formerly known as Aquarena Springs, is well-known for its glass bottom boat tours and its swimming pig and mermaid shows of yesteryear. The crystal clear waters of this spring offer the densest population of turtles in the US, many endangered species, and one of the world’s largest aquifer-driven spring systems. But Spring Lake is not open to the general public for swimming or scuba diving ,except for private dives arranged through approved instructors. Just recently the Meadows Center partnered with REI to open these one of a kind waters to tour by kayak or by stand up paddleboard on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Groups are limited to 6, keeping the experience very exclusive.

Not to be missed is the once a month option to kayak under the light of a full moon. Sessions are 90 minutes and include instruction.

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Hipsters, hippies, families with young children, and regular Joe Six-packs can enjoy a hill country brewery. Out in what feels like vast countryside is Jester King, specialists in brewing farmhouse ales. The vibe is laid back and welcoming, but can be a bit too “Austiny” sometimes so go early. They offer an extensive beer list and free tours; open weekends. In beautiful Blanco, is the home of Real Ale Brewing Company and their beer masterpiece, Sisyphus (ABV 10.5%), so popular it’s now bottled. Still, there is nothing like drinking it fresh from the tap; Tours Fri-Sat 1&3pm. The self-described “Best damn dog friendly brewpub in Texas” is Middleton Brewing Company, a small brewpub on the outskirts of San Marcos towards Wimberley. It has a 2nd story outdoor deck with beautiful views where they pour tasty Belgian style ales. Bring your pup and thirsty taste buds.

17. TOUR DE BRISKET

LA BARBECUE (AUSTIN), SMITTY'S (LOCKHART), KENT BLACK'S (SAN MARCOS) Beware!!! Not all Texas BBQ is created equal. However, the best of the best is in our neck of the woods and you can savor divine smoked meats at multiple hot spots in one day with a little planning and a lot of portion control. If you’ve never had the brisket from La Barbecue in Austin, make it a priority and start your trip there; arrive an hour before they open. Then head over to Smitty’s in Lockhart for the best beef smoked sausage ring in Texas. There is just something so flavorful about their recipe. Finish off your trip in San Marcos at Kent Black’s and order the colossal beef rib. It’s the standard other beef ribs are judged by, plus you have to love a BBQ joint with gorgeous outdoor atmosphere and a full bar.

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18. SEE ‘EM LIVE BEFORE THEY HIT IT BIG

CHEATHAM STREET WAREHOUSE & TRIPLE CROWN (SAN MARCOS) You never know when a local artist will become the next George Strait. Be the one who gets to say, “I saw them when”. Triple Crown is the self-proclaimed ”live music capitol of San Marcos” featuring live music every night of the week.

Cheatham Street Warehouse first gained popularity for the songwriter circle hosted by Kent Finlay every Wednesday and eventually, thanks to George Strait and Stevie Ray Vaughan, it became known as the launching pad for young artists. Not just a place to see local music, Cheatham Street is a place that formed the local music scene.

19. TASTE

20. WATCH AN

BELLA VISTA RANCH (WIMBERLEY)

WIMBERLEY GLASS WORKS (WIMBERLEY)

TUSCANY IN TEXAS

Strange as it may sound, this deep Texas Ranch is modeled after traditional family farms in Northern Italy, where families focus on becoming self-sufficient and producing primary products like wine and olive oil. This ranch was the first to successfully grow and harvest olives in Texas, producing a truly fresh olive oil that was the first of its kind in the area. It’s flavorful, aromatic and full-bodied, unlike anything you’ve ever thought olive oil to be. Bella Vista provides guidance through it all.

You’ll learn to recognize the fragrant smell, the peppery aftertaste, and the powerful flavor of fresh olive oil. They also make a variety of vinegars, jams, preserves and wines. Bella Vista is an experience of tradition and exploration that tickles all your senses.

22. GO CAMPING GUADALUPE RIVER STATE PARK (SPRING BRANCH)

Did you know shooting stars are not rare? During the best viewing times with no light pollution you could see up to one or two per minute. Stargazing, building a campfire and sleeping outdoors are primitive activities that can be done on a low budget but the family bonding and memories are priceless.

Guadalupe River State Park is one hour west of San Marcos and is best known for the four-mile stretch of the Guadalupe River that runs through it. Canoe, kayak and tube outfitters are located inside the park. Other activities include picnicking, hiking, bird watching, mountain biking and, of course, camping. The beauty of this park makes it a true jewel of the Hill Country.

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ARTIST CREATE

See the creative process in action, as glass blowing designers use sweltering heat and indestructible metals to create delicate lighting fixtures and works of art. The studio was designed to give visitors the ability to observe the art of glassblowing and become a part of the process. Watching the transformation from raw material to beautifully sculpted pieces is a fun and amazing way to spend the afternoon. Sundays are especially fun, as it’s a free day for designers to come in to experiment, create, and perfect their medium.

The art at Wimberley Glass Works is functional. Available for purchase are gorgeous one of a kind vases, platters, bowls, and other glassware and décor.

21. BE A LOCAL

TOURIST, GO WHERE EVERYBODY IS SOMEBODY LUCKENBACH

Often locals are the ones who have never visited tourist attractions in their own vicinity, even if they’ve lived there their whole life. Go for a day trip to Luckenbach, that place you’ve always meant to visit. Luckenbach is a western themed “town” with only 2 buildings- a general store and a dance hall. You’ll find live jam sessions every evening and country/bluegrass concerts every weekend. If you need a place to crash for the night, Fredericksburg is just 10 miles away.

23. DROOL OVER CLASSIC CARS DICK’S CLASSIC GARAGE (SAN MARCOS)

Even if you’re not into old cars, you will be after a visit to this museum. On display are over 80 classic cars from the 1900’s – 1950’s, and they are gorgeous.

Each car is accompanied by information about it so you’ll leave feeling like an expert. The museum doesn’t just display classic cars, it also restores and renovates the vehicles.

24. REMEMBER TEXAS

GONZALES, GOLIAD, & THE ALAMO (SAN ANTONIO)

Experience “Come and Take It!” spirit on a single tank of gas. Load up your fellow Texans, pack a small picnic and visit the battle grounds, monuments and museums remembering the wins and defeats of the world’s most boastful nation. Less than an hour away from San Marcos is the birth place of the first skirmish of the Texas Revolution, where 18 Texican men in small town Gonzales refused to return cannon to 100 Mexican soldiers. Sixty miles south is Goliad, home of the history rich Persidio La Bahia, a Spanish fort built in 1771. The Goliad Massacre took place outside its walls, resulting in stronger defiance and a call to “Remember” the fight of fallen Texans. Then follow the San Antonio River west to find your way to The Alamo; open till 7pm every day in summer. Salute Texas with dinner and drinks on the river walk.

25. CATCH A FISH

LAKE KYLE (KYLE), LANDA PARK & FISCHER PARK (NEW BRAUNFELS), MCKINNEY FALLS STATE PARK (AUSTIN), PALMETTO STATE PARK (GONZALES), BASTROP STATE PARK (BASTROP) You don’t need to be a professional angler or even own a boat to take the family on a fishing trip. Kyle and New Braunfels both have stocked fishing ponds in city parks making them easy to access and hopefully easy to catch a fish. At these community fishing lakes freshwater fishing licenses are required for ages 17-64 and can be purchased at HEB, Wal-Mart, or Academy. Another option is to drive out to a state park where the scenery is beautiful and a fishing license is not required when fishing from the bank. The best fishing can be found at McKinney Falls, Palmetto, and Bastrop State Parks.

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