[July 22, 2025] – Get ready to discover what’s new in San Marcos and elevate your local experience! The San Marcos Area Chamber will host the highly-anticipated annual expo, “Business Showcase: Tailgate Edition!” on Thursday, August 28, at the San Marcos Conference Center from 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. The 39^th annual Business Showcase is presented by Texas Disposal Systems.

The Business Showcase is held in the big ballroom at the San Marcos Conference Center at Embassy Suites (1001 E. McCarty Avenue, San Marcos). This high-energy event is open to the public, inviting newcomers, residents, visitors, nonprofits, clubs and professionals to come together to discover local businesses and civic groups — and make meaningful connections.

As excitement about football season sweeps the state in mid-August, this event will tie-in and encourage exhibitors to decorate their displays with a tailgate party theme and dress in their favorite team colors! This vibrant event will feature over one hundred exhibitors, all eager to share their products, services, and stories with attendees. Plus, there will be awesome giveaways and prize drawings!

Adding to the excitement, there will be two mini pep rallies with Texas State University student-athletes, Strutters, cheerleaders and Boko, and San Marcos High School Rattlers cheer and dance students! Guests can enjoy the performances, get autographs and photos. Save this date and plan to celebrate with our hometown teams: the Rattlers and the Bobcats!

“By going to the Business Showcase, you can really get the pulse of this unique San Marcos community,” said Chamber President Page Michel. “You’ll see the people behind the organizations that make this community run. And you’ll get to feel the energy and pride during the pep rallies!”

What to expect:

-Explore a ballroom full of businesses and civic groups representing a wide spectrum of interests.

-Engage in network-building discussions with business owners, entrepreneurs, and community leaders.

-Immerse yourself in interactive displays, product demonstrations, and innovative ideas.

-Discover hidden gems, unique services, and innovative solutions offered by local businesses.

-Participate in exciting activities, contests, and giveaways throughout the event.

“Local businesses and nonprofits play a vital role in shaping San Marcos, and the Business Showcase is our opportunity to recognize the meaningful impact they have on our community,” said Cassidy Berenato, 2025 Board Chair of the San Marcos Area Chamber of Commerce.

As the largest business event in San Marcos, the Business Showcase presents an unparalleled opportunity for companies to elevate their brand visibility, expand their customer base, and establish meaningful partnerships.

Business Showcase sponsors confirmed to-date include: Texas Disposal Systems, La Cima, CHRISTUS Health, Cavender Nissan of San Marcos, Texas State University, San Marcos CISD, Chuck Nash Auto Group, Brown Distributing Company, San Marcos Daily Record, and McCoy’s Building Supply. There are many more sponsorship options and exhibitor booths are now available. Spaces fill up quickly. Don’t miss this chance to showcase your business at the largest business event in San Marcos.

The general public is invited and there will be exciting advertising and promotions to draw a big crowd. The event features tons of door prizes and giveaways. Admission is $5 with event sponsors and exhibitors offering complimentary tickets for guests and customers throughout the community. Admission is free with a five-dollar-equivalent donation of non-perishable food items for the Hays County Food Bank!

For more information, visit bit.ly/Business-Showcase-2025. Call the San Marcos Area Chamber to confirm you want to participate at 512-393-5900. For media inquiries, contact Chamber Communications and PR Manager Joanne Ortega at joanne@sanmarcostexas.com.

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About the San Marcos Area Chamber of Commerce

The Chamber provides ADVOCACY and CONNECTIONS for businesses to THRIVE. The Chamber mission is to improve the economic prosperity and quality of life of its members through leadership, education and business advocacy. The Chamber’s vision is to be the leading membership organization that collaborates with stakeholders to develop an environment where businesses thrive, leadership is encouraged, students excel, housing is ample and attainable, all members are active, and quality of life is a priority. More Chamber information is available at SanMarcosTexas.com.

San Marcos, TX – 5/7/2025 – Youth Leadership San Marcos (YLSM), a program of the San Marcos Area Chamber of Commerce, proudly concludes another impactful year of developing the next generation of civic-minded leaders. Designed for local high school students, the program aims to foster mutual understanding, respect, and engagement between youth and their community while also building awareness of local career opportunities right here in San Marcos.

YLSM works closely with San Marcos High School and San Marcos Academy, ensuring student selection and participation are collaborative efforts that serve both the schools and the community. The program runs annually from September through April, featuring eight themed sessions, culminating in a graduation luncheon.

“The goal of Youth Leadership San Marcos is to plant the seeds of community involvement, leadership, and career exploration in our students,” said Page Michel, president of the San Marcos Area Chamber of Commerce. “We want to expose these young people to local businesses and leadership contacts so they can foresee a successful future right here in San Marcos.”

Each YLSM session is built around a specific theme or career field: Session 1 Team Building; Session 2 History; Session 3 Government and Public Service; Session 4 Economic Development and Tourism; Session 5 Small Business and Manufacturing; Session 6 Health Care and Human Services; and Session 7 Media and Technology.

The eighth session was a graduation luncheon with keynote speakers including San Marcos Mayor Hughson and Ted Groholske, Director of Workforce Development with the Hays Caldwell Economic Development Partnership. It was hosted at Palmer’s Restaurant & Courtyard, thanks togenerous support from Chef Monte Sheffield.

This year, 16 students graduated from the program, including: Adrian Romero, Aiden Nolan, Angelina Vazquez, Aryam Nunez, Cuauhtemoc Ramirez, Diego Vacaflores, Emma Scull, Haley Aguilar, Jackson Herman, Khatin Raymond, Rebeka Onofre, Shawn Joey, Shelita Adams, Shyra Kincheon, Victoria King, and William Lunkenheimer

During the YLSM sessions, students visited local businesses to learn firsthand from owners andmanagers about their unique educational backgrounds, leadership paths, and the realities of operating within the San Marcos economy. These immersive experiences encouraged students to reflect on their own interests, identify career paths that resonate with them, and explore opportunities they may not otherwise encounter before entering the workforce.

A key aspect of YLSM is its focus on local career development, aiming to keep young talent invested in San Marcos. By highlighting both small and large local businesses, the program emphasizes the value of homegrown opportunity and community-rooted success.

The success of this year’s program would not have been possible without the dedication of facilitators Clayton Odam from San Marcos CISD and Rachael Rodgers from San Marcos Academy, plus the support of volunteer facilitators Brooke Damron and Crystal Dixon, along with the generous participation of San Marcos businesses who opened their doors and gave of their time to help educate and inspire.

YLSM is currently preparing for the next class of student leaders that will kick off in September 2025. Interested students can reach out to Mr. Odam and Ms. Rodgers at their schools. For more information on this or other Education & Workforce Development programs, please contact the San Marcos Area Chamber of Commerce at 512-393-5900 or chamber@sanmarcostexas.com.

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About the San Marcos Area Chamber of Commerce

Since 1903, providing ADVOCACY and CONNECTIONS for businesses to THRIVE. The Chamber’s mission is to improve the economic prosperity and quality of life of its members through leadership, education, and business advocacy. The SMTX Chamber’s vision is to be the leading membership organization that collaborates with stakeholders to develop an environment where businesses thrive, leadership is encouraged, students excel, housing is ample and attainable, all members are active, and quality of life is a priority. More Chamber information is available at SanMarcosTexas.com or call 512-393-5900.

San Marcos, TX – 4/30/2025 – As part of the Youth Leadership San Marcos (YLSM) program, students had
the opportunity to showcase their leadership and communication skills through a special competition for
the “Rising Star Award for Public Speaking.” This award recognizes a student who demonstrated
exceptional poise, clarity, and self-reflection while presenting their personal leadership journey.

This year’s recipient is Aryam Nunez, a student at San Marcos High School, who stood out among her
peers with a compelling presentation about her role model, her career aspirations, and a personal story
of leadership through challenge.

As part of the competition, students created and delivered PowerPoint presentations focused on their
chosen role model, explained why they admired them, and shared the lessons they’ve taken from their
example. They also spoke about their career goals and described a time they navigated a difficult
situation in a leadership role—highlighting the real-world skills the program is designed to nurture.

“This competition allowed students to step into the role of speaker and leader, just like the business
professionals they learned from throughout the program,” said a YLSM facilitator. “Aryam showed
incredible maturity and vision, and we’re proud to recognize her growth.”

The Rising Star Award is one of several ways YLSM helps develop confident, community-minded students
prepared to contribute meaningfully to San Marcos’ future.

For more information about Youth Leadership San Marcos, visit the San Marcos Area Chamber of
Commerce.

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About the San Marcos Area Chamber of Commerce

Since 1903, providing ADVOCACY and CONNECTIONS for businesses to THRIVE. The Chamber’s mission is to improve the economic prosperity and quality of life of its members through leadership, education, and business advocacy. The SMTX Chamber’s vision is to be the leading membership organization that collaborates with stakeholders to develop an environment where businesses thrive, leadership is encouraged, students excel, housing is ample and attainable, all members are active, and quality of life is a priority. More Chamber information is available at SanMarcosTexas.com or call 512-393-5900.

[December 20, 2024] The San Marcos Area Chamber of Commerce and the Hays Caldwell Economic Development Partnership are proud to announce the 2025 “Infrastructure Summit: Navigating Water and Energy Challenges.” The business luncheon set for Thursday, February 13, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Texas Old Town venue in Kyle, TX.

This highly anticipated event will bring together an audience of industry leaders and decision-makers to explore the pressing challenges and opportunities surrounding water management, energy resilience, and sustainable growth in Central Texas.

The Chamber and Hays Caldwell EDP are thrilled to announce the keynote speaker will be Phil Wilson, CEO of the Lower Colorado River Authority. Wilson brings a wealth of experience, having served as Executive Director of the Texas Department of Transportation and as Texas’ 106th Secretary of State under Governor Rick Perry. With an extensive background in infrastructure, energy, and public service leadership, Wilson’s insights promise to guide the conversation on sustainable growth and resource
management in the region.

In addition to Wilson’s keynote, attendees will hear from other distinguished speakers, including Robert Puente, CEO of the San Antonio Water System, and Darrell Nichols, Deputy General Manager of the Guadalupe-Blanco River Authority. Discussions will be moderated by Will Conley of American Structurepoint, former CAMPO Chair and Hays County Commissioner. They will address strategies for water management, energy resilience, and fostering sustainable development to meet the demands of
Central Texas’ rapid growth.

These leaders will participate in an engaging panel discussion to share real-world perspectives on water and energy challenges while addressing the vital role infrastructure plays in regional growth and sustainability.

“This Summit is an unparalleled opportunity for community leaders, industry professionals, and stakeholders to come together and explore actionable solutions for the challenges impacting our region,” said Page Michel, President & CEO of the San Marcos Area Chamber of Commerce.

Don’t miss this chance to engage with Central Texas’ top minds in water and energy infrastructure. Secure your reservation today, as seating is limited. For tickets and table reservations, visit bit.ly/InfrastructureSummit or contact the Chamber at chamber@sanmarcostexas.com.

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[October 30, 2024] –The San Marcos Area Chamber is proud to unveil the six exceptional young professionals who have been selected as recipients of the prestigious Shining Stars Under 40 (SSU40) award. These six individuals have demonstrated remarkable dedication to their professions and a commitment to serving the San Marcos community.

The 2024 San Marcos Shining Stars Under 40 award winners are:
● Sheila Beck, AirOne Heating and Air Conditioning
● Cassidy Berenato, Texas Aviation Partners
● Jessica James, Texas State University
● Mike Kamerlander, Hays Caldwell Economic Development Partnership
● Katy Scruton, 3Z Realty
● Thaddeus Watkins, Edward Jones

The SSU40 award, presented by the San Marcos Area Chamber of Commerce, aims to recognize and celebrate the accomplishments of young leaders. These awardees have not only achieved significant success in their respective fields but have also demonstrated a deep commitment to improving the San Marcos community.

“We are thrilled to honor these outstanding young professionals who embody the spirit of service and professionalism that makes San Marcos a great place to live,” said Page Michel, President & CEO of the San Marcos Area Chamber of Commerce. “Their accomplishments are an inspiration to all, and they represent the future of our community.”

The honorees will be celebrated at the San Marcos Area Chamber‘s Annual Dinner & Awards Gala to be held on Thursday, November 21 at the San Marcos Conference Center at Embassy Suites. This prestigious event will bring together local business leaders, community members, and the award winners’ families to celebrate the achievements and contributions of these exceptional young professionals. Details about and photos of these award winners will be featured on Chamber social media in the coming weeks.

For media inquiries or additional information, please contact Communications and PR Manager Joanne Ortega at joanne@sanmarcostexas.com or call (512) 393-5900.

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About the San Marcos Area Chamber of Commerce

Founded in 1903, the Mission of the Chamber is to improve the economic prosperity and quality of life of its members through leadership, education and business advocacy. The Chamber’s Vision is to be the leading membership organization that collaborates with stakeholders to develop an environment where businesses thrive, leadership is encouraged, students excel, housing is ample and attainable, all members are active, and quality of life is a priority. More Chamber information is available at SanMarcosTexas.com.

(October 1, 2024) – The San Marcos Area Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce the newest additions to its Board of Directors. The annual Board Election confirmed these six accomplished individuals to help navigate the chamber’s path forward over the next three years from October 1 2024 to September 2027.

Randy Bryan, tekRESCUE
Crystal Dixon, Edward Jones
Lee Flemming, Amazon Fulfillment Center SAT2
Bob Honeycutt, CHRISTUS Santa Rosa Hospital-San Marcos
Jose Lozano, Cude Engineers
Kristan Alvarez Machado, KnD’s Boutique
Ashley Casebier Olson, Southern With A French Twist
Josh Paselk, Corridor Home & Commercial/Sagebrush Landscaping

These eight directors represent a diverse cross-section of professional expertise in our region. They are each dedicated to fostering success in the local business community. As they step into their roles, the San Marcos Area Chamber is poised to embrace a future with continued growth and innovation.

“The range of experience our new directors bring to the table is exciting and inspiring,” said Chamber President Page Michel. “With their guidance and input, we are confident in our ability to champion our local business community and steer the Chamber forward.”

As of October 1, the 2024-2025 Chamber Board of Directors will have a new slate of Executive Officers and include the following directors who are currently serving terms on the board:

2024-2025 Chamber Board of Directors

CHAIR: Cassidy Berenato – Texas Aviation Partners
PAST CHAIR: Justin Payne – Frost Bank
CHAIR-ELECT: Brooke Damron – The Damron Group Realtors
TREASURER: Alfonso Sifuentes – Republic Services
SECRETARY: Kevin Wolf – Cob Fendley

DIRECTORS:
Randy Bryan – tekRESCUE
Lee Colon – PGM of Texas
Crystal Dixon – Financial Advisor at Edward Jones
Lee Flemming – Amazon Fulfillment Center SAT2
Jo Anna Gilland – Bluebonnet Electric Cooperative
Eddie Glidewell – Comfy Air
Bob Honeycutt – CHRISTUS Santa Rosa Hospital-San Marcos
John Hardy – Divided Sky Roofing and Solar
Mike Kamerlander – Greater San Marcos Partnership
Jose Lozano – Cude Engineers
Kristan Alvarez Machado – KnD’s Boutique
Ashley Casebier Olson – Southern with a French Twist
Josh Paselk – Corridor Home & Commercial/Sagebrush Landscaping
Hondo Powell – Lower Colorado River Authority (LCRA)
Elva Zdeb – Gary Job Corps

The San Marcos Area Chamber of Commerce, established in 1903, remains dedicated to promoting business success through advocacy, education, and networking. The Chamber’s efforts continue to strengthen the local economy and provide valuable resources to its members.

Over 530 area businesses, nonprofits and civic groups belong to the Chamber to receive a wide range of benefits. Benefits range from marketing activities to network-building, leadership development and advocacy.

For more information about Chamber membership and events, visit SanMarcosTexas.com or contact the San Marcos Area Chamber at 512-393-5900 or chamber@sanmarcostexas.com.

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About the San Marcos Area Chamber of Commerce

The Chamber provides ADVOCACY and CONNECTIONS for businesses to THRIVE. The Chamber mission is to improve the economic prosperity and quality of life of its members through leadership, education and business advocacy. The Chamber’s vision is to be the leading membership organization that collaborates with stakeholders to develop an environment where businesses thrive, leadership is encouraged, students excel, housing is ample and attainable, all members are active, and quality of life is a priority. More Chamber information is available at SanMarcosTexas.com.

(September 1, 2024) – The San Marcos Chamber of Commerce in partnership with the Greater San Marcos Partnership is excited to announce the 2024 State of Workforce & Education Summit, set to take place on Thursday, Sept. 26, at the San Marcos Conference Center at Embassy Suites.

This year’s summit will delve into the critical intersection of workforce development and education, serving as a platform to explore innovative strategies and foster collaborations that drive economic growth in the region. Attendees will have the opportunity to gain valuable insights into the impact of new state legislature laws on public schools and universities, as well as their implications for the future workforce.

Key features of the summit include:

• Presentations from state and regional leaders in education and workforce development, providing the latest updates and news.
• Networking opportunities with industry professionals, educators, policymakers, and business leaders, aimed at building connections and fostering collaboration on future projects.

The keynote speaker is Dr. Kelly Damphousse, President of Texas State University, who will discuss the state of the university and exciting recent announcements.

Following Dr. Damphousse’s keynote address, the summit will feature two engaging panels:

Innovations in Workforce Training: Dr. Laura Marmolejo from Austin Community College and Mike Anderson from Texas State Technical College, who will share insights on innovative workforce training approaches.

Superintendent’s Panel on CTE Programs: Featuring leaders from Hays ISD (Dr. Eric Wright), San Marcos CISD (Dr. Michael Cardona), Dripping Springs ISD (Holly MorrisKuentz), and Wimberley ISD (Dr. Greg Bonewald), moderated by Mike Kamerlander.

“We are honored to host these speakers who will share their vision for a thriving workforce,” said Page Michel, President/CEO of the San Marcos Area Chamber of Commerce. “It’s always thrilling to
hear Dr. Damphousse, because every day there are amazing new Texas State initiatives unveiled and record-breaking announcements!”

In addition, a special scholarship presentation will take place during the lunch session, where Justin Payne, San Marcos Chamber Chairman, will award a scholarship to a 2024 San Marcos CISD graduate who is now a Texas State University freshman.
State of Workforce & Education Summit sponsors confirmed to date include Texas State University, San Marcos CISD, La Cima, Frost, McCoy’s, Bluebonnet Electric, TDS, Better Business Bureau, San Marcos Academy and Republic Services. Sponsorship opportunities are still available.

To register for the Workforce & Education Summit, please visit bit.ly/Workforce-Education-2024. Early registration is encouraged as space is limited.

For more information, visit SanMarcosTexas.com or call the San Marcos Area Chamber at 512-393-5900. For media inquiries, please contact Chamber Communications and PR Manager Joanne Ortega at joanne@sanmarcostexas.com.

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About the San Marcos Area Chamber of Commerce

The Chamber provides ADVOCACY and CONNECTIONS for businesses to THRIVE. The Chamber mission is to improve the economic prosperity and quality of life of its members through leadership, education and business advocacy. The Chamber’s vision is to be the leading membership organization that collaborates with stakeholders to develop an environment where businesses thrive, leadership is encouraged, students excel, housing is ample and attainable, all members are
active, and quality of life is a priority. More Chamber information is available at SanMarcosTexas.com.

Greater San Marcos Partnership

The Greater San Marcos Partnership is the economic development organization serving Hays and Caldwell Counties, fostering growth and economic prosperity in the region.

(July 4, 2024) – The San Marcos Area Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce the launch of the Corridor Women’s Network, a new initiative to connect, inform and elevate professional women in the area. Women who work and live along the I-35 Corridor between Austin and San Antonio are invited to participate. A dynamic series of monthly events will be held to help grow relationships, offer leadership insights, and create a vibrant network of women who support and uplift each other.

The series will include after-hours events, coffee meet-ups, and luncheons with inspiring speakers such as CEOs, coaches and civic leaders. There will be information sharing, mini adventures, games, spirits, and support! Most sessions will include food & beverages and will have admission fees. Plan to participate to build meaningful connections and be part of an encouraging community!

Leading the Initiative:

From the Chamber Board of Directors, Brooke Damron of The Damron Group Realtors is cochairing the launch of this network with Blythe Cox from Texas Regional Bank and Incoming Chamber Chairwoman Cassidy Berenato of Texas Aviation Partners.

“All three of these women have extensive experience with professional and social networks,” said Page Michel, President of the San Marcos Area Chamber. “They are eager to share with other women to help them grow and get more engaged with our chamber and community.” Republic Services is one of the first sponsors of this network. Other sponsorships are available.

This new group will have its first meet-up on Thursday, July 25, from 4:30 to 6:30 pm. It will be hosted at Tarbox & Brown Restaurant (201 Kissing Tree Lane, Building 5), sponsored by the San Marcos Area Chamber and Republic Services. It will feature networking, interactive activities, and a taste of what’s to come in future sessions.

Key features of the Corridor Women’s Network:

Networking Opportunities – Meet and connect with like-minded professional women from various industries and locations along the corridor.
Leadership Lessons – Gain insights from influential leaders for personal and professional growth.
Inspiration and Enjoyment – Participate in engaging activities designed to inspire and entertain.
Community Building – Be part of a supportive network that encourages collaboration, mutual support, and community service.

How to Get Involved:

To receive an email with full details about the first and future events, send your name, business/organization and email address by July 12 to Page Michel at page@sanmarcostexas.com.

The first event is generously sponsored by Republic Services. Additional sponsors and pop-up exhibitors are sought for future events. Those interested are asked to reach out to Chamber President Page Michel by email or by calling 512-393-5900.

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About the San Marcos Area Chamber of Commerce

The Chamber provides ADVOCACY and CONNECTIONS for businesses to THRIVE. The Chamber mission is to improve the economic prosperity and quality of life of its members through leadership, education and business advocacy. The Chamber’s vision is to be the leading membership organization that collaborates with stakeholders to develop an environment where businesses thrive, leadership is encouraged, students excel, housing is ample and attainable, all members are active, and quality of life is a priority. More Chamber information is available at SanMarcosTexas.com.

[May 31, 2024] – Get ready to discover what’s new in San Marcos and elevate your local experience! The San Marcos Area Chamber will host the highly-anticipated annual expo, “Business Showcase: Tailgate Edition!” on Friday, August 23, at the San Marcos Conference Center from 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m.

The Business Showcase is held in the big ballroom at the San Marcos Conference Center at Embassy Suites (1001 E. McCarty Avenue, San Marcos). This high-energy event is open to the public, inviting newcomers, residents, visitors, nonprofits, clubs and professionals to come together to discover local businesses and civic groups — and make meaningful connections.

As excitement about football season sweeps the state in mid-August, this event will tie-in and encourage exhibitors to decorate their displays with a tailgate party theme and dress in their favorite team colors! This vibrant event will feature over one hundred exhibitors, all eager to share their products, services, and stories with attendees. Plus, there will be awesome giveaways and prize drawings!

Adding to the excitement, there will be two mini pep rallies with Texas State University student-athletes, Strutters, cheerleaders and Boko, and San Marcos High School Rattlers cheer and dance students! Guests can enjoy the performances, get autographs and photos. Save this date and plan to celebrate with our hometown teams: the Rattlers and the Bobcats!

“By going to the Business Showcase, you can really get the pulse of this unique San Marcos community,” said Chamber President Page Michel. “You’ll see the people behind the organizations that make this community run. And you’ll get to feel the energy and pride during the pep rallies!”

What to expect:
-Explore a ballroom full of businesses and civic groups representing a wide spectrum of interests.
-Engage in network-building discussions with business owners, entrepreneurs, and community leaders.
-Immerse yourself in interactive displays, product demonstrations, and innovative ideas.
-Discover hidden gems, unique services, and innovative solutions offered by local businesses.
-Participate in exciting activities, contests, and giveaways throughout the event.

“Businesses and nonprofits are the backbone of our community, and the Business Showcase is our chance to shine a spotlight on their great contributions,” said Justin Payne of Frost Bank, 2024 Chairman of the Board of the San Marcos Area Chamber of Commerce.

As the largest business event in San Marcos, the Business Showcase presents an unparalleled opportunity for companies to elevate their brand visibility, expand their customer base, and establish meaningful partnerships.

Business Showcase sponsors confirmed to-date include: La Cima, Chuck Nash Auto Group, CHRISTUS Santa Rosa Hospital, Cavender Nissan, Texas State University, San Marcos Daily Record, Republic Services, Brown Distributing Co., and McCoy’s Building Supply. There are many more sponsorship options and exhibitor booths are now available. Spaces fill up quickly. Don’t miss this chance to showcase your business at the largest business event in San Marcos.

The general public is invited and there will be exciting advertising and promotions to draw a big crowd. The event features tons of door prizes and giveaways. Admission is $5 with event sponsors and exhibitors offering complimentary tickets for guests and customers throughout the community. Admission is free with a five-dollar-equivalent donation of non-perishable food items for the Hays County Food Bank!

For more information, visit bit.ly/Business-Showcase-2024. Call the San Marcos Area Chamber this week to confirm you want to participate at 512-393-5900. For media inquiries, contact Chamber Communications and PR Manager Joanne Ortega at joanne@sanmarcostexas.com.

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About the San Marcos Area Chamber of Commerce

The Chamber provides ADVOCACY and CONNECTIONS for businesses to THRIVE. The Chamber mission is to improve the economic prosperity and quality of life of its members through leadership, education and business advocacy. The Chamber’s vision is to be the leading membership organization that collaborates with stakeholders to develop an environment where businesses thrive, leadership is encouraged, students excel, housing is ample and attainable, all members are active, and quality of life is a priority. More Chamber information is available at SanMarcosTexas.com.

SAN MARCOS, TEXAS – Don’t Doubt Us.

The message couldn’t be clearer from San Marcos CISD Superintendent Dr. Michael Cardona at Thursday’s State of the City & District event.

The event, hosted annually by the San Marcos Area Chamber of Commerce, brought together business and community leaders to hear San Marcos Mayor Jane Hughson and Dr. Cardona lay out their vision and future of the City and CISD.

Dr. Cardona began his speech focusing on the accomplishments of the students and athletic teams over the last year before pivoting to the upcoming May 6th bond election.

There are four props on the upcoming election. Prop A, also known as an “Attendance Credit Election,” will ask voters to consider authorizing the SMCISD Board of Trustees to purchase attendance credits from the state with local tax revenue. Voters are being asked to consider this item as SMCISD’s property values have reached a point where the district has entered into recapture, which means the District must make mandatory recapture payments to the TEA. A vote FOR Prop A would allow the district to continue to make mandatory “recapture” payments to the state. If Prop A fails, the school district would be subject to a “Detachment of Territory,” meaning tax dollars from some of San Marcos’ largest employers would be removed permanently from the San Marcos CISD taxing district and sent to a different community in Texas. Additionally, a vote against Prop A will likely mean an increase in taxes on our residents.

Props B, C, and D focus on improvements to the District school and athletic facilities.

The San Marcos Area Chamber Board of Directors has voted to support all four propositions on the upcoming election.

The San Marcos CISD weren’t the only ones who had a busy year. San Marcos Mayor Jane Hughson spent her time on stage boasting the achievements of the City over the past year.

Mayor Hughson highlighted efforts being made to expand housing to residents, a recent trip by city staff and councilmembers to Washington to meet with elected officials and federal agencies, and some recent economic development projects that will come to fruition in the coming years, including the new ‘Hill Country Studios,’ which will represent an investment of over $250 million into San Marcos, and bring nearly 1,500 jobs to our community.

The San Marcos Area Chamber would like to thank Texas Disposal Systems for their support as the presenting sponsor for the State of the City & District event, Freese & Nichols and La Cima for their support as gold sponsors, and the City of San Marcos, San Marcos CISD, Frost Bank and Cobb, Fendley & Associates for being silver sponsors.