Features

The San Marcos Art League (SMAL) is excited to host the very first social event of 2021 on July 22 at The Price Center & Garden for their Member’s Art Show closing reception. Members of the art league were asked to submit works influenced by the idea of ‘place’ and how location impacts the perspective of their work. Local artist and SMAL board member, Jennifer Epperson, explains this theme in depth by stating that a ‘place’ may be a studio, in nature, or at the kitchen table. Wherever artists work becomes a place for art. As reflectors of our surroundings, artists define the extent to which “place” filters into the creative process. We reflect our surroundings — the exterior so-called reality, and the interior world of dreams, imagining and inspiration.”

This year, San Marcos organizations are coming together in a sense of community, commemoration and fellowship to host the first ever countywide Juneteenth celebration. The Dunbar Heritage Association, the Hays County Historical Commission, Cephas House and the Calaboose Museum will hold a series of events — some of which are already underway — to share the history and culture of Black Americans in our community.

Does Your Nose Know What My Nose Knows was the name of a creative article written by an author during my time as the Executive Director of the American Rose Society. Obviously, the reference was to the fragrance found in roses. I would like to pass this question on to you and the butterfly bush or buddleia. Mrs. Jan and I are blissfully on the same page when it comes to the Pugster varieties we are growing.

SAN MARCOS PUBLIC LIBRARY

For today’s column, we’ll talk a little about the recycling of electronics, including the reuse of them or components. Let’s start by going a little north to Dallas.

My journey this week takes me to Dr. Daniel M. Gruver of San Marcos and his mission to an indigenous people group, the Kunas, of northeast Panama. They occupy a strip of land on the Kuna Yala (formally known as San Blas) Islands and in the mountainous mainland. They are known for their seclusion, fishing, farming and artwork. They have been intentional about preserving their culture, language and way of life.

My first experience of swimming in really deep water came on a long-ago trip to Australia. As part of the tour, we boarded a large boat and motored out over the Great Barrier Reef.