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Each year the SMCVB recognizes a couple of individuals or organizations who epitomize the creative spirit and vision that tourism pioneers A.B. Rogers and son, Paul, exhibited when they first began to promote San Marcos, Texas as a tourist destination with Aquarena Springs.
Rogers Family Tourism Award
This year’s Rogers Family Tourism Award was presented to two recipients: Kathryn Welch with the San Marcos Art League (Art Squared and San Marcos Art Center), and July Moreno with Mermaid Society SMTX.
Kathryn Welch
Kathryn Welch is a celebrated local artist whose stained-glass pieces can be found around town. Welch resurrected the San Marcos Art League, serves as its president and is a pivotal force behind making San Marcos the colorful place we know and love.
July Moreno
Moreno and Mermaid Society SMTX host the annual Mermaid SPLASH, a truly unforgettable event that features the Downtown Promenade, Aqua Faire and Mermaid Ball. The family-friendly Downtown Promenade and Aqua Faire is truly a sight to see as mermaids take over Downtown San Marcos. Mermaid Society SMTX was inspired by Moreno’s love of the Aquamaids that performed at Aquarena Springs.
Rogers Family Tourism Lifetime Achievement Award
Tim de Jong
The Rogers Family Tourism Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to Tim de Jong, owner of Wimberley Glassworks. What started as a one-man glassblowing operation 25 years ago, has become an internationally recognized brand with more than 11 employees. Of course, there’s more to Wimberley Glassworks than just beautiful pieces of handcrafted art. Walking into the showroom at Wimberley Glassworks is a sensory-shocking experience. Bright colors, unique shapes and interesting textures and patterns catch the sunlight and suddenly you’re in a glittering glass paradise. From the 221 pieces of clear glass hanging in the yellow tower, to the wall full of intricate platters, you’ll find yourself “oohing and ahhing” with every turn. A trip to the back of the building and you’ll find the artists hard at work. Dipping, swirling and shaping, they put their heart and soul into creating beautiful and unique pieces of glasswork with an ancient technique. Bowls, pitchers, ornaments, light fixtures – the possibilities are truly endless.
