University of Texas Austin - Cactus Yearbook (Austin, TX)

! John Foxwonh Melting pot of Texas [fill! [HIE! ill Finn W Kite races at Zilker Park Daniel Byram ith its own special Texas flavor, the city of Austin provided a unique backdrop for the University. Where else could one find such a strange mix of scholars, legislators, business people and just plain Texans? It was a city constantly on the move, growing to meet the demands made by life in the 1980s. Since I960, Austin ' s population doubled and continued to grow in 1988. The technological field was partially responsible for this growth, especially with the addition of Sematech to the number of high tech industries based in Austin. In addition to the University of Texas, the city was also home to St. Edward ' s University, Huston-Tillotson College, Concordia Lutheran College, the Episcopal Theological Seminary of the Southwest and Austin Community College. Culturally, the city had much to offer students. Attractions included the State Capitol, the Laguna Gloria Art Museum, the Austin Symphony and the Zachary Scott Theater. The UT campus was also the site of several museums and concert facilities. Austin ' s natural resources made it one of the most attractive, livable cities in the state. The picturesque Hill Country and nearby Town Lake, Mt. Bonnell and Lake Travis were popular getaway spots. On sunny days, students could be found sun- bathing at Barton Springs or at any of the city ' s numerous parks. The ever-popular Austin music scene became well-known when such artists as Timbuk 3 and Omar and the Howlers broke onto the national scene. The " Third Coast ' attracted Hollywood as well. Several movies such as D.O.A. and Heartbreak Hotel were filmed here. Clearly, Austin was an exciting place to be. Many students found that four years here was not enough and decided to stay. Others moved on, but memories of their time here would last a lifetime. by Amanda Youngblood Uniquely Texas 9