ATX-SBK: Impact 7/9/2026

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San Marcos CISD superintendent announces retirement after 10 years

Michael Cardona has served as the superintendent of schools for San Marcos CISD since 2016. On July 7, he announced his intention to retire at the end of September 2026.

What happened: In a letter posted to the SMCISD website from Cardona, he reinforced his high expectations for the district following his departure, including expanded opportunities through partnerships with Tarleton State University and the Lamar Institute of Technology.

“Serving this community over the past ten years has been the greatest honor of my professional life,” Cardona said in the letter. “It is now time for me to focus on my health and my family.”

Looking ahead: According to a social media post by San Marcos CISD board trustee Miguel Arredondo, the board will begin the process of searching for Cardona’s replacement.

Also of note: In June, Hays CISD superintendent Eric Wright announced his intention to retire in February 2027 after nearly 40 years in public education, according to previous Community Impact reporting.

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Around Town

Luxury Italian apparel brand to open first Texas outlet location in San Marcos

A luxury apparel brand founded in Solomeo, Italy, in 1978, will open a location in the San Marcos Premium Outlets this summer.

The overview: Brunello Cucinelli, a retailer offering “Made in Italy” products, is set to open in the outlet mall this July, adding to the luxury retail store options, according to a San Marcos Premium Outlets news release.

The new location will be the brand’s first outlet store in Texas, according to the release. Brunello Cucinelli sells apparel, footwear and accessories for men, women and children. The brand joins other luxury options in the San Marcos Premium Outlets.

Notable quote: “The addition of [Brunello Cucinelli] further reinforces San Marcos Premium Outlets’ position as Texas’ premier luxury outlet shopping destination,” said Scott Dozier, San Marcos Premium Outlets general manager, in the release. “We are proud to offer an exceptional collection of high-end fashion and designer outlets, providing shoppers with an unparalleled shopping experience unlike anywhere else in the state."

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Latest News

Lone Star Circle of Care celebrates half a decade of mobile healthcare in Central Texas

Lone Star Circle of Care has now brought mobile mammography services to communities across Central Texas for five years. The Big Pink Bus launched in July 2021, increasing access to breast cancer screening in the region, according to a news release.

“For five years, the Big Pink Bus has brought life-saving mammography services directly to women across Central Texas,” said Jon Calvin, CEO of Lone Star Circle of Care. “This milestone reflects our ongoing commitment to early detection and expanding access to care.”

What they offer: Through the Big Pink Bus, Lone Star Circle of Care offers mammography services and breast cancer screenings. The resource’s team also supports clients after their initial visit through follow-up support and getting connected to additional resources.

The local impact: Since its initial launch, the bus has given over 10,000 mammograms, and over 80 of those patients were diagnosed with breast cancer through their initial screenings. In the last five years, the bus has traveled over 53,000 miles through Central Texas counties, including Bastrop, Hays, Travis and Williamson.