Sergio Ruiz, a November graduate of San Marcos High School’s Phoenix Academy, was recently awarded a grant through the Gary Job Corps that will allow him to attend St. Philip’s College in San Antonio. At the conclusion of the two-year program at the college, Ruiz will earn an Associates of Applied Sciences degree as well as Welder/Welding Technologist and other certifications. St. Philip’s is a part of the Alamo Colleges system.

Some Hernandez Elementary School and Mendez Elementary students were inducted into the Gentlemen’s Club in November. The pride on their faces is one of the results of the program.

San Marcos’ economic development office, along with other local jurisdictions and stakeholders, is working on an economic development plan that would target health care, corporate and professional operations and supply chain management.

San Marcos Baptist Academy recently donated 10 used computers to Computers For Learning (CFL), a nonprofit organization based in Austin. After being refurbished by CFL, the computers will benefit students in the San Marcos community who do not have computers in their homes. The effort helps local families bridge the “digital divide.”

This weekend Texas State takes on Angelo State in a much talked-about football game. Music, as always, is full of delightful surprises, and don’t forget about barbecue and movies.

The Texas State cross country teams will open their season Saturday morning with the Texas State Invitational at Gary Job Corps.

On Aug. 16, runners from across the state competed in the Darnd’st Duathlon, a USA Triathlon (USAT) sanctioned event in San Marcos. In recent years, the run has benefitted Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) by raising awareness and funds.

Amy Madison, Executive Director of Economic Development San Marcos, says a much anticipated economic development master plan for the San Marcos area should be ready by mid-September.

The Texas State cross country teams will be hosts to two meets this fall. The Texas State Invitational will take place on Sept. 5, and the Texas State Classic will run on Oct. 3.

A reception was recently held by the San Marcos Optimist Club for the winners of its annual essay contest.