Bobcat Pride Hosts 5th Annual Drag Out Fundraiser

By Jacquelyn Carter
News Reporter

Bobcat Pride raised $10,000 for LGBTQIA students at their 5th annual Drag Out on Saturday.

The organization reached their goal through ticket sales, raffle tickets and a silent auction that included prizes from San Marcos shops and a trip to San Diego.

Heather Aidala, executive director of Bobcat Pride, explains how their organization is needed due to the lack of resources for students at Texas State.

“We are the only source of support for LGBTQIA students at Texas State, so the funding really makes a difference in the lives of those students in helping them reach both their academic and leadership goals,” said Aidala.

The organization prides themselves for providing $50,000 to 31 students in the past five years.

It was a packed house at StoneWall Warehouse for the event hosted by San Marcos native Chitah Daniels Kennedy. The theme of this years show was “The Pink Party.” Bobcat Pride encouraged attendees to dress in pink to have fun and show off their feminine side. Kennedy described the event as a variety show featuring comedy, drag, pole dancing and burlesque.

Drag performers included the reigning Empress of the United Court of Austin, Anise Mawnrow, and former empresses Topaz and Pannica Tack.

Topaz, who is performing drag at the event for the second year in a row, said this event is important for the community.

“The cause is great and the people. Anything to help the kids is important, it is that simple. That is what we are supposed to do and that is what we are here for,” said Topaz.

Kennedy made the show interactive with her fiery personality and even pulled crowd members on stage for a Pinktastic walk off.

Locals like Sean Shaw attend and support events like these because he was not given the same opportunities when he was in college.

“I never got a scholarship, I was first in my class and I went to private school. If I can help someone who is in my situation, I would love to.”

This was the first year the event was held at Stonewall but both the owners and board of Bobcat Pride say they have found a home for future Drag Outs.