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Welcome back, Aggies! Class is once again in session and football is right around the corner — and perhaps some cooler weather, too. We’re excited to welcome new students to campus and have our returning students back in town.

We want to introduce ourselves to our new community members. We’ve also put together some tips and recommendations for a fun and successful semester for students and professors alike. Read on for more, and good luck this semester, Aggies!

Who We Are

KAMU is the Brazos Valley’s premier public broadcasting station. For more than 50 years, we’ve provided educational and informative programs to viewers and listeners of all ages on TV and FM.

On TV, we are the region’s sole PBS affiliate. Whatever your taste, we have something for you: from dramas and cooking shows to travel and news. Or get your nostalgia fix with PBS KIDS programming, airing weekdays from 6 a.m.-1 p.m. on KAMU or 24/7 on our dedicated PBS KIDS channel (12.3 or Optimum 18).

On radio, we combine the best variety of NPR news coverage and interview shows with storytelling, music and local programming. Plus, our 24/7 classical music radio station is about to turn a year old.

Tips for a fun and successful semester

Attend (or watch!) Midnight Yell

Midnight Yell is an event unique to Texas A&M. The night before each home football game, Kyle Field is opened to fans for yell practice. If you can’t make it in person, don’t worry. KAMU broadcasts and livestreams each yell practice. Watch on KAMU or stream through the PBS App.

Learn more about Midnight Yell

Study or grade with classical music

Stay focused with KAMU-Classical/HD-2. Whether you’re a student hitting the books before an exam or a professor grading papers, our 24/7 classical music station is the perfect choice. You can easily listen online or download the TuneIn app. If you have a slower internet connection, use this link instead.

Learn more about KAMU-Classical

Enjoy local events

Dozens of wonderful local events happen across town each semester. This fall, join KAMU in Downtown Bryan for First Friday each month. We also enjoy spending time with the community at The Local at Lake Walk and with students at occasional events on campus. Subscribe to our monthly newsletter to be the first to learn about upcoming events.

View our events calendar

Watch Texas A&M Today

We go behind-the-scenes of your favorite university. “Texas A&M Today” is a KAMU original production using dynamic cinematography and creative storytelling to tell the stories of Aggieland. Learn about hidden gems of campus and hear from the best and brightest in our Aggie community. We’re preparing to premiere Season 2 this fall! For now, Season 1 is available to stream at any time.

Stream Texas A&M Today

Listen to The Heart of Art

Our community is full of passionate artists. Hector Niño ’21 talks to them all on his weekly radio show “The Heart of Art.” Learn about their artistic journeys and the impact their art has on the Brazos Valley and feel more connected to the community.

Listen to The Heart of Art

Learn with NOVA and NATURE

If you need to take a break from schoolwork but still want to grow your knowledge, “NOVA” and “NATURE” are perfect for you. “NOVA” is TV’s longest-running science series, covering interesting and timely topics. Just this year, they’ve dug into the data sent back to Earth from the James Webb Space Telescope, looked into the chase for carbon zero status and uncovered how the brain shapes your reality. On “NATURE,” the environment and wildlife of the Earth is under the spotlight: from Costa Rican hummingbirds to the 37 different species of dogs.

Learn more about NOVA
Learn more about NATURE

Let our production team collaborate with you

Professors: let our production team help you. We offer several collaborative services. We can record a lecture or a class series for an online course. Or if you’re contacted by a media outlet for an interview, we can provide professional backgrounds, lighting and cameras. The possibilities are limitless – we simply want to elevate the excellence of Texas A&M.

Learn more about our resources

Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in August 2023 as a preview for the new season. Season 2 has since been published and can be streamed on PBS.org. For more information, visit our “Texas A&M Today” show page.

A SHOW ALL ABOUT AGGIES.

After an exceptional debut season in 2022, “Texas A&M Today” is back.

Premiering fall 2023 on KAMU-TV and streaming online, Season 2 goes behind-the-scenes at A&M with more than 30 new stories about Aggies making a difference.

Meet nurses, honey bee researchers, ship conservationists, race car builders, floral designers, musicians and more. Hear from some of the best and brightest in Aggieland — and learn new Aggie facts.

Season 2 premieres Monday, Sept. 25 at 9 p.m. with new episodes airing every two weeks. To stay up-to-date, subscribe to KAMU’s monthly newsletter or follow us on social media.

Catch up on Season 1 of “Texas A&M Today”

“Texas A&M Today” is made possible by Grow College Station. The program is hosted by local media personality Chelsea Reber, a 2010 A&M graduate.

Watch the Season 2 Preview:

Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in June 2023. While the airtimes are out of date, we hope you still enjoy learning about “The Bookmark.”

This summer, KAMU celebrates 100 episodes of “The Bookmark” – an original TV collaboration between KAMU and Texas A&M University Press. To celebrate the 100th episode, we asked Host and Executive Producer Christine Brown to share her favorite moments from the show so far.

The Beginnings

– Coach Gary Blair discusses his book on our first episode.

In 2017, I was talking with some of the KAMU staff at a division meeting and the idea of collaborating on a television program came up. We set up a meeting, I toured the studio and we came up with a plan for a show where I would interview authors of books from Texas A&M University Press and the Texas Book Consortium.

We filmed our first episode of “The Bookmark” in February 2017. While I don’t have a background in broadcasting, I do have a degree in English, so reading a book and discussing it was certainly something I was comfortable with. We carefully selected our first guest: then Texas A&M Women’s Basketball Coach Gary Blair. He was the perfect first guest because his book, “A Coaching Life,” had just come out and he’s comfortable in front of the cameras. Who better to coach me through my first episode than an accomplished coach?

Mixing It Up

– Joey McGee covers Lyle Lovett’s “North Dakota” on our first hybrid episode.

Early on we did our first hybrid episode for the book “Live from Aggieland” by Rob Clark. The book recounts past legendary performances that happened in the Brazos Valley. As part of the launch, we had an event where local musicians played covers of artists featured in the book including Johnny Cash, Elvis, Willie Nelson and more. KAMU recorded the event and we were able to feature concert footage as part of the episode.

I certainly have to mention my first non-human guest, a snake named Lucky. The author of “Herping Texas: The Quest for Reptiles and Amphibians” brought Lucky with him to help illustrate how fascinating and non-threatening most reptiles can be. Lucky had excellent media training and even looked (and slithered) right into the camera for the promo.

– Christine holds Lucky the snake on set.

The most uncomfortable episode to film was no one’s fault but the Texas summer. The air conditioning went out (in August, of course), but the show must go on, and we filmed the “Explore Texas” episode as scheduled, with our guest who was a great sport.

Refreshed Look

– Our new logo and new set, prepared for the 2022 season.

Production shut down during the pandemic in 2020, but we came back strong in 2022 with “Scared Fearless” from author Kathryn Childers, who was one of the first female secret service agents. She’s a dynamic speaker with great stories to tell and was the perfect guest to re-launch the show on our new set.

We’ve now hit the milestone of 100 episodes, filmed over these past six years. I’ve had on 116 guests and featured 107 books. I’m grateful that we were able to film our 100th episode in a special location: Duddley’s Draw, one of the bars featured in the book “Texas Dives.” I think it enriched our discussion.

When we started “The Bookmark” back in 2017 I could not have imagined we would get this far, but I have found that I love doing the show and talking to authors about their books. I’m grateful for this partnership between KAMU and Texas A&M University Press, and I’m looking forward to the next 100!

– On set for the 100th episode at Duddley’s Draw.

The 100th episode of “The Bookmark” debuts Tuesday, June 27 at 4:30 p.m. on KAMU-TV and reairs Saturday, July 1 at 6:30 p.m., Tuesday, July 4 at 4:30 p.m. and Saturday, July 8 at 6:30 p.m. An audio version also airs on 90.9 KAMU-FM on Sunday, July 2 at 2 p.m.

Stream “The Bookmark” anytime online on PBS.org.

Christine Brown is the Publicity and Advertising Manager for Texas A&M University Press, which is the only university press in the United States with its own dedicated television show. Questions? Email Christine at christinebrown@tamu.edu.

Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in May 2023. While the airtimes are out of date, we hope you still enjoy learning about these shows, many of which can be streamed on PBS.org.

– “My heart is breaking and my mind is working overtime.”

– “Oh Morse, my heart broke right there with you.”

– “Well worth the wait, so sad to see it end.”

– “Such few good stories to watch. Soon we’ll have one less.”

– “I have savored every moment. I’m not ready to say goodbye.”

It’s beloved by many on the KAMU staff, viewers like you and thousands more around the world. But after nine gripping seasons and 36 heart-pounding episodes, it’s time for a curtain call. “Endeavour” ends this summer with three thrilling episodes sure to keep you on the edge of your seat.

We’re getting you ready for the final season with everything we know — and suggesting some other shows to watch when your heart misses the Inspector Morse universe.

How to Watch the Final Season
Catch Up on Previous Seasons
What to Expect in the Final Season
Go Behind the Scenes of the Morse Universe
What to Watch When You Miss Morse

How to Watch the Final Season

Season 9, Episode 1 airs June 18 at 8 p.m.
Season 9, Episode 2 airs June 25 at 8 p.m.
Season 9, Episode 3 airs July 2 at 8 p.m.

KAMU is your TV home for the final season of “Endeavour,” airing Sundays at 8 p.m. starting June 18. If you’re not near a TV, watch our livestream on any device through our website or the PBS App. And if you miss the first airing of an episode, we’re replaying each one the following Thursday at 8 p.m.

Want to watch on your schedule? Each episode will be available to stream for free through the PBS website for two weeks after its first airdate.

Catch Up on Previous Seasons

Morse has been through a lot in this origin story that serves as a prequel to “Inspector Morse” (1987-2000). We’ve watched him join the Oxford police force, team up with DI Thursday, get shot, lose family members, explore romance, receive a medal from the queen, argue with friends and descend into drunken stupors.

All eight seasons are available for streaming through KAMU Passport if you’d like to catch up on all the twists and turns before Season 9 premieres.

(WARNING: Season 8 spoilers ahead)
Where did we leave our favorite Oxfordshire friends at the end of Season 8? Well, Morse’s struggles with alcohol only got worse. Thursday urged him to get help — which Morse finally agreed to, entering rehab as the final episode ended. Morse’s longtime attraction to Thursday’s daughter, Joan, played center stage, too, as Joan found comfort in the arms of Morse’s former housemate, DS Jim Strange. Finally, after the team works through two series of connected murders, the Thursdays receive another blow: their soldier son is missing.

What to Expect in the Final Season

As Season 9 begins, Morse has returned to Castle Gate after his rehab stay. It’s the spring of 1972 and new mysteries and secrets are ready to unfold, from the cobbled streets of Oxford to the criminal underworld of London.

Familiar faces return and an old case resurfaces with new, unsettling ties. An increasing intimacy in Joan and Strange’s relationship promises more personal struggles for Morse.

Episode 1: Prelude
A murder in a college garden leads Endeavour to investigate a celebrated Oxford orchestra but, when a second tragedy hits, he discovers a story the ensemble would sooner forget.

Episode 2: Uniform
A crime wave has taken hold of Oxford. A debauched group of undergraduates are wreaking havoc across town, and the death of a uniformed policeman sends shockwaves through Castle Gate.

Episode 3: Exeunt
A series of death notices in the Oxford Mail, each with a distinctive, cryptic message, provides clues to Endeavour’s latest — and final – investigation. Meanwhile, Thursday is under pressure from a familiar face.

Go Behind the Scenes of the Morse Universe

Look back at the journey from “Inspector Morse” (1987-2000), to the spinoff “Inspector Lewis” (2006-2015), through the nine seasons of “Endeavour” with a special documentary. “Morse and the Last Endeavour” airs June 11 at 8:30 p.m., one week before the final season premieres. In the hour-long program, you’ll hear from several cast members, including Shaun Evans, Abigail Thaw and Kevin Whately. If you miss the documentary, it will be available for streaming after the final episode of “Endeavour” airs.

If reading’s more your thing, check out a two-part interview with star Shaun Evans. “MASTERPIECE” caught up with him as Season 9 was being filmed and fans will love his honest answers. Check out part one here and part two here.

What to Watch When You Miss Morse

What’s one to do once they’ve caught up on Seasons 1-8 of “Endeavour” and watched the final season this summer? Find a new PBS detective show to watch, of course. From contemporary mysteries to period dramas, there’s a new favorite out there for everyone.

Each of these programs is available to stream with KAMU Passport — your key to thousands of PBS programs for $5 a month/$60 a year.

Grantchester

Seasons 1-7 (Season 8 premieres in July)

Jazz-loving Reverend Sidney Chambers can’t help but fall into more worldly habits as he assists friend and actual detective Inspector Geordie Keating in solving murders. The series is soaked in the 1950s, from the fabulous clothes to the swinging jazz to the challenges of adjusting to life post-war.

Watch Grantchester

Miss Scarlet and The Duke

Seasons 1-3 (production for Season 4 is underway)

High-octane, smart and sassy with a slow-burn romance. Eliza Scarlet is the whip-smart daughter of renowned London private detective Henry Scarlet, who raised her to believe that she might one day follow in his footsteps. When Henry suddenly dies, a heartbroken Eliza discovers his considerable debts, and her only option for survival is to take on the family business.

Watch Miss Scarlet and The Duke

Unforgotten

Seasons 1-4 (Season 5 premiering later in 2023)

Can anyone escape the past, or can it resurface to engulf you at any time? Detective duo DCI Cassie Stuart and DI Sunil “Sunny” Khan are determined and — for the most part — demon-free. She’s clever and canny, but it’s Cassie’s stillness and deep dedication to solving cold cases that make her an archeologist of the buried secret and human heart.

Watch Unforgotten

Magpie Murders

Miniseries with a sequel in the works

A mystery within a mystery, adapted from author Anthony Horowitz’s bestselling book by the author himself. Book editor Susan Ryeland receives an unfinished mystery manuscript and becomes an amateur sleuth, plunging herself into a shocking case to find out the truth.

Watch Magpie Murders

Annika

Season 1 (production for Season 2 is underway)

Rooted in modern Glasgow, DI Annika Strandhed balances maritime murders and a rebellious teenage daughter, all while dropping literary references, breaking the fourth wall and keeping viewers guessing through twists and turns galore. This show is especially a hit for fans of wry wit.

Watch Annika

Van der Valk

Seasons 1-2 (production for Season 3 is underway)

Steely-eyed, street-smart and unapologetic, detective Piet Van der Valk investigates high-profile cases and gritty murders in Amsterdam. It’s a reboot of the wildly popular original series, which ran on British television from 1972-1992.

Watch Van der Valk

Baptiste

Seasons 1-2 (no more seasons planned)

Retired detective Julien Baptiste, recovered from a brain tumor and walking with a limp, claims he’s “not the man I used to be.” But will his transformation hinder — or help — him to find the truth amidst the criminal underbelly of Amsterdam’s Red Light District?

Watch Baptiste

Prime Suspect: Tennison

Season 1 (no more seasons planned)

Behind every great detective is a backstory. In this prequel to Helen Mirren’s beloved characterization of Jane Tennison, we see Tennison as a rookie policewoman, fighting against sexist expectations.

Watch Prime Suspect: Tennison

Death Comes to Pemberley

Miniseries

As star-studded as it is thrilling. On the eve of Pemberley’s annual ball, new and beloved iconic characters of Pride and Prejudice assemble to bask in the warm glow of the Darcy’s sumptuous estate. But following Lydia’s frantic arrival and an investigation into Pemberley’s woods, a nightmare ensues and a scandal mounts, threatening Pemberley and all the Darcys hold dear.

Watch Death Comes to Pemberley

Memorial Day has been observed in America since shortly after the end of the Civil War. Throughout the war, thousands of soldiers lost their lives. Families lost husbands, fathers and sons. Historical records show dozens of women fought and died, too.

To pay tribute to the fallen soldiers, an organization of Union veterans selected May 30, 1868 as Decoration Day. Eventually, the name changed as more states began observing the day. In 1970, Memorial Day was changed from May 30 to the last Monday in May.

Nowadays, you can find families gathering together to remember and honor soldiers who fought to keep America safe in all of its conflicts. KAMU would like to be a part of your weekend by offering programs to honor and remember America’s heroes.

They Volunteered for This: Merrill’s Marauders

Sunday, May 28 • 3 p.m.

Follow the story of one of World War II’s most heroic units: Merrill’s Marauders. The unit fought in Burma under Frank Merrill. Made up of volunteers, they specialized in “hit and run” tactics. They struggled through a lack of supplies and used mules to move from place to place. Despite this, Merrill’s Marauders were so talented at their job that when they attacked, Japanese soldiers thought they were under siege from 15,000 soldiers when the group was only made up of 3,000 soldiers. News anchor Tom Brokaw narrates the story of these extremally talented and legendary heroes, who recently received the Congressional Gold Medal in 2022.

Learn more about They Volunteered for This: Merrill’s Marauders

National Memorial Day Concert

Sunday, May 28 • 7 and 8:30 p.m.

Join KAMU for one of PBS’ most popular and beloved programs, the “National Memorial Day Concert.” The concert unites America by showing appreciation to those who gave their life to our nation. Performers such as Joe Mantegna, Gary Sinise, The National Symphony Orchestra and more will honor our country’s fallen soldiers and their families. For over 30 years, PBS has featured uplifting performances, documentaries and readings in this tradition that families look forward to each year. Honor and remember our nation’s heroes with KAMU on Sunday, May 28 at 7 p.m. and again at 8:30 p.m.

Learn more about the National Memorial Day Concert

The Seabees on Iwo Jima

Monday, May 29 • 9 p.m.

The story of the Seabees is a powerful piece of history. Construction workers by trade, the Seabees were Navy construction battalion units unloading supplies and building roads and airstrips. But one day, they were called to do much more. This group of men ended up fighting alongside combat troops in the battle for Iwo Jima. Their bravery and heart move anyone who hears this story. PBS brings in CBS Sports’ Jim Nantz to narrate. Join KAMU as we unfold what happened that day and understand the meaning behind the message, “We Build, We Fight.”

Learn more about The Seabees on Iwo Jima

The Tuskegee Airmen: Return to Ramitelli

Monday, May 29 • 10 p.m.

Return with us to Ramitelli Airfield to remember men who broke the mold. The Tuskegee Airmen were a group of African American pilots who not only helped win World War II but helped break stereotypes. In this documentary, the daughter of one of the pilots visits the remains of the Italian airfield to remember. Help us remember the fallen with the retelling of the story of the Tuskegee Airmen, narrated by country star, Darius Rucker.

Learn more about The Tuskegee Airmen: Return to Ramitelli

Looking for our commencement livestream? Click here to watch your ceremony live.

Congratulations graduates! We know your family and friends are proud of you for your big accomplishment and we are too. KAMU is proud to play a small part in your achievement by broadcasting, livestreaming and recording your commencement ceremony.

You can purchase a copy of your graduation ceremony to remember the moment forever. We offer six options (shipping is included in the cost):

DVD with English captions: $20
DVD with Spanish captions: $20
Blu-ray with English captions: $25
Blu-ray with Spanish captions: $25
Digital file on a USB flash drive with English captions: $25
Digital file on a USB flash drive with Spanish captions: $25

Visit our KAMU Marketplace to order your copy

Once you’re on the KAMU Marketplace, follow these steps:

Click the year your ceremony was held.
Click the month your ceremony was held.
Fill out your name, address, phone number and email.
Select your choice of DVD, Blu-ray or USB flash drive options.
Select the date and time of the ceremony you want to order.
Select how many copies you would like.
Click “ADD TO CART” and then checkout.

You will receive your video in 4-6 weeks. Please call 979-845-5611 if you have any questions. Congratulations again and Gig ’em!

Skip Richter is the Brazos County Extension Horticulturist for the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, and the host of “Garden Success,” a call-in garden, lawn and landscaping show airing each Thursday at noon on KAMU-FM. We invited him to share a few lawn care tips you can use to keep your lawn going strong this summer.

Most people want a beautiful, lush lawn. But we tend to pamper our turf into problems — both for the turf and for our environment. Great lawns are the result of basic attention to three simple practices: mowing, watering and fertilizing.

Mowing

Mow every 5-7 days to help build a thicker, more attractive lawn. Set the blade at least three inches high for St. Augustine and two inches for Zoysia and Bermuda. There is a direct relationship between taller grass height and more extensive root development. A strong root system is better able to handle the demands of summer.

Return clippings to the turf. Clippings mulch the surface and reduce weed competition. They decompose rapidly to provide nutrients to the growing turf. Think of those clippings as free, slow-release, organic fertilizer.

Watering

When the weather heats up and rain becomes scarce, give your turf a good soaking on an infrequent basis. Light sprinklings encourage development of a shallow, sprinkler-dependent root system. This makes a plant even more susceptible to dry spells and nutrient deficiencies. Frequent wetting also increases the incidence of fungal turf diseases.

A slow, thorough soaking will ensure a deeper, healthier root system, and more drought-hardy plants. From May to September, apply one-half to one inch of water using a rain gauge or coffee can as your guide to know how long that takes.

Fertilizing

The best time to make your first fertilizer application is after the second mowing of turf. Note that I said turf, not weeds! Weeds grow vigorously in early spring, but your lawn “sleeps in” until the weather warms a bit more before really starting to grow. By about mid-April, the turf is growing fast enough to benefit from an application of fertilizer. If you haven’t already fertilized your lawn, you can still do so.

Many people like their turf to be a deep dark green color and really “push” it with fertilizer to attain this look. St. Augustine doesn’t really want to be this green and is normally more of a lighter green in color. Summer fertilizing may green up your lawn but will also make it grow faster, develop shallow roots and thus require more water.

The best way to determine what nutrients to apply in what amounts is through a soil test. The Extension office can direct you on how to have your soil tested. In the absence of a soil test, apply a product with a 3-1-2 or 4-1-2 nutrient ratio. Some examples of products and the amount to apply per 1,000 square feet of turf are: 21-7-14 (5 lbs), 21-0-0 (5 lbs), 15-5-10 (7 lbs), 6-2-4 (16 pounds) or 8-2-4 (12 lbs). If you have had a lawn for several years, you may not need anything more than a nitrogen fertilizer such as 21-0-0. If a product is not slow-release, consider splitting the above amount into two applications. This spreads out the “feeding” over a longer period of time.

Finally, avoid fertilizing before rain. While it is good to water in your fertilizer with about one-half inch of irrigation, you can’t control how much rain will fall or how fast. All too often, a heavy downpour results in fertilizer being washed off into ground and surface water supplies. So, prevent this waste and water it in yourself.

Weeds

Weeds usually are a problem in weak, patchy turf areas. An herbicide to kill weeds is not the best long-term solution if the real problem is weak turf due to lack of water, sunlight or nutrients. The best weed control is a dense, healthy turf, so let proper turf care be your first priority.

There are a few weeds that will become a problem in even a thick, healthy lawn. These may require special effort to control, such as spraying with an herbicide product or even hand pulling. Just note that broadleaf weed killers applied after the daytime temperatures are in the mid to upper 80s or higher can damage your St. Augustine turfgrass, and thus should be avoided over the summer months.

Talk to your local garden center professional or county AgriLife Extension office for proper weed identification and, if needed, appropriate product recommendations.

Listen to past episodes of “Garden Success with Skip Richter” on our website, or your favorite podcast platform. If you have questions you’d like him to answer live on the program, email gardensuccess@tamu.edu.

Aggie Muster airs live on KAMU-TV and KAMU-FM April 21 at 7 p.m. and streams live online.

“Softly call the Muster, let comrade answer ‘Here’…”

Each year on April 21, Aggies continue Texas A&M’s most solemn tradition: Aggie Muster. In this custom that is more than a century old, hundreds of Muster ceremonies take place around the world each year, honoring Aggies who have passed. But the largest ceremony — attended by thousands — is always held on campus. As the public broadcasting station for Texas A&M University, KAMU is proud to once again bring Campus Muster to Aggies worldwide.

While Muster is a time for all Aggies to unite, all members of our Brazos Valley community are welcome to participate via our live TV airing and online livestream. Read on to learn more about Aggie Muster and KAMU’s involvement with the solemn event.

What is Muster?
Why April 21?
Why is it called Muster?
What do people say after each name is read?
What are the most famous Musters?
KAMU’s university service

What is Muster?

Texas A&M may change, but the Aggie Spirit never will. Muster is a chance for Aggies to gather in their local communities — in places like Chicago, San Francisco, New Orleans, Japan, Norway, France and many more. This year, that list even includes a cruise ship traveling from Miami to Seattle. Aggies enjoy camaraderie and reminisce at each Muster before reading the names of those from that area who died in the past year.

On campus, Muster is held at Reed Arena, the largest indoor gathering space in the Brazos Valley. A keynote speaker is chosen to speak to the gathered Aggies and the 50-year reunion class is honored. About 150 names will be read followed by a special arrangement of “Taps” and rifle volleys fired by the Ross Volunteers.

Why April 21?

Statewide, April 21 is known as San Jacinto Day. It’s a celebration of the Battle of San Jacinto, when Texas won its independence from Mexico.

The day has been special for Aggies since the earliest years of the university. It was a school holiday when the college began and later was marked by battle re-enactments and student field days.

Separately, early alumni organizations had been pausing at their annual June meetings to honor Aggies who had passed away. Eventually, these two traditions merged into one event on April 21. These events spread across the U.S. and elsewhere starting in the 1910s.

Why is it called Muster?

The term muster comes from the military. It’s the process or event of accounting for each member of a military unit. During a roll call, the names of each member are called to determine who is present.

What do people say after each name is read?

In a typical roll call, when a person hears their name, they answer “here.” But Muster roll calls honor Aggies who have passed. To show that each passed Aggie is present in spirit, the audience will answer “here” as each name is called. Those answering “here” can include a friend, family member or classmate. Regardless, no Aggie will pass without someone saying “here” for them.

What are the most famous Musters?

The two most famous Muster ceremonies happened in the Philippines — one during World War II and the other shortly after it ended.

In 1942, America’s last stronghold in the area was the small island of Corregidor. On April 21, with Japanese forces constantly attacking, Brig. Gen. George F. Moore, class of 1908, asked Maj. Tom Dooley ’35 for a list of Aggies fighting on the island.

The legend grew once a reporter sent the story back to the states. Historians say it’s highly unlikely the Aggies were able to physically gather in the midst of the fighting, but the reporter’s story of the soldiers yelling, singing and honoring fallen Aggies encouraged the nation.

Most of those Aggies died or were taken prisoner. However, their lives would be honored four years later.

By April 21, 1946, the war was over and the Philippines had been freed from Japanese occupation. More than 100 Aggies traveled from their posts to Corregidor to honor their fallen classmates. They made an improvised Aggie flag out of a bed sheet and sat for perhaps the most famous photo ever taken of Aggies.

(James T. Danklefs ’43)

On Corregidor today, there’s a permanent memorial to the Aggies who defended the island.

KAMU’s university service

KAMU first filmed Campus Muster in 1988. In the years since, we’ve recorded nearly every ceremony and offer DVDs, Blu-Rays and USB Flash Drives of each one we’ve filmed. For several years, we also uploaded recordings to a server for use by Aggie clubs.

For those in the Brazos Valley community who can’t make it to campus, we’ve presented a live broadcast of the event for many years, including every year since 2009. Catch the broadcast live at 7 p.m. on April 21 no matter your TV provider.

View our TV channel guide

In recent years, KAMU has provided a livestream of Campus Muster, too. That became even more important when campus and the world shut down during the COVID-19 pandemic.

2024’s ceremony will be the third fully in-person event since then. But KAMU will continue to offer a livestream for Aggies around the world to join in the solemn event.

Stream Aggie Muster

This year, KAMU-FM is also broadcasting the ceremony live on the radio. Listen at 7 p.m. on April 21 on 90.9 KAMU-FM or listen live online from any phone, tablet, computer or smart speaker.

We are proud to continue serving our university community in this way each year.

Here.

Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in March 2023. While the airtimes are out of date, we hope you still enjoy learning about these shows, many of which can be streamed on PBS.org or KAMU’s website.

The fight for a clean environment continues with increasing urgency and becomes more apparent every day. Every year during Earth Month and on Earth Day, billions of people make a conscious effort to take action to change human behavior and create global, national and local policy changes. KAMU is also making an effort through our programs to spread awareness of how we can protect our environment while also showing the true beauty and wonders Earth has to offer. Read on to learn about a variety of nature-based programming on radio and TV this month.

Deep in the Heart: A Texas Wildlife Story

Wednesday, April 5 at 7 p.m. and Thursday, April 6 at 3 p.m.

KAMU-TV is proud to present our highlight of Earth Month: a visually stunning celebration of Texas, directed and produced by Aggies. “Deep in the Heart: A Texas Wildlife Story” makes its television broadcast debut on all Texas PBS stations, including KAMU, on Wednesday, April 5 at 7 p.m. Director Ben Masters ’11 and Producer Katy Baldock ’17 lead the Fin and Fur Films production team as they explore the native wildlife and natural wonders of Texas in breathtaking detail. The film celebrates what makes the state unique — including its diverse landscapes and remarkable wildlife behavior that cannot be found anywhere else in the world.

The film receives an encore broadcast on Thursday, April 6 at 3 p.m. and will be available to stream on PBS.org from April 6-11. Additionally, KAMU-FM is offering an exclusive interview with Baldock in an episode of “The Heart of Art.” In this interview, Baldock discusses the impact A&M had on her filmmaking and describes the challenges of producing the film. You can find this interview on our website here.

Learn more about Deep in the Heart

Waterful Wednesdays on KAMU-FM

Tune in every Wednesday at 7:42 a.m.

KAMU-FM airs a weekly program all about your water supply called “Waterful Wednesdays.” Host Jennifer Nations, Water Resource Coordinator for the city of College Station, provides information about potable water including best practices, procedures and safety tips. Recently, “Waterful Wednesdays” won a Watermark Award from the Texas Section of the American Water Works Association and the Water Environment Association of Texas. This award recognizes top-quality communications in the field of water. We are thrilled to have such an educational and exceptional show on KAMU-FM. The award will be presented on April 12 during the Texas Water 2023 Conference in Houston.

Listen to Waterful Wednesdays

Garden Success

Listen every Thursday at Noon on KAMU-FM

“Garden Success with Skip Richter” is a call-in gardening show on KAMU-FM. Airing each Thursday from noon to 1 p.m., Skip serves as your garden consultant – answering questions to help you grow a bountiful garden and beautiful landscape in the Brazos Valley. Skip – an extension specialist in horticulture sciences at Texas A&M University – provides time-saving tips, guides you to the best plant selections and provides proven pest management strategies.

Access all episodes of Garden Success

American Experience: The Sun Queen

Tuesday, April 4 at 8 p.m. and Wednesday, April 5 at 3 p.m.

Visionary pioneer, inventor and heroine are just a few words that describe Mária Telkes. For 50 years, Telkes applied her knowledge as a chemical engineer toward ways to harness the power of the sun. She successfully designed and built the world’s first solar-heated modern residence and identified a new chemical that could store solar heat. She faced many obstacles along the way, including being undercut and bullied by her all-male team and boss at MIT. However, she overcame those challenges and was able to hold more than 20 patents. She is now recognized as one of the most influential inventors in the field of sustainable energy.

Learn more about American Experience: The Sun Queen

NATURE: The Hummingbird Effect

Wednesday, April 12 at 7 p.m. and Thursday, April 13 at 2 p.m.

Costa Rica is home to some of the most spectacular wildlife and ecosystems in the world. One of the reasons this small country flourishes is due to a surprising creature: the hummingbird. With over 50 species, hummingbirds play an important role in maintaining the environment on Earth. Join KAMU in discovering how hummingbirds influence many living things from flowers to monkeys.

Learn more about NATURE: The Hummingbird Effect

NOVA: Weathering the Future

Wednesday, April 12 at 8 p.m. and Friday, April 14 at 2 p.m.

Make your Wednesday night a weather Wednesday with KAMU! Explore how our weather has changed recently: from hotter heat waves and more intense rainstorms to multi-year droughts. These events have also opened a gate for ancient knowledge and more innovative solutions. As the planet gets warmer, our weather gets more extreme; let’s learn together what we can do today to help us adapt in the future.

Learn more about NOVA: Weathering the Future

Changing Planet

Wednesday, April 19 at 8 p.m. and Friday, April 21 at 2 p.m.

Season 2 of Changing Planet makes its debut just in time for Earth Day. We will revisit six of Earth’s most vulnerable ecosystems and bring back the amazing group of people from the first season. Scientists and other experts dive into how to protect these communities and wildlife.

Learn more about Changing Planet

NATURE: Niagara Falls

Wednesday, April 19 at 7 p.m. and Thursday, April 20 at 2 p.m.

Witness the unique beauty of one of the most iconic waterfalls in the world, Niagara Falls. From birds to mammals to reptiles, there is a variety of wildlife that call this special place home. Scientists have uncovered the mysterious and complex world all within one of Earth’s most beautiful natural wonders.

Learn more about NATURE: Niagara Falls

Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in February 2023. Most of these ways to engage with KAMU are still available — so enjoy!

Happy Birthday, KAMU! The Brazos Valley’s premier public media organization turns 53 this month. On Feb. 15, 1970, KAMU-TV debuted on channel 15. In the years since, we’ve moved to channel 12, added two subchannels and added a radio station, 90.9 KAMU-FM. Now, we’re looking forward to serving our community with at least 53 more years of educational, informative and fun programming.

We thought this would be a good time to remind our viewers and listeners of all the services and options we provide for our community. Whether you’ve been a KAMU fan for decades or you’re new to who we are, we’re sure there’s something we offer that you’ve never checked out.

Watch KAMU-TV (PBS) — even without a television
KAMU Passport — a simple donation for a variety of programs
Create TV — activate your creative side
Listen to 90.9 KAMU-FM — with or without a radio
Enjoy classical music — 24/7
Unlimited access to PBS KIDS — anytime, anywhere
KAMU Kids Corner — where all ages come to have fun
University engagement — for students and the community

Watch KAMU-TV (PBS) — even without a television

Did you know you don’t have to be in front of a TV to watch KAMU? Our 24/7 lineup of nature, science, public affairs, drama and history programs can be watched in several ways. Plus, what other channel can you watch without commercials interrupting your favorite show?

Watch KAMU on traditional TV. You can find us on channel 12.1 with an antenna or on different channel numbers depending on your provider.
Watch our livestream on PBS.org. Every minute of our programming can be livestreamed by anyone in the Brazos Valley with a web browser.
Want to watch on your phone, tablet or smart TV platform? Download the PBS app and find our livestream. The app is available for iOS, Android, Roku, Samsung Smart TV, Apple TV, Android TV, Amazon Fire TV and Chromecast.
Speaking of the PBS app, it’s not just for livestreaming. Watch 4,000+ PBS and KAMU programs for free, including “MASTERPIECE,” Ken Burns documentaries, “NOVA,” “NATURE,” “FRONTLINE,” “Texas A&M Today” and “The Bookmark.” Create a PBS account to keep track of your favorite shows and episodes.
If you choose to pay for YouTube TV, you can find us there too. Watch our livestream or view hundreds of hours of on-demand programming.
Watch our local programming. Read below for more details on our lineup of community-centered programming.

KAMU Passport — a simple donation for a variety of programs

Join one of the most affordable streaming services by supporting KAMU. By donating $5 a month or $60 a year, you can gain access to over 1,500 select PBS shows. Binge-watch new seasons of popular shows before everyone else or rewatch some of your favorites — from thrilling mysteries to insightful documentaries. Whether you’re on the go or staying in, you can stream KAMU Passport anywhere, at any time, on any device. For more details on how you can create an account, visit our KAMU Passport page.

Create TV — activate your creative side

Tap into your creative side with KAMU’s Create TV. Tune in to channel 12.2 and learn tips for anything from cooking to travel. Create TV is the perfect hub for “how-to” programs and viewers passionate about DIY projects. Follow along with recipes and projects and get better at your at-home projects. For more information, check out our Create TV schedule.

Listen to 90.9 KAMU-FM — with or without a radio

Your commute to work isn’t the only way to listen to the great programming we offer on KAMU-FM. Plus, we’ve increased the variety of programs you’ll hear. Check out our weekly schedule for more details.

Listen in your car or on a home radio. We’re easy to find. Tune to 90.9 FM and enjoy.
Listen to our livestream. All you need is a computer, phone or tablet. Use your favorite web browser to find our Listen Live page. If you have a slower internet connection, use this link instead.
Download the TuneIn app. If you’d rather use an app than a web browser to listen, TuneIn is perfect for your needs. It works on dozens of different devices, including phones, tablets and smart watches.
Listen on a smart speaker. Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa are happy to find KAMU-FM for you. Say, “Hey, Google, play KAMU on TuneIn,” or “Alexa, play KAMU on TuneIn.”
Enjoy our local programming. Like art? Listen to “The Heart of Art.” Enjoy oldies music? Catch “Easy Sounds of the ’50s and ’60s” with Dave South. And if you’re trying to grow the best garden, listen to horticulture expert Skip Richter on “Garden Success.” Each one of these shows can be enjoyed live, and past episodes of “The Heart of Art” and “Garden Success” can be listened to on demand. Hint: you can also catch “Garden Success” on your favorite podcast platform.

Enjoy classical music — 24/7

We’re home to the Brazos Valley’s only classical music station, and it’s available 24/7. We’ve shared simple instructions — both written and visual — to help you find KAMU-Classical/HD-2.

Listen in your car. Many vehicles can receive HD Radio stations. If yours doesn’t, there are plenty of other ways to listen.
Listen on a portable HD Radio. There are a variety of HD Radio options you can purchase for your home.
Listen to our livestream. All you need is a computer, phone or tablet. Use your favorite web browser to find our Listen Live page, and scroll down to KAMU-Classical/HD-2. If you have a slower internet connection, use this link instead.
Download the TuneIn app. If you’d rather use an app than a web browser to listen, TuneIn is perfect for your needs. It works on dozens of different devices, including phones, tablets and smart watches.
Listen on a smart speaker. Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa are happy to find KAMU-Classical/HD-2 for you. Say, “Hey, Google, play KAMU-Classical on TuneIn,” or “Alexa, play KAMU-HD-2 on TuneIn.”

Unlimited access to PBS KIDS — anytime, anywhere

PBS KIDS is one of the most beloved and trusted kids’ channels. From iconic shows like “Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood” and “Sesame Street” to new favorites like “Daniel Tiger” and “Wild Kratts,” there are a variety of ways to watch.

Turn to channel 12.3 or Optimum 18. KAMU’s PBS KIDS channel, 12.3, airs your child’s favorite shows 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Check out the schedule today.
Tune in online or via a mobile device. PBS KIDS programs are available 24/7 on the PBS KIDS website. You can livestream what we’re airing on TV, or find your favorite programs and watch episodes and clips whenever you’d like.
Download the PBS KIDS Video app. A family-friendly app full of PBS KIDS programming is waiting for you on the App Store or Google Play store. Watch full episodes and clips anytime.

KAMU Kids Corner — where all ages come to have fun

Color with KAMU coloring pages. KAMU has a wide selection of coloring pages from PBS KIDS shows to KAMU original designs. Find your child’s favorite and print it today.
Have fun with PBS KIDS Games. PBS KIDS offers games that create a fun and safe environment for children to explore and play online, with over 250 educational games from their favorite PBS KIDS shows. Play along with characters like Daniel Tiger, Elmo, Arthur and more. Use this link to start the fun!
Explore PBS LearningMedia. Through KAMU, you have access to free K-12 educational resources for students and educators. This information is specifically designed to help enhance the classroom and support effective learning and teaching practices. PBS provides accessible and trusted resources that represent different perspectives and communities.
Expand knowledge with PBS KIDS for Parents. Bring PBS KIDS to your home through learning, cooking, experimenting, crafting and more. PBS KIDS offers a website for parents and guardians that is full of fun ways you can bring your family and loved ones together. Hang out with your children’s favorite characters off-screen — all in the comfort of your home.

University engagement — for students and the community

Serving Texas A&M and the Brazos Valley community is at the heart of our mission, both through livestreams of important A&M events and locally produced programs.

Texas A&M Commencement. Three times a year, KAMU records and streams commencement ceremonies for thousands of people around the world.
Aggie Muster: the most solemn event in Aggieland. Each April, KAMU records and streams the campus Muster ceremony for viewing by Aggies everywhere.
Midnight Yell, live from Kyle Field. The night before each home football game, Aggies pack Kyle Field for a nearly 100-year-old tradition: practicing yells.
“Texas A&M Today,” KAMU’s first foray into dynamic cinematography and creative storytelling. Season 1 saw six episodes featuring 35 stories about some of the best and brightest in Aggieland.
“The Bookmark,” featuring publications from the Texas A&M University Press. Host Christine Brown reviews each publication and interviews its author(s).
“Around Texas with Chancellor John Sharp.” Chancellor Sharp travels the state, meeting people who make Texas one-of-a-kind.

Be on the lookout for giveaways on our social media and live radio. Occasionally, we partner with community businesses and give our viewers and listeners a chance to win FREE tickets. Follow us on social media and listen along for your chance to win!