Colby Howell

For the past three decades, one person has been the face of Bobcat Volleyball. Colby Howell has more in this Bobcat Update.

In the fall of 1980, "Another Brick in the Wall" by Pink Floyd topped the Billboard charts. The #1 TV series was Dallas, and Karen Chisum began her first year as Volleyball head coach here at Texas State. 
Thirty years, and 9## wins later, Coach Chisum is still here and loving what she does. She began her coaching career at San Marcos and New Braunfels High Schools before finding her way back to then Southwest Texas State University, where she earned two degrees. 
Her first year as head coach here was 1980. Since then, she has climbed all the way to 8th on the all-time N-C-double-A wins list. 
STANDUP -"Over the 30 plus years shes been here at Texas State, Coach Chisum said not the wins and losses that matter, but the relationships shes forged over the years"
SOUNDBITE- "The reason I keep coming back is the people. I've met so many great people over the years here at Texas State." 
Senior Captain Brittany Collins says Coach Chisum is much more than just a coach to her.
SOUNDBITE- "Her door is always open. She's makes sure that she is there for us whenever we need here." The Volleyball Banners hanging in the rafters at Texas State are a testament to her success and passion for the game. Yet, no matter how many wins and championships she has under her belt, Chisum says she has no timetable for her exit. 
SOUNDBITE- "I'm still energetic. I still love to coach. I'm not gonna be Joe Paterno. You won't see me here at 82. But as long as I can do this well. I'll be here at Texas State University." 
Coach Chisum- a true bobcat. For Bobcat Update, I'm Colby Howell.

Amanda Dugan

Some of the endangered Texas wild rice in the San Marcos River may be moved within the next couple of years. Amanda Dugan has more in this Bobcat Update.
Texas State University and the City of San Marcos are in talks to restore the Sessom's Creek watershed. The project will decrease the amount of dirt found at the bottom of the San Marcos River. The dirt builds up after filtering down from the university's property and into Sessom's Creek. The restoration of the water shed will be a multi-million dollar project and will take anywhere from 10-15 years to complete. Forty percent of the water shed is owned by Texas State and the rest is owned by San Marcos. Funds required for the restoration will come from the Environmental Protection Agency and other federal agencies. Once the watershed is completed, the university, the San Marcos community and the U-S Fish and Wildlife services will look into dredging the river as the next step. Not everyone agrees that this is a good idea. [Let the CG identify the speaker.]
SB: I don't think it's necessary. What's here is here, it's apart of the river and Sewell Park.
Dredging the river will require transplanting some of the endangered Texas wild rice that grows there. The rice may be moved to other parts of the river or to the National Fish Hatchery for further research. Director of the Aquatics Station at Texas State, Tim Bonner, says moving the rice would benefit the river and community.
SB: Once able to minimize the amount of sediment in the river. That would allow us, working with U.S. Fish and Wildlife. ....Transplant those Texas wild rice elsewhere, so that it is a more recreational area for students.
Bonner and the scientific community feel that this would help the river prosper and would not hurt any of the endangered wild rice.
Standup: Dredging some of the wild rice in the San Marcos river will cause water levels to rise. Making river recreation easier and more enjoyable. For Bobcat Update, I'm Amanda Dugan
[I sure hope you have plenty of B-Roll.]

Ansel Hildebrand

San Marcos drivers are noticing a spike when they go to the gas pump. Near campus at Texas State, the 7-11 store has regular unleaded at two-63 per gallon. The Sac-N-Pac across from Colloquium has regular for two-57 a gallon. And the Yellow Store has the cheapest gas at two-37. The Energy Information Administration says gas prices are up ten cents from last Monday. The national average is two-67 a gallon. That's up 18 cents from a year ago. But gas is still cheaper here in Texas averaging two-55 a gallon.

Claudia Mickle

Texas State's 2009 Homecoming has a lot of firsts in store for students. Claudia Mickle has more with this Bobcat Update.
Homecoming will be celebrated this weekend.
Campus windows in the L-B-J Student center show the students' spirit with paintings of bobcats and sayings such as "Let's go Cats, beat the Jacks."
Homecoming Queen nominee Jenni Kraft says the event will be exciting.
SB: (12 secs) "This year it's actually going to be on Halloween so it's really exciting because first of all we're going to win first place, but now we're gonna scare them with our Bobcat fierce face, and the Lumberjacks will go down."
The Bobcats will take on Stephen F. Austin at 2 p-m Saturday.
The first-ever Homecoming Kick-off Rally was held in the L-B-J Amphitheater Tuesday and the first Spirit Stick was introduced as well.
Student Coordinator Roman Arispe (Air-is-pee) says the rally is a good way to boost school spirit.
SB: (10 secs) "I feel Texas State's on a way to becoming something bigger and better and I know that a lot of faculty and staff on campus are trying to increase the pride and tradition here."
The rally featured Hip Hop Congress, the Texas State Band Drum Line and, of course, cheerleaders.
The King and Queen, along with best Halloween costume, will be announced at Saturday's tailgate.
SB: (9 Secs) "Whose house is this, this is Bobcats house so students and Bobcat fans don't forget to show your pride this Saturday at the game, for Bobcate Update I'm Claudia Mickle.

Summer Ratliff

It's that time again for carving pumpkins, trick or treating, and costume shopping. Summer Ratliff has more in this Bobcat Update.
SU: With Halloween right around the corner, we went to find out.. … What will be the most popular costume this year?
SB: 4 different reactions from students.
Political Science Major, Bryce Arnold
Junior Sarah Pezzaro
Senior Ben McCullough
University Police Officer Otto Glenewinkel
For those still searching for a costume, stores like the Halloween Costume Warehouse at the Outlet Mall in San Marcos has a lot to offer.
SU: Here you can find a variety of costumes with prices ranging from 29-99 to 49-99.
Store-bought costumes can be expensive, but Manager Abbey Miers says the slow economy hasn't affected business.
SB: People are always willing to spend money on that one day of the year for Halloween just to have a good costume.
For those who want to spend less, Goodwill is an alternative for the bargain costume shopper.
SU: Here at goodwill the prices are low, even as low as 2.99 but you might need to be creative.
Mother of two, Vanessa Bermudez says she doesn't mind looking through the racks or altering costumes if it will save her a little money.
SB: although these are two different costumes I'm going to be taking apart at least I don't have to spend money on one and my son is only six months old he will grow out of it….and this way I can make it look the way I want it to look.
Whether you're a goblin, witch, or vampire, either store has plenty of options for the last minute shopper. For Bobcat Update, I'm Summer Ratliff.

Jesse Moloney

Halloween is quickly approaching, and time is running out to prepare for this weekend's festivities. Jesse Moloney has more in this Bobcat Update.
SB/CG standup
SB/CG interview
SB/CG interview
Many stores offer the traditional boxed costumes, but Costumed Occasions offers a personalized touch. They make over ninety percent of their costumes by hand and can help anyone find exactly what he or she is looking for.
SB/CG Interview
Some of the most popular costumes this year include flapper costumes for women and vampires for men. Store employees say abstract costumes are becoming more popular.
SB/CG Interview
With Halloween falling on a Saturday this year, many students will start festivities early, dressing up Friday as well and continuing until early Sunday morning when the clocks are switched back to standard time.
SB/Standup

Hannah Miller

Starting tomorrow, San Marcos residents will have a chance to save money on prescription drugs. The city will announce a free discount program at the new
C-V-S at the corner of Hunter Road and Wonder World Drive tomorrow morning. The discount comes in the form of a card that will be available at all city offices. The card is free to all San Marcos residents, and no enrollment or fee is required. The card will save residents an average of 20 percent on retail prescription drug prices and can be used if their prescriptions are not covered by insurance.

Ashley Flores

Potential employers will be on campus this month.  Job and internship fairs for Mass Communication students were held earlier this week at Texas State, and a fair for those interested in the construction industry was held today. Career services offers a variety of workshops to help students build their resumes and refine their interviewing skills.  An education fair is scheduled for next week.  If you're interested in attending an interview session, contact Career Services.

Kristy Hoerig

You didn't provide an anchor lead-in.  I wrote the following.
If you're in the market to buy a house, you may be running out of time to qualify for a big tax credit.  Kristy Hoerig tells us more in this Bobcat Update.
To receive an eight-thousand dollar tax credit from the federal government, you must be a first-time home buyer. November 30th is the cut-off date to close the deal. You may be eligible if the home is within the city limits and is either a single-family dwelling, a condo or a townhouse built after 1978. Income is another criterion.  To qualify for the full tax credit, single taxpayers cannot have incomes that do exceed 75-thousand dollars and for married couples the limit is 150-thousand dollars.
Century 21 Realtor Robbie Wiley says this is a great opportunity.
SB:Wiley…three year…
You have up to two years to amend your 2008 tax return.
SB: Javier
Stand-up(extra incentive for professors)
SB: Wiley..$5,000 credit for professors…
Tenured and tenure-track professors who are full-time employees and who have not owned a residence in San Marcos city limits within the past three years qualify for this program.
(Stand-up)
Program requirements include living in the home for five years and working for the university. After five years, the loan balance goes to zero and the lien is released. No repayment will be required if the professor lives in the house for five years.
(Stand-up)

Adam Swank

The Bike Cave is moving again, this time, to make way for a faculty research center. Adam Swank has more in this Bobcat Update.
It doesn't seem that long ago that the campus Bike Cave moved here to the Pecos Building. The former woodshop had been abandoned for years and required a lengthy clean-up job before re-opening in February. Bike Cave student manager Judith Wilson remembers the renovation fondly.
SB: Judith Wilson
Now the Department of Anthropology will take over the building as a place for a new faculty member to conduct his research close to the center for archeological research next door. The move will force the Bike Cave to relocate all of its equipment including shelves of tools, tires and of course, its many bicycles. In keeping with their eco-friendly philosophy, the Bike Cave hopes to move all of it without the use of trucks. Instead, there are plans to use a specially outfitted tri-cycle courtesy of the Environment Service Committee.
SB: Judith Wilson
The Bike Cave's future location at the Colorado Building has only one-third the space and will also need some work before it's fully operational.
SB: Paul Hamilton
STANDUP: "While there's no exact date for yet for the Bike Cave's relocation here to the Colorado Building. The move will mark their second large renovation project of this year alone. For Bobcat Update, I'm Adam Swank."

Nathan Estrada

Opera fans have reason to celebrate this weekend in San Marcos. Nathan Estrada tells us more in this Bobcat Update.
The Texas State School of Music will be presenting two shows tonight and tomorrow at the Wine Cellar restaurant at Hopkins and L-B-J. The event will feature two one-act performances along with a three-course dinner. 
The director of opera studies, Dr. Samuel Mungo, has been involved in opera for more than 20 years and will direct the event. Dr. Mungo says the event will bring a different perspective to students who attend the performance.
SB-"opera is a perfect merger of great music and great theater, when you put great music and great theater than that creates magic and that's what i am trying to bring to Texas State."
Music Education Junior Sam Parrott says the School of Music has much to offer the student body.
"Bring music education in general, bring production into the school to give a chance for the students to see what we do."
The two performances will include The Game of Chance and Face on the Barroom Floor. The dinner opera begins at six tonight. 
Stand up- Now the performance for tonight is sold out but you can buy tickets for tomorrow show at the front office in the music building. For Bobcat Update, I'm Nathan Estrada.

Rena Iglehart

The Wittliff Gallery at Alkek Library has been expanded. Rena Iglehart tells us about the recent renovation at the library.
Here at the Alkek Library you'll find rows of bookshelves, study rooms and studious students. But, located on the seventh floor is Alkek's hidden secret.
The newly renovated Wittliff Collection opened this past Saturday. It is now the home of literary archives and major collections. Let's take a look.
The gallery's exhibit halls are now adorned with Southwestern and Mexican Photography.Compared to the old gallery, the library now has more space for the Wittliff Collections.
Directly across is the Southwestern Writers Collection where the works of Texas legends -- from songwriters to the cinema -- can be seen and accessed. Profiled are the works of author Cormac McCarthy, singer Willie Nelsen and Selena.Handwritten drafts of books and screenplays can be accessed at the gallery.
Media Relations Director Michele Miller is one of the many staff members who gives tours of the literacy archive exhibit.
Students enjoy the new additions.
The gallery has a full schedule of events for the coming year.
For Bobcat Update, I'm Rena Iglehart.

Ansel Hildebrand

Registration is here again and students are picking their classes for the upcoming spring semester. Online registration via cats web started yesterday for students who are signed up with the office of disability services. Access times to cats web depend on classification and the last two numbers of your social security number. Spring registration will continue through November seventh. Log onto cats web to check your access periods or you can visit the registrar's web page.

Jesse Moloney

Bail has been set this morning for two suspects after a home invasion and shooting last night in San Marcos.

Michael Wilson and Justin Pickaree were arrested in connection with an incident at the University Heights apartment complex near Interstate 35 at Exit 206. A 23-year-old resident was shot during a fight and flown to University Medical Center.

Pickaree and Wilson have been charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and evading arrest. They were apprehended in the same apartment complex where the shooting occurred.
They are being held at the Hays County Law Enforcement Center in lieu of 50-thousand-dollar-bail for each.

Sarah Hudiburg

A proposed Performing Arts Center for Texas State is being scaled back.  The reason: lack of funding from the Texas legislature.  But, as Sarah Hudiburg  (HEW-duh-burg) reports in this Bobcat Update, the university still wants to construct a building for showcasing talent.

  

Texas State officials were counting on 53-million-dollars for a new Performing Arts Center, but -- citing bad economic conditions -- the legislature withheld the money.  

That did NOT kill the project, however.   Dr. Richard Cheatham, dean of the College of Fine Arts and Communication, says the university received an eight-million-dollar gift from former Texas State student Patti Harrison that keeps the project alive.

(Cheatham…11 secs…do this.)

Construction on the center should begin in June 2011 with the demolition of Falls Hall. The 45-million-dollar Performing Arts Center, which boasts a music recital hall and a theatre center, will be erected in its place. Nicole Maldonado, a Theatre Arts major, says it will be great to have all of the performing arts in one central location on campus.

(Maldonado…7 secs…it's at.)

Texas State officials say they hope that a ribbon cutting ceremony and grand opening of the recital hall will take place in December 2013. For Bobcat Update, I'm Sarah Hudiburg.

Mitch Shubert

Early voting has started in San Marcos and will continue through October 30th. There are three venues open for early voting.  One is the Hays county Election office.  Another is the San Marcos public library.  And a third is the L-B-J Student Center.  Voters will decide on eleven possible amendments to the Texas constitution. and there are two open city council positions in San Marcos. The L-B-J Student Center will be open for student voting today and tomorrow on the second floor near the ballroom.  The polls are open until 7 o'clock tonight and from 10 'til 7 tomorrow.

Jessica Elmore

Thanks to recent rains, the aquifer levels have risen and the city of San Marcos has lifted stage one drought restrictions. As of Tuesday, the city will adhere to the year-round water conservation rules, which consist of requiring residents not to use sprinklers between 10 a.m. and 8 p.m., prohibiting charity car washes and the use of non-re-circulating water fountains and ponds. However, irrigation with hand-held buckets and hoses are allowed, as well as filling pools, fountain watering and at-home car washing. 

Ashley Flores

It's that time of year again, no not midterms, Mass Communication week. Ashley Flores has more in this Bobcat Update.
October 19th through the 22nd professionals from broadcasting, advertising, public relations and social media are giving advice on how to make it in the real world.
SB-Robert Wood
"making it outside of school..."
A Whole New Media is the theme this year. Discussions this week will cover such topics as how to dress for success and the relationships between reporters and P-R people. Dara Quakenbush, senior lecturer and one of the coordinators of the event-filled week, says the theme is all about the new realities of media.
SB-Quakenbush
"reality check..."
A nice dose of reality will do everyone some good and so will some extra points in class, as some professors are offering to students that attend and take notes.
SB-Student
"I get extra points..."
Stand Up:
If you're unable to make it to some of the lecture, no problem, they're being streamed at txstatemcweek.com. For Bobcat Update, I'm Ashley Flores.

You'll need to have a graphic to reinforce txstatemcweek.com  I'll show you how. You did a nice job with the story.

Hannah Miller

Flash flooding is the number one weather-related cause of death in the country, and central Texas is particularly prone. Texas State inaugurated the world's first international flash flood laboratory Monday in hopes of lowering the number of flash flood deaths each year. Hannah Miller has more.
Researchers and students from all over Texas attended a daylong workshop today in the J-C Kellam building to brainstorm solutions for central Texas' flash flood problem. One of the guest speakers was Doctor Eve Gruntfest who about the importance of meteorologists and geographers working together.
(Gruntfest.)
Kevin Barrett, a P-H-D student at Texas State, was given an opportunity to work alongside professional researchers during Monday's workshop.
(Barrett…)
The goal of the workshop was to integrate governmental, professional and academic forces to reduce the fatal impact of flash flooding. The focus of the International Laboratory is a bit more vague. Barrett says finding that focus will be a process.
(Barrett…)
Stand-up:
Though central Texas is in need of more rain, not less, the danger of flash floods is as serious as ever. And Texas State is at the forefront of new research and technology to keep us safe. For Bobcat Update, I'm Hannah Miller.

Colby Howell

Members of The Gideons International have been passing out Bibles this week on The Quad. Gideons International is a Christian organization, known for distributing copies of the New Testament worldwide. Members of the group visit Texas State once a semester for two days to pass out literature. A lot of students deny the handout, but the organization says it still manages to pass out more than four-thousand Bibles a day. As a public institution, Texas State University is not affiliated in any way with the Gideons. Funding for the Bibles is provided by member fees.

Amanda Dugan

The blue light located on top of an emergency call box on North L-B-J has been malfunctioning since August, causing concern for some students who think it's a legitimate warning . But no alarms have been reported in the area between Lantana and Sterry Hall. The University Police Department says it has reported the problem to its electrical contractor, Tel Com, and asked that the strobing light be repaired. The U-P-D says that after Tel Com receives the necessary parts, repairs will be made. Police say the emergency telephone connected to the call box  is still operational.

Bret Taylor

Texas State's radio station K-T-S-W is upgrading its transmitting facilities to improve the quality of its broadcast signal in San Marcos.  Bret Taylor has more in this Bobcat Update.
Students are having trouble listening to K-T-S-W.    Let the CG identify Nick.
SB Some students have had a hard time getting the station in their dorms
Recently K-T-S-W announced plans to improve its signal by upgrading the radio station's transmitter.
Let the CG identify Adam
SB:
Earlier this year Texas State University purchased the land where the station's tower is located.  A leasing arrangement had been in effect prior to the purchase.  K-T-S-W General Manager Dan Schumacher says that due to unique geographical features between San Marcos and New Braunfels, the signal reaching San Marcos listeners has been weakened by the terrain. 
SB: There's a ridge between here and New Braunfels that the signal has a hard time getting over.
A key to improving the signal will be to replace the existing tower. In all, the project is expected to cost more than 400-thousand dollars
STAND UP: Hopefully after adding a little height to the tower students won't have any trouble picking up K-T-S-W. For Bobcat Update, I'm Bret Taylor.

Rhe-Anne Cannaday

What's the anchor supposed to read?

The H-1-N-1 flu has been spreading.  University officials are urging students to stay home if they feel any symptoms.
STAND UP: "Even in the height of the flu season, a lobby like this may be empty due to a new initiative at Texas State."
The Office of the Dean of Students has started a new program to help slow the spread of germs on campus. An online form called the Texas State Influenza Absence Notification may be used by sick students.  It allows them to stay home and not be penalized by attendance policies.
All they have to do is fill out the form online and it will automatically send an e-mail to each of their professors letting them know of their sickness. Students are asked to stay home for five days from the start of their symptoms. And professors are asked to be lenient on absence policies.
The Assistant Dean of Students Vincent Morton says the program has been much needed.
SB: We had five hundred cases come into the health center and Professors and students alike have welcomed the online system.
Some students have taken advantage of the program, but not in a bad way. Texas State Senior Imeleda Vergara says she thinks the online form will benefit the campus.
STAND UP: "So if you enter an empty classroom, don't be alarmed. The online absence form is what's keeping you from getting the flu on campus. For Bobcat Update, I'm Rhe-Anne Cannaday.

Sarah Hudiburg

As Texas State students head out on Halloween, dressed head-to-toe in costume, they can expect to see San Marcos police patrolling the city's streets in full force. Police Chief Howard Williams says extra officers will be on duty that Saturday night especially on the Square, where a large number of bars are located. Chief Williams says officers will also cruise neighborhoods like Sagewood, which are dominated by college students. Police say they have received numerous noise complaints in that area due to Halloween parties in the past.

Nick Loftis

The Hays County Personal Health Department reports that it has run out of flu vaccine. And as Nick Loftis tells us in this Bobcat Update, there's concern about how the lack of supply will affect the community.
All of the remaining seasonal flu clinics have been canceled in San Marcos and Kyle.  That worries some health officials because they're already seeing a lot of people experiencing flu-like symptoms.
SB "It's obvious there's a problem..."
The Texas State Health Clinic offered no comment about the lack of flu shots, but a Hays County Communications Specialist says alternatives will be used in the meantime.
SB "We're out of the shots but we have..."
In response to the lack of shots, a flu mist is being offered.
SB "The flu mist is..."
For any more information, please contact Hays County Personal Health Department at 512-393-5520. For Bobcat Update, I'm Nick Loftis.

If you're going to throw a phone number out there, then you'll have to prepare a graphic overlay to show the number over the last video clip or two.

Adam Swank

Texas State's Department of Information Technology is recognizing National Cyber Security Awareness Month with its fifth annual Cyber Security fair in the L-B-J Student Center. Experts in Cyber Security described the dangers of having too much personal information on the Internet. Technology professionals from Apple, Symantec (Sih-Man-Tick) and Microsoft also spoke to students about the importance of computer security.

Jesse Moloney

University police are investigating a report of an alleged sexual assault that took place Monday morning in the Pleasant Street parking garage. A female student reported a man wearing a beanie, windbreaker and surgical gloves attacked her 17-year-old friend. According to a University Police Department e-mail, the alleged attacker forced the girl at knife point into a four-door sedan of an unknown make and model. The attack took place before eleven A-M. Anyone with information about the case should contact the university police department or call campus crime stoppers.

Kristy Hoerig

Jackson Hall residents are now relieved that the elevators are fixed. Twelve flights of stairs and no working elevators were no fun for the residents of the 40-year-old building. Parts for the elevators were ordered over the summer, but the elevators were unable to be fixed until the parts came in recently. As of this week, both elevators are fully operational and serving students and visitors without any problems. Jackson Hall is located at 702 Tomas Rivera between the L-B-J Student Center and the Student Health Center.

Jessica Elmore

A recent incident involving a Texas State student has heightened awareness about crime, especially sexual assault, on campus. Jessica Elmore has more in this Bobcat Update.
The alleged attack and sexual assault on a female student Monday morning has raised concerns about campus safety. The Texas State Police Department offers presentations and personal safety programs intended to educate the university community.
SB: "It's a rape aggression defense program...."
By taking some precautions, students can avoid potential dangers.
SB: "Always just know your surroundings...."
SU: "Anyone with...For Bobcat Update, I'm Jessica Elmore."

Nathan Estrada

The fraternity Sigma Alpha Epsilon has been given permission to re-organize a chapter at Texas State.  Five years ago the S-A-E charter was revoked after the fraternity's national representatives and Texas State agreed to put the charter on hiatus for disciplinary reasons.  The group has started recruiting on the quad for fall rush in front of the Evans Liberal Arts building and is having a meeting on October 21st in the L-B-J student center for anyone who is interested in joining.

Ansel Hildebrand

You need an anchor lead-in -- a toss.
San Marcos drivers are adapting to the new cell phone ban in school zones, which took effect September first. 

Students like Joe Doyle are glad to see the change.

SB-Joe Doyle

The state law also requires cities to post signs at entrances of school zones.  San Marcos Public Services installed the signs on September 28.  The signs were seen at Travis Elementary and 13 other San Marcos campuses.

Some drivers have to remind themselves to hang up the phone.

SB-Pam Wuesternberg

Exceptions include using hands-free devices or if the car is stopped.

STANDUP

Amanda Dugan

The City of San Marcos is still struggling from this summer's heat wave. Amanda Dugan has more in the this Bobcat Update.

Thanks to the recent rainfall in San Marcos, water levels have been bumped up to 660 feet, which is significant because it means the city's water restriction level has been reset to Stage One. Citizens can find some differences between Stage One and Stage Two.
SB
Restaurants may still only serve water to customers upon request, and residents are still only permitted specific days to water their lawns.  The city has established various rebate programs to help promote water conservation.
SB
Associate Professor of Biology Tim Bonner says that low water levels can be bothersome for those who conduct experiments at the campus ponds.
SB
Local wildlife has also been affected by the recent drought.
SB
STANDUP If you have questions about the drought response rules. The Utility Services building of San Marcos has pamphlets available that will help you answer your Stage 1 water restriction questions. For Bobcat Update, I'm Amanda Dugan.

Timothy Ladusky

The city of San Marcos has improved its meter readings. Homeowners last spring started seeing new meters being installed. The meters are supposed to improve accuracy and give residents better online access to their monthly usage. City officials say the meters will also help identify power outages and water main breaks. The city expects to have all new meters installed by next May.

Rena Iglehart

Texas State can expect to see a lot more visitors this fall as high school students and their parents scope out the place.  Campus tours are offered by the university's visitors center Monday through Friday.  The tours emphasize student life, Bobcat traditions and university history.   Officials say applications for enrollment are up at Texas State, where fall numbers were the highest ever at 30-thousand plus. 

Lianne Thomas

The middle of October brings in cooler weather, Halloween costumes and just what every student fears -- midterms. Lianne Thomas has more in this Bobcat Update.
Students across campus will soon be the hitting the books and preparing for midterms. Late-night cramming and last-minute paper writing may be the norm for some students, but there are other ways to prepare for those dreaded midterms.
One source of comfort that provides many resources is none other than Alkek Library. The doors will be open around the clock during midterms. The library offers quiet corners for cramming and larger rooms for study groups. SLAC, the Student Learning Advancement Center, is a place where students can go and get the tutoring they need in order to ace their midterms. SLAC has more than 100 tutors and provides help in science, math, business and writing. SLAC tutor Amanda Barney says the midterm is a busy time. 
SB "If you have ......from tutors"
As we approach the time when it's wise to stop texting and start typing, students should know that the computer labs are also accessible late into the night. Some students, like junior Danielle Heredia, look for a quiet atmosphere when studying for exams.
SB "If I try to go…place for me"
When getting ready for midterms, it may help to get a few classmates together for a study group session. Both group and individual study rooms are available on the fifth, sixth and seventh floors of the library.
SB (Reporter Sign off)

Selina Affram

Facebook is a great way for students to keep up with friends, but some people spend may be spending too much time online. And, as Selina Affram tells us in this Bobcat Update, it's often at the expense of studying.
Students, parents, professors…it seems as though everyone is connected to the popular social network  Facebook.According to Facebook-dot-com, there are more than 300-million active users.
But a recent Ohio University study suggested that Facebook contributes to lower grades among heavy users. The study found that students who used Facebook had G-P-A's between three-point-zero and three-point-five and they studied one to five hours per week. Non-users, on the other hand, maintained G-P-A'a between three-point-five and four-point-zero.  Using Facebook in the college classroom can be a distraction.
Sociology professor, Dr. Bob Price, allows students to bring laptops to class as long as they sit in the front half of the room.

SB: Price "If they get on facebook all the people behind them can see that, so I would tell them if you see somebody fooling around on facebook make fun of them."

 Senior Selina Smith says she learned  the hard way that spending too much time online can be detrimental. 

SB: Smith "Facebook is addicting sometimes, but personally, in my opinion it depends on how you use it and umm you know when you use it."

Jenny Jarrard cancelled her Facebook account because she wanted to present a more positive image:

SB: Jarrard-"It was a liberating experience."

Standup:

Computers aren't the only way you can get on Facebook.  You can be distracted by Facebook right by your cell phone. For Bobcat Update, I'm Selina Affram.

Claudia Mickle

Texas State's Collegiate Entrepreneurship Organization has an interesting way of raising money.
A board game called Bobcat-Opoly which is similar to Milton Bradley's Monopoly was sold in the Quad today.
The game was created by five Business students in the Spring of 2008 as part of a class project.
Twenty-five hundred games were produced and there are only one-thousand left to sell. Pieces include many local and popular sites of San Marcos. Bobcat-Opoly can be purchased at Hastings and the University Bookstore.

Kristy Hoerig

The San Marcos economy appears to be rebounding. A shopping center at Stonecreek-Crossing has several new shops opening soon, which means hundreds of jobs will be filled in the near future. Academy, AT&T, and Panda Express are all hiring now.  Target and J-C Penny are already open for business.  The businesses are located southbound off of I-35 across the highway from Embassy Suites, making them easily accessible to people traveling through the area. 

Ashley Flores

Anchor Lead in: A petition is circulating at Texas State, aimed at stopping smokers from lighting up on campus. Ashley Flores has more.
They're everywhere. Non-smoking signs are posted outside most buildings and walls, yet we still see students smoking throughout campus. A group of non-smokers has decided to fight by creating a petition that would make Texas State smoke-free.  The idea has gotten some attention.
The petition lists several reasons a smoke-free campus would be to everyone's advantage.  Avoiding health risks is one such reason.
SB "I think the campus should be smoke free, just walking by it is detrimental to me.
Other grievances include higher clean-up costs on campus, unsafe levels of second-hand smoke and illness. Texas State senior Paul Moreno says he finds smokers to be intrusive.
SB "Walking by somebody and their smoke is in your face and it's not a fun time on campus."
But those who do light up seem to enjoy it.  Austin Nichols says it's a social activity for him.
SB "It's a sense of community, I come to this specific location in front of flowers hall specifically because I can meet people and share an activity, and one of those activities happens to be smoking."
Smoker Eric Hibbs says he doesn't believe the correlations that have linked smoking to bad health:
SB "Smoking areas will not impact health hazards…"
According to the petition, about 25 percent of the student body regularly lights up. Organizers of the petition drive are hoping their efforts will end the habit -- at least at Texas State. For Bobcat Update, I'm Ashley Flores.

Colby Howell

At Texas State, you can find a wide variety of food choices.  You're not limited to what you gobble up at the dining halls or snack on from the vending machines. As Colby Howell tells us in this Bobcat Update, you can find variety and stay on a budget.
STANDUP- "Seven dollars. That's how much a meal costs at a Texas State cafeteria. But I'm in the quad today to figure out just how much food I can eat for the same price."
There are many student-run organizations that prepare food for fundraisers. Under the College Republicans' tent they were serving fajitas and chicken sandwhiches for just two dollars. President XOXOXOXOXO says the money directly supports the association.
SB- "The money is used to supply fliers, banners and social networking...."
Don't want to support the conservatives? No problem! The College Democrats have you covered with hamburgers for two dollars as well. Club President Amanda XOXOXO says there are steps to take in order to serve the public food.
SB- "You have to ba student organization and file for a permit...."
Beef? Got it! Chicken? Check! But what about the other white meat? The Collegiate Entrepreneurs Organization offers a variety of sausage wraps for just two dollars and fifty cents. C-E-O member XOXOXOXOXO says the food is a great substitute for what you can find at Chartwells, Texas State's official food supplier.
SB- "Here you get fresh, wholesome food. There, you have to eat food that sits around all day."
One thing all these places have in common: Apparently, they're all the best.
3SB COMBO- "We're the best/We have the best food/They don't know what they are talking about, we've got the best food."
With only fifty cents left, I bought a Diet Coke from the Japanese Club to wash down all that good grub down.
STANDUP- "With a full stomach, and for Bobcat Update. I'm Colby Howell."
(I like your reporting style.  I'm looking forward to seeing your report.)

Timothy Ladusky

The Wonder World Extension Project is underway. The project which began October 21st of last year is slated to be finished in the fall of 2010. The extension when it is completed will be a four-lane road that will connect Interstate-35 to Ranch Road 12. The San Marcos City Council awarded a 26-million dollar contract to J-C Evans Construction. The road will improve traffic through downtown San Marcos and western Hays County. The says the project is ahead of schedule. 
(Your slug was/is WWORLD.  Use it consistently on scripts, the video clip, etc.)

Summer Ratliff

Texas State officials say they're seeing too many students ignoring warning signs at constructions sites.  And, as Bobcat Update's Summer Ratliff tells us, there's growing concern that somebody might get hurt.
SU: Ratliff - Students have been avoiding warning signs like these and are entering gated construction areas.
A Director for Campus Construction Michael Petty says the best safety tip for students is to be aware of fences and caution signs.
SB-PETTY: Just bare with us and go around… we put a fence up …the fence typically represents the limits of construction we put the fence up for a reason….
Petty says there are no reports of injuries on construction zones but he fears students fail to acknowledge how hazardous these site can be.
SB: Petty - It's potential somebody could step into a 60 feet deep hole, that's pretty frightening if you stop and think about it.
English Major Lance Jones says he has never walked through closed gates, but he would not rule out the possibility.
SB: Jones – if I really need to be at this class and a professor that's going to ding me on my attendance if I don't get there right on time then I might consider going behind a gate that's a little bit open or something
In some areas construction fences are knocked down and could cause confusion to students about site boundaries. But ditches within the site could cause injury to students who try and enter the zoned area.
SU: Ratliff – Petty says entering a construction site without proper safety protection can be very dangerous for Bobcat Update I'm Summer Ratliff.

Jessica Elmore

Texas State offers assistance to students who are having trouble choosing a major. Jessica Elmore has more in this Bobcat Update.
The University College Advising Center hosted a Majors Fair this past Tuesday at L-B-J Student Center. The event gave students an opportunity to explore majors, minors and certificate programs offered at Texas State.
Freshmen Hope Braley says she was apprehensive about attending but changed her mind soon after arriving.
SB: I had to come for my seminar class….
Academic advisors and departmental representatives were available to interact with students and provide information intended to help select a major. Academic Advisor Ashley Ransom offered advice to the attendees.
SB: The one thing….
Ransom said internships and job shadowing are very important.
SB: Anything where you can learn more….
Whether they're indecisive or just lack of knowledge about what the university has to offer, students can turn to Career Services and the University College Advising Center for help.
SU: For students....
For more information regarding career services, you can visit the Career Services website at Texas State. For Bobcat Update, I'm Jessica Elmore.

Nathan Estrada

Texas State will soon be hosting a food drive. Students and faculty alike can donate non-perishable food items to help feed the hungry in Hays County. Bins will be set up at Old Main, The University Star and the Alumni House. Donations may include canned items such as beans, fruit, soup or tuna fish. Also, cereal, dried pasta, rice and peanut butter will be accepted. The drive starts on October 14th and will end on Halloween. The items that are collected will go to the Hays County Food Bank.

Joyce Flores

Creating a resume can be a daunting task for many college seniors. Fortunately, students can get help from Career Services. For example, on Tuesday, an event called Rock Yo' Resume was held, at which counselors gave students advice on how to make their resumes stand out.
One important bit of information to include is showing employers how skills you've learned in college can transfer to real world jobs.
Careers Services offers resume critiques on Mondays and Tuesdays from 1 to 3 and Wednesdays and Thursdays from 3 to 5.

Adam Swank

A bit of San Marcos history is being recognized in a new book. Adam Swank has more in this Bobcat Update.
It's right on their doorstep, but many students seem to overlook the university's Aquarena Center. The aquatic nature preserve is the site of an aquarium, a wetlands board walk and, of course, the antique glass bottom boats. Aquatic Studies Junior Violeta Avina is a captain and tour guide.
AMBIENT
SB: Violeta Avina
A new book written by the founder's great-granddaughter will be released next month when a reunion of former center employees is scheduled. Royalties from book sales will help fund the more than 60-thousand dollars a year required for upkeep of the boats.
SB: Ron Coley, Director of Aquarena Center
Many attractions at the center, including a sky ride and the submarine theater where the famous Ralph the Swimming Pig performed, have been abandoned for more than a decade. Remnants of the amusement park will eventually be removed as the university seeks to enhance its mission of river preservation and education.
SB: Ron Coley
STANDUP: " While, the summer drought actually saw an increase of visitors to the Aquarena Center, Coley says what's good for the center, isn't always good for the preservation of the river and the recent rainfall has been long overdue. For Bobcat Update, I'm Adam Swank."

Amanda Dugan

More than eleven-hundred veterans are enrolled at Texas State. Many of these service men and women have had oversea tours. The transition from military to civilian life can be difficult for many. Amanda Dugan has more in this Bobcat Update.
You may have noticed the yellow ribbons that have decorated the campus this fall.  They serve as a reminder of those who have chosen to serve in the military. After completing their enlistments, many of the veterans go to college where they find a very different lifestyle. Texas State has programs to help make the adjustment easier.
SB
The recently established Veterans Alliance is an organization that provides former servicemen an opportunity to share their life experiences. The group also serves as a tool to make veterans aware of available resources on campus.
SB
STANDUP
The United States Veterans Office has been received more than 250-thousand applications for the funds, but only about ten percent of them have been processed -- leading to a lot of frustration.
SB
About one-third of the eleven thousand veterans on campus have applied for the funds. For Bobcat Update, I'm Amanda Dugan.

Hannah Miller

National Coming Out Day will be observed this Sunday. But members of Lambda Texas State are starting early. Students are wearing name-tags, decorating the quad with drawings and flags and carrying signs to spread the word about this week's events. People with questions can visit Lambda's tent, in the quad every day this week. A speaker from Equality Texas will be on campus Thursday evening. Tonight a Guess Who's Gay Panel in the L-B-J Student Center will poke fun at sexual stereotypes. Amid all the fun and celebration, though, is a serious message aimed at fostering a safe environment at Texas State.

Ansel Hildebrand

The San Marcos River is noticeably higher from heavy rains that fell over central Texas last weekend. Small creeks and streams swelled from the rainfall and left behind debris on roads around San Marcos. Some areas of the Hill Country saw more than five inches over the last week. Climatologists say the storms are a result of the El Nino weather pattern, which is expected to bring more rainfall to the drought stricken area this fall and winter.

Kristy Hoerig

Gruene, Texas, will be hosting its 23rd Annual Gruene Music and Wine Festival this weekend. There will be 25 wineries participating in the event, so plan ahead since it's hard to find parking at events like this in Gruene. You don't have to be a wine connoisseur to enjoy the festival. It will be a great opportunity for people to come out, socialize and enjoy live music performed by a variety of artists at historic Gruene Hall.

Summer Ratliff

The Office of University Marketing is sponsoring the first-ever Bobcat Tube Video Contest. Students have the opportunity to produce a short video following the theme "A slice of My life at Texas State." Whether it's eating with friends at a dining hall, participating in a student organization or working out at the recreation center, students are asked to show what being a Bobcat means to them. Prizes include an i-Pod Shuffle, an i-Touch, OR the grand prize, which is a video camera. Deadline for entries is November 22nd.

Jessica Elmore

Jones Dining Hall at Texas State will soon have a new addition that many students are sure to enjoy. The food court will have a Chinese restaurant, called Panda Express, later this fall. Originally the restaurant was scheduled to be up and running by October 19th but the opening has been delayed. The university has not announced a revised schedule for completion.