12/1/11
11/30/11
Ashley Flores
Through December 12th, J-C-Penney stores across the United States are taking part in a campaign called Pennies from Heaven. Customers can donate directly to the local Boys and Girls Club, just by rounding up their store purchases at the San Marcos and Seguin store locations.
SB: Scott Pierce, Store Manager
[Standup: JCPenney's fundraiser will support the 100 students involved in the Clubs' after school program. (6sec)]
SB: Daphne McDole, BGCSM Coordinator
Funding will go toward items like food or perhaps to devices for the classroom, like this smart board, to help further the children's learning process.
And every cent counts. About 85-hundred dollars was donated from this campaign last year alone.
SB: McDole
McDole says a big plus from the campaign is that some of the money will help keep children enrolled in the program.
SB: McDole
McDole says the children are her motivation for fundraising.
SB: McDole
Children enrolled in the program say it's enriched their social and learning abilities.
SB: Child (6)
SB: Child (5)
SB: Child (6)
And the reward for McDole…
SB: McDole
For Bobcat Update, I'm Ashley Flores.
Kendra Davidson
Texas State University offers a unique world, and it's no secret that there are certain things graduating seniors will miss.
sb
Texas State University is climbing the ranks, striving to become one of the top schools in the nation. To some graduates, the academic environment on campus, is one of a kind.
sb
sb
Some seniors say they have met some unforgettable people at Texas State. Saying goodbye will be hard.
sb
And let's not forget the antics that caught the attention of many.
sb
Stand Up: Whether it be the nightlife of the square or the enchantment of the river, one thing is for sure: there is no place like home and there is no place like Bobcat Country.
For Bobcat Update, I'm Kendra Omega Davidson.
Beth Brinkman
Thanksgiving is just the start of the holiday season. Retailers hope Christmas will bring a lot of shoppers into their stores, which means more workers may be needed to keep up with the demand. Some students prefer to work during the winter break.
(SB: Doug Garrett-"For me a seasonal job where I didn't really have to work during the school year, gave me a chance to just save up money, and just have fun in school and get my studying done.")
Sean Cotter works at Papa Noel Christmas tree lot during the winter break, and he says it helps him get into the holiday spirit.
(SB: Sean Cotter-"It's always good to see the little kids running around and they're happy to get their Christmas tree and like pick their perfect tree and everything."
As finals draw near, students are busy looking for seasonal jobs -- whether it be at a Christmas shop or here at the Outlets. For Bobcat Update, I'm Beth Brinkman.
Amanda Pena
11/29/11
Caroline Cook
Kenn Zuniga
This is a test. (Stand-up)
No, it's not another nationwide test of the emergency alert system, but a test to see if you're prepared for a nationwide emergency. (Stand-up)
SB
SB
So what will it take to finally cross your mind?
SB
Maybe those examples were a bit extreme, but San Marcos Emergency Management Coordinator Kenneth Bell says that it's never too early to think about being prepared.
SB
Items such as water and non-perishable food should be included in your preparedness kit. FEMA's website also recommends a can opener, a first aid kit, batteries, and personal sanitation items. Still, not everyone is convinced.
SB
Bell says that it's his job to remind you to be prepared.
SB
Now there's no excuse for you to fail any emergency preparedness test. Reporting for Bobcat Update, I'm Kenn Zuniga.
11/28/11
Aspen Streety
For some Texas State students, night classes just fit their schedules better. But with the campus dimly lit in places and with some students being forced to park a long way from where their classes are, they may find it daunting when they walk back to their cars alone. One option to make it safer is to use Bobcat Bobbies.
(Fuller…10 sec…and staff)
The Bobbies are on campus seven days a week.
Standup: Since the 1980s the Bobcat Bobbies have been a safety escort service for Texas State students who are unsure about walking back to their cars at night alone. If you need an escort, contact the University police department. For Bobcat Update, I'm Aspen Streety.
Emilie Hernandez
11/22/11
Kelsey Manning
While it may seem completely out-of-place, carrying broomsticks and waving wands is the norm for these students-- members of the Quidditch team here at Texas State. Quidditch is a sport created by J.K. Rowling in the bestselling Harry Potter series and now exists on a national level with many colleges competing in different leagues. The game rules can be complex, but Quidditch is often described as combination of many other well-known sports.
(Parisher…7 sec…cross country.)
Many players came to the sport by hearing about it on other college campuses.
(Parisher…8 sec…and joined.)
For these students, the impact the Harry Potter books have had on their lives is massive.
(Sierra…15 sec…this generation.)
The Quidditch team practices weekly and draws a crowd every time they compete. Quidditch players are dedicated to their games- playing through sprinklers and well into the evening. Games only end when players have caught the "snitch", or player dressed in yellow, who runs all through campus the whole game.
As far as future plans, the team has high aspirations-
(Sierra…13 sec…wildest dreams.)
But ultimately, for the players, the best part of the whole experience is simple - bonding as a team over their love for the Potter universe.
(Sierra…15 sec…really cool.)
(Parisher….6 sec… hang out.)
For more information on the Quidditch team and how to join, you can visit their Facebook page. For Bobcat Update, I'm Kelsey Manning.
Leocadia O'Brien
Most students will go home and spend time with their families, but a few will remain in San Marcos. And those who live in dorms may have to move
temporarily.
(Dorm guy holiday plans)
The policy for most campuses is to only keep a couple of dorms open during the break and charge students on a per-night basis. That's the policy at Texas State, and officials say it seems to work well.
(Assistant Director about benefit)
(Dorm guy about international friend)
But some students find it objectionable that they have to pay extra during the break, because they already pay rates ranging from 14-hundred-dollars to 34-hundred-dollars per semester.
(Dorm resident about feeling forced)
(Assistant Director about most
students leaving)
For Bobcat Update, I'm Leocadia O'Brien.
Chase Hunter
11/17/11
Jordan Hughes
Kaitlin Heaney
Chase Joliet
Caroline Cook
Mars is the name of a movie, and it was the final film offered in the fall series of the Texas Independent Film Network.
The film's director Geoff Marslett attended last night's screening and took questions from students who attended.
(SB)
Mars is a romantic comedy that follows three astronauts as they visit the red planet.
(SB)
Students were intrigued.
(SB)
The College of Fine Arts and Communication hosted last night's screening at the Texas State Theater Center.
Stand-up
11/16/11
Emilie Hernandez
Cambrian Pichon
Jessica buck
Yoga provides a healthy alternative. Forget the energy drinks and sugar. If you need some help preparing for your finals, try yoga instead. Some will tell you it leads to a sharper focus and better concentration.
Sb...Rebecca...You can't really calm your mind without doing something for your body.
Practicing yoga has many health benefits. The stretching techniques alone help relax the body. And having less tension makes it easier to concentrate.
Sb...Jessica...I actually had test anxiety before I started practicing and I noticed...improvement
OR
Sb....Jessica...when I took tests before I focused to much on the outcome and that was actually hurting me while taking the test. So after I practiced and have been able to relax I have the focus to be there and have the confidence to know I can succeed.
Taking that minute while studying can help clear your mind to refocus on the task at hand. Yoga provides that perfect escape.
Sb...Jamie...we allow ourselves to get to wrapped in what we are doing and we forget to take time for ourselves and that is really what yoga is about
Stand up...Me...with increased relaxation and improved concentration practicing yoga can be a good alternative to those energy drinks and all nights. For Bobcat Update, I'm Jessica Ryan.
11/15/11
Ryan Cochran
The Texas legislature recently cut funding for family planning programs. The budget cuts have caused many family planning clinics in Texas to shut down, including the one near campus, on North L-B-J Drive. With that location gone, Community Health Services has to work harder to provide care to people who need it.
"This clinic services people from all over Hays County and Central Texas, from New Braunfels and Seguin, not to mention San Marcos. We've got our work cut out for us." –Linda Byers, Director of Clinic Services
Funding for family planning programs was slashed by almost 74 (m) million dollars. That's almost a 70 percent decrease from last year's budget.
"There is a fight going on against family planning clinics, unfortunately. I think they think we offer abortions or are pro-abortion, but by cutting funding they're really only hurting the people who can't afford insurance or healthcare."
Community Health Services offers a variety of programs, including diabetes and cancer screenings, counseling, and AIDS/H-I-V services. Almost all of these were affected by the cuts.
"I believe very strongly that there will always be a need for preventative care. We've been helping people at this location for 40 years now and I've been here for 35 of them. We're making a difference."
[Standup] "Due to recent budget cuts many of the family planning clinics are closing, but Texas State students still have options available. The Student Health Center also offers family planning services for a small fee. For Bobcat Update, I'm Ryan Cochran."
Kenn Zuniga
Ashley Flores
Beth Brinkman
11/14/11
Amanda Pena
Assignments - Nov. 14-Nov. 17
FamPlan-Cochran-PKG
Speech-Brinkman-VO
RyanFox-Doyle-PKG
Survival-Zuniga-PKG
EnDrink-Hernandez-VO
BurnBan-Zuniga/Onescu-VO
Festival-Cook/Doan-PKG
DormMove-O'Brien/Fluker-PKG
Recall-Flores/Garlock-VO
11/10/11
Karina Gonzalez
Breck Robinson
Fabian Juarez
Kaitlin Heaney
Lauren Newcomb
Secular Student Alliance, a nationwide organization founded for non-religious students, has found a home at Texas State University. The group has received support from other organizations.
SB-Brandon Barber (CRU MEMBER) "I think everybody deserves a place where they can worship, where they can express themselves. I'm personally a follower of Christ, I believe in that. They're atheist, they believe in that." (11 sec)
Barber says Christians don't embrace the group's philosophy, but...
SB-Brandon Barber "It would be
a complete fabrication of what we believe in if we're not accepting of them." (6 sec)
Jonathan Hay, anthropology junior and president of Secular Student Alliance at Texas State, is the student responsible for creating the Secular Student Alliance on campus. Hay says upon arriving at Texas State he had seen many student organizations being promoted in the Quad but none that agreed with his beliefs. So, he started his own where he and others of like mind could share their views freely.
SB-Jonathan Hay "I identify as atheist. I don't make a positive claim that I know there is no god but I could say there is no god the same way I could say there are no unicorns or anything else there is no evidence to support. (13 sec)
Junior Kim Jones says she believes the group is a great idea and will inform others who share atheist or agnostic views.
SB-Kim Jones "I believe they are facing a certain amount of animosity just because a lot of
people don't understand what an atheist is. Just because you don't believe in god doesn't make you a bad person and a lot of people kind of assume if you don't believe in god you have no morals. (16 sec)
The Secular Student Alliance recently elected a new executive board and is hoping to grow on the Texas State campus. For Bobcat Update, I'm Lauren Newcomb.
Kelsey Doyle
Ryan Fox graduated in 2001 with big plans for his future. But five days after graduation he was involved in a car accident that left him in a coma and suffering from a traumatic brain injury. This was not a part of his plan. Ryan graduated with dual degrees in Electronic Media and Marketing. Ryan had dreams of being a sports broadcaster. With the help of his friend and mentor, Larry Carlson, Ryan had had rewarding internships at the N-B-C affiliates in San Antonio and Austin.
Soundbite: Larry and their relationship
This week Ryan returned to campus to speak to Carlson's Writing for the Electronic Media class. He was interviewed by Carlson's students and he played tapes and told stories about when he was a feature reporter for a high school sports show.
Soundbite: Ryan "I hope I made Larry proud"
Three weeks after the accident Ryan woke up from his coma. His mother, Nita, was by his side.
Soundbite: Nita "He was literally infancy"
Ryan was taken to TIRR hospital in Houston to begin rehab.
Soundbite: Nite "Our journey has changed a lot since graduation"
In the past ten years Ryan has slowly progressed with the help of God and his mother motivating him.
Soundbite: Nita "Pray for every moment. You either get busy living or get busy dying"
Soundbite: Ryan "count the small victories every day"
Standup at Rescare
Soundbite: Ryan " don't wait for a miracle, be a miracle"
For Bobcat Update, I'm Kelsey Doyle.
Leocadia O'Brien
With the tables set, the glowsticks scattered, and the speakers maxed out, the Student Association for Campus Activities, SACA for short, hosted its first D-J competition Tuesday night at George's in the L-B-J center.
(SACA rep)
The event was called Spun and rightly so as these artists used their spinning skills to duke it out to the end.
(DJ
Meow)
Loughborough, a-k-a D-J Meow, was just one of four performers vying to take first place but not without a fight.
(DJ Kromly)
The crowd was pumped as the beats bounced back and forth at George's.
(Crowd goer)
And the contestants were feeding off their energy because the winner of the event gets a unique prize.
(DJ Kromly)
Neither D-J Meow nor D-J Kromly took first place. The winner was Texas State Senior Coty Morris. But even in losing, there was triumph.
(DJ Meow)
(Stand up: Some came for the dancing, others came for the D-J's, but I…I came for the glowsticks. For Bobcat Update, I'm Leocadia O'Brien)
11/9/11
Aspen Streety
Aspen Streety
11/8/11
Marissa Wagner
(WAGNER…_ seconds…busy fast)"The day after Thanksgiving is one of the busiest days of the year for retail stores. The discounts offered on "Black Friday" brings shoppers from all over. With hundreds of stores in one location, the San Marcos outlet malls get busy fast."
Black Friday doesn't start until right after midnight on November 25th, but for store managers and employees planning for the event starts much earlier.
(JOE GOMEZ..._seconds…long term) "Really preparation starts about six weeks prior to Thanksgiving weekend, and as in years past we try and focus not just for that weekend, but for the long term."
A big boost in customer service and merchandise sales means store managers also have to increase the number of employees they have on hand that day, which can be difficult.
(JOE SEGURA…__sec…centers here.)"We go from a minimal staff of about 50, to the max of doubling it. So, having to find people like that, here for the store is very difficult, because obviously you have to compete with all the other centers here."
The past few years have been difficult for retailers, but Black Friday has been the exception. Stores nationwide grossed more than ten (B) billion dollars on the day in 2010, and some retailers hope the same or better will happen this year.
(JOE SEGURA…_sec…for us.)"Our numbers are actually still the same, some are even better than last year. We really didn't see that much of a difference. Everything came out at more of a positive for us."
With so many shoppers hitting the doors at one time, preparation is the most important thing for employees.
(JOE GOMEZ….___sec….before hand.)"Once you get here that morning, or the evening before, it's just about turning on the lights and letting it happen, it's not, it's pretty smooth, should be pretty smooth, if you've done your work before hand."
No matter what your reason is for shopping Black Friday -- whether you're trying to save money or walk off some turkey weight -- the San Marcos outlet stores will be ready for you. For Bobcat Update, I'm Marissa Wagner.
Emilie Hernandez
Graduation is always an exciting time for students. Considering Senioritis is such a widespread epidemic among Texas State seniors, it's no wonder that they can't wait to get that diploma.
SOUNDBITE KAISER
"I am excited to graduate and to move on with my life. I'm going through the job, interviewing process right now, but I'm also
considering going on to graduate school"
As exciting as being a college grad is, some Bobcats are going to miss what they'll leave behind.
SOUNDBITE PIDANI
"I am going to miss the college atmosphere, the fun, definitely the tailgates, but, life moves on – just gotta keep pushing forward"
And pushing forward is exactly what students should do. Texas State offers a wide range of resources for students to use in order to prepare themselves for the real world. Career Services offers resume–building workshops, one-on-one meetings with career counselors and multiple internship fairs during each semester. Even with a rocky economy, there are still high chances that graduates will find a job if they prepare themselves properly.
SOUNDBITE GUERRERO
"For graduating seniors, one of the best things I always tell people is start early…."
SOUNDBITE KAISER
"Plan ahead, start thinking about it when you're a sophomore or a
junior, not when you're a senior"
So, a word of advice to all of you almost-Texas-State-grads: if you haven't already, get yourself in gear because the real world isn't going to wait for you. For Bobcat Update, I'm Emilie Hernandez.
Ashley Flores
11/7/11
Amanda Pena
Carnival rides, food vendors and live music are a few of the attractions that you can find each year at Wurstfest in New Braunfels. Since 1961, the festival has not only brought joy to residents of the town and surrounding areas, but has also been funding community projects and non-profit organizations.
Some residents wait all year to enjoy this event and consider it tradition.
(Old awesome guy...sec...quote
about how he has been going for over 40 years)
Others are visiting this year for the first time.
(Texas State student...sec....quote about enjoying the event for the first time)
And others take pride in being a festival employee....
(Archer...sec...quote about his passion for working the event)
No matter who you talk to, all of them will have their own opinions about what they believe is the best part of Wurstfest...
(Old awesome guy...sec...fourth,beer)
Regardless, attendees share one comment sentiment.
(Archer...sec....comparing it to Christmas morning)
For those of you who will be attending for the first time, this Wurstfest veteran offers some helpful advice.
(Old awesome guy...sec...what first time attendees should do)
Standup (Pena...11...Amanda Pena)
Cambrian Pichon
A lot of progress has been made this semester on a new residence hall being built at Sessom and Comanche Streets. The North Campus housing complex will add 612 beds -- mostly for freshman students.
(Soundbite)
To finance the project, the university administrators did what most people would do.
(Soundbite)
Luckily for construction workers, weather conditions have been favorable for the project.
(soundbite)
A graphic of the North Housing Complex can be found on the university's website.
(soundbite)
University officials say the project should be completed next summer. For Bobcat Update, I'm Cambrian Pichon.
Jessica Buck
Ryan Cochran
11/3/11
Assignments - Week of Nov 7-Nov 10
New Residence Hall-Pichon-PKG Carryover
PostGRAD-Hernandez-PKG stressing over lack of jobs
Outlets-Wagner-PKG prepping for Christmas
Anime-Cochran-VO bad food being sold on Quad
DJBattle-O'Brien-VO
Speed-Flores-VO
Survival-Zuniga-PKG carryover
Atheism-Newcomb-PKG
LGame-Streety-VO
RyanFox-Doyle-PKG carryover
Emergency Alert-Streety-VO
Kenn Zuniga
Just outside of Martindale, Spring River Estates sits on the banks of the San Marcos River. And this is the time of year that residents there enjoy the river the most.
SB
But come next spring, Heller’s world will drastically change. Another tubing operation -- owned by resident James Paul Moses -- will join Don’s Fish Camp near the neighborhood.
SB
Behind me is the future location of the second tubing business. Right next door? Spring River Estates! (stand-up)
SB
But Don’s Fish Camp Owner Don Nelle is quick to point out the difference between his tubing operation from the one in Spring River Estates.
SB
Nelle says he does the best he can to keep his part of the San Marcos River clean.
SB
Back in his neighborhood, Heller says he wants to control some of what’s to come.
SB
Moses was unavailable to talk about his proposed tubing business.
The River Access Association and county officials are planning to meet with him later this month. Reporting for Bobcat Update, I’m Kenn Zuniga.
Leocadia O'Brien
Sonia Onescu
Caroline Cook
Kendra Davidson
Bobcats Leaving Out Violence hosted a five-K walk and fundraiser Monday at the Dell Diamond in Round Rock. The organization was formed last year in honor of former Texas State Student, Tiffanie Perry, who was a victim of domestic violence. (Victim in what way? -- if she died, you should say so.)
Sb
Stand-In: But how aware are bobcats when it comes to domestic violence and what steps can we take to prevent it? According to the Domestic Violence Resource Center, almost 75 percent of Americans know someone who is or has been a victim of domestic violence.
Sb
Some students have taken steps to learn how to handle such situations.
Sb
This is true for those who are in relationships and want to avoid domestic abuse.
Sb
Officer Otto Glenwinkel says he's noticed a greater effort on campus to raise awareness about preventing domestic violence.
Sb
Officer Glenwinkel says there are signs of domestic abuse that could tip off those who are concerned -- if it involves a loved one or friend. As examples, Glenwinkel said wearing excessive clothing, being jittery or easily startled are possible signs. *Preventing* violence, though, should be everyone's first objective.
Sb
For Bobcat Update, I'm Kendra Omega Davidson.
11/2/11
Jessica Buck
Aspen Streety
The annual festival launches Friday at Landa Park. Since it started in 1961, New Braunfels has played host to this celebration of sausage. Herb Skoog, who has volunteered every year since its opening and even served as past President of Wurstfest, says the best part besides the food is something very obvious.
(SOUNDBITE)
The festival offers not only the best wurst around, but also a variety of musical acts, carnival rides, and even a play. And Wurstfest brings in the crowds. More than 120-thousand people are expected in New Braunfels, which will keep the staff and volunteers plenty busy during the 10-day festival
(SOUNDBITE)
The festival ends on November 13th.
Standup: For over 50 years, Wurstfest has brought in people of all ages to enjoy great sausage and great times. This is one tradition you might want to get a taste of. For Bobcat Update, I'm Aspen Streety.
11/1/11
Chase Hunter
Lauren Newcomb
Robert Fluker
Ashley Flores
Ryan Cochran
One of the biggest challenges facing freshmen is picking a major. Texas State's upcoming Personalized Academic and Career Exploration program, or PACE for short, is designed to solve that. Incoming freshmen will spend their first year enrolled in the program to pick a major that fits them and to get used to university life.
"The key is to get students set into a major, and that's what the program is designed to achieve." [Heintze]
Upon its construction, the Undergraduate Center will host all freshman classes and services for the PACE program. Still, the plan is being met with some skepticism.
"I'm not sure if I like the idea, it sounds like coddling to me. Freshmen should be able to figure out what they want to do on their own, instead of in some high school 2.0 environment." [Lindsay Howze]
Standup- "Texas State University's PACE Program is scheduled to begin next Fall. For Bobcat Update, I'm Ryan Cochran."
10/31/11
Kelsey Manning
Even with the prestige and excitement of graduation on the horizon for many college seniors, paying attention in class and taking time to hit the books may be harder than ever. The reason? A campus-wide case of Senioritis.
SB: Ethan...semester, actually
Senioritis affects students with a variety of symptoms.
SB: Valerie...all day.
As far as finding a cure, some turn
to post-graduation plans for motivation...
SB: Ethan...law school.
...while others turn to more traditional remedies to stay focused until the semester's end.
SB: Daniel...a lot.
Additionally, professors who enforce strict attendance policies help keep seniors from checking out early.
SB: Daniel...assigned seating.
STANDUP: If you find yourself suffering...I'm Kelsey Manning.
Kelsey Doyle
Emilie Hernandez
Marissa Wagner
Assignments - Week of Oct. 31-Nov. 3
Wurstfest-Streety-PKG
Booster-Meningitis-Wagner-VO
Holiday Fitness-Hernandez-VO
Early to Class/Better Grades-Doyle-VO
Go Center-Fluker-VO
Bobcat Trail Rerouting-Flores-VO
Tubing in Martindale-Zuniga-PKG
Domestic Violence/Getting Help-Davidson-PKG
Fall Fashion Confusion-Newcomb-VO
Bank of America Protest-O'Brien-VO
KTSW Lunchbox Music Series-Onescu-VO
Wurstfest Part 2-Pena-PkG Carryover
New Residence Hall-Pichon-PKG Carryover
10/27/11
Elena Garlock
Karina Gonzalez
10/26/11
Cambrian Pichon
Beth Brinkman
Amanda Pena
(Pena…8 sec…the others)
From floor lamps to chandeliers, Stewart X Douglas has any and every kind of light fixture you could ever imagine, some dating back to the 1800's. Owner Kyle Reese began collecting the fixtures on his travels around the world over 19 years ago. When Reese is away, employee Paul Chrissey tends the store.
(Chrissey…sec… selling it.)
From collecting the lighting to restoring it, Stewart X Douglas does it all. What originally began as a hobby for Reese and Chrissey turned into a new job that they never want to lose.
(Chrissey…sec…still am!)
Ranging in price from 100 dollars to 10-thousand dollars, historical treasures of all kinds can be found at the store. And then there are the thousands of light fixtures!
(Pena…10 sec…Amanda Pena)
Ashley Flores
Netflix -- the popular D-V-D mail delivery company -- is having an identity crisis. Its creation called Qwikster quickly died. But it's even worse at Blockbuster, where most stores -- including the one in San Marcos -- have closed.
[Standup: But companies like Blockbuster aren't the only ones suffering. Within this year, Netflix has lost an estimated 810-thousand subscribers.]
Netflix customers had grown accustomed to paying $9.99 for a combined service of streaming video and DVD renting. But then the company increased its prices by charging $7.99 for each service individually.
SB: "…like, heck no." (Erika Hernandez, Former Netflix User) 7sec
SB: "…without being told." (Elizabeth Lopez, Blockbuster Express User) 11sec
Others consider paying the extra amount.
SB: "be willing to." (Ryan Sanders, Netflix User) 5sec
Many students use alternative options.
SB: "use YouTube too." (Daniel Recio, YouTube/Redbox User) 7sec
SB: "on
Saturday night." (Laura Engells, Redbox User) 12sec
SB: "…the movie theaters." (Recio) 2sec
Maybe a night at the dollar movie theater doesn't sound like a bad idea either. For Bobcat Update, I'm Ashley Flores.
Lauren Newcomb
Finding a job. That's a big concern right now for seniors who will be graduating in December.
(Allison Birk "We have career counselors that are in our office at all times. If you're interested in doing a mock interview you can just call and set up an appointment, and you can do a mock interview at your pace."...11 sec)
*Found at 3:36-3:47
Birk says employers tend to give greater weight to experience rather than having a high G-P-A. First impressions are also important.
(Allison Birk 3:24 "The interview process can make or break you, let's be realistic."...4 sec)
*Found at 3:22-3:26)
Senior Kevin Rawls says Career Services has helped prepare him for graduation.
(Kevin Rawls " Getting my name out there, just branding. Even if I don't get the job or internship it's a lasting impression I leave on the employer."..7 sec)
*Found at 13:40-13:47
While some employers are very specific about what qualities they expect in an applicant, others require no experience at all.
(Brad Bishop "Resume or no resume, we get a good feeling of people's personalities and all of that good stuff."...8 sec)
*Found at 10:39-10:57
Colter Ray, with Consolidated Graphics, visited a job fair when he was a student. Now, he's an employer at the event.
(Colter Ray "I actually met Consolidated Graphics at a career fair, the spring career fair at Texas State. The girl who recruited me is actually my co-worker now."...10 sec)
*Found at 16:32-16:42
If you missed Tuesday's job fair...no worries! All the employers who attended accept resumes online or in person. To see what other events career services will be hosting this semester, visit their office on the fifth floor of the L-B-J Student Center. For Bobcat Update, I'm Lauren Newcomb.
10/25/11
Kendra Davidson
Chase Hunter
Chase Joliet
Jessica Buck
Whether you just want to meet someone as friends or possibly find the love of your life, there are a few places in San Marcos where you might go to get started.
<sb.....bar>
Coffee shops offer a good alternative to the bar scene to find someone. And trending lately among college-age men and women are online dating services. They provide an easy alternative to meet people who are compatible.
<sb......online dating/meet people while running>
Some students will even tell you that classrooms are a great place to meet potential dates.
<sb.....class/grocery >
Stand up <local bar, local grocery make sure you weed out those bad apples...>
10/24/11
Emilie Hernandez
Aspen Streety
Marissa Wagner
Ryan Cochran
A nationwide study on college graduation and retention rates found that Texas is lagging behind other states. About 32 percent of Texans ages 25 to 34 have earned an associate's degree or higher, compared with 41 percent for the rest of the nation. However, Texas State University is doing much better.
(Heintze) "Our retention rates here at the institution, Texas State, are almost 80 percent; 79 percent, in fact."
Dr. Heintze says that the main challenge universities face is the growing number of students every year.
(Heintze) "There's a campus wide effort underway to help students make the transition from high school; to be successful in a college and hopefully have the kind of success both in and out of a classroom that will make it possible for them to be successful and stay and graduate."
No matter what the statistics say, there will always be those who stick out the four or more years for their dream job.
"I want to teach music. I have plans."
For Bobcat update, I'm Ryan Cochran.
Caroline Cook
Traveling through San Marcos on a bicycle can be dangerous. Strap on your helmet and watch out:
(SB: Hackman)
If you are traveling by bike on the roadways, be cautious and know the guidelines that bicyclists have to follow. Bike paths in San Marcos are few in number.
(SB: Garza)
For some streets beware…
(SB: Lincoln)
(Caroline Stand Up)
10/21/11
Assignments - Week of Oct. 24-Oct. 27
Enrollment Management-Cochran PKG carryover
Cycling Road Safety-Cook PKG carryover
Dating Options-Buck PKG
Lighting Store-Pena PKG
Pumpkins-Hernandez VO
Costumes-Wagner VO
Early Voting-Streety VO
Interning/Employment-Newcomb-PKG
BikeCave-Hunter-VO
Movie Choices-PKG-Flores
NoSmoke-VO-Joliet
InTheBag-VO-Davidson
Cyber Security-VO-Brinkman
Senioritis-PKG-Manning carryover
Festival-VO-Pichon
PlusMnus-VO-Garlock
Waste-VO-Gonzalez
10/20/11
Jarod Phillips, Fabian Juarez & Jordan Hughes
Robert Fluker
Kelsey Doyle
Many families will go through the holidays without a traditional meal.
SB: "The City of San Marcos is calling October the turkey tackling month"
Turkeys Tackling Hunger is the food bank's fifth annual campaign to feed hungry families in the Hays County area for the holidays.Hays County Food bank officials say that a 20-dollar donation will buy ingredients for a Thanksgiving Turkey feast for one family in need.
SB: "They don't know if they can do it, that's where we come in. It feels good to help"
Standup: Last Thanksgiving, the Hays County Food Bank provided turkeys with all the trimmings to almost 22-hundred families. This year they hope to beat that record and bring more families together.
SB: "Holidays are a time for family. It's an American tradition."
For Bobcat Update, I'm Kelsey Doyle.
Ashley Flores
(STAND-UP: With some banks implementing new fees, swiping a debit card to make a purchase could mean an extra charge out of your pocket.)
Starting in early 2012, Bank of America account holders will be charged a five-dollar monthly fee just for using their debit card anywhere it is accepted.
SB: Kathryn Whitbeck, Vocal Performance Freshmen "...something that's mine."
Chase and Wells Fargo are now testing out a three-dollar monthly debit card fee in select markets. Neither bank says when it will make a final decision on the card charge.
SB: Tatiana Salazar, Mass Communications Senior "...of my account."
Many have decided to change banks.
SB: Josh Richardson, Manufacturing Engineering Sophomore "...a credit union."
SB: Salazar "...a credit union."
Others are still weighing the pros and cons.
SB: Kyle Amstutz, Physics Freshmen "to my switch."
But not every customer is worried.
SB: Adrian Omar Ramirez, Journalism Junior "service for me."
Regardless of which bank they use, customers should review their account statements for changes in their checking fees.
For Bobcat Update, I'm Ashley Flores.
10/19/11
Amanda Pena
10/18/11
Kendra Davidson
Beth Brinkman
For many, browsing through text messages or twitter feeds is a daily occurrence. Some San Marcos businesses are aware of the trends and they're finding ways to cash in by using social media.
SB: Rachel Gardener, Mochas and Javas employee (...word out there.)
Businesses such as Nephews, Jimmy Johns and Mochas and Javas have started using social media as a more efficient, less costly way to market themselves.
SB: Jon Zmikly, Adjunct Lecturer (to their group).
STANDUP: With the increased use of social media, such as twitter and Facebook, it's no wonder that businesses like Mochas and Javas are using them to reach out to their customers. For Bobcat Update, I'm Beth Brinkman.
Emilie Hernandez
Many Texas State students want to compete. Team sports can be a lot of fun, and they're available to all.
<Sound bite Andi Cruz>……likes the competitiveness of intramurals
Intramural sports give students the opportunity to not only commit to a sport they like but be part of a team as well.
<Sound bite Trevon – Intramural Sports Coordinator>…explaining what sports are available
But, for some students, intramural games are more than just a competition.
<Emilie Stand up> If you miss team sports in high school……..intramural sports here at Texas State could be the solution to fill that void.
<Sound bite Mark> Start with him on camera speaking about students playing intramurals to fulfill their glory days in high school..talks about how competitive some of the organizations can get, then transition to b-roll and back to him.
Whether you're trying to relive your glory days from high school or simply trying to stay in shape and have some fun doing it, intramural sports can meet your needs. Not only do you get to compete, you can also build lasting relationships doing something you love. For Bobcat Update, I'm Emilie Hernandez.
10/17/11
Jessica Buck
Leocadia O'Brien
The sirens blare letting you know to get over to the shoulder and out of the way, but there is more to know about your local firemen. They're volunteers and go through rigorous training, including an 80-hour orientation.
(SB: Carroll)
But the benefits prove worth it in the end.
(SB: Guys about saving lives)
Especially to those who have had dreams of this since they were little.
(SB: Price)
However, they all pretty much agree on what can be the downside.
(SB: Mustache guy)
And it's even harder on the newbies.
(SB: Lopez)
But the most appealing part of this job...
(SB: Captain Carroll)
(Stand Up) Firefighters come to work every day knowing their lives are at risk, but these guys wouldn't have it any other way. For Bobcat Update, I'm Leocadia O'Brien.
Aspen Streety
Kelsey Manning
Kaitlin Heaney
Keeping your tan in the winter months can be easy if you're willing to use a tanning salon or buy sprays and lotions. Darque Tan offers a range of services.
SB: It's more of a personal preference whether you would rather lay in a bed or if you're not wanting to get the UVA/UVB rays in you. You can always use the mystic. Our mystic, is actually, we use airbrush solution versus the mystic solution, so it's going to give you a more natural color. (Kaela Rettinger, Darque Tan Employee)
Spray tans are preferable for those who concerned about the potential harmful effects of U-V-A/U-V-B rays.
SB:I love it actually, I mean yeah it kinda sucks that it wears off and you have to keep going back but I'd rather save 10 minutes of spraying here then going through a whole years worth of having cancer. (Ghazaleh Shahvandi, Freshman)
SB: I'm super pale and I don't burn, but I don't tan. So I really do have to do mystic tan cause so many people are so tan around Texas State. So I feel I'd be the most palest person around campus. (Kat LaVally, Freshman)
STANDUP: Using tanning salons can give you that summer, glow you want, but can be expensive. Drugstores and makeup stores also offer tanning lotions and sprays.
Sephora and other makeup stores offer a variety of sprays and lotions which vary in price. Such items can also be found online.
SB: I use fake tanner every now and then to bronze up a little bit but I don't ever go into a tanning salon (Justine Osina, Freshman)
Shahvandi says although lotions and sprays from drugstores are cheaper than salons, she's received better results at salons. For Bobcat Update, I'm Katy Heaney.
Cambrian Pichon
The football stadium is being expanded to get ready for competition in the Western Athletic Conference next year, but the construction shouldn't affect tail-gaters when they gather for the homecoming game October 29th.
Associate Athletic Director for External Operations Don Coryell says tailgating will be in the same location it's always been.
Bite: "Tailgating for homecoming will be in the Coliseum parking lot. There are some good parking spots here near the Coliseum for those who arrive here early but we still provide buses to pick up students from different locations for the games. We hope to have a good turnout."
The North Side Complex is scheduled for completion in June 2012 in time for the next season.
Site Manager Joe Thompson says the construction crews are working hard.
Bite: "We work 40 hours in six days a week, except for home game days."
Thompson said one thing is for sure.
"There are not enough hours in a day."
For Bobcat Update, I'm Cambrian Pichon.
10/14/11
Assignments - Week of Oct. 17-Oct. 20
Tailgate-Construction-Pichon-PKG carryover (Wed)
Tanning-Staying tanned-Heaney PKG carryover (Thurs)
Mass Comm Week-Phillips, Juarez & Hughes-Montage (Thurs)
ATM Fees Going Up-Flores-PKG (Thurs)
Businesses Using Social Media-Brinkman-PKG (Wed)
Volleyball-Buck-VO (Wed)
Spring Registration-Streety VO (Wed)
Harvard Study Coffee Depression-Manning-VO (Wed)
Intramurals-Hernandez-PKG (Wed)
Road Projects-Zuniga-VO (Thurs)
Mass Comm Week-Davidson-VO (airs Wedn)
Pink Breast Cancer Awareness-Newcomb-VO (Thurs)
Food Bank-Holiday Service-Doyle PKG carryover
10/13/11
Jaclyn Doan
Sonia Onescu
Caroline Cook
The student radio station, K-T-S-W, will soon celebrate 20 years on the air, and it's looking for a new logo. Ryan Smothers, an avid K-T-S-W listener, supports the idea.
(SB)
Since 2002 the radio station has used the standard logo we know so well -- headphones surrounded by the letters K-T-S-W. For the new logo, a committee of professionals and Texas State faculty and staff will select the winner based on design criteria.
(SB)
The winner receives 150 dollars and will have the satisfaction of seeing the design on the radio station's website.
(SB)
Halloween is the last day to submit a logo. If you take the challenge, your logo could be here.
For Bobcat Update, I'm Caroline Cook.
10/12/11
Kelsey Doyle
10/11/11
Lauren Newcomb
Many local farmers say their crops are smaller this year and their profits are down. The reason -- the yearlong drought.
SB "I went from…"
Many farmers turned to drip irrigation as a way to sustain their crops. The recent rainfall was a welcome break.
SB "It has made…"
The long drought and extreme summer heat go into the record books as the worst ever, but area farmers say they're used to dealing with harsh conditions.
SB "It's just the…"
Farmers say irrigation sources are necessary during times like these.
SB "If I relied..."
Farmers are hoping more rain will soak San Marcos in the near future.
For Bobcat Update, I'm Lauren Newcomb.
Kenn Zuniga
Ashley Flores
Kendra Davidson
Meet Curtis Clay, one of four finalists chosen in the first ever "San Marcos Has Talent" competition. Clay, a 49-year-old Program Director for the Texas School for Safety at Texas State University, has been singing since he was 8 years old.
(SB)
The competition was held by members of the San Marcos Chamber of Commerce. Clay and three other finalists were among forty people total who auditioned for a select group of judges.
(SB)
One walk around the city and you just may agree with Bondy. Clay, himself has performed with numerous big names in showbiz.
(SB)
Clay says he is constantly impressed with the talented individuals he sees on the Texas State campus.
(SB)
Stand-In: San Marcos Has Talent will announce a winner on November third at the One-Hundred and Ninth Annual Awards Gala held here at the San Marcos Conference Center. The winner will receive a 500-dollar cash prize, a small price for such tremendous talent. Eat your heart out, Austin.
For Bobcat Update, I'm Kendra Omega Davidson
Kelsey Manning
With 34,113 students now officially attending Texas State, the school is now ranked as the fifth largest public university in the state. For some Bobcats, with a bigger student body comes more prestige and recognition.
BITE: (Booth…getting bigger)
However, with more students comes more construction, even less parking and crowded bus routes. Additionally, students are experiencing bigger class sizes, which takes away some of the appeal of the campus for some.
BITE: (Rhodes…a statistic).
Standup: There are definitely more students enrolled at Texas State than when LBJ attended, but whether the high numbers really benefit students is still undecided. For Bobcat Update, I'm Kelsey Manning.
Emilie Hernandez
Jobs is regarded as an innovator. As co-founder of Apple Inc, he revolutionized technology and helped create one of the most admired companies in the world.
SOUNDBITE - CINDY ROYAL
"It's going to really change a lot of industries to not have that special person driving innovation…and it scares me a little bit…..it makes me think you know, what could have been if we had a few more years with him"
"It's weird to say Apple without Steve Jobs"
Jobs was a college dropout. When he was 21, he met Steve Wozniak and together, they started Apple Computers.
Jobs was fired from Apple in 1985, but he came back in '97 to help revitalize the struggling company. He did more than that – he created product lines that were designed for everyone to use.
SOUNDBITE – CINDY ROYAL
"He created things that empower people, that made them feel like they could do stuff"
Apple -- with Jobs at the helm -- brought us new and dazzling computers as well as the i-Phone and the i-Pad. Jobs and Apple had an impact.
SOUNDBITE – NOMA JOWAD
"The computers are fast, customer service in the Apple stores is amazing, and once you go Mac, you never go back"
Jobs, at age 56, died from complications caused by pancreatic cancer.
For Bobcat Update, I'm Emilie Hernandez.
Amanda Pena
Americans cherish their First Amendment rights: Freedom of Speech, Religion and Assembly. But even freedom has its limitations.
(Soundbite from Sgt. Campbell explaining where the two student expression areas are)
(Standup-Student organizations such as the one behind me are available to students at all times of the day to express their thoughts and feelings, but students are not able to block entrances to buildings or walkways, and if they do, they could face repercussions)
(Campbell…12
sec…something you can be arrested for)
The University Police Department and CASO are adamant that students refrain from using hate speech as well as profanities.
(Standup-CASO also asks that students bring any symbolic structures, such as signs or posters, to be approved before going to an expression area. For Bobcat Update, I'm Amanda Pena.
Aspen Streety
If you were thinking about using up the rest of your absences in class, you might want to hold off. Due to the extreme heat, high mold count and recent wildfires this allergy season is predicted to be one of the worst on record. According to Dr. Emilio Carranco at the Texas State Student Health Center, the lack of rain has led to a build-up of dust in the air, and as plants begin to die they become more susceptible to mold. This causes our bodies to react.
(Soundbite… Carranco)
There are some things you can do to prevent your allergies from getting the best of you.
(Soundbite... Carranco)
Mold, cedar and ragweed are common allergens that affect people the most.
(Soundbite… San Marcos resident)
If you are one of those who suffers from a runny nose or itchy eyes around the same time every year, then you probably have an allergy and should think about seeing a doctor. For Bobcat Update, I'm Aspen Streety.
10/10/11
Marissa Wagner
Elizabeth Brinkman
Jessica Buck
Fall practices are in full swing, and next week the team will host its intra-squad World Series.
<SB> ...closest thing we have to a real game, young guys competing for a chance to perform at a real game...
The Series will pit a Maroon team against a Gold squad in a best-of-five format.
The coaches are hoping there will be a good turnout to give the team a good playing atmosphere.
<SB> ...more pressure and way more fun when there is a crowd here making noise
The series next week will be a showcase for talent, and those who want to watch it can get in free.
<SB> the maroon and gold game gets us prepared for the season and to know what we have to work with
Since arriving at Texas State, Coach Herrington has seen 27 of his players drafted into the big leagues. Last year alone there were five who got the call.
<stand up>
10/7/11
Assignments - Week of Oct. 10-Oct. 13
Impact of Record Enrollment-Manning carryover
Maroon & Gold Game-Buck carryover
Steve Jobs' Legacy Apple New Media-Hernandez
CityRec reopened & renovated-Flores
Sleeped Deprived-VO-Doan
KTSW Logo Contest-Cook
College Radio Day-VO-Zuniga
Farewell-VO-Doyle
FmrsMkt-PKG-Newcomb
HCEvent-Onescu VO
So.Hays Firefighters-O'Brien PKG carryover
Tailgate-Construction-Pichon PKG carryover
Tanning-Staying tanned now PKG carryover
10/6/11
Chase Joliet
Elena Garlock
Ashley Flores
The news media today are often perceived as biased and too opinionated, but Soledad O'Brien told students she believes journalists should use their news stories as a platform for OTHERS to be heard.
SB: "And my job is not to say, well, which side do I want to be on. My job was to say, this is the story of a town in Logan County. And here is what's happened here." (21:16:00-21:26:00)
O'Brien's comments focused on The First Amendment -- this year's Common Experience theme at Texas State.
SB: "As working journalists, it's amazing and it's something that, not only have we fought for, but we have to continually, you know, fight for because people always try to chip away at that right." (14:30:00-14:39:20)
O'Brien's speech at Strahan Coliseum last night was well received.
SB: "I thought she was great, because personally I admire really strong independent women who aren't afraid to go out and do what they have to do to survive in their career." (3:46:00 -3:56:00) (Monica Ramos, Electronic Media Senior)
SB: "I really enjoyed it. I liked how she started out with a few jokes and telling about her background and how she got into journalism, so it was really interesting." (1:00:00-1:25:00) (Blake Barrington, Journalism Senior)
[STAND UP IN STRAHAN] The Common Experience events for this year have only just begun. Texas State University has a line-up of events that can be found online. For Bobcat Update, I'm Ashley Flores.
Katy Heaney
The city's director of communications, Melissa Millecam, says stage-three water restrictions aren't necessary in San Marcos -- at least, not yet. Millecam says, for the time being, the city will remain at stage two because San Marcos residents have been doing a good job conserving water. Also helping is the city's multi-million dollar surface-water-treatment plant, which now provides about 70 to 80 percent of the city's water supply.
SB: "Our average per capita use everyday is 114 gallons per capita. And that's very low compared to the state goal which is 140 gallons per capita."
Millecam says San Marcos stage two water restrictions are more strict than other cities in Texas. In San Marcos, stage- two water restrictions consist of watering lawns or using a drip irrigation system only once a week. San Antonio's stage two water restrictions allow hand-held watering at any time and drip irrigation system is permitted during certain hours of the day. San Marcos residents have stayed well within these restrictions.
SB: "I think that San Marcos residents contribute and are very aware of the value of following the drought rules and the fact that we have reduced our reliance on the Edwards aquifer significantly is a big factor."
The drought has also affected tourism in San Marcos. Resident Michael Rychaik says the lack of rain has affected his snorkeling adventures.
SB: "So when the aquifer's up in the 700's you know its flowing better and its more people flipping over in their canoes and stuff and I can find their, ya know, sunglasses. Nice Oakleys, Raybands, stuff like that."
These next few months will give the city council a chance to develop a new plan if the situation changes.
SB: Millecam says if the Edwards Aquifer Falls below 640 feet, stage three restrictions could be implemented.
Reporting for Bobcat Update, I'm Katy Heaney.
Kenn Zuniga
The address is two-17 West M-L-K Drive, and the house needs a lot of work.
SB
The Cephas (See-Fuss) House belonged to prominent African-American Community Leader Ulysses Cephas beginning in the 1920s. Lifelong Dunbar Resident and Historian Ollie Giles recognizes the importance of restoring the house to the way it looked.
SB
(Stand-up) Since its purchase in 2003, it's been difficult for the city to break ground on the project because of funding. Now, the city is approaching the project in a cost-effective way.
SB
A goal that the city has been working on for eight years. Still, Giles is persistent and knows it takes time.
SB
City officials say they hope to have the project complete by January of 2013. Reporting for Bobcat Update, I'm Kenn Zuniga.