Luke McBroom

Texas State baseball has reached new heights in the last 12 years under head coach Ty Harrington. Last Saturday he reached a milestone that very few coaches in college baseball ever achieve, Luke McBroom has more in this Bobcat Update:

(McBroom sound bite)
Ty Harrington is now in elite company among college baseball coaches, now sitting at 401 career victories. Over his 12 seasons at Texas State Coach Harrington has coaches 55 all-conference players, and 22 of them went on to be selected in the Major League Baseball Draft. The 2009 season was one to remember, the Bobcats won a school record 41 games, the Southland Conference title, and gained a birth in the N-C-Double-A Regional Tournament.
(Harrington sound bite)
Harrington played baseball for and graduated from the University of Texas in 1989. He looks back on his past success and uses his experience as a tool to get better.
(Harrington sound bite)
Currently the Bobcats are 26-15 on the season, and are tied for the lead in the Southland Conference. Coach Harrington and his team will go for career win number 402 this weekend as the take on the McNeese State Cowboys for a 3 game series at Bobcat Field. For Bobcat update, I'm Luke McBroom.

Amanda Escobedo

There's no doubt that summers in San Marcos are hot and sometimes sticky, and a
lot of people choose to stay indoors unless a body of water is nearby. But you
CAN beat the heat. Amanda Escobedo tells us how In this Bobcat Update:

The Texas State Outdoor Recreation Center provides students with opportunities
to experience the river. You can arrange for moonlight floats or canoeing trips
through the Rec Center. It's located in Sewell Park and offers low-cost rentals.
SB
University Camp, located in Wimberley, is a part of the outdoor rec center. At
University Camp, students can rent cabins and campgrounds for the weekend or
longer. The camp also offers team-building exercises and zip-lines.
SB
If you're looking for something a little more intense and have more time, the
rec center has four adventure trips a year. These trips range from cross-country
skiing to long canoeing trips. They last anywhere from a week to ten days. The
next Adventure trip is in May along the Appalachian Trail. Even if you aren't
the outdoorsy type, the rec center can find something right for you.
SB
Stand up: So if you are in San Marcos for the summer and are looking for some
fun, come check out the Texas State outdoor recreation center located here in
Sewell Park. The offer many activities and you will be able to experience the
river and San Marcos's beauty. For Bobcat Update, I'm Amanda Escobedo

Avron Fernandes

You can have fun this summer without emptying your pockets. In this Bobcat
Update, Avron Fernandes has some tips on how to be a cheap date.

Dinner and a movie used to be the norm. But with rising food prices and movie
tickets costing more, dating can be expensive.
Senior advertising major Robin Nennig says that guys don't need to spend a lot
to show a girl a good time.
SB
Some students say that the river is great place to spend some time together.
SB
The key to dating without breaking the bank is to show some creativity.
SB
Dollar bowling is popular with students and with the right spin; the pins may
not be the only thing falling for you.
For Bobcat Update, I'm Avron Fernandes.

Nicholas Medina

No smoking permitted -- anywhere. That will soon be the policy at Texas State.
University President Denise Trauth says the campus will be entirely smoke-free,
effective August 1st. Smoking has NOT been allowed inside the buildings at
Texas State since 2000, but today's announcement will affect all areas of not
only the San Marcos campus but also the one in Round Rock.

Louise Armstrong

The Texas State Department of Theater and Dance opens its musical The Wild
Party tonight at seven 30. Directed by Kaitlin Hopkins, the show tells the story of a
party organized by a vaudeville showgirl and a clown, with some surprising
consequences. It will run through May first and is intended for mature audiences
only. For ticket information, contact the Texas State Box Office.

Ana Anguiano

Hays County is taking steps to bring its 9-1-1 communication system into the
21st century. According to the San Marcos Daily Record, Hays County has
established a task force to develop a plan that would route calls to the Fire,
Police, and E-M-S departments into a unified dispatch center. Currently, 9-1-1
dispatchers are handled by Hays County law enforcement and Texas State. If a
unified 9-1-1 center is set up, all calls involving Hays County municipalities
would be handled at the center.

Alanna Sarabia

The First United Methodist Church in San Marcos is showing some wear and tear.
The building has been part of the city landscape since 1893. The structure needs
some repairs, and recently the church received a 60-thousand-dollar grant to
repaint the church exterior and to redo the floors. The church is a designated a
Texas Historic Landmark and is listed in the National Register of Historic
Places. The Burdue Johnson Foundation provided funds for the grant.

Lynn McCann

The spring semester will soon be over...and for many Texas State students it's
time to move. If you're relocating at the end of the semester, you might
consider participating in Texas State's 10th annual Pack-It-Up and Pass-It-On
donation program. Lynn McCann tells us how you can get involved.

In the past, dumpsters would overflow at this time of the year as students moved
out of their dorms or apartments for the summer. Massive amounts of household
items would be left behind because they were no longer wanted or needed.
Nowadays, the Pack-It-Up and Pass-It-On program offers an alternative.
SB – Kim Porterfield, Creative Services Director
Last year, more than seven tons of donated items were made available to needy
families in the San Marcos area. Originally, the donation program was organized
under a single tent at Aquarena Springs. Now it takes over the entire ballroom
at the L-B-J Student Center.
SB – Lynn McCann, Bobcat Update
However, Pack-It-Up and Pass-It-On could never happen without its volunteers.
Volunteering for the program is not only an opportunity to earn service hours,
it's also a great way to give back to the community.
SB – Jessica Bodine, Community Relations Student Worker
Barrels for donations will be located at every dorm and campus-owned apartment
complex. There are also plans to have the barrels placed at off-campus complexes
as well.
SB – Kim Porterfield, Creative Services Director
You can visit the Community Relations website for more information on
volunteering and for a list of desired items. Donations from dorms will be
accepted until May 16th, while donations from apartments will be accepted until
August. For Bobcat Update, I'm Lynn McCann.

Anthony Sifuentes

Texas State is setting up a therapy program to assist adults who stutter.
Anthony Sifuentes has more in this Bobcat Update.

For two weeks in July, in the Health Professions Building, Farzan Irani, a Texas
State Communications Disorders Professor, and his staff of five graduate
students will work with adults to help them with stuttering. The staff will work
one-on-one with clients and recording the conversations. The team will also
observe each other's sessions through a two-way mirror in a dark room. The
sessions will be analyzed; speech samples will be measures; and day-to-day
changes will be recorded. Following two weeks of intensive therapy, the
participants will continue in the program for another ten months using Adobe
Connect Pro online.
Standup
Irani says that therapy is not a cure, but rather a managing tool for
stuttering.
(SB)
Clinic Director Renee Wendell says she's looking forward to establishing the
program because it addresses an issue she feels is often over-looked.
(SB)
Irani and Wendell hope after the initial test run the program will expand to
assist adolescents and children. For Bobcat Update, I'm Anthony Sifuentes.

John Spain

The Roy F. Mitte building is hosting an exhibit for students featuring a state-of-the-art Formula-One car. The Williams Cosworth F-W 33 will utilize an emerging Kinetic Energy Recovery System. The system stores braking energy, which would otherwise be converted to heat, making the car significantly faster and more efficient. The car is capable of reaching zero-to-60 miles per hour in just over two seconds. In the coming years, the College of Science plans to use information gathered from the exhibit to teach engineering principles.

Wesley Wagener

It's Bike to School day at Texas State. The annual event encourages students to ride their bikes to school as a way of promoting alternative transportation and healthier lifestyle. The Bike Cave is offering free tune-ups, soft drinks, and shirt screen printing for those who come by the tent. The quad is also bustling with Earth Day events as well, showcasing everything from a solar-powered charging station to a riding lawnmower that is powered by electricity.  

Luke McBroom

Texas State Softball has now won 10 games in a row, after beating the University of North Texas 2-to-1 on Tuesday.  Sophomore pitcher Anne Marie Taylor picked up her 13th win of the season for the 'Cats, who were lead offensively by Chandler Hall's solo home run in the 3rd inning to tie the game at one a piece.  The Bobcats return to action tomorrow to face Houston Cougars.

Hollee Barfield

An International Rhythm Competition hit Texas State's campus last night. Students competed in Red Bull's Tum Tum Pa (Toom Toom Pah) by banging school supplies on desks to create musical masterpieces. No traditional instruments were allowed. "The Four Musketeers" beat their way into first place with their rendition of Toxic, by Britney Spears. The group now has a chance to compete in the World Finals in Brazil, depending on how it ranks in competition online.

Sam Howell

The Texas State Disc Golf Club traveled to Augusta over the weekend to compete in the National Collegiate Disc Golf Championship. Out of the thirty-six schools that competed, Texas State placed eleventh in the Championship Division and first in the First Flight Division.  The Club was started last semester and includes about 20 members. The players practice on the Campus Golf Course, which recently added three new holes. 

Wayne Jones

The swimming pools at Texas State offer students a chance to beat the heat. The Rec Center Natatorium has a six-lane lap pool for those who want to exercise, as well as a leisure pool with basketball and volleyball nets. The Aqua Sports Center is located next to Hines Academic Center and has eight lanes for lap swimming. Both pools have varying hours of operation, so it's a good idea to check the Department of Campus Recreation web page for the schedule. The Aqua Student Center has no entrance fee, but a valid student I-D is needed.

Kelsey Kearns

Senior art students at Texas State are exhibiting their work. You can see the exhibit at the Mitte Art Building. Art students are being given an opportunity to show their friends and family the work they've done this semester. The exhibit also gives the students experience in promoting and opening a gallery show. The senior thesis gallery will remain open daily and on weekends until the end of the semester.

Genna Eneman

ANCHOR: Texas State has taken the lead in adopting green technologies. It's been over a year since the university unveiled its Calories-to-Kilowatts program at the student recreation center. Our Genna Eneman is there live to tell us what it's all about.

LIVE-ON-SCENE: The initiative outfitted 30 elliptical machines to convert kinetic energy into electricity. The energy is produced during a workout. And the electricity that's generated is recycled into the campus power grid.

RECORDED NARRATION: It cost Texas State nearly 20-thousand dollars to install the ReRev system. Returns on the investment won't be seen for eight to ten years, but university officials say the project was not created as a cost-effective initiative, but rather to get students thinking about sustainable energy. Students are taking notice of the university's on-going efforts to explore green technology.
[SB]
The Calories-to-Kilowatts program has received overwhelming support from students, and some would like to see it expanded.
[SB]
The university hopes to eventually retrofit all 100 of the cardio machines at the rec center with the ReRev system.
LIVE-ON-SCENE: The University of North Texas recently installed the same renewable energy system on 36 machines at its Recreation Center. Who knows? It could be that Texas State has started a trend. Reporting Live from the Rec Center....For Bobcat Update, I'm Genna Eneman. Back to you at the studio.

Amanda Escobedo

Students in the School of Music are rehearsing to showcase their musical talents in upcoming spring recitals. The recitals are compilations of music learned and practiced during the school year. For seniors their individual performances highlight talents they have perfected over their entire college career. The recitals are held in the music building and vary from full orchestra and jazz ensemble to individual piano, saxophone and flute performances. Check out the events calender posted on the Texas State website for a list of all the shows this month.

Valerie Soja

Texas weather is heating up. It's been in the 90s the past several days, certainly warm enough to encourage sun worshipers to take advantage of the opportunity to be outdoors.  But there are risks. The sun can do great harm, if you don't take precautions.  Valerie Soja has more in this Bobcat Update.

It's well known that sun exposure raises the risk of developing skin cancer, the most common cancer in the United States. More than one million cases are diagnosed yearly. 

For Texas State students, the San Marcos River is a favorite place to hang out this time of year. Some are to swim or to play a game. Others are here to get a tan. In any case, applying sun blocking lotions is a must.

SB: Rachel Ealy, "It's harder to tan when you put on SPF 30…."
Tyler Miska also tries to wear sunscreen, but often forgets.
SB:  "It's a hassle to buy it…"
Shannon Vandivier is well aware of the potential risk of skin cancer. "I am a Bio… major… my grandfather just got skin cancer."
But some studies suggest that you might not want to completely avoid the sun. According to the World Health Organization, brief exposure to U-V radiation, about 5-15 minutes twice a week can be  beneficial, It produces vitamin D which is essential for helping the human body protect itself against internal cancers as well as various neurological, cardiovascular, immune, and bone diseases.
Dillon Scott, says he puts on sunscreen every morning before he heads to Sewell park to enjoy the sun's rays. 
SB: "I just put on my trance music…. and rave at the sun."
Dan Barry, better known as frisbee Dan, also takes the proper precautions to protect his skin.
SB: "In the morning… injured from the sun."
Although research shows the sun can have health benefits, It is important to limit your sun exposure. The American Cancer Society and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend wearing the right kind of clothing whenever possible, and using sunscreen of S-P-F 15 or more to protect your skin. Don't neglect your eyes either.  Long-term exposure to U-V rays can cause loss of vision and cataracts.
With summer just around the corner, everyone is eager to get out and enjoy the sun, but do so safely and in moderation. Dermatoligists warn that the sun is most dangerous between 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Reporting Live from Sewell Park....For Bobcat Update. I'm Valerie Soja. 

Danielle Elisabeth Madsen

No other university in Texas has a distinction that Texas State can claim. It's
the only university in the Lone Star State that graduated a student who went on
to become President of the United States. Danielle Elisabeth Madsen tells us
more about Lyndon Johnson's connection with his alma mater.

Stand Up:
President Lyndon Baines Johnson attended the Southwest Texas State Teacher's
College from 1927 to 1930. He was a member of the debate team, majored in
History, and served as the editor and chief of the student newspaper, then
called the College Star.
SB: Allen Reed – Editor and Chief of the University Star Newspaper
Johnson was the 36th President of the United States. He was described as a hard
worker during his time at college. Mary Brennan is a History professor at Texas
State who has done research into Johnson's early educational experiences.
SB: Mary Brennan- History Professor
As president, Johnson signed many important pieces of legislation into law,
including the Voting Rights Act, the Civil Rights Act, and the Higher Education
Act.
SB: Chris Jones- Career Advisor
President Lyndon Johnson left a powerful legacy at Texas State. The University's
President, Denise Trauth, says the institution serves as a launching pad for any
individual, no matter how high their goals or aspirations.
SB: President Denise Trauth
Stand Up:
President Lyndon Baines Johnson signed the Higher Education Act in 1965 on this
very desk on the Texas State University campus. It now sits at the L-B-J Museum
located in San Marcos, Texas. The museum documents President Johnson's time at
Texas State, as well his dedication to hard work and excellence. His passion for
education lives on through Texas State University and its students. For Bobcat
Update, I'm Danielle Elisabeth Madsen.

Louise Armstrong

Movies like Dawn of the Dead have made zombies famous in pop culture, and here
at Texas State some students have embraced the concept of zombies among us and
decided to do something about it -- all in fun, of course. Louise Armstrong has
more in this Bobcat Update.

Last week the Extreme Sports club brought the Human-versus-Zombies game to
campus. Popular on hundreds of other college campuses, this is the first time
it's been played at Texas State. Students wearing bandanas and carrying Nerf
guns represented players, and while game play was restricted during the day, at
night it came to life.
<Stand Up> Students playing as zombies wear bandanas on their head or legs,
while human player wear then on their arms. If a zombie tags a human player,
that human begins playing for the zombie side.
The ratio of humans to zombies is tracked through the official Texas State page
on h-v-z source dot com. Sophomore Ryan Elliot creates the missions for each
team. Elliot says two endings are possible for the game.
<SB Ryan Elliot>
Each night, missions are assigned and meeting places are scheduled. If one side
completes its mission first, the other side is penalized. Freshman Trevor
Smitherman started the game as an original zombie and wasn't too happy when he
got the news.
<SB Smitherman>
Players immerse themselves in the game, taking refuge in dining halls which are
designated safe zones. However, Freshman Cole Burris says he's been targeted on
the way to class.
<SB Burris>
After a week of playing, it was announced that human/zombie side proved
victorious.
<Stand Up> While the human versus zombies game may be over for this year, Elliot
and his players hope this game will be a yearly tradition at Texas State. For
Bobcat Update, I'm Louise Armstrong.

Ana Anguiano

It's a bad day when you see police lights flashing in your rear-view mirror. You know you have two choices coming your way: a ticket or a warning. So what happens if you're issued a citation? You can avoid paying a hefty fine and keep your driving record clean by taking a defensive driving course. Defensive driving courses are offered at various locations in town or you can take it online. If you pay the ticket, it'll set you back 150 dollars.

Erika Everett

Pioneer Bank in San Marcos has created a donation fund that will sponsor a local student-athlete who has hopes of some day playing for Texas State University. In making the announcement, Pioneer said its goal is to give back to the community by helping talented athletes -- who live in Hays County -- attend Texas State. The bank, based in San Marcos, said it plans to donate 25-thousand dollars over a four-year period.

Clair Hugo

If you're a smoker and would like to quit, the university's Health Center can
provide some assistance. Clair Hugo has more in this Bobcat Update.

Many students say they smoke to deal with stress. Others say they smoke to be
social. But it's an activity that's not welcomed everywhere. Even second-hand
smoke can be hazardous, so certain sections on campus are designated as non-smoking
areas. Even so, there are students who will ignore the signs and light up
anyway.
If you're addicted, it's not easy to stop smoking,
SB (Justin Bailey talks about how Wellbutrin has helped him)
Taking Wellbutrin to quit smoking is an off-label use of the medication, but
it's more affordable than other smoking cessation drugs. The Texas State Student
Health Center provides free services for students who need help quitting.
Patients undergo a personal assessment, private counseling with a nurse,
self-help materials and follow-up support.
SB (Carranco)
The Health Center Pharmacy has recently discounted its smoking cessation
medications as well.
Standup

Eddie Garcia

The week before Easter is called Holy week, and it's a big time for shopping in
San Marcos. Bobcat Update's Eddie Garcia explains.

Stand Up
It's vacation time for many residents of Mexico. They're off the entire week
from work and school, and many of them take advantage of the time off by
shopping in San Marcos. This is not just a day trip. Die-hard shoppers dedicate
the entire week to get the sales that many stores are offering. Joe's Jeans
manager Kim Bauer says the entire region benefits from San Marcos being a
shopping mecca.
Sound Bite: Hotels
Holy week is comparable to Black Friday, the day after Thanksgiving as far as
its impact on sales. The San Marcos Police Department assists in handling the
increased traffic at the malls.
Stand Up
Armani Exchange Manager Michael Gonzales says during this week alone the store
will likely reach its sales goal for the entire month.
Sound Bite AX Benefits
There will likely be long lines to check out at every store. Store managers say
if you want to avoid the crowds this week, shopping in the morning is your best
bet. For Bobcat Update, I'm Eddie Garcia.

Anthony Sifuentes

A severe drought is forcing the City of San Marcos to place restrictions on
water usage. Residents will be limited in the amount of water they can give
their lawns. Sprinklers will be allowed only one day out of the week and those
watering by hand will need a hand-held bucket or a hose with a turn-off device.
Restaurants will only be able to serve water if ordered by customers. These
restrictions will be implemented next early next week.

John Spain

Riverfest, San Marcos' annual spring concert event, begins today at Sewell Park.
The festival is sponsored by the Student Association for Campus Activities and
hopes to draw up to ten thousand attendees. Since its inception in 2003,
Riverfest has attracted an average of eight thousand concertgoers each year.
This year's concert features performances by The Organics, Hip Hop Congress and
The Ying Yang Twins. The free event continues today until 11p.m. and is open to
the public.

Amanda Escobedo

Recording artist Steven Means headlined Lunchtime Live yesterday outside the
L-B-J amphitheater. Means has been touring college campuses around Texas, and
performs hit covers as well as his own original music. The Texas State Student
Association of Campus Activities hosts Lunchtime Live to provide mid-day campus
entertainment for students. Be on the lookout for more shows in the upcoming
semester.

Lynn McCann

Registration for the fall semester began today, and it's the first time that
students will be able to use the new Student Information System. The system is
expected to be easier to navigate and its appearance is much simpler than the
system it replaces. Before registering, students will have to create new pin
numbers to go with their slightly-altered student I-D numbers. If you have any
trouble registering, step-by-step instructions are available on the registrar's
office web page. Fall registration ends on April 29th.

Kayla Hale

Many area residents are banding together to fight hunger. Kayla Hale has more
in this Bobcat Update.

The Writing Center at Flowers Hall is working with the Hays County Food Bank to
help feed school children. Writing Center Public Relations Specialist Keri Fitzgerald
says this food drive is different from previous ones.
Soundbite
Students can take their food or cash donations and leave them at the Writing
Center Monday through Thursday from nine to nine. Marketing major Chelsea Quimby
(Quim-bee) is on board with helping.
Soundbite
Students who donate will be entered in a raffle.
Soundbite
Standup

Erika Everett

The Aquarena Center is gearing up once again to host an Earth Day Celebration.
Erika Everett has more in this Bobcat Update

[Stand up] "San Marcos is known for its abundant water resources that are not
only used for recreational purposes but for educational as well. The celebration
of Earth Day here at Aquarena Center is vital to keeping the appreciation of
nature alive in this city"
The rivers and spring lakes of San Marcos are important resources for the city.
People come to the Aquarena Center to enjoy nature and its creatures, some more
unique than others.
[Cooper SB: endangered species specific to San Marcos and why this event is
important for them too]
The celebration will cover the importance of sustainability, which is this
year's "Common Experience" theme at Texas State University. Among the activities
planned for the event will be a blessing of the springs by Native American
groups, education on recycling and live music.
[Gould SB]
The event is free and open to the public. Parking will be available in the
Strahan Coliseum parking lot with bus service to the center.
For Bobcat Update, I'm Erika Everett.

Kaylee Pfeiferling

The Center for Texas Music History at Texas State hosted the eleventh annual
Unplugged concert Tuesday night at L-B-J. Kaylee Pfeiferling has more in this
Bobcat Update.

Harmonicas, acoustic guitars and a pure southern voice are three things that
define Texas music. And attendees could hear all three at the Texas Music
History Unplugged Concert. Attendees listened to music from Terri Hendrix,
Willy and Cody Braun, and Joe Ely... just to name a few. Along with performing,
musicians also reflected on how Texas music has helped shape the history and
culture of the Southwest. San Marcos musician Terri Hendrix gave us her take on
Texas Music.
SOUND BITE
Texas music not only inspires its natives. Brothers Willy and Cody Braun, from
the band Reckless Kelly, say even though they're originally from Idaho, Texas
music was one of their biggest influences.
SOUND BITE
One of the reasons why Texas music has such a personal feel is because of the
close relationships formed between its musicians.
SOUND BITE
STAND UP : During the concert it was easy to see why this type of music has
spread through generations. The upbeat tones and authentic feel make this a
popular event for both young and old. For Bobcat Update I'm Kaylee Pfeiferling.

Avron Fernandes

Cuts in the education budget have some students worried. Avron Fernandes has more in this Bobcat Update.

According to the U-S Department of Education, the cost of tuition, room and board at a public institution has risen 32 percent in the past decade.
An estimated three-quarters of all undergraduate students receive financial aid. Students, like education major Nikki Gaynor, realize that a full-ride scholarship is truly a blessing.
SB...Gaynor... "It has been the sole reason I am in college because I wouldn't have been able to go to Texas State otherwise." (:05)
Many students say it keeps getting harder to receive financial aid.
SB...Peoples... "The standards for getting a grant are so high that a lot of people don't qualify for it."(:05)
Stand-up: With recent federal budget cuts, many students are left wondering if they can still rely on financial aid, government grants, and work study to pay for college.
Education junior Katy Reed sees the government cuts as bad for the future economy.
SB...Reed... "The government needs to help us because we are going to be out there working in the workforce helping the economy."(:06)
Despite heavy unemployment and rising tuition costs, senior lecturer Chuck Kaufman says that a degree is a worthwhile investment.
SB... Kaufman... "Theres no way of predicting the cyclical ups and downs of the job market. There are always going to be situations like that. I know times are tough now but students need to hang in there and think creatively on how to attract employers to hire them."(:11)
The future for students is not all grim. The economy is picking up, and many companies are hiring again.
For Bobcat Update, I'm Avron Fernandes.

Sam Howell

Texas State Football Coach Dennis Franchione says he's glad to be back. Our Sam
Howell attended the coach's meet and greet this week and files this report.

In Jones Dining Hall students and faculty had the opportunity to ask Coach Fran
questions about the upcoming football season and his return to San Marcos.
(soundbite about San Marcos)
The Horseshoe Bay native coached what was then Southwest Texas State in 1991 and
expressed his excitement to be back at the helm of a program making the move
from F-C-S to F-B-S.
(Soundbite about move to WAC)
Students and athletes alike offered a warm welcome to a head coach who has
big-school experience.
(soundbite about next years season)
(Stand in)
(The move to the Western Athletic Conference is a big leap for Texas State and
Coach Franchione is here to do everything he can to make it a positive jump.
With Bobcat Update, I'm Sam Howell)

Ana Anguiano

It's a never-ending battle for Texas State students this time of year. They're supposed to be studying, BUT the outdoors is calling their name. In this Bobcat Update, Ana Anguiano tells us how some people cope with this dilemma.

With beautiful, spring weather in our midst and summer quickly approaching, some Texas State students are finding it hard to stay focused on their school work. So how can students remain dedicated to their studies while still being able to enjoy the spring weather?
Senior Tiffany Herrera says there's an answer.
SB: "Do a little bit of both, Study while your outside."
SLAC Lab Assistant Demetrial Graham says there's nothing wrong with studying outside--if you have a plan.
SB: "Basically, organization is key. If you're going to be outside for two to three hours, then the same two to three hours make sure you put it into your studies."
General Studies senior Malorie Kohutek says studying time indoors all the time makes it harder to attend class.
SB: "Yea, I feel like if you spend all your time in the library that maybe you would want to skip on pretty days."
But studying outside isn't helpful to everyone.
SB: "I think there are more distractions while you're outside and so it makes it a little harder especially if you're laying out by the water and you want to get in the water, but you have your school stuff."
For senior Pier Angelo Pacini, studying outside is more beneficial.
SB: "It's actually quieter. Because if you're inside the library on the quiet floor you'll still hear people whispering and the little ambient noises out here actually help you calm down and help you not think about anything else that's going on."
Stand-Up: "While there are some mixed opinions on whether studying outside is beneficial, there is one opinion that almost everyone can agree on: this spring weather is something to be enjoyed. For Bobcat Update, I'm Ana Anguiano."

Megan O'Connell

San Marcos tubers should be pleased to learn that the rebuilding of the Lions
Club checkout facility is underway. Two years ago a fire -- believed to be arson
-- destroyed the building near Sewell Park. The new building will have mists
outside to keep patrons cool and air conditioning inside. The Lions Club will
also sell concessions along with renting tubes. The target date for completing
the building is Memorial Day Weekend.

Rob Gaines

Graduation day is fast approaching. Seniors will soon be lining up to pick up
their graduation announcements and invitations, along with their caps and gowns.
The bookstores at the L-B-J Student Center and the Colloquium have cap-and-gown
sets for under 30 dollars. And graduation announcements, invitations, note
cards and stationery can be purchased, starting at ten dollars for a
twenty-pack. The stores also have a lot of merchandise with the Bobcat logo --
items that will long serve as reminders of the time spent at Texas State.

Hollee Barfield

A zombie outbreak is taking place on the Texas State campus this week.  In a local version of a nation-wide Extreme Sport: Humans versus Zombies, more than 200 students are wearing bandanas on their arms, legsand heads to signal their status in the game.  Zombie students can be found camping out in the quad, looking for their next meal.  Humans can defend themselves with rolled-up socks and toy swords, although nerf guns were banned due to anti-gun policies on campus.  The game will continue until all of the zombies have starved, or until every human has become, as they say, un-dead.

Douglas Bloom

The Associated Student Government has put together a committee to assess the amount of lighting on campus. Some safety concerns have been expressed. The committee will take a walk around campus at night with light meters to take measurements. Once the data is calculated, suggestions will be made to Texas State administrators on how to improve lighting. Main areas of concern are the stairs leading up to the L-B-J Student Center and around the dorms. The first meeting will be held tomorrow.

Luke McBroom

Texas State University is giving San Marcos residents a chance to clean out their storage closets and help a charity at the same time. Luke McBroom has more in this Bobcat Update:

(McBroom stand up)
Oftentimes electronic waste -- such as computers, televisions and cell phones -- contains harmful components that could potentially poison drinking water if not disposed of properly. A Recycle-Now Electronic Waste Collection Event is scheduled for this weekend in San Marcos. Organizers hope to collect 40- thousand pounds of E-waste at the event. Volunteers will include Texas State students, faculty and staff as well as San Marcos residents.
(Arceneaux sound byte).
Net proceeds from the event will support sustainability efforts on campus and World Bicycle Relief. You can donate items on Saturday from 9 A-M to 1 P-M at the (((((where?))))))
(McBroom stand up)

Anthony Sifuentes

The results are in.  The duo of Albert James DeGarmo and Tiffany Roemer are the president and vice president of the Associated Student Government.  The election took place yesterday either online or at the L-B-J Student Center. The team of Fox and Schultz came in second.  DeGarmo and Roemer say they will try to push through ideas on designating smoking areas, improving the University's curriculum and providing an overall better service for students. DeGarmo and Roemer will take office in June.

 

Genna Eneman

An international film festival at Texas State has drawn record crowds this year.  The Center for the Study of Latino Media and Markets is host of the Puntos de Vista Film Festival.  Fifteen documentaries were screened today at the L-B-J Student Center. Viewers then voted online to select the top three entries. More than 20-thousand votes were cast. 

Avron Fernandes

The Texas State quad is bustling with activity this afternoon. Smells of fresh artisan bread and local produce fill the air -- mixed with the vibrant colors of handmade clothing and jewelery. More than 20 vendors from the Austin-San Marcos corridor gather on the first Thursday of every month for the Texas State Farmers Market with the hope of giving students an alternative look 'and taste' of shopping. All the vendors are sponsored by student organizations.

Hollee Barfield

Rumors of bias in the A-S-G Supreme Court sparked concern among voters earlier this week.  Hollee Barfield has more information in this Bobcat Update.

Stand-Up:  Well, the votes have been cast, and the election results are in.  But could a last-minute decision by the A-S-G Supreme Court have made an impact on the final outcome?

Texas State's Associated Student Government voted unanimously on Friday to outlaw all forms of campaigning by candidates on election days.  The Election Code originally banned campaigning in any official polling locations. However, the Senate believes that with today's technology, including smart phones, any area could be considered a polling location.  Presidential candidate Will Fox filed an appeal to the Dean of Students, who then overturned the ruling.

SB:  (Will Fox...12 sec...election code.)

According to the University Star, four out of five of the Supreme Court justices were supporters of the DeGarmo-Roemer Facebook group, and Chief Justice Darby even appears in one of the campaign photos. A-J DeGarmo disagrees with accusations that there is a bias in the Supreme Court, and that the ruling was intended to hinder Fox's 24/7 campaigning strategy.

SB:  (AJ DeGarmo...15 sec...that level.)

According to both candidates, the elections were run fairly, and their main concern was that everyone take the time to submit his or her vote.  For Bobcat Update, I'm Hollee Barfield.

Kelsey Kearns

Organizations that set up tables in the quad are apt to have an unexpected visitor. Kelsey Kearns explains, in this Bobcat Update.

Students advertising in the quad have been hearing one name lately.
SB (Baker 0:03 "…Maxfield Baker.")
Senior Maxfield Baker has taken upon himself to be the enforcer of quad regulations, such as -- where students can set up and pass out fliers.
SB (Baker 0:15 "…")
Despite Baker's good intentions, some students, like Senior Jacob Hagan, find his approach rubs them the wrong way.
SB (Hagan 0:15 "…")
While he may upset some, Baker says he's representing the students when he tells violators to follow the rules.
SB (Baker 0:15 "…")
Stand up (Kearns  0:15 "… any way")
CASO sends a map of designated set up spots and a list of regulations to every organization that books an area in the quad. More information about quad rules and regulations can be found at the Texas State website. For Bobcat Update, I'm Kelsey Kearns.

Kayla Hale

Students are joining the effort to help the survivors in Japan. The Japanese Language and Culture Club raised money in the Quad today for Japan's disaster relief. The recent earthquake and tsunami left almost 16-thousand people missing. People who donate 10 dollars or more will get a free t-shirt for showing their support. All the proceeds will go to the Japanese Red Cross. The club will be at the L-B-J Student Center tomorrow from 10 to 3 to accept more donations.

Sam Howell

With the change in the weather, the Texas State Golf Course is encouraging students to get out and play. Sam Howell has more in this Bobcat Update. 

The Masters Golf Tournament begins tomorrow and students who enjoy golf are being offered incentives to play at the Texas State Golf Course.

(soundbite about specials offered to students on wednesdday)

On Sunday the greens at the course were aerated and on Monday and Tuesday golfers could play at a discounted price of three dollars and fifty cents.

(soundbite encouraging golfers to come out and play)

Last Friday the course had a one-club golf tournament to add some competitive excitement. The winner shot a seventy-six using his eight-iron.  Walk-ins are welcome, or to reserve a tee-time, you can call five-one-two-two-four-five-seven-five-nine-three. For Bobcat Update, I'm Sam Howell.

John Spain

Texas State has appointed a new dean for the College of Education. John Spain has more in this Bobcat Update.

Since late last year, Dr. Stan Carpenter has served as interim dean of the College of Education. Carpenter replaced Rosalinda Barrera. Despite a national search to find a replacement, the internal candidate was chosen. Carpenter's seven years with Texas State and his nearly 20 years of service at Texas A&M undoubtedly bolstered his qualifications. The newly appointed dean says his plans are not to make broad changes to the College of Education, but to foster the collaboration of the school's three departments.
(Carpenter 0:15 "...those folks.")
Linda Homeyer, Chair of Adult Education and School Psychology, says Carpenter's influence will benefit the College of Education through his experience and well-focused approach.
(Homeyer 0:15 "...impact on everybody.")
Dr. Carpenter's experience was lauded by President Denise Trauth, who praised the dean as a "widely respected teacher and scholar" in a confirmation email sent to university faculty and staff. As Texas State begins a new five-year cycle of strategic planning for various colleges and departments, Carpenter is optimistic. The dean says he expects more research and scholarship opportunities to arise within the College of Education. For Bobcat Update, I'm John Spain.

Douglas Bloom

On a campus as diverse as Texas State's, it's important to remember the leaders who helped create a climate that allowed people of such mixed backgrounds to come together and form a community of education.  Douglas Bloom has more…

The Latino Student Association held its annual Cesar Chavez Celebration yesterday, honoring the civil rights activist with a dinner and a movie. One goal of the event was to promote diversity and to highlight the Chavez's achievements.  A brief biography of the icon and his accomplishments was followed by a catered buffet and a screening of a documentary titled "The Longoria Affair".  The award-winning documentary tells the story of a family who was not allowed to use the town's only funeral parlor to bury their son, a Latino soldier killed during World War Two. The refusal caused a national outrage.
Texas State Senior Nathan Salazar says it's important to honor Chavez:
SB: He represents a legacy, not just for immigrants or farm workers, but for humanity in general.
The Cesar Chavez Celebration is the largest event held each year by the Latino Student Association.

SB:  I believe that if it wasn't for this event some people probably would never know who Cesar Chavez was or what he did, so through this event we offer a little bit of an education behind him, as well as show some of things he has done for our community.
Stand Up:
With food and festivities, the Latino Student Association brought together a multicultural campus in celebration of an American hero.  Cesar Chavez led a historic civil rights movement for the working class that is still an inspiration today.  For Bobcat Update, I'm Douglas Bloom. 

Valerie Soja

There's a strange-looking shoe gaining popularity among students at Texas State. Valerie Soja has more in this Bobcat Update.

Stand up: These "gloves for your feet" are called Vibram five fingers. They are designed to simulate the experience of being barefoot while offering some protection from the elements.

Freshman Mitchell Reiter says the shoes make him feel lighter on his feet.

SB: "I like them a lot… It's just like running barefoot basically."

Some experts say that traditional athletic shoes with their structured sides and cushioned heels keep your feet restricted, making them lazy, weak, and more prone to injury. As a result the "barefoot" craze is gaining attention from coaches, personal trainers and runners.

Personal Trainer Jen Martinez says that she has felt the health benefits from running with Vibrams.

SB:  " I used to have… stop hurting and that's what matters."

Runner Kyle Graef says that although he has had a pair for a year, the shoes are not for him.

SB:

" Actually they didn't fit right… they don't really work out for me."

Stand up:

If "barefoot" shoes are for you, the Vibrams cost between 75 and 100 dollars and are sold online and in shoe stores across the country. For Bobcat Update, I'm Valerie Soja.

Amanda Escobedo

Could you go one day without shoes? On Tuesday, the shoemaker Toms encouraged people worldwide to go barefoot. The annual event called "One Day Without Shoes" is held to highlight the fact that millions of children grow up without shoes and face possible health problems because of it. Some Texas State students participated in the event by gathering outside of Old Main where they removed their shoes and then walked together across campus.

Eddie Garcia

The Associated Student Government at Texas State is marketing a new project called Bobcat Bricks. Alumni, students, faculty and staff can purchase a brick for 100 dollars that can be customized. Bricks that are sold will be placed around the Bobcat Statue in the quad. Fifty dollars of the total will go to the new Alumni Center. A recent article in the University Star questioned the three-thousand dollars used for marketing the bricks. A-S-G Senator Abel Valencia responded that three-thousand dollars represents a very small percentage of the total student services fee. 

Ana Anguiano

The Associated Student Government elections are underway. Voting started yesterday at eight a.m. and will end tonight at five p.m. To vote, all you need to do is head to the Texas State University webpage and click on the voting link at the bottom of the page.  Polling stations are located in the L-B-J mall area and also on the third floor of the L-B-J Student Center. Results from the election will be announced tonight at six p.m.

Danielle Elisabeth Madsen

Thornton International House is the new headquarters at Texas State for university programs related to international relations.The move to consolidate includes the Intensive Language Program, the International Office, and the Study Abroad Office. More than 340 students are signed up for faculty-led study abroad programs this summer. All trips to Mexico, though, have been cancelled. Trips to Japan are pending while the university waits for new information from the U-S State Department.

Erika Everett

Bobcat Stadium has already had several renovations in recent years, but more changes are on the way. The renovations have included an end-zone complex and luxury suites. Starting this summer, additional seats will be added, which will bring the capacity to about 30-thousand fans. The new area will include a gallery dedicated to the Strutters and an extension of the Bookstore Fan Shop. The renovations are deemed necessary for the football program moving to the Western Athletic Conference.  Construction will begin in May, but preparations are already underway.  

Alanna Sarabia

The battle against cancer is being fought at Texas State. More than 24-thousand dollars was raised over the weekend to go toward cancer research. The annual Relay for Life was held at Bobcat Stadium. Those who participated walked, ran and even danced around the track to help raise donations for the cause. Some of the participants were cancer survivors; others were there to remember lost loved ones. The money raised will be given to the American Cancer Society.

Clair Hugo

Texas State and the San Marcos community have been making an ongoing effort to
go green. Clair Hugo tells us more in this Bobcat Update.

San Marcos is known for its rolling river and beautiful, hill-country
scenery, and sustaining our community has been an important responsibility for
students, faculty, and San Marcos residents. Each school year, a different
Common Experience theme is designated by the University Honors Program. The
theme this year is sustainability.
SB
Among the environmental projects on campus is The Living Library, a garden
located between the Agriculture building and Hines. The Living Library has a
fruit, vegetable and herb garden nurtured by students. It is called the Food for
Thought Garden.
STANDUP – A rainwater collection tank has even been installed in The Living
Library to help minimize water usage on campus.
A composting operation known as Bobcat Blend has been introduced by the
Department of Agriculture. Students are encouraged to divide their compost into
food waste, plastic and paper. Likewise, recycling receptacles are located in
several locations on campus, and the Texas State Recycling Center has made an
immense impact on recycling services for students and staff.
SB
Texas State organizations also encourage students to ride their bikes to school
rather than drive. The annual Bike to School Day is celebrated each Earth Day.
Many students participate in this event, and free bike tune-ups and t-shirts are
offered in the quad.
Find out more about how you can help maintain our home at Common Experience link
on the Texas State website.
For Bobcat Update, I'm Clair Hugo.

Lynn McCann

Enrollment at Texas State University continues to rise, but there aren't enough
on-campus locations to house everyone. As Lynn McCann tells us in this Bobcat
Update, finding shelter on- or off-campus is challenging in San Marcos.

Those students who can't live on-campus look for places to live in apartments,
lofts, townhomes or duplexes. And even then, they have to be lucky.
SB, Lynn McCann, Bobcat Update
SB, Evan Hale
Students should start visiting home locators as early as nine or ten months in
advance to assure themselves that they will have a place to live. But houses are
rented about one month in advance, which makes finding one at the right time
even harder. Many students would love to live in a house if they had had a
chance.
SB, Isaac Salice
The zoning laws are designed to establish uniformity and stability
throughout the city. Consequences of a zoning violation can result in a fine of
up to two-thousand dollars per day per violation.
For Bobcat Update, I'm Lynn McCann.