If you want to see some changes to Alkek Library, the faculty would like to hear from you. Bobcat Update's Christina Lockridge has more on the story.
Alkek Library is hosting focus groups to encourage ideas for possible changes at the 24-year-old facility. The goal is to make the library more up-to-date.
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Texas State Student Jessica Jordan wants to see more study rooms and technological advancements as opposed to books that just sit on shelves and take up space.
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The two focus groups are scheduled to meet on November 30th and December 5th. For those who attend as registered participants, the library is providing free pizza.
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For more information on how to register, you can visit the library's website. For Bobcat Update, I'm Christina Lockridge.
Bobcat Update, a student-produced newscast recapping events at Texas State University, and is available for viewing on YouTube.
11/21/16
11/16/16
Gabriel Bermea
Not too far outside of San Marcos, a small competition took place in a quiet town. Gabriel Bermea has more in this Bobcat Update.
Many old friends and families reunited this past weekend for a common cause.
SB
The Dam Chili Cook-Off is an event that was created by Shaun Shaver, and he has run it every year.
Standup: This is the 12th year that the chili cook-off has taken place here in Martindale. Dozens of people will have a friendly competition to see who has the best chili.
Anyone who participates in the cook-off will cook the chili on site and prepares it to be judged and eaten.
Many of the entrees have participated in previous competitions and have the awards to show for it.
SB
Also featured were local musicians, a silent auction and a hot chili competition.
All proceeds from the event benefited the San Marcos Youth Service Bureau, a non-profit that provides after-school programs for children.
SB
For Bobcat Update, I'm Gabriel Bermea.
Many old friends and families reunited this past weekend for a common cause.
SB
The Dam Chili Cook-Off is an event that was created by Shaun Shaver, and he has run it every year.
Standup: This is the 12th year that the chili cook-off has taken place here in Martindale. Dozens of people will have a friendly competition to see who has the best chili.
Anyone who participates in the cook-off will cook the chili on site and prepares it to be judged and eaten.
Many of the entrees have participated in previous competitions and have the awards to show for it.
SB
Also featured were local musicians, a silent auction and a hot chili competition.
All proceeds from the event benefited the San Marcos Youth Service Bureau, a non-profit that provides after-school programs for children.
SB
For Bobcat Update, I'm Gabriel Bermea.
Dallas Williams
This week Texas State University experienced another tragedy. As reported by the University Star, a student's body was found on campus due to an apparent suicide. Bobcat Update's Dallas Williams takes a look at the resources available to help students through difficult times.
College life can be overwhelming. School and relationships can leave some students feeling alone or forgotten. Melissa Garza is President of NAMI Cats, which is the local chapter of the National Alliance of Mental Illness. Garza says she wants students to take the right steps to protect their mental health.
SB- Mellissa Garza
NAMI Cats is one of several organizations on campus that can help.
SB- Melissa Garza
The University Police Department can provide assistance during a crisis.
SB- Captain Lattie
One other resource is the counseling center. Due to high demand, the counselors were not available for formal comment, but they did stress that students come first. The center's website has helpful information. If you or someone you know is in a crisis follow these steps: Recognize the signs and respond. Take action or get others involved. Make a referral.
At Texas State the hustle and bustle of college life can get to students. Stress can be overwhelming and friendships can be taxing, but tragedies don't have to happen.
SB Lattie not alone
SB Garza not alone
You're not alone. For Bobcat Update I'm Dallas Williams
College life can be overwhelming. School and relationships can leave some students feeling alone or forgotten. Melissa Garza is President of NAMI Cats, which is the local chapter of the National Alliance of Mental Illness. Garza says she wants students to take the right steps to protect their mental health.
SB- Mellissa Garza
NAMI Cats is one of several organizations on campus that can help.
SB- Melissa Garza
The University Police Department can provide assistance during a crisis.
SB- Captain Lattie
One other resource is the counseling center. Due to high demand, the counselors were not available for formal comment, but they did stress that students come first. The center's website has helpful information. If you or someone you know is in a crisis follow these steps: Recognize the signs and respond. Take action or get others involved. Make a referral.
At Texas State the hustle and bustle of college life can get to students. Stress can be overwhelming and friendships can be taxing, but tragedies don't have to happen.
SB Lattie not alone
SB Garza not alone
You're not alone. For Bobcat Update I'm Dallas Williams
11/15/16
Jasmine Kardani
The San Marcos Public Library offers more than books to choose from. Jasmine Kardani explains in this Bobcat Update.
The library offers an assortment of activities that residents can participate in each week. San Marcos resident Sharon Ahrens is taking advantage of yoga classes.
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The free yoga class is available to all skill levels -- ranging from beginner to expert. Parents can bring their kids or use the time for themselves. Shelly Kellogg enjoys the way the class is taught. '
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Yoga is considered a physical, mental and spiritual activity. By attending Yoga with Francesca, you can determine what role yoga can play in your life.
SB (Stand-up)
The library offers an assortment of activities that residents can participate in each week. San Marcos resident Sharon Ahrens is taking advantage of yoga classes.
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The free yoga class is available to all skill levels -- ranging from beginner to expert. Parents can bring their kids or use the time for themselves. Shelly Kellogg enjoys the way the class is taught. '
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Yoga is considered a physical, mental and spiritual activity. By attending Yoga with Francesca, you can determine what role yoga can play in your life.
SB (Stand-up)
11/14/16
Claire Kreuz
The Texas State volleyball team has racked up the Sun Belt Conference accolades. One team member in particular has earned the bulk of them.
Freshman libero Micah Dinwiddie has made a name for herself in the conference. She has earned the freshman-of-the-week title four weeks in a row this season. Dinwiddie is proud of her success.
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Head coach Karen Chisum says she has had a big impact on the team.
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SU: Not only has Dinwiddie been named conference freshman-of-the week several times, she has also earned defensive player-of-the-week twice this season.
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Dinwiddie says her hard work has paid off.
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The Bobcats ended regular season play this past weekend and will go into the conference tournament seeded third. For Bobcat Update, I'm Claire Kreuz.
Freshman libero Micah Dinwiddie has made a name for herself in the conference. She has earned the freshman-of-the-week title four weeks in a row this season. Dinwiddie is proud of her success.
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Head coach Karen Chisum says she has had a big impact on the team.
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SU: Not only has Dinwiddie been named conference freshman-of-the week several times, she has also earned defensive player-of-the-week twice this season.
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Dinwiddie says her hard work has paid off.
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The Bobcats ended regular season play this past weekend and will go into the conference tournament seeded third. For Bobcat Update, I'm Claire Kreuz.
11/13/16
Caitlin McDermott
The city of Kyle has a new semi-pro basketball team. Caitlin McDermott has more on the story.
Silent and empty halls are what you'll find at Chapa Middle School on Tuesday nights. But make your way to the practice gym, and you'll see Stallions running the court -- the Kyle Stallions that is, the new semi- pro basketball team in Central Texas.
[SB]
Head Coach Damien Van Goodwin is at the helm, and he expects teamwork from his players.
[SB]
The Stallions have played two games so far this season, and they have their work cut out for them.
[SB]
But Coach Goodwin says anyone can play the game, and everyone is coachable.
[SB]
There are 24 players on the team -- all with different personalities and habits, but they have a common goal, and that is to win. For Bobcat Update, I'm Caitlin McDermott.
Silent and empty halls are what you'll find at Chapa Middle School on Tuesday nights. But make your way to the practice gym, and you'll see Stallions running the court -- the Kyle Stallions that is, the new semi- pro basketball team in Central Texas.
[SB]
Head Coach Damien Van Goodwin is at the helm, and he expects teamwork from his players.
[SB]
The Stallions have played two games so far this season, and they have their work cut out for them.
[SB]
But Coach Goodwin says anyone can play the game, and everyone is coachable.
[SB]
There are 24 players on the team -- all with different personalities and habits, but they have a common goal, and that is to win. For Bobcat Update, I'm Caitlin McDermott.
Isaac Garza
The Wi-Fi network at Texas State is getting a major boost in its capabilities. Isaac Garza has more in this Bobcat Update.
Students and faculty rely heavily on the internet. It's essential for classroom instruction and everyday communication. Mark Hughes, of the university's technology resources division, says he understands the network's importance and a campus-wide upgrade is necessary to meet the latest wireless standards.
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What this means is the network will be able to handle a higher volume of traffic at once, but the Wi-Fi speed will only be as fast as devices allow. The funds for this multi-million dollar project will be coming from student fees.
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Hughes says the team at I-TAC works hard to make sure the Wi-Fi network contributes to students' success at the university. He strongly encourages anyone who experiences problems to call I-TAC for help The project is set to be finished over the winter break. Hughes says students can expect little or no impact during the transition.
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SU: The goal is take make Wi-Fi ubiquitous across campus. Which means you can get Wi-Fi in the classrooms, outside in our beautiful green spaces, and even on your way to class with no interference. For Bobcat Update, I'm Isaac Garza.
Students and faculty rely heavily on the internet. It's essential for classroom instruction and everyday communication. Mark Hughes, of the university's technology resources division, says he understands the network's importance and a campus-wide upgrade is necessary to meet the latest wireless standards.
SB
What this means is the network will be able to handle a higher volume of traffic at once, but the Wi-Fi speed will only be as fast as devices allow. The funds for this multi-million dollar project will be coming from student fees.
SB
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Hughes says the team at I-TAC works hard to make sure the Wi-Fi network contributes to students' success at the university. He strongly encourages anyone who experiences problems to call I-TAC for help The project is set to be finished over the winter break. Hughes says students can expect little or no impact during the transition.
SB
SU: The goal is take make Wi-Fi ubiquitous across campus. Which means you can get Wi-Fi in the classrooms, outside in our beautiful green spaces, and even on your way to class with no interference. For Bobcat Update, I'm Isaac Garza.
Gustavo Torres
Giving back to his community is something a San Marcos mechanic and businessman finds rewarding. In this Bobcat Update, Gustavo Torres profiles the owner of Rudy's Automotive.
From 8 a-m to 6 p-m (nat sound of the shop) Monday through Friday (nat sound of cars being fixed), you can hear the sound of engines being serviced at Rudy's Automotive. San Marcos residents have relied on Rudy's to get their car fixed for about two decades. (nat sound of customers chatting) Many regard the proprietor, Rudy Espinoza, as a friend.
(SB)
Rudy says there is more to life than living it.
(SB)
At the end of the week, once the garage doors are locked (nat sound) and the gate is closed, Rudy has another mission to perform -- under Friday night lights.
(SB)
He also runs concessions for the San Marcos High School Rattlers during home games.
(SB)
The San Marcos community has a special place in his heart. Rudy has seen many changes over the years and yet a consistency in the people.
(SB)
Rudy says the people he encounters at the games or at his shop serve as another opportunity to make each day better. In Rudy's view, working hard doesn't have to kill you or your spirit. For Bobcat Update, I'm Gustavo Torres.
From 8 a-m to 6 p-m (nat sound of the shop) Monday through Friday (nat sound of cars being fixed), you can hear the sound of engines being serviced at Rudy's Automotive. San Marcos residents have relied on Rudy's to get their car fixed for about two decades. (nat sound of customers chatting) Many regard the proprietor, Rudy Espinoza, as a friend.
(SB)
Rudy says there is more to life than living it.
(SB)
At the end of the week, once the garage doors are locked (nat sound) and the gate is closed, Rudy has another mission to perform -- under Friday night lights.
(SB)
He also runs concessions for the San Marcos High School Rattlers during home games.
(SB)
The San Marcos community has a special place in his heart. Rudy has seen many changes over the years and yet a consistency in the people.
(SB)
Rudy says the people he encounters at the games or at his shop serve as another opportunity to make each day better. In Rudy's view, working hard doesn't have to kill you or your spirit. For Bobcat Update, I'm Gustavo Torres.
11/12/16
Colleen Payne
What's the one event in New Braunfels, Texas, where you can find polka music, pitchers of beer and men dressed in Lederhosen? Bobcat Update's Colleen Payne has the answer.
nat sound
sound pop
Wurstfest is an annual German beer and food festival held each year 20 miles south of San Marcos, in New Braunfels.
sb
People from all over come to experience the polka music and rich German culture.
sb
Some attendees have made it a tradition to come to the event every year.
sb
For others, it's much more that just a celebration.
sb
Beside the carnival rides and memories made, the best part of Wurstfest is...
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SU: Whether you come for the beer, food or music, you're guaranteed a great time. After all, it's the "wurst" time of the year. For Bobcat Update, I'm Colleen Payne.
nat sound
sound pop
Wurstfest is an annual German beer and food festival held each year 20 miles south of San Marcos, in New Braunfels.
sb
People from all over come to experience the polka music and rich German culture.
sb
Some attendees have made it a tradition to come to the event every year.
sb
For others, it's much more that just a celebration.
sb
Beside the carnival rides and memories made, the best part of Wurstfest is...
sb
SU: Whether you come for the beer, food or music, you're guaranteed a great time. After all, it's the "wurst" time of the year. For Bobcat Update, I'm Colleen Payne.
Alyssa Fincher
Alkek Library is hosting several events this month to help Texas State students get a jump start on their final exams. Alyssa Fincher has more on the story.
Texas State's library hosted a Night Against Procrastination last week to encourage students to be better prepared for their finals. For some students, the event could not have come at a better time.
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The Night Against Procrastination included research help and a quiet environment for students who may need a break to combat their stress levels.
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All library events are the brainchild of ( name).
SB
More activities are scheduled at Alkek this month, including a screening of American Sniper. For more information about upcoming events, check out the library's website or its Facebook page. For Bobcat Update, I'm Alyssa Fincher.
Texas State's library hosted a Night Against Procrastination last week to encourage students to be better prepared for their finals. For some students, the event could not have come at a better time.
SB
The Night Against Procrastination included research help and a quiet environment for students who may need a break to combat their stress levels.
SB
All library events are the brainchild of ( name).
SB
More activities are scheduled at Alkek this month, including a screening of American Sniper. For more information about upcoming events, check out the library's website or its Facebook page. For Bobcat Update, I'm Alyssa Fincher.
Brooke Cowey
In a town that is no stranger to construction, San Marcos can now add Sessom Drive to its construction projects. Brooke Cowey has the story.
Stand Up
Sessom Drive is currently a sea of orange due to construction. The construction zone is affecting traffic and causing certain bus routes to be changed.
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The extra time it takes to get to and from campus is causing frustration among students.
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The changed bus routes were not just a surprise to students. Bus drivers found out about the route changes on THE day that they were switched.
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For Bobcat Update, I'm Brooke Cowey.
Stand Up
Sessom Drive is currently a sea of orange due to construction. The construction zone is affecting traffic and causing certain bus routes to be changed.
SB
The extra time it takes to get to and from campus is causing frustration among students.
SB
The changed bus routes were not just a surprise to students. Bus drivers found out about the route changes on THE day that they were switched.
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For Bobcat Update, I'm Brooke Cowey.
Andrea Tullos
The end of the semester is near, which means finals are approaching. Andrea Tullos tells us more in this Bobcat Update.
Finals... a most dreaded word that many college students hate to hear. In a month, students will be pulling all-nighters, drinking endless amounts of coffee and surviving with little sleep. Alkek Library has a few tips and tricks to help students during this stressful time. Senior Alyson Crooms works at SLAC on the fourth floor. She says SLAC is closed during finals week, but its services are available until then.
SB - Alyson Crooms
If you don't need a tutoring session and just want to study, you'll find accommodations at the library during finals week. Alkek will be open around the clock weekdays, and on the weekend, it will stay open until three a.m. The library offers some unique stress relievers.
SB - Tra Boggas
Finals this year will be held from December 9th to December 16th. Preparation is helpful in getting ready for the big week.
SB - Alyson Crooms
SB - Tra Boggas
SU - Andrea Tullos
Finals... a most dreaded word that many college students hate to hear. In a month, students will be pulling all-nighters, drinking endless amounts of coffee and surviving with little sleep. Alkek Library has a few tips and tricks to help students during this stressful time. Senior Alyson Crooms works at SLAC on the fourth floor. She says SLAC is closed during finals week, but its services are available until then.
SB - Alyson Crooms
If you don't need a tutoring session and just want to study, you'll find accommodations at the library during finals week. Alkek will be open around the clock weekdays, and on the weekend, it will stay open until three a.m. The library offers some unique stress relievers.
SB - Tra Boggas
Finals this year will be held from December 9th to December 16th. Preparation is helpful in getting ready for the big week.
SB - Alyson Crooms
SB - Tra Boggas
SU - Andrea Tullos
11/8/16
Gabriel James
The sorority Alpha Delta Pi hosts a night of music and fun. Bobcat Update's Gabriel James has more on what is being called Wes Fest.
Texas State's Alpha Delta Pi Sorority will have its first ever Wes Fest at Sewell Park on Friday. The event, which will be open to the public, will provide food, games and entertainment and a performance by recording artist Wes Walker.
SB?
Alpha Delta Pi's President Jordyn Kukla says Wes Fest was created to help The Ronald McDonald House Charities and the A-D-Pi Foundation.
SB?
SU: 2016 is the first year of this West Fest but hopefully won't be the last. The infectious positive energy is hard to deny and so is free food. For Bobcat Update, I'm Gabriel James.
Texas State's Alpha Delta Pi Sorority will have its first ever Wes Fest at Sewell Park on Friday. The event, which will be open to the public, will provide food, games and entertainment and a performance by recording artist Wes Walker.
SB?
Alpha Delta Pi's President Jordyn Kukla says Wes Fest was created to help The Ronald McDonald House Charities and the A-D-Pi Foundation.
SB?
SU: 2016 is the first year of this West Fest but hopefully won't be the last. The infectious positive energy is hard to deny and so is free food. For Bobcat Update, I'm Gabriel James.
Hailey Kellum
It's a Texas State tradition for students to jump in the river after receiving their diplomas. Bobcat Update's Hailey Kellum finds out how December graduates feel about this tradition.
Graduating seniors are often asked about their future plans, but they also have another important question to answer: Will they participate in the tradition of jumping in the river? The ritual has been a part of Texas State for years but December graduates face a chillier challenge. For that reason some Bobcats weren't sure if they would take the dive.
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Mass Communication Senior Aaryn Cantu says she learned about the tradition after she saw pictures of people jumping in the river wearing their caps and gowns.
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The weather causes the most concern but students decided they wouldn't let a few moments of cold water hold them back.
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Standup: Whether it's rain or shine, it seems like most Bobcats will be turning their tassels and taking a plunge. For Bobcat Update, I'm Hailey Kellum.
Graduating seniors are often asked about their future plans, but they also have another important question to answer: Will they participate in the tradition of jumping in the river? The ritual has been a part of Texas State for years but December graduates face a chillier challenge. For that reason some Bobcats weren't sure if they would take the dive.
SB
Mass Communication Senior Aaryn Cantu says she learned about the tradition after she saw pictures of people jumping in the river wearing their caps and gowns.
SB
The weather causes the most concern but students decided they wouldn't let a few moments of cold water hold them back.
SB
Standup: Whether it's rain or shine, it seems like most Bobcats will be turning their tassels and taking a plunge. For Bobcat Update, I'm Hailey Kellum.
Travis Tyler
Texas State's student government encourages students to come out and participate in a healthy debate. Travis Tyler has the story in this Bobcat Update
With all the commotion going on with the elections, the Student Government at Texas State decided to take all that energy and put it into something students could be a part of.
SB:
Student Government along with college Democrats and college Republicans held a political debate in the L-B-J student teaching center to discuss policies and share their stances prominent issues that are hot in today's news
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During the debate the students were allowed to ask questions to College Republican representative Connor Clegg and college Democratic representative Ben Salinas about their positions on certain topics.
SB:
Many attendees said they felt the debate went well.
SB:
Some felt a bit differently.
SB:
This is the second event held by student government in a series called Bobcats United whose goal is to bring forth discussion and encourage students to address issues that are important to them as well as bring unity to the San Marcos community.
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Stand-Up: Student Government plans on holding another event next week on the 18th. So if you're interested go to studentgovernment.dos.txstate.edu to get details on current and past events, or stop by their office on the fourth floor in L-B-J. For Bobcat Update I'm Travis Tyler.
With all the commotion going on with the elections, the Student Government at Texas State decided to take all that energy and put it into something students could be a part of.
SB:
Student Government along with college Democrats and college Republicans held a political debate in the L-B-J student teaching center to discuss policies and share their stances prominent issues that are hot in today's news
SB:
During the debate the students were allowed to ask questions to College Republican representative Connor Clegg and college Democratic representative Ben Salinas about their positions on certain topics.
SB:
Many attendees said they felt the debate went well.
SB:
Some felt a bit differently.
SB:
This is the second event held by student government in a series called Bobcats United whose goal is to bring forth discussion and encourage students to address issues that are important to them as well as bring unity to the San Marcos community.
SB:
Stand-Up: Student Government plans on holding another event next week on the 18th. So if you're interested go to studentgovernment.dos.txstate.edu to get details on current and past events, or stop by their office on the fourth floor in L-B-J. For Bobcat Update I'm Travis Tyler.
11/7/16
Leanne Kelley
The Student Government of Texas State has passed legislation to name the newly constructed area that runs parallel to the Quad. Leanne Kelley has this Bobcat Update.
The S-G-A wants to name the area that runs from the Undergraduate Academic Center to the Den. Commons. S-G-A voted on the legislation late last month. Student senator Elijah Miller is excited about the legislation he helped pass.
SB: Elijah Miller
Students and faculty think giving the area a name will give it a point of reference and make it easier for students to put it to use.
SB: Professor Weston Nowlin
SB: Elijah Miller
Commons is familiar name on campus. The area that's being named is next to the Commons Dining Hall, which has served Texas State students for many years.. For Bobcat Update, I'm Leanne Kelley.
The S-G-A wants to name the area that runs from the Undergraduate Academic Center to the Den. Commons. S-G-A voted on the legislation late last month. Student senator Elijah Miller is excited about the legislation he helped pass.
SB: Elijah Miller
Students and faculty think giving the area a name will give it a point of reference and make it easier for students to put it to use.
SB: Professor Weston Nowlin
SB: Elijah Miller
Commons is familiar name on campus. The area that's being named is next to the Commons Dining Hall, which has served Texas State students for many years.. For Bobcat Update, I'm Leanne Kelley.
Christina Lockridge
If you're looking for a way to give back to the community, the Student Volunteer Connection is here to help. Bobcat Update's Christina Lockridge has more on the story.
The Student Volunteer Connection at Texas State is an organization geared toward connecting students to volunteer opportunities in the San Marcos area, including helping the hungry and the homeless.
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Texas State Senior Rebecca Long is attending the event because she sees it as a great way to give back.
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Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week begins on Monday, November 14. The week includes a canned food drive to benefit the Hays County Food Bank.
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For more information on how to get involved, visit the Student Volunteer Connection's website. For Bobcat Update, I'm Christina Lockridge.
The Student Volunteer Connection at Texas State is an organization geared toward connecting students to volunteer opportunities in the San Marcos area, including helping the hungry and the homeless.
SB
Texas State Senior Rebecca Long is attending the event because she sees it as a great way to give back.
SB
Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week begins on Monday, November 14. The week includes a canned food drive to benefit the Hays County Food Bank.
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For more information on how to get involved, visit the Student Volunteer Connection's website. For Bobcat Update, I'm Christina Lockridge.
11/6/16
Rachel Bloom
Some Texas State students are bringing salsa to San Marcos. Bobcat update's Rachel Bloom has the story.
Salsa on the Square is a monthly event held at Stonewall Warehouse. It is presented by the Latin Music Studies department and brings salsa music to Texas State.
SB
Salsa del Rio and Orquesta del Rio from Texas State both performed.
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It was a fun time for everyone that made it out.
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The event is open to anyone 18 or older and there is a five-dollar cover charge for anyone under 21.
Stand up: The next salsa night will be on December eighth. For Bobcat Update I'm Rachel Bloom.
Salsa on the Square is a monthly event held at Stonewall Warehouse. It is presented by the Latin Music Studies department and brings salsa music to Texas State.
SB
Salsa del Rio and Orquesta del Rio from Texas State both performed.
SB
It was a fun time for everyone that made it out.
SB
The event is open to anyone 18 or older and there is a five-dollar cover charge for anyone under 21.
Stand up: The next salsa night will be on December eighth. For Bobcat Update I'm Rachel Bloom.
Kelci Benesch
Several Texas State students celebrated Diwali this past weekend. Here's Kelci Benesch with more on the story.
Traditionally, the festival of lights, called Diwali, represents the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. It is a religious, cultural, and social occasion celebrated by many. For the Indian Student Association, Diwali is also an opportunity to promote unity and diversity all at once.
[SB]
At the event, students performed a mixture of traditional and modern song and dance -- all influenced by their unique heritage. The event creates a connection to a culture that some Texas State students have never experienced before. Senior Candace Beck has attended the event twice.
[SB]
The evening was rounded out with a traditional Indian supper and a feeling of harmony. The twinkling lights and the chime of bells are much more than an attention grabber. They tell a story of heritage and history. For Bobcat Update, I'm Kelci Benesch.
Traditionally, the festival of lights, called Diwali, represents the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. It is a religious, cultural, and social occasion celebrated by many. For the Indian Student Association, Diwali is also an opportunity to promote unity and diversity all at once.
[SB]
At the event, students performed a mixture of traditional and modern song and dance -- all influenced by their unique heritage. The event creates a connection to a culture that some Texas State students have never experienced before. Senior Candace Beck has attended the event twice.
[SB]
The evening was rounded out with a traditional Indian supper and a feeling of harmony. The twinkling lights and the chime of bells are much more than an attention grabber. They tell a story of heritage and history. For Bobcat Update, I'm Kelci Benesch.
11/5/16
Christi Kerr
Salsa Night is an event celebrating salsa music and dancing. Bobcat Update's Christi Kerr tells us more:
Salsa Night happens the first Friday of the month at the Stonewall Warehouse. The Latin Music Studies program at Texas State hosts the event where two salsa bands, Salsa del Rio and Orquesta del Rio, perform. Salsa Night gives attendees the chance to dance and listen to a kind of music that they wouldn't normally hear at bars on the square.
(SB)
Several music majors from Texas State attend the event.
(SB)
The last salsa night of the semester will be held on December 9th from 9 until midnight. There's no cover charge for those 21 and over. Those who are 18 to 20 years old are charged five dollars. For Bobcat Update, I'm Christi Kerr.
Salsa Night happens the first Friday of the month at the Stonewall Warehouse. The Latin Music Studies program at Texas State hosts the event where two salsa bands, Salsa del Rio and Orquesta del Rio, perform. Salsa Night gives attendees the chance to dance and listen to a kind of music that they wouldn't normally hear at bars on the square.
(SB)
Several music majors from Texas State attend the event.
(SB)
The last salsa night of the semester will be held on December 9th from 9 until midnight. There's no cover charge for those 21 and over. Those who are 18 to 20 years old are charged five dollars. For Bobcat Update, I'm Christi Kerr.
Nick Hayes
The Square in San Marcos is known for its popular bar scene, but one club in particular sticks out from the crowd - leaving its Marc for people to remember. Nick Hayes has more in this Bobcat Update.
The Marc is a night club that stays busy during the late night hours. Different themes are associated with different nights, bringing variety to the atmosphere.
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With plenty of space and an abundance of alcohol, the Marc provides a place for patrons to enjoy themselves while blowing off steam.
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Flexible hours are offered to employees who are enrolled in school.
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Mostly on the weekends, the Marc hosts musical artists from a wide variety of genres. Tickets often sell fast and the concerts bring in large crowds. For example, an upcoming show with electronic music producer Marshmello is already sold out for November 17th.
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Still, safety should never be a concern with up to ten or 12 security guards available during large turnouts to keep the crowd under control.
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The Marc is open Tuesdays through Saturdays from 10 p.m. to 2 am. It is located on the square downtown across from the old courthouse. For Bobcat Update, I'm Nick Hayes.
The Marc is a night club that stays busy during the late night hours. Different themes are associated with different nights, bringing variety to the atmosphere.
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With plenty of space and an abundance of alcohol, the Marc provides a place for patrons to enjoy themselves while blowing off steam.
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Flexible hours are offered to employees who are enrolled in school.
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Mostly on the weekends, the Marc hosts musical artists from a wide variety of genres. Tickets often sell fast and the concerts bring in large crowds. For example, an upcoming show with electronic music producer Marshmello is already sold out for November 17th.
SB
Still, safety should never be a concern with up to ten or 12 security guards available during large turnouts to keep the crowd under control.
SB
The Marc is open Tuesdays through Saturdays from 10 p.m. to 2 am. It is located on the square downtown across from the old courthouse. For Bobcat Update, I'm Nick Hayes.
Shelby Powell
The Texas State University STEM program will receive a five-point-eight-million-dollar grant the federal government. Bobcat Update's Shelby Powell has more on the story.
Texas State is one of 21 universities this year to receive U-S Department of Education funding. The five-point-eight million dollars will promote STEM, which is short for Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. The grant will be distributed incrementally over a five-year period to help students succeed in the STEM-related disciplines.
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The grant will specifically target Hispanics and low-income students who are seeking degrees. Some students have ideas on how the STEM program could be improved
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For Bobcat Update, I'm Shelby Powell.
Texas State is one of 21 universities this year to receive U-S Department of Education funding. The five-point-eight million dollars will promote STEM, which is short for Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. The grant will be distributed incrementally over a five-year period to help students succeed in the STEM-related disciplines.
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The grant will specifically target Hispanics and low-income students who are seeking degrees. Some students have ideas on how the STEM program could be improved
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For Bobcat Update, I'm Shelby Powell.
Sydney Herrera
A referendum has been approved that will lead to the expansion of the L-B-J Student Center. Sydney Herrera has more, in this Bobcat Update,
The L-B-J Student Center is home to many different offices and food venues for students. With Texas State constantly growing, the center is reaching its limit. More space is needed to serve students.
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To help solve the issue, the L-B-J Student Center staff proposed a building expansion. Students voted on a referendum last semester that would increase the student service fee by 18 dollars over the next two fall semesters to help fund the expansion. Sixty-eight percent of those who voted were in favor of the expansion. The L-B-J staff has already begun making small upgrades for students to enjoy.
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The renovated L-B-J Student Center is expected to have a ballroom that is twice the size of the current one. Also, there will be more meeting rooms on the fifth floor and a new information desk. Some students are very excited about the possibilities.
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SU: The L-B-J Student Center is still waiting on final approval from the Board of Regents to start the expansion. Once approved, the L-B-J Student Center is said to be completed over the next three years. For Bobcat Update, I'm Sydney Herrera.
The L-B-J Student Center is home to many different offices and food venues for students. With Texas State constantly growing, the center is reaching its limit. More space is needed to serve students.
SB
To help solve the issue, the L-B-J Student Center staff proposed a building expansion. Students voted on a referendum last semester that would increase the student service fee by 18 dollars over the next two fall semesters to help fund the expansion. Sixty-eight percent of those who voted were in favor of the expansion. The L-B-J staff has already begun making small upgrades for students to enjoy.
SB
The renovated L-B-J Student Center is expected to have a ballroom that is twice the size of the current one. Also, there will be more meeting rooms on the fifth floor and a new information desk. Some students are very excited about the possibilities.
SB
SU: The L-B-J Student Center is still waiting on final approval from the Board of Regents to start the expansion. Once approved, the L-B-J Student Center is said to be completed over the next three years. For Bobcat Update, I'm Sydney Herrera.
11/4/16
Miracle Robinson
During November beards are not only a style or for warmth...in some cases they are grown to create awareness about cancer. Bobcat Update's Miracle Robinson has more.
SU
Texas State University's Police Department is for the second consecutive year promoting No Shave November. The police department is united in a cause that affects more than 22-thousand people daily.
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For U-P-D, the buy-in price is 25-dollars per person -- even though not every officer is expected to make it through the entire month without shaving.
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Officers aren't the only ones joining the No Shave November campaign. Students are, too.
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Texas State student Kyle Spencer says that he decided not to shave because of his great uncle who is battling cancer.
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Whether it's to raise donations or to raise awareness, No Shave November is going strong.
SU
SU
Texas State University's Police Department is for the second consecutive year promoting No Shave November. The police department is united in a cause that affects more than 22-thousand people daily.
SB
For U-P-D, the buy-in price is 25-dollars per person -- even though not every officer is expected to make it through the entire month without shaving.
SB
Officers aren't the only ones joining the No Shave November campaign. Students are, too.
SB
Texas State student Kyle Spencer says that he decided not to shave because of his great uncle who is battling cancer.
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Whether it's to raise donations or to raise awareness, No Shave November is going strong.
SU
11/2/16
Tobin Lavalley
Increasing tuition costs are an issue on every college student's mind but one Texas State Student is taking a stand to unite others to share their frustrations. Tobin Lavalley has more in this Bobcat Update.
Hannah Durrance has dedicated her free time, between working two jobs and raising three children, to share her story with students on the quad. Hannah is a soon-to-be-homeless single mother who has maxed out her student loans and is just one class short of graduation.
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On Friday Hannah and her children held signs in the quad telling their stories and encouraged students to make their own signs.
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Hannah says that she has spoken with the University and there are no more financial aid options available to her to finish her final class but she still gets letters from Texas State in the mail like this one.
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The Durrance family has been busy packing the things in their home to put into storage and even though they'll be living out of their car until they find a more permanent solution, they say sticking together is the most important thing. For Bobcat Update I'm Tobin Lavalley.
Hannah Durrance has dedicated her free time, between working two jobs and raising three children, to share her story with students on the quad. Hannah is a soon-to-be-homeless single mother who has maxed out her student loans and is just one class short of graduation.
SB
On Friday Hannah and her children held signs in the quad telling their stories and encouraged students to make their own signs.
SB
Hannah says that she has spoken with the University and there are no more financial aid options available to her to finish her final class but she still gets letters from Texas State in the mail like this one.
SB
The Durrance family has been busy packing the things in their home to put into storage and even though they'll be living out of their car until they find a more permanent solution, they say sticking together is the most important thing. For Bobcat Update I'm Tobin Lavalley.
Samuel Herbert
Texas State hosted a modern day civil rights leader this week. Samuel Herbert has more.
Lupe Gonzalo, a community organizer for the Coalition of Immokalee (Im-ock-ah-lee) Workers, came to Texas State to speak to students about worker living conditions. The C-I-W is based in Immokalee, Florida. The C-I-W educates tomato, pepper, and strawberry pickers about their legal rights. Gonzalo encourages students to get involved in the effort.
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The fast food chain Wendy's has not signed the Fair Food Agreement. The Agreement is a legally binding contract to purchase only produce that comes from certified farms in good standing with the C-I-W. These farms must provide shade, water and living wages for their workers. McDonalds and Subway HAVE signed the agreement.
Gonzalo says students can get involved by joining a community letter delegation
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According to the Gonzalo, these efforts should bring Wendy's corporate leaders to the bargaining table for farm workers rights. Gonzalo will soon finish her tour of Texas at a similar outreach event in San Antonio. For Bobcat Update, I'm Samuel Herbert.
Lupe Gonzalo, a community organizer for the Coalition of Immokalee (Im-ock-ah-lee) Workers, came to Texas State to speak to students about worker living conditions. The C-I-W is based in Immokalee, Florida. The C-I-W educates tomato, pepper, and strawberry pickers about their legal rights. Gonzalo encourages students to get involved in the effort.
SB
The fast food chain Wendy's has not signed the Fair Food Agreement. The Agreement is a legally binding contract to purchase only produce that comes from certified farms in good standing with the C-I-W. These farms must provide shade, water and living wages for their workers. McDonalds and Subway HAVE signed the agreement.
Gonzalo says students can get involved by joining a community letter delegation
SB
According to the Gonzalo, these efforts should bring Wendy's corporate leaders to the bargaining table for farm workers rights. Gonzalo will soon finish her tour of Texas at a similar outreach event in San Antonio. For Bobcat Update, I'm Samuel Herbert.
11/1/16
Isaac Garza
There's a mastermind behind the official Texas State Twitter account. We find out more in this report from Isaac Garza.
Spending hours per day on Twitter is trending.
SB
Texas State has around 67-thousand followers. Students tweet using the official Texas State Twitter account to stay updated on events, express complaints, and show school spirit. But do they ever think about the person behind the account?
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Social Media Coordinator Jon-Stephen Stansel is the wizard behind the Texas State Twitter account. He and a student worker tweet all day from a windowless office at the J-C Kellam building.
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Stansel is constantly monitoring Twitter for tweets that have any reiteration of "Texas State" and mean tweets don't seem to phase him.
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Whether the tweets about Texas State are negative or positive, it is Stansel's job to keep the voice of Texas State consistently charismatic with a flare of style at times.
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No, he can't stop the rain, but he can let people know that classes are cancelled. In fact, during the last flooding crisis in September, Twitter was the method of communication that informed many people that classes were officially cancelled.
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Stansel admits he likes to get geeky with some tweets, and that the times he gets to make a prospective Bobcat's day by congratulating them on their admission far outweighs the plethora of negativity coming at him daily.
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SU: So next time you tweet @TXST, maybe think about the person at the receiving end. An eagle eye. Always watching. Always listening. Always caring for us Bobcats. For Bobcat Update, I'm Isaac Garza.
Spending hours per day on Twitter is trending.
SB
Texas State has around 67-thousand followers. Students tweet using the official Texas State Twitter account to stay updated on events, express complaints, and show school spirit. But do they ever think about the person behind the account?
SB
Social Media Coordinator Jon-Stephen Stansel is the wizard behind the Texas State Twitter account. He and a student worker tweet all day from a windowless office at the J-C Kellam building.
SB
SB
Stansel is constantly monitoring Twitter for tweets that have any reiteration of "Texas State" and mean tweets don't seem to phase him.
SB
Whether the tweets about Texas State are negative or positive, it is Stansel's job to keep the voice of Texas State consistently charismatic with a flare of style at times.
SB
No, he can't stop the rain, but he can let people know that classes are cancelled. In fact, during the last flooding crisis in September, Twitter was the method of communication that informed many people that classes were officially cancelled.
SB
Stansel admits he likes to get geeky with some tweets, and that the times he gets to make a prospective Bobcat's day by congratulating them on their admission far outweighs the plethora of negativity coming at him daily.
SB
SU: So next time you tweet @TXST, maybe think about the person at the receiving end. An eagle eye. Always watching. Always listening. Always caring for us Bobcats. For Bobcat Update, I'm Isaac Garza.
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