4/19/17

Quinlan Crowell

The use of drones is becoming more common. Journalists now use them as do many people who fly them as a hobby. Bobcat Update's Quinlan Crowell tells us more.

Unmanned Aerial Vehicles, better known as drones, were for a long time used mainly by the military. However, smaller, lighter drones are now being mass produced and sold retail, so just about anyone can get their hands on one.
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Media outlets have been using drones to cover major events, such as concerts, parades and even floods.
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To safely and legally fly a drone, new pilots must pass a government-mandated course that trains them on how and where to fly.
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Texas State University started offering a course this spring for students who may be interested in flying drones. For Bobcat Update, I'm Quinlan Crowell.

4/18/17

Ke'Anna Bullard

The BOKO Awards ceremony, honoring individuals and organizations at Texas State, is an annual tradition at the university. Bobcat Update's Ke'Anna Bullard tells us about the ceremony last Thursday.

Texas State is home to hundreds of unique organizations and clubs. Every organization offers something different to the campus, and the BOKO Awards were established to honor these organizations.
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General award categories included Greek, Recreational and Religious with more specific categories like Outstanding Educational Program being awarded for specific events hosted by organizations.  
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Winners included Cat Camp, Quidditch and Kappa Delta Chi. Organizations do not do their activities for the sake of awards, but they do appreciate the recognition.
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For a full list of winners, you can go to Bobcat Update-dot tumblr-dot-com. For Bobcat Update, I'm Ke'Anna Bullard.

Jonathan Szedeli

The impact of suicide can be devastating for family members who survive. There is always a question of why. Bobcat Updates Jonathan Zit-Lee shows us the personal perspective of suicide on the Texas State campus.

According to the U-S-A Today, more than eleven-hundred college students take their lives each year and the suicide rate among young adults has tripled since the 1950s. But statistics do not put faces to those numbers.
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Five months ago, Green took his own life. The loss has a lingering effect on the loved ones he left behind.
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Texas State student Joshua Szczeblewski recalls getting to know Travis last year while doing a documentary about his life.
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While many questions may remain regarding the reasons why Travis took his life, Gregory offers up some personal advice that could help others who may be struggling.
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Other resources available to students include the Counseling Center which offers free and confidential sessions by trained professionals as well as mental health and psychiatric services at the Student Health Center. Gregory had hopes that Travis would seek out this assistance
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Travis Green leaves behind a legacy full of accomplishments. He was a published poet, actor, rapper and was also the Student Organizations Council President. Gregory says that he leaves behind a huge shadow that loved ones will always be chasing.
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For Bobcat Update, I'm Jonathan Szedeli
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Andrea Cordova

New laws in Hays County could change how food trucks do business in San Marcos. Bobcat Update's Andrea Cordova has more on the story.
 
The Hitch is a popular location among students and locals for unique food. The trucks offer a lot of choices. Want a burger? A kabob? Want to eat Columbian food? How about Indian? They're all at the Hitch. But because of a new law, everything could change.
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Owners of trailers at The Hitch run like a family business. They stick together. They have hopes the San Marcos City Council will help them stay in business.
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Even though their trucks are being threatened, the owners remain optimistic. After all, they have big dreams.
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If you're in the mood for good eats and good treats, come to the corner of C-M Allen and Hopkins. For Bobcat Update, I'm Andrea Cordova.

4/17/17

Kathryn Macchia

Mister Fest, short for My Radio Festival, is an annual event in San Marcos for local and regional artists to display their musical talents. Bobcat Update's Kathryn Macchia has more on the story.
 
Fans of student radio station K-T-S-W gathered at the Dahlia Woods Gallery in downtown San Marcos recently to celebrate the history  of MR Fest.
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MR Fest started as a one-day, one-venue event in 2008. It has grown to feature more than 60 performing artists at several locations in downtown in San Marcos. MR Fest is now a two-day event.
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Preparations for MR Fest begin a year in advance.
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All MR Fest events are free to attend, but donations are accepted and they go to a local charity. This year's proceeds will be donated to the Hays-Caldwell Women's Center.
(Stand up) The tenth annual MR Fest will take place on April 28th and 29th in downtown San Marcos. For Bobcat Update, I'm Kathryn Macchia.  

4/15/17

Jennifer Galvan

The Leadership San Marcos recently hosted a Duck Dash fundraiser on the banks of the San Marcos River. Bobcat Update's Jennifer Galvan has more on the story.

The race featured hundreds of rubber ducks on a closed course. Participants could adopt a duck for five dollars and have a chance to win prizes worth more than one thousand dollars.
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The San Marcos Youth Service Bureau provides free after-school and summer programs for area youth. With this event, the bureau plans to purchase a new passenger van.
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Even though not all participants won, they were still excited to be part of the fundraiser.  
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SU: Proceeds from the event will support the Leadership San Marcos Class of 2018. For Bobcat Update, I'm Jennifer Galvan. 

Jacey Yarbrough

Texas State is honoring its own. At a ceremony last week, several Bobcats -- among them faculty, staff and students -- were recognized. Bobcat Update's Jacey Yarbrough tells us about Bobcat Pause -- a ceremony to honor those who died this past year.
  
Tears were shed as friends and family stood to recognize their dead loved ones. The 30th annual Bobcat Pause honored 38 students  and faculty who have passed away. Former student body President Andrew Homann, says the ceremony is important to bonding former and current bobcats.
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The walls of the L-B-J ballroom were lined with tables filled with pictures, candles, and even favorite hats and flowers of the deceased. Renae  Murdock stood proudly behind a picture of her mother, a former professor. Murdock says her mother's legacy will endure at Texas State.
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 The San Marcos High School choir performed before the  service, and President Denise Trauth spoke about how much the past students and faculty meant to the university. Director of Bobcat Pause, Leanna Mouton, says everyone who attended the ceremony is connected.
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Stand up

4/12/17

Dylan Anguiano

The Writing Center on campus is hosting workshops to help students improve their writing skills. Bobcat Update's Dylan Anguiano has more.

Throughout the semester, students write research papers and essays for their classes. Making sure the essay is organized and has all the correct punctuation and grammar can be a daunting task for some students. The Writing Center helps  students become better writers. 
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Write Time! is a workshop held Mondays from noon to 2:30 in the afternoon and on Thursdays from 2 to 4:30. It is designed for students to practice their writing. Students can meet with a tutor for a one-on-one session and receive  feedback.
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In additional to Write Time!, the Writing Center offers a variety of other workshops. Some of the workshops include creative writing and PUG review. The Writing Center is located on the ground floor of the Academic Services Building North across  from the Den. 
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SU: With finals right around the corner, don't wait until the last minute to come to the Writing Center. For more information, go to the Writing Center website. For Bobcat Update,  I'm Dylan Anguiano.

4/11/17

Adam Carreno

Live music, dancing and a swinging good time for all -- downtown San Marcos was a festive place this past weekend. Bobcat Update's Adam Carreno has more.

San Marcos hosted its 25th annual Swing on the Square festival Saturday to honor Western Swing Music and the pioneers who helped create it.  
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Swing on the Square offers live music and some unique events like "Brew Hop Craft Beer Tour" and "the Texas Swing Hall of Fame Show"
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San Antonio street was closed to make room for a stage and dancing.
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Swing on the Square features a farmers market and a gospel brunch. Art was also for sale, and there were activities for all ages. The event started in Austin 1987, but after five years its organizers decided to relocate to San Marcos where it has been since.
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Jacob Villarreal

Organizers say it was the largest Easter egg hunt ever in San Marcos. Bobcat Update's Jacob Villarreal attended the event and files this report.

The Easter Egg Drop Extravaganza at San Marcos High School on Saturday provided attractions for children and their families -- including inflatable bouncy houses, slides and face painting.
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The main attraction, however, was a helicopter flying overhead, dropping thousands of eggs for children to collect and enjoy. Multiple drops were made for different age groups.
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The event, voted as a Best of Hays community event, was hosted by volunteers and staff members of the Eikon church.
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(SU)There were four drops totaling close to 75-thousand Easter eggs. Eikon church plans on hosting the event again next year. For Bobcat Update, I'm Jacob Villarreal.

4/9/17

Jayci Hess

Drag queens slayed the runway for a good cause at a beach-themed party in Stonewall this past weekend. Bobcat Update's Jayci Hess has the story.

What you see here isn't your basic runway model. She's a dancer and performer - the full package. A beach party and drag show last Friday was for a charitable cause:
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The drag show was downtown at Stonewall- San Marcos's first and only primarily L-G-B-T-Q-friendly bar. The crowd was treated to nine fierce performances including one of Stonewall's queen bees, Brianna Saint James.
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April is sexual assault awareness month and the queens sashayed the runway to spread awareness and raise money for an important cause. 
su- "I'm here outside of stonewall where the drag show is and all of the proceeds are going to the Hays-Caldwell Women's Center. for Bobcat Update, I'm Jayci Hess."

Brittany Hill

The Mural Art Committee of San Marcos is asking experienced local artists to participate in a project. As Bobcat Update's Brittany Hill explains, the project is to create a colorful and inspiring mural along the restroom wall of Rio Vista Pool.

There are already several murals in highly visible areas throughout the city. The Mural Art Committee wants to add another.
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Many San Marcos residents are hoping the mural will send a positive message.
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The Mural Art Committee will seek the public's input in choosing an artist to lead the project.
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The public will also be able to participate by painting with the artist during community paint days.
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(SU) Submission guidelines can be found at  San Marcos dot r-x dot gov forward slash arts. For Bobcat Update, I'm Brittany Hill.

4/8/17

Jasmine Clark

Texas State helps showcase the shared musical roots of the Lone Star State and Mexico. Bobcat Update's Jasmine Clark has more.
 
The Center for Texas Music History features Texas Music History Unplugged. It offers musicians an opportunity to discuss the many influences behind their work, and students benefit from being exposed to the different cultures associated with Texas music.
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Dr. Hartman says the event has a different theme each year.
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The Morales Sisters say the music of their childhood influenced their Mexican-American spin on music.
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Dr. Hartman says the center's educational mission will continue as will the celebration of Texas music history.
Texas is home to many notable musicians, and, at this year's Texas Music History Unplugged, Bobcats celebrated the roots of Tex-Mex music. For Bobcat Update, I'm Jasmine Clark.

Morgan Burrell

A new ride-hailing service is starting up in San Marcos. Morgan Burrell (buh-RELL) tells us more in this Bobcat Update.
 
My Ride T-X, a company similar to Uber and Lyft, will begin offering transportation services to students and locals within a few weeks.
Co-managing partner Evan Wright says My Ride T-X is different from its competitors. Drivers for My Ride T-X are required to complete background checks, fingerprinting and drug screenings. Drivers will also keep a large portion of their nightly earnings, while customers should expect to pay less than other ride-hailing services.
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Co-managing partner Steve Wright says the My Ride T-X business model is unique.
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Also, My Ride T-X won't have surge pricing during peak hours. Stonewall Warehouse General Manager Chris Rue says having the service might reduce the number of alcohol-related tickets in the city.
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Stand Up

Tyler Dumas

They call themselves the Hardest Working Band in Texas Hill Country. The Shady Rest Band is keeping busy these days. Bobcat Update's Tyler Dumas has the story.

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It's a sunny Sunday afternoon in San Marcos…and The Shady Rest Band is playing its seventh show in as many days.  Having such a hectic schedule is normal for the Texas band.
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By virtue of its rigorous performing schedule, hilarious social media presence, and good old-fashioned quality song-writing and picking... the Shady Rest Band is one of the best known and most beloved in Central Texas. The band is based now in San Marcos, but its roots lie about one-thousand miles to the west.
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Core members Nate Guthrie and C-K Dangerbird share singing and songwriting duties in the band…which has seen multiple line-up changes since it was formed. The Shady Rest often features a rotating cast of guest musicians who dig the band's  loose and friendly approach.
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The band members are well-known for their between-songs comedic banter, but they also have a solid reputation for musicianship with elements of folk, bluegrass and Americana. They offer a rootsy soup of music that is uniquely Shady.
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Not long after arriving in San Marcos…the band picked up a weekly gig at the famous Cheatham Street Warehouse. Cheatham Street is where George Strait, Stevie Ray Vaughn and Todd Snider all performed early in their careers.  The Shady Rest Band had only limited success in  
California's Sierra Mountains, but the reception has been quite different in Central Texas. The group has built a significant fan base…and its music keeps pouring out.
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Since 2012 the band has released three studio albums…as well as a solo project from Nate Guthrie.  In 2016 they released Shady Never Sleeps: Live Rest…a live album recorded at the now bulldozed…but once iconic  San Marcos music venue…The Triple Crown.
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When the band is not on the road…you can often catch them performing in San Marcos.
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San Marcos has been good to the band…and they do their best to return the favor. The Shady Rest has been known to perform at house or block parties…or even the Farmers Market.  They also support local causes by hosting  events in the city.
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And San Marcos certainly seems to love them.
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The Shady Rest boys don't plan to slow down anytime soon.  The group has well over 200 hundred shows slated for 2017, and possibly a new album in the works.  So, go check out a Shady Rest show and support local…live  music.  It's one of the things that makes our town truly special.  And San Marcos…always remember…..Keep Shady.  For Bobcat Update…I'm Tyler Dumas.
    

Jason Harris

College campuses across the United States are rich in history and tradition. Texas State is no different. Bobcat Update's Jason Harris  takes a look.
 
Traditions at Texas State come in a wide variety and can vary greatly depending on which Bobcat you talk to. One alumni may tell you that it's tradition to take steps two-at-a-time while on campus. A current student might tell you waiting for parking has become tradition. Both would tell you this(train/traffic shot) has become a San Marcos tradition and neither would be happy about it.
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In its 15th year, Bobcat Build has become one of the most recognized and beneficial traditions in Texas State history.
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Texas State's website lists 27 items on its traditions and landmarks' page; however, most students probably could name only two or three. With enrollment records being set every year, many students feel it's important to honor the university's traditions.
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Every year graduating Bobcats dunk their rings and take the plunge into the river  -- cap, gown and all.
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It will be up to students and the university alike to keep these traditions alive as new generations of Bobcats arrive on campus. For Bobcat Update, I'm Jason Harris. 

4/4/17

Areli Cabildo

People from all over the United States came to San Marcos to attend the Texas Cobra Club meet this past weekend. Bobcat Update's Areli Cabildo has the story.
 
The Texas Cobra Club meets once a year to give people a chance to show off their Shelby cobras. The Shelby Cobra gained recognition for its sporty style and speed.
Cobra Club Director Ken Walker says the meet is similar to a high school reunion.
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This year the Texas Cobra Club hosted more than 150 cars. Visitors were treated to food and entertainment for four days. The event helped raise money for a good cause
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All proceeds and donations go toward helping people with cystic fibrosis. Participants raise between two thousand and four thousand dollars each year.
The annual Texas Cobra Club meet takes place at the San Marcos Convention Center. For Bobcat Update I'm Areli Cabildo

Josh Kelley

Another market day on the quad is coming up soon. Josh Kelley tells us more on this Bobcat Update.

Students and vendors alike are planning for the next market day. It's scheduled for next Tuesday on the quad. Students will have a chance to take a look at new products and maybe  get something they missed the last time.
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Vendors use different techniques to lure busy students.
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The Market day on the quad happens once or twice a month.
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For more information about Market Days on the Quad, check out the events page at t-x State dot e-d-u. For Bobcat Update, I'm Josh Kelley.

4/3/17

Ke'Anna Bullard

During her recent visit to Texas State, world-renowned activist Angela Davis questioned relationships, environmental justice and praised communism. Ke'Anna Bullard tells us more in this Bobcat Update.

America is stolen land. That's how Dr. Angela Davis began her speech Friday at Texas State.
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Dr. Davis, a former member of the Communist Party U-S-A, is known for her political and social activism that led her to appearing on the F-B-I's Most Wanted Fugitives list in the 1970's. Many students admire her outspoken activism, especially  in today's political climate.
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During her speech, Davis urged attendees not to normalize the Trump Administration, a thought that many students apparently agree with.
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Davis also talked about how the American prison system is failing and how capitalism dominates the nation's socioeconomic climate. She said racism is rampant but ordinary people can change the world.
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If you're interested in learning more about the life and works of Dr. Angela Davis, you can check out her latest book, The Meaning of Freedom. For Bobcat Update, I'm Ke'Anna Bullard. 

Andrea Cordova

The Triathlon Club's annual fundraiser, though almost a washout, holds a special place in the heart of one Texas State alum. Bobcat Update's Andrea Cordova has more on the story.
 
Severe weather warnings forced a change of plans for the triathlon this past weekend, but it was a success in attracting competitors. Planners mapped out a perfect scenic route of the hills and trails in the San Marcos area, and Spring Lake, closed off to  the public except for two races, was an ideal setting for swimmers. The event attracted veterans and first-timers alike.
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Participating in a triathlon takes hard work and dedication, and, for one particular racer, it required so much more.
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Nicknamed Chey-tanium because of the metal in her bones, nothing could stop her.
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Though the storm stopped most participants from running across the finish line, results were still posted. And, despite her accident, Chey-tanium finished first in her age-group and second in women's overall.
Rain or shine, those who trained for the race were in it to finish. The Texas State Sprint Triathlon is an annual event. For more information, you can check out the organization's Facebook page. For Bobcat Update, I'm Andrea Cordova.
   

4/2/17

Sterling Pitchford

Keep San Marcos Beautiful is hosting an annual spring concert series called Live on the Lawn. Bobcat Update's Sterling Pitchford has more on the story.

Live on the Lawn is held at the San Marcos Plaza Park. It's a free month-long event featuring live music to bring the community together and promote sustainability. 
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Each week features a different theme related to protecting the environment. The themes include recycling, water conservation and transportation. The live music genres also change each week varying from country to classic rock to Latin jazz. 
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Live on the Lawn promotes local environmental organizations. One of them is called 72 Degrees, which focuses on keeping the San Marcos River clean.
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Stand Up: Live on the Lawn will feature two more shows on April 6th and April 13th. For Bobcat Update, I'm Sterling Pitchford. 

4/1/17

Krys White

If you're looking for something to do on a Friday night, look no further than George's. Bobcat Update Krys White has more.

George's, located on the first floor of the L-B-J Student Center, hosts a variety of events throughout the semester. For example, last Friday it hosted a Table Tennis Tournament.  Players of all skill levels participated.
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The Texas State Table Tennis Association sponsored the event -- its third tournament at George's. The association wants to acquire more tables and have even bigger gatherings.
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((Standup)) The winners of the tournament will win a trophy in addition to other prizes and of course braggin rights. For Bobcat Update, I'm Krys White.

Lauren Crider

For many Bobcats, this semester is their last. They'll soon embark on the next chapter of their lives. Texas State has resources in place to make the transition seem like a breeze. Lauren Crider has more in this Bobcat Update.

Texas State Career Services has been helping Bobcats land their dream jobs for years. The Career Services team guides students in determining which career path is the most suitable. The goal is to match students with available jobs.
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Career advisers offer assistance to current students AND alumni.
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The advisers help create job-winning resumes, and they set up mock interviews to show applicants how to be more effective when  they're being asked questions. Career Services even has a closet full of interview-worthy clothes that can be rented for the big day. 
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(Stand up done in career closet)...For Bobcat Update, I'm Lauren Crider.

Jennifer Galvan

Dance is an art form that can bring people together. Bobcat Update's Jennifer Galvan tells us in this report how the performing arts at Texas State promote diversity.

The university recently hosted an event showcasing dance:
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Dance is appreciated across cultures. It provides opportunities for campus organizations to show off their talent.
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Grupo Folklorico Octochtli, a traditional Mexican dance group, performed at the event with the hope of making more people aware of Mexico's diversity within.
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SU: For more information to join organizations, check out the Texas State website. For Bobcat Update, I'm Jennifer Galvan.