Alexis Gonzales

The city of Kyle is branding itself in a new way. Bobcat Update's Alexis Gonzales has the scoop on what makes Kyle, Texas, special.
 
For those who haven't heard, Kyle is on its way to becoming the Pie Capital of Texas.
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The Texas Pie Company has been in business for almost 20 years. They serve pies, casseroles, and more, but it is their homemade touch that continues to draw in people from all over. 
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Becoming the Pie Capital of Texas isn't just for the Texas Pie Company. Many businesses have joined in on the initiative and are getting "certipied".
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If you haven't already been to the Texas Pie Company, come out, have a slice, and see why Kyle wants to be named the Pie Capital of Texas. For Bobcat Update, I'm Alexis Gonzales.

Sean Mitchell

San Marcos is now home to the aircraft that led hundreds of others in the D-Day invasion. Bobcat Update's Sean Mitchell has the story.

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Housed in a 1943 vintage wooden hangar, the Central Texas Wing at the San Marcos Airport is home to some historic military war birds -- just like this one here called "That's all Brother."
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The C-47, as it is called, was sold after the end of World War II passing from one civilian to the next.
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Luckily, a historian from the Air Force tracked it down, and the plane has since made its way to San Marcos.
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This plane was chosen to lead the pack, in part, because of its name.
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A lot of effort has gone into restoring the C-47.
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An anniversary associated with the aircraft is coming up soon.
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As for the future of "That's all Brother," it seems quite bright.
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If you would like to check out the first aircraft to drop paratroopers on D-Day, you'll have a chance when the Central Texas Wing offers tours in the coming weeks. For Bobcat Update, I'm Sean Mitchell, that's all brother.

Greg Arellano

Spring fashions have arrived, leaving San Marcos students and retailers eager to make their runway debuts. Bobcat Update's Greg Arellano has more. 

A runway show --- hosted by the Fashion Marketing Student Association -- proved that spring is the perfect time for fashion to blossom. Spiffy styles were presented by local shops like Pitaya, Voge Boutique, and Texas Sk8. Students modeled the looks on an impressive courthouse runway.
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For the retailers, the runway show was the perfect place to get their brand's name out to the public. 
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The Fashion Marketing Student Association usually hosts spring and fall shows every year. If you're interested in attending the next one, follow the organization's Facebook page for more info. 
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Christina Noriega

It's important that people know some safety tips to help them in case they're attacked. Texas State realizes this and offers the Krav Maga self-defense course. Bobcat Update's Christina Noriega was able to get a closer look at the training.

The instructor says anyone can learn the techniques, and practicing them can make it second nature.
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Krav  Maga is a form of self-defense that translates to Contact Combat. The course is offered in the Pecos building at Texas State. The instructors teach basic skills that are needed to defend oneself from an attack.
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The University's Police Department offers the course throughout the year. Lessons focus on sharpening natural instincts and applying them to life-like training scenarios. The curriculum teaches one how to punch, kick, palm strike, defend from the ground and much more. After taking the course, students find themselves more confident in how to protect themselves.
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Brianna Zemlicka

Exercising just got a lot more fun with the help of a new fitness studio in San Marcos. Brianna Zemlicka has the story.
 
The new studio, called City Surf Fitness, is located at 700 North L-B-J, and it opened about three weeks ago. The studio has surfboards assigned to each person who works out. Andrew Heller owns City Surf in Austin and San Marcos. There are now nine franchises.
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The studio offers many surf-inspired classes including boot-camp, ballet bar and yoga. The studio has four trainers.
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Socks are required for every class. Towels and water are available in the studio. For more information visit the City Surf Fitness website. For Bobcat Update, I'm Brianna Zemlicka.

John Gonzales

Downtown San Marcos is home to Gil's Broiler -- where they serve up burgers and fries as any typical American diner would. However, there's something special on the menu that a lot of students and San Marcos residents crave. Bobcat Update's John Gonzales tells us about it in this report:

What makes Gil's world famous is the Manske roll.
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The Manske rolls first hit the scene in the 1940s. Lyndon Johnson often visited his alma mater and was known to drop in at Gil's when he was in town. He even had a personal batch ordered for the White House. The rolls are a part of the city's history and tradition, so much so that you may have heard the slogan: You haven't been to San Marcos until you tried a Manske Roll!
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The rolls are so good that they've been shipped to every state in the lower 48. The next time you find yourself in downtown San Marcos, stop by Gil's Broiler and get yourself a world famous Manske Roll. For Bobcat Update  I'm John Gonzales.

Kristen Flowers

The impeachment retrial of student body president Connor Clegg last week turned into a sit-in at the L-B-J Student Center. Bobcat Update's Kristen Flowers has more.
 
What was expected to have been an impeachment trial last Wednesday ended as a sit-in protest calling for Connor Clegg's removal as president after the session failed to attract enough senators and representatives to meet quorum.  Pan-African Action Committee Founder Tafari Robertson and Student Senator Claudia Gasponi were among the leaders of the protest.
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In response to the protests, employees from the office of Student Diversity and Inclusion, as well as the Vice President for Student Affairs, showed up to diffuse the situation and address student concerns.
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Along with Clegg's resignation, the protestors are demanding a full-time immigration attorney be hired, more transparency between administration and students, and a more diverse faculty. The Dean of Students, Dr. Margarita Arellano, issued a statement.
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Connor Clegg's term ends tomorrow, but student activism is apparently far from over. For Bobcat Update, I'm Kristen Flowers.

Bryson Hennington

There's a new organization in town that's shaking up dance floors in an unconventional way. Bryson Hennington has the story.
 
Do you have a pair of high heels stored away in your closet? Do you like to dance but can't find an outlet to express yourself? Well, Queen Empire Dance might be the organization for you. The group gives Texas State students an opportunity to empower themselves through heel dancing while promoting fitness and confidence. Students from all backgrounds are encouraged to join.
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President Naomi Sutton encourages students to leave the outside world behind on the dance floor. She says dancing can relieve stress.
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Member Sage Sowels says the organization has had a positive impact on her life.
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Queen Empire Dance meets bi-weekly on Thursdays at 7 P-M in the Student Rec Center. More information can be found on the group's Instagram and Twitter pages. For Bobcat Update, I'm Bryson Hennington.

Halee Brewer

Texas State students are preparing for graduation. With about three weeks left to the end of the semester, students are purchasing gowns, caps and class rings. Bobcat Update's Halee Brewer has the story.
 
Graduation is coming up soon, and some seniors are on the fence about the expenses that go into graduation. The extra costs can be a burden. 
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Caps and gowns are a necessary purchase for those attending the commencement ceremony, and some students also want to purchase class rings. Class rings can cost more than one-thousand dollars, and the cheapest go for about five-hundred. 
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Students can purchase their caps and gowns online at bookstore-dot-txstate-dot-edu. The last day to purchase is April 29th. For Bobcat Update, I'm Halee Brewer. 

Trista Castillo

The event is rewarding for the volunteers who participate and the homeowners who benefit. Trista Castillo tells us about the 16th annual Bobcat Build.

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Thousands of students gave up their Saturday last weekend for a day of community service. The tradition that has become Bobcat Build makes a  difference. 
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Volunteers did everything from raking leaves to planting and cutting trees, but their favorite part was the feeling.
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Job site homeowners expressed gratitude and at times were emotional. 
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So what does it take to be a volunteer for Bobcat Build? -- one Saturday and a giving spirit. For Bobcat Update, I'm Trista Castillo.

Chandler Watson

Retirement may be the last thing on the minds of college students, but Kissing Tree San Marcos may change your perspective. Chandler Watson has taken a look at the development south of San Marcos and files this report:

With approximately 18-hundred acres of land, Kissing Tree is growing fast with new homes being built daily. The development was established two years ago, and it has attracted prospective homeowners from around the nation. Forbes magazine chose Kissing Tree as one of the best places to retire. The neighborhood has a lot to offer.
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Being between San Antonio and Austin doesn't hurt either.
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An eye-appealing feature of the development is the Hill Country landscape. Kissing Tree preserves that essence with a slew of greenery and down home vibes. Texas State students are able to get involved as well. Kissing Tree has internships and jobs for those who are interested.
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Eric Ramirez

An organization dedicated to keeping San Marcos clean and sustainable is presenting a concert series this month. Eric Ramirez has more.

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This is the second year Keep San Marcos Beautiful has hosted Live on the Lawn, which was formally known as the Spring Concert series. A different sustainability theme is used each week. Recent themes have been on transportation as well as water and energy.
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The free event is family- and dog-friendly.
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Interactive activities begin at 6:30. Music starts at 7:30. [WHICH DAY OF THE WEEK?] For Bobcat Update, I'm Eric Ramirez.

Bennett Rodriguez

There's an exciting sport that people are talking about in the San Marcos community. It's called Pickleball. Bobcat Update's Bennett Rodriguez has more on the story.

SU  There's a new sport sweeping the San Marcos area that is attracting the attention of the  elderly community. The sport is a very social sport, so when you show up, don't show up with a sour attitude. Pickleball is the name of the game.

Pickleball is a team sport that's a cross between badminton and tennis. It's a very soft sport to play, which makes it perfect for people with health issues. Many San Marcos residents are playing  Pickleball to stay active and in good health.
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Pickleball is held every Tuesday, Thursday and Friday at the San Marcos Activity Center from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Registration is free, and equipment is provided. For Bobcat Update, I'm Bennett Rodriguez.

Cassandria Alvarado

A historic location in San Marcos is open to the public. Bobcat Update's Cassandria Alvarado has more.

SU-You've probably driven past it a dozen times. It's a small wooden cabin located in the Veramendi Plaza -- a short distance from downtown San Marcos, but what do you really know about this quaint little cabin?
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The Merriman Cabin is open to the public the first weekend of every month on Fridays and Saturdays from 11 a-m to 3 p-m.  
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For Bobcat Update, I'm Cassandria Alvarado.

Jourdan Bazley

Some nights can be frustrating when you're trying to fall asleep. No matter what you do, the zees are elusive. Texas State is conducting studies into what contributes to a better night of sleep. Jourdan Bazley has the story.

The Department of Respiratory Care offers a test that many college students may find useful. The Department's Sleep Center tries to find solutions if you're having problems sleeping. You might be eligible to participate in a study.
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Sleep patterns are examined to find out what causes restless nights. 
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The Sleep Center will soon move to the Texas State Round Rock campus, where it can benefit from having more programs, faculty and staff.
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From breathing masks to medication, the sleep center can assist you in getting the rest you need.
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Catherine Claunch

Many students are already trying to line up work for the summer. Bobcat Update's Catherine Claunch has some tips that may help you if you're looking for a job.
 
Texas State's annual part-time and summer job fair took place on campus last week. From summer camps to sales and marketing opportunities, the job fair had a variety of employers searching for workers who, for the most part, have one thing in common.
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For those who may find the job search to be a bit overwhelming, Texas State's Career Services can help:
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Jobs4Cats is an online job board available to students. You can find it on the Career Services' web page. It features opportunities both on and off campus. Another resource is an app called Career Fair Plus, which lists details about the upcoming career fairs.
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Mercedes Johnson

If you haven't spent any time in Sewell Park recently, then your day to go is coming up. Texas State's annual Riverfest will soon mark its 15-year anniversary, and Bobcat Update's Mercedes Johnson tells  you why you don't want to miss it.   
  
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This year Riverfest is expected to be a rave!
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A lot of preparation goes into putting Riverfest together.
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Garrett Brietzke

A local charity continues to fuel San Marcos students who are struggling with hunger. Bobcat Update's Garrett Brietzke (Brit-skee) has the story.

School Fuel is a non-profit organization that provides meals for mal-nourished children in the San Marcos School District. The organization holds many events to raise money for students, including a benefit concert at AquaBrew. Jenny Mangrum, President of School Fuel, says the charity has a positive impact on the kids it serves. Students perform better in the classroom when they're not hungry.   
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An AquaBrew manager, David Jones, says he's hoping the concert will help School Fuel's cause.
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Zach Butler

Some students are defying gravity as they climb to new heights. Bobcat Update's Zach Butler tells us about the rock climbing center that Texas State has to offer.

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The Texas State Rec Center offers students the chance to face their fears and reach some new highs. The only requirement: you can't be afraid of heights.

The Rockwall Climbing Center is an all-inclusive facility that sits in the heart of the Texas State Rec Center. Rockwall attendant Nik Farrell says the view can't be beat.
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The facility features two 54-foot climbing towers where students can rope climb and a bouldering center for students who don't like to be tied to a rope. Texas State Graduate student Sara Salisbury says there's a big difference between the two types of climbing.
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Farrell encourages any level of climber to come and try out the wall.
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First-time climber Jacob Armitage says rock climbing brings out an assortment of feelings.
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The Rockwall actually played an important part when Salisbury was choosing to go to Texas State.
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If you want an adrenaline rush, the Rockwall Climbing Center is open every day at the Rec Center. For Bobcat Update, I'm Zach Butler.

Talia Johnson-Watkins

Many students like to drink coffee to get their day started. They roll out of bed, get dressed and hit up their favorite coffee shop. Some of the coffee shops in San Marcos offer more than just brew. Talia Johnson-Watkins has more in this Bobcat Update.

Students and locals often go for coffee but stay for the atmosphere and entertainment. For example, the Stellar Café, a coffee shop on the Square, is known for its specially-crafted drinks and perfect-for-studying atmosphere. Stellar Café barista Maci Shipman says the shop attracts a lot of students who are focused on studying.
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Of course, Stellar Café makes good coffee, and what sets the shop apart from its competition is the variety of coffee and tea that is offered. Shipman says Stellar even has a healthy version of espresso that customers like.
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While the Stellar Café takes pride in the quality of its drinks and its unique atmosphere. some coffee shops are more focused on providing good entertainment and fun. Wake the Dead Coffee House, on Old Ranch Road 12, schedules events every week and puts an emphasis on providing a fun experience. Wake the Dead barista Molly Hayes says she loves how family-oriented the shop is. She also says that there's always something going on at Wake the Dead.
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A Wake the Dead regular, Chelsey Menec, says she loves the shop's environment -- from the coffee, to the staff, to the flowers on the back patio.
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Buzzmill Cafe is a local coffee shop that emphasizes the importance of community. Buzzmill Chief of Culture Jason Sabala says Buzzmill more than anything just wants to have an impact.
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Buzzmill also holds a variety of events. Sabala says Meatless Monday's and open mic night are popular.  
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Open Mic Night coordinator Faylita Hicks says Buzzmill is a good place for artists of all kinds to get their start.
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Hicks says Buzzmill has its own residency program that helps artists build their career.
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San Marcos is rich with a wide array of coffee shops. Whether you go to one to grab a cup and run, or if you stick around to study or socialize, the coffee shops in San Marcos have it all. For Bobcat Update I'm Talia Johnson-Watkins.

Greg Arellano

A public relations project regarding medical marijuana is aiming to plant positive seeds in the realm of public opinion. Bobcat Update's Greg Arellano has the story. 

This isn't your class average assignment. Students Tyerra Scott, Trent Spilman, Taylor Kroutter, Julia Wilson and Cecily Williams have been tasked with conducting research and charting their success as they map how their efforts have changed public opinion on medical marijuana.
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Charles Kaufman, a senior lecturer in the School of Journalism and Mass Communication, says that the project's goal isn't advocacy per se, but to measure how successful the students are in conducting research and impacting public opinion. 
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Though they entered this project as relatively uninvolved observers of marijuana law, it has become apparent that over time, the subject matter has struck a personal note for the students. 
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Mary Diegel

A potential new major is in the works for the Theatre Department. Mary Diegel has the story.

Texas State's Theatre and Dance department offers a variety of majors but so far doesn't have a major specifically for film. The Theatre Department is considering whether to make it so.
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Some students, like the Performance and Production major Ray Pettigrew, say the new major would be beneficial.
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Currently, Performance and Production majors can only list film studies as an emphasis. One reason the department has NOT created a film MAJOR is that the Theatre Department lacks some of the necessities to make it happen.
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Having the classification of film major may help students advance in their careers.
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Shelby McElwee

Texas State welcomes transfer students from all over, and a handful of them are athletes. Bobcat Update's Shelby McElwee (Mack-ool-wee) has more.

Finding the school that fits you best can be a challenge, and finding a school where you can continue your athletic career can be even harder. Some athletes attended other schools before calling Texas State home.
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The reasons for coming to Texas State vary, but the students who decide to make the change all have at least one thing in common: They're all Bobcats now. For Bobcat Update, I'm Shelby McElwee. 

Brianna Zemlicka

Greek life has returned to Texas State, and some big changes have been made. Brianna Zemlicka has the story.
 
Following the alcohol-related death of fraternity pledge Matthew Ellis, Texas State created new guidelines for sorority and fraternity chapters. Some of the new guidelines include training offered by the university's Greek Affairs Office. Before a chapter is allowed to host any kind of social event, date function or tailgate, at least 75 percent of its members must attend a training session. 
Alpha Xi Delta Sorority member Tyler Shinn says she thinks Greek life will be different now.
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Beginning next school year, the number of social events a chapter can host will depend on the chapter's grade point average. If a chapter holds a two-point-seven or higher G-P-A, it will be allowed four registered social events a semester with or without alcohol.
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For more information, visit the Greek affairs office located in L-B-J room 4-14. For Bobcat Update, I'm Brianna Zemlicka.

Alexis Gonzales

A Texas State geography instructor has found some unique ways to engage his students in the classroom, and he's a Twitter star to boot. Bobcat Update's Alexis Gonzales explains. 

Senior lecturer Brian Cooper is an exceptional teacher who has had an impact at Texas State.
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Many students want to take Dr. Cooper's class.
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Cooper is well known on and off campus.
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His Twitter following is huge.
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Whether you're a geography major or just looking to fulfill your science credit, Brian Cooper is sure to make your semester a little more exciting. For Bobcat Update, I'm Alexis Gonzales.