3/31/19

Victoria Vasquez

The Black Student Alliance at Texas State will soon present the 29th Annual Image Awards. The awards are for students of color who excel in such categories as leadership, academics and the performing arts. Bobcat Update's Victoria Vasquez profiles one of the contestants.

One candidate has already been in the spotlight, thanks to a video that's gone viral.
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The homecoming video has been seen more than 30-thousand times. Texas State junior Cameron Hubbard, who serves as multimedia editor for the University Star, is in the running for B-S-A's Visual Artist of The Year.  Hubbard says he's had a passion for visual storytelling since he was young. 
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The Image Award nominees are credited for making an impact in the black community. Hubbard says he's honored that his work is getting so much attention and hopes he can continue to put Texas State in a good light.
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Voting for The Black Student Alliance Image Awards ends April 4th. For Bobcat Update I'm Victoria Vasquez.

Alexis Richard

Pointe San Marcos is an apartment complex on a mission. Bobcat Update's Alexis Richard tells us the Pointe got off to a rocky start three years ago but is making a comeback.  

Pointe San Marcos is close to campus and attracts a lot of students, but the apartment complex started off badly. There were construction delays in the beginning and problems with the garage flooring. Also, a flooding drain had to be fixed and continues to be monitored. The Pointe has improved its office where it welcomes residents and potential tenants. The staff hosts weekly events like yoga, workout training and buffet-style meetings. 
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Residents have many opportunities to connect with one another in hopes of creating a community outside of the university. The Pointe is a good place to spend free time and unwind.
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If you're looking for off-campus student housing and open to a community-style apartment, you might like to check out Pointe San Marcos, located on North Comanche Street.
SU: Pointe San Marcos is currently leasing for the fall semester. For Bobcat Update, I'm Alexis Richard.

Alison Quisenberry

Texas State students are no strangers to seeing construction projects all around them. Along with the L-B-J Student Center, Alkek Library is undergoing some major changes. Bobcat Update's Alison Quisenberry (Quiz-in-berry) has details.

The Alkek construction project may seem an inconvenience now, but the 14-point-3 million-dollar project will add some much needed upgrades to the student library. The first, second, fourth and seventh levels are all being renovated.
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The first floor will be technology central, including virtual reality and digital design centers, 3-D printers and an Omni-globe, which will be used for research to map worldwide events, simulating weather patterns and viewing ocean currents. YouStar Studios and a Creative Manufacturing Center will also be found on the first floor.
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The second floor will include a Starbucks, which will be the coffee chain's third location on campus. The fourth floor will remain home to the SLAC tutoring labs and also include a Graduate Commons. The new area for graduate students will have study spaces, a lounge area and lockers.
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Single-occupancy, gender-neutral restrooms will be found on the third and fourth floors. The Wittliff Collections on the seventh floor will be expanded to include a new entrance and larger photo exhibits, as well as the Texas Music and Lonesome Dove Galleries. The Alkek 2020 Vision is expected to be completed by spring of next year. For Bobcat Update, I'm Alison Quisenberry.

Allison Johnson

Texas State University is an emerging research institution, and with that distinction comes new technologies, new majors, AND a new building to house them all. Bobcat Update's Allison Johnson has the story.
 
The doors to the Bruce and Gloria Ingram Hall are officially open. The College of Science and Engineering hosted an open house this past weekend to show off its new five-story building, equipped with up-to-date technology and spaces for an innovative learning environment. Faculty are excited to see what students can accomplish in their new maker-spaces.
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Students are thrilled to have new technology that allows them to be hands-on in their lab sessions.
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The open house had ambassadors of the College of Science and Engineering help promote its programs.
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Students at the open house were also able to reach out to their peers to join science and engineering clubs.
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SU: Ingram Hall is located on Woods Street next to the department of Housing and Residential Life. For Bobcat Update, I'm Allison Johnson.

Keiyah Johnson

San Marcos has a new bar in town. Hops and Grain brewery opened its doors last month. Keiyah Johnson has more in this Bobcat Update.

The bar is near Texas State, which makes it a possible hangout for students and locals. And here's something unique about the Hops and Grain Brewery -- It's powered entirely by wind energy from west Texas farms. Although this method requires more money upfront, the brewery's management says the long-term benefits will outweigh the costs.
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The brewery will host events such as game night and happy hour specials, and board games are available while you have a cold one.
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If the combination of renewable energy and beer is up your alley, then make your way down to Hops and Grain. For Bobcat Update, I'm Keiyah Johnson.

Alex Gibbs

There's a new sports clinic in San Marcos where athletes AND students alike can benefit. Alex Gibbs has the story.
 
A new health center on Thorpe Lane offers medical care for musculoskeletal injuries as well as other common medical problems. A laboratory and x-ray suite are located on-site for quick diagnosis and treatment. The Director of the Texas State Student Health Center, Emilio Carranco, says the clinic is something the Athletics and Health Departments have wanted for a long time.
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Athletics Director Larry Teis says even though the clinic is located off-campus, it offers an extra benefit for all students.
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Dr. Teis says the clinic will also help the university recruit student-athletes to Texas State.
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Standup: Dr. Teis says that both the athletics department and the health department will always try to innovate and find new ways to help all students at Texas State. If you're interested for more information, you can contact them at (512)-245-2161. For Bobcat  Update, I'm Alex Gibbs.

Tom Vazquez

The campus at Texas State University may, for some people, seem like an obstacle course. Bobcat Update's Tom Vazquez explains. 

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Felicia Tapia is one of hundreds of disabled students at Texas State who must deal with ramps and stairs that seem to prevail on campus.
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Tapia says the university should also improve access to its residential halls. 
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If you're a disabled student with a similar story, contact Texas State's Office of Disability Services. For Bobcat Update I'm Tom Vazquez.

Raul Torres

Most of the parks in the San Marcos area are very busy this time of year, but there are still plenty of spots where you can relax or be active. Bobcat Update's Raul Torres has the story:

It's spring, and more students are out floating the San Marcos River, hiking the trails or enjoying other outdoor activities. 
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Here are a couple of alternatives for students who enjoy recreational areas that are quieter and a little less crowded: The Spring Lake preserve is filled with small gold fish and turtles. It's along the Spring Lake hiking trail and stretches for about two miles near the San Marcos River. AND there's the Five Mile Dam Park along a beautiful stretch of the Blanco River where families come out and enjoy the scenery. This place is perfect for a hike or a swim.
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It's officially spring and there are plenty of other places besides the river to enjoy the beauty of San Marcos. For Bobcat update, I'm Raul Torres 

Alejandro Bazan

Texas State has said goodbye to a beloved staff member. Bobcat Update's Alejandro Bazan has the story.

Susan Mullen, also known as Miss Susie, was a familiar face to many Bobcats. She was someone you could count on for words of comfort, encouragement or just a simple smile. 
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Miss Susie passed away in late March after being taken off life support and placed in hospice care. 
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Miss Susie was an example on how to treat others with compassion and will be greatly missed at the university by former and current Bobcats.
(Standup) Her family encourages donations directly to the Hays County Food Bank. The counseling center is also readily available for any students or faculty affected. For Bobcat Update, I'm Alejandro Bazan. 

3/28/19

Darrell Green

San Marcos residents are being urged to stand up for their rights. Bobcat Update's Darrell Green has more on the story.

A non-profit group named Mano Amiga is seeking criminal justice reform. The group serves as an advocate for non-citizens, illegal immigrants and those who have little chance of being heard. They also want to help citizens who face deportation. Members of the group spoke this week in San Marcos at a presentation aimed at reforming the justice system. Mano Amiga raises money and helps call attention to the plight many people face.
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Texas State Alumna (    ) recently found her self on the other side of the law and spent about 45 days in the Hays County Jail -- all because she didn't have what she needed to get herself out of a legal situation she was in. 
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Mano Amiga also holds training sessions to inform citizens about their rights and train them on how to interact with police. The group wants to produce better outcomes for residents of the community. 
SU:  Mano Amiga will host a public defender group event on April 17that Splash Co-workers so be there…. And know your rights. For Bobcat Update, I'm Darrell Green.      

3/27/19

Alex Bulko

Texas State will host a unique opera this week. We learn about the performance in this report from Alex Bulko.

Texas State Opera will premiere Mozart's "The Magic Flute" tonight at 7:30. However, this isn't a traditional opera.
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The classic story and characters are set in a Star Wars universe, which should make the performance an interesting draw for students not familiar with opera.
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With all the excitement comes a lot of pressure though, especially for some of the younger performers.
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((SU)) So we were fortunate enough to be invited for the full dress-rehearsal, and from what I've seen, the show looks amazing. It's something you don't want to miss, and remember it's 7:30 pm this Thursday, and will be playing throughout the entire weekend here at the Performing Arts Center. For Bobcat Update, I'm Alex Bulko.

Alicia Almendariz

The competition is fierce AND fun. Bobcat Update's Alicia Almendariz (ahl-men-dah-reez) tells us about a football league in San Marcos where the objective is to score while riding on unicycles.

Football and unicycles -- combine the two and you'll find a passionate fan base who turn out on Sunday afternoons to see their favorite teams in a showdown on asphalt. The games are held on the parking lot of the San Marcos Activity Center.
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The football games become something quite different because the players use unicycles to make their moves. The tasks of passing, blocking and kicking the ball become much harder while balanced on a wheel.
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The unique sport, created by college students back in 2008, has a high level of competitiveness -- players and fans are really into it.
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SU: The Gnarwhals and Los Bierdos will participate for the fourteenth season championship title on April 7th. For Bobcat Update, I'm Alicia Almendariz.

3/16/19

Preston Cox

Texas State's Sound Recording Technology Department is helping local artists make a giant leap in their development. S-R-T has a reputation of turning amateurs into professionals in how they sound. Bobcat Update's Preston Cox has the story.

Andrew Maktenieks (MAC-TEN-E-AX) is a local music artist who goes by the name Chi Runner. He needed help with the final touches of his first album. He walked into the Firehouse studios on Guadalupe Street and waited for a recording engineer. That's when he met Gary Hickinbotham____ who gave Chi Runner's album a listen. Hickinbotham, a Grammy Award-winning producer, enjoyed what he heard, knowing that it had been produced with entry-level equipment. So, for the next day-and-a-half Hickinbotham shared his wisdom and helped master the album.  
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Chi Runner is using the knowledge he gained from the S-R-T department to produce his next album, and he wants to help other local artists record professionally as well.
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Welcome to L-A is Chi Runner's top hit on Spotify with more than ten-thousand listens. If you have a project that you want to take to the next level, stop by the Firehouse Studios in San Marcos or contact Chi Runner through his website. For Bobcat Update, I'm Preston Cox.

Ashley Bowerman

The Texas State Strutters have performed in more than 26 foreign lands since their establishment in 1960, and now they can lay claim to performing at sea. Bobcat Update's Ashley Bowerman reports on the Strutters' recent adventure on a cruise ship.

The world-famous dance team is the largest of its kind in the nation, with more than 100 student dancers. This spring break, the Strutters were invited to showcase their talent aboard the Royal Caribbean's Liberty of the Seas cruise ship. The team spent hours  preparing for the performance of a lifetime.
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The dancers were nervous but glad to be working as a team.  
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All the preparation paid off after the Strutters delivered a show-stopping 30-minute performance in the ship's main ballroom. The girls say the experience is one they will cherish forever.
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Strutter Director Tammy Fife says the team will always hold a special place in her heart.
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SU: The Strutters have arrived back home in the states, and are now preparing for their spring show, happening here in Evans Auditorium, on April fifth and sixth. For Bobcat Update, I'm  Ashley Bowerman.  

Emily Garcia

Computer science is an industry that's been dominated by men, but things could soon change. More women are entering the field, and Texas State is helping lead the way. Bobcat Update's Emily Garcia has the story.
 
According to ___________________, Texas State is one of the top 25 public four-year colleges in terms of graduating women with computer science degrees. Ere Untawale emigrated from India in hopes of pursuing a master's degree in computer science. She's happy to be here.
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Out of the 253 four-year public institutions, Texas State was ranked 24th overall, showing a 14-point-4 percent increase in female computer science graduates since 2009. [SOURCE!?]
The computer science department has taken steps to create and maintain an inclusive environment to ensure that women, like Ere, are getting the most out their education.
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A computer science degree can lead to careers in software development and instructional technology. These are options Ere says she will pursue when she starts looking for a full time job after completing her master's degree. For Bobcat Update, I'm Emily Garcia.

Hannah Shaw

You don't have to look far on campus to find students who appear to be sleep-deprived, and that lack of sleep has an impact. Bobcat Update's Hannah Shaw tells us how some people are coping.

Texas State Junior Jared Martin says the effects of sleep deprivation are often visible in the classroom. Martin says going without enough sleep results in irritability, inability to focus and a lack of concern for homework.
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Inadequate sleep is linked to numerous health problems such as heart attacks, increased anxiety and high blood pressure.
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Texas State Sophomore Parker Pennington says he's found ways to cope with sleep deprivation but nothing compares to getting the proper amount of rest.
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Not only does sleep deprivation cause health problems, but it also increases one's likelihood of being involved in some sort of accident. So, the next time you're thinking about pulling an all-nighter for an exam, just remember the best way to prepare is to get a good night of sleep. For Bobcat Update, I'm Hannah Shaw.

Cartney Sharp

Texas State University has a diverse population of students. However, some of them take issue with what they perceive as a lack of diversity among the faculty who teach them.  Bobcat Update's Cartney Sharp has the story.

Forbes magazine lists Texas State as one of the best employers for diversity. Evidence showing the university's commitment includes the hiring of a new Chief Diversity Officer, more staff being added to the Office of Equity and Inclusion, and a special assistant now on staff to increase diversity among faculty. But some students complain that the university still has a long way to go.
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While many students feel that minorities are underrepresented among the faculty, some believe that they are getting enough representation.
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While there are many viewpoints on the topic of diversity, one thing rings true—students feel this is an issue that needs to be addressed.
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The newly elected student body president says diversity is one of his concerns. Corey Benbow, who takes office next month, says he wants the university to serve the students better.
SU: For those who want to get involved in increasing diversity on campus, you can contact the student government or attend their public meetings held every week. For Bobcat Update, I'm Cartney Sharp.

Mallorie Sanders

The Texas State Meadows Center invites young adults to participate in a Natural Leaders Summit this weekend. Bobcat Update's Mallorie Sanders has more on this story.

The Natural Leaders Summit is for people who are interested in learning more about conservation and how to lead others in the cause. Registration is underway for adults, ages 18 to 29.  
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Mentors will be at the event to discuss ways to connect with nature. Activities this weekend will include kayaking Spring Lake and learning important survival skills. Organizers of the Meadows Center event say participants will be provided meals and a t-shirt. 
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SU: You can register and find more information at naturalleaders.meadowswater.org. For Bobcat Update, I'm Mallorie Sanders.

Ashley Brown

A popular downtown restaurant is now offering a unique, and exclusive, menu to the San Marcos area. Bobcat Update's Ashley Brown has more:

Buzzmill is now serving food from a vegan-only menu. The restaurant decided to go fully vegan in mid-February. Before the switch, Buzzmill offered options that included both vegan and non-vegan food choices. Now it's vegan all the way. There have been mixed reviews from the public, but for people who follow a vegan diet, they are satisfied with the decision. 
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The ethos of the restaurant's management is focused on helping the environment and  providing healthy alternatives for people who want to try something different.  
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Before adopting the fully vegan menu, Buzzmill bought meat products from the Central Texas Farmers Co-op. In the future the restaurant will continue to buy vegetable products from and make donations to the co-op.
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3/11/19

Branson Fairbrother

San Marcos is once again home to a thriving music supply store. Bobcat Update's Branson Fairbrother has the story. 

Jess and Ace Music Supply, or JAMS for short, has opened its doors as the first music instrument store in San Marcos in almost three years. 
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Having a store again in San Marcos means a lot to the music scene. Before the store opened, local musicians would have to drive to New Braunfels  or Austin to buy strings, cables and other supplies. 
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JAMS is located at 15-08 Aquarena Springs Drive. The store hosts weekly concerts every Saturday. Check out JAMS' Facebook page for more information. For Bobcat Update, I'm Branson Fairbrother. 

3/9/19

Josh Davis

San Marcos is home to a few open mics, but a new one has emerged. It can be found at the Lazy-Daze Coffee shop on Hopkins Street where customers can participate in stand-up comedy. Bobcat Update's Josh Davis has the story.

Hosted by Gabe Cortez, the Lazy-Daze open mic is held every Thursday night at nine o'clock. Cortez says the first time he came to LazyDaze, he knew immediately it would be a great place for comedy.
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Open mics are stand-up shows that anyone can sign up for. They're a great opportunity to try stand-up for the first time or try new material. Comedian Scott Stephenson says LazyDaze is a comfortable place to perform.
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Texas State junior McKenna Segar started performing stand-up comedy a few weeks ago.
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If you're interested in stand-up comedy, the LazyDaze open mic may be the ideal venue to seek some laughs. For Bobcat Update, I'm Josh Davis.

Mark Brown

From Toronto to Beijing, Texas State provides plenty of opportunities to study abroad. Bobcat Update's Mark Brown has more on the story. 

The College of Fine Arts and Communication is enrolling students now to study in London and Paris. Students can register using the college's website. 
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There will be six instructors involved in this year's program, which starts May 18th and ends June second.
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Students who participate are expected to pay a 24-hundred-dollar course fee for which they receive six hours of general education credit. 
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Students may contact any of the six instructors involved if they want more information about the program.
SU: Studying Abroad gives students the opportunity to broaden their insight and gain knowledge on world views. For Bobcat Update, I'm Mark Brown.

Alex Gibbs

It can be a stressful time for students as they take their mid-terms. If the burdens become too much to bear, they can seek help on campus. Alex Gibbs has the story.

According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, 30 percent of college students report stress negatively affects their academic performance. 
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Some Texas State students have also noted that managing a job on top of studying can be extremely hard to handle. 
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The Texas State Counseling Center offers students a chance to step back and relax. Interim Director Heather Aidala says that she's always given simple advice to help students who struggle with anxiety and stress. 
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Aidala also encourages students to reach out and use other resources on campus.
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Standup: Aidala says the despite the challenges students may face when preparing for final exams, help can always be found at the counseling center here at Texas State. If you're interested for more information, you  can contact them at (512)-245-2208 or you can visit their website at counseling.txstate.edu. For Bobcat Update, I'm Alex Gibbs. 

Raul Torres

Grub on the go has been made a lot easier. Texas State recently adopted a new app that allows students to order campus food ahead of time using their mobile devices. Bobcat Update's Raul Torres has more

It may be difficult to grab a quick bite in between classes during busy lunch hours, but with the convenience of a new app called tap-in-go, students can avoid long lines. Tap-in-go is a quick and easy way to order food for pickup or delivery from the restaurants on campus
The app removes some of the the hassle of making transactions and gives students more time to focus on other things rather than waiting. 
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Tap-in-Go also provides easy access to a variety of menus.
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The app means less waiting and more time for living … and eating. For Bobcat Update, I'm Raul Torres.

Alejandro Bazan

Emergency repairs are underway at Rio Vista Falls in San Marcos. Bobcat Update's Alejandro Bazan says officials have safety concerns as they attempt to fix damages caused by flooding. 


Floods that occurred about three years ago caused significant damage. The San Marcos River experienced bank erosion, and the Rio Vista Dam was weakened. Officials say there's potential danger after the second and third drop on the rapids. 
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The river area is still open to the public, but the parks department is warning the public to be cautious while swimming. There are some fenced areas with signs and tape along the banks. 
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Repairs should be finished in a couple of months. For Bobcat Update, I'm Alejandro Bazan. 

Alexis Richard

The student-run radio station at Texas State has much to offer. Bobcat Update's Alexis Richard (Ree-Shard) tells us what listeners can hear when they tune to 89-point-9.

K-T-S-W features a wide variety of music genres -- from rock to hip-hop. Students who work there have a passion for all things media. They gain hands-on experience in such areas as production, programming, graphic design and sports reporting. The possibilities offer a broad range of experience. 
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The radio station gives students a chance to be a part of the community and interact with people they wouldn't ordinarily meet. It's a learning environment where lasting relationships can form.
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For more information, visit ktsw.txstate.edu. For Bobcat Update, I'm Alexis Richard. 

3/7/19

Isaac Hart

Big changes are coming for computer users on campus. For example, anyone using the Windows 7 operating system on their personal or office computers will -- in about a year -- be prohibited from logging on to Texas State's network. Bobcat Update's Isaac Hart has more on the story.

After January 14, 20-20, Microsoft will no longer provide security updates or support for P-Cs running Windows 7. If you plan to be on campus next Spring, you'll need to upgrade. Texas State announced last week that computers running Windows 7 will no longer be allowed to connect to the wired or wireless networks. 
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Hackers, viruses and cyber-crime are a constant threat, which means security updates are a necessity. So, when operating systems are no longer being updated, computers are at increased risk of exploitation. Upgrades are required to keep Texas State information and data safe, for both students and faculty.
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When Microsoft ended support for Windows X-P in 2014, it affected 40 percent of the world's estimated one billion computers. The shift away from Windows 7 is expected to have a similar global impact, but Texas State students don't seem all that concerned. 
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Texas State students can download Windows 10 for free on the university's I-TAC support website. For Bobcat Update, I'm Isaac Hart.

3/6/19

Alicia Almendariz

From jewelry to artwork,  San MARKET provides locals with an opportunity to sell their handcrafts. Bobcat Update's Alicia Almendariz has more details on the artsy event.

Artists  gathered on Sunday to sell their self-made products at San Market. The unique marketplace is an opportunity for locals to network and advertise their works.  
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Admittance  to the event is free of charge. Artists sell a variety of different products like graphic t-shirts, framed artwork, jewelry and stones.
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Market  go-ers can also expect live performances by different artists who entertain the audience with their music.
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San  Market is located at the parking lot next to Juice Monkey and Vitality Bowls every Sunday from 11  a-m-to 4 p-m.
SU:  Anyone is welcome to sell their arts, veggies and crafts at the Sunday San Market. All you have to do is register on the website and pay a fee of 15 dollars to reserve your spot. For Bobcat update, I'm Alicia Almendariz.

Darrell Green

Best Friends for Life -- that's the name of a program for kids who have abilities of all kinds. The program is sponsored by Texas State University and the San Marcos Parks and Recreation Department, and the idea is for children to get together and play. Bobcat Update's Darrell Green tells us why that's important. 
 
The Best Friends For Life Program provides an opportunity for Texas State University students to have a positive impact in the San Marcos community.  B-F-F-L encourages children to play a variety of games for an hour once a week under the guidance of volunteers. 
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This inclusive program was created to help kids  -- ages 2 through 13 -- to socialize and learn, by applying educational concepts as well as music and fitness. 
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One mother has had her daughter in the program for three years. She says it allows her daughter to be around other kids who are different in several ways, but the playtime shows there are similarities as well.
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The B-F-F-L's next meeting will occur on April 1st.
SU: The Best Friends For Life Program is a program that connects the community and Texas State University together and allows kids of all abilities to come together every Monday at the Activity Center. Darrell Green Bobcat Update. 

3/5/19

Victoria Vasquez

Spring Break is right around the corner and many students are looking forward to getting away to enjoy some fun in the sun. Having the time off can be an adventure for the lucky ones, BUT what about the students who are going to be hanging around San Marcos? We talked with some Bobcats to find out how they plan to spend their stay-cation.
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No classes are scheduled at Texas State from Monday March 18th to Friday March 22nd.

3/4/19

Ashley Brown

Many Texas State students are faced with the dual challenge of going to school AND working to pay their bills. Bobcat Update's Ashley Brown tells us how they're able to balance their studies with a job.

San Marcos has its share of restaurants and bars, and most of them depend on students to stay in business. It can be a challenge keeping up with schoolwork and doing what's expected on the job. 
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Few bartenders who go to school get enough sleep. 
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SU: Bartending can be a pretty cool party trick, but when the bars are closing after 12 A-M, and cleanup can go past three, class in the morning can be pretty rough. For Bobcat Update, I'm Ashley Brown.

3/3/19

Mallorie Sanders

There's a possibility that free parking in downtown San Marcos may be coming to an end soon. Bobcat Update's Mallorie Sanders has more.

Parking downtown can be a nightmare. However, one solution being considered is to have metered parking to encourage motorists to shop and then move on. The San Marcos City Council is working on a plan to add parking  meters, which will affect some Texas State students who often park downtown and walk to campus.
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If approved, the parking meters will charge one dollar an hour from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. weekdays. The council hopes this will discourage drivers from abusing the current two-hour parking limit and thereby create more spots downtown for customers and employees. The proposal has upset some people who know they'll have to pay an additional fee to park downtown.
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SU: The plan to add parking meters is up for debate as the council has postponed the decision to a later date. For Bobcat Update, I'm Mallorie Sanders.  

Raven Correa

The San Marcos River is a lot cleaner today -- thanks to volunteers who worked this past weekend to pick up litter and beautify the natural wonder. Raven Correa (Koh-ree-uh) has more in this Bobcat Update.

The Texas River Protection Association organizes the Great Texas River Cleanup. The event is now in its 34th year. Removing litter is important for the natural habitat along and in the San Marcos River.
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By law, endangered species that live in the San Marcos River must be protected.  
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Some volunteers picked up trash along the river banks, while others used canoes or scuba dive gear to collect trash in the water. Participants say their efforts not only improved the environment but were also a learning experience.
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Year round the proper disposal of trash is necessary to protect the San Marcos River and its native species. For Bobcat Update, I'm Raven Correa.

Isaac Hart

Big changes are coming for computer users on campus. For example, anyone using the Windows 7 operating system on their personal or office computers will -- in about a year -- be prohibited from logging on to Texas State's network. Bobcat Update's Isaac Hart has more on the story.

After January 14, 20-20, Microsoft will no longer provide security updates or support for P-Cs running Windows 7. If you plan to be on campus next Spring, you'll need to upgrade. Texas State announced last week that computers running Windows 7 will no longer be allowed to connect to the wired or wireless networks. 
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Hackers, viruses and cyber-crime are a constant threat, which means security updates are a necessity. So, when operating systems are no longer being updated, computers are at increased risk of exploitation. Upgrades are required to keep Texas State information and data safe, for both students and faculty.
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When Microsoft ended support for Windows X-P in 2014, it affected 40 percent of the world's estimated one billion computers. The shift away from Windows 7 is expected to have a similar impact. Some students are reluctant to make the transition while most, not so much.
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Texas State students can download Windows 10 for free on the university's I-TAC support website. For Bobcat Update, I'm Isaac Hart.

Hannah Shaw

Campus safety is a concern at Texas State. Recent headlines have included robberies and homicides involving students. The campus community relies on the University Police Department to ensure safety and awareness.  Bobcat Update's Hannah Shaw has more.

The U-P-D attempts to keep students aware of criminal activity and safety concerns with periodic notifications through e-mail and text alerts.
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Some students say they now travel in groups at night to ensure their safety.
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U-P-D Officer Otto Glenewinkel encourages students to take certain precautions on campus, especially at night.
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Alison Quisenberry

Many seniors at Texas State are already anticipating graduation, and they're making plans and purchases to mark the occasion. That's where Ring Days play a part in the students' rite of passage. Bobcat Update's Alison Quisenberry (Quiz-in-berry) has the story.

The University Bookstore has been busy as students purchase their official class rings. For most students, a Texas State ring symbolizes hard work, significant accomplishment and the completion of a degree. Some would even call it a walking diploma. It's an exclusive honor. The only Bobcats who have the privilege of ordering and wearing Texas State rings are undergraduates who have completed 75 credit hours, graduate students and alumni.
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Students receive their rings at a ceremony. Friends and family are invited to watch as Bobcats are recognized by name while dunking their rings into some San Marcos River water. The ring dunk symbolizes the spirit and tradition the river has brought to campus for more than 100 years.
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The official ring ceremony will be held at Strahan Arena on May 11th. For Bobcat Update, I'm Alison Quisenberry.

3/2/19

Nardos Araya

Authorities have launched a warrant roundup in Texas. Bobcat Update's Nardos Araya has more on what it could mean to you.

Texans, who have warrants filed against them, need to come clean while they can. Law enforcement authorities will soon be knocking on the doors of anyone failing to clear up legal issues. Authorities, though, are hoping most warrants can be handled with simple phone calls. Residents are being warned that now is the time to take care of warrants or face consequences.
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Deputy Marshal Tracy Balusek says a hold being placed on your driver's license is just one action that can be taken against those who fail to take care of their warrants.
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Balusek also says the best way to dismiss a warrant is to contact the city court either by phone, or go there and speak to someone in person. Residents can set up a court date, payment plan or request to pay outstanding fees through community service. For Bobcat Update, I'm Nardos Araya.

L. Nguyen

New student government leaders will take over in April, renewing hope that the next administration will forge a better path. Bobcat Update's L Nguyen has the story.

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Student Government has had a rocky year. Less than a year ago the administration of President Connor Clegg ended in scandal, and he was impeached. A few months later Clegg's successor resigned. With the recent elections came pledges from the candidates to bring more stability to leadership. Many Texas State students are looking forward to it.
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Corey Benbow comes from a small town. He says he has aspirations of being a social justice warrior, and he wants to pursue policies to benefit the student body.
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Benbow and his Vice President, Tucker Thompson, will be sworn into office in April, and they have promised to serve their full terms. They say they plan to ask university officials to reduce school-related fees and increase parking areas. They also want Texas State to strive for more diversity and inclusion.
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Blair Richmond

The Honors College at Texas State has unveiled a new art exhibit. Blair Richmond has more in this Bobcat Update.

The Gallery of the Common Experience, located in the coffee forum of Lampasas Hall, has undergone a recent makeover. Art students have partnered with Common Experience to display their paintings in line with this year's theme -- innovation. The theme promotes starting a conversation about new ideas and methods.
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The artwork also seems to bring inspiration to students.
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If you would like to check out the art exhibit, it's open to the public, free of charge, Monday through Thursday 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Fridays 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. For Bobcat Update, I'm Blair Richmond.

Tom Vazquez

A new form of transportation could make it easier for some students to get around town. Bobcat Update's Tom Vazquez has the story. 

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VeoRide is expanding its fleet by adding 150 electric bikes. The teal-colored EBikes offer a front-drive-motor that assists bikers and helps them reach speeds of up to 18-miles-per-hour. That's the kind of speed some people need to power through a taxing commute.
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The motor assistance makes riding a breeze. 
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And with parking spots at a premium on campus, bikes can be a useful alternative to automobiles. For Bobcat Update, I'm Tom Vazquez. 

Geronimo Perez

The South By Southwest festival and Texas State's spring break won't occur during the same week this year. This could mean some students and faculty will miss out on the annual showcase in Austin. Geronimo Perez has the story.

Spring break is approaching and the same is true for this year's South By Southwest festival. The annual conference in Austin showcases music, film and interactive media, which means opportunities for Texas State students to intern and volunteer.
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However, this year, the festival is scheduled the week BEFORE Texas State's spring break. This means some students and faculty will have to maneuver around school schedules to partake in South-by-Southwest.
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Some professors say they plan to excuse students if they can provide documentation showing they are are attending the festival for academic reasons.
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Some students will just have to make do, or just plan to attend the festival next year instead. For Bobcat Update, I'm Geronimo Perez.