2/24/19

Alexis Richard

Bobcat Bounty is on a mission to end food insecurity at Texas State. Bobcat Update's Alexis Richard (Ree-Shard) has the story.

Food insecurity means lacking the resources to have proper nutrition. Healthy food is something everyone needs to be mentally and physically strong. For college students, food insecurity can be a serious issue, because it can add to the stress they already feel. Having knowledge about nutrition can improve eating habits.
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Bobcat Bounty provides free food and more. The program offers a way for students to get involved. Volunteers are needed to help staff the group's efforts. Graduate Assistant Sawyer Cobb says she loves being apart of Bobcat Bounty. 
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Bobcat Bounty uses social media to connect with students to inform them about healthy recipes and nutritional facts. One goal is to help students build their knowledge about food while also offering options that are delicious. 
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Everyone is welcomed when Bobcat Bounty distributes food on Thursdays in the  F-C-S building, room 187.  For Bobcat Update, I'm Alexis Richard.

2/23/19

ReGine Murray

Radio station, K-Z-S-M, has been hosting a concert series in downtown San Marcos for the past few years. Bobcat Update's ReGine Murray tells us more about what takes place in what's called The Kissing Alley.

The Kissing Alley, located between Hub Cyclery and the Shade Rooftop Patio Bar, is a popular venue for hosting a wide range of events, including weddings.
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The Downtown Association and K-Z-S-M teamed up to start a concert series to attract more patrons to San Marcos and to promote local restaurants.
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The Kissing Alley concert is held every third Thursday of the month during which time businesses stay open later, artists showcase their work, and local bands perform at a concert.
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You can host your own events in the alley by applying online for a permit using the city government's website. For Bobcat Update, I'm ReGine Murray.

Norma Villatoro

The Texas State Comedy Association plans to provide a free monthly showcase for the rest of the semester. Norma Villatoro has the story.

The renovated George's in the L-B-J Student Center is now home to a monthly showcase of sketches, improv, stand-ups, and a mystery presentation. Stand-up chairman Jordan Pilkenton says the Comedy Association tries to put on the best show possible. 
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Texas State senior Andrew Zimmel says he plans to attend.
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If you want more laughs, check out the Comedy Association's Facebook page. It has information about upcoming showcases. For Bobcat Update, I'm Norma Villatoro.

Ashley Bowerman

A San Marcos restaurant is helping a nonprofit organization raise money. Bobcat Update's Ashley Bowerman has the story.

For ten years, Grins Restaurant has helped the organization Family for Life raise thousands of dollars to help fund a camp that unites siblings separated through foster or adoptive care. Family for Life founder Rob Rodriguez says he started the organization after his adopted son, Aaron, was separated from his sister who remained in foster care.  
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When customers purchase a Bobcat paw for one dollar, 100 percent of the proceeds are donated to the organization. Grins Owner Paul Sutphen (SUTT-FIN) says he is proud to partner with the cause.
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Because of businesses like Grins, Family for Life was able to raise 17-thousand dollars two years ago. This year, it hopes to raise 20-thousand.
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Keiyah Johnson

The third Thursday Walkabout in downtown San Marcos offers an opportunity for the community to get together and enjoy an evening of shopping, food, drinks, music and art. Bobcat Update's Keiyah (kee-uh) Johnson has the story.

Originally called the Downtown Gallery Night, the third Thursday Walkabout began in May of 2016 as a way to bring attention to local retailers and artists. The San Marcos Arts Commission and Downtown Association spearhead the event.
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Local radio station K-Z-S-M regularly hosts musical acts for the Walkabout, with performances in the Kissing Alley, next to the Porch. The San Marcos High School Jazz Band played at the most recent concert.
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The next Walkabout will take place on March 21st. For Bobcat Update, I'm Keiyah Johnson.

Alejandro Bazan

The San Marcos Regional Animal Shelter is dealing with an issue. It has too many animals to take care of. Bobcat Update's Alejandro Bazan has the story. 

The shelter is overcapacity and trying to find ways to cope with the situation. To solve the problem, it's trying to have more animals adopted. The shelter has an special now allowing adoptions for only a dollar per animal.
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Several Texas State students have adopted animals from the shelter to give them a safe place to call home. 
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If you would like to adopt a pet, go to the San Marcos Regional Animal Shelter, located at 750 River Road. The special ends tomorrow. For Bobcat Update, I'm Alejandro Bazan.
     

Tynisha Jackson

Canadian Bacon is coming to a stage near you. The Texas State Comedy Association is rehearsing the musical.  Tynisha Jackson has more in this Bobcat Update.
 
The association will debut Canadian Bacon in April. It's a play written and directed by theater major Garrett Buss. Texas State students are responsible for all of the acting, choreography, writing and musical composition. Buss says he always wanted to write a musical, and through the comedy association he had the opportunity to do so.
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The play is about a New York journalist who goes to a small town in Canada that sells bacon. While there, the plot unfolds at a factory and within the town itself. The main character, named Mark, is played by Josh Kok who says he's looking forward to opening night.
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The Texas State Comedy Association spends approximately an hour and a half practicing each song to perfect each of the 12 composition in the play. Musical Director Caitlyn Martinez says the cast is working hard to improve the overall sound.
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Canadian Bacon is set to open on April 27th. For Bobcat Update, I'm Tynisha Jackson.    

Victoria Vasquez

Every day students encounter them on campus. Walk along the quad, and you'll find statues that represent something significant or symbolic. However, Texas State students may realize a glaring omission -- there are no statues of WOMEN to be found. Bobcat Update's Victoria Vasquez tells us more in this report.

The statues on campus serve as a representation of perseverance, free expression and success. One can find statues of President Lyndon Johnson, a Texas State alumnus, the dueling stallions -- the university's free speech zone -- a veteran's memorial, a bobcat and a vaquero. But no women. Texas State English professor. Dr. Sarah Ramírez, says many women are deserving of such a tribute.
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English Professor Dr. Geneva Gano says having a woman represented would really inspire students.
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So far, there are no plans to install a female statue at Texas State. For Bobcat Update, I'm Victoria Vasquez.  

Cartney Sharp

Business leaders and entrepreneurs are often seen on campus. They come to Texas State to help students shape their careers -- by providing insights into what it takes to succeed. Bobcat Update's Cartney Sharp reports on the McCoy School's Business Leadership series.

The business leaders of tomorrow are eager to learn new skills that will help have a real-word impact. Students in the McCoy School of Business Administration have an opportunity to learn from the pros. The theme this year is Innovation.
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Being a successful entrepreneur requires a special skill set and attitude.
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Several times a year Texas State sponsors business career fairs at the L-B-J Student Center to give students a chance to network with business professionals. Resumes and winning smiles are a must for students. More than 50 companies usually show up at the fairs to meet students and find potential recruits.
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The next Business Leadership Week will take place [WHEN?]. For Bobcat Update, I'm Cartney Sharp.     

Allison Johnson

Public relations majors at Texas State know they need to be social-media savvy if they are to be effective in their chosen career path. Bobcat Update's Allison Johnson profiles a student who's already making a mark.
 
Texas State senior Kaylee Smith has a passion for social media management. She made that discovery while taking an advanced social media and analytics course.
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Smith manages the Texas State Common Experience social media accounts. She posts on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
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Since managing the accounts, Smith's tweets have generated large engagement numbers.
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Smith has some tips for those who want to be effective online.
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For Bobcat Update, I'm Allison Johnson.    

2/21/19

Nathan Enerio

Texas State hosts four Bobcat Days each year to help recruit prospective students. Bobcat Update's Nathan Enerio has the story.

Potential Bobcat students gain insight about the university when they attend the events. Texas State showcases what it has to offer and provides information on how to enroll. Student representative Priscilla Macia says students benefit from attending Bobcat Day.
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The L-B-J Student Center is where students check-in for the day and begin their tour. The information that's provided helps high school seniors AND transfer students.
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Eric Coronilla, who's considering Texas State as his college home, says Bobcat Day will help him decide whether the university is the best fit for him.
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Midway through the tour students have lunch at one of Texas State's dining halls and and then they take a guided tours of the residence halls.
At the end of the day, prospective students leave the campus with a better idea of what the future holds for them.
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The next Bobcat Day is scheduled for April 6th. For Bobcat Update,  I'm Nathan Enerio.

Alex Gibbs

A new minor in African-American studies will be implemented at Texas State this fall. Bobcat Update's Alex Gibbs has the story.

The minor will require 18 hours for the study of African-American culture and history. Communications Senior Lecturer Marsha Burney says having the new minor will provide a stepping stone toward a more diverse and inclusive campus.
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Director of Student Diversity and Inclusion Sherri Benn says that while she's proud of the new minor, there's still work to be done.
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Once the minor is available, courses will include such courses as The African-American Experience in Texas and Politics, Power, and Identity in Hip Hop Literature. The full list of courses can be viewed online at Cats-web. For Bobcat Update, I'm Alex  Gibbs.

2/19/19

Eden Freeman

The bike-sharing system, VeoRide, continues to change the way residents get around town. Bobcat Update's Eden Freeman has the story. 
 
VeoRide -- launched in September 2017 -- remains the only bike-share program in San Marcos. The system was set up to offer a reliable and affordable means of transportation for city residents. Many Texas State students use it.
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While some students still prefer using their own means of transportation, they tend to agree that VeoRide is a good thing for the community. 
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VeoRide has a five-year contract with the city. For Bobcat Update, I'm Eden Freeman. 
 
    

Ashley Brown

The Iconic Village Apartments are set to be rebuilt as former residents continue to grapple with last year's deadly fire. Bobcat Update's Ashley Brown has the story.

Seven months have passed since the fire in San Marcos. Since then, an ongoing police investigation and safety concerns prevented former residents from retrieving their property at the complex.  Now, owners of Iconic Village want to rebuild, and they're tearing down the parts gutted by fire.
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Though some residents lost items in the fire, everything else that was left in the apartments was cleared out during the demolition.
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Five people died in the fire last July and more than 200 -- many of them students -- were displaced. Police say the fire was deliberately set, but there have been no arrests. Managers of Iconic Village were asked about the demolition and new construction, but they declined to comment. For Bobcat Update, I'm Ashley Brown.

2/16/19

Isaac Hart

Texas State's University Events Center is almost finished. Strahan Coliseum has been renovated and expanded, and with the changes came a new name. Bobcat Update's Isaac Hart has more on the story. 

The difference is like night and day. The project is now about 99 percent complete. Students and faculty are finally able to see the culmination of the renovations that began in September of 2016. The University Events Center has new and upgraded amenities, most of which are open to students.
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The project also added about 18-hundred seats to Strahan Arena. Coaches and other personnel moved into the building last October, and students seem enthusiastic to experience the changes.
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The expansion came with a price tag of 62-and-a-half million dollars. For Bobcat Update, I'm Isaac Hart.  

Alicia Almendariz

The intramurals season for the spring semester has taken off for Texas State students. Bobcat Update's Alicia Almendariz [Please provide a phonetic spelling.] has more in this report.
 
The Student Recreation Center offers several sports and activities where students can pay a small fee and participate.
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Many students see intramurals as an opportunity to continue their love for a sport while in college. For example, students can stay involved in basketball, softball and extreme dodge ball. For gamers, there are leagues in x-box.
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Students who participate say intramurals provide a healthy way to exercise and an opportunity to build new friendships.
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SU [University Students who wish to participate in any intramural activities can pay a fee of $10-$50. For more information you can log on to ww.campusrrecration.txstate.edu/intramurals. For Bobcat Update, I'm Alicia Almendariz.]

Blair Richmond

The two candidates running for student body president both say they hope to improve the student government's image on campus. Blair Richmond has the story.

Student government this past year has been marred by scandal and resignation. New leaders will be elected this spring to start afresh. Alex Plunkett and Corey Benbow are campaigning for the top job, and they've both pledged that, if elected, they'll complete the full term, while seeking improvements for the student body. 
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Each candidate is eager to accept the challenge of leadership.
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Student government voting is underway. If you'd like to cast a ballot, voting booths are located in the L-B-J Student Center. For Bobcat Update, I'm Blair Richmond.

Emily Garcia

Texas State is offering a new major for students who are interested in health care management. Bobcat Update's Emily Garcia has the story.

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The Health Science major was added to provide an option for students who want to pursue a career in a rapidly growing field in Texas -- health management.
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After completing their degrees, students will be able to fill administrative positions in a wide range of healthcare organizations including physician practices, physical therapy providers, dental clinics and long-term care facilities.
The College of Health Professions already has similar programs, but the new major is considered a better option for students who plan to pursue a master's degree or get a broader education about healthcare.
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Anthony Johnson

Career fairs provide an opportunity for job-seeking students to network with employers. Bobcat Update's Anthony Johnson has the story.

Texas State hosts a number of career fairs throughout the year to help Bobcats entering the workforce after graduation. Companies from a variety of industries participate in the fairs, and often the events focus on specific majors. The main goal is to connect students with potential employers in a face-to-face environment.
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Many graduates have taken advantage of the career fairs.
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With a job market that's more competitive than ever, it can be tough to get your foot in the door. Career fairs make it easier to get your name out there to the people who matter. And who knows, you just might end up landing the job of your dreams. For Bobcat Update, I'm Anthony Johnson.

Odalys Vargas

George's Lounge is back in business on the first floor of the L-B-J Student Center. Odalys [a phonetic spelling is needed] Vargas has the story.

After being closed for several months, the Texas State lounge is again entertaining customers with several improvements. The lounge has a new look, and students, who have seen it, like it.
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However, some students miss the old atmosphere of George's.
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Although George's has re-opened, there are more additions planned for the lounge. [examples please] For Bobcat Update, I'm Odalys Vargas.

Jon Arredondo

Construction at Texas State University is affecting students in how they get to class. Jon Arredondo has the story…

The renovation project at the L-B-J Student Center has resulted in many students finding detours on campus. Ramps and new routes have been created, but some students feel the accommodations aren't enough.
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Students with injuries and disabilities find the ramps difficult to use. They say making their way to class is much harder now.
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The student center renovations are expected to be completed next year. For Bobcat Update, I'm Jon Arredondo.

Geronimo Perez

Many Texas State students are looking for internships. They're hoping the experience will help them be more marketable for employment after graduation. Bobcat Update's Geronimo Perez has the story.

Employers often prefer individuals who have previous work experience. Internships are one way for students to show they've gone beyond the classroom and actually been in the workforce.
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Internships are often unpaid, and they require time and travel commitments.
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But students have resources on campus dedicated to finding internships.
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Students who are planning their post-college careers can go to their department's internship coordinator to find opportunities. For Bobcat Update, I'm Geronimo Perez.   

Hannah Shaw

Texas State students are feeling the effects of the flu season on campus.  Hannah Shaw has the story.
 
Many students have been getting sick but are still going to class. This can cause problems for those who are trying to avoid becoming ill. When students are close together in classrooms, dining halls and study areas, the chances of catching an illness increase.
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The flu causes problems for students who want to go to class but are afraid of endangering their fellow classmates. Many students feel they have to go to class due to attendance policies even if they are sick. 
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The Student Health Center recommends that students get vaccinated to prevent the spread of the flu. For Bobcat Update, I'm Hannah Shaw.

2/1/19

Victoria Vasquez

Texas State University has installed cashless kiosks in Jones Dining Hall and in the Undergraduate Academic Center. Victoria Vasquez has the story. 
 
By choosing from menu options, swiping a card and taking a receipt, students can now pick up their food or drink orders without any interaction with a cashier.  That's possible because the university has installed self-serving  kiosks at those locations. U-A-C Starbucks employee (((Who?) says the change is only temporary.    
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Texas State installed the kiosks to reduce long lines in the dining areas. Texas State senior Alexia Seay says she sees the pros and cons of this new system.
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This is the first installation of its kind at Texas State. Students with cash won't be able to use the kiosks. For Bobcat Update, I'm Victoria Vasquez.

Eden Freeman

Construction in San Marcos impacts students in many ways. Bobcat Update's Eden Freeman has the story. 
 
New construction projects are popping up just about everywhere in the San Marcos area. Texas State students often have to take detours from here to there, especially at the L-B-J Student Center. They've been warned  to expect delays, and the university shuttles are often rerouted. 
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The L-B-J Student Center renovation project should be finished by May of 2020. However, according to Texas State's website, there are more construction projects that will launch next month on campus . 
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Check your Bobcat email for up-to-date information on construction and shuttle changes. For Bobcat Update, I'm Eden Freeman.