Amanda Escobedo

Texas state has received national recognition for its enrollment of Hispanic students. Amanda Escobedo has more in this Bobcat Update.

Texas State University is now recognized as a Hispanic-serving institution by the U-S Department of Education. In order to receive that status, the university's enrollment of Hispanic students had to reach 25 percent. Having reached that number means Texas State is now eligible for more federal funding.
SB
Stand up: "Texas State University President, Denise Trauth said that achieving the goal of H-S-I status means more opportunities for students and the university, and it means they will be setting more goals: increasing graduation and retention rates of Hispanics are at the top of their list."
Achieving H-S-I status has been a ongoing goal since Denise Trauth became president of Texas State in 2002. Currently, Texas State is the largest Hispanic Serving Institution in Texas. By comparison, the Hispanic enrollment at the University of Texas is less than 10 percent.
SB
...........................................
For Bobcat Update, I'm Amanda Escobedo.

Hollee Barfield

Heated disagreements over tailgate funding and dining options occurred Tuesday
night during the A-S-G Presidential and Vice Presidential debates. Presidential
candidate A-J DeGarmo said new blood is needed in the senate, as opposed to
recycling of members. But candidate Will Fox said DeGarmo feels that way because
no current senator would join his ticket. The full debate can be viewed on the
University Star's website. Elections will be held next Tuesday and Wednesday.

Kaylee Pfeiferling

Alkek Library at Texas State now features a digital production computer lab. Kaylee Pfeiferling (FIFE-ER-LING) has more in this Bobcat Update.

(STAND UP) "The fourth floor of the library is generally recognized as the SLAC floor but is now home to a new digital production lab."
The lab opened this semester and features some of the fastest, state-of-the-art equipment for either PC or Mac users. Among the software programs provided are Audacity, Final Cut Studio, and the entire Adobe Master Suite. The library is even offering assistance with what some would consider advanced programs.
SOUND BITE
The library has five employees who can answer questions and offer help whether it's for recreational use or for class projects.
SOUND BITE
So, whether you're computer savvy or computer illiterate, all students can use the digital lab to help enhance their work. The equipment is available all hours the computer lab is open. Walk-ins are welcome but if you need the extra help, it's recommended you make an appointment with a production team member.
STAND UP:

Louise Armstrong

The conflict in Libya has sparked debate worldwide. Bobcat Update's Louise
Armstrong tells us how some Texas State students have been expressing their
opinions.

The discourse board on the second floor of Evans Hall was set up by the
political science department as a place for students to discuss political
issues. Lately, most of the discourse on the board has been focused on Middle
Eastern issues, specifically the conflict in Libya. Middle Eastern Studies
Instructional Assistant(?)Lisa Edwards says students have been engaged in the
debate for several weeks.
<SB>
The Libyan conflict began in February when violent protests in the city of
Benghazi spread throughout the country. Libyan authorities began using
airstrikes against civilians after President Muammar Gaddafi refused to step
down. Earlier this month the U-N Security Council sanctioned a 'no fly zone'
over Libya and authorized air strikes. Junior Jannell Reyos says students need
to educate themselves about the conflict before adding their opinions to the
board.
<SB>
<Stand Up>

Nicholas Medina

For the first time ever, the Texas State Department of Athletics is giving one
lucky winner the chance to tryout and walk-on to the football team at this
year's Spring Football Game on April 16th. Those interested must pass some
eligibility requirements and apply on the athletics' website. The winner is
decided by performance in a series of drills and will represent the
entire student body on the kick-off team during the first home game of the
2011-2012 football season. For more information go to the Texas State Athletics
website or search Become our Bobcat Try-Outs on Facebook.

Danielle Elisabeth Madsen

Easter is a holiday that is celebrated around the world. At Texas State,
some are celebrating the resurrection of Jesus Christ in a unique manner.
Danielle Elisabeth Madsen has more in this Bobcat Update.

(Stand Up) Many Christian organizations at Texas State are joining together for
a weeklong celebration called Resurrection Week. It will take place April 3rd
through the 7th. The pastor of Crosstalk Ministries, Chris Kipp, says
Resurrection Week will give students an opportunity to learn more about the
gospel message in an entertaining and informative manner.
(SB) Pastor Chris Kipp
Numerous organizers and students are involved with putting together the events
for Resurrection Week.
(SB) Pastor Dick Herman
Some of the festivities for Resurrection Week include an interactive art
mural, a party in Sewell Park, a discussion about what Easter means, and a
Passion Re-Enactment in the Quad.
(SB) Student Savannah Cleveland
(Stand Up) Although the Easter holiday begins on April 24, at Texas State, the
celebration is beginning a little early. For Bobcat Update, I'm Danielle
Elisabeth Madsen.

Kayla Hale

March has been one of the driest months on record in Central Texas.
Water is a resource that cannot be taken for granted. Kayla Hale has more
in this Bobcat Update.

Several Texas State students participated this weekend in an effort to raise awareness
about the need for clean water.
Stand-up
The founder and president of the local Water-Aid Chapter, Maia Holmes, says clean water
sustains life.
Soundbite
Proceeds from the event will help water conservation efforts. Some of the funds will go
to the San Marcos River Foundation.
Students who want to participate can join the Water-Aid Chapter and support upcoming events.
For Bobcat Update, I'm Kayla Hale.

Ana Anguiano

Higher gas prices mean tighter budgets for everyone, including the University Police Department. Ana Anguiano has more in this Bobcat Update.

Student safety is one of Texas State's main priorities, and the recent surge in gas prices might affect how the the police department patrols the campus. Sue Stewart, who handles U-P-D Crime Prevention, says patrol units are under strict guidelines now that gas prices have risen.
Sound bite: "When gas started rising up… we have a policy that we try and keep our mileage down per vehicle, per shift.
The use of each vehicle under U-P-D's control is supposed to be limited to 20 miles or less per day.
Sound bite: "You still have to keep a specific amount of cars out to keep people safe."
Compared with other law enforcement divisions, U-P-D has an advantage because it has less to patrol.
Sound bite: "Because the campus is so small, we patrol all over."
Stand-up: "With the recent rise in gas prices, Texas State University's Police Department says students' safety is their number one priority. In this situation, high gas prices won't mean less patrolling units. For Bobcat Update, I'm Ana Anguiano"

Eddie Garcia

The City of San Marcos is asking for volunteers to fill empty seats on
the citizen boards and commissions. Eddie Garcia has more in this Bobcat Update.

A full list of the open positioins is available on the City of San Marcos
website. Mayor Daniel Guerrero says the main qualification -- besides being
a San Marcos resident -- is to have a willingness to volunteer.
Sound Bite
The open positions are in the Arts Commission, Convention & Visitor
Bureau Board, Human Services Advisory Board, Library Board, Neighborhood
Commission, and the Zoning Board of Appeals.
When filling out the application, it will ask you to rank order where you would
like to be placed. Be sure to designate any special talents that would make you
more suited to a certain board or commission. Once an application has been
filled out and approved by the City Council, you will be informed of the
appointment within a week.
Sound Bite
Stand Up

Anthony Sifuentes

A Texas State graduate student is gathering data about the health benefits of
yoga. Anthony Sifuentes has more in this Bobcat Update.

Graduated Research student Allison Abel recently completed the testing phase of
her thesis research, which seeks to show that Bikram (Beek - rum) Yoga, an
Eastern form of Yoga, can be beneficial for the heart and lungs. For 60 days,
Abel had her subjects perform Bikram, conducting tests before and after. Using
equipment such as a bike, a metabolic cart, a stethoscope, and a blood pressure
meter, she was able to test for maximum voluntary ventiliation, oxygen intake,
carbon dioxide production, and abdominal and respiratory strength.
Standup
A purpose for this research is to shed more light on Bikram Yoga and show it to
be more of an exercising tool than a method of relaxation.
(SB)
Abel's thesis advisor, Exercise Physiologist Lisa Lloyd, says that Abel's work
is important to the study of Bikram.
(SB)
While Abel says this research has been a great learning experience, she wants to
broaden her future work.
(SB)
Abel is comparing the before and after test results and looks to draw a
conclusion in June. For Bobcat Update, I'm Anthony Sifuentes.

Megan O'Connell

The stage has been set for tonight's kick-off concert of the Keep San Marcos
Beautiful Campaign series. The campaign is an initiative to help keep the city
clean by focusing on litter prevention and waste reduction. Tonight's featured
band, Fastball, will take the stage at 8:30. The free event is open to the
public at the San Marcos Parks Plaza located at 401 East Hopkins Street. Food
vendors will be on hand beginning at 6:30, and artworks will be on display.

Hollee Barfield

Texas State will likely experience an on-campus housing shortage next fall. An
increase of incoming freshman, and a lack of available dorms are to blame. The
current demolition of Falls Hall is also contributing to the shortage. There
are currently more than 400 students on a waiting list for the still-standing
dorms, but they are being urged to seek off-campus accommodations.

Louise Armstrong

The Texas State University Associated Student Government has voted in favor of a proposal to make six ramps on campus wheelchair access only. The senators voted 41-to-two on the bill after complaints from the Office of Disability Services that pedestrians and cyclists were making ramps too difficult to maneuver for disabled students. Painted signs will soon be applied to ramps, including the ones on the southside of the Alkek Library and the Jones Dining Hall.

Clair Hugo

Many of us welcome the warmer weather that spring has to offer, but for some it's a time of misery if they suffer from allergies. Clair Hugo tells us more in this Bobcat Update.

The tree pollen count is up, and people are noticing an increase in allergy symptoms
SOUNDBITE
Pollen may be an irritant to those who don't usually suffer from seasonal allergies. Unlike bee-pollinated trees, Oak and Juniper pollens often cause the worst symptoms due to wind pollination. This year it seems to be worse.
STANDUP
Another tell-tale sign of spring is the ever present yellow dust that you can find outdoors. For the allergy-sufferer, it's not a welcome sight. It usually means that a trip to the local pharmacy is in order.
SOUNDBITE (not filmed yet)
For now, we can only hope that rain will reduce the pollen count. For Bobcat Update, I'm Clair Hugo.

Genna Eneman

Associated Student Government elections are less than two weeks away. In this Bobcat Update, Genna Eneman reports on some of the more unusual campaign strategies this year's candidates are using.

Campaign signs and t-shirts began showing up around campus this week signaling it's time again to elect a new A-S-G president and vice president. This year's candidates have big plans to attract votes. William Fox and Shanna Schultz created a cellphone hotline that students can call or text and voice their concerns or ideas for next year's student government to address:
SB
Not only is the Fox-Schultz ticket available by phone, but they will be in the quad 24 hours a day Monday through Friday. Fox decided to camp out in the Quad so that he could be available to students at any time.
SB
Albert Degarmo and Tiffany Roamer will also be campaigning in the Quad, but they won't be taking the same approach as their opponents.
SB
Degarmo and Roamer plan to offer giveaways and a raffle next week. Student body elections will be April 5th and 6th. You can vote online or go to the polls at the L-B-J Student Center and the Quad. For Bobcat Update I'm Genna Eneman.

Erika Everett

Social Media sites -- such as Facebook and Twitter -- may be affecting your life more than you think. Erika Everett has more in this Bobcat Update...

Stand up --> With over 500 million members, Facebook is great for keeping in touch with family and friends. but students should be aware of what they post on these sites as it can be used as a great tool for networking, but can also be used as a weapon against you and your future.
It has become the norm for students to post what they are doing on Facebook without giving it a second thought. But status updates and online pictures can have regrettable consequences -- if care and some measure of discretion aren't exercised.
Senior Desmond Mcafee says he never thought about the effect that his Facebook profile could have on his future until he learned about it in a criminal justice class.
(Soundbite)
Online interaction can play a role in whether students find jobs. Social media are effective networking tools. According to inside-facebook.com, more than 20-thousand businesses have Facebook accounts, and many use them to communicate with potential employees.
(Soundbite)
Students who participate in social media should take full advantage of their networking potential, while remembering to proceed with caution. For Bobcat Update, I'm Erika Everett.

Kelsey Kearns

Texas State University's theater program has gained national renown. Kelsey 

Kearns has more in this Bobcat Update.

The theater department is one of the largest in the South and was recently 

mentioned in a New York Times article.

Stand up (6-8 seconds)

Musical Theater major Cole Harrell appreciates his professors' different

approach to teaching.

SB Harrell (15 sec)

The program is run by industry professionals who provide students with a

real-life perspective to show business. Publicity coordinator Jeremy Torres

says having professors who've had first-hand experience makes all the difference.

SB Torres (15 sec)

With so many industry contacts and a new performing arts center set to open on

campus in 2014, the theater department will likely thrive for many years to come.

For Bobcat Update, I'm Kelsey Kearns.

Alanna Sarabia

A Greek District in San Marcos is taking shape. Several fraternities and
sororities already have houses in the community. Those that do NOT might have an
opportunity to lease houses in the near future. The San Marcos Re-development
Foundation is helping to organize the project. Eventually, the Greek District
will consist of nine houses. Ground breaking is planned for next January.

Nicholas Medina

A lot of construction is taking place at Texas State. Some students might find
it difficult to park or even walk on campus. Major projects underway include a
multi-purpose education facility, a performing arts complex and the North Campus
Housing Complex, which is being built next to the Student Health Center. The
master construction plan -- when fully implemented -- will cost an estimated
619-million-dollars over ten years. It's scheduled to be finished by 20-15.

Louise Armstrong

The South by Southwest Film, Interactive and Music Festival celebrated its 25th anniversary over Spring Break. Louise Armstrong has more in this Bobcat Update.

Thousands flocked to the Austin Convention Center during Spring Break to attend the ten-day South by Southwest festival. The interactive, film and music event featured informative panels on media and technology, as well as film premieres and music shows. Many famous faces made their way to town to promote their new films, some which were shot in the city. Director Aaron James says Austin is quickly becoming one of the best locations to shoot films.
<SB Aaron James>
However, not all events required a paid badge or wristband. Many shows were free and open to the public, causing the city to flood with people later in the week. Hotels in Austin had no rooms available during the festival, and parking problems plagued many. Despite the crowds and lines, Junior Sonia Onescu says she believes South By Southwest is an event everyone should experience at least once.
<SB Sonia Onescu>
Stand Up: As South by Southwest 2011 draws to a close, festival goers can be assured that plans are already underway for next year. For Bobcat Update, I'm Louise Armstrong.

Valerie Soja

Texas State's Triathlon club is hosting its annual sprint triathlon this April
at Aquarena Springs. Valerie Soja has more in this Bobcat Update.

Texas State's annual sprint triathlon is a competitive endurance race consisting
of swimming, biking and running in immediate succession. The race is the primary
fundraiser for the Triathlon Club and also serves as a teaching tool for club
members to learn how to manage racing events.
Event coordinator Neal Lucas says it takes a lot more planning than one might
expect to put on this event.
SB
The race starts off with a 500-meter open water swim, from one end of Aquarena
springs to the other. Swimming in this portion of the river is usually off
limits because of the delicate ecosystem and endangered species that inhabit the
area. The 14-mile bike will be on a paved route towards Kyle and back, and the
finale is a 5-k run, which will be on a loop along a gravel and dirt trail.
Triathlon Club President Mike Quiroz says that it's great to have the facilities
to host this event right here in San Marcos.
SB
(Stand Up)The race begins at 8:30 AM Saturday, April 16th and is open to all
ages but is limited to 300 participants. For more information, to sign up, or to
volunteer visit txstatetri.com. For Bobcat Update, I'm Valerie Soja.

Douglas Bloom

College graduation is a defining moment in every student's life. It represents
the completion of years of intense studying, testing, and for some partying.
Douglas Bloom has more in this Bobcat Update.

Graduation shows that an individual is able to persevere and complete a
difficult goal. It shows that the individual is a person who gets things done.
Just as any spring semester at Texas State, this one will end with a few
thousand seniors receiving their diplomas at a commencement ceremony. Business
management major Daniel Benavidez is looking forward to graduation with a wide
range of feelings.
SB: Daniel Benavidez (8 Seconds)
Moving onto the work world and leaving the safety of college behind can be
frightening for many students. College is looked at as a time of freedom, where
a person is able to make mistakes and grow from them, setting the foundation for
the person they will become. Psychology major Nicolle Guice looks back at her
college experiences with fondness.
SB: Nicole Guice (rhymes with vice) (6 seconds)
Stand Up: (12 seconds)
With May graduation just around the corner, a significant and valued part of
this Texas State population will be ushered into the next phase of their lives,
making room at this ever-growing institution for the next wave of hopeful and
excited freshman. For Bobcat Update, I'm Douglas Bloom.

Kaylee Pfeiferling

Recent theft reports in San Marcos have put some students on edge. Kaylee
Pfeiferling (FIFE-ER-LING) has more in this Bobcat Update.

Having security gates and alarm systems help some off-campus residents feel a
littler safer, but much more can be done.
STAND UP: The majority of students I spoke to expressed concern over the growing
theft numbers and say they'd feel more secure if apartment complexes gave
them better precautionary information.
Since February 28th burglars have targeted 22 vehicles and 17 apartment
complexes in San Marcos. In one case, an intruder allegedly entered a female's
unlocked apartment at The Zone and physically asaulted her. Some residents at
the Villagio, a nearby apartment complex, says the crimes have hit too close to
home.
SB
Managers of the Villagio Apartments say they've taken measures to help their
residents feel safe. Days after the incident, they sent an e-mail to the complex
with information about the recent break-ins and what students could do to help
prevent similar situations from happening.
SB
One target for thieves occurs when people leave their valuables in plain sight.
SB
Police recommend that you keep your apartment and car doors locked and valuables
hidden. And they ask you to call 9-1-1 if any suspicious behavior is observed.
For Bobcat Update, I'm Kaylee Pfeiferling.

Luke McBroom

San Marcos nightlife may not gain many new bars in the future -- if a
proposed city ordinance is passed. Luke McBroom tells us more, in this Bobcat
Update:

The San Marcos City Council will meet tonight (March 24) to vote on
whether to approve a proposed limit of 15 alcohol-serving establishments in the
downtown area.
Currently there are seven such establishments on the square. They all have
restricted permits, which means they can serve alcohol as long as they also
serve food. New restaurants, like Chimeys and Vodka Street Bistro, follow these
requirements.
Bars and restaurants on the square are a major source of revenue in San Marcos.
(SB Jen Moran Manager at Sean Patricks)
In May of 2009, city officials extended the bar hours in San Marcos
from midnight to 2 a-m. Some council members fear that the downtown area is
becoming too closely identified with the local bar scene.
(SB: Christian Wallace, student)
(Stand up, McBroom)

John Spain

Some Texas State students are already making plans for the fall. John Spain
tells us about the university's registration process...in this Bobcat Update.

Thousands of current and prospective students are preparing for the fall
semester. The university is accepting applications from freshmen and transfer
students. Carlos Laird, Associate Director of Undergraduate Admissions, says the
method by which students are selected for registration is being restructured.
(Laird 0:15 "...is registration.")
The Coordinator of New Student Orientation, Victoria Black, says the
university's process for incoming students will also be improved. Black says
orientation is one of the primary concerns of the admissions office.
(Black 0:10 "...incoming students.")
Some transfer students will be given the option to do orientation online. This
will help eliminate the need to travel to San Marcos before the fall semester.
(Laird 0:10 "...orientation early.")
Laird says the university hopes its enrollment gains will continue
(Laird 0:10 "...time soon.")
New methods for streamlining registration may soon be in place to help students
navigate the process once they arrive on campus. For Bobcat Update, I'm John
Spain.

Bobcat Update-March 10, 2011

Avron Fernandes

More than 400 students from across Texas attended a fashion career program today
in San Marcos. Texas State's Fashion Merchandising Program sponsored the event
at the Embassy Suites. Many retail companies attended the event -- looking to
hire. And students who were there also benefited from hearing several speakers
who talked about the retail business in today's economy.

Amanda Escobedo

Students have an opportunity to participate in this year's common experience
theme at Texas State University. The theme is Sustainability. The Honors Program
is asking students to submit original artwork to add to the program's Art
Gallery. If you're interested in displaying your artwork, take it to the gallery
between now and the end of the semester. The gallery is located in the Coffee
Forum of Lampasas Hall.

Hollee Barfield

Students were startled earlier this week by sirens blaring in the Quad. In this
Bobcat Update, Hollee Barfield tells us what was happening.

The sirens caught everyone's attention for a reason -- to save lives. The sounds
were part of Operation Intervention, which is an effort to discourage drunken
driving. Police were on hand to supervise the demonstration. University Police
Officer Otto Glenewinkel used a simulator to show the effects of drunkenness.
(SB-Glenewinkel)
The idea of staging simulations was inspired by an event eight years ago in New
Braunfels. A high school senior, Anna Marie Hernandez, was killed when a
drunken driver -- traveling on the wrong side of I-35 -- hit Hernandez' car
head-on.
SB (Heath Purvis, Police Sergeant)
Stand Up - Operation Intervention has done well to serve its purpose, causing
many students to reconsider getting behind the wheel after drinking. For Bobcat
Update, I'm Hollee Barfield.

Bobcat Update-March 9, 2011

Ana Anguiano

Student evaluations at the end of the semester at Texas State will remain as they are. The university's Faculty Senate has rejected a proposal to put the evaluations online. When the surveys are administered later this spring, they will keep their paper form. According to the University Star, at least 12 departments were interested in switching to online surveys, but most of the Faculty Senate believed that switching would only decrease the amount of student participation. 

Genna Eneman

If you're looking for a fun way to show school pride, you can now buy a Texas State party shirt. The Collegiate Entrepreneur's Organization sold the shirts outside of the L-B-J Student Center earlier this week. The shirts feature a picture taken from The Hangover movie along with the slogan What happens at Texas State stays at Texas State. If you missed out on buying a shirt on campus, you can visit thirsty-clothing-dot-com and place an order.

Anthony Sifuentes

With spring break coming up, an effort is being made to promote a safer vacation. Two groups, The Network and Men Against Violence, were on the Quad Tuesday distributing free condoms as well as brochures on sex and drinking. Students had the chance to win prizes by spinning a wheel and answering frequently asked questions about contraception and alcohol. For those students caught in the spirit of Mardi Gras, they could win buttons and beads, or perhaps a Frisbee.

Nicholas Medina

Texas State's Theater and Dance department has good reason to *act* pleased this week. Nicholas Medina explains, in this Bobcat Update.

The department is celebrating last week's success at the American College Theater Festival in Amarillo. Each year the festival brings students and faculty together to see some of the region's strongest productions and to participate in workshops.Those who attended the festival say they benefit regardless of whether they win awards or not.
(SB)
Texas State hasn't had this much success at the A-C-T-F in recent years, so winning this year is especially gratifying for the group. Some of the students are looking forward to the next level of competition, which will be next month in Washington, D.C., where scholarships will be on the line.
(SB)
Out of the 43 students representing Texas State at the festival last week, 18 received awards for best in the region. They won in the categories of acting, directing, writing, and dramaturgy. Seven out of those 18 are advancing to Washington to try to win national honors.
(Standup)

Alanna Sarabia

Seniors planning to graduate in May are getting ready to enter the job market. It's time to prepare resumes and cover letters, and to follow up on job leads. One way to find a lead or two is by attending the Job and Intern Expo taking place this week at Texas State. Alanna Sarabia has more in this Bobcat Update.

It's the largest career fair of the semester. So large, in fact, that it would only fit in Strahan Coliseum to accommodate all 80 employers. To prepare for the big day, career services provided resume help in the quad this week.
Career advisors put on a two-day "Rock yo Resume" to prepare students for the job expo.
Stand Up: This is where students drop off their resumes to advisors to be critiqued and reviewed.
Sound Bite: " I already knew what I wanted to do as a career but this really helped me fix my resume and format it correctly." (student who just got her resume critiqued)
VO: The Job and Internship EXPO is open to all college students.
Sound Bite: " What we do is help students......with a shaky market....there is still opportunities there and this is one of those opportunities ."
The expo will continue this evening until 6 -o-clock -- and if you miss out, don't worry, there will be another held in the fall semester.
For Bobcat Update I'm Alanna Sarabia.

Sam Howell

Texas Governor Rick Perry is asking public universities in the state to put a
cap on what it costs to earn a bachelor's degree. The amount he has in mind is
ten-thousand-dollars. Many students are choosing to attend community colleges
before attending four-year universities. It's much less expensive to earn an
associate's degree. Tuition for 60 hours of credit at Texas State is around
16-thousand-dollars. Compare that with Austin Community College where the same
amount of credit can be earned for about 35-hundred dollars.

Danielle Elisabeth Madsen

Texas State's radio station, K-T-S-W, has announced its lineup for Mr. Fest,
which is the station's annual music festival. This year the festival will take
place on April 29th and 30th at seven different locations in San Marcos. Vendors
and family-oriented entertainment will be set up on the lawn of the Hays County
Courthouse. Entrance to all events will be free of charge.

Clair Hugo

Sunday marked the 83rd annual Zilker Park Kite Festival in Austin. Clair Hugo
has more in this Bobcat Update.

Families, friends and their dogs enjoyed Austin's ideal weather on March 6th for
America's oldest continuously-running kite festival at Zilker Park. Kite
enthusiasts say they felt lucky to have sunny, blue skies with a nice breeze on
Sunday. However, some may have hoped for more wind.
SOUNDBITE
Some people traveled from all over the world to attend the Zilker Park Kite
Festival. Richard Dermer, director of the American Kitefliers Association, has
traveled as far as New Zealand for his kite hobby. He says that Zilker is the
best kite festival in the southwest and definitely an annual rite of passage to
the spring season.
SOUNDBITE
The array of limitless kites came in a variety of styles, sizes and shapes.
Areas were set up for kite-making workshops and kite demonstrations. Kids and
adults alike participated in contests from the most unusual kite to highest
angled kite.
SOUNDBITE
Austin police closed down part of Barton Springs Road to allow nearly
20-thousand attendees to safely walk or bike as they pleased.
Between the beautiful weather and the creativity among the kite fliers, this is
certainly a festival to remember. For Bobcat Update, I'm Clair Hugo.

Erika Everett

There are clubs and organizations of all kinds in San Marcos. Just look around
and you're apt to find someone somewhere sharing your interests in something.
Take, for example, beards. That's right...beards. Erika Everett has more in
this Bobcat Update.

The group is the San Marcos Bearded Men's Club. All of its members appreciate --
facial hair. Will Parrish, a graduate student and one of the group's founding
members, says the Bearded Men's Club wants to be heard.
Soundbite
The Bearded Men's Club is not among those formally recognized by Texas State,
but most of its members are associated with the university, as current or former
students. The club holds meetings at Showdown Amusement Bar on the square and
the members even have an official handshake. Senior Maxfield Baker says he
wasn't aware of the organization, but now he's considering becoming a member.
Soundbite
(Stand up) Not all members have to have beards. Occasionally women and
non-bearded men attend the meetings as well. As long as you have an appreciation
for facial hair, you will be welcomed with open arms.
For Bobcat Update, I'm Erika Everett.

Eddie Garcia

The Great Texas Warrant Round Up is in progress this month. In this Bobcat
Update, Eddie Garcia tells us how San Marcos is participating.

Last weekend the warrant round up in San Marcos was a relatively quiet affair.
Authorities say one reason fewer people are being arrested is that word is
getting out about outstanding warrants. The city, for example, maintains a list
of warrants online. City Marshal Kenneth Bell says his office plans well in
advance of the round-up.
Sound Bite K-2
People can avoid being arrested if they go -- when summoned -- to the San Marcos
Municipal Court. Often the lines at the court can be long, so plan accordingly.
Court Administrator Susie Garcia says those who have warrants against them
should expect to pay more, because usually that means they failed to appear in
court when scheduled.
Sound Bite S-!
The marshals have assistance from the San Marcos Police Department on the day of
the warrant round up. Authorities show up at houses, apartments, work or even
classes to arrest people. They will then take the suspects to municipal court,
or, in some cases, jail.
Sound Bite K1
Stand Up

Kayla Hale

Seniors graduating this semester can earn some benefits by giving up an
hour-and-a-half of their time. Kayla Hale has more in this Bobcat Update.

Texas State is administering the Collegiate Learning Assessment at the Testing
Center, located on the first floor of Commons Dining Hall. Required as a part of
the university's accredidation process, the assessment is not attracting many
takers. The Testing Center is having trouble finding seniors willing to come in
and take the C-L-A. Testing Administrator Brenda Dozier (DOE-ZER) says the staff
is doing everything it can to get the word out.
SB (Dozier)
SB (Stand In)
Scott Trimble, a testing center supervisor, says students can add to their
Bobcat Bucks, if they'll participate.
SB (Trimble)
Students often use Bobcat Bucks for purchasing food and drinks, but there are
other uses as well, such as renting caps and gowns for graduation. The test is
only offered to the first 100 seniors who come in. Testing occurs Tuesday
through Friday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m and until 5 p.m. on Wednesdays. The deadline
is in early April.
For Bobcat Update, I'm Kayla Hale.

Megan O'Connell

Texas lawmakers are considering a bill that would allow concealed handguns on
college campuses. Megan O'Connell has more in this Bobcat Update.

The matter has come up before and is very controversial. The Associated Student
Government at Texas State last semester voted in favor of allowing concealed
handguns, but A-S-G's president vetoed the bill. Now, the issue is being debated
in Austin. State Senator Jeff Wentworth has introduced a bill that would lift
the prohibition against carrying guns on campus. The University Police
Department at Texas State has not taken a formal stand on the issue. Officer Sue
Stewart says there are pros and cons.
SB
Opinions vary on campus. Senior David Sellers says allowing concealed handguns
could come in handy.
SB
However, Freshman Alyssa Stevens says she doesn't see the need.
SB
STAND-UP In the end it will be University who makes the final decision whether
concealed handguns will be allowed on campus. For Bobcat Update, I'm Megan
O'Connell.

Kaylee Pfeiferling

The smell of fresh tamales and hot beignets had Texas State students and faculty
lined up in the quad this afternoon at the monthly farmers market. Twenty-four
vendors from San Marcos and surrounding areas featured everything from clothes
and jewelry to pralines and honey, and, of course, fresh local produce. The
popularity of today's event led many vendors to sell all of their products. The
market will return to the quad the first Wednesday of every month.

Bobcat Update, March 3, 2011

Luke McBroom

Texas State Athletics is getting another big boost to its facilities.
Construction has begun on the new track and field facility, which should be
completed before the 2012 season. The current home for the Track and Field team
is Bobcat Stadium, but plans have been approved to remove the existing track.
The new track and field facility will seat one thousand people and have throwing
rings a well as a pole vault pit. The eight-lane track will meet all
N-C-double-A regulations for division-one athletics.

Bobcat Update-March 2, 2011

Alanna Sarabia

The Student Rec Center is especially busy these days. Students are lining up in
search for a good workout. Spring Break is just two weeks away, and the Rec
Center is crowded. Evenings are when most students visit the center, which often
means long waits for machines. Even if you have no need to tone up for a visit
to the beach, you'll find that the Rec Center is a great resource for a
healthier lifestyle.

Ty Bishop

A Texas State residence hall is being torn down -- after more than four decades
of use. Ty Bishop has more in this Bobcat Update.

Many who lived in Falls Hall have fond memories of their stay there. Some showed
up Monday, along with current residents, when Texas State President Denise
Trauth and the Division of Student Affairs had a so-called decommissioning
ceremony. A-S-G President Mel Ferrari says that Falls Hall will always have a
place in her heart.
(SB Ferrari….)
The hall, which was opened in 1967, is being torn down to build a Performing
Arts Center that will hold a recital hall and a theater center. The Performing
Arts Center, also known as PAC (pack), will cost 83-(M)illion-dollars to
construct. The new center will hold 300 people in its recital hall, and 400
people in its theatre. Vice President of Student Affairs, Joanne Smith, says
that the center is needed.
(SB Smith…..)
Standup:
The ceremonial ground breaking for PAC is planned for June 3rd. University
officials say the building should be completed by September 2013. For Bobcat
Update, I'm Ty Bishop.

Anthony Sifuentes

A Texas State graduate student is lending a helping hand in the identification
of human remains found along the U-S-Mexico border. Anthony Sifuentes has more
in this Bobcat Update.

Graduate Research Assistant Cristina Figueroa-Soto is assisting Texas State
Anthropology Professor and Principal Investigator for Project Identification
Kate Spradley in examining human skeletons at a medical examiners office in
Arizona. Figueroa-Soto records measurements of the postcrania
(post-kray-nee-uhl). The results are stored in a database, which can later be
used to help determine a person's sex, age, ancestry and place of origin.
Spradley says that Figueroa-Soto's assistance is vital to the project:
(SB)
One purpose of the research is to identify common characteristics of Hispanics.
And being Hispanic herself, Figueroa-Soto says she feels the research, which is
grant-supported, provides an important service:
(SB)
According to Spradley, very few graduate students receive the kind of experience
that Figueroa-Soto is getting. Figueroa-Soto says she will use it to build on her
future work:
(SB)
Standup

John Spain

Construction of the North Campus Housing Complex is underway. The residence
hall will feature double- and single-occupancy rooms. It will be a large complex,
occupying about 200-thousand square feet with recreational facilities and a
24-hour front desk. Each floor will offer study and lounge areas. A two-story
community center will serve as the hall's main entrance. The housing complex
should open in the fall of 2012.

Hollee Barfield

Depending on results of an upcoming trial, Texas State's Student Perceptions of Instruction surveys may go paperless. Currently, instructor evaluations are given in class and submitted on scantrons.. However, this method is considered by faculty and students to be time-consuming and wasteful. A possible solution is to conduct online surveys. According to the University Star, Faculty Senators will ask Provost Perry Moore what he thinks of the online evaluation proposal.

Lynn McCann

Spring break is only a couple of weeks away, and many Texas State students have
already made plans for their time away from the classroom. Lynn McCann has more
in this Bobcat Update.

It won't be long before students converge on places like South Padre Island or
perhaps one of the popular beaches in Florida. Historically, Mexico has been a
favorite destination for some, but it's riskier these days because of the drug
wars. Extra precautions have to be taken when traveling to foreign lands.
SB – Britney Munguia, senior
Reservations have to be made months in advance, and group-travel deals can
easily sell for more than 300-dollars.
SB – stand up…"to offer."
Also during spring break, Austin will be hosting South By Southwest. Those
attending will be able to experience unique music and innovative films. A few
events are free of charge, but most require a badge.
SB – Christine Wieters, senior
But you don't have to travel far at all to enjoy spring break. Sewell Park is a
perfect place to catch some sun, go swimming, snorkeling or canoeing. You can
play basketball or volleyball, and most days you can throw a Frisbee around
with Frisbee Dan.
For Bobcat Update, I'm Lynn McCann.

Ana Anguiano

The Communication Studies Department at Texas State is hosting its 23rd annual
communication week through Friday. Every year the department hosts a series of
lectures, seminars and workshops -- all free and open to the public. Among the
speakers scheduled this week are Dr. Will Powers, an internationally recognized
and award-winning educator from Texas Christian University, and Vic Bazan, a
former F-B-I consultant and hostage negotiator.

Louise Armstrong

The Texas State Associated Student government is considering a bill that would
allow recent graduates to keep their Bobcat Mail service indefinitely. Some of
the A-S-G Senators believe if graduates were allowed to keep their e-mail
addresses, alumni services would have an easier time keeping in touch.
Currently, the university allows students to keep their e-mail service for only
90 days after graduation, then they have to switch to another service.

Amanda Escobedo

Texas State's College of Science is undergoing a name change. Amanda Escobedo
has more in this Bobcat Update.

The Dean of the College of Science has proposed a name change. The idea seems to
have widespread support among college's faculty and staff. The new name will be
the College of Science and Engineering to reflect the expanded curriculum the
unit is offering. Dr. Jitendru Tate, who has taught at Texas State since 2006,
says three new engineering specializations have evolved over the years --
manufacturing, industrial and electrical.
SB
The Texas State College of Science began offering engineering courses in 1999,
with a total of 13 students enrolled. Today, more then 500 students are
enrolled in what is now called the Ingram School of Engineering.
(Stand Up) "The Ingram School of engineering is located here in the Mitte
complex, where students can do hands on research in Labs such as this one"
These large labs house intimidating contraptions that give students ample
opportunity to learn about the machinery and concepts they will need in their
prospective careers. Students are currently researching and experimenting with
innovative concepts like nano technology, resin compounds, water jet lasers and
even green energy conservation techniques that will help future employers.
SB
Faculty members in the Ingram School of Engineering have been engaged with their
discipline by attending national conferences and reaching out to local high
schools.
SB
Engineering jobs in Texas are in demand, which means the Texas State program
will likely grow. For Bobcat Update, I'm Amanda Escobedo.

Avron Fernandes

As Texas State gears up for competing at football's highest division, the
university is looking at ways to improve its facilities. Avron Fernandes has
more in this Bobcat Update.

The Texas State Board of Regents recently approved plans to construct a new
North Side Complex for Bobcat Stadium. The expansion is expected to cost nearly
33 (M) million dollars and add about 13-thousand seats, bringing the stadium's
capacity up to nearly 30-thousand. The addition will include a Bookstore Fan
Shop and a Strutters Gallery.
Justin Watts, a freshman at Texas State, sees the expansion as a step in the
right direction and a worthwhile investment.
SB - Watts (:10) We can host playoff games. I mean we already do, but we can
host bigger games. Maybe even a state game if our stadium's nice enough.
But the expansion has created some controversy. Some students question the
university's priorities. Philosophy Major Annalisa Turner regards the expansion
as a waste, especially considering how rarely the football team attracts enough
fans to fill the existing stadium.
SB - Turner (:13) It depends on what image of the university you're trying to
portray. If anything, universities are about learning and not about sports. So
maybe they should focus on expanding their departments before sports.
The North Side Complex is scheduled to be completed in time for the 2012
football season.
For Bobcat Update, I'm Avron Fernandes.

Genna Eneman

Turmoil in several oil-rich countries is having an impact at the gas pump. In
this Bobcat Update, Genna Eneman tells us why prices are rising.

Drivers are feeling tense these days when they pull up to the gas pump. Prices
for crude oil and gasoline have spiked as unrest in the Middle East and Libya
have caused fear that oil supplies from the region may be interrupted.
Last week Triple A said the nation's average price jumped nine cents a gallon to
three-dollars-and-23 cents, and the average price per gallon in Texas also
jumped by nine cents to three-dollars and eight cents a gallon. Many San Marcos
drivers are wondering how long prices will continue to rise.
[SB]
Texas State commuters are especially vulnerable when gas prices go up, but some
use transportation alternatives that are less costly.
[SB]
Prices are still far from the highest national average ever reached, which was
in 2008. Prices then peaked at four-dollars and eleven cents per gallon.
For Bobcat Update, I'm Genna Eneman.

Bobcat Update, Feb. 24, 2011

Anthony Sifuentes

Several students attended a construction job fair on campus this afternoon. The
event, which was held at the L-B-J Ballroom, provided an opportunity to meet
with representatives from several corporations. Students had a chance to network
and to learn about internships and possible full-time positions.

Hollee Barfield

The Combat Paper Project is a nationwide workshop created to help student veterans cope with their military experiences. The organization was set up in the quad this week and allowed veterans to use their old uniforms to create something new. The process starts with cutting up the veteran's uniforms and turning them into paper. The handmade paper is then used to create a piece of artwork. Tonight in the Lampasas Building, participants are invited to come enjoy pizza while they talk about their experiences and view the finished projects.

Sam Howell

Hazing is an all-too-familiar ritual on many college campuses, although most universities prohibit its practice. Sam Howell has more in this Bobcat Update.

Every semester students in Greek organizations are lectured on the dangers of hazing, but it's still prevalent at many universities. Hazing is not limited to Greek life.
(soundbite - Terence Parker former Greek Advisor)
A few people defend hazing, saying it can help build group camaraderie.
(soundbite – Jonathan Gensch Freshman)
(Walk Up)
(soundbite – Alexis Sosa Sophomore)
Organizations that allow hazing must realize that they are not only hurting individuals mentally and emotionally, but the practice can also cause serious lifelong injuries or even death. More information on hazing can be found at the Campus Activities and Student Organizations, on the fourth floor of the L-B-J Student Center. For Bobcat Update, I’m Sam Howell.

Valerie Soja

Texas State University's Technology Resources is introducing a new Student Information System. Valerie Soja describes the system, in this Bobcat Update.

The new system will eventually replace CatsWeb and will change how students, faculty and staff interact with the university's information systems, including billing, grades, registration and other functions.
Mass Communication Professor Tom Grimes says he has trouble with the current system.
SB
CatsWeb will still be used throughout the spring and summer semesters, but students can expect to see some improved services soon for advising and degree planning, student registration as well as traffic and parking. Texas State Senior Caroline Cook says the changes will be good.
SB
Starting this fall, CatsWeb will be replaced by the new system, which is yet to be named. For Bobcat Update, I'm Valerie Soja.

Bobcat Update-Feb. 23, 2001

Kelsey Kearns

Many Texas State students attended the baseball tournament this past weekend. Kelsey Kearns has more on this Bobcat Update.

The Bobcats had their first tournament of the season against Missouri State, Nebraska, Washington, and Air Force. Texas State beat Nebraska on Friday and the Air Force on Sunday, but lost to Missouri State on Saturday. Students filled the stands all three days.
There were over fifteen hundred Texas State students at the tournament this weekend. Coaches and players alike say that having the student presence amps up morale.
Assistant baseball coach, Derek Matlock, says the players perform well when there's a big crowd.
(SB 0:13 … "at home")
Second baseman, Tyler Sibley, appreciates the enthusiasm from student fans.
(SB 0:10 … "little bit")
The players are now gearing up to play Rice on Wednesday at 6:30 pm at Bobcat Stadium. For Bobcat Update, I'm Kelsey Kearns.

Louise Armstrong

Texas State is one of the fastest growing universities in the state. The university has experienced significant growth over the past ten years, with an increase of ten-thousand students. The school is also expanding its facilities with constant construction of new buildings and dormitories. Texas State President Dr. Denise Trauth says the university received around 18-thousand applications for the incoming Freshman class and was able to accept fewer than eight-thousand new students.

John Spain

Few on campus may be aware of the university's horticulture center, but its reputation is growing. John Spain has more in this Bobcat Update.

Indeed -- growing is what it's all about at the horticulture center, where you can find a greenhouse and a garden -- all maintained by students, staff and several volunteers.  The center is located in the agriculture building between Sessoms Drive and Pleasant Street. Those with a green thumb are encouraged to help nurture the wide variety of plant life found at the center.  Dr. Tina Cade supervises the center with a relatively small, close-knit group. Cade say the group is eager to promote a thriving educational and social environment.

(Cade 0:15 "...happy place.")
Dr. Cade wants the center to be an inviting place.  It offers all students a quiet place in the garden to study. There's even a hammock for relaxing.  
(Etheredge 0:10 "...Cade still.")
The horticulture center sponsors several programs during the year.  The programs are designed to help students and volunteers find ways to have a positive impact on their community through their love of plants.

For Bobcat Update, I'm John Spain.

Rob Gaines

Some days, most days, in fact, you just NEED a cup of coffee.  Luckily, there are several coffee shops on or near the Texas State campus.  Along with a dose of caffeine, you can also find pastries on sale at many of the coffee shops. Coffee shops are a popular place for studying, for gathering with friends, or for surfing the web. Free wi-fi is a common amenity at most of the shops in town. Some of the coffeehouses even offer live music, especially after dark. 

Megan O'Connell

Construction of a new Performing Arts Center will soon be underway in San Marcos. Designs for the structure -- to be built at Texas State -- have been set. The center will have a 400-seat theater and a 300-seat recital hall. The facility will give students an opportunity to showcase their talents as well as give the faculty a way to show-off their guidance. The center will be built where Falls Hall currently stands.  It will face University Drive and is expected to be completed by 2014.

Luke McBroom

Downtown San Marcos is about to get another big boost to its nightlife, as workers prepare for the grand opening of the Texas Music Theater.  State-of-the-art digital sound and lighting are being brought in to the 70-year-old music hall that was formally called Gordos.  The Texas Music Theater already has the opening night concert planned with well-known Texas Country artist Corey Morrow set to play on March 9th.  You can find more information about the Texas Music Theater by visiting its website, Facebook and Twitter pages.

 

Danielle Elisabeth Madsen

After serving three terms as San Marcos mayor, Susan Narvaiz has passed the torch to the man she endorsed, Daniel Guerrero. Danielle Elisabeth Madsen has more on this Bobcat Update.

Susan Narvaiz says she appreciates her three terms as Mayor. Narvaiz says the city accomplished a lot while she was in office.
SOUNDBITE Susan Narvaiz (5-9 sec.)
Stand Up
Narvaiz says she's looking forward to seeing what her successor is able to accomplish. She says Guerrero is well suited for the job.
SOUNDBITE Susan Narvaiz (8-15 sec.)
Mayor Guerrero has much that he wants to implement during his first term as mayor.
SOUNDBITE Daniel Guerrero (5-9 sec.)
Guerrero graduated from Texas State University and proudly displays his Texas State diploma in his Education Foundation office.
SOUNDBITE Daniel Guerrero (6-10 sec.)
Stand Up
While Susan Narvaiz was able to serve multiple terms as mayor of San Marcos, the community now looks to Daniel Guerrero and what he will accomplish. For Bobcat Update, I'm Danielle Elisabeth Madsen.

Douglas Bloom

With spring break right around the corner, Texas State students are sure to be looking for ways to get back into their swimsuits.  The Student Rec Center offers a variety of ways to do that.  Open from six a-m until midnight, the rec center offers state-of-the-art facilities for cardio and weight fitness. At the rec center, students are sure to find a way to drop their unwanted pounds in a few short weeks.  The staff is available to answer questions and to help find the tools needed to get in shape.

Kayla Hale

Even though the first day of spring isn't until March 20th, Texas State students are beginning to feel the warm weather that spring will offer. Students are taking advantage of the beautiful scenery. Some can be found walking or reading outside while others are seen working on their fitness, playing sports by the soccer fields or throwing a Frisbee. They can relax by the river by lying out in the sun or possibly fishing. Even animals are joining in on the fun.

Ty Bishop

Texas State is participating in the Recycle-Mania competition for the third year in a row. Recycle-Mania 2011 will have 630 colleges competing to see who can collect the most recycled material in an eight-week period. Last year, Texas State collected more than 197-thousand pounds of material and ranked 117 out of 346 colleges. Students and faculty can participate until April 2nd by recycling plastic, paper, bottles and cans. More information can be found at recycle-mania-dot-org.

Ana Anguiano

Obesity in Texas is on the rise. Ana Anguiano has more in this Bobcat Update.

According to a recent report from Texas Comptroller Susan Combs, more than 65 percent of adult Texans are overweight or obese. Perhaps part of the problem is that many of us opt for the wrong kinds of food. On campus, there are plenty of healthy options available, according to Leslie Bulkley, resident district manager of Chartwells. Bulkley says students just have to choose the right foods.
SB
Standup
Senior Amanda Mendoze says she's satisfied with the many choices offere at Texas state, but sometimes sheÕs unsure of which foods are the healthiest.
SB
If students are still unsure of what to choose from, Chartwells Chefs are available for consultation. All you have to do is set up an appointment with the district manager of Chartwells.
SB
Stand up

Anthony Sifuentes

Technology is doing wonders for both patients and physical therapy students at Texas State. Anthony Sifuentes has more in this Bobcat Update.

The physical therapy clinic, located in the Health Professions Building, uses the latest technology in helping patients recover from stroke and brain injuries. Equipment at the clinic includes the Un-loader, the M-2 Square, the Rebounder, and even a Wii (wee). Such equipment is useful in training patients to maintain balance and to relieve stress through exercise. A Physical Therapy doctoral student, Bryan McAdams, and Physical Therapy Clinic Director Shannon Williams say the equipment is very benecifial:
(SB)
(SB)
The technology used here is similar to what is found in a professional setting. For McAdams and Williams, the patients are not only receiving excellent treatment, but the students are also getting the best hands-on experience possible:
(SB)
(SB)
Standup

Amanda Escobedo

Last week's winter storm turned Texas State into an icy mess. Mandy Escobedo has
more on this Bobcat Update.

Record breaking low temperatures, high winds and freezing rain turned Texas
State into a winter wonderland last week, and the threat of the iced over roads
and blackouts leaving campus buildings without power forced the university to
shut down. Campus residents were advised to stay in their dormitories.
SB
Texas State relied on social media such as Facebook and e-mail to alert students
on the weather conditions and changing class schedules. Most students,
especially commuters, found these alerts helpful.
SB
Although the ice has long since melted, the desire to stay warm lingers on. Some
students find a warm cup of coffee fills the bill. Others just want a break from
the chilly winds.
SB
Stand up
The cold blast has been a hard adjustment from the usually beautiful San Marcos
weather and has left the student body anticipating Spring Break more then ever
before. For Bobcat Update, I'm Mandy Escobedo.

Hollee Barfield

Texas State's very own campus radio station, K-T-S-W, has been voted by
listeners as one of the best in the nation. Hollee Barfield has more
information in this Bobcat Update.

Each year, m-t-v-u gives one campus radio station the coveted woodie award, and
the students themselves are given the power to influence the outcome.
Loyal K-T-S-W fans vote several times a day in hopes the station will be
recognized for its contributions to the local music scene.
SB
K-T-S-W has been voted as one of the top 25 in the nation, and station
personnel want to make it to the next level.
SB
However, not ALL of the K-T-S-W staff and fans are pleased with the recognition.
Some see it as too mainstream, that m-t-v goes against what the station is
truly about: being different, and embracing all styles of music.
SB
(Stand-Up) K-T-S-W is the only campus radio station in the state that has
qualified for one of the top 25 spots in the competition. The winner will be
announced when the Woodie Awards air on Wednesday, March 16. For Bobcat
Update, this is Hollee Barfield.

Avron Fernandes

Riding the bus has its pros and cons. Texas State University students voice their concerns and offer some time saving pointers. Avron Fernandes has more in this Bobcat Update.

Texas State University is growing rapidly, and, for many students, the University Tram system has become an integral part of their daily commutes. But Pre-med student Preston O'Brien says the system is not running as effectively as it should.
SB
Texas State Tram Driver Diana Rawlings says there's always room for improvement, but the Tram system is challenged by the growing ridership.
SB
Rawlings recommends using the NEXT-Bus smart-phone app to help students plan their commutes. Sophomore Business major Bileili Villegas says riding the bus used to be inconvenient until the app eased her daily commute.
SB
Even with the help of the app, commuting during peak hours still has many students frustrated. Commuter Sandra Santos says it can be a struggle to get on the bus because of overcrowding.
SB
With Texas State's enrollment on the rise, it looks like the University Tram system will continue to face problems accommodating all students. For Bobcat Update, I'm Avron Fernandes.

John Spain

Valentine's Day usually symbolizes a time of love and togetherness. But, for
online thieves, it serves a different purpose. John Spain has more in this
Bobcat Update.

Many Texas State students and staff are looking forward to the upcoming holiday.
But beware. There's a computer worm making the rounds -- disguised as a
Valentine's Day message. It might just make its way into your inbox.
In early February, the Texas State Information Technology Assistance Center, or
I-TAC, released an alert, warning computer users across campus to be wary of
Valentine's Day-themed attachments. Such attachments or e-greetings, ITAC warns,
may have potentially dangerous consequences.
Computer worms are designed to utilize networks, much like Texas State's, to
continually replicate a payload of information from one user's system to
another. Once an unsuspecting user willingly opens the email attachment, the
spread begins.
Information phishing schemes, designed to extract personal and financial
information from computers, are often spread via computer worms, and unlike a
typical virus, a worm needs nothing more than a trusting click of the mouse.
Corbett Consolvo, Senior Information Analyst at Texas State, says
thieves are always on the ready to uncover and distribute personal information.
Such attacks are more prevalent at certain times of the year.
(SB 0:15 "...money later.")
E-mail-savvy users are usually able to make distinctions between legitimate and
malicious e-mail, but having protective software helps considerably.
(SB 0:15 "...on it." )
Most attacks affect Windows-based P-C users. Security analysts like Consolvo
say mobile devices are less likely to fall prey to a worm. But in the future,
as attackers learn how to manipulate the technology, smart-phones might also be
vulnerable. For Bobcat Update, I'm John Spain.

Ty Bishop

It's Valentine's Day, and San Marcos has no shortage of places to treat your
date. Ty Bishop has more in this Bobcat Update.

Standup at bowling alley: If you're looking for a non-traditional date, why not
try bowling? It's a great way to have fun and get to know your Valentine.
Nineteen-year-old students Sebastian Parra-Cordero and Kimi Diedrich enjoy
bowling together and say it's a unique way to spend time with each other.
Sound bite: Sebastian Parra-Cordero and Kimi Diedrich (7 seconds)
Sunset Lanes will have one-dollar bowling from 9 until midnight tonight. But, if
you'd prefer a more traditional type of date -- like a romantic dinner -- there
are several restaurants in town that are local favorites. Italian Garden offers
entrees for under 15-dollars and even allows you to B-Y-O-B. Or there's Grin's
-- with its spacious deck and lively Happy Hour.Restaurants in town are hoping
they'll have increased business tonight for their Valentine's Day specials. And
if you're short on cash, many establishments accept Bobcat Bucks.
For Bobcat Update, I'm Ty Bishop.

Sam Howell

Texas State students are encouraged to use TRACS, but they're finding that some of their professors aren't on board. Sam Howell has more in this Bobcat Update.

During orientation, students are made aware of TRACS. The online network is a valuable link, which can provide access to grades, notes, homework, online exams and course syllabi.
(soundbite) Ryan Howard – Soph.
(walk-up)
(Most professors welcome technology with open arms but for some the digital dawn just isn't on their horizon… these teachers prefer the old-school methods instead of TRACS or e-mail.)
TRACS also provides a class roster allowing students to e-mail each other for group studying or providing notes when they miss class. Students say the service offers convenience.
(soundbite) Kaleigh Isbell – Jr.
Students say they get frustrated when they find out they're enrolled in a class that doesn't use TRACS.
For Bobcat Update, I'm Sam Howell.

Megan O'Connell

If you need some help preparing your taxes, there's an organization on campus
willing to help. It's called Volunteer Income Tax Assistance, or VITA. Megan
O'Connell has more in this Bobcat Update.

The group consists of accounting students at Texas State who volunteer to help
prepare tax returns through the end of March. The free service has been offered
at Texas State for the past decade, but this is the first year it is not only
being offered to Texas State students but to San Marcos residents as well.
Volunteers can provide assistance for those with complex returns, including
self-employed individuals or those seeking education credits.
Soundbite
The service is offered at the McCoy Business Building in room one-25. You must
bring your w-two, or ten-99, your social security card and your drivers license.
Soundbite
Volunteer Income Tax Assistance coordinator, Victoria Otto, says this weeks'
turnout was much better than the first week. The L-B-J Student Center parking
garage offers a reduced fee of two dollars for parking on Tuesdays for those who
are coming to campus for the assistance. The tax service is offered every
Tuesday, from three to seven P-M and every Thursday from three to five P-M until
March 31st. For Bobcat Update, I'm Megan O'Connell.

Clair Hugo

It's treasure hunting with a modern twist. It's called geo-caching. Clair Hugo
explains, in this Bobcat Update:

Geo-caching is a new way to hunt for treasures worldwide. The treasure hunters
use Global Positioning Systems technology, which you can find in most smart
phones. A geo-cache is a hidden container placed anywhere by anyone. The
treasure hunter tries to pinpoint the location using G-P-S. The results are
then posted online for others to search. With more than a million geo-caches
hidden in the world, it is a great way to explore and have fun.
SOUNDBITE Noah Coltman (6-7 sec.)
Geo-caching is similar to what's called orienteering, but the tool of choice for
geo-caching is the G-P-S rather than a compass. With today's advanced
technologies, an adventure is at your fingertips. Once you find a geo-cache,
you're allowed to take the treasure and leave something of yours behind for
others.
SOUNDBITE Luke Junco (10-12 sec.)
So if you have G-P-S capabilities on your phone and want to get involved,
download a geo-cache application and get started. A treasure may be hidden in
your very own neighborhood. For Bobcat Update, I'm Clair Hugo.

Eddie Garcia

Many students are beginning their search for off-campus housing. Eddie Garcia
has one way they are looking -- in this Bobcat Update.

Texas State University requires students younger than 20 with fewer than 30
credit hours to live on campus. The students who fall under this rule fill up
most of the residence halls, leaving many students looking for somewhere else to
live in San Marcos.
Stand Up
Apartment locators offer their services free to their clients and the whole
process takes a few hours to complete. Students can call to make an appointment
or simply walk in. San Marcos Realtor Evan Hale, with San Marcos City Realty,
says that by using an apartment locator, students will save time and effort.
SB
The complexes pay for the apartment locators for bringing in new tenants.
Nowhere in the process will students be paying for apartment locators. The
locators want to make sure they get the perfect fit for students, because there
would be no point in using this service otherwise. Texas State Student Mariana
San Juan has been to an apartment locator and enjoyed the experience
SB
There are new complexes being built right now in San Marcos which means even
more choices for students. Using an Apartment locator can play a helpful role
-- if these new complexes fit what students are looking for. They might even
relieve the stress in finding a new place to live.
For Bobcat Update, I'm Eddie Garcia.

Ryan Smothers

Many Texas State students were happy last week when classes were canceled
because of bad weather. Thanks to the university's new RAVE alert system,
students and faculty were able to receive updates and alerts instantaneously.
Under the new system, Texas State's emergency management department can send
alerts though email, text messages, on-campus marquees and even website and
social media web sites. While all Texas State students and faculty automatically
receive email notifications, those wanting to receive text message alerts must
sign up for them at the university's website.

Louise Armstrong

The campus radio station, K-T-S-W, will benefit from a fundraiser this week --
a fundraiser tied to a movie premiere. Louise Armstrong explains in this Bobcat
Update.

You may have seen ads for the feature film Campus Radio on buses or around
campus. The ads are part of a promotional campaign for the movie, which was
shot--in part--here in San Marcos. In the movie, you'll see scenes of the Texas
State campus and of the square in downtown San Marcos two years ago. Campus
Radio premiered last week at the Starplex movie theater. K-T-S-W Station Manager
Jenn Kelly was an extra in the film and says the crew used the station to stage
scenes.
JENN KELLY SOUNDBITE
However, the Campus Radio promoters have taken their relationship with K-T-S-W
even further. Tomorrow a special screening at Starplex will also serve as a
fundraiser for the station's annual music festival. For every ticket sold, a
dollar will be donated to the My Radio Festival fund. K-T-S-W's Promotions
Manager says the movie promoters came up with the idea.
COLLEEN BAKER SOUNDBITE
The Campus Radio bus will be in San Marcos until the end of the week before
embarking on a 120-city tour. [Standup] Starplex will continue to screen the
film for as long as they have an audience. For Bobcat Update I'm Louise
Armstrong.

Nicholas Medina

When the hunger pangs hit, Texas State students have many choices available to
them for dining. Nicholas Medina tells us more in this Bobcat Update.

If you want to avoid snack machines on campus, there's always Chartwells.  Texas
State has a contract with Chartwells to offer meal plans for students. Sophomore
Ryan Ledet bought a meal plan, and he's a regular at the Commons Dining Hall.
(LEDET 00:10)
In addition to the dining halls, Texas State serves up meals at The Den, Jones
Food Court and The Lair -- all located in the L-B-J Student Center. You can find
variety--Greek, Mexican, Italian, Chinese--and there are popular favorites like
Chick-Fi-La and Blimpies.
Recently Chartwell's introduced Lyndon's U-Club on the first floor of the L-B-J
Student Center. The U-Club goes beyond the fast-food experience.  There's a wait
staff to attend to customers, and faculty often dine there as well.  You don't
have to have a meal plan to find good food on campus.
(RODRIGUEZ 00:15)
(STAND-UP 00:30)

Valerie Soja

San Marcos becomes the first city in South-Central Texas to offer single stream
recycling to all residents. Valerie Soja has more in this Bobcat Update.

A couple of months ago, the City Council passed an ordinance establishing single
stream recycling for all multi-family units. This was in response to many
requests made by San Marcos apartment residents. Local Apartment Manager Tammy
?????? says her residents are happy with the new policy.
SB
Starting February 1st each multi-family unit will be billed four-dollars-and-40
cents for the curbside service. This will be added to the residents' regular
utility bill. Texas Disposal Systems will provide the service and the 96-gallon
single stream recycling bins to each unit. The single stream recycling system
allows residents to put all their recyclables, unsorted, in one large bin. Texas
State student Emily Price says that this has made recycling a lot easier.
SB
Items that will be accepted in the recycling bins are: paper, tin, aluminum,
plastic and glass. Items that will not be accepted include: plastic bags, any
type of Styrofoam or pizza boxes. For Bobcat Update, I'm Valerie Soja.

Marie Webber

Texting, Tweeting, or updating Facebook are ways to pass the time in between
classes or during a study break. According to Live-science-dot-com, college
students are addicted to social media as they use Facebook and texting to stay
in touch with friends. Some students feel the temptation to check their social
networking sites during class and drift away from the lecture. For others
checking their social media platforms is a way to refresh their minds during
studying.

Ana Anguiano

Student enrollment at Texas State seems to be going up each year, which means
more traffic and fewer parking spots. Ana Anguiano has more in this Bobcat
Update.

Parking has long been an issue for students at Texas State. And, as new
buildings are being constructed to accommodate increased enrollment, the number
of parking lots has shrunk.
(SB)
For those who commute, there's always a risk of being ticketed if they park illegally:
(SB)
Those who can't afford or refuse to pay for parking permits may have to resort
to riding the Bobcat Tram to and from campus. But that isn't necessarily a
solution, because buses at peak times are filled to capacity.
For Bobcat Update, I'm Ana Anguiano.

Mark Woodburn

Frustration is mounting over campus parking at Texas State. Mark Woodburn has
more in this Bobcat Update:

Enrollment at Texas State University continues to grow annually. With more
students comes an increase in vehicles and a decrease in available on-campus
parking. Student parking permits continue to get more expensive, but Senior
Vernon Wright says the price increases have not led to more parking
availability.
(SB 10-15sec)
Post-graduate student Danielle Madsen says commuters from outside the San
Marcos area often are the ones who struggle most to find parking. She says
more parking facilities are needed.
(SB 10-15sec)
Many hope that a new all-zone parking garage on Matthews Street will help
relieve the parking problems on campus.
For Bobcat Update, I'm Mark Woodburn

Nicholas Medina

With the start of a new semester at Texas State comes renewed frustration for
students who need to park on campus. Nicholas Medina has more in this Bobcat
Update.

Texas State's parking situation is not a new problem. To park legally on campus,
students must have permits, and permits come at a high cost. Senior Carl Woody
says the price isn't worth it:
(SOUNDBITE)
The permits are designated by color indicating a certain level of access for
each parking area. Commuters are issued purple permits and have to park faraway
from classes. Red and green permits are for faculty or students who live on
campus. Some students believe the university issues too many permits for the
limited number of parking spaces, and Senior Lynn McCann is frustrated by the
system:
(SOUNDBITE)
McCann as well as others use Bobcat Tram to get to campus, or they just walk to
class. For Bobcat Update, I am Nicholas Medina.

Douglas Bloom

With student population on the rise at Texas State, parking is a big issue on
campus.  Douglas Bloom has more on this Bobcat Update.

With another semester underway, Texas State commuters have to make sure they
allow for plenty of travel time when heading to class. Lots designated for
commuters have become scarcer due to construction.  Students either have to take
the bus to classes or walk.  Even so, students like _______________ still find
purchasing a purple commuter pass worthwhile.
SB
Others, such as ____________ have decided against purchasing a parking pass
altogether. If they live near campus, they can rely on the bus system.
SB
Either way you travel to Texas State, one thing is for sure. If you're commuting
to campus, you're going to be heading out the door a little sooner this
semester.
For Bobcat Update, I'm Kelsey Kearns.

Anthony Sifuentes

It's a new semester with many new exciting changes at Texas State, but, for
students, the hassle of finding parking remains. Anthony Sifuentes has more in
this Bobcat Update.

Parking is still scarce as commuters find themselves driving all around campus,
looking for a spot. For many, it can take nearly half an hour to find an empty
space. A couple of commuters, seniors Darin Gosnell and Avron Fernandes, find
the situation annoying as it complicates their daily schedules:
(SB)
(SB)
There are actually plenty of parking spaces, but few that are designated for
students. Some areas require a certain color sticker which many students lack.
More frustrating for students is that many reserved parking slots go unoccupied
and those designated for students are filled up very early in the day.
Occasionally one disregards the rules and parks in a restricted area, only
to be penalized for it.
Gosnell and Fernandes say the University should make parking more accessible.
(SB)
(SB)
As alternatives to parking, some students are bicycling, using Bobcat Tram,
having friends drop them off, or, in some cases, simply walking.
For Bobcat Update, I'm Anthony Sifuentes.

Corey Hogan

As Texas State students begin a new semester, they face an ongoing problem: a shortage of parking on campus. Corey Hogan has more in this Bobcat Update.

Texas State's enrollment is growing, and as more students buy parking permits, parking spaces are more difficult to find. Students who live on campus have the option of buying residential parking permits that allow them to park in several designated lots on campus. For off-campus students, they may purchase commuter permits, which are of limited use. Some students are skeptical about the parking situation.
(SB)
The campus has a new parking garage on Matthews Street, but the number of available parking spaces is still limited because of construction on campus. One way to avoid the hassle is to park off-campus.
(SB)
Students who don't have a parking permit can park in the L-B-J Student Center for a fee, or they can use the Bobcat Tram shuttle bus system.
For Bobcat Update, I'm Corey Hogan.

Clair Hugo

Students are adjusting to some changes on campus that relate to parking. Clair Hugo has this Bobcat Update.

Parking Service officials are on the job and have been issuing tickets to violators. Parking has always been a struggle at Texas State, and it hasn't been made any easier with the new construction projects on campus. Several parking spots have been eliminated at College Inn and Jackson Halls. New garages have been built, such as the one on Matthews Street, but they haven't been enough to offset the losses.
SOUNDBITE
Other factors have also contributed to creating an easier flow during busy school days. Commuters and off campus students have different methods of getting to class on time. The Quad Bus Loop is a big help for many.
SOUNDBITE
Others choose to pay hourly at the L-B-J Center Parking Garage, although prices were recently increased there
For Bobcat Update, I'm Clair Hugo.

John Spain

Many Texas State students confront parking woes on a daily basis. John Spain
has more on this Bobcat Update.

Over the last several years, parking in San Marcos, and especially on the campus
of Texas State University has become an increasingly valuable commodity. Some
students find parking restrictions and the possible fines which accompany them,
an unnecessary and unwelcome strain on an already limited college budget.
SB(:10-15)
Still, some students find alternate modes of transportation, such as the Texas
State Tram, or optional carpool designated areas to be well-tailored to their
daily routine and distance from campus. Even so, many commuters who purchase a
purple pass still find themselves searching for a place to park.
SB (:10-15)
The new Matthews Street parking garage is set to open this spring, but it's
still likely not going to be enough. The university's enrollment has increased
significantly, now reaching just over 31-thousand students. It's entirely
possible that the complaints and congestion on campus will only get worse..
For Bobcat Update, I'm John Spain