Bobcat Update, a student-produced newscast recapping events at Texas State University, and is available for viewing on YouTube.
3/1/12
Sam Chmelar
For students living on campus, meal trades are important because they represent a vital food source. But last semester alone, there were more than 250-thousand meal trades that were not used, which is one-fourth of all meal trades purchased. The unused meal trades are transferred to students' accounts for the spring but any meal trades left at the end of the spring semester go to waste. Some students say they would like to change the policy, but nothing formal has been introduced.
2/29/12
Shannon Greif
The Associated Student Government is taking your complaints into consideration in hopes to benefit student life on campus. A-S-G holds a Write Out Wednesday once a month that allows students to write their dissatisfaction with Texas State on butcher paper. These complaints are discussed at the A-S-G meeting every Monday. A-S-G's Senator at Large Adam French says A-S-G has lobbied in the past to fix things such as adding lights on campus and buses to the Bobcat Tram route. A-S-G is trying to hold more of these Write Out Wednesdays every month.
Alissa Rangel
In the event of an emergency at Texas State, the university has several means to alert students and staff of potential danger. The University News Service or the University Police Department will send out e-mails to all students, faculty and staff. Students can also receive text messages on their cell phones from the Texas State RAVE system. Signboards that provide helpful information have been set in many of the classrooms, and when emergencies occur they display scrolling messages informing students of the situation.
Desiree Martinez
K-T-S-W, the student radio station at Texas State, reaches a milestone this year. The station has been on the air for 20 years, and that's a reason to celebrate. Desiree Martinez has more, in this Bobcat Update.
The station came about through the efforts of Bob Shrader, now retired, who at the time was a faculty member in the Mass Communication department. Shrader says initially there was some uncertainty over how much to involve students in the operation.
(SB Bob Shrader... on start of KTSW) Plus CG with name/title)
Since then, the station has grown to provide students with several different departments to match their interests.
(Stand up on how the station started with a staff of 40 and now has one of over a 100.)
(SB Dan Schumacher.... on present K-T-S-W and its accomplishments/happenings). CG- name/title.
K-T-S-W will soon upgrade its transmitting facilities, which will give it a stronger signal and potentially a larger audience, but some members of the student staff say they hope the station stays the course in what it provides listeners:
(SB Jen current station manager... on how she hopes K-T-S-W can keep
what makes the station special - it's small and alternative identity.)
CG name/title
K-T-S-W is planning to celebrate its 20th birthday later this semester. The station's alumni will be invited to return for the bash and to see the operation they helped build. Former manager Shrader says he's looking forward to returning, too. He's proud of what the station has achieved and the experiences it has provided for students.
(SB Bob Shrader...thoughts on what the station has achieved and a
heartfelt quote along the lines of how happy he is that students are
getting the experience he wanted them to.)
For Bobcat Update, I'm Desiree Martinez.
The station came about through the efforts of Bob Shrader, now retired, who at the time was a faculty member in the Mass Communication department. Shrader says initially there was some uncertainty over how much to involve students in the operation.
(SB Bob Shrader... on start of KTSW) Plus CG with name/title)
Since then, the station has grown to provide students with several different departments to match their interests.
(Stand up on how the station started with a staff of 40 and now has one of over a 100.)
(SB Dan Schumacher.... on present K-T-S-W and its accomplishments/happenings). CG- name/title.
K-T-S-W will soon upgrade its transmitting facilities, which will give it a stronger signal and potentially a larger audience, but some members of the student staff say they hope the station stays the course in what it provides listeners:
(SB Jen current station manager... on how she hopes K-T-S-W can keep
what makes the station special - it's small and alternative identity.)
CG name/title
K-T-S-W is planning to celebrate its 20th birthday later this semester. The station's alumni will be invited to return for the bash and to see the operation they helped build. Former manager Shrader says he's looking forward to returning, too. He's proud of what the station has achieved and the experiences it has provided for students.
(SB Bob Shrader...thoughts on what the station has achieved and a
heartfelt quote along the lines of how happy he is that students are
getting the experience he wanted them to.)
For Bobcat Update, I'm Desiree Martinez.
2/28/12
Kyle Muscarello
Students and alumni are finding unique ways to find jobs these days. The Career Services Division at Texas State had its Job Search Boot Camp earlier this week at the L-B-J Student Center Ballroom. The Boot Camp was designed to help potential job applicants to get better prepared. It consisted of stations where participants could learn how to dress professionally, how to write a better resume, and how to network -- including using the social media. Participants were also given a chance to apply what they have learned by conducting mock interviews with real employers.
Caleb Hey
When you check out at a grocery store you have a choice – you can use reusable bags or you can accept plastic. But some cities are imposing restrictions on whether plastic bags can be used. There are environmental concerns associated with using plastic. When plastic bags wind up in landfills, they take a long, long time to break down. But old habits are hard to break. A lot of people, including Texas State students, prefer plastic bags because they're easier to carry and they can be used for a wide variety of purposes. So far, local officials haven't imposed a ban, but one is in the works in Austin.
2/27/12
Raul Vieira
New data are in that show the crime rate in San Marcos has gone up. Raul Vieira has more in this Bobcat Update.
San Marcos is seeing a rise in its crime rate, but local police are stepping up to the challenge.
(SB: Officer Sue Stewart…more reports.)
The size of the local police departments has remained steady the past few years, which means the workload hasn't eased any:
(SB: Renny Rebble – …the challenge.)
Even though the crime rate has gone up, there's a sense among some students that San Marcos is a safe place to live.
(SB: Anonymous Student 1 - …school out.)
(SB: Anonymous Student 2 - …to control.)
(Stand Up: ...I'm Raul Vieira.)
San Marcos is seeing a rise in its crime rate, but local police are stepping up to the challenge.
(SB: Officer Sue Stewart…more reports.)
The size of the local police departments has remained steady the past few years, which means the workload hasn't eased any:
(SB: Renny Rebble – …the challenge.)
Even though the crime rate has gone up, there's a sense among some students that San Marcos is a safe place to live.
(SB: Anonymous Student 1 - …school out.)
(SB: Anonymous Student 2 - …to control.)
(Stand Up: ...I'm Raul Vieira.)
Lauren Lanmon
The San Marcos Animal Shelter is a safe house for many lovable animals. The shelter now has 32 dogs, 25 cats, and one special pot-bellied pig named Ransom. Ransom is a-year-old and weighs in at 220 pounds. As of Saturday, he had been at the shelter for two weeks. Those interested in adopting him may be interesting in knowing that he's housebroken and loves dogs and cats. Since Ransom is such a big pig, he's not allowed to live within the city limits. To see more pictures of animals up for adoption, go to the city's website.
Chris Avery
Two San Marcos businesses -- Zelicks and The Crystal River Inn -- are attempting to resolve their differences stemming from Zelicks' night hours. About 30 complaints have been reported to the San Marcos Police Department since last May. Both establishments have taken steps to help mitigate the situation by adding additional sound proofing structures and reinforcing windows. The businesses have been given until May to reach an agreement.
Assignments - Feb. 27-March 2
BAND School of Music lacks space Titus/Morales VO
PARKS Proposal to curtail alcohol use in parks Burney/Martinez PKG
USPS Postal Service to sell downtown location Himede/Kaddatz VO
LINSANE Knicks' Jeremy Lin creates sensation Garanzuay/Bruce PKG
CRIME San Marcos crime rate figures released Vieira/Bruce PKG
LENT Catholics observe Lent for 40 days Garza/Klassen PKG
PIG The Hays Co. Animal Shelter has a pig Lanmon/Palasota VO
ZELICKS Bar on Hopkins making too much noise Avery/Rodriguez VO
OLDMAIN Old Main--a symbol of Texas State Gorman/Castleshouldt
PARKS Proposal to curtail alcohol use in parks Burney/Martinez PKG
USPS Postal Service to sell downtown location Himede/Kaddatz VO
LINSANE Knicks' Jeremy Lin creates sensation Garanzuay/Bruce PKG
CRIME San Marcos crime rate figures released Vieira/Bruce PKG
LENT Catholics observe Lent for 40 days Garza/Klassen PKG
PIG The Hays Co. Animal Shelter has a pig Lanmon/Palasota VO
ZELICKS Bar on Hopkins making too much noise Avery/Rodriguez VO
OLDMAIN Old Main--a symbol of Texas State Gorman/Castleshouldt
CABS Extra charges proposed for messing up a cab. Corona/Davis PKG
EUTHAN Laws changed regarding when to euthanize dogs. Gonzales/Titus VO
COMPLAIN ASG sets up way students can offer complaints. Greif/Schotanus VO
ALERT Texas State's system for alerting students. Rangel/Morales VO
RIORDAN Author's exhibit at Alkek. Kaddatz/Taylor VO
STRUTTER Million bucks donation for Strutters' Exhibit. Martin/Wright VO
TRADES Meal trades get wasted at TxState. Chmelar/Himede VO
CARRYOVER:
GRADLINE Deadline for graduating coming up soon. Ricard/Garcia PKG
RECYCLING Recycling promoted on campus. New bins. RobinsonM/Derrick PKG
FEEDING Breast feeding-friendly environment. New rules. Grieme/Japko PKG
LBJRENOV Renovations planned for LBJ Student Center. Crider/Achterberg PKG
QUIET City ordinance to make the trains be quieter. Ament/Olson PKG
2/26/12
Christlyn Corona
In Austin, cab drivers are now allowed to charge an additional fee for passengers who've had too much to drink and mess up their cabs. There's talk of implementing such a fee in San Marcos. Bobcat Update's Christlyn Corona has more.
Many Austin cab drivers are pleased that the city council has made it official to allow them to charge up to 100 dollars above and beyond the regular cab fare -- if individuals throw up during their rides. Cab companies say the extra charge is justified because considerable time must be spent cleaning the cabs afterward.
We asked Texas State students what they thought of the new fee and whether they'd like to see it enforced in San Marcos.
(SB Andrew Chavez...Texas State Junior...sec)
(SB Raul Vela....Texas State Alumnus....sec)
Bartenders in San Marcos are trained to recognize when customers have had too much to drink and to encourage them to call a taxi for a safe ride home, but there's some doubt that an additional charge will help matters.
(SB Erin Dickenson....Texas State Junior...sec)
(SB Jonathan Mulle....Texas State Senior...sec)
For Bobcat Update, I'm Christlyn Corona.
Chelsi Smith
Many military veterans are at Texas State pursuing a dream. They're here to earn a college degree. As Chelsi Smith tells us in this Bobcat Update, veterans bring experience and dedication to the classroom.
Texas State has an estimated 12-hundred military veterans enrolled at the university. The Veterans Affairs office, located in the J-C Kellam building, offers many resources for veterans to achieve their personal goals. Many veterans rely on their G-I benefits to attend college, and the military provides other benefits as well.
(SB Pina Cadet Captain)
But, for others, being in the military didn't have an impact on their decision to go to college.
(SB Clark Cadet 3rd Class )
(Stand up: Texas State is ranked 13th in the nation as a military-friendly school, and for some veterans that affected their decision to attend this university)
(SB Blake Army Veteran)
One option for underclassmen -- who want to make the military their career -- is the R-O-T-C. Texas State offers an Air Force R-O-T-C program, and many men and women earn their commissions here every year. For Bobcat Update, I'm Chelsi Smith.
Marylea Brown
Options for earning a bachelor's degree in the School of Journalism and Mass Communication may soon expand. Marylea Brown has more in this Bobcat Update.
As early as next fall, four of the five sequences -- Advertising, Electronic Media, Journalism and Public Relations -- may become Bachelor of Science programs. Currently, the School offers only a bachelor-of-arts degree. If approved, those who are enrolled will have a choice to remain as they are or switch programs.
(STUDENT #1 SB)
Those who choose the Bachelor of Science degree will NOT be required to take two years of foreign languages but will instead be expected to take additional elective hours within the school.
(STUDENT #2 SB)
Senior Academic Adviser Harry Bowers says although nothing has been set in stone, offering the B-S degree is a strong possibility.
(HARRY BOWERS SB)
The Bachelor of Arts option, including foreign languages, will remain for students who opt for the general sequence in the School of Journalism and Mass Communication. For Bobcat Update, I'm Marylea Brown.
Roland T. Garanzuay
The N-B-A's newest sensation is a player who -- until a few weeks ago -- was a bench warmer. Jeremy Lin's story gives hope to any player, or any team, who comes in as an underdog. In this Bobcat Update, Roland Garanzuay tells us that some Texas State students have sensed the Linsanity of it all.
During football season it was Tebow Time. Now Linsanity has taken the nation by storm. Jeremy Lin's star has risen as a member of the New York Knicks. Chris Blackmon says Lin is the real deal.
[SB: BLACKMON]
Not everyone is on the Linsanity bandwagon, but Texas State student Xavier Gladstone says Lin has a bright future in the N-B-A:
[SB: GLADSTONE]
The Knick point guard has outplayed and outscored N-B-A superstars, like Deron Williams and Kobe Bryant, and has played key rolls in wins over several N-B-A teams. However, those aren't the only stats that are getting the people's attention. The Harvard grad is the only American-born N-B-A player of Chinese or Taiwanese descent. Texas State student Jmi Rodriguez says Lin is an inspiration.
[SB: RODRIGUEZ]
(If you provide information about an upcoming Knicks' game, make sure it's the one played Feb. 29 or March 1.)
For Bobcat Update I'm Roland Garanzuay.
Geoff Gorman
It's a building that has long stood as a symbol for Texas State University. Old Main is almost as old as the institution itself. We learn more in this report filed by Geoff Gorman
Open with interview clips of students guessing the year Old Main was built…0:15
On top of one of the tallest hills in San Marcos sits Old Main. Designed by Edward Northcraft, Old Main was built in 1903 on top of a cavern that had to be filled with multiple loads of concrete. The second floor of the building was used as auditorium and chapel that included a cathedral ceiling, balcony, and stage. It wasn't until 1972 that the building's interior was renovated and the auditorium was split into smaller rooms.
Gorman…0:10
In 1988 another renovation added the third floor at the balcony level, yet the ornate chapel ceiling is still visible today in room 320. The last and most recent renovations occurred in 1993 and 1994 when the original styling and color of the building's roof were restored. Today Old Main serves as office space for the College of Fine Arts and Communications as well as the School of Journalism and Mass Communication.
Escobar…0:10…heard the buildings haunted
While I'm not quite sure if the building is haunted or not, I do know that this Victorian style castle on top of the hill will remain one of Texas State University's oldest buildings. For Bobcat Update, I'm Geoff Gorman.
Orlando Garza
For many Texas State students, this is the season of Lent. It started a week ago as a time for Catholics to reflect on Christ's role in shaping their morality. And, as Orlando Garza tells us in this Bobcat Update, it's a time of sacrifice.
( SB different students)
Everyone has desires but abstaining from something you want every day can be a challenge. For some Catholics, Lent is a time to fast, or perhaps to give up something they truly enjoy. The idea is to use the time to focus on one's spirituality.
( SB different students)
The director of the Catholic Student Center, Father Brian Eilers, says Lent shouldn't be regarded simply as a time to avoid vices for 40 days. He says there should be a year-round commitment.
( SB Brian Eilers)
(Orlando Garza's stand up)
2/23/12
Jeremy Olson
Texas State University is installing stations on campus where you can fill up reusable containers with filtered water. The rec center now has two of the stations. The initiative is part of the Go-Green Project – aimed at encouraging students to have reusable containers instead of disposable water bottles. The University's Environmental Service Committee plans to install the filling stations in all buildings this coming spring – if there are enough funds to do so.
Jeff Case
Texas State seniors are getting ready for graduation by putting in orders for the twenty-twelve class rings. The rings are adorned with images of Old Main and the University flower. Traditionally, the rings are received during the ring ceremony near the end of the semester, followed by dipping the rings in a fountain containing the waters of the San Marcos River. The rings are then worn facing inwards until graduation, when graduates may turn the ring outward. The iconic images on the rings will be a token of achievement, reminding alumni of their Texas State experience.
2/21/12
Matthew Wright
San Marcos is benefiting from the energy-efficient work one couple has done on their house. Local residents, Todd Derkacz and Betsy Robertson, have equipped their home on Progress Street with energy-efficient technologies to the point where they are not using electricity but generating it for the city. The south side of their roof is covered with solar panels to generate electricity as well as heat their water. They have three large rain catchers that provide water for the house and garden. The house is specially insulated so that climate control is rarely needed. Derkacz and Robertson received the first rebate offered by the city for the solar panels on their roof.
Lauren Taylor
A River Restoration Project at Aquarena Center is underway. The last remnants of the former amusement park will be removed, but the Glass Bottom Boat tours will continue. The restoration project directed by the U-S Army Corps of Engineers is an attempt to return the aquatic and terrestrial habitats in Spring Lake to a more natural setting. The glass bottoms boats have been forced to re-route their tours temporarily. The Corps Engineers is at work now removing the old submarine theater. The restoration project is expected to be completed early this summer.
Randy Robinson
Many students are already making their way back to Sewell Park -- now that the weather is starting to warm up. The river flow has returned to more normal levels after much needed rain, and the weather is beautiful making the river a fun way to relax after a long day of classes. For water lovers, renting a kayak is popular at the San Marcos River. But, if you would prefer to stay dry, you can play basketball or soak up the sun while lying on the bank. Other favorite pastimes at the river include reading, fishing and throwing Frisbees.
Assignments - Week of Feb. 20-Feb. 23
PRICES- Gas prices going up. Impact on students. Gonzales PKG
FREGIS- Fall Registration starts soon. Rodriguez VO
CABOOSE- Baseball team has a caboose. Robinson VO
TAGGING- Tagging against the anti-smoking policy. Elder VO
TECH- Use of electronic devices in classroom. Garcia PKG
ASG1- Signs on campus indicate ASG race. Lanmon. VO
DEFIB- Defibrillators are on campus to save lives. Currier PKG
SOLAR- Solar panel rebate. Wright VO
BOATS- Boat tour endowment proposed. Taylor VO
KTSW- 20th Anniversary of KTSW. Martinez PKG
RIVER- Rain has helped levels. RobinsonR VO
FREGIS- Fall Registration starts soon. Rodriguez VO
CABOOSE- Baseball team has a caboose. Robinson VO
TAGGING- Tagging against the anti-smoking policy. Elder VO
TECH- Use of electronic devices in classroom. Garcia PKG
ASG1- Signs on campus indicate ASG race. Lanmon. VO
DEFIB- Defibrillators are on campus to save lives. Currier PKG
SOLAR- Solar panel rebate. Wright VO
BOATS- Boat tour endowment proposed. Taylor VO
KTSW- 20th Anniversary of KTSW. Martinez PKG
RIVER- Rain has helped levels. RobinsonR VO
Laurie Gonzales
Gas prices are on the rise, and Texas State students are starting to feel the pinch in their daily lives. Laurie Gonzales has this Bobcat Update.
Since the beginning of the year, gas prices have risen 25-cents nationally, 21-cents in the last month here in the San Marcos area, making it a burden to students who commute.
Soundbite-
Some students realize that they can cope with the higher prices by driving less and changing their spending habits.
Soundbite-
Despite the recent increase and pending effects of Iran's decision to stop oil exports to Britain and France, some students remain optimistic about the nation's ability to adapt.
Soundbite
With gas prices expected to hit four dollars by April, some students say they may take a more radical approach to limiting their dependency of gas.
Soundbite-
And with gas prices on the rise, this might be us all. I'm Laurie Gonzales, with Bobcat Update.
Since the beginning of the year, gas prices have risen 25-cents nationally, 21-cents in the last month here in the San Marcos area, making it a burden to students who commute.
Soundbite-
Some students realize that they can cope with the higher prices by driving less and changing their spending habits.
Soundbite-
Despite the recent increase and pending effects of Iran's decision to stop oil exports to Britain and France, some students remain optimistic about the nation's ability to adapt.
Soundbite
With gas prices expected to hit four dollars by April, some students say they may take a more radical approach to limiting their dependency of gas.
Soundbite-
And with gas prices on the rise, this might be us all. I'm Laurie Gonzales, with Bobcat Update.
2/20/12
Mariana Garcia
Technology seems to be everywhere you look. Most Texas State students
probably own at least one electronic device, and they like to use them.
In this Bobcat Update, Mariana Garcia tells us how electronic devices
are affecting students and their behavior in the classroom.
The path of technology integration in education is lined with disruptions on
one side and opportunities on the other. Technology serves as a window
for new methods of teaching with good intentions, only to encounter
unwanted side effects such as distraction in the classroom.
(SB: Garcia- "You see it in class…Avoid using your cellphone.")
Assistant Professor Lucy Lu doesn't allow the use of cellphones in her class.
(SB: Lu- "I don't allow them to use … something else.")
(STANDUP:
Although electronic devices and social media can distract students in
the classroom, some people believe this is beneficial to their
education)
(SB: Thomas- "Yea I use it during class… I'm not going to lie."
But Graduate Assistant Chase Rogers says technology can help students in the classroom.
(SB: Rogers- " Some students type faster than they handwrite… In class.")
Technology
will keep evolving and everyone will continue to adjust and find ways
to make it work for them, whether its faculty or students. For Bobcat
Update, I'm Mariana Garcia.
probably own at least one electronic device, and they like to use them.
In this Bobcat Update, Mariana Garcia tells us how electronic devices
are affecting students and their behavior in the classroom.
The path of technology integration in education is lined with disruptions on
one side and opportunities on the other. Technology serves as a window
for new methods of teaching with good intentions, only to encounter
unwanted side effects such as distraction in the classroom.
(SB: Garcia- "You see it in class…Avoid using your cellphone.")
Assistant Professor Lucy Lu doesn't allow the use of cellphones in her class.
(SB: Lu- "I don't allow them to use … something else.")
(STANDUP:
Although electronic devices and social media can distract students in
the classroom, some people believe this is beneficial to their
education)
(SB: Thomas- "Yea I use it during class… I'm not going to lie."
But Graduate Assistant Chase Rogers says technology can help students in the classroom.
(SB: Rogers- " Some students type faster than they handwrite… In class.")
Technology
will keep evolving and everyone will continue to adjust and find ways
to make it work for them, whether its faculty or students. For Bobcat
Update, I'm Mariana Garcia.
Callie Currier
Texas State has equipped several of its buildings with life-saving technology, but many students are completely unaware of it. Callie Currier has the story in this Bobcat Update.
SB (AED Test Machine Sounds)
It's called an A-E-D or an Automated External Defibrillator, and Texas State has the defibrillators at several high traffic areas on campus. An A-E-D is a device that uses electric shock to revive a person who has
gone into cardiac arrest. The problem is, not everyone knows where to find them.
SBx2(Back to back of two kids being completely stumped as to where the A-E-D's are located)
Locating the A-E-Ds is just one problem. Many students are also unfamiliar with how they work.
SB (Kab talking about the "Clear!" method)
Senior Clarissa Sanchez says the University should make it clear where the defibrillators are located.
SB (Clarissa proposing TxState use an email system)
There are several resources available to better educate people on where the A-E-D's are located and their correct usage. These include an online map of all the buildings on campus that have these devices. Also, the
certification classes offered by the Red Cross require hands-on training with A-E-Ds.
Texas State Aquatics and Safety Assistant Director Julie Saldiva, who also teaches some of the certification classes, says that for every minute the victim remains unconscious, his or her chance of survival decreases by ten percent. In a situation where every second counts, knowing where to look and how to operate this equipment is key.
Stand Up (Many instructors like Julie hold classes throughout the year……for Bobcat Update, I'm Callie Currier).
SB (AED Test Machine Sounds)
It's called an A-E-D or an Automated External Defibrillator, and Texas State has the defibrillators at several high traffic areas on campus. An A-E-D is a device that uses electric shock to revive a person who has
gone into cardiac arrest. The problem is, not everyone knows where to find them.
SBx2(Back to back of two kids being completely stumped as to where the A-E-D's are located)
Locating the A-E-Ds is just one problem. Many students are also unfamiliar with how they work.
SB (Kab talking about the "Clear!" method)
Senior Clarissa Sanchez says the University should make it clear where the defibrillators are located.
SB (Clarissa proposing TxState use an email system)
There are several resources available to better educate people on where the A-E-D's are located and their correct usage. These include an online map of all the buildings on campus that have these devices. Also, the
certification classes offered by the Red Cross require hands-on training with A-E-Ds.
Texas State Aquatics and Safety Assistant Director Julie Saldiva, who also teaches some of the certification classes, says that for every minute the victim remains unconscious, his or her chance of survival decreases by ten percent. In a situation where every second counts, knowing where to look and how to operate this equipment is key.
Stand Up (Many instructors like Julie hold classes throughout the year……for Bobcat Update, I'm Callie Currier).
Lauren Lanmon
Texas State students running for Associated Student Government are campaigning already. Posters are popping up everywhere in the quad in hopes of influencing the voters' decisions. The student body election will begin April third and go through April fourth. Students will be able to vote at a poll in the quad or the second floor of the L-B-J Student Center. On-line voting will also be available through a link on the Texas State homepage.
Marilyn Elder
The tobacco-free policy at Texas State is causing some problems on campus. Tagging and vandalism are evident -- with messages that indicate that some people strongly oppose the anti-smoking measures. School officials have done little to enforce the policy -- beyond asking students to do the enforcing. But smokers still light up and litter from cigarette butts is easy to find. No arrests have been made in the vandalism case.
Mason Robinson
Texas State baseball fans have a new way to watch games at Bobcat Field. San Marcos residents are no strangers to trains, SO -- in foul territory along the right field line, there's now a caboose that's been converted into a luxury suite for fans to sit and enjoy games. With the season opener taking place over the weekend, the caboose officially opened to ticket holders, with seating for at least a dozen people and an outdoor deck for many more. The air-conditioned suite sits on top of an actual train track and includes a kitchenette and two flat screen T-Vs.
Kritzia Rodriguez
It's that time in the semester to start thinking about Summer and Fall courses. Registration will be here before you know it, and many Students across campus are getting a head start and making their advising appointments before spring break. Spots fill up quickly and you want to get in before its time to choose your classes. Call your school advising office to set up an appointment. Registration for Summer one and two begin on March 26th and on April Ninth for Fall 2012.
2/10/12
Alisha Grieme
Valentine's Day is fast approaching, and those of us with loved ones in the military aren't sure if they can talk to their loved ones. Alisha Grieme has the story.
For students at Texas State, as well as people all over the world, communication is key in day-to-day life. This could include texting, being on Facebook, and of course talking face to face, but for men and women in the military, these luxuries are not always available.
Retired Army Lieutenant Colonel Murel Miller works in the Veterans Affairs office. Miller says that in boot camp, soldiers don't get to talk to their families a lot. There are time limits and long lines for the phones. Some services even take phones away until boot camp is finished. Miller says being able to talk to family and loved ones is invaluable for the troops because it helps lower stress.
Brandon Simons agrees. He's a multi-channel systems operator for the Army. Simons says he got lucky with his job when he was deployed to Iraq, because he got to talk to his family more often than others.
SB
Simons says that he got to talk to his family through Facebook and other multimedia outlets, not like Air Force Major JoAnne Finan. She didn't have these luxuries during her first deployment.
SB
Finan says that her most recent deployment was easier because she got to see and talk to her family -- thanks to Skype.
Air Force Master Sergeant James McCall says that when he was in Afghanistan, he bought an Afghan cell phone, and it was very expensive to use it. He also says that it was hard to talk to family because of the time change. He likes that Skype is an option, even though his wife and parents don't know how to use it.
SB
All of these new ways to communicate don't replace talking face to face.
SB
No matter how soldiers talk to their families and friends, the message is always the same.
SB
"You love them, they love you and you're safe. You know, that's the main thing, is you're safe." Despite distance and location modern technology is helping soldiers and their families stay connected and communicate this Valentine's Day. For Bobcat Update, I'm Alisha Grieme.
For students at Texas State, as well as people all over the world, communication is key in day-to-day life. This could include texting, being on Facebook, and of course talking face to face, but for men and women in the military, these luxuries are not always available.
Retired Army Lieutenant Colonel Murel Miller works in the Veterans Affairs office. Miller says that in boot camp, soldiers don't get to talk to their families a lot. There are time limits and long lines for the phones. Some services even take phones away until boot camp is finished. Miller says being able to talk to family and loved ones is invaluable for the troops because it helps lower stress.
Brandon Simons agrees. He's a multi-channel systems operator for the Army. Simons says he got lucky with his job when he was deployed to Iraq, because he got to talk to his family more often than others.
SB
Simons says that he got to talk to his family through Facebook and other multimedia outlets, not like Air Force Major JoAnne Finan. She didn't have these luxuries during her first deployment.
SB
Finan says that her most recent deployment was easier because she got to see and talk to her family -- thanks to Skype.
Air Force Master Sergeant James McCall says that when he was in Afghanistan, he bought an Afghan cell phone, and it was very expensive to use it. He also says that it was hard to talk to family because of the time change. He likes that Skype is an option, even though his wife and parents don't know how to use it.
SB
All of these new ways to communicate don't replace talking face to face.
SB
No matter how soldiers talk to their families and friends, the message is always the same.
SB
"You love them, they love you and you're safe. You know, that's the main thing, is you're safe." Despite distance and location modern technology is helping soldiers and their families stay connected and communicate this Valentine's Day. For Bobcat Update, I'm Alisha Grieme.
Tatiana Salazar
A university in Pennsylvania is stirring up some controversy by being the first to sell the morning after pill in campus vending machines. In this Bobcat Update, Tatiana Salazar tells us how likely this could happen here at Texas State.
Anyone who lives on campus can tell you that condoms are readily available in their dorms' vending machines. But Shippensburg University just added one new item to their machines - the morning after pill. However, selling this pill in a vending machine, as opposed to a pharmacy, could lead to health risks.
Dr. Emilio Carranco recommends students to talk to a pharmacist before taking any type of drug.
(SB: Carranco)
Some students, though, don't think offering the pill in vending machines is such a bad idea.
(SB Wallace)
(SB)
Dr. Carranco says he doesn't see this happening here anytime soon.
(SB: Carranco)
(Standup: The morning after pill is available at all pharmacies and the Health Center without a prescription as long as you are seventeen or older. But its not meant to be used as a regular means of contraception. For Bobcat Update, I'm Tatiana Salazar.)
Anyone who lives on campus can tell you that condoms are readily available in their dorms' vending machines. But Shippensburg University just added one new item to their machines - the morning after pill. However, selling this pill in a vending machine, as opposed to a pharmacy, could lead to health risks.
Dr. Emilio Carranco recommends students to talk to a pharmacist before taking any type of drug.
(SB: Carranco)
Some students, though, don't think offering the pill in vending machines is such a bad idea.
(SB Wallace)
(SB)
Dr. Carranco says he doesn't see this happening here anytime soon.
(SB: Carranco)
(Standup: The morning after pill is available at all pharmacies and the Health Center without a prescription as long as you are seventeen or older. But its not meant to be used as a regular means of contraception. For Bobcat Update, I'm Tatiana Salazar.)
2/9/12
Caleb Hey
On the Texas State campus is a tree that some call the Kissing Oak. It was named for an event that occurred in 1857 when Sam Houston kissed three women at that location. The women had expressed their appreciation for his speechmaking that day. But now the historic tree is dying. Development near it is killing the tree, so the city is planning to remove it this Saturday. The tree is located at University Drive and C-M Allen in San Marcos.
Sam Chmelar
The Texas State baseball team is ready to start another season on February 17th when it hosts Santa Clara. The Texas State sports website says the Bobcats are picked to win the Southland Conference and six players are listed as preseason All-Conference. Last year the team ended the season as Conference Champions. Head coach Ty Harrington has the most wins as a coach in Bobcat history.
Lauren Taylor
K-T-S-W has announced its line up for the fifth annual Mister Fest, a three-day free event held the last weekend in April. All of the artists performing at Mister Fest will be Central Texas talent, including this year's headliner White Denim. Student executives at the radio station are busy finalizing posters and securing sponsors. The complete line up and more information about Mister Fest can be found at K-T-S-W-dot-net.
2/8/12
Nicki Schotanus
Valentines day is fast approaching, but many students don’t have the cash to spend on a lavish date. Luckily, there are some affordable alternatives to make this Valentine’s Day one to remember. Going to the dollar theater after a home-cooked meal is a good way to avoid expensive restaurants and rising ticket costs. Sitting down to coffee and an open mic comedy show can also be a unique way to spend the evening. Lunch in the park along with hand-picked flowers is an easy way to show just how much you care. Sometimes all that really matters is spending the time, not the money.
Sam Bruce
The Supple Science Observatory is open to the public on Wednesdays from sundown until 9 p.m., if the sky is clear. It is located on the fourth floor of the Supple Science Building. The observatory features a sixteen-inch diameter telescope and has an observation area near the dorm for those who bring their own telescopes.
Dan Japko
Texas State students will soon have a new housing option to choose from. The Retreat will be a housing complex located at the intersection of Craddock and Ranch Road 12. The complex will have individual houses instead of large apartment buildings. Units will be available in two, three, four, and five-bedroom floorplans. Developers say The Retreat should be completed by next fall
Daniel Nguyen
Texas State has a growing student population making walkways, roadways and even busses crowded. Many students are finding alternative ways to get to class by biking, skateboarding, and walking. Not only does that create a quick way to get to class, but also a good way to get exercise and help the environment.
Chris Avery
Motorcycles, scooters and bicycles can be dangerous forms of transportation. Students who use them have to be careful, especially now with heavy traffic on San Marcos streets. Increased enrollment has resulted in more people trying to get around town. Students are encouraged to practice safe driving habits to avoid what happened last week when a man on a moped was killed by a distracted driver.
Chelsi Smith
Many Texas State students are already thinking about spring break. They're getting prepared by working out. Chelsi Smith has more with this Bobcat Update.
The Student Recreation Center offers many different ways to work out, such as lifting weights and playing basketball. The Rec Center stays extremely busy much of the time. The facilities serve students and faculty, and with higher enrollment at the university, demand is up. Towels and lockers often run out, and people have to wait in lines. With spring break coming up, many students are at the gym more often.
(SB Allison Smith...Fitness Graduate Assistant...secs)
Texas State offers an unlimited pass that allows students to attend any workout class for a low cost. The classes are offered every day and gives students the motivation they need to get in shape.
(SB Jenny Sessions...Texas State Junior...secs)
(Stand up)
This year, the Student Rec Center has sold a record number of passes and expects the heavy usage to continue until at least spring break. For Bobcat Update, I'm Chelsi Smith.
The Student Recreation Center offers many different ways to work out, such as lifting weights and playing basketball. The Rec Center stays extremely busy much of the time. The facilities serve students and faculty, and with higher enrollment at the university, demand is up. Towels and lockers often run out, and people have to wait in lines. With spring break coming up, many students are at the gym more often.
(SB Allison Smith...Fitness Graduate Assistant...secs)
Texas State offers an unlimited pass that allows students to attend any workout class for a low cost. The classes are offered every day and gives students the motivation they need to get in shape.
(SB Jenny Sessions...Texas State Junior...secs)
(Stand up)
This year, the Student Rec Center has sold a record number of passes and expects the heavy usage to continue until at least spring break. For Bobcat Update, I'm Chelsi Smith.
Will Burney
A proposal before the San Marcos City Council may tighten the rules on alcohol consumption in city parks. Will Burney has more:
The San Marcos River is a favorite recreation spot for Texas State students and city residents alike, but a recent proposal now before the City Council may change the way people are allowed to relax by the river. The city's Parks and Recreation board recently voted unanimously in favor of a proposal that would ban the public consumption and display of alcohol in city parks. The City Council plans to discuss the proposal at a later meeting.
SB: I don't know. I don't think it's a good idea, but I also think that people would find another place. If they just ban it here and other places, there's always somewhere else to go
If the proposal passes, then drinking at parks like Rio Vista would be illegal.The Parks and Recreation board chose NOT to mention the river itself in the proposed ban. There's already a ban on consuming alcohol in fenced pool areas as well as the children's park. For Bobcat Update, I'm Will Burney.
The San Marcos River is a favorite recreation spot for Texas State students and city residents alike, but a recent proposal now before the City Council may change the way people are allowed to relax by the river. The city's Parks and Recreation board recently voted unanimously in favor of a proposal that would ban the public consumption and display of alcohol in city parks. The City Council plans to discuss the proposal at a later meeting.
SB: I don't know. I don't think it's a good idea, but I also think that people would find another place. If they just ban it here and other places, there's always somewhere else to go
If the proposal passes, then drinking at parks like Rio Vista would be illegal.The Parks and Recreation board chose NOT to mention the river itself in the proposed ban. There's already a ban on consuming alcohol in fenced pool areas as well as the children's park. For Bobcat Update, I'm Will Burney.
Connie Gonzalez
Enforcement of a campuswide ban on smoking appears to be lacking at Texas State. Connie Gonzalez has more in this Bobcat Update.
In August 2011, Texas State University became a tobacco-free campus, yet students and faculty members continue to smoke.
(:13...Gault...smoke free campus)
Although there are many no-smoking signs around campus, there are no consequences for violating the policy.
(SB Weiser)
Texas State officials say there are no plans to further enforce the no-smoking policy.
For Bobcat Update, I'm Connie Gonzalez
In August 2011, Texas State University became a tobacco-free campus, yet students and faculty members continue to smoke.
(:13...Gault...smoke free campus)
Although there are many no-smoking signs around campus, there are no consequences for violating the policy.
(SB Weiser)
Texas State officials say there are no plans to further enforce the no-smoking policy.
For Bobcat Update, I'm Connie Gonzalez
2/7/12
Laurie Gonzales
Love is the theme this month in America as many celebrate Valentine's Day. Showing appreciation for one's sweetheart is also a worldwide phenomenon. Laurie Gonzales has the story, in this Bobcat Update.
Chocolates, heart-shaped balloons and flowers are common means of expression this time of year. They show love. But other cultures, other countries, have different approaches. For example, in Mexico, Valentine's Day, which is called Dia de San Valentin, is celebrated by both young and old, with gifts of chocolates and secret valentines.
SB
______ _______ says Lover's Day is a big event in Asian culture. Some Asian countries celebrate twice a year -- February 14th for the girls, and March 14th for men.
SB
But just as it is for some in America, Valentine's Day can be hard on the pocketbook.
SB
Although Valentine's day seems to be commercialized everywhere, it is a nice way to remind people in your life that you care.
SB
Whether you're from here or from another country, one thing is sure, love is universal.
For Bobcat Update, I'm Laurie Gonzales..
Chocolates, heart-shaped balloons and flowers are common means of expression this time of year. They show love. But other cultures, other countries, have different approaches. For example, in Mexico, Valentine's Day, which is called Dia de San Valentin, is celebrated by both young and old, with gifts of chocolates and secret valentines.
SB
______ _______ says Lover's Day is a big event in Asian culture. Some Asian countries celebrate twice a year -- February 14th for the girls, and March 14th for men.
SB
But just as it is for some in America, Valentine's Day can be hard on the pocketbook.
SB
Although Valentine's day seems to be commercialized everywhere, it is a nice way to remind people in your life that you care.
SB
Whether you're from here or from another country, one thing is sure, love is universal.
For Bobcat Update, I'm Laurie Gonzales..
Shannon Greif
A growth in the student population at Texas State is causing a lot of frustration for students who commute to and from campus. Shannon Greif has more on this Bobcat Update.
The rapid rise in student population has left many Bobcat Tram buses extremely crowded. The Bobcat Tram services about 27-thousand riders per day. Since last year, the trams have had a six percent increase in student riders. With only 32 buses running, many students are left without a ride.
(S.B. Chrisdyann Uribe…Texas State Junior…__ sec)
Students who ride the Wonder World bus often wait up to 40 minutes for a bus while buses on other routes arrive every 20 minutes. Some students say they've seen buses on the same route alternating between one being full and the next being empty.
(S.B.)
Overcrowding is not the only thing students have to worry about. Safety is also a big issue for those students living at The Springs apartments. This year, the Blanco River and the Mill Street routes have been split into separate routes. Bobcat Tram employees say that they are understaffed with only 60 drivers. As many as 80 drivers are needed to man the bus routes all week long. For Bobcat Update, I'm Shannon Greif.
The rapid rise in student population has left many Bobcat Tram buses extremely crowded. The Bobcat Tram services about 27-thousand riders per day. Since last year, the trams have had a six percent increase in student riders. With only 32 buses running, many students are left without a ride.
(S.B. Chrisdyann Uribe…Texas State Junior…__ sec)
Students who ride the Wonder World bus often wait up to 40 minutes for a bus while buses on other routes arrive every 20 minutes. Some students say they've seen buses on the same route alternating between one being full and the next being empty.
(S.B.)
Overcrowding is not the only thing students have to worry about. Safety is also a big issue for those students living at The Springs apartments. This year, the Blanco River and the Mill Street routes have been split into separate routes. Bobcat Tram employees say that they are understaffed with only 60 drivers. As many as 80 drivers are needed to man the bus routes all week long. For Bobcat Update, I'm Shannon Greif.
Geoff Gorman
It is among one of the easiest medical conditions to recognize but also one of the most difficult to treat. It is child obesity. Bobcat Update's Geoff Gorman tells us about an effort to raise awareness.
A group on campus called Fit to the Core is leading the awareness campaign.
Bishop, 0:06
Fit to the Core is working with the Public Relations Student Society of America at Texas State to help parents and children understand how to recognize and prevent child obesity.
McLellan, 0:14
H-E-B is helping support the awareness by donating the green apples that will be passed out at some of the elementary schools in San Marcos.
Gorman, stand up, 0:14
McLellan, 0:14
For more information about Fit to the Core, you can visit their website.
For Bobcat Update, I'm Geoff Gorman.
Kaneesha Skinner
Students at Texas State now have a new place to go where they can dance and enjoy music on the square. The Texas Music Theater on San Antonio Street has become a popular music venue downtown, offering competition for the Midnight Rodeo in Austin. T-M-T brings in a wide range of bands. Most can be seen for free, but bigger name acts -- like Los Lonely Boys and Blue October -- require a cover charge. The theater has been open since last March.
Brooke Hampton
San Marcos is part of the trend when it comes to outdoor dining. Two food trailer courts have been set up in the city. One of them is located on Hopkins Street and the other is on Guadalupe near the old post office. Each trailer offers a variety of food and drinks. Many of them specialize in specific types of food such as cupcakes or pizza. In a typical dining experience, customers walk up to a trailer of their choice, order food and takes it to the picnic tables to eat.
Nicholas Fong
During the past couple of weeks, San Marcos has had a fair amount of rainfall. The rain has been a welcome sight considering the drought the area has experienced. The drought resulted in a burn ban and restricted watering. Now, though, these areas are once again being enjoyed by the wildlife on campus. And the residents of San Marcos also have a renewed appreciation for the river as the weather is getting warmer.
Orlando Garza
It's tax season again, but for many preparing one's taxes can result in confusion and anxiety. The A-A-R-P is helping the elderly and low-income residents get efficient and cost-free preparation. Orlando Garza has the story.
A-A-R-P volunteers have been hard at work this week trying to help clients fill out their taxes. The program is designed to help the elderly, handicapped and low-income families complete their tax forms for free. A-A-R-P client Lola Bell says she has used the service many times and will continue to do so.
A-A-R-P volunteers have been hard at work this week trying to help clients fill out their taxes. The program is designed to help the elderly, handicapped and low-income families complete their tax forms for free. A-A-R-P client Lola Bell says she has used the service many times and will continue to do so.
(SB Lola Bell…)
A-A-R-P Tax aide organizer Powell Hinson -- who has volunteered for 27 years -- says the program is a good way for the those on tight budgets to get tax advice.
(SB Powell Hinson…)
(Orlando Garza's stand up)
2/6/12
Peter Titus
A shortage of practice rooms at the Texas State University School of Music has resulted in students having to find practice accommodations elsewhere on campus. With more than 500 students enrolled at the school of music, and less than 50 practice rooms in the building, students are frustrated with the lack of accessible practice areas. Many students resort to practicing outside the music building in the courtyard. According to the university master plan, there are no future plans to expand the building.
Samuel Palasota
A group in Comal County is seeking a permanent injunction to a container ban passed last year. The purpose of the container ban is to protect the rivers and wildlife from excessive littering caused by river tourism. The suit was filed by a group called The Tourist Associated Businesses of Comal County. Named in the suit are the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality and the Texas General Land Office. A spokesperson for the Land Office says he doesn't understand why they were named in the suit.
Assignments - Week of Feb 6-Feb 10
VLNTNES How is Valentines Day observed in other cultures, if at all. Gonzales/Lanmon PKG
AARP Retired folks offering tax help. Garza/Currier PKG
OBESITY Obesity Prevention PR campaign. Gorman/Ricard PKG
BUSES The buses are overcrowded. Greif/Garazuay PKG
BAND The shortage of practice rooms. School of Music. Titus/Morales VO
RIVERBAN Comal Co. group sues to stop enforcement of alcohol ban. Palasota/Klassen VO
MUSICTH Texas Music Theatre is open and thriving. Hernandez/Skinner VO
TRAILER Food trailers are doing brisk business. Hampton/Davis VO
RAIN San Marcos area finally getting rain. Fong/Kaddatz VO
PARKS City Council may tighten rules on alcohol consumption in parks. Burney/Martinez PKG
NOSMOKE Smoking ban isn't being enforced. GonzalesC/Brown PKG
RECCTR Rec Center staying crowded. Spring Break. Smith/Corona PKG
BASEBL The 2012 season will soon start. Chmelar/Muscarello VO
DEADTREE Dying Tree to be removed. Hey/Martin VO
CONDOM National Condum Month. Contraceptives. Robinson/Wright VO
MRFEST Mr Fest KTSW Event End of April. Taylor/Himede
AARP Retired folks offering tax help. Garza/Currier PKG
OBESITY Obesity Prevention PR campaign. Gorman/Ricard PKG
BUSES The buses are overcrowded. Greif/Garazuay PKG
BAND The shortage of practice rooms. School of Music. Titus/Morales VO
RIVERBAN Comal Co. group sues to stop enforcement of alcohol ban. Palasota/Klassen VO
MUSICTH Texas Music Theatre is open and thriving. Hernandez/Skinner VO
TRAILER Food trailers are doing brisk business. Hampton/Davis VO
RAIN San Marcos area finally getting rain. Fong/Kaddatz VO
PARKS City Council may tighten rules on alcohol consumption in parks. Burney/Martinez PKG
NOSMOKE Smoking ban isn't being enforced. GonzalesC/Brown PKG
RECCTR Rec Center staying crowded. Spring Break. Smith/Corona PKG
BASEBL The 2012 season will soon start. Chmelar/Muscarello VO
DEADTREE Dying Tree to be removed. Hey/Martin VO
CONDOM National Condum Month. Contraceptives. Robinson/Wright VO
MRFEST Mr Fest KTSW Event End of April. Taylor/Himede
1/22/12
Christlyn Corona
Enrollment at Texas State has been going up for several years, which means new buildings are needed to accommodate the growth. In this Bobcat Update, Christlyn Corona tells us how the university is meeting the challenge.
Several construction projects are underway at Texas State. New housing is being built. Utilities are being upgraded. The activity requires some adjustment on the part of the students. Some are coping better than others.
(SB: Olson..."people coming in.")
(SB: Hampton..."built up traffic.")
University officials say the long list of construction projects on campus are worth about 585 (m) million dollars. For Bobcat Update, I'm Christlyn Corona.
Several construction projects are underway at Texas State. New housing is being built. Utilities are being upgraded. The activity requires some adjustment on the part of the students. Some are coping better than others.
(SB: Olson..."people coming in.")
(SB: Hampton..."built up traffic.")
University officials say the long list of construction projects on campus are worth about 585 (m) million dollars. For Bobcat Update, I'm Christlyn Corona.
Will Burney
Some Texas State students are having to make adjustments to deal with construction on campus. Will Burney has the story.
Progress is being made on several building projects on campus. While work continues, students are finding detours to get to their destinations. For example, in front of Jones Dining Hall, access to the library and the quad is blocked forcing students to take a longer path. Freshman Jessica Gonzales is frustrated by the inconvenience caused by the construction
(SB: "...the construction.")
Another construction site by the alumni house blocks a sidewalk. Mass Comm major Nick Phong worries that some of the paths that students use for detours aren't safe.
(SB: "...spot now.")
The construction projects are part of Texas State's Master Plan. Some of them, including a new residence hall and expansion of Bobcat Stadium, will likely be finished this year. Others will take much longer. For Bobcat Update I'm Will Burney.
Progress is being made on several building projects on campus. While work continues, students are finding detours to get to their destinations. For example, in front of Jones Dining Hall, access to the library and the quad is blocked forcing students to take a longer path. Freshman Jessica Gonzales is frustrated by the inconvenience caused by the construction
(SB: "...the construction.")
Another construction site by the alumni house blocks a sidewalk. Mass Comm major Nick Phong worries that some of the paths that students use for detours aren't safe.
(SB: "...spot now.")
The construction projects are part of Texas State's Master Plan. Some of them, including a new residence hall and expansion of Bobcat Stadium, will likely be finished this year. Others will take much longer. For Bobcat Update I'm Will Burney.
Desiree Martinez
The spring semester at Texas State is now in full swing, but some students may have a few things standing in their way. Desiree Martinez has the story.
The obstacles that students may encounter are work zones. Construction on campus is going on at several sites, causing many street closures and even some buildings to be shut down.
SB
Students are having to adjust to the changes.
SB
Most of the construction is expected to last throughout the semester and even into next fall. For Bobcat Update, I'm Desiree Martinez.
The obstacles that students may encounter are work zones. Construction on campus is going on at several sites, causing many street closures and even some buildings to be shut down.
SB
Students are having to adjust to the changes.
SB
Most of the construction is expected to last throughout the semester and even into next fall. For Bobcat Update, I'm Desiree Martinez.
Jill Ament
Blocked roads and walkways on campus are causing frustration among Texas State students. Jill Ament has more…
Implementation of the Texas State Master Plan is in full swing, with several older structures being renovated and new ones steadily being built.
By now, the sight of cranes, construction workers in hard helmets and the sound of drills and bulldozers are familiar on campus. But construction also brings other familiar sights: barricades blocking roads and sidewalks that many students use every day.
Lauren Taylor is a senior at Texas State. She says the temporary closure of a sidewalk to Jones Dining Hall recently caught her off guard.
SOUNDBITE :15
Other students are finding their convenient routes to class botched by signs saying Road Blocked or Sidewalk Closed.
Texas State senior Brittany Davis says she can't take her short cut anymore. She's had to revert to other, more
congested and out-of-the-way detours.
SOUNDBITE :15
Some paths on West Campus have been partially or fully shut down. Renovation of Commons Dining Hall is ongoing, and it'll remain closed until sometime next fall. Several floors of Lampasas Hall are also closed while the building receives an extensive makeover, expected to end this summer. Master Plan construction isn't expected to end until sometime around 2017.
For Bobcat Update, I'm Jill Ament.
Implementation of the Texas State Master Plan is in full swing, with several older structures being renovated and new ones steadily being built.
By now, the sight of cranes, construction workers in hard helmets and the sound of drills and bulldozers are familiar on campus. But construction also brings other familiar sights: barricades blocking roads and sidewalks that many students use every day.
Lauren Taylor is a senior at Texas State. She says the temporary closure of a sidewalk to Jones Dining Hall recently caught her off guard.
SOUNDBITE :15
Other students are finding their convenient routes to class botched by signs saying Road Blocked or Sidewalk Closed.
Texas State senior Brittany Davis says she can't take her short cut anymore. She's had to revert to other, more
congested and out-of-the-way detours.
SOUNDBITE :15
Some paths on West Campus have been partially or fully shut down. Renovation of Commons Dining Hall is ongoing, and it'll remain closed until sometime next fall. Several floors of Lampasas Hall are also closed while the building receives an extensive makeover, expected to end this summer. Master Plan construction isn't expected to end until sometime around 2017.
For Bobcat Update, I'm Jill Ament.
Sam Chmelar
A lot of construction projects are underway on campus, and some students regard them as an inconvenience. Sam Chmelar has more.
Avoiding cranes, backhoes and closed off streets has become a part of everyday life for Bobcats. Many have adapted to deal with the inconveniences brought on by construction.
(SB: Marylea)
The construction has affected the daily routines of many students. Commuters are finding it harder than ever to get to class because of the obstructed walkways, sidewalks and parking lots.
(SB: Connie)
Some of the major construction projects include an expansion of Bobcat Stadium, a housing complex and a performing arts center.
For Bobcat Update, I'm Sam Chmelar.
Avoiding cranes, backhoes and closed off streets has become a part of everyday life for Bobcats. Many have adapted to deal with the inconveniences brought on by construction.
(SB: Marylea)
The construction has affected the daily routines of many students. Commuters are finding it harder than ever to get to class because of the obstructed walkways, sidewalks and parking lots.
(SB: Connie)
Some of the major construction projects include an expansion of Bobcat Stadium, a housing complex and a performing arts center.
For Bobcat Update, I'm Sam Chmelar.
Daniel Japko
Look around campus at Texas State and you're bound to see construction activity. New buildings are going up to accommodate enrollment growth. Daniel Japko tells us more, in this Bobcat Update:
One of the construction projects is the Undergraduate Academic Center. Officials say the center should be completed by June of this year and and will cost the university more than 47-million (M) dollars.
Junior Michael Schooley says he might use the building when it's completed.
(SB: ...use it.)
But not everyone is pleased to have so much construction occurring at the same time.
(SB:...the way.)
The center will bring several departments into one building. University College and University Seminar will have classes in the center, and the Psychology, Political Science and Sociology departments will be located there as well.
Several other large construction projects are underway at Texas State. Bobcat Stadium is being expanded and a new housing complex is being built. Both projects should be finished by the fall.
Senior Mason Robinson says he wishes the new buildings could have been finished sooner.
(SB: long gone.)
The university is also building a new performing arts center on University Drive. Officials say the center will be finished in 2014.
For Bobcat Update, I'm Daniel Japko.
One of the construction projects is the Undergraduate Academic Center. Officials say the center should be completed by June of this year and and will cost the university more than 47-million (M) dollars.
Junior Michael Schooley says he might use the building when it's completed.
(SB: ...use it.)
But not everyone is pleased to have so much construction occurring at the same time.
(SB:...the way.)
The center will bring several departments into one building. University College and University Seminar will have classes in the center, and the Psychology, Political Science and Sociology departments will be located there as well.
Several other large construction projects are underway at Texas State. Bobcat Stadium is being expanded and a new housing complex is being built. Both projects should be finished by the fall.
Senior Mason Robinson says he wishes the new buildings could have been finished sooner.
(SB: long gone.)
The university is also building a new performing arts center on University Drive. Officials say the center will be finished in 2014.
For Bobcat Update, I'm Daniel Japko.
Laurie Gonzales
More students will be able to find housing on campus soon. Texas State next fall will open a new residence hall for 612 students. Laurie Gonzales has the story:
The North Campus housing project, which is near the L-B-J Student Center, is about 65 percent complete. It's located at the corner of Student Health Center Drive and Comanche Street.
(SB)
Having additional housing is necessary to keep up with enrollment growth at Texas State.
(SB)
University officials say the new residence hall will be finished in May, and occupancy will begin in August. For Bobcat Update, I'm Laurie Gonzales.
The North Campus housing project, which is near the L-B-J Student Center, is about 65 percent complete. It's located at the corner of Student Health Center Drive and Comanche Street.
(SB)
Having additional housing is necessary to keep up with enrollment growth at Texas State.
(SB)
University officials say the new residence hall will be finished in May, and occupancy will begin in August. For Bobcat Update, I'm Laurie Gonzales.
Braden Biggers
Texas State is growing and construction on campus is in full swing. Braden Biggers has more on the story.
New student housing is being built and old buildings are being remodeled. The construction boom is one result of Texas State's increased enrollment, which is at an all-time high.
Some areas on campus are now inaccessible because of the construction. Texas State Senior Brandon Klassen has experienced problems getting around campus and is ready for a break from the crowded campus life.
(SB: Brandon Klassen)
Parking is even more difficult to find. Fenced in construction areas are taking up space where students used to park. Electronic media major Sam Bruce has been forced to walk long distances up steep hills because there aren't enough handicapped parking places for students:
(SB: Sam Bruce)
Construction may be an inconvenience to some, but the expansion is necessary to accommodate the rapidly increasing student population. Texas State Freshman Natalie (last name) says the new buildings are good for the university.
(SB: Natalie)
Expansion of Bobcat Stadium is part of the university's move to the Western Athletic Conference later this year. For Bobcat Update, I'm Braden Biggers.
New student housing is being built and old buildings are being remodeled. The construction boom is one result of Texas State's increased enrollment, which is at an all-time high.
Some areas on campus are now inaccessible because of the construction. Texas State Senior Brandon Klassen has experienced problems getting around campus and is ready for a break from the crowded campus life.
(SB: Brandon Klassen)
Parking is even more difficult to find. Fenced in construction areas are taking up space where students used to park. Electronic media major Sam Bruce has been forced to walk long distances up steep hills because there aren't enough handicapped parking places for students:
(SB: Sam Bruce)
Construction may be an inconvenience to some, but the expansion is necessary to accommodate the rapidly increasing student population. Texas State Freshman Natalie (last name) says the new buildings are good for the university.
(SB: Natalie)
Expansion of Bobcat Stadium is part of the university's move to the Western Athletic Conference later this year. For Bobcat Update, I'm Braden Biggers.
Kathryn Crider
Texas State students are seeing a lot of construction activity as the university expands to match rising enrollment. Kathryn Crider has more in this Bobcat Update.
The new construction includes academic buildings, a fine arts center, a new dorm and additions to the football stadium. Work zones mean more noise and occasional detours, but students are adjusting.
(Ali Grieme soundbite)
(Dr. Michael Miller soundbite)
Bobcat Stadium is being expanded to prepare the university's move to the Western Athletic Conference. The new north side complex will add 13-thousand-500 general admission seats and a gallery honoring the Texas State Strutters.
But not everyone is pleased with how the construction affects their daily routines:
(Kritzia Rodriguez soundbite)
The Undergraduate Academic Center and a performing arts center are among the new buildings being constructed. The Academic Center will house PACE, which will help students determine their career paths, and the performing arts center, which will feature a recital hall and a 400-seat theater.
Also being constructed is a new building for the Department of Housing and Residential Life
For Bobcat Update, I'm Kathryn Crider.
The new construction includes academic buildings, a fine arts center, a new dorm and additions to the football stadium. Work zones mean more noise and occasional detours, but students are adjusting.
(Ali Grieme soundbite)
(Dr. Michael Miller soundbite)
Bobcat Stadium is being expanded to prepare the university's move to the Western Athletic Conference. The new north side complex will add 13-thousand-500 general admission seats and a gallery honoring the Texas State Strutters.
But not everyone is pleased with how the construction affects their daily routines:
(Kritzia Rodriguez soundbite)
The Undergraduate Academic Center and a performing arts center are among the new buildings being constructed. The Academic Center will house PACE, which will help students determine their career paths, and the performing arts center, which will feature a recital hall and a 400-seat theater.
Also being constructed is a new building for the Department of Housing and Residential Life
For Bobcat Update, I'm Kathryn Crider.
Geoff Gorman
You see it everywhere on the Texas State campus -- new buildings are going up. Geoff Gorman tells us more in this Bobcat Update.
Construction activity is the norm at Texas State. New offices and dorms are being built to accommodate the rapid enrollment growth on campus. One of the buildings, the North Housing Complex, is expected to be finished in May and will house up to 612 students starting next fall.
(SB)
New and improved facilities are welcomed by many, but there are some who find the noise and the required detours to be a nuisance.
(SB)
One of the other projects is Texas State's new Performing Arts Center, which includes a theater and recital hall. It is set to be completed in the fall of 2013.
For Bobcat Update, I'm Geoff Gorman.
Construction activity is the norm at Texas State. New offices and dorms are being built to accommodate the rapid enrollment growth on campus. One of the buildings, the North Housing Complex, is expected to be finished in May and will house up to 612 students starting next fall.
(SB)
New and improved facilities are welcomed by many, but there are some who find the noise and the required detours to be a nuisance.
(SB)
One of the other projects is Texas State's new Performing Arts Center, which includes a theater and recital hall. It is set to be completed in the fall of 2013.
For Bobcat Update, I'm Geoff Gorman.
11/30/11
Ashley Flores
Most shoppers may be looking for bargains this time of year as they prepare for the gift-giving season, but they may not realize how some retailers are also making it easy to donate to worthy causes. Ashley Flores tells us how small change can make a big difference.
Through December 12th, J-C-Penney stores across the United States are taking part in a campaign called Pennies from Heaven. Customers can donate directly to the local Boys and Girls Club, just by rounding up their store purchases at the San Marcos and Seguin store locations.
SB: Scott Pierce, Store Manager
[Standup: JCPenney's fundraiser will support the 100 students involved in the Clubs' after school program. (6sec)]
SB: Daphne McDole, BGCSM Coordinator
Funding will go toward items like food or perhaps to devices for the classroom, like this smart board, to help further the children's learning process.
And every cent counts. About 85-hundred dollars was donated from this campaign last year alone.
SB: McDole
McDole says a big plus from the campaign is that some of the money will help keep children enrolled in the program.
SB: McDole
McDole says the children are her motivation for fundraising.
SB: McDole
Children enrolled in the program say it's enriched their social and learning abilities.
SB: Child (6)
SB: Child (5)
SB: Child (6)
And the reward for McDole…
SB: McDole
For Bobcat Update, I'm Ashley Flores.
Through December 12th, J-C-Penney stores across the United States are taking part in a campaign called Pennies from Heaven. Customers can donate directly to the local Boys and Girls Club, just by rounding up their store purchases at the San Marcos and Seguin store locations.
SB: Scott Pierce, Store Manager
[Standup: JCPenney's fundraiser will support the 100 students involved in the Clubs' after school program. (6sec)]
SB: Daphne McDole, BGCSM Coordinator
Funding will go toward items like food or perhaps to devices for the classroom, like this smart board, to help further the children's learning process.
And every cent counts. About 85-hundred dollars was donated from this campaign last year alone.
SB: McDole
McDole says a big plus from the campaign is that some of the money will help keep children enrolled in the program.
SB: McDole
McDole says the children are her motivation for fundraising.
SB: McDole
Children enrolled in the program say it's enriched their social and learning abilities.
SB: Child (6)
SB: Child (5)
SB: Child (6)
And the reward for McDole…
SB: McDole
For Bobcat Update, I'm Ashley Flores.
Kendra Davidson
Another semester is coming to a close, and some Bobcats are taking a stroll down memory lane. Kendra Omega Davidson has more on this Bobcat Update.
Texas State University offers a unique world, and it's no secret that there are certain things graduating seniors will miss.
sb
Texas State University is climbing the ranks, striving to become one of the top schools in the nation. To some graduates, the academic environment on campus, is one of a kind.
sb
sb
Some seniors say they have met some unforgettable people at Texas State. Saying goodbye will be hard.
sb
And let's not forget the antics that caught the attention of many.
sb
Stand Up: Whether it be the nightlife of the square or the enchantment of the river, one thing is for sure: there is no place like home and there is no place like Bobcat Country.
For Bobcat Update, I'm Kendra Omega Davidson.
Texas State University offers a unique world, and it's no secret that there are certain things graduating seniors will miss.
sb
Texas State University is climbing the ranks, striving to become one of the top schools in the nation. To some graduates, the academic environment on campus, is one of a kind.
sb
sb
Some seniors say they have met some unforgettable people at Texas State. Saying goodbye will be hard.
sb
And let's not forget the antics that caught the attention of many.
sb
Stand Up: Whether it be the nightlife of the square or the enchantment of the river, one thing is for sure: there is no place like home and there is no place like Bobcat Country.
For Bobcat Update, I'm Kendra Omega Davidson.
Beth Brinkman
For many students at Texas State, the holiday season means it's a chance to earn some money. Beth Brinkman has more in this Bobcat Update.
Thanksgiving is just the start of the holiday season. Retailers hope Christmas will bring a lot of shoppers into their stores, which means more workers may be needed to keep up with the demand. Some students prefer to work during the winter break.
(SB: Doug Garrett-"For me a seasonal job where I didn't really have to work during the school year, gave me a chance to just save up money, and just have fun in school and get my studying done.")
Sean Cotter works at Papa Noel Christmas tree lot during the winter break, and he says it helps him get into the holiday spirit.
(SB: Sean Cotter-"It's always good to see the little kids running around and they're happy to get their Christmas tree and like pick their perfect tree and everything."
As finals draw near, students are busy looking for seasonal jobs -- whether it be at a Christmas shop or here at the Outlets. For Bobcat Update, I'm Beth Brinkman.
Thanksgiving is just the start of the holiday season. Retailers hope Christmas will bring a lot of shoppers into their stores, which means more workers may be needed to keep up with the demand. Some students prefer to work during the winter break.
(SB: Doug Garrett-"For me a seasonal job where I didn't really have to work during the school year, gave me a chance to just save up money, and just have fun in school and get my studying done.")
Sean Cotter works at Papa Noel Christmas tree lot during the winter break, and he says it helps him get into the holiday spirit.
(SB: Sean Cotter-"It's always good to see the little kids running around and they're happy to get their Christmas tree and like pick their perfect tree and everything."
As finals draw near, students are busy looking for seasonal jobs -- whether it be at a Christmas shop or here at the Outlets. For Bobcat Update, I'm Beth Brinkman.
Amanda Pena
Sometimes it takes the ringing of a bell to make us realize that the Christmas season has finally arrived! The Salvation Army is already collecting donations at local grocery stores and pharmacies in San Marcos. Throughout the year. the group helps those who are in need, but its efforts are most apparent during the holiday season. The Salvation Army -- in existence for more than 100 years -- provides basic necessities. Its efforts ensure that people can find food, clothes, OR perhaps a warm blanket if it's needed. Visit the Salvation Army's website if you'd like to help.
11/29/11
Caroline Cook
Students on campus were asked how they felt when asked the question: what are you going to do when you graduate?
Kenn Zuniga
How prepared are you for an emergency? Do you have extra water, a flashlight and battery-operated radio? These are questions worth asking. Last month, the first nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System was conducted, and it seems that not everyone was prepared. Kenn Zuniga has more in this Bobcat Update.
This is a test. (Stand-up)
No, it's not another nationwide test of the emergency alert system, but a test to see if you're prepared for a nationwide emergency. (Stand-up)
SB
SB
So what will it take to finally cross your mind?
SB
Maybe those examples were a bit extreme, but San Marcos Emergency Management Coordinator Kenneth Bell says that it's never too early to think about being prepared.
SB
Items such as water and non-perishable food should be included in your preparedness kit. FEMA's website also recommends a can opener, a first aid kit, batteries, and personal sanitation items. Still, not everyone is convinced.
SB
Bell says that it's his job to remind you to be prepared.
SB
Now there's no excuse for you to fail any emergency preparedness test. Reporting for Bobcat Update, I'm Kenn Zuniga.
This is a test. (Stand-up)
No, it's not another nationwide test of the emergency alert system, but a test to see if you're prepared for a nationwide emergency. (Stand-up)
SB
SB
So what will it take to finally cross your mind?
SB
Maybe those examples were a bit extreme, but San Marcos Emergency Management Coordinator Kenneth Bell says that it's never too early to think about being prepared.
SB
Items such as water and non-perishable food should be included in your preparedness kit. FEMA's website also recommends a can opener, a first aid kit, batteries, and personal sanitation items. Still, not everyone is convinced.
SB
Bell says that it's his job to remind you to be prepared.
SB
Now there's no excuse for you to fail any emergency preparedness test. Reporting for Bobcat Update, I'm Kenn Zuniga.
11/28/11
Aspen Streety
The Texas State campus can seem a little ominous when you have to walk back to your car at night, but there is an option for students to stay safe. Aspen Streety has more in this Bobcat Update.
For some Texas State students, night classes just fit their schedules better. But with the campus dimly lit in places and with some students being forced to park a long way from where their classes are, they may find it daunting when they walk back to their cars alone. One option to make it safer is to use Bobcat Bobbies.
(Fuller…10 sec…and staff)
The Bobbies are on campus seven days a week.
Standup: Since the 1980s the Bobcat Bobbies have been a safety escort service for Texas State students who are unsure about walking back to their cars at night alone. If you need an escort, contact the University police department. For Bobcat Update, I'm Aspen Streety.
For some Texas State students, night classes just fit their schedules better. But with the campus dimly lit in places and with some students being forced to park a long way from where their classes are, they may find it daunting when they walk back to their cars alone. One option to make it safer is to use Bobcat Bobbies.
(Fuller…10 sec…and staff)
The Bobbies are on campus seven days a week.
Standup: Since the 1980s the Bobcat Bobbies have been a safety escort service for Texas State students who are unsure about walking back to their cars at night alone. If you need an escort, contact the University police department. For Bobcat Update, I'm Aspen Streety.
Emilie Hernandez
Don't fret if you haven't gotten the chance to shop for holiday gifts yet. For many Texas State students, online shopping is the best option for purchasing gifts this holiday season. With end-of-the-year projects and finals coming up, it's easier for students to use the internet to shop. Cyber Monday has become an annual ritual for the holiday season. Whether you're looking for digital cameras, furniture or anything else, the internet is a great place to find the perfect gift for that special someone.
11/22/11
Kelsey Manning
For dedicated fans of Harry Potter at Texas State, what's described on the pages of the books has come to life! Kelsey Manning has more in this Bobcat Update.
While it may seem completely out-of-place, carrying broomsticks and waving wands is the norm for these students-- members of the Quidditch team here at Texas State. Quidditch is a sport created by J.K. Rowling in the bestselling Harry Potter series and now exists on a national level with many colleges competing in different leagues. The game rules can be complex, but Quidditch is often described as combination of many other well-known sports.
(Parisher…7 sec…cross country.)
Many players came to the sport by hearing about it on other college campuses.
(Parisher…8 sec…and joined.)
For these students, the impact the Harry Potter books have had on their lives is massive.
(Sierra…15 sec…this generation.)
The Quidditch team practices weekly and draws a crowd every time they compete. Quidditch players are dedicated to their games- playing through sprinklers and well into the evening. Games only end when players have caught the "snitch", or player dressed in yellow, who runs all through campus the whole game.
As far as future plans, the team has high aspirations-
(Sierra…13 sec…wildest dreams.)
But ultimately, for the players, the best part of the whole experience is simple - bonding as a team over their love for the Potter universe.
(Sierra…15 sec…really cool.)
(Parisher….6 sec… hang out.)
For more information on the Quidditch team and how to join, you can visit their Facebook page. For Bobcat Update, I'm Kelsey Manning.
While it may seem completely out-of-place, carrying broomsticks and waving wands is the norm for these students-- members of the Quidditch team here at Texas State. Quidditch is a sport created by J.K. Rowling in the bestselling Harry Potter series and now exists on a national level with many colleges competing in different leagues. The game rules can be complex, but Quidditch is often described as combination of many other well-known sports.
(Parisher…7 sec…cross country.)
Many players came to the sport by hearing about it on other college campuses.
(Parisher…8 sec…and joined.)
For these students, the impact the Harry Potter books have had on their lives is massive.
(Sierra…15 sec…this generation.)
The Quidditch team practices weekly and draws a crowd every time they compete. Quidditch players are dedicated to their games- playing through sprinklers and well into the evening. Games only end when players have caught the "snitch", or player dressed in yellow, who runs all through campus the whole game.
As far as future plans, the team has high aspirations-
(Sierra…13 sec…wildest dreams.)
But ultimately, for the players, the best part of the whole experience is simple - bonding as a team over their love for the Potter universe.
(Sierra…15 sec…really cool.)
(Parisher….6 sec… hang out.)
For more information on the Quidditch team and how to join, you can visit their Facebook page. For Bobcat Update, I'm Kelsey Manning.
Leocadia O'Brien
The semester is winding down at Texas State, and soon many students who live in dorms will have to move elsewhere for the holiday break. Leocadia O'Brien has more in this Bobcat Update…
Most students will go home and spend time with their families, but a few will remain in San Marcos. And those who live in dorms may have to move
temporarily.
(Dorm guy holiday plans)
The policy for most campuses is to only keep a couple of dorms open during the break and charge students on a per-night basis. That's the policy at Texas State, and officials say it seems to work well.
(Assistant Director about benefit)
(Dorm guy about international friend)
But some students find it objectionable that they have to pay extra during the break, because they already pay rates ranging from 14-hundred-dollars to 34-hundred-dollars per semester.
(Dorm resident about feeling forced)
(Assistant Director about most
students leaving)
For Bobcat Update, I'm Leocadia O'Brien.
Most students will go home and spend time with their families, but a few will remain in San Marcos. And those who live in dorms may have to move
temporarily.
(Dorm guy holiday plans)
The policy for most campuses is to only keep a couple of dorms open during the break and charge students on a per-night basis. That's the policy at Texas State, and officials say it seems to work well.
(Assistant Director about benefit)
(Dorm guy about international friend)
But some students find it objectionable that they have to pay extra during the break, because they already pay rates ranging from 14-hundred-dollars to 34-hundred-dollars per semester.
(Dorm resident about feeling forced)
(Assistant Director about most
students leaving)
For Bobcat Update, I'm Leocadia O'Brien.
Chase Hunter
The Men's basketball team is gearing up for its 13th consecutive home victory after beating Howard Payne University. The Bobcats led all offensive categories against the Yellow Jackets, including points in the paint and second-chance points. Senior Brooks Ybarra led the Bobcats in scoring with 12 points, including three-for-five from behind the three-point arc. Five Bobcats scored in double digits against the Yellow Jackets defense. The final score, Texas State 96, Howard Payne 55. Texas State will battle Houston Baptist University at home this Saturday. Tip-off is scheduled at four.
11/17/11
Jordan Hughes
Texas State University has been recognized for its environmental efforts. The Arbor Day Foundation rewards schools that promote awareness and protection of trees on campus. In the spirit of receiving the designation, the university will have a tree planting ceremony later this month. Seventy-one trees will be planted on campus on November 30th.
Kaitlin Heaney
Today is National Take-a-Hike Day. The San Marcos area has hiking trails for those who want to take to the woods. There are several parks within a few miles to enjoy the out-of-doors . Hiking benefits your mind and body through exercise. An additional benefit is the opportunity to behold the natural scenery of Texas Hill Country. San Marcos has five hiking trails ....
Chase Joliet
Students at Texas State are looking forward to the holiday break next week. We asked several of them today what they enjoy most about Thanksgiving.
Caroline Cook
The planet Mars makes contact with Texas State this week. Caroline Cook explains, in this Bobcat Update.
Mars is the name of a movie, and it was the final film offered in the fall series of the Texas Independent Film Network.
The film's director Geoff Marslett attended last night's screening and took questions from students who attended.
(SB)
Mars is a romantic comedy that follows three astronauts as they visit the red planet.
(SB)
Students were intrigued.
(SB)
The College of Fine Arts and Communication hosted last night's screening at the Texas State Theater Center.
Stand-up
Mars is the name of a movie, and it was the final film offered in the fall series of the Texas Independent Film Network.
The film's director Geoff Marslett attended last night's screening and took questions from students who attended.
(SB)
Mars is a romantic comedy that follows three astronauts as they visit the red planet.
(SB)
Students were intrigued.
(SB)
The College of Fine Arts and Communication hosted last night's screening at the Texas State Theater Center.
Stand-up
11/16/11
Emilie Hernandez
While you may think the wings you get from drinking Red Bull will help you soar through your finals, it could actually be doing more harm than good. Most energy drinks have high amounts of caffeine and sugar. According to medical experts, the boost they give you has a higher likelihood of that crash-and-burn effect and causes high blood pressure and extreme dehydration. So, instead of gulping down another energy drink, experts recommend a healthy diet, physical activity and a good night's sleep.
Cambrian Pichon
Local retailers are eagerly awaiting the holiday rush. Many businesses in downtown San Marcos are already in the holiday spirit. You can see it with the window decorations they have put up and the wide array of holiday gifts they hope you'll buy. Thanksgiving and Christmas create a festive spirit, and most Texas State students are looking forward to taking some time off to enjoy the holidays. And if you're in the mood to shop, you'll find many stores extending their welcome.
Jessica buck
Yoga is increasingly popular among college students. Bobcat Update's Jessica Buck takes a look at yoga's potential benefits.
Yoga provides a healthy alternative. Forget the energy drinks and sugar. If you need some help preparing for your finals, try yoga instead. Some will tell you it leads to a sharper focus and better concentration.
Sb...Rebecca...You can't really calm your mind without doing something for your body.
Practicing yoga has many health benefits. The stretching techniques alone help relax the body. And having less tension makes it easier to concentrate.
Sb...Jessica...I actually had test anxiety before I started practicing and I noticed...improvement
OR
Sb....Jessica...when I took tests before I focused to much on the outcome and that was actually hurting me while taking the test. So after I practiced and have been able to relax I have the focus to be there and have the confidence to know I can succeed.
Taking that minute while studying can help clear your mind to refocus on the task at hand. Yoga provides that perfect escape.
Sb...Jamie...we allow ourselves to get to wrapped in what we are doing and we forget to take time for ourselves and that is really what yoga is about
Stand up...Me...with increased relaxation and improved concentration practicing yoga can be a good alternative to those energy drinks and all nights. For Bobcat Update, I'm Jessica Ryan.
Yoga provides a healthy alternative. Forget the energy drinks and sugar. If you need some help preparing for your finals, try yoga instead. Some will tell you it leads to a sharper focus and better concentration.
Sb...Rebecca...You can't really calm your mind without doing something for your body.
Practicing yoga has many health benefits. The stretching techniques alone help relax the body. And having less tension makes it easier to concentrate.
Sb...Jessica...I actually had test anxiety before I started practicing and I noticed...improvement
OR
Sb....Jessica...when I took tests before I focused to much on the outcome and that was actually hurting me while taking the test. So after I practiced and have been able to relax I have the focus to be there and have the confidence to know I can succeed.
Taking that minute while studying can help clear your mind to refocus on the task at hand. Yoga provides that perfect escape.
Sb...Jamie...we allow ourselves to get to wrapped in what we are doing and we forget to take time for ourselves and that is really what yoga is about
Stand up...Me...with increased relaxation and improved concentration practicing yoga can be a good alternative to those energy drinks and all nights. For Bobcat Update, I'm Jessica Ryan.
11/15/11
Ryan Cochran
Texas State students seeking birth control methods could be affected by recent budget cuts. Ryan Cochran has more in this Bobcat Update.
The Texas legislature recently cut funding for family planning programs. The budget cuts have caused many family planning clinics in Texas to shut down, including the one near campus, on North L-B-J Drive. With that location gone, Community Health Services has to work harder to provide care to people who need it.
"This clinic services people from all over Hays County and Central Texas, from New Braunfels and Seguin, not to mention San Marcos. We've got our work cut out for us." –Linda Byers, Director of Clinic Services
Funding for family planning programs was slashed by almost 74 (m) million dollars. That's almost a 70 percent decrease from last year's budget.
"There is a fight going on against family planning clinics, unfortunately. I think they think we offer abortions or are pro-abortion, but by cutting funding they're really only hurting the people who can't afford insurance or healthcare."
Community Health Services offers a variety of programs, including diabetes and cancer screenings, counseling, and AIDS/H-I-V services. Almost all of these were affected by the cuts.
"I believe very strongly that there will always be a need for preventative care. We've been helping people at this location for 40 years now and I've been here for 35 of them. We're making a difference."
[Standup] "Due to recent budget cuts many of the family planning clinics are closing, but Texas State students still have options available. The Student Health Center also offers family planning services for a small fee. For Bobcat Update, I'm Ryan Cochran."
The Texas legislature recently cut funding for family planning programs. The budget cuts have caused many family planning clinics in Texas to shut down, including the one near campus, on North L-B-J Drive. With that location gone, Community Health Services has to work harder to provide care to people who need it.
"This clinic services people from all over Hays County and Central Texas, from New Braunfels and Seguin, not to mention San Marcos. We've got our work cut out for us." –Linda Byers, Director of Clinic Services
Funding for family planning programs was slashed by almost 74 (m) million dollars. That's almost a 70 percent decrease from last year's budget.
"There is a fight going on against family planning clinics, unfortunately. I think they think we offer abortions or are pro-abortion, but by cutting funding they're really only hurting the people who can't afford insurance or healthcare."
Community Health Services offers a variety of programs, including diabetes and cancer screenings, counseling, and AIDS/H-I-V services. Almost all of these were affected by the cuts.
"I believe very strongly that there will always be a need for preventative care. We've been helping people at this location for 40 years now and I've been here for 35 of them. We're making a difference."
[Standup] "Due to recent budget cuts many of the family planning clinics are closing, but Texas State students still have options available. The Student Health Center also offers family planning services for a small fee. For Bobcat Update, I'm Ryan Cochran."
Kenn Zuniga
Thanks to this week's showers, the burn ban in Hays County has been lifted. San Marcos was lucky enough to get almost an inch of rain on Tuesday. Despite the welcomed rain, city officials continue to urge residents to be cautious. According to the Texas Forest Service website, four million acres have burned since November of last year. So far, 194 counties have outdoor burn bans including Travis and Comal. The burn ban in Hays County will most likely be temporary because dry conditions are expected to return.
Ashley Flores
Women -- you might want to check the brand of tampons you're using -- if you have them. The F-D-A has recalled Kotex Natural Balance Security Tampons. The recalled tampons were sold at several Wal-mart stores in Texas. During the manufacturing process, the tampons were contaminated with a bacterium that can cause pelvic inflammatory disease and life-threatening vaginal infections. The F-D-A is urging consumers to stop using the tampons immediately. To find out which specific boxes of tampons are affected, contact the Kotex manufacturer Kimberly-Clark.
Beth Brinkman
It's International Education month at Texas State. The International Office provides unique opportunities for international education to be recognized, and it encourages students and faculty to get involved with programs such as study abroad. Students and faculty were invited to celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday with a luncheon in the L-B-J student center yesterday. Another celebration is scheduled Thursday. Students are encouraged to bring a recipe from a unique culture, or a family favorite dish to a potluck at Lampasas Hall.
11/14/11
Amanda Pena
It's fake, but it's there to make a point. Perhaps you've seen the exhibit on the quad, an exhibit that includes fake feces. The Texas State Water Aid Chapter is calling attention to Sanitation Awareness Week. The purpose is to make students and faculty more aware of sanitation problems in the world. The local chapter is raising funds and distributing information. The effort will end this Friday with what's called World Toilet Day.
Assignments - Nov. 14-Nov. 17
Toilet-Pena-VO
FamPlan-Cochran-PKG
Speech-Brinkman-VO
RyanFox-Doyle-PKG
Survival-Zuniga-PKG
EnDrink-Hernandez-VO
BurnBan-Zuniga/Onescu-VO
Festival-Cook/Doan-PKG
DormMove-O'Brien/Fluker-PKG
Recall-Flores/Garlock-VO
FamPlan-Cochran-PKG
Speech-Brinkman-VO
RyanFox-Doyle-PKG
Survival-Zuniga-PKG
EnDrink-Hernandez-VO
BurnBan-Zuniga/Onescu-VO
Festival-Cook/Doan-PKG
DormMove-O'Brien/Fluker-PKG
Recall-Flores/Garlock-VO
11/10/11
Karina Gonzalez
Some political analysts are speculating today as to whether or not the Perry campaign can get back on track following last night's debate debacle. Bobcat Update spoke to some students on campus to discuss Perry's chances at getting the Republican nomination for president.
Breck Robinson
Free parking spaces are getting harder to find around San Marcos, especially for students who choose not to pay for a Texas State commuter pass. Students had been parking in a vacant construction zone next to Treff’s Tavern up until the site was fenced off from the public and tow away signs were posted. The Windmill Apartments were also letting students use its parking spaces until recently. Starting November 30th Windmill will begin towing due to student resident complaints.
Fabian Juarez
Texas State will be celebrating Veteran's Day with a commemoration in the quad tomorrow morning. The event starts at 10:45, followed by a reception at the L-B-J Student Center Ballroom. Tomorrow is a holiday for city workers. City Hall, the Public Library, the Activity Center, and utility offices will all be closed. On Saturday, another Veteran's Day event is scheduled. The city of San Marcos will have parade downtown at ten o'clock.
Kaitlin Heaney
Today marks the tenth anniversary of the release of the i-Pod. The i-Pod revolutionized the music industry. It reshaped how we act and listen. Around campus you can find students listening to music on either their i-Pod or smartphone. The first iPod was a basic M-P-3 player, but in time it has been integrated into other devices to fit consumer demands. For those who don't have smartphones, i-Pods are still a convenient way to listen to music.
Lauren Newcomb
Texas State University prides itself for having a campus filled with diversity. Its student population consists of those with a wide variety of backgrounds and philosophies. In this Bobcat Update, Lauren Newcomb takes a look at a new group that contributes to that diversity.
Secular Student Alliance, a nationwide organization founded for non-religious students, has found a home at Texas State University. The group has received support from other organizations.
SB-Brandon Barber (CRU MEMBER) "I think everybody deserves a place where they can worship, where they can express themselves. I'm personally a follower of Christ, I believe in that. They're atheist, they believe in that." (11 sec)
Barber says Christians don't embrace the group's philosophy, but...
SB-Brandon Barber "It would be
a complete fabrication of what we believe in if we're not accepting of them." (6 sec)
Jonathan Hay, anthropology junior and president of Secular Student Alliance at Texas State, is the student responsible for creating the Secular Student Alliance on campus. Hay says upon arriving at Texas State he had seen many student organizations being promoted in the Quad but none that agreed with his beliefs. So, he started his own where he and others of like mind could share their views freely.
SB-Jonathan Hay "I identify as atheist. I don't make a positive claim that I know there is no god but I could say there is no god the same way I could say there are no unicorns or anything else there is no evidence to support. (13 sec)
Junior Kim Jones says she believes the group is a great idea and will inform others who share atheist or agnostic views.
SB-Kim Jones "I believe they are facing a certain amount of animosity just because a lot of
people don't understand what an atheist is. Just because you don't believe in god doesn't make you a bad person and a lot of people kind of assume if you don't believe in god you have no morals. (16 sec)
The Secular Student Alliance recently elected a new executive board and is hoping to grow on the Texas State campus. For Bobcat Update, I'm Lauren Newcomb.
Secular Student Alliance, a nationwide organization founded for non-religious students, has found a home at Texas State University. The group has received support from other organizations.
SB-Brandon Barber (CRU MEMBER) "I think everybody deserves a place where they can worship, where they can express themselves. I'm personally a follower of Christ, I believe in that. They're atheist, they believe in that." (11 sec)
Barber says Christians don't embrace the group's philosophy, but...
SB-Brandon Barber "It would be
a complete fabrication of what we believe in if we're not accepting of them." (6 sec)
Jonathan Hay, anthropology junior and president of Secular Student Alliance at Texas State, is the student responsible for creating the Secular Student Alliance on campus. Hay says upon arriving at Texas State he had seen many student organizations being promoted in the Quad but none that agreed with his beliefs. So, he started his own where he and others of like mind could share their views freely.
SB-Jonathan Hay "I identify as atheist. I don't make a positive claim that I know there is no god but I could say there is no god the same way I could say there are no unicorns or anything else there is no evidence to support. (13 sec)
Junior Kim Jones says she believes the group is a great idea and will inform others who share atheist or agnostic views.
SB-Kim Jones "I believe they are facing a certain amount of animosity just because a lot of
people don't understand what an atheist is. Just because you don't believe in god doesn't make you a bad person and a lot of people kind of assume if you don't believe in god you have no morals. (16 sec)
The Secular Student Alliance recently elected a new executive board and is hoping to grow on the Texas State campus. For Bobcat Update, I'm Lauren Newcomb.
Kelsey Doyle
Ten years after an accident changed his life, a Texas State grad pays a visit to his alma mater and his former professors. Kelsey Doyle has more in this Bobcat Update.
Ryan Fox graduated in 2001 with big plans for his future. But five days after graduation he was involved in a car accident that left him in a coma and suffering from a traumatic brain injury. This was not a part of his plan. Ryan graduated with dual degrees in Electronic Media and Marketing. Ryan had dreams of being a sports broadcaster. With the help of his friend and mentor, Larry Carlson, Ryan had had rewarding internships at the N-B-C affiliates in San Antonio and Austin.
Soundbite: Larry and their relationship
This week Ryan returned to campus to speak to Carlson's Writing for the Electronic Media class. He was interviewed by Carlson's students and he played tapes and told stories about when he was a feature reporter for a high school sports show.
Soundbite: Ryan "I hope I made Larry proud"
Three weeks after the accident Ryan woke up from his coma. His mother, Nita, was by his side.
Soundbite: Nita "He was literally infancy"
Ryan was taken to TIRR hospital in Houston to begin rehab.
Soundbite: Nite "Our journey has changed a lot since graduation"
In the past ten years Ryan has slowly progressed with the help of God and his mother motivating him.
Soundbite: Nita "Pray for every moment. You either get busy living or get busy dying"
Soundbite: Ryan "count the small victories every day"
Standup at Rescare
Soundbite: Ryan " don't wait for a miracle, be a miracle"
For Bobcat Update, I'm Kelsey Doyle.
Ryan Fox graduated in 2001 with big plans for his future. But five days after graduation he was involved in a car accident that left him in a coma and suffering from a traumatic brain injury. This was not a part of his plan. Ryan graduated with dual degrees in Electronic Media and Marketing. Ryan had dreams of being a sports broadcaster. With the help of his friend and mentor, Larry Carlson, Ryan had had rewarding internships at the N-B-C affiliates in San Antonio and Austin.
Soundbite: Larry and their relationship
This week Ryan returned to campus to speak to Carlson's Writing for the Electronic Media class. He was interviewed by Carlson's students and he played tapes and told stories about when he was a feature reporter for a high school sports show.
Soundbite: Ryan "I hope I made Larry proud"
Three weeks after the accident Ryan woke up from his coma. His mother, Nita, was by his side.
Soundbite: Nita "He was literally infancy"
Ryan was taken to TIRR hospital in Houston to begin rehab.
Soundbite: Nite "Our journey has changed a lot since graduation"
In the past ten years Ryan has slowly progressed with the help of God and his mother motivating him.
Soundbite: Nita "Pray for every moment. You either get busy living or get busy dying"
Soundbite: Ryan "count the small victories every day"
Standup at Rescare
Soundbite: Ryan " don't wait for a miracle, be a miracle"
For Bobcat Update, I'm Kelsey Doyle.
Leocadia O'Brien
One of Texas State's student-run organizations set the battle stage this week…the D-J battle stage that is. Leocadia O'Brien has more in this Bobcat Update…
With the tables set, the glowsticks scattered, and the speakers maxed out, the Student Association for Campus Activities, SACA for short, hosted its first D-J competition Tuesday night at George's in the L-B-J center.
(SACA rep)
The event was called Spun and rightly so as these artists used their spinning skills to duke it out to the end.
(DJ
Meow)
Loughborough, a-k-a D-J Meow, was just one of four performers vying to take first place but not without a fight.
(DJ Kromly)
The crowd was pumped as the beats bounced back and forth at George's.
(Crowd goer)
And the contestants were feeding off their energy because the winner of the event gets a unique prize.
(DJ Kromly)
Neither D-J Meow nor D-J Kromly took first place. The winner was Texas State Senior Coty Morris. But even in losing, there was triumph.
(DJ Meow)
(Stand up: Some came for the dancing, others came for the D-J's, but I…I came for the glowsticks. For Bobcat Update, I'm Leocadia O'Brien)
With the tables set, the glowsticks scattered, and the speakers maxed out, the Student Association for Campus Activities, SACA for short, hosted its first D-J competition Tuesday night at George's in the L-B-J center.
(SACA rep)
The event was called Spun and rightly so as these artists used their spinning skills to duke it out to the end.
(DJ
Meow)
Loughborough, a-k-a D-J Meow, was just one of four performers vying to take first place but not without a fight.
(DJ Kromly)
The crowd was pumped as the beats bounced back and forth at George's.
(Crowd goer)
And the contestants were feeding off their energy because the winner of the event gets a unique prize.
(DJ Kromly)
Neither D-J Meow nor D-J Kromly took first place. The winner was Texas State Senior Coty Morris. But even in losing, there was triumph.
(DJ Meow)
(Stand up: Some came for the dancing, others came for the D-J's, but I…I came for the glowsticks. For Bobcat Update, I'm Leocadia O'Brien)
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)