Taylor Henderson

Texas State is notorious for throwing some of the hottest pool parties, but this one is unlike any other. Taylor Henderson has more in this Bobcat Update.

Some Texas State students decided to bring the nationally recognized organization, Cans for a Cure, to San Marcos. The organization seeks to further the fight for cancer awareness by raising money through collecting aluminum cans. Students held their first pool party at the University Heights 2 apartment complex Saturday to collect all of the cans that Texas state students used while enjoying some fun in the sun. Assistant Director Ashley Falkon says that losing loved ones to cancer motivated her to get involved.
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Executive Director James Kemp is excited about the turnout at the pool party this past weekend.
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If you're interested in helping out with the new San Marcos Cans for a Cure chapter, you can check out the group's Facebook page for more information.
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Jessica MacCall

Texas State recently captured a bit of national attention. Jessica MacCall has the story in this Bobcat Update.

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In a recent look by Best College Reviews.org Texas State claimed a home among the ranks as one of the 25 Most Amazing Campus Recreation Centers.
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With all of the basic rec center amenities, like basketball courts and a gleaming weight room, it was components like the indoor pool, rock climbing center and boxing studio that helped place Texas State as number 13 on the list. The center's reputation has proven to play a role in attracting students to the university.
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For Bobcat Update, I'm Jessica MacCall.

Chelsea Kelley

All Spring 2013 tuition and fees are due in full tomorrow. Students who are on a payment schedule should submit their last installment to the Texas State business services by five o’clock. Late payments will result in a 25- dollar late fee. Emergency tuition and short-term loan payments are also due at the same time. Students can make their payments online by credit card or on campus at Business Services in room 188 of the J-C Kellum building

Alex Navarro

Beginning fall 2014, incoming freshman will no longer have to enroll in physical fitness and wellness classes. Alex Navarro has more in this Bobcat Update.

The Texas State's General Education Council, along with the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, is responsible for setting core curriculum standards.  The council last year approved a curriculum change that will remove P-F-W classes as a requirement. Department of Health and Human Performance Chair, Duane Knudson, was part of the committee and voted against the removal of P-F-W classes.
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Knudson says removing the physical education component from the curriculum would negatively affect college students and even shorten the lives of those who have never adopted a healthy lifestyle.
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While P-F-W will no longer be a requirement, Knudson says there is still something very interesting that happens.
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For Bobcat Update, I'm Alex Navarro.

Greg Burnam

History buffs can find a wealth of information at the Texas State Archives in Austin. Greg Burnam tells us about what can be found, in this Bobcat Update. 

Just steps away from the State Capitol lies a treasure trove of artifacts. The Texas State Library and Archives holds some of the most valuable pieces of Texas history, including documents, flags and drawings.
Some of them date back to before the Texas revolution. A letter written by William Travis is probably the most famous document in the collection. Another important artifact is a flag that belonged to Mexico and was captured during the Texas revolution.   
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The archives' responsibility for these items includes protecting and preserving them for future generations. When necessary, documents are repaired using state-of-the-art technology. Head Conservator Sarah Norris says she's now working on the Confederate muster rolls containing information about the Texas soldiers who served in the Confederate Army.
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If you're interested in finding out more information about the history of Texas, you can visit the Archives in Austin or visit the organization's website. For Bobcat Update, I'm Greg Burnam.

Alexa Perez

Charges against a former Texas State student who was accused of making a bomb-threat to the university have been dropped. Prosecutors say Brittany Henderson's case has been dismissed due to insufficient evidence against her. However, her former boyfriend, Dereon Kelly, is still under investigation for the terroristic threats he allegedly made using Henderson's e-mail. Kelly's case may go before the Brazos County Grand Jury this month. Henderson and Kelly were accused last October of e-mailing a bomb threat to the Office of Undergraduate Admissions.

India Johnson

It's almost unanimous! The students we talked to about the N-C-double A Final Four say Louisville is the odds-on favorite. And it's a group who should know--Texas State's very own--Men's Basketball Team.

Morgan Wilson

Texas State is home to more than a few talented musicians, and there's one student in particular who's really making a name for himself. Morgan Wilson has more in this Bobcat Update.

Managing school, work, and extra-curricular would be enough for most students, but try adding rapper, musician, creative visionary, and record label owner to the mix as well. Charles Inim -- also known on stage as Charlie CB -- is a transfer student who is following his passion for music.
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Charlie is his own manager, and he's working hard to gain more fans.
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CB can't really put a label on his music.
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From his South by Southwest performance this year to his Battle of the Bands performance in George's, CB artistry hasn't gone unnoticed. The life of an artist can be stressful but he continues to stay motivated from advice he was given.
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You can find Charlie CB's music on his website or on itunes. For Bobcat Update, I'm Morgan Wilson.

Haley Parmer

Texas State University's School of Music is putting on a huge production this weekend. Haley Parmer has more in this Bobcat Update.

Don Giovanni is a two-act opera based in the 1940s and features music by Mozart. It tells the legend of Don Juan, a man who always gets his way. Some consider it the greatest opera of all time. Dr. Sam Mungo says the dedication and hard work from his students have paid off.
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A blend of humor and drama, the show is filled with serious and comic action. Carlos Saenz, who plays Don Juan himself, says he took drastic measures to get into character.
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The cast hopes the audiences enjoy the show and create their own meaning of the story.
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(Stand Up) Don Giovanni is showing Friday through Sunday at Evans Auditorium. Tickets are 12 dollars for adults and six dollars for students. Come out and support the Texas State Opera Theatre. For Bobcat Update, I'm Haley Parmer.

Scott Panther

When Texas State students walk through the quad, they see and smell a variety of foods being cooked and consumed, but is the food safe to eat?. Scott Panther has more in this Bobcat Update.

In the quad when students see someone from a student organization making burgers or hot dogs, they can be assured that certain minimum standards are being met, to make sure no one gets hurt.
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Stand Up
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In order to sell food they need to get approval from the Campus Activities and Student Organizations.They make sure there is space and time available and that their food stays sanitary. They also have to pay a small fee. For Bobcat Update, I'm Scott Panther.

Kristina Coble

Spring allergies are taking a toll in Central Texas. Although some welcome the warmer weather, others dread what comes with it. Weeds and grass are more abundant. And many plants are pollinating. Allergy sufferers at Texas State are feeling the effects. They are sneezing and coughing with greater frequency.The Student Health Center offers a variety of services including information on how to control allergies. Appointments can be set up for students who need to see a doctor and perhaps obtain a prescription. 

Halie Davis

A San Marcos hair salon is changing its name to become more closely associated with Texas State. Owner Liz Miller says after 15 years of being known as Hair Express, her business will now be known as University Barber and Beauty. The name change stems from the location on University Drive in the Nelson Center. Miller says she wouldn't have chosen the location if it weren't for the campus. Miller is revamping the studio with the help of some students. A mural is being painted to focus on the culture of San Marcos. Miller says she plans to sponsor campus organizations and events. 

Marissa Lewis

San Marcos police are searching for the driver of a light colored Toyota Tundra pickup that hit and severely injured a pedestrian this past Sunday. The San Marcos Mercury reports that the car hit a 23-year-old man around 3 o'clock Sunday morning. Officers found him lying unconscious in the 100 block of West Hopkins near the square. He was transported to University Medical Center at Brackenridge in Austin. Witnesses say he was crossing West Hopkins against the light when he was hit. Evidence left at the scene indicates that the suspect vehicle was damaged on the passenger side fender and is missing the passenger side mirror.

Lindsay Powell

A lot of potential Bobcats have been roaming the halls today. They are here for the annual Bobcat for a Day. Texas State students served as mentors to high school juniors interested in attending the university. The students were given a full tour of the campus, they attended classes with their mentors, and ate in a campus dining hall. 

Adelina Valdez

As graduation approaches, so does the need for graduates to find jobs. Adelina Valdez tells us how students can polish their skills.

Students attend college to train for the professional world, but before landing the dream job comes the interview. There's something about interviews that just seem to make people anxious.
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Standup: For many, the interview process can be very stressful, but here at Texas State the Career Services department offers many ways to help students prepare for entering the job market.
Those who want to polish their interview technique can schedule a mock interview with a career counselor. During the process, students can expect to answer the same challenging questions as the real-life scenario.
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Upon completion, the career counselor will provide feedback on areas of improvement.
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Students can also practice interview skills from the comfort of their own homes by using the "interview stream" option on the Career Services web page. For Bobcat Update, I'm Adelina Valdez.

Alixandra Papa

The first bank robbery in San Marcos since 2011 occurred Monday morning at Pioneer Bank. Police are searching for the suspect. Pioneer Bank is located in the center of the Wonder World Medical Plaza. The man was armed with a handgun and demanded money from the teller. No one was hurt and the suspect got away with an undisclosed amount of money. The suspect was described as a 6-foot-tall white male and wearing a black hoodie and jeans. If you have any information about the robbery, please call the San Marcos Police Department.

Alexa Perez

The Associated Student Government of Texas State is holding elections once again. However, this year, choosing a president may be a little easier than in the past. Alexa Perez explains in this Bobcat Update.

Perhaps you've noticed that A-S-G campaign signs are back up around campus. However, if you've only seen signs for one pair of running mates, it's because they're the only ones running.
Vanessa Cortez and Edward Perez are applying for Student Body President and Vice President unopposed. They held a rally this past Monday.
SB: Vanessa Cortez
Some students wonder whether competition is still an option.
Stand-Up: Although it is too late to run for A-S-G President and Vice President, Cortez still insists the student body come out to vote,
As there will be other important matters included on the ballet, such as the decision on whether there should be a 17-dollar bus fee increase starting next semester.
The Associated Student Government is established to serve as the voice of the students at Texas State.
SB: Dahlia Dandashi
Students are encouraged to voice their opinions at A-S-G meetings on Mondays at 7 p.m. in the L-B-J teaching theater. For Bobcat Update, I'm Alexa Perez. 

Lane Lewis

The Texas State baseball team traveled to Austin to take on the Texas Longhorns last night. The Bobcats were trying to stop a 15-game losing streak to the Horns but fell in a close one 5-to-3. After giving up three runs in the first, the Bobcats fought back to tie the game after a 2 R-B-I double from Morgan Mickan and some smart base running by Cody Lovejoy. It wouldn't be enough in the end, though, as Texas State gave up runs in the 6th and 7th innings and couldn't mount a comeback. The Bobcats' next game will be tomorrow night against Seattle, here in San Marcos. 

Yvonne Zamora

It's that time of year again. The 2012 federal tax return deadline is quickly approaching, and if you haven't filed yet, don't panic. It's not too late. There are plenty of resources available to help you file your returns. Tax preparation help is being offered for free at McCoy Hall and the San Marcos Public Library. And there are plenty of businesses in town that can help you for a fee. If you don't need any help; you can prepare your own taxes. Forms are available at the Public Library, and you can file online. For more information visit the I-R-S website.

Marco Enriquez

A Texas State organization is doing its part to provide Easter festivities for the San Marcos community.  Marco Enriquez has more in this Bobcat Update.

Flyers are handed out at all the elementary schools in San Marcos and nearby communities inviting children and their families to participate in the free event.  It's an event that has been growing for the past decade and is getting a bigger turnout every year.
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Many organizations are invited to help volunteer for the event to help strengthen the bond between the community and the university.  It's something many volunteers say is a feeling that can't be described, only felt.
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The Easter Eggstravaganza has become an event that many San Marcos families to look forward to every year, and preparations for next year's event are already underway.  For Bobcat Update, I'm Marco Enriquez.

Kristina Coble

Riding a bike in San Marcos can be dangerous. Kristina Coble explains, in this Bobcat Update.

Bicycles are just one option for getting around campus, but cyclists are at a disadvantage. The streets and sidewalks are already filled.
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The lack of bike lanes force cyclists to ride on the shoulder of the street or ride on sidewalks weaving in and out of pedestrians. Safety is key when navigating around campus on a bike.  
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Cyclists would like to see more done to promote safety.
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[  ] For Bobcat Update, I'm Kristina Coble.

John Beck

Officials are still talking about it, but so far NO firm date has been set for starting construction of a new overpass in San Marcos. John Beck tells us about the latest developments, in this Bobcat Update.

The Texas Department of Transportation and the City of San Marcos co-hosted an open forum last Thursday at the San Marcos Activity Center to talk about the proposed Loop 82 overpass. The project would raise Aquarena Springs Drive from Thorpe Lane to Charles Austin Drive.
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The overpass project will contain a bridge that will pass over the railroad tracks next to Bobcat Stadium. When the bridge is completed, drivers will be able to look into Bobcat Stadium as they pass by.
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Standup: Although a projected groundbreaking date isn't set just yet, the project is slated to begin around next year. The estimated cost of the project is 36 (m) million dollars. For Bobcat Update I'm John Beck. 

Karen Buenrostro

Music lovers gathered at Embassy Suites Saturday night to celebrate their passion for mariachi music. Karen Buenrostro has more on the story.

Past, present and future generations are here celebrating the 14th annual Feria del Mariachi --and the 10th anniversary of  the Latin Music Studies at Texas State.
Young mariachi Juliana Villapando says she feels a stronger connection to her heritage by coming to the Feria.
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Mariachis of all expertise levels compete and attend workshops during the two-day event that ends with a concert.
America's Got Talent Semi Finalist Sebastian De La Cruz received the Rising Star Award. De La Cruz says he looks forward to seeing how his performances bring out the emotions in people.
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Many people showed their appreciation for this event and what it represents for Texas State. 
SB Dean of the College of Fine Arts and Communication Timothy Mottet .
The continuing interest in mariachi music is visible in both younger and older generations in the Central Texas area. For Bobcat Update, I'm Karen Buenrostro.

Scott Panther

Registration for fall and summer classes is going on at Texas State. It started on Monday and will end on April 22nd.  Students are encouraged to make an appointment with their advisor if they have questions about their schedule, but some advising centers are booked up until about mid April. Students also need to check their registration times using Catsweb and be sure there are no holds preventing them from registering. Late registration times for the summer semester are May 28th through 30th and times periodically throughout the month of August for the fall semester.   

Tiffany Cinco

Tuesdays are a good time to find fresh fruits and vegetables in San Marcos. Local vendors set up in the 200 block of South Edward Gary. They offer a wide variety of homemade goods, ranging from coffee and vegetables to candles and pottery. The Farmers Market is open between 3 and 6 on Tuesday afternoons as well as Saturdays from 9 to 1. The market gives area farmers a way to sell their products directly to consumers. If you'd like to be a vendor, you can submit your request online at the farmers' market website.

Hady K Mawajdeh

Texas State University and Austin Community College have formed a new partnership. In this Bobcat Update, Hady Mawajdeh tells us how their common goals will help students make a seamless transition.

Adjusting to University life after spending time at a community college can be hard. The larger class sizes, tougher course load and a more expansive campus can take some time for new students to get used to, but Texas State's new partnership with Austin Community College looks to lessen the pressure for transfer students.
SB: Stephanie Perez Student – Had to leave school after transferring, because of a tough adjustment.
Future students at Texas State will likely benefit from a program designed to ease the transition.
SB: Texas State vp for enrollment management – Micheal R. Heintze, Introduces and talks about the pathway program
Stand Up: Facilities like this – the theatre in Tower Dormitory can be helpful in the transition, because new students will be able to make friends (this is sort of what I said… I cannot remember my exact words).
The partnership with A-C-C Kyle begins in the fall of 2014. Professor Debra Feakes says she's excited about its potential benefits.
SB: professor Debra Feakes – tracks transfer's academic success, and she is a supporter of the pathway program.
For Bobcat Update, I'm Hady Mawajdeh.

Chelsea Kelley

The Texas legislature is considering a bill that would allow liquor stores to be open on Sundays. Chelsea Kelley has more in this Bobcat Update.

Blue laws in Texas have made it illegal for consumers to buy liquor on Sundays ever since prohibition, but House Bill 421 may change all of that.
If enacted, the bill would allow liquor stores to be remain for more hours during the week and be open from noon to ten P-M on Sundays.
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Not everyone is happy with the bill though
Stand-up
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Texas is one of only 14 states that prohibit liquor sales on Sunday. For Bobcat Update, I'm Chelsea Kelley.

Greg Burnam

Federal budget cuts will likely lead to layoffs at 149 airports across the country, including the one in San Marcos. Greg Burnam has more in this Bobcat Update.

Standup: The San Marcos Airport may go silent after April 7th That's because air traffic controllers might be forced to cut their days short or even take mandatory time off. That time off would likely only average one day per pay period through the end of the September but that could mean at times airports like San Marcos won't have any air traffic controllers on duty. But what effect is that going to have on traffic in and out of the airport?
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The F-A-A has procedures in place for uncontrolled airports and airports that don't have towers. Some of those procedures at the San Marcos airport date back to when it was an army airfield, but the possibility of planes landing without someone watching over them can still be a scary thing.
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The San Marcos Airport stays relatively busy -- with more than a dozen businesses and three runways, but it hardly compares to Austin or San Antonio.
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For Bobcat Update I'm Greg Burnam

Alexa Perez

Texas State students are getting together to help beautify the San Marcos community this weekend. Bobcat Build is a one-day community service project where students say “thank you” to the residents of San Marcos by painting houses, planting flowers and trees, and picking up trash. This year over four thousand student volunteers have been matched to 215 job sites. The Texas State tradition is now the second largest of its kind in Texas. Bobcat Build will begin this Saturday, March 23rd in the Strahan Coliseum parking lot at 8:30 A-M.

Russell Bisbey

The Texas Department of Transportation will host an open house at the San Marcos Activity Center tonight from 6:00 to 8:00 to seek public input on a proposed Aquarena Springs overpass. The overpass, still in the design phase, will extend over the Union Pacific railroad tracks  Access roads will allow traffic to enter and exit at Post Road and the football stadium. The city hopes the overpass will help alleviate traffic problems on Aquarena. It'll cost an estimated 39 (m) million dollars and will take two years to complete once construction gets underway.

Dawn Brooks

If you find yourself getting tired of the same old thing when it comes to dining options on campus, you don't have to go far to find some unique food choices. Take a quick walk down to the corner of Hutchison and North Guadalupe and you'll find several food trucks offering a wide variety of tasty dishes. You can find everything from Hawaiian-style burgers to barbecue to baked goods. Plenty of seats are available, and you can even a few board games.

Jennifer Schmerber

The city is considering a project that would stabilize the banks of the San Marcos River and add some native plant life. The city will have a public meeting at 5:30 this afternoon at the Dunbar Center to talk about possible changes to the Habitat Conservation Plan. The plan was implemented in 2011 to help preserve and protect  water resources in the region, including plant and animal life. Part of the plan has already been implemented with the removal of invasive species such as elephant ear plants and non-native fish.  

Yvonne Zamora

Hosted by the University Police department and taught by certified instructors, Krav Maga self-defense classes are being offered for free to Texas State students and faculty. The classes offer a self-defense system combining elements from jiu jitsu, boxing and Karate. The tactics are easy to remember and can help sharpen one's survival instincts. The next class will be tomorrow afternoon at 5 o'clock. If you're interested in learning Krav Maga, you can register online at the University Police Department's website.

Halie Davis

Cell phones play an important role in today's society. Halie Davis reports on our growing dependence.

Standup: Many rely on their cellphone for everyday use, from waking up in the morning to planning for the next day. So what would you do if you lost your phone?
SB: Jacki Garcia
SB: Austin Zant
SB: Marisa Githner
For most, losing their cell would be a difficult situation. Our phones can help us stay connected with the world; whether we are by ourselves...
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Or around others.
SB:  Garcia
Cell phones aren't only used for personal reasons. Business communication can also be affected by cell phone usage.
SB: Zant
It seems that cell phones have become an important part of our everyday lives. Losing your phone could cost you more than just money.
SB: Brianna Barnes
Talking is no longer the only reason for a phone. We have established a deeper connection with our phones. For Bobcat Update, I'm Halie Davis.

Morgan Wilson

The drought in Texas has been unrelenting. And, as Morgan Wilson reports, the lack of rain in San Marcos is prompting officials to ask residents to use less water.

The city of San Marcos declared Stage Two water restrictions two weeks ago. City officials say San Marcos had been at Stage One for about a year.
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One of the Stage Two restrictions states sprinklers may only be run before ten a-m and after eight p-m once a week.  City officials say San Marcos may reach Stage Three, if the Edwards Aquifer levels drop any more.
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Stage Three is the highest level for water restrictions. Violating the restrictions can result in fines ranging from one hundred dollars to two thousand dollars. The city's website has more information on the restrictions and how they might affect you. For Bobcat Update, I'm Morgan Wilson.

Lane Lewis

Prices keep going up, but the minimum wage -- which many students are paid -- has remained steady for several years. It can be a struggle for those who are trying to make ends meet. Lane Lewis has more in this Bobcat Update.

(Standup) College students that have to work through school are known for having to live cheap. That's especially the case in Texas where the state has the most minimum wage workers in the United States. And at seven dollars and 25 cents, the minimum wage here in Texas is tied for the lowest in the country. 
Students and non-students alike have to worry about rent, buying food and rising gas prices. Being paid the minimum wage comes to about 15-thousand dollars a year. That's not much for sustaining a family.
(Dr. William Chittenden, Head of the Department of Finance and Economics)
Students have it a little easier than a family would, but they still struggle..
(Adrian Hernandez, Junior Mass Communications major)
Working on campus can be easier and more convenient for anyone being paid the minimum wage. It helps save on gas money if commute times are reduced.
(Standup) The government isn't likely to raise the minimum wage anytime soon due to reasons like inflation, but there are other options that, while maybe less convenient, will pay more than the minimum wage. For Bobcat Update, I'm Lane Lewis.

Kristina Coble

Today marks the first day of spring. With warmer weather, there are plenty of activities to do at Texas State. Whether between classes or on a day off, students can have fun at Sewell Park. The outdoor center offers a wide variety of equipment. Picnics can be fun as well as throwing a ball around or simply sunbathing. The San Marcos River is a perfect place to beat the heat. From splashing around with friends or playing around with your furry companion, the river can be a refuge for anyone looking for a little bit of relief from the Texas heat.

John Beck

Construction has begun on a new phase of the Texas State Master Plan. Part one of the West Campus Housing project is now underway and should be completed by next year, with one of the two complexes opening South of Blanco Hall. San Saba and Canyon Halls will be demolished. University officials say the estimated cost of the projects, including the demolition, will be about 102 (m) million dollars.

Matt Wood

Texas State University is being asked to change its procedures regarding what happens when someone is caught with marijuana. Matt Wood has more on the story.

The student government at Texas State has voted 45-to-3 to have the University Police Department implement a policy known as Cite and Release. The state legislature in 2007 approved a law allowing localities to decide for themselves whether to adopt Cite and Release.
If implemented, it would mean that people caught with small amounts of marijuana, along with several other minor offenses, would only be cited, rather than taken to jail. In the end, suspects would face the same punishment but the initial pre-conviction jail time would be removed.
Proponents of the procedural change say it would save valuable resources because police officers would not have to transport non-violent marijuana offenders to jail.
Texas State NORML President and A-S-G Senator Kevin Kutras authored the bill.
[Kutras soundbite: why he put it forward]
Besides NORML, the Texas State Young Americans for Liberty backed the bill. Y-A-L collected hundreds of signatures from students. The group's president, Dustin Brennan, says implementing Cite and Release would free officers to deal with more serious crimes.
[Dustin Soundbite: better use of resources]
University Police Department spokesperson Sue Stewart says having a Cite and Release policy doesn't free up as many resources as some people think.
[Stewart soundbite: "we still have to do our paperwork, we still have to do our report, the only thing that it prevents us from doing is taking someone to jail."]
The Student Government does NOT have the final say in implementing the policy change. It must be approved by university officials for it to be enforced.
A-S-G Chief of Staff Vanessa Cortez says that it's important for officials to listen to what the students want.
[Cortez soundbite: "We are the representatives of the student body and what we say and pass should have a remarkable influence on what the administration does, and so I hope they will make the decision that the study body wants."]
Vice President of Student Affairs Joanne Smith says she will make the final decision and will give consideration to the A-S-G proposal. But Brennan and Kutras say they're concerned that the students' wishes will not be seriously considered.
[brennan or kutras soundbite on student government]
Vice President Smith says she has not yet received the A-S-G paperwork for Cite and Release and cannot comment on what action she will take.
Except for U-P-D, the law enforcement agencies in Hays County follow the Cite-and-Release procedure.
[Wood Standup: ...For Bobcat Update, I'm Matt Wood}

Haley Parmer

While many Texas State students are traveling to their chosen destinations for Spring Break, others are choosing to keep it low key in San Marcos. Sewell Park is a popular hangout spot for sun bathing and water activities. While it may not be a sandy beach, the park offers fun and relaxation. The Sewell Park Outdoor Center provides many activities to take part in. You can rent kayaks, canoes, tubes as well as snorkeling and water sports equipment.

Adelina Valdez

The hilly terrain of the Texas State campus makes it a challenging course for mobility-impaired people. The university provides ramps to help them. The ramps are at several locations on campus, and they're being used by a lot of able-bodied people, even though they're designated for the disabled. Bicyclists also routinely use the ramps, which can be an obstruction for people who need to use them.  The University Police Department says it doesn't have the manpower to patrol these areas. They say bicyclists should do the right thing by refraining from using the ramps.

Kaitlin Moore

Bobcats, Get ready to throw your caps in the air... Graduation will be here soon.  Even though most seniors are excited about finishing their coursework, they have reason to be concerned about what happens afterward. In this Bobcat Update, Kaitlin Moore tells us about the difficulties that lie ahead.

College seniors are preparing to enter the next chapter of their lives. It's time to celebrate, but there's a challenge awaiting them, too. They need to find work, and entry-level jobs are hard to come by. According to the Economic Policy Institute, 53-point-six percent of those under the age of 25 who have bachelor's degrees were jobless or under-employed last year. However, Texas State student Elijah Justice is keeping a positive attitude about the job market.
(Soundbite)
Another Texas State senior, Andrew Henley, has a job
opportunity after graduation, but he has mixed emotions.
(Soundbite)
(Stand up): Texas State students are both hopeful and fearful of what lies ahead after graduation. But most graduating seniors like myself are really anxious to see what new challenges will come out way. For Bobcat Update, I'm Kaitlin Moore.

Lindsay Powell

Texas State will be on spring break starting this weekend, and for some that means party time. Lindsay Powell reports on efforts to promote safety during the break through a don't drink and drive campaign.

You may have seen some unusual items on the Quad this week. The idea was to attract the attention of those passing through.
Standup: University police teamed up with several organizations to give students a simulation of what it's like to drink and drive.
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Among the crowd were representatives from the awareness campaign "Watch UR BAC".
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Different D-W-I prevention simulators were brought on campus with vision-impairing goggles to show the difficulty of operating a vehicle under the influence. Students found the simulators to be more challenging than expected.
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Officers hope that the presentation will leave an impression on students to make wise choices over Spring Break. For Bobcat Update, I'm Lindsay Powell. 

Kristina Coble

Many students are planning to get out of town soon for Spring Break. We asked a few of them what they’ll be doing:

Marco Enriquez

Students in the School of Journalism and Mass Communication are looking for real-life experiences in the job market, and, to that end, many of them participated in this week's Career and Internship Fair at the L-B-J Student Center. Broadcasters from across the state were present to offer students summer and fall internships. They recommended students start off with an internship and work their way into full-time positions.  Students had the opportunity to drop off their resumes in hopes of making a favorable impression and possibly land one of the positions available.

Maddie Serviente

If you don't adjust your clock this weekend, chances are you'll lose an hour of sleep. Clocks are supposed to be set an hour ahead on Sunday to Daylight Savings Time. You might need to do an inventory to find where all of your time pieces are -- clocks, watches, appliances, video recorders and your car. Daylight Savings Time will remain in effect through November, at which time you might be able to get back that hour of sleep.

India Johnson

Texas State is buckling down on security during spring break. The university police department says locking your doors is the first -- and often overlooked -- step in preventing theft. About 95 percent of the thefts on campus result from unforced entry.  U-P-D would also like to encourage anyone leaving their vehicles on campus next week to take advantage of the "Spring Break Program." Anyone with a valid Texas State parking permit can park in the Woods Street parking garage from noon on Friday until Monday, March 18th at 7 a.m 

Jennifer Schmerber

An interactive art exhibit has made its way to the courtyard of the North Campus Housing Complex. The acrylic sculptures named "Fish Bellies," arrived at the Gaillardia and Chautauqua dorms this past weekend and have already become a popular hangout space for studying, spending free time, and has become a source of many Instagram photos. The sculptures have touch sensors that light up at night and use energy efficient, color changing L-E-D's. Students are encouraged to use the art as both a hangout or to even use the space as inspiration to create their own art. 

Karen Buenrostro

Information on how to cope with sexual assault may be hard for some students to find. But information is available for the askingat the university's counseling services office and at the Central Texas Medical Center. The counseling center offers psychological assistance and referral services for assault victims, and the Medical Center has a program called SANE that offers support to victims and helps collect evidence.The UniversityPolice Department says prevention is key. Officers advise students to walk accompanied at night and report any sexual abuse. 

Yvonne Zamora

Online classes are in high demand at Texas State. Some of them fill almost immediately when they become available. Yvonne Zamora has more in this Bobcat Update.

Forget the alarm clock and the daunting task of finding parking on campus- more and more students are ditching the classroom and seeking an unconventional kind-of-learning through online courses. 
SB: Student Bryce Burton (talking about the online class he has taken).
Texas State Vice President for Academic Affairs Debbie Thorne says online classes are being offered in a broad range of topics.
SB: Vice President Debbie Thorne (talking about the many options available).
A 150-dollar electronic-fee is attached to every online class, but the extra fee hasn't stopped those who are interested in taking such a course.
SB: Vice President Debbie Thorne (talking about the student incline in online courses). 
Stand Up: As more online classes become available students are quickly enrolling and forming their opinions about them.
SB: Student Lezli Zbranek (speaking about her online class experience). 
Some students quickly realize that online classes demand self-discipline and a good work ethic, if they're to be successful
SB: Student Kate (speaking about her online class experience). 
Stand Up: Whether students choose to learn to face to face interaction of at the convince of their own home, it's clear to say that more options are becoming readily available through online education. For Bobcat Update, I'm Yvonne Zamora.   

John Beck

The Clear Springs Apartment Complex will be closing soon. The apartments have long been a desirable location because of their proximity to the river and campus. But on May 12th, all leases will end and the place will be shuttered. The complex, which was built in 1966, no longer meets building code requirements. Residents who will have to vacate are making plans to move elsewhere. It's uncertain at this point what will become of the property. The apartments are on Aquarena Springs Drive across from Strahan Coliseum.

Greg Burnam

For some people, these are hard economic times. It can be a struggle to provide basic necessities, like food, clothing and shelter. But, as Greg Burnam tells us in this Bobcat Update, a helping hand is available at the Hays County Food Bank.

The Food Bank provides assistance to those in need. It's a volunteer organization that could use more volunteers. Coordinator Jim Wagner says the easiest way to get involved is to attend one of the group's training sessions.
SB
Some employers say a resume that includes volunteering can be a plus.
SB
Lauren worked her first shift today but has volunteered at other organizations since high school. She attended a training session last week.
SB
The Food Bank depends on food donations, both large and small, to be able to feed the hungry in Hays County. The group sends its trucks to H-E-B each morning to pickup donations. Every can, box or jar helps someone in need.
The Hays Food Bank served 600-thousand pounds of food last year and served about four-thousand families.  If you'd like more information about donating or volunteering, check out the group's website at hays-food-bank-dot-org. For Bobcat Update, I'm Greg Burnam

Gabe Garza

Students who use Tower Garage will not have full access to the facility during spring break. The garage stairs will be getting a much needed upgrade. The stairs are pretty old and deemed unsafe. Many parts of the steel staircase have eroded and problems are plainly visible. Nails that support the stairways are beginning to fall out. Because the repairs will be made during spring break, few Tower residents will be affected by the work. 

Halie Davis

It'll be an attention-getter to be sure. Several students at Texas State are planning to run across campus in their underwear -- all for a good cause. It'll happen on April 5th. The run will start at Harris Dining Hall and end at Sewell Park. Runners at the starting line will strip down and donate their clothes to an orphanage in Haiti. The event --called Hit the Floor Running -- is also a fundraiser for a school in Africa.The group HEAT is promoting the run buy selling briefs and handing out flyers. For more info, look up heat-establishment-dot-com.

Lane Lewis

Many Texas State seniors are just a couple of months away from finishing school. Graduation is almost here. The deadline to apply was last Friday, but there are still a few items that potential graduates need to cross off their to-do lists. The bookstore in the L-B-J Student Center sells caps and gowns as well as frames for diplomas and graduation invitations. Senior portfolios are due in many departments. And, of course, everyone should be concerned about earning passing grades in all remaining classes.

Alex Navarro

A group at Texas State is promoting awareness and understanding about the L-G-B-T-Q community. Alex Navarro has more in this Bobcat Update.

The group is called Allies of Texas State. Members want to provide a safe environment for L-G-B-T-Q persons. Allies are committed to eliminating myths, misconceptions and stereotypes, and they offer training sessions to that end. Senior Lecturer Gilbert Martinez, an Ally member for six years, says the group helps promote tolerance and acceptance:
SB
Ally members are part of a campus-wide network.
SB
For more information, you can ask an Ally member -- they're easily identified by the rainbow decals near their office doors -- or you can stop by the group's office.
SU.

Kaitlin Moore

College students have a balancing act to perform. They need to work, attend school and perhaps even have a social life. The demands on their time are many. Kaitlin Moore has this Bobcat Update:

Many students have jobs that demand between 15 and 30 hours a week while going to school.  
(SB)
Stand up: Texas State students will have to plan ahead and communicate well with their managers in order to balance both their schedules.
(SB)
Stand Up: Midterms are right around the corner and students will have to plan around their work schedules in order to have ample amount of time to study. 
A useful resource offered by the university that helps them with their
studies is the SLAC lab, located on the fourth floor of Alkek library. Tutors there can provide guidance and motivation to stay on track. For Bobcat Update, I'm Kaitlin Moore.

Adelina Valdez

Spring break will arrive soon for Texas State students.In this Bobcat update, Adelina Valdez tells us about a different way some students will spend their vacation.

As the weather gets warmer students are indulging in the recreational areas of the Texas State campus. Sunbathing near the river and beach volleyball are just two signs that students are in a springtime mood. In less than two weeks, students will be taking time off from their studies and heading to their Spring Break destinations. Some students say they'll travel out-of-state.
(SB)
Other students will vacation locally.
(SB)
(Standup: Traditionally, students have looked at Spring Break as a week-long vacation filled with spending time with friends, water sports and maybe even a little partying; but some Bobcats are opting to spend their Spring Break helping those in need.)
Bobcat Break is a five-day long alternative Spring Break program for Texas State students. This year, participants will work with Habitat for Humanity to demolish structures and build new affordable housing in the Houston area.
(SB)
Eight students were selected to take part in the program. They will depart March 11th and return on March 15th. For Bobcat Update, I'm Adelina Valdez.

Kristina Coble

In the aftermath of several mass shootings nationwide, Texas State is implementing an emergency plan to avoid such carnage here. Kristina Coble has the story.

They can be found all around campus. Emergency kiosks that, with a touch of a button, can signal emergency dispatch. But when emergencies occur, do students know what to do and where to go?
Soundbite
Soundbite
Lives can be saved.
Soundbite
Text messages and e-mails are part of the university's warning system. And cameras have been installed in buildings to make it easier to identify potential suspects. 
Stand up
Although this campus has not experienced a school shooting, Texas State is taking the necessary precautions to keep the campus safe and hoping students will not have to hear the sound of chaos. For Bobcat Update, I'm Kristina Coble.

Lane Lewis

Texas State offers plenty of opportunities for students to get involved in intramural sports though Campus Recreation. Lane Lewis has more in this Bobcat Update.

It's the last week of February, which means campus intramurals are in full swing. The basketball season is halfway through while the softball season is just now getting underway. Campus Recreation is reporting a record number of participants.
(Daniel Balderrama- Intramural Supervisor)
(Standup) Intramurals offer Texas State students an opportunity to compete in a safe and competitive environment against a level of competition they might not be used to, or, if they prefer, they can simply meet up with friends and play.
(Adrian Zalesnika- Sophomore Finance Major)
In addition to being a fun way to spend time with friends, intramurals can be a great source of exercise and a way to meet new people. For Bobcat Update, I'm Lane Lewis.

Scott Panther

Graffiti artists have left their mark around San Marcos over the past couple of weeks. Scott Panther has more in this Bobcat Update.

Graffiti has appeared on dumpsters, signs and sidewalks near the intersection of Ranch Road 12 and Holland Street. The main targets have been the Sac N Pac gas station, Chepo's Mexican restaurant and a State Farm insurance building.  Nobody is sure who is doing the tagging, but some have their suspicions.
SB
Some people don't see it as an issue, but as free expression.
SB
So far, owners of the affected businesses haven't had much luck finding anyone who can remove the graffiti.
SB
Stand Up

Hady Mawajdeh

Texas State University is home to many hidden gems, and Hady (Hah – Dee) Mawajdeh (Mah – Wog –Dee) has found one. We learn more in this report.

Finding something weird to do in San Marcos is no sweat, but finding something interesting to do – now that's a different story. The University Galleries -- located in the School of Art & Design -- has much to offer. The galleries provide more than three-thousand square feet of museum-quality exhibition space. The twin galleries are used in tandem for combined exhibitions and separately for individual exhibitions. Gallery One now houses a gargantuan installation by Beili Liu…
SB:
SB:
Meanwhile, Gallery Two is filled with the ceramic art of ten North American artists whose work is quite cerebral.
SB:
SB:
SB: 
Unfortunately, these exhibitions will only be around for one more week. So, you better find your way to the Joan Cole Mitte Building ASAP. Here's a hint -- check the corner of Sessom and Comanche Street. If you need more info about the University Galleries, visit T-X-galleries-dot-org. For Bobcat Update, I'm Hady Mawajdeh.

Matt Wood

The Aquarena Center, home of the glass bottom boat tours in San Marcos, is looking better than ever. Matt Wood has the story.

Renovations are now complete at the Aquarena Center, located next to the Texas State Golf Course. Old buildings that contained toxic chemicals were removed and replaced with natural vegetation. Remnants from the old theme park that had inhabit the area for decades were also taken down.
Walking trails were installed, picnic tables were placed near the spring waters, and the wetlands boardwalk was reopened.
[gaynier sound bite about what the wetlands are]
The wetlands boardwalk was closed during the renovations, which left some visitors disappointed.
[gaynier quote about people being excited for it being opened]
The renovations have helped restore and protect the area to its more natural state.
San Marcos resident Laurel Piersol says protecting the ecosystem is important to her.
[Piersol Sound bite about ecosystem.] "it's easier to enjoy the environment now and not worry that it's not being protected."
Piersol says the boardwalk is a terrific place to take photos of the great blue herons and snowy egrets that are attracted to the wetlands.
Renovations started in the Fall of 2011 and were just finished a couple of weeks ago. Gaynier says there will be more changes if funding can be secured.
[Stand up closing] "With the new renovations and the newly reopened boardwalk, San Marcos visitors, residents and students have another natural beauty to enjoy. For Bobcat Update - I'm Matt Wood."

Marissa Lewis

Texas State has been experimenting with a Big Belly. It's part of an effort to promote recycling of waste on campus. Marissa Lewis explains, in this Bobcat Update.

The Big Belly is a solar compactor system. The university just finished a test run, and results from the trial will be used to determine whether more funding is needed to expand the system. The idea is to make recycling easier for student participation. Many students are aware that waste management is important.
SB
Standup
Standup
SB
SB
Government reports show that Americans recycle about one-third of the waste they generate each year.
For Bobcat Update, I'm Marissa Lewis.

Alexa Perez

A new social media trend is catching on at Texas State. Alexa Perez has more in this Bobcat Update.

Confession Number 737: "I had a girl ask me if I've seen the Texas State Confessions site, I said yes. Then she told me about this funny one she read the other day. The one I had posted."
It seems that the passing faces you see in the quad may have more in common than you think.
Students are professing their secrets and admirations online on a Facebook page titled "Texas State Confessions". These 'confessions' range from Bobcat Bobby crushes to students revealing that they have cancer or are transgender. 
STAND-UP
Most of the posts, however, are humorous in nature. 
SOUND BITE 1
Students seem to feel relief after posting their embarrassing moments anonymously for all to see.
SOUND BITE 2
These "confession" style pages have become popular at many universities across the nation. Social media allows for students to join university-affiliated groups outside of campus.
SOUND BITE 3
Texas State students are already known for having a strong, comical web presence. Both the "At Texas State" Tumblr blog and the Texas State Memes Facebook have a large following. 
Whether this PostSecret-style web dialogue is a passing fad is too soon to tell, but one thing is certain, our curiosity for a good story will never fade.
For Bobcat Update, I'm Alexa Perez.

Chelsea Kelley

A few well-known companies have recently been victimized by computer hackers, which is alarming to some Texas State students. Chelsea Kelley has more in this Bobcat Update.

Many students constantly check their social media accounts, news articles and even their bank accounts while online, but they have reason to be concerned. Some wonder if their online information is safe.
Hackers this month breached the security of Apple, Facebook and Twitter and retrieved the personal information of hundreds of thousands of users. Some students are feeling uneasy.
SB
Others aren't as worried.
SB
Many students have been hacked before.
SB
But it's not always fun and games.
SB
Stand-up

Taylor Henderson

A few states have decided to legalize marijuana use. Texas is NOT yet one of them, but seeing other states enact such laws has definitely piqued the interest of some students. And, as Taylor Henderson tells us in this Bobcat Update, a bill has been introduced that could change the penalties for those who are caught possessing marijuana.

(stand up)
The bill aims to lower the penalty of being caught with one ounce of marijuana to a class C misdemeanor and a 500 dollar fine. Currently, if someone is caught with two ounces or less, he or she faces a class B misdemeanor charge and a potential of 180 days in jail. Lessening the penalty could be beneficial to taxpayers.
(sb)
The Alcohol and Drugs Services Center at Texas State offers help for students battling marijuana abuse, but students can also be disciplined by the Dean of Students.
(sb)
The Texas State student organization, NORML, has been trying to meet with the University Police Department to talk about the enforcement of marijuana laws.
(sb)
The bill is being reviewed by Texas lawmakers. For Bobcat Update, I'm Taylor Henderson.

Christina Tafoya

There's a service at Texas State University that can help students who need legal assistance. In this Bobcat Update, Christina Tafoya tells us about how the service works, should the need arise.

Many students live off-campus, or they would like to soon. That means they'll have to sign apartment leases and enter an agreement that is legally binding. Sometimes the students are charged excessive fees. Occasionally, they're scammed. That's when the campus attorney's office can help. Attorneys who work in the office can provide free, legal advice.
SB:  FitzPatrick
Students are advised on the appropriate steps to help them win their case. The staff consists of three attorneys who can help in criminal matters, labor law and landlord-tenant disputes
SB: FitzPatrick
The campus attorneys are not allowed to represent students in court. Their office is located on the fifth floor of the L-B-J Student Center.  Students seeking legal help must schedule an appointment.
Stand-Up (sign-off)

India Johnson

Title Nine has been on the books for a little more than 40 years, and its impact is still being felt at colleges and universities nationwide. India Johnson has the story.

Congress passed Title Nine in June of 1972. It's a law that provides equal rights for women to play collegiate sports. Before Title Nine, athletic scholarships for women were virtually non-existent.  Today, women make up nearly 50 percent of all participants in student-athletics, and the scholarships provide opportunities for competition and educational advancement.
SB
Some women say gender should NOT play a role when it comes to competing.
SB. 
Texas State University offers more than 100 scholarships to female athletes.
Standup

Halie Davis

Job shadowing is an experience that Texas State students can take advantage of, but fewer are these days. Halie Davis explains, in this Bobcat Update.

Texas State's Career Services helps students prepare for the workforce. Many students use this resource for resume critiques and job shadowing opportunities.
However, the annual sign-up for winter job shadowing is no longer in service.
Soundbite (Miguel Guerro)
Career Services is hoping that the change pushes students to take more of an initiative to job shadow.
Soundbite (Allison Birk)
Soundbite (Staffon Adams)
Standup (In the past, Bobcats used to search through a binder to find a potential job shadowing opportunity. Now, students just have to walk in these doors and let the front desk know that they're interested.)
Soundbite (Marjea Wheaton)
Soundbite (Taylor Campbell)
Some, though, have noticed a decline in the number of students reaching out through Texas State to gain work experience
Soundbite (Allison Birk)
If interested in job shadowing, you can make an appointment with the Career Advisor Liaison for your college. More information can be found by searching Career Services at the Texas State homepage.
For Bobcat Update, I'm Halie Davis.

Haley Parmer

Too many trained, not enough jobs. That describes what many Texas State students face as they prepare themselves for what they hope to be lifelong careers. And, as Haley Parmer tells us in this Bobcat Update, education majors, in particular, are entering a tight job market.  

According to U-S-A Today, the nation is training twice as many elementary school teachers as needed each year. Texas State is encouraging students to consider majoring in higher levels of education.
About 650 students are enrolled this semester in elementary education. Curriculum and Instruction Chair Patrice Werner says the department is aware of how difficult it is for graduates to find work.
(SB)
Students also know they'll face a challenge after graduation. Junior Noelle Brooks says she plans to get as much experience as possible to better her chances.
(SB)
The education department offers several student organizations to encourage professional growth and networking possibilities. For Bobcat Update, I'm Haley Parmer.

Lindsay Powell

Here's a college course that could prove useful -- if it existed -- Living with a Roommate. Sharing space with someone you don't know very well can be challenging. Lindsay Powell has more, in this Bobcat Update.

When students first go to college, some are frightened by the idea of living with a stranger. Whether living in a dorm, or off-campus in an apartment, roommates have to work together to get along. Often, students find similar qualities in their roommate, which makes living together enjoyable.
SB
Standup: Although some roommates remain friends after college, others aren't quite as lucky.
SB
It isn't always easy for roommates to coordinate chores. Sharing common areas can be a challenge.
SB
Finding the right match can be difficult, but roommates are a big part of the college experience. For Bobcat Update, I'm Lindsay Powell.

John Beck

Texas State University is home to a nationally-accredited child development center. John Beck has more in this Bobcat Update.

The Child Development Center in the School of Family and Consumer Sciences offers childcare at the university for faculty, students and staff. 
SB
Standup
SB
Some faculty members have taken full advantage of the services at the Child Development Center. For some, having the center was one reason they chose to work at Texas State. 
SB
The National Association for the Education of Young Children recently renewed its accreditation of the Child Development Center for meeting specific standards. To start the process for enrolling in the Center, you can visit its website. For Bobcat Update, I'm John Beck.

Morgan Wilson

Some students say it's a challenge for them to find healthy food options on campus. Morgan Wilson has more in this Bobcat Update.

Around noon every day, students line up inside of one of dining halls on campus to choose what to eat, but some students find this to be a difficult decision.
While Commons and Harris dining halls are closed, the options are more limited, especially for vegetarians.
Chartwells manages food services on campus, and its website says Jones Dining Hall has several vegetarian options. However, some students say Chartwells is not exactly meeting their needs.
(sb)
Chartwells has in recent weeks expanded its options. 
(sb)
You can learn more about which vegetarian foods Chartwells offers by logging onto its website.
For Bobcat Update, I'm Morgan Wilson.

Greg Burnam

The Center for the Study of Latino Media and Markets at Texas State University is hosting a Latino-oriented media conference this week. Greg Burnam has this Bobcat Update.

Federico Subervi (su-ber-v), who is director of the center, says the conference offers an opportunity for the Latino population to be more involved. And one way to be involved is through social media. 
sb:
Subervi says he's excited that conference speakers will include academics, grad students and professionals in the media industry. He says some are coming from as far away as Barcelona.  Co-Chair Sindy Chapa says attending the conference will be beneficial.  
sb:
She says students are welcome at the conference..     
sb:
Among the topics to be addressed at the conference will be Latino media in politics, news literacy and the Spanish language media in Europe. The convention starts Thursday the 21st. If you have any questions about the event, please contact the Center for the Study of Latino Media at Texas State.
For Bobcat Update I'm Greg Burnam

Jenny Schmerber

Some students say they're paying too much for food on campus. Jenny Schmerber has more on the story. 

If you've eaten at a dining hall, then you've bought your food from Chartwells. Chartwells manages the food services on campus. And the prices seem to be higher.
SB
Here's an example -- a small pack of peanuts on campus will cost you a dollar-49 while at a local gas station you can get more for 99 cents. Similarly, a single banana costs 89 cents at Paws N Go but costs only 16 cents at H-E-B. To some people, those prices are reasonable.
SB
For Bobcat Update, I'm Jenny Schmerber.

Adelina Valdez

Texas State students have mixed feelings about a proposal to allow guns on campus. Adelina Valdez has the story.

A normal day on campus is filled with students on their way to class. They'll encounter booths. They'll meet friends. They might even enjoy live entertainment. What they hope they'll never encounter is violence. There's an ongoing debate about how to address violence on campus, more particularly how to address gun restrictions. Some students say they want to be able to carry their guns to protect themselves in crisis situations.
SB: Blakeney
But others believe that having guns on campus increases the danger.
SB: Holman
University officials say that handling a gunman should be left to professionals.
SB: Stewart
For Bobcat Update, I'm Adelina Valdez.

Maddie Serviente

The Texas State Baseball team is getting ready for a new season. Maddie Serviente has the story.

After a long break, the Bobcats are preparing to take the field. Since last season, the team has brought in 15 new players and the facilities have been renovated. The team will be facing some big-name programs this year, but the players are confident and ready for the challenge.
Sound bite
The baseball field has a new look. The foul poles were upgraded and painted yellow, and the center field wall was changed. In left field, renovations were made to the wall so spectators can watch baseball and softball games from between the fields. For fans, the most exciting addition might be a recently installed screen on top of the scoreboard. It's the same screen that had been used at the football stadium.
Sound bite
The Western Athletic Conference's Preseason Coaches' Poll predicts that Texas State will finish in second place this year. It will be the Bobcats first and only season in the WAC.
Standup (signoff in standup)          

Chelsea Kelley

Construction on North L-B-J has caused some businesses to close their doors. Chelsea Kelley has more in this Bobcat Update.

Orange cones… traffic detours... and "For Lease" signs. Construction is booming in San Marcos, but some businesses are not, especially those located on North L-B-J. They're losing customers because of the construction and the lack of parking.
SB – root cellar
Dan's Discount Books closed this month -- unable to continue because of decreasing revenues.
STAND-UP
The stores that have managed to survive the economic challenges are making extra efforts to stay open. The construction project won't wrap up until sometime next year.
SB – root cellar
SB – smoothie factory
As the city of San Marcos plans for its future, businesses must do the same in order to flourish.
For Bobcat Update, I'm Chelsea Kelley.

Jessica MacCall

San Marcos has many talented musicians, many of them attracted here by Texas State University. And some are hoping to make a career of performing music. Jessica MacCall has the story.

As if school and work were not enough to balance -- you'll also find some people driven by their passion, a passion for music. San Marcos has several venues for talented students to find an outlet for their creative energies.
SB
San Marcos and Texas State provide a platform for these young musicians to be heard.
SB
The Student Association for Campus Activities has booked Morphus Minds to play on campus.
SB
The attention the band members are getting has started to pay off. Their hard work and networking have connected them with a recording studio in Austin.
SB
The life of a musician, who also happens to be a student, can be challenging, but these students don't seem to mind because they're pursuing their passion.
SB
For Bobcat Update, I'm Jessica MacCall.

Lindsay Powell

As enrollment and tuition at Texas State go up, so might the bus fees. Lindsay Powell has the story in this Bobcat Update.

The Bobcat Tram offers a cheap and convenient way for students living off campus to get to their classes, but the cost of riding the bus may be going up soon. The Transportation Services Department has proposed a fee  increase from 78 dollars to 95 dollars.
(Standup)Although the bus fee increase has not yet been implemented, students all over campus are already forming their opinions.
SB
Transportation Services is also proposing a new Mill Street route. Some students say they wouldn't mind paying more if the increase results in an improved bus system.
SB
If approved, the higher fees will go into effect in fall 2014.
For Bobcat Update, I'm Lindsay Powell.

Marissa Lewis

The flu season is still upon us, but, as Marissa Lewis tells us in this Bobcat Update, there are some precautions students can take to avoid getting sick.

Health officials say this has been one of the worst flu seasons in America. The Centers for Disease Control says 41 states have experienced higher numbers of flu cases this winter.
SB
The Texas State University Health Center has administered hundreds of flu shots this year.
Standup
Although the best way to fight the flu is have a flu shot, other precautions should be taken.
Standup
SB
Health officials say it's a good idea to get plenty of rest, take vitamins, wash your hands regularly and eat with proper nutrition in mind.
SB
The Texas State Health Center urges students who have not been vaccinated to make an appointment as soon as possible.It's not too to avoid the flu. For Bobcat Update, I'm Marissa Lewis.

Scott Panther

Gas prices in Texas and across the country have been rising lately. Scott Panther has more on why the prices have gone up so dramatically.

The average price for a gallon of gas in Texas is three dollars and 36 cents. That's 21 cents more than just over a a week ago. Economists say the increase is due to oil prices going up and refineries closing. Some Texas State students say they have to limit their driving time to save on gas.
SB
A lot of students have been using public transportation or walking more to avoid driving. Stand-Up: Some students are riding their bikes to save on gas.
SB
In some parts of the country, the price of gasoline has reached an average of five dollars a gallon. It's getting so high that drivers have little choice but to try to be more fuel efficient. For Bobcat Update, I'm Scott Panther.

Alixandra Papa

If you're feeling run-down this semester -- perhaps stuffy -- you're not alone. Many students, faculty, and staff are suffering from seasonal allergies. Alixandra Papa has more on the story.

Stand up: They call it Cedar Fever. This spring season allergies are at an all-time high and students are paying the costs. They are finding themselves stuck at home or here, at the Texas State Health Center.
The student health center has seen a rapid increase in appointments and medication needs this spring. One specific allergen, Cedar, is affecting a lot of people in Central Texas. Sophomore Micheal Averty says his classroom environment is being compromised.
SB
Students are using campus services, such as the PAWS Center at the L-B-J Student Center, for some of their medication needs.
SB
The Texas State Health Center is available for appointments Monday though Friday. Pharmacist Lucinda Mendoza says many medications are available at the Health Center, suitable for a college-student budget.
SB
Stand up: So, if you're starting to feel a bit under the weather, take the proper precautions. Drink a lot of water, take medications, and make an appointment with the Health Center if needed. For Bobcat Update, i'm Alixandra Papa.

Lane Lewis

The stallions at Texas State are familiar to anyone who's ever strolled across campus. And, as Lane Lewis tells us, that area on the quad plays a significant role in student life.

The famed statue represents a free speech zone on campus. Students -- and, for that matter, non-students -- can use the area for free expression and even protests. Maybe so. But not everyone is pleased when certain views are espoused. The quad is a high traffic area, so speakers get a lot of attention and often a large audience. Some students accept it:
SB (Nathan Shackelford- Junior Mass Comm major)
(Standup) While some students defend others' right to publicly talk about religion in the quad, others feel like it has no place on campus.
SB (Ariel Basnight- Junior French major)
The university, however, makes no attempt to quiet or force out people who want their messages heard. If you want to speak out on campus, you can do so. You just can't expect everyone to like it.
For Bobcat Update, I'm Lane Lewis.

Halie Davis

More apartments are opening in the San Marcos area to accommodate Texas State students. Many students have already begun their search for next year's housing. Roommates need to be found, leases have to be signed, and deposits must be paid. In some cases, such commitments are being made before the apartments are even built. Price and location are other factors that should be weighed in finding a suitable home. There's a high demand for apartments in San Marcos, which has prompted a lot of new construction. This fall five new apartment complexes will be completed..

Marco Enriquez

Texas State's enrollment continues to increase, and that presents a challenge for the university and the city of San Marcos. Students need a reliable transportation system to get around, and, as Marco Enriquez tells us in this Bobcat Update, building and maintaining such a system isn't easy.

The Texas State Tram is the primary mode of transportation for students who need to get to campus.  However, with all of the construction on or near the university, many students are frustrated with the tram service.
(SB)
Much of the street construction directly affects one of the tram's major routes -- Sessom Drive. 
(SB)
Many students are having to leave earlier than they're accustomed to just to make it to class on time.
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Students are left to bear the burden of local traffic congestion and can only hope that the university tram system gets better soon.  For Bobcat Update, I'm Marco Enriquez.

India Johnson

The Student Recreation Center has been more packed than usual lately. A lot of students already have spring break in mind, so they've been going to the rec center to get in shape. India Johnson has the story.

Students have been swarming in and out of the rec center. Access to the facility is easy -- just a simple card swipe or scanning of one's palm will do it -- and the students have been lining up in record numbers. They're taking advantage of the basketball courts, free weights, cardio workouts and more. The place is so busy that some students find that they have to wait just to get a workout, and regulars are finding it difficult to complete their everyday routines.
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Students say they've noticed how much busier the Rec Center is this semester.
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Stephen Munson

Texas State officials say students can expect to see parking permit prices to go up next year. Stephen Munson tells us more in this Bobcat Update.

Parking on campus is expensive, and next fall it will be even more so. Residential and campus apartment parking is expected to increase by 330 dollars, which is more than double what students pay now.
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All-permit lots offer many students the chance to park near campus, but those lots fill up quickly. The lots get so full that students turn into vultures as they circle around waiting for a spot to open up so they can swoop in and grab it.  
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Permit prices have become so prohibitive that some students are planning to move off campus to avoid emptying their pockets for a sticker that doesn't even guarantee them a spot.
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As parking availability on campus continues to decline, permit pricing is on the rise, leaving students with empty pockets and nowhere to park. For Bobcat Update, I'm Stephen Munson. 

Alexa Perez

When fall arrives, the Austin and San Antonio commuter trams will no longer be available at Texas State. Alexa Perez has the story.

This is the last semester you'll see the blinking "Austin" and "San Antonio" signs on the Bobcat Trams. 
At the request of the university, an assessment was conducted in November regarding the effectiveness of the Texas State transit service. Included in the study was the Bobcat Tram Inter-urban Service, also known as the B-T-I, which connects San Marcos to Austin and San Antonio.
The study's findings have prompted university officials to cancel the B-T-I service. The service is apparently costing too much to provide.
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University officials say students who relied on the service will have to find other ways to get to campus. 
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Also discovered in the review is that many students believe the tram system has been unreliable.
STAND-IN: Without the Interurban Tram Services, more students will be forced to fill the commuter lots. 
The last day for B-T-I services to Austin and San Antonio is August 23rd, 2-thousand-13.
For Bobcat Update, I'm Alexa Perez.

Taylor Henderson

A recent bathroom assault at the University of Houston leaves some Texas State students uneasy about campus safety. Taylor Henderson tells us more in this Bobcat Update.

According to campus police, during the fall semester several late-night attacks occurred at Texas State, and statistics show there were more than 20 on-campus assaults in 2011. Students feel especially vulnerable at night when it's dark and fewer people are around, and some would like to see campus security improved.
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The university police say they've been working on ways to improve campus safety.
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University officials say they hope they'll soon be able to increase patrols at night. For Bobcat Update, I'm Taylor Henderson.

Karen Buenrostro

Construction sites at Texas State are posing new challenges for students. Karen Buenrostro has more on the story.


Many students are being forced to find new routes to their classrooms. They have to because of barricades that have been put up for construction. Several streets are also being worked on, which affects pedestrians and drivers alike. Crossing the street can be hazardous, especially at busy intersections.
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Jay walking is never a good idea when there's a lot of traffic.
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Jessica MacCall

The Texas State International Office celebrated the first week of classes with a party. Jessica MacCall tells us more in this Bobcat Update.

Every semester the Texas State International Office partners with Student Affairs and the University Bookstore to welcome new international students to the university.The party kicked off Thursday afternoon in the L-B-J Ballroom. About 35 new students attended the reception, where they had an opportunity to meet and socialize with their classmates.
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The social featured free food, games, door prizes and karaoke. Several international student organizations were also present to talk about the many different ways to get involved at Texas State.
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Student body president Nathan McDaniel welcomed the students and challenged them with some Texas State trivia and prizes.   
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After teaching the new students the Texas State hand signs, McDaniel led them in signing the song every Bobcat needs to know - the Texas State fight song. For Bobcat Update, I'm Jessica MacCall.   

Haley Parmer

It seems that construction projects are underway all over San Marcos these days. The Texas State campus is where most of the activity is taking place. And, as Haley Palmer tells us in this Bobcat Update, a new project has just begun.

The latest construction site is Old Main, Texas State's oldest building. Old Main is where Journalism and Mass Communication students have most of their classes. The building needs a new roof and windows. Also, the landscaping will be changed.
Some students say the university should have waited until summer to start the construction. But others, like senior Alex Navarro, agree that some of the renovations are needed.
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Construction barriers have been set up, causing students, faculty and staff to take different paths than normal to get inside the building. Senior Bianka Valdez says the noise from the construction has affected her ability to focus in class.
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University officials say the construction at Old Main, which will last through the summer, will cost about three-and-a-half (m) million dollars to complete. For Bobcat Update, I'm Haley Parmer.

Shelbie Watts

Walk across campus and you'll likely encounter one or more construction projects. They're a part of everyday life at Texas State and will be for quite a while. Shelbie Watts has the story.

Since 2011, the university has organized its construction activities under a Master Plan. New buildings have gone up, and several more are still under construction. Older buildings, like Old Main, are being renovated. For some students, the projects amount to an inconvenience.
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Some streets are also construction zones. For examples, Sessom Drive has been reduced to two lanes to repair waste-water lines, and the sidewalks along University Drive are being taken out. These projects should be finished in about a month.
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The university says the Master Plan should be fully implemented in about four years with a price tag of more than 730-million dollars. For Bobcat Update, I'm Shelbie Watts.

Marco Enriquez

Some students are finding it more difficult to get to class lately. The reason -- barriers have been put up for new construction. Marco Enriquez has more in this Bobcat Update

Scaffolding, buzz saws, bulldozers, concrete trucks -- You can find them on campus at various locations. Texas State is getting a facelift of sorts. New buildings are going up, and old buildings are being renovated. If you have classes near Old Main, Brogdon Hall or the new theater building, you'll likely have to find a new path.
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Bus routes are also affected by the construction projects. Some students are showing up late to class because of the construction.
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Texas State students might as well get used to the noise. Beeping, pounding and grinding are going to be commonplace for a while. For Bobcat Update, I'm Marco Enriquez.

Maddie Serviente

There's a lot of construction activity on campus. And, as Maddie Serviente tells us, it can be good or bad depending on your perspective.

Texas State has several projects underway to improve the facilities on campus. But construction also has a downside. Traffic is disrupted. Parking is harder to find. Bus routes have to be changed. And some students discover that they have to find new routes to class.
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The construction will bring many benefits, but a lot of current students won't be around to see the end result.
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The Campus Master Plan should be completed within four years at a cost of 585 (m) million dollars. For Bobcat Update, I'm Maddie Serviente.

Morgan Wilson

Some students have reason to believe that construction projects never end at Texas State. Morgan Wilson has more in this Bobcat Update.

Construction projects abound at Texas State. Streets are being improved. New dorms have been added. By the time the university completes everything on its drawing board, more than 585 million dollars will be spent.
You don't have to go far on campus before seeing a construction site. For example, Old Main's roof and windows need repair. Unfortunately, the construction can also be disruptive.
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Construction is underway at the Bobcat Trail Mall, Commons Dining Hall, Brogdan Residence Hall, the Performance Arts Center, and the Psychology building. For many, the positives far outweigh the negatives.
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The construction projects are not likely to be completed before 2015. For Bobcat Update, I'm Morgan Wilson          

John Beck

Construction is affecting many of the activities on campus this semester. John Beck has more in this Bobcat Update.

Whether it's the long commute to campus, say by car or bus, or the shorter one from a dorm or from class to class, students and faculty alike are being affected by the constant presence of construction on campus. Day one of the spring semester was no different than last semester as students were welcomed by the familiar sounds of machinery and the clanging of hammers. Surprising to some, however, was the sight of scaffolding and fences around Old Main.
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Normal pathways are being disrupted at Texas State because of sidewalk closures and barriers.
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Off-campus traffic is being affected as well. Bus routes have been altered due to road closures near campus. Students are having to adjust their schedules accordingly.
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Texas State students and San Marcans alike will have to work around the construction projects for several months to come. The facelift will cost an estimated 585 (m) million dollars.
For Bobcat Update, I'm John Beck.

Dawn Brooks

The New Year brings new construction to the Texas State campus. Dawn Brooks has the story.

Students are affected by the continuing construction on and around campus. The ever-expanding student population has made it necessary to construct new buildings. And all of that activity means parking is at a premium.
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Some parking spaces are no longer available to students. Those who commute will find it very difficult to park close to campus. Another issue that students are dealing with is the noise.
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The most recent project is at Old Main where the roof will be repaired and the windows replaced. Those who work at the campus radio station have been told to expect some disruptions.
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Those who are affected by the ongoing projects should not expect relief any time soon. According to the Campus Master Plan, construction will last through at least 2017. For Bobcat Update, I'm Dawn Brooks.