1/27/17

Brittany Hill

Bobcat Seniors are preparing to step into the real world in May. Bobcat Update's Brittany Hill takes a look into their college experience leading up to graduation.

College can be tough, but that doesn't stop Texas State Senior Jose ______ from making other Bobcats smile during the journey. [ last name ] has turned the frowns of many undergraduates into smiles.
SB
Some seniors may have regrets and some wish they could stay longer.
SB
If you still have some years to go, don't get discouraged. There are ways to make your experience more enjoyable and rewarding.
SB
So get excited! Before you know it, it will be your turn to share your experience. For Bobcat Update, I'm Brittany Hill.

Jacey Yarbrough

With the start of a new semester, some Texas State Students are turning to the campus recreation center to help them reach their fitness goals. Bobcat Update’s Jacey Yarbrough has more on the story.

Determined Bobcats have filled the rec center with hopes of creating new habits while the semester is still young. With three floors designed for workouts, a weight room, and rows of treadmills, the rec center provides activities for all levels of fitness.
SB
Personal trainers are available to help motivate students and teach proper technique, but some students enjoy getting healthy at their own pace.
SB
The rec center also provides students an opportunity to get involved in healthy activities. Spring intramurals begin next month, starting with basketball. For Bobcat Update, I’m Jacey Yarbrough.

1/21/17

Sterling Pitchford

Texas State University has several construction projects underway. Bobcat Update's  Sterling Pitchford tells us about ongoing efforts to enhance parts of the campus.
 
Last year, the university completed a walkway between Commons and Flowers. While it was under construction, the project interfered with student living.
SB Leslie
The university has also completed renovations on Jones dining hall. While the aesthetics of the dining hall improved dramatically, some students question  whether the money could have been put to better use elsewhere, such as classrooms or transportation.
SB Delanie
More information about campus construction projects can be found on the Texas State  website. For Bobcat Update, I'm Sterling Pitchford.

Lauren Crider

Texas State students are back on campus after a much needed winter break. Bobcat Update's Lauren Crider caught up with a few Bobcats to see just how excited they are to be back in town.

Bobcats have returned, which means San Marcos is back to its typical, bustling self. Every December the city clears out for a glorious few weeks, but January always rolls around and campus becomes a swarm of happy students again.
SB
There are always construction projects underway at the university. Construction on and around campus can at times be a hindrance for Bobcats. but there's nothing to do but grin and bear it.
SB
Regardless of the construction or traffic, most students are happy to be back. The new semester offers new opportunities to learn and grow, and, for many lucky bobcats, this semester is their last.
SB
Overall, it's a joyful time on Texas State campus. The sun is shining, the buses are running on time and everyone is ready for their new classes. For Bobcat Update, I'm Lauren Crider.

Alix Rodriguez

The number of the incoming freshmen class grows each year at Texas State. Bobcat Update's Alix Rodriguez has more on the story.

Enrollment continues to increase, which means on-campus living is also more in demand.
SB
Construction is non-stop at Texas State, and dealing with it can be stressful for those who live on campus. 
SB
The constant noise of trucks beeping or drills hammering away at concrete, right outside a residence hall window, can create a situation where students have to move to find a quiet place to study. 
SB
For Bobcat Update, I'm Alix Rodriguez.

Adam Carreno

A Texas State University dining hall has reopened its doors for business. Bobcat Update's Adam Carreno has more.
 
Jones Dining Hall is finally back in business. After completion of a 15-month renovation project, Jones now provides more room to accommodate students as well as more eating establishments.
SB- Chase (Gutted out. Everything is open)
But even with all changes, Jones held on to a couple fan favorites.
SB- Chase (Panda express is back)
SB – Leah (Always go to Panda)
The renovations have really helped business pick up. Since reopening, Jones has nearly doubled the number of costumers served daily. [ATTRIBUTION? WHERE DID THIS INFORMATION COME FROM?]
SB-Chase (Old Jones to New Jones)
With the success of the new menus, the company is planning to install similar business models at several colleges and universities throughout the nation. For Bobcat Update, I'm Adam Carreno.

Jacob Villarreal

Texas State students made their way back to campus to begin the spring semester on Tuesday. As they arrived, students battled cold and wet weather along with long lines. Bobcat Update's Jacob Villarreal has more the story.

Mother nature welcomed back Texas State students with cold temperatures and pouring rain. Through this weather Bobcats were tasked with typical first-week activities including finding their classes, buying books and waiting for packed buses. Some students are not appreciating the weather very much:
SB
While the weather may have dampened the spirits on the first day back, there is a long-term goal ahead in sight.
SB
Some students are looking forward to the semester as a way to spread positive vibes into 2017 as well as entertain those who are trying to stay dry.
SB
Texas State has reached record enrollment for many straight years now, and the ever-growing campus shows no signs of slowing down. For Bobcat Update, I'm Jacob Villarreal.

1/17/17

Kathryn Macchia

As the number of students enrolled at Texas State University continues to rise, students are finding it more difficult to make it to class on time. Bobcat Update's Kathryn Macchia has more on the story.

Many Texas State students choose to live off campus and commute, but parking is limited. Some students are being forced to spend extra time getting to campus.
SB Bill Mason 
The Fall 2015 freshman class marked the 18th consecutive year Texas State set a record high enrollment, according to the university's Office of Media Relations.  Commuters want a reliable to get to class on time.
They have the option to purchase parking permits that cost up to 400 dollars, but have one doesn't guarantee a spot.
SB Andrea Cordova 
Construction zones are also affecting the available parking space and bus routes for students living off campus.  The Transportation Services division says about 285 parking spaces are temporarily UNavailable because of construction. 
SB Tyler Dumas 
SB Tyler Dumas
So far the university has not released any plans to increase parking and transportation services. For Bobcat Update, I'm Kathryn Macchia.

11/21/16

Christina Lockridge

If you want to see some changes to Alkek Library, the faculty would like to hear from you. Bobcat Update's Christina Lockridge has more on the story.

Alkek Library is hosting focus groups to encourage ideas for possible changes at the 24-year-old facility. The goal is to make the library more up-to-date.
SB
Texas State Student Jessica Jordan wants to see more study rooms and technological advancements as opposed to books that just sit on shelves and take up space.
SB
The two focus groups are scheduled to meet on November 30th and December 5th. For those who attend as registered participants, the library is providing free pizza.
SB
For more information on how to register, you can visit the library's website. For Bobcat Update, I'm Christina Lockridge.

11/16/16

Gabriel Bermea

Not too far outside of San Marcos, a small competition took place in a quiet town. Gabriel Bermea has more in this Bobcat Update.

Many old friends and families reunited this past weekend for a common cause.
SB
The Dam Chili Cook-Off is an event that was created by Shaun Shaver, and he has run it every year.
Standup: This is the 12th year that the chili cook-off has taken place here in Martindale. Dozens of people will have a friendly competition to see who has the best chili.
Anyone who participates in the cook-off will cook the chili on site and prepares it to be judged and eaten.
Many of the entrees have participated in previous competitions and have the awards to show for it.
SB
Also featured were local musicians, a silent auction and a hot chili competition.
All proceeds from the event benefited the San Marcos Youth Service Bureau, a non-profit that provides after-school programs for children.
SB
For Bobcat Update, I'm Gabriel Bermea.

Dallas Williams

This week Texas State University experienced another tragedy. As reported by the University Star, a student's body was found on campus due to an apparent suicide. Bobcat Update's Dallas Williams takes a look at the resources available to help students through difficult times.

College life can be overwhelming. School and relationships can leave some students feeling alone or forgotten. Melissa Garza is President of NAMI Cats, which is the local chapter of the National Alliance of Mental Illness. Garza says she wants students to take the right steps to protect their mental health.
SB- Mellissa Garza
NAMI Cats is one of several organizations on campus that can help.
SB- Melissa Garza
The University Police Department can provide assistance during a crisis.
SB- Captain Lattie
One other resource is the counseling center. Due to high demand, the counselors were not available for formal comment, but they did stress that students come first. The center's website has helpful information. If you or someone you know is in a crisis follow these steps: Recognize the signs and respond. Take action or get others involved. Make a referral.
At Texas State the hustle and bustle of college life can get to students. Stress can be overwhelming and friendships can be taxing, but tragedies don't have to happen.
SB Lattie not alone
SB Garza not alone
You're not alone. For Bobcat Update I'm Dallas Williams

11/15/16

Jasmine Kardani

The San Marcos Public Library offers more than books to choose from. Jasmine Kardani explains in this Bobcat Update.

The library offers an assortment of activities that residents can participate in each week. San Marcos resident Sharon Ahrens is taking advantage of yoga classes.
SB
The free yoga class is available to all skill levels -- ranging from beginner to expert. Parents can bring their kids or use the time for themselves. Shelly Kellogg enjoys the way the class is taught. '
SB
Yoga is considered a physical, mental and spiritual activity. By attending Yoga with Francesca, you can determine what role yoga can play in your life.
SB (Stand-up)

11/14/16

Claire Kreuz

The Texas State volleyball team has racked up the Sun Belt Conference accolades. One team member in particular has earned the bulk of them.

Freshman libero Micah Dinwiddie has made a name for herself in the conference. She has earned the freshman-of-the-week title four weeks in a row this season. Dinwiddie is proud of her success.
SB
Head coach Karen Chisum says she has had a big impact on the team.
SB
SU: Not only has Dinwiddie been named conference freshman-of-the week several times, she has also earned defensive player-of-the-week twice this season.
SB
Dinwiddie says her hard work has paid off.
SB
The Bobcats ended regular season play this past weekend and will go into the conference tournament seeded third. For Bobcat Update, I'm Claire Kreuz.

11/13/16

Caitlin McDermott

The city of Kyle has a new semi-pro basketball team. Caitlin McDermott has more on the story.

Silent and empty halls are what you'll find at Chapa Middle School on Tuesday nights. But make your way to the practice gym, and you'll see Stallions running the court -- the Kyle Stallions that is, the new semi- pro basketball team in Central Texas.
[SB]
Head Coach Damien Van Goodwin is at the helm, and he expects teamwork from his players.
[SB]
The Stallions have played two games so far this season, and they have their work cut out for them.
[SB]
But Coach Goodwin says anyone can play the game, and everyone is coachable.
[SB]
There are 24 players on the team -- all with different personalities and habits, but they have a common goal, and that is to win. For Bobcat Update, I'm Caitlin McDermott.

Isaac Garza

The Wi-Fi network at Texas State is getting a major boost in its capabilities. Isaac Garza has more in this Bobcat Update.

Students and faculty rely heavily on the internet. It's essential for classroom instruction and everyday communication. Mark Hughes, of the university's technology resources division, says he understands the network's importance and a campus-wide upgrade is necessary to meet the latest wireless standards.
SB
What this means is the network will be able to handle a higher volume of traffic at once, but the Wi-Fi speed will only be as fast as devices allow. The funds for this multi-million dollar project will be coming from student fees.
SB
SB
Hughes says the team at I-TAC works hard to make sure the Wi-Fi network contributes to students' success at the university. He strongly encourages anyone who experiences problems to call I-TAC for help The project is set to be finished over the winter break. Hughes says students can expect little or no impact during the transition.
SB
SU: The goal is take make Wi-Fi ubiquitous across campus. Which means you can get Wi-Fi in the classrooms, outside in our beautiful green spaces, and even on your way to class with no interference. For Bobcat Update, I'm Isaac Garza.

Gustavo Torres

Giving back to his community is something a San Marcos mechanic and businessman finds rewarding. In this Bobcat Update, Gustavo Torres profiles the owner of Rudy's Automotive.

From 8 a-m to 6 p-m (nat sound of the shop) Monday through Friday (nat sound of cars being fixed), you can hear the sound of engines being serviced at Rudy's Automotive. San Marcos residents have relied on Rudy's to get their car fixed for about two decades. (nat sound of customers chatting) Many regard the proprietor, Rudy Espinoza, as a friend.
(SB)
Rudy says there is more to life than living it.
(SB)
At the end of the week, once the garage doors are locked (nat sound) and the gate is closed, Rudy has another mission to perform -- under Friday night lights.
(SB)
He also runs concessions for the San Marcos High School Rattlers during home games.
(SB)
The San Marcos community has a special place in his heart. Rudy has seen many changes over the years and yet a consistency in the people.
(SB)
Rudy says the people he encounters at the games or at his shop serve as another opportunity to make each day better. In Rudy's view, working hard doesn't have to kill you or your spirit. For Bobcat Update, I'm Gustavo Torres.

11/12/16

Colleen Payne

What's the one event in New Braunfels, Texas, where you can find polka music, pitchers of beer and men dressed in Lederhosen? Bobcat Update's Colleen Payne has the answer.

nat sound
sound pop
Wurstfest is an annual German beer and food festival held each year 20 miles south of San Marcos, in New Braunfels.
sb
People from all over come to experience the polka music and rich German culture.
sb
Some attendees have made it a tradition to come to the event every year.
sb
For others, it's much more that just a celebration.
sb
Beside the carnival rides and memories made, the best part of Wurstfest is...
sb
SU: Whether you come for the beer, food or music, you're guaranteed a great time. After all, it's the "wurst" time of the year. For Bobcat Update, I'm Colleen Payne.

Alyssa Fincher

Alkek Library is hosting several events this month to help Texas State students get a jump start on their final exams. Alyssa Fincher has more on the story.

Texas State's library hosted a Night Against Procrastination last week to encourage students to be better prepared for their finals. For some students, the event could not have come at a better time.
SB
The Night Against Procrastination included research help and a quiet environment for students who may need a break to combat their stress levels.
SB
All library events are the brainchild of ( name).
SB
More activities are scheduled at Alkek this month, including a screening of American Sniper. For more information about upcoming events, check out the library's website or its Facebook page. For Bobcat Update, I'm Alyssa Fincher.

Brooke Cowey

In a town that is no stranger to construction, San Marcos can now add Sessom Drive to its construction projects. Brooke Cowey has the story.

Stand Up
Sessom Drive is currently a sea of orange due to construction. The construction zone is affecting traffic and causing certain bus routes to be changed.
SB
The extra time it takes to get to and from campus is causing frustration among students.
SB
The changed bus routes were not just a surprise to students. Bus drivers found out about the route changes on THE day that they were switched.
SB
For Bobcat Update, I'm Brooke Cowey.

Andrea Tullos

The end of the semester is near, which means finals are approaching. Andrea Tullos tells us more in this Bobcat Update.

Finals... a most dreaded word that many college students hate to hear. In a month, students will be pulling all-nighters, drinking endless amounts of coffee and surviving with little sleep. Alkek Library has a few tips and tricks to help students during this stressful time. Senior Alyson Crooms works at SLAC on the fourth floor. She says SLAC is closed during finals week, but its services are available until then.
SB - Alyson Crooms
If you don't need a tutoring session and just want to study, you'll find accommodations at the library during finals week. Alkek will be open around the clock weekdays, and on the weekend, it will stay open until three a.m. The library offers some unique stress relievers.
SB - Tra Boggas
Finals this year will be held from December 9th to December 16th. Preparation is helpful in getting ready for the big week.
SB - Alyson Crooms
SB - Tra Boggas
SU - Andrea Tullos