October 19,2013 Permian Basin Speleological Society member Kayde Hill wins Chuck Stuehm Award at the Texas Cavers Reunion...
The Chuck Stuehm Award -An Annual Grotto Award for Exceptional New Cavers Have you ever heard of the Chuck Stuehm Award? It is an award for new and exceptional cavers, and can be awarded to one new caver in each grotto in Texas. The award is named after Raymond Chuck Stuehm (pronounced " Steam") who was a member of several Grottos in the San Antonio area and was especially good at guiding, working with, and encouraging new cavers. Chuck's memory is honored every time a new, exceptionally exuberant caver receives this award. Every grotto has the opportunity to encourage new cavers by selecting a new caver for this award every year. Chuck Stuehm died an untimely death on January 31, 1980 at the age of 52. A memorial issue of the Texas Caver was a memorial issue for Chuck, outlining many of his accomplishments in caving. At the same time the Chuck Stuehm Award was established for to be given to an outstanding new caver in each grotto each year at Texas Cavers' Reunion (TCR), which was then called the Old Timers' Reunion. The Chuck Stuehm Award Requirements: The only requirement for the award is that the caver has been caving two years or less and shows an unusual enthusiasm and interest in caving, and all aspects of caving. Selection of the recipient is by the grotto in whatever way they choose. Often the officers will choose the recipient after consulting some of the more active members of the grotto, keeping the award a surprise until TCR. Often the grotto will also honor the recipient at the next grotto meeting after TCR. The Chuck Stuehm Award Prize: The prize is one year's membership to the TSA (Texas Speleological Association) and a shiny certificate suitable for framing. If the winner is already a TSA member they will receive one year's extension of membership. The Chuck Stuehm Award winners were announced at TCR on October 19th, 2011.
