texascavers Digest 29 Mar 2011 14:48:13 -0000 Issue 1278
Topics (messages 17477 through 17479):
Re: T Minus One Week! - Saturday, April 2nd at Fort Clark Springs,
Brackettville, TX
17477 by: Josh Rubinstein
17478 by: Josh Rubinstein
17479 by: Joe Ranzau
Administrivia:
To subscribe to the digest, e-mail:
<texascavers-digest-subscr...@texascavers.com>
To unsubscribe from the digest, e-mail:
<texascavers-digest-unsubscr...@texascavers.com>
To post to the list, e-mail:
<texascavers@texascavers.com>
----------------------------------------------------------------------
--- Begin Message ---
Hey all,
I have spent a lot of time working in Brackettiville. One suggestion.
Bring cash. Not every place takes plastic like they do in the big
city (Uvalde).
Josh
On Tue, Mar 29, 2011 at 8:25 AM, ellie :) <ellie.tho...@gmail.com> wrote:
> Spot on Mark, thanks!
>
> I will arrive to the Fort around noon and registration will start after 4pm.
> Vendors are welcome to come early to set up but no one better show up before
> I do.
>
> See yall soon!
>
> Ellie
> On Fri, Mar 25, 2011 at 9:35 AM, <mark.al...@l-3com.com> wrote:
>>
>> It’s only ONE WEEK until the best spring caving convention in Texas!
>>
>> The weather looks great! http://www.weather.com/weather/tenday/USTX0145
>>
>> The swimming hole looks excellent, the talks and food will be awesome, the
>> location is spectacular, and the TCMA auction will be a hoot and hosted by
>> the best looking game show host since Bob Barker, our own Jim “Crash”
>> Kennedy, assisted by his bevy of caving beauties!
>>
>> Just a few reminders, updates, and detritus from the weekend for y’all:
>>
>>
>> 1.) One new item has been added to the agenda for the riveting and
>> always exciting TSA Spring Business Meeting (immediately after the talks
>> Saturday at ~4:40:
>>
>> 2011 Spring Business Meeting, Spring Convention at Fort Clark Springs, TX,
>> Saturday, April 2nd, 2011, Texas Speleological Association
>>
>> Agenda
>>
>>
>>
>> · Welcome and Introductions
>>
>>
>>
>> · Chairman’s Report
>>
>>
>>
>> · Vice Chairman’s Report
>>
>>
>>
>> · Secretary’s Report - Minutes of 2011 Winter Business Meeting held
>> at the TSS Offices on the UT Campus, Sunday, January 23rd, 2011
>>
>>
>>
>> · Treasurers Report
>>
>>
>>
>> · TSA Projects – Jim Kennedy
>>
>> § Gov’t Canyon - Marvin Miller
>>
>> § Colorado Bend State Park - Crash
>>
>> § Longhorn Cavern Project (On hold – TPWD Approval) – Mark Alman
>>
>> § Inner Space Caverns Project (Starting in September) – Gerry
>> Geletzke & Mark Alman
>>
>> § Hill Country State Natural Area & Devils River - Rob Bissett and
>> Joe Ranzau
>>
>> § Future Project Ideas
>>
>> · Standing Committee Reports
>>
>> o TSA Website – Butch Fralia
>>
>> o Membership Chair – Ryan Monjaras
>>
>> o Conservation Committee – Open and Jim Kennedy (WNS Update)
>>
>> o Safety and Techniques – David Ochel
>>
>> o Publications – Mark Alman
>>
>> § The TEXAS CAVER and status of online access to back issues.
>>
>> o TSA Store – Lee Jay Graves
>>
>>
>>
>> · Old Business
>>
>> o The 100th trip of the Government Canyon Karst Survey Celebration,
>> Saturday, March 5th
>>
>> · New Business
>>
>> o TSA Brochure
>>
>> o Membership Drive
>>
>> o Membership Directory Constitution Change (New Item)
>>
>> o The Constitution states:
>>
>> The Treasurer prepares a budget for the fiscal year, maintains the
>> membership database, and insures the database is available electronically to
>> the membership.
>>
>> The key word is “electronically”. And it later states:
>>
>> The Membership Committee shall consist of the Database Manager, the TSA
>> Secretary,
>>
>> the TSA Treasurer, a representative of the Publications Committee, and
>> other appointed members.
>>
>> b. The committee will develop data to be made available to TSA officers,
>> committees, member
>>
>> organizations, affiliated organizations, and members for conducting caving
>> business.
>>
>> The committee insures the membership database is published annually and is
>> not made available to the general public.
>>
>> These two statements seem conflicting and publishing a Members Directory
>> is a small expense in the large scheme of things but, nevertheless, still a
>> waste of money.
>>
>> The TSA Board of Officers is recommending that the red line above be
>> deleted from the Constitution and the Members Directory be made available
>> electronically in the Members Area of the TSA webpage.
>>
>>
>>
>> · Announcements?
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>> · End of Meeting (Let’s eat!)
>>
>>
>>
>> 2.) The Kickapoo Caverns trips will be Sunday, April 3rd.
>>
>> Please meet at the gate to Kickapoo State Park at 10 AM and, after the
>> TCMA meeting, at 11 AM.
>>
>> Cost is the standard TPWD entry fee of $3 per adult (12 YO and older).
>> Kids can cave for free. Fee will be waived if you have a Gold Passport. Must
>> furnish #.
>>
>> The main room and Wishing Well areas will be open for visitation. The
>> Helectite Room and Graffiti Room are off limits, as is Stuart Bat Cave.
>>
>> We will be collecting the fee at Registration and you must sign a waiver
>> form for you and yours there, as well.
>>
>> Do not miss this opportunity to visit one of the state’s largest and most
>> impressive caves (one of my favorites!) and behold the grandest and most
>> photographed set of columns in the state!
>>
>> This is very easily accessible cave and is an excellent one for cavers,
>> young, old, new, and armchair!
>>
>> 3.) From Ellie:
>>
>> TSA Spring Convention is almost here! You are invited to join the Texas
>> Speleological Society and fellow Texas cavers for a relaxing weekend in the
>> unique oasis and National Register Historic District of Fort Clark Springs.
>> The TSA, founded in 1956, has been bringing Texas cavers together for over
>> 50 years. Meet fellow cavers and project leaders from around the state. This
>> is a great chance to get involved with ongoing projects and create future
>> caving opportunities for all.
>>
>> Registration has increased slightly to $15 per person plus $5 per person
>> per night camping (kids camp free). Family rate is $45.
>>
>> On Saturday, April 2nd, you can fill your day with informative
>> presentations from cavers about developments in cave sciences, project
>> updates, national and international exploration, and much more. Roger Moore
>> and Mallory Mayeux have done an amazing job at lining up presenters that
>> will delight all audiences. The presentations will be held at the Service
>> Center which accommodates 300 people and has AC, bathrooms, and a
>> kitchen. Participate in the Photo & Map Salon by entering your latest and
>> greatest works for all to enjoy.
>>
>> Stay for the evening group meal provided by Stefan and the Caver Cooking
>> Crew. After the meal, Map and Photo Salon winners and prizes will be
>> announced and then everyone will have a chance to participate in the TCMA
>> auction. Shiner will be providing adult beverages.
>>
>> And just for the kids…. an Easter Egg Hunt first thing on Sunday morning!
>>
>> Spend the weekend lazing with friends in the lush Rendezvous Park
>> campground right next to the crystal clear, on million gallon spring-fed
>> pool. The campground is shaded, private, hugs the creek and is just a few
>> steps from the pool, Service Center, and motels. The pool area has
>> bathrooms, showers, and potable water Well behaved pets are welcome at the
>> campground. There is a motel on site. Please make your own reservations at
>> the Fort Clark Springs website- http://99.139.198.182:1069/
>>
>> Hope to see you there!
>>
>> Ellie Watson
>> TSA Vice Chair
>> ellie.tho...@gmail.com
>>
>> TSA Spring Convention
>> site: http://cavetexas.org/events/TSASC/tsasc2010.html
>> Fort Clark Springs site: http://99.139.198.182:1069/
>> For Facebook users: www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=118366598218649
>>
>> Info at: http://www.cavetexas.org/events/TSASC/tsasc2011.html
>>
>> 4.) List o’ Speakers
>>
>> Hello Cavers!
>>
>>
>>
>> The TSA Convention is sneaking up on us quick--two weeks! I can’t wait to
>> see everyone in Brackettville!
>>
>>
>>
>> Roger Moore and I have been lining up Saturday’s speakers. We are going
>> for a mix of entertaining and informative talks, and I think we have some
>> great presentations in store. We’ve gotten some requests to announce who
>> will be speaking, so without further ado, here are the speakers for TSA
>> (times AND order of talks TBA)
>>
>>
>>
>> David Ochel—O9 Well: Re-survey and exploration efforts
>>
>> Jacqui Thomas—Five Mouth Project: More than a Dig
>>
>> FoFo Gonzales—Caves of Mineral King, CA
>>
>> Peter Drushcke--Discovery, gating and work at Kypet Cavern, Grand Canyon
>>
>> Charles Perkins—Bats and Microclimate Monitoring of Gorman Cave, Colorado
>> Bend SP
>>
>> Jean Krejca/Geoffrey Hoese—Caving in the Galapagos Islands
>>
>> John Moses—Cave Hunting in West Texas
>>
>> Dwight Deal—Wulong Karst World Heritage Site, China
>>
>> Ron Ralph—50th Anniversary of the TSS AND Announcement of a new Project
>>
>> Bill Steele—Caving non-fiction poetry AND DFW Grotto Project to map Spring
>> Creek Cave, Kendall Co.
>>
>>
>>
>> And possibly a last minute surprise. J
>>
>>
>>
>> Any questions/requests, let us know (we have a light schedule so if there
>> is something you'd really like to present, let me know--we could accommodate
>> one more speaker. Otherwise, we will have additional time for questions,
>> breaks, etc.)
>>
>>
>>
>> See you all in two weeks!
>>
>>
>>
>> -Mallory Mayeux & Roger Moore
>>
>> 5.) Gear adjustment and safety workshop
>>
>> Howdy all you Texas vertical cavers,
>>
>> Becky Jones and David Ochel will be hosting this excellent workshop at the
>> Spring Convention.
>>
>> Saturday, 5 - 7 pm
>>
>> This is for everybody who owns vertical gear.
>>
>> Do you feel you are lacking efficiency when climbing on rope? Do you have
>> basic knowledge on how to get up and down a rope, but you never learned (or
>> have forgotten) about basic safety protocols and precautions? Do you have
>> particular questions about aspects of single rope technique or pieces of
>> your vertical kit?
>>
>> This will be a loosely structured workshop, based on participants' needs
>> and interest. The objective is to review whatever questions you might have,
>> with the goal of improving the overall safety awareness and competency of
>> Texas' vertical caving community. Bring your own gear - we will aim to have
>> ropes set up for gear adjustment and review of techniques, but this is *not*
>> an introduction to vertical caving for those who have never been on rope.
>> (Ask your local Grotto for such training opportunities.)
>>
>> 6.) Vendors and TCMA Auction
>>
>> Cavers, don’t forget that the usual vendors (Texas Speleological Survey,
>> Texas Speleological Association, and Association for Mexican Cave Studies)
>> will be set up just outside the Service Center at Fort Clark in a
>> week-and-a-half for the fabulous TSA Spring Convention! Bring cash or
>> checks! And as a preview, the TSS will have a new edition of the Map CD
>> ready just for this event! There are 144 new maps added since the last
>> edition (released in July 2009 for the ICS in Kerrville), and 1379 total
>> maps. It’s still only $10!!! Of course, there are lots of other great
>> publications on Texas caves that will be for sale. To check ‘em out in
>> advance, and see the prices, go to the TSS website and look at the list at
>> http://www.utexas.edu/tmm/sponsored_sites/tss/PDF/TSSprices.pdf.
>>
>> Jim “Crash” Kennedy
>>
>> TSS Office Manager
>>
>> P.S. -. There will also be some real surprises and excitement at the
>> Saturday evening TCMA Auction, so be sure to attend! It’s going to be a
>> real hoot!
>>
>> If you have any last minute items to donate, BRING IT!
>>
>> 7.) Last and, certainly, not least – FOOD!
>>
>> Stefan and The CCC (Caver Cooking Crew) are presenting this most excellent
>> offering of the Official State Food of Texas ©:
>>
>> BBQ Brisket, BBQ Pork
>>
>> Smoked chicken and sausage gumbo (coz Mallory missed it last time)
>>
>> Rice & vegetable salad
>>
>> Potato salad
>>
>> BBQ fixin’s
>>
>> Dessert (?).
>>
>> I’ll need help beforehand and on the day, can I get some volunteers?
>>
>> Also, can anyone give me a ride out there in a more suitable vehicle, the
>> RX-8 isn’t really up to it.
>>
>> Cheers,
>>
>> Stefan
>>
>> This will be the last announcement from me (About d*** time, Mark!) and
>> the TSA hopes to see you there in just ONE week!
>>
>> See ya then!
>>
>> Mark
>
--- End Message ---
--- Begin Message ---
I think there might be one at the Valero.
Josh
On Tue, Mar 29, 2011 at 9:46 AM, <speleoste...@aol.com> wrote:
> Is there an ATM in Brackettville?
>
> Bill
>
> Sent via BlackBerry by AT&T
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: Josh Rubinstein <kars...@gmail.com>
> Date: Tue, 29 Mar 2011 08:50:34
> To: ellie :)<ellie.tho...@gmail.com>
> Cc: <mark.al...@l-3com.com>;
> texascavers@texascavers.com<Texascavers@texascavers.com>
> Subject: Re: [Texascavers] T Minus One Week! - Saturday, April 2nd at Fort
> Clark Springs, Brackettville, TX
>
> Hey all,
>
> I have spent a lot of time working in Brackettiville. One suggestion.
> Bring cash. Not every place takes plastic like they do in the big
> city (Uvalde).
>
> Josh
>
> On Tue, Mar 29, 2011 at 8:25 AM, ellie :) <ellie.tho...@gmail.com> wrote:
>> Spot on Mark, thanks!
>>
>> I will arrive to the Fort around noon and registration will start after 4pm.
>> Vendors are welcome to come early to set up but no one better show up before
>> I do.
>>
>> See yall soon!
>>
>> Ellie
>> On Fri, Mar 25, 2011 at 9:35 AM, <mark.al...@l-3com.com> wrote:
>>>
>>> It’s only ONE WEEK until the best spring caving convention in Texas!
>>>
>>> The weather looks great! http://www.weather.com/weather/tenday/USTX0145
>>>
>>> The swimming hole looks excellent, the talks and food will be awesome, the
>>> location is spectacular, and the TCMA auction will be a hoot and hosted by
>>> the best looking game show host since Bob Barker, our own Jim “Crash”
>>> Kennedy, assisted by his bevy of caving beauties!
>>>
>>> Just a few reminders, updates, and detritus from the weekend for y’all:
>>>
>>>
>>> 1.) One new item has been added to the agenda for the riveting and
>>> always exciting TSA Spring Business Meeting (immediately after the talks
>>> Saturday at ~4:40:
>>>
>>> 2011 Spring Business Meeting, Spring Convention at Fort Clark Springs, TX,
>>> Saturday, April 2nd, 2011, Texas Speleological Association
>>>
>>> Agenda
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> · Welcome and Introductions
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> · Chairman’s Report
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> · Vice Chairman’s Report
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> · Secretary’s Report - Minutes of 2011 Winter Business Meeting held
>>> at the TSS Offices on the UT Campus, Sunday, January 23rd, 2011
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> · Treasurers Report
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> · TSA Projects – Jim Kennedy
>>>
>>> § Gov’t Canyon - Marvin Miller
>>>
>>> § Colorado Bend State Park - Crash
>>>
>>> § Longhorn Cavern Project (On hold – TPWD Approval) – Mark Alman
>>>
>>> § Inner Space Caverns Project (Starting in September) – Gerry
>>> Geletzke & Mark Alman
>>>
>>> § Hill Country State Natural Area & Devils River - Rob Bissett and
>>> Joe Ranzau
>>>
>>> § Future Project Ideas
>>>
>>> · Standing Committee Reports
>>>
>>> o TSA Website – Butch Fralia
>>>
>>> o Membership Chair – Ryan Monjaras
>>>
>>> o Conservation Committee – Open and Jim Kennedy (WNS Update)
>>>
>>> o Safety and Techniques – David Ochel
>>>
>>> o Publications – Mark Alman
>>>
>>> § The TEXAS CAVER and status of online access to back issues.
>>>
>>> o TSA Store – Lee Jay Graves
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> · Old Business
>>>
>>> o The 100th trip of the Government Canyon Karst Survey Celebration,
>>> Saturday, March 5th
>>>
>>> · New Business
>>>
>>> o TSA Brochure
>>>
>>> o Membership Drive
>>>
>>> o Membership Directory Constitution Change (New Item)
>>>
>>> o The Constitution states:
>>>
>>> The Treasurer prepares a budget for the fiscal year, maintains the
>>> membership database, and insures the database is available electronically to
>>> the membership.
>>>
>>> The key word is “electronically”. And it later states:
>>>
>>> The Membership Committee shall consist of the Database Manager, the TSA
>>> Secretary,
>>>
>>> the TSA Treasurer, a representative of the Publications Committee, and
>>> other appointed members.
>>>
>>> b. The committee will develop data to be made available to TSA officers,
>>> committees, member
>>>
>>> organizations, affiliated organizations, and members for conducting caving
>>> business.
>>>
>>> The committee insures the membership database is published annually and is
>>> not made available to the general public.
>>>
>>> These two statements seem conflicting and publishing a Members Directory
>>> is a small expense in the large scheme of things but, nevertheless, still a
>>> waste of money.
>>>
>>> The TSA Board of Officers is recommending that the red line above be
>>> deleted from the Constitution and the Members Directory be made available
>>> electronically in the Members Area of the TSA webpage.
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> · Announcements?
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> · End of Meeting (Let’s eat!)
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> 2.) The Kickapoo Caverns trips will be Sunday, April 3rd.
>>>
>>> Please meet at the gate to Kickapoo State Park at 10 AM and, after the
>>> TCMA meeting, at 11 AM.
>>>
>>> Cost is the standard TPWD entry fee of $3 per adult (12 YO and older).
>>> Kids can cave for free. Fee will be waived if you have a Gold Passport. Must
>>> furnish #.
>>>
>>> The main room and Wishing Well areas will be open for visitation. The
>>> Helectite Room and Graffiti Room are off limits, as is Stuart Bat Cave.
>>>
>>> We will be collecting the fee at Registration and you must sign a waiver
>>> form for you and yours there, as well.
>>>
>>> Do not miss this opportunity to visit one of the state’s largest and most
>>> impressive caves (one of my favorites!) and behold the grandest and most
>>> photographed set of columns in the state!
>>>
>>> This is very easily accessible cave and is an excellent one for cavers,
>>> young, old, new, and armchair!
>>>
>>> 3.) From Ellie:
>>>
>>> TSA Spring Convention is almost here! You are invited to join the Texas
>>> Speleological Society and fellow Texas cavers for a relaxing weekend in the
>>> unique oasis and National Register Historic District of Fort Clark Springs.
>>> The TSA, founded in 1956, has been bringing Texas cavers together for over
>>> 50 years. Meet fellow cavers and project leaders from around the state. This
>>> is a great chance to get involved with ongoing projects and create future
>>> caving opportunities for all.
>>>
>>> Registration has increased slightly to $15 per person plus $5 per person
>>> per night camping (kids camp free). Family rate is $45.
>>>
>>> On Saturday, April 2nd, you can fill your day with informative
>>> presentations from cavers about developments in cave sciences, project
>>> updates, national and international exploration, and much more. Roger Moore
>>> and Mallory Mayeux have done an amazing job at lining up presenters that
>>> will delight all audiences. The presentations will be held at the Service
>>> Center which accommodates 300 people and has AC, bathrooms, and a
>>> kitchen. Participate in the Photo & Map Salon by entering your latest and
>>> greatest works for all to enjoy.
>>>
>>> Stay for the evening group meal provided by Stefan and the Caver Cooking
>>> Crew. After the meal, Map and Photo Salon winners and prizes will be
>>> announced and then everyone will have a chance to participate in the TCMA
>>> auction. Shiner will be providing adult beverages.
>>>
>>> And just for the kids…. an Easter Egg Hunt first thing on Sunday morning!
>>>
>>> Spend the weekend lazing with friends in the lush Rendezvous Park
>>> campground right next to the crystal clear, on million gallon spring-fed
>>> pool. The campground is shaded, private, hugs the creek and is just a few
>>> steps from the pool, Service Center, and motels. The pool area has
>>> bathrooms, showers, and potable water Well behaved pets are welcome at the
>>> campground. There is a motel on site. Please make your own reservations at
>>> the Fort Clark Springs website- http://99.139.198.182:1069/
>>>
>>> Hope to see you there!
>>>
>>> Ellie Watson
>>> TSA Vice Chair
>>> ellie.tho...@gmail.com
>>>
>>> TSA Spring Convention
>>> site: http://cavetexas.org/events/TSASC/tsasc2010.html
>>> Fort Clark Springs site: http://99.139.198.182:1069/
>>> For Facebook users: www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=118366598218649
>>>
>>> Info at: http://www.cavetexas.org/events/TSASC/tsasc2011.html
>>>
>>> 4.) List o’ Speakers
>>>
>>> Hello Cavers!
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> The TSA Convention is sneaking up on us quick--two weeks! I can’t wait to
>>> see everyone in Brackettville!
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Roger Moore and I have been lining up Saturday’s speakers. We are going
>>> for a mix of entertaining and informative talks, and I think we have some
>>> great presentations in store. We’ve gotten some requests to announce who
>>> will be speaking, so without further ado, here are the speakers for TSA
>>> (times AND order of talks TBA)
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> David Ochel—O9 Well: Re-survey and exploration efforts
>>>
>>> Jacqui Thomas—Five Mouth Project: More than a Dig
>>>
>>> FoFo Gonzales—Caves of Mineral King, CA
>>>
>>> Peter Drushcke--Discovery, gating and work at Kypet Cavern, Grand Canyon
>>>
>>> Charles Perkins—Bats and Microclimate Monitoring of Gorman Cave, Colorado
>>> Bend SP
>>>
>>> Jean Krejca/Geoffrey Hoese—Caving in the Galapagos Islands
>>>
>>> John Moses—Cave Hunting in West Texas
>>>
>>> Dwight Deal—Wulong Karst World Heritage Site, China
>>>
>>> Ron Ralph—50th Anniversary of the TSS AND Announcement of a new Project
>>>
>>> Bill Steele—Caving non-fiction poetry AND DFW Grotto Project to map Spring
>>> Creek Cave, Kendall Co.
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> And possibly a last minute surprise. J
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Any questions/requests, let us know (we have a light schedule so if there
>>> is something you'd really like to present, let me know--we could accommodate
>>> one more speaker. Otherwise, we will have additional time for questions,
>>> breaks, etc.)
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> See you all in two weeks!
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> -Mallory Mayeux & Roger Moore
>>>
>>> 5.) Gear adjustment and safety workshop
>>>
>>> Howdy all you Texas vertical cavers,
>>>
>>> Becky Jones and David Ochel will be hosting this excellent workshop at the
>>> Spring Convention.
>>>
>>> Saturday, 5 - 7 pm
>>>
>>> This is for everybody who owns vertical gear.
>>>
>>> Do you feel you are lacking efficiency when climbing on rope? Do you have
>>> basic knowledge on how to get up and down a rope, but you never learned (or
>>> have forgotten) about basic safety protocols and precautions? Do you have
>>> particular questions about aspects of single rope technique or pieces of
>>> your vertical kit?
>>>
>>> This will be a loosely structured workshop, based on participants' needs
>>> and interest. The objective is to review whatever questions you might have,
>>> with the goal of improving the overall safety awareness and competency of
>>> Texas' vertical caving community. Bring your own gear - we will aim to have
>>> ropes set up for gear adjustment and review of techniques, but this is *not*
>>> an introduction to vertical caving for those who have never been on rope.
>>> (Ask your local Grotto for such training opportunities.)
>>>
>>> 6.) Vendors and TCMA Auction
>>>
>>> Cavers, don’t forget that the usual vendors (Texas Speleological Survey,
>>> Texas Speleological Association, and Association for Mexican Cave Studies)
>>> will be set up just outside the Service Center at Fort Clark in a
>>> week-and-a-half for the fabulous TSA Spring Convention! Bring cash or
>>> checks! And as a preview, the TSS will have a new edition of the Map CD
>>> ready just for this event! There are 144 new maps added since the last
>>> edition (released in July 2009 for the ICS in Kerrville), and 1379 total
>>> maps. It’s still only $10!!! Of course, there are lots of other great
>>> publications on Texas caves that will be for sale. To check ‘em out in
>>> advance, and see the prices, go to the TSS website and look at the list at
>>> http://www.utexas.edu/tmm/sponsored_sites/tss/PDF/TSSprices.pdf.
>>>
>>> Jim “Crash” Kennedy
>>>
>>> TSS Office Manager
>>>
>>> P.S. -. There will also be some real surprises and excitement at the
>>> Saturday evening TCMA Auction, so be sure to attend! It’s going to be a
>>> real hoot!
>>>
>>> If you have any last minute items to donate, BRING IT!
>>>
>>> 7.) Last and, certainly, not least – FOOD!
>>>
>>> Stefan and The CCC (Caver Cooking Crew) are presenting this most excellent
>>> offering of the Official State Food of Texas ©:
>>>
>>> BBQ Brisket, BBQ Pork
>>>
>>> Smoked chicken and sausage gumbo (coz Mallory missed it last time)
>>>
>>> Rice & vegetable salad
>>>
>>> Potato salad
>>>
>>> BBQ fixin’s
>>>
>>> Dessert (?).
>>>
>>> I’ll need help beforehand and on the day, can I get some volunteers?
>>>
>>> Also, can anyone give me a ride out there in a more suitable vehicle, the
>>> RX-8 isn’t really up to it.
>>>
>>> Cheers,
>>>
>>> Stefan
>>>
>>> This will be the last announcement from me (About d*** time, Mark!) and
>>> the TSA hopes to see you there in just ONE week!
>>>
>>> See ya then!
>>>
>>> Mark
>>
>
> ---------------------------------------------------------------------
> Visit our website: http://texascavers.com
> To unsubscribe, e-mail: texascavers-unsubscr...@texascavers.com
> For additional commands, e-mail: texascavers-h...@texascavers.com
>
>
--- End Message ---
--- Begin Message ---
I'm already here!
Joe
On Mar 29, 2011, at 8:25 AM, "ellie :)" <ellie.tho...@gmail.com> wrote:
> Spot on Mark, thanks!
>
> I will arrive to the Fort around noon and registration will start after 4pm.
> Vendors are welcome to come early to set up but no one better show up before
> I do.
>
> See yall soon!
>
> Ellie
> On Fri, Mar 25, 2011 at 9:35 AM, <mark.al...@l-3com.com> wrote:
>
> It’s only ONE WEEK until the best spring caving convention in Texas!
>
>
> The weather looks great! http://www.weather.com/weather/tenday/USTX0145
>
> The swimming hole looks excellent, the talks and food will be awesome, the
> location is spectacular, and the TCMA auction will be a hoot and hosted by
> the best looking game show host since Bob Barker, our own Jim “Crash”
> Kennedy, assisted by his bevy of caving beauties!
>
>
> Just a few reminders, updates, and detritus from the weekend for y’all:
>
>
>
>
> 1.) One new item has been added to the agenda for the riveting and always
> exciting TSA Spring Business Meeting (immediately after the talks Saturday at
> ~4:40:
>
>
> 2011 Spring Business Meeting, Spring Convention at Fort Clark Springs, TX,
> Saturday, April 2nd, 2011, Texas Speleological Association
>
>
> Agenda
>
>
>
> · Welcome and Introductions
>
>
>
> · Chairman’s Report
>
>
>
> · Vice Chairman’s Report
>
>
>
> · Secretary’s Report - Minutes of 2011 Winter Business Meeting held at
> the TSS Offices on the UT Campus, Sunday, January 23rd, 2011
>
>
>
> · Treasurers Report
>
>
>
> · TSA Projects – Jim Kennedy
>
> § Gov’t Canyon - Marvin Miller
>
> § Colorado Bend State Park - Crash
>
> § Longhorn Cavern Project (On hold – TPWD Approval) – Mark Alman
>
> § Inner Space Caverns Project (Starting in September) – Gerry Geletzke
> & Mark Alman
>
> § Hill Country State Natural Area & Devils River - Rob Bissett and Joe
> Ranzau
>
> § Future Project Ideas
>
>
> · Standing Committee Reports
>
>
> o TSA Website – Butch Fralia
>
> o Membership Chair – Ryan Monjaras
>
> o Conservation Committee – Open and Jim Kennedy (WNS Update)
>
> o Safety and Techniques – David Ochel
>
> o Publications – Mark Alman
>
> § The TEXAS CAVER and status of online access to back issues.
>
> o TSA Store – Lee Jay Graves
>
>
>
> · Old Business
>
> o The 100th trip of the Government Canyon Karst Survey Celebration,
> Saturday, March 5th
>
> · New Business
>
> o TSA Brochure
>
> o Membership Drive
>
> o Membership Directory Constitution Change (New Item)
>
>
> o The Constitution states:
>
>
> The Treasurer prepares a budget for the fiscal year, maintains the membership
> database, and insures the database is available electronically to the
> membership.
>
>
> The key word is “electronically”. And it later states:
>
>
> The Membership Committee shall consist of the Database Manager, the TSA
> Secretary,
>
> the TSA Treasurer, a representative of the Publications Committee, and other
> appointed members.
>
> b. The committee will develop data to be made available to TSA officers,
> committees, member
>
> organizations, affiliated organizations, and members for conducting caving
> business.
>
> The committee insures the membership database is published annually and is
> not made available to the general public.
>
>
> These two statements seem conflicting and publishing a Members Directory is a
> small expense in the large scheme of things but, nevertheless, still a waste
> of money.
>
> The TSA Board of Officers is recommending that the red line above be deleted
> from the Constitution and the Members Directory be made available
> electronically in the Members Area of the TSA webpage.
>
>
>
> · Announcements?
>
>
>
>
>
> · End of Meeting (Let’s eat!)
>
>
>
>
>
>
> 2.) The Kickapoo Caverns trips will be Sunday, April 3rd.
>
>
>
>
> Please meet at the gate to Kickapoo State Park at 10 AM and, after the TCMA
> meeting, at 11 AM.
>
> Cost is the standard TPWD entry fee of $3 per adult (12 YO and older). Kids
> can cave for free. Fee will be waived if you have a Gold Passport. Must
> furnish #.
>
> The main room and Wishing Well areas will be open for visitation. The
> Helectite Room and Graffiti Room are off limits, as is Stuart Bat Cave.
>
> We will be collecting the fee at Registration and you must sign a waiver form
> for you and yours there, as well.
>
> Do not miss this opportunity to visit one of the state’s largest and most
> impressive caves (one of my favorites!) and behold the grandest and most
> photographed set of columns in the state!
>
> This is very easily accessible cave and is an excellent one for cavers,
> young, old, new, and armchair!
>
>
>
> 3.) From Ellie:
>
>
>
> TSA Spring Convention is almost here! You are invited to join the Texas
> Speleological Society and fellow Texas cavers for a relaxing weekend in the
> unique oasis and National Register Historic District of Fort Clark Springs.
> The TSA, founded in 1956, has been bringing Texas cavers together for over 50
> years. Meet fellow cavers and project leaders from around the state. This is
> a great chance to get involved with ongoing projects and create future caving
> opportunities for all.
>
>
> Registration has increased slightly to $15 per person plus $5 per person per
> night camping (kids camp free). Family rate is $45.
>
>
> On Saturday, April 2nd, you can fill your day with informative presentations
> from cavers about developments in cave sciences, project updates, national
> and international exploration, and much more. Roger Moore and Mallory Mayeux
> have done an amazing job at lining up presenters that will delight all
> audiences. The presentations will be held at the Service Center which
> accommodates 300 people and has AC, bathrooms, and a kitchen. Participate in
> the Photo & Map Salon by entering your latest and greatest works for all to
> enjoy.
>
>
> Stay for the evening group meal provided by Stefan and the Caver Cooking
> Crew. After the meal, Map and Photo Salon winners and prizes will be
> announced and then everyone will have a chance to participate in the TCMA
> auction. Shiner will be providing adult beverages.
>
>
> And just for the kids…. an Easter Egg Hunt first thing on Sunday morning!
>
>
> Spend the weekend lazing with friends in the lush Rendezvous Park campground
> right next to the crystal clear, on million gallon spring-fed pool. The
> campground is shaded, private, hugs the creek and is just a few steps from
> the pool, Service Center, and motels. The pool area has bathrooms, showers,
> and potable water Well behaved pets are welcome at the campground. There is a
> motel on site. Please make your own reservations at the Fort Clark Springs
> website- http://99.139.198.182:1069/
>
> Hope to see you there!
>
> Ellie Watson
> TSA Vice Chair
> ellie.tho...@gmail.com
>
> TSA Spring Convention site: http://cavetexas.org/events/TSASC/tsasc2010.html
> Fort Clark Springs site: http://99.139.198.182:1069/
> For Facebook users: www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=118366598218649
>
>
>
> Info at: http://www.cavetexas.org/events/TSASC/tsasc2011.html
>
> 4.) List o’ Speakers
>
>
> Hello Cavers!
>
>
>
> The TSA Convention is sneaking up on us quick--two weeks! I can’t wait to see
> everyone in Brackettville!
>
>
>
> Roger Moore and I have been lining up Saturday’s speakers. We are going for a
> mix of entertaining and informative talks, and I think we have some great
> presentations in store. We’ve gotten some requests to announce who will be
> speaking, so without further ado, here are the speakers for TSA (times AND
> order of talks TBA)
>
>
>
> David Ochel—O9 Well: Re-survey and exploration efforts
>
> Jacqui Thomas—Five Mouth Project: More than a Dig
>
> FoFo Gonzales—Caves of Mineral King, CA
>
> Peter Drushcke--Discovery, gating and work at Kypet Cavern, Grand Canyon
>
> Charles Perkins—Bats and Microclimate Monitoring of Gorman Cave, Colorado
> Bend SP
>
> Jean Krejca/Geoffrey Hoese—Caving in the Galapagos Islands
>
> John Moses—Cave Hunting in West Texas
>
> Dwight Deal—Wulong Karst World Heritage Site, China
>
> Ron Ralph—50th Anniversary of the TSS AND Announcement of a new Project
>
> Bill Steele—Caving non-fiction poetry AND DFW Grotto Project to map Spring
> Creek Cave, Kendall Co.
>
>
>
> And possibly a last minute surprise. J
>
>
>
> Any questions/requests, let us know (we have a light schedule so if there is
> something you'd really like to present, let me know--we could accommodate one
> more speaker. Otherwise, we will have additional time for questions, breaks,
> etc.)
>
>
>
> See you all in two weeks!
>
>
>
> -Mallory Mayeux & Roger Moore
>
>
>
> 5.) Gear adjustment and safety workshop
>
>
>
>
> Howdy all you Texas vertical cavers,
>
> Becky Jones and David Ochel will be hosting this excellent workshop at the
> Spring Convention.
>
>
> Saturday, 5 - 7 pm
>
> This is for everybody who owns vertical gear.
>
> Do you feel you are lacking efficiency when climbing on rope? Do you have
> basic knowledge on how to get up and down a rope, but you never learned (or
> have forgotten) about basic safety protocols and precautions? Do you have
> particular questions about aspects of single rope technique or pieces of your
> vertical kit?
>
> This will be a loosely structured workshop, based on participants' needs and
> interest. The objective is to review whatever questions you might have, with
> the goal of improving the overall safety awareness and competency of Texas'
> vertical caving community. Bring your own gear - we will aim to have ropes
> set up for gear adjustment and review of techniques, but this is *not* an
> introduction to vertical caving for those who have never been on rope. (Ask
> your local Grotto for such training opportunities.)
>
>
>
>
> 6.) Vendors and TCMA Auction
>
>
> Cavers, don’t forget that the usual vendors (Texas Speleological Survey,
> Texas Speleological Association, and Association for Mexican Cave Studies)
> will be set up just outside the Service Center at Fort Clark in a
> week-and-a-half for the fabulous TSA Spring Convention! Bring cash or
> checks! And as a preview, the TSS will have a new edition of the Map CD
> ready just for this event! There are 144 new maps added since the last
> edition (released in July 2009 for the ICS in Kerrville), and 1379 total
> maps. It’s still only $10!!! Of course, there are lots of other great
> publications on Texas caves that will be for sale. To check ‘em out in
> advance, and see the prices, go to the TSS website and look at the list at
> http://www.utexas.edu/tmm/sponsored_sites/tss/PDF/TSSprices.pdf.
>
>
> Jim “Crash” Kennedy
>
> TSS Office Manager
>
>
> P.S. -. There will also be some real surprises and excitement at the
> Saturday evening TCMA Auction, so be sure to attend! It’s going to be a real
> hoot!
>
> If you have any last minute items to donate, BRING IT!
>
>
> 7.) Last and, certainly, not least – FOOD!
>
>
> Stefan and The CCC (Caver Cooking Crew) are presenting this most excellent
> offering of the Official State Food of Texas ©:
>
>
>
> BBQ Brisket, BBQ Pork
>
> Smoked chicken and sausage gumbo (coz Mallory missed it last time)
>
> Rice & vegetable salad
>
> Potato salad
>
> BBQ fixin’s
>
> Dessert (?).
>
>
> I’ll need help beforehand and on the day, can I get some volunteers?
>
> Also, can anyone give me a ride out there in a more suitable vehicle, the
> RX-8 isn’t really up to it.
>
> Cheers,
>
> Stefan
>
>
>
>
>
> This will be the last announcement from me (About d*** time, Mark!) and the
> TSA hopes to see you there in just ONE week!
>
>
> See ya then!
>
>
> Mark
>
>
--- End Message ---
