[Texascavers] Re: Robber Baron Cave Open House, Sat. Nov 5 (Call for Volunteers)

[ellie watson]

Hello all,

We still need more volunteers for the Robber Baron Cave "Open House" that
TCMA is hosting on Saturday, November 5th, 2011. We are opening the cave to
hundreds of neighborhood visitors of all ages from 9am to 4pm. We can use
your help to direct visitors through the cave, tend to visitors above
ground, and help with all the many other necessary tasks.

This has been a well attended even over the past years and we expect it to
be a success again this year. This is a great opportunity to help TCMA raise
much needed funds, educate the neighborhood about the importance of caves,
and get them excited by giving them a chance to explore one. Please let me
know if you can volunteer on November 5th and I will provide more
information.

After the Open House on Saturday, Geary and Sue Schindel are putting on a
party at their home for all the volunteers. If you want to stick around for
even more caving, the Government Canyon Karst Project continues on Sunday,
November 6th and is guaranteed to be a great time.

Come and spend your weekend caving and partying in San Antonio, TX!

Ellie Watson
San Antonio, TX
ellie.tho...@gmail.com
509-899-0007

Re: [Texascavers] Re: Fire Extinguishers at TCR

[ellie watson]

*1-A:10-BC Fire Extinguishers* (dry chemical) are $17 at Lowes, Home Depot,
Walmart, Academy, etc, etc.
http://www.homedepot.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?R=100015934&N=5yc1vZbmgp&catalogId=10053&storeId=10051&langId=-1

On Mon, Sep 12, 2011 at 11:00 PM, Rod Goke  wrote:

>
> Gill has requested that people bring dry chemical fire extinguishers to
> TCR. That's a good idea, but it's important to understand that not all dry
> chemical fire extinguishers are the same and that some types are not
> considered to be effective against the types of fires most likely to be
> encountered in a natural outdoor environment, such as Flat Creek Ranch. I'm
> no expert in fire fighting, but based on what I've read, you need a
> fire extinguisher with a rating that includes class A when the burning
> material is wood, grass, paper, cardboard, etc. Some dry chemical fire
> extinguishers are rated ABC and, hence, are supposed to be effective against
> class A fires (in addition to classes B and C). Other dry chemical fire
> extinguishers are only rated BC and, hence, are not considered effective
> against class A fires. I'm not sure what would happen if you used a class BC
> fire extinguisher on a class A fire, but it might have more of a tendency to
> fan the flames than to put out the fire. Class BC fire extinguishers are
> intended primarily for use on fires involving flammable liquids and/or
> electrical fires. Water, of course, is an effective alternative for fighting
> class A fires, but not class B (flammable liquid) or class C (electrical)
> fires.
>
> A lot of information about fire extinguishers is available on the Internet.
> Here is one easy to read article summarizing the basics:
>
>http://www.fire-extinguisher101.com/
>
> Different kinds of dry chemical fire extinguishers contain different kinds
> of chemicals, which can involve different hazards. Here is one article I
> found summarizing these potential hazards and precautions:
>
>
> http://www.ehow.com/about_5443724_chemical-dangers-fire-extinguisher.html
>
> As tempting as it might be to extinguish the cigarettes of inconsiderate
> smokers  ;-), it's best to avoid discharging a dry chemical fire
> extinguisher in a way that would get into anyone's eyes, nose, or mouth.
> Accordingly, when using one of these extinguishers on a fire, it's probably
> best to do so from the upwind side, if possible, to avoid having the
> chemicals, smoke, and debris blow back into your own face. From what I've
> read, the chemicals used in ABC fire extinguishers tend to be more hazardous
> than those used in BC extinguishers, but I don't claim to be any expert on
> this.
>
> As I said before, I'm no expert on fire fighting or fire extinguishers, so
> if any of you have had training in this area, I invite you to correct
> anything I might have said wrong and to provide your own advice. I just
> think that if everyone is being encouraged to bring fire extinguishers to
> TCR, then it also would be good for people to learn a few basics about how
> to use them and about what kinds of extinguishers are appropriate for what
> kinds of fires.
>
> Rod
>
> -Original Message-
> From: Gill Edigar
> Sent: Sep 12, 2011 2:07 PM
> To: Julia Germany
> Cc: Texascavers@texascavers.com
> Subject: Re: [Texascavers] TCR and smoking
>
> I've just returned from a meeting at Flat Creek Ranch and the word was
> definitely: NO CIGARETTE BUTTS ON THE GROUND. Everybody knows how to "Field
> Strip" a cigarette butt--that makes sure it is "dead out" and doesn't leave
> an ugly butt on the ground. Please tend to it.
>
> Also, please remember to get a dry chemical fire extinguisher for your car
> and take it with you to TCR. Two would be even nicer. They are $17 at
> Lowes,
> Home Depot, WalMart, Academy, etc, etc.
> --Ediger
>
> On Mon, Sep 12, 2011 at 12:18 PM, Julia Germany wrote:
>
> > Hi All!
> >
> > For those who didn't read Rod Goke's comments about smoking at TCR,
> here's
> > one more reason not to smoke at TCR - until the bans are lifted, it's
> > illegal to smoke in Austin parks and other public spaces, and illegal to
> > cook with charcoal grills. Since Flat Creek is close to Austin, I would
> bet
> > that the owners of the ranch would appreciate the same respect. (For
> those
> > of us who need safety breaks, I would recommend doing so inside your
> > vehicle.)
> >
> > Here's a notice that just appeared about no smoking at the ACL fest this
> > weekend:
> >
> > No Smoking Allowed at ACL Fest
> > Updated: Monday, 12 Sep 2011, 11:57 AM CDT
> > Published : Monday, 12 Sep 2011, 11:16 AM CDT
> >
> > Due to a burn ban that is still in effect for all Austin parks and
> > greenbelts, smoking will be prohibited at Austin City Limits Festival
> this
> > year.
> >
> > "Following the tragic losses Central Texas has experienced in the last
> few
> > weeks as a result of widespread fires, we trust that park-goers will
> respect
> > this burn ban and work with us to keep our citizens and

[Texascavers] Need to Borrow: Hospital Bed in AUSTIN

[ellie watson]

Does anyone in Austin have an electric, adjustable hospital bed? Please let
me or Gill know. He is looking to get one soon.

Re: [Texascavers] Gill Edigar

[ellie watson]

The doctors wont see Gill till tomorrow morning then we will have a better
idea of what the next few weeks will look like. One way or the other, he
has a lot of pain to pull through and a lot of healing to do. I just left
the hospital and he was close to being asleep from the sleeping meds. They
are giving him pain med too. His nurse's name is Grace. Room 345 at St.
David's South Austin Medical. Visiting hours are 8am-9pm and he will take
visitors. He is in good spirits.

Re: [Texascavers] Mallory Mayeaux

[ellie watson]

Mallory is our family and we all wish her recovery. Please, everyone send
good thoughts her way right now. I know Roger will keep us up to date when
he has more information. We cant really do much right now, this is a time
of waiting for healing before we can know much more. If you want to do
something, post your good wishes here and we can all come together with our
love for such a wonderful friend.

Best wishes,

Ellie

On Sun, Jul 14, 2013 at 11:15 AM, caverarch  wrote:

>  Here is what Mal's uncle, Bob Cameron, has to say:
>
>  Roger, I'm Mal's uncle. All her mom/dad/Caleb are asking for is thoughts
> & prayers for Mal. Thanks for getting the word out.
>
>  And a few minutes later in response to a request for info on her
> condition:
>
>   I know how much caving/caver community means to Mal. Appreciate you
> spreading the word. Soon as I know something I'll post here. & no Mr - to
> Mal & her friends I'm Uncle B or just plain Bob. Hoping it stays that way
> for a long time!!!
>
> Roger G. Moore
>
>
> -Original Message-
> From: Lyndon Tiu 
> To: Cavers Texas 
> Sent: Sun, Jul 14, 2013 11:05 am
> Subject: Re: [Texascavers] Mallory Mayeaux
>
>  We are not sure where she is. She may be at home in Louisianna ...
>
>
> On Sun, Jul 14, 2013 at 11:03 AM, Jim Kennedy wrote:
>
>>  Austin cavers all send our best wishes for her speedy recovery. Let us
>> know more details as you learn them. Weight even take a road trip to H-ton
>> to see her.
>>
>>  Jim
>>
>> Sent from my iPhone
>>
>> On Jul 14, 2013, at 10:58 AM, caverarch  wrote:
>>
>>I have only limited information at the moment, so I'm nervous about
>> dispersing it, but active caver and Greater Houston Grotto President
>> Mallory Mayeaux has been in some sort of accident and is currently
>> hospitalized. Here is all I know at the moment, contained in a message from
>> her brother Caleb:
>>
>>  "I don't remember what the GHG schedule looks like or if Mal had any
>> upcoming trips or meetings, but Mal will be out of commission for some
>> time. She was hit by a car last night and is in ICU. She's stable but banged
>> up pretty bad. I figure y'all will know most of the stuff she had going on
>> with caving, and can thus plan accordingly. Please keep her in your
>> thoughts and prayers.
>> Thanks,
>> Caleb"
>>
>> Roger Moore
>> Greater Houston Grotto
>>
>>
>>
>>
>
>
> --
> Lyndon Tiu
>

[Texascavers] Texas Cavers Reunion 2013, October 17-20 @ Paradise Canyon

[ellie watson]

Cavers,

TCR is upon us! Date is October 17-20, 2013 at Paradise Canyon. The
biggest party in Texas!

See you there!

Ellie

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[Texascavers] 2013 Quarter 02, Texas Caver Magazine now online!

[ellie watson]

The 2013 Quarter 02, Texas Caver Magazine is now available online on the
TSA Website. http://www.cavetexas.org/members/index.php

It's accessible through the member area of the website. If you're a paid
TSA member, and you haven't registered for the member area, go to the link
below and click the register button. If you're a registered member, go to
the same link and enter your e-mail address and password. If you don't
remember your password, you can request it be sent to you.

If you are registering for the first time Heather
Tučekwill verify your current
membership and you'd be notified when you can
access the member area. When you log in, select the Texas Caver Online link
from the menu.

Thanks to Jill Orr  for an excellent
edition. There is a lower resolution 6 MB version available and a high
resolution edition 37 MB. Other than size, they are hard to tell apart when
viewing.

http://www.cavetexas.org/members/index.php

[Texascavers] TCMA-Rolling Oaks Work Day Announcement, April 20th, 2013

[ellie watson]

The Texas Cave Management Association (TCMA) will be having a work day on
Saturday, April 20th at the the Rolling Oaks Cave Preserve in Bexar County
(northwestern San Antonio). Volunteers are needed to dig debris and old
ranch trash out of the entrance of Niche Cave and load up loads of cave
fill into a dumpster.  We need people, buckets, wheelbarrows and
cave-digging tools.  Bring your own gloves, drinks, and snacks for the work.
 TCMA will provide bottled water and lunch.

The cave preserve is located at 224 Laurel Ridge Lane, San Antonio, TX
78253.  All visitors to the Preserve will be asked to sign a liability
waiver.  Look for signs and park along the street. Meet at 10:00 am.We
should be finished with the work by 2pm or so.

I will be on-site if anyone wishes to enter the other caves on the preserve
(Chimney Cricket Cave, Obvious Little Cave, and World Newt Cave)  after the
dig.  Bring your own cave gear.

Please contact me off-list with additional questions. Please let me know if
you plan to come or just show up! If it is raining the clean-up will be
canceled and rescheduled for a later date.

Thanks for your support of TCMA and cave management.

Ellie Watson
TCMA Rolling Oaks Preserve Manager
509-899-0007

[Texascavers] CM Tank Haul Trifecta Fest 2014 (Jan 25, Feb 1, Feb 8)

[ellie watson]

Happy New Year Cavers!

As you make your New Year's Resolutions, don't forget the CM Tank Haul
Trifecta Fest 2014. Make the true Trifecta and come Festivate all
three weekends!

CM Tank Haul Trifecta Fest 2014 is a few weeks away and we need cavers
to help haul dive gear on January 25, February 1st and February 8th
for the one and only Dr. Jean Krejca and James Brown.

This will be a moderate to light tank haul through a stunning water
cave. February 8th is the largest haul and we need the most volunteers
for this day. I only have about 30 responses in all and would be
thrilled if those folks could come all three weekends. Those who have
committed know who they are so please respond (OFF LIST) with the
dates you can make it.

Cavingly,

Ellie

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[Texascavers] Honey Creek Tank Haul, March 1st and March 22nd

[ellie watson]

DATES OFFICIAL!

March 1st March 22nd, Saturdays only! (Yes, I know there are other
caving trips going on but we cant win them all.)

Help support Jean Krejca, James C Brown, David Moore, and Matt Turner
as they Explore, Radio Locate, and Survey Upstream Sump 3 and beyond.

We need at least 40 cavers to help haul gear in one weekend and out
the next as "Dive/Camp Team" explores for 4 days.

This is a water cave and wetsuit is required. More details later.

Please contact me off list if you are interested.

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[Texascavers] Need to Borrow: Hospital Bed in AUSTIN

[ellie watson]

Does anyone in Austin have an electric, adjustable hospital bed? Please let
me or Gill know. He is looking to get one soon.

Re: [Texascavers] Gill Edigar

[ellie watson]

The doctors wont see Gill till tomorrow morning then we will have a better
idea of what the next few weeks will look like. One way or the other, he
has a lot of pain to pull through and a lot of healing to do. I just left
the hospital and he was close to being asleep from the sleeping meds. They
are giving him pain med too. His nurse's name is Grace. Room 345 at St.
David's South Austin Medical. Visiting hours are 8am-9pm and he will take
visitors. He is in good spirits.

[Texascavers] TSA Elections

[ellie watson]

Texas Cavers,

I am opening up the floor for nominations for the Texas Speleological
Association(TSA), for the annual election of officers for 2014 year. I have
volunteered to serve as Election Committee Chair and Mark Alman has agreed
to assist on the committee.

You may choose to nominate yourself or recommend quality candidates to me.
Officer nominations may be made by any TSA member. Please have all
nominations to me by Friday, August 23rd, 2013. If you are not a member,
and you want to be involved, you still have time to join TSA.

Officers positions:

*Chairman*- OPEN
*Vice-Chairman* - *Roger Moore*
*Secretary *-*Heather Tucek*
*Treasurer*- OPEN

Roger Moore volunteerded to run again for Vice-Chairman and Heather Tucek
volunteered to run again for Secretary. Chairman and Treasurer positions
are OPEN open for 2014.

Thank you to all current officers for your service.

My goal is to run an electronic ballot near the beginning of October.

Thanks!

Ellie Watson
*TSA Election Committee Chair.*

*The Texas Speleological Association is a Regional Association of the
National Speleological Society. The purposes of TSA are to promote the
study and science of speleology, the protection of caves and the
preservation of natural and cultural resources within caves, the education
of members and the general public, and communication and coordination of
speleological activities in the State of Texas. TSA supports the aims and
goals of the National Speleological Society.*
* *

[Texascavers] TSA Elections Open

[ellie watson]

TSA Members,

TSA Annual Officer Elections are open! Please vote.

Stunning Candidates:

Chairman- Kurt Menking
Vice-Chairman - Roger Moore
Secretary -Heather Tucek
Treasurer- Anne Scott

Elections commence at close of business on October 4th, 2013. Elected
Officers will be announced within 10 days of election deadline. Elected
officers will take office on the first day of the New Year 2014.

Ballots will be sent to all registered member's email address on file.
Check your spam, the email is coming from TSA Elections Committee Chair
with subject of TSA Officer Election (Official Ballot).

Please contact the Election Committee Chair at tsael...@cavetexas.org with
voting questions or if you would like ballot mailed to you.

Thank you for voting and thanks for you support of TSA,

Ellie Watson
TSA Election Committee Chair.

*The Texas Speleological Association is a Regional Association of the
National Speleological Society. The purposes of TSA are to promote the
study and science of speleology, the protection of caves and the
preservation of natural and cultural resources within caves, the education
of members and the general public, and communication and coordination of
speleological activities in the State of Texas. TSA supports the aims and
goals of the National Speleological Society.
*

[Texascavers] 65th Birthday party for Bill Steele at the Texas Caver's Reunion next Friday

[ellie watson]

Hey Cavers!

Party time is upon us and here's another excuse to party!

Diana Tomchick is hosting (with the assistance of Stefan Creaser) a 65th
birthday party for Bill Steele on the evening of Friday Oct. 18th, the
location will be near the cook's area for the Saturday night dinner. The
party will start around 6 PM and we'll have a couple of BBQ grills going
with bratwurst and the fixin's, plus Shiner beer (the Beer of Texas
Cavers). There will be no charge for the food and beer, but we would like
to ask you to bring a dish to share if you can. There will also be a
birthday cake and I understand there will be entertainment (Bill can fill
you in on the details about that). Please drop by and wish Bill a happy
65th birthday!

The 2013 Texas Cavers' Reunion is October 17-20, and detailed info about
the event can be found at the following web site:

http://www.cavetexas.org/events/TCR/

Re: [Texascavers] TSA Election Results

[ellie watson]

   *President* *# Votes*  Kurt Menking 87  Don Arburn (write-in) 2  Jim
Kennedy (write-in) 1

 *Vice-President* *# Votes*  Roger Moore 89  Mark Gee (write-in) 1

 *Treasurer* *# Votes*  Anne Scott 87

 *Secretary* *# Votes*  Heather Tucek 90


On Sun, Oct 13, 2013 at 11:24 PM, Julia Germany  wrote:

>
>  I ditto that request.
>
> Thanks!
> julia
>
>  -Original Message-
> From: Jim Kennedy 
> To: Louise Power 
> Cc: Don Arburn ; ellie.thoene ;
> texas cavers 
> Sent: Sun, Oct 13, 2013 11:21 pm
> Subject: Re: [Texascavers] TSA Election Results
>
>   I, for one, would like to see the total elections results, including
> write-ins, invalid votes, etc.
>
>  Jim
>
> Mobile email from my iPhone
>
> On Oct 9, 2013, at 4:52 PM, Louise Power  wrote:
>
>   Does this come as a big surprise to anyone, since there was only one
> candidate for each office?
>
> --
> CC: texascavers@texascavers.com
> From: donarb...@mac.com
> Date: Wed, 9 Oct 2013 16:40:00 -0500
> To: ellie.tho...@gmail.com
> Subject: Re: [Texascavers] TSA Election Results
>
> Congratulations!!
>
> Sent cellularly.
> -Don
>
> On Oct 7, 2013, at 9:19 AM, ellie.tho...@gmail.com wrote:
>
>   TSA Members,
>
>  TSA Annual Officer Elections closed October 4th and I am happy to
> announce the following winners:
>
>  Chairman- Kurt Menking
> Vice-Chairman - Roger Moore
> Secretary -Heather Tucek
> Treasurer- Anne Scott
>
>  Elected officers will take office on the first day of the New Year 2014.
>
>  We had a 49% voter participation of all registered members with email
> addresses on file.  Thank you for voting and thanks for your support of TSA!
>
>

[Texascavers] Directions to TCR, October 17-20 @ Paradise Canyon

[ellie watson]

Texas Cavers,


TCR is upon us! Follow the signs to Paradise Canyon, 2220 County Road 2615,
Rio Medina, TX 78066


Directions:
http://www.cavetexas.org/events/TCR/images/TCR%202013_Paradise%20Canyon%20Directions_Look%20for%20Signs.jpg
.


TCR page:  http://www.cavetexas.org/events/TCR/index.html

Please dont hesitate to ask me any questions,

Ellie

[Texascavers] TSA Members Meeting at TCR, 9am Sunday, October 20th, 2013

[ellie watson]

All are welcome to join us for the Texas Speleological Association Members
Meeting at TCR, 9am Sunday, October 20th, 2013. Come find out about ongoing
projects and ways to get involved.

Re: [Texascavers] Mallory Mayeaux

[ellie watson]

Mallory is our family and we all wish her recovery. Please, everyone send
good thoughts her way right now. I know Roger will keep us up to date when
he has more information. We cant really do much right now, this is a time
of waiting for healing before we can know much more. If you want to do
something, post your good wishes here and we can all come together with our
love for such a wonderful friend.

Best wishes,

Ellie

On Sun, Jul 14, 2013 at 11:15 AM, caverarch  wrote:

>  Here is what Mal's uncle, Bob Cameron, has to say:
>
>  Roger, I'm Mal's uncle. All her mom/dad/Caleb are asking for is thoughts
> & prayers for Mal. Thanks for getting the word out.
>
>  And a few minutes later in response to a request for info on her
> condition:
>
>   I know how much caving/caver community means to Mal. Appreciate you
> spreading the word. Soon as I know something I'll post here. & no Mr - to
> Mal & her friends I'm Uncle B or just plain Bob. Hoping it stays that way
> for a long time!!!
>
> Roger G. Moore
>
>
> -Original Message-
> From: Lyndon Tiu 
> To: Cavers Texas 
> Sent: Sun, Jul 14, 2013 11:05 am
> Subject: Re: [Texascavers] Mallory Mayeaux
>
>  We are not sure where she is. She may be at home in Louisianna ...
>
>
> On Sun, Jul 14, 2013 at 11:03 AM, Jim Kennedy wrote:
>
>>  Austin cavers all send our best wishes for her speedy recovery. Let us
>> know more details as you learn them. Weight even take a road trip to H-ton
>> to see her.
>>
>>  Jim
>>
>> Sent from my iPhone
>>
>> On Jul 14, 2013, at 10:58 AM, caverarch  wrote:
>>
>>I have only limited information at the moment, so I'm nervous about
>> dispersing it, but active caver and Greater Houston Grotto President
>> Mallory Mayeaux has been in some sort of accident and is currently
>> hospitalized. Here is all I know at the moment, contained in a message from
>> her brother Caleb:
>>
>>  "I don't remember what the GHG schedule looks like or if Mal had any
>> upcoming trips or meetings, but Mal will be out of commission for some
>> time. She was hit by a car last night and is in ICU. She's stable but banged
>> up pretty bad. I figure y'all will know most of the stuff she had going on
>> with caving, and can thus plan accordingly. Please keep her in your
>> thoughts and prayers.
>> Thanks,
>> Caleb"
>>
>> Roger Moore
>> Greater Houston Grotto
>>
>>
>>
>>
>
>
> --
> Lyndon Tiu
>

[Texascavers] Texas Cavers Reunion 2013, October 17-20 @ Paradise Canyon

[ellie watson]

Cavers,

TCR is upon us! Date is October 17-20, 2013 at Paradise Canyon. The
biggest party in Texas!

See you there!

Ellie

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[Texascavers] 2013 Quarter 02, Texas Caver Magazine now online!

[ellie watson]

The 2013 Quarter 02, Texas Caver Magazine is now available online on the
TSA Website. http://www.cavetexas.org/members/index.php

It's accessible through the member area of the website. If you're a paid
TSA member, and you haven't registered for the member area, go to the link
below and click the register button. If you're a registered member, go to
the same link and enter your e-mail address and password. If you don't
remember your password, you can request it be sent to you.

If you are registering for the first time Heather
Tučekwill verify your current
membership and you'd be notified when you can
access the member area. When you log in, select the Texas Caver Online link
from the menu.

Thanks to Jill Orr  for an excellent
edition. There is a lower resolution 6 MB version available and a high
resolution edition 37 MB. Other than size, they are hard to tell apart when
viewing.

http://www.cavetexas.org/members/index.php

[Texascavers] TCMA-Rolling Oaks Work Day Announcement, April 20th, 2013

[ellie watson]

The Texas Cave Management Association (TCMA) will be having a work day on
Saturday, April 20th at the the Rolling Oaks Cave Preserve in Bexar County
(northwestern San Antonio). Volunteers are needed to dig debris and old
ranch trash out of the entrance of Niche Cave and load up loads of cave
fill into a dumpster.  We need people, buckets, wheelbarrows and
cave-digging tools.  Bring your own gloves, drinks, and snacks for the work.
 TCMA will provide bottled water and lunch.

The cave preserve is located at 224 Laurel Ridge Lane, San Antonio, TX
78253.  All visitors to the Preserve will be asked to sign a liability
waiver.  Look for signs and park along the street. Meet at 10:00 am.We
should be finished with the work by 2pm or so.

I will be on-site if anyone wishes to enter the other caves on the preserve
(Chimney Cricket Cave, Obvious Little Cave, and World Newt Cave)  after the
dig.  Bring your own cave gear.

Please contact me off-list with additional questions. Please let me know if
you plan to come or just show up! If it is raining the clean-up will be
canceled and rescheduled for a later date.

Thanks for your support of TCMA and cave management.

Ellie Watson
TCMA Rolling Oaks Preserve Manager
509-899-0007

Re: [Texascavers] TSA Convention Speaker Schedule!

[ellie watson]

Wow looks like a good one. I cant wait! Galen and i love spring
convention:) Lydia cant do spring convention.

On 4/2/13, Mallory Mayeux  wrote:
> Hello cavers!
>
> I am excited to announce the final TSA Convention Speaking schedule.
>
> Please plan to attend these exciting and informative talks!
>
>
> 9:00 AM, Marvin Miller—TSA Project Update: Government Canyon Karst Survey
>
> 9:25AM Ben Tobin—Survey and Exploration of Cave without a Name
> 9:50 AM Joe Mitchell--The Caveatron - An Electronic Cave Mapping Tool for
> Cavers
>
> 10:15 AM, break
> 10:30 AM Jean “Creature” Krejca, Ellie Thoene, Lydia Hernandez, Nathan Van
> Oort, Joe Furman—Honey Creek Cave Tank Tiger Extravaganza
>
> 11:30 Group Photo!
>
> 11:45-1:30, Lunch/Shopping
>
>
> 1:30 pm Bennett Lee—Cave Photography 101: How to Take Great Cave Photos
> (aka, How to Alienate Yourself by Getting Your Friends to Hold Flashes)
> 2:00 pm Saj Zappitello—TCMA, What You Know & What You Know Now
>
> 2:20 Matt Turner—Tips for running beginner trips
> 2:45 pm Greg Passmore—Challenges in Cave Filming
>
> 3:10 pm Bob Richards—Hawaiian Caving! Updates on the projects of the Hawaii
> Speleological Survey
>
> 3:40 pm Dr. Thomas Iliffe—Deep Caving: a video presentation about the
> Phantom Cave dive
>  Let me know if you have any questions or want more information.
>
> Mallory Mayeux
> TSA Program Chair
>

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Re: [Texascavers] TSA Convention Speaker Schedule!

[ellie watson]

Wow looks like a good one. I cant wait! Galen and i love spring
convention:) Lydia cant do spring convention.

On 4/2/13, Mallory Mayeux  wrote:
> Hello cavers!
>
> I am excited to announce the final TSA Convention Speaking schedule.
>
> Please plan to attend these exciting and informative talks!
>
>
> 9:00 AM, Marvin Miller—TSA Project Update: Government Canyon Karst Survey
>
> 9:25AM Ben Tobin—Survey and Exploration of Cave without a Name
> 9:50 AM Joe Mitchell--The Caveatron - An Electronic Cave Mapping Tool for
> Cavers
>
> 10:15 AM, break
> 10:30 AM Jean “Creature” Krejca, Ellie Thoene, Lydia Hernandez, Nathan Van
> Oort, Joe Furman—Honey Creek Cave Tank Tiger Extravaganza
>
> 11:30 Group Photo!
>
> 11:45-1:30, Lunch/Shopping
>
>
> 1:30 pm Bennett Lee—Cave Photography 101: How to Take Great Cave Photos
> (aka, How to Alienate Yourself by Getting Your Friends to Hold Flashes)
> 2:00 pm Saj Zappitello—TCMA, What You Know & What You Know Now
>
> 2:20 Matt Turner—Tips for running beginner trips
> 2:45 pm Greg Passmore—Challenges in Cave Filming
>
> 3:10 pm Bob Richards—Hawaiian Caving! Updates on the projects of the Hawaii
> Speleological Survey
>
> 3:40 pm Dr. Thomas Iliffe—Deep Caving: a video presentation about the
> Phantom Cave dive
>  Let me know if you have any questions or want more information.
>
> Mallory Mayeux
> TSA Program Chair
>

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[Texascavers] Tomorrow is TCMA-Rolling Oaks Work Day! ( April 20th)

[ellie watson]

Tomorrow is the work day at Rolling Oaks Cave Preserve in northwestern
San Antonio.   Volunteers are needed to dig debris and old ranch trash
out of the entrance of Niche Cave and load up loads of cave fill into
a dumpster.  We need people, buckets, wheelbarrows and cave-digging
tools.  Bring your own gloves, drinks, and snacks for the work.  TCMA
will provide bottled water and lunch.

The cave preserve is located at 224 Laurel Ridge Lane, San Antonio, TX
78253.  All visitors to the Preserve will be asked to sign a liability
waiver. Park along the street. Meet at 10:00 am.We should be finished
with the work by 2pm or so.

I will be on-site if anyone wishes to enter the other caves on the
preserve (Chimney Cricket Cave, Obvious Little Cave, and World Newt
Cave)  after the dig.  Bring your own cave gear. We will most likely
have a fun trip to Wurzbach Bat Cave after the dig.

Please contact me off-list with additional questions. Please let me
know if you plan to come or just show up! If it is raining the
clean-up will be canceled and rescheduled for a later date.

Thanks for your support of TCMA and cave management.

Ellie Watson
TCMA Rolling Oaks Preserve Manager
509-899-0007

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[Texascavers] Rolling Oaks Work Day Thanks! (TCMA)

[ellie watson]

Cavers,

Huge thanks to the 14 volunteers who came out this weekend for the
work day on the Texas Cave Management Association (TCMA) Rolling Oaks
cave preserve in Northwest San Antonio. Volunteers loaded up and
hauled out off a huge trash pile dug out of Niche Cave last fall and
removed several large rocks from Niche Cave.

Volunteers began the day by cheerfully loading up piles of glass
bottles into a trailer that Peter Sprouse graciously lent for the
project. Once the trailer was loaded down with trash, Ron Ralph and 6
hard workers unloaded the trailer at a nearby dump. The trash is now
off the property! The remaining crew continued digging on the void
lead left from last fall where volunteers broke into 4 ft pit. The
lead was covered with large rocks, and when removed the passage did
not extend any farther down but continued horizontally with
clean-washed breakdown. Many large rocks remain and the entire pit
will need to be cleared from the surface down to where the lead
continues.

Thanks to: Ron Ralph, Tom Florer, Journey Bissett, Jules, Joseph
Schaertl, Missy Egan, Jill Orr, Gary Donham, Joe Mitchell, Kayla
Mitchell, Tom Rogers, Gregg Williams, and Ryan the neighbor.

We ended the day at 2pm and Joe Mitchell took all interested cavers to
Wurzbach Bat Cave. Thanks Joe!

Photos from 4.20.2013
http://www.flickr.com/photos/67526340@N08/sets/72157633354201414/

Thank you for your support of TCMA and cave management,

Ellie Watson
Rolling Oaks Preserve Manager

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[Texascavers] 2012 Chuck Stuehm Award Winners

[ellie watson]

Congratulations to the following 2012 Chuck Stuehm Award winners:

*Austin McRee* - Greater Houston Grotto
*
Kris Pena* - UT Grotto
*
William Quast* - UT Grotto

*Natasha Glasgow* - DFW Grotto
*
Gregg Williams *- Bexar Grotto

*Rachel Saker *- Aggie Speleological Society

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.

Thank you to all the Grottos for their participation.

Ellie Watson
TSA Vice Chair

[Texascavers] TCMA-Rolling Oaks Work Day this weekend, November 10th

[ellie watson]

Hello Cavers

Here is a reminder that the Texas Cave Management Association (TCMA)
will be having a work day this weekend, Saturday, November 10th at the
the Rolling Oaks Cave Preserve in Bexar County (northwestern San
Antonio). Volunteers are needed to dig debris and old ranch trash out
of the entrance of Niche Cave.  We need people, buckets, and
cave-digging tools.  Bring your own gloves, drinks, and snacks for the
work.  TCMA will provide bottled water.

The cave preserve is located at 224 Laurel Ridge Lane, San Antonio, TX
78253.  All visitors to the Preserve will be asked to sign a liability
waiver.  Look for signs and park along the street. Meet at 10:00 am.We
should be finished with the work by 2pm or so.

I will be on-site if anyone wishes to enter the other caves on the
preserve (Chimney Cricket Cave, Obvious Little Cave, and World Newt
Cave)  after the dig.  Bring your own cave gear.

Please contact me off-list with additional questions. There is no need
to RSVP if you are attending.  Just show up!  If it is raining the
clean-up will be canceled and rescheduled for a later date.

Thanks for your support of TCMA and cave management.

Ellie Watson
TCMA Rolling Oaks Preserve Manager
509-899-0007

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[Texascavers] Honey Creek Cave Tank Haul...2 Months to go! Haulers Needed January 19th & 26th

[ellie watson]

Texas Cavers,

The Honey Creek Tank Haul Extravaganza is 2 months away and we need
cavers to help
haul dive gear on January 19th and January 26th for legendary
cave-divers Dr. Jean Krejca and James Brown.

This is an all-time-classic trip to an extraordinary cave and one of
my personal favorites! I am keeping the list of those interested
please let me know which dates you can make it. We already have 20
solid people signed up for each trip but we need many more!

Cavers are needed on January 19th to haul gear to Sump 1 for Jean and
James to begin their 2-day underground camp/exploration. On January
26th, cavers are needed to go to Sump 1 and haul gear out of the cave.
Camping is available both weekends and we will enter the cave around
9am.

Honey Creek is a water cave and you will need a wetsuit and harness
with d-ring to be lowered on cable down a man-made shaft. I recommend
flotation and water-tight food containers. The trip to the sump
typically takes 6 hours and includes walking, salamandering, crawling,
and "The Mud and The Crud". The trip is challenging but very fun.

Come for one weekend or both. This is a definite must-do trip for any
new caver and if you have already visited the cave, you know it's
worth seeing again.

Spread the word and please don't hesitate to ask me any questions,

Cavingly,

Ellie Watson
ellie.tho...@gmail.com
509-899-0007

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[Texascavers] TCMA-Rolling Oaks Work Day on Saturday, November 10th (San Antonio)

[ellie watson]

Cavers,

Here is a reminder that the Texas Cave Management Association (TCMA) will
be having a work day this weekend, Saturday, November 10th at the the
Rolling Oaks Cave Preserve in Northwestern San Antonio to dig on Niche
Cave. (Not to be confused with the Rolling Oaks in Wimberly.)

Volunteers are needed to dig debris and old ranch trash out of the entrance
of Niche Cave. We need people, buckets, and cave-digging tools.  Bring your
own gloves, drinks, and snacks for the work.  TCMA will provide bottled
water.

I will be on-site if anyone wishes to enter the other caves on the preserve
(Chimney Cricket Cave, Obvious Little Cave, and World Newt Cave)  after the
dig.  Bring your own cave gear.

The cave preserve is located at 224 Laurel Ridge Lane, San Antonio, TX
78253.  All visitors to the Preserve will be asked to sign a liability
waiver.  Look for cavers and park along the street. Meet at 10:00 am.We
should be finished with the work by 2pm or so.

Please contact me off-list with additional questions. There is no need to
RSVP if you are attending.  Just show up!  If it is raining the clean-up
will be canceled and rescheduled for a later date.

Thanks for your support of TCMA and cave management.

Ellie Watson
TCMA Rolling Oaks Preserve Manager
509-899-0007

[Texascavers] Rolling Oaks Work Day Thanks! (TCMA)

[ellie watson]

Cavers,

Huge thanks to the 17 volunteers who came out this weekend to continue the
dig in Niche Cave on the Texas Cave Management Association (TCMA) Rolling
Oaks cave preserve in Northwest San Antonio. (Not to be confused with the
Rolling Oaks in Wimberly.) Volunteers trimmed trees, cut dead trees around
the property, and removed approximately 1 1/2 cubic yards of trash and
debris from Niche Cave. Bob Cowell also found a small dig on the property
that I named "Old Man Cowell Sink".

Most of the trash in Niche Cave was whole glass bottles with about a 4:1
ratio of bottles to dirt and rocks. Volunteers were full of excitement as
they hauled out bucket after bucket of trash. They first opened up a crawl
that had been discovered in the 80's but was completely covered when we
started the dig on February 2012. Towards the end of the day, volunteers
opened up a passage under all the trash on the floor of the entrance. Tom
first noticed the void when his rock bar nearly fell through the floor. The
newly opened area is too unstable to enter but is about 4 feet deep and can
be opened with more digging.

Thanks to: Ron Ralph, Rick Corbell, Galen Falgout, Don Arburn, Tom Florer,
Allan Cobb, Linda Palit, Fran Hutchins, Bob Cowell, Chris Murray, Jessica
Snider, Robert Davis, Juline-Amanda ViTapay, Mat Zappitello, Saj
Zappitello, Tom Rogers

We ended the day at 2pm with a good lead to greet us for the next work day
in the Spring, date to be determined.

Photos from 11.10.12:
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10151136038709506.446051.507449505&type=1&l=2676ee6a9b

Thank you for your support of TCMA and cave management,

Ellie Watson
Rolling Oaks Preserve Manager

Re: [Texascavers] Rolling Oaks Work Day Thanks! (TCMA)

[ellie watson]

I will post a public link when I am at my computer next, could be a couple
weeks.

Ellie

On Thu, Nov 15, 2012 at 9:27 AM, Mark Minton  wrote:

> Ellie,
>
> All I get is a blank Facebook page. Does this only work for
> Facebook members, which I'm not? Please post a public link.  Thanks!
>
> Mark
>
> At 01:31 AM 11/15/2012, ellie watson wrote:
>
>> Cavers,
>>
>>
>> Photos from 11.10.12: https://www.facebook.com/**media/set/?set=a.**
>> 10151136038709506.446051.**507449505&type=1&l=2676ee6a9b<https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10151136038709506.446051.507449505&type=1&l=2676ee6a9b>
>>
>
> Please reply to mmin...@caver.net
> Permanent email address is mmin...@illinoisalumni.org
>
> --**--**-
> Visit our website: http://texascavers.com
> To unsubscribe, e-mail: 
> texascavers-unsubscribe@**texascavers.com
> For additional commands, e-mail: 
> texascavers-help@texascavers.**com
>
>

Re: [Texascavers] Rolling Oaks Work Day Thanks! (TCMA)

[ellie watson]

Caver's,

Here is a public link for viewing pleasure:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/67526340@N08/sets/72157632042924701/

17 cavers logged 108 volunteer hours to TCMA!

Thanks cavers for all you do!

Ellie

On Thu, Nov 15, 2012 at 9:27 AM, Mark Minton  wrote:

> Ellie,
>
> All I get is a blank Facebook page. Does this only work for
> Facebook members, which I'm not? Please post a public link.  Thanks!
>
> Mark
>
> At 01:31 AM 11/15/2012, ellie watson wrote:
>
>> Cavers,
>>
>>
>> Photos from 11.10.12: https://www.facebook.com/**media/set/?set=a.**
>> 10151136038709506.446051.**507449505&type=1&l=2676ee6a9b<https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10151136038709506.446051.507449505&type=1&l=2676ee6a9b>
>>
>
> Please reply to mmin...@caver.net
> Permanent email address is mmin...@illinoisalumni.org
>
> --**--**-
> Visit our website: http://texascavers.com
> To unsubscribe, e-mail: 
> texascavers-unsubscribe@**texascavers.com
> For additional commands, e-mail: 
> texascavers-help@texascavers.**com
>
>

[Texascavers] Pack Patching Party-Jan 8th! For Honey Creek Tank Haul (and trip updates)

[ellie watson]

*Pack Patching Party!* Tentatively set for Jan 8th, Tuesday evening at 300
W Mockingburd Ln, Austin TX. We have 30+ large group packs to repair for
the Honey Creek Tank Haul. Those who help patch group packs are welcome to
bring your own personal pack to patch for free.  Please let me know if you
can come out and if you have an Awl/Speedy Stitch we can borrow.

In just 3 weekends we will be embarking on the Honey Creek Tank Haul
Extravaganza-January 19th and January 26th and we still need cavers to haul
group gear to the sump. We currently have 30 people signed up for the
haul-in and the haul-out but are trying to recruit 50+ cavers for each
weekend. Thank you to all who have already volunteered. Cavers will be
contributing to original cave exploration to some of the most remote cave
passages in Texas. We not only need cavers to haul gear in the cave but can
use surface support to guide things along as cavers are lowered into and
out of the cave on a tractor. Invite friends...this is a great trip and a
true *EXTRAVAGANZA*!

TRIP DETAILS

On January 19th, cavers will haul gear to Sump 1 for Dr. Jean Krejca and
James to begin their 4-day underground camp/exploration. The divers will
split up their gear into individual loads on the surface, cavers will
choose a load,  and each person/team is responsible for taking their load
to the sump. Once cavers get to the sump, they can abandon their gear and
head back to the surface for an evening of reverie. Jean and James will
then begin prepping for their dive/diving with Lydia Hernandez and Ellie
Watson to hold down camp.

On January 26th, cavers will go to Sump 1 and haul gear out of the cave.

Honey Creek is a water cave and you will need a wetsuit and harness with
d-ring to be lowered on cable down a man-made shaft. I recommend flotation
and water-tight food containers. Don't let lack of gear hold you back, ask
your local grotto to help you find the necessary gear so you don't miss out
on this trip. An empty detergent jug with carabiner to hook to outside of
pack works as a good flotation. Best to use group packs unless you are
willing to leave it in for both weekends.

The trip to the sump typically takes 6 hours and includes walking,
salamandering, crawling, and "The Mud and The Crud". Estimate for 12 hour
total trip-6 hours to sump and 6 hours back to man-made entrance. The trip
is challenging but very fun. Camping is available both weekends and we will
enter the cave around 9am.

We are arranging group breakfasts and suppers for cavers both weekends. We
have been asking individuals and grottos for donations to fund the
tank-haul efforts and the Bexar Grotto and UT Grotto have already made
generous donations. Donations will defray group meal costs, small trinkets
for each participant, and consumables for each caver(drinks and snacks).

Dr. Jean Krejca will be hosting a door-prize drawing on the second haul
weekend, Jan 26th. Grand prize is a expedition size cave pack made by Ron
Rutheford. Please bring any extra prizes you have for the prize pool.

Please don't hesitate to ask questions,

Ellie
509-899-0007

Jan 19 Facebook Event Page: https://www.facebook.com/events/277471285691023/
Jan 26 Facebook Event Page: https://www.facebook.com/events/188112567987494/

[Texascavers] Re: Pack Patching Party-Jan 8th! For Honey Creek Tank Haul (and trip updates)

[ellie watson]

Here's a reminder for the *Pack Patching Party* set for next week, Jan 8th,
Tuesday evening around 7-8ish at 300 W Mockingburd Ln, Austin TX. We have
30+ large group packs to repair for the Honey Creek Tank Haul. Those who
help patch group packs are welcome to bring your own personal pack to patch
with supplies provided.  Please let me know if you can come out and if you
have an Awl/Speedy Stitch we can borrow.

We still need cavers to haul group gear on the Honey Creek Tank Haul
Extravaganza, January 19th and January 26th. Please contact me off list if
you want to join the team.

See you soon!

Ellie
509-899-0007

Jan 19 Facebook Event Page: https://www.facebook.com/events/277471285691023/
Jan 26 Facebook Event Page: https://www.facebook.com/events/188112567987494/


On Sat, Dec 22, 2012 at 8:09 PM, ellie watson wrote:

> *Pack Patching Party!* Tentatively set for Jan 8th, Tuesday evening at
> 300 W Mockingburd Ln, Austin TX. We have 30+ large group packs to repair
> for the Honey Creek Tank Haul. Those who help patch group packs are welcome
> to bring your own personal pack to patch for free.  Please let me know if
> you can come out and if you have an Awl/Speedy Stitch we can borrow.
>
> In just 3 weekends we will be embarking on the Honey Creek Tank Haul
> Extravaganza-January 19th and January 26th and we still need cavers to haul
> group gear to the sump. We currently have 30 people signed up for the
> haul-in and the haul-out but are trying to recruit 50+ cavers for each
> weekend. Thank you to all who have already volunteered. Cavers will be
> contributing to original cave exploration to some of the most remote cave
> passages in Texas. We not only need cavers to haul gear in the cave but can
> use surface support to guide things along as cavers are lowered into and
> out of the cave on a tractor. Invite friends...this is a great trip and a
> true *EXTRAVAGANZA*!
>
> TRIP DETAILS
>
> On January 19th, cavers will haul gear to Sump 1 for Dr. Jean Krejca and
> James to begin their 4-day underground camp/exploration. The divers will
> split up their gear into individual loads on the surface, cavers will
> choose a load,  and each person/team is responsible for taking their load
> to the sump. Once cavers get to the sump, they can abandon their gear and
> head back to the surface for an evening of reverie. Jean and James will
> then begin prepping for their dive/diving with Lydia Hernandez and Ellie
> Watson to hold down camp.
>
> On January 26th, cavers will go to Sump 1 and haul gear out of the cave.
>
> Honey Creek is a water cave and you will need a wetsuit and harness with
> d-ring to be lowered on cable down a man-made shaft. I recommend flotation
> and water-tight food containers. Don't let lack of gear hold you back, ask
> your local grotto to help you find the necessary gear so you don't miss out
> on this trip. An empty detergent jug with carabiner to hook to outside of
> pack works as a good flotation. Best to use group packs unless you are
> willing to leave it in for both weekends.
>
> The trip to the sump typically takes 6 hours and includes walking,
> salamandering, crawling, and "The Mud and The Crud". Estimate for 12 hour
> total trip-6 hours to sump and 6 hours back to man-made entrance. The trip
> is challenging but very fun. Camping is available both weekends and we will
> enter the cave around 9am.
>
> We are arranging group breakfasts and suppers for cavers both weekends. We
> have been asking individuals and grottos for donations to fund the
> tank-haul efforts and the Bexar Grotto and UT Grotto have already made
> generous donations. Donations will defray group meal costs, small trinkets
> for each participant, and consumables for each caver(drinks and snacks).
>
> Dr. Jean Krejca will be hosting a door-prize drawing on the second haul
> weekend, Jan 26th. Grand prize is a expedition size cave pack made by Ron
> Rutheford. Please bring any extra prizes you have for the prize pool.
>
> Please don't hesitate to ask questions,
>
> Ellie
> 509-899-0007
>
> Jan 19 Facebook Event Page:
> https://www.facebook.com/events/277471285691023/
> Jan 26 Facebook Event Page:
> https://www.facebook.com/events/188112567987494/
>

[Texascavers] Honey Creek Cave Tank Haul! Haulers Needed January 19th & 26th

[ellie watson]

Texas Cavers,

Its time for another Honey Creek Tank Haul and we need cavers to help
haul dive gear on January 19th and January 26th for legendary
cave-divers Dr. Jean Krejca and James Brown. This is an
all-time-classic trip to an extraordinary cave and one of my personal
favorites! I am keeping the list of those interested please let me
know which dates you can make it. We already have 4 signed up but we
need many more!

Cavers are needed on January 19th to haul gear to Sump 1 for Jean and
James to begin their 2-day underground camp/exploration. On January
26th, cavers are needed to go to Sump 1 and haul gear out of the cave.
Camping is available both weekends and we will enter the cave around
9am.

Honey Creek is a water cave and you will need a wetsuit and harness
with d-ring to be lowered on cable down a man-made shaft. I recommend
flotation and water-tight food containers. The trip to the sump
typically takes 6 hours and includes walking, salamandering, crawling,
and "The Mud and The Crud". The trip is challenging but very fun.

Come for one weekend or both. This is a definite must-do trip for any
new caver and if you have already visited the cave, you know it's
worth seeing again.

Spread the word and please don't hesitate to ask me any questions,

Cavingly,

Ellie Watson

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[Texascavers] TCMA-Rolling Oaks Work Day Announcement, November 10th

[ellie watson]

The Texas Cave Management Association (TCMA) will be having a work day
Saturday, November 10th to dig out a cave (Niche Cave) on one of our
properties, the Rolling Oaks Cave Preserve in Bexar County
(northwestern San Antonio).

We plan to continue to dig out a sinkhole and associated cave that is
full of old ranch trash with additional sediment washing in.  We need
people, buckets, shovels, and other cave-digging tools.  Bring your
own gloves, drinks, and snacks for the work.  TCMA will provide
bottled water.

The cave preserve is located at 224 Laurel Ridge Lane, San Antonio, TX
78253.  All visitors to the Preserve will be asked to sign a liability
waiver.  Look for signs and park along the street. Meet at 10:00 am.
We should be finished with the work by 2pm or so.

I will be on-site if anyone wishes to enter the other caves on the
preserve (Chimney Cricket Cave, Obvious Little Cave, and World Newt
Cave)  after the dig.  Bring your own cave gear.

Please contact me off-list with additional questions. There is no need
to RSVP if you are attending.  Just show up!  If it is raining the
clean-up will be canceled and rescheduled for a later date.

Thanks for your support of TCMA and cave management.

Ellie Watson
TCMA Rolling Oaks Preserve Manager
509-899-0007

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[Texascavers] TSA Members Meeting at TCR, Sunday, October 21st, Paradise Canyon

[ellie watson]

Texas Cavers,

The TSA Business meeting will be held at 8:00 am, Sunday, October
21st, in Paradise Canyon.

Come learn about project updates, committee updates, and offer input
to your organization. We will also conduct 2013 officer elections.

See you soon!

Ellie Watson
TSA Vice Chair

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[Texascavers] Texas Caver Reunion 2012...one month away!!

[ellie watson]

TCR Lovers,

Let the countdown begin for Texas Cavers Reunion the weekend  of October
18-21, 2012 at Paradise Canyon in Rio Medina, TX!

Don just visited the grounds and says its looking fantastic and ripe for
TCR. We will have the entire park to ourselves and, since they acquired new
land, we're going to have tons more campsites by the beautiful, as always,
Media River. Get the floaties out and ready because there will be some
great swimming and lazing to be had. http://www.paradisecanyon.com/

Paradise Canyon is a wonderful place for TCR fun that we never want to end:
Hot Tub, Big Feed, Speleolympics, Survey & Vertical Contests, Awards, The
Parade, and endless caver revelry. This year's theme:  2012 Mayan
Apocalypse!

Prices, Menu, and any other details will be announced here.

See you soon,

Ellie

Questions? Please contact d...@oztotl.com or ellie.tho...@gmail.com

For Facebook users: https://www.facebook.com/events/204320899690447/

[Texascavers] Chuck Steum Award at TCR 2012

[ellie watson]

I am happy to announce that we will be doing the Chuck Steum Award
again this year at TCR! Six new cavers will be receiving the award at
the evening festivities on Saturday, October 20th, 2011. These new
cavers are very active in their grotto and the caving community and I
am excited to see them acknowledged for their contributions.

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.

The Chuck Steum Award Requirements:
Each Grotto recommends one new caver who shows enthusiasm about caving
(less than 2 years caving).

The award is one year's membership to the TSA (Texas Speleological
Association), a shiny certificate suitable for framing, and public
recognition at the main TCR Gathering. If they are already a member
they get one year's extension of membership.

2011 recipients:
Joe Schaertl-Bexar Grotto
Andy Edwards-Greater Houston Grotto
Steve Webb-DFW Grotto

See you soon!

Ellie Watson
TSA Vice Chair & 2009 Chuck Steum Award Winner

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[Texascavers] TCR 2012 Contests and Prizes!

[ellie watson]

Cavers,

TCR is almost here and there will be contests and prizes galore.
Contests are generally set up Saturday, October 20th mid-morning and
registration table will have specifics.

Come show off your caver skills at all the Speleolympic Contests and
win some super prizes. There will be race rope climbing, cable ladder,
rebelay ropes course, obstacle course and more. Bring your vertical
gear, helmets, and knee/elbow pads to participate in all the fun.

The Survey Contest will test your survey accuracy and give you the
chance to win a brand new set of instruments and other survey prizes.
Bring your own instruments or borrow some.

Continuing on a new tradition, we will have themed Costume Contest to
go with the parade theme!  This year's parade theme is Maya Apocalypse
and rumor is there will be a good showing of costumes. Wear your
costume to the afternoon parade and then contestants can display their
costumes on stage Saturday night and let the audience vote for the
best Maya Apocalypse costume. Last year's winner was Andy Edwards from
GHG with his very convincing cross-dressing pirate outfit.

Did I mention prizes? Oh yeah! There will be some great prizes for
contest winners. No skimpy prizes here.

See you soon!!

Ellie

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[Texascavers] TCR 2012 Directions to Paradise Canyon

[ellie watson]

Cavers,

Less than a week and we will be soaking in the rays and sippin' on
brews at the 35th Annual TCR in Paradise Canyon!!! Here's a handy map
to make sure you get there-
https://docs.google.com/open?id=0BzP7GaKdftjDczhsX240TXdBcVE

There are many ways to get to Paradise Canyon so pick your favorite,
just make sure you get there :)

Paradise Canyon,
2220 County Road 2615
San Antonio, Texas 78066-2566

>From Austin
Head south on I-35 S towards San Antonio. On the north side of San
Antonio, take exit 172 and merge
onto TX-1604 Loop W/Anderson Loop. Take exit TX-471/Culebra Rd and
turn right onto Culebra
Rd/FM 471S. Past the Rio Medina General Store, stay right to continue
onto FM 1283. Turn left onto
Co Rd 371/Red Wing Rd and stay right onto Co Rd 2615. Follow signs to
the campground.

>From San Antonio
Take US-90 W, turn right onto FM 471 N, continue straight onto Co Rd
2615 then turn left to stay on
Co Rd 2615. Follow signs to the campground.

For Facebook users: https://www.facebook.com/events/204320899690447/

See everybody soon!

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[Texascavers] Re: TCR 2012 Directions to Paradise Canyon

[ellie watson]

TCR is here and to make sure you get here too, bring this handy map with
you on your journey and follow the signs to Paradise!
https://docs.google.com/open?id=0BzP7GaKdftjDczhsX240TXdBcVE

Paradise Canyon
2220 County Road 2615
San Antonio, Texas 78066-2566

*From Austin*
Head south on I-35 S towards San Antonio. On the north side of San Antonio,
take exit 172 and merge onto TX-1604 Loop W/Anderson Loop. Take exit
TX-471/Culebra Rd and turn right onto Culebra Rd/FM 471S. Past the Rio
Medina General Store, stay right to continue onto FM 1283. Turn left onto
Co Rd 371/Red Wing Rd and stay right onto Co Rd 2615. Follow signs to the
campground.

*From San Antonio*
Take US-90 W, turn right onto FM 471 N, continue straight onto Co Rd 2615
then turn left to stay on Co Rd 2615. Follow signs to the campground.

For Facebook users: https://www.facebook.com/events/204320899690447/

See you in moments!

Ellie

[Texascavers] TSA Members Meeting at TCR, Sunday, October 21st, Paradise Canyon

[ellie watson]

Texas Cavers,

The next Texas Speleological Association (TSA) Business meeting will
be bright and early at 8:00 am, Sunday, October 21st, in Paradise
Canyon.

Come learn about project updates, committee updates, and offer input
to your organization. We will also conduct 2013 officer elections.
Nominations are Vice Chair: Roger Moore and Secretary: Ryan Monjaras.

All registrants have the option to join or renew TSA membership during
TCR registration. Membership rates:
http://www.cavetexas.org/PAYPAL/index.php

The TCMA is doing a panckake breakfast so bring your $5 donation,
utensils and get fuled up for the meeting.

See you soon!

Ellie Watson
TSA Vice Chair

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[Texascavers] Thanks & Missing Personal Stuff from CM Cave (June 9 trip)

[ellie watson]

Mark Childre, Bexar Grotto, lost his green bag at the CM Cave trip on
June 9. Please contact him, off list at markchil...@gmail.com, if you
have seen it.

Forwarded message.

-- Forwarded message --
From: Mark Childre 
Date: Thu, Jun 21, 2012 at 10:12 PM
Subject: Cave Tex Message
To: Ellie Thoene 

Hey all,

Hat's off to ya'll who showed up for the property owner appreciation /
C My Shovel Cave caving party at the Eisenhauer Ranch in Spring
Branch.  This was a great party!  My thanks to each.

While organizing, I lost a green Camelbak backpack which had my name
(Childre) in ink on the pack strap.  There also was a cave bag stuffed
inside and if any of you know where these might be, please email me at
.

We'll have to do this party thing again soon sometime!!!
__

--
Mark Childre
markchil...@gmail.com

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[Texascavers] TCMA: Rolling Oaks Preserve Thanks!!

[ellie watson]

Cavers,

Huge thanks to the 15 dedicated volunteers (Cavers and Master
Naturalists) who came out this weekend to help pick-up trash and dig
out a large portion of Niche Cave on the Texas Cave Management
Association Rolling Oaks cave preserve in Northwest San Antonio.  A
surprisingly large number of people turned out despite a massive
downpour all morning and thick, sloppy grounds. Because of your
efforts, we removed toilets, sinks, tires, pool slides, rebar, and
literally tons more (about 3,000 lbs total). We also dug out
approximately 450 cubic feet of trash and debris from Niche Cave. A
special thanks to Fran Hutchins for hauling all the trash away and to
Joe Mitchell for arranging an excellent post-work caving trip for all
who volunteered. 58 volunteer were hours logged.

Thanks to: Donnie Roland, Gregg Williams, Corey Burrell, Clay
McCafferty, Tom Florer, Linda Palit, George Veni, Allan Cobb, Rick
Corbell, Jill Orr, Monique DeVries, Dienna DeVries, Joe Mitchell,
Kayla Mitchell, Bennett Lee

There is still plenty of debris in Niche Cave waiting for the next
work day so everyone will have a chance to get in on the fun. Keep an
eye out for an article with pictures.

Ellie Watson

Rolling Oaks Preserve Manager

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[Texascavers] TSA Spring Convention is almost here! March 30-April 1st, Boerne, TX

[ellie watson]

*2012 TSA Spring Convention*
March 30-April 1st, 2012
Boerne, TX
http://www.cavetexas.org/events/TSASC/tsasc2012.html

Hello Texas Cavers!

The Texas Speleological Association's annual Spring Convention is less than
a month away and everyone is invited! The flowers will be blooming in full
force in the Texas Hill Country and it will be a great weekend to spend
together.

This is an annual, technical meeting with formal presentations from cavers
about cave sciences, exploration, project status and displays in the
Map/Photo Salon. The TSA, founded in 1956, has been bringing Texas
cavers together for over 50 years. Come and 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.

Presentations will be on Saturday, March 31st beginning around 9am and
Mallory Mayeux and Roger Moore already have a great lineup of presenters
selected. We will send out a program a week before convention if not
sooner.

*FEES: *
* *
*Registration*

   - $15.00 Individual Rate *per person*
   - $10.00 Child Rate* per child* 12-16 years old
   - $40.00 Family Rate (parents & children)
   - Children 12 and under $free

*Camping*

   - $5.00 Camping per person/per night camping (children under 16 camp
   free)

*Facility for Saturday Meeting:* *Geneva School of Boerne *(113 Cascade
Caverns Rd, Fair Oaks Ranch, TX 78015)

   - Arial view of facility(park anywhere):
   https://docs.google.com/open?id=0BzP7GaKdftjDY0NhYUxVYTJTNnlQNzFXZGE0azM4QQ

*Campground for Friday-Sunday: **Cascade Caverns** (*226 Cascade Caverns
Road, Boerne, Texas 78015) http://www.cascadecaverns.com/

   - Full use of beautiful campground facilities for Sunday meetings,
   auction, and meals
   - Renovated showers/bathrooms
   - No attack dogs permitted on campground and all pets must remain on
   leash
   - Free scheduled cave tour for all registered.

*Tentative Schedule (this is not finalized):

*
*Friday, March 30th*
*

   - 5pm - Arrival & Registration at Cascade Caverns Campground

*
*Saturday, March 31st*
*

   - 8am - Registration at Geneva School of Boerne
-  9am-5pm
- Presentations at Geneva School of Boerne
   - 10pm - Deadline for entries into Map & Photo Salon at Geneva School of
   Boerne
   - 10am-4pm- regular scheduled tour of Cascade Caverns (Tours at 10am,
   11am, 12pm, 1pm, 2pm, 3pm, 4pm)
   - 12pm-1:30pm - Lunch on own, salon viewing in facility, visit vendors
   outside of facility
   - 5pm or directly after talks- TSA meeting at Geneva School of Boerne
   - 7pm - Group Feed at Cascade Caverns Campground catered by Spinelli's
   Vistro
- 8:30pm (or after everyone is good and fed)
- TCMA Auction
in Service Center at Cascade Caverns Campground
   - The rest of the night: fun and hanging out, campfire at Cascade
   Caverns Campground

*
*Sunday, April 1st*
*

   - First thing-
Easter egg hunt for the kid
at Cascade Caverns Campground
   - 8am - TCMA breakfast at Cascade Caverns Campground
   - 9am- TCMA meeting at Cascade Caverns Campground
   - 11am-4pm-regular scheduled tour of Cascade Caverns (Tours at 11am,
   12pm, 1pm, 2pm, 3pm, 4pm)
   - 2pm - Check-out

*
More fun details to come. Please don't hesitate to ask me any questions.

See you soon!

Ellie Watson
TSA Vice Chair
509-899-0007
ellie.tho...@gmail.com
For Facebook users: https://www.facebook.com/events/312213962130706/

[Texascavers] TSA Spring Convention-One Week Away! March 30-April 1st, Boerne, TX

[ellie watson]

*2012 TSA Spring Convention
March 30-April 1st, 2012
Boerne, TX*
http://www.cavetexas.org/events/TSASC/tsasc2012.html

Hello Cavers!

The Texas Speleological Association's annual Spring Convention is one week
away and the party is almost starting! Spring has sprung in the Texas Hill
Country and there are wildflowers for as far as the eye can see. I recently
visited the Cascade Caverns campground and the place looks great! Rex the
dinosaur is fresh and perky and ready for that kodak moment. *We have a
huge, flat campground that is remote enough to enjoy clear, stary
skies*and campfires are allowed.
* The 1-hour cave tour will delight any caver with its unique formations,
cathedral room, and lovable critters. *(The passages are smooth gravel and
steps lead to cave. There are areas that require squatting or leaning over
while walking because of low head clearance.)
PLEASE NOTE: The presentations will be held at Geneva School of Boerne (113
Cascade Caverns Rd, Fair Oaks Ranch, TX 78015). Next week I will be sending
out final details as well as a program with a detailed schedule for the
weekend. Hope everyone is looking forward to a great weekend together in
any kind of weather!

Printable Location Map:
https://docs.google.com/open?id=0BzP7GaKdftjDQ2o3dVZ6SVlUZUtoZUVncWFvRk1oZw

*THE DETAILS
*
This is an annual, technical meeting with formal presentations from cavers
about cave sciences, exploration, project status and displays in the
Map/Photo Salon. The TSA, founded in 1956, has been bringing Texas
cavers together for over 50 years. Come and 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.

Presentations will be on Saturday, March 31st at Geneva School of Boerne
beginning around 9am (113 Cascade Caverns Rd, Fair Oaks Ranch, TX 78015).
Times/Schedule TBD. Thanks to Mallory Mayeux and Roger Moore for lining up
a great selection of speakers and to all those who volunteered.
Diana Tomchick: Winter Caving in China with the Hong Megui Cave Exploration
Society: Entering the Year of the Dragon"
Jim Kennedy: “Recent Progress of TSA’s Colorado Bend State Park Project.”
Peter Sprouse: “Cartography of Wide-area Cave Systems in Quintana Roo"
Edward Patrick: “In-situ Mass Spectrometry of Cave Atmospheres”
Julia Germany/Gerry Geletzke: “Longhorn Cavern Restoration and Conservation
Projects"
Ben Hutchins: “The Edwards Aquifer: A Groundwater Refugium Supported by
Allochthonous Production”
Steve Webb: “Latest LED and battery technology”
Ellie Watson: “Logan’s Cave Survey Project”
Logan McNatt: “Finding the Deepest Pit in the World: Discovery and First
Descent of El Sotano de El Barro, Mexico"
Allan Cobb: “Fun Caving in Thailand!”
Travis Scott/Jerry Atkinson: “Update on Porcupine Grotto Projects”
Mustafa Saribudak: “Main Barton Springs Geophysics in Austin, TX: Where is
all the spring water coming from into the Barton Springs Pool?”

Don Arburn, donarb...@mac.com, is facilitating the Photo Salon and Marvin
Miller, mlmil...@gvtc.com, is facilitating the Map Salon and I know many
are eager to see caver's beautiful talents in the Salons. Deadline for
entries is 10:00 am, Saturday, March 31st at Geneva School of Boerne (113
Cascade Caverns Rd, Fair Oaks Ranch, TX 78015). Please show off your photos
and maps!!

Don't forget to bring those excellent items for the TCMA Auction and your
checkbook to take home treasures.

*FEES*:
*Registration* (Registration fee includes admission to presentations &
supper on Saturday)
$15.00 Individual Rate per person
$10.00 Child Rate per child 12-16 years old
$40.00 Family Rate (parents & children)
Children 12 and under $free

*Camping*
$5.00 Camping per person/per night camping (children under 16 camp free)

*PRESENTATION FACILITY for Saturday Meeting:* Geneva School of Boerne (113
Cascade Caverns Rd, Fair Oaks Ranch, TX 78015)
-Arial view of facility(park anywhere):
https://docs.google.com/open?id=0BzP7GaKdftjDY0NhYUxVYTJTNnlQNzFXZGE0azM4QQ
-Presentation facility and campground are a little over 1 mile apart and
the road good for a nice bicycle ride. Geneva School of Boerne has huge,
empty parking lots if the kiddos want to play on their bikes.

*CAMPGROUND for Friday-Sunday:* Cascade Caverns (226 Cascade Caverns Road,
Boerne, Texas 78015) http://www.cascadecaverns.com/
-Full use of beautiful campground facilities for Sunday meetings, auction,
and meals
-Renovated showers/bathrooms
-No attack dogs permitted on campground and all pets must remain on leash
-Current photos of campground facilities:
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150602639639506.386786.507449505&type=3&l=f86b9393ca
-Free scheduled cave tour for all registered.

*TENTATIVE SCHEDULE (this is not finalized):*
*Friday, March 30th*
7pm - Registration at Cascade Caverns Campground (early arrival acceptable

*Saturday, March 31st*
8am - Registration at

[Texascavers] Caving at Cascade Caverns this weekend-TSA Spring Convention (March 30-April 1st, 2012)

[ellie watson]

*Caving at Cascade Caverns*
2012 TSA Spring Convention
March 30-April 1st, 2012
226 Cascade Caverns Road, Boerne, Texas 78015
http://www.cascadecaverns.com/

Here's what's up regarding caving this weekend:

Access to caves is limited to scheduled tours. Registration to the TSA
Spring Convention includes entrance to a regular scheduled tour of Cascade
Caverns. These tours are the regular scheduled tours open to the public.
Since the regular tours are mostly during the presentations, our group has
2 extra chances to visit the cave. *The 1-hour cave tour will delight any
caver with its unique formations, cathedral room, and lovable critters. *The
passages are smooth gravel and steps lead to cave. There are areas that
require squatting or leaning over while walking because of low head
clearance. Tour is lighted and no gear is necessary.

Cascade Cavers is offering to take our group off trail for a fee of $20.00
per person. The 2-hour tour will take you 400 feet into wet, muddy,
walking/crawling passage. Cascade Caverns will provide helmets to those who
do not have their own. The trip open to all cavers but is not included in
registration. Recent cave-dives have substantially increased the length of
the lower cave. Photo of lower-cave by Jean Krejca at
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10150631940844506&set=o.312213962130706&type=1&theater

*Cascade Cavern Regular Tours:*
*Saturday, March 31st *- Tours at 10am, 11am, 12pm, 1pm, 2pm, 3pm, 4pm
*Sunday, April 1st* - Tours at 11am, 12pm, 1pm, 2pm, 3pm, 4pm

*Cascade Cavern Tour for Cavers (not open to public):*
*Friday, March 30th* at 8pm
*Sunday, April 1st* at 10am

*Cascade Cavern Off-Trail to Lower Cave: **not included in registration*
*Sunday, March 31st* - 9am lower cave tour, $20.00
*Sunday, April 1st *- 11am lower cave tour, $20.00

*Nearby show caves:** not included in registration*
Cave Without A Name, 15 miles away (325 Kreutzberg Road  Boerne, TX 78006)
http://www.cavewithoutaname.com/
Natural Bridge Caverns, 40 miles away (26495 Natural Bridge  Cavern Ave,
San Antonio, Texas 78266) http://www.naturalbridgecaverns.com/

Please don't hesitate to ask me any questions.

Ellie Watson
TSA Vice Chair
509-899-0007
ellie.tho...@gmail.com

For Facebook users: https://www.facebook.com/events/312213962130706/

[Texascavers] Need video recording device for TSA Spring Convention

[ellie watson]

Does anyone have a video recording device I could borrow for TSA Spring
Convention this weekend? The facility has electricity. It would be nice to
record the presentations.

I would be responsible for the item but would not be operating it. Please
contact me off list.

Ellie

[Texascavers] TSA Spring Convention Program & Details (March 30-April 1st, Boerne, TX)

[ellie watson]

*2012 TSA Spring Convention
March 30-April 1st, 2012
Boerne, TX*
http://www.cavetexas.org/events/TSASC/tsasc2012.html

Alright Cavers, its time to get this party started!

The Texas Speleological Association's annual Spring Convention is one day
away and everything is good to go! Come prepared for rain just in case but
Saturday and Sunday should be nice and sunny. All registration is on site
so just come on. (Signs will be set up for registration). Wifi is at
Cascade Caverns and Geneva School of Boerne. There might be a food truck at
Geneva School on Saturday for another function but we can eat there too.
 PLEASE NOTE: The presentations will be held at Geneva School of Boerne
(113 Cascade Caverns Rd, Fair Oaks Ranch, TX 78015). Presentations are a
little over a mile from Cascade Caverns, both locations on Cascade Caverns
Road, and you will pass the school on your way to camp.

*Printable Location Map*:
http://www.cavetexas.org/PDF/2012%20TSA%20Spring%20Convention.pdf
*Program & Detail (all the info is here):*
https://docs.google.com/open?id=0BzP7GaKdftjDRTRfNVFKdWtSVjJCYmJUanpsNGU0QQ

*FEES*:
*Registration* (Registration fee includes admission to presentations &
supper on Saturday)
$15.00 Individual Rate per person
$10.00 Child Rate per child 12-16 years old
$40.00 Family Rate (parents & children)
Children 12 and under $free

*Camping*
$5.00 Camping per person/per night camping (children under 16 camp free)

*THE DETAILS
*
This is an annual, technical meeting with formal presentations from cavers
about cave sciences, exploration, project status and displays in the
Map/Photo Salon. The TSA, founded in 1956, has been bringing Texas
cavers together for over 50 years. Come and 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.

Don Arburn, donarb...@mac.com, is facilitating the Photo Salon and Marvin
Miller, mlmil...@gvtc.com, is facilitating the Map Salon and I know many
are eager to see caver's beautiful talents in the Salons. Deadline for
entries is 10:00 am, Saturday, March 31st at Geneva School of Boerne (113
Cascade Caverns Rd, Fair Oaks Ranch, TX 78015). Please show off your photos
and maps!!

*PRESENTATION FACILITY for Saturday Meeting:* Geneva School of Boerne (113
Cascade Caverns Rd, Fair Oaks Ranch, TX 78015)
-Arial view of facility(park anywhere):
https://docs.google.com/open?id=0BzP7GaKdftjDY0NhYUxVYTJTNnlQNzFXZGE0azM4QQ
-Presentation facility and campground are a little over 1 mile apart and
the road good for a nice bicycle ride.

*CAMPGROUND for Friday-Sunday:* Cascade Caverns (226 Cascade Caverns Road,
Boerne, Texas 78015) http://www.cascadecaverns.com/
-Current photos of campground facilities:
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150602639639506.386786.507449505&type=3&l=f86b9393ca

*WEEKEND SCHEDULE: *

*Friday, March 30th *
7:00 p.m. Registration begins at Cascade Caverns
8:00 p.m. Cascade Caverns tour for Cavers, meet at Visitor Center

*Saturday, March 31st *
8:00 a.m. Registration begins at Geneva School of Boerne
8:00-­10:00 a.m. Photo and Map Salon submissions due to Geneva School
10 a.m.-4:00 p.m. Regular scheduled tours of Cascade Caverns: (Tours at
10am, 11am, 12pm, 1pm, 2pm, 3pm, 4pm)

*Morning Session (9:30a.m.- 11:30 p.m.) *
9:00-9:30 Diana Tomchick, "Winter Caving in China with the Hong Megui Cave
Exploration Society: Entering the Year of the Dragon"
9:35-10:10 Peter Sprouse, "Cartography of Wide-area Cave Systems in
Quintana Roo"
10:15-10:45 Jim Kennedy, "Recent Progress of TSA’s Colorado Bend State Park
Project."
10:50-11:15 Edward Patrick, "In-situ Mass Spectrometry of Cave Atmospheres"
11:15-11:30 Monica Ponce, "Invitation: International
Speleological Conference on Mayan Caves, Quintana Roo, Mexico, 25-27 May,
2012

*Break & Vertical Workshop (11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.)*
11:30 Group Photo by Bennett Lee set outside Geneva School of Boerne
12:00 - 1:30 p.m. Lunch, Salon viewing, and shopping at vendors
12:00 - 1:30p.m Vertical Show & Tell at Cascade Caverns Cave by David Ochel
Bring your most favorite,weird, or useful/useless piece of vertical gear.
Tell us all about it. We'll have the vertical shaft in the cave entrance
rigged to play with it. This is *not* a beginner introduction to vertical
caving. Every interested caver is welcome, but only those who are already
proficient on rope will be let close to the shaft.

*Afternoon Session (1:30 p.m.-­5:00p.m.)*
1:30- 2:00pm Mustafa Saribudak, "Main Barton Springs Geophysics in
Austin,TX: Where is all the spring water coming from into the Barton
Springs Pool?"
2:00-2:20  Allan Cobb, "Fun Caving in Thailand!"
2:25-2:40 Ellie Watson, "Logan’s Cave Survey Project"
2:55-3:15 Julia Germany/Gerry Geletzke, "Longhorn Cavern Restoration and
Conservation Projects"
3:20-3:40 Ben Hut

[Texascavers] TSA Spring Convention success, THANKS to all!

[ellie watson]

We had a great turn out for the 2012 TSA Spring Convention in Boerne, TX
with over 130 in attendance. The weather was perfect and friends were all
around.

Thank you to all who attended and to all who helped to make the
conventiona success!

I would like to give special thanks to the following:

   - EVERYONE  who helped out by setting up, tearing down, and pitching in
   in every place...and for all the good-times! Too many names to thank for
   all this but you all are appreciated.
   - Roger Moore & Mallory Mayeux for recruiting & scheduling great
   presenters.
   - All those who gave such impressive presentations, it wouldn't be a
   convention with out you!
   - Christopher Francke and Leslie Bell for tirelessly providing AV for
   the Convention.
   - Marvin Miller for chairing the Map Salon and for soliciting entries.
   - Don Arburn for chairing the Photo Salon, displaying the photos so
   nicely, and for picking up beer.
   - David Ochel and Andrea Croskrey for facilitating the Vertical Workshop.
   - Michael Cicherski for doing registration and taking care of all the
   money.
   - Jim Kennedy & Yaz for the TCMA auction.
   - Saj Zappitello for organizing the TCMA auction and soliciting for
   items.
   - Vendors for bringing us the goods.
   - Bennett Lee for group photo (he should be posing it soon).
   - Bill Steele for hooking cavers up with Shiner beer!!!
   - Diana Tomchick for Margarita Happy Hour.

Ellie

[Texascavers] 2012 TSA Spring Convention *Save The Date*

[ellie watson]

Please mark you calendars for the 2012 TSA Spring Convention in Boerne, TX
on March 30-April 1st, 2012.

This is annual, technical meeting with presentations from cavers about cave
sciences, exploration, project status and displays in the Map/Photo Salon.
Presentations will be on Saturday, March 31st and Mallory Mayeux and Roger
Moore have graciously agreed to enlist speakers for the program so it
should be another great year.

Registration: $15 and $5 camping per night (kids camp free)

Facility for Saturday Meeting: Geneva School of Boerne (113 Cascade Caverns
Rd, Fair Oaks Ranch, TX 78015)
 <http://genevaschooltx.org/>

Campground for Friday-Sunday: Cascade Caverns* (*226 Cascade Caverns Road,
Boerne, Texas 78015) http://www.cascadecaverns.com/

Please don't hesitate to ask me any questions.

Ellie Watson
TSA Vice Chair
509-899-0007
ellie.tho...@gmail.com

Re: [Texascavers] 2012 TSA Spring Convention *Save The Date*

[ellie watson]

Please see in the 2011 Fall Meeting Minutes Archive Page
http://www.cavetexas.org/TSA/meetingminutes.html that "Alman asked if
people think a Winter Business Meeting is really necessary since it is so
close to the fall and spring meetings. A motion was made to cancel the
Winter Business Meeting. Seconded and motion carried".

[Texascavers] Natural Bridge Caverns Trail Runs (Feb 5, 2012)

[ellie watson]

To cavers who run: http://www.redemptionrp.com/2012/NBCTrailRuns

Seems like a good time!

[Texascavers] TSA Spring Convention, March 30-April 1st, Boerne, TX (website up!)

[ellie watson]

***2012 TSA Spring Convention*
March 30-April 1st, 2012
Boerne, TX
http://www.cavetexas.org/events/TSASC/tsasc2012.html
<http://www.cavetexas.org/events/TSASC/tsasc2012.html>(Thanks to Butch
Fralia for the site!)

The Texas Speleological Association's annual Spring Convention is right
around the corner! This is an annual, technical meeting with presentations
from cavers about cave sciences, exploration, project status and displays
in the Map/Photo Salon.

Presentations will be on Saturday, March 31st and Mallory Mayeux (
mmay...@gmail.com) and Roger Moore (cavera...@aol.com) are already lining
up a slew of interesting speakers so it should be another great year.
Please contact Mallory and Roger with all your great presentation ideas.

*FEES: *
* *Registration

   - $15.00 Individual Rate *per person*
   - $10.00 Child Rate* per child* 12-16 years old
   - $40.00 Family Rate (parents & children)
   - Children 12 and under $free

Camping

   - $5.00 Camping per person/per night camping (children under 16 camp
   free)

Facility for Saturday Meeting: *Geneva School of Boerne *(113 Cascade
Caverns Rd, Fair Oaks Ranch, TX 78015)
 <http://genevaschooltx.org/>

Campground for Friday-Sunday: *Cascade Caverns** (*226 Cascade Caverns
Road, Boerne, Texas 78015) http://www.cascadecaverns.com/.

   - Free scheduled cave tour for all registered
   - Full use of campground facilities for Sunday meetings, auction, and
   meals
   - Renovated showers/bathrooms
   - No attack dogs permitted on campground and all pets must remain on
   leash

Boerne, TX is a very beautiful, pleasant town to visit. Check out the
details on their site at: http://www.visitboerne.org/ (visitors packets
available).

More details to come. Please don't hesitate to ask me any questions.

See you soon!

Ellie Watson
TSA Vice Chair
509-899-0007
ellie.tho...@gmail.com

[Texascavers] Honey Creek-SURVEY Trip-Feb 11th

[ellie watson]

I will be taking a survey team to some of the hundreds of leads in Honey
Creek Cave on February 11th. Survey will last a max of 24 hours. I am also
willing to coordinate other teams who want to survey.

Please contact me off-list if you are interested.

[Texascavers] Robber Baron Cave Open House, Sat. Nov 5 (Call for Volunteers

[ellie watson]

Hello Cavers,

TCMA is planning to host another Robber Baron Cave "Open House" and we need
plenty of volunteers to come help out for the day on Saturday, November 5th,
2011. We are opening the cave to hundreds of neighborhood visitors of all
ages from 9am to 4pm. We can use your help to direct visitors through the
cave, tend to visitors above ground, and help with all the many
other necessary tasks.

This has been a well attended even over the past years and we expect it to
be a success again this year. This is a great opportunity to help TCMA raise
much needed funds, educate people about the importance of caves, and get
them excited by giving them a chance to explore one.

Please let me know if you can volunteer on November 5th and I will provide
more information.

Ellie Watson
San Antonio, TX
ellie.tho...@gmail.com
509-899-0007

[Texascavers] TCMA Rolling Oaks Work Day Reminder!

[ellie watson]

This is a reminder that  the Texas Cave Management Association (TCMA)
will be having a work day on Saturday, March 29th at the the Rolling
Oaks Cave Preserve in Bexar County (northwestern San Antonio).
Volunteers are needed to dig debris and old ranch trash out of the
entrance of Niche Cave and stage fill for removal off property.

We need people, buckets, wheelbarrows and cave-digging tools.  Bring
your own gloves, drinks, and snacks for the work. TCMA will provide
bottled water and sandwich lunch.

The cave preserve is located in North West San Antonio at 224 Laurel
Ridge Lane, San Antonio, TX 78253.  All visitors to the Preserve will
be asked to sign a liability waiver.  Look for caver vehicles and park
along the street. Meet at 10:00 am.We should be finished with the work
by 2pm or so.

I will be on-site if anyone wishes to enter the other caves on the
preserve (Chimney  Cricket Cave, Obvious Little Cave, and World Newt
Cave) after the dig.  Please bring your own cave gear.

If it is raining theclean-up will be canceled and rescheduled for a later date.

Please contact me with additional questions. Let me  know if you plan
to come or just show up!

Thanks for your support of TCMA and cave management.

Ellie Watson
Rolling Oaks Preserve Manager

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[Texascavers] TCMA: Rolling Oaks Preserve Work Day THANKS!

[ellie watson]

Cavers,

Huge thanks to the 11 volunteers who came out this weekend for the work day
on the Texas Cave Management Association (TCMA) Rolling Oaks cave preserve
in Northwest San Antonio. Volunteers sorted trash and continued the massive
effort of excavating Niche Cave.

Volunteers began the day by sifting out trash from the debris removed from
Niche Cave on a former trip. Volunteers then began digging in the cave and,
as rocks crashed down around them, quickly realized the area was unstable
and we would have to rethink the dig. We then decided to clear the entire
area beginning at the surface and leading down a steep slope to the
entrance of the cave. We removed several large rocks and had to knock a few
massive ones into the caves with the idea that we will bring a tractor out
in the future. In the end, volunteers cleared over 1 ton of rocks and large
boulders from the sloping surface around Niche Cave entrance. Niche Cave
still has a lead that is totally filled with boulders and the cave will
give us many more trips of digging fun. Stay tuned for another trip in the
fall!

Thanks to: Ron Ralph, Galen Falgout, Joe Schaertl, Vickie DeLeon, Arron
Wertheim, David Oualline, Veronica Esqueda, Don Arburn, Steve Gutting and
David the neighbor kid.

We ended the day at 2pm and several cavers visited the other small caves on
the preserve.

Photos from 3.29.14
https://www.flickr.com/photos/67526340@N08/sets/72157643260434365/

Thank you for your support of TCMA and cave management,

Ellie Watson
Rolling Oaks Preserve Manager

[Texascavers] Honey Creek Cave Work Day, Saturday, June 21st

[ellie watson]

Texas Cavers,

Please mark your calendar for a work day at Honey Creek Cave property on
Saturday, June 21st. The landowners are very generous to let us cave in
their impressive cave and this is a small way for us to give back.

We have several projects from cutting fallen trees, taking down a game
fence, to painting the front gate. Not all projects will get done in one
day but June 21st is a good, steaming time to start. Kurt and I will
have some tools but please bring anything you have that could be handy for
a surface workday: chain saws, loppers, sanding tools.

This will be a full-on work day, those who participate in the work day will
have the opportunity cool off with a refreshing trip into the cave. Let me
know your schedules for the cave and we can accomodate Friday-Sunday.

Please contact me off-list if you plan to come out.

Cavingly,

Ellie Watson
509-899-0007

[Texascavers] Re: Honey Creek Cave Work Day, Saturday, June 21st

[Ellie Watson]

Cavers,

This is a reminder that the Honey Creek Work Day is next weekend, June 21st
and we want your help!

We will be removing the old high fence that surrounds the field near the
main house. We will be removing the wire from the old cedar posts, then
pulling and rolling it up for scrap, and pulling/cutting the posts.

Please wear heavy duty work gloves and heavy duty shoes or hiking boots, no
sandals please.

Work Supplies Needed:

   - wire cutters
   - bolt cutters
   - staple pullers
   - fence pliers
   - brush loppers
   - chain saws
   - tow straps with hooks or pulling wire

Please let me know if you are coming so we can coordinate.

Cavingly,

Ellie




On Tue, Apr 22, 2014 at 8:44 AM, ellie watson 
wrote:

> Texas Cavers,
>
> Please mark your calendar for a work day at Honey Creek Cave property on
> Saturday, June 21st. The landowners are very generous to let us cave in
> their impressive cave and this is a small way for us to give back.
>
> We have several projects from cutting fallen trees, taking down a game
> fence, to painting the front gate. Not all projects will get done in one
> day but June 21st is a good, steaming time to start. Kurt and I will
> have some tools but please bring anything you have that could be handy for
> a surface workday: chain saws, loppers, sanding tools.
>
> This will be a full-on work day, those who participate in the work
> day will have the opportunity cool off with a refreshing trip into the
> cave. Let me know your schedules for the cave and we can accomodate
> Friday-Sunday.
>
> Please contact me off-list if you plan to come out.
>
> Cavingly,
>
> Ellie Watson
> 509-899-0007
>

[Texascavers] TSA Spring Convention, March 30-April 1st, Boerne, TX (website up!)

[ellie watson]

***2012 TSA Spring Convention*
March 30-April 1st, 2012
Boerne, TX
http://www.cavetexas.org/events/TSASC/tsasc2012.html
<http://www.cavetexas.org/events/TSASC/tsasc2012.html>(Thanks to Butch
Fralia for the site!)

The Texas Speleological Association's annual Spring Convention is right
around the corner! This is an annual, technical meeting with presentations
from cavers about cave sciences, exploration, project status and displays
in the Map/Photo Salon.

Presentations will be on Saturday, March 31st and Mallory Mayeux (
mmay...@gmail.com) and Roger Moore (cavera...@aol.com) are already lining
up a slew of interesting speakers so it should be another great year.
Please contact Mallory and Roger with all your great presentation ideas.

*FEES: *
* *Registration

   - $15.00 Individual Rate *per person*
   - $10.00 Child Rate* per child* 12-16 years old
   - $40.00 Family Rate (parents & children)
   - Children 12 and under $free

Camping

   - $5.00 Camping per person/per night camping (children under 16 camp
   free)

Facility for Saturday Meeting: *Geneva School of Boerne *(113 Cascade
Caverns Rd, Fair Oaks Ranch, TX 78015)
 <http://genevaschooltx.org/>

Campground for Friday-Sunday: *Cascade Caverns** (*226 Cascade Caverns
Road, Boerne, Texas 78015) http://www.cascadecaverns.com/.

   - Free scheduled cave tour for all registered
   - Full use of campground facilities for Sunday meetings, auction, and
   meals
   - Renovated showers/bathrooms
   - No attack dogs permitted on campground and all pets must remain on
   leash

Boerne, TX is a very beautiful, pleasant town to visit. Check out the
details on their site at: http://www.visitboerne.org/ (visitors packets
available).

More details to come. Please don't hesitate to ask me any questions.

See you soon!

Ellie Watson
TSA Vice Chair
509-899-0007
ellie.tho...@gmail.com

[Texascavers] Honey Creek-SURVEY Trip-Feb 11th

[ellie watson]

I will be taking a survey team to some of the hundreds of leads in Honey
Creek Cave on February 11th. Survey will last a max of 24 hours. I am also
willing to coordinate other teams who want to survey.

Please contact me off-list if you are interested.

[Texascavers] Robber Baron Cave Open House, Sat. Nov 5 (Call for Volunteers

[ellie watson]

Hello Cavers,

TCMA is planning to host another Robber Baron Cave "Open House" and we need
plenty of volunteers to come help out for the day on Saturday, November 5th,
2011. We are opening the cave to hundreds of neighborhood visitors of all
ages from 9am to 4pm. We can use your help to direct visitors through the
cave, tend to visitors above ground, and help with all the many
other necessary tasks.

This has been a well attended even over the past years and we expect it to
be a success again this year. This is a great opportunity to help TCMA raise
much needed funds, educate people about the importance of caves, and get
them excited by giving them a chance to explore one.

Please let me know if you can volunteer on November 5th and I will provide
more information.

Ellie Watson
San Antonio, TX
ellie.tho...@gmail.com
509-899-0007

[Texascavers] Re: Robber Baron Cave Open House, Sat. Nov 5 (Call for Volunteers)

[ellie watson]

Hello all,

We still need more volunteers for the Robber Baron Cave "Open House" that
TCMA is hosting on Saturday, November 5th, 2011. We are opening the cave to
hundreds of neighborhood visitors of all ages from 9am to 4pm. We can use
your help to direct visitors through the cave, tend to visitors above
ground, and help with all the many other necessary tasks.

This has been a well attended even over the past years and we expect it to
be a success again this year. This is a great opportunity to help TCMA raise
much needed funds, educate the neighborhood about the importance of caves,
and get them excited by giving them a chance to explore one. Please let me
know if you can volunteer on November 5th and I will provide more
information.

After the Open House on Saturday, Geary and Sue Schindel are putting on a
party at their home for all the volunteers. If you want to stick around for
even more caving, the Government Canyon Karst Project continues on Sunday,
November 6th and is guaranteed to be a great time.

Come and spend your weekend caving and partying in San Antonio, TX!

Ellie Watson
San Antonio, TX
ellie.tho...@gmail.com
509-899-0007

Re: [Texascavers] Re: Fire Extinguishers at TCR

[ellie watson]

*1-A:10-BC Fire Extinguishers* (dry chemical) are $17 at Lowes, Home Depot,
Walmart, Academy, etc, etc.
http://www.homedepot.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?R=100015934&N=5yc1vZbmgp&catalogId=10053&storeId=10051&langId=-1

On Mon, Sep 12, 2011 at 11:00 PM, Rod Goke  wrote:

>
> Gill has requested that people bring dry chemical fire extinguishers to
> TCR. That's a good idea, but it's important to understand that not all dry
> chemical fire extinguishers are the same and that some types are not
> considered to be effective against the types of fires most likely to be
> encountered in a natural outdoor environment, such as Flat Creek Ranch. I'm
> no expert in fire fighting, but based on what I've read, you need a
> fire extinguisher with a rating that includes class A when the burning
> material is wood, grass, paper, cardboard, etc. Some dry chemical fire
> extinguishers are rated ABC and, hence, are supposed to be effective against
> class A fires (in addition to classes B and C). Other dry chemical fire
> extinguishers are only rated BC and, hence, are not considered effective
> against class A fires. I'm not sure what would happen if you used a class BC
> fire extinguisher on a class A fire, but it might have more of a tendency to
> fan the flames than to put out the fire. Class BC fire extinguishers are
> intended primarily for use on fires involving flammable liquids and/or
> electrical fires. Water, of course, is an effective alternative for fighting
> class A fires, but not class B (flammable liquid) or class C (electrical)
> fires.
>
> A lot of information about fire extinguishers is available on the Internet.
> Here is one easy to read article summarizing the basics:
>
>http://www.fire-extinguisher101.com/
>
> Different kinds of dry chemical fire extinguishers contain different kinds
> of chemicals, which can involve different hazards. Here is one article I
> found summarizing these potential hazards and precautions:
>
>
> http://www.ehow.com/about_5443724_chemical-dangers-fire-extinguisher.html
>
> As tempting as it might be to extinguish the cigarettes of inconsiderate
> smokers  ;-), it's best to avoid discharging a dry chemical fire
> extinguisher in a way that would get into anyone's eyes, nose, or mouth.
> Accordingly, when using one of these extinguishers on a fire, it's probably
> best to do so from the upwind side, if possible, to avoid having the
> chemicals, smoke, and debris blow back into your own face. From what I've
> read, the chemicals used in ABC fire extinguishers tend to be more hazardous
> than those used in BC extinguishers, but I don't claim to be any expert on
> this.
>
> As I said before, I'm no expert on fire fighting or fire extinguishers, so
> if any of you have had training in this area, I invite you to correct
> anything I might have said wrong and to provide your own advice. I just
> think that if everyone is being encouraged to bring fire extinguishers to
> TCR, then it also would be good for people to learn a few basics about how
> to use them and about what kinds of extinguishers are appropriate for what
> kinds of fires.
>
> Rod
>
> -Original Message-
> From: Gill Edigar
> Sent: Sep 12, 2011 2:07 PM
> To: Julia Germany
> Cc: Texascavers@texascavers.com
> Subject: Re: [Texascavers] TCR and smoking
>
> I've just returned from a meeting at Flat Creek Ranch and the word was
> definitely: NO CIGARETTE BUTTS ON THE GROUND. Everybody knows how to "Field
> Strip" a cigarette butt--that makes sure it is "dead out" and doesn't leave
> an ugly butt on the ground. Please tend to it.
>
> Also, please remember to get a dry chemical fire extinguisher for your car
> and take it with you to TCR. Two would be even nicer. They are $17 at
> Lowes,
> Home Depot, WalMart, Academy, etc, etc.
> --Ediger
>
> On Mon, Sep 12, 2011 at 12:18 PM, Julia Germany wrote:
>
> > Hi All!
> >
> > For those who didn't read Rod Goke's comments about smoking at TCR,
> here's
> > one more reason not to smoke at TCR - until the bans are lifted, it's
> > illegal to smoke in Austin parks and other public spaces, and illegal to
> > cook with charcoal grills. Since Flat Creek is close to Austin, I would
> bet
> > that the owners of the ranch would appreciate the same respect. (For
> those
> > of us who need safety breaks, I would recommend doing so inside your
> > vehicle.)
> >
> > Here's a notice that just appeared about no smoking at the ACL fest this
> > weekend:
> >
> > No Smoking Allowed at ACL Fest
> > Updated: Monday, 12 Sep 2011, 11:57 AM CDT
> > Published : Monday, 12 Sep 2011, 11:16 AM CDT
> >
> > Due to a burn ban that is still in effect for all Austin parks and
> > greenbelts, smoking will be prohibited at Austin City Limits Festival
> this
> > year.
> >
> > "Following the tragic losses Central Texas has experienced in the last
> few
> > weeks as a result of widespread fires, we trust that park-goers will
> respect
> > this burn ban and work with us to keep our citizens and

[Texascavers] Need to Borrow: Hospital Bed in AUSTIN

[ellie watson]

Does anyone in Austin have an electric, adjustable hospital bed? Please let
me or Gill know. He is looking to get one soon.

Re: [Texascavers] Gill Edigar

[ellie watson]

The doctors wont see Gill till tomorrow morning then we will have a better
idea of what the next few weeks will look like. One way or the other, he
has a lot of pain to pull through and a lot of healing to do. I just left
the hospital and he was close to being asleep from the sleeping meds. They
are giving him pain med too. His nurse's name is Grace. Room 345 at St.
David's South Austin Medical. Visiting hours are 8am-9pm and he will take
visitors. He is in good spirits.

[Texascavers] TCMA: Rolling Oaks Preserve Thanks!!

[ellie watson]

Cavers,

Huge thanks to the 15 dedicated volunteers (Cavers and Master
Naturalists) who came out this weekend to help pick-up trash and dig
out a large portion of Niche Cave on the Texas Cave Management
Association Rolling Oaks cave preserve in Northwest San Antonio.  A
surprisingly large number of people turned out despite a massive
downpour all morning and thick, sloppy grounds. Because of your
efforts, we removed toilets, sinks, tires, pool slides, rebar, and
literally tons more (about 3,000 lbs total). We also dug out
approximately 450 cubic feet of trash and debris from Niche Cave. A
special thanks to Fran Hutchins for hauling all the trash away and to
Joe Mitchell for arranging an excellent post-work caving trip for all
who volunteered. 58 volunteer were hours logged.

Thanks to: Donnie Roland, Gregg Williams, Corey Burrell, Clay
McCafferty, Tom Florer, Linda Palit, George Veni, Allan Cobb, Rick
Corbell, Jill Orr, Monique DeVries, Dienna DeVries, Joe Mitchell,
Kayla Mitchell, Bennett Lee

There is still plenty of debris in Niche Cave waiting for the next
work day so everyone will have a chance to get in on the fun. Keep an
eye out for an article with pictures.

Ellie Watson

Rolling Oaks Preserve Manager

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[Texascavers] TSA Spring Convention is almost here! March 30-April 1st, Boerne, TX

[ellie watson]

*2012 TSA Spring Convention*
March 30-April 1st, 2012
Boerne, TX
http://www.cavetexas.org/events/TSASC/tsasc2012.html

Hello Texas Cavers!

The Texas Speleological Association's annual Spring Convention is less than
a month away and everyone is invited! The flowers will be blooming in full
force in the Texas Hill Country and it will be a great weekend to spend
together.

This is an annual, technical meeting with formal presentations from cavers
about cave sciences, exploration, project status and displays in the
Map/Photo Salon. The TSA, founded in 1956, has been bringing Texas
cavers together for over 50 years. Come and 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.

Presentations will be on Saturday, March 31st beginning around 9am and
Mallory Mayeux and Roger Moore already have a great lineup of presenters
selected. We will send out a program a week before convention if not
sooner.

*FEES: *
* *
*Registration*

   - $15.00 Individual Rate *per person*
   - $10.00 Child Rate* per child* 12-16 years old
   - $40.00 Family Rate (parents & children)
   - Children 12 and under $free

*Camping*

   - $5.00 Camping per person/per night camping (children under 16 camp
   free)

*Facility for Saturday Meeting:* *Geneva School of Boerne *(113 Cascade
Caverns Rd, Fair Oaks Ranch, TX 78015)

   - Arial view of facility(park anywhere):
   https://docs.google.com/open?id=0BzP7GaKdftjDY0NhYUxVYTJTNnlQNzFXZGE0azM4QQ

*Campground for Friday-Sunday: **Cascade Caverns** (*226 Cascade Caverns
Road, Boerne, Texas 78015) http://www.cascadecaverns.com/

   - Full use of beautiful campground facilities for Sunday meetings,
   auction, and meals
   - Renovated showers/bathrooms
   - No attack dogs permitted on campground and all pets must remain on
   leash
   - Free scheduled cave tour for all registered.

*Tentative Schedule (this is not finalized):

*
*Friday, March 30th*
*

   - 5pm - Arrival & Registration at Cascade Caverns Campground

*
*Saturday, March 31st*
*

   - 8am - Registration at Geneva School of Boerne
-  9am-5pm
- Presentations at Geneva School of Boerne
   - 10pm - Deadline for entries into Map & Photo Salon at Geneva School of
   Boerne
   - 10am-4pm- regular scheduled tour of Cascade Caverns (Tours at 10am,
   11am, 12pm, 1pm, 2pm, 3pm, 4pm)
   - 12pm-1:30pm - Lunch on own, salon viewing in facility, visit vendors
   outside of facility
   - 5pm or directly after talks- TSA meeting at Geneva School of Boerne
   - 7pm - Group Feed at Cascade Caverns Campground catered by Spinelli's
   Vistro
- 8:30pm (or after everyone is good and fed)
- TCMA Auction
in Service Center at Cascade Caverns Campground
   - The rest of the night: fun and hanging out, campfire at Cascade
   Caverns Campground

*
*Sunday, April 1st*
*

   - First thing-
Easter egg hunt for the kid
at Cascade Caverns Campground
   - 8am - TCMA breakfast at Cascade Caverns Campground
   - 9am- TCMA meeting at Cascade Caverns Campground
   - 11am-4pm-regular scheduled tour of Cascade Caverns (Tours at 11am,
   12pm, 1pm, 2pm, 3pm, 4pm)
   - 2pm - Check-out

*
More fun details to come. Please don't hesitate to ask me any questions.

See you soon!

Ellie Watson
TSA Vice Chair
509-899-0007
ellie.tho...@gmail.com
For Facebook users: https://www.facebook.com/events/312213962130706/

[Texascavers] TSA Spring Convention-One Week Away! March 30-April 1st, Boerne, TX

[ellie watson]

*2012 TSA Spring Convention
March 30-April 1st, 2012
Boerne, TX*
http://www.cavetexas.org/events/TSASC/tsasc2012.html

Hello Cavers!

The Texas Speleological Association's annual Spring Convention is one week
away and the party is almost starting! Spring has sprung in the Texas Hill
Country and there are wildflowers for as far as the eye can see. I recently
visited the Cascade Caverns campground and the place looks great! Rex the
dinosaur is fresh and perky and ready for that kodak moment. *We have a
huge, flat campground that is remote enough to enjoy clear, stary
skies*and campfires are allowed.
* The 1-hour cave tour will delight any caver with its unique formations,
cathedral room, and lovable critters. *(The passages are smooth gravel and
steps lead to cave. There are areas that require squatting or leaning over
while walking because of low head clearance.)
PLEASE NOTE: The presentations will be held at Geneva School of Boerne (113
Cascade Caverns Rd, Fair Oaks Ranch, TX 78015). Next week I will be sending
out final details as well as a program with a detailed schedule for the
weekend. Hope everyone is looking forward to a great weekend together in
any kind of weather!

Printable Location Map:
https://docs.google.com/open?id=0BzP7GaKdftjDQ2o3dVZ6SVlUZUtoZUVncWFvRk1oZw

*THE DETAILS
*
This is an annual, technical meeting with formal presentations from cavers
about cave sciences, exploration, project status and displays in the
Map/Photo Salon. The TSA, founded in 1956, has been bringing Texas
cavers together for over 50 years. Come and 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.

Presentations will be on Saturday, March 31st at Geneva School of Boerne
beginning around 9am (113 Cascade Caverns Rd, Fair Oaks Ranch, TX 78015).
Times/Schedule TBD. Thanks to Mallory Mayeux and Roger Moore for lining up
a great selection of speakers and to all those who volunteered.
Diana Tomchick: Winter Caving in China with the Hong Megui Cave Exploration
Society: Entering the Year of the Dragon"
Jim Kennedy: “Recent Progress of TSA’s Colorado Bend State Park Project.”
Peter Sprouse: “Cartography of Wide-area Cave Systems in Quintana Roo"
Edward Patrick: “In-situ Mass Spectrometry of Cave Atmospheres”
Julia Germany/Gerry Geletzke: “Longhorn Cavern Restoration and Conservation
Projects"
Ben Hutchins: “The Edwards Aquifer: A Groundwater Refugium Supported by
Allochthonous Production”
Steve Webb: “Latest LED and battery technology”
Ellie Watson: “Logan’s Cave Survey Project”
Logan McNatt: “Finding the Deepest Pit in the World: Discovery and First
Descent of El Sotano de El Barro, Mexico"
Allan Cobb: “Fun Caving in Thailand!”
Travis Scott/Jerry Atkinson: “Update on Porcupine Grotto Projects”
Mustafa Saribudak: “Main Barton Springs Geophysics in Austin, TX: Where is
all the spring water coming from into the Barton Springs Pool?”

Don Arburn, donarb...@mac.com, is facilitating the Photo Salon and Marvin
Miller, mlmil...@gvtc.com, is facilitating the Map Salon and I know many
are eager to see caver's beautiful talents in the Salons. Deadline for
entries is 10:00 am, Saturday, March 31st at Geneva School of Boerne (113
Cascade Caverns Rd, Fair Oaks Ranch, TX 78015). Please show off your photos
and maps!!

Don't forget to bring those excellent items for the TCMA Auction and your
checkbook to take home treasures.

*FEES*:
*Registration* (Registration fee includes admission to presentations &
supper on Saturday)
$15.00 Individual Rate per person
$10.00 Child Rate per child 12-16 years old
$40.00 Family Rate (parents & children)
Children 12 and under $free

*Camping*
$5.00 Camping per person/per night camping (children under 16 camp free)

*PRESENTATION FACILITY for Saturday Meeting:* Geneva School of Boerne (113
Cascade Caverns Rd, Fair Oaks Ranch, TX 78015)
-Arial view of facility(park anywhere):
https://docs.google.com/open?id=0BzP7GaKdftjDY0NhYUxVYTJTNnlQNzFXZGE0azM4QQ
-Presentation facility and campground are a little over 1 mile apart and
the road good for a nice bicycle ride. Geneva School of Boerne has huge,
empty parking lots if the kiddos want to play on their bikes.

*CAMPGROUND for Friday-Sunday:* Cascade Caverns (226 Cascade Caverns Road,
Boerne, Texas 78015) http://www.cascadecaverns.com/
-Full use of beautiful campground facilities for Sunday meetings, auction,
and meals
-Renovated showers/bathrooms
-No attack dogs permitted on campground and all pets must remain on leash
-Current photos of campground facilities:
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150602639639506.386786.507449505&type=3&l=f86b9393ca
-Free scheduled cave tour for all registered.

*TENTATIVE SCHEDULE (this is not finalized):*
*Friday, March 30th*
7pm - Registration at Cascade Caverns Campground (early arrival acceptable

*Saturday, March 31st*
8am - Registration at

[Texascavers] Caving at Cascade Caverns this weekend-TSA Spring Convention (March 30-April 1st, 2012)

[ellie watson]

*Caving at Cascade Caverns*
2012 TSA Spring Convention
March 30-April 1st, 2012
226 Cascade Caverns Road, Boerne, Texas 78015
http://www.cascadecaverns.com/

Here's what's up regarding caving this weekend:

Access to caves is limited to scheduled tours. Registration to the TSA
Spring Convention includes entrance to a regular scheduled tour of Cascade
Caverns. These tours are the regular scheduled tours open to the public.
Since the regular tours are mostly during the presentations, our group has
2 extra chances to visit the cave. *The 1-hour cave tour will delight any
caver with its unique formations, cathedral room, and lovable critters. *The
passages are smooth gravel and steps lead to cave. There are areas that
require squatting or leaning over while walking because of low head
clearance. Tour is lighted and no gear is necessary.

Cascade Cavers is offering to take our group off trail for a fee of $20.00
per person. The 2-hour tour will take you 400 feet into wet, muddy,
walking/crawling passage. Cascade Caverns will provide helmets to those who
do not have their own. The trip open to all cavers but is not included in
registration. Recent cave-dives have substantially increased the length of
the lower cave. Photo of lower-cave by Jean Krejca at
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10150631940844506&set=o.312213962130706&type=1&theater

*Cascade Cavern Regular Tours:*
*Saturday, March 31st *- Tours at 10am, 11am, 12pm, 1pm, 2pm, 3pm, 4pm
*Sunday, April 1st* - Tours at 11am, 12pm, 1pm, 2pm, 3pm, 4pm

*Cascade Cavern Tour for Cavers (not open to public):*
*Friday, March 30th* at 8pm
*Sunday, April 1st* at 10am

*Cascade Cavern Off-Trail to Lower Cave: **not included in registration*
*Sunday, March 31st* - 9am lower cave tour, $20.00
*Sunday, April 1st *- 11am lower cave tour, $20.00

*Nearby show caves:** not included in registration*
Cave Without A Name, 15 miles away (325 Kreutzberg Road  Boerne, TX 78006)
http://www.cavewithoutaname.com/
Natural Bridge Caverns, 40 miles away (26495 Natural Bridge  Cavern Ave,
San Antonio, Texas 78266) http://www.naturalbridgecaverns.com/

Please don't hesitate to ask me any questions.

Ellie Watson
TSA Vice Chair
509-899-0007
ellie.tho...@gmail.com

For Facebook users: https://www.facebook.com/events/312213962130706/

[Texascavers] Need video recording device for TSA Spring Convention

[ellie watson]

Does anyone have a video recording device I could borrow for TSA Spring
Convention this weekend? The facility has electricity. It would be nice to
record the presentations.

I would be responsible for the item but would not be operating it. Please
contact me off list.

Ellie

[Texascavers] TSA Spring Convention Program & Details (March 30-April 1st, Boerne, TX)

[ellie watson]

*2012 TSA Spring Convention
March 30-April 1st, 2012
Boerne, TX*
http://www.cavetexas.org/events/TSASC/tsasc2012.html

Alright Cavers, its time to get this party started!

The Texas Speleological Association's annual Spring Convention is one day
away and everything is good to go! Come prepared for rain just in case but
Saturday and Sunday should be nice and sunny. All registration is on site
so just come on. (Signs will be set up for registration). Wifi is at
Cascade Caverns and Geneva School of Boerne. There might be a food truck at
Geneva School on Saturday for another function but we can eat there too.
 PLEASE NOTE: The presentations will be held at Geneva School of Boerne
(113 Cascade Caverns Rd, Fair Oaks Ranch, TX 78015). Presentations are a
little over a mile from Cascade Caverns, both locations on Cascade Caverns
Road, and you will pass the school on your way to camp.

*Printable Location Map*:
http://www.cavetexas.org/PDF/2012%20TSA%20Spring%20Convention.pdf
*Program & Detail (all the info is here):*
https://docs.google.com/open?id=0BzP7GaKdftjDRTRfNVFKdWtSVjJCYmJUanpsNGU0QQ

*FEES*:
*Registration* (Registration fee includes admission to presentations &
supper on Saturday)
$15.00 Individual Rate per person
$10.00 Child Rate per child 12-16 years old
$40.00 Family Rate (parents & children)
Children 12 and under $free

*Camping*
$5.00 Camping per person/per night camping (children under 16 camp free)

*THE DETAILS
*
This is an annual, technical meeting with formal presentations from cavers
about cave sciences, exploration, project status and displays in the
Map/Photo Salon. The TSA, founded in 1956, has been bringing Texas
cavers together for over 50 years. Come and 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.

Don Arburn, donarb...@mac.com, is facilitating the Photo Salon and Marvin
Miller, mlmil...@gvtc.com, is facilitating the Map Salon and I know many
are eager to see caver's beautiful talents in the Salons. Deadline for
entries is 10:00 am, Saturday, March 31st at Geneva School of Boerne (113
Cascade Caverns Rd, Fair Oaks Ranch, TX 78015). Please show off your photos
and maps!!

*PRESENTATION FACILITY for Saturday Meeting:* Geneva School of Boerne (113
Cascade Caverns Rd, Fair Oaks Ranch, TX 78015)
-Arial view of facility(park anywhere):
https://docs.google.com/open?id=0BzP7GaKdftjDY0NhYUxVYTJTNnlQNzFXZGE0azM4QQ
-Presentation facility and campground are a little over 1 mile apart and
the road good for a nice bicycle ride.

*CAMPGROUND for Friday-Sunday:* Cascade Caverns (226 Cascade Caverns Road,
Boerne, Texas 78015) http://www.cascadecaverns.com/
-Current photos of campground facilities:
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150602639639506.386786.507449505&type=3&l=f86b9393ca

*WEEKEND SCHEDULE: *

*Friday, March 30th *
7:00 p.m. Registration begins at Cascade Caverns
8:00 p.m. Cascade Caverns tour for Cavers, meet at Visitor Center

*Saturday, March 31st *
8:00 a.m. Registration begins at Geneva School of Boerne
8:00-­10:00 a.m. Photo and Map Salon submissions due to Geneva School
10 a.m.-4:00 p.m. Regular scheduled tours of Cascade Caverns: (Tours at
10am, 11am, 12pm, 1pm, 2pm, 3pm, 4pm)

*Morning Session (9:30a.m.- 11:30 p.m.) *
9:00-9:30 Diana Tomchick, "Winter Caving in China with the Hong Megui Cave
Exploration Society: Entering the Year of the Dragon"
9:35-10:10 Peter Sprouse, "Cartography of Wide-area Cave Systems in
Quintana Roo"
10:15-10:45 Jim Kennedy, "Recent Progress of TSA’s Colorado Bend State Park
Project."
10:50-11:15 Edward Patrick, "In-situ Mass Spectrometry of Cave Atmospheres"
11:15-11:30 Monica Ponce, "Invitation: International
Speleological Conference on Mayan Caves, Quintana Roo, Mexico, 25-27 May,
2012

*Break & Vertical Workshop (11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.)*
11:30 Group Photo by Bennett Lee set outside Geneva School of Boerne
12:00 - 1:30 p.m. Lunch, Salon viewing, and shopping at vendors
12:00 - 1:30p.m Vertical Show & Tell at Cascade Caverns Cave by David Ochel
Bring your most favorite,weird, or useful/useless piece of vertical gear.
Tell us all about it. We'll have the vertical shaft in the cave entrance
rigged to play with it. This is *not* a beginner introduction to vertical
caving. Every interested caver is welcome, but only those who are already
proficient on rope will be let close to the shaft.

*Afternoon Session (1:30 p.m.-­5:00p.m.)*
1:30- 2:00pm Mustafa Saribudak, "Main Barton Springs Geophysics in
Austin,TX: Where is all the spring water coming from into the Barton
Springs Pool?"
2:00-2:20  Allan Cobb, "Fun Caving in Thailand!"
2:25-2:40 Ellie Watson, "Logan’s Cave Survey Project"
2:55-3:15 Julia Germany/Gerry Geletzke, "Longhorn Cavern Restoration and
Conservation Projects"
3:20-3:40 Ben Hut

[Texascavers] TSA Spring Convention success, THANKS to all!

[ellie watson]

We had a great turn out for the 2012 TSA Spring Convention in Boerne, TX
with over 130 in attendance. The weather was perfect and friends were all
around.

Thank you to all who attended and to all who helped to make the
conventiona success!

I would like to give special thanks to the following:

   - EVERYONE  who helped out by setting up, tearing down, and pitching in
   in every place...and for all the good-times! Too many names to thank for
   all this but you all are appreciated.
   - Roger Moore & Mallory Mayeux for recruiting & scheduling great
   presenters.
   - All those who gave such impressive presentations, it wouldn't be a
   convention with out you!
   - Christopher Francke and Leslie Bell for tirelessly providing AV for
   the Convention.
   - Marvin Miller for chairing the Map Salon and for soliciting entries.
   - Don Arburn for chairing the Photo Salon, displaying the photos so
   nicely, and for picking up beer.
   - David Ochel and Andrea Croskrey for facilitating the Vertical Workshop.
   - Michael Cicherski for doing registration and taking care of all the
   money.
   - Jim Kennedy & Yaz for the TCMA auction.
   - Saj Zappitello for organizing the TCMA auction and soliciting for
   items.
   - Vendors for bringing us the goods.
   - Bennett Lee for group photo (he should be posing it soon).
   - Bill Steele for hooking cavers up with Shiner beer!!!
   - Diana Tomchick for Margarita Happy Hour.

Ellie

[Texascavers] 2012 TSA Spring Convention *Save The Date*

[ellie watson]

Please mark you calendars for the 2012 TSA Spring Convention in Boerne, TX
on March 30-April 1st, 2012.

This is annual, technical meeting with presentations from cavers about cave
sciences, exploration, project status and displays in the Map/Photo Salon.
Presentations will be on Saturday, March 31st and Mallory Mayeux and Roger
Moore have graciously agreed to enlist speakers for the program so it
should be another great year.

Registration: $15 and $5 camping per night (kids camp free)

Facility for Saturday Meeting: Geneva School of Boerne (113 Cascade Caverns
Rd, Fair Oaks Ranch, TX 78015)
 <http://genevaschooltx.org/>

Campground for Friday-Sunday: Cascade Caverns* (*226 Cascade Caverns Road,
Boerne, Texas 78015) http://www.cascadecaverns.com/

Please don't hesitate to ask me any questions.

Ellie Watson
TSA Vice Chair
509-899-0007
ellie.tho...@gmail.com

Re: [Texascavers] 2012 TSA Spring Convention *Save The Date*

[ellie watson]

Please see in the 2011 Fall Meeting Minutes Archive Page
http://www.cavetexas.org/TSA/meetingminutes.html that "Alman asked if
people think a Winter Business Meeting is really necessary since it is so
close to the fall and spring meetings. A motion was made to cancel the
Winter Business Meeting. Seconded and motion carried".

[Texascavers] Natural Bridge Caverns Trail Runs (Feb 5, 2012)

[ellie watson]

To cavers who run: http://www.redemptionrp.com/2012/NBCTrailRuns

Seems like a good time!

[Texascavers] TSA Spring Convention, March 30-April 1st, Boerne, TX (website up!)

[ellie watson]

***2012 TSA Spring Convention*
March 30-April 1st, 2012
Boerne, TX
http://www.cavetexas.org/events/TSASC/tsasc2012.html
<http://www.cavetexas.org/events/TSASC/tsasc2012.html>(Thanks to Butch
Fralia for the site!)

The Texas Speleological Association's annual Spring Convention is right
around the corner! This is an annual, technical meeting with presentations
from cavers about cave sciences, exploration, project status and displays
in the Map/Photo Salon.

Presentations will be on Saturday, March 31st and Mallory Mayeux (
mmay...@gmail.com) and Roger Moore (cavera...@aol.com) are already lining
up a slew of interesting speakers so it should be another great year.
Please contact Mallory and Roger with all your great presentation ideas.

*FEES: *
* *Registration

   - $15.00 Individual Rate *per person*
   - $10.00 Child Rate* per child* 12-16 years old
   - $40.00 Family Rate (parents & children)
   - Children 12 and under $free

Camping

   - $5.00 Camping per person/per night camping (children under 16 camp
   free)

Facility for Saturday Meeting: *Geneva School of Boerne *(113 Cascade
Caverns Rd, Fair Oaks Ranch, TX 78015)
 <http://genevaschooltx.org/>

Campground for Friday-Sunday: *Cascade Caverns** (*226 Cascade Caverns
Road, Boerne, Texas 78015) http://www.cascadecaverns.com/.

   - Free scheduled cave tour for all registered
   - Full use of campground facilities for Sunday meetings, auction, and
   meals
   - Renovated showers/bathrooms
   - No attack dogs permitted on campground and all pets must remain on
   leash

Boerne, TX is a very beautiful, pleasant town to visit. Check out the
details on their site at: http://www.visitboerne.org/ (visitors packets
available).

More details to come. Please don't hesitate to ask me any questions.

See you soon!

Ellie Watson
TSA Vice Chair
509-899-0007
ellie.tho...@gmail.com

[Texascavers] Honey Creek-SURVEY Trip-Feb 11th

[ellie watson]

I will be taking a survey team to some of the hundreds of leads in Honey
Creek Cave on February 11th. Survey will last a max of 24 hours. I am also
willing to coordinate other teams who want to survey.

Please contact me off-list if you are interested.

[Texascavers] Robber Baron Cave Open House, Sat. Nov 5 (Call for Volunteers

[ellie watson]

Hello Cavers,

TCMA is planning to host another Robber Baron Cave "Open House" and we need
plenty of volunteers to come help out for the day on Saturday, November 5th,
2011. We are opening the cave to hundreds of neighborhood visitors of all
ages from 9am to 4pm. We can use your help to direct visitors through the
cave, tend to visitors above ground, and help with all the many
other necessary tasks.

This has been a well attended even over the past years and we expect it to
be a success again this year. This is a great opportunity to help TCMA raise
much needed funds, educate people about the importance of caves, and get
them excited by giving them a chance to explore one.

Please let me know if you can volunteer on November 5th and I will provide
more information.

Ellie Watson
San Antonio, TX
ellie.tho...@gmail.com
509-899-0007

[Texascavers] Re: Robber Baron Cave Open House, Sat. Nov 5 (Call for Volunteers)

[ellie watson]

Hello all,

We still need more volunteers for the Robber Baron Cave "Open House" that
TCMA is hosting on Saturday, November 5th, 2011. We are opening the cave to
hundreds of neighborhood visitors of all ages from 9am to 4pm. We can use
your help to direct visitors through the cave, tend to visitors above
ground, and help with all the many other necessary tasks.

This has been a well attended even over the past years and we expect it to
be a success again this year. This is a great opportunity to help TCMA raise
much needed funds, educate the neighborhood about the importance of caves,
and get them excited by giving them a chance to explore one. Please let me
know if you can volunteer on November 5th and I will provide more
information.

After the Open House on Saturday, Geary and Sue Schindel are putting on a
party at their home for all the volunteers. If you want to stick around for
even more caving, the Government Canyon Karst Project continues on Sunday,
November 6th and is guaranteed to be a great time.

Come and spend your weekend caving and partying in San Antonio, TX!

Ellie Watson
San Antonio, TX
ellie.tho...@gmail.com
509-899-0007

Re: [Texascavers] Re: Fire Extinguishers at TCR

[ellie watson]

*1-A:10-BC Fire Extinguishers* (dry chemical) are $17 at Lowes, Home Depot,
Walmart, Academy, etc, etc.
http://www.homedepot.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?R=100015934&N=5yc1vZbmgp&catalogId=10053&storeId=10051&langId=-1

On Mon, Sep 12, 2011 at 11:00 PM, Rod Goke  wrote:

>
> Gill has requested that people bring dry chemical fire extinguishers to
> TCR. That's a good idea, but it's important to understand that not all dry
> chemical fire extinguishers are the same and that some types are not
> considered to be effective against the types of fires most likely to be
> encountered in a natural outdoor environment, such as Flat Creek Ranch. I'm
> no expert in fire fighting, but based on what I've read, you need a
> fire extinguisher with a rating that includes class A when the burning
> material is wood, grass, paper, cardboard, etc. Some dry chemical fire
> extinguishers are rated ABC and, hence, are supposed to be effective against
> class A fires (in addition to classes B and C). Other dry chemical fire
> extinguishers are only rated BC and, hence, are not considered effective
> against class A fires. I'm not sure what would happen if you used a class BC
> fire extinguisher on a class A fire, but it might have more of a tendency to
> fan the flames than to put out the fire. Class BC fire extinguishers are
> intended primarily for use on fires involving flammable liquids and/or
> electrical fires. Water, of course, is an effective alternative for fighting
> class A fires, but not class B (flammable liquid) or class C (electrical)
> fires.
>
> A lot of information about fire extinguishers is available on the Internet.
> Here is one easy to read article summarizing the basics:
>
>http://www.fire-extinguisher101.com/
>
> Different kinds of dry chemical fire extinguishers contain different kinds
> of chemicals, which can involve different hazards. Here is one article I
> found summarizing these potential hazards and precautions:
>
>
> http://www.ehow.com/about_5443724_chemical-dangers-fire-extinguisher.html
>
> As tempting as it might be to extinguish the cigarettes of inconsiderate
> smokers  ;-), it's best to avoid discharging a dry chemical fire
> extinguisher in a way that would get into anyone's eyes, nose, or mouth.
> Accordingly, when using one of these extinguishers on a fire, it's probably
> best to do so from the upwind side, if possible, to avoid having the
> chemicals, smoke, and debris blow back into your own face. From what I've
> read, the chemicals used in ABC fire extinguishers tend to be more hazardous
> than those used in BC extinguishers, but I don't claim to be any expert on
> this.
>
> As I said before, I'm no expert on fire fighting or fire extinguishers, so
> if any of you have had training in this area, I invite you to correct
> anything I might have said wrong and to provide your own advice. I just
> think that if everyone is being encouraged to bring fire extinguishers to
> TCR, then it also would be good for people to learn a few basics about how
> to use them and about what kinds of extinguishers are appropriate for what
> kinds of fires.
>
> Rod
>
> -Original Message-
> From: Gill Edigar
> Sent: Sep 12, 2011 2:07 PM
> To: Julia Germany
> Cc: Texascavers@texascavers.com
> Subject: Re: [Texascavers] TCR and smoking
>
> I've just returned from a meeting at Flat Creek Ranch and the word was
> definitely: NO CIGARETTE BUTTS ON THE GROUND. Everybody knows how to "Field
> Strip" a cigarette butt--that makes sure it is "dead out" and doesn't leave
> an ugly butt on the ground. Please tend to it.
>
> Also, please remember to get a dry chemical fire extinguisher for your car
> and take it with you to TCR. Two would be even nicer. They are $17 at
> Lowes,
> Home Depot, WalMart, Academy, etc, etc.
> --Ediger
>
> On Mon, Sep 12, 2011 at 12:18 PM, Julia Germany wrote:
>
> > Hi All!
> >
> > For those who didn't read Rod Goke's comments about smoking at TCR,
> here's
> > one more reason not to smoke at TCR - until the bans are lifted, it's
> > illegal to smoke in Austin parks and other public spaces, and illegal to
> > cook with charcoal grills. Since Flat Creek is close to Austin, I would
> bet
> > that the owners of the ranch would appreciate the same respect. (For
> those
> > of us who need safety breaks, I would recommend doing so inside your
> > vehicle.)
> >
> > Here's a notice that just appeared about no smoking at the ACL fest this
> > weekend:
> >
> > No Smoking Allowed at ACL Fest
> > Updated: Monday, 12 Sep 2011, 11:57 AM CDT
> > Published : Monday, 12 Sep 2011, 11:16 AM CDT
> >
> > Due to a burn ban that is still in effect for all Austin parks and
> > greenbelts, smoking will be prohibited at Austin City Limits Festival
> this
> > year.
> >
> > "Following the tragic losses Central Texas has experienced in the last
> few
> > weeks as a result of widespread fires, we trust that park-goers will
> respect
> > this burn ban and work with us to keep our citizens and

Re: [Texascavers] TSA Convention Speaker Schedule!

[ellie watson]

Wow looks like a good one. I cant wait! Galen and i love spring
convention:) Lydia cant do spring convention.

On 4/2/13, Mallory Mayeux  wrote:
> Hello cavers!
>
> I am excited to announce the final TSA Convention Speaking schedule.
>
> Please plan to attend these exciting and informative talks!
>
>
> 9:00 AM, Marvin Miller—TSA Project Update: Government Canyon Karst Survey
>
> 9:25AM Ben Tobin—Survey and Exploration of Cave without a Name
> 9:50 AM Joe Mitchell--The Caveatron - An Electronic Cave Mapping Tool for
> Cavers
>
> 10:15 AM, break
> 10:30 AM Jean “Creature” Krejca, Ellie Thoene, Lydia Hernandez, Nathan Van
> Oort, Joe Furman—Honey Creek Cave Tank Tiger Extravaganza
>
> 11:30 Group Photo!
>
> 11:45-1:30, Lunch/Shopping
>
>
> 1:30 pm Bennett Lee—Cave Photography 101: How to Take Great Cave Photos
> (aka, How to Alienate Yourself by Getting Your Friends to Hold Flashes)
> 2:00 pm Saj Zappitello—TCMA, What You Know & What You Know Now
>
> 2:20 Matt Turner—Tips for running beginner trips
> 2:45 pm Greg Passmore—Challenges in Cave Filming
>
> 3:10 pm Bob Richards—Hawaiian Caving! Updates on the projects of the Hawaii
> Speleological Survey
>
> 3:40 pm Dr. Thomas Iliffe—Deep Caving: a video presentation about the
> Phantom Cave dive
>  Let me know if you have any questions or want more information.
>
> Mallory Mayeux
> TSA Program Chair
>

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Re: [Texascavers] TSA Convention Speaker Schedule!

[ellie watson]

Wow looks like a good one. I cant wait! Galen and i love spring
convention:) Lydia cant do spring convention.

On 4/2/13, Mallory Mayeux  wrote:
> Hello cavers!
>
> I am excited to announce the final TSA Convention Speaking schedule.
>
> Please plan to attend these exciting and informative talks!
>
>
> 9:00 AM, Marvin Miller—TSA Project Update: Government Canyon Karst Survey
>
> 9:25AM Ben Tobin—Survey and Exploration of Cave without a Name
> 9:50 AM Joe Mitchell--The Caveatron - An Electronic Cave Mapping Tool for
> Cavers
>
> 10:15 AM, break
> 10:30 AM Jean “Creature” Krejca, Ellie Thoene, Lydia Hernandez, Nathan Van
> Oort, Joe Furman—Honey Creek Cave Tank Tiger Extravaganza
>
> 11:30 Group Photo!
>
> 11:45-1:30, Lunch/Shopping
>
>
> 1:30 pm Bennett Lee—Cave Photography 101: How to Take Great Cave Photos
> (aka, How to Alienate Yourself by Getting Your Friends to Hold Flashes)
> 2:00 pm Saj Zappitello—TCMA, What You Know & What You Know Now
>
> 2:20 Matt Turner—Tips for running beginner trips
> 2:45 pm Greg Passmore—Challenges in Cave Filming
>
> 3:10 pm Bob Richards—Hawaiian Caving! Updates on the projects of the Hawaii
> Speleological Survey
>
> 3:40 pm Dr. Thomas Iliffe—Deep Caving: a video presentation about the
> Phantom Cave dive
>  Let me know if you have any questions or want more information.
>
> Mallory Mayeux
> TSA Program Chair
>

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[Texascavers] Tomorrow is TCMA-Rolling Oaks Work Day! ( April 20th)

[ellie watson]

Tomorrow is the work day at Rolling Oaks Cave Preserve in northwestern
San Antonio.   Volunteers are needed to dig debris and old ranch trash
out of the entrance of Niche Cave and load up loads of cave fill into
a dumpster.  We need people, buckets, wheelbarrows and cave-digging
tools.  Bring your own gloves, drinks, and snacks for the work.  TCMA
will provide bottled water and lunch.

The cave preserve is located at 224 Laurel Ridge Lane, San Antonio, TX
78253.  All visitors to the Preserve will be asked to sign a liability
waiver. Park along the street. Meet at 10:00 am.We should be finished
with the work by 2pm or so.

I will be on-site if anyone wishes to enter the other caves on the
preserve (Chimney Cricket Cave, Obvious Little Cave, and World Newt
Cave)  after the dig.  Bring your own cave gear. We will most likely
have a fun trip to Wurzbach Bat Cave after the dig.

Please contact me off-list with additional questions. Please let me
know if you plan to come or just show up! If it is raining the
clean-up will be canceled and rescheduled for a later date.

Thanks for your support of TCMA and cave management.

Ellie Watson
TCMA Rolling Oaks Preserve Manager
509-899-0007

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[Texascavers] Rolling Oaks Work Day Thanks! (TCMA)

[ellie watson]

Cavers,

Huge thanks to the 14 volunteers who came out this weekend for the
work day on the Texas Cave Management Association (TCMA) Rolling Oaks
cave preserve in Northwest San Antonio. Volunteers loaded up and
hauled out off a huge trash pile dug out of Niche Cave last fall and
removed several large rocks from Niche Cave.

Volunteers began the day by cheerfully loading up piles of glass
bottles into a trailer that Peter Sprouse graciously lent for the
project. Once the trailer was loaded down with trash, Ron Ralph and 6
hard workers unloaded the trailer at a nearby dump. The trash is now
off the property! The remaining crew continued digging on the void
lead left from last fall where volunteers broke into 4 ft pit. The
lead was covered with large rocks, and when removed the passage did
not extend any farther down but continued horizontally with
clean-washed breakdown. Many large rocks remain and the entire pit
will need to be cleared from the surface down to where the lead
continues.

Thanks to: Ron Ralph, Tom Florer, Journey Bissett, Jules, Joseph
Schaertl, Missy Egan, Jill Orr, Gary Donham, Joe Mitchell, Kayla
Mitchell, Tom Rogers, Gregg Williams, and Ryan the neighbor.

We ended the day at 2pm and Joe Mitchell took all interested cavers to
Wurzbach Bat Cave. Thanks Joe!

Photos from 4.20.2013
http://www.flickr.com/photos/67526340@N08/sets/72157633354201414/

Thank you for your support of TCMA and cave management,

Ellie Watson
Rolling Oaks Preserve Manager

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[Texascavers] 2012 Chuck Stuehm Award Winners

[ellie watson]

Congratulations to the following 2012 Chuck Stuehm Award winners:

*Austin McRee* - Greater Houston Grotto
*
Kris Pena* - UT Grotto
*
William Quast* - UT Grotto

*Natasha Glasgow* - DFW Grotto
*
Gregg Williams *- Bexar Grotto

*Rachel Saker *- Aggie Speleological Society

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.

Thank you to all the Grottos for their participation.

Ellie Watson
TSA Vice Chair

[Texascavers] TCMA-Rolling Oaks Work Day this weekend, November 10th

[ellie watson]

Hello Cavers

Here is a reminder that the Texas Cave Management Association (TCMA)
will be having a work day this weekend, Saturday, November 10th at the
the Rolling Oaks Cave Preserve in Bexar County (northwestern San
Antonio). Volunteers are needed to dig debris and old ranch trash out
of the entrance of Niche Cave.  We need people, buckets, and
cave-digging tools.  Bring your own gloves, drinks, and snacks for the
work.  TCMA will provide bottled water.

The cave preserve is located at 224 Laurel Ridge Lane, San Antonio, TX
78253.  All visitors to the Preserve will be asked to sign a liability
waiver.  Look for signs and park along the street. Meet at 10:00 am.We
should be finished with the work by 2pm or so.

I will be on-site if anyone wishes to enter the other caves on the
preserve (Chimney Cricket Cave, Obvious Little Cave, and World Newt
Cave)  after the dig.  Bring your own cave gear.

Please contact me off-list with additional questions. There is no need
to RSVP if you are attending.  Just show up!  If it is raining the
clean-up will be canceled and rescheduled for a later date.

Thanks for your support of TCMA and cave management.

Ellie Watson
TCMA Rolling Oaks Preserve Manager
509-899-0007

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[Texascavers] Honey Creek Cave Tank Haul...2 Months to go! Haulers Needed January 19th & 26th

[ellie watson]

Texas Cavers,

The Honey Creek Tank Haul Extravaganza is 2 months away and we need
cavers to help
haul dive gear on January 19th and January 26th for legendary
cave-divers Dr. Jean Krejca and James Brown.

This is an all-time-classic trip to an extraordinary cave and one of
my personal favorites! I am keeping the list of those interested
please let me know which dates you can make it. We already have 20
solid people signed up for each trip but we need many more!

Cavers are needed on January 19th to haul gear to Sump 1 for Jean and
James to begin their 2-day underground camp/exploration. On January
26th, cavers are needed to go to Sump 1 and haul gear out of the cave.
Camping is available both weekends and we will enter the cave around
9am.

Honey Creek is a water cave and you will need a wetsuit and harness
with d-ring to be lowered on cable down a man-made shaft. I recommend
flotation and water-tight food containers. The trip to the sump
typically takes 6 hours and includes walking, salamandering, crawling,
and "The Mud and The Crud". The trip is challenging but very fun.

Come for one weekend or both. This is a definite must-do trip for any
new caver and if you have already visited the cave, you know it's
worth seeing again.

Spread the word and please don't hesitate to ask me any questions,

Cavingly,

Ellie Watson
ellie.tho...@gmail.com
509-899-0007

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[Texascavers] TCMA-Rolling Oaks Work Day on Saturday, November 10th (San Antonio)

[ellie watson]

Cavers,

Here is a reminder that the Texas Cave Management Association (TCMA) will
be having a work day this weekend, Saturday, November 10th at the the
Rolling Oaks Cave Preserve in Northwestern San Antonio to dig on Niche
Cave. (Not to be confused with the Rolling Oaks in Wimberly.)

Volunteers are needed to dig debris and old ranch trash out of the entrance
of Niche Cave. We need people, buckets, and cave-digging tools.  Bring your
own gloves, drinks, and snacks for the work.  TCMA will provide bottled
water.

I will be on-site if anyone wishes to enter the other caves on the preserve
(Chimney Cricket Cave, Obvious Little Cave, and World Newt Cave)  after the
dig.  Bring your own cave gear.

The cave preserve is located at 224 Laurel Ridge Lane, San Antonio, TX
78253.  All visitors to the Preserve will be asked to sign a liability
waiver.  Look for cavers and park along the street. Meet at 10:00 am.We
should be finished with the work by 2pm or so.

Please contact me off-list with additional questions. There is no need to
RSVP if you are attending.  Just show up!  If it is raining the clean-up
will be canceled and rescheduled for a later date.

Thanks for your support of TCMA and cave management.

Ellie Watson
TCMA Rolling Oaks Preserve Manager
509-899-0007

[Texascavers] Rolling Oaks Work Day Thanks! (TCMA)

[ellie watson]

Cavers,

Huge thanks to the 17 volunteers who came out this weekend to continue the
dig in Niche Cave on the Texas Cave Management Association (TCMA) Rolling
Oaks cave preserve in Northwest San Antonio. (Not to be confused with the
Rolling Oaks in Wimberly.) Volunteers trimmed trees, cut dead trees around
the property, and removed approximately 1 1/2 cubic yards of trash and
debris from Niche Cave. Bob Cowell also found a small dig on the property
that I named "Old Man Cowell Sink".

Most of the trash in Niche Cave was whole glass bottles with about a 4:1
ratio of bottles to dirt and rocks. Volunteers were full of excitement as
they hauled out bucket after bucket of trash. They first opened up a crawl
that had been discovered in the 80's but was completely covered when we
started the dig on February 2012. Towards the end of the day, volunteers
opened up a passage under all the trash on the floor of the entrance. Tom
first noticed the void when his rock bar nearly fell through the floor. The
newly opened area is too unstable to enter but is about 4 feet deep and can
be opened with more digging.

Thanks to: Ron Ralph, Rick Corbell, Galen Falgout, Don Arburn, Tom Florer,
Allan Cobb, Linda Palit, Fran Hutchins, Bob Cowell, Chris Murray, Jessica
Snider, Robert Davis, Juline-Amanda ViTapay, Mat Zappitello, Saj
Zappitello, Tom Rogers

We ended the day at 2pm with a good lead to greet us for the next work day
in the Spring, date to be determined.

Photos from 11.10.12:
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10151136038709506.446051.507449505&type=1&l=2676ee6a9b

Thank you for your support of TCMA and cave management,

Ellie Watson
Rolling Oaks Preserve Manager

Re: [Texascavers] Rolling Oaks Work Day Thanks! (TCMA)

[ellie watson]

I will post a public link when I am at my computer next, could be a couple
weeks.

Ellie

On Thu, Nov 15, 2012 at 9:27 AM, Mark Minton  wrote:

> Ellie,
>
> All I get is a blank Facebook page. Does this only work for
> Facebook members, which I'm not? Please post a public link.  Thanks!
>
> Mark
>
> At 01:31 AM 11/15/2012, ellie watson wrote:
>
>> Cavers,
>>
>>
>> Photos from 11.10.12: https://www.facebook.com/**media/set/?set=a.**
>> 10151136038709506.446051.**507449505&type=1&l=2676ee6a9b<https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10151136038709506.446051.507449505&type=1&l=2676ee6a9b>
>>
>
> Please reply to mmin...@caver.net
> Permanent email address is mmin...@illinoisalumni.org
>
> --**--**-
> Visit our website: http://texascavers.com
> To unsubscribe, e-mail: 
> texascavers-unsubscribe@**texascavers.com
> For additional commands, e-mail: 
> texascavers-help@texascavers.**com
>
>

Re: [Texascavers] Rolling Oaks Work Day Thanks! (TCMA)

[ellie watson]

Caver's,

Here is a public link for viewing pleasure:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/67526340@N08/sets/72157632042924701/

17 cavers logged 108 volunteer hours to TCMA!

Thanks cavers for all you do!

Ellie

On Thu, Nov 15, 2012 at 9:27 AM, Mark Minton  wrote:

> Ellie,
>
> All I get is a blank Facebook page. Does this only work for
> Facebook members, which I'm not? Please post a public link.  Thanks!
>
> Mark
>
> At 01:31 AM 11/15/2012, ellie watson wrote:
>
>> Cavers,
>>
>>
>> Photos from 11.10.12: https://www.facebook.com/**media/set/?set=a.**
>> 10151136038709506.446051.**507449505&type=1&l=2676ee6a9b<https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10151136038709506.446051.507449505&type=1&l=2676ee6a9b>
>>
>
> Please reply to mmin...@caver.net
> Permanent email address is mmin...@illinoisalumni.org
>
> --**--**-
> Visit our website: http://texascavers.com
> To unsubscribe, e-mail: 
> texascavers-unsubscribe@**texascavers.com
> For additional commands, e-mail: 
> texascavers-help@texascavers.**com
>
>

[Texascavers] Pack Patching Party-Jan 8th! For Honey Creek Tank Haul (and trip updates)

[ellie watson]

*Pack Patching Party!* Tentatively set for Jan 8th, Tuesday evening at 300
W Mockingburd Ln, Austin TX. We have 30+ large group packs to repair for
the Honey Creek Tank Haul. Those who help patch group packs are welcome to
bring your own personal pack to patch for free.  Please let me know if you
can come out and if you have an Awl/Speedy Stitch we can borrow.

In just 3 weekends we will be embarking on the Honey Creek Tank Haul
Extravaganza-January 19th and January 26th and we still need cavers to haul
group gear to the sump. We currently have 30 people signed up for the
haul-in and the haul-out but are trying to recruit 50+ cavers for each
weekend. Thank you to all who have already volunteered. Cavers will be
contributing to original cave exploration to some of the most remote cave
passages in Texas. We not only need cavers to haul gear in the cave but can
use surface support to guide things along as cavers are lowered into and
out of the cave on a tractor. Invite friends...this is a great trip and a
true *EXTRAVAGANZA*!

TRIP DETAILS

On January 19th, cavers will haul gear to Sump 1 for Dr. Jean Krejca and
James to begin their 4-day underground camp/exploration. The divers will
split up their gear into individual loads on the surface, cavers will
choose a load,  and each person/team is responsible for taking their load
to the sump. Once cavers get to the sump, they can abandon their gear and
head back to the surface for an evening of reverie. Jean and James will
then begin prepping for their dive/diving with Lydia Hernandez and Ellie
Watson to hold down camp.

On January 26th, cavers will go to Sump 1 and haul gear out of the cave.

Honey Creek is a water cave and you will need a wetsuit and harness with
d-ring to be lowered on cable down a man-made shaft. I recommend flotation
and water-tight food containers. Don't let lack of gear hold you back, ask
your local grotto to help you find the necessary gear so you don't miss out
on this trip. An empty detergent jug with carabiner to hook to outside of
pack works as a good flotation. Best to use group packs unless you are
willing to leave it in for both weekends.

The trip to the sump typically takes 6 hours and includes walking,
salamandering, crawling, and "The Mud and The Crud". Estimate for 12 hour
total trip-6 hours to sump and 6 hours back to man-made entrance. The trip
is challenging but very fun. Camping is available both weekends and we will
enter the cave around 9am.

We are arranging group breakfasts and suppers for cavers both weekends. We
have been asking individuals and grottos for donations to fund the
tank-haul efforts and the Bexar Grotto and UT Grotto have already made
generous donations. Donations will defray group meal costs, small trinkets
for each participant, and consumables for each caver(drinks and snacks).

Dr. Jean Krejca will be hosting a door-prize drawing on the second haul
weekend, Jan 26th. Grand prize is a expedition size cave pack made by Ron
Rutheford. Please bring any extra prizes you have for the prize pool.

Please don't hesitate to ask questions,

Ellie
509-899-0007

Jan 19 Facebook Event Page: https://www.facebook.com/events/277471285691023/
Jan 26 Facebook Event Page: https://www.facebook.com/events/188112567987494/

[Texascavers] Re: Pack Patching Party-Jan 8th! For Honey Creek Tank Haul (and trip updates)

[ellie watson]

Here's a reminder for the *Pack Patching Party* set for next week, Jan 8th,
Tuesday evening around 7-8ish at 300 W Mockingburd Ln, Austin TX. We have
30+ large group packs to repair for the Honey Creek Tank Haul. Those who
help patch group packs are welcome to bring your own personal pack to patch
with supplies provided.  Please let me know if you can come out and if you
have an Awl/Speedy Stitch we can borrow.

We still need cavers to haul group gear on the Honey Creek Tank Haul
Extravaganza, January 19th and January 26th. Please contact me off list if
you want to join the team.

See you soon!

Ellie
509-899-0007

Jan 19 Facebook Event Page: https://www.facebook.com/events/277471285691023/
Jan 26 Facebook Event Page: https://www.facebook.com/events/188112567987494/


On Sat, Dec 22, 2012 at 8:09 PM, ellie watson wrote:

> *Pack Patching Party!* Tentatively set for Jan 8th, Tuesday evening at
> 300 W Mockingburd Ln, Austin TX. We have 30+ large group packs to repair
> for the Honey Creek Tank Haul. Those who help patch group packs are welcome
> to bring your own personal pack to patch for free.  Please let me know if
> you can come out and if you have an Awl/Speedy Stitch we can borrow.
>
> In just 3 weekends we will be embarking on the Honey Creek Tank Haul
> Extravaganza-January 19th and January 26th and we still need cavers to haul
> group gear to the sump. We currently have 30 people signed up for the
> haul-in and the haul-out but are trying to recruit 50+ cavers for each
> weekend. Thank you to all who have already volunteered. Cavers will be
> contributing to original cave exploration to some of the most remote cave
> passages in Texas. We not only need cavers to haul gear in the cave but can
> use surface support to guide things along as cavers are lowered into and
> out of the cave on a tractor. Invite friends...this is a great trip and a
> true *EXTRAVAGANZA*!
>
> TRIP DETAILS
>
> On January 19th, cavers will haul gear to Sump 1 for Dr. Jean Krejca and
> James to begin their 4-day underground camp/exploration. The divers will
> split up their gear into individual loads on the surface, cavers will
> choose a load,  and each person/team is responsible for taking their load
> to the sump. Once cavers get to the sump, they can abandon their gear and
> head back to the surface for an evening of reverie. Jean and James will
> then begin prepping for their dive/diving with Lydia Hernandez and Ellie
> Watson to hold down camp.
>
> On January 26th, cavers will go to Sump 1 and haul gear out of the cave.
>
> Honey Creek is a water cave and you will need a wetsuit and harness with
> d-ring to be lowered on cable down a man-made shaft. I recommend flotation
> and water-tight food containers. Don't let lack of gear hold you back, ask
> your local grotto to help you find the necessary gear so you don't miss out
> on this trip. An empty detergent jug with carabiner to hook to outside of
> pack works as a good flotation. Best to use group packs unless you are
> willing to leave it in for both weekends.
>
> The trip to the sump typically takes 6 hours and includes walking,
> salamandering, crawling, and "The Mud and The Crud". Estimate for 12 hour
> total trip-6 hours to sump and 6 hours back to man-made entrance. The trip
> is challenging but very fun. Camping is available both weekends and we will
> enter the cave around 9am.
>
> We are arranging group breakfasts and suppers for cavers both weekends. We
> have been asking individuals and grottos for donations to fund the
> tank-haul efforts and the Bexar Grotto and UT Grotto have already made
> generous donations. Donations will defray group meal costs, small trinkets
> for each participant, and consumables for each caver(drinks and snacks).
>
> Dr. Jean Krejca will be hosting a door-prize drawing on the second haul
> weekend, Jan 26th. Grand prize is a expedition size cave pack made by Ron
> Rutheford. Please bring any extra prizes you have for the prize pool.
>
> Please don't hesitate to ask questions,
>
> Ellie
> 509-899-0007
>
> Jan 19 Facebook Event Page:
> https://www.facebook.com/events/277471285691023/
> Jan 26 Facebook Event Page:
> https://www.facebook.com/events/188112567987494/
>

[Texascavers] Honey Creek Cave Tank Haul! Haulers Needed January 19th & 26th

[ellie watson]

Texas Cavers,

Its time for another Honey Creek Tank Haul and we need cavers to help
haul dive gear on January 19th and January 26th for legendary
cave-divers Dr. Jean Krejca and James Brown. This is an
all-time-classic trip to an extraordinary cave and one of my personal
favorites! I am keeping the list of those interested please let me
know which dates you can make it. We already have 4 signed up but we
need many more!

Cavers are needed on January 19th to haul gear to Sump 1 for Jean and
James to begin their 2-day underground camp/exploration. On January
26th, cavers are needed to go to Sump 1 and haul gear out of the cave.
Camping is available both weekends and we will enter the cave around
9am.

Honey Creek is a water cave and you will need a wetsuit and harness
with d-ring to be lowered on cable down a man-made shaft. I recommend
flotation and water-tight food containers. The trip to the sump
typically takes 6 hours and includes walking, salamandering, crawling,
and "The Mud and The Crud". The trip is challenging but very fun.

Come for one weekend or both. This is a definite must-do trip for any
new caver and if you have already visited the cave, you know it's
worth seeing again.

Spread the word and please don't hesitate to ask me any questions,

Cavingly,

Ellie Watson

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[Texascavers] TCMA-Rolling Oaks Work Day Announcement, November 10th

[ellie watson]

The Texas Cave Management Association (TCMA) will be having a work day
Saturday, November 10th to dig out a cave (Niche Cave) on one of our
properties, the Rolling Oaks Cave Preserve in Bexar County
(northwestern San Antonio).

We plan to continue to dig out a sinkhole and associated cave that is
full of old ranch trash with additional sediment washing in.  We need
people, buckets, shovels, and other cave-digging tools.  Bring your
own gloves, drinks, and snacks for the work.  TCMA will provide
bottled water.

The cave preserve is located at 224 Laurel Ridge Lane, San Antonio, TX
78253.  All visitors to the Preserve will be asked to sign a liability
waiver.  Look for signs and park along the street. Meet at 10:00 am.
We should be finished with the work by 2pm or so.

I will be on-site if anyone wishes to enter the other caves on the
preserve (Chimney Cricket Cave, Obvious Little Cave, and World Newt
Cave)  after the dig.  Bring your own cave gear.

Please contact me off-list with additional questions. There is no need
to RSVP if you are attending.  Just show up!  If it is raining the
clean-up will be canceled and rescheduled for a later date.

Thanks for your support of TCMA and cave management.

Ellie Watson
TCMA Rolling Oaks Preserve Manager
509-899-0007

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[Texascavers] TSA Members Meeting at TCR, Sunday, October 21st, Paradise Canyon

[ellie watson]

Texas Cavers,

The TSA Business meeting will be held at 8:00 am, Sunday, October
21st, in Paradise Canyon.

Come learn about project updates, committee updates, and offer input
to your organization. We will also conduct 2013 officer elections.

See you soon!

Ellie Watson
TSA Vice Chair

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