Frio In Focus Summer_Fall 2021

Summer-Fall 2021 F r i o I n Fo c u s www.frioinfocus.com

August 2021 - October 2021

Addison and Her Frio River Dog

Shelby Smith All About Style

Lo s

N ral Area

In Focus: Sabinal Singer Kay O’Neil

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ples State a M

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1 2 0 2 r e s c m i Sum River P Frio

Frio In Focus Magazine

May/June/ July 2021

Life’s Lessons Learned Floating the Frio Tradition-

al school may be out during the summer but I’ve found the Frio River is always teaching so long as there is sufficient water and a current flowing.

The wisdom and life’s lessons are there for those navigating the river and paying attention. As the saying goes, ”When the student is ready, the teacher will appear.”

The classroom is the Frio River.

Prospective students will need to bring, a sturdy river tube, water shoes, sunscreen, drinking water to keep hydrated, and other supplies most tubers carry.

Like other schools, transportation to school is available. There are busses, vans and trucks available to take you to school courtesy of Andy’s on River Road, Josh’s, Neals, and Happy Hollow, and other businesses that offer shuttle services to the river crossings.

Unlike traditional schooling, most students would be excited to hear

someone say, “Tomorrow is a school day.” I doubt waking up in the morning would be an issue for many with a river adventure waiting that day.

Once you plop into the river and are seated on your tube, class begins. Students will need to come with patience and be observant.

No need to take notes with a pencil and paper.

Having floated the Frio three times this summer, here are some of the wisdom lessons I’ve learned: Lesson 1: No matter how gradual the current, you will eventually get to the next crossing. Sometimes where the river is deep and wide, the flow of the current is too hard to perceive. If you lay back into your tube and look up, you can see the boughs of the cypress trees overhead, you can see you are moving.

Like many seasons in life, it can sometimes seem those seasons will never end. Perhaps it was those frustrating times in middle school or college. You may feel like an airplane stuck in a holding pattern waiting to be given clearance to land and proceed.

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Just have faith in the flow because those seasons do come to an end eventually.

Lesson 2: As with life, the river current will carry your tube to other tubers. You will be floating and then find you are bumping into other tubes. The Frio River loves introducing you to new friends and acquaintances. A good outlook to have is this: “We are all friends on the river.”

Lesson 3. Different stretches on the river offer different challenges and moves at different paces.

Like the river, sometimes life’s current carries you on a nice and easy flow. Then, due to the shallowness of the water, you’re going to start dragging the bottom and have to get out and walk dragging your tube behind you.

At other times, the current becomes turbulent and you hang on to your tube for dear life. Watch out for the falls ahead which can throw you off your tube and cause scrapes and bruises.

Sometimes the water takes you into an eddy that is hard to escape from. There are usually other tubers who can give you a hand to help pull you out of those.

Lesson 4: Each float trip is a unique experience and cannot be repeated twice. The people you will encounter will never be the same, the weather will be different and the experience will be different every time so savor those journeys.

Finally, as the saying goes. “The joy is in the journey, not in reaching the end,”

Frio In Focus Magazine

May/June/ July 2021

August/ September/ October 2021

24 Catching Up With Cassie Siegel

12 Catchiong the Colors at Maple SNA 6 The Day the River Came Down 4 Love of the Game

7 Cover Photo Addison and Her Frio River Dog 9 Last Untamed Kingdom

by Arnold Gomez

32 In Focus: Shelby Smith Fashion and Style

19 River Road Rally 34 Summer Stargazing 5 Chalk Bluff Park 29 Calendar of Events

32 Are Fall Family Photos A Thing?

Tessa Shandley 14-15-16 & 18 Photo Highlights if Summer 2021 18 Old Friends Create New Sounds

27 Erin Freiboth Kickapoo Caverns

8 Kay O’Neil Sabinal Singer Songwriter May/June/July 2021 Page 3

Frio In Focus Magazine

May/June/ July 2021

The Love of the Game: Continuing the Dream of a Premiere Golf Getaway

D

uring the summer months, golfers start arriving at the course just before sunrise. With the earliest tee time at 6:30 AM, there are a few who put a round of golf at Frio Valley Ranch 1st on their list. About 7:30 AM. the pro shop check-in desk gets busy as golfers from Houston, Austin, Corpus Christi, Dallas, and other cities in Texas arrive to play on the course tucked away in Mountain Valley in Concan, Texas.

In 2006, Kenneth Arthur and his wife Barbara started work on a new, 18-hole golf course now bordered by lots featuring lavish vacation homes within the Concan Country Club gated community.

With the design help of Bechol Russel Golf, the Concan Country Club Golf Course became a reality. From talking to avid golfers and those who were there at the very beginning the course was built “with good bones” with the potential of becoming a premiere Texas Golf Course.

After the passing of Kenneth Arthur, the course was sold to a different owners. Over the years, due to economic changes and a host of other issues, course maintenance and needs were often delayed or put on hold. In recent years, the future of the golf course had become uncertain.

There was even some talk of scrapping the golf course for a water park or some other attraction.

For years, Stacy Young and the Young family had made Concan, Texas their yearly vacation destination, As part of their trips to the area, Stacy played the course many

Page 4 Aug./Sept./Oct. 2021

Golfers start their game at the break of day on the first hole.

times over the years. On one visit, Young learned the golf course was for sale.

According to Young, there were some that thought his idea of purchasing the course was a wild idea but he loved the course and the game and saw the potential.

Having gathered partners and investors, he purchased the course in August of 2020 in the midst of a pandemic.

Young kept the golf course and cantina staff and hired a few more people, Heading into the fall and winter typically known as the “off-season” Young Driving Range is set up and ready met held weekly team meetings with the staff. He included the team in his vision and goals for the course which were at the time and continue to be ambitious. The Green Team, See Frio Valley Ranch: Continued on Page 7

Majestic Bluff and the Clear Flowing Nueces River Makes Chalk Bluff Resort at Must Visit Location Venture westward from the Frio River region or drive

northwest of Uvalde and you’ll discover a clear stretch of the Nueces River at Chalk Bluff Resort. It’s a location ideal for tubing, kayaking, or just reclining within the current. Compared to the Frio River, the Nueces River area is not as commercialized and it’s definitely on the road less traveled.

Having lived in the area for over 15 years, I’d heard of the Chalk Bluff Resort located just off Highway 55 but didn’t really know what I was missing. When I turned off Highway 55 onto the road leading to the resort, I soon saw the towering bluff in front of me as I approached the entrance.

Chalk Bluff Resort has been in business for a long time and the cabins and facilities aren’t brand new but they seem well maintained and the park is clean. It’s a place you can really get connected to the beauty and grandeur of nature.

Family Owned and operated the resort offers cabins, RV sites with hookups, as well as tent camping.

In addition to the long stretch of the river flowing through the resort, the park offers an exotic wildlife encounter featuring giraffes, camels, horses, and more.

Additionally, they offer hayrides.

Other outdoor possibilities include bird watching, hiking, fishing, and stargazing.

The country night sky is exceptionally dark and the stars pepper the night sky in the area near to the resort. The Milky Way is can be clearly seen on a moonless night.

While visiting the office, I learned about a group that comes to the location to do base jumping off the bluff.

Chalk Bluff Park is open year-round. Day passes are available.

Visit them at www.chalkbluffresort.com Aug./Sept./Oct. 2021

Page 5

Frio In Focus Magazine

May/June/ July 2021

The Day the River Came Down

by Michael Robinson

Early morning rains passed through the Texas Hill Country River Region lasting for a brief time before sunrise on Tuesday, June 22nd. What little rain that fell in the Concan area wouldn’t cause the Frio River to see a significant rise in water levels. However, additional rainfall north in the Texas Hill Country was significant enough to cause the Frio River to start coming down. This caused a sudden rise in water levels and the currents sweeping brush and other debris along its wake.

On Facebook. Brett Rimkus with Garner State Park reported on Facebook Live from the Alto Frio Crossing near Leakey before 9 AM this morning as the water was slowly A tube minus a tuber was one of the first pieces of debris to wash down through the Kenneth Arthur/Frio Country Crossing. increasing due to rainfall to the North.

At approximately 1 PM there were still many peoThe Uvalde Country Visitor’s Center ple reclining in the Frio River and on the banks near posted the following released statement on their FaceFrio Country. At that time, there were no tubers in book page. the river.

“The Frio River is on the rise. This is from the 1120 I deciding to park and head back to the Arthur North Bridge in Leakey, taken around 7:40 am by JerCrossing or 2nd Crossing to take pictures and talk ry Wayne Bates and Brett Rimkus. The rise can move with the people there about the prospect of the river quickly down the river and can be a powerful force. It coming down. We waited for about 30- 45 minutes to will likely slow down by the time it reaches Concan, see any change in the current. but we encourage everyone to be mindful and stay On a couple of occasions and one last time right out of the river this morning until it passes. This type before the strong, debris-filled water came of rise can carry debris and trash as it washes out the river, and will look murky as it passes.”

See the River Came Down continued on Page 24

Page 6 Aug./Sept./Oct. 2021

Frio In Focus Magazine

May/June/ July 2021

Love of the Game Continued from Page 4

Range Crew and Cantina staff, and Pro Shop staff had a lot to do. Improvements to the course, facilities had to be done.

Work improving the tee boxes, bunkers, fairways continued through the winter months.

One of the aspects of the course that needed to be upgraded were the course’s bunkers. When Young took ownership of the course in July 2020, the bunkers on the course consisted of hard soil and were’t considered playable.

During the off season winter month’s leading to Spring 2021, Larson Golf was brought in to upgrade the bunkers. Larson and his team transformed the dirt bunker\s using state-of the art innovations. The sand and other materials allowed for improved drainage so the bunkers would drain any excess water due to rain.

While no golfer likes his/her golf ball to land in the bunkes, at least the bunkers are playable and the asthetic look increased the beauty of the course.

The course was even closed for a week in February 2021 as a severe arctic storm brought freezing temperatures and snow.

A few weeks later with spring temperatures returning, the fairways started to green up and with a rainy spring season, the golf course just came to life.

Seeing the golfers return this summer, the enthusiasm for the game and the experience Frio Valley Ranch offers is on a whole new level.

Providing golfers with an a memorable experience on a beautiful and challenging course is the high standard Young and his team strive for.

The Frio Valley Ranch golf course is open to the public and is working towards being one of the top

A golfer aims for precision on the putt.

Inprovements to the bunkers made a difference to the course playablity and aestheic beauty.

Frio Valley Ranch 520 Mountain Valley Concan, TX 78838 (830) 232-4471

www.friovalleyranch.com

Instagram: @FrioValleyRanch

August/September/October 2021 Page 7

Frio In Focus Magazine

May/June/ July 2021

In Focus with Kay O’Neil Ever since I could walk, my parents took me to Bart Crow Band concerts and I’d be bopping away and when I started talking I was always singing.

One day while I was at my daycare around 3 or 4 I was singing a song to one of my friends and sang the whole song through. I was so happy that I ended up going to my daycare lady and sang it to her.

She started calling me her little Taylor Swift because what girl my age wasn’t obsessed with her however I didn’t start taking lessons until I was 10 yrs old. One of my best friends was taking guitar lessons at Studio 3 in Uvalde and she and her mom suggested that I look into it. I started with vocals and two years later started learning guitar but once I started I knew it was definitely what career I wanted to pursue.

Well I grew up listening to all sorts of music. I had a wide variety sprawled before me of old country, rock, texas country, of course, what was on the radio, and even some pop and rap in there(although those definitely didn’t make it into my music). The older I got the more I ventured out with my music interests and found classic songs like Jimmy Rogers and Lefty Frizzel that got me into a whole other side of country music. I’m always trying to find new genres and decades to explore but my biggest influences for my music have been Patsy Cline, Merle Haggard, Flatland Cavalry, and Tyler Childers. There’re plenty more but I’d say those are the ones I find myself playing the most 3: I started off playing in the Ironwood bar in my hometown, Sabinal, about two years ago and met Uel Jackson who was kind enough to let me play at the Leakey Inn with him. After I got started Nora from Noras Tacos reached out to me and asked if I would play every week in her restaurant and I’ve been playing there every Friday for about a year and a half now. When Covid hit I didn’t have anywhere to play so my dad and I looked all around for venues and found Gravity Check-in Kerrville.

Throughout my time there I learned a lot and met people who let me play with them in the Bandera area. I also have been going to Luckenbach when I get the chance to play in the picker’s circle. I’ve Page 8 Aug./JSept./Oct. 2021

actually been playing in Concan for quite some time now. When I started on my country journey I played at the Fall on the Frio BBQ cook-off with Frio Country Resort.

My sister has been working with them for a while and she told the owner about me and now I perform there every year. Another venue I’ve played in Concan is Hippies, Gypsies, and Hops. Sherry reached out to me on Facebook and since then i’ve played there twice, one of those being for Chic Church they had with Frio Country Resort. I’ve taken every opportunity I’ve had and each one I’ve been blessed with.

Kay Talks about Her Music I would describe the music I play as 50’s-70’s country music with a splash of Texas country. I also play bluegrass and folk. But for the original songs that I’ve been working on I’d call it Texas country but lots of the songs still have a classic country sound to them.

I have done a lot of songwriting. I’ve always loved poetry and lyrics since I was little and I’ve kept up with it. I started writing poetry when I was about 11 years old and started writing songs around 14(I’m 16 now). I’ve written a whole notebook of songs and I still have loads I’m working on. I have 11 out of the See Kay O’Neil, Continued on Page 17

Frio In Focus Magazine

May/June/ July 2021

Last Untamed Kingdom

By Arnoldo Gomez

Devil’s River State Natural Area Devil’s River State Natural Area is a remote location surrounded by private ranches and is a 37,000-acre (15,000 ha) section of three ecosystems, the Edwards Plateau, the Tamaulipan mezquital and the Chihuahuan Desert. It is located 66 miles (106 km) north of Del Rio. Devils River SNA has been designated an International Dark Sky Sanctuary by the International Dark-Sky Association (IDA), making it the only Dark Sky Sanctuary in Texas. As the sixth International Dark Sky Sanctuary to receive the title, Devils River SNA is recognized as one of the darkest and most ecologically fragile sites in the world.

We decided to visit the park and camp for a night and hike to the river for a swim on July 17th. 2020. The park is only Open on Weekends and once you get to the Dolan Road entrance you still must drive 22 miles on a dirt road to get to the park. So, I suggest an SUV or better a truck to make your trip. We camped at site #5.

I setup a tent which I left to my wife and I decided I would sleep under the stars on a cot since it would be a very nice cool evening. After setting up camp the temperature rose to 111. We decided to go for the swim and jumped in the truck to drive down to the parking area from which we would have to hike .9 miles down to the river. The hike was not far but it did consist of hiking down an old Ranch road which crossed a dried creek bed and then back up a hill then again down to the river.

There was a shelter .5 miles in from the parking lot that gave relief from the sun and the 111 heat. Everything you want on your swim you will have to take with you on your hike. Therefore, I saw many individuals using small wagons to take not only items but small children to the river. Arriving at the river I saw a bathroom and the trail continuing upriver for what I was told 1 mile of river front. We selected a spot with a nice rocky outcropping and enjoyed the clear cool water. Two hours later we decided to head back to camp to have dinner and enjoy the evening sky. The hike back was more enjoyable than the first leg since we were still wet from See Untamed Kingdom Continued on Page 26

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Frio In Focus Magazine

Aug./Sept./ Oct. 2021

Addison and Her Frio River Dog

Family’s Black Lab Retrieves Trash from the Frio If it floats or sinks to the bottom, it doesn’t matter to Grace. She’s got this!

Addison Burgin, a freshman in High School has a special furry family member named Grace that loves swimming in the Frio River. Addison is the daughter of Shane and April Burgin. Like many families who live in the Frio Canyon area, Gracie is continuing her own family legacy of loyalty, willingness to selflessly serve, and living life to the fullest on the Frio River.

Grace is a black labrador retriever who lives up to her retriever part of her breed. Grace’s specialty is leaping into the river and picking up any trash she can find in the river. It doesn’t matter if the item is an aluminum can, plastic water bottle, a potato chip bag, or a lost sandal. Gracie will immediately lock in on its position, grab the item and bring it back to shore.

Grace not only will swim for trash but will dive for trash items submerged in the water.

Word has spread over the years about Grace and Addison team have become somewhat famous in the Concan area, During the summers, Addison works at Frio’s Dry Fifty.

Addison’s parents Shane and April Burgin and Chase Roosa manage the Concan Swimming Hole which is just one of several places along the Frio River Grace can be seen in action cleaning up river trash.

When asked where they take grace to swim for trash, she mentioned the Fall’s is one of several locations where tubers lose a lot of stuff. It’s a good location.

I was invited to the Concan Swimming Hole early on a Saturday morning in July to meet Addison and Grace and see the duo in action.

At the Concan Swimming Hole gate, Grace was riding in the back of the family’s truck wearing a yellow bandana and seeming to be all smiles. After getting out of the truck, Grace headed for the river, Addison stood alongside the banks with an empty beer can and tossed it into the water. Grace immediately sprung into action by diving into the water and found the can bringing it back to shore in a matter of seconds.

Grace will sometimes swim out in the river and dive down only to come back up for river rock, and then bringing that back to shore.

April mentioned one time when Grace was swimming in the water retrieving trash, there was a nearby

Page 10 Aug./Sept./Oct. 2021

Dog Grace and her owner Addison

tuber who tossed an unopened can of beer to a friend floating nearby. Grace intercepted the beer can and clamped down on it causing a can of beer to rupture with beer exploding from it.

“How did Grace get started retrieving trash from the river?” Grace began a little over three years ago, Grace started by learning to pick up rocks from the river and bringing them back. I then learned that Grace is continuing a dog family tradition. Grace’s mother retrieved items also, The Burgin family has for many years have continued over the years keeping a puppy from the same linage of dogs.

Grace is not only one of several generations of labradors that really do retrieve. But they are also known to be immensely loyal and look after their owners.

Gracie accompanies Addison and is willing to protect her from any perceived threat.

Grace does much more than swim for trash and dive for trash. Grace will even climb on those giant rocks situated at the Concan Swimming Hole and dive off of them! It is an amazing sight to behold.

At my visit to the Swimming Hole, I watched Addison climb onto the diving rock along with Grace. At

See Frio River Dog, Continued on Page 11

Frio In Focus Magazine

Aug./Sept./ Oct. 2021

Addison and Her Frio River Dog Continued from Page 10

the top. Grace would look to Addison to give the cue for Grace to take the plunge, With a big splash, Grace would them scamper up top the top of the big rock to go again.

One could tell Grace feels right at home in the Frio River. As long as Addison is around, Grace is always ready to do her part to keep the Frio River free of the trash.

Grace the dog searches for an empty aluminum can somewhere in the Frio River

Diver Down: Dog Grace is not afraid to dive for Trash

Aug./Sept./Oct. 2021

Page 11

Frio In Focus Magazine

August/September/ October 2021

Catching the Fall Colors Lost Maples State Natural Area

By Michael Robinson

Want to catch the brilliant red and orange

colors of the Maple Trees at Lost Maples State Natural Area this year? Start Planning Now. Catching the Maple Trees at their color peak is actually pretty challenging and the window of opportunity is narrower than you may think. Yet, if you are a nature enthusiast, outdoor photographer, or just want to enjoy the aesthetic beauty of the Fall Maple Fashion Show you will need to do some advance planning as driving up to Lost Maples State Park on a whim without a day-pass or camping permit reserved well in advance, you are likely to get turned away at the park entrance. Here are a few tips and resources Jane and John at Lost Maples SNA in the fall of 2020 which could help in your trip planning. through mid November, First things first, you will want to make note If you are planning on staying a few days, there are a of these online resources: number of places to stay in the vicinity of Lost MaThe Lost Maples State Natural Area Fall Foliage ples SNA. There is the Seco Ridge Campground in Report: Updated weekly, every Thursday, this is an Utopia, Also, there are a number of lodging possibilion-the-ground report of what the trees look like right now (pictures included) and describes at what stage the Maple Trees are currently in as far leaves changing colors.

The Lost Maples State Park Facebook Page: For an up-to-date report on the status of the trees and how booked, generally speaking, the park is getting.

Texas Parks and Wildlife State Park Reservations: This website is by far the most important as October and November are peak season months for the park. : The Texas State Parks website states the following general information about Lost Maples SNA: DAY USE FEE:$6 per day, per person 13 and older.

Tips for Catching the Bright Maples at their Peak During early October, the weekend day passes start becoming scarce and as the month progresses weekends become sold out. However, During the first three weeks of October, weekday passes are typically available, so if you can schedule your Lost Maples trip during the week, you have a better chance of getting in the park.

A window of time when the Lost Maple’s maple trees often change colors is sometime between October 15th

Page 12 Aug./Sept./Oct. 2021

Some of the most colorful Maple trees are close to the parking areas.

ties in the Concan, area less than an hour’s drive from Lost Maples State Natural Area.

When will the Maple Leaves start changing col-

Frio In Focus Magazine

August / September/ October 2021

ors? It depends on the temperatures as well as the amount of rainfall received during the

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fall. For example, if a cold snap occurs in October, it could spur on the process of the leaves starting to turn from green to red and orange.

Two years ago last fall, I planned a trip up to Lost Maples in late October to see Maple’s fall colors. Unfortunately for me, an early cold snap occurred a few days before. The cold snap brought rain and gusty winds which effectively blew most of the Maple leaves off the trees. I arrived only to find just a few maples trees with bright fall colors. The winds blew most of the foliage off the trees onto the ground.

The color prime time may last for several weeks or it may be short-lived. Catching the peak of the Maple Trees in all their colorful brilliance is similar to shooting at a moving target.

If you book a date and you happen to miss the peak, the good news is Lost Maples State Natural area has amazing scenery including trails, streams, and rock features that are amazing any time of year.

During the Maple’s color peak, there are lots of photo opporunities.

Day Access fills up quickly. Make sure you reserve your day passes ahead of time before making the trip to Lost Maples SNA.

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Featuring Traditional & Authentic Kolaches & Klobasneks

Look for my food truck located in the back parking lot at Andy’s On River Road Aug./Sept./Oct. 2021

Page 13

Frio In Focus Magazine

August/September/October 2021

Highlights of Summer 2021

Tube Stacking

Getting all those tubes to the float can a challange. Seeing pickup trucks hauling mountains of inflated tubes is a common sight in the Concan area and along River Road.

This group was seen need Andy;s on River Road in July 2021. I didn’t stick aroud to see if they actualy were successful at loading all those tubes up and getting them to their first river crossing.

Perhaps tube staking could be a new Summer Olympic sport?

Below: Lindsey Long and her golden retriever enjoy recliding bear the bank of the Frio River

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Azzie Earnst and her friends pause for a photo near the Frio Country Crossing.

Page 14 Aug./Sept./Oct. 2021

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Frio In Focus Magazine

Aug./Sept./ Oct.2021

Highlights of Summer 2021

(Top Left:) Have you heard about the Lonesome Tuber? Person carrying a red tube over the dam at the Nueces River Dam near Wes Cooksey Park. (Top Right:) Nita Bedford and her friends at Happy Hollow with a copy of the first issue of Frio in Focus Magazine.

Pink Flamingo inflatables both large and small were seen on the Frio River in 2021.

A family tries out Fluzzle Tube inflatables.

Frio In Focus Magazine

Aug/Sept./Oct./ 2021

Highlights of Summer 2021

Top: Family on the bank o the Frio near the Kenneth Arthur/Frio Country Crossing waits for the flood waters to come down,

Left Center: Braelyn and Lauren. play a game of catch in the river at the Concan Swimming Hole.

Page 16 Aug./Sept./Oct.2021

Frio River Crossings were very popular in June 2021

In Focus with Kay O’Neil (Continued from Page 8)

many that will be making it on an album called Fool for Love Songs here pretty soon along with a couple singles and an EP.”

Kay O’Neil in Nashville

We’ll it’s really crazy how recording in Nashville came about. I go to Living Water’s church in Utopia and one day a lady I’ve talked to maybe once came up to us and told me that her son worked at a studio in Nashville if we were interested in any recording.

My dad was a little skeptical at first because we had already tried to work with one studio and it was a big letdown. However, I was not because it seemed like a Godsend.

A few days later he called my dad and explained everything he needed to know. Then a few weeks later I got my friend Shane to learn some lead to my songs and now here we are counting down the days until it’s time to have the hard part finished!

I’m beyond excited because I’ve always wanted to go to Nashville and have my own album and now I’m having them given to me in a bundle.

My hopes for the future are to have people hear my music and be touched by it. The Lord has been working through me with every song I’ve written and I can’t wait to share my passion with the world.

Our 37 Summer on the Frio!

A Frio Tradition!

Frio’s Dry Fifty T-shirts

Souvenirs

Gift Shop

Kay’s New Albumn Update

I’m not super sure when the album will be coming out but the recording should be done by the end of July and then I just have to wait for the finished copy. I’m thinking it will for sure be done by the end of this year so y’all just follow me to keep

The Next Issue of Frio In Focus Magazine will be published in March 2022

Snack Shop and More! @friosdryfifty

/friosdryfifty

www.friosdryfifty.com

21239 Tx Hwy 127, Concan, Tx 78838

Aug./Sept./Oct.2021

(830) 232-6300

Page 17

Frio In Focus Magazine

Aug./Sept./ Oct 2021

Guy in a cowboy hat waves as he starts his float trip from Seven Bluff Crossing to the Frio Country Crossing.

Jennifer Salzar (left) and her mom Star are out for a morning walk near theFrio Valley Ranch Golf Course.

Group of Gals pose for a photo before starting their float from Frio Country.

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Frio In Focus Magazine

Aug./Sept. Oct.2021

First Annual River Road Rally Slated for September 24th - 26th, 2021

Andy’s on River Road is excited about our upcoming off season and the events we will be hosting each month.

We will be kicking off our events with our First Annual River Road Rally on September 24-26, 2021.

This event is sponsored by Texas Hill Country River Region. Andy’s on River Road proudly supports our community as well as several other non-profit organizations.

As with all our events, the River Road Rally is non-profit, and all proceeds will be going to The Wounded Warrior Project.

During the rally, we will offer 2 guided Poker Runs through Twisted Sisters, vendors, food trucks, Show & Shine, and live music

by Journey cover band, Departure ATX. Prizes will be awarded to the winners of the Show & Shine as well as the Poker Run. Our wrist bands are available for purchase on our website www. floatthefrio.com. Each event is $25.00, or a VIP wrist band is available for $75.00.

The VIP wristband will include entry into all events and a few special treats.

We are also offering special pricings on our cabins during the rally.

Our VIP River Road Cabins are available at $500 for a 2-night stay and our VIP Riverside

Cabins are available at $575 for a 2-night stay.

The VIP Cabin rentals will come with 4 VIP wristbands to enter all events for the rally.

Visit our Facebook page @AndysOnRiverRoad or our website for all information on the rally and our upcoming monthly events.

Aug./Sept./Oct.2021 Page 19

Frio In Focus Magazine

Are Fall Family Photos a Thing?

Aug./Sept./ Oct. 2021

By Tessa Shandley- The Frio Gal

YES!!! Especially on the Frio River.

While summer is my favorite season of all (by far), the best time in my humble opinion to book a photo session is the fall. Besides getting the most gorgeous, irreplaceable photos that will last a lifetime, you can enjoy my favorite fall scent ever.

The smell of the crisp, fallen pecan leaves as you walk crunching Josh and Tessa Shandley under your feet. It instantly Photo by Amanda Silva takes me back to my childhood and all of the fond memories I have from this area. If you want this experience to the max, then you must visit The Frio Pecan Farm while in the area, we the Shandley fam, LOVE it there.In Texas, its warmish / coolish enough in the fall to get away with wearing your dream outfit without burning up or freezing and in other news your perfect makeup won’t melt off in ten minutes like it Photo by Amanda Silva would in the summer heat. Thus leaving you with the most ideal photo setup possible. Whether you are looking to take some gorgeous engagement, family, styled shoot (or any photo session type really) fall is your time to shine on the Frio River. It’s still green enough here that there are some native blooms and grasses to give color in addition to incredible Texas fall color change, not to mention the weather usually cooperates in Page 20 Aug./Sept./Oct. 2021

the area during the fall. We strive to shoot our Christmas card photos in the Fall to avoid the last-minute rush during the holidays (and me possibly failing to mail them out). ro tip: The Frio is almost uninhabited in the “off season” aka FALL. Leaving you and your photographer with the most

Photo by Amanda Silva

Live Oaks Bed & Breakfast Country Serenity minutes from small town shopping and dining

Easy drive to Garner State Park the Frio and Nueces Rivers

The Rooms Treehouse Poolside Cabana Lodge

Nathan and Cara Hiebert: Owners 6 Tanglewood, Uvalde, Texas 78801 830-591-2340

www.liveoaksbb.com

Frio In Focus Magazine

Aug,/Sept./ Oct. 2021

Are Fall Family Photos a Thing?

By Tessa Shandley- The Frio Gal

gorgeous jewel-like water backdrop & pretty leaves practically to yourself.

My photographer of choice is for any type of session is Amanda Silva of her very own The Texas Tumbleweed Photography (she comes so highly recommended by me!) She is so incredible in all shooting situations.

Not only is she extremely kind and personable, but she makes all of my photography dreams come true. Bridal, Family, the kids worm business, the list goes on and on.

She goes above and beyond to make sure our photos turn out PERFECT ( I mean wading fully dressed in the Frio River in blue Jeans to get the shot perfect). She works wonders with babies, children and husbands of all ages.

Her style is perfectly unposed in my book. Her eye for detail is unsurpassed and the result of it produces authentic, real life beauty. I cannot wait to work with her again soon.

Your photographer will have recommendations based on your photo goals.

Frio Gal Photo Location Ideas: The Frio River The Inn Between Garner State Park Josh’s Wherever your stay is booked Even if you’re not with a photographer, be sure to stop by our photo ops at Josh’s Frio River Outfitters in Concan and Leakey, TX and take some selfies. Our backdrops make it easy to get gram worthy photos. Find and tag me on Instagram and Facebook! Josh and I love seeing your fun vacay pictures and it brings me so much joy and happiness to see fun memories made in the cool spaces we created for your enjoyment.

I hope you feel inspired to visit the area this offseason when the cottage and cabin rates are low and the area is the most exclusive. If you need help finding the perfect place to stay send me a message. I would be happy to make a recommendation of my favorite staycation sites based on your needs.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, thank you, thank you, thank you for the beautiful seasons, thank you for the Frio River and for the ability to make special memories. Thank you for our wonderful photographer and all of the other photographers out there. Thank you for all of our wonderful local lodging options with their kind owners. I pray that they are all Blessed and that our visitors are remind-

Photo by Amanda Silva

ed of You when they see and experience the unique beauty of the area I call home.

In Your name we pray, Amen.

Edwards Furniture

On the Downtown Square in Historic Uvalde, Texas

Come See What’s On Sale!

Furniture Decor Flooring Gifts and More

Across from the Uvalde Post Office Aug./Sept./Oct. 2021

Page 21

Frio In Focus Magazine

Aug./Sept./ Oct.2021

Frio Upriver

By Stacey Morrison

Faith and Taking Risks

by Michael Robinson

Sometimes in life, you have to take a risk and be

brave. Back at the beginning of 2018, I had reached a point in my life where I just couldn’t keep doing the same old, same old and maintain my health and sanity.

One of the decisions I made a couple of years ago was to leave a job without a job to go to next. Actually, I really didn’t want a job at all. I wanted to start my own business and become an entrepreneur.

One day while watching YouTube videos, I found a guy who went by the name: Brave Dave. On Brave Dave’s channel, he had a video titled: Brave Dave’s Big Fat Train Hop. Ok, It sounded interesting so I decided to check it out.

So Brave Dave is this guy in his 30’s from the United Kingdom. He decided he’s going to fly to the east coast of Canada and then hop on freight Page 22 Aug./Sept./Oct. 2021

trains to travel all the way to the west coast of Canada. He did prepare for the trip. He had: a radio which picked up the frequencies used by the railroad companies when communicating to their railway workers and security guards. He also had a smartphone with a solar battery charger. He also was able to connect to the internet during his trip.

Not sure how that was possible but he mentioned something about Canada and their internet access.

He also packed a coat and carried a backpack. He had a map of the railway routes also. For the most part, he was traveling light.

He does mention at the beginning of his videos about this journey what he is doing is dangerous and illegal and doesn’t recommend anyone do what he is doing. Basically, it was the “Don’t try this at home.” disclaimer.

Throughout his journey, he nearly missed the

Frio In Focus Magazine

Funny Signs

Seen around the Hill Country

With so many business which are short staffed and looking for help, perhaps even the below average receptionists have a good chance of being hired. Sign seen in a business window in Camp Wood.

Aug,/Sept./ Oct.2021

trains he wanted to hop, got chased by “the Bulls”: a slang term for the railroad police.

He changed trains a number of times.

He met up with a few friends in some towns along the way. He hid in the brush and basically winged it.

So what happened? The amazing thing was Brave Dave made it. He got to see some incredible natural scenery in Canada in isolated and remote locations.

Brave Dave took risks and succeeded. Brave Dave’s bravery taught me to be brave also.

While I wasn’t hopping trains, I would be hopping on some river tubes a couple of years later!

The saying, “The cat down the road has got your back.” encourages me also. There will be opportunities and resources, and friends you don’t currently have, but you will meet them in the future.

Throughout the risk-taking, I’ve learned to trust God and his plan for me. God holds my future in His Hands.

Each day, I have the opportunity to lay my fears and concerns over to Him and face each day things will work out even if I don’t know how.

El Progreso Memorial Library Back to School -Come Visit Us This Fall

School’s out douring the summer but there are signs that students still remember their Chemistry even during the summer!

Weekly Story Hour Free Library Special Programs Cards : E-Books 3-D Printer - Make Something! (All TexasResidents) w us on Wildscape Garden llo Used Book Store SW Texas Museum 11 County Regional Archives Fo

• • • • • • • •

301 West Main Street Uvalde, Texas 78801

www.elprogreso.org 830-278 -2017

Aug./Sept./Oct. 2021

Page 23

Frio In Focus Magazine

Aug/Sept/Oct. 2021

The Day the River Came Down (Continued from Page 6)

Spectators gather on CR 127 bridge at Neal’s Crossing hoping to see the turbulent flood waters wash down the Frio River.

down, the Concan Fire Department ordered river goers: “Get out of the water now!”

The water steadily increased with a large log being one of the first signs the river was coming down.

A short time later, an unoccupied river tube came floating down the river.

After staying about 10 minutes at the 2nd Crossing, I got back in my car and traveled to the Concan Swimming Hole.

There were still between 50 -75 people in the river there A pair of tubers seen in front of the flood waters. although a Concan Swimming Hole staff member was using a bull horn to warn river goers to get out of the water.

It was about 30 minutes later the turbulent dark water came down. Several tubers floated down near the front of the torrent having gotten down to the Falls area of the river when their group got Page 24 Aug/Sept/Oct. 2021

A tuber who got caught in the flood near the Falls rides the turbulent waters down to the Concan Swimming Hole.

caught by the current. Bush and limbs of various sizes were carried down the river along mixed with plastic bottles and other trash. At least two canopies and a large unicorn float were left in the river as the water descended.

About a dozen persons could be seen on the pedestrian walkway of the CR 127 bridge looking down at the Frio River below taking pictures and filming the spectacle.

Frio In Focus Magazine

Aug./Sept./ Oct. 2021

Catching Up With Cassie Siegel A Newcomer to the Frio River Area Where are you originally from?

Hometown area.

What did you do prior to coming to Texas andConcan?

I’m from McHenry, Illinois, which is a suburb about an hour north of Chicago. Throughout middle school and high school, I spent most of my time at Fire House Gym where I was a competitive cheerleader. Aftergraduating high school, I went to community college for two years to get my Associate’s, and then I transferred to Iowa State in 2017.

I graduated from Iowa State with my Bachelor’s in Biology and AnimalEcology in 2019. Before moving to Texas, I held jobs in a plant genetics lab, a wildlife rehab facility, a veterinary clinic, and a chemistry lab.

What brought you to Concan and the Frio River area?Where do you work and some things you do outside of work?

“I moved to Texas in October to work a seasonal position for Texas Parks and Wildlife at the Chronic Wasting Disease check station in Hondo. After moving to Texas, I quickly realized that I wanted to make this a permanent move. I started at the Visitor Center in Concan in March as River Cleanup Coordinator.

I’m super passionate about the outdoors and I love that my position is focused on preserving our beau-

tiful rivers in Texas.

If I’m not in the office at the Visitor Center, you can probably find me on the river or doing something out in nature! I also really enjoy bird watching, and I’ve recently gotten into wildlife photography.”

What is something you really like about this area? What was a surprise to you?

I love how friendly and welcoming everyone I’ve met has been, that’s definitely not something I’m used to coming from Illinois. I’ve been so lucky to meet some amazing people here in Concan. I’m so happy I ended up here!

Any other comments you’d like to share?

We are always looking for volunteers to help us keep the rivers clean! If you are interested in getting a group together, Uvalde County will award groups $10 per person, per hour of cleanup, to the charity of their choice. Or if you want to volunteer on your own or with a friend, you can come to the Visitor Center to sign in and get supplies! When you’re done, take a selfie with your bag of trash on the river, and thenbring it to the Visitor Center to dispose of it and enter into our end of season raffle! Prizes include a free two night off season stay with Andy’s on River Road, beach chairs, golf passes, and more!

Email me cassie@visituvaldecounty.com to schedule!

Instagram: @cassiesiegel Aug/Sept/Oct. 2021

Page 25

Frio In Focus Magazine

Aug./Sept./Oct. 2021

Last Untamed Kingdom Continued from Page 9

the swim. A quick stop at the park showers for an evening shower and back to camp where we ate dinner and stargazed until bedtime.

The night sky was awesome, the Milky Way was visible like a cloudy path across the sky. We could see Jupiter, Saturn and many stars like diamonds hanging from the sky with an occasional satellite cruising by. As the wife fell asleep in her tent, I tried to sleep but kept waking to the brilliant sky and cool breeze. At 2am I heard the wife move and we talked until we were astounded by a very bright object traveling across the sky. At first, I thought it was a meteorite but because of the breakup and brilliance of the object with no sound whatsoever I was sure it was a man-made object reentering the earths atmosphere. We were treated to a brilliant

fireball, magical and jaw dropping. Once I had cell

Roclet Booster creates unexpected fireball.

(Picture by Arnoldo Gomez)

Page 26

Aug/Sept/Oct. 2021

Arnoldo Gomez takes a selfie on the trail.

(Picture by Arnoldo Gomez)

(Picture by Arnoldo Gomez)

Arnoldo Gomez takes a selfie on the trail.

(Picture by Arnoldo Gomez)

Frio In Focus Magazine

Aug./Sept./ Oct. 2021

Kickapoo Caverns

by Erin Freiboth, Promotions and Sales Specialist, Texas Parks and Wildlife

On the edge of the Hill Country’s Southwestern edge can be found a little-known place of adventure and relaxation, Kickapoo Cavern State Park. Situated away from the metro-complexes and small towns alike the park offers that chance to see from atop its Erin Freiboth hills lands unbroken by manmade structures and away from the sounds of civilization, where only the shapes of nature proliferate. A quiet serenity thrives upon its trails where ancient fossils can be found on the ground and the songs of the wind in its trees.

Under its ground lays a true wonder, the Kickapoo Cavern. In this place you can do something forbidden in so many caves.

You can touch it! The cave is mostly dead meaning the vast majority of its stalagmite, stalactites, and its two massive columns, rising as tall as an eight-story building are no longer growing. The reason being the drop Photo by Erin Freiboth in the water table over the millenniums. In some places you can even see what the inside of the structures look like. Yellow rectangular crystals! An astonishment even to me!

On the ceiling in places helictite can been seen, a delicate cave formation that defies gravity growing in twists and turns and even back up to the roof. The floor is made of giant pieces of the roof over 130 feet deep, the pieces called rockfall because “rock fall down”. At the end of the cave after traversing the path through the rockfall, over the flowstones by the mas-

Photo by Erin Freiboth

sive columns peering into their core of yellow crystals, and under the whimsical helictite you come to sit and turn off the lights. In the utter complete darkness, an odd feeling emerges and allows sound and touch to dominate the senses.

To go on the Kickapoo Cavern Tour, advanced reservations are required costing $10 per person. To reserve go the Online Texas State Parks reservation system or call our Call Center at (512) 389-8900.

On the surface, the entrance of the Struat Bat Cave has seasonal evening show of roughly 1 million Mexican free-tailed bats taking flight to eat almost 10 tons of insects, including mosquitoes, nightly. This show happens from mid-March to the end of October.

The park has 20 charming and shaded camping sites and 1 open air group camping site fitting up to 30 people.

Kickapoo Caverns State Park stands on my top 5 favorite state parks list, a place I would love to visit again and again!

Aug/Sept/Oct. 2021

Page 27

Frio In Focus Magazine

We’re

Aug,/Sept./ Oct. 2021

Old Friends Create Fresh Sounds In Focus Interview: We Can Chill

actually not a band. But more of a collective of artists who individually bring a different sound to the table.

We call ourselves “WE CAN CHILL”. But like.. all together (WECANCHILL) The group conists of ThatGuy!?, Dizzy J, and Rob Camps.

We, all write and record music, music videos, have merchandise, and pretty soon some live shows showcasing the local talent in the area.

We all made music as kids, and eventually found each other through school or other activities. Naturally we became friends. We started making music, and different type of content. We decided to put it out as a team. Thus, creating WECANCHILL. We also work at the golf course here in Concan.

All 3 of us. Together.

Rob, otherwise known as Rob Camps aka “The Golden Child” does all of the production, videography or graphic designs we use in our content and merchandise.

JJ, or Dizzy J as we call him, brings an aggressive type of rap vibe to the team. He can also slow it down if he has to haha Mark, aka ThatGuy!? is just a powerhouse when it comes to different styles of music. He can sing or rap over pretty much any instrumental.

We mostly float around the genres of Rap, Hip-Hop, R&B, and even pop. Safe to say we got a lot of bases covered. We’ll even do country if we have to haha What are Some artists and music styles that have influenced your group’s sound?

Anything from Bone Thugs-N-Harmony, to Bryson Tiller, to New Found Glory. I guess there’d be way too many to name.

Definitely gaining a following. I guess its pretty hard to get people to listen to some music haha Other

Page 28 Aug./Sept./Oct. 2021

than that.

Perfecting our craft I would say. Finding our own sound.

Putting on great performances. The usual growing pains of a musician.

About 99.99% original music. We might throw in a cover in one of our sets someday. Keep an eye out!

Future Ambitions and Goals

We wanna hit the road for sure! Travel the world and just create music.

What are some opportunities you’d like to see come Hmm.. definitely some airplay of some sort. Whether Or just search us on any platforms you stream music on. Just make sure to Use the “!?” in ThatGuy!? haha What are some gigs you’d like to be able to play at and where?

We really wanna play at the Hippie Chic’s down the road from us. Maybe even House Pasture. Just alot of local community type of stuff.

Or even the bigger music festivals. Like Austin City Limits, Mala Luna in San Antonio, or even Warped Tour if they bring it back.

WeCanChill: Check us out on Spotify, Apple Music or anywhere you listen to music.

Add us to playlists! Theres something for everyone in our catalog. https://www.facebook.com/WeCanChillAF https://www.facebook.com/TGbruhh https://www.facebook.com/Dizzy-J-1384850101842891

https://www.facebook.com/Officialrobcamps

Frio In Focus Magazine

Aug./Sept./ Oct. 2021

Friday Night Lights The Boys of Fall are still on vacation but this amazing light show was seen for a few minutes towards the west just after sunsetin Concanduring one of the Friday Night Stargazing event sponsored by the Uvalde County Visitor’s Center and the Frio Float.

Calendar of Events August

Leakey Market Days: Saturday August 21st 9AM-5PM. Leakey Market Days @ Pearls 441 US Hwy 83 SLeakey, Texas 3rd Saturday of every month

Spazmatics- Aug. 21st at the House Pasture Cattle Company 830-232-6580 September 2021

Palomino Fest & Pro Rodeo Labor Day Weekend Celebration Sept. 2nd- Sept. 5th at the Uvalde County Fairplex

Tubing Party sets off for the float down the Frio River starting at Seven Bluff Crossing.

River Road Rally- September 24th-26th Hosted by Andy’s on River Road Downtown Dine-Out Sat. Sept. 26th, 2021 Hondo Arwa Chamber of Commerce Downtown Hondo, Texas 5PM-9 PM Leakey Market Days: Saturday. September 18th 9AM-5PM. Leakey Market Days @ Pearls 441 US Hwy 83 SLeakey, Texas

October 2021

Leakey Market Days: Saturday. October 16thth 9AM-5PM. Leakey Market Days @ Pearls 441 US Hwy 83 SLeakey, Texas

Couple makes last minute adjustments at the start of their float trip down the Frio River.

Andy’s Fall Camp: Oct. 16th - Oct. 18th Andy’s On River Road Aug./Sept./Oct. 2021

Page 29

Frio In Focus Magazine

May/June/ July 2021

The Tendell Family pose for a photo on the Old Baldy Trail at Garner State Park Page 30 Aug./Sept./Oct. 2021

Frio In Focus Magazine

Frio River Crossings

Aug./Sept./ Oct. 2021

Mager’s CROSSING

1st, 2nd and 3rd Crossings

Relaxing on the Frio River Vehicles flying flags were a common sight this summer.

Aug,/Sept./Oct.2021 Page 31

Frio In Focus Magazine

In Focus with Shelby Smith

What have you been up to since last Summer?

I have been doing a lot. I recently got some amazing endorsement deals with some big brands in the western fashion industry. I am an affiliate for JWB Brooks Custom hats, they are one-of-a-kind cowboy hats. I am also a rep for Lane Boots and Southern Fried Chics Boutique.

I learned if you don’t work hard and do the right marketing, you won’t get anywhere.

You mentioned on Instagram you have a swimsuit brand sponsor now. How did that come about and what types of promotions and features have you done with the brand?

So the swimsuit sponsor I am affiliated with now is Lilies Bikinis. Liz came to me through my friend Leah Guerrero (who owns the Inn Between) and asked if I wanted to be one of her models for her Frio River Retreat. I thought why not, I don’t do swimsuit modeling but after seeing the quality of these and how much hard work Liz puts into her designs, I had to be a part of something amazing. Lilies Bikinis are made right here in Texas, San Antonio actually. Back in January we did the photoshoot for the brand new line that she has out now, yes I got in the Frio in January, that was my polar plunge, but after seeing the images, it was so worth the freezing water.

We have some big plans coming up for Lilies in the future. You’ll see me modeling the line more.

Your home is in Junction? Are you still coming to the Frio River area? What are some new locations and shoots have you done?

Yes, I recently moved back home and I absolutely love it! I come to the Frio on Thursdays and Fridays in the summer as I still do property management. Even not in the summer, I’ll still come to the Frio area, I’ve made a lot of friendships there.

As far new locations I’ve done a lot of shoots on my own property, downtown Junction, San Angelo, Blanco, Fort Worth, Amarillo, and Oklahoma. I’m hoping to spread out a bit more as I want to travel to get more content.

What are you working toward in your career in fashion, modeling, and being an influencer?

What styles are you really excited about? Any New Trends?

I’m working towards being different and breaking down the thresholds of stereotypes. I love the new hashtag going around #fancyladycowgirl. That means Page 32 Aug./Sept./Oct. 2021

Photo by Raquelin Guerrero Photography. clothes don’t define the Cowgirl, heart, soul, and hard work does.

I want girls/women to know it does not matter your size, if you have the confidence and dedication you can model in this industry and be an influencer. You have to invest yourself into it to make any progress.

As for styles, I am a sucker for sequins and rhinestones, I love sparkle. I also love hats, any kind they dress up any outfit and look good in any season.

One style I love that’s making a big comeback is the 1970’s style. I love the boho hippy style. Bell bottoms are my favorite, I own way too many of them right now, but hey they’ll never go out of style.

A current new trend is taking wild rags and making them into tops by tying them. There’s several ways of doing it, pair that with some high-waisted bells and you’ve got yourself a timeless outfit.

Texas Based Western Influencer Instagram: @southern_beauty113

Frio In Focus Magazine

Photo by Raquelin Guerrero Photography.

Photo by Raquelin Guerrero Photography.

Loca On The Frio Welcome to the Crazy Loca Life, where we strive to bring every woman a boost of self confidence & cute outfits!

• Jewelry • Women’s Apparel • T-Shirts

Monday: Closed Tues.- Sat. 10 - 5 Sun: 11-3

Lilies Bikinis Swimsuit photos

by Weeseewaves

23223 US HWY 83 Concan, Texas 78838

Locations in Concan and Fredericksberg www.LocaOnMain.com

(830) 232-4402

Aug./Sept./Oct. 2021 Page 33

Frio In Focus Magazine

Summer Stargazing at the Uvalde County Visitor’s Center

Starting in May 2021, the Uvalde Country Visitor’s Center

and the Frio Float hosted a Stargazing Series on Fridays through July 2021.

Amateur Astronomers as part of the Texas Ranchland Nightsky Tours set were on hand each Friday night starting about 8:45 PM with their telescopes, a pair of mounted astronomical binocuA person looks at the moon lars for the public to through a pair of mounted astronomical view the moon, planbinoculars. ets, and star clusters up close. Additionally, the astronomers on hand conducted constellation tours of the visible star patterns overhead.

Michael Robinson, an amateur astronomer, and telescope maker said, “We brought a digital projector and showed astronomy-related videos on mostly cloudy nights. These videos were projected onto the side of the visitor’s center building.

For the first several Friday events, there was a half-dozen to a dozen people who would come over out of curiousity to where we had set up our telescopes . From 8 PM to 9 PM the Frio Float hosted a happy hour.

Typically at that time, there were crowds of mostly families with children who flocked there to get ice cream. We would sometimes go over to those eating ice cream near the porch of the business and invite them to come over and have a look!

The days where the moon was visible were especially fun.

Page 34 Aug./Sept./Oct.2021

Our telescopes could really show the moon’s craters up close.

Most who came and peered into the telescope’s eyepiece would exclaim with delight saying, “Way Cool!” or “Wow!” The astronomers would also show people how to use the Big Dipper’s bowl stars as a guide to finding Polaris, the North Star.

Into the month of June and July, the planet Venus Picture of the moon taken by a iPbecame visible in the hone through a telescope’s eyepiece.

West just after sunset and many would come over to see the planet as a small disk through our telescopes.

In late July Jupiter and Saturn started becoming visible in the evening sky. For many, viewing the rings of Saturn through a good telescope is an unforgettable experience.” Robinson said.

“The Summer Stargazing Series has been a wonderful addition to the exciting offerings for visitors in Uvalde County. We have enjoyed welcoming families to the Uvalde County Visitor Center in Concan to join Texas Ranchland Night Skies, for an opportunity to see the stars, constellations, the moon, and planets through impressive telescopes and with the guidance of amateur and professional astronomers. The dark skies in the Hill Country River Region are beautiful all year round, and we hope people will come back to enjoy all that Uvalde County has to offer on land, in water, and in the sky!”

Annabell McNew, Director of the the Hill Country River Region said.

Frio In Focus Magazine

Watch Out for the Falls Having floated the Frio River twice from the Frio Country Crossing to Neal’s Crossing, I’ve learned a bit about the Falls and the Mini Falls.

I first encountered the Falls in the Summer of 2007 shortly after my wife and I moved to the area. That year, the Frio River was flowing swiftly and the water levels were ideal. I seem to recall the float trip from the 2nd Crossing (Frio Country) to the 1st Crossing (Neals) taking around 2 hours, Compare that to the roughly 4 hours it takes at the present time.

It was sometime in September and we went tubing with youth and adults from our church.

While most of us were floating down the river in tubes, our guide was following us in a kayak.

Along the way, we encountered two ladies in their early 30’s from Dallas who had quite a bit of alcohol to drink. As we approached the Falls, our guide strongly advised us all to get out of our tubes and walk around the Falls. There is a sign posted on a tree just before the Falls today warning tubers of the danger of the Falls.

Although we all got out and carried our tubes, the two drunk ladies from Dallas decided to brave the falls. One of the ladies ended up breaking her ankle and our guide called ahead to arrange for an ambulance to meet up with the woman at a location nearest to our location.

The Falls Today While the water levels are lower, the Falls are an obstacle one must prepare for. It is not advisable to float over the Falls especially down the center of the river. The area closest to the right near the bank is the best place to make the drop. On one of my float trips, there were two volunteers on the walkway nearest the righthand drop who assisted tubers down the Falls.

The other safer option is to get out of the river near on the right and take the path along the righthand bank to the bottom of the falls and then get back into the river.

On the same stretch of river before the falls, tubers will encounter what is called, The Mini-Falls While not as menacing, the Mini Falls can be hard on tubes and can cause tubers to overturn and perhaps lose items such as sunglasses, smartphones, money, etc.

As a matter of fact, some like to hang around near the bottom of the Falls and Mini Falls and look for lost treasure at the bottom of the river.

Page 35

Aug./Sept./Oct.2021

www.traumatotriumph.org

Fall Benefit Gala

a 501(c)3 non-profit organization committed to establishing a restoration ranch in Southwest Texas for rescued victims of sex-trafficking With Special Guest Speakers

Jenn Gotzon and Jim Chandler

of the Christian Family Movie, The Farmer and the Bell: Saving Santaland Saturday, October 9th, 2021 5 PM to 9 PM This is a dinner and silent auction fundraiser to help bring education to human trafficking

and help raise money for our residential ranch program. We will have guest speakers and high profile entertainers.

Theme: Cowboys and Cowgirls Casual

Tickets: $300

Location of the event disclosed when you purchase a ticket

Performer Danny Perry

Guest Speaker: Sheriff Brad Coe

Limited Seating for this Special Event About Jenn Gotzen

Jenn Gotzon is married to her actor-producer husband Jim E. Chandler, with their newborn baby James, sharing their love story in “The Farmer and The Belle: Saving Santaland,” a funny Christmas movie for the family with Baby James a highlight of the sequel. The movie has a message to bring value about inner beauty to girls and women inspired by Gotzon’s personal life.

Join Us at the Gala!

Help us stop sex trafficking. This is a way to be a part and give back to a cause that is growing rapidly in Texas and the country.

Ticket’s available at Oasis Outback in Uvalde and available online at

830-407-9229

www.traumatotriumph.org

THE HONDO AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE & THE CITY OF HONDO PRESENT

CHRISTMAS COUNTRY ACTIVITIES, FOOD & FUN!

NO 19THV& 20TH

Enjoy the festival with your loved ones! There are activities for everyone, from children's games, family games and main events.

DOWNTOWN HONDO Hondo, Tx. 78861

Friday, November 19 6:00 - 9:00 PM Lighting of City Hall - Christmas Carols Pictures with Santa - Food Trucks and MORE! Saturday, November 20 10:00 am - 9:00 PM Market Days 7:00 PM Lighted Night Parade

SPONSORED BY:

SPONSORED BY: