{"id":674,"date":"2025-05-24T07:43:27","date_gmt":"2025-05-24T07:43:27","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/austincountynewsonline.com\/hello\/?p=674"},"modified":"2025-11-22T08:07:30","modified_gmt":"2025-11-22T08:07:30","slug":"stephen-f-austin-state-park","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/austincountynewsonline.com\/hello\/stephen-f-austin-state-park\/","title":{"rendered":"Episode 24: Friends of Stephen F. Austin State Park with Vinnie Mercado & Scott Tufts"},"content":{"rendered":"

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May 24, 2025<\/h4>\n

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Episode 24: Friends of Stephen F. Austin State Park with Vinnie Mercado & Scott Tufts<\/h1>\n

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In this episode of Hello Austin County, we\u2019re joined by Vinnie Mercado, Park Interpreter at Stephen F. Austin State Park, and Scott Tufts, President of the Friends of Stephen F. Austin State Park. Together, they share the story of one of Texas\u2019 earliest state parks \u2014 a hidden gem nestled right in our backyard.<\/p>\n

Vinnie and Scott walk us through the unique blend of nature, history, and community that defines the park. From riverside trails and deer sightings to hands-on educational programs and volunteer-driven restoration projects, Stephen F. Austin State Park offers something for everyone \u2014 families, bird watchers, hikers, teachers, and even photographers.<\/p>\n

We also learn how the Friends of the Park organization helps fund critical programs the state doesn\u2019t cover \u2014 from nature signage and classroom supplies to events like the Fall Forest Festival. With more than 70,000 visitors each year, this park thrives because of its passionate volunteers and the surrounding community. If you\u2019ve ever wondered how to give back or find meaning in retirement (or just on your weekends), this episode might inspire your next great adventure.<\/p>\n

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\ud83c\udf99\ufe0f Host:<\/strong><\/h3>\n

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Shelley Stuessel-Brian<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Director of Operations, Austin County News Online<\/span>\u00a0& Co-Creator, <\/span>Hello Austin County<\/em><\/h3>\n

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Greg Stuessel<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Publisher, Executive Producer, Technical Director
Austin County News Online & Austin County Media<\/span><\/h3>\n

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\ud83c\udf99\ufe0f Guests:<\/strong><\/h3>\n

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Vinnie Mercado, Park Interpreter<\/h2>\n

Stephen F. Austin State Park<\/h4>\n

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Scott Tufts, President of the Friends of Stephen F. Austin State Park<\/h2>\n

Stephen F. Austin State Park<\/h4>\n

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\ud83c\udfa7 Episode Highlights<\/strong>:<\/h3>\n

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\u23f0 00:00<\/strong> – Welcome & Introductions: Meet Vinny Mercado and Scott Tufts
\u23f0 01:00 <\/strong>– What is a Park Interpreter? Vinny explains her role as an educator and naturalist
\u23f0 03:00<\/strong> – Why Stephen F. Austin State Park is unique: history, ecosystem, and river impact
\u23f0 05:00<\/strong> – Park amenities: cabins, RV spots, dining halls, and air-conditioned rentals
\u23f0 06:30<\/strong> – Trails, strollers, and accessibility: what to expect when visiting
\u23f0 08:00<\/strong>– Trail races & events: San Felipe Shootout, Night Moves, and community partners
\u23f0 10:00<\/strong> – Wildlife close-ups: deer, birdwatching, armadillos, and the Pileated Woodpecker
\u23f0 13:00<\/strong> – Outreach and education: classroom visits, summer programs, and homeschool ties
\u23f0 15:00<\/strong> – The Friends of the Park: how the nonprofit supports with supplies, staffing, and signage
\u23f0 18:00<\/strong> – Volunteer opportunities: from fundraising and hiking guides to design and social media
\u23f0 20:00<\/strong> – Why your help matters: funding gaps, program support, and expanding community reach
\u23f0 23:00<\/strong> – Upcoming Events: May 29 Friends Meeting and May 31 Park Birthday Picnic with archery
\u23f0 26:00<\/strong> – Final thoughts: how to get involved, no matter your skillset or schedule<\/p>\n

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