"A Texpert Tour is
a MUST for anyone visiting or new to the Austin area. Heck, even
if you've lived in Austin your entire life, you don't really KNOW
Austin until you see it through the eyes of the Texpert himself,
Howie Richey!"
Lorie B. Kellogg, Austin, Texas
"I've been on two tours so far and Howie continues to
amaze me with his knowledge of this great city. I could go on
ten tours and never hear the same story twice. In fact, I plan
on doing just that!"
Joe K. Bevilacqua, Austin, Texas
"Even if you're a long-time
Austin dweller, Howie Richey's tour of the Capitol and downtown
Austin is full of surprises. So don't let your out-of-town guests
have all the fun--take the tour too and impress your friends.
Oh, and you know that story about why Santa Anna wasn't executed
after he surrendered at San Jacinto? Well, it's true!"
Michele Pain, Austin, Texas
"For those desiring wonder-filled and exciting tours of
the area, we endorse the Back Roads Scholar. His abilities are
unsurpassed!"
Diana & Eugene Smith
The Houston House Bed and Breakfast, Gonzales, Texas
"What gives me pleasure in my association with Howie is
his impressive knowledge of the history, geography, topography,
flora, and fauna of our state; his charming and affable personality;
and even more important and rare, his grasp of and facility in
the use of the English language."
Dr. Philip Tanner
Department of English, Austin Community College
"Howie's slide presentations on the Back Roads and 'off
the beaten path' sites throughout the state of Texas have been
most enjoyable. Our participants also enjoyed the interpreted
nature hike he conducted on our scenic property. His guidance
and knowledge definitely serve well as our Elderhostelers explore
all the rich treasures the Hill Country has to offer. Howie's
dedication to the preservation and discovery of nature is highly
commendable. He inspires people with his love of the land and
its history. Texas is truly fortunate to have him as her Back
Roads Scholar."
Steven G. Diamond
Events Coordinator, Camp Young Judaea, Inc., Wimberley, Texas
"Even before I became a professional historian, I loved
visiting the places where 'history actually happened.' For a knowledgeable
and entertaining guide to the nature and rich history of Texas,
I heartily recommend the Back Roads Scholar and storyteller, Howie
Richey."
Dr. Norman D. Brown
Stuart Centennial Professor in Texas History, The University of
Texas at Austin
"I thank Howie for coming to speak at our general meeting.
His knowledge and experience sparked interest in visitors and
members alike. Having dynamic speakers like Howie revitalizes
current membership commitments to the Sierra Club's mission and
motivates newcomers to join us."
Andy Shields
Chair, Austin Regional Group, Lone Star Sierra Club
"We are not experienced campers, though we have been a
few times before. Howie is an experienced camper! His training,
his love for the Earth, his knowledge of geography, native plants,
water, and wind flow, all contributed to a comfortable, delightful
weekend. Our tent was situated so that we had a breeze, a gorgeous
view, and unexpected privacy. Moving the shade from the direct
sun became an entertaining game--Howie was always attentive to
adjusting our 'porch' so that we were comfortable from dawn to
dusk. And the food was marvelous; I wasn't even tempted to eat
out!
"Howie is a master
teacher. Our group included my nine-year-old daughter, my 81-year-old
mother, and myself. We all learned about the world around us,
camping techniques for future use, and music in truly fun ways.
He kept us laughing, as well! If you get the opportunity, do take
yourself, your family, your friends on an outdoor adventure with
Howie Richey. You can only be enlightened and entertained, and
you'll look forward to returning again and again."
Celeste Tanner, Austin, Texas
