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The Ventura Gem & Mineral Society, Inc. (VGMS)
Rockhound Rambling
October / November 2002.
Table of Contents.
PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE.
First and foremost, I'd like to thank the outgoing board and committee members of 2002 for a job well done. And with that, incumbents can be assured of the support of the entire club membership for 2003.
We are a club of artists and scientists. Education, art, originality, friendship and outdoor recreation are what our hobby is all about and I'm confident our membership will grow as these virtues are recognized by new generations. Our pebble pup program is off to a great start and hopefully it will continue.
Last but not least, do stop in and view the Del Air club's display for the CFMS show. Located in the mail plaza of the Ventura County Government Center Administration Bldg., it's neat, well done and representative of CFMS quality.
Greg Davis - President.
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WORDS TO LIVE BY.
Good judgment comes from experience, and experience comes from bad judgment.
If it were going to be easy to raise kids, it never would have started with a thing called labor!
Cheer up---tomorrow will be different, not better just different.
Acting is merely the art of keeping a large group of people from coughing.
Collected by Wayne Ehlers.
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UPCOMING PROGRAMS.
October 23, 2002;
"Volcanoes of the Big Island & the Hawaiian Hot Spot".
Dr. Robert Gray, Earth Sciences Professor at Santa Barbara City College will be our guest speaker for October. He will be talking about volcanoes in Hawaii, which is always a most interesting topic. Dr. Gray enjoys talking to our group and we enjoy having him! Hope to see you all there.
Kathryn Davis, Program Chairperson.
November 13, 2002;
"Treasure Hunting".
Shawne Lardin will be sharing a videotape about finding treasure in your own back yard. Included in this videotape is the exciting discovery of what was lurking in someone's rock pile. I am looking forward to learning more!
Kathryn Davis, Program Chairperson.
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VGMS CHRISTMAS DINNER,
December 11, 2002.
Our 2002 Christmas Dinner will be on Wednesday, December 11th at 6:30 pm. We will be at the same place as last year, Carrows Restaurant at Seaward/Harbor Blvd., Ventura, CA. We will have a complete Turkey Dinner:
Mashed Potatoes & Gravy,
Turkey & Dressing,
Vegetable,
Salad,
Rolls & Butter,
Pumpkin Pie,
Coffee or Tea.
The price per person, tax & tip included is $13.00. Make checks payable to VGMS and give or send to Richard Bromser, P.O. Box 723, Oak View, CA 93022 by Sunday, December 8th.
Richard Bromser.
- Editor's Note: Richard needs to give the restaurant the count by this date. If time is getting short, you can call Richard and then put your check in the mail. We want Richard and his family to enjoy the evening as well, so he won't be collecting any money that night.
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PROGRAM REVIEW:
BECOMING A ROCKHOUND,
September 25, 2002.
I want to thank the VGMS members who were willing to share how they originally became interested in "Rockhounding", "Fossils", "The Hobby" and some of the experiences they have had. A special thank you to Ron Wise, Greg Davis, Jim and Nancy Brace-Thompson, Steve and Susan Mulqueen, and Ray Meisenheimer. I think all of them shared Greg's observation of not being able to figure out why everyone is not a rockhound. Everyone mentioned the wide range of experiences available in the hobby. They mentioned traveling to interesting places, collecting interesting things, continuing to learn new things, and most importantly, meeting interesting people. Several members mentioned the impact Bruno Benson had on them and their interest in the hobby. One of the things frequently mentioned was the impact of going to a gem and mineral show. The VGMS Annual Gem and Mineral Show is the first weekend in March. Our annual show is the best time for us, all of us, to introduce ourselves and our enthusiasm about our hobby to others. The more of us who get involved -- the easier it becomes.
Kathryn Davis, Program Chairperson.
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IT'S THAT TIME OF YEAR AGAIN! - "DUES ARE DUE."
SEE VGMS INFO PAGE FOR AMOUNTS AND
PAY RICHARD BROMSER, TREASURER.
AVOID THE LAST MINUTE RUSH!
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MARK YOUR CALENDARS:
10-23-02 - VGMS Regular Meeting - Pebble Pups 6:30 to 7:30, meeting at 7:30 for all. - Dr. Robert Gray - "Volcanoes of the Big Island & the Hawaiian Hot Spot".
10-27-02 - Time Change - Don't forget to move your clocks back one hour!
11-2 & 3-02 - Oxnard Gem & Mineral Show - See CFMS Shows for details. Get your entries in and ready now.
11-7-02 - VGMS Board Meeting - 7:30 pm - At the Museum. Everyone is welcome and encouraged to attend.
11-10-02 - DEADLINE FOR DECEMBER Bulletin Articles to the Editor! This is early! However, December meeting is the 11th and we will be out of town for two weeks over Thanksgiving!
11-13-02 - VGMS Regular Meeting - Pebble Pups 6:30 to 7:30, meeting at 7:30 for all. - Shawne Lardin - "Treasure Hunting".
11-16-02 - VGMS Work Shop - Open - 9-12 am.
11-28-02 - Thanksgiving Day - We hope you all have a Great one - we have many things to give thanks for!
12-5-02 - VGMS Board Meeting - 7:30 pm - At the Museum. Everyone is welcome and encouraged to attend.
12-11-02 - VGMS Christmas Party - 6:30 pm Carrows Restaurant, Harbor Blvd., Ventura - See above for more details.
1-1-03 - Dues are DUE! You can start paying them now and we urge you to do so! Saves on the Holiday rush!
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2003 ELECTIONS ARE UPON US.
The nominating committee for 2003 was made up of: Inez Shakman, Susan Mulqueen and Nancy Brace-Thompson. So far, the slate of officers for 2003 is as follows:
President - Inez Shakman,
1st Vice President (Programs) - Nancy Brace-Thompson,
2nd Vice President (Field Trips) - Ron Wise,
3rd Vice President (Show Chair) - Jim Brace-Thompson,
Treasurer - Richard Bromser,
Recording Secretary - Greg Davis,
Membership Secretary - Sharon Markley,
Federation Director - Florence Meisenheimer,
Bulletin Editor - Shirley Layton,
Parliamentarian - Steve Mulqueen.
Nominations will also be taken from the floor at the October meeting. If you would like to nominate someone, please get their permission first.
The slate will be presented at the October meeting, we vote at the November meeting and the new officers will be installed at our December holiday dinner.
There are many additional opportunities to serve your club beyond these elected positions. For instance, we also have committees that need chairpersons and members. These include:
Hostess (Refreshments) - Sharon Cunningham,
Ways & Means (Door Prize) - OPEN,
Hospitality - Sharlyne Holloway,
Museum Committee - OPEN,
VGMS Scholarship - OPEN,
Historian - OPEN,
Librarian - Valli Davis,
Pebble Pups - OPEN.
Thank you to everyone who is willing to be nominated or appointed for a position.
Nancy Brace-Thompson, 2003 Nominating Committee.
Table of Contents.
PLANNING OUR 2003 GEM, MINERAL, LAPIDARY
& FOSSIL SHOW:
Seeking Helping Hands.
"Great opportunities to help others seldom come, but small ones
surround us every day."
- Sally Koch, in Wisconsin.
"He who helps early helps twice."
- Tadeusz Mazowiecki.
Our 41st Annual Gem, Mineral, Lapidary and Fossil Show takes place March 1 & 2, 2003. Hard to believe, but March 1st is now less than five months away! On October 6th, Nancy and I hosted a show planning meeting to start prioritizing jobs for the show and to meet with the various show committee chairs. At our last meeting in May, the following club members volunteered to take on various show posts:
Show Chair: Jim Brace-Thompson;
Dealer/Demo-Dealer Chair: Kathryn Davis;
Exhibitor Chair: Nancy Brace-Thompson;
Fairgrounds Contract: Jim B-T & Richard Bromser;
Transfer of Equipment/Physical Facilities: Richard Bromser;
Table Layout: Jim B-T, Ron Wise & Kathryn Davis;
Set-up/Exhibitor Case Assembly: David Mautz;
Publicity: Jim and Nancy B-T & Emma Mayers;
Hospitality: open;
Donation Awards Case & Raffle: open;
Security: Wayne Ehlers;
Treasurer: Richard Bromser;
Programs (printed): Shirley Layton;
Food: Sunny Cross & Richard and Shirley Bromser;
Country Store: Shirley Layton;
Plant Sale: Susan Mulqueen;
Kids' Activities/Game Booth: Emma Mayers & Jean Wise;
Silent Auction: Greg Davis & Ron Wise;
Video Presentations: Steve Mulqueen.
I'll be mailing all committee chairs a "job description" outlining the various tasks that need to be done, but everyone should bring a measure of creativity to each position and think about ways to build on and improve each aspect of the show. Please lend each of these individuals a willing hand should they call on your assistance. As they say, many hands lighten the load for one and all.
Please note that we still need volunteers for Hospitality and for the Donation Awards Raffle. Several names have been suggested, and I hope you'll be willing and able should we call upon your assistance. Hospitality involves meeting-and-greeting folks as they arrive, giving them a program and pointing out the various aspects of the show, and fielding questions about the show and the club. The Donation Awards Raffle involves securing donations of raffle prizes from dealers and club members and overseeing the awards drawing at the end of the show.
In addition to filling these two final posts, at this stage we need to start lining up our dealers, sending invitations to guest exhibitors, and setting any advance publicity into motion. Also, everyone should start thinking about putting in an exhibit and stockpiling prizes for our donation awards raffle, silent auction, kids' table, country store, etc. (See more about that in a related article in this month's Rockhound Rambling.) The more ducks we can get in a row today, the easier the job come March 1st. Here's thanking everyone in advance!
Jim Brace-Thompson, Show Chairman.
Table of Contents.
GEM SHOW 2003:
Time to Stockpile!
Like squirrels getting ready for winter, it's time for us to start stockpiling for our 2003 Gem, Mineral, Lapidary, and Fossil Show! Not only is our annual show our best opportunity to share our hobby with our surrounding community, it's also our biggest fund-raising event to help sustain our activities throughout the year. We raise money through a number of avenues: our donation awards raffle, silent auction, country store, and more. The amount of interest we generate, and the amount of income we subsequently bring in, depends in large measure on the quality of material we offer our show visitors. Don't wait until the day before the show-start thinking about what you might be able to donate to our group effort and start setting aside items today, or start creating "neat things" to donate as raffle awards, spinning wheel prizes, etc. Here's a list of categories in need of your goodies:
- Donation Awards Raffle. One of the first things a show visitor sees is our hospitality table, where our Donation Awards Raffle is front and center. First and second prizes are $100 and $50 in cash, but the lapidary prizes are often worth even more! Here is where we need especially fine items. Usually, our dealers each donate a prize, but we also need donations of especially beautiful items created or found by our very own members. We need everything from wire-wrapped jewelry to hand-crafted cabs in settings, hand-made beads and necklaces, interesting "museum quality" fossil or mineral specimens, etc. If each member donated just one item, we'd have a case of wonders to dazzle and tempt our guests as they're greeted at the hospitality table.
- Silent Auction. Although we're able to glean a lot from our own club rock pile, including great pieces of lapidary rough (howlite, agate, petrified wood, Stone Canyon jasper, etc.), it helps to have at least one very special item each hour during the silent auction to keep interest high by creating a "buzz" around the auction table. For instance, last year Mel Hixson donated a number of beautiful cut and polished geodes and agates that looked fantastic and generated a lot of bidding. In a previous year, Jay Baumler donated a gorgeous chunk of polished petrified wood. You might also consider putting together a small fossil or mineral collection from a particular locality, labeled and organized to make a nice impression. Get creative and think about what you yourself would spend your own money on in bidding at the silent auction tables!
- Spinning Wheel Prizes & Other Kids' Activities. At the Kids' Activities area, we'll want smaller items that kids (and adults, too!) can bid on to win a prize at a reasonable price. These can be individual fossils (sand dollars, snails from Topanga Canyon, etc.), quartz or other crystals, pieces of petrified wood, nicely tumble-polished pieces of agate or jasper, small geodes or thunder eggs, etc. This year, I'm casting and painting replicas of trilobites in plaster, assembling small mineral and fossil collections (3 specimens on labeled cards), and polishing the ends of small pieces of pink agate and of petrified wood and bone. Susan Mulqueen is already putting together small plastic baggies of tumble-polished stones. In addition to prizes for the Spinning Wheel, we'll also, need even smaller items for the sand-sifting activity (for instance, fossil shark teeth, small quartz or garnet crystals, small tumble-polished gem stones, chips of petrified wood, etc.), and small rocks, tumble-polished stones, and fossils to help fill grab bags.
- Plant Sale. Susan Mulqueen has volunteered to help oversee this activity, and she urges everyone to start potting cuttings today. Our plant sale has created its own cadre of customers, who come for great plants at even greater prices each and every year, but they often tug at the cuttings to make sure they've already established roots. So if you have plants that will generate good cuttings, set aside some time this weekend to get them potted and started!
- Country Store. Shirley Layton will once again oversee our Country Store, and she'll be holding evening sessions at different times leading up to the show to help sort and price our merchandise. The Country Store needs "white elephant" garage-sale sorts of items, so if you've been considering cleaning out that garage or attic but couldn't think of how to dispose of that old candle stick, the crutches you bought when you broke an ankle ten years ago, unused camping items, wedding presents you put in the closet and haven't used in 30 years, think no more! One person's junk is another person's treasure, and Shirley is seeking all the treasure we can deliver!
Now that you know what we need, please set aside a spot on a shelf, in a closet, or in a garage, and start stockpiling today. Then, as the show itself draws closer, you'll be all set with your donations, leaving you more time to work on the great exhibit you'll be putting together as a show exhibitor. Thank you, one and all!
Jim Brace-Thompson, Show Chairman.
Table of Contents.
SUPPORT AND PRACTICE
THE AFMS CODE OF ETHICS.
CHIPS & BOULDERS.
2003 VGMS Show - Just wanted to draw your attention to Jim's Show Planning & Stockpiling report and request!!! It is never too early to start plant cuttings so they have roots started and be sure the "E" plant has the right side up! (per Susan M.) It's never too early to start cleaning the closets or setting aside those items you are tired of looking at for the country store. Besides you may see them at the store and think they look so good you will buy them back!! Clay Brashears always said coming to the Country Store gave him fond memories of his garage!!
Prayer - Ok this may sound dumb, but Ashley lost her pj's. I don't often buy her pj's so this also hurt me as a mom. These were special; they had the FOX on them, whatever! She doesn't go anywhere, so we were really confused.
I prayed for God to show me where the pj's were and he told me to look in a pillowcase. I remember telling myself not to forget. When I woke up, I told Ashley what God had told me. She prayed and he told her the same thing. Well at 6 am she says, "Mom there is a lump in the bottom of my pillow." She ran to her room and there was the missing pj's, God is so GOOD, I had to share this with you all. -- Donna Base.
September hosts were Sharon & Gary Markley - Many Thanks to Sharon & Gary for refreshments at our September meeting. The chocolate-chocolate chip cake/brownies were delicious. I was going to get the recipe from Sharon but didn't get it done in time to publish. We'll try for next month! They are much appreciated by all! Greg & Valli Davis have signed up for October and Richard & Shirley Bromser have volunteered for November. Sharon is breathing a sigh of relief, but thinking about next year! It's never too early to volunteer! As we can all attest to, we have some good cooks in VGMS. Thanks to everyone who has participated during the year.
VGMS Workshops - They are held on the third Saturday of each month from 9:00 until noon unless otherwise notified. The Shop Supervisors are: Ron Wise (805) 647-4393 & Greg Davis (805) 647-9214. Stop and say thanks to these volunteers for the opportunity they give the rest of us. It is there for your use, take advantage of it.
Bulletin e-mail - It would be helpful when you e-mail information or articles for the bulletin if you could start the subject with "VGMS (space)". This will help Jim to sort them and hopefully not miss any! E-mails work great as we can just roll the information over and don't have to re-type it, so keep them coming!! jns@west.net Thanks!
Advertising - Any One want to put an Ad in Rockhound Rambling?? - Call Shirley Layton 805 642-2683.
Table of Contents.
AFMS website - www.Amfed.org,
CFMS website - www.cfmsinc.org,
CA BLM website - www.ca.blm.gov,
American Lands Access Association - www.amerlands.org.
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COMMUNITY OUTREACH.
Thursday, October 3rd Ray Meisenheimer gave a tour of the museum to a home school group. There were 6 children and 2 adults. The parents were more excited than the youngsters, and took with them VGMS flyers to give to friends. Also flyers for the Oxnard Show in November were taken. They did not know such things as Gem & Mineral shows existed.
Contributed by Florence Meisenheimer.
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A THANK YOU.
THANK YOU Jim Brace-Thompson for your really nice write-up about my educational activities in the CFMS October Newsletter. Florence and I enjoy doing it. I enjoy meeting so many interesting people and some controversial ones too.
Ray.
Table of Contents.
Creative people don't have junk around their homes;
they have "projects".
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
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NOVEMBER BIRTHDAYS.
Happy Birthday to all those born in November. We all wish you good health and hope you have a Great Day! Please let me know if I have missed your birthday. Please call Shirley Layton at 642-2683 and leave a message if I'm not there or an e-mail will also do the trick, jns@west.net. Thanks!
November -Happy Birthday!!
Bob Clement - 9th,
Sharon Markley - 20th,
Susan Cowlishaw - 22nd,
Karen Kaminsky - 23rd,
Dorr Thayer - 23rd,
Don Minster - 25th,
Gary Markley - 26th,
Guy Story Brown - 30th,
Ron Wise - 30th.
The November birthstone is the Topaz and the flower is the Chrysanthemum.
THE MINERAL TOPAZ.
- Chemistry: Al2SiO4 (F,OH)3, Aluminum silicate fluoride hydroxide.
- Class: Silicates.
- Subclass: Nesosilicates.
- Uses: gemstones and optical properties are useful in industry.
Topaz is a common gemstone that has been used for centuries in jewelry. Its golden brown to yellow color is classic but is confused with the less valuable citrine, which is sold under the name topaz. The blue topaz that is often confused with aquamarine is rarely natural and is produced by irradiating and then heating clear crystals.
The structure of Topaz is controlled by a chain like structure of connected irregular octahedrons. These octahedrons have an aluminum in the middle surrounded by four oxygens. Above and below the aluminum are the hydroxide or fluoride ions. The chains of octahedrons are held together by individual silicate tetrahedrons but it is the octahedron chains that give topaz its crystalline shape. Topaz is the hardest silicate mineral and one of the hardest minerals in nature. However it has a perfect cleavage which is perpendicular to the chains and is caused by planes that break the weaker Al-O, Al-OH and Al-F bonds. None of the stronger Si-O bonds cross these planes. Topaz crystals can reach incredible size of several hundred pounds. Topaz can make very attractive mineral specimens due to their high luster, nice colors and well formed and multifaceted crystals.
PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS:
- Color is clear, yellow, orange, red, blue and green.
- Luster is adamantine to vitreous.
- Transparency crystals are transparent to translucent.
- Crystal System is orthorhombic; 2/m 2/m 2/m.
- Crystal Habits include a prismatic crystal with usually two different prisms that produce a rounded or sharp diamond-shaped cross-section. The termination is typically capped by a dome forming a roof-like top. Another dome can modify the termination producing a point at the juncture of the two domes. A basal pinacoid can flatten the prisms termination or truncate the top of the domes. The pinacoid, multiple domes and occasionally orthorhombic pyramid faces can produce a complex, multifaceted and well formed termination. Topaz can be granular and massive.
- Cleavage is perfect in one direction, basal.
- Fracture is conchoidal.
- Hardness is 8.
- Specific Gravity is approximately 3.4 - 3.5+ (above average).
- Streak is white.
- Associated Minerals include quartz, tourmalines, micas, brookite, cassiterite and fluorite.
- Other Characteristics: index of refraction is 1.61 - 1.64. Prism faces maybe striated lengthwise.
- Notable Occurrences include Minas Gerias, Brazil; Pakistan; San Diego Co, California; Ural Mountains, Russia; Mexico and the Thomas Range, Utah.
- Best Field Indicators are crystal habit, color, density and hardness.
Copyright (c) 1995 by Amethyst Galleries, Inc.
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MEMBERSHIP.
We are most happy to welcome four new members. Please add their names, addresses and phone numbers to your directories (new ones don't come out till April 2003). More important please introduce yourselves and make them feel welcome at our meetings and help them get to know everyone.
NEW MEMBERS.
Michael D. Rittenberg,
Lisa Hoffman Rittenberg,
1894 W. Chapel Dr.,
Camarillo, CA 93010-7808,
805-388-1500.
Don Stehsel (birthday 7-14),
Betty Stehsel (birthday 11-5),
11370 Darling Rd.,
Ventura, CA 93004,
805-647-8903.
Attention New Members.
Need a Club Badge?
Blue Engravers is giving us a $.50 reduction per badge
for advertising space in the club bulletin!
Ventura County Shape badge $11.28 (includes. tax & ship).
ACCOUNT: Ventura Gem and Mineral Society, Inc.
Name (print clearly. It will be on your name badge):
_____________________________________________
Address:
_____________________________________________
_______________________________Zip:____________
Make check payable to and mail to (takes 5-7 business days):
Blue Engravers,
1375 Caspian Ave.,
Long Beach, CA 90813.
If ordering more than 2 badges call them for exact shipping
costs at (562) 983-5140, FAX (562) 983-5146,
E-mail BLUEGRAVR@aol.com.
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HOSPITALITY.
There were 19 members, four guests - Donald Stehsel (now a new member, welcome!), Joy Langston, Eleanor LaRue and Jack Bussio and seven Pebble Pups at the September meeting. We hope our guests enjoyed themselves and will come again. Sharon and Gary Markley furnished some delicious refreshments and as always the visiting and sharing of rockhound information is always GREAT! The stories of some of our members and what got them in to rockhounding were told with such fun and enthusiasm. Many thanks to Sharlyne for making everyone feel welcome and introducing our guests.
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"PEBBLE PUP NUGGETS."
Pebble Pup Corner:
Dear Pebble Pups:
Many thanks to Steve Mulqueen who presented our program last month on the subject of "Oil Seeps". We had 7 pups in attendance.
This month's program will be "My Favorite Rocks" hosted by club member Inez Shakman on Wednesday, October 23rd at 6:30 pm. Inez would like each child to please bring a few of their favorite rocks to the meeting. I can't think of anyone (including myself) who is more enthusiastic about our Pebble Pups program and about teaching children about rocks. This program will be informal and lots of fun.
Since the last bulletin I have not had anyone come forward to volunteer as Pebble Pups Coordinator for next year. Someone please consider this wonderful opportunity as I am unable to continue in this role. November will be the last program, as December is dark for our annual Christmas party.
Our family will not be attending Trona this year but I look forward to hearing your stories if you attend this fabulous event next weekend.
Happy Halloween,
Emma.
Pebble Pup Birthdays - November:
OPS! Sorry, those gremlins got into my computer again! Melissa and Dallas birthdays in last month's bulletin were October and not September! November was a quiet month for Pups - No Birthdays!
Pebble Pup Dates to Remember:
10-23-02 - Pup Meeting, The Lexington - 6:30 pm. "My Favorite Rocks" by Inez Shakman. Bring your favorite rock.
10-27-02 - Don't forget to help your parents set your clocks back one hour. The end of daylight savings.
10-31-02 - Halloween!! Have Fun and be Safe - See the "Halloween Safety Tips for Kids and Adults" article in the bulletin.
11-13-02 - Pup Meeting, The Lexington - 6:30 pm.
11-28-02 - Thanksgiving Day - Don't eat too much turkey!!
12-11-02 - Christmas Party - 6:30 Carrows Restaurant, Seaward/Harbor Blvd, Ventura. Bring your moms & dads and come on out for lots of fun and good food.
Editor's Note: Many thanks for bringing in your rocks that you painted in August. We were envious! You did a great job and it looked like it was such fun! How many want to do it again?!
Pups- Can you find the "J is for..." Coloring page in this bulletin? Color it and bring to share with the group on the 23rd! Have Fun!! (You adults can color too!! Be honest have any of you done them? I don't have any colors or I would!)
Webmaster's Hint: It's near the end.
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HALLOWEEN SAFETY TIPS FOR KIDS AND ADULTS.
Parents (and grandparents) here are some safety tips to help prepare your children for a safe and enjoyable trick-or-treat holiday. Halloween should be filled with surprise and enjoyment, and following some common sense practices can keep events safer and more fun.
But at all times, remember how much we have been hearing in the news about child abductions. So be doubly careful and don't let your very young children out of your sight An adult or an older teenager should accompany them on the trips.
Let them walk, slither, and sneak on sidewalks, not in the street. Teach them to look both ways before crossing the street to check for cars, trucks, and low-flying brooms, to cross the street only at corners. Don't hide or cross the street between parked cars. Have them wear light-colored or reflective-type clothing so they are more visible. (And remember to put reflective tape on bikes, skateboards, and brooms, too!) Plan their route and share it with your other family members also. Have them carry a flashlight to light their way. Caution them to keep away from open fires and candies. (Costumes can be extremely flammable.) They should only visit homes that have the porch light on. Treats should only be accepted at the door and never go into a stranger's house. Use face paint rather than masks or things that will cover their eyes. They must be cautious of animals and strangers. Have a grown-up inspect the treats before eating. And no one should eat candy if the package is already opened. Small, hard pieces of candy are a choking hazard for young children.
Chuck McKie CFMS Safety Chairman 2002.
CFMS Newsletter, October 2002.
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JUNIOR ACTIVITIES REPORT,
Recognizing Ray Meisenheimer - and Florence, Too!
By Jim Brace-Thompson, Junior Activities Chair.
I always enjoy recognizing individuals who go above and beyond in serving the educational mission of our clubs' charters. In this way, I offer thanks to these individuals while learning new ideas for each of us to serve youth. This month, I recognize Ray Meisenheimer - and Florence, too! Ray is a member of 3 CFMS-affiliated societies in Ventura County (the Ventura, Oxnard, and Conejo Valley clubs). There's not enough room here to list all Ray does, with Florence at his side, in the service of educating both youth and adults about our hobby. A month doesn't go by without multiple activities; here's a snapshot of just a few:
- leading tours for school kids at the Ventura club museum (on one day this involved 100 students!);
- loaning specimens to teachers to assist in their classrooms;
- loaning VGMS fossils and leading tours at the California Oil Museum for a temporary exhibit on fossils, which drew 5,000 visitors during summer/fall 2001;
- assisting Boy Scouts in earning geology merit badges;
- setting up and running tables at the annual Science Fair of the Ventura County school district (arranging displays, talking to students, teachers, and parents, and distributing samples of petrified wood);
- helping run the hobbies building at the annual Ventura County Fair;
- displaying beautiful petrified wood slabs at each of the 3 local club shows;
- helping to form and install an interactive 'cave' of fossil and rock specimens for a children's museum in Oxnard;
- helping run the CFMS Earth Science Studies programs;
- lecturing to senior citizens at care facilities in Ventura and Thousand Oaks.
It's fun to watch Ray work a crowd, especially since he welcomes people challenging him on information. For instance, when he says dinosaurs died out 65 million years ago and he's asked how he knows, he simply responds, 'How do we know 2 plus 2 equals 4? Because somebody told us so!' He'll point out that in coming up with ways to date rocks, earth scientists use the same techniques physicists used to build an atomic bomb or engineers used to put a man on the moon but at a certain point, you have to take someone's word for it. However, he's quick to point out that this isn't necessarily the 'final' word. Scientists don't have all the answers. If you get 6 different geologists in room and ask a question, you'll likely get 6 different variations all verging somewhere toward the truth. Science changes as new theories provide new insights, and you need to be open to change resulting from new discoveries. Science is about interpreting evidence. The more evidence accumulated, the better we can interpret the evidence to accept or reject a particular theory. But with sciences like geology, you're always missing pieces of the puzzle, and uncertainty and debate is part of the scientific process. In his museum tours, Ray focuses on process and on interactive discovery, hoisting specimens and asking for opinions about what it might be, where it may have come from, how it may have formed. Science, kids soon learn, is not about final answers but about the process of discovery, which is why it's so much fun.
The main thing to note about Ray and Florence's efforts is how they've gone community-wide. Using their base within local clubs, they've moved their educational efforts outward into local museums, the county fair, youth groups, the school system, and many other ways. Their efforts serve as a fine model for how we all might build a bridge between our personal club activities and the community at large. May we all work to build such bridges. Thank you, Ray and Florence, for showing us how!
Is there someone in your club to whom you would like to say thanks while spreading the wealth by sharing their ideas and activities with the rest of us? If so, please email or give me a call with the details jbraceth@juno.com or 805-659-3577.
CFMS Newsletter - October 2002.
Table of Contents.
SUPPORT AND PRACTICE
THE AFMS CODE OF ETHICS.
"FIELD TRIPS ARE FUN."
Wiley's Well Area, California,
Triclub fieldtrip,
November 28-December 1, 2002.
Directions To camping area: Exit interstate 10 at Wiley's Well Rd. which is approximately 10 miles west of Blythe and 31 miles east of Desert Center. Follow Wiley's Well Road south for 12.5 miles to the campsite on the west side of the road at the Riverside and Imperial County line. Look for a sign on the right side of the road.
Camping: Dry camping, no water, no picnic tables, no latrines, no firewood to be gathered, and no fees. There may not be fire rings available. This is desert country and it can be quite cool in the evenings. Supplies are available in Blythe.
Note: The road to the camping area is good. Some of the roads to the gathering sites, however, are poor and require a 4-wheel drive and/or high clearance vehicle.
Motels: Motels are available in Blythe.
Wednesday: Some of us will be at the campsite by dinner time, so you will have company if you decide to come on Wednesday.
Meeting: Thursday morning we will meet at the camping area and leave for our first site at 9:00 a.m. We will return to the camping area for lunch. If you arrive late, you can plan on us leaving for our afternoon site at 1:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday mornings we will also head out at 9:00 a.m.
Rockhounding: This area is rich in a number of minerals and rocks, geological marvels, and old mines.
Information: Additional information will be made available at the next club meeting October 23 or by contacting the fieldtrip leader Mitty Scarpato 818-707-9972 or Ron Wise 647-4393.
Ron Wise, Field Trip Chairperson.
FIELD TRIPS
by Bob Fitzpatrick.
Field Trip leader for San Gorgonio
and Shadow Mountain Gem & Mineral Clubs.
On October 19 and 20th we will be going to the Garnet Queen Mine for garnets and other pegmatite gems.
On November 27th to December 1 is a trip to Wiley's Well area where we will go to the Hauser Beds and Potato Patch for geodes, etc. Then to the Opal Hill mine for fire agate and zeolites. Also to the Pebble Terrace for petrified wood, fossils, jasper, agate and much more.
On December 14 & 15 we will head to the Salton Sea to the Obsidian Butte for pumice and obsidian. We will also go to the Mud Pots and then to the Glaurerite Crystal area.
All interested rockhounds are invited to join us. You must observe the AFMS Code of Ethics and sign a consent and assumption of risk and waiver of liability form.
Come for the day or camp out with us. This will be dry camping. For more information email me at RocHoundBob@aol.com or RUROCKY2@aol.com.
CFMS Bulletin - October 2002.
TRI CLUB FIELD TRIP:
MONTE CRISTO MOUNTAINS,
August 31 - September 2, 2002.
Eleven hearty rockhounds who braved the six-hour trip to the Monte Cristo Mountains over the Labor Day weekend were rewarded with beautiful weather. We had warm days and cool evenings, perfect for burning Miriam Tetreault's endless supply of firewood. Our trusty tarp provided shelter from the hot mid-day sun. Miriam's new sun shower offered a real luxury; those of us who were camping got refreshing showers. Ron and I had a great time initiating our "new-to-us" 4x4 pickup to the rigors of off road travel, exploring almost every little jeep road we hadn't been able to enter on our previous trip to the area.
Saturday morning we headed out to a close-by site for gathering seam agate. We hiked up some steep hills and managed to find a number of good samples. After a shaded lunch at camp, we headed off on a jeep trail to find onyx. Back at camp we had dinner and watched the sun set over the mountains. Our evening campfire brought us together to share stories about sites we have explored and others still to be visited.
Sunday we headed off to find brown moss agate. After one false start, we found the right jeep road and picked up a number of good pieces up in the hills. Again, we returned to the campsite for lunch under the tarp. The afternoon was spent on an exploration expedition. There is supposed to be a loop where "red and blue" and green rhyolite can be found. After a number of false starts we finally gave up on that one. In the process, though we found more interesting spots for future exploration. With that, we went to the trusty site for red banded rhyolite right next to the road. There was plenty to satisfy everyone. In the afternoon Miriam and I decided to relax and read in the shade. The guys headed over to the ash hills for petrified wood. They were happy to find some good samples. They also picked up some hefty pieces of columnar basalt. Back at camp, we had our last campfire. Miriam even managed to burn the last stick of her firewood as we visited and admired the endless stars in the desert sky.
Monday morning when everyone else headed home, Ron and I headed out to find Gilbert Ghost Town. There wasn't a lot there, but we felt a sense of history as we viewed the old mine shafts and rickety shacks. Our next stop was a site the Tonopah BLM geologist had suggested we visit for Apache tears. They were almost as plentiful as grains of sand on the beach. If anyone wants lots of Apache tears, just ask us and we'll tell you exactly where to go!
Jean Wise.
Editor's Note: Thanks, Jean. Sorry we didn't get it in last month, great report it made us all feel like we were there or wish we had been!
Table of Contents.
TRI-CLUB FIELDTRIPS - 2002.
| November: | |
| 2-3, | OGMS Show. |
| 28-12/1, | Wiley's Well area, |
| Leader: Mitty Scarpato. | |
| December: | |
| Holidays. |
| Leaders: | ||
| Jerry Adlof, | 579-7343 or 583-5242, | Conejo. |
| Lew Mayron, | 492-2458, | Conejo. |
| Mitty Scarpato, | (818) 707-9972, | Conejo. |
| Miriam Tetreault, | 642-5779, | Oxnard. |
| Ron Wise, | 647-4393, | Ventura. |
Table of Contents.
LOUD & CLEAR
From George Loud,
AFMS Conservation & Legislation Chair.
"California Wild Heritage Wilderness Act of 2002."
Please help in the fight against further loss of collecting sites by new wilderness designations. There would seem to be no limit to the appetite of some green groups for additional wilderness designations. We humans are part of the environment and we have need for recreational opportunities. Wilderness designations all but eliminate most recreation. Please write your state Senators to express your views on the subject. Direct their attention to the AFMS Land Use Policy reproduced in this bulletin. You can write your Senator (or Senator on the Senate National Parks and Public Lands Subcommittee):
Office of Senator (Name),
United States Senate,
Washington, D.C. 20510.
Alternately, you can contact your Senator by e-mail through the Senate web site at: www.senate.gov.
AFMS Newsletter - October 2002.
Table of Contents.
AFMS LAND USE POLICY.
1. Adherence to the AFMS Code of Ethics assures compliance with most statutes and regulations governing collecting on public lands and encourages respect for private property rights and the environment. Clubs are urged to read the AFMS Code of Ethics in at least one meeting every year, to publish the Code frequently in the club newsletter, and to compel compliance on club field trips.
2. Individuals and clubs are urged to write their elected representatives and land use management agency supervisors regarding issues of rule making, legislation and enforcement affecting field collecting of minerals and fossils.
3. Individuals and clubs are urged to join and support activities of the American Lands Access Association (ALAA), a sister organization with responsibility for advancing the interests of earth science amateurs with legislatures and land use management agencies.
4. The AFMS will receive a report from ALAA at its annual meeting.
5. The AFMS endorses the principle of multiple use of public lands as a guarantee of continuing recreational opportunities.
6. Wilderness and monument designations are inconsistent with the principle of multiple use. In view of the vast amount of public land already designated as wilderness and monuments, future such designations should be minimal, taking into account the increased demand for recreational opportunities, including rockhounding, created by a growing population.
7. In furtherance of the principle of multiple use, the AFMS believes that laws, regulations and rules established by relevant governmental authorities should be designed to allow freest possible access to all public lands, coupled with minimal restrictions on the recreational collection of minerals, fossils, gemstone materials and other naturally occurring materials.
8. A right to collect minerals and fossils on public lands should be protected by statute.
9. The AFMS urges its members to work with any or all government authorities to achieve a good working relationship in order to improve the "Public Image" of recreational collectors.
Table of Contents.
AFMS CODE OF ETHICS.
- I will respect both private and-public property and will do no collecting on privately owned land without permission from the owner.
- I will keep informed on all laws, regulations and rules governing collecting on private lands and will observe them.
- I will, to the best of my ability, ascertain the boundary lines of property on which I plan to collect.
- I will use no firearms or blasting materials in collecting areas.
- I will cause no willful damage to property of any kind, such as fences, signs, buildings, etc.
- I will leave all gates as found.
- I will build fires only in designated or safe places and will be certain they are completely extinguished before leaving the area.
- I will discard no burning materials - matches, cigarettes, etc.
- I will fill all excavation holes which may be dangerous to livestock.
- I will not contaminate wells, creeks, or other water supplies.
- I will cause no damage to collecting material and will take home only what I can reasonably use.
- I will practice conservation and undertake to utilize fully and well the materials I have collected and will recycle my surplus for the pleasure and benefit of others.
- I will support the Rockhound Project H.E.L.P. (Help Eliminate Litter Please) and will leave all collecting areas devoid of litter, regardless of how found.
- I will cooperate with Field Trip Leaders and those in designated authority in all collecting areas.
- I will report to my Club or Federation Officers, Bureau of Land Management, or other proper authorities, any deposit of petrified wood or other material on public lands which should be protected for the enjoyment of future generations and for public educational and scientific purposes.
- I will appreciate and protect our heritage of Natural Resources. I will observe the "Golden Rule", will use Good Outdoor Manners and will at all times conduct myself in a manner which will add to the stature and Public Image of Rockhounds everywhere.
AFMS Newsletter - March 2001.
Table of Contents.
CALIFORNIA STATE MINING
AND MINERAL MUSEUM.
One of our evening speakers at Camp Paradise was Peggy Ronning, Museum Curator. The museum is now supported by the State of California. Peggy told us of wonderful changes being planned. There will be a new building, off the Fairgrounds, down town Mariposa. The lighting and display technique will be much improved.
One of the goals for the future is to acquire premium specimens of California minerals, acquire authentic mining artifacts and objects that illustrate the museum's interpretive themes, preferably items from or used in California. There are other long range plans for growth also.
In April the museum and local club are sponsoring a Gem and Mineral show, scheduled for April 5 and 6, with dealers, exhibits, speakers, educational activities and more.
Ventura Gem & Mineral Society has supported this museum in the past, and I urge that we continue to do so.
Florence Meisenheimer.
Table of Contents.
THE POTATO PATCH.
An old man lived alone. He wanted to spade his potato garden, but it was very hard work. His only son, who could have helped him, was in prison. The old man wrote to his son and described his predicament. Shortly, he received this reply: "For heaven's sake, Dad, don't dig up the garden. That's where I buried the BANK MONEY."
At 4 A.M. the next morning, ten policemen showed up and dug up the entire garden without finding any money. Confused, the old man wrote another note to his son, telling him what had happened.
The son wrote back: "Now plant your potatoes, Dad. It's the best I could do right now!"
From Joyce Speed, AFMS Newsletter-October 2002.
Table of Contents.
VGMS MINUTES.
Minutes of the VGMS Regular Monthly Meeting,
Wednesday, September 25, 2002:
The regular monthly meeting of the Ventura Gem & Mineral Society was called to order by President Greg Davis at 7:35 pm on Wednesday, September 25, 2002 in the Bijou Room of the Lexington, 5440 Ralston, Ventura, Ca. The group was led in the salute to the flag.
The August regular and board meeting minutes were corrected and then accepted as shown in the bulletin.
Guests were introduced and welcomed to the meeting.
We owe a great deal to Emma for what she has done for our Pebble Pup program this past year. We need someone to spell Emma and continue the program for just 12 sessions. Don't let it stop here after all of her effort.
This evening's program consisted of several members speaking about their personal experiences and early beginnings in our club and hobby. It turned out to be very fun and entertaining to hear from Ron Wise, Greg Davis, Jim & Nancy Brace-Thompson, Steve & Susan Mulqueen, Kathryn Davis and Ray Meisenheimer. First specimens, School days and wild field trips were related. Everyone enjoyed it so much that it may have to become a regular event.
Ron Wise reported that 11 people attended the field trip to the Monte Cristo Mountains. The next trip is scheduled for October 12 & 13 to the area Bishop for crystals.
Steve Mulqueen reminded us that the annual show at Trona is also the weekend of October 12 & 13.
Jim Brace-Thompson has show flyers (in color) for those who are able to distribute them. The first show meeting will be Sunday, October 6th at 2:00, Jim's house.
Richard Bromser gave the treasurer's report and Shirley Layton reminded us that the 10th of the month is the deadline for articles to the bulletin which will be combining the months of October and November. Photos, accompanying articles or not, are also being requested for the bulletin as they add color.
Greg stressed the fact that board nominations will be commencing and when asked to serve, please accept if at all possible. Volunteers are preferable but in either case it's our duty as members.
3 door prizes were awarded to adults attending and polished stones were handed out to pebble pups. Refreshments were provided by Gary & Sharon Markley.
There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 8:50 pm.
Respectfully submitted, Greg Davis.
Minutes of the VGMS Board Meeting,
Thursday, October 3, 2002:
The regular board meeting of the VGMS was called to order by President Greg Davis at 7:30 pm on Thursday, October 3, 2002 at the VGMS museum, 5019 Crooked Palm Rd., Ventura, Ca.
Present: Wayne Ehlers, Richard Bromser, Shirley Layton, Dave Mautz, Jim Brace-Thompson, Steve Mulqueen and Greg Davis. Wayne Ehlers and Dave Mautz were designated as pro-tem board members to constitute a quorum.
Greg mentioned the need for a nominating committee to be formed. Inez Shakman, Susan Mulqueen and Nancy Brace-Thompson have offered to take on this duty. Club business cards have been requested. Designs and costs will be compiled for further study.
Wayne Ehlers is polling members for interest in a fall cab class - both students and instructors.
Richard Bromser distributed copies of the monthly treasurer's report and it was m/s/c to accept it and checks 952-957 for club utility expenses.
Shirley Layton reminded us that the October and November bulletins will again be combined this year. Also, the November regular club meeting will be on Wednesday the 13th and the December meeting will be held on Wednesday the 11th. Shirley will look into the cost of having more club pins made and report back. A pricing event for Country Store items is scheduled for October 17th at 7:00 pm. Deadline for bulletin articles will again be the 10th of the month.
Jim Brace-Thompson stated that the first show meet will be Sunday, Oct. 6th, flyers are available and everything's off to a good start.
Mike & Lisa Rittenberg and Don & Betty Stehsel were voted upon and accepted as new members.
There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 8:45 pm.
Respectfully submitted, Greg Davis.
Table of Contents.
MEMORIES,
By Dee Clason.
(Tenth Place AFMS 2002 Adult Poetry.)
40 years of hunting rocks
In the desert he loved so--
Oh the stories he would tell
While showing others where to go.
Memories are a blessing,
They keep a loved one near;
A sunset or an autumn sky
Keep close those we hold so dear.
So as you wander in the desert,
Or climb another hill,
You'll likely recall a memory,
And feel "Ol' Hank" is near.
Yes, Hank was a Rockhound,
Teacher in the lapidary field,
He loved cutting rocks to find
What beauty they might yield.
The Pseudomorph 5/01 via Moroks Newsletter-October 2002.
Table of Contents.
CFMS EARTH SCIENCE STUDIES
AT CAMP PARADISE.
We, the committee just completed two nearly perfect weeks at Camp Paradise. There were 125 attendees, a staff of 20, and five wonderful cooks in the kitchen. Weather was great marred one day by a little blowing dust, and a bit warm a couple of days. Field trips were not well attended this year as every one was anxious to attend as many workshops as possible.
It was amazing to see so many completed specimens--jewelry, cabs, Ming trees, silver work, beads, glass fusion, spheres, and very good carved creatures at Show and Tell.
It makes us proud to be on the committee of this wonderful learning opportunity.
We are now working on ZZYZX.
Florence Meisenheimer. (Editor's Note: Zzyzx Application will be available at October meeting.)
Table of Contents.
SUPPORT AND PRACTICE
THE AFMS CODE OF ETHICS.
GREAT ARTIST RETIRING.--
At Camp Paradise we learned that Larry Bidwell from Glendora Gems is retiring at the end of the school year. Larry has taught lapidary arts to young people for years, and "Larry's Kids" have won more trophies at CFMS shows than any of us can remember. He will be greatly missed.
Florence Meisenheimer.
Table of Contents.
FAREWELL.
The week end after Camp Paradise closed, Cal and Dee Clason and Ray and I were invited to a luncheon at a church in Marysville. The program was to honor and remember all of the people who have helped build up and keep up Camp Paradise. It was also a going away party for James and Sharon Barton, who retired, and welcoming for Don and Leda Younce, the new managers. Don and Leda have recently returned from three years in New Guinea. It was a very, very nice get-together.
Florence Meisenheimer.
Table of Contents.
AFMS NEWSLETTER.
This summer at Port Townsend, Washington, during the business meeting, a resolution was passed. It reads, "The President shall appoint an ad hoc committee to explore the possibility of establishing a new fund for the purpose of purchase and/or lease and maintenance of collecting areas on a nationwide basis." The filing of mining and other claims on lands containing collectible rocks, minerals or fossils could also be financed by this fund.
Florence Meisenheimer.
Table of Contents.
| Country Humor | |
| from Alicia Catalano. |
For those who can't understand the Enron case. This is put in the simplest form so that everyone can understand.
An old country farmer with serious financial problems bought a mule from another old farmer for $100, who agreed to deliver the mule the next day.
However, the next day he drove up and said, "Sorry, but I have some bad news: The mule died."
"Well then, just give me my money back."
"I can't do that. I went and spent it already."
"OK, then. Just unload the mule."
"What are you going to do with a dead mule?"
"I'm going to raffle him off."
"You can't raffle off a dead mule!"
"Sure I can. I just won't tell anyone he is dead."
A month later the two met up and the former who sold the mule asked, "What ever happened with that dead mule?"
"I raffled him off just like I said I would. I sold 500 tickets at $2.00 a piece."
"Didn't anyone complain?"
"Just the guy who won. So I gave him his two dollars back, and made a profit of $998."
AFMS Newsletter-October 2002.
Table of Contents.
HINTS & TIPS FOR ROCKHOUNDS
(Use at your own risk).
Lapidary Hints:
1) When gluing a gem stone to a brooch bar, glue bar above the center that way the stone will lie flat when worn.
2) To get that extra special shine on quartz crystal, also agate, add a little Oxalic acid to your polish.
3) If you are having trouble polishing your tiger eye (providing it has been sanded properly), try polishing with cerium oxide on a felt buff.
4) When working with tiger eye, always work with the grain and not against it.
5) If you have a large slice of obsidian, try using a glass cutter to trim to size. (It does work!)
6) Delicate fossils, as on shale, can be damaged by handling. These delicate fossils can be protected by "painting" over with watered down PVA glue using a soft (e.g. Camel hair) brush. This thinned down PVA glue can be removed by washing off with water and the soft brush, enabling further study of the fossils.
From: http://ozbird.com/lapidaryarchives.shtm.
Drywasher's Gazette via MOROKS, October 2002.
Table of Contents.
2002 CFMS CLUB SHOWS.
OCTOBER 19; CANOGA PARK, CA - Woodland Hills Rock Chippers, Canoga Park Community Center, 7248 Owensmouth Avenue. Hours: 10-5. Thalia Goldsworthy WWROCKShow@aol.com.
OCTOBER 19-20; WHITTIER, CA - Whittier Gem & Mineral Society "Rocks in Our Back Yard" the 53rd show, 7630 Washington Ave. (Corner of Mar Vista and Washington Ave.) Hours: 10-5 both days. Jay Valle (626) 934-9764.
OCTOBER 19-20; EL CAJON, CA - El Cajon Gem & Mineral Society, El Cajon Valley Masonic Hall Association, 695 Ballantyne. Hours 10-5 both days. Mikki Santens (619) 440-3201.
OCTOBER 19-20; SANTA ROSA, CA - Santa Rosa Mineral & Gem Club, Veteran's Bldg. across from Fairgrounds. Hours: Sat. 10-6, Sun. 10-5. Pete Peterson Robert-peterson@webtv.com.
OCTOBER 20; FALLBROOK, CA - Fallbrook Gem & Mineral Society "Fall Festival of Gems", Fallbrook Mineral Museum, 123 W. Alvarado Street. Hours: 10-4. Karen Dawes & Mary Fong/Walker. (760) 728-1130 e-mail fgms@att.net.
NOVEMBER 2-3; OXNARD, CA - Oxnard Gem & Mineral Society, "The Fabulous Feldspar Family", Oxnard Performing Arts Center, 800 Hobson Way. Hours: Sat. 9-5, Sun. 9-4. Anne Lewis (805) 485-6356. www.ogms.net - e-mail webmaster@ogms.net.
NOVEMBER 2-3; ANAHEIM, CA - The American Opal Society, Quality Hotel Maingate, 616 Convention Way. Hours: Sat. 10-6, Sun. ? Robert Dixon (714)534-5063. Jay Carey (714) 525-7635.
NOVEMBER 2-3; SAN DIEGO, CA - Palomar Gem & Mineral Club, Al Bahr Shrine Center, 5440 Kearny Mesa Road. Hours: 9 am to 6 pm both days. Don Parsley.
NOVEMBER 2-3; RIDGECREST, CA - Indian Wells Gem & Mineral Society, Desert Empire Fairgrounds, Mesquite Hall., 520 S. Richmond Road. Hours: Sat. 9-5, Sun. 9-4. Field Trips leave at 9:30. John De Rosa (760) 375-7905.
NOVEMBER 2-3; CONCORD, CA - Contra Costa Mineral & Gem Society, Centre Concord, 5298 Clayton Road. Hours: 10-5 daily. Sam Woolsey (925) 837-3287. KR6AT@ARRL.NET.
NOVEMBER 2-3; CAYUCOS, CA - San Luis Obispo Gem & Mineral Club 44th Cayucos Gem, Jewelry & Mineral show, Cayucos Veteran's Hall at the Pier. Hours: Sat. 10-6, Sun. 10-5. (805) 772-7160 or 772-2321.
NOVEMBER 8-10; EUREKA, CA - Humboldt Gem & Mineral Society, Redwood Archers Fairgrounds, 3750 Harris Street. Hours: "Kids Day" Fri. 9-6, Sat. 10-6, Sun. 10-5. Ron Bushell (707) 443-5269.
NOVEMBER 16-17; PALMDALE, CA - Palmdale Gem & Mineral Club, "Rock n' Gems", California Elks Lodge, 2705 E. Ave. Q. Hours: 9-5 both days. Gail Becker Gail1010becker@aol.com.
NOVEMBER 23-24; LIVERMORE, CA - Livermore Valley Lithophiles, The Barn, 3131 Pacific Avenue. Hours: Sat. 10-5; Sun. 10-4. Bill Beiriger (925) 443-5769.
NOVEMBER 23-24; YUBA CITY, CA - Sutter Buttes Gem & Mineral Society, Yuba-Sutter Fairgrounds, 442 Frankling Avenue. Hours: Sat. 9-5, Sun. 9-4. Co chairs: Ed Eden (530) 674-8605, Gene Kauffman 674-9579 & Joe Love 673-8007.
NOVEMBER 23-24; VICTORVILLE, CA - Victorville Gem & Mineral Club's 27th Annual Show, San Bernardino County Fairgrounds, 14800 7th Street. Hours: Sat. 9-5; Sun 9-4. Gil Gilbert (760) 868-6900.
NOVEMBER 30 - Dec. 1; BARSTOW, CA - Mojave Desert Gem & Mineral Society, Barstow Community Center, 841 South Barstow Road. Hours: 10-5 both days. Bob Depue (760) 255-1030.
NOVEMBER 30 - Dec. 1; ORANGEVALE, CA - American River & Mineral Society. "Winter Wonderland of Gems", Orangevale Grange Hall, 5807 Walnut Avenue. Hours: 10-5 both days. Hugh Brady (916) 961-6868.
DECEMBER 6-8; SACRAMENTO, CA - Sacramento Mineral Society, Scottish Rite Temple, 6151 H Street. Hours: Fri. 9-5, Sat. & Sun. 10-5. Stan Henneman (916) 363-5011.
DECEMBER 7-8; SAN BERNARDINO, CA - Orange Belt Mineralogical Society, 503 W. 31st Street. Hours: Sat. 10-6, Sun. 10-5. Emma Couveau (Workshop #) (909) 381-0089.
Table of Contents.
AMERICAN FEDERATION / REGIONAL
SHOW SCHEDULE - 2003.
SOUTH CENTRAL FEDERATION,
February 22-23; Pasadena, TX.
SOUTHEAST FEDERATION,
To Be Announced.
Combined AFMS/CFMS SHOW,
June 5-8; Ventura, CA.
Del Air Rockhounds presents:
"Seaside Gemboree 2003",
Seaside Park (Formerly Ventura Fairgrounds),
10 W. Harbor Blvd.,
Bob Backus (818) 347-2056, GemboreeBiz@aol.com,
(818) 883-7851, www.afms-cfmsgemshow.org.
EASTERN FEDERATION,
To Be Announced.
ROCKY MOUNTAIN FEDERATION,
July 11-13, Casper, WY.
NORTHWEST FEDERATION,
August 1-3, Kennewick, WA.
MIDWEST FEDERATION,
August 15-17; Cottage Grove, MN.
Table of Contents.
EDITOR'S NOTE:
Just for the record any unsigned articles are by the Editor. Thanks to everyone for their contributions and we look forward to a lot more from other members!! (That is a broad hint and special request!!)
 |
| Trili - The Editor's Pet Trilobite. |
Table of Contents.
THE MOUNTAIN THAT MOVED...50 MILES!
By Howard F. Hahn, CLARK COUNTY GEM COLLECTORS,
via PETROGRAPH 1/98,
via MOROKS Newsletter 9/02.
Bob Brumbaugh did this and says it is a must see for all rockhounds when you are in the Las Vegas area.
On the eastern border of Las Vegas and dominating the skyline is, the 4,052 foot tall, Frenchman Mountain. It is composed of sedimentary rock and was once part of the Grand Canyon, 50 miles to the east!
Seas once covered that area and the sediments of sand and lime mud which accumulated at the bottom of that sea eventually became cemented together to form sandstones and limestones. These were deposited horizontally about 500 million years ago and many of the layers contain fossils.
Between 6-10 million years ago the earth was caused to fracture because of the westward pulling of the North American plate. This horizontal master fault, which occurred 1-2 miles below the surface, was accompanied by secondary curved vertical faults.
As the land was pulled westward, the blocks were caused to slide down and become tilted.
Continued pulling and sliding caused tilting up to 50 degrees and the westward movement of Frenchman Mountain about 50 miles to where it is today. The rest of the same formation is below Lake Mead and at the Grand Canyon or has weathered away - and been washed downstream.
Note: If you travel east on Lake Mead Blvd. from the intersection of Hollywood Blvd., about 1 mile, you will see a small parking area on the right hand (south) side of the road and a granite slab marker. Stop here to learn more about this remarkable happening and to discover rocks which are at least 1.7 billion years old.
MOROKS Newsletter-September 2002.
Table of Contents.
TOUR OF THE FAMOUS "16 TO 1" MINE,
Alleghany, Sierra County, CA.
Sept. 20, 2002 - Paid for and went on tour of the active "16 to 1" gold mine (hardrock, underground). Field trip began at the "16 to 1" Mine museum in Alleghany. Started with orientation, history lecture, safety meeting, trying on rubber boots, hardhat, self-rescue & lamp. The tour consisted of one hour looking at surface workings and 2 hours underground. Drove down to main gate, then traveled in back of pickup to mine. Surface facilities included the air compressor building / machine shop, dry room, old stamp mill and newer crusher and ball mill. Entered mine on the 800' level adit and walked 1/4 mile within main tunnel. (Levels refer to approx. depths below the town of Alleghany, 800 level is approx. 800' below the town).
The main tunnel is shored with timbers. Water drips from mine in all areas. Air temperature in the mine is about 50 degrees. Some water forms stalactites and stalagmites. Water (from natural ground percolation, diverted from stopes and pumped up from deep workings) runs down the floors of most of the drifts. Small "creeks" flow between the mine rails (rails are 18" gauge). Water is 1 to 2 inches deep with deeper puddles in some areas. Saw many mined-out stopes with pillars and timbers retained as support. In some areas, the milky quartz veins consist of one large gold bearing vein 40' thick with competent schist at the hanging wall. Gold bearing quartz contains many veins of mariposite and a black mineral thought to be serpentine. Numerous piles of waste rock, iron junk and equipment were observed along the drift.
Walked to the main incline and observed a skip (ore bucket) descending to our level. The trip leader called the hoist operator to send it to the 800 level for discussion of hoisting of ore and personnel. Climbed ladder and stairs to the hoist room at the 600 level. Hoist operator gave short lecture on the hoist operations and safety. Descended stairs back to the 800 level and walked another 3/4 mile to the end of the drift. Descended incline to the "Grand Ballroom", a large mined out stope at approx. the 1300 level. Ate lunch with candle light, observed quartz exposures.
Ascended incline back to 800 level and looked at a slusher, mucker, ore cars and numerous pieces of equipment stored in the drift and stopes. Returned to surface via main tunnel at 800 level. Drive back to Allenghany to the "16 to 1" mine office. Saw exhibits of gold ore, gold ore jewelry, gold ore sculptures and "The Whopper", a 13 pound chunk of ore consisting of 141 ounces of gold with associated quartz. Returned to the museum in Alleghany to bring back mine lights, boots, self-rescue, etc. End of tour.
Written by Steve Mulqueen, Sept. 24, 2002.
Table of Contents.
SUPPORT AND PRACTICE
THE AFMS CODE OF ETHICS.
EDUCATIONAL CORNER.
Definition of the Month.
The Mortar and Pestle:
Mortar - A vessel having a bowl-shaped cavity in which solid compounds are ground to a powder with the use of a pestle.
Pestle - An instrument held and operated by hand which is used for reducing substances to a fine powder in a mortar.
In the mining industry, prospectors and miners would use a mortar and pestle to grind ore, rocks and minerals into a powder for further analysis. For gold ore composed of native gold in a quartz matrix, the mortar, pestle and the gold pan with water would be the most commonly available equipment required to separate gold from the ore.
The "Definition of the Month" features words related to geology, paleontology, mining and desert history.
Written by Steve Mulqueen.
Illustration of the Month.
"Ice cliff in Escholtz Bay, Arctic America" - An illustration by G. B. Seeman, from the book "Geology: Chemical, Physical and Stratigraphical", volume 2, written by Joseph Prestwich, Oxford's Clarendon Press, England, 1888.
The dark layers are permafrost (frozen soil) while the white layers consist of ice and frozen mud. Escholtz Bay is located in the state of Alaska, northwestern coast, east of the Bering Strait. In 1888, Alaska was a territory governed by the United States.
The "Illustration of the Month" features a drawing, sketch, pen & ink rendering or an engraving print rediscovered in old books, maps, and manuscripts related to geology, paleontology, mining and desert history.
Written by Steve Mulqueen for the Ventura Gem & Mineral Soc., October, 2002.
Table of Contents.
COLORBOOK.
J is for . . .
. . . Jasper.
Jasper is a variety of Quartz.
It looks like agate, but
is all red (and sometimes yellow).
 |
This jasper is red with yellow spots. It is called orbicular jasper. |
| This jasper looks like agate, but is all shades of red. |
 |
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This lump of jasper is bright red. |
Table of Contents.
VGMS PHOTO ALBUM.
#1 - "Heading out" to Lake (Searles) Bed. It's an amazingly organized fleet of vehicles moving out!
#2 - "Thar She Blows" - Bowing hanksite, halite, borax, sulfohalite from lake bottom.
#3 - Pink Halite from brine pools - "Let's go deeper!"
4 - VGMS Club Case at the 2002 Ventura County Fair, put together by Susan & Steve Mulqueen. It won 1st place! Way to go and thanks!
Table of Contents.
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