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The Ventura Gem & Mineral Society, Inc. (VGMS)
Rockhound Rambling
March 2004.

Table of Contents.

• PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE;
• LAST CALL FOR 2004 DUES;
• WORDS TO LIVE BY;
• Don't cry;
• GEM SHOW 2004;
• MARCH PROGRAM;
• REVIEW - FEBRUARY PROGRAM;
• SHOW RECAP MEETING: SUNDAY, APRIL 4;
• MARK YOUR CALENDARS;
• CHIPS & BOULDERS;
• WEB SITES;
• True terror is to;
• Program Schedule for Monthly Meetings;
• APRIL BIRTHDAYS;
• HOSPITALITY;
• PUBLIC OUTREACH;
• Junior Activities;
• We Can Save Our Collecting Sites;
• "FIELD TRIPS ARE FUN";
• Insurance Update;
• MEMBERSHIP;
• Willow Creek Jasper;
• VGMS MINUTES;
• HINTS & TIPS FOR ROCKHOUNDS-(Use at your own risk);
• List of Web Site Addresses for Important Mineral Shows;
• The four basic;
• SHOW DATES;
• 2004 CFMS CLUB SHOWS;
• AMERICAN FEDERATION / REGIONAL SHOW SCHEDULE - 2004;
• EDITOR'S NOTE;
• CFMS SHOW UPDATE MARIPOSA, MAY 28-30, 2004;
• VGMS PHOTO ALBUM;
• Lots of people want;
• EDUCATIONAL CORNER;
• COLORBOOK;
• Desert Symposium 2004.

PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE.

The Ventura Gem & Mineral Society's 42nd annual mineral, lapidary & fossil show was a big success! This was due to the volunteer efforts from our members. Thank you so such for a great event. A special thanks goes to Jim Brace-Thompson, our Show Chairman.

I received numerous compliments from mineral dealers and from show participants about how much they enjoyed the show. We should all be proud of this. A financial statement, detailing the income and costs from the show will be prepared by Richard Bromser sometime next month.

As many of you know, planning for our mineral shows begin in March of each year. Now is the time to start the planning for next year's event.

Our next regular meeting is on Wednesday, March 24. I will be out of town on that day. Ray Meisenheimer will be conducting the meeting in my absence.

Thank you again for all your great efforts as members of the Ventura Gem & Mineral Society!

Steve Mulqueen,
President.

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LAST CALL FOR 2004 DUES.

Course it is never too late to pay your dues, but it is the last call to get into the 2004 Directory and we want you there! It's Not Too Late! Check the inside cover of the Bulletin for the amount due and stop now and send a check made out to VGMS to Sharon Markley, 1686 Kenewa, Ojai, CA 93023. The 2004 Directories will be distributed at the April meeting (and mailed after the meeting for those unable to attend). March 31st is the cut off date to be included in the directory and if not renewed this will be your last bulletin. Hope to hear from you soon!

Webmaster's Note: For those of you reading this on the web site you will find the dues information on the VGMS Information Page.

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WORDS TO LIVE BY.

Plans are only good intentions unless they immediately change into hard work.

Imagination is more important than knowledge.

No day is so bad that it can't be fixed with a nap.

The next best thing to solving a problem is finding some humor in it.

Collected by Wayne Ehlers.

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* * * * * * * * * * * * *

Don't cry because it's over, smile because it happened. - Author Unknown.

* * * * * * * * * * * * *

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GEM SHOW 2004:
A HEARTY THANK-YOU, ONE AND ALL!

I learned long ago the dangers of trying to single out and name each and every individual who helps with a significant activity, so I hope you'll forgive me as I issue a blanket thank-you to everyone who, collectively, makes up our Ventura Gem and Mineral Society. You all pitched in beautifully over the course of a beautiful weekend with clear-blue skies, a plump full moon at night, and a very packed fairgrounds. From the second we opened our doors each morning to the very second of closing, it seemed we constantly had a crowd enjoying the fruits of everyone's labor. From all indications, the general public and kids within the community, our dealers, our demonstrators, our exhibitors and friends from neighboring clubs, and our own club members had an enjoyable and rewarding time. The mood was upbeat, and I'm hoping that Richard reports the same for our bottom line! I have to be in Baltimore on business to enjoy East Coast spring showers on the day of our March meeting, and I apologize that I won't be there to thank everyone in-person. I hope you'll accept this humble substitute as a token of my thanks and gratitude for an inspiring effort-thank you, one and all!

Submitted by Jim Brace-Thompson, Show Chair.

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MARCH PROGRAM:
"Death Valley Memories".

     Ray Meisenheimer will be presenting a video titled "Death Valley Memories", a video produced by Ted Faye and Gold Creek Films.
     Ed Clark was to present the program, but had to go out of town on business. We hope to have Ed's program later in the year. I understand the Death Valley film has been around for a while and is very entertaining. Hope to see you all there for this film and to find out the results of our hard work at the show.

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REVIEW - FEBRUARY PROGRAM,
COUNT DOWN TO SHOW TIME.

Our show chair, Jim Brace-Thompson gave a very interesting and visual count down of tasks to be done and items to bring to our forth-coming show. The set-up times and needs were outlined as well as the show days and take down. Things were looking to be in good order and everyone was getting their "ducks in a row" so to speak! Door prizes were drawn and happy winners followed! It turned out our "ducks" had to swim to the meeting, as the weather was not good and had not been for a couple days, so our attendance was somewhat affected.

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SHOW RECAP MEETING:
SUNDAY, APRIL 4.

While the 2004 Show is still fresh in our minds, Nancy and I would like to call a Show Recap Meeting to discuss what went well, what might be improved, and anything new to add to Show 2005. I'll also gladly accept any nominations and volunteers to take on Show Committee Chairs at that time! (If you won't be able to attend the meeting but wish to volunteer for a Show Chair, please call or email: 659-3577; jbraceth@adelphia.net.) We'll host the meeting at our place (7319 Eisenhower Street, Ventura) at 2:00 PM, Sunday, April 4. Hope to see you there!

Submitted by Jim Brace-Thompson, Show Chair.

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MARK YOUR CALENDARS:

3-19/21-04 - TriClub Field Trip - Jade Cove - See "Field Trips Are Fun" for more details.
3-20-04 - VGMS Work Shop - Museum - Open - 9-noon.
3-24-04 - VGMS Regular Meeting - 7:30 pm - At the Lexington. Ray Meisenheimer will present a film "Death Valley Memories".
3-24-04 - DEADLINE FOR APRIL Bulletin Articles to the Editor! This is early, but will be out of town on the normally scheduled weekend. Thanks for being early.
4-1-04 - VGMS Board Meeting - 7:30 pm - At the Museum. Everyone is welcome and encouraged to attend.
4-4-04 - VGMS Show Recap Meeting - 2:00 pm, Jim & Nancy Brace-Thompson's (7319 Eisenhower St., Ventura).
4-17-04 - VGMS Work Shop - Museum - Open - 9-noon.
4-23/25-04 - CFMS Field Trip to Cady Mountains (Afton Canyon) - See "Field Trips Are Fun" for details.
4-24-04 - Tri-Club Field Trip - CANCELLED (Vandenberg, same weekend as CFMS field trip).
4-28-04 - VGMS Regular Meeting - 7:30 pm - At the Lexington.

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CHIPS & BOULDERS.

San Simeon earthquake - The website has great photos of the damage from the San Simeon earthquake - http://www.consrv.ca.gov/CGS/geologic_hazards/earthquakes/earthquake_information.htm.

We did it!! One more year of show under our belts. It was a great show and always good to see the many exhibitors and dealers that come every year. I would like to thank Shirley Bromser and Sharon Markley for all their help throughout the weekend in the country store and the many others that gave their time as they could. Many thanks to all the contributors of items and the purchasers of items as well! We had a lot of good merchandise and a successful store with your contributions.

ROCKS FOR SALE: Former member Kathleen Molner has large rocks and many slabs she wants to sell. She lives at 1010 Ayers Ave. in Ojai. Her telephone is (805) 646-3522. - Florence Meisenheimer.

Hosts and Hostesses Schedule for 2004 Meetings - Sharon Cunningham has kindly agreed to coordinate the Hosting schedule again for 2004. The schedule is as follows:
     March: Sharon & Gary Markley,
     April: Ray & Florence Meisenheimer,
     May: Steve & Susan Mulqueen,
     June: Nancy & Jim Brace-Thompson,
     July: Shirley Layton & Sharlyne Holloway.
August through November are still open, so please see Sharon and fill in the gaps. Many thanks to all the volunteers.

CFMS Newsletters Available to all - A subscription to this newsletter costs $5.00 for 11 issues a year. If you are interested, send your request and check to California Federation of Mineralogical Societies, Inc., P.O. Box 1657, Rialto, CA 92377. It is well worth the money and I would encourage all to do it.

VGMS Business Cards Available - You can get them printed with your name and address or whatever you wish on them. They are $4.00 for 100. See Shirley Layton with the number you want and how you want them printed.

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!

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SUPPORT AND PRACTICE
THE AFMS CODE OF ETHICS.

WEB SITES.

AFMS Web Site - http://www.Amfed.org/,
CFMS Web Site - http://www.cfmsinc.org/,
California BLM Web Site - http://www.ca.blm.gov/.

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* * * * * * * * * * * * *

True terror is to wake up one morning and discover that your
high school class is running the country.
Kurt Vonnegut.

* * * * * * * * * * * * *

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Program Schedule for Monthly Meetings,
Ventura Gem & Mineral Society, 2004.

In the absence of a Program Chairman for the year 2004, the President is asking for volunteers to take responsibility for planning a program for at least one of the monthly meetings. Any vacancies remaining after this request will be filled by appointment.

*The designated "Speaker" is responsible for one of the following options during the assigned meeting:
     Present a lecture;
     Invite a guest speaker, introduce him/her at the meeting;
     Present a video related to our hobby.
          Steve Mulqueen, President.

Please Note: A good source for programs if you have signed up for a month and need material is the CFMS Slide and Video Library. Florence Meisenheimer should have the full list available or the CFMS website would also be of help.

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APRIL BIRTHDAYS.

Happy Birthday to all those born in April. 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 805-717-9226 and leave a message if I'm not there or an email will also do the trick, jns@west.net. Thanks!

April - Happy Birthday!!
     Cody Stephens - 6th,
     Richard Bromser - 10th,
     Kevin Berman - 22nd,
     Hannah Brace-Thompson - 29th.

The April birthstone is the Diamond and the flower is the Sweet Pea.

THE MINERAL DIAMOND.

• Chemistry: C, Elemental Carbon;
• Class: Native Elements;
• Subclass: Non-metallics;
• Group: Carbon;
• Uses: As a gemstone and abrasive.

     Diamond is the ultimate gemstone, having few weaknesses and many strengths. It is well known that Diamond is the hardest substance found in nature, but few people realize that Diamond is four times harder than the next hardest natural mineral, corundum (sapphire and ruby). But even as hard as it is, it is not impervious. Diamond has four directions of cleavage, meaning that if it receives a sharp blow in one of these directions it will cleave, or split. A skilled diamond setter and/or jeweler will prevent any of these directions from being in a position to be struck while mounted in a jewelry piece.
     As a gemstone, Diamond's single flaw (perfect cleavage) is far outdistanced by the sum of its positive qualities. It has a broad color range, high refraction, high dispersion or fire, very low reactivity to chemicals, rarity, and of course, extreme hardness and durability.
     In terms of its physical properties, diamond is the ultimate mineral in several ways:

• Hardness: Diamond is a perfect "10", defining the top of the hardness scale.
• Clarity: Diamond is transparent over a larger range of wavelengths (from the ultraviolet into the far infrared) than is any other substance.
• Thermal Conductivity: Diamond conducts heat better than anything - five times better than the second best element, Silver!
• Melting Point: Diamond has the highest melting point (3820 degrees Kelvin)!
• Lattice Density: The atoms of Diamond are packed closer together than are the atoms of any other substance!

     Diamond is a polymorph of the element carbon. Graphite is another polymorph. The two share the same chemistry, carbon, but have very different structures and properties. Diamond is hard, Graphite is soft (the "lead" of a pencil). Diamond is an excellent electrical insulator, Graphite is a good conductor of electricity. Diamond is the ultimate abrasive, Graphite is a very good lubricant. Diamond is transparent, Graphite is opaque. Diamond crystallizes in the Isometric system and graphite crystallizes in the hexagonal system. Somewhat of a surprise is that at surface temperatures and pressures, Graphite is the stable form of carbon. In fact, all diamonds at or near the surface of the Earth are currently undergoing a transformation into Graphite. This reaction, fortunately, is extremely slow.

PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS:
Color is variable and tends toward pale yellows, browns, grays, and also white, blue, black, reddish, greenish and colorless.
Luster is adamantine to waxy.
Transparency - crystals are transparent to translucent in rough crystals.
Crystal System is isometric; 4/m bar 3 2/m.
Crystal Habits include isometric forms such as cubes and octahedrons, twinning is also seen.
Hardness is 10.
Specific Gravity is 3.5 (above average).
Cleavage is perfect in 4 directions forming octahedrons.
Fracture is conchoidal.
Streak is white.
Associated Minerals are limited to those found in kimberlite rock, an ultramafic igneous rock composed mostly of olivine.
Other Characteristics: Refractive index is 2.4 (very high), dispersion is 0.044, fluorescent.
Notable Occurrences include South Africa and other localities throughout Africa, India, Brazil, Russia, Australia, and Arkansas.
Best Field Indicator is extreme hardness.

Unless otherwise noted, all mineral descriptions and images, plus the related descriptions on this server are the property of Amethyst Galleries, Inc., and may not be copied for commercial purposes. Permission to copy descriptions and images is granted for personal and educational use only.

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HOSPITALITY.

The February meeting had 18 members with no guests or pebble pups who braved the rather nasty rain and storm. It was an important one putting the finishing touches on our show plans. Greg and Valli Davis brought some great refreshments to help us with the planning and visiting! We also had time for some good door prize drawing with the winners being Kathryn Davis, Jean Wise, Jim Brace-Thompson, Dave Mautz, Ron Wise and Wayne Ehlers. Our hospitality chairperson, Sharlyne Holloway, wasn't able to be there, but hopefully we will see her at our March meeting where we will all be breathing a sigh of relief with the show being over and a successful one it was!

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PUBLIC OUTREACH.

Our Public Outreach for this month was "Our Show", many people went home with a rock from the silent auction, a treasure from the dealers, kids with their treasured winning grab bag or spinning wheel prizes or a donation award prize! Education abounded with the demonstrators, demo-dealers, continually running video's by Steve Mulqueen, petting zoo and the welcome and answered questions by our greeters at the Hospitality table.

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Junior Activities -
Earthquakes On-line: Becoming a Junior Seismologist,
By Jim Brace-Thompson, Juniors' Activities Chair.

     Those of us belonging to the California Federation are used to the ground occasionally moving under our feet. At work during the recent quake at Cambria, I felt like I was on board a creaky, rocking ship for several seconds even though I was sitting in Thousand Oaks, far to the south of the epicenter. After all was over and I realized everything was safe and secure, the first thing I did was to turn to my computer and enter the following web address: http://pasadena.wr.usgs.gov/shake/ca/.
     The United States Geological Survey sponsors this site, which immediately told me where the earthquake was centered and its magnitude, along with maps showing related tremblers. But the site has another very cool feature that you can turn into an activity with your pebble pups and junior members - an activity that enables them to make a direct contribution to earthquake science or seismology!
     After giving info about recent quakes (with buttons you can push to pull up an archive with info about past earthquakes), you come to the following note: "This is a U.S. Geological Survey project to collect information about ground shaking following significant earthquakes. You can help us by filling out a questionnaire for each earthquake you feel. A Community Internet Intensity Map will be made and updated every few minutes following a major earthquake. At first only a few ZIP codes will have intensities assigned, but over time others will be assigned as data comes in. Check back often and watch the maps change!"
     You can then click over to the questionnaire, which asks multiple-choice questions about how the earthquake felt, when you first noticed it, how long it lasted, whether hanging items swayed or knickknacks fell off shelves, and so forth. It allows the USGS to collect anecdotal reports from all across the state to better estimate the widespread effects of future earthquakes and thus allows even an average person to assist in the science of seismology. You can print this questionnaire and incorporate it into an earthquakes talk to pebble pups. You can ask them about any earthquakes they might remember, and fill in the questionnaire to return on-line to the USGS site, and you can direct your pebble pups to explore the site at home. The Hector, Northridge, Loma Prieta earthquakes - all are described in the Archives section. It's a great site for teaching kids about earthquakes, involving them as junior seismologists, and - as always - having fun!

CFMS Newsletter, March 2004.

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We Can Save Our Collecting Sites
With Your Help,
By Dee Holland & Shirley Leeson.

We had a message from Robert Cranston stating that it is imperative that this message get out to all our clubs and that they take action.

He asks us to pass along this message from George Loud. Also note that there is another message following George's message. This one is from Marion Zenker who has acted for years as a spokesperson for both ALAA (American Lands Access Association) and AAPS (American Association of Paleontological Suppliers). We need to take immediate action and write those legislators who say they never hear from us. George's article will appear in the AFMS newsletter. This should be headline news in every Club bulletin as it affects your future in geological, mineralogical and paleontological collection. If you don't care about those issues, then do nothing and those privileges will indeed disappear. This would be a good time for a strong effort by ALAA to make a major contribution to defeat this legislation.

     Bob Cranston.

If you would like to read either Bill and you have access to the Internet, then go to: thomas.loc.gov and pull up the bill numbers in either the House or Senate side.

LOUD & CLEAR - March 2004 AFMS Newsletter,
H.R. 2416 - Paleontological Resources Preservation
Act.

As I write this in mid-January, H.R. 2416 is "stalled" in several House committees, including the Subcommittee on National Parks, Recreation and Public Lands, the Subcommittee on Forests and Forest Health, and the Subcommittee on Fisheries Conservation, Wildlife and Oceans, all subcommittees of the House Resources Committee. The companion bill in the Senate (S546) passed on voice vote and some predicted smooth sailing through the House. However, by letter, email and telephone, opponents of the bill were able to get sufficient information to House members on the key committees to at least delay the legislation.

In my early teens (several years ago) I collected a rock only recently confirmed by a professional paleontologist to be petrified bone. Take the problem of identification, add the problem of ignorance of boundaries of public lands, and mix in the draconian criminal and civil penalties of H.R. 2416, and we have a mix likely to cast a chill on all collecting on public lands. For example, H.R. 2416 provides for forfeiture of "all vehicles and equipment of any person that were used in connection with the violation" (section ll(b)). We have such a forfeiture provision in statutes dealing with drug trafficking, but fossil collecting?

The following is representative of letters I have sent to over 50 House members:

Congressman (or Congresswoman) ____________________,
U.S. House of Representatives,
Washington, D.C. 20515,
Re: H.R. 2416 - "Paleontological Resources Preservation Act".

Dear Congressman (or Congresswoman) ____________________:

I am writing in opposition to the captioned bill. I serve as Chair of the Conservation and Legislation Committee of the American Federation of Mineralogical Societies (AFMS), a national organization of "rockhound" clubs, representing about 50,000 rockhounds throughout the United States.

I offer a wager to any of your colleagues inclined to support HR 2974. I will bring a group of ten (10) rocks, including one vertebrate fossil, to any location in the National Capital area at a time of their choosing. My bet is that they cannot identify the vertebrate fossil within a reasonable period of time. Yet HR 2416 would require such skill of ordinary citizens and impose draconian penalties in the event of failure.

The Senate companion bill (S546) has already passed the Senate. Here's what Washington Watch had to say about S546:

Bad Bills, S546 Anti-rockhounding bill titled the "Paleontological Resources Preservation Act" places severe penalties on recreational rockhounding, would permit only "experts" to disturb public land surfaces. Allows for seizure of private vehicles, camping equipment and anything else the government wants to grab for even minor violations. This bill assumes that big brother government has all the answers, even though some of the greatest discoveries of dinosaurs in pre-recorded history have been done by private individuals.

Frankly, I was surprised that the forfeiture provision for seizure of vehicles and other property of the misfeasor (without right to trial?) is also provided for in the House bill, even if the violation is characterized as a "civil penalty", i.e. does not rise to the level of a crime (misdemeanor or felony). The forfeiture provision would put erring fossil collectors in the same peril as drug dealers.

What else is wrong with HR 2416? Answer: a lot. For example, Section 9 "Prohibited Acts; Penalties - False Labeling Offenses" provides "a person may not make or submit any false record, account, or label for, or any false identification of any paleontological resource excavated or removed from Federal lands." Pity the poor collector or curator, amateur or professional, who mistakes a Psittacosaurus bone for a Chasmosaurus bone. Such misidentification can make a criminal. Thankfully, I only collect minerals which I all too often misidentify.

I also object to Section 15 of the bill entitled "Saving Provisions", Provision 3 which specifies that the bill does not apply to "amateur collecting of a rock, mineral or invertebrate or plant fossil that is not protected under this act." I wish to specifically address the situation here in Northern Virginia where I have lived for over 30 years. During this time I have received numerous inquiries from Scout leaders at a loss as to where to take scouts to collect geological materials and fulfill the requirements for a merit badge in geology. I have always directed them to Westmoreland State Park (a Commonwealth of Virginia Park) where fossils can be collected along the Potomac shoreline. I personally have led "Indian Princess" (YMCA/YWCA) groups on such collecting trips along the shores of the Potomac. On one such trip, which I vividly recall because my own daughter was present, every one of the approximately ten children found at least one fossil shark's tooth. Other materials collected included fossil whale bone. The kids were thrilled and took their treasures into their schools for show and tell sessions. Please understand that this activity would not have been possible if the Potomac shoreline was in a National Forest subject to the provisions of the legislation as proposed in the form of HR 2416 because all of the fossils collected by the kids on the trips I have described were vertebrate fossils. I could also relate my own experiences as a youngster collecting vertebrate fossils in creek beds but I do not wish to belabor the point. I recognize that current BLM and Forest Service regulations prohibit the collecting of any vertebrate fossil without a permit, however I believe that this policy is wrong-headed and certainly should not be made statutory law.

Young kids and old kids should be free to collect common vertebrate fossils as well as common invertebrate fossils on public lands. Fossil collecting is and has been a gateway to the sciences, i.e. it is often one's first hands-on experience with anything science related.

For the foregoing reasons I urge you to oppose H.R. 2416.

Diver Arrested in Alabama, October 20, 2003.

State law can also get you. On October 20th Perry Massie, CEO of Outdoor Channel Holdings, and Steve Phillips, owner of a scuba diving school, ran afoul of a rather new Alabama law while diving for relics, gold, fossils and anything else old, and using a metal detector, in the Alabama river near Selma, Alabama. Mr. Massie reports he had been diving at this same locality for 30 years and was ambushed by a law newly "slipped through" the Alabama legislature.

California Desert Protection Act.

The Needles field office of the BLM is currently in the process of considering management options for closure/obliteration of vehicle ways in twelve of the eighteen areas designated as wilderness under the act. A notice dated December 23, 2003 states: "We welcome public participation in identifying vehicle ways in the proposed areas that are commonly used for wilderness compatible recreation." Interested parties may contact Christi Oliver, Wilderness Coordinator, at 760-326-7021 or by email at coliver@ca.blm.gov. Or visit their website at http://www.ca.blm.gov/needles/.

Second Letter.

Dear Bob:

Send this on to especially your contacts in Colorado - thanks.

I had a conversation with George Loud this morning regarding the present status of the paleo bills in the House - both S546 and HR2416 are still sitting in Committees - however there is evidently a plan in place to move this out to the House Resource Committee ASAP with a do pass recommendation, according to a Staff person in Scott McGinnis's (3rd District, CO-Rep) DC office. The chair of that Committee, Richard Pombo (11th-CA), is opposed to passage of either bill but the plan is to make a run around the Chair to move the bill. Therefore it is urgent that AAPS members ensure that they are in contact with their House members with letters and background info to support defeat of this legislation.

Another piece of information that this staff person shared with George was that their office had only received two inquiries regarding this bill. Scott McGinnis sits as Chair of the Forests and Forest Health Subcommittee of the Resource Committee. That subcommittee also has HR2416 under review and Scott has indicated that he is in favor of moving and passing this legislation in this session of Congress. In addition, due to the seemingly little or no interest from his state about the status of this legislation, at this time, he feels that he will not lose any support from his constituency by championing this bill - he is buying everything that the SVP is selling him about the need for this legislation. It is essential if we do not want this Member of Congress to help lead the charge for passage of HR2416 or S546 that his office in DC (via attention either Paul Sampson or his replacement, Mitch Butler) be contacted immediately by AAPS people or Rock Club people and get their opposition and reasons for opposition on record - letters and info also need to go to all members of Colorado's delegation that sit on the Resource or Agriculture Committees [remember that it is best to fax those letters first before mailing them due to the new restrictions and thus delays in delivering mail to members of Congress under new Homeland Security Measures].

Their names and addresses are:

The Honorable Scott McGinnis (3rd Dist),
320 Cannon House Office Bldg.,
Washington, DC 20515,
Fax: 202-225-0622.

District Field Offices in Pueblo 719-543-8200, Grand Junction 970-245-7107, Glenwood Springs 970-928-0637 and Durango 970-259-2754. (Call these offices and get their fax numbers and send the letters to them as well.)

The Honorable Marilyn Musgrave (4th Dist),
1208 Longworth HOB, DC 20515,
Fax: 202-225-5870.

District Field Offices in Loveland 970-6633-3536, Greeley 970-352-4017, Sterling 970-533-1788, Las Animas 719-456-0925. (Call these offices and get their fax numbers and send the letters to them as well.)

The Honorable Mark Udall (2nd dist),
115 Cannon HOB, DC 20515,
Fax: 202-226-7840.

District Field Office in Westminster 303-650-7820. (Call and get the fax numbers and send the letters there as well.)

The Honorable Bob Beauprex (7th dist),
511 Cannon HOB, DC 20515,
Fax:202-225-2645.

District Field Office in Wheatridge 303-940-5821. (Call and get the fax numbers and send the letters there as well.)

PLEASE ASK ANYONE YOU CAN TO WRITE OR CALL THESE PEOPLE TO DO IT NOW. THIS IS URGENT.

     Marion Z.

ONLY BY VOICING OUR OPINIONS WILL WASHINGTON KEEP AREAS OPEN TO FUTURE GENERATIONS.

CFMS Newsletter, March 2004.

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"FIELD TRIPS ARE FUN."

TRICLUB FIELDTRIP,
MARCH 19-21,
JADE COVE AT PLASKETT POINT CAMPGROUNDS:
     For those of you who like to plan ahead, our March fieldtrip is scheduled for the 19th to the 21st of March. We'll comb the beaches for Jade, Serpentine and shells. The meeting place will be the Plaskett Point Campgrounds on Highway 1; the last town before the campgrounds is Gorda. Maps will be available at your next club meeting. Plan for all types of weather; think positive for sunshine and plan for rain.
          Ron Wise.


CFMS Field Trip South - Cady Mountains,
April 23-25, 2004,
By Bob Fitzpatrick Field Trip Chair - South:

TRIP LOCATION - Northeast side of the Cady Mountains (Afton Canyon area).
WHEN - April 23-24-25, 2004.
SPONSOR - CFMS Field Trip South.
ORGANIZATION - CFMS.
MATERIAL TO COLLECT - Red and yellow agate, jasper, (plume & sagenite) opalite, calcite rhombs, chalcedony roses, amygdules, green fluorite, onyx and much more.
LEADER - Bob Fitzpatrick.
PROPOSED SCHEDULE - Early Friday will be for setting up camp. Friday around 1 p.m. I will be leading a field trip. Each day around 8 a.m. we will be going to a different area to collect. There will be a potluck Saturday around 5 p.m.
DIRECTIONS TO CAMP SITE - I-15 Freeway East past Barstow for about 45 miles to Basin Road. Exit off ramp to the right and follow signs to camp site area. The road to the camping site should be okay for 2 wheel drive cars, trailers & motor homes. We will be camping just on the other side of railroad tracks.
VEHICLE - 4-wheel drive from camp to collecting areas. The desert road is sandy and in some areas has large rocks in it.
CAMP & FACILITIES - This will be dry camping, no water, no picnic tables, no toilets, no firewood to be gathered and no fees.
TOOLS - Collecting bags, rock hammer, eye gear, flashlights, spray water bottle, etc. camp chair (to sit in at night around the fire).
SAFETY CONCERNS - Do not lick the rocks, use sun screen, stay away from rattlesnakes, use bug spray, be aware of flash floods, be extra careful and don't get lost.
CLIMATE & WEATHER - It can be hot during the day and cold at night, it could rain.
CLOTHING - Appropriate for this time of the year.
OTHER REMARKS - All club members and their guests are welcome to join us. Come for the day or camp out with us. Bring food, lots of water, a camera and lots of firewood for the campfire at night. If you need a motel or supplies they are available in Baker or Barstow. Don't forget we will have a potluck on Saturday night, so bring a dish to share and your own place setting. Each night after dark we will have a campfire where we can all join together and have a good time roasting marshmallows, telling jokes or just talking about the good OLE times.
     I should be arriving at campsite around 11 a.m. on Friday. Saturday and Sunday we will be leaving the camp at around 8 a.m. and drive to the collecting areas.
     You must observe the AFMS code of ethics and sign a consent and assumption of risk waiver of liability form. Hope to see you there.

For additional information,
     Email me at RUROCKY2@aol.com or call me at (909) 845-3051.
          Bob Fitzpatrick.


Tri-Club Fieldtrip,
Tajiguas Beach,
February 28, 2004:
     The weather gods smiled on our eight Tri-Club members who made the February field trip to Tajiguas Beach. After a storm early in the week had washed clean the rocks, we headed out for a beautiful sunny day!
     As the old saying goes the early bird gets the rock. Troy Robinson of the Oxnard Club arrived early and headed down to the beach in search of treasures. In addition to several trips up to the parking lot with buckets of whalebone, concretions and coquina, he was observed carrying arm loads of driftwood for his new hobby, macrame. The parking area was so hard I could not drive a stake into the ground for the Tri-club sign and Troy allowed the sign to be placed in the back of his truck. Thanks Troy.
     Heide Mauer, a Ventura member, brought friends Stuart and Don along with some awesome chocolate chip cookies. Heide showed a good eye for whalebone and Stuart and Don found a variety of rocks and shells.
     In addition to finding several pieces of whalebone, Bob and Chad Monnier of the Ventura club turned up an impressive concretion with crystals in the center. Heartened by their whalebone and concretion finds, they moved north to the next beach to test their luck at finding bigger and better specimens.
     Tired and hungry, the incoming tide drove us off the beach, carrying home memories of beautiful Tajiguas Beach.
          Ron Wise.

Note: Because the April trips to Vandenberg and Basin Road/Afton Canyon trips are on the same weekend, the Vandenberg trip has been canceled.

TRI-CLUB FIELDTRIPS 2004:
Tentative Schedule,
1/4/2004.
Contact fieldtrip leader to confirm that there is a fieldtrip scheduled.

***  Please call your club fieldtrip leader to confirm that there is a fieldtrip scheduled in the event of changes.

  Table of Contents.

Insurance Update,
By Fred Ott, Insurance Chairperson.

What can your club do to help expedite your requests for insurance?

1. Do not use old forms! Current forms can be found on the Federation's web site at http://www.cfmsinc.org/.

2. Complete each form in full; leave nothing "blank". If the form asks for telephone number or fax number, enter one. If the form asks for a ZIP code, enter one. If a Certificate of Insurance and an Additional Insured Endorsement is needed, please indicate "both". If "special wording" is required, please provide the "special wording".

3. Don't wait until the last minute to submit your requests. Allow at least 3-4 weeks whenever possible.

4. When in doubt, contact me at fred.ott.b8t5@statefarm.com or 530-677-5211.

Club checklist for requesting insurance certificates:

1. Does a "third party" (such as a property owner, fairgrounds, governmental agency, etc.) require that your club provide a "proof of insurance" to them before your club is allowed to use their property or facilities -or- will 300-or-more persons (total) be attending your event (field trip, show, etc.)? If the answer to both of these questions is "no", then you don't need to go any further - no certificate is needed.
2. If a "third party" does require "proof of insurance", complete the "Request for Certificate of Insurance/Additional Insured Endorsement" found on the Federation's web site at least 3 weeks prior to your club's scheduled event.
     a. If less than 300 persons (total) are anticipated at your event (field trip, show, etc.), you don't need to complete the "Special Event Questionnaire"; just mail or fax the "Request" to me.
     b. If 300-or-more persons (total) are anticipated at your event, then attach a fully completed "Special Event Questionnaire" to your "Request" so the Federation's insurance agent/broker can obtain a premium quotation for the event. Once the premium has been determined, I'll then contact your club to obtain a check in that amount.
3. MOST "third parties" (particularly fairgrounds, counties, State of California, Agricultural Districts, etc.) also require that "special wording" appear on the Certificates of Insurance. PLEASE check with a representative of that "third party" to obtain the "specific wording" that they require before your submit your Request. Almost all delays in having certificates issued for clubs within the Federation have been because incomplete or inaccurate "Requests" were submitted.
4. And, as always, use ONLY the most-current forms (as found on the Federation's web site); please discard any form dated prior to 10-1-03.

CFMS Newsletter, March 2004.

  Table of Contents.

SUPPORT AND PRACTICE
THE AFMS CODE OF ETHICS.

MEMBERSHIP.

REMEMBER to pay your dues! Send your renewals to Sharon Markley, 1686 Kenewa Street, Ojai, CA 93023 if you haven't already. You don't want to miss being in the new directories or not get a bulletin. Besides, we would miss you. Please do it today while you are thinking of it!

Attention New Members (or anyone needing a badge).
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.

  Table of Contents.

Willow Creek Jasper.

     Jasper is an opaque, impure chalcedony that is composed of silicon dioxide. While traditionally thought of as a red, it also comes in pinks, yellows, greens, brown and grayish blues. Jasper often exhibits nice bands and patterns due to chemical impurities. Because of its hardness, it takes a good polish and is a favorite of lapidarists. In the ancient world, jasper was a valued gem and references can be found in ancient Hebrew, Assyrian, Greek, and Latin writing. Jasper is usually named according to its pattern, etc. It can be found worldwide.
     Picture jasper, because of its unique landscape patterns and wide range of colors, is one of the most interesting and sought after varieties. Picture jasper is a petrified or silicified mud. Looking at its patterns is not hard to visualize mud dripping into gas pockets in molten lava, becoming super-heated, and then solidifying into this treasured gemstone.
     Many varieties of picture jasper are found in Idaho and parts of Oregon. One of the better known picture jaspers, Bruneau jasper, comes from Bruneau Canyon, Idaho. Wild Horse, Classic Owyhee and Rocky Butte picture jaspers are from the Owyhee County in southern Idaho and portions of eastern Oregon. A high quality jasper found on the Morrison Ranch in the Owyhees of Oregon is known as Morrisonite. One of the prettiest and finest jaspers on the market is Willow Creek jasper from the Willow Creek Mine 15 miles north of Boise, Idaho. This jasper is a pastel version of the old pink or green Imperial Jasper from Mexico.
     Willow Creek jasper actually forms as the center of giant thundereggs, some as large as 10 feet in diameter. It is known for its rich pastel colors, streamer patterns, occasional orb patterns, and is a favorite of lapidarists. The Willow Creek Mine is privately owned and has been producing jasper for the past 35 years.
          From Conejo Gem & Mineral, via Del Air Bulletin 01-04.

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VGMS MINUTES.

Minutes of the VGMS Regular Monthly Meeting,
Wednesday, February 25, 2004:
     The regular monthly meeting of the Ventura Gem & Mineral Society was called to order by President Steve Mulqueen at 7:30 pm on Wednesday, February 25, 2004 in the Bijou Room of the Lexington, 5440 Ralston, Ventura, CA. The group was led in the salute to the flag.
     The January regular meeting and board meeting minutes were corrected and then m/s/p as shown in the bulletin. Guests were welcomed.
     Steve asked for but received no old business.
New business:
     No treasurer's report was available.
Steve Mulqueen: The California Oil Museum exhibit of petrified wood is in place with our club show flyers also available. The Gold Coast Science Group is requesting a VGMS booth be provided during their Oxnard College presentation on April 24th. Steve is asking for volunteers to set up and man this potentially good publicity event for our club. Conejo's annual mineral and gem show is scheduled for May 15 & 16. Steve also would like volunteers to set up our club case for this event. Contact any board member if it's at all possible to help.
Ray Meisenheimer: The Ventura County Fair is asking for volunteers to sign up to help with various tasks related to the Gem & Mineral Bldg. during their August fair.
Ron Wise: Tri-club field trips are planned for Tajiguas Beach, Feb. 28th and Jade Cove, March 19-21.
Wayne Ehlers suggested another cab class be planned for this spring (possibly April). Details will follow.
Shirley Layton: April will see the new 2004 rosters printed and available to members and Shirley reminded everyone that the 10th of March will be the deadline for articles and photographs to be submitted for the bulletin.
Jim Brace-Thompson next gave a colorful presentation along with a display in regards to the upcoming show this weekend. This would be the final show meeting and Jim offered suggestions and answered questions concerning plans and strategies. Work will start at 9:00, Thursday morning. Susan Mulqueen can always use more plants for the plant sale and items to be offered as donation awards would be greatly appreciated. Sign-up sheets were passed around for set up, the manning of booths and security positions. Donation award tickets need to be sold!!! If everyone sold only a few, we would be successful. Donations for the kids sand sifting, grab bags and Country Store can be brought directly to Seaside Park during days of set up. Here's to a very fun-filled and successful show!
     The next Board meeting will be Thursday, March 4th, at the Fair Grounds and all are welcomed to attend. The next regular meeting will be held March 24th and Ed Clark will be providing a presentation.
     Refreshments were provided by Greg & Valli Davis and door prizes were awarded to Kathryn Davis, Jean Wise, Jim Brace-Thompson, Dave Mautz, Ron Wise and Wayne Ehlers.
     There being no further business, Steve adjourned the meeting at 8:15 pm.
          Respectfully submitted, Greg Davis.


Minutes of the VGMS Board Meeting,
March 4, 2004:
     The regular board meeting of the VGMS was called to order by President Steve Mulqueen at 6:00 pm on Thursday, March 4, 2004, at Seaside Park, Ventura, CA.
Present: Steve Mulqueen, Ray and Florence Meisenheimer, Richard Bromser, Gary and Sharon Markley, Shirley Layton, Jim Brace-Thompson, Ron Wise, Ed Clark and Greg Davis.
Richard Bromser: No financial report was available. Richard suggested we clean and eliminate stuff from the club museum after the show and again make an attempt to approach the City of Ventura, Ventura Unified School District and the College District concerning a future site for our museum.
Ron Wise: Tri Club field trips are scheduled for Jade Cove, March 19, 20 & 21 and Basin Road in April.
Ed Clark will be out of town and unable to give his presentation during the March 24 meeting. An alternate will fill in.
Gary Markley: Show preparations for vendors has been completed. Rock shop owner, Alan Hodges of Santa Barbara has requested our club flyers to hand out at his business.
Ray Meisenheimer has 2 programs for school students planned for March 23 and 24 at the museum. If anyone cares to assist, please contact Ray. Plans are under way for this year's Science Fair but with no date yet set.
Shirley Layton: 24th of the month is the deadline for contributions to the bulletin for the April edition. Show dealers are now listed on our web site.
Jim Brace-Thompson: All of our attention is now on the show - slightly more than 24 hours away. It promises to be an excellent event with even the weather cooperating. Let's all pitch in and make this one the biggest success ever!
     There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 6:55 pm.
          Respectfully submitted, Greg Davis.

  Table of Contents.

HINTS & TIPS FOR ROCKHOUNDS ,
(Use at your own risk).

How do you Measure an Ounce of Grit? - Try this: Use a standard measure teaspoon, fill with grit of any size (course, medium, or fine), scrape with a flat surface, such as a knife blade or ruler, so that the spoon is filled flat from rim to rim, and Voila! You have 1/4 ounce of grit in the spoon. In general, it takes eight (8) teaspoonfuls level for (an ounce of) polishing powder. - Author unknown, from the Rockcollector, 9/03 via Rock Writing 3/03.
Opal Tips: Is Opal fragile? A properly cut and polished opal, when properly set, lasts a lifetime. A properly cut opal has a flat back that can be evenly supported by a matching flat setting.
Thicker is better: The layer of color must be thick enough to cut down into it slightly to achieve the best results.
Always cut for quality: Think of this whenever a stone has a problem. Example; it may be possible to cut one big stone with a little potch, or cut out the potch and cut two smaller stones. Generally, it is better to cut the smaller stones.
Why is opal stored in water? As a buyer, ALWAYS ask to see the opal parcel dry. Opal is stored in water because its appearance wet most closely resembles what it will look like polished. Be aware that water, and even more so glycerin, hides cracks.
Crystal opal is more brittle. Therefore, it flakes more easily. It needs a 320 lap for working it. Be sure to break in all diamond wheels with agate to knock off the uneven edges of the diamonds.
From Cliff Coen in the Opal Express 4/99 via Del Air Bulletin, 3/04.

Synthetic diamonds will stick to a magnet, but the natural ones will not. - From Chips'N Splinters 8/03 via Del Air Bulletin 3/04.

  Table of Contents.

List of Web Site Addresses
for Important Mineral Shows.

Searles Lake Gem & Mineral Society mineral show in Trona, October 2004:
     http://www1.iwvisp.com/tronagemclub/flyer.htm.
Quartzsite Mineral shows, 2004:
     http://www.quartzsitechamber.com/show.schedule.shtml.
Tucson Mineral showcase, 2004:
     http://www.visittucson.org/Features/index.cfm?action=Display&featureID=13.
          Steve Mulqueen.

AFMS 2004 Convention: http://www.amfed.org/efmls/ - Click on "2004 Convention" You can find downloadable forms, motel information, applications etc.

  Table of Contents.

* * * * * * * * * * * * *

The four basic food groups - canned, frozen, ready-mix and take-out.

* * * * * * * * * * * * *

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SHOW DATES.

The Del Air Rockhound Club has just acquired the use of a building in the San Fernando Valley, CA, for their Gem & Mineral Show. We are calling our show "The San Fernando Valley GEMboree" and it will be held on March 27th and 28th, 2004. This will be a full size show with many Dealers, Displays, Demonstrators and a youth area where scouts can earn their merit badges. Even though we have had very little time to get our show going we are advertising in all possible areas and expect to have a good show. Our Silent Auction will have a large amount of windowed material from 20 to 30 year old collections. "The San Fernando Valley GEMboree" will have Free Admission and Free Parking.

The Roseville Rock Rollers - http://www.rockrollers.com/.

The Searchers Gem & Mineral Society will be holding their 45th Annual Gem, Mineral and Jewelry Show in Anaheim, California on May 1-2, 2004. The show is located at the Brookhurst Community Center, 2271 W. Crescent Avenue, Anaheim, CA 92801. Hours are Saturday 10 am to 5 pm, Sunday 10 am to 4:30 pm. In addition to vendors dealing in gemstones, jewelry, books, minerals and hobby supplies, demonstrators will highlight facets (pun-intended) of the lapidary arts and there will be door prizes, silent auctions, and special programs for the kids. - Karen Fox, Show Chairman, the_rox_fox@yahoo.com - (714) 832-3580 (leave a message).

  Table of Contents.

2004 CFMS CLUB SHOWS.

MARCH 20-21; ANGELS CAMP, CA - Calaveras Gem & Mineral Society, Inc., Calaveras County Fairgrounds. Hours: Sat. 10-5, Sun. 10-4. Earl Klein (510) 632-9373.
MARCH 20-21; SAN DIEGO, CA - San Diego Mineral & Gem Society, Al Bahr Shrine Center, 5440 Kearny Mesa Road. Hours: Sat. 9:30-5, Sun. 10-4. Wayne Moorhead (858) 586-1637.
MARCH 27-28; ROSEVILLE, CA - Roseville Rock Rollers, Placer County Fairgrounds, 800 All America City Blvd. Hours: 10-5 both days. Betty Soper - Contact Gloria Tomczyk (530) 367-2262.
MARCH 27-28; GRANADA HILLS, CA - San Fernando Valley GEMboree, Del Air Rockhounds Club, 10115 Balboa Blvd. (at Devonshire). Hours: Sat 10-5, Sun. 10-4. Bob & Maxine Dearborn, (818) 883-7851. Email: BcircleD@aol.com.
APRIL 3-4; SAN JOSE, CA - Santa Clara County Fairgrounds, 344 Tully Road. Hours: Sat. 10-6, Sun. 10-5. John Eichhorn (408) 749-0523. E-mail: johneichhorn@earthlink.net.
APRIL 3-4; TORRANCE, CA - South Bay Lap & Mineral Society, "Nature's Treasures", Torrance Recreational Center, 3341 Torrance Blvd. Hours: 10-5 both days. Omer Goeden (818) 353-9279.
APRIL 10-11; PARADISE, CA - Paradise Gem & Mineral Club, Veteran's Memorial Hall, Skyway & Elliot. Hours: Sat. 10-5, Sun. 10-4. Anita Carter (530) 872-1983.
APRIL 24-25; HACIENDA HEIGHTS, CA - Puente Hills Gem & Mineral Club, Steinmetz County Park, 1545 S. Stimson Avenue. Hours: 10-5 both days. Paula Hess (562) 696-2270. Email: rphess@adelphia.net.
APRIL 24-25; SANTA CRUZ, CA - Santa Cruz Mineral & Gem Society, Santa Cruz Civic Auditorium, Corner of Center & Church St. Hours: 10-5 both days. Sallee Brumbaugh (831) 336-5662.
APRIL 24-25; LANCASTER, CA - Antelope Valley Gem & Mineral Club, Antelope Valley Fairgrounds, 2551 W. Avenue H. Hours: 9-5 both days. Olan Flick (661) 943-3882.
MAY 1-2; ANAHEIM, CA - Searchers Gem & Mineral Society, 48th Annual Gem, Mineral, and Jewelry Show, Brookhurst Community Center, 2271 W. Crescent Ave. Hours: Sat 10-5, Sun. 10-4:30.
MAY 1-2; BAKERSFIELD, CA - Kern County Mineral Society, "People are nuggets too", Kern County Fairgrounds, Ming Ave. & P Street. Hours: 10-5 both days. 589-3834.
MAY 1-2; BISHOP, CA - Eastern Sierra Gem & Mineral Club, Tri County Fairgrounds, Sierra Street & Fair Drive. Hours: Sat. 9-5, Sun. 10-4. Jeff Lines (760) 935-4576.
MAY 8-9; RENO, NV - Reno Gem & Mineral Society, Reno Livestock Events Center, Exhibit Hall, 1350 N. Wells Ave. Hours: Sat. 10-5, Sun. 10-4. Jennifer Rhodes (775) 356-8820.
MAY 15-16; CONEJO, CA - Conejo Gem & Mineral Club, Borchard Park Community Center, 190 Reino Road. Hours: Sat. 9-5, Sun. 10-5. Don Pomerenke (805) 492-4276.
MAY 15-16; YUCAIPA, CA - Yucaipa Valley Gem & Mineral Society, Yucaipa Community Center, 34900 Oak Glen Rd. Hours: 10-5 both days. Lee Peterson (909) 794-0731.
MAY 28-30; MARIPOSA, CA - CFMS/Mariposa Gem & Mineral Club, Mariposa County Fairgrounds, One hour from Yosemite National Park. Hours: ---------, California State Mining and Mineral Museum, P.O. Box 1192, Mariposa, CA 95338. (209 742-7625. Email: mineralmuseum@sti.net. Fax (209) 966-3597.
JUNE 5-6; GLENDORA, CA - Glendora Gems, Goddard Middle School, 859 E. Sierra Madre. Hours: Sat. 10-5, Sun. 10-4. Mark Thompson (626) 335-3814.
JUNE 19-20; CAYUCOS, CA - San Luis Obispo Gem & Mineral Club, Cayucos Veteran's Hall, 10 Cayucos Drive. Hours: 9-5 both days. Robert G. Hurless (805) 772-7160.
JUNE 19-20; LA HABRA, CA - North Orange County Gem & Mineral Society, Jubilee of Gems Show, La Habra Community Center, 101 W. La Habra Blvd. Hours: Sat 10-5, Sun. 10-4. (626) 330-8974. Email: warthen@earthlink.net.

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AMERICAN FEDERATION / REGIONAL
SHOW SCHEDULE - 2004.

MIDWESTERN FEDERATION,
April 23-25, Cedar Rapids, IA.

ROCKY MOUNTAIN FEDERATION,
April 23-25, Wichita, KS.

CFMS/Mariposa Mineral & Gem Show,
May 28-30, Mariposa, CA.

EASTERN FEDERATION/AFMS,
July 7-11, Syracuse, NY.

NORTHWESTERN FEDERATION,
July 23-25, Boise, ID.

SOUTHERN CENTRAL FEDERATION,
September 24-26, Houston, TX.

SOUTHEAST FEDERATION,
To be announced.

  Table of Contents.

SUPPORT AND PRACTICE
THE AFMS CODE OF ETHICS.

EDITOR'S NOTE:

     Just for the record any unsigned articles are by the Editor. Anyone wanting to write up their thoughts about the show, vacations, rock collecting trips, Great Finds or anything of interest, please do so as we are all interested. Contributions from you members keep the Bulletin interesting and I thank you for them.

Trili - The Editor's Pet Trilobite.

  Table of Contents.

CFMS SHOW UPDATE MARIPOSA,
MAY 28-30, 2004.

In the CFMS March 2004 Newsletter it has been announced that more exhibit space has been made available for any one wishing to exhibit in the CFMS show "Gold Bug Gala" May 28-30. The deadline has been extended to May 1st for guest exhibitor entry forms. I have exhibit forms, competitive exhibit forms, as well as registration, which includes Awards Banquet and Editor's Breakfast. There is no admission charge if you put in an exhibit.

Florence Meisenheimer, CFMS Director (805) 642-3155.

  Table of Contents.

VGMS PHOTO ALBUM.

We don't have any photos this month, but hopefully we will have some show news for the next bulletin.

If anyone has any other photos to share, please give me a call at (805) 717-9226 or bring them to the meeting. We all would appreciate it. We don't like a blank page here!

  Table of Contents.

* * * * * * * * * * * * *

"Lots of people want to ride with you in the limo, but what you want is someone who will take the bus with you when the limo breaks down."
-- Oprah Winfrey.

* * * * * * * * * * * * *

  Table of Contents.

EDUCATIONAL CORNER.

Definition of the Month.

Bijou - A "jewel", something delicate and exquisitely crafted, a word originating from the French language. The "Bijou" is the name of the room at the Lexington where the VGMS holds their monthly meetings. In the famous 1946 movie "It's a Wonderful Life" starring James Stewart (as George Bailey) and Donna Reed (as Mary Hatch), "The Bijou" is the name of the theater in the small town of Bedford Falls.

The "Definition of the Month" features words related to geology, paleontology, mining and desert history. Written by Steve Mulqueen for the VGMS, March 2004.

Illustration of the Month.

From Harper's "New Monthly Magazine", number 287, April 1874, volume 48, "The Farallon Islands", written by Charles Nordhoff.

The Farallon Islands consist of a group of 6 relatively small land masses located approximately 35 miles due west of San Francisco.

The "Illustration of the Month" features a drawing, sketch, pen & ink rendering or an engraving print rediscovered in old books, maps, manuscripts and many other sources related to geology, paleontology, mining and desert history. This illustration was chosen for its educational content by Steve Mulqueen for the VGMS, March 2004.

  Table of Contents.

COLORBOOK.

X is for . . .


. . . knowing where to dig for great mineral

specimens. As always . . .

"X marks the spot!"

When Diamond Dan finds this spectacular mineral pocket, help him color the specimens inside. Can you identify these minerals? If you've been saving your past issues of Rockhound Rambling you can find them there.

  Table of Contents.

SUPPORT AND PRACTICE
THE AFMS CODE OF ETHICS.

Desert Symposium 2004.

The 2004 Desert Symposium will be held at California State University's Desert Studies Center at Zzyzx, on the shores of Soda Lake south of Interstate 15 between Barstow and Baker, California. This historic site includes meeting rooms, overnight dormitories, catered meals, showers, all the amenities included in the registration cost. The symposium will feature current research on archaeology, anthropology, paleontology, geology, ecology, biological sciences, and environmental issues. Abstracts of the proceedings and a field trip guide will be published.

This year's Desert Symposium is presented by the Desert Studies Consortium, California State University with support from LSA Associates.

SCHEDULE.

Friday April 23, Desert Studies Center, Zzyzx, California:
     Registration and Coffee, 8 a.m.;
     Papers start 9 a.m.;
     Poster session/Symposium Social 4:30 p.m.;
     Symposium Supper 6:00 p.m.;
     Special Evening Lecture, 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, April 24, Desert Studies Center, Zzyzx, California:
     Registration and Coffee, 8 a.m.;
     Papers start 9 a.m.;
     Afternoon: field trip starts.

Sunday and Monday, April 25-26:
     Field trip continues.

The field trip across the Mojave Desert will look at different modes of faulting from the last 25 million years up to the recent ruptures at Landers. The Saturday afternoon route will take us from the Manix Fault to the Waterman Hills and then to Harper Buttes. Sunday's travel is from the Lenwood Fault at Barstow to ruptures at Landers, then to the north frontal faults of the San Bernardino Mountains. Monday's route will cross the San Andreas Fault, pass Table Mountain, and end at the scarp of the Llano fault near Pearblossom.

You must register in advance for the field trip so that CSUF can make group reservations at Mojave River Forks campground. The $3.00 camping charge is not included in the registration cost, so bring $3.00 with you for group camping on Sunday night.

Meals with field trip reservations are provided through Sunday lunch. You are on your own for Sunday dinner and Monday breakfast and lunch, so bring food for these meals with you. We'll arrange for a stop at a grocery store on Sunday for those who need to replenish their supplies.

Registration Form.

Name: ______________________________________________________________,

Affiliation: ____________________________________________________________,

Mailing Address: _______________________________________________________,

City, State, Zip: ________________________________________________________,

Daytime phone: ________________________________________________________,

E-mail: _______________________________________________________________.

Fees include registration, meals, and overnight accommodation at DSC. Bed only on Thursday - No food.

_____ Option I: Thursday night through Monday afternoon: $118.

_____ Option II: Thursday night through Saturday afternoon: $93.

_____ Option III: Friday through Saturday afternoon: $81.

_____ Option IV: Field trip only (begins with Saturday night dinner): $33.

Total enclosed (check payable to CSU Desert Studies) ____________________.

_____ I request vegetarian meals. Other dietary restrictions: _______________________

_____________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________.

Bring your own bedding and toiletries. There is no self-contained camping at the Desert Studies Center. Registration is limited. For the field trip, bring $3.00 for the Sunday night camping fee and food for your Sunday dinner and Monday breakfast and lunch. Dress in layers for hot weather, windy weather, and cold and rainy weather. Bring snacks,beverages, and camping gear for Saturday/Sunday/Monday field trip.

Registration must be received by Friday, April 5, 2004. Return this form with fees to:
     Attn: William Presch,
     CSU Desert Studies Consortium,
     California State University, Fullerton,
     Fullerton, California 92834-6850.

MOTELS in BAKER, CA:
     BUN BOY 760-733-4363,
     ROYAL HAWAIIAN 760-733-4326,
     WELLS FARGO 760-733-4477.

  Table of Contents.

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