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The Ventura Gem & Mineral Society, Inc. (VGMS)
Rockhound Rambling
July 2006.

Table of Contents.

• PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE;
• WORDS TO LIVE BY;
• PROGRAM - JULY 26, 2006;
• REVIEW - JUNE 28, 2006;
• PROPOSED BY-LAW CHANGE;
• THE REASON HUGGING IS SO GOOD FOR EVERYBODY.;
• MARK YOUR CALENDARS;
• CHIPS & BOULDERS;
• AN INVITATION TO COLLECT TOURMALINE;
• WEB SITES;
• PROGRAM SCHEDEULE FOR MONTHLY MEETINGS;
• VGMS: 50 YEARS IN A NUTSHELL;
• AUGUST BIRTHDAYS;
• HOSPITALITY;
• COMMUNITY OUTREACH;
• VGMS MINUTES;
• MEMBERSHIP;
• RECYCLING HELPS CONSERVE MANY VALUABLE NATURAL RESOURCES.;
• EXTINCTION OF WORLD SPECIES;
• CFMS BUSINESS MEETING;
• FROM THE INSURANCE DESK: FIELD TRIPS;
• "FIELD TRIPS ARE FUN";
• VIRTUAL FIELD TRIPS V;
• SOURCES FOR INFORMATION FOR ROCKHOUNDS;
• WHAT'S IN A NAME;
• HINTS & TIPS FOR ROCKHOUNDS - (Use at your own risk!);
• SHOW DATES;
• EDITOR'S NOTE;
• EDUCATIONAL CORNER;
• VGMS PHOTO ALBUM.

PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE.

Some of our members attended the Annual CFMS Mineral Show at Angel's Camp on June 9-11. It was a great show and I hope more of our members will attend next year's CFMS Show which will be held in Lancaster, CA.

The Ventura County Fair is just around the corner. Don't forget to set up your exhibits in the Gem & Mineral Building, July 28-30 (Friday through Sunday). The doors will open at 10:00 am on all three days. (See details about the County Fair within this bulletin.) Gem and mineral exhibits at the Fair are being managed by Bob Stultz and Richard Bromser. Call one of them if you have any questions or if you wish to be a volunteer in the Gem & Mineral building during the event. This is a great opportunity to practice your showmanship in preparation for competition in the CFMS show next year.

Ed Clark,
President.

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WORDS TO LIVE BY.

It's what you learn after you know it all that counts.

Age is not a particularly interesting subject. Anyone can get old. All you have to do is live long enough.

Everything is funny as long as it happens to somebody else.

Laughter is inner jogging.

Collected by Wayne Ehlers.

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PROGRAM - JULY 26, 2006:
Growing Up with a Famous Rockhound Father.

Phil and Steve Hauser, sons of Joel Hauser, have generously agreed to come to speak at our meeting this month and relate what it was like growing up the sons of Mr. Joel Hauser. Joel Hauser is best known for his exploration, beginning in the mid-1930's, of the geode beds in and around the Black Hills southwest of Blythe which are now named after him. Though nodules and geodes fascinated him, Joel also spent much time collecting and polishing petrified wood, and he spent a large amount of time in Arizona looking for the best pieces to work. His techniques (including his amazing contour polishing skill) were written up in Gems and Minerals magazine several times. Phil and Steve's stories of traveling the highways with a rockhound father are amusing and informative. Their tales include both unique events related to the history of our hobby and amusing anecdotes that many of us will relate to. It is through them that we were able to display some of their father's best nodules and petrified wood at our show last March. Please come and meet these warm and generous people.

Lowell Foster, Program Chair.

Editor's Note: Go to http://www.desertusa.com/mag05/sep/hauser.html for their article by Barbara Kimball Hauser.

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REVIEW - JUNE 28, 2006:
Live Hawks & Owls
From the Ojai Raptor Center.

     Sharon and Mel Hixson gave us a wonderful program with the "ambassador birds" from the Ojai Raptor Center. Sharon and Mel are volunteers with the Raptor Center and work with the educational birds and presentations. These birds are so fascinating, many were owls and have the most wonderful faces! However, as Mel says "you get attached to these guys, but they don't like you" and you have to be very careful in the handling. All of the "ambassador birds" are ones that are not able to go back in to the wilds. The stories of their injuries are very sad, but it is wonderful to know that the raptor center is there to help. If you find an injured bird of prey (raptors), call the hotline (805) 667-4546 or (805) 649-6884. Other useful numbers are Ventura Animal Regulation: (805) 388-4341 and the Humane Society of Ventura County: (805) 646-6505. It is best to try to confine the bird, but don't try to handle it as some have very vicious beaks. You can throw a blanket, coat or box over them. The Raptor Center website is www.ojairaptorcenter.org which has some fun links to cameras that monitor nesting birds. The Raptor Center doesn't get any government funding and operates on donations which are tax deductible.
     Barn owls are abundant in Ventura County and the center had about 100 of them at the time of the presentation. Their biggest hazard is getting hit by cars as they fly very low over the ground hunting for mice and gophers (they are great gopher hunters) during the night. They nest in man-made owl boxes. For information on how to make these to put on your property contact the center.
    Many thanks to Sharon and Mel for all their hard work in bringing and sharing these wonderful creatures with us. Many residents of the Lexington enjoyed the program as well.

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PROPOSED BY-LAW CHANGE.

BY-LAWS ARTICLE 11, SECTION 3.

Currently reads;
DISSOLUTION:
IN THE EVENT OF DISSOLUTION OF THE SOCIETY, ITS ASSETS SHALL BE TURNED OVER, AT THE DISCRETION OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS, TO A NON-PROFIT ASSOCIATION OR CORPORATION FOR CONTINUATION OF EDUCATIONAL AND SCIENTIFIC PURPOSES.

Proposed change;
DISSOLUTION:
IN THE EVENT OF DISSOLUTION OF THE SOCIETY, ITS ASSETS, AFTER PAYMENT OF ALL DEBTS, SHALL BE DISTRIBUTED TO AN ORGANIZATION THAT WILL CONTINUE THE EDUCATIONAL AND SCIENTIFIC PURPOSES OF THIS SOCIETY AND THAT HAS EXEMPTION FROM TAX UNDER INTERNAL REVENUE CODE SECTION 501(c)(3).

The purpose of the change is to meet the current requirements of the State Board of Equalization.

First reading: June 28, 2006.

The vote on the proposed change will be on July 26, 2006.

Submitted by Richard Bromser.

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THE REASON HUGGING IS
SO GOOD FOR EVERYBODY.

Hugging is healthy. It helps the body's immune system, it keeps you healthier, it cures depression, it reduces stress, it induces sleep, it's invigorating, it's rejuvenating, it has no unpleasant side effects and hugging is nothing less than a miracle drug.

Hugging is all natural. It is organic, naturally sweet, no pesticides, no preservatives, no artificial ingredients, and hugs are 100% wholesome.

Hugging is practically perfect. There are no moveable parts, no batteries to wear out, no periodic checkups, low energy consumption, high energy yield, inflation proof, nonfattening, no monthly payments, no insurance requirements, theft proof, non taxable, non-polluting, and, of course, fully returnable.

Submitted by Richard Bromser.

Editor's Note: Richard was reviewing some old bulletins and show information and ran across this wonderful tidbit. It is one of my favorites! Let's all give it a try!

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MARK YOUR CALENDARS:

7-21 to 23-06 - Hobby Entries Ventura County Fair.
7-26-06 - VGMS Regular Meeting - 7:30 pm - At the Lexington - "Growing Up with a Famous Rockhound Father" with Phil & Steve Hauser.
7-28 to 30-06 - Gem & Mineral Entries Ventura County Fair. (Are you ready?)
8-2 to 13-06 - Ventura County Fair!
8-3-06 - VGMS Board Meeting - 7:30 pm - At the I.B.E.W. Hall, 3994 E. Main St., Ventura, CA. Everyone is welcome and encouraged to attend.
8-10-06 - DEADLINE FOR AUGUST Bulletin Articles to the Editor!
8-19-06 - VGMS Work Shop - Museum - Open - 9 to noon. Check with a shop supervisor to confirm (see "Chips & Boulders"). (Close the new window to return here.)
8-23-06 - VGMS Regular Meeting - 7:30 pm - At the Lexington. "Geology of the West from 35,000 Feet" by Jim Brace-Thompson.
8-27-06 VGMS 2007 Show Meeting - 2:00 pm - At the I.B.E.W. Hall, 3994 E. Main St., Ventura, CA. Please try to attend. We need everyone's help and participation.
9-3 to 9-06 - Camp Paradise - Week 1 - See May 2006 Bulletin for registration form and schedule of classes.
9-7-06 - VGMS Board Meeting - 7:30 pm - At the I.B.E.W. Hall, 3994 E. Main St., Ventura, CA. Everyone is welcome and encouraged to attend.
9-10 to 16-06 - Camp Paradise - Week 2 - See May 2006 Bulletin for registration form and schedule of classes.
9-16-06 - VGMS Work Shop - Museum - Open - 9 to noon. Check with a shop supervisor to confirm (see "Chips & Boulders"). (Close the new window to return here.)

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CHIPS & BOULDERS.

2007 Show Committee - We don't have a show chairman per se; however, all of our committees are well experienced and Richard Bromser is going to coordinate meetings, etc. Our first show meeting will be held on Sunday, August 27th at 2:00 pm at the IBEW Hall, 3994 E. Main St., Ventura, CA. We are in need of someone to take charge of the Donation Awards. We have volunteers to help but need a coordinator. If you are willing to help with this, please give Richard Bromser a call. We need everyone to come and give input at the meeting. Don't be bashful and if you have questions, give any one on the Board a call. Thanks and hope to see you ALL there.

Retirement - Need help! I am happy, but also sad, to say that Jim and I are planning to retire and move to our home in Baja after our 2007 show. We will need to have someone take over the bulletin and webmaster for our website after the first of the year. It seems a long time away, however, time flies and just wanted to put the opening out there for your consideration. We will be happy to answer any questions any one may have as to what the jobs entail. Please be thinking about it. Thanks. (You all will have a place to visit in Baja!)

Tri-Club Educational Committee Needs - There was a list of the rocks (Close the new window to return here.) that the Tri-Club Educational Committee will need for the completion of the project of a box of specimens for each school in the county in our March & April bulletins. If you have any of these and are willing to donate them contact Donna Knapton (805) 647-8762 as many are still needed. Many thanks!

BIG SALE - The Meisenheimers are selling their "good stuff" - Polished geodes, Brazil agate, wood, minerals. Give us a call before coming over at (805) 642-3155. - Ray & Florence Meisenheimer.

FOR SALE - Sharon Cunningham has donated gold prospecting equipment to the club. It has never been used, still in the boxes and is for sale. It is at my house, so interested parties give me a call (805) 642-3155. - Ray Meisenheimer.

California Oil Museum thanks Steve and Susan Mulqueen for their newest exhibit on Stromatolite Fossils (see last month's Chips & Boulders). (Close the new window to return here.) Steve and Susan have been providing VGMS exhibits at the Museum since 1998. Way to go guys, I knew it was a long time, but that is great!

Hosts and Hostesses Schedule for 2006 Meetings - Help! We are in need of some volunteers for the open months below to fill the 2006 meetings. Give Sharon Cunningham a call at (805) 649-3579 to schedule your month. We thank everyone who participates. You can see how much they are enjoyed at the meetings!

     July: Richard & Shirley Bromser.
     August: Sharon & Mel Hixson.
     September: Open.
     October: Open.
     November: Pumpkin Goodies by All!
     December: VGMS Christmas Party.

VGMS Workshops - They are held on the third Saturday of each month from 9:00 am 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. With vacations and business trips it is a good idea to call to make sure the museum will be open.

Tumbling Grit - We Have Grit!! Sold to club members at our cost.

Contact any board member to arrange for pick up or arrive on a workshop Saturday at the museum.

CFMS & AFMS Newsletters - Anyone interested in their own subscriptions to these, please contact Shirley Layton (805 717-9226). The cost for one year is $5.50 for the CFMS and $4.50 for the AFMS. I do share some information from these with you, but there is much more in each issue that you may be interested in. If you have access to the internet you can download both from their respective websites shown below for free!

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AN INVITATION TO COLLECT TOURMALINE!
To Fellow VGMS Members,
From Jim & Nancy Brace-Thompson.

Greetings! We'd like to invite any interested VGMS members to join us on a collecting trip to the Oceanview tourmaline mine in the Pala Mining District of San Diego County. In addition to pink, green and bi-colored tourmaline, minerals that may be found at Oceanview include smoky quartz crystals, garnet, book mica, morganite, kunzite, purple lepidolite, goshenite (water-clear beryl), moscovite mica, aquamarine, and more.

Here are details:

• Date of the trip: Sunday, July 30th.
• This is a fee mine and charges $50 per person.
• You can drive right up to the mine, and the mine operators supply equipment needed for collecting (shovels, screens, sorting tables, etc.) and let you keep whatever treasures you find.
• All you need to bring are gloves, sun hat, lunch, drinking water, good walking shoes, and a backpack, box, or bucket to bring home your rocks.
• Facilities (toilets, screening tables, shaded picnic tables) are on site, and the day-trip includes a tour of the operating mine, in addition to your own collecting.
• The meeting place is the Pala Casino near Oceanside (a map and directions are available at the following web site: www.digforgems.com. Or call us!).
• After check-in and signing of release forms, the tour will leave the casino parking lot promptly at 10:45 AM so be there not later than 10:30 AM to head for a day at the mine. The trip will conclude at 3:00 PM.

If you're interested in joining us, please email (jbraceth@adelphia.net) or call us (805-659-3577) right away because Nancy and I need to call the Oceanview operators to confirm the number of people who will be in the party.

I've talked to several people who have taken this mine tour and dig, and to a person, all came away happy with the experience. So let's all get happy!

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WEB SITES.

AFMS web site - http://www.amfed.org/,
CFMS web site - http://www.cfmsinc.org/,
CA BLM web site - http://www.ca.blm.gov/.

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SUPPORT AND PRACTICE
THE AFMS CODE OF ETHICS.

PROGRAM SCHEDEULE FOR MONTHLY MEETINGS,
Ventura Gem & Mineral Society, 2006.

If you have an idea for a program or would like a particular topic please contact our program chair person, Lowell Foster at (805) 648-1942.

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VENTURA GEM & MINERAL SOCIETY:
50 YEARS IN A NUTSHELL.

On December 24, 1944 a group of high school students - who were interested in rocks and minerals - decided to form a club. Among them were Westy Hertel, Dorr Thayer (the club's only still active charter member), Robinette Woodside, Bobby Davenport, Billy Ruggles and Marilyn Appling. They asked Mrs. Woodside's assistance, and on December 27, 1944 the first meeting was held in the Hertel Rumpus Room at 60 Lincoln Drive. The name Ventura Gem & Mineral Club was selected. At the next meeting Ruth Parker joined.

In the Southwest during the 40's and 50's "The Desert Magazine" was one of the most important news sources for rockhounds about gems, minerals and the related club activities. In the March 1945 issue, under "Among the Rock Hunters" column the following short news article appeared:

     "Collectors in Ventura, California, have formed a mineral club of 20 active members. Mrs. P. M. Woodside is president; E. G. Kempton, vice president; Francis Herter, secretary. Club rooms at 60 Lincoln Drive open the 2nd and 4th Saturdays and visiting rockhounds are invited to call."

In the same month the following letter was sent from Ventura to the Mineralogical Society of Southern California:

     "As chairman of the bylaws committee of the new Ventura Mineral Club I am anxious to consult the bylaws of other successful mineral clubs before drawing up our own. Several years ago I was a guest at one of your meetings and quite favorably impressed by your organization. Could you please send me a copy of your bylaws. We will all greatly appreciate this favor."
          Sincerely, Ruth E. Parker.

The bylaws were adopted on November 10, 1945; the Society joined CFMS (California Federation of Mineralogical Societies) in May 1947; and the Club incorporated in November 1953.

The poinsettia was selected as the Society Emblem in 1955. "Ventura - The Poinsettia City by the Sea."

In the same year Virginia Van Delinder became the first editor of "Rockhound Rambling."

The first club show was staged at Westpark Recreation Center on March 9 & 10, 1963 called "Swing into Spring". A year later, the club show, "Treasure Trove", was held the very first time at the Ventura Fairgrounds.

In the summer of 1971 Ventura Gem & Mineral Society hosted a very successful CFMS show at the Fairgrounds.

The following year "Artistry from Nature" was selected as the official name for future club shows.

The first, club sponsored scholarship ($300.00) was awarded to a local college student in 1975. (The scholarship was increased to $500.00 in fall of 1989.)

The club museum and workshop were mapped out in an old store building (5019 Crooked Palm Road) in 1981. The first tour of school children through the new Science Teaching Museum occurred in 1984.

In 1991 the Rockhound Rambling, with Judith Gustafson as editor, became an AFMS trophy winner as the best small news bulletin in the nation.

HAPPY 50TH ANNIVERSARY VGMS!!!!

K. J. Werner,
Editor,
Rockhound Rambling,
November/December 1994.

Submitted by Richard Bromser.

Editor's Note: This is another article Richard ran across on his review of Bulletins, etc. Even though we are into our 62nd year it is a good history for some of our newer members. Thanks Richard!

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AUGUST BIRTHDAYS.

Happy Birthday to all those born in AUGUST. We all wish you good health and hope you have a Great Day! Have I missed your birthday? 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 and have a Great Day!

August - Happy Birthday!!
     Ed Clark - 12th,
     Marie Haake - 14th,
     John Orr - 15th,
     Sunny Cross - 19th,
     Nicholas Orr - 20th,
     Karen Foster - 24th,
     Shirley Bromser - 25th,
     Mel Hixson - 26th,
     Chloe Baer - 27th,
     Laudine Borges - 29th,
     Craig Andrews - 31st.

The August birthstone is the Peridot and the flower is the Gladiolus.

PERIDOT, the gemstone variety of olivine.

Variety of: Olivine, (MgFe)₂SiO₄;
Uses: Gemstone;
Birthstone for: August;
Color: Various shades of green;
Index of refraction: 1.630 - 1.695;
Birefringence: 0.037;
Hardness: 6.5 - 7;
Cleavage: None;
Crystal system: Orthorhombic.

     Peridot is the gem variety of olivine, a mineral series between two end minerals: forsterite, Mg₂SiO₄, and fayalite, Fe₂SiO₄. Peridot, although a mixture of magnesium and iron, is usually closer to forsterite than fayalite in composition. The green of peridot is of a different shade than emerald and is unfortunately considered a "poor man's emerald". The pronunciation of Peridot is actually pronounced pear-a-doe instead of pear-a-dot, which seems to be a source of confusion. Gem quality peridot comes from islands in the Red Sea, Burma, Norway, Arizona, Hawaii and in some meteorites. It has been mined as a gemstone for thousands of years, and is mentioned in the Bible under the name of Chrysolite. Historical legend has it that peridot was the favorite gemstone of Cleopatra.

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 June meeting had 24 members, 5 guests, 1 pebble pup and several "bird guests"! It was a wonderful program thanks to Sharon and Mel Hixson. The guests that enjoyed it with us were Matthew Sanford (who has since joined, welcome Matthew), Elizabeth Nightlinges, Alan & Teri Majeski and Velma Payton. We hope you all will come again. Our pebble pup was Chloe Baer, whom I didn't even recognize (sorry Chloe!) as she has become such a young lady. We also had several visitors from the Lexington who didn't sign our guest book. We hope they enjoyed it as well and we certainly thank the Lexington for letting the birds visit! Valli and Greg Davis brought refreshments that were enjoyed by all and door prizes were drawn and enjoyed by the winners! It was such a fun meeting and everyone seemed to be really enjoying it. We missed all that weren't able to attend.

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COMMUNITY OUTREACH.

No separate community activities, however, the Ventura County Fair Gem & Mineral Building exhibits and demonstrations are great educators and our members are a big part of this, especially Richard and Shirley Bromser.

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VGMS MINUTES.

Minutes of the VGMS Regular Monthly Meeting,
Wednesday, June 28, 2006:
     The regular monthly meeting of the Ventura Gem & Mineral Society was called to order by Ed Clark at 7:30 pm on Wednesday, June 28, 2006, at the Lexington, Ventura, CA.
     The May membership meeting and the June board meeting minutes were corrected and then m/s/c as shown in the bulletin.
Ed Clark welcomed everyone and directed members in the pledge to the flag. Educational cases are being put together by the tri-clubs and Ed reminded everyone to support the effort by collecting and/or donating specimens.
Richard Bromser gave the treasurer's report and it was m/s/c to accept it as stated. Richard also stated that help will be needed for the County Fair set up starting on July 5th. Hobby entries are held on July 21-23 and Gem & Mineral entries are held on July 28-30. Our first 2007 show meeting will be held on August 27th, 2:00 at the IBEW Hall (where Board meetings are held). Proposed VGMS by-law changes were read in accordance with the by-laws and will be voted on at the next membership meeting.
Shirley Layton - The 10th of the month is the deadline for submissions and articles to the bulletin.
Ray Meisenheimer - Material is still available for purchase from the Meisenheimer's yard including gold prospecting equipment donated to our club. Call before coming over. In July, Ray will be presenting another rock & mineral presentation to a school in Oxnard. Ray will soon need someone to take over for him and this rewarding endeavor. Ray next presented raffle prizes to those who had their lucky numbers drawn.
Florence Meisenheimer - The Federation show at Calaveras was a huge success. The next Federation show will be held in Palmdale and the 2008 show will be here in Ventura.
Lowell Foster - Upcoming presentations for monthly meetings include Dr. Gray from Santa Barbara, Jim Brace-Thompson's aerial view of geology and the video "Rockhounds the Movie".
     Ed next presented Mel & Sharon Hixon who brought along a collection of raptors from the Ojai Raptor Center. The center's goal is to rescue, rehabilitate and release. The Lexington had been given knowledge of the presentation, had agreed to have the live birds and announced it to their tenants. As a result, we had quite a few extra people in attendance. It was an incredible showing of birds of prey, including hawks, falcons and owls. Our thanks go out to Mel and Sharon and their huge effort to transport so many birds and discuss their various qualities. It was quite a sight to see these live animals up close.
     Refreshments were provided by Greg & Valli Davis.
     The next Board meeting will be Thursday, July 6th, 2006, at the IBEW Hall, 3994 E. Main in Ventura, all are welcomed to attend and the next regular meeting will be held July 26, 2006.
     There being no further business, Ed adjourned the meeting at 8:55 pm.
          Respectfully submitted,
          Greg Davis,
          Recording Secretary.


Minutes of the VGMS Board Meeting,
Thursday, July 6th, 2006:
     The regular board meeting of the VGMS was called to order by Greg Davis at 6:30 pm on Thursday, July 6, 2006, at the IBEW Hall, 3994 E. Main St., Ventura.
Present: Ray & Florence Meisenheimer, Richard and Shirley Bromser, Dave Mautz, Shirley Layton and Greg Davis.
Old business:
Ray Meisenheimer - A rock sale of his collection, including gold prospecting equipment is still on going at Ray's house. Contact him for more info.
Richard Bromser - To change by-laws and abide by the by-laws, the changes have been read at the June general membership meeting and will next be voted on during the July general membership meeting.
New business:
Richard Bromser - Printed copies of the financial statement for the month of June were issued, reviewed and it was m/s/c to accept the financial statement as printed. A motion was made to donate $50.00 to the Ojai Raptor Center as a consideration for their efforts with the raptor presentation during our general member meeting in June. It was m/s/c to do so. The first meeting for our 2007 show will be held on August 27, 2:00 pm at the IBEW Hall in Ventura. All are encouraged to attend to not only get the facts but to give input.
Shirley Layton - The 10th of the month is the deadline for submissions and articles to the bulletin. Shirley also mentioned that we'll need someone to step forward and assume the bulletin duties as she and Jim will make the grade around March of next year and they'll retire to their new home in Mexico.
Florence Meisenheimer - Zzyzx will cost $300.00 per person this year. Still a bargain when you consider that includes food and lodging and classes.
Jim Brace-Thompson now has 44 clubs involved in the Merit Program.
Lowell Foster - Possible presentations for monthly meetings include "Rockhounds the Movie" video tape, the Desert Tortoise Preservation Crew, another silent auction and perhaps a show case preparation program. A suggestion was made to allocate expenses for (non-member) presenters to travel to our monthly membership meetings. Although not new, the practice will be examined and possibly updated with further discussion required.
     The next general meeting will be on July 26, 2006 at the Lexington in Ventura.
     There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 8:55 pm.
          Respectfully submitted,
          Greg Davis,
          Recording Secretary.

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MEMBERSHIP.

We are most happy to have two new members to add to your directory. Nancy was a member last year and we are glad to have her back with us. She may be having some silver wire wrapping classes in October. We will keep you posted! Matthew was a visitor at our June meeting and we are happy to welcome him as well. Please seek out our newer members at the meetings to make them feel at home and glad they came. If you are in need of membership applications or another 2006 directory please contact our membership chair person, Shirley Bromser, at a meeting or call her.

Renewing Member:
Nancy Bogart,
505 Prospect St.,
Oakview, CA 93022,
(805) 649-2924.

New Member:
Matthew Sanford,
528 Cruzero St.,
Ojai, CA 93023,
(805) 646-3654.

(Webmaster's Note: If you want a printed copy of the following so you can place an order move the mouse cursor to the left of the word 'Attention', push and hold down the left mouse button, and sweep down over the ad with the mouse cursor. This will highlight the contents of the ad. Release the mouse button and, without clicking anywhere else on the page, select EDIT on the browser menu and select COPY. You may then PASTE into any word processor and print in your normal manner. If you highlight too much you may delete the unneeded part with the word processor before printing. This works with any browser I know.)

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.

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RECYCLING HELPS CONSERVE MANY
VALUABLE NATURAL RESOURCES.

The following information was submitted by Post Oak Flats Resource Conservation and Development Council.

     A trash can full of solid waste may not seem like much, but multiply it by 300 million people in the United States, or more than six billion people in the world, and it adds up to a lot. Solid waste management is big business.
     Americans use over 47 million tons of paper per year, which averages to be about 650 pounds per person. Every day, American businesses generate enough paper to circle the earth 20 times. Paper products use up at least 35 percent of the world's annual commercial wood harvest. Americans go through 2.5 million plastic bottles every hour. Currently, all beverage cans are made from aluminum, about 392 cans per person per year. The average American uses 142 steel cans annually.
     Recycling conserves valuable natural resources. Eighty percent of United States paper makers use some recovered fiber in manufacturing, and nearly 200 mills use only recovered paper for their fiber. Aluminum cans typically have a recycled aluminum content of 55 percent. Recycled aluminum can be made into almost anything aluminum. The steel from the more than 84 percent of appliances (39 million) recycled last year yielded enough steel to build about 160 football stadiums. Recycling one car saves 2,500 pounds of iron ore, 1,400 pounds of coal, and 120 pounds of limestone. Half of all polyester carpet manufactured in the states is made from recycled soda bottles.
     Recycling saves energy. Annually, 62.8 billion aluminum cans are recycled. Recycling aluminum saves about 95 percent of the energy it would take to produce aluminum from its original source, bauxite - enough electricity is saved from recycling one can to run a TV for three hours. Recycling one ton of paper saves 4.077 kilowatt-hours of energy and 463 gallons of oil. Through recycling, the steel industry saves enough energy each year to power 18 million homes.
     Recycling saves water and prevents air pollution. Recycling one ton of paper saves 6,953 gallons of water and prevents 587 pounds of air pollution. One tree can filter up to 60 pounds of pollutants from the air each year, and each ton of recycled paper can save 17 trees.
     Recycling saves landfill space that is becoming more expensive to purchase and to maintain. Recycling a ton of paper saves 3.06 cubic yards of landfill space. Recycling a ton of PET saves 7.4 cubic yards.
     Recycling can save money, create new businesses, and provide new jobs.
     The motto for the St. Louis Resourceful Schools program is "Think Resource, Not Trash." That motto might give direction for all residents. They can be assured that their individual efforts do add up to make a real difference.

Contributed by Ray Meisenheimer.

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EXTINCTION OF WORLD SPECIES.

     No one really knows how many species exist in this world but there are certain groups of species such as birds, frogs, and butterflies where we do have a reasonably good count of the number of species that do exist. For example we know that there are about 9,800 species of birds in the world and in the last 150 years about 130 kinds of birds have vanished around the world. This is a reasonably firm number as we have names and body counts. This gives an extinction rate of about 1 per 10,000 per year. Of course, extinction is a natural process; no species lives forever. The best estimates available indicate that this rate is about 100 times above what it normally should be at the background extinction rate. The World Conservation Union currently lists 1,213 birds as threatened with extinction which is about 12 percent of all avian species. Even if a thousand of these go extinct it is about 1000 times too high.
     Habitat destruction is a major cause of species loss and it has accelerated rapidly in recent years. Rapidly growing human population and our desire for higher and higher standards of living are the main contributors to loss of habitats. Pollution and global warming also are major contributors to species extinctions. Recent reports of major losses in coral reefs is another group of species showing dangers. Changing ocean temperatures and pollution are the greatest dangers to coral reefs.
     Counting species is at best a very inexact science. Our human limitations greatly distort our view of nature's true breadth. Our knowledge of such groups as insects, spiders, nematodes, bacteria, parasites, and microscopic species is only partially explored. An ambitious 10-year study of marine life has added over 13,000 new species in the last few years. The "Flora of North America" project headed by The Missouri Botanical Garden in St. Louis is gathering information on many old and new plants in America.
     There are many claims that we are even now experiencing a "mass extinction" such as occurred about 65 million years ago when a meteoric impact destroyed the dinosaurs as well as many other species on this earth. Of course, nature is full of surprises, and could turn out to be better able to adapt than we think. Maybe species will be able to adapt to a warmer climate, disperse to newly suitable areas, or hang on or even expand in human-altered habitats. It still can happen that the rise in global temperatures may peak or even decline in this century. Only time will tell us what will happen. Destruction of habitats and pollution are the main causes of extinction that we as humans can do something about. Political leaders should be made aware of these problems so that efforts can be started to correct them.

Wayne Ehlers.

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CFMS BUSINESS MEETING.

     The CFMS Business meeting was held at the Calaveras Fairgrounds June 10. After the preliminary introductions, there was a report of delinquent societies, including San Diego Lapidary Society, San Luis Obispo Gem & Mineral Society, Valley Gems, VIP Gem and Mineral Society, West Los Angeles Japanese League, Santa Monica G & M Society, and Southern California Minerals is merging with another club. When I attended my first CFMS Business meeting my club number was 171. This year it was 113.
     Bob Fitzgerald, is giving up as field trip chairman South after this year. He has led some very good trips, and it has been a lot of work.
     There was considerable discussion on ways to get more lapidary artists to enter into competition. In this show there were 31 competitive exhibits, more than any other show for a number of years. (In 1971 the show in Ventura had nearly 100 competitive exhibits.)
     Earth Sciences - ZZYZX fee will be $300.00 per person this coming year, convening March 18, 2007. The Fall Earth Science Studies for 2007 is up in the air. Other suitable camps, which are few are so expensive we can not afford it. Camp Paradise is probably out of the question, with all of the new rules and restrictions.
     PLAC Representative, Norvie Enns, was ill and not present. He needs more volunteers to attend meetings and work to keep our collecting areas open.
     Bill Gissler has 2 pages of new programs, many on CD ROMs. They were included in our packet, and will be given to our program chairman, Lowell.
     Jim Brace-Thompson reported that 44 clubs across the US enrolled in the Future Rockhounds of America Merit Badge program with requests for more information from 24 other clubs. This includes 17 societies in California. It is a wonderful program.
     Honorary membership to CFMS was awarded to Bob Jones, Senior Editor of Rocks and Gems Magazine. He was nominated by San Diego Mineral and Gem Society and Conejo G & M Club. Also, Dr. William Wise, Professor Emeritus at University California at Santa Barbara, was nominated by Northern California Mineralogical Association. We are proud to have them as members. They have contributed much to the Earth Sciences.
     At the close of the meeting, we were reminded that any non-profit organization can NOT support or oppose a candidate for office. As individual citizens we can.
     Ray and I were told that the exhibits in the show were some of the nicest ever. We did not have time to see any of it. We were selling all that good stuff for the Endowment Fund. We did very well.

CONGRATULATIONS: Following the banquet Saturday evening, it is time for awards -- for competitive cases and for service. Lois Allman was awarded the Golden Bear. Ray Meisenheimer had the honor of giving it to her. When he called her name, there was a roar of approval from the other diners. When she rose to go forward to receive the plaque, the whole room rose with her and gave her a standing ovation. Lois is past president of CFMS and well known for more than twelve years of teaching silversmithing at the Earth Sciences. The Golden Bear is the highest award given by CFMS for service to CFMS.

Submtted by Florence Meisenheimer, Federation Chair.

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SUPPORT AND PRACTICE
THE AFMS CODE OF ETHICS.

FROM THE INSURANCE DESK: FIELD TRIPS.

     One of the most frequent questions we receive is some version of "Are field trips covered?" Field trips are, indeed, a covered activity under the policy (as long as there are fewer than 300 in attendance...which is not usually a concern for field trips).
     It is important to realize that a General Liability policy is designed to defend the insured and pay for the legal financial responsibility if the insured is responsible for bodily injury or property damage to others.
     One thing to keep in mind about this coverage is that it is not accident or medical coverage, as such. We all know that if we are hiking on our own and injure ourselves, we would look to our own health insurance or accident coverage to pay for our medical costs.
     The key question is "What if someone wants to hold the CFMS (or our club and/or an individual as the organizer of the hike) responsible for their injuries?" The answer is that the company will respond. This may mean defending you against that claim or it may mean paying damages if the claim is deemed valid.
     What if the injured party is or is not a member? The policy wording makes no mention of the word member. The policy does, however, include an endorsement that adds volunteers as insureds. This does not mean, of course, that volunteers have accident coverage. This does mean that if someone is claiming that a volunteer is responsible for bodily injury to another, the company will defend that volunteer and pay any damages for bodily injury as are provided for by the policy.
     We understand that these finer points of the workings of insurance are sometimes tricky for the layperson to grasp. All Liability policies work this way, however, and we can say that the CFMS has the finest possible General Liability Coverage with one of the finest (probably THE finest) companies available.

Patt McDaniel,
McDaniel Insurance Services.

Submitted by Florence Meisenheimer, Federation Chair.

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"FIELD TRIPS ARE FUN."

Greenhorn Mountains,
TriClub Field Trip,
August 18-20, 2006.

For those of you who like to go someplace cool in August, our next field trip is scheduled for the Greenhorn Mountains on the 18th to the 20th of August. We'll hunt rose quartz in the Greenhorn Mountains near Lake Isabella. The meeting place will be the Panorama Campground (maps will be available at July VGMS club meeting). We'll caravan to the dig site at 9:00 a.m. on Saturday morning. Bring a sack lunch and stay the day. If you think it will be too hot, not likely and if the wind is blowing it can be very cool. Bring an extra windbreaker just in case. We'll be cooling off in the campground at 7,200 feet altitude!

The road is narrow and windy, especially from Glennville on. It is a good 4 hours by car, take Rancheria Road. Rancheria Road is dirt and gravel road but scenic and much quicker than Jack Ranch Road the alternative for trailers and motor homes.

Brett Johnson of the Oxnard Club is leading this trip. Call him at 984-8872 if you are planning to attend this field trip.

Ron Wise.

CO-OP MEMBER & OTHER FIELD TRIPS FOR 2006,
Information correct as of 5/11/06.

Who may attend: Members of a CFMS Society that is in good standing. All non-CFMS members must become a member to attend.

• Contact the field trip leader beforehand to sign up and for further information.
• Remember to wear your name badge and sign in with the field trip leader.
• A Consent and Assumption of Risk Waiver of Liability form must be signed upon arrival at meeting site.
• CO-OP website has information: www.coop.5u.com.

Aug. 12, 13 Lakeview, OR - Tallman Show & Field Trips.
Aug. 21-23 Virgin Valley, NV - For Opal - Stockton Lapidary & Mineral Club.
Sept. 2-4 Cedarville, CA - For petrified wood, fossil leaves, agate, obsidian. - Fossils for Fun Club.
Oct. 2-6 Petrified Forest National Park, AZ - Fossils for Fun.
Oct. 7 Soapstone Ridge, CA - For soapstone. - Calaveras Gem & Mineral Club.
Oct. 14, 15 Searles Lake, Trona, CA -For halite, hanksite, other minerals.
Nov. Barstow, CA Area - Mother Lode Gem and Mineral Club.

MLMS Ghost Sheet June 2006.

TRI-CLUB FIELD TRIPS 2006:
Tentative Schedule 7/16/2006.
Contact field trip leader to confirm
that there is a field trip scheduled.

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VIRTUAL FIELD TRIPS V:
Georgia Mineral Society - Arizona Locations(?).

     Sometimes what you find is better than what you are looking for.
     Let me explain. Originally this month's column was going to examine each of the photos of Arizona agate referenced on The Agate Page (See last month's site and close the new window to return here.) and provide other web sites displaying photos from the locations where each type can be found. I thought this would be an interesting way of showing how different internet resources could compliment each other. In this case, one site would provide images of the agate types, the other shots of the regions where these could be found. That was the idea, so I began my project.
     As I explored the backroads of the internet for viable sites, one very unlikely location kept on cropping up as the best resource for Arizona images - unlikely because of the group who was running it - the Georgia Mineral Society. It seems that the GMS (as they call themselves) has a group called the Roving Rockhounds who come out to the Tuscon show every year or two. Each time they visit, they explore different sites in Arizona and chronicle their travels with pictures. These are then posted on their website. After running into the GMS website several times during my research, I decided to just focus on their Arizona material and leave other resources for later.

The GMS website can be found at http://www.gamineral.org/.
     I am still going to stay true to my original intent by matching the Agate Page Images to the GMS website. By going to the Agate Page at http://csd.unl.edu/agates/agatepage.asp and clicking on the state of Arizona, you will bring up ten or so photos. Of these, three locations stand out as either the best known or possessing the most colorful material. These three are Burro Creek, Fourth of July Butte, and Limestone Canyon at Clifton. Each of these has been visited by the Roving Rockhounds. The GMS website has tons more material, but I'll be limiting myself to these three today.
     The first two stops are Burro Creek and Fourth of July Peak. Both can be accessed on the "What's New" link at http://www.gamineral.org/whats_new.htm. Scroll down to 4/5/2006 and you will see two sub-headings. Under Wickenburg you will encounter "Burro Creek Agate" and under Gila Bend, AZ you will find "4th of July - Agate". Each link takes you to a series of photos of people you don't know and of places you might have seen. Don't expect beautiful images of amazing specimens. These links are not about that. They are more of a G & M Society photo album than a visual encyclopedia. Go back to the Agate Page for the specimens. What the GMS site does provide is a limited view of these locations while giving some information regarding collecting conditions.
     The last site is of the Clifton location. When I look at the agate specimen from the Agate Page, my jaw tends to strike the keypad. The agate is GORGEOUS! Purples and pinks and incredible fortification markings - WOW! It is actually this one photo that prodded me into looking for more information. I found it at http://www.gamineral.org/t04-limestone_canyon.html. This link shows a few photos of the area and describes an unsuccessful hunt for these stones. Evidently the author on his trip stopped one peak too short of his destination. Again, no wonderful specimens here, or even a happy ending, the site shows the terrain and that's about it. But then again, that's what my research was hoping to find - pictures of what the location looks like so that if I ever visit (fingers crossed), I might not make the same mistake as those who have hunted before me.
     Once you are done going over the three small sections I have outlined here, browse a little more on this site. I am sure there are more corners filled with interesting information and photography that I haven't described. It may not be as fun visiting these places over the internet as actually being there, but at least you don't have to contend with the summer heat.
          Submitted by Lowell Foster.

Editor's Note - My apologies to Lowell for failing to give him credit for last month's Virtual Field Trips IV. We will have a couple of other articles on Agates next month as well to sort of go with Lowell's great information. Sorry Lowell! We really appreciate these most interesting articles.

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SOURCES FOR INFORMATION FOR ROCKHOUNDS,
By C. E. Johnson.

U.S. Geologic Survey office publishes geologic maps, topographic maps and mineral maps, and reports and bulletins, on geology and minerals on any area in the country. Look in your phone book for the one nearest you and ask them what you need to do to order geologic maps and other information on the areas you are interested in. (They may be listed under the U.S. Dept. of the Interior.) They will probably send you free information on what is available in those areas, along with their usual order forms and prices for the maps they sell.
     If you have a computer, you may want to log onto the geologic survey's home page, www.usgs.gov, and follow the links to what you need.

U.S. Bureau of Land Management offices have maps and other publications handled in their "Lands & Minerals Dept." or "Minerals Resources Division", etc. Like the USGS, the BLM is under the jurisdiction of the U.S. Dept. of the Interior.
     Many of the localities listed in the reports of these agencies and shown on their maps are not included in the usual rockhound guides and magazines. Also many of them are not only mines but have not been followed up by proper investigation by anyone, so those minerals are overlooked and are still there waiting, even though the reports are easily available to the public.

A great deal of rockhounding is done on National Forest land, so the U.S. Forest Service maps are indispensable when driving or hiking the forests. These maps can be purchased at any U.S. Forest Service office for a nominal fee.

Topographical Maps are a great help in many ways, and in remote areas no responsible rockhound should be without one. They outline hills and valley in elevation "contour" lines, and they distinguish forest cover from bare areas and show all creeks in detail, and they show any known trails in the region.
     They also usually show mines and prospect diggings, but are more exact in their locations than the forest service maps because of the greater topography detail, especially on the more "close-up" scales usually available in this type of map. Another advantage is that you can transfer geologic information from your geologic map onto a topographic map of the same scale, and more easily pinpoint the most favorable parts of the area to examine.
     These maps are sold by many U.S. Geologic Survey offices, and by some stationary stores and sportsman's supplies stores.

From Mendo Coast Gems 3/2006; via Breccia 7/2006.

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WHAT'S IN A NAME,
From Ed Clark.

Graphite: From the Greek "to write" - It's used in pencils.
Muscovite: From English "Muscovy glass" - It was used in Russia for window panes.
Dioptase: From Greek "to see into" - Its cleavage planes can be seen within the crystal.

From Gems, Minerals, Crystals, and Ores by Richard M. Pearl.

  Table of Contents.

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

Real or fake diamonds can be differentiated by using a magnet. Synthetic diamonds will stick to a magnet, but natural diamonds will not. - From Pica Pick, 2/06 via Breccia 6/06.

Diamond saw tips double the life of your diamond saw by keeping the oil clean and feed low. Add 1/4 to 1/2 cup of liquid detergent to the oil as a coagulant and it holds the grit to the bottom of your reservoir. This also helps to keep your window clean for viewing. - From the Orange Coast Gazette, date unknown via Breccia 6/06.

Rouge for Anyone - Black, green, red, white and yellow Polishing Compounds:
Black rouge is for gold, silver, and German silver. Gives a high polish.
Green Rouge is for platinum, chrome, stainless steel, and hard materials.
Red Rouge is for gold, silver and soft metals and materials.
White Rouge is for the harder metals; platinum, chrome, stainless and some of the harder material.
Yellow Rouge is for the rough in that it cuts faster. It usually has a base of beeswax to hold the polish in. It is for hard materials such as chrome and stainless steel. - From Homer's Corner via Rock Writings 6/06.

When buying a gold chain make sure that the karat mark appears on a part of the chain other than the clasp. If only the clasp is marked, the chain may be plated and not real gold. - From the Palomar Gem via Del Air Bulletin 3/06.

Nothing less than 10k can be legally marked or sold as real gold in the United States. Some jewelry is processed with a layer of gold, which has been mechanically bonded to a base metal. These pieces must be designated as gold filled or gold plated. The gold layer is very thin and can soon wear through, exposing the base metal. Many people who think they have a gold allergy are actually allergic to the base metal. - From the Palomar Gem via Del Air Bulletin 3/06.

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SHOW DATES.

2006 CFMS SHOWS.

AUGUST 4-6; NIPOMO, CA - Orcutt Mineral Society, "Earth's Treasures", St. Joseph's Church, 298 South Thompson Avenue. Hours: 10-5 daily. Wes Lingerfelt (805) 929-3788.
AUGUST 5-6; SAN FRANCISCO, CA - San Francisco Gem & Mineral Society, San Francisco County Fair Building, Ninth Avenue & Lincoln Way. Hours: Sat. 10-6, Sun. 10-5. Ellen Nott (415) 564-4230.
SEPTEMBER 16-17; PASO ROBLES, CA - Santa Lucia Rockhounds, Pioneer Park and Museum, 2010 Riverside Avenue. Hours: 10-5 both days. Joyce Baird (805) 462-9544. Email: liljoysee@charter.net.
SEPTEMBER 23-24; CARMEL, CA - Carmel Valley Gem & Mineral Society, Monterey Fairgrounds, 2004 Fairgrounds Road. Hours: Sat. 10-6, Sun. 10-5. Sky Paxton (831) 755-7741. Email: sky@familystones.net. Website: www.cvgms.org.
SEPTEMBER 23-24; DOWNEY, CA - Delvers Gem & Mineral Society, Woman's Club of Downey, 9813 Paramount Blvd. Hours Sat. 10-6, Sun. 10-4. Teresa Widdison (562) 867-1521. Email: twiddison72@aol.com.
SEPTEMBER 23-24; SAN DIEGO, CA - San Diego Lapidary Society, Bernardo Winery, 13330 Paseo Del Vernao Norte, Rancho Bernardo, CA. Hours: 10-4 both days. Kim Hutsell (619) 294-3914. Email: info@sandiegolapidarysociety.org.
OCTOBER 14-15; GRASS VALLEY, CA - Nevada County Gem & Mineral "Earth's Treasures". Nevada County Fairgrounds, 11228 McCourtney Road. Hours: 10-4 both days. Cliff Swenson (530) 272-3752.
OCTOBER 14-15; TRONA, CA - Searles Lake Gem & Mineral Society "Gem-O-Rama", Searles Lake Gem & Mineral, 13337 Main Street. Hours: Sat. 7:30-5, Sun. 7:30-4. Bonnie Fairchild (760) 372-5356. Email: jbfairchild@verizon.net.
OCTOBER 21-22; ANDERSON, CA - Shasta Gem & Mineral Society, Shasta District Fairgrounds. Hours: Sat. 10-5, Sun. 10-4. Alex Stoltz (530) 474-4400.
OCTOBER 21-22; WHITTIER, CA - Whittier Gem & Mineral Society, Whittier Community Center, 7630 Washington Avenue. Hours: 10-5 both days. Jay Valle (626) 934-9764. Email: res19pnb@verizon.net.
OCTOBER 28-29; STOCKTON, CA - Stockton Lapidary & Mineral Club, San Joaquin County Fairgrounds, 1658 Airport Way. Hours: Sat. 10-5; Sun. 10-4. Jim Dunlap (209) 478-0747. Web Site: www.stocktonlapidary.com.
OCTOBER 28-29; VISTA, CA - Vista Gem & Mineral Society, Brengle Terrace Recreation Center, 1200 Vale Terrace. Hours: Sat. 10-5, Sun. 10-4. Mary Anne Mital (760) 758-4599.
NOVEMBER 4-5; CONCORD, CA - Contra Costa Mineral & Gem Society, Centre Concord, 5298 Clayton Road. Hours: 10-5 each day. Sam Woolsey (925) 837-3287. Email: williamrmckay@hotmail.com.
NOVEMBER 4-5; LANCASTER, CA - Palmdale Gem & Mineral Club, "Rock n Gem Roundup", Antelope Valley Fairgrounds, 2552 West Avenue H. Hours: 9-5 both days. Susan Walblom (661) 943-1861. E-mail: pgmc@antelecom.net.
NOVEMBER 4-5; SAN DIEGO, CA - San Diego Mineral & Gem Society, Al Bahr Shrine Center (behind Hampton Inn), 5440 Kearny Mesa Road. Hours: Sat. 9:30-5, Sun. 10-4. Wayne Moorhead (858) 586-1637.
NOVEMBER 10, 11, 12; SACRAMENTO, CA - Sacramento Mineral Society, 64th Annual "Harvest of Gems", Scottish Rite Center, 6151 H Street. Hours: Fri. 9-5, Sat. 10-6, Sun. 10-4. Sheldon Shuper (916) 383-9153. Email: jfosback@aol.com.
NOVEMBER 11-12; YUBA CITY, CA - Sutter Buttes Gem & Mineral "Festival Of Gems & Minerals", Yuba Sutter Fairgrounds (Franklin Hall), 442 Franklin Avenue. Hours: 9-4 both days. Cliff Swenson (530) 272-3752.
NOVEMBER 18-19; LIVERMORE, CA - Livermore Valley Lithophites, The Barn, 3131 Pacific Avenue. Hours: Sat. 10-6, Sun. 10-5. Joyce & Dick Friesen (925) 447-8223. Email: friesenjoyce@lxinetcom.net.
NOVEMBER 18-19; OXNARD, CA - Oxnard Gem & Mineral Society, Oxnard Performing Arts Center, 800 Hobson Way. Hours: Sat. 9-5, Sun. 9-4. Norb Kinsler (805) 644-6450. Show Website: www.ogms.net.
NOVEMBER 25-26; VICTORVILLE, CA - Victor Valley Gem & Mineral Club, San Bernardino County Fairgrounds, 14800 7th Street. Hours: Sat. 9-5; Sun. 9-4. Joe Kosik (760) 241-0894.

AMERICAN FEDERATION / REGIONAL
SHOW SCHEDULE - 2006.

EASTERN FEDERATION,
November 17-19, West Palm Beach, FL.

SOUTHEASTERN FEDERATION/AFMS,
August 14-20, Nashville, TN.
Middle Tennessee Gem & Mineral Society Convention: 8/15-20; Show: 8/18-20. Hotel Preston at 733 Briley Parkway. Tennessee State Fairgrounds, Creative Arts Bldg., Wedgewood Avenue. Show hours: Fri./Sat. 9-6, Sun. 10-5. Website: www.mtgms.org/show.htm. Lewis Elrod (615) 893-8270. email: mlfelrod@yahoo.com.

SOUTH CENTRAL FEDERATION,
August 18-20, Bossier City, LA.

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EDITOR'S NOTE:

I want to thank all those who have contributed to the bulletin and get it to me on a timely basis. It definitely makes our job easier and your input makes it more interesting. We are still in need of photos from your experiences. I think the photo page is fun, but need your input. Sharing is fun for all! Just for the record any unsigned articles are by the Editor.

Trili - The Editor's Pet Trilobite.

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EDUCATIONAL CORNER.

Definition of the Month.

Quadrangle Map - A map printed on paper representing the topographic relief of an area of land charted by the United States Geological Survey (USGS). The map shows topographic relief represented by contour lines. The quadrangle map is a standard unit of area based upon fractions of the latitudinal and longitudinal system of geography. The more common USGS quadrangle maps are called "7 1/2-minute quads" because they represent 1/8th of a degree of longitude and latitude (One degree equals 60 minutes). Longitude lines converge at the North Pole and South Pole. As a result, a quadrangle map for an area of land in the Northern Hemisphere will be slightly wider on the bottom (southern) edge of the map.

Quadrangle maps are used by geologists as a base map for drawing geologic features observed in the field. Rockhounds also use these maps as a tool for navigating and as a means of marking areas favorable for collecting.

Written by Steve Mulqueen for the Ventura Gem & Mineral Society, July 2006. The "Definition of the Month" features words related to geology, paleontology, mining and desert history.

Illustration of the Month.

Block Diagram - A block diagram in one-point perspective of Everett quadrangle, Pennsylvania. (Click on this image for a larger one. Close that window to return here.)

A block diagram is a learning tool used in teaching science and engineering. This type of a block diagram is a three-dimensional perspective representing geologic and topographic features of a rectangular area of the Earth's crust. Often times, a block diagram will depict the geology of an area within a quadrangle map, incorporating one or two geologic cross-sections with surface geology, topography or both. This form of illustration trains the observer to interpret features in three-dimensions and in general, to think in three-dimensions, an important trait needed for understanding the complex world of geology.

Source: Lobeck, Armin K., "Block Diagrams and Other Graphic Methods Used in Geology and Geography", University of Wisconsin, published by John Wiley and Sons, Inc., New York, 1924, page 69.

Text written by Steve Mulqueen.

The "Illustration of the Month" features a drawing, sketch, pen & ink rendering, engraving print or any form of art rediscovered in 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, Ventura Gem & Mineral Society, July 2006.

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VGMS PHOTO ALBUM.

1. Sharon Hixson with an American Kestrel (aka Sparrow Hawk) who attended the June Program. Photo by Valli Davis.

2. Mel Hixson with a Great Horned Owl who also attended the June Program. Photo by Valli Davis.

3. Kevin's Hole, a place in the Middle Hauser Beds where digging has produced a large amount of geodes softball size and up. Photo contributed by Lowell Foster.

4. A location near picture 3. Photo contributed by Lowell Foster.

Trili.

Dinosaur.

  Table of Contents.

SUPPORT AND PRACTICE
THE AFMS CODE OF ETHICS.

Return to the Rockhound Rambling Center.
You may also go to the VGMS Home Page.