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The Ventura Gem & Mineral Society, Inc. (VGMS)
Rockhound Rambling
August 2007.

Rockhound Rambling Photo of the Month.
This month's photo is by Mel Hixson.

Description: Old Hornitos Poppy Jasper from Mariposa County, CA.

This material was mostly mined out back in the 1960's and most of the yield was sent abroad to German cutters. My buddy rediscovered the prospect pit a couple of years ago but there is very little of this quality still to be found in the tailing piles.

The Rockhound Rambling Picture of the Month is photographed by a VGMS Member. The subject may be a specimen in their own collection or a rock, mineral, gem or lapidary creation of others, accompanied with documentation of the subject origin. Selection is at the discretion of the editor. Submit candidate photos to vgms_editor@roadrunner.com.

Permission is granted to quote any item, if proper credit is given. Exchange Editors: email to vgms_editor@roadrunner.com or mail to 3063 Bayshore Avenue, Ventura, CA 93001-4125.

For the record, any unsigned articles are by the Editor.

Table of Contents.

• PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE;
• WORDS TO LIVE BY;
• UPCOMING VGMS EVENTS;
• BIRTHDAYS;
• HOSPITALITY;
• MEMBERSHIP;
• PROGRAM REVIEW;
• PROGRAM SCHEDULE;
• MEETING MINUTES;
• CHIPS AND BOULDERS;
• COMMUNITY OUTREACH;
• FEDERATION NEWS;
• FIELD TRIPS ARE FUN;
• HINTS AND TIPS;
• EDUCATIONAL CORNER;
• LET'S BE SAFE OUT THERE;
• FLASH FROM THE PAST;
• VIRTUAL FIELD TRIP XIII;
• LET'S GO TO A SHOW;
• BENETOITE CHRONOLOGY;
• IN MEMORY OF RAY MEISENHEIMER.

PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE.

As I write this, it is mid-July and I'm preparing for my annual backpack in the Sierras. I'll be spending four weeks traveling amid an astounding geology. From the Mammoth caldera and Devil's Postpile to the Kern trench, which some claim is the deepest canyon in the world. I regret that I was not able to participate in the Ventura County Fair, but I'm looking forward to hearing all about it when I return. I hope to take enough pictures to put together a talk on my travels for you when I return. Until then, keep on rockin'!

Ed Clark, President.

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WORDS TO LIVE BY.

Everything is worth what the purchaser will pay for it.

What you get by reaching your goals is not nearly as important as what you become by reaching them.

If you enjoy your job, you never have to go to work.

Life has no undo, reset or back buttons!

Collected by Wayne Ehlers.

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UPCOMING VGMS EVENTS.

Regular Meeting - Wednesday, August 22, 7:30 pm, The Lexington, Ventura.
Board Meeting - Thursday, September 6, 7:30 pm, The Lexington, Ventura.
Bulletin Article Deadline - Sunday, September 9, email to: vgms_editor@roadrunner.com.
Workshop - Saturday, September 15, 9 am To Noon, Museum.
If omitted, time, location or address can be found on the VGMS Info Page. (Close the new window to return here.)

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BIRTHDAYS.

Ed Clark - August 12,
Marie Haake - August 14,
Sunny Cross - August 19,
Karen Foster - August 24,
Shirley Bromser - August 25,
Mel Hixson - August 26,
Craig Andrews - August 31.

Carl Stephens - September 08,
Clint Berkheiser - September 23,
Ron Ostlund - September 24,
Myrle Kirk - September 27,
Susan Mulqueen - September 27,
Stuart Bloom - September 28.

August Birthstones:
     Modern: peridot.
     Ancient traditional:
          Hebrew: carnelian;
          Roman: carnelian;
          Arabic: sardonyx;
          Hindu: ruby;
          Polish: sardonyx;
          Russian: alexandrite;
          Guardian angel: verchiel;
          His talismanic stone: diamond.
     Zodiac gemstones:
          Leo: onyx.
          Virgo: carnelian.

August Flower:
     Common Name: Gladiolus.
     Botanical Name: Gladiolas.
     Color Yellow.
     Meaning Give Me A Break, I'm Really Sincere, Flower Of The Gladiators.

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HOSPITALITY.

Twenty members and three guests attended the July regular meeting. Our guests included Brenda Ball and Gary Biggers.

Thank you Sharon and Mel Hixson for the refreshments.

The following are the volunteers for the remainder of 2007. If anyone would like to volunteer for September, please speak up at the regular meeting, and we thank you in advance.
     August - Lowell Foster.
     September - OPEN.
     October - Stephenson family.
     November - Pumpkin potluck.
     December - Holiday potluck.
Thank you to those who have already signed up. Contact Sharon Cunningham, 649-3579, if you are willing to supply refreshments for the open month in the schedule above.

A special Howdy to Sharon Cunningham. We hope your recovery is progressing well and we look forward to seeing your smiling face at our meetings soon.

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MEMBERSHIP.

We are pleased to introduce two new members, Nicole DiSalvo and Adam Goldenberg. Please add them to your directories and extend them a warm welcome.
     Nicole S. DiSalvo;
     Adam S. Goldenberg;
     157 Seaview Street;
     Port Hueneme, CA 93041;
     805.766.8041.
     Email: Nicole: nicoled@usa-arc.com.
     Adam: asg@netzero.net.
          Jim & Nancy Brace-Thompson,
          Membership Chairs.

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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PROGRAM REVIEW.

July Program: History and Updates on our State Gemstone, Benitoite.
     Jim Brace-Thompson presented an outstanding program on Benitoite at the July meeting. An informative slide show was followed by a video of the history of the gem's early mining claims. He also brought in some of his personal benitoite specimens and jewelry. And if that was not enough, he also prepared a definitive handout on our state gem. I will include excerpts from this handout in this and future issues. AWESOME program, Jim. Following are a few pictures of Jim's specimens, but they don't do them justice.

Benitoite's (above) Associated Minerals: An equally rare and unusual set of minerals that includes natrolite (massive and snow-white), neptunite (slender, rod-like crystals that appear black but are actually a deep red), and joaquinite (tiny, mahogany brown or amber-color crystals).
     From Jim Brace-Thompson's Benitoite Fact Sheet.

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PROGRAM SCHEDULE.

August Program:
     August's program will be part one of a two-part history of the founding of our society given by me, Lowell Foster. It will begin with the formation of the club in 1944 and extend through the first 25 years to 1969.
     Specific events, important personalities, field trips to (now), closed locations and how our club interacts with the Federation will all be discussed.
          Lowell Foster.

Lowell submitted an article written in 1962 by former member, Carlton M. Carson, outlining the history of the origin of VGMS. Look for it in "Flash from the Past" (Close the new window to return here.) later in this bulletin.

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MEETING MINUTES.

Minutes of the VGMS Regular Monthly Meeting,
Wednesday, July 25, 2007:
     The regular monthly meeting of the Ventura Gem & Mineral Society was called to order by Ron Wise at 7:30 pm on Wednesday, July 25, 2007, at The Lexington, Ventura, California. The June membership meeting and the July board meeting minutes were corrected and then m/s/c as shown in the bulletin.
Ron Wise presided over the meeting and welcomed guests. Ron again reminded members that the Conejo club will lead a trip to the Kanan Road area on July 28. There won't be much else in the way of field trips due to the Fair running from August 1st through the 12th. Ron suggested that the idea of renting a facility to store our show supplies be reviewed again at the next board meeting as all other options have failed to materialize.
Wayne Ehlers suggested we again look into the possibility of purchasing a semi-trailer for storage and renting the space it sits on. The suggestion will be brought up for discussion at the next board meeting.
Mary Polacek - Articles to the bulletin will be required by the first Sunday after each board meeting. Any and all articles and photos will be greatly appreciated.
Greg Davis - A letter of intention has been sent to the Lexington regarding the next six months of our meeting dates and times. The suggestion was made to reprint our club membership flyers with updated information. It was m/s/c with a majority vote from the members present, and with her consent, to install Nancy Brace-Thompson as our Federation Director. It was then voted on to install Ed Clark, at his request, as Museum Director and Lowell Foster as Historian. A motion was made, seconded and carried to this affect.
Jim Brace-Thompson - Last call for additions to this year's membership interests sheet. The final form should be ready for distribution in August. Jim will arrange for a get-well card for Sharon Cunningham.
Lowell Foster - Next month Lowell will present a program on the history of our club, derived from records in our library.
     Jim Brace-Thompson next presented a program on benitoite and the history of the area here in California where the material is mined. Jim also provided samples of the crystals. Thanks Jim, for another well-done and appreciated presentation.
     Refreshments were provided by Mel and Sharon Hixson.
     The next board meeting on August 2, and the next monthly membership meeting, on August 22, will be held at The Lexington.
     There being no further business, Ron adjourned the meeting at 9:15 pm.
          Respectfully submitted,
          Greg Davis,
          Recording Secretary.


Minutes of the VGMS Board Meeting,
Thursday, August 2, 2007:
     The regular board meeting of the VGMS was called to order by Lowell Foster at 7:30 pm on Thursday, August 2, 2007, at the Lexington in Ventura.
Present: Lowell Foster, Ron Wise, Jim & Nancy Brace-Thompson, Cyndie Day, Abe & Esther Barshai and Greg Davis.
Old business:
Lowell Foster - The August program will involve our club's history during the years 1944 through 1966, which Lowell formulated by browsing the club history documents. The club needs to organize our library, delete unnecessary literature and augment it with new and updated books. Lowell suggested we attempt again to revive the tradition of the "door prize" which would require a member to come forward and offer to hold the position of Ways & Means. The idea will be brought before the general membership meeting. Also the tradition of the club picnic was discussed and a time and place will try to be determined.
Greg Davis - Members still need to contact myself or Ron prior to going to the museum/workshop to confirm its availability. A work shop is scheduled for August 18. Having not heard back from Help of Ojai and having waited a reasonable time and having heard disheartening rumors, I'll email Lisa and ask for an update and status on our request. I'll report back as soon as possible. The storage space offered to our club by Mike Barth is no longer available. I did thank him again for his initial offer to help.
New business:
Jim Brace-Thompson - The "yellow pages" showing members' lapidary specialties was previewed and the finished version will be ready in August. Jim also offered to reprint our club flyers with revised information. It was m/s/c to accept the membership applications for Nicole DeSalvo and Adam Goldenberg. It was m/s/c to accept Cyndie Day's offer to fill the vacated position of club Treasurer and Nancy Brace-Thompson as Federation Director. Jim also passed around a get well card for Sharon Cunningham. Jim suggested that a contribution to the CFMS endowment fund be made in Ray Meisenheimer's name. This will need to be addressed at our next meeting as it was not voted on nor does Cyndie have the ability to make out a check.
Abe Barshai - The next show meeting is planned for Sunday, September 8, 2:00 pm, at the Brace-Thompson's house.
Cyndie Day has offered to purchase and bring greeting cards, for all occasions, to meetings for our use. Cyndie also suggested that members be made aware that they can donate money to be used for the purchase of new books to update our library.
Ron Wise - The upcoming Ventura County Fair will take most everyone's time through August. Ron did suggest we investigate, again, the idea of renting storage space for show materials. Ron has gotten quotes of $135-$220 per month for a space of 10'x20'. Further study will be done and reported back. If club members know of better deals or have any information concerning a storage facility of any type, they are encouraged to contact any board member as we feel we should act soon on this. Also, decisions on which materials are stored will be made during the next workshop day (August 18). Museum materials will be prioritized also at this time. There are also display cases to be disposed of, from both the Fair Grounds and our club, that will be made available to club members.
     The next general meeting will be on August 22, 2007, at The Lexington in Ventura. The September 6th board meeting is also at The Lexington.
     There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 9:31 pm.
          Respectfully submitted,
          Greg Davis,
          Recording Secretary.

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CHIPS AND BOULDERS.

A Note from Florence.

Dear Members of VGMS,

Thank you all for your kindness and comforting words and cards following my recent loss of Ray. Your thoughtfulness has helped me get through this trying time.

Except for going off to the wars, Ray and I were always together. We were married for 64 years.

Thank you again, so very much. And yes, Ed, Ray may very well have already chatted with Saint Peter!

Florence Meisenheimer.

2008 Show Planning Meeting Sunday, September 9, 2:00 pm.
     Nancy and I are hosting the meeting at our home (7319 Eisenhower Street, Ventura). ALL members are encouraged to attend. Anyone needing directions should call us at (805) 659-3577.
          Jim Brace-Thompson.

Absolutely Last Call.
     No one has volunteered to chair the Country Store. I know there are those of you who say "good riddance". I also know, having worked the store the last two years, that a lot of folks really enjoy it (visitors and vendors alike). Not to beat a dead horse, but my offer was missing from the meeting minutes, so I will state it one more time for the benefit of those members who were unable to attend. I am willing to co-chair this committee. Is anyone willing to work this with me? Abe will be presenting our request for building space, etc., after the September show meeting, so this really is the last request. Think about volunteering for one year; there is no commitment beyond!
          Mary Polacek.

2007 Ventura County Fair.
     We want to thank all of the members who helped in the Gem and Mineral Building with set up, receiving entries, judging, clerking for judges, floor walking, tear down, and most of all, for submitting entries. There were a total of 365 gem and mineral entries and 353 hobby and collectible entries. With your participation, we were able to fill the building and have a successful fair. Thanks again.
          Richard and Shirley Bromser.

VGMS Member award Winners.
     VGMS members were well represented at this year's Fair and brought home a good share of the winnings! Thank you Richard Bromser for submitting this summary of members and number of respective awards:

Jim Brace-Thompson received two trophies:
     Board of Directors Choice;
     Best Natural Specimen Case.

David Mautz received a Best Natural Specimen Single Item Plaque.

Congratulations to all our winners!

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SUPPORT AND PRACTICE
THE AFMS CODE OF ETHICS.

COMMUNITY OUTREACH.

Earth Science Kits News.
     We have delivered all but one of the scheduled kits for Spring semester of 2007. They were delivered to: Fillmore Grade Schools - 4 boxes, Fillmore Middle School - 1 box, Fillmore High School - 1 box, Santa Clara School (The Little Red Schoolhouse on 126) - 1 box, Mesa Union School - 1 box, Briggs School (Olivelands) - 2 boxes, Ventura Grade Schools - 16 boxes for a total of 26 deliveries. One Ventura grade school has not made arrangements for delivery as of yet. We donated one box to the county Library System for loan to Educators, home schoolers, Scouts etc. which is available all over Ventura County. That leaves two boxes for our use in Education.
     Our Earth Science Instructor's Handbooks have been funded and are ready to begin printing. Jim Brace-Thompson has done a heroic job. He wrote the book, tested each and every one of the 100+ experiments, then went on to research and present the grant request to SAGE publications single-handled. The result was a check for $1,000 for the handbook expenses. He truly did an incomparable job in an area that will bring a lot of goodwill to all the clubs for many years to come! Many Thanks to Jim and Nancy!
     The next set of boxes should be ready in September. They are about 2/3 finished, thanks to Larry and Don Asher. We need to, also, say "Thank you!" to David Potts. Not only does Dave come on the field trips, but he keeps us supplied with the 5 gallon buckets that keep this project in some kind of order.
     There is [was] another exploratory field trip to Ebbits Pass next weekend. Anyone interested in going up there on a fieldtrip, get in touch with Brett to form a trip. It would take about 4 days. There is also a work day at our house on the 18th of August. If you feel the need to beat on, wash, size, and number or classify rocks, we would love to see you. Anytime between 9:00 and 4:00 is fine. There will be another workday sometime in September so we can get these rocks put away in their tubs before the rains come.
     I have to mention how much we will miss Ray Meisenheimer on our committee. He contributed so much to keep the planning moving in the right direction and took on a great deal of the publicity aspect of the project. He will surely be missed by all of us.
          Donna Knapton, Chairman, Tri-Club Education Committee.

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FEDERATION NEWS.

AFMS.

Club Rockhounds of the Year.
     The Oxnard Gem & Mineral Society has submitted the nomination of Dr. K. C. HARA for AFMS Club Rockhound of the Year.

Let's Get Gemstones on the U.S. Stamp.
Wendell Mohr, Commemorative Stamp chair via AFMS Newsletter, September 2007.
     Persistence pays, and in the competitive atmosphere of getting stamps subjects into print, we believe it is very important to continue to endorse our request for gems on stamps. It is a first class idea, really an extension of the "Our Mineral Heritage" theme of the two prior mineral stamp sets issued in 1974 and 1992. It's a gem of an idea. We think that the stamps would be beautiful and welcomed by not only gem and mineral collectors, but also postal customers as well. Did you send a previous request to the Citizens Stamp Advisory Committee (CSAC)? Help by sending another. Persistence pays.
     Perhaps a more persuasive approach would be for each of us to send a personal letter rather than a form which might just be disregarded. I realize it now costs $0.41 to do this, but hopefully we can stick 'em (formerly lick 'em) on envelopes in the near future. Send your letters to:

Internal Revenue Announces New Filing Requirements.
Mike Kokinos, CFMS TAX Advisor via AFMS Newsletter, September 2007.
     The IRS recently announced a new annual electronic filing requirement for small tax-exempt organizations. Beginning in 2008, small tax-exempt organizations (almost all of our societies) that previously were not required to file returns may be required to file an annual electronic notice. Form 990-N Electronic Notice (e-postcard) for tax-exempt organizations not required to file Form 990 or 990-EZ. This filing requirement applies to tax periods beginning after December 31, 2006. There are some exceptions, but they do not apply to our societies.
     The IRS will mail educational letters starting in July 2007, notifying small tax-exempt organizations that they may be required to file the e-postcard with the IRS annually. The IRS is developing an electronic filing system (there will be no paper form) for the e-postcard. The IRS will publicize filing procedures when the system is completed and ready to use.
     The new requirement requires the IRS to revoke the tax-exempt status of any organization that fails to meet its annual filing requirement for three consecutive years.

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FIELD TRIPS ARE FUN.

By Robert Sankovich.

Kanan Road Cut.
     Having the field trip start at 9 am was a good idea. It was nice out and the side of the road cut that had the marcasite, onyx, quartz was in the shade most of the time. Nine people showed up. From our club, myself, Mike Miller, Sal and Mitty Scarpato, Carol Kenner. From other clubs, Ron Wise, Donna Sweet and her son, Matt (I didn't get his last name).
     We spent the time using our chisels, hand sledges to remove the onyx and marcasite from the seam in the side of the hill. It took some effort, but everyone went home with some nice pieces. A few of us checked out the road cut on the opposite side of Kanan, and behind the road cut, finding chunks of agate. It was a good day of collecting.

Summer Road Trip.
     With the hotter weather having field trips that will be earlier and closer to home will keep us out of the heat of the day. Deb and I went on our road trip in July. We drove 4000 miles, went through 8 different states. We saw wild burros, antelopes and moose. We went through a thunder/electrical/rain storm in Wyoming; fires in Utah, Wyoming, Nevada. Dealt with 108-113 degree weather. We went to my family reunion in South Dakota; otherwise we would have gone on our road trip when it was cooler. We collected at six different spots. I found septarian nodules, Topaz Crystals, Trilobite fossils, Blue Petrified Wood, Green River Formation Fish Fossils, and Black/Fire Opal. We also visited Zion, Devils Tower, Yellowstone, Grand Tetons National Parks. We took photos and video. When I have the minerals, fossils cleaned/cut ready, I will bring them to a meeting; probably around October. I want to make some sort of presentation with what I found and the photos/video. It will take me a little time. I'll put a more in-depth recap of our trip in an upcoming bulletin.
     If you are interested in collecting minerals, fossils, join us on the field trips. Most of the time you will find something worth keeping. Meet new people, learn things and have fun. We regularly get members from different clubs that share in their knowledge, experience and you can find out about other places to collect.
     August is the Fair. I've put in minerals and fossils in eight classes. Two are cases, the others are single pieces. Most found on field trips. Hope to see some of you there. It's going to be fun.

Editor's Note: Robert is a member of and Field Trip Coordinator for the Conejo Gem and Mineral Society.

FIELD TRIP SCHEDULE 2007.
Tentative Schedule - As of 8/15/2007.*

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

Saturday, August 18, 9 am-1 pm, Old Topanga Fossils.
Contact: Robert Sankovich, 805-494-7734, rmsorca@adelphia.net.; Mike Miller, 805-498-9586, rockfmdr@aol.com.
Please let us know if you are going to go on the field trip.
     This is a site near Old Topanga Fossils that still has access. Old Topanga Fossils is closed off on the cliff face, no trespassing. You can still look along the base of the cliff, near the road. Our site is nearby, up a ravine, on a nearby hill. Fossils to find: turritella, small ammonites, shark teeth, bivalves and other gastropod fossils from the Miocene Epoch, 12-15 million years old. Some fossils are found separate, while others are in concretions with multiple shell fossils embedded. The rock can be hard and sometimes takes some patience to reveal the fossil. Old Topanga Canyon Road is windy, narrow, with traffic, always pay attention when near the road. With the hot weather, having a close by field trip will be best. Rockhounds of all ages will be able to participate. We did this last year and we found lots of fossils.
Directions: From Conejo Valley head south (towards the San Fernando Valley) on Freeway 101. Exit freeway at Mullholland Drive/Valley Circle Blvd. Make a left (east) onto Calabasas Road, go 100 yards. Make a right (south) onto Mullholland Drive, go 1.6 miles. Make a right (west) onto Mullholland Highway, go 1.7 miles, past Calabasas High School, past a stop sign for Old Topanga Canyon Road North. Turn left (south) on Old Topanga Canyon Road South, go 1.3 to 1.4 miles to pullouts along road. There are 3 on the right side which will hold 2 cars each. They are about 150 yards past the field trip site. There are more sites to park farther up the road if the pullouts fill. Approximate distance from Conejo Valley to Old Topanga Canyon Road Field trip site = 17 miles. Look for Rob's Black Toyota Truck with a Conejo Valley Gem & Mineral Club sign on it.
Meeting: Saturday afternoon, August 18th, 2007, 9 am-1 pm. We will meet at the Field Trip site, 150 yards west of the pullouts parking, 1.2 miles from Mullholland Highway. There will be a short briefing of the site. Please remember to sign a release form to participate in the field trip. We will then walk 100 feet up a ravine with a light to moderate climb, through light brush. Always pay attention to where you put your feet. Near the top there are small trees and brush, with rock outcroppings to look for fossils. You can email me for a map if you like.
What to Bring: Collecting bags, buckets, day pack, digging tools, rock pick, pry bar, sifter, eye protection, trowels, newspaper, paper bags, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, sturdy shoes, towels, drinking water, lunch or snacks.

Turquoise Hunt.
     If you are in Arizona in October, here's a great reason to go to Bisbee! The Bisbee Mining Museum is hosting the annual Turquoise Hunt on Dump #7 on October 5th and 6th. For $15 you get a bus ride from Old Bisbee over to the No. 7 dump where most of the good Bisbee Blue Turquoise is found. Each $15 ticket gets you 3 hours up on the dump and everything you find is yours to keep. For more information, call the Bisbee Mining Museum at (520) 432-7071, or go to: www.bisbeemuseum.org.

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HINTS AND TIPS.

Cutting Montana Agate.
     People not familiar with working with Montana Agate have, perhaps, wondered how to set-up to saw the first nodules they acquire. Most Montana nodules are found in two shapes, flat and slightly curving, or round and elongated. As this material probably has rolled hundreds of miles down turbulent streams, nearly all of it is cracked, so take this into consideration when sawing to get the largest slab.
     First, look into the rocks with a strong light to determine which way the moss or banding layers lie. Light cuts taken off an end, or side, at right angles to the layers, will then reveal whether you should slab from end to end or side to side. Many people who are used to sawing thundereggs get used to sawing each nodule through the center to expose the pattern. While this method works well with nodules, it cannot be used to the best advantage with Montana material. It will probably ruin the best sprays, as the larger and best ones usually lie toward the center. Sawing across them will render them valueless. Only a very few specimens carry fine large sprays, so do not be disappointed if the first few do not have them. About the time you are ready to give up, one of the poorest looking pieces may have the fine spray you are looking for.
          Grindings via MOROKS January 2007.

How can you get rid of the iron stains on your rocks?
     Try Iron Out! Members of various clubs have found that it removes stain from quartz, dolomite, fire agate, chalcedony roses, some amazonite, ceramics, cloth, and carpet. Super Iron Out works better than bleach does on rust because bleach oxidizes iron, which turns to rust. Super Iron Out de-oxidizes iron into a clear solution that easily rinses away and will not harm fabric as bleach does.
          DELVINGS via Del Air Bulletin January 2007.

The Right Thread for the Job.
     Problem: Silk thread is very strong and is great for stringing but it lacks abrasion resistance. Nylon thread has abrasion resistance but is not as strong as silk. It also stretches with the tension required for beading.
     Solution: Use silk on non-abrasive materials such as pearls, turquoise, mother-of-pearl and lapis. Use nylon on abrasive materials such as onyx, metal beads, amethyst and rose quartz. To eliminate stretching, after carefully knotting a strand with nylon, suspend the cord on a doorknob (several loops are okay) then hang pliers from the loops and leave overnight. This will pre-stretch the nylon, so it will not become loose after being strung.
          Wasatch Gem Society 01/1995 via Gems of the Foothills 08/1995.

Opal Storage.
     The best way to keep opal jewelry from cracking and crazing is to wear it! Opal picks up moisture from the body necessary to keep it in good condition. If you need to store opal, it should not be cushioned in something like dry absorbent cotton. Rather, place it in an airtight jar with a couple of wet cotton balls in it. Do not store opal in a bank vault; pressurization in the vault will tend to separate the layers in triplets. In air travel, take the opal with you; do not let it go in the baggage hold. If the prongs are too tight in a setting, the opal will eventually crack.
          American River Currents via Victor Valley Gem & Mineral Bulletin 10/1995.

The club presents these hints and tips for informational purposes only and does not specifically endorse or profess first-hand use or experience with any or all. As always, be aware of your situation, knowledge level and comfort zone before attempting anything new. When in doubt, stop! Get help before you need it.

Keep a log in your shop. Document your techniques and inspirations. You will come up with a journal full of useful tips, and maybe even an educational article or two!! Email hints and tips to vgms_editor@roadrunner.com.

Let us hear about your good ideas!

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EDUCATIONAL CORNER.

Definition of the Month.

The Colorado Plateau. - A geomorphic province of the Intermontane Plateaus, centered in the Four Corners region of the Southwestern United States. The Colorado Plateau consists of 130,000 square miles of surface area. This region includes portions of Western Colorado, northwestern New Mexico, southern Utah and northern Arizona. Over 90% of the Plateau is drained by the Colorado River and its major tributaries including the Green River, the San Juan River and the Virgin River. The province is famous for its unique geology, beautiful terrain, unusual fossils and vast mineral resources including coal, uranium ores and petroleum. The Colorado Plateau is bound to the west by the Basin and Range geomorphic province and to the east by the Rocky Mountains.

Written by Steve Mulqueen for the Ventura Gem & Mineral Society, August 2007. The "Definition of the Month" features words related to geology, paleontology, mining and desert history.

Illustration of the Month.

Land of the Standing Rocks.

Illustration Source: A pen & ink illustration by W. H. Holmes, "Second Annual Report of the United States Geological Survey, 1880 - 1881", from the chapter "The Physical Geology of the Grand Cañon District", sub-chapter "The Plateau Province", plate XXII (opposite page 94), chapter written by Clarence E. Dutton, printed by the Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C., 1882. (Note the old spelling of the word Cañon, from the Spanish language, depicting canyons in the American West).

This publication was presented to the Secretary of the Interior by John Wesley Powell, the Director of the U.S.G.S. during this period. The report documented a large portion of Powell's exploration of the Grand Canyon, the Colorado River and the Colorado Plateau. Between the years 1869 and 1872, Powell explored this vast area with a group of men. Written accounts of the exploratory trip through this region were published in several Annual Reports of the U.S.G.S. The printed works brought together the notes, sketches and memories by all those who participated in that great adventure. (See the following related illustrations on the VGMS website: "Vishnu's Temple" in the October 2001 bulletin and "Mount Trumbull" in the February 2002 bulletin).

Data Source: Text for this illustration was written by Steve Mulqueen for the Ventura Gem & Mineral Society, August 2007. 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.

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LET'S BE SAFE OUT THERE.

Lions and tigers (well, maybe not tigers) and Bears. Oh My!
     As rockhounds, we should all be aware of snake and scorpion hazards. We all know to watch and listen when we are walking, to be careful when turning over rocks. Drought and fires are increasing the chances of wildlife encounters. Lions and bears! You never know.
     Mountain lions live in many different types of habitat in California, from deserts to humid coast range forests, from sea level to 10,000 feet altitudes. Generally, if the habitat supports deer or other prey animals, they will also be found. Before venturing out in an unknown locale, you should look up and keep the local phone number of the respective locale's Sheriff's Department and Department of Fish and Game's Wildlife Management Division. If you have an emergency, these phone numbers could be a lifesaver.

To Minimize Risk of Mountain Lion Attack.

• Do not hike alone. Go in groups and ALWAYS supervise the children.
• Keep the children close. Captured mountain lion observations reveal the animals are drawn to children. Keep them within sight at all times.
• Do not approach a lion. Most mountain lions will prefer avoiding a confrontation. Give them a way to escape.
• DO NOT RUN from a mountain lion. Running may stimulate its instinct to chase. Stand and face the animal. Make eye contact. If there are small children with you, pick them up if possible so they do not panic and run. It may be awkward, but pick them up without bending over or turning away from the mountain lion.
• Do not crouch or bend over. A person squatting or bending over looks like four-legged prey.
• Do all you can to appear larger. Raise your arms. Open your jacket if you are wearing one. Throw those rocks you've collected, stones, branches, or whatever you can reach without crouching or turning your back. Wave your arms slowly and speak firmly in a loud voice.
• Fight back if attacked. Some hikers have fought back successfully with sticks, caps, jackets, garden tools, rock picks and their bare hands. A mountain lion will usually try to bite the head or neck, so try to remain standing and face the attacking animal. Another reason to wear your safety helmet!
• If you have an emergency, call the local Sheriff's Department or Wildlife Management number. They are available 24x7.

Bear Safety On the Trail or in the Backcountry (excerpts from http://usparks.about.com/cs/natlparkbasics/a/beartips.htm).

• Avoid surprising bears at close range. If you are hiking through bear country, make your presence known, particularly where the terrain or vegetation makes it hard to see. Make noise, sing, talk loudly, or wear a bell.
• If possible, travel with a group. Groups are noisier and easier for bears to detect.
• Bears may be active at any time of the day or night, but they tend to be more active at dawn and dusk. Plan your hikes accordingly and stay on established trails.
• Look for indicators that a bear is in the area. Some of the most easily identifiable clues include rub trees, diggings, scat, and tracks. Identifying these clues may help to prevent an encounter.
• Leave your dog at home. Pets and bears don't mix.

If you Encounter a Bear.

• Remain calm and avoid sudden movements.
• Give the bear plenty of room, allowing it to continue its activities undisturbed. Every bear has a zone of danger or personal space, i.e., the distance within which a bear feels threatened. If it changes its natural behavior (feeding, foraging or movement) because of your presence, you are too close. If you enter that comfort zone, a bear may react aggressively in the form of a bluff charge, bodily contact, or even an outright attack.
• If you spot a bear and the bear is unaware of you, detour quickly and quietly away.
• If spotted by a bear, try to get its attention while it is a good distance away. Help the bear to recognize that you are human, by talking to it in a normal voice or waving your arms. If a bear cannot tell what you are, it may come closer or stand on its hind legs to get a better look or smell. A standing bear is usually curious, not threatening.
• Some bears will bluff their way out of a threatening situation by charging, then veering off or stopping abruptly at the last second. Bear experts generally recommend standing still until the bear stops and then slowly backing away.
• Never run from a bear. Running may elicit a chase from an otherwise non-aggressive bear, and since they can run faster than 30 mph, you have no chance of outrunning them.
• Never feed or toss food to a bear.
• Climbing a tree to avoid bears is popular advice, but not very practical in many circumstances. All black bears, all grizzly cubs, and some adult grizzlies can climb trees. Running to a tree may provoke an otherwise uncertain bear to chase you.
• Throw something onto the ground (like a camera) if the bear pursues you, as it may be distracted by this and allow you to escape.
• If you carry pepper spray, be sure that you have trained with it before trusting it during an attack.

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FLASH FROM THE PAST.

By Carlton M. Carson from An Outline History of the Ventura Gem and Mineral Society, 1962.

     There has been for some time a desire on the part of a few of the members and officers of the Society to have available for themselves and for new members a concise history of the organization telling how it happened to be formed, its aims and objects, and a few of the steps in its development.
     The present outline is the result of several false starts followed by a more persistent effort by Mr. Carson under the urging and direction of President Russell Hanscom.
     There were available three main sources of information concerning our organization, namely:
     1. The memories of Mrs. P. M. Woodside, Mr. Francis W. Hertel, Jr. and Mr. Carlton M. Carson, all of whom attended the first, second and succeeding meetings.
     2. The minutes of the regular meetings and, after 1955, the minutes of the board meetings.
     3. The Bulletin of the Society called, "Rockhound Rambling" from its beginning in 1956 to the present, and the "Noose Paper" which was published during 1951 only.

Founding of the Club.
     Mrs. P. M. Woodside and others tried to get a group of people together to start a mineral club sometime shortly before 1944, but there were not enough collectors nor interest to get the organization underway so this early effort failed.
     On December 24, 1944, a group of Junior High School students who were mineral collectors or were interested in minerals and rocks, under the urging of Francis T. Hertel, Jr., called on Mrs. P. M. Woodside in the afternoon after school, examined her collection and talked about starting a mineral or rock club. It was agreed to have a meeting the following Saturday evening, Dec. 27, 1944, at the Hertel rumpus room for the purpose of organizing such a group. A notice of this meeting was run in the High School Paper. The writer being a next door neighbor of the Hertels and a mineral collector was invited by Mr. Hertel to attend.
     On Saturday, Dec. 27, 1944, the founding meeting of the Ventura Gem and Mineral Club was held. The meeting was in the Hertel's rumpus room at 60 Lincoln Drive. Mrs. Woodside was chosen temporary president and Francis W. Hertel, Jr., secretary pro-tem.
     The minutes of this meeting list the following as being present: Mrs. Woodside, Mr. Elliot G. Kempton, Mr. J. H. Imhoff, and Francis W. Hertel, Jr. Mr. Kempton and Mr. Imhoff somehow had the notice in the High School paper called to their attention.
     Mr. Hertel remembers in addition the following: C. M. Carson, David Cruickshank, Robert Davenport, and Robinette Woodside.
     C. M. Carson remembers the following: Mrs. Woodside, Robinette Woodside, Francis "Westy" Hertel, Mr. Imhoff, Mr. Kempton, and two or three young gentlemen whose names he cannot remember.
     Mrs. Woodside remembers things somewhat differently. She mentions (Feb. 4, 1962) Dorr Thayer, Westy Hertel, Bobby Davenport, and Billy Ruggles as having called and asked her to start a rock club. She writes concerning the Dec. 27, 1944 meeting: "So we met Saturday night at Westy's and Robin and Marylin Appling joined, too. There were just the seven of us at the first meeting. The next meeting Mr. Imhoff, Mr. Houchin, Mr. Kempton, and I think Ruth Parker joined but not Bill Loughman. Mr. Smith the jeweler was also at that second meeting. There were twenty at the second meeting."
     The second meeting was held Jan. 13, 1945 at the Hertel rumpus room as before. Mrs. Woodside was elected President, Mr. Kempton Vice-President, and Francis W. Hertel, Jr. Secretary-Treasurer. Mentioned in the minutes as being in attendance were Mr. Imhoff and Robert Davenport as well as those elected to office.
     It seems probable that we will never be exactly certain who was in attendance at the first two meetings. Marylin Appling is nowhere mentioned in the minutes or lists of members. David Cruickshank and Robert Davenport probably only attended the first few meetings.
     The Club met every two weeks on the second and fourth Saturdays until June 9, 1945, when it was decided to meet the second Saturday of each month. The Club, now Society, has met regularly ever since December 27, 1944.
     The aims and objects of the club as stated in the Constitution are: "To promote popular interest and education, and to sponsor and provide means and activities which will result in the dissemination of information and knowledge in geology, mineralogy, paleontology, lapidary, and similar sciences; to conduct lectures, classes or study groups to further education and interest in the aforesaid sciences; to make and exhibit mineral collections."

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VIRTUAL FIELD TRIP XIII:
Durango to Silverton Narrow Gauge.

By Lowell Foster.
     I first took the train trip from Durango to Silverton back in 1976 when I was nine years old. Originally built to haul silver and gold ore, the train eventually became a tourist vehicle for viewing the magnificent scenery that parallels its route. I remember the long winding track as it wound its way up narrow canyons following the Animus River. Smoke blew in the windows, smelling of cinders and ash, covering seat and shirt with a fine black dust. It was an amazing experience, with the nice spring weather, the occasional ruin or bent train rail in the river, the clacking of the wheels, and the ever-present woods on either side. Upon reaching Silverton, I remember being awestruck (as boys generally are at that age) by the ghost town like buildings of this old mining community. I have fragments of memories of wooden buildings pressed against the street and towering mountains thrusting up against the turquoise sky. One of the first rocks I bought came from Silverton, a small sample of peacock rock, which I still have buried in my now much larger collection. Curious about how my memories compared to the real train and town today, I began searching for virtual field trips that illustrate the run this famous railway makes from Durango up to Silverton.
     One of the best sites, http://www.durangotrain.com/about/history.htm, has a wonderful interactive history tour that gives great details about the history of Durango, Silverton, and the train that connects them. By clicking on the bright red "Scenic History Tour" link in the middle of the page, you enter a "virtual depot platform" and begin a fascinating but LONG overview of local history. (Your computer will need Flash Player to run this.) It begins in the in 1880's and takes us through the present, including the round-house fire of 1989. There are 6 long chapters (slightly overwritten but who am I to complain about that) that are nicely narrated though at times slowly paced. This would be a perfect source for students researching papers or projects on western expansion or wild-west culture. The images are easy-to-see and date back to the original founders. They provide both a historical and modern perspective of the journey. The interactive history allows you to chose which period you want to listen to and occasionally provides options for additional photos. The downside is the pacing, which I wanted to speed up. This is not a five or even ten-minute tour. Expect to miss your favorite sit-com when you begin this. The bottom of the home page is a generally concise written history of the material covered in the virtual tour.
     To get an idea of how the train ride appears today, one of the best photo collections may be found at http://www.prolynx.com/fstearns/dsngrr/dsngrr.htm, a group of over 25 photos showing the train both chugging along and being idle at the depot. Its only limitation is the inability of the browser to enlarge the photos. Another wonderful site is http://www.railserve.com/dsng/ where excellent photography of a recent (September 2006) trip is improved by the method of selecting photos. The photos are kept as a vertical catalog on the left side of the screen while one enlarged image is displayed on the right. By choosing your next photo, you replace an enlarged image without relinquishing the catalog on your left. The very first shot you see is of the train, hugging the cliffside, rolling under the arc of a rainbow. This is just one of several dozen dramatic shots found here.
     Reflecting on what I've found, the train ride has not seemingly changed much in the 30 years since I've taken it. By going to http://www.galenfrysinger.com/silverton_colorado.htm I find that Silverton kind of looks the same. I'd swear that I've been in some of the older buildings and have seen some of the wooden Indians and cowfolk, but that could be my memory playing tricks on me. As for the crowds, they might be a bit larger than before (in numbers, not girth), and truthfully, at nine years old, that wasn't what was capturing my attention. I remember wondering if the planks I walked on were the same ones that real cowboys walked on a hundred years before. Probably not, but kinda cool if they were.
     Current prices on the railway run $65 for adults and $35 for children five to eleven years of age. (Evidently youngsters 12 years through 18 years old are considered adults.) The train is often booked months in advance, so if you're itching to see what makes it so popular, take a virtual tour today, as it will be a while before you'll get a chance to ride it yourself.

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LET'S GO TO A SHOW.

CFMS SHOWS 2007.

AUGUST 31-SEPT. 3; FORT BRAGG, CA - Mendocino Coast Gem & Mineral Society, Town Hall, Main & Laural. Hours: Fri.-Sat.-Sun. 10-6; Mon. 10-4. Don McDonell, (707) 964-3116, 643 N McPherson, Fort Bragg, 95437.
SEPTEMBER 15-16; REDWOOD CITY, CA - Sequoia Gem & Mineral Society, Community Activities Building, 1400 Rosewood Avenue. Hours: 10-5 daily. Carol Corden, (650) 248-7155, ccorden@earthlink.net.
SEPTEMBER 22; LOS ALTOS, CA - Peninsula Gem & Mineral Society, Rancho Shopping Center, Springer & Magdalena Roads. Hours: Sat. 9-4:30. David Muster, (408) 245-2180, colleen.mcgann@hds.com.
SEPTEMBER 22-23; DOWNEY CA - Delvers Gem & Geology Society, Women's Club of Downey, 9813 Paramount Blvd. Hours: Sat. 10-5, Sun. 10-4. Steve Miller, (562) 633-0614, Guynellallen@sbc.global.net.
OCTOBER 7; FALLBROOK, CA - Fallbrook Gem & Mineral Society, Fall Festival of Gems, FGMS Museum; 123 W. Alvarado. Hours: 10-4. Mary Fong-Walker, (760) 723-3484, Email: mrwizard@tfb.com, FGMS.ORG/.
OCTOBER 13-14; GRASS VALLEY, CA - Nevada County Gem & Mineral Society, Nevada County Fairgrounds, 11228 McCourtney Road. Hours: 10-5 both days. Cliff Swenson, (530) 272-3752.
OCTOBER 13-14; LAKESIDE, CA - Cajon Valley Gem & Mineral Society, Lakeside Rodeo Grounds, 12584 Mapleview. Hours: 10-5 daily. David Newton, (619) 390-5054, jontom@nethere.com.
OCTOBER 13-14; TRONA, CA - Searles Lake Gem & Mineral Society, 13337 Main Street. Hours: Sat. 7:30-5; Sun. 7:30-4. Jim & Bonnie Fairchild, (760)372-5356, Sigms@iwvisp.com, www1.iwvisp.com/tronagemclub/FLYER.htm.
OCTOBER 20-21; ANDERSON, CA - Shasta Gem & Mineral Society, Shasta District Fairgrounds. Hours: Sat. 9-5; Sun. 10-4. Bill Seward (530) 365-8641.
OCTOBER 20-21; PLACERVILLE, CA - El Dorado County Mineral & Gem Society, El Dorado County Fairgrounds, 100 Placerville Drive. Hours: 10-5 both days. Jackie Cerrato, (530) 677-2975, Email: jacbobcer@directcon.net, eldoradomineralandgem.org.
NOVEMBER 3-4; ANAHEIM, CA - American Opal Society, Clarion Hotel Anaheim Resort, 616 Convention Way (off Harbor Blvd.). Hours: Sat. 10-6; Sun. 10-5. Jim Lambert, (714) 891-7171, Jlamb@yahoo.com, www.opalsociety.org.
NOVEMBER 3-4; CONCORD, CA - Contra Costa Mineral & Gem Society, Centre Concord, 5298 Clayton Rd. Hours: 10-5 both days. Sam Woolsey, (925) 837-3287.
NOVEMBER 3-4; LANCASTER, CA - Palmdale Gem & Mineral Society, 2551 W. Ave H & Hwy 14. Hours: 9-5 daily. Susan Chaisson-Walblom, (661) 943-1861, SLChaissonA@yahoo.com, pgmc@anteleom.net, www.palmdalegems.org.
NOVEMBER 10-11; YUBA CITY, CA - Sutter Buttes Gem & Mineral Society, "Festival of Gems", Grace Franklin Hall, 442 Franklin Avenue. Hours: Sat. 9-5; Sun. 9-4. Cliff Swenson, (530) 272-3752.
NOVEMBER 17-18; OXNARD, CA - Oxnard Gem & Mineral Society, Oxnard Performing Arts Center, 800 Hobson Way. Hours: Sat. 9-6; Sun. 10-4. MiriamTetrault, (805) 642-5779, www.OGMS.net.

AMERICAN FEDERATION / REGIONAL SHOW SCHEDULE - 2007

South Central Federation (SCMS);
September 1-2;
Arlington, TX.

Eastern Federation (EFMS);
October 6-7;
Newark, NY.

Southeast Federation (SFMS);
November 9-11;
Gulf Coast of MS.

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BENETOITE CHRONOLOGY.

Excerpted from Jim Brace-Thompson's "Benitoite Fact Sheet" presented at the VGMS July 25, 2007, Meeting.

Stories of the history of benitoite vary considerably and contentiously but the basic outline seems to be as follows:
     1906 - J. M. Couch discovers benitoite while grubstaked by Coalinga businessmen Roderick W. Dallas and Ed Sanders to prospect for cinnabar. As the story goes, he stumbles upon a slope littered with blue crystals glinting in the morning sun. He takes it to be a cache of blue diamonds or sapphires, and the locality is briefly called the Sapphire Mine, but San Francisco jeweler George Eacret of Shreve & Company runs tests showing them to be some unidentified mineral. L. B. Hawkins, who also claims credit for the discovery while apparently prospecting copper with Couch, takes samples to a Los Angeles lapidary, who dismisses it as "volcanic glass of no value."
     1907 - For secrecy, first mining claims are staked at the U.S. Land Office at Hollister in March as "lead claims" under the name James Marshall Couch, with equal shares held by Couch, Dallas, and Sanders. UC-Berkeley mineralogy professor George Davis Louderback determines Couch's find is a new mineral species filling a vacant spot in a table of 12 theoretically possible hexagonal crystal shapes; it remains the only known naturally occurring mineral crystallizing in its unique form. According to one version, Louderback first sees specimens in a San Francisco watch or lapidary shop owned by Sanders' brother, Hal, and subsequently visits the source locality with Couch. Another version has Eacret taking specimens to Louderback and both Eacret and Louderback subsequently visiting the mine with Dallas. (That story has Eacret being run off by gun-toting toughs on an earlier visit.)
     1909 - Louderback publishes a monograph introducing, describing, and naming the new mineral benitoite. Hawkins takes credit for the benitoite discovery in an interview with the San Francisco Examiner. Dallas retorts with a news release that he himself made the discovery first. Dallas later buys out Sanders' share of the claim and eventually initiates a series of deals that squeezes out Couch, as well, and he begins working the deposit. Early miners apparently smashed crudely through the deposit, seeking primarily large, cuttable material.
     1914 - Believing the vein to be pinched out, Dallas ceases operations and the mine lays dormant for 20 years, followed by only sporadic activity through the first half of the 1900s. George Marcher (an early graduate of the Gemological Institute of America) serves for many years as the exclusive benitoite sales agent for Dallas.
     1929 - The Smithsonian Institute purchases a faceted 7.6-carat benitoite for $350 from Eacret. The stone is pictured in a color plate in Louderback's original 1909 monograph, but the connection between the stone pictured in the monograph and the specimen in the Smithsonian is not made until 1988 when both monograph and specimen are displayed near one another at the annual show of the Mineralogical Society of Southern California, which features benitoite as its theme mineral that year. It remains the largest faceted benitoite on record until the 1980s; most faceted benitoites are less than 1 carat and anything over 2 carats is extremely rare.
     1938 - The Italian ambassador to the U.S. purchases a 6.25-carat emerald-cut for $1,560 from a dealer in New York City. He presents it to Benito Mussolini. The fate of Benito's benitoite is unknown.
     1952 - Benitoite Mines, Ltd., of Firebaugh, California, re-opens the mine, but operations prove unprofitable and cease in less than a year. Inventory is sold at $5.00 each for quarter-carat stones; $25 per carat for larger stones. Clarence Cole then works the claim until 1967, dynamiting the main vein in an effort to expose more material.
     1967 - Elvis "Buzz" Gray and William C. (Bill) Forrest partner to lease and work the claim, still owned by the Dallas family. Over the next 34 years, they mine some 2,000 carats of benitoite and discover an unusual pink form. In 1971, they discover what will eventually become the second-largest faceted benitoite at 6.53 carats.
     1974 - Gray and Forrest commission William MacDonald to make a necklace, ring, and earring set from stones they assembled over a 5-year period. The stunning necklace is considered one of the finest pieces of benitoite jewelry ever crafted, with 52 benitoites, 75 diamonds, and a pear-shaped pendant consisting of the second largest cut benitoite. The set, valued at $150,000, is shipped to Zurich, Switzerland, where it's to be sold by Dr. E. Gubelin. Instead, a bonded Swiss security official steals the entire set on arrival. He's later arrested and the set is recovered except, that is, for the pendant. The 6.53-carat stone remains missing to this day.
     1976 - At the CFMS Awards Banquet on July 3, mineral dealer David Wilber is given a standing ovation when he makes a surprise donation of an outstanding benitoite specimen on matrix valued at $6,500. It has been displayed at every CFMS show since and is considered one of the most aesthetically pleasing cabinet specimens in existence.
     1978 - The original deposit is mined much deeper than ever before, resulting in discoveries of ever-rarer minerals: barrio-orthojoaquinite, baotite, fresnoite, and banalsite.
     1982 - Betty Llewellyn presents benitoites set in jewelry to President and Mrs. Reagan.
     1983 - Heavy equipment results in spectacular new finds, including six-pointed "Star of David" twinned crystals.
     1985 - On October 1, Gov. George Deukmejian signs Assembly Bill No. 2357 and thus the following is entered into California Government Code, Section 425.3: "Benitoite is the official state gemstone." Of course, politics being politics, one assembly member goes on record to object because benitoite is not found in his home district.
     1987 - After leasing the mine for 20 years, Gray and Forrest buy it outright from the Dallas family. At some point, Mike Gray facets the largest benitoite ever, far outshining the Smithsonian specimen at no less than 15.42 carats.
     2001 - Gray and Forrest sell the mine to Bryan Lees and Benitoite Mining, Inc., a subsidiary of The Collector's Edge, a specimen-mining company in Colorado. Heavy excavating equipment helps to rediscover a deeply buried vein. John Veevaert of Trinity Mineral Company and Steve Perry of Steve Perry Gems work with BMI to market specimens on the Internet through BenitoiteMine.com.
     2005 - Dave Schreiner of Coalinga buys the lease and renames it the California State Gem Mine. As of 2007, he will take people by appointment to dig at the mine for a day at $100 per person. His dream is to open a camp for rockhounds and other outdoor enthusiasts in old WPA work camp buildings that he's refurbishing 2.5 miles from the mine. Check out his web site, www.calstategemmine.com, then call (559) 935-5909 or (559) 284-4126 (cell).

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SUPPORT AND PRACTICE
THE AFMS CODE OF ETHICS.

IN MEMORY OF RAY MEISENHEIMER.

Donna Knapton via The Rock Bag August 2007.

     For several years I thought his name was Bruno Benson. That came about when, one year at the Ventura Show, we were sitting with several of the Oxnard and Camarillo club members at a table, I being the most junior member and newest rockhound of the group. There was a lively "discussion" going on about the original location of a fossil in a case nearby. Betty Mackey finally said, "I saw Bruno go by a few minutes ago. He will settle this!" She got up and walked to the other end of the row, where she encountered Ray. After a few minutes, she came back, confirmed the location and added some elaboration on why that particular fossil could not have come from the other location. I got two pieces of information from that encounter. That man was Bruno Benson and since a few words from him had settled the matter that had been very much in contention, these people that I had great respect for, had a very real respect for his knowledge on the matter. I did eventually find out that Ray was not Bruno Benson but the years only added to my respect for that knowledge.
     He knew our hobby inside and out. I used his knowledge shamelessly. He was my "go to" man for rocks and fossils, for locations, for the workings of the Federation. He knew everybody and what they could and couldn't do. His knowledge was immense, expansive and reliable. He was ever helpful and so easy to work with. He didn't just "talk the talk" he also "walked the walk". He served on boards and committees. He was there when the work needed doing, not just with our club but Ventura's, Conejo's and the Federation. He gave his precious time in a way that most of us can only aspire to.
     When the ideas for the Earth Science Education Kit were rolling around in my head, Ray is the one I went to for a sounding board to see if it was possible to make it happen. Without his encouragement it would never have developed past the "good idea" stage. He served on the committee, as he did often, offering a guiding hand, reasonable advice and his humor. I especially remember one time when Brett and I were about to come to blows, which is not a rare occurrence, looking over at Ray who was sitting there smiling at us. He could have ended our "discussion" with a few words, but was enjoying it immensely.
     He was a dedicated educator. He told me a dozen times he was going to quit the school program, he was just too busy, but when that next call came he was on his way. He even took all my school calls when I was knee deep in work on the boxes. He loved talking to the kids, no matter what age - preschool to high school. He took the rocks to the Senior Centers and Residence homes. He told me, about one of the care centers, "They don't remember what I said when the words are out of my mouth, but they love to look at the rocks and feel them." He regularly talked to scouts and helped with the badges. There are unknown thousands of kids and "former" kids who have memories of Ray. That may be his biggest legacy. There is just no way of knowing where his work has lead.
     He was a humanitarian. His work with the agencies that feed the underprivileged was tireless. He didn't put in an hour here and there, he dedicated several days every week to good works.
     He was a good husband and father. Ray was so worried about Florence's health. After all their years of marriage, he still felt such a tenderness for her that showed when he talked about her.
     He was such a good friend. This is what we will all miss the most. He was supportive and stubborn as the day is long. He offered guidance, criticism and humor in a way meant to help us in our journey through our lives. It is said that you aren't truly gone until you are no longer remembered. Ray will be with us until we are no longer here. He was truly a good man with a good soul.
     Another Golden Pick was handed out in Heaven the day he departed from us. The membership in Heavenly Gem and Mineral Society became more stellar. Our previously departed friends have a new board member. Good bye, Ray. We will TRULY miss you.

  Table of Contents.

SUPPORT AND PRACTICE
THE AFMS CODE OF ETHICS.

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