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The Ventura Gem & Mineral Society, Inc. (VGMS)
Rockhound Rambling
November/December 2007.

Rockhound Rambling Photo of the Month.
This month's photo is by Ed Clark.

Description: Carnelian flower.

Rambling Picture of the Month is photographed by a VGMS Member. Subject may be a specimen in their own collection or a rock, mineral, gem or lapidary creation of others, accompanied with documentation of 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;
• PROGRAM REVIEW;
• PROGRAM SCHEDULE;
• MEMBERSHIP;
• MEETING MINUTES;
• CHIPS AND BOULDERS;
• COMMUNITY OUTREACH;
• CASTING TERMS;
• FIELD TRIPS ARE FUN;
• HINTS AND TIPS;
• EDUCATIONAL CORNER;
• LET'S BE SAFE OUT THERE;
• FEDERATION NEWS;
• LET'S GO TO A SHOW - 2007-2008;
• GEMS FROM THE PAST.

PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE.

The holidays are approaching at a rapid rate and the beginning of the new year will be here before too long. Be sure to plan early for this year's holiday season.

On Wednesday, December 12th at 6:30 pm, the VGMS will be having their annual Christmas Party at my house. It will be pot luck and I will be making a ham. I encourage folks to let me know what they intend to bring so we can be sure not to end up with 20 sweet potato casseroles.

The nominating committee has reached an overwhelming decision on the slate of officers for the year 2008. All officers who served on the Board during the year 2007 were asked to continue with their great efforts through the year 2008. All current club officers have accepted the nomination. However, we are currently seeking nominations for a Show Chairperson for the year 2008. If you or anyone you know is interested in this position, please notify me as soon as possible. The Show Chairperson for the year 2008 will be responsible for coordinating efforts for our annual Gem & Mineral Show in March, 2009.

Don't forget, dues are due! Also, don't forget to prepare plants for the plant sale at our mineral show next year...and we'll need more items for the "Country Store". Please keep these in mind. Enjoy your holidays, and I look forward to seeing you at our Christmas party!

Ed Clark, President.

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WORDS TO LIVE BY.

In all things it is better to hope than to despair.

A leader is one who knows the way, goes the way, and shows the way.

Never bend your head. Always hold it high. Look the world straight in the face.

Man invented language to satisfy his deep desire to complain.

Collected by Wayne Ehlers.

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Happy Holidays!!

UPCOMING VGMS EVENTS.

Board Meeting - Thursday, December 6, 7:30 pm, The Lexington, Ventura.
Regular Meeting - Wednesday, December 12, 6:30 pm, Ed Clark residence.
Workshop - Saturday, December 15, 9 am To Noon, Museum.
Board Meeting - Thursday, January 3, 7:30 pm, The Lexington, Ventura.
Show Planning - Sunday, January 6, 2:00 pm., Barshai residence.
Article Deadline - Sunday, January 6.
Workshop - Saturday, January 19, 9 am To Noon, Museum.
Regular Meeting - Thursday, January 23, 7:30 pm, The Lexington, Ventura.

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.

Miriam Andrews - November 02,
Larry Bryant - November 08,
Ron Wise - November 30,
Janet Ostlund - December 17,
Sharlyne Holloway - December 27,
Nicole DeSalvo - December 22.

Donna Stephens - January 03,
Mary Polacek - January 08,
Shawne Lardin - January 09,
Marie Ehlers - January 13,
Florence Meisenheimer - January 23,
Rebecca Swift - January 25.

Metaphysical properties of Topaz.
Topaz is a powerful stone in the way that quartz is. It is a balancing and calming stone that balances emotions, releases tension, and can bring joy. Topaz is also believed to bring success and good fortune, and synchronicity. It is also used for protection, particularly protection from the evil eye and greed. It also is said to bring creativity, individuality, true love, and hope. Spiritually it brings in spiritual love and peace. Physically, topaz aids with gout, blood disorders, hemorrhages, poor appetite, tissue regeneration, tuberculosis, aging (reverses), endocrine system.

Image source:
http://sv.wikipedia.org/wiki/Krysantemum.

Metaphysical properties of Turquoise.
Turquoise is sacred to both Native American and oriental traditions. It is associated with the sky, and bringing sky energy to earth. It can help promote honest and clear communication from the heart. It is also said to protect against pollution in the environment, and to bring abundance. Turquoise can also help speed the healing process, and is known as a master healer stone. It is very powerful for grounding and protection also.

Lucas Gutierrez:
http://micologia.net/g2/album227/Narcisus_sp_Lucas.

Metaphysical information source:
Robyn A. Harton,
http://www.CrystalsAndJewelry.com.

We wish all of you good health and hope you have a very, very HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!

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HOSPITALITY.

The October meeting was attended by 22 members and one guest, Pat LaRue. Two pebble pups, Carly and Dallas Stephens, were present.

The November meeting was attended by 21 members and pebble pup, Rebecca Foster. We had three guests, Ray Rieman and son, Rourke, and Cory Mullins.

Thank you to members who brought in all the yummy pumpkin goodies.

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PROGRAM REVIEW.

October Program.
Pat LaRue braved the fires and traveled from Riverside County to discuss the CFMS 2008 show. Pat is registrar and treasurer for this event and her husband, Bural, is show chairman. We appreciate her coming out to see us and answer questions. More information regarding the visit can be found in the Federation News section.

Lowell Foster gave an abbreviated presentation on his many travels to the Wiley's Well area. He also had many samples from the various digging locations. Many members asked Lowell if he would lead a club trip to the area. He has graciously acquiesced and we will have an opportunity to visit some of the areas he has discovered. See the Field Trip section for more details. Thanks, Lowell!!

November Program.
November's program was a "Glow in the Dark" Fest. Members brought in material to check if it fluoresced. Ed Clark donated the use of his mega UV light. There were a lot of oohs and ahs. It was fun to have our meeting raffle back and it was nice to see several members donate their winnings to our visitor, Rourke. Officers for 2008 were voted on and a particular thanks to our newest member, Andy Anderson, for stepping up and volunteering to chair our 2009 annual show. Thanks, Andy!

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PROGRAM SCHEDULE.

December Program - Christmas Potluck at Ed Clark's. Be sure to note that the fun starts at 6:30 pm, and call or email Ed what you are bringing.

January Program - As of publication time, I do not have any information for January or beyond.

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MEMBERSHIP.

New Member.
We are pleased to introduce you to our newest member:
     Lars "Andy" Anderson,
     28 Irena Avenue,
     Camarillo, CA 93012,
     805-987-0043.
Andy is interested in fossils and meteorites.
     Thanks for joining our club! We hope to see you at all the meetings, and we hope you will find many rewards and many friends among those who share this wonderful hobby.

Second Call for 2008 Dues!
As reported in last month's newsletter and at our October meeting, VGMS membership dues are due by January 1, 2008. Dues are $20 for a single individual, $30 for couples, $17 for full-time college students (age 18+), and free for children and youth under 18 years old who join the club with a paid adult or couple. You can send your dues to Jim at his home address (Jim Brace-Thompson, VGMS Membership Secretary, 7319 Eisenhower St., Ventura, CA 93003) or you can give them to Jim at the November or December meetings.

Along with your dues, please alert Jim to any address, phone, or email address changes or updates needed for your entry in our Club Directory and any updates for your entry in our Club Yellow Pages, which will be added to our directory in 2008. As a reminder, we've created the Club Yellow Pages to list members' areas of special expertise or interest so that fellow VGMS members, especially new members, can better connect with others who have similar interests. This also might help each of us explore areas of potential interest. For example, say you've always been interested in silversmithing but don't really know what's involved and don't want to buy expensive materials until you're sure it's something you really want to do. The Club Yellow Pages might guide you to someone already experienced in silversmithing who'd be willing to give you a demo and provide advice.

Here are categories we're using:
     CMR (crystal, mineral & rock collecting);
     CS (carving & sculpture);
     E (education - kids activities, school visits);
     F (faceting);
     FP (fossils & paleontology);
     FT (field trips);
     LJ (lapidary arts & jewelry making);
     M (meteorites, tektites & astronomy);
     MH (mining history & artifacts);
     MT (micromounts & thumbnail specimens);
     FM (fluorescent minerals);
     P (photography);
     SS (silversmithing);
     O (other; please specify).
For each category, you should specify Exp for "Expert" or Nov for "Novice".

For updating entries in our Club Directory and Yellow Pages, you can write Jim at his mailing address noted above, or email jbraceth@roadrunner.com or call (805-659-3577).
          Jim Brace-Thompson, Membership Secretary.

Photo by Ed Clark,
Upper Dusy Basin at Base of Palisade Crest, Sierra Nevada Range.

(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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MEETING MINUTES.

Minutes of the VGMS Regular Monthly Meeting;
Wednesday, October 24, 2007:
     The regular monthly meeting of the Ventura Gem & Mineral Society was called to order by Ed Clark at 7:30 pm on Wednesday, October 24, 2007, at The Lexington, Ventura, California.
     The September membership meeting and the October board meeting minutes were corrected and then m/s/c as shown in the bulletin.
President Ed Clark presided over the meeting, directed the pledge to the flag and welcomed guests. Ed reminded members that the Christmas potluck will be held at his house on December 12.
Abe Barshai: The Country Store at our annual show will need donations of all sorts of items so start putting those things aside. The next show meeting will be announced.
Ron Wise: Due to fires that ravaged the area, the Cryo-Genie mine trip is postponed. The Acton trip, in conjunction with the Palmdale Show will go as planned on November 4, leaving the fairgrounds at 9:00 am. The CFMS annual trip to Wiley's Well is scheduled for November 21-25. Contact Ron if you'd be interested in joining he and Jean on a field trip to someplace in the area while at Quartzsite during December or January.
Mary Polacek: Mary reminded members that our November meeting will include various pumpkin refreshments provided by members. Any preference for receiving the bulletin by mail or email should be forwarded to Mary. 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.
Pat LaRue, representing the CFMS, provided a question and answer time for members with concerns regarding the upcoming Federation Show here in Ventura next year. This will be a no host show which means assistance from area clubs will be needed, but CFMS members will be overseeing operations. Pat stated that tables will be set up and removed by the fairgrounds personnel. Dealers will be both indoors and out. Dick Pankey is hopeful of 140 display cases (with some borrowed from surrounding clubs). Camping will be handled by the fairgrounds and will cost $25.00 per night. Members are encouraged to note any other questions or concerns and they will be addressed.
Greg Davis: The storage facility in Santa Paula now has our show materials, with the help of a work party on Sunday, October 21. There is room for more. A group from our club met at Help of Ojai on October 12, and toured the facility with Kaylynn TwoTrees. Although we were not told specifics concerning cost if any (their board is still working on this and determining applicant priorities), Kaylynn was most helpful, providing maps and suggestions for rewording our application/questionnaire. Kaylynn did state that there will be no commercial tenants and only non-profit organizations considered. After re-writing the form supplied to us, it will be re-submitted as soon as possible and again all results passed along to the club.
Jim Brace-Thompson: ***Dues are due.*** All are encouraged to be a part of the Oxnard Show, November 17-18. Mark your calendars for the CFMS Federation Show in June 2008. Jim has flyers made up for both our show and the CFMS show. Jim and Nancy will be attending the CFMS Federation meeting November 9-11. Any and all concerns or questions not already addressed can be delivered at this time.
Nancy Brace-Thompson: Zzyzx applications (for March 23-30) are being taken. The 2008 Federation Show will be held here in Ventura next June. All are encouraged to schedule accordingly and try to allot time to assist.
Lowell Foster next gave a presentation and slide show on the collecting areas at Wiley's Well. Specimen samples were on display and it was so well done that everyone's making plans to go there, I'm sure.
     Ed next renewed the traditional raffle prize drawing and several fine specimens went to the lucky winners.
     Refreshments were provided by the Stephens family.
     The next board meeting will be held on November 1st, at the Lexington, the next monthly membership meeting is November 14.
     There being no further business, Ed adjourned the meeting at 9:15 pm.
          Respectfully submitted,
          Greg Davis,
          Recording Secretary.


Minutes of the VGMS Board Meeting;
Thursday, November 1, 2007:
     The regular board meeting of the VGMS was called to order by Ed Clark at 7:30 pm, on Thursday, November 1st, 2007, at The Lexington in Ventura.
Present: Ed Clark, Jim & Nancy Brace-Thompson, Ron Wise, Mary Polacek and Greg Davis.
     Ed called the meeting to order at 7:30 pm.
Old Business:
Ed Clark: Revisions have been made to the questionnaire for Help of Ojai and this new effort will be submitted as soon as possible. A roster of board member candidates has been compiled for 2008 and will be presented to the general meeting on November 14 for the election process.
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 November 17. More has been moved into storage from the museum and workshop but there is still more to be done. The task of performing an inventory of museum items was begun during the last workshop day but will require more time to complete.
New business:
Ed Clark: Ed offered to oversee Ways & Means and reintroduce the raffle at our monthly meetings. Donated items would be greatly appreciated and can be brought to the meetings.
Jim Brace-Thompson: ***Dues are due.*** Jim proposed and it was m/s/c/ to accept the membership application for our latest new member, Lars Anderson. Please introduce yourself at the next meeting and make him welcome. Jim has printed show flyers for our 2008 show and the Federation show and has them available for distribution. The next show meeting has not been scheduled yet. The CFMS annual Thanksgiving field trip to Wiley's Well is planned for November 21-25 also.
Nancy Brace-Thompson: The 2008 Federation show will be held in Ventura on June 27-29. Its been determined that if the three Ventura County clubs wish to have a silent auction during the 3-day event, we will have to pay for tables used. It was also suggested that the silent auction be limited to certain hours each day due to the amount of auction material available. All are encouraged to plan ahead in order to participate and offer to assist with setup and the many other jobs that will need to be done. All are also encouraged to enter display cases. The Federation fall business meeting will be held November 9-11 and both Jim and Nancy will attend. Any concerns that our members might have can be forwarded at that time. Zzyzx attendance forms are now being accepted.
Mary Polacek: This upcoming bulletin will combine the months of November and December. Articles for the bulletin are required by the Sunday following each Board meeting.
Ron Wise: The Oxnard show is coming up on November 17 & 18. There's a possibility of another field trip to the Hauser beds in January and led by Lowell. I'll keep you posted.
     Just a reminder that this year's Christmas get-together will be a potluck and held at Ed's house on December 12th.
     The next general meeting will be on November 14, 2007, at The Lexington in Ventura and the next board meeting will also be held at The Lexington on December 6th.
     There being no further business, Ed adjourned the meeting at 8:10 pm.
          Respectfully submitted,
          Greg Davis,
          Recording Secretary.


Minutes of the VGMS Regular Monthly Meeting;
Wednesday, November 14, 2007:
     The regular monthly meeting of the Ventura Gem & Mineral Society was called to order by Lowell Foster at 7:30 pm, on Wednesday, November 14, 2007, at The Lexington in Ventura.
     The October membership meeting and the November board meeting minutes were corrected and then m/s/c as shown in the bulletin.
Lowell Foster presided over the meeting, directed the pledge to the flag and welcomed guests which included Ray and Rourke Rieman, Cory Mullins, and Andy Anderson. Welcome!
Jim Brace-Thompson next presided over the election of Board Members for 2008. They included: Ed Clark - President, Lowell Foster - 1st V.P. Programs, Ron Wise - 2nd V.P. Field Trips, Cyndie Day - Treasurer, Greg Davis - Recording Secretary, Jim Brace-Thompson - Membership Director, Nancy Brace-Thompson - Federation Director, Mary Polacek - Bulletin Editor, Kathryn Davis - Parliamentarian and a big thanks to our newest member, Andy Anderson, who offered to take on the task of Show Director for 2009. A huge "Thanks" to all these and other members who contribute so much time toward maintaining our very worthwhile organization. It was m/s/c to accept the Board as voted on.
Cyndie Day gave the treasurer's report and reported that the new account has been opened with Bank of America.
Abe Barshai: The contract with the Fairgrounds has been finalized and all aspects are on schedule. The Country Store will need donations of all sorts of items so start putting those things aside. The next show meeting will be held at Abe & Esther's house on January 6, 2008, at 2:00. All are welcome. Abe and Esther also suggested a concerted effort at car pooling on field trips due to the increased cost of gas.
Ron Wise: The CFMS annual trip to Wiley's Well is scheduled for November 21-25. Contact Ron if you'd be interested in joining Ron and Jean on a field trip to some place in the area while at Quartzsite during December & January. Any other suggestions for future field trips would be appreciated and considered.
Mary Polacek: Mary reminded members that any preference for receiving the bulletin by mail or email should be forwarded to her. 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. The bulletin will be delayed this month due to the combined months of November and December.
Greg Davis: With the help of Jim Brace-Thompson, Ed Clark and Valli Davis, our request application to the Help of Ojai organization was reworded and resubmitted to them the latter part of October. We'll now be waiting again to hear back from them when a determination has been made as to which non-profit groups get selected for the available space at the facility. Our contact, Kaylynn Twotrees, has been most helpful in assisting us with our effort.
Jim Brace-Thompson: *** Dues are due. *** The 2008 CFMS Federation Show is the talk of the town. Jim has flyers made up for both our show and the CFMS show. Jim introduced our newest member, Andy Anderson.
Nancy Brace-Thompson: Zzyzx applications (for March 23-30) are being taken. The 2008 Federation Show will be held here in Ventura next June. All are encouraged to schedule accordingly and try to allot time to assist. The fall Federation meeting in Visalia went well with the announcement that Jim Brace-Thompson will serve as Federation Secretary in 2008 and that proceeds from the June Federation show silent auction will be donated to the endowment fund in the name of Ray Meisenheimer.
Ron and Jean Wise next presented door prizes to the winning raffle ticket holders.
Lowell Foster next gave a demonstration with fluorescent minerals. Members were encouraged to bring in their own and test under the lamp. Many members participated and were surprised at which of their self-collected minerals did fluoresce. Many are intrigued with phenomenon or characteristics of minerals, as the large turnout attested.
     Refreshments were provided by the club members who brought in a variety of pumpkin treats.
     The next board meeting will be held on December 6th, at The Lexington. The next monthly membership meeting will be a potluck held at Ed Clarks house, 2045 Norma Street, Oxnard, 6:30 pm, December 12th.
     There being no further business, Lowell adjourned the meeting at 8:50 pm.
          Respectfully submitted,
          Greg Davis,
          Recording Secretary.

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CHIPS AND BOULDERS.

Editor's Note.
This is the last issue of 2007 and concludes my first year as editor of Rockhound Rambling. I confess there were times I wondered if I would persevere. Some of you have commented favorably over the year, and I thank you. You were incredibly encouraging and truly made the effort worthwhile.

I want to especially thank the following members for their outstanding commitment to our bulletin:

• Steve Mulqueen for his dedication; Steve has contributed his Educational Corner column each and every issue.
• Wayne Ehlers also contributed each and every issue with Words to Live By.
• Lowell Foster for his Virtual Field Trip submissions.
• Mel Hixson for sharing his lovely pictures and letters from Lowell's kids.
• Greg Davis for submitting the meeting minutes on time each month.
• Jim and Nancy Brace-Thompson for their hard work in bringing the yellow pages to fruition.
• Florence Meisenheimer for her contributions as Federation Director and to the Community Outreach updates.

The bulletin is much more meaningful and enjoyable when members contribute. The next issue will be mid-January. When you contemplate resolutions for the new year, consider becoming an active contributor. If you go on a field trip, share your experience or pictures. When you are in the shop, jot down and share your shortcuts. Write an article and share your techniques. Take a picture of your finished projects. Write a poem; draw a picture! We would love to see your work and hear from all of you.

By the time you read this, Thanksgiving will be over. I hope you enjoyed this special holiday with your extended families and friends. Best wishes for continued blessings throughout the remainder of this holiday season and throughout 2008.

Show Planning Meeting.
The next show planning meeting is January 6, 2:00 pm, at the Barshai residence.

Saw for Sale.
Sharon Cunningham has a 10" rock saw for sale $50. Please contact her if you are interested.

Tumbling Grit is still available. Contact a board member to arrange for pick up or come to a Saturday workshop.

When you are making out your Christmas card list this year, consider including the following:
     A Recovering American Soldier,
     c/o Walter Reed Army Medical Center,
     6900 Georgia Avenue NW,
     Washington, D.C. 20307-5001.

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SUPPORT AND PRACTICE
THE AFMS CODE OF ETHICS.

COMMUNITY OUTREACH.

Rock Box Work Day.
I saw Ed Clark and Jim and Nancy Brace-Thompson at the Rock Box Work Day at Larry and Donna Knapton's home, on November 3. Cynthia from OGMS and Robert Sankovich from the CGMS also were there to help. I was impressed and humbled by the incredible effort Donna and Larry Knapton are extending to this commitment to our local schools. Collecting and storing literally tons of rocks. Sorting and sizing. Cleaning each and every specimen. Painting and numbering each rock. Purchasing and transporting the box materials. Marking, cutting, sanding, and assembling the boxes.

I would like to encourage more of you to attend these work days. The turnout seemed pitifully inadequate given the incredible amount of work required. Keep your eyes open for work day dates and please consider helping.

Community Outreach Updates Needed.
If any members give presentations in the community regarding our hobby, please be sure to document the particulars. Information that would be appreciated is the date and location of the presentation; who attended (e.g., third-graders, seniors, etc.) and the approximate number in the audience. Any other comments you would like to include are, of course, also welcome. You can email, mail or call me to dictate your report. The bulletin serves to document fulfillment of our club's purpose.

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CASTING TERMS.

Webmaster's Note: The following is not accessible.

From Skagit Gems 5/04 via Umqua Gems 11/07.

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FIELD TRIPS ARE FUN.

Where to Go in 2008.

Rockhounds:
     The question always appears at this time of year, "Where do you want to go on fieldtrips?" With that idea in mind, I listed a few trips from the past and areas that I would like to search for rocks. Consider that December and January are removed and the summer months are too hot for desert trips; then add in the increased prices of gas. So, where would you like to venture for fieldtrips? Look at the list and feel free to add or subtract. I will consider all recommendations.

FIELD TRIP SCHEDULE.
TRI-CLUB FIELD TRIPS 2007 / 2008.*

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

Saturday, December 1, Kramer Junction (Hwy 395 and 58) / Gephart Road Hwy 58.

Host: Lew Helfrich, CFMS Field Trip Coordinator, South, (661)323-2663; email lewsrocks@bak.rr.com.

Due to the large turnout at this field trip last October, a number of people have asked to go out again. There were also people unable to go, so this would be a great trip to end the year. I know many of you are up to your ears in jasper, but there is always one more just a bit prettier or bigger than what you got last time. My excuse is that my wife wants a water feature in the back yard and jasper looks good alongside honey quartz under water. Last time green opal and a cavity of peridot were found. And the weather is perfect. Please email me with any questions you might have and if you decide to go, how many in your group there are. Lew.

WHAT WE CAN FIND.
KRAMER JUNCTION: Agate, dendritic opal palm root. Last time peridot and green opal were found.
BORON GEPHART ROAD: Jasper agate, chalcedony (pink, blue and the famous purple if you are lucky). Comb the old stage coach ruins dump for old relics.

WHAT ARE THE ROADS LIKE.
Regular vehicles will make it to all sites. Some places are a bit sandy and we will cross one or two washes. This field trip is designed for elderly as well as special needs as well as for young kids. We will be right on the jasper and agate and chalcedony fields where hounding is easy.

WHAT TO BRING.
PLENTY of water, snacks, food, a bucket or tote, a camera for pictures, hat and good hiking boots or shoes, rock hammer, gad for the big ones, proper clothing for desert hounding (coat or jacket as weather changes drastically in the desert).

WHERE WILL WE MEET?
We will meet up at Gephart Road off of Hwy 58. Go 395 to Kramer Junction. Take 58 towards Boron/Mojave to Gephart Road. We will meet at Gephart Road between 8:30 AM and 9:00 AM. We will be looking for chalcedony first on Gephart Road. For those that want to stay please let us know. We will then travel into the desert looking for jasper. We will be right on the jasper beds. We will then pack up and head for Kramer Junction for wood, agate, dendritic opal, peridot and palm root.

RULES AND REGULATIONS.
1) EVERY ONE MUST sign a LETTER OF RELEASE OF LIABILITY prior to going to the collecting sites.
2) We will be on a tortoise preserve. We might see some as well as horned toads, lizards and maybe a rattler or two. DO NOT TOUCH OR GO WITHIN TEN FEET of these creatures. The tortoise as well as the horned toads are protected and if you get too close to the tortoise, it will pee causing it to dehydrate and possibly die.
4) NO ALCOHOL. NO FIRE ARMS.
5) A good time is mandatory. This is one of the fun trips we do every year where everyone brings home lots-a-goodies. If you have any questions, please e-mail me at lewsrocks@bak.rr.com or call (661)323-2663.

HOPE TO SEE YOU ALL THERE, Lew.


January 12-13, 2008, Wiley's Well Area, California.

Sponsor: Ventura Gem & Mineral Society.

Contact: Lowell Foster, 805-648-1942, lowellfos@yahoo.com.

Directions to Camping Area: Exit Interstate 10 at Wiley's Well Rd. which is approximately 10 miles west of Blythe and 31 miles east of Desert Center. Follow Wiley's Well Road south for 12.5 miles to the campsite on the west side of the road at the Riverside and Imperial County line. Look for a sign on the right side of the road.

Camping: Dry camping, no water, no picnic tables, no latrines, no firewood to be gathered, and no fees. There may not be fire rings available. This is desert country and it can be quite cool in the evenings. Supplies are available in Blythe.

Note: The road to the camping area is good. Some of the roads to the gathering sites, however, are poor and require a 4-wheel drive and/or high clearance vehicle.

Motels: Motels are available in Blythe. This is the time of the year when everyone is heading for Quartzsite so book ahead.

Meeting: Saturday morning we will meet at the rest stop on highway 10 and Wiley's Well Road at 7:00 am. From the rest stop we will proceed to the camping area. We will return to the camping area for lunch. If you arrive late, you can plan on us leaving for our afternoon site at 1:00 pm. Sunday morning we will follow the same procedure.

Rockhounding: This area is rich in a number of minerals and rocks, geological marvels, and old mines.

Information: For additional information contact the field trip leader Lowell Foster at 805-486-1942.
     Please contact Lowell Foster if you plan to attend this field trip.
     Think about car pooling from Blythe or the rest stop, again contact Lowell Foster.

This is a vast area and we will try to hit as many spots as possible to give you an overview of what to look for and where.


Saturday, January 19, 2008, Santa Barbara, CA.

Field Trip Leader: Jon Meredith, meredith@flashercrew.net or Lew Helfrich, lewsrocks@bak.rr.com, 661-323-2663.

This trip is co-hosted by the DelAir Rockhounds (Jon) and the San Joaquin Lapidary Society (Lew). Materials to be collected will be fossil whale bones, chert, fossil horse teeth, agate and jasper. Each vehicle must purchase an $8.00 parking pass, which is good for all collecting locales. Three state beach sites will be visited: Refugio, Gaviota and El Capitan.

WHAT DO I NEED?
1. You will need water, shoes, sandals, or old sneakers; old clothes you don't mind getting sandy and a towel.
2. Dry clothes for trip home and a variety of warm garments (sweatshirts, jackets, etc.). Temperatures could be anywhere from 45 to 75.
3. Citrus based hand cleaner for tar removal (there are natural seeps in the Santa Barbara Channel).
4. Food and/or beverages - NO ALCOHOL - (mini marts closed in winter).

WHERE DO WE MEET?
The day will start at Refugio State Beach at approximately 11 am. With low tide at 1413 (2:13 pm), this will give us about 2 hours of collecting time here before moving to Gaviota or El Capitan for the low tide period. Refugio has rock beds which are exposed during mean tide periods where whale bone can be found.

This can be quite an eventful trip, depending on weather, wildlife, civilians. In January 2006, we collected over 200 lbs of bone as a group. This is a good trip for rock hounds of all ages, and for scout troops, etc.

Please email Jon for further information and number of participants going in your group at Meredith@flashercrew.net, or those leaving Bakersfield contact Lew at lewsrocks@bak.rr.com.

RULES AND REGULATIONS.
1. ALL PARTICIPANTS MUST SIGN A CFMS RELEASE OF LIABILITY PRIOR TO GOING ON THIS TRIP. Lew will have the release and it will be distributed at the meeting site at Refugio State Beach.
2. No Guns or alcohol.
3. Trips are designed to be fun for both young and old. Profane language or disorderly conduct will not be tolerated and dealt with accordingly.
4. Every day we are losing rock hounding places due to abuse and neglect. Please pack out more than you packed in. Take what you need and if you dig when you are finished fill it in.

Hope to see you there.

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HINTS AND TIPS.

Good old Elmer's Glue mixed 50/50 with warm water works wonders at maintaining that "wet look" on all types of materials, including most shells. Just brush it on and let it dry - if it gets dusty or dulled simply soak it in warm water and reapply. I learned this technique from one of my mentors when I wanted to display some petrified wood that looked great when wet but looked like a plain old rock dry.
     From Clyde Gilbert Oct 24, 2007, Rock_Collecting_and_Field_Trips@yahoogroups.com.

If you have sore hands from hard rock mining, soak them in warm vinegar water and the swelling and soreness will disappear.
     From Leo Lueet in GI Nugget via Moroks 04/00.

Tumbling Tips for Apache Tears.
When attempting to polish apache tears, here are some methods to try:
     1) In steps 3 and 4, add corn syrup to the load to slow down the action. This thickens the slurry and will keep the stones from scratching themselves.
     2) Use cerium oxide as a polish, and use it with oatmeal. Let it go for several weeks. DO NOT add water with this method. Polish dry.
     3) Use a vibrating polisher. These type polishers do not have the harsh action a rotary polisher does.
          From Rockpile Legend Co., www.rocks4u.com/lapidaryhint.htm.

Tarnish prevention.
Tarnish is caused by sulfur gases in the air. Chalk is a natural absorber of sulfur, so place sticks of chalk (blackboard chalk) in your cases, jewelry boxes, jewelry drawer or just around your jewelry.
     From Rockpile Legend Co., www.rocks4u.com/lapidaryhint.htm.

Ivory Care.
Do not put ivory in the dark. It is one substance that needs light. If it has started to yellow, take a 1/2 lemon and rub it in some salt, then rub it over the ivory object. The lemon will work on the yellow discoloration. After it is dry, dampen a soft cloth with lukewarm water and rub the ivory piece to give it a bright finish.
     From The Pegmatite via The Petrified Log 03/00.

Untangle Chains.
A fine chain can be very frustrating when it knots. Put a drop of salad oil on a piece of waxed paper. Lay the knot in the oil and pick at it with two straight pins. It should come apart.
     From Back Benders Gazette via The Petrified Log 03/00.

Polishing Jasper.
Jasper is much more troublesome to polish than agate because many varieties are earthy and porous and others contain hematite, which in itself is difficult to polish. If you are on a field trip, a good way to test jasper is to wet it. If it absorbs the water and dries rapidly, throw it away. It will not polish. If it stays wet and does not dry right away, it contains a high amount of chalcedony and will take a good polish. Most jaspers polish well on leather with Linde A, but good results can be obtained with tin oxide on either leather or felt. Always remember that a good fine sanding job is the secret of good polishing.
     From The Rock Bag via Moroks 11/07.

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!

A Lapidary Lament.
With extra care, I chose the stone; I sawed, preformed and dopped it. Next I sanded it to mirror sheen, and then, by dang, I dropped it!
     From Rock Chip Reporter 09/93 via Moroks 04/00.

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EDUCATIONAL CORNER.

Definition of the Month.

Fumarole (pronounced fu'-ma-role) - A hole or vent from which volcanic fumes or vapors issue from the ground. Often associated with hot springs, geysers and mud pots. The vapors usually consist of super-heated steam composed of water, carbon dioxide and many other gases associated with hydrothermal fluids and volcanic eruptions. The force of the vapors rising through groundwater can push liquid mud from soils and geologic formations to the Earth's surface in an upward direction. This can result in the formation of a mud pot or mud volcano.

Reference: A Dictionary of Mining, Mineral, and Related Terms, compiled by Paul W. Thrush and the staff at the Bureau of Mines, U. S. Dept. of Interior, printed by the U. S. Government Printing Office, Washington D. C., 1968.

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

Illustration of the Month.

An illustration by Hayden showing hot springs and mineral deposits.

Deposits of Lime Carbonate, Yellowstone Park, 1884.

From the book "Compend of Geology", Appleton's Science Text-Books, written by Joseph Le Conte in 1884, professor of Geology, University of California, Berkeley, published by D. Appleton and Company, 1889.

Text written by Steve Mulqueen, November 2007. The "Illustration of the Month" features a drawing, sketch, pen & ink rendering, engraving print or any form of art rediscovered in old books, maps, manuscripts and many other sources related to geology, paleontology, mining and desert history. This illustration was chosen for its educational content by the author.

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LET'S BE SAFE OUT THERE.

     This one is pretty slick since they provide YOU with all the information, except the one piece they want. NOTE, the callers do not ask for your card number; they already have it. This information is worth reading. By understanding how the VISA & MasterCard Telephone Credit Card Scam works, you'll be better prepared to protect yourself.
     One of our employees was called on Wednesday from "VISA", and I was called on Thursday from "Master Card". The scam works like this: Person calling says, "This is (name), and I'm calling from the Security and Fraud Department at VISA. My Badge number is 12460. Your card has been flagged for an unusual purchase pattern, and I'm calling to verify. This would be on your VISA card which was issued by (name of bank). Did you purchase an Anti-Telemarketing Device for $497.99 from a Marketing company based in Arizona?" When you say "No", the caller continues with, "Then we will be issuing a credit to your account. This is a company we have been watching and the charges range from $297 to $497, just under the $500 purchase pattern that flags most cards. Before your next statement, the credit will be sent to (gives you your address), is that correct?"
     You say "Yes". The caller continues - "I will be starting a Fraud investigation. If you have any questions, you should call the 1-800 number listed on the back of your card (1-800-VISA) and ask for Security. You will need to refer to this Control Number. The caller then gives you a 6-digit number. "Do you need me to read it again?"
     Here's the IMPORTANT part on how the scam works. The caller then says, "I need to verify you are in possession of your card." He'll ask you to "turn your card over and look for some numbers. There are 7 numbers; the first 4 are part of your card number, the next 3 are the security Numbers that verify you are the possessor of the card. These are the numbers you sometimes use to make Internet purchases to prove you have the card." The caller will ask you to read the 3 numbers to him. After you tell the caller the 3 numbers, he'll say, "That is correct, I just needed to verify that the card has not been lost or stolen, and that you still have your card. Do you have any other questions?" After you say "No", the caller then thanks you and states, "Don't hesitate to call back if you do", and hangs up.
     You actually say very little, and they never ask for or tell you the Card number. But after we were called on Wednesday, we called back within 20 minutes to ask a question. Are we glad we did! The REAL VISA Security Department told us it was a scam and in the last 15 minutes a new purchase of $497.99 was charged to our card.
     Long story - short - we made a real fraud report and closed the VISA account. VISA is reissuing us a new number. What the scammers want is the 3-digit PIN number on the back of the card. Don't give it to them. Instead, tell them you'll call VISA or Master card directly for verification of their conversation. The real VISA told us that they will never ask for anything on the card as they already know the information since they issued the card! If you give the scammers your 3 Digit PIN Number, you think you're receiving a credit. However, by the time you get your statement you'll see charges for purchases you didn't make, and by then it's almost too late and/or more difficult to actually file a fraud report.
     What makes this more remarkable is that on Thursday, I got a call from a "Jason Richardson of Master Card" with a word-for-word repeat of the VISA scam. This time I didn't let him finish. I hung up! We filed a police report, as instructed by VISA. The police said they are taking several of these reports daily! They also urged us to tell everybody we know that this scam is happening.
          http://www.snopes.com/crime/warnings/creditcard.asp.

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FEDERATION NEWS
By Nancy Brace-Thompson, Federation Director.

News from the CFMS November Newsletter.
     The annual CFMS Fall Business Meeting is November 9-11 in Visalia. As your Federation Director, I'll be attending, along with Jim, who will be attending as the CFMS Juniors' Activities Chair. I'll provide a report of the proceedings at our November meeting and in our next newsletter.
     Marion Roberts has made a special request regarding the CFMS Earth Science Studies Program. As we've publicized in recent copies of the newsletter and club meetings, registration applications are being taken for the March workshops in Zzyzx. Marion has asked that we provide members with an overview of the program, something we've done often in the past, but a reminder is always helpful, particularly for new members. The CFMS Earth Science Studies Program is dedicated to the promotion of and education about the earth sciences and is strongly directed toward the lapidary arts in its varied aspects. The CFMS Earth Science Studies Program committee is responsible for three weeks of classes a year; one week in March at the Zzyzx desert studies center near Baker, and two one-week programs in September at Camp Paradise, just out of Clipper Mills, north of Marysville. These programs are available at a cost of $300 per person per week, which includes instruction, room and board. Instruction includes classes in cabochon making, silver fabrication, wire art, soft stone carving, hard stone carving, and copper enameling, along with field trips and evening programs. Also, where space is available (primarily at Camp Paradise), additional classes may include faceting, silver and gold casting, glass bead making, or other disciplines. Space for these popular programs is limited and is allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, so whenever the next year's programs are announced, be sure to send your application at the earliest opportunity.
     As a reminder, the next Annual CFMS Show takes place June 27-29, 2008, at the Ventura County Fairgrounds. We were happy to host Pat LaRue (CFMS Executive Secretary/Treasurer) at our October meeting. Pat's husband, Bural, is Chairman for the show, and Pat attended our meeting to fill us in about the show and to field questions. Our thanks to Pat for making the long drive up and for the background she provided! We'll continue discussing the possibility of VGMS running a silent auction during the show, either on our own or as a Tri-Club effort with the Oxnard and Conejo clubs, with at least part of the proceeds earmarked to the CFMS Endowment Fund in the name of Ray Meisenheimer. Jim and I hope to come back with more details and possibilities from a show-planning meeting that will take place as part of the CFMS Fall Business meeting. Stay tuned! Meanwhile, remember that Jim is running Kids' Activities at the 2008 CFMS show and will be seeking help (people-power, ideas, and supplies like tumbled stones, rock and fossil prizes, grab bags, etc.). And remember that CFMS President Dick Pankey, who will be running exhibits, hopes to have a record number of displays, so start planning a display of your own, whether competitive or noncompetitive, and let's get a committee appointed to pull together a VGMS club case. Dick suggests using a club case to show off our activities, field trips, classes, community participation, and/or rocks, minerals and fossils from our local area, so let's pick an idea and get started!
     Finally, mark your calendars for two Federation-sponsored field trips. First, there's the Annual Thanksgiving Field Trip to the Wiley's Well area near Blythe November 21-25 for agate, jasper, geodes, petrified wood and more. Maps and other details were available at our October meeting, and we'll have them again at the November meeting. If you've been unable to attend the meetings but would like to join this field trip, call our Field Trips Chair Ron Wise (805-647-4393) for details. The second trip is a ways off, but mark your calendars now for the "Tri-Federation Rockhound Rendezvous" to Texas Springs, Nevada, over Memorial Day weekend (May 21-26), 2008, for pink agate limb casts and other agate and petrified wood. This will be a repeat of a prior Tri-Federation trip to Texas Springs that proved highly popular, so it's being repeated by popular demand.

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LET'S GO TO A SHOW 2007-2008.

2007 CFMS SHOWS.

December 1-2; Barstow, CA - Mojave Desert Gem & Mineral Society, Cora Harper Community Center, 841 S. Barstow Road. Hours: 10-5 both days. Gene Haines (760) 256-0595, Beth Pinnell (760) 255-1030, www.mdgms.org/show.html.
December 1-2; Orangevale, CA - American River Gem & Mineral Society, Orangevale Grange, 5807 Walnut Ave. Hours: 10-5 both days. Florence Hansan (916) 955-5189, Evelyn Tipton (916( 791-4517.
December 8-9; San Bernardino, CA - Orange Belt Mineralogical Society Inc., Rudy C. Hernandez Community Center, 222 N. Lugo Ave. (2nd and Sierra Way). Hours: Sat. 10-5, Sun. 10-4. Lyle Strayer (909) 887-3394, Al Carrell (951) 961-5988, Emma Rose (951) 288-6182.

2008 CFMS SHOWS.

January 19-20; Exeter, CA - Tule Gem & Mineral Society Gemboree, Veteran's Memorial Bldg., On Highway 65. Hours: Sat. 10-5, Sun. 10-4. Marshall Havner (559) 562-4133 Email: mdhavner@verizon.net.
February 15-24; Indio, CA - San Gorgonio Mineral & Gem Society, Riverside County Fair & National Date Festival, 46-350 Arabia St. Hours: 10 am-10 pm. Bert Grisham (951) 849-1674 Email: bert67@verizon.net.
March 1-2; Arcadia, CA - Monrovia Rockhounds, Los Angeles County Arboretum & Botanical Garden, 301 N. Baldwin Ave. Hours: 9-4:30 both days. Jo Anna Ritchey Email: j.ritchey@verizon.net, Website: www.moroks.com.
March 1-2; Escondido, CA - Palomar Gem & Mineral Club, Army National Guard Armory, 304 Park Avenue, Escondido, CA. Hours: Saturday 9-5, Sunday 9-4. Michelle & Van Lynch (760) 949-4164 Email: michelleandvan@hotmail.com, Show Website: www.palomargem.org.
March 1-2; Ventura, CA - Ventura Gem & Mineral Society, Seaside Park, 10 W. Harbor Blvd. Hours: Sat. 10-5, Sun. 10-4. Abe Barshai (818) 991-7735 Email: Barshai3@aol.com, Web Site: www.vgms.org.
March 8-9; San Marino, CA - Pasadena Lapidary Society, San Marino Masonic Temple, 3130 Huntington Dr. Hours: Sat. 10-6, Sun. 10-5. Drew Wilson (626) 449-4910 Email: TODREW@sbcglobal.net.
March 8-9; Spreckles, CA - Salinas Valley Rock & Gem Club, Spreckles Veteran's Memorial Hall, 5th & Llano St., Hwy 68 Spreckels Exit. Hours: 10-5 both days. Jim Bassett (831) 758-5830, Karin Salomon (831) 375-5233, Email: jbmsc@sbcglobal.net, Email: kcbakes27@yahoo.com.
March 8-9; Turlock, CA - Mother Lode Mineral Society, Stanislaus County Fairgrounds. Hours: Sat 10-6, Sun 10-5. Bud & Terry McMillin (209) 524-3494 Email: terry.mcmillin@yahoo.com, Website: www.motherlodemineralsociety.com.
March 15-16; Vallejo, CA - Vallejo Gem & Mineral Society, Solano County Fairgrounds County Building. Hours: 10-5 both days. Ed Austin (707) 373-5639 Email: edhen@ips.net.
March 22-23; Calaveras, CA - Calaveras Gem & Mineral Society, Calaveras "Frogtown" Fairgrounds, Hwy 49 Angles Camp. Hours: Sat. 10-5, Sun. 10-4. Tom Reeves (209) 754-4863. $3.00 per adult, children free.
March 22-23; Roseville, CA - Roseville Rock Rollers, Roseville (Placer) County Fairgrounds, 800 All America City Blvd. Hours: Sat. 10-5; Sun. 10-4. Jim Hutchings (530) 367-5108 Email: rockrollers@hotmail.com, Website: www.rockrollers.com.
April 4, 5, & 6; Bakersfield, CA - San Joaquin Valley Lapidary Society, 6th Annual Rock & Gem Rendezvous, Indoor Show/Outdoor Tail Gate, Kern County Fairgrounds, 1142 South P Street. Hours: Fri. 9-8; Sat. & Sun. 9-5. Lewis Helfrich (661) 872-8230 or (661) 323-2663 Email: lewsrocks@bak.rr.com.
April 4, 5, & 6; San Jose, CA - Santa Clara Valley Gem & Mineral Society, Santa Clara County Fairgrounds, 334 Tully Road. Hours: Fri. 9-5, Sat. & Sun. 10-5 both days. Email: info@scvgms.org, Website: www.scvgms.org.
April 12-13; Mariposa, CA - Mariposa Gem & Mineral Club, Mariposa County Fairgrounds. Hours: 10-5 both days. Peggy Ronning (209) 742-7625 Email: mineralmuseum@sti.net.
May 3-4; Bakersfield, CA - Kern County Mineral Society, Ming Ave and P Street, Kern County Fairgrounds. Hours: 10-5 both days. Ismael Sanchez (661) 301-4609.
May 10-11; Reno, NV - Reno Gem & Mineral Society, Reno Livestock Events Center, 1350 N. Wells Ave. Hours: Sat. 10-5; Sun. 10-4. John Peterson (775) 356-8820, Website: www.renorockclub.com.
May 31 - June 1; Glendora, CA - Glendora Gem & Mineral Club, Hours: Sat. 10-5, Sun. 10-4. Bonnie Bidwell (626) 963-4638 Email: Ybidwell2@aol.com.

AMERICAN FEDERATION / REGIONAL SHOW SCHEDULE - 2008.

Eastern Federation (EFMS),
February 23-24,
Jackson, MS.

Midwest Federation (MWF),
June 20-22,
Lincoln, NE.

Northwest Federation (NFMS),
June 20-26,
Ontario, OR.

California Federation (CFMS),
June 27-29,
California Federation of Mineralogical Societies,
Ventura County Fairgrounds, Ventura, CA,
Hours: 10-5 Daily,
Adults $5.00, Seniors (60+) $4.00, Students $3.00,
Kids under 12 free with paid adult,
Fairgrounds parking.
Go to http://www.cfmsinc.org/ and click on 'Shows' at the upper right. Scroll ¾ of the way down the page to see their flyer and listing on the show.

Rocky Mountain Federation (RMFMS),
October 31-November 2,
Tulsa, OK.

South Central Federation (SCMS) / AFMS,
September 25-28,
Humble, TX.

Southeast Federation (SFMS).

Canadian Federation Convention.

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GEMS FROM THE PAST.

Mistletoe.
     There are many different kinds of mistletoe but the best known is the large green-leafed variety used in Christmas decorations. Strangely enough the use of these greens in the house dates back to an early pagan superstition. The Druid priests hung it to drive away evil spirits when they performed ceremonies of sacrifice. Its Greek name, Phoradendron, is more meaningful than its English name. 'Phor' signifies a thief and 'Dendron' a tree. It is a true parasite stealing the very life from its host. All green mistletoe has chlorophyll and can manufacture some food for itself however.
     Perhaps the desert mistletoe is of more value. It chooses leguminous trees for its host (mesquite, etc.). Its leaves are scale-like, its tiny flowers are very fragrant even at a distance and furnish food for bees. The coral pink berries appear from November to April and furnish both food and water to countless birds. The juicy berries enable the desert quail to flourish far from water holes, and certain small birds nest in the thick clumps. It is said the Papago Indians dry the berries for their winter food.
     Surely there is no plant that is not of some purpose to animal life.
          Ruth Parker, Rockhound Rambling, December 1956.

Desert Mistletoe.
Image source: http://www.calflora.net/bloomingplants/desertmistletoe.html.

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SUPPORT AND PRACTICE
THE AFMS CODE OF ETHICS.

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