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The Ventura Gem & Mineral Society, Inc. (VGMS)
Rockhound Rambling
December 1998.
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PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE.
I want to thank all of you for the support you gave me as president. It was an honor to serve you. We had an outstanding group of officers and committee chairpersons. My special thanks to them. I am pleased to see that the majority have volunteered to continue next year along with a great set of new candidates for vacant positions. To me this means that we had an enjoyable experience in a healthy and active organization. I really look forward to next year. Lets support our new president, officers and chairpersons. And, continue the outstanding participation of all members. Have a wonderful holiday season with family and friends and a great new year. Thank you very much!
John McCabe.
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WORDS TO LIVE BY.
There is nothing lost by discarding your faults.
Each year it takes less time to cross the country and more time to get to work.
The best way to predict the future is to create it.
Living in the past is lots of fun----besides it's cheaper.
Contributed by Wayne Ehlers.
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"DUES ARE DUE JANUARY 1, 1999".
See the inside cover for the amounts. Send to Sharon Cunningham, 42 Sycamore Road, Oak View, CA 93022.
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MARK YOUR CALENDARS:
12-9-98 - VGMS Annual Christmas Party. 6:00pm, serving at 6:30pm at the American Legion Hall - Call Richard Bromser for reservation the sooner the better, but it's never too late!
12-19-98 - Workshop Open at VGMS Museum, 9:00 am to 12:00 noon - Instructor - Red Jioras.
HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!!
1-7-99 - VGMS Board Meeting - 7:30 p.m. VGMS Museum - All are welcome and encouraged to attend.
1-15-99 - DEADLINE FOR DECEMBER BULLETIN - Articles to Bonnie Demianiw, your New Editor!
1-27-99 - VGMS Regular Meeting - American Legion Hall - 7:30 p.m.
2-4-99 - VGMS Board Meeting - 7:30 p.m. VGMS Museum - All are welcome and encouraged to attend.
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CHRISTMAS DINNER
DECEMBER 9TH,
PLEASE COME!
Our annual Christmas dinner will be at the American Legion Hall on the 9th. We will start at 6:00 with dinner being served at 6:30. There will be a $5.00 per person charge at the door.The dinner is being catered by the same people as last year. (They did a great job!). Call Richard Bromser at 649-9065 and let him know you will be attending if you haven't signed up. The sooner the better of course, but it's never too late!!
Bring a $5.00 wrapped gift for Bingo (non-gender).
We will have dinner and then the Anita Arant Singers will entertain us. They are the same as last year and they are terrific. Talk about someone enjoying what they do!! They really put you into the holiday spirit. After this wonderful entertainment we will have our installation of 1999 Officers. Bob Stultz will be doing the honors and doing them well, knowing Bob!
The slate of officers to be installed are as follows:
- President - Steve Mulqueen,
- 1st Vice President-Programs - Kathryn Davis,
- 2nd Vice President-Field Trips - Greg Davis,
- 3rd Vice President-Show - Jay Baumler,
- Treasurer - Richard Bromser,
- Recording Secretary - Carlon Strobel,
- Membership Secretary - Sharon Cunningham,
- Federation Director - Florence Meisenheimer,
- Bulletin Editor - Bonnie Demianiw,
- Parliamentarian - John McCabe/Wayne Ehlers.
We will then have the Bingo and there will also be some poinsettias to be raffled off or bid on. It sounds like a full night and it WILL BE FUN so be there, if you aren't we will miss you. Happy Holidays!
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What is a committee?
A group of the unwilling,
picked from the unfit,
to do the unnecessary!
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LETTER FROM THE EDITOR!!
This will be my last bulletin I'm sorry to say, but also relieved! I really want to thank all of you for your wonderful support and encouragement over the last four years. With your help we won some awards which was fun and surprising! VGMS members are the BEST!
Jim and I took the bulletin on, when there was no one to do it, and agreed just to get the information out to the members!! Well it grew and grew! One really sees the importance of getting information passed on to the members from AFMS, CFMS and to get as many members as possible mentioned in their involvement with the club. I have really enjoyed working with everyone and it gives one a great respect for fellow bulletin editors!
I am really lucky in that we are putting it into the hands of a very capable person. Bonnie is very enthusiastic about doing the bulletin and I know she will do a great job as she has done in all her tasks! Help Bonnie with your input as your articles help to make it much more interesting. Send next month's articles to Bonnie Demianiw, 841 Lemon Grove Avenue, Ventura, CA 93003 or E-Mail to BDemianiw@aol.com.
I also want to thank my husband, Jim, for all his help and support. It wouldn't have happened without him!
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OPALS WERE THE TOPIC OF
OUR OCTOBER 28TH MEETING.
Lewis Mayron of the Conejo Gem & Mineral Society gave a great program on Opal. It was presented in such a way that even we beginners were able to understand! The entire structure of the Opal is made up of Spheres and is from 2 to 13% water. An unstable Opal can get its color back by putting it in a solution of 50% water and 50% glycerin. I love Opal, so this was a very interesting program for me and it seems everyone else that was there! Thanks Lewis.
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NOVEMBER MEETING
BROUGHT "SILENT
AUCTION" & SOME "SIXTIES
VGMS SHOW MEMORIES".
We had a great November meeting with wonderful Pumpkin desserts, Silent Auction bidding (someone kept putting their name after mine!) on some really nice material and some slides of the VGMS shows during the mid-sixties. The slides were provided by Bruno Benson and narrated by Red and Nancy Jioras. It was very interesting to see how things were done then, how people dressed and the activities of the show. My how things change in 30 years and sometimes I feel not always for the better! It was great fun watching them and trying to identify the people. Myrle Kirk and Ray Meisenheimer were a great help in this area. Bonnie did a great job with the "pumpkin" table which included Carlon Strobel's "Elizabeth". (The recipe for this delight is included in this bulletin). Thank you Bonnie for your fine hostessing efforts during the year, "Hostess with the Mostest" is fitting! Also many thanks for all who brought pumpkin desserts. I have ended up with a tupperware pie carrier including a pie tin that was left on the table, anyone missing one? Give me a call at 642-2683 and leave a message.
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"ROCKHOUND BULLETIN BOARD".
MANY THANKS TO NANCY JIORAS AND WAYNE EHLERS - for their hard work and dedication in giving Wire Wrap and lapidary classes. They have finished this session and hopefully we will have a report at the meeting or in the next bulletin. I know these are much appreciated and enjoyed by those in attendance.
MANY THANKS TO MEMBERS HELPING WITH CASE FOR OXNARD SHOW. - Red and Nancy Jioras and Jay Baumler took our club case to the Oxnard show and set it up. John McCabe and Susan Mulqueen had done some repair work on the labels. The exhibit was fossils of Ventura County and had many compliments. Red, Nancy and Jay also got involved in helping the Oxnard club set up and skirt tables. They had a good time and enjoyed being with the Oxnard members.
STEVE MULQUEEN TO SET UP THE FOSSILS OF VENTURA COUNTY CASE AT UNOCAL MUSEUM IN SANTA PAULA. - The case that was entered into the Oxnard show will be on display at the Unocal Museum in Santa Paula for the next two months. Steve has done a great job in keeping interesting material at the Museum. Also, thanks to Unocal for allowing us to display.
JUDITH GUSTAFSON, PREVIOUS "ROCKHOUND RAMBLING" EDITOR, HONORED. - Judith was one of three CFMS editors that were honored this year by the AFMS Bulletin Editors' HALL OF FAME. Per Shirley Leeson, Chairman of the Hall of Fame, "She was instrumental in introducing many of us to the computer and she put out a formidable bulletin". Congratulations Judith!
"ROCKHOUND RAMBLING" - 1997 PLACES 4TH IN AFMS BULLETIN CONTEST: - Our bulletin placed 4th in the Large Bulletin category in the AFMS bulletin contest. The top three from each federation are considered in the judging. Thank you everyone for your help and support in getting it done. Unfortunately, I didn't get it entered in this year's contest.
SHOW COMMITTEE NEEDS DONATION AWARDS FOR '99 SHOW: - We are going to use more gem and mineral and lapidary items for our awards this year. Anyone who has new belt buckles, book ends, jewelry or other lapidary items that you have made and are willing to contribute it would be much appreciated. Also if you have Mineral Samples that are eyecatching and you are willing to donate, give Inez Shakman a call at 642-4957.
MUSEUM AND WORKSHOP CLEAN-UP DAY, DECEMBER 12TH: - Bring your sack lunch, gloves and energy to the Museum on Saturday, December 12th for a thorough clean-up, inside and out, of the Museum. It will start at 9:00 and go until done or everyone poops out!! They want to trim bushes and move some cases around so will need some husky helpers. Please come if you can and join the fun! There will be drinks and coffee there.
DON'T FORGET THE COUNTRY STORE OVER THE HOLIDAYS. - The Country Store is the perfect place to get rid of the items that are in the way of your "new" Christmas presents or if it is an "Ugly" item your far away Aunt Jane sent! (We would never tell). You can take them to the Museum on workshop days, board meetings, bring to regular meetings or call Shirley Layton at (805) 642-2683 for pick up. THANK YOU! Also get your plant cuttings going, March will be here before you know it! I also want to thank Richard and Shirley Bromser and Red and Nancy Jioras for their GREAT help in getting items priced and into storage on Nov. 17th.
LAPIDARY WORKSHOP: - The lapidary shop at the museum will be opened the third Saturday of each month and will have an instructor present to help you with your project. There are some really nice slabs, donated by Bill Klamser, available for purchase for your projects. There is also a lot of rough material from Joe Deckard that is available for purchase to be slabbed or whatever.
These organized workshops are part of your dues and are free to members. The shop can also be accessed at other times of the month by contacting one of the instructors listed below and making an appointment to use the equipment. When the shop is used on an appointment basis, there will be a $1.00 an hour charge to help defray the replacement cost of items such as saw blades, polishing wheels, etc.
Shop Committee:
- John McCabe - 805 654-1968,
- Jay Baumler - 805 644-3962,
- Greg Davis - 805 647-9214,
- Red Jioras - 805 646-7184,
- Wayne Ehlers - 805 482-6830,
- Ray Meisenheimer - 805 642-3155,
- Bruno Benson - 805 646-5976.
SAVE YOUR STAMPS and give them to Florence Meisenheimer for the Easter Seal Society. CFMS collects them from all the associations. Cut the cancelled stamps from the envelope with about 1/2 inch of paper on each side. Any and all stamps are accepted.
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Everyone has a photographic memory, but some don't have film.
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COMMUNITY EDUCATION.
Wednesday, November 8 Ray Meisenheimer and Bob Stultz gave an hour and a half talk on fossils, rocks and minerals to the Senior Citizens at the Center in Thousand Oaks. There were 25 in attendance, and they all seemed interested and enjoyed the fossils Ray brought with him.
Contributed by Florence Meisenheimer.
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COMMUNITY EDUCATION
WORKSHOP.
PURPOSE:
To go into the classroom, Senior Center, or work with Scouts, 4H and the Library, etc.
A. You would like to take a collection to present to a group except:
1. I do not feel comfortable:
a. being in front of a group.
b. with the information I will cover.
c. with my recognition of the rocks, minerals, fossils etc.
d. with how to organize the materials.
e. how to care for and transport the materials.
MATERIALS:
A. Bring yourself and:
1. Lunch.
2. Paper, pen, folder, etc.
3. Six +/- rocks, minerals, fossils, etc.
4. A box to hold and material to protect what you bring.
B. What will be here?
1. Some of the collections Barbara put together and used.
2. People who have given programs.
3. Handouts.
a. Information about contacting the School Systems for permission to go into the classroom.
b. What you may need in the collection.
c. Lists / diagrams for each type of collection.
d. Club information to hand out (where, when, time of annual show).
PROCEDURE:
What will we do?
A. You will have the opportunity to use the materials you bring or what we have here.
B. Club members who have given programs will be here to give support, suggestions, and be part of your audience as you give your short program.
CONCLUSIONS:
A. I hope you will become a speaker and give programs to your community.
B. Remember you are not doing this alone. We may be able to have someone go with you.
INTERESTED??? Call Lois Bear - 805-388-1976.
The workshop is to be Saturday, January 30, 1999, 10am to 4pm.
Place: Emmanuel Church, 588 Camino Manzanas, Thousand Oaks, CA (one mile north of #101 on Lynn Rd.).
Bring:
1) Your lunch - 2) Paper, pen, folder/notebook - 3) If you wish --- 6 +/- rocks, minerals, fossils - 4) A box to hold material and to PROTECT what you bring. They will provide punch & decaffeinated coffee.
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VGMS MINUTES.
MINUTES OF THE GENERAL MEETING - October 28, 1998;
The General Meeting was called to order at 7:35 p.m. by President, John McCabe.
Program: "The Magic of Opal" slide presentation by Lewis Mayron.
From President McCabe: The Club received a "Thank You" card from Jim Porter's granddaughter, Emily. Also, Emily has donated the Porter's display case to the Museum. The Club will be sending her a "Thank You" letter for the donation. Olga Hammer commented that Jim's family should determine a value for the donation so that she may receive a tax credit. Reminder, Membership Dues are due January 1, 1999. The VGMS Christmas Dinner is scheduled for December 9, 1998, at the American Legion Hall, at 6:00 - eat at 6:30 p.m. and the cost will be $5 per person. Like last year, the Dinner will be catered and entertainment has been arranged. We will also have the Installation of Officers. A sign up sheet for the Dinner is available. The next General Meeting will be held Wednesday, November 11 1998. The next Board Meeting will be held at the Museum, Thursday, November 5,1998 with a Show Committee meeting will be held after the Board Meeting. Judith Gustafson has earned a place in the AFMS Hall of Fame for her bulletin.
Treasurer's Report: Richard Bromser gave the treasurers report and the check book balance.
Bulletin Deadline: Shirley Layton stated that the deadline for the December Bulletin is November 20, 1998.
Election of 1999 Officers: Richard Bromser, Nominating Committee Chair, proposed the following nominations:
- President - Steve Mulqueen,
- 1st Vice President-Programs - Kathryn Davis,
- 2nd Vice President-Field Trips - Greg Davis,
- 3rd Vice President-Show Chairperson - Jay Baumler,
- Treasurer - Richard Bromser,
- Recording Secretary - Carlon Strobel,
- Membership Secretary - Sharon Cunningham,
- Federation Director - Florence Meisenheimer,
- Bulletin Editor - Bonnie Demianiw,
- Parliamentarian - John McCabe / Wayne Ehlers.
President McCabe asked for any additional nominations from the floor. Members will vote on the 1999 officers at the General Meeting in November. Installation of the 1999 officers will be held in December, 1998.
Red Jioras commented that Bob Stultz will be here for the installation of officers.
Wire Wrapping: Nancy Jioras will be holding a wire wrapping class starting October 24th and running for four consecutive Saturdays, from 9:00 am - 12:00 noon.
Lapidary Workshop: Wayne Ehlers and Red Jioras will be holding a five week lapidary workshop on Saturdays starting October 24th.
Silent Auction: Kathryn Davis stated that we will have a Silent Auction at the November 11th General Meeting and asked members to bring items for the auction.
David Mautz conducted the drawings.
There being no further business, President McCabe adjourned the meeting at 8:45 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Carlon Strobel,
Recording Secretary.
MINUTES OF THE BOARD MEETING - November 5, 1998;
The meeting was called to order at 7:33 pm, at the VGMS Museum, by President Pro-Tem Richard Jioras. There were 12 members present.
Treasurers Report: Richard Bromser distributed copies of the Treasurer's Report for the month of October and reports on the picnic and auction on October 17, 1998. It was m/s/c to approve paying bills as submitted on check numbers 503-509.
There was a discussion on the Christmas party. It was m/s/c to: 1) charge each person attending the Christmas dinner $5.00 at the door and provide complimentary dinners for invited guests. 2) to pay $100 for entertainment by the (11) Anita Arant singers. 3) to start the meeting at 6:00 pm and serve dinner at 6:30 pm.
Membership Report: Sharon Cunningham reported that there were no new members.
Field Trips: Greg Davis reported on the trip coming up on Saturday, November 14, to Stoddard Wells.
Bulletin Deadline: Shirley Layton announced the deadline for the December Bulletin was November 24, 1998.
Federation Director: Florence Meisenheimer reported there will be a Federation meeting in November and that past Bulletin Editor, Judith Gustafson, has been nominated to the AFMS Editors Hall of Fame.
Ray Meisenheimer reported that Lois Bear, of the Conejo club, would be having classes on "How to Speak" in January 1999. Steve Mulqueen reported on Ray Ritchey's grab bag production and requested payment of $16.00 to Ray to help offset expenses. He also reported on the Oxnard Club Show display and the show coming up in Pomona. Steve gave out samples of Wonder Stone he had collected.
Red Jioras brought up the subject of three show cases and materials donated by deceased members and requested permission to have three signs made up to recognize and in memory of the deceased members. It was m/s/c to grant his request.
Red announced there will be a work party at the Museum on Saturday December 12th at 9 am to do a complete cleaning inside and out. Everyone is invited. Bring your own lunch and drink, gloves etc.
There was a discussion on finding out how many members would like to subscribe to the Rock & Gem Magazine at 1/2 price.
Programs: Kathryn Davis reported she already has one dealer signed up for our March 6-7, 1999 show and that we will be having a silent auction at our regular meeting on November 11, 1998.
Red Jioras said there will be a show committee meeting following the Board meeting. The next show committee meeting will be following the Board meeting on December 3, 1998.
There being no further business, President Pro-Tem Richard Jioras, adjourned the meeting at 8:35 pm.
Respectfully submitted,
Richard Bromser,
Recording Secretary Pro-Tem.
MINUTES OF THE GENERAL MEETING - November 11, 1998;
The General Meeting was called to order at 7:40 p.m. by President, John McCabe.
From President McCabe: VGMS Christmas Dinner is scheduled for Wednesday, December 9, 1998, at 6:00 and eat at 6:30 p.m. The new VGMS officers will be installed after the Christmas dinner and Bob Stultz will host the Installation of the 1999 Officers. The cost for the Christmas Dinner is $5 per person. Clean up for the Museum building has been scheduled for December 12, 1998, 9:00 a.m. Bring a lunch. A sign up sheet for the clean up was provided. A Pricing Party for the VGMS Show will be held Tuesday, November 17, 1998.
Field Trip: Greg Davis, Field Trip Chairman, has organized the field trip to Stoddard Wells, Saturday, November 14, 1998. Meet at the K-Mart parking lot on Victoria Avenue, at 8:00 a.m. Pack a lunch. Hard rock tools will be needed to dislodge the larger pieces of marble.
VGMS Show: Red Jioras reported that the first Show Committee meeting was held after the November 5th Board Meeting. The Club would like to make $1,000 profit from the 1999 Show. Show flyers were available for the members to pick up and start distributing. Particular emphasis will be placed on the pre sale of prize tickets.
Treasurer's Report: Richard Bromser gave the treasurers report and the check book balance.
Dues: Wayne Ehlers reminded members that Membership Dues are due by January 1, 1999.
Quartzsite / Tucson Show: Steve Mulqueen encouraged members interested in attending the Quartzsite / Tucson Show to get their campsite / hotel / motel reservations in now.
Bulletin Deadline: Shirley Layton stated that the deadline for the December Bulletin is November 20, 1998.
Election of 1999 Officers: Richard Bromser, Nominating Committee Chair, presented the following slate of candidates for 1999:
- President - Steve Mulqueen,
- 1st Vice President-Programs - Kathryn Davis,
- 2nd Vice President-Field Trips - Greg Davis,
- 3rd Vice President-Show Chairperson - Jay Baumler,
- Treasurer - Richard Bromser,
- Recording Secretary - Carlon Strobel,
- Membership Secretary - Sharon Cunningham,
- Federation Director - Florence Meisenheimer,
- Bulletin Editor - Bonnie Demianiw,
- Parliamentarian John McCabe / Wayne Ehlers.
There being no further nominations from the floor, it was m/s/c to cast a white ballot for the slate of candidates as presented by the nominating committee.
Installation of the 1999 officers will be held after the Christmas Dinner, December 9, 1998. Bob Stultz will preside over the installation of officers.
Country Store: Shirley Layton reminded members that we need items and plants for the County Store.
David Mautz conducted the drawings.
Program: "Past VGMS Shows" presented by Red Jioras.
Silent Auction.
There being no further business, President McCabe adjourned the meeting at 9:15 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Carlon Strobel,
Recording Secretary.
MINUTES OF THE BOARD MEETING - December 3, 1998;
The meeting was called to order at 7:45 p.m. at the VGMS Museum. There were 16 members present.
Federation Report: Florence Meisenheimer provided CFMS' undated price list. Price changes are slight. Pins for the officers have not been ordered in time to present at the December installation of officers. The pins can be presented in January. Florence will send CFMS our 1999 list of club officers in January. Congratulations to Shirley Layton! The bulletin placed 4th in the AFMS. The Bureau of Land Management has changed some of the rules on collecting petrified wood. The limit is now 250 lbs per year, 25 lbs per day. BLM has closed 14 more rivers by including them as "American Heritage Rivers".
Treasurer's Report: Richard Bromser distributed copies of the Treasurer's Report for the month of November, 1998 and requested approval for payment of bills, check nos. 510-513.
MOTION: It was m/s/c to pay the bills submitted.
MOTION: It was m/s/c to purchase poinsettias to use as table center pieces at the VGMS Christmas Dinner.
Christmas Dinner: The dinner is scheduled for Wednesday, December 9,1998, 6:30 p.m. at the American Legion Hall. The new VGMS officers will be installed after the Christmas dinner and entertainment. Bob Stultz will host the installation. Members should bring a $5, non gender specific, gift for our Bingo game.
Bulletin Deadline: Shirley Layton stated that the deadline for the December bulletin will be December 5th. Our incoming Bulletin Editor, Bonnie Demianiw, will receive articles for the bulletin either by e-mail or regular mail.
MOTION: It was m/s/c that the club will pay for membership to Scribe for our new editor.
Membership Report: Sharon Cunningham reported that the Club has five new members for 1999.
Museum Loan: Ray Meisenheimer stated that some of VGMS Museum's "skull and bones" will he on loan to the Ojai Museum for three mouths.
Fossil Display: Steve Mulqueen will be preparing and setting up a fossil display for the Santa Paula Museum.
From Red Jioras: A clean up day has been scheduled for the Museum and grounds on Saturday, December l2, 1998, at 9:00 a.m. Bring a sack lunch, drinks will be provided. Red presented four plaques which will be placed in cases recognizing donations and dedicating cases in memorial to VGMS members. Red stated that members may subscribe to Rock & Gem Magazine at a discounted amount if we can submit a list of at least five new subscribers. The cost would be $24 for a two year subscription. Red and Nancy Jioras helped set up and attended the Oxnard Show. They had a great time and a lot of fun. We should help the other clubs more.
Next Board Meeting: The next VGMS Board Meeting will be January 7,1999 with a VGMS Show Meeting afterward.
There being no further business President McCabe adjourned the meeting at 8:35 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Carlon Strobel,
Recording Secretary.
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MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY CHANGE.
Please change your membership directories to show the following new address for John McCabe:
John & Bonnie McCabe,
10665 San Marcos Rd.,
Atascadero, CA 93422-2211,
Tele. (805) 464-0528.
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SUNSHINE.
We would like to extend our condolences to Valli Davis in the loss of her father in a tragic accident. Our thoughts and prayers are with her and her family.
Sharlyne Holloway and Marian Vient underwent cataract surgery, very successfully for which we are thankful.
Haven't heard of anything else, but hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving and a blessed Holiday Season.
Eleanor Rising,
Sunshine Chairperson.
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HOSPITALITY.
Sharlyne Holloway sitting at the member register and guest book is always a good welcome! The Holidays have blown my mind and I don't know the number we had in attendance at the October and November meeting, but it was a nice group! Thank you to Sharlyne and Eleanor for the Hospitality duties for '98. Hope we will see you there again in '99!
Dave Mautz did his usual exciting job of prizes to members, guests and pebble pups. He has picked out some good stuff. Fortunately I was even a winner and got some of it! Unfortunately Marsha Spille wasn't with us in October and missed the $20 Name Tag drawing, nor was Jennifer Flowers at the November meeting and she missed the $25. This will make a nice $30 for January (we don't draw in December). Thanks Dave for the good job you do with the prizes all during the year.
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IN MEMORIAM:
GENE RUTLEDGE.
We are saddened to report that Louis Eugene "Gene" Rutledge lost his battle with cancer on October 5, 1998. Although he had not been feeling well for some time, his cancer was not confirmed until July, right after the CFMS Show and Convention.
He was a surveyor and honored career man in the U.S. Construction Battalions of the Navy for over 20 years and upon his retirement, served as Deputy County Surveyor for Ventura County, was President of Channel Islands Chapter of California Land Surveyors Association, President of the California State Board of Land Surveyors, taught surveying at the Ventura Junior College, and ran his own land surveying company.
Gene was an active member of the Oxnard Gem & Mineral Society for many years and served as Show Chairman for the Oxnard hosted CFMS Show in Ventura in 1993. His leadership qualities were recognized by the CFMS Nominating Committee when they asked him to allow his name to be placed in nomination for CFMS Secretary for 1997. This he did, and in 1998 he was elected 2nd Vice President, editing the CFMS Newsletter for six months until his health forced him to resign from office.
Gene was a quiet, genial, unassuming man but he was an excellent leader and was looking forward to having a chance to serve the Federation as President. He would have made a good one. He was a good friend and will be missed by many.
via CFMS Newsletter 11/98.
Our condolences to Gene's family.
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IN MEMORIAM:
BARBARA FOERSTER.
We are sad to report the passing of Barbara Foerster, charter member of Conejo Gem and Mineral Club, November 17.
There are not enough words to describe what a wonderful person Barbara was. She was kind and thoughtful to every one and very generous with her time to her family, the gem club, her church and the community.
For years Barbara was "The Fossil Lady" to hundreds of school children in Thousand Oaks, Agoura and Newbury Park, giving as many as three talks a day. She shared her own collection of fossils with the students until the supply ran out.
Although she knew she was ill, she went with her brother to South America who planned to donate two weeks of medical care to underprivileged natives. She was her brother's assistant. That is the way Barbara was.
She will be dearly missed by so many friends. We extend our most sincere sympathy to her husband Roy and to her family.
Contributed by Florence Meisenheimer.
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JANUARY BIRTHDAYS.
Happy Birthday to all those born in January, we hope you have a Great Day!
January - Happy Birthday!!
- Ray Ritchey - 3rd,
- Paul Demianiw - 7th,
- Shawne Lardin - 9th,
- Marie Ehlers - 13th,
- Marge Sacher - 18th,
- Delee Leffert - 21st,
- Florence Meisenheimer - 23rd,
- Lou Haake - 28th,
- Fred Holloway - 30th.
The January birthstone is the Garnet and the flower is the Carnation or Snowdrop.
GARNET:
While Garnet has never been considered a precious stone, it has appeared on lists of natal stones dating back over 5000 years, and is the birthstone decreed for January by the American Jewelers Association, first adopted in 1919.
The small garnet pebbles mined by the ants in Arizona and New Mexico were known as "Job's Tears". The Indians used these encrusted in pitch on their war dress with the belief that no arrow or spear could penetrate them.
Contributed by Florence Meisenheimer.
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"A BIT OF HUMOR."
Sherlock Holmes and Dr Watson went on a camping trip. After a good meal and a bottle of wine they lay down for the night, and went to sleep. Some hours later, Holmes awoke and nudged his faithful friend. "Watson look up at the sky and tell me what you see." Watson replied, "I see millions and millions of stars." "What does that tell you?"
Watson pondered for a minute. "Astronomically, it tells me that there are millions of galaxies and potentially billions of planets. Astrologically, I observe that Saturn is in Leo. Horologically, I deduce that the time is approximately a quarter past three. Theologically, I can see that God is all powerful and that we are small and insignificant. Meteorologically, I suspect that we will have a beautiful day tomorrow. What does it tell you?"
Holmes was silent for a minute, then spoke. "Elementary my dear Watson. Someone has stolen our tent."
Author Unknown.
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VGMS "GOOD COOK" RECIPES.
I think we all have experienced Carlon Stroebel's Pumpkin Elizabeth at the meetings or even at the show during the Friday night dinner. Some also experienced her "Shrimp Creole" at the Afton Canyon Field Trip. At any rate they are too good to let her keep them to herself and she is willing to share! Thank you Carlon, keep up the good cooking (and sharing)!!
PUMPKIN ELIZABETH:
1 Libby's Solid Pack Pumpkin (29 oz can),
1½ cups granulated sugar,
1 teaspoon salt,
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon,
1 teaspoon ground ginger,
½ teaspoon ground cloves,
4 eggs,
1 can evaporated milk,
1 box yellow cake mix,
1 cup chopped pecans,
1 cup melted butter.
Mix: sugar, salt, cinnamon, ginger and cloves in medium bowl.
Beat eggs lightly in large bowl.
Stir in pumpkin and sugar-spice mixture.
Gradually stir in evaporated milk.
Put in 9 x 13 pan.
Crumble 1 box yellow cake mix on top.
Chop pecans and sprinkle liberally over the top.
Drizzle melted butter over the top.
Bake at 350 for 1 hour or until knife comes out clean in center of cake.
SHRIMP CREOLE:
1 cup onion,
1 cup celery,
1 cup bell pepper,
1 tablespoon butter,
3 bay leaves,
½ teaspoon salt,
½ teaspoon ground ginger,
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper,
½ teaspoon white pepper,
1 can tomato sauce (l5 oz),
2 lbs raw/peeled/deveined shrimp.
Saute onion, celery and bell pepper in butter (about 5 minutes).
Add: 2 cups water, bay leaves, salt, ginger, cayenne and white peppers.
Simmer 45 minutes.
Add: tomato sauce.
Simmer 30 minutes.
Add: shrimp.
Simmer 30 minutes.
Serve over rice.
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EARTH SCIENCE STUDIES AT ZZYZX.
A typical day at the Earth Science Studies is an exciting one. About sixty attendees gather in groups to learn or improve their lapidary skills.
After a sumptuous breakfast the field trippers are off for a day of collecting or sight-seeing, with lunch served in the field.
The others go to the various workshops--stone carving, bead stringing, silver smithing, wire fabrication, and instructions on award winning cabochons. There is an exciting hum of conversation as new friends are made, ideas exchanged, and lovely items fashioned.
The dates for this very popular studies session will be April 11 to 18, 1999. "ZZYZX" is an old desert resort 50 miles north east of Barstow on ZZYZX Road. The fee for this week long vacation and learning experience is $220 per person.
The facilities are somewhat rustic with shower and toilet facilities in a separate building nearby. Rooms are double occupancy and dorm style. There is adequate room for RV's with no hook-ups. You might be more comfortable if you have an RV, and plan to use it.
by Izzie & Bill Burns, Ray & Florence Meisenheimer,
via CFMS Newsletter 12/98.
Editors Note: There was an application in our October/November Bulletin or you can call Ray or Florence or myself for one.
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AMERICAN LANDS ACCESS ASSOCIATION, INC.,
PO Box 4255,
Grand Junction, CO 81502.
TO: Rockhound Clubs & Societies of America;
Dear Fellow Rockhounds,
As the new year begins we would like to request your support of a major, renewed effort of American Lands Access Association, Inc. (ALAA), your American Federation of Mineralogical Societies lobbying organization. This effort will need your financial support, and an extensive letter writing effort to be successful.
The main purpose of the ALAA and our legislative initiatives is the preservation of your access to public lands. Yet every year brings further closure of public lands to collecting activities of all kinds. This trend threatens to completely eliminate field trips and other hobby collecting activities in the future. To preserve these rights, we must write into law the rights of all citizens to access public lands for educational and recreational purposes.
Next year brings us an opportunity to make progress on this issue. We will be introducing two Bills into the United States Congress. These Bills deal with your rights to collect. The first one is "The Fossil Preservation Act of 1999". The second is the "Mineral and Mineral Material Collecting Act of 1999". Both are written and sponsored by the ALAA in our effort to preserve your, and your children's, collecting rights on federally managed lands. Copies of the Bills are enclosed for your inspection. (Editor's Note: Call me at 805-642-2683 to see copies of these bills.)
The ALAA is now beginning a major effort to get these two legislative Bills introduced into this next Congress and passed. But, only with your enthusiastic support will we succeed. YOU are the key. The ALAA has written these Bills. With your financial support we can get them introduced into this Congress. Therefore, we urgently request that you and your club contribute to this cause NOW. Please mail your contributions. If you are a non-member please join. The ALAA needs substantial funds to send our lobbyist, Marion Zenker, to Washington, DC. She will arrange introduction of these Bills and then lobby for their passage.
We also need each and every one of you and your organization to write to your Congressional Representatives urging them to support these Bills. We assure you can legally write such a letter and not endanger your non profit or exempt status by following a few rules. In an effort to clarify these rules and restrictions the ALAA commissioned a legal opinion from a law firm specializing in the area of Exempt Organizations. This document clearly indicates that, under certain rules and restrictions, lobbying is allowed for tax exempt, charitable organizations whose exemption from taxation is under I.R.C. 501(c)(3). A full copy of the twelve page opinion is available on request to the ALAA.
The American Lands Access Association is an organization made up of only amateur collectors who belong to clubs and societies, just like yourselves. No one other than our lobbyists receive any payment for their services outside of general out-of-pocket expense reimbursement. If you believe the preservation of collecting activity is an important part of our hobby, you must support this effort.
Sincerely,
Jon Spunaugle, President ALAA,
Past President, Northwest Federation of Mineralogical Societies, Inc.
American Lands Access Association is a 501(c)(4) organization. Donations are not tax deductible.
EDITORS NOTE: Anyone interested in joining the ALAA please see Shirley Layton or Florence Meisenheimer for an application form. They are a worthwhile and necessary organization to our hobby. The membership fee is $25.00 Annually.
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CFMS NEWS - FALL MEETING.
The regular fall business meeting was held in Visalia November 14.
Delinquent societies include Glendale/Verdugo Hills Gem & Min. Societies and VIP Gem & Min. Soc.
Disbanded societies include Mother Lode Mineralites, San Dieguido, San Fernando Valley and Westside Mineralogists. No new club applied.
Wes Lingerfelt presented the budget, with almost $4000.00 revenue over expenses. He reported that CFMS funds are soundly invested.
Isabella Burns stated the Earth Science Studies could not have been better. "Our programs at ZZYZX and Paradise were really great." Ray Meisenheimer announced that in conjunction with Camp Paradise September l2-l9, 1999 a petrified wood seminar will be held, with Walt Wright instructing. The wood seminar attendees would not be taking classes on lapidary arts, and will be restricted to 30. Details are to be worked out.
CFMS is in the process of establishing a World Wide Web site with Don Ogden from Orange County as web master, and Wes Lingerfelt his assistant. There will be some expense, but it is necessary and advantageous to be on the net.
The show in Monterey was a very good show, show-wise and otherwise. $7170.89 was turned over to CFMS.
1999 show will be in Turlock at the Fairgrounds June 18, 19, 20. Everything will be at the Fairgrounds--meetings, banquet, etc. Hotels run about $75.00 per day. Motels may be a little less expensive. Camping on grass at the F.G. is $20.00 per day with electricity.
The show in 2000 is in Riverside at the Convention Center the 1st week-end of August.
No other show bids at the present time.
CFMS Officers unanimously elected for 1999:
President - Ken Kruschke,
1st VP - Beverly Hafeli,
2nd VP - Bob Stultz,
Treasurer - Jack Williams,
Secretary - Jo Anna Richey.
The CFMS Long Range Planning committee elected Isabella Burns as AFMS president for the year 2001. We congratulate Izzie. Every 7th year the AFMS president is from California.
Liability Insurance remains the same for 1999--l.00 per member. Due to illness Vince Anderson is no longer the committee chairman. Jesse Young will be in charge.
Richard Knox, Museum Committee reported that the Mariposa Mineral & Mining Museum may have to close due to lack of funds. In that event the CFMS minerals displayed there will have to be moved.
Pat LaRue, CFMS Endowment Fund reported the fund is now over 135,000.00 and as yet the interest is intact.
Chuck McKee, Field Trip North had to cancel the trip he had arranged for in May, 1999. The area has since been closed.
Jo Anna Richey has no plans for a field trip South at this time.
The PLAC report is the next section--be sure to read it. E-mail is making a difference. With BLM receiving more than 20,000 letters, they are beginning to listen.
When disbanding, a non profit club must disburse their funds to another non profit organization. Mother Lode Gem & Mineral Society donated $4000.00 to CFMS Scholarship Fund and $1500.00 to the CFMS Endowment Fund.
The Saturday evening banquet was well attended. Ray Meisenheimer was installing officer for the new officers. Being well acquainted with each of them he felt honored to do so.
Contributed by Florence Meisenheimer,
Federation Director.
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+ + + + + + + + + + + + +
AND A MERRY CHRISTMAS TO YOU.
In the last minute rush of Christmas shopping, a lady bought a box of 50 identical greeting cards. Without bothering to read the verse, she hastily signed and addressed all but one of them. Several days later after they had been mailed, she came across the one unsent card and looked at the message. She was horrified -- it said, "This card is just to say a little gift is on the way".
from Nugget News 12/90 via CFMS Newsletter 12/98.
+ + + + + + + + + + + + +
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PUBLIC LANDS ADVISORY
COMMITTEE REPORT.
PUBLIC LANDS ADVISORY COMMITTEE
SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT
TO THE
OFFICERS AND DIRECTORS
OF THE
California Federation
of Mineralogical Societies
November 14, 1998.
Several issues involving public use of federal public lands have surfaced in the past few months. The most recent is a BLM Notice of Proposed Rulemaking regarding collection of invertebrate fossils from public lands. The present regulations are somewhat vague and enforced different ways at different times and locations.
The proposal is to consolidate and print in "Plain Language" in an effort to make the regulations easier to locate and easier to understand. The term designating the quantity that can be collected for personal use says a "reasonable amount" which is interpreted many different ways.
The proposed rule would allow individuals to collect a maximum of 25 lbs. per day of invertebrate and/or plant fossils, other than petrified wood, and the surrounding matrix in which the fossil is imbedded. As proposed, the rule would require a permit for more than the maximum amount. In addition, the rule would require a permit for collection of invertebrates and plant fossils on lands where BLM has posted or published a restriction on fossil collection.
BLM may designate areas where fossil collection is prohibited. They may also designate areas where collection is restricted but not prohibited.
The BLM is asking for comments on the proposed rule making. Additional information is available from Carl Barna at the Washington, DC BLM office--Phone (202) 452-0325. Written comments should be mailed to BLM Administrative Record, Room 401, LS, 1849 C Street NW, Washington, DC 20240. (This information courtesy of Jon Spunaugle, ALAA.)
For those rockhounds using off road vehicles presently having California "Green Stickers", a new restriction by the EPA regarding two stroke engines may be of interest. Check with your local ORV supplier for all the current information. The new restrictions may apply to water craft in addition to ground vehicles, so all potential purchasers should check on the facts before you invest your money.
Many bits of information, some fact and some rumor, have been passed around concerning the current planning referred to as the NECO Plan. The Plan includes 18% of Eastern Imperial County and 42% of both San Bernardino and Riverside Counties. While the lead agency is the BLM, several agencies are involved. The U S Fish and Wildlife Service is the one with the "big stick" as they are enforcing the endangered species law and interpretations thereof.
Because of the concerns CFMS Members have expressed, the San Diego Council of Mineral & Gem Societies and Imperial Valley Gem & Mineral Society, in co-operation with CFMS Public Lands Advisory Committee, made arrangements for the Bureau of Land Management to allow Richard Crowe to make a presentation on the plan at the Holtville Rockhound Roundup. The presentation will be at 3:00 P.M. on Friday, November 27th in the Civic Center adjacent to the Holtville City Hall.
If any of you are in the area, this will be a chance to get current information. There will be a question and answer opportunity as well as a chance to present written opinions and position papers from the various societies and clubs.
Thus far, no answers have been received to the request that all clubs ask one of their members to work with any National Forest they use for educational and/or recreational activities. The planning as to which roads will be closed and which will be left open is progressing. We (PLAC) sincerely hope that you have someone involved in expressing your concerns. If not, many of the access routes we (rockhounds) have used in the past may be closed due to limited funds for continuing repair of the routes.
Some changes have been made in the structure of PLAC. We will certainly miss Bernie and Carol Mauldin who have been longtime members of PLAC. Carol passed away and Bernie is not feeling well. We ask that all members remember Bernie in their prayers.
via Florence Meisenheimer,
Federation Director.
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CFMS TAX ADVISOR REPORT.
TAX ADVISOR,
PLEASE! PLEASE! PASS IT ON (YOUR CFMS NEWSLETTER).
Recently a Society contacted me regarding an application for exemption they filed with the Internal Revenue Service. The people that prepared the application were not aware that I was available to provide free help. The Society withdrew their application and will have to start over gain. That requires a new filing fee as well.
Several of my CFMS newsletter articles the past few years included material that should be retained permanently for guidance to the Societies and their officers.
Please do three things for me.
- Make sure all current officers have an opportunity to read the newsletter.
- Keep a file of items of long term interest such as my articles on sales tax.
- Make sure new officers are aware of the file.
You will not only save time; you could save money.
Thanks for your help.
Mike Kokinos.
via Florence Meisenheimer,
Federation Director.
Table of Contents.
SOUTH POLE FOSSILS.
South Pole Fossils are found within 400 km of the pole. The leaves are from a deciduous southern beech (Nothofagus). More than 50 kg were found on Beardsmore Glacier - in the mountains. The fossils indicate a warmer climate about 3 million years ago - from 5C in the summer to -20C in the winter.
Dusty Rocks,
via AFMS Newsletter 9/98.
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WORLD'S OLDEST AND
LARGEST METEORITE
DISCOVERED IN CHINA.
The World's oldest and largest meteorite has been discovered in China near the northeast city of Shenyang. The meteorite, locally called Huashitai Hill, is estimated to be 4.5 to 4.6 billion years old and fell to earth 1.9 billion years ago. The meteorite mound is 600 feet long, 250 feet wide and about 300 feet deep. It weighs about 2 million tons and is covered with granite. The meteorite is older than any natural earth rock. The site is planned to be a state protected nature reserve.
Rocky Trails,
via AFMS Newsletter 9/98.
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IGNEOUS ROCK LIST
by Jane Huelsmeyer.
Igneous rocks form from cooling magna. If magma erupts from a volcano and cools on the surface, extrusive rocks form. If the magma is trapped in the crust and cools there, intrusive rocks form.
INTRUSlVE ROCKS
(cools slowly underground, crystals are visible):
PERIDOTITE - see olive green crystals,
GABRO - all or mostly black crystals,
DIORITE - mixture of black and white crystals,
GRANITE - three types of minerals (see quartz, white or pink feldspar and other minerals like mica or hornblende.
EXTRUSIVE ROCKS
(cools fast on the surface, microscopic crystals):
BASALT - dull black or reddish brown, heavy rock, some may have bubble holes,
ANDESITE - dull gray, heavy rock, may be light or dark gray,
RHYOLITE - dull light-colored rock (any color but dark gray or black), heavy rock, water solutions may form bands of color or color patterns,
OBSIDIAN - shiny, glassy black rock with smooth surfaces and sharp edges. Used by Indians out west for arrow heads,
PUMICE - white to light gray rock, light weight, so full of holes it may float,
SCORIA - black to reddish brown, light weight, so full of holes it may float,
ASH - sand to flour size particle usually light gray. Ash cemented together is called TUFF.
GEM CITY ROCK NEWS 7/98,
via AFMS Newsletter 10/98.
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THE SHOP PAGE.
When polishing jade, try a little graphite mixed with chrome oxide and applied with an ordinary muslin buff. It makes a wonderful jade polishing agent and is fine on agate. Original source unknown, via The Nugget 12/98.
To cut jade, first grind and polish the jade chunk on six sides as if it were a cube. One of these faces will polish better than the others. Then cut slabs parallel to the best face. Original source unknown, via The Nugget 12/98.
Jade will clog a saw blade. After cutting jade, clean the saw blade by cutting obsidian or a brick, or use a silicon carbide grinding wheel. Original source unknown, via The Nugget 12/98.
When polishing cabochons, it is better to polish the stones at a slower speed. If you don't have a speed control on your polisher, just work the stone on the center of the disc. What you are concerned about, is the surface speed. Remember that your disc surface in one complete revolution at two inches from the center will travel 6.26 inches but, at eight inches from the center will travel 25.12 inches. Rock Rattler via The Nugget 12/98.
To polish tiger eye to a gloss finish, polish once, dry, then put a drop of vinegar on it. Leave a couple of minutes and give another polish. Original Source unknown, via The Nugget 12/98.
When polishing peridot some faceters report that a drop of lemon juice or vinegar will speed things considerably. The slight acid seems responsible for the improvement. Remember to rinse laps and splash pans with plain water when finished. Original source unknown, via The Nugget 12/98.
In working with dark colored moss agate, small pits may appear on the finished surface. The light colored polishing powders often pack into these pits and removal is difficult. A small drop of black India ink touched on the white spots and rubbed with a cloth will work wonders. Original source unknown, via The Nugget 12/98.
To stabilize crumbly matrix, use a solution of 1/2 Elmer's glue and 1/2 water on the back side. Works well on mica matrix. Original source unknown, via The Nugget 12/98.
Table of Contents.
CLEANING SILVER.
We've all seen these ads for a special sterling silver cleaner you can send off for, that helps you easily and quickly remove tarnish by simply soaking your silver in a solution.
Well, according to the Consumer Reports July 1998 issue, this method works quite well, but you don't have to send off for the special offer in order to be able to do the same thing with your silver. The principle involved is that silver sulfide (tarnish) breaks down and chemically transfers to the aluminum on the special tray that is sent with the kit.
Consumer Reports says that you can do the same thing with aluminum foil. Just put a large piece of foil in a container of water, add baking soda, and cover the silver with boiling water. Same props, you just didn't pay someone for their aluminum! It takes about four minutes to work, and you do have to scrub down the container. But your own foil (unlike the special "aluminum" you are sold on TV) doesn't need cleaning, you can just throw it away.
Via The Coral Geode 10/98.
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1998 AFMS/CFMS SHOWS
AND EVENTS.
DECEMBER 12-13 YUBA CITY, CA - Sutter Buttes Gem & Mineral Soc, Yuba-Sutter County Fairgrounds, Franklin Hall - 442 Franklin Ave. Hours: Sat 9-5, Sun 9-4. Carollyn Lautton (530) 742-6458.
REMAINING AFMS SHOW - 1998.
There are seven AFMS shows during the year. If you are traveling in or near the areas, you may want to visit one or more of the shows.
SOUTHEASTERN - November 14-15, Charleston, SC. Host: Low Country Gem & Mineral.
Table of Contents.
1999 AFMS/CFMS SHOWS
AND EVENTS.
JANUARY 9-10 TAMPA, FL - Tampa Bay Mineral and Science Club, Fort Hesterly Armory, 504 N. Howard Ave. Hours: Sat. 10-6, Sun. 10-5. Millie Heym (813) 626-6997.
FEBRUARY 12-21 INDIO, CA - San Gorgonio Mineral & Gem Soc., Riverside Co. Fair & National Date Festival. Hours: 10am - 10pm each day. Bert Grisham (909) 849-1674.
FEBRUARY 27-28 NORTH HOLLYWOOD, CA - Del Air Rockhounds, Sierra Pelona Rock Club, VIP Gem & Min, Woodland Hills Rockchippers. San Fernando Valley Fair, Valley Plaza Recreation Center, 12240 Archwood St. Hours: 10-5 both days. Gary Stanford (805) 259-9440.
FEBRUARY 20-23 STOCKTON, CA - Stockton Lapidary & Mineral Club, Scottish Rite Temple, 33 W. Alpine Ave. Hours: Sat 10-6, Sun 10-5. Jim Dunlap (?) 478-0747.
MARCH 5-7 PHOENIX, AZ - Maricopa Lapidary Society, Mt. Preserve Reception & Conference Center, 1431 E. Dunlap. Hours: Fri & Sat 10-6, Sun 10-5. Elmer Miller (602) 977-2719.
MARCH 5-7 HAYWARD, CA - Min & Gem Soc of Castro Valley, Centennial Hall 22292 Foothill Blvd. Hours: Fri & Sat 10-5, Sun 10-5. Judy Karls (510) 581-7123.
MARCH 6-7 VENTURA, CA - Ventura Gem & Mineral Soc, Seaside Park (Ventura Co. Fairgrounds). Hours: Sat. 10-6, Sun. 10-5. Richard Jioras (805) 646-7184.
MARCH 6-7 MONROVIA, CA - Monrovia Rockhounds, Masonic Temple, 204 W. Foothills Blvd. Hours: Sat 10-6, Sun 10-5. Kris McFarland (626) 337-8596.
MARCH 13-14 TURLOCK, CA - Mother Lode Mineral Society, Stanislaus County Fairgrounds, 600 N. Broadway. Hours: 10-5 both days. Marion Sampson (209) 848-2709.
MARCH 13-14 SAN MARINO, CA - Pasadena Lapidary Society, San Marino Masonic Temple, 3130 Huntington Dr. Hours: Sat 10-6, Sun 10-5. Gail Poulson (213) 258-8705.
MARCH 20-21 SAN JOSE, CA - Santa Clara Valley Gem & Min, Santa Clara Co. Fairgrounds, 334 Tully Rd. Hours: Sat 10-6, Sun 10-5. Chuck Blblenz (408) 734-2473.
MARCH 20-21 VALLEJO, CA - Vallejo Gem & Mineral Society, Solano County Building, Solano County Fairgrounds. Hours: 10-5 both days. Dolores Mack (707) 644-3035.
MARCH 27-28 TORRANCE, CA - South Bay Lapidary & Min Soc, Torrance Recreation Center, 3341 Torrance Blvd. Hours: Sat 10-6, Sun 10-5. Roger Mills (310) 377-6226.
MARCH 27-28 BORON, CA - Mojave Mineralogical Soc, Boron High School, Multi-Purpose Room. Hours: Sat 9-6, Sun 9-4. Tailgating, camping, field trips. P.O. Box 511, Boron, CA 93596-0511.
MARCH 27-28 ROSEVILLE, CA - Roseville Rock Rollers, Placer County Fairgrounds. Hours: Sat 10-6, Sun 10-5. Terry Rutherford (916) 987-1244.
MARCH 27-28 LA HABRA, CA - North Orange County Gem & Min, La Habra Club House, 200 W. Greenwood. Hours: Sat 10-6, Sun 10-5. Loretta Ogden (909) 598-2456.
AFMS SHOWS - 1999.
MIDWEST FEDERATION - APRIL 10-11, COLUMBUS, OH,
Veterans Memorial, 300 W. Borad St. Contact: Don Hall, 56 S. Columbia Ave., Columbus, OH 43209 (614) 252-0781, ext 192. E-Mail: Hall-dd@csg.capital.eedu.
CALIFORNIA FEDERATION - JUNE 18-20, TURLOCK, CA,
Stanislaus County Fairgrounds. Contact: Al Troglin & Dennis Stuart at: www.bell21.com/motherlode/, Mother Lode Mineral Society, hosts.
NORTHWEST FEDERATION - JUNE 18-20, HILLSBORO, OR,
Washington County Fairgrounds. Contact: Russell Snook, 73 South 26th Ave., Cornelius, OR 97113, Tulatin Valley Gem Club, hosts.
AFMS/SOUTHEAST FEDERATION - JULY 9-11, NASHVILLE, TN
Tennessee State Fairgrounds. Contact: William Buckner, 115 Carney Rd., Clarksville, TN 37040, Middle Tennessee Gem & Min, hosts.
SOUTH CENTRAL FEDERATION - AUGUST 21-22, BOSSIER CITY, LA
Bossier City Civic Center. Contact: Gene Powell, 903 Lazywood, Shreveport, LA 71108, Ar-La-Tex Gem & Min, hosts.
ROCKY MOUNTAIN FEDERATION - NOVEMBER 19-21, TUCSON, AZ
Pima Fairgrounds. Contact: Gary Howell Old Pueblo Lapidary Club, hosts.
Table of Contents.
EDITORS NOTE:
Just for the record any unsigned articles are by the Editor. Thank you to all who help make the bulletin more interesting by contributing articles and information for events. We all appreciate it!!!! Happy Holidays to everyone and the best of luck to Bonnie.
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 |
A NIGHT |
 T'was the eve a'fore ChristmasAnd there in the night, The desert was quiet Not a rockhound in sight. Our socks were all hung By the fire's ruby glow -- In the hope that Mama  Would sew up the toe.The kids were all stacked In their warm little bunks With visions of agate -- Slabs, boulders, and chunks. Me in my long johns And Ma in her sack, Had jumped into bed It was cold as a tack. From out in the sage brush Came a hullaballoo;  I sprang to the windowTo throw out a shoe. I strained my eyes 'Til my brow was a furrow Along came a geezer A-leading his burro. By the size of his belly And his face full of hair, I knew it was Santa.... Or a grizzly bear. "Go Rudolph, go Rudolph  You stubborn old mule,Get moving there Rudolph You lop-eared old fool." Then quick as a polecat I heard him on top That durn red-nosed burro Goin' clippity clop. Santa's trip down the chimney Was something uncanny, The fire was burnin' And scorched his poor fanny.  He was dressed all in denimFrom his head to his shoes And his nose was all red Like he'd drunk too much booze. He had a middle age spread That just wouldn't quit, And a rock bag so big It was already split. He spied my old trim saw, The one that was broke. "By golly you're rockhounds,  You're my kind of folk."He sat down at the table And we both had some java And threw bull about agate, And opal and lava. He told me of old times -- Of Horse Canyon agate,  Of the good times at Boron,Of jasper from Daggett. He told of deliveries to What now are ghost cities -- Of Bullfrog and Bodie They're dead, what a pity. Then from out of his pack For me and for Ma, What did he pull But a big slabbing saw.  There was a hammer for Dougie,And a black light for Ginny, And a bag of rock candy So we wouldn't get skinny. Then lookin' at the fire And feelin' his sore He decided it was best To leave through the door.But I heard him exclaim As he fell in the mine, "Merry Christmas, you rockhounds And Auld Lang Syne." |
from The Gem News 1972 via CFMS Newsletter 12/98.
Table of Contents.
Table of Contents.
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