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The Ventura Gem & Mineral Society, Inc. (VGMS)
Rockhound Rambling
March 2008.

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

Description: Fluorite Mine Golden Plume Agate.

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 AND SCHEDULE;
• RECIPES;
• MEMBERSHIP;
• MEETING MINUTES;
• 2008 SHOW RECAP;
• CHIPS AND BOULDERS;
• GEMS FROM THE PAST;
• FIELD TRIPS ARE FUN;
• FEDERATION NEWS;
• BEEZLEBUFO;
• HINTS AND TIPS;
• LET'S BE SAFE OUT THERE;
• EDUCATIONAL CORNER;
• LET'S GO TO A SHOW - 2008.

PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE.

Well, another show is over and done. Everyone has a reason to be proud of our effort. The folks with the green eye shades tell us that we beat the averages for our last 5 shows. In fact the Country Store was the biggest income earner this year. To think we almost didn't have it! A special thanks to Abe Barshai for taking on the job of Show Chair for 2008 and now let's get behind Andy Anderson to start working on the 2009 show.

Speaking of shows, the CFMS show is coming up in June. I encourage everyone to participate to the fullest. The Tri-clubs will be holding a Silent Auction with the proceeds going to the CFMS Endowment fund in the name of Ray Meisenheimer. So be sure to pick up a few extra pieces on every field trip for that. I also encourage anyone that is planning on putting in a case to enter it in competition. Competition can be a little bit daunting, but my experience in competing in all levels is that it's much more intimidating thinking about it than actually doing it. If you have any questions or concerns about competing please feel free to contact me.

The other big item on our agenda for the next few months is our museum and shop. We really need to move out as the property is increasingly uninhabitable and likely to be unavailable or even demolished at any time. We are in the process of taking stock of all the material in the building and determining what to do with it. We are looking at many options from short term storage to donations to selling material, and always looking for an alternative facility. By "we" I mean all of our club members. If you haven't already participated in this process please give it some thoughts, this is a valuable resource and we can use any ideas you can come up with.

Ed Clark,
President.

  Table of Contents.

WORDS TO LIVE BY.

The world is round, and the place that may seem like the end may also be only the beginning.

One can have no smaller or greater mastery than mastery of one's self.

If we did the things we are capable of, we would astound ourselves.

Three grand essentials to happiness in this life are something to do, something to love, and something to hope for.

Contributed by Wayne Ehlers.

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UPCOMING VGMS EVENTS.

Zzyzx - March 23 through March 30.
Regular Meeting - Wednesday, March 26, 7:30 pm, The Lexington, Ventura.
Board Meeting - Thursday, April 3, 7:30 pm, The Lexington, Ventura.
Bulletin Article Deadline - Sunday, April 6, vgms_editor@roadrunner.com.

If omitted, time, location or address can be found on the Vgms Info Page. (Close the new window to return here.)

  Table of Contents.

BIRTHDAYS.

Howard Balentine - March 16,
Greg Davis - March 18,
Callie Stephens - March 19,
Rebecca Foster - March 20,
Heidi Mauer - March 25,
Cyndy Treutelaar - March 27.

Sharon Hixson - April 2,
Richard Bromser - April 10,
Matthew Sanford - April 19,
Frank Boulch - April 22,
Roy Boulch - April 22.

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

Bloodstone - The Martyr's Stone.
     Bloodstone, green jasper dotted with bright red spots of iron oxide, was treasured in ancient times and served for a long time as the birthstone for March. This attractive chalcedony quartz is also known as heliotrope because in ancient times polished stones were described as reflecting the sun: perhaps the appearance of the gem reminded the ancients of the red setting sun, mirrored in the ocean.
     Medieval Christians often used bloodstone to carve scenes of the crucifixion and martyrs, for which reason it was also dubbed the martyr's stone. According to the legend about the origin of bloodstone, it was first formed when drops of Christ's blood fell and stained some jasper at the foot of the cross. A beautiful example of carved bloodstone with the seal of the German Emperor Rudolf II can be seen at the Louvre in Paris.
     Even today, finely pulverized bloodstone is used as a medicine and aphrodisiac in India. Perhaps that explains why it is now rather difficult to find fine specimens of bloodstone on the market. Bloodstone is mined in India, Australia, and the United States.
     Source: http://www.gemstone.org/gem-o-rama/gem-o-rama_birth.html.

Metaphysical Properties.
     Bloodstone is a deep green stone with small red specks. The small red specks are where the stone gets its name. They make the deep green stone appear to be spotted with blood. Bloodstone is excellent for centering and grounding. It is said to help with calming, particularly in survival situations. It brings mystical energies of increasing adaptability and organization, and lessening confusion and anxiety. It is said to be a stone of courage, bringing mental, physical and emotional renewal by releasing blockages. It is said to be particularly good for helping emotional traumas and grief. It also enhances the intellect. Bloodstone is mystically used to bring energy to one in many ways, including bringing abundance and prosperity, as well as smoothing the way with legal issues. It is associated with the base, sacral, solar plexus and heart chakras. Bloodstone is said by intuitive sources to be helpful in treating anemia and other diseases of the blood, blood pressure, cardiovascular system, endocrine system, kidney, bladder, physical strength issues, physical traumas, and post-surgical issues.
     Aquamarine is metaphysically known as a stone of courage and fortitude. It is said to assist with quick intellectual response. It gives peace, and shielding for the aura. Aquamarine is reputed to assist with calming communication issues. Mystical and folk lore states that it is attuned to the sea, and protects travelers on water, and sailors. Aquamarine is associated with the throat chakra.
     Source: http://www.CrystalsAndJewelry.com.

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HOSPITALITY.

Hospitality Committee Chair.
     A big thank you to Valli Davis for assuming Hospitality Chair.
     Valli and Greg will be at Zzyzx and will miss the March regular meeting. Whomsoever that is taking responsibility for making sure member and guest attendance is documented at the March meeting, please be sure to forward the information to Valli. Thank you.

Hostess schedule for upcoming months.
     If you would like to volunteer for an open month, please contact Sharon Cunningham.
March - Shirley Layton,
April - Esther Barshai,
May - Shawne Lardin,
June - Wendy Holder,
July - Open,
August - Nancy & Jim Brace-Thompson,
September - Open,
October - Open,
November/December - Potluck.

Thank you Sharon Cunningham for providing February's refreshments.

  Table of Contents.

PROGRAM REVIEW AND SCHEDULE.

February Program.
     The business of our annual show was the primary program for February.
     As a small bonus, I put together a fun short presentation on Rockhound Rules. This presentation consisted of 15 photos from the Wiley's Well field trip in January. Each was accompanied by one or more rules that rockhounds should follow in the field. Rather than being a dry overview of this subject, the audience was expected to bring their sense of humor. From the laughter and applause afterwards, it sounded like those present truly enjoyed the brief show.
     Thank you to all those in the photos who did not know that you were going to be my subjects.

March Program.
     This program is going to be very different than everything I have scheduled before. Due to the fact that the majority of our officers are going to be absent, I wanted to have a round robin talk from our members (new and old) as to what they want to see in our club. There has been discussion now and in the past that there seems to be an 'in-crowd' in Ventura and that maybe, unintentionally, some people may be excluded from the decision making process or even feel neglected by our club.
     I want to have a discussion by non-officers as to what you want and expect from our club, from sponsors for newer members to field trips for younger people. Whatever. We need your help to make our club a vibrant and, moreover, social gathering where everyone feels a part and contributes.
     Please, come to the meeting and toss in your two cents. I don't want this club to be just for a few people. I want everyone to enjoy it. If we are doing something wrong, let us know. If you have an idea but haven't felt there has been a right time to bring it up, now is the time. This may not be the most glamorous program I've done, but I believe it is one of the most important.
          Thank you, Lowell Foster.

  Table of Contents.

RECIPES.

Esther Barshai submitted these recipes. Thanks! We enjoyed these yummy recipes at our Holiday Potluck.

Chili Releno Pie.
4 4-oz. cans green chilies,
1 lb. jack cheese sliced,
1 lb. cheddar cheese sliced,
4 Tablespoons flour,
2 cups evaporated milk,
4 large eggs,
2 cups tomato sauce.
     Cut chilies open and remove center vein. Line 9" X 12" baking dish with chilies. Layer both cheeses evenly over the chilies. Add rest of chilies over the cheese. Mix flour carefully with a small amount of the milk to make a smooth paste. Mix in the rest of the milk, beat in the eggs, and pour over the chilies and cheese. Bake at 350° for 30 minutes. Add tomato sauce over top and bake another 15 minutes. Serves 12.

Red Pepper Quiche.
2 jars skinless roasted red peppers,
1/3 lb. thinly sliced Swiss cheese,
3 Tablespoons margarine,
1 cup milk,
2 eggs beaten,
Salt and pepper.
     Dry the peppers on paper towels and lay in a pie dish shiny side down, peppers hanging over the edges. Cover the peppers with the Swiss cheese, sealing the bottom. In a small pot, over low flame, mix flour and margarine until creamy. Add milk, salt and pepper, stir until even and thick. Remove from heat and quickly add eggs (so you don't scramble them). Pour the mixture over the cheese and peppers, and fold the peppers from edges toward the center. Bake at 350° for 40 minutes. The dish is ready when the middle is solid. Separate gently from the edges and turn over a plate. Serve upside down.

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MEMBERSHIP.

Welcome New Members.
We are pleased to welcome the following new members.

Wendy Holder,      5453 Quailridge Drive,      Camarillo, CA 93012,      (805) 384-9130,      wendylea1@verizon.net. Interests: faceting, lapidary/jewelry arts, silversmithing.      Sylvia Dahlsten,      1792 Callens Road,      Ventura, CA 93003,      (805) 642-5050,      boparadise@earthlink.net. Interests: all areas.

(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.

VGMS Club Vests and Badges.
     The Club vest colors are royal blue with gold lining. You can also buy or make a blue denim vest. A club patch is available to sew on the back of your vest for a cost of $5.00. You may purchase the patch from the Membership Secretary, Jim Brace-Thompson.


Increasing Member Participation.
     In response to my article in last month's newsletter on "The Responsibility of Membership", I wish to thank Becky Swift for talking with me at our annual show and providing suggestions about ways to increase member participation and commitment. Becky provided one idea in particular that I'd like to see us implement right away, namely, incorporating "membership share" time into each of our monthly meetings. In place of a program or presentation, we occasionally have done a round-robin membership share night at various times in years past. Often, this has been done at our January or February meeting, when members show what they've picked up at Quartzsite, or we've done it during a September meeting, encouraging members to relate any field trip adventures or rock-related vacations they took during the summer. These programs have always proven to be quite interesting and overwhelmingly well received. So I think Becky provides an excellent suggestion to make this a regular feature at each of our monthly meetings - perhaps reserving a bit of time prior to our program or presentation to go around the room and encourage members to relate any field trips they've taken that month, any visits to a museum, any new lapidary projects they're working on, to show off any new minerals or fossils they may have recently purchased, etc. It doesn't need to take a lot of time, nor does it require a lot of effort for members to prepare, so I think it's a great way to keep us all connected with one another and our varied interests. What says everyone else? Let's start by incorporating it into our very next meeting. Thank you for the idea, Becky, and as membership chair, I welcome thoughts from all other members about ways we can increase membership participation and commitment to the club.
          Jim Brace-Thompson, Membership Chair.

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MEETING MINUTES.

Minutes of the VGMS Regular Monthly Meeting;
Wednesday February 26, 2008:
     The regular monthly meeting of the Ventura Gem & Mineral Society was called to order by Ed Clark at 7:30 pm, on Wednesday, February 26, 2008, at The Lexington, Ventura, California.
     The January membership meeting and the February board meeting minutes were corrected and then m/s/c as shown in the bulletin.
Ed Clark welcomed everyone and directed members in the pledge to the flag. IT'S SHOW TIME!! Ed reiterated the need for help at this year's annual show which begins with set up tomorrow morning. Sign up sheets are on every table so as to give us an indication of the numbers we'll have to man this show. Ways and Means door prizes will resume in March.
Greg Davis - A motion was made to change names on the club checking account with Bank of America. Cyndie Day's name will be removed and the names of Ed Clark, Nancy Brace-Thompson and Greg Davis will be added. The motion was seconded and carried.
Ron Wise - Ron mentioned that, although it's still usable, the work shop and museum sustained water damage from the recent rains. Upcoming field trips will include the Kingston Mountain trip March 8, the Ant Hill trip has been rescheduled for March 22 and the Morgan Hill trip has been canceled. A trip to Jalama Beach is also being planned. See Ron for details on all these trips. Show set up will begin tomorrow morning at 9:00 at the Fairgrounds, although, pick up with the rental truck begins earlier at the museum.
Wayne Ehlers - We'll need everyone's help with security when they're not working booths during the show and please wear the security vests.
Jean Wise - Lots has been done for the kid's booth at this year's show but now we need volunteers to sign up and help man it and hand out all these wonderful prizes.
Jim Brace-Thompson - Membership now numbers 49 with the deadline for printing our directory being March 1st. With Nancy taking over the duties of Treasurer, the position of Federation Director is now open. Requirements include attending directors' meetings and annual Federation show meetings.
Abe Barshai - The show preparations have been completed and now we just need the members to do the rest. Vendors and exhibitors should start arriving Friday afternoon. Here's to another successful show.
     Lowell next presented a short slide show on "The Illustrated Rules of Rockhounding".
     Refreshments were provided by Sharon Cunningham.
     The next board meeting will be held March 6th, at The Lexington and the next membership meeting will be held March 26, 2008 also at The Lexington in Ventura.
     There being no further business, Ed adjourned the meeting at 8:45 pm.
          Respectfully submitted,
          Greg Davis,
          Recording Secretary.


Minutes of the VGMS Board Meeting;
Thursday, March 6, 2008:
Present: Ed Clark, Lowell Foster, Jim & Nancy Brace-Thompson, Ron & Jean Wise, Richard & Shirley Bromser, Shirley Layton, Wayne Ehlers, Kathryn Davis, Abe & Esther Barshai, Rob Sankovich, Susan Mulqueen and Greg Davis.
     The Ventura Gem & Mineral Society Board Meeting for March 6, 2008 was called to order by President Ed Clark at 7:30 pm, at The Lexington, 5440 Ralston in Ventura.
Old business:
Greg Davis - Still no help from Help of Ojai. The organization has undergone a lot of changes, with a new Board being installed and probably yet another contact person for our request. I suspect that with their financial situation, the rent for any facility would be beyond our means. We've been asked to wait and that they'd contact us but it's been over a year so far. We'll continue to be patient, but we should probably consider pressing for another meet until we get a definite answer or at least some idea of numbers before we give up hope.
New business:
Ed - The County Science Fair will be on April 23, 10 at 2:30. In the past, the triclubs were represented in one area. The Ventura County Fair begins July 30. Rob Sankovich requested and it was m/s/c to allow the Conejo club to borrow several of our museum fossils for their show in May.
Richard Bromser - Copies of the club show financial report were passed out and the results were good. Richard also mentioned that the charge to the vendors for each table was raised to accommodate meals for them.
Nancy Brace-Thompson - Exhibit forms for the upcoming Federation show are available and all are encouraged to enter and participate. It'll be a busy year for our club but everyone will be needed to help out any way they can.
Jim Brace-Thompson - Our latest club membership count for 2008 is at 53 members and 4 pebble pups. It was m/s/c to accept as members, Wendy Holder and Sylvia Dahlston. Jim also suggested contacting new members and getting them more involved during regular meetings.
Shirley Layton mentioned that David Dill, one of our show vendors (Mother Earth), wrote to say he wanted to thank our club for the way the vendors were treated and fed.
Susan Mulqueen suggested club patches be offered to new members and more be ordered if necessary. Susan also mentioned that Trader Joe's had donated orchids for our show in the past and that perhaps we can revive that donation next year.
Ron Wise - Upcoming field trips include Ant Hill on March 22, Orange Butte on April 15-17 and Jalama Beach on April 26.
Lowell Foster needs programs for the coming months. A movie or assimilation will be presented for the March meeting.
Ed next asked for discussion on the pressing situation of our workshop and museum. The building we now occupy is in such poor condition, we really must remove everything and if that means liquidating some items, then that's what may have to be done. The bottom line is that something does have to be done now and the possibility of relocating to Ojai doesn't look good. Time is short and some materials will need to be removed and stored while other items need to be donated. We'll plan on the Saturday workshop, March 15, and plan to inventory and make some needed decisions. Ed suggested we store Bruno's cases in our Santa Paula facility.
Rob Sankovich offered that a diluted solution of bleach will kill the mold which resulted from recent rain soaking much of the building.
Abe Barshai suggested we approach local schools for space to house museum items.
Jim Brace-Thompson had contacted our local City Museum in the past and they would only agree to take ownership of locally collected fossils and minerals. Jim also would like to contact Bill McKewen from Leisure Village in Camarillo and see if we could incorporate some of our equipment in their workshop. Jim is also in favor of storing as much as possible at this time, even at a considerable cost, rather than "piecing out" what we have. It would be difficult to replace equipment if another workshop area was to become available soon. He also suggested donating the state mineral case to the CFMS. There was a motion, it was seconded and carried to do this.
Susan Mulqueen suggested we lease or rent another facility to store the remaining material from the Crooked Palm Road site. Susan next offered to contact the Museum of Natural History in Santa Barbara and see if they would be interested in receiving some of our extensive fossil collection if we're unable to find storage for it.
Wayne Ehlers offered to visit Leisure Village with Ron Wise and report back.
Jim Brace-Thompson mentioned that he is in favor of renting a second facility.
Richard Bromser mentioned that it requires a flat bed trailer to move the large saws.
Ron Wise reminded members that the existing rental space is 10 feet by 20 feet.
Shirley Layton offered to contact American Storage and report back.
Wayne offered to contact 3 rental facilities located near him in Camarillo and report back.
Jim asked that anyone who knows of a rental facility with spaces available to contact us before the next Board meeting.
     It was suggested that the Ventura County Fair may want the glass display cases if we're not able to store them and some duplicate fossils be donated to local schools or the CFMS silent auction.
     The next general meeting will be on March 26, 2008, at The Lexington.
     There being no further business, Ed adjourned the meeting at 9:20 pm.
          Respectfully submitted,
          Greg Davis,
          Recording Secretary.

  Table of Contents.

2008 SHOW RECAP.

I want to thank everyone that helped to make our show work so well. Everything fell in place as smoothly as if we had a show the week before. Thank you again, especially those members that stayed for the breakdown till late at night.

Kudos to Andy who is taking over the show chair. Thank you for saying I do when proposed to take on this task for next year.

Let's pledge to offer him all the dedicated help.

If I may be so bold (nay even fresh) I would remind all of the able-bodied members that to be a V.G.M.S. member is more than just paying dues!

Thank You All Again.

Abe.


Thanks And Congratulations.
     Got to admit it - this has been a tough year for VGMS. Concerns with the club house have both consumed a lot of our energy and limited our working and storage space. It's impressive how well our members have rallied to put on a first-class show.
     I was amazed that the Country Store received so many donations on short notice because of the lack of storage space. Kudos to Mary and Shirley, as well as to all of you who donated to the Country Store.
     On a personal level, I am grateful for the support we had for the Kids' Games. A record number of people showed up for our bag-stuffing party. Folks came forward with prizes in the areas where we most needed them. Those who worked in the booth were inspiring - energetic, inventive, enthusiastic with the kids, worked long and hard to help the kids have a good time.
     Thanks and congratulations to all for a job well done!
Jean Wise.


A word of thanks goes to all members and guests who donated plants for the plant sale at our gem & mineral show. A special thanks goes to Dave Mautz for moving the large potted plant twice. The plant sale was a great success.
Susan Mulqueen.


     I am mighty proud of the Country Store's success this year. I was quite surprised to learn it got the top receipts honor. I would like to extend a special thank you to Bob and Wendy Holder for donating some spectacular items. Many thanks to Abe and Esther and Stuart Bloom also for their quality donations. Sincere thanks to ALL of the generous donors. I appreciated Jean's, Sharon's, Esther's and Shirley's help in pricing the items. HUGE BEAR HUGS to Shirley Layton and Shirley Bromser for their dedication and indispensable assistance. I also was pleased to have my daughter, Leilani, pitch in as well.
     It is a privilege to work with each and every show chair: Kathryn Davis, Steve Mulqueen, Nancy and Jim Brace-Thompson, Ed Clark, Ron and Jean Wise, Lowell Foster, Susan Mulqueen, Wayne Ehlers, Greg and Valli Davis, Mel Hixson, Esther Barshai, Shirley Layton, Paul Polacek. How wonderful to have Shirley and Richard Bromser return from Texas to help the show run like a well-oiled machine. How fun to work with Sharon Hixson, Miriam Tetrault and Dave Mautz, all truly heavyweight contributors. I was personally impressed with Andy Anderson , his wife, Lillian, his daughter and son-in-law, Wendy and Bob, and his brother, Richard and appreciated their cheerful and hard work. I also think Donna Knapton is pretty special too, sharing her enthusiasm for the Rock Box project with our visitors. What a great group of folks. You make all the work worthwhile.
Mary Polacek.


     I would like to thank all those club members who once again worked so hard as to make the show this year the best one yet. Attendance particularly on Saturday was fantastic. The way the venue is set up, and the way the members treat the vendors, makes this my favorite show! Thanks to the Country Store people, those that fed us, answered questions, and all of you who spent money!! This show is a great representation of the members of the Ventura club.
David Dills aka From Mother Earth, Onyx, CA


Donation Awards.
     The following cities were represented by winners: Bakersfield, Camarillo, Canoga Park, Chatsworth, Goleta, Little Rock, Newhall, Nipomo, Oak View, Oxnard, Pt. Hueneme, Simi Valley, Thousand Oaks, and Ventura. Our tri-club members did well, winning a combined 33%, or 14, of the prizes! Five individuals won 2 prizes. Multiple prize winners seems to be common. I wonder why! We had some really great prizes which were well received. Thank you to all of the award donors.
Paul Polacek.

  Table of Contents.

SUPPORT AND PRACTICE
THE AFMS CODE OF ETHICS.

CHIPS AND BOULDERS.

What's In A Name?
     Mirabilite: From "sal mirabile", the expression of surprise used by J. R. Glauber used when he discovered the artificial salt (before it was discovered as a mineral).
     Orthoclase: From the Greek 'right' and 'to break', its two main cleavages are at right angles.
     Augite: From the Latin 'brightness', because of its bright luster.
Submitted by Ed Clark From Gems, Mineral, Crystals and Ores by Richard M. Pearl.


Rockhound Only Auction Site.
     This is a new 'For Rockhounds Only' auction site that was recently started by a couple from Maryland. Dragon (James Madej) and his wife Donna started Dragonsaye (pronounced dragon's eye), after they got fed up with "Greed-bay", and decided to do something about it. Dragon runs an 18" Frantom, and Donna makes lovely Cabs and Jewelry. I love the part where they require a photo of your Lapidary Workspace as proof that you're actually a rockhound, or at least not some fly-by-night reseller, before they will let you open a store. The fees are low, and the folks are friendly. I hope you'll give them a look-see and give them some encouragement. It would be wonderful to have an ebay-style marketplace for just us rock-folk. I opened a store and put up some listings as "julie-tom". He loves our west coast jasper/agates, and made us the featured seller for the month of March. I've never been a featured anything, ever. I did dream of being a Rock Star when I was a younger man!! All I can say is be careful what you pray for, and for heaven's sake BE Specific! You can google dragonsaye and they will pop right up on your search engine: http://www.dragonsayeauctions.com/.
     Posted by: "thomas clark" on centralcoastrockhounds yahoo group, Sun Mar 2, 2008.


Fee Mine Listing: Here's a partial list of fee mining in the U.S.: http://www.lapidaryjournal.com/feemining/.


Mining Claims Rise Near Western Cities
     Via News.bytes, issue 322 - BLM California.
Fueled by higher metal prices, the upswing in stakes on federal land spurs calls for more local say on industry encroachment.
     By Judy Pasternak, Los Angeles Times Staff Writer March 12, 2008.
Propelled by soaring prices for gold, copper, uranium and other metals, new mining claims on federal land are surging near heavily populated areas in the West, according to an analysis of federal records. More than 16,000 such claims have been staked in the last five years, including nearly 1,700 in Riverside and San Bernardino counties, said a report released Tuesday by the nonprofit Environmental Working Group.
     The new activity brings the total of active claims within five miles of Western population centers to nearly 51,600, the report said. The total number of mining claims has doubled in the last five years, from 207,540 in 2003 to 414,228 in January 2008. Mining claims on Western federal land are governed by a law passed in 1872 and signed by President Grant. But since then, the frontier has given way to suburbs, resorts and retirement communities, and the law provides little recourse for local, state or tribal governments if they object to the encroachment of an industry that could bring open pits, acid drainage, and pollution of water and air close to their borders.
     "The growing West is on a collision course with a global land rush for minerals," said Dusty Horwitt, senior public lands analyst for the environmental group.
     Mining accounts for more Superfund toxic cleanup sites than any other industry and requires vast amounts of water for the processing of metal ore at a time when water shortages are plaguing the West. The National Mining Assn. estimates that fewer than 5% of claims are actually developed into mining operations. Still, the prospect of mines in proximity to settled communities "is a concern," said Bill Wicker, the Democratic spokesman for the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee.
     The issue is expected to be "part of the larger debate" about reform of the mining law, Wicker said. The House passed a revised mining law in November that expands federal agencies' authority to reject claims, and the committee has been holding hearings for a Senate version likely to be introduced this spring.
     The full article can be found at http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/nation/la-na-mining12mar12,0,4730452.story.

  Table of Contents.

GEMS FROM THE PAST.

Photos from the Benson Collection. All photos have been digitally scanned from the original 35mm color slides by Ed Clark. Text was written by Steve Mulqueen, March 2008. Photos copyright 2008 Ventura Gem & Mineral Society, Inc.

Digging for petrified wood in the Broken Hills, north of the town of Gabbs,
in Churchill County, Nevada, September 1959. Opal Benson observing her "major discovery" in an excavation. Photo by Bruno Benson.




VGMS field trip during the "Barstow Roundup", Mojave Desert, north of Barstow. Bruno Benson standing below the side window of his camper with fellow VGMS members and friends, February 1959. Photo by Opal Benson.

  Table of Contents.

FIELD TRIPS ARE FUN.

The Field Trip That Wasn't -- A Comedy Of Errors
By Jean Wise.
     We jumped at the opportunity to join a field trip to Morgan Hill for poppy jasper, one of Ron's favorite stones. Plans were made for a friend to join us at the site, motel reservations were made. Just by chance we discovered the trip had been canceled. What to do??
     You all know what a devoted rock hound would do - we went anyway. That is, after a call to the owner. She explained the situation. The original trip leader had wanted them to back-hoe a huge hole for up to 80 people and the city wouldn't approve. The trip was canceled. However, she said, it would be great for a small group to come and dig. So our friend Francisco joined us in Morgan Hill.
     The poppy jasper site is high on a hill with gorgeous views in every direction. It's beautiful beyond words. The primitive road to the site wanders through the hills and ends at the top, crowned with two perfect little oak trees. While we were high on the hill we spotted a red-tailed hawk and several deer running through the trees.
     When we saw the hole where the poppy jasper is found we were glad there hadn't been a real field trip. No more than 3 people could dig in the hole at the same time. Even that was a bit crowded. Ron and Francisco shoveled out dirt while I searched around the top of the hole. Our rocks filled two back packs which we later carried down to the ranch house. There we washed and evaluated them.
     While we were at the site, two families came with their elementary school age children. The kids proudly filled their buckets with little pieces of the jasper and had a great time playing in the dirt. They had become interested because of the geology unit in their second-grade classes.
     The owner and hired help at the ranch couldn't have been nicer. They offered to drive us to and from the site, told us a lot about their operation and the stones themselves. They charge by the pound for the poppy jasper you take home with you. If you are interested in your own field trip to the poppy jasper site, don't wait too long. The property is now up for sale.
     For information, phone Phyllis Riedel at 408-887-3871.

Field Trip Schedule 2008.*

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

April 15-17 Orange Butte, AZ.
Contact: Robert Sankovich 805-494-7734, rmsorca@adelphia.net or Mike Miller 805-498-9586, rockfindr@aol.com.
Please let us know if you are going to go on the field trip.
Location: Orange Butte/Joy Valley Arizona.
     Since this is a longer field trip I'm putting the information in sooner so if you want to participate you will have the time to do so. The field trip will be to 4 different sites, but the main one is Orange Butte/Joy Valley, Arizona. We will be looking for Fire Agate. Deb and I are leaving April 11th, Friday and returning April 20th, Sunday. We will be at Orange Butte April 15-17, Tuesday-Thursday if anyone wants to join us camping. We're going to stop off at a site on the way there and one on the way back. I decided on this field trip after reading an article in Rock & Gem magazine, December 2007 issue, pages 56-60. If you get the magazine, check it out. On the way there we're going to go to Date Creek, NW of Phoenix and on the way back Diamond Point, Payson Geodes/Concretions NE of Phoenix. I've put the basic info needed to participate on this field trip. If you do want to go I will send you more detailed information - Maps and directions to Date Creek, Diamond Point, Payson Geodes/Concretions.
     Some days we're going to be at motels, but mostly rough camping, no facilities. All of these sites don't need 4-wheel drive, but it is recommended. This is going to be a fun, productive field trip. All collecting sites are in AZ. I'm hoping some of you participate. You need to contact me if you are going on this field trip.
     To make sure we rendezvous at the right spots I'll have my walkie talkie radio with me on channel 7, and cell phone. We're going to camp at most sites, motels are 20+ miles away, with an hour drive one way.
Directions: From Ventura, Fwys 101 East, to 134 East, to 210 East, to 57 South, to 10 East. The 10 goes all the way to Bowie, Arizona. Thousand Oaks to Orange Butte 655 miles, approximately 11 hours drive time, including stops. Deb and I are going to take several days, with stops on the way there and back. I've put our route/time table below. Total distance driving there and back with going to multiple sites 1510 miles.
GPS: Orange Butte N 32.413, W 109.240 (not our camping site).
Meeting: Wednesday, April 16th. 2008, 10:00 am.
     We will meet at our campsite. Look for my black Toyota Truck with a CGMC sign in the window. Our tent is blue and white. There will be a short briefing of the site. Please remember to sign a release form to participate in the field trip.
What to collect:
     Orange Butte/Joy Valley: Fire agate, chalcedony, float and digging.
     Date Creek: Quartz crystals, single and clusters milky to clear, possible sceptre, some are on the surface, the best need to be dug out.
     Diamond Point: Quartz crystals, frequently clear and doubly terminated, the best need to be dug.
Link: http://www.rockhounds.com/rockshop/azsites.html.
     Payson: Geodes/nodules golf ball size to grapefruit size, surface and digging.
Tools: Collecting bags, buckets, day pack, digging tools, rock pick, pry bar, eye protection, trowels, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, sturdy shoes, newspaper for wrapping crystals, layered clothing. Lots of drinking water, lunch or snacks, camping gear, food, if you plan on spending the night. The best specimens will require safety glasses, gloves, sledges, gad bars, chisels, heavy gear, but there are float specimens to be found.
Route: Time includes stops, averaging 60 miles an hour overall.
     Fri: Thousand Oaks to Wickenburg AZ, 380 miles, 6 hours, 30 minutes (Motel).
     Sat: Wickenburg to Date Creek, 30 miles, 1 hour (Camp).
     Sun: Date Creek (Camp).
     Mon: Date Creek to Orange Butte, 330 miles, 6 hours, 30 minutes (Camp).
     Tues: Orange Butte (Camp).
     Wed: Orange Butte (Camp).
     Thur: Orange Butte to Bowie to Diamond Point/Payson Geodes, 240 miles, 5 hours, 30 minutes (Camp).
     Fri: Diamond Point/Geodes (Camp).
     Sat: Diamond Point to Blythe, 260 miles, 4 hours, 30 minutes (Motel) or Diamond Point to T.O. 530 miles, 9 hours.
     Sun: Blythe to Thousand Oaks, 270 miles, 4 hours, 30 minutes.


Saturday, April 26 Jalama Beach.


Saturday, May 3 Jade Cove.

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FEDERATION NEWS.

Words Of Caution
by John M. Wright, AFMS Conservation & Legislation Chair.
     When you head out this spring on a field trip or any other type of outing that involves federal lands, don't be surprised to find roads blocked by gates or earthen structures and many parks, camp sites, and trails closed. In spite of congressional legislation that requires proposals and recommendations for road closures based on in-depth studies and public hearings, the U. S. Forest Service has more-or-less chosen to ignore the congressional mandate and is pursuing a course that is indiscriminately restricting the public from vast areas of federal lands. Trying to understand the rationale they use in choosing areas to be closed is impossible and reminds me of a game kids play called "pin the tail on the donkey". During the early 1980's the U. S. Forest Service began to make changes in their philosophy for the management of forest resources. In all fairness, I want to acknowledge up front that in large part this was because of reductions in federal funds; however, in recent years the reduction in funds has become a scapegoat for placing millions of acres off limits to the public because of pressure exerted by well-financed special interest groups. These restrictions may very well come back and bite them in the backside, but that will be of little consolation for us as our tax dollars will be used to correct the mistakes. The following USDA News Release is the new philosophy in a "nut shell" so to speak. It also contains the website for a more detailed version:

NEWS RELEASE,
USDA Forest Service, Washington, D.C. Release No. 0721.
USDA FOREST SERVICE RELEASES FIVE YEAR STRATEGIC PLAN.
WASHINGTON, October 29, 2007--U.S. Forest Service Chief Abigail Kimbell announced today the release of the agency's strategic plan for fiscal years 2007 - 2012. The plan includes Kimbell's emphasis areas of climate change, water and involving youngsters in forest activities. "Forests play a unique role in meeting our Nation's future challenges associated with climate change, renewable energy, and sustaining abundant flows of fresh water to the American people," said Kimbell. "Because issues related to climate change and looming water shortages will take many years to resolve, the Forest Service is committed to instilling stronger land ethics in future generations."
     The Forest Service Strategic Plan for FY 2007 - 2012 provides a clear yet broad direction to carry out its mission of natural resource management while focusing on critical programs and activities. The Forest Service strategy includes the integration of environmental, social, and economic issues into its management decisions while accounting for present and future needs.

     The Forest Service Strategic Plan can be found at: www.fs.fed.us/publications/strategic/fs-sp-fy07-12.pdf. So what does this mean for you? Ultimately it will mean fewer places for field trips and other outings as competition is increased for access to private property as trail bikers, 4-wheelers, hunters, campers, etc. are displaced from federal lands and seek out new areas for their pursuits. It will also mean higher prices for lumber and wood products, fuel, and minerals used to make our lives more productive and comfortable.
     The underhanded covert methods being used for taking away public access to federal lands without public approval or hearings will continue unless we take a stand. Become involved and let your opposition be known. We are not alone in this fight and can increase our leverage by joining with other groups that are opposed to the road closures and limiting the public's access to lands controlled by the Forest Service. Find a way to become aware of, and to keep yourself up to date on these important issues in your area. I recommend that you or your club join the American Lands Access Association and also the Blue Ribbon Coalition (sharetrails.org). These are two of the better ones for keeping informed, but there are many more and some of them may be located in your immediate area.
     Source: A.F.M.S. Newsletter March 2008.

  Table of Contents.

BEEZLEBUFO.

Beelzebufo, Bane of the Dinosaurs?
Summarized from article in Science Daily News, 02-19-08, via The Pegmatite, 03/08.
     Imagine Beelzebufo, the "frog from hell", the size and shape of a slightly deflated beach ball, weighing in at 10 pounds, and with a mouth big enough to eat Chihuahuas. The fossilized remains of this 70-million year old beast were recently discovered on the island of Madagascar, and it appears to be a very close relative of current day South American frogs known as ceratophyrines or "pac-man" frogs because of their large mouths. They tend to wait in ambush for their prey. Scientists are puzzled, not expecting to find this fossil frog at its location, and are postulating the existence of a land bridge involving Antarctica (much warmer at that time) which joined So. America, India and Madagascar. (Frogs are not much good at jumping between continents.) The bridge probably remained in place until late in the Age of Dinosaurs. Speaking of which, scientists also speculate that the frog would have been quite capable of eating baby dinosaurs.

  Table of Contents.

HINTS AND TIPS.

Working Turquoise.
In shaping turquoise, it is advisable to use only the 220 wheel rather than the coarser ones. The 100-grit wheel will take desirable material from such a soft stone. Some of the more friable and chalky types of turquoise are difficult to polish with cerium or tin oxide; try a muslin buff with stick rouge. Since it is such a porous stone, oil may discolor it, so try sawing with a water coolant after soaking overnight in water. This helps prevent breaking.
     From The Pegmatite 12/81 via Blue Agate News 03/08.

Cabochon Storage.
Keep polished cabochons in photo-slide protector pages. The pages fit in a 3-ring binder and each page has 20 individual pockets. The cabs are easily visible, but are protected. Coin collector sheets also work well.
     From Rock Chips 05/04 via Strata Gems 02/08.

How to Cut Obsidian.
Gold Sheen: Saw with the bands, as if they were a stack of plates and you wish to unstick them. Watch for "fire spots" in gold sheen. It is not plentiful, but opal-like colors do occur.
Rainbow: Cut parallel to the flow layers. These can be seen by looking at fractured surfaces using a single lamp directly overhead. Note the bands are not always straight, it may be necessary to turn the stone slightly between cuts. Examine each slab set with either water or saw oil, to see if the correct angle has been obtained.
Iridescent: In cutting the two types of iridescent obsidian, orientation is important. One type is banded and the color lies in the bands. On the other type, the surface has to be chipped to find the color in the conchoidal fracture surface. Cut the banded material parallel to the bands. To get rainbow effects, cut the stone at about 15 degrees across the bands.
Midnight Lace: Lace-pattern obsidian should be cut across the surface pattern that you want to reproduce. Sand out all scratches with grit and wet sanding (to reduce heat) before going to polish. For final polish, use felt with cerium oxide.
     From The Tumbler 11/95 via Blue Agate News 03/08.

Fossil Preservation.
After cleaning, paint the fossil with diluted Elmer's glue (1/2 water). It dries fast and makes the fossil look sharp and clean. Because it is water soluble, it can also be washed off with water.
     From Chips & Tips via Del Air Bulletin 03/08.

New Dop Glue.
There is a wonderful glue called Zap-A-Gap, and the accelerant called Zip Kicker. It is awesome stuff and really works. How it works is you spray the Zip Kicker on the back of the stone and then put a little drop of Zap-A-Gap on the dop stick. Stick the dop stick onto the rock and hold for a few seconds and, voila, they are stuck together. What's nice about this is you don't have to work with hot dop wax and it doesn't get all over the piece you are working on, so you can work on very small cabs without a mess around the edges. What's also nice is all you need to do to separate the rock from the dop stick is pop if off with a fingernail. More information can be found at the SuperGlue website zap.supergluecorp.com.
     From The Pegmatite via Del Air Bulletin 03/08.

Another Trick for Cutting Mexican Jelly Opal.
When cutting Mexican opal with transparent or clear (that's most of it!) base color, cut a high dome on the top side and a moderate dome on the back. The reason for this is twofold:
     1) If you get the top and bottom domes just right, the light will refract within the stone as it does in a properly cut faceted stone. The effect will be as though light is trapped within the stone and the color will "glow" in a seemingly bottomless stone. It works great with or without play of color. Try it!
     2) Polishing the back of the opal helps the stone to last longer. A polished surface tends to retard water loss from the opal over time. A rough surface has many times more actual surface area per given dimension than a polished surface, thus increasing the potential for physical and chemical interactions.
     From Breccia 05/2007 by Paul Born in Lapidary Digest #189, 12/26/98. (Noncommercial republish permission granted.)

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!

  Table of Contents.

LET'S BE SAFE OUT THERE.

This contains a repeat of last month's safety concern, however, it bears repeating. I won't doubt that you'll remember now NOT to throw water on a grease fire!

Kitchen Safety
By Chuck McKie via CFMS Newsletter, January 2008.
     The kitchen is one of the most dangerous rooms in the house. It contains many hazards that can cause burns and unintentional fires. Every year in Phoenix, more than 300 residential fires start in the kitchen, the largest category for causes of residential fires. It's important to recognize proper heating and cooking equipment functions, and to know how to extinguish a grease fire. Taking steps to protect young children from these heating and cooking appliances can prevent damaging fires, injuries and loss of life.

Ovens and Ranges.
     Always make sure the oven and stove top are clean. If not, clean them thoroughly and safely. Residue grease and food can catch fire. Keep pot handles turned inward, away from the edge of the stove. Don't wear long, loose sleeves that can hang over the stove while cooking. An electric burner coil can reach a temperature of more than 1,000 degrees Fahrenheit. This can ignite clothing even after the coil has been turned off. Flammable fabrics, such as towels, dish rags or curtains can be ignited merely by being used or stored near a gas or electric range. Vapors from contact cement, gasoline, cleaning fluids or other flammable liquids can be ignited by the pilot of the kitchen range.

Children in the Kitchen.
     Children and kitchens aren't a good mix. Continuous and adequate supervision of children in the kitchen is of prime importance. As a child's mobility and curiosity increase, appropriate supervision becomes essential. Keep all hot items at a safe distance from a child. Keep the child at a safe distance from all hot items by using highchairs, child safety gates, playpens, etc. Create a safe zone for children. Keep them out of the household traffic path and check for their location before moving any hot or heavy item. Remove tablecloths and placemats when toddlers are present. They can tug and pull on everything within their reach. Hot or heavy items can be easily pulled on top of them. Never give children pots and pans to play with. Children may reach for this "toy" when it contains hot liquid or food. An oven door can get hot enough to burn a youngster who might fall or lean against it. It can be particularly dangerous for a child just learning to walk who may use the door for support; the child is often unable to let go before suffering a burn. Keep small children out of the kitchen when the oven is in use.

Grease Fires.
If a grease fire erupts in a pan on top of the stove, quickly and carefully cover the pan with a lid or a larger pan. Never use water. If the fire is in the oven, turn the controls off and close the door tightly. This will smother the flames. Better yet, have a portable fire extinguisher handy and know how to use it. The Phoenix Fire Department recommends having a 2A10BC fire extinguisher in the kitchen; make sure it is charged at all times. If you suspect there may be fire still smoldering somewhere in the cabinets or the woodwork after such an experience, don't hesitate to call the fire department.

Appliances.
Use only appliances that have received an Underwriters' Laboratory or Factory Mutual testing label. Do not allow appliance cords to dangle over the edge of counter tops or tables. Children may pull at them and injure themselves. Or you may catch them unintentionally pulling them off the counter. Do not overload electrical circuits. Unplug appliances when not in use. If an appliance smells funny, doesn't function correctly, or has frayed or broken wiring, have it repaired or replaced.

Microwave Ovens.
Burns associated with the use or misuse of microwave ovens are increasing. The scald burn is the most common type of burn and most involve the hands. The age distribution is rather broad, but there continues to be a large number of young children who sustain the more serious burns. The single most common cause of burn injury is simply the fact that people do not expect items heated in the microwave oven to present the same risk as items heated by other more conventional means. Many people do not fully appreciate or understand how the microwave oven heats food. The fact that a food container may not be hot may mislead an individual to assume that the food itself is not really hot - thus a burn injury occurs.

Behavior.
The single most important prevention measure is to read and follow the directions. The directions associated with the operation of the microwave oven and the specific directions associated with heating prepared or packaged foods are equally important. Use a pot holder or appropriate utensil to remove lids and coverings from heated containers to prevent steam or contact burns. This also is necessary when removing items that may have been heated for extended periods of time - the container may be hot. Be sure children are old enough to understand the safe use of the microwave oven before allowing them to heat foods. Children under the age of seven may not be able to read and follow directions and are at a higher risk potential than older children. Their height is also an important factor. Some manufacturers do not recommend that their products be heated in a microwave oven. Be sure you follow their recommendations. (For example, some baby foods are not to be heated in a microwave. And jelly-filled donuts can be a major source of mouth burns.) Use caution when handling and cutting thick pieces of meat after heating, especially meats with considerable fat. Spattering of hot fat and meat juices may occur.

Environmental Control.
Puncture plastic pouches and plastic wrap covering before heating. This will reduce the risk of a vapor pressure build up and prevent steam burns. Put a cut in potato skins or other vegetables to reduce the risk of bursting when you cut into it after it is heated. Eggs should be removed from the shell before being cooked in the microwave oven. The egg in a shell may explode causing both mechanical and thermal injuries. Identify containers, dishes and utensils that are safe for use in the microwave oven. Some items are not "microwave safe" and may become very hot or even burst when heated in the microwave oven. When using smooth vessels for heating liquids, place a plastic spoon in the vessel during the heating process. This will prevent the "super heated" phenomenon that may result in liquid spattering and scald burns.
     Check for the presence of metal when reheating some "fast food" items. Aluminum foil, staples in bags, twist-ties, etc. may become very hot and ignite combustible containers.
     Children who are permitted to operate the microwave oven should be tall enough to be able to safely remove items from the oven. One major risk is facial burns, which occur among children whose height puts their face at the level of the heating chamber of the microwave oven.

  Table of Contents.

EDUCATIONAL CORNER.

Definition of the Month.

Ventifact - A rock that has been naturally sculpted by the abrasive action of windblown sand and silt. A general term for a stone that exhibits erosional features caused by periodic sandblasting action. These features may include unusual shapes such as pits, cups, flutes, grooves and facets with sharp ridges and polished surfaces. A ventifact may have one or more sides that have been fashioned by wind erosion. If multiple sides have been sculpted, it may indicate two or more prominent wind directions, rotational movement of the rock or a combination of factors. Ventifacts may range in size from a small pebble to a large boulder.

Rocks that undergo this process are exposed at the surface, often on the windward side of a prominent ridge that faces the full force of seasonal wind storms. Ventifacts are common in arid regions and have been subjected to the harsh desert climatic conditions for several thousand years. In desert valleys, ventifacts are often found on old erosional surfaces, on higher ground than the level of the major drainage washes.

Ventifacts are common to the arid regions of the world, including the dry deserts of Antarctica. In Antarctica, ventifacts can be formed by the abrasive action of windblown ice crystals. They are also known to exist on the planet Mars.

On your next trip to the desert, keep an eye out for ventifacts. If you find one, observe the rock's abraded features and try to understand the predominant wind direction(s) before you move the rock.

Related Words: windkanter, einkanter, zweikanter and dreikanter.

Written by Steve Mulqueen for the Ventura Gem & Mineral Society, March 2008. The "Definition of the Month" features words related to geology, paleontology, mining and desert history.

Illustration of the Month.

Fossil Shark Tooth, Carcharodon megalodon,
an extinct shark from the Miocene epoch.

An engraving print from a specimen found on the Island of Malta, located south of Sicily in the Mediterranean Sea. This specimen was discovered in 1843 with numerous other fossils during an oceanographic and geologic expedition to Malta by Admiral Spratt and Dr. Leith Adams for the British government. The actual fossil in this illustration measures approximately 4 inches in length.

Sharks first appeared in the ancient oceans during the Silurian Period, over 400 million years ago. The Carcharodon megalodon emerged during the Miocene epoch, approximately 20 million years ago. The Carcharodon was the largest meat-eating fish to have lived in the ancient oceans. Fossil records indicate that this shark lived to be over 50 feet in length and probably weighed as much as 50 tons. Estimates of the shark's size and weight have been made by comparing fossil teeth with those of living sharks and proportionally estimating the length and weight. A shark's skeletal framework consists primarily of cartilage, organic matter that does not preserve well during the fossilization process. The largest shark's teeth from the Miocene epoch measure over 7 inches in length.

Source: From the textbook: "GEOLOGY: Chemical, Physical and Stratigraphical", Part II, written by Joseph Prestwich, professor of Geology at the University of Oxford, England, published by Oxford at the Clarendon Press, 1888, illustration from page 409, figure 205.

Text written by Steve Mulqueen, March 2008. 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.

  Table of Contents.

LET'S GO TO A SHOW - 2008.

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, 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 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. Fri. 9-5, Sat./Sun. 10-5 both days. Email: info@scvgms.org, 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.
April 26-27; Lancaster, CA - The Antelope Valley Gem & Mineral Society, Lancaster High School, 44701 32nd St. W. Hours: 9-5 both days. Jules Ficke (661) 943-5157, Email: av_gem@yahoo.com, www.geocities.com/av_gem.
April 26-27; Santa Cruz, CA - Santa Cruz Mineral & Gem Society, Santa Cruz Civic Auditorium at Corner of Center & Church Streets. Hours: 10-5 both days. Eleanor & Hubert Drake (831-8086) Email: hmdrake@pacbell.net.
May 2, 3 & 4; Bishop, CA - Lone Pine Gem & Mineral Society, Tri County Fairgrounds, Sierra Street & Fair Drive. Hours: Fri. 6 pm-10 pm, Sat. 9:30-4; Sun. 10-4:30. Jeff Lines (760) 937-4498.
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 3-4; Anaheim, CA - Searchers Gem & Mineral Society, 2271 W. Crescent Avenue. Hours: 10-4:30 both days. Betty Nelson (714) 530-1365, Email betty@azteche.com, www.searchersrocks.org.
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, www.renorockclub.com.
May 17-18; Yucaipa, CA - Yucaipa Valley Gem & Mineral Society, Yucaipa Community Center, 34900 Oak Glen Road. Hours: Sat. 9-5; Sun. 10-4. Bill Jochimsen (909) 790-1475, Email: bjim2285@aol.com, mysite.verizon.net/yucaipagem.
May 17-18; Newbury Park, CA - Conejo Valley Gem & Mineral Club, Bochard Park, 190 Reino Rd., Newbury Park, CA. Hours: Sat. 9-5; Sun. 10-4:30. Robert Sankovich (805) 494-7734, Email: rmsorca@adelphia.net, Website: www.cgamc.org.
May 31-June 1; Glendora, CA - Glendora Gem & Mineral Club. Hours: Sat. 10-5, Sun. 10-4. Bonnie Bodwell (626) 963-4638, Email: Ybidwell2@aol.com.
May 31-June 1; Woodland Hills, CA - Rockatomics Gem & Mineral Society, Pierce College, Victory and Mason. Hours: 10-5 both days. Louise Gerik (818) 347-1234, rockatomics.com.
June 7-8; La Habra, CA - North Orange County Gem & Mineral Society, La Habra Community Center, 101 W. La Habra Blvd. Hours: 9-5 both days. Don Warthen (626) 330-8974, Email: warthen@earthlink.net, nocgms.com.
June 27, 28, 29; Ventura, CA - California Federation of Mineralogical Societies, Ventura County Fairgrounds. Hours: 10-5 Daily. Bural LaRue (909) 874-5664, Email: bplarue@earthlink.net.
July 12-13; Culver City, CA - Culver City Rock & Mineral Club, Culver City Veteran's Memorial Auditorium, 4117 Overland Avenue. Hours: Sat. 10-6; Sun. 10-5. Website: CulverCityRocks.org, Phone: (310) 391-8429, Email: maryellenandrick@aol.com.
October 5; Fallbrook, CA - Fallbrook Gem & Mineral Society "Fall Festival of Gems", FGMS Museum, 123 W. Alvarado. Hours: 10-4. Mary Fong-Walker (760) 728-1130, Diane Tjepkes (780) 468-8028.
October 11-12; Grass Valley, CA - Nevada County Gem & Mineral Society "Earth's Treasures", Nevada County Fairgrounds, 11228 McCourtney Road. Hours: 10-5 both days. Kim Moore (530) 470-0388, Email: Kmoore160@comcast.net.
October 11-12; Trona, CA - Searles Lake Gem & Mineral Society "66th Annual Gem-O-Rama", Searles Lake Gem & Mineral Society, 13337 Main Street. Hours: Sat. 7:30-5; Sun. 7:30-4. Bonnie Fairchild (760) 372-5356, Email: glgms@wvisp.com, www1.iwvisp.com/tronagemclub/tronagemclub.html.
October 18-19; Placerville, CA - El Dorado County Mineral & Gem Society, El Dorado County Fairgrounds, 100 Placerville Drive. Hours: 10-5 both days. Jackie Cerrato (530) 677-2975, Email: info@rockandgemshow.org, http://www.rockandgemshow.org, eldoradomineralandgem.org.
October 18-19; Santa Rosa, CA - Santa Rosa Mineral & Gem Society, Veterans' Memorial Auditorium, 1351 Maple Avenue, Santa Rosa. Hours: Sat. 10-6, Sun. 10-5. Tom Dering (707) 564-4537, Email: farmarch@sonic.net, Website: www.gem-n-i.org.

AMERICAN FEDERATION / REGIONAL SHOW SCHEDULE - 2008.

Canadian Federation Convention.

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

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

California Federation (CFMS),
June 27-29 2008,
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.

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

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

Southeast Federation (SFMS).

  Table of Contents.

SUPPORT AND PRACTICE
THE AFMS CODE OF ETHICS.

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