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The Ventura Gem & Mineral Society, Inc. (VGMS)
Rockhound Rambling
November/December 2008.

Rockhound Rambling Photo of the Month.
This month's photo is by Mary Polacek.

Description: Banded rhyolite.

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

If proper credit is given permission is granted to quote any item.

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;
• DAFFYNITIONS;
• HOSPITALITY;
• UPCOMING VGMS EVENTS;
• BIRTHDAYS;
• PROGRAM REVIEW & SCHEDULE;
• MEMBERSHIP;
• MEETING MINUTES;
• CHIPS AND BOULDERS;
• COMMUNITY OUTREACH;
• FIELD TRIPS ARE FUN;
• HINTS AND TIPS;
• LET'S BE SAFE OUT THERE;
• EDUCATIONAL CORNER;
• FEDERATION NEWS;
• LET'S GO TO A SHOW.

PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE.

This is my last message to you for the year and marks the end of my tenure as President of the Ventura Gem and Mineral Society. I joined the club back in 2000 and, while I had always been fascinated by pretty rocks, I really didn't know much about them. In the past 8 years I've learned to identify them, find them in the field, polish them, make jewelry out of them, and, best of all, met and befriended many great people. By far the most rewarding aspect has been participation. Participation is what makes the club worth joining. The monthly programs don't present themselves. The annual shows don't spontaneously occur. Field trips aren't very productive without someone taking you to where the rocks are. Someone takes the time to bring the drinks and goodies at the back of the meeting room. People gather up and donate Ways and Means items for the raffle. A lot of people have put in a lot of time searching for a new home for our museum and shop so that Wayne Ehlers can teach more members to cut and polish cabochons like he taught me. And it will take some sweat equity to rehab our new spaces at Camp Comfort. Each of you has something to contribute, each of you can help to make the VGMS even better. I encourage each of you to get in there and participate.

Now I will begin to make my move to Santa Fe, NM. I want to thank the VGMS. You've given me much more than I ever gave back. And if any rockhounds ever find themselves in central NM please look me up and we'll go rock hunting at some of the new sites I'm going to find.

Ed Clark, President.

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DAFFYNITIONS.

Mosquitos: An insect that makes you like flies better.

Tomorrow: One of the greatest labor saving devices of today.

Wrinkles: Something other people have. I have character lines.

Liberal: Too poor to be a capitalist, too rich to be a communist.

Jury: A group chosen to decide who has the best lawyer.

Committee: A body that keeps minutes and wastes hours.

Collected by Wayne Ehlers.

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HOSPITALITY.

At the October 22, 2008 meeting, we had 45 members which included four pebble pups and seven guests.

Valli Davis.

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UPCOMING VGMS EVENTS.

November Regular Meeting - Wednesday, November 12, 7:30 pm, Senior Recreation Center.
2009 Show Planning Meeting - Sunday, November 16, 2:00 pm, Brace-Thompson residence. All interested members please attend.
December Board Meeting - Thursday, December 4, 7:30 pm, The Lexington, Ventura.
December Regular Meeting - Wednesday, December 10, 7:00 pm, Senior Recreation Center.
January Board Meeting - Thursday, January 1, 7:30 pm, The Lexington, Ventura.      (NOTE: It's really going to be on New Year's Day.)
Bulletin Article Deadline - Sunday, January 4, 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.)

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BIRTHDAYS.

Larry Bryant - November 8,
Michele Quistad - November 10,
Sylvia Dahlsten - November 14,
Sachiko Ewald-Streit - November 14,
Ron Wise - November 30.

Krishna Juarez - December 2,
Jason Overman - December 3,
Shel Streit - December 10,
Donna Ewald - December 20,
Nicole DeSalvo - December 22.

Donna Stephens - January 3,
Mary Polacek - January 8,
Shawne Lardin - January 9,
Marie Ehlers - January 13,
Angelica Pearson - January 16,
Andy Anderson - January 17,
Florence Meisenheimer - January 23,
Rebecca Swift - January 25.

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

TOPAZ:
Topaz is a common gemstone that has been used for centuries in jewelry. Its golden brown to yellow color is classic but is confused with the less valuable citrine, which is sold under the name topaz. The blue topaz that is often confused with aquamarine is rarely natural and is produced by irradiating and then heating clear crystals. Topaz is the November Birthstone.

The structure of Topaz is controlled by a chain like structure of connected irregular octahedrons. These octahedrons have an aluminum in the middle surrounded by four oxygens. Above and below the aluminum are the hydroxide or fluoride ions. The chains of octahedrons are held together by individual silicate tetrahedrons but it is the octahedron chains that give topaz its crystalline shape. Topaz is the hardest silicate mineral and one of the hardest minerals in nature. However it has a perfect cleavage which is perpendicular to the chains and is caused by planes that break the weaker Al-O, Al-OH and Al-F bonds. None of the stronger Si-O bonds cross these planes. Topaz crystals can reach incredible size of several hundred pounds. Topaz can make very attractive mineral specimens due to their high luster, nice colors and well formed and multifaceted crystals.

PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS:

• Color is clear, yellow, orange, red, blue and green.
• Luster is adamantine to vitreous.
• Transparency crystals are transparent to translucent.
• Crystal System is orthorhombic; 2/m 2/m 2/m.
• Crystal Habits include a prismatic crystal with usually two different prisms that produce a rounded or sharp diamond-shaped cross-section. The termination is typically capped by a dome forming a roof like top. Another dome can modify the termination producing a point at the juncture of the two domes. A basal pinacoid can flatten the prisms' termination or truncate the top of the domes. The pinacoid, multiple domes and occasionally orthorhombic pyramid faces can produce a complex, multifaceted and well formed termination. Topaz can be granular and massive.
• Cleavage is perfect in one direction, basal.
• Fracture is conchoidal.
• Hardness is 8.
• Specific Gravity is approximately 3.4 - 3.5+ (above average).
• Streak is white.
• Associated Minerals include quartz, tourmalines, micas, brookite, cassiterite and fluorite.
• Other Characteristics: Index of refraction is 1.61 - 1.64. Prism faces may be striated lengthwise.
• Notable Occurrences include Minas Gerias, Brazil; Pakistan; San Diego Co, California; Ural Mountains, Russia; Mexico and the Thomas Range, Utah.
• Best Field Indicators are crystal habit, color, density and hardness.

Source: http://mineral.galleries.com/minerals/SILICATE/TOPAZ/topaz.htm.

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PROGRAM REVIEW & SCHEDULE.

October - The Mining History of the West 1850 - 1905.
Dr. Gray from Santa Barbara City College provided an interesting overview of mining technology used throughout the West at the last half of the 19th century. He has an extensive photograph collection of early mining sites; some of which he showed. He distributed a couple of interesting handouts. I wish he had provided answers to the Gold Rush Quiz, I haven't finished mine yet!

REMEMBER - November and December's meetings are not on the Fourth Wednesday. They are on the SECOND Wednesday, in order to accommodate the month-end holidays.


November - Not-so-Silent Auction; Proceeds to be put towards our storage costs.
(Sing along to the tune of "When Johnny Comes Marching Home".)
     The need to sell is upon us now,
     Ha ha / ha ha.
     So bring your stones and piles of bones,
     Ha ha / ha ha.
     If there's "rough" we will sell the stuff;
     And hopefully we'll make enough
     To buy fun things for our new place in Ojai!

This meeting is the Not-So-Silent Auction and we really would like to see some nifty, gnarly, neat items go up on the auction block this Wednesday. But beyond that, please come, for this is the meeting to mingle - to meet new people and get ready for the new, exciting, upcoming year. There have been speakers for the past few months. This time the speaker is YOU! Not that you're going to be on stage, but now, instead of hanging around dark street corners downtown after nine-o'clock to get your socializing in, you can stay inside and keep warm! But in your haste to come down to jaw at one another, don't forget the cash! Remember - we will have perfectly good rocks (nice sturdy hunks of stone) to trade you for your dirty, wrinkly, bond-backed yucky-colored paper. Come on. In this day and age, with the rockslide of our stock market - you know these precious stones will hold their value better.
          Lowell Foster.

Members are also encouraged to bring in a pumpkin taste treat.

In addition to the auction, members will vote for the VGMS 2009 Officers. We are seeking a volunteer to install the 2009 Officers during the December 10 regular meeting, either just before or immediately after the dinner.


December - Holiday Potluck Dinner-December 10, 7:00 pm, Senior Recreation Center.
There will be another group leaving the Ventura Senior Center Starting at 6:45, so folks can start arriving any time after that. Nancy has reserved the room for an extra half hour, so we have all the way up to 9:30 for dinner, officer installation and to finally have time to socialize!

Back by popular demand, this will be our SECOND POTLUCK Holiday party. Please bring a salad, main dish, side dish or desert, as well as your own place setting - plates, silverware, napkins, cups and serving utensils as required for your dish.


January, 2009 - The Year in Review-A Show and Tell of found/acquired material during 2008.
(Topic to change if guest speaker becomes available.)


February, 2009 - Last Minute Pre-Show Discussions and Planning.

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MEMBERSHIP.

Welcome New Members.

Everyone is encouraged to extend a hearty welcome to our newest members.

I'm pleased to report we've received two new family membership applications from:
     Brian Timko & Allie Boes
     with Karris & Kylie Timko,
     27444 Camden #5C,
     Mission Viejo, CA 92692,
     (949) 305-0692,
     Allie.boes@yahoo.com.
Their interests include crystal, mineral, & rock collecting, fossils and paleontology, field trips, and mining history and artifacts.

The second application is from someone Greg and Valli Davis know dear and well:
     Michele & Chad Quistad,
     9419 Petit Court,
     Ventura, CA 93004,
     (805) 323-5542,
     mquistad@roadrunner.com.
Their interests include minerals, education, faceting, fossils, field trips, lapidary/jewelry arts, meteorites, photography, and silversmithing.

Please add both families to your VGMS Directory. (There's a blank page at the back to add new members.) Here's a VGMS welcome to Brian and Allie, Karris and Kylie, Michele and Chad! We now have 81 adult members and 16 pebble pup/junior members, or 97 of us altogether.

2009 Dues are Due! (Along with Updates to Club Directory/Yellow Pages.)
Membership dues are due by January 1, 2009: $30 for couples, $20 for an individual adult, $17 for full-time college students (age 18+), and free for youth under 18 who join with a paid adult or couple. Mail your check to me (Jim Brace-Thompson, VGMS Membership Secretary, 7319 Eisenhower St., Ventura, CA 93003) or bring it to the November or December meetings. Along with your dues, please alert me to any address, phone, or email changes needed for your entry in our Club Directory and any updates for your entry in our Club Yellow Pages.

The Club Yellow Pages were created to list members' areas of special expertise so fellow VGMS members - especially new members - can better connect with others who have similar interests. This also might help each of us explore areas of potential interest. If you've always been interested in silversmithing but don't know what's involved and don't want to buy expensive materials until you're sure you really want to give it a try, the Club Yellow Pages might guide you to someone already experienced who'd be willing to give you a demo and provide advice. Here are the categories we're using:
     CMR - Crystal, mineral & rock collecting;
     CS - Carving & sculpture;
     E - Education (kids activities, school visits);
     F - Faceting;
     FM - Fluorescent minerals;
     FP - Fossils & paleontology;
     FT - Field trips;
     LJ - Lapidary arts & jewelry making;
     M - Meteorites, tektites & astronomy;
     MH - Mining history & mining artifacts;
     MT - Micromounts & thumbnail specimens;
     P - Photography;
     SS - Silversmithing;
     O - Other (please specify).

For each category, you should specify Exp for "Expert" or Nov for "Novice." To update entries in our Club Directory and Yellow Pages, write me at my mailing address noted above or email (jbraceth@roadrunner.com) or call (805-659-3577). Here's thanking you in advance!

Jim Brace-Thompson.

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MEETING MINUTES.

Minutes of the VGMS Regular Meeting;
Wednesday, October 22, 2008:
     The regular monthly meeting of the Ventura Gem & Mineral Society was called to order by Ed Clark at 7:30 pm, on Wednesday, October 22, 2008, at the Ventura Senior Recreation Center.
     Ed introduced visitors and then asked for corrections, if any, to the previously printed board and regular meeting minutes. It was m/s/c to accept the minutes. Members were led in the pledge to the flag.
Jim Brace-Thompson: It's no longer a secret. Ron and Jean Wise have been named Rockhounds of the Year by the CFMS. Congratulations Ron and Jean!!
     The Christmas potluck dinner is planned for December 10, at 7:00 pm, at the Ventura Senior Recreation Center.
     The Wheeler's Gorge Visitor's Center will hold their fund raising function on November 1. Jim Brace-Thompson and Mary Polacek plan to attend and hand out club membership forms along with mineral and fossil samples to the children. If interested in helping, contact Jim.
Valli Davis: Thanks to the efforts of Jean Wise, the County Parks and Recreation Department was contacted and a potential site has been located for our club workshop. The Camp Comfort site is being offered to our club in exchange for rehabilitating the three buildings. It's hoped that it will be finalized during the Parks and Recreation regular meeting, at the County Government Center on November 11, at 3:00 pm. We will have a committee present to represent our club.
Andy Anderson: Plans have changed, and we're back to the original building for our 2009 show in March. Our next show meeting has been scheduled for November 16, 2:00 pm, at the Brace-Thompson house. A lot still needs to be discussed and all are welcome.
Ron Wise: Upcoming field trips include Somis Fossils November 11; Thanksgiving at Wiley's Well, November 24-30; a trip to the Calico Mountain area December 15.
Ed Clark: A committee needs to be formed to nominate Board members for 2009. Valli Davis and Jim Brace-Thompson offered to work with Andy Anderson in contacting members.
Jim Brace-Thompson: Camp Paradise will be offered May 17-23, 2009. Zzyzx will be offered in the fall (November 15) of 2009. These are new changes just confirmed by the CFMS. The annual Fall CFMS meeting in Visalia will most likely confirm the dues increases to clubs.
Nancy Brace-Thompson: Nancy read the treasurer's report and it was m/s/c to accept as written.
Mary Polacek: Deadline for the next bulletin will be November 9. Any and all photos and comments for the bulletin are welcome.
Lowell Foster: Upcoming programs include: a silent auction in November and our annual Christmas potluck, December 10, at the Ventura Senior Recreation Center, 7:00-9:30 pm.
     Dr. Gray from Santa Barbara City College next gave a slide show and presentation on the Golden Age of Mining. It was excellent. The history of the search for precious metals, in this country from about 1830 to 1910, along with major innovations and factors of the times were discussed. I'm tempted to enroll in his class on the subject.
     The next board meeting will be held on November 6, 2008, at The Lexington and the next monthly membership meeting will be held on November 12, 2008, at the Ventura Senior Recreation Center, 420 E. Santa Clara.
     Refreshments were provided by Sharon Cunningham and Jean Wise.
     There being no further business, Ed adjourned the meeting at 9:00 pm.
          Respectfully submitted,
          Greg Davis,
          Recording Secretary.


Minutes of the VGMS Board Meeting;
Thursday, November 6, 2008:
Present: Ed Clark, Nancy and Jim Brace-Thompson, Dave Mautz, Jean and Ron Wise, Valli and Greg Davis, Mary Polacek, Lowell Foster.
     The Ventura Gem & Mineral Society Board Meeting for November 6, 2008, was called to order by Ed Clark at 7:30 pm, at The Lexington, 5440 Ralston in Ventura.
Old business:
Valli Davis: A nomination committee has completed a roster to be announced and voted on at the regular meeting, November 12. Comments were taken on the suggestion of limiting comment time by officers at general meetings. This is due to the fact our meeting time is limited. The possibility of extending meeting time to 9:30 was suggested.
Lowell Foster: Professor Gray gave an excellent presentation at our last regular meeting.
New business:
Ed Clark: Ed asked for and received m/s/c to accept the contract with the County of Ventura for a two year lease of the facility at Camp Comfort. Ed signed the contract. It will now be returned and we may take possession as soon as November 7, 2008. Ed announced that this will most likely be his last board meeting with our club if his relocation plans go as planned.
Ron Wise: Planned field trips include November 15 to Somis; Wiley's Well November 24-30; and December 13 to the Calico area.
Jean Wise: The CFMS Visalia meeting is scheduled for November 8.
Jim Brace-Thompson: Except for the rain, the Wheeler Gorge reception and program went really well. Sharon Cunningham and Andy Anderson also showed up to help assist Mary Polacek and Jim.
     A Relocation Committee for the new facility in Camp Comfort will be formed at the next general meeting. Floor plans and lists of needed supplies will be first on the agenda.
     It was m/s/c to accept membership applications for the family of Brian Timko and Allie Boes and Karris and Kylie Timko and also for Chad and Michele Quistad. Welcome all! This brings our number to 97 members. Dues are also due at this time by the way!
     The next show meeting is scheduled for November 16, 2:00 pm, at the Brace-Thompson residence.
Nancy Brace-Thompson: The treasurer's report was given. It was m/s/c to accept as written. It was also m/s/m to pay the bills mentioned in the statement.
Lowell Foster: A silent auction is planned for the November meeting along with pumpkin treats provided by members. Our Christmas dinner/potluck and Board installation will take place December 10, 7:00-9:30 pm.
     Lowell also participated in a school fund raiser at Poinsettia Elementary School and introduced children to our science along with giving tumbled stones.
Mary Polacek: The November and December bulletin will be combined this year. Submissions are to be sent in by November 9, if at all possible.
          Respectfully submitted,
          Greg Davis,
          Recording Secretary.

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CHIPS AND BOULDERS.

Nominations for 2009 VGMS Officers.
It's that time when we choose members to lead us in the coming year. We'll vote for 2009 officers at our November meeting and install them at our December holiday potluck. Here's the slate of folks who have agreed to run:
     President: Jim Brace-Thompson;
     1st Vice President - Programs: Lowell Foster;
     2nd Vice Presidents - Field Trips: Ron Wise and Rob Sankovich (as co-2nd VPs);
     3rd Vice President - Show: Andy Anderson;
     Treasurer: Nancy Brace-Thompson;
     Recording Secretary: Greg Davis;
     Membership Secretary: Valli Davis;
     Federation Director: Jean Wise;
     Bulletin Editor: Mary Polacek;
     Parliamentarian: Kathryn Davis.

Remember, this is an election, and most elections have at least two candidates, so we remain open to nominations from the floor. If you'd like to nominate other candidates, you may do so before we vote in November. The only stipulation is that you've informed your candidate and s/he has agreed to run. (Apparently, some folks don't like waking up the next morning and discovering they're President...) In addition to elected offices, we have several appointed Committee Chairs:
     Hostess (Refreshments): Sharon Cunningham;
     Ways and Means: Michele Quistad;
     Hospitality: Valli Davis;
     Museum: To be overseen by the Board until the Museum is re-established in a new home;
     Historian: Lowell Foster;
     Librarian: Mary Polacek.

Finally, with the prospect that we may be moving into Camp Comfort this year, we'd like a temporary Relocation Committee that can help determine clean-up and repair requirements, schedule dates for work parties, and entice members to pitch in.

Committee Chairs, as the title suggests, should be chairing a committee, so please don't leave these individuals all alone! Please volunteer to help. For instance, our Hostess needs folks who will agree to bring refreshments to our monthly meetings. Our Ways and Means Chair will need people to donate prizes for our monthly rock raffle. Our Librarian can use help sorting through our old books, determining which to keep, getting suggestions for new books to add, and compiling lists to share with club members. Our Historian welcomes member pictures and commentary of field trips. And we especially need help re-establishing our museum in our new home. If you're new to the club, helping in any of these respects is a perfect first step toward getting more involved and helping to improve on things that we do and suggesting new things to do. So please be generous with your time and volunteer your help to any of our officers and committee chairs. We'll be a better club for it!

Valli Davis & Jim Brace-Thompson, Nominating Committee.


VGMS Show & New Location for Clubhouse.
Dear VGMS members: As you may know, VGMS has a reputation for hosting a quality gem and mineral show. Part of the reason is because we've had dedicated members volunteering their time to make the show a success. Since many of our veteran members have moved, we need to call on all members, so we can be sure our 2009 show lives up to expectations. Our hope is that you will step forward to commit some hours to help with set-up/take-down, as well as assisting our show chairs in running various aspects of the show.

We'll need help as follows:
     Loading and unloading the truck with show materials;
     Silent auction;
     Hospitality (front desk/welcome table and sale of raffle tickets);
     Plant Sale;
     Country Store;
     Security (including a member staying the night on Friday and Saturday).

We will be asking members to commit specific times to help. Sign-up sheets will be circulated at meetings. Please plan to sign up for specific times in areas of interest and availability. Your commitment of time will help the Show Committee assure that we can continue to offer our members and visitors a high quality show.

Also, you've probably heard the good news about a new clubhouse location at Camp Comfort. The size of the facility is more than adequate; however, it's been neglected and needs a thorough cleaning and some rehabilitation. We're working on the insurance and lease details and will soon be scheduling some weekend work parties. We hope you will come join us. In fact, we're counting on it! Members will be asked to bring along buckets, gloves, cleaning solutions, and rags/towels, masks, closed-toe shoes, etc., to bring the house, garage, and yard up to a usable standard. Breaks for brown-bag or picnic lunches will help us get acquainted. Our reward will be a wonderful clubhouse, library, museum, small meeting area and workshop where members will be welcome to learn how to cut and cab rocks found on field trips.

We're so pleased to have more members than we've had in many years. Please plan to join us in these events so VGMS can continue to be the viable club we know it to be! You may contact Greg and Valli Davis at 805-647-9214 or gvdavis@roadrunner.com and/or Jim and Nancy Brace-Thompson at 805-659-3577 or jbraceth@roadrunner.com to learn more about how you can help. Thank you!

Valli Davis.


Directions to Pending Workshop Site.
For those who would like to view the potential workshop/museum located at the Camp Comfort area near Ojai, here are directions:
     Travel about 4 miles past our old facility on Hwy 33 and turn right onto Creek Road. Another 4 miles on Creek Road and you come upon Camp Comfort. The facility is a group of structures on the left (across from the camp) with a large parking area.

It'll take a lot of TLC and will require work parties to rehabilitate them enough to set up shop. We're excited with this, the next chapter in the history of our club and it'll mean time devoted by members to get it done.

The County of Ventura was the first organization to give us this helping hand and we hope it's a profitable venture for both parties.

Greg Davis.


Show Jobs Seek Willing Hands.
It takes many hands and smiling faces to successfully pull off our biggest event of the year: our Annual Gem, Mineral, Fossil, & Lapidary Show. It may seem a long way off, but March 7-8 is closer than we think. Over the course of the past couple years, due to moves out of state and deaths, we've lost some truly key people who have always gone above and beyond pitching in with the show. Thus, all members, new and old, we need you now more than ever! Show Chair Andy Anderson held a show-planning meeting October 21, and it looks like we have committee chairs for most of the major show tasks, but each of those chairs will need helping hands.

In this article, I want to elaborate on Valli's related article by more fully describing our show committees. I then encourage you to pick a job that sounds appealing and sign up to help. (My notes from the show planning meeting are sketchy, so my apologies if I've made any mistakes.)

     Dealer/Demo-Dealers/Demonstrators: Selects, invites, issues contracts, and coordinates all dealers and demonstrators. Also works with Show and Exhibitor Chairs to create a floor plan and assists Hospitality Chair in creating welcome packets and welcoming dealers and demonstrators and guiding them to their locations. Should secure a business license from city hall and ensure proper tax info from dealers and alert the Exhibits Chair to any dealer entering a display. We usually have about 15 dealers and 6-12 demo/dealers and demonstrators. See Katherine Davis.

     Exhibits: Contacts and coordinates exhibitors, encouraging VGMS members to enter displays, and sending invitations to exhibitors from outside the club, including any special exhibits, such as museum displays. Helps with layout of the exhibit hall and the loan of club cases. Assists the Hospitality Chair in preparing welcome packets for exhibitors. Makes sure exhibitor show favors are prepared and given to exhibitors as they arrive for set-up. See Abe Barshai.

     Physical Facilities & Set-up: This physically demanding job requires a strong person to assemble and coordinate volunteers and arrange transportation necessary for the physical labor of moving show items to and from the fairgrounds. (This usually involves renting a large truck.) Also responsible to oversee skirting of tables and set-up and tear-down of cases and electrical. Needs commitment of sufficient people to assist with the overall effort of these tasks at least one month prior to the show date. An open position at present.

     Publicity: Responsible for getting out word about the show to the local public and within the rockhounding community. Without customers, we have no show, so it's important to be thorough in seeking every possible avenue for reaching our audience in a cost-effective way that's targeted and focused and for getting info to appropriate publications well within required deadlines. See Jim Brace-Thompson or Wendy Holder.

     Programs: Constructs, edits, prints, and distributes the show program, using lists of exhibitors provided by the Exhibits Chair and lists of Dealers and Demonstrators provided by the Dealer Chair, as well as any special message provided by the Show Chair and/or Club President. A copy of the program goes into each welcome packet for exhibitors, demonstrators, and dealers, and a supply is kept in the Hospitality Booth to give to show visitors as they arrive. See Mary Polacek.

     Hospitality: Along with the Exhibitor and Dealer Chairs, prepares welcome packets and a sign-in sheet to check off exhibitors and dealers as they arrive. Greets dealers and exhibitors during set-up on Friday and greets show attendees on Saturday and Sunday. Collects and disseminates materials about VGMS, earth science, and the gem and mineral hobby. Needs the aid of at least 3-4 other club members to take shifts throughout set-up and the show itself. See Valli Davis.

     Security: Recruits and coordinates volunteers for security of the exhibits and dealer booths. Security is a physical presence, 24 hours a day, from the beginning of set-up until the finish of tear-down. During the show, make sure several club members walk about with orange security vests as a visible presence. Enlist 1-2 volunteers to stay overnight Friday and Saturday in the building. See Wayne Ehlers.

     Food: Provides refreshments (lunch fixings, cookies, coffee, lemonade, etc.) to VGMS volunteers throughout the show, from set-up through tear-down. Oversees preparation of dinner Friday evening preceding the show for volunteers, exhibitors, and dealers, and orders pizza and drinks for folks who help with tear-down at the end of the show. An open position at present.

     Country Store: Acquires, organizes, and prices "white elephant" or "flea market" items to be sold at the country store. Coordinates their storage, transport, and sale at the show. Responsible for set-up and tear-down of the country store booth. Will require several volunteers to help both prior to and during the show. See Mary Polacek or Shirley Layton.

     Plant Sale: Encourages folks to start rooting and setting aside plants to donate and makes sure a supply of boxes and soda flats is on hand for people who buy plants during the show. Basically an extension of the Country Store; plants are sold at tables at the end of the same room. They also make an effective barrier and screen for our dining/lunch area where show volunteers and dealers/demonstrators can relax while on break. See Susan Mulqueen or Marie Ehlers.

     Raffle: Makes sure we have a full supply of raffle tickets and, via members and dealers, acquires and displays prizes, then draws and presents awards at the end of the show and delivers or mails awards to winners not in attendance. See Paul Polacek.

     Kids' Booth: Determines kids' activities to sponsor and collects and organizes prizes from club members, determines prices for activities and merchandise (e.g., Spinning Wheel, grab bags, sand-sifting, etc.), oversees set-up and tear-down of the booth, and conducts the activities and presents prizes. Needs a minimum of 4 helpers, and ideally more. See Jean Wise.

     Silent Auction: Collects, prepares, and sets minimum bids for material to be sold at the silent auction during the show. Announces or designates an assistant to announce the silent auction over the PA system. Monitors bidding and collects money from each of the successful bidders at the end of each session. Needs several helpers. See Greg Davis or Ron Wise.

     Show Treasurer: Usually the elected VGMS club treasurer. Disperses money for show expenses and cash box seed money. Counts/deposits revenue from the show and makes a detailed public report and account of show expenses/income following the show. Usually needs help counting money during the show and distributing and picking up cash boxes from the Country Store, Plant Sale, Silent Auction, Kids' Booth, and Hospitality Table. See Nancy Brace-Thompson.

The annual show is our biggest fund-raiser of the year and, as such, helps keep the society going while also raising our visibility within the community. In the months leading to the show, we'll be circulating sign-up sheets and ask that you be generous in donating your time and talents.

Jim Brace-Thompson.


Country Store Donations Needed.
Due to uncertainty of storage and other factors, the quality and quantity of items for our annual show's "Country Store" has drastically dwindled. We definitely do not have enough goods to fill our customary space. We invite and need you to rustle up some new stuff for the March show. We will accept any type of household item in good condition. We generally do not test each electronic item donated, so please be sure it works! Tools and shop-related items are welcome and popular. Please note that Christmas-themed items are discouraged as they do not sell well.

In the months to come, please take the time to determine whether you have unused items to donate. The Country Store has historically been a big contributor to our show's monetary success. Please help the tradition continue.

Thank you,
Mary Polacek,
Country Store co-chair.


Start Your Cuttings.
It is time for you to start your cuttings, so they have roots established for the March show. Help will be needed at the Plant booth, especially Saturday morning and Sunday afternoon. Please sign up!

Susan Mulqueen,
Plant Sale Chair.


Woodland Hills Rock Chippers November Program.
The Woodland Hills Rock Chipper's November program may be of interest to our active field trippers. This information is from their Rock Chippings November bulletin courtesy of bulletin editor, Robyn Hawk.
Saturday, November 15 - Guests always welcome.
     6:15 pm - Pot Luck; Theme: Thanksgiving.
     7:30 pm - General Meeting.
Program - Mineral Collecting within 2 hours of Los Angeles;
     Speaker: Justin Zzyzzx of The Vug (http://www.the-vug.com/).
Meeting Location - Canoga Park Community Center, 7248 Owensmouth Ave. Canoga Park. (Entrance at the rear of the building.)

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COMMUNITY OUTREACH.

Sharon Cunningham took rocks and fossils to San Antonio School.
She gave an earth science talk to 32 fourth graders.


VGMS Appearance at Wheeler Gorge Event a Great Success!
The Wheeler Gorge Visitor Center held a fundraiser on November 1 and invited all Ventura County gem clubs to participate. Mary Polacek, Andy Anderson, Sharon Cunningham and I represented VGMS, with Donna and Larry Knapton, Brett Johnson, and Miriam Tetreault representing OGMS. I'm happy to report the event was a great success!

OGMS brought in terrific touch-rocks and their collection of "Cinderella Stones" (ugly on the outside/pretty on the inside) for kids of all ages, along with a glittering garnet display. VGMS had our replica of an Allosaurus skull on display, along with a map and photos showing where dinosaur fossils have been found in California. Going along with this theme, VGMS donated a copy of the book Dinosaurs & Other Mesozoic Reptiles of California to the door-prize raffle. We also had a poster with photos of Tri-Club field trips (thanks to Ron Wise for supplying great photos!) and a display case with California's state rock, mineral, gemstone, and fossil accompanied by a flyer describing each. Finally, we allowed kids to pick free tumble-polished stones from our "Pirate's Treasure Chest," along with instructions on how to tumble stones. Oh, yes! We also did shameless self-promoting, with club and show flyers as hand-outs. When the day opened with thunder and lightning, we were wondering if this event would prove to be a bust, but we were pleasantly surprised by the steady stream of visitors, many with small children, all braving the intermittent showers that hung in all day.

All-in-all, a fun event! (Well, except for when the roving monitor lizard let out a stink bomb in the crowded room...) Let's all stay on the lookout for similar events where VGMS can make an appearance to increase our profile within the community and recruit new members!

Jim Brace-Thompson.


Poinsettia Elementary School Fall Fair.
On Sunday, November 2, I attended the Fall Fair Fundraiser for the Poinsettia Elementary School in Ventura. I had been invited by one of the parents, Karin, to present both rock and mineral information and model activities for Fourth Grade Science. She, in turn, ran a Gold Panning activity with pyrite replacing actual gold for the activity.

Karin had turned to the VGMS after visiting Mel Hixson's rock sale up in Ojai. Mel had mentioned to her that I was a teacher and might have some ideas for her gold panning station. She called me with a whole list of questions, such as where she could get pyrite, where the Educational Rock Box was located at her school, and several others related to my teaching methods for science.

I checked my schedule, and told Karin I could do a couple hours of activities for her. Arriving at the site about 1:15 p.m., I was amazed at the amount of people attending this event on a Sunday. Hundreds of people: parents, teachers, and students roamed the campus. Giant inflatable jumper-rooms dominated the center quad with rock-climbing and two-wheel people mover demonstrations taking up the rest of the yard. The cafeteria hosted a long list of events and food stalls were everywhere. A massive silent auction, children's activities, and displays filled in every corner and nook.

The hubbub was everywhere and just a little daunting. I knew nobody and had never met Karin. After wandering around for fifteen minutes with two bags filled with my stuff, I finally found my place next to two teenage girls who were 'running' the gold rush as best they could.

Karin finally arrived and I set up. I would be doing one major teaching activity - making the layers of earth with Playdough. I then moved on to a smaller series of interactive experiments utilizing large horseshoe magnets and smaller bar magnets, and finished with a short display of Southern California gem and mineral material. After all this, the students got to choose a keepsake of either a quartz crystal, a small polished stone, or an unpolished geode half. Each session ran about 20 minutes.

Almost as soon as I had the Playdough out, children began asking what I would be doing, and then forked over 2 tickets to do it. It was great and nonstop. The constant stream of participants 'oohed' and 'ahhed' when their little clay world was sheared in half revealing the different colors of the core, mantle, and crust. They marveled when I showed the amazing 'levitating' paperclip that defied gravity. They smiled when they took away not only their rock, but also the earth halves they made.

The day went fast. At the 4:00 pm end of the fair, I was mentally exhausted. I must have gone through a dozen sessions with kids entering at all stages of the presentation. It was fun and exciting, and I heard many good words about our annual show. As a bonus, I did a good enough job that I was invited back next year.

Becca and Karen were able to attend, so now and then I was able to 'teach' my lil' two year old with the 1st and 2nd graders. Her Playdough earth colors didn't wind up quite as organized as everyone else's. Her bright blue, red, and yellow Playdough earth wound up being a lumpy mass of gray clay formed into the shape of two little grabby hands. Oh well; maybe she'll get it next year.

Lowell Foster.

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SUPPORT AND PRACTICE
THE AFMS CODE OF ETHICS.

FIELD TRIPS ARE FUN.

Field Trip Schedule 2008/2009.*

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

November 15: Somis, California, Sand Dollars and Clams.

NOTE: We have a change of plans for the November fieldtrip, from Basin Road to the Somis area for fossils.

We have been able to work out an agreement with Gargiulo Inc. for limited access to the digging area. With this agreement we will enter the site from Somis Rd. If you have been to the fossil site in the past you will not recognize the area. The entire area is planted with tomatoes. Because of the roads we will be able to drive closer to the collecting area and remember to use good judgment in the fields so we may return again in the future.

Directions: From Highway 101 take the Lewis Road off ramp and turn left on Lewis Road. Proceed north for 3.4 miles. (Note: Lewis Road changes into Somis Road.) You will pass Gargiulo Inc. on the right side of the road, do not stop there. Look for Ag RX also on the right side of the road. Somis Road bends left and you will take a narrower road on the right for about 0.4 of a mile. Follow the road over the railroad tracks, past the house and over the bridge. Turn right and park.

Meeting: We will meet at the parking area by the bridge at 9:00 am, sign in and then proceed to the digging area.

Fossils: We will be hunting for large sand dollars, clams and a variety of gastropod fossils. The fossils may be found up the hill from the tomato field. This is a great trip for the whole family, so come out and have fun.

Equipment: Digging tools, garden trowels, rock pick, pry bar, gloves, hat, eye protection, buckets, back packs, SUN SCREEN & DRINKING WATER. Consider bringing snacks or lunch and extra clothing. All vehicles can make this trip, the roads are good. The roads in the fields are dirt and could be a problem if it rains. Pray for a clear day.

Please contact me if you plan to attend this fieldtrip. Ron Wise 805-647-4393 or clintwise@hotmail.com.


November 24-30: Wiley's Well.

There will be folks camping all week. Collecting trips: November 27, 28, and 29. Open to all CFMS affiliated club members and their guests. Each day we will leave camp at 8:00 am, and return in the late afternoon, except on Thanksgiving Day (November 27), when we will turn back at 2:00 pm to be in time for our feast!
     November 27 - Pebble Terrace/Fire Agate.
     November 28 - Paisley Agates, Black Agate and Nodules.
     November 29 - Geode Beds.

4WD is not a "must" for this trip, but is highly recommended. No low clearance vehicles advised. 4WD "IS' necessary to get to the fire agate and Pebble Terrace. We will make arrangements for those without 4WD to ride with those who do. These sites are remote, so bring food, water, and all required supplies. The nearest stores are in Blythe, California.

DIRECTIONS: From the I-10 freeway, exit on Wiley's Well Road and turn south from the freeway, 14 miles to the camp. Around a mile or so down the road, the pavement will turn towards the right. Don't follow that road. Go straight onto the dirt road. Stay on this dirt road past the Fire Agate mine and Coon Hollow. You will see a sign for the Imperial County Line. The camp will be just past this sign on the right hand side. We will have O.B.M.S. (Orange Belt Mineralogical Society) field trip signs along the way to the campground. If you get lost call Adam at (909) 489-4899 (cell phone reception is patchy in this area).

MATERIAL: Fire agate, geodes, a large variety of miscellaneous fossils, limestone, jasper, petrified wood, agates and very old stromatolites. Also, we will search for paisley agate, black agate and nodules.

TOOLS: Sturdy bags, hard rock mining tools, safety glasses and gloves. It may be wise to carry a first aid kit. I also recommend a dust mask as the ash may irritate lungs.

CLOTHING: Wear clothing in layers as it can be very warm during the day and very cold at night. Bring extra blankets and jackets.

DINNER: Thanksgiving - 3:00 pm; O.B.M.S and C.F.M.S. will host a potluck dinner for all those willing to contribute. Please bring your own plates, utensils, drinks and chair. We welcome everyone. If you plan to join us for dinner, here are the guidelines to follow: If your last name begins with A, E, I, M, or Q - please bring a main dish. If it begins with B, F, J, N, R or V - please bring a starchy food. If it begins with C, G, K, O, S, W, or X - please bring a vegetable or salad. If it begins with D, H, L, P, T, Y or Z - please bring a desert.

REMINDER: Please help preserve our deserts and pack out what you pack in.
Let's leave it clean for future rockhounds.
Please bring firewood if planning on campfires.
All those attending the collecting trips will be required to sign a Liability Waiver form.

For further information please contact:
     Adam Dean @ 909-489-4899 or email theagatehunter@verizon.net or
     Shep Koss @ 661-248-0411 or email freudonetdo@yahoo.com.


November 26-30, 2008 - Turtle Mountains.

Trip leader Rob Sankovich. For more information, call 805-494-7734 or email rmsorca@adelphia.net.


December 13, 2008 - Calico Mountains.

This trip is open to all rockhounds that agree to abide by the AFMS Code of Ethics, the directions of the field trip leader, and practice safe rockhounding. A Consent and Assumption of Risk Waiver of Liability form must be signed upon arriving at the campsite.

SPONSORS: CFMS Field Trip South Co-Chairs.

LEADERS: Adam Dean and Shep Koss. Please notify us, if you plan on attending. Feel free to email or call us if you have any questions or need more information:
     Dean Adams: 909-499-4899; theagatehunter@verizon.net or
     Shep Koss: 661-248-0411; freudonetdo@yahoo.com.

MEETING PLACE: Calico Road on the north side of the 15 Freeway. Sign-in at 8:00 am; we will depart by 8:30 am sharp!

ROAD CONDITIONS: This is for a 4-wheel drive vehicle only! Some sand and steep canyon grades are expected. No 2-wheel drive or low-clearance vehicles. You may need to get a ride with a friend with a 4-wheel drive.

ACCOMMODATIONS: If you choose to stay overnight, there is nice camping in Mule Canyon (dry camping only) or you may stay in Barstow (there are several motels). Motel 6 allows pets. Food, water and gas are also available in Barstow.

MATERIAL TO COLLECT: Palm wood, silver lace agate and (our primary objective) sagenite. Sagenite in this area is not overly-abundant, so don't expect to fill your sack. You must dig for the best material. It is great agate and you must work to obtain a small amount; however, when you find a good one, it makes all your hard work worth it! This is a remote area, so please bring extra water, packed lunch and supplies.

NOTES: The desert can be very cold at night. Bring extra jackets and blankets if you plan to camp out. Don't forget your camera. Calico is well-known for it's geological scenery.
Please help protect our deserts and pack-out what you packed-in!
All those attending the collecting trips will be required to fill out a Liability Waiver form.


December TBD, 2008 Ant Hill (sharks teeth).

Trip leader Rob Sankovich. For more information, call 805-494-7734 or email rmsorca@adelphia.net.


January TBD, 2009 Wiley's Well area.

Trip leader Rob Sankovich. For more information, call 805-494-7734 or email rmsorca@adelphia.net.

  Table of Contents.

HINTS AND TIPS.

Polishing Curved Surfaces.

Here is a way to polish curved surfaces on a carving with a flex shaft tool. Visit your auto supply store and purchase a real leather chamois, or use any reasonably thin, clean, uncontaminated leather you have around. Select a felt, rubber, or resin tip on a mandrel, lay the tip on the leather, cut enough leather to cover the tip plus up the shank of the mandrel about 1/2 inch. Wrap the leather about the tip tightly, gathering the overlap uniformly at the shank. Secure the leather with a tie. I use a rubber band, pulling and looping it over the tip repeatedly until tight. Trim off the excess leather past the secured point on the shank.

You now have a leather "micro" polisher. Dip the tip in water to get it wet, then dip in optical grade cerium oxide or whatever polish you prefer. Use the tool at low speed and polish as you would on the "big buff", i.e. keep the tool damp and charged.

For safety purposes, always wear safety glasses. Make sure the leather is securely fastened at the shank by checking to see if you can pull it off in between charges of polish. Check to make sure you aren't burning through the leather.

By Rudy Appleby from WAMS, date unknown via Breccia 11/08.


Improved Light Fixture.

For all of you using Diamond Pacific Genie or Titan Machines here is a story you can relate to. Have you ever been grinding away and had your hand slip and hit the rim of the light fixture? Ouch! Hot! That 75 to 100 watt incandescent light bulb is hot and really using up the electricity. Try to put one of the Compact Fluorescent Bulbs (CFB) in and they stick out the bottom of the light fixture causing all that light to go everywhere and not on your work. Then after a few days of use, the bulb breaks at the seams from all that vibration. The bulb is dangling from wires and the rest of the guts are still in the fixture with all that water splashing all around. Alas, I have found the best of both worlds. Try one of those small Halogen 35 watt mini flood lamps. It puts a real bright light right on your work, the rim of the light fixture stays cool and you are only using 35 watts to get better light than the 75 - 100 incandescent bulb. When selecting the halogen bulb, there are 2 sizes: one has a short neck, which will fit, but requires some creative twisting; the other style has a longer neck and will make the installation of the bulb in the fixture a breeze. So when that inefficient 100 watt bulb finally blows out try a compact Halogen spot lamp as a replacement. Your work area will look brighter and you will be using less energy and running a lot cooler.

By John Martin via the CFMS Newsletter, 10/2008.


Epoxy Removal.

If you have an item that has been epoxied incorrectly, it can be taken apart by soaking it in household vinegar. It works and is inexpensive.

From Calgary Lapidary Journal, date unknown via The Slate 09/2008.


Batch Warmer.

If you have a lot of dopping to do, a good way to keep stones at an even temperature is in an electric frying pan set at 200-250 degrees.

From Rolling Rock Club newsletter, original date unknown via Rockhound Rambling 11/1965.

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 your good ideas!

  Table of Contents.

LET'S BE SAFE OUT THERE.

Shop Safety
By Chuck McKie via CFMS Newsletter, October 2008.

     It has been quite a while since we had any shop safety. The following is from chapter two of the AFMS Safety Manual.
     The following safety rules, if followed, will lessen the risk of possible harm or injury. Protect your eyes when chipping or grinding rocks. WEAR PROTECTIVE GLASSES.
     Run your grinding wheels no faster than the speed recommended by the manufacturer.
     Do not let your Ceramic/stonewheel become water logged. Keep it running until all water has been thrown out; otherwise, it will cause a heavy spot and make your wheel out of balance. Keep your wheel true. It will wear longer and there will be less chance of its parting while in use.
     Keep all belt pulleys and belts covered. It may save a finger.
     Use dop sticks whenever possible. It may save a badly cut finger.
     A word of warning to those individuals who use dry sanding of their cabochons: Silicosis is a serious disease which is caused by the inhalation of fine silica dust. Use a dust mask or suction blower, or change to wet sanding. Silicosis cannot be cured!
     Be careful with your alcohol lamp. It can cause a fire.
     Keep all containers properly labeled. Putting polishing powders in empty baking powder cans, for instance, without a proper label, can be dangerous. (If you put the polishing powder in an empty baking powder can, your wife could use it with disastrous results).
     The use of Oxalic Acid, when properly used, greatly facilitates the polishing of agates. Oxalic Acid is caustic to the skin, as well as a frank poison, if accidentally ingested or inhaled. Also, getting some in the eyes from the spray from the polishing wheels, may cause a burn of the cornea, resulting in impaired eyesight. When using this acid, proper precautions must be taken. It is advisable to apply the polish to the wheel with a brush. Wear protective glasses. It may be advisable, under certain circumstances, to wear protective gloves. Immediately wash any contact areas of the skin with soap and water. Medical attention may be advisable.
     Sulfuric Acid and Nitric Acid are sometimes mixed with polishing compounds when faceting sapphire. They are also used in the polishing of sapphire cabochons on lead laps. These acids are severe caustics and will cause severe burns if they come in contact with the skin or eyes. In using the techniques above, one must use the utmost precautions. Any contaminated areas must immediately be washed with soap and water. If any gets in the eyes, thoroughly irrigate with water and seek medical attention. The application of a baking soda pack is often advisable or the sponging with a solution of baking soda in water to the burned area.
     The polishing compounds we use today are, as a rule, relatively non-toxic, except to some individuals. The use of detergents added to the polishing powders could cause dermatitis of the hands. This can be eliminated if the offending substance is eliminated.
     The use of Epoxy Resins is very irritating to the skin, and severe cases of dermatitis have resulted. This can easily be prevented by not getting the hands in actual contact with the resins. Acetone will remove this, if you should get some resin on the skin.
     The various cutting oils used in the diamond saws are primary irritants to the skin, and will, in many individuals, produce dermatitis. Also, the fire hazard, in the use of certain cutting oils, must be realized and proper precautions taken.
     WARNING TO SILVER-SOLDERING ENTHUSIASTS: Silver brazing alloy, frequently called "silver solder," is an extremely valuable industrial material. It is used for joining metals and alloys such as silver, copper, brass, bronze, stainless steel, carbon steel and dissimilar metal combinations where it is necessary to perform the joining of these metals at low temperatures. Fumes generated during brazing can be a serious hazard. Brazing fluxes generate fluoride fumes when heated.
     Cadmium in silver brazing alloys vaporizes when overheated and produces cadmium oxide, a highly toxic substance. If cadmium oxide fumes are inhaled into the respiratory tract, they can cause pulmonary distress, shortness of breath, and in cases of severe exposure, may cause death.
     Silver brazing filler metals containing cadmium are: BAg-1, GAg-1a and BAg-2 and BAg3. Since the boiling point of Cadmium is 1412 degrees F., brazing can be carried on safely using BAg-1 and BAg-1a classes of filler metal at temperatures below 1400 degrees F. BAg-2 and BAg-3 have recommended brazing temperatures of 1295 - 1550 degrees F. and 1270 to 1500 degrees F. respectively. Brazing can be carried out - safely - using temperatures below 1400 degrees F. Since temperatures in the upper portion of these ranges can be reached, it is important to provide adequate local exhaust ventilation or, where this is not possible, individual air-supplied respirators. (This information taken from, "Working with Silver Solder", Public Health Service Publication No. 1518, U.S. Dept. of Health, Education and Welfare.)
     Do not overload electrical outlets. If in doubt, have the circuits checked by an electrician. Keep switches and motors in a dry place, where the water from the grinding will not splash on them.
     Be sure to have all motors and outlets grounded. In case of faulty wiring or short circuit, the ground will absorb the shock -- not you! Standing on a rubber mat will give some protection. Electric shocks can cause death! Suspicious wires lying on the floor or ground should be avoided -- at home, or on field trips. They may be harmless, but if they are not, beware! When a person suffers electric shock, it is important to use a stick or other such wooden object to separate him from the source before beginning resuscitation.

  Table of Contents.

EDUCATIONAL CORNER.

Definition of the Month.

Paleosol - A buried soil horizon. A soil of the geologic past. Volcanic eruptions and sediment deposition may cause soil layers to become buried and no longer able to sustain plant life.
Paleotectonic map - A map intended to show geologic and tectonic features as they are thought to have existed at some point in time in the geologic past.
Paleozoic - One of the eras of geologic time, occurring between the Late Precambrian era and the Mesozoic era designated on the geologic time scale. The Paleozoic era comprises the Cambrian, Ordovician, Silurian, Devonian, Mississippian, Pennsylvanian and Permian periods of geologic time. Early theories on the emergence of life on Earth considered the beginning of the Paleozoic era as the time in which life began. However, new theories on early life on Earth has its start before the Paleozoic. The term Paleozoic is also in reference to rock units deposited during the Paleozoic era.
Paleozoology - The science of the study of fossil animals, divided into two subdivisions known as vertebrate and invertebrate paleozoology.

Words with a prefix of "paleo" have been featured in the July, August, September and October 2008 bulletins. (If you follow any of the links close the new window to return here.)

Source of Information: "A Dictionary of Mining, Mineral, and Related Terms", compiled and edited by Paul W. Thrush and Staff, Bureau of Mines, U. S. Department of Interior, published by the U. S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D. C., 1968.

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

Illustration of the Month.

Washing with the Long Tom, near Murphy's, 1849.

Placer gold was discovered by the Murphy brothers in 1849. This site was originally referred to as "Murphy's old diggings" located near the present day town of Murphys in Calaveras County, California. The "long tom" is a specially designed sluice box constructed of wood for the recovery of gold.

Source: Harper's New Monthly Magazine, "How We Get Gold in California, by a Miner of the Year '49", printed by Harper's, 1860, page 133.

Text written by Steve Mulqueen, November 2008. The "Illustration of the Month" features any form of graphic 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.

FEDERATION NEWS.

Plan Early for 2009 CFMS Show!
     For new VGMS members, we belong to the statewide California Federation of Mineralogical Societies, which includes over 135 clubs, altogether. Each year, the Federation sponsors a statewide show. The 54th Annual CFMS Show & Convention will be held earlier this year than usual, so if planning to attend, start those plans now! The sponsoring club is the Santa Clara Valley Gem & Mineral Society, and the show takes place at the Santa Clara County Fairgrounds in San Jose April 17-19, 2009.
     Why so early? Well, beginning a couple years ago, their juniors' leader, June Harris, began a vigorous campaign to bring kids (school groups, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, etc.) into the show. Her initial results brought in a stream of 500 kids. Last year's results? 2,000 kids!!! To continue building on this, they'll be sponsoring the show during the school year rather than the summer months, when we usually expect the statewide CFMS show. I used to attend Santa Clara's local club show regularly before moving from the Monterey area to Ventura a decade ago, and back then, it was always a top-rated local show. From everything I've heard, like fine wine, it's only improved with age. So the 2009 CFMS show should prove to be an exceptional vintage!
     But that early date means you need to start planning today, particularly if entering a competitive or noncompetitive exhibit. Jean Wise and I will be bringing a show packet back from the fall CFMS Directors' meeting and will have exhibitor applications and other info at our meetings. Meanwhile, for more details right away, contact show chair Frank Mullaney (408-265-1422, info@scvgms.org), or check the Santa Clara club website: www.scvgms.org. It's a long, long way to San Jose (and yes, I do know the way), but you can bet it'll be worth the trip!
          Jim Brace-Thompson,
          Membership Chair & CFMS Secretary.


CFMS Rules Committee
By Dee Holland via CFMS Newsletter, November 2008.
     The CFMS Executive Board will be considering authorizing the CFMS Rules Committee on a one year trial basis the new BEADING section in CFMS competition. The Beading section will be part of the packet sent out to all directors. Two Master and Two Advanced Trophies will be added for this one year only.
     The reason for this is as follows: The CFMS show will be in April 2009. We have people within the CFMS who (we hope and urge) will enter this competition. We'd like to have CFMS on the cutting edge of this Beading proposal so we can take the information we learn in April to the AFMS Uniform Rules Committee meeting in July in Billings, MT.
     Also included in the packet for the CFMS Fall Business meeting (November) will be the Supplemental Rules usually found in the January issue of the CFMS Newsletter. This is being done in November so that the information is out early enough for the April CFMS show. The only exception in the Supplemental Rules is the suspension of the Ultra-Violet Trophy by Greg Anderson until further notice.


Clear Creek Closure - Rock Hounds & Miners Unite!
By Dave Muster, CFMS Field Trips North, via CFMS Newsletter, November 2008.
     How many of us have had our favorite collecting areas closed by the BLM? Some of our favorite collecting and mining areas have been closed by the Bureau of Land Management, BLM.
     May 1, 2008: After a deceitful study by the Environmental Protection Agency, EPA in corroboration with the BLM, 31,000 acres in the Clear Creek Management Area was closed to human activity by the Hollister Field Office. The finest mineral collecting area in the State of California is closed!
     How did this happen? Let me explain. The Clear Creek Management Area has been the site of mining activity since the 1850's. Asbestos, cinnabar, chromite and benitoite, California's gemstone, have been mined and even refined in the area. Some of the historical archeological sites that refined the ores, used industrial asbestos rings or gaskets in their retorts and furnaces. When the BLM destroyed these sites they spread this industrial asbestos around in the exact area where the EPA did their study!
     The EPA study was "salted" with industrial asbestos purposely spread around or left by the Hollister BLM. This industrial asbestos is not found naturally in the Clear Creek Management area. Dr. Coleman's thesis on Clear Creek explains the types of asbestos. Instead of cleaning up the industrial asbestos or capping the known source of the industrial asbestos they purposely left it on the surface so that it would show up in the EPA's test study!
     Many of the locals witnessed this activity by the BLM. I have pictures of the industrial asbestos purposely left on the surface by the BLM. If you or I created a hazardous material spill, we would be liable. The Hollister BLM is responsible for the industrial asbestos. Conveniently, the EPA was invited to do this test study in this exact location.
     Is this a blatant "slight of hand" by the Hollister BLM?


Words of Caution
by John M. Wright, RPG, AFMS Conservation & Legislation Chair via A.F.M.S. Newsletter, December-January, 2009.
     By the time you read this article the national elections will be over and regardless of the outcome we are going to be facing the possibilities of significant changes in our access to public lands. The senate has before it a bi-partisan package known as the Omnibus Public Lands Management Act of 2008. This Act is a sweeping package that contains numerous "bills" that will add millions of acres of new wilderness and other public lands to the areas now under government protection.
     Senate Majority Leader, Senator Harry Reid may call the Senate back for a "lame duck session" to vote on this bill after the national elections. Since this is a bi-partisan bill, it may be allowed to die if the Democrats win a substantial number of seats and a more liberal version could conceivably be written next year.
     Besides the thousands of acres that will be added to the Wilderness Areas and National Parks, a new entity will be established known as the National Landscape Conservation System. This will essentially place an additional 26 million acres of public lands to be controlled by BLM under a "National Park" type system which will eliminate or severely limit any type of recreational mining. The public lands that are designated as Wilderness Areas are already "off limits" for all practical purposes for most types of recreational activity. The Paleontological Resources Preservation Act, HR554, which was resurrected again earlier this year and approved by committee, could conceivably be added to the Omnibus Public Lands Management Act of 2008.
     The Wilderness Act of 1964 originally consisted of 9.1 million acres of national forest wilderness areas. As of 2004, the Wilderness System comprises over 107 million acres involving federal lands administered by four agencies: the National Park Service (43,616,250 acres), U.S. Forest Service (34,867,591 acres), U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (20,699,108 acres), and Bureau of Land Management (6,512,227 acres) for a total of : 107,436,608 acres. Using these figures as a reference, I think we can safely assume the areas set aside for The National Landscape Conservation System will grow accordingly and the Paleontological Resources Preservation Act, if passed into law, will be substantially expanded over the coming years.
     The environmentalists are also working diligently at having states and large private land owners convert their properties into wilderness areas similar to the ones owned by the U.S. government. The environmentalists are well organized and financed, which in many cases allows them to exert considerable pressure on land owners. This is going to further limit many areas that can be used for recreational purposes.


Rock & Gem now our "Official" Magazine!
From Shirley Leeson, AFMS Past President via A.F.M.S. Newsletter, December-January, 2009.
     I'm delighted to share some exciting news with all of you. The AFMS Officers and Directors have selected Rock & Gem Magazine as the official magazine of the American Federation!
     Rock & Gem is published by Miller Magazines and our own International Relations Chair, Bob Jones, is its Senior Editor. He and his "boss" Lynne Varon, Managing Editor of the magazine, have been actively promoting the AFMS and several of its activities for the past year and plan to continue doing so in years to come.
     Rock & Gem is the last of the true "rockhound" magazines now that Lapidary Journal has been morphed into Jewelry Arts/Lapidary Journal. Mineralogical Record and Rocks & Minerals of course continue as outstanding publications, but their focus is on minerals, not on rockhounds. Each issue of R & G contains articles on field trips, minerals, projects and a series of kids activities.
     The November issue includes an editorial by Lynne Varon entitled "Find Your Voice" touting the AFMS Conservation & Legislation program, plus information about our efforts to get the U.S. Postal Service to produce a series of commemorative stamps featuring birthstones and an early plug for the AFMS 2009 Convention in Billings, MT by Bob Jones. If you're not already a subscriber, and thus a supporter of the magazine, you can easily get information by visiting their website www.rockngem.com or by calling them at 760-291-1549. Not yet had the opportunity of meeting our International Relations Chair, Bob Jones? He's always at the club show in Tucson each February, the Denver Show each September, the Springfield show each August in W. Springfield, MA, and many, many local club shows. He's also scheduled to be the speaker at the EFMLS Wildacres Workshop in 2010.
     Our association with Rock & Gem can truly be a symbiotic relationship - we subscribe and the magazine supports the efforts of the American Federation and our local clubs.

  Table of Contents.

LET'S GO TO A SHOW.

2008 Shows.

November 22-23; Oxnard, CA - Oxnard Gem & Mineral Society, Performing Arts Center, 800 Hobson Way. Hours: Sat. 9-5; Sun. 10-4. Miriam Tetrault (805) 642-5779, miriamtetreault@hotmail.com, www.oxnardgem.com.
December 6-7; Barstow, CA - Mojave Gem & Mineral Society, Cora Harper Community Center, 841 S. Barstow Road. Hours: 10-5 Both Days. Gene Haines (760) 256-0595, email@mdgms.org, www.mdgms.org.
December 13-14; San Bernardino, CA - Orange Belt Mineralogical Society, Hernandez Recreation Center, 2nd & Siera Way, San Bernardino. Hours: 9-5 both days. Lyle Strayer (909) 887-3394.

2009 Shows.
January 17-18; Exeter, CA - Tule Gem & Mineral Society, Exter Memorial Bldg., 420 N. Kaweah, Exter. Hours: Sat. 10-5; Sun. 10-4. Margaret Buchmann (599) 739-0401, mab@mindinfo.com, tulegem.org.
February 13-22; Indio, CA - San Gorgonio Mineral & Gem Society, Riverside County Fair & National Date Festival, Gem & Mineral Building Bldg #1, 46-350 Arabia Street. Hours: 10 am-10 pm. Bert Grisham: (915) 849-1674, bert67@verizon.net.
February 27-March 8; Imperial, CA - Imperial Valley Gem and Mineral Society, Gem and Mineral Bldg on Fairgrounds. Hours: Sat. & Sun. Noon-10; Mon. thru Thur. 4 pm-10 pm. Jim Strain (760) 356-2361.
March 6, 7 & 8; Hayward, CA - Mineral and Gem Society of Castro Valley, Centennial Hall, 22292 Foothill Blvd. Hours: Fri. & Sat. 10-6; Sun. 10-5, Larry Ham (510) 887-9007, showchair@mgscv.org, http://www.mgscv.org/.
March 7-8; Ventura, CA - Ventura Gem and Mineral Society, Inc. 47th Annual Gem, Mineral, Lapidary & Fossil Show, Seaside Park, Ventura County Fairgrounds, Hours: Sat. 10-5; Sun. 10-4. http://www.vgms.org/.
March 13-15; Stoddard Wells, CA - Victor Valley Gem & Mineral Club 33rd Annual Tailgate, Held off Stoddard Wells Road in Apple Valley. Hours: 10-5 Daily, Tailgate Map (Google): N34.670650; W117.108983, (760) 243-2330, www.vvgmc.org.
March 14-15; Turlock, CA - Mother Lode Mineral Society, Stanislaus County Fairgrounds, 900 N. Broadway, Turlock. Hours: Sat. 10-6; Sun 10-5. Bud & Terry McMillin (209) 524-3494, terry.mcmillin@yahoo.com, www.motherlodemineralsociety.com.
March 14-15; Spreckels, CA - Salinas Valley Rock & Gem Club, Veteran's Memorial Hall, 5th & Liano Streets. Hours: 10-5 daily. Teri Beck (831) 679-2896, taitani@cencentric.net, salinasrockandgem.com.
March 28-29; Torrance, CA - South Bay Lapidary and Mineral Society, Torrance Recreational Center, 3341 Torrance Blvd., Torrance, CA. Hours: Sat. 10-5; Sun. 10-4. Roger Mills (310) 377-6226, roger_mills@acm.org, http://www.palosverdes.com/sblap/.
March 28-29; Angels Camp, CA - Calaveras Gem & Mineral Society, Calaveras Frog Town USA Fairgrounds, Highway 49 in Angels Camp. Hours: Sat. 10-5; Sun. 10-4. Tak Iwata (209) 928-5579, Calaverasgemandmineral.org.
March 28-29; Roseville, CA - Roseville Rock Rollers, Placer County Fairgrounds, 800 All America City Blvd., Roseville. Hours: Sat. 10-5; Sun. 10-4. Gloria Marie (530) 367-2262, Gloria.Marie@Conservation.ca.gov, www.rockrollers.com.
April 3-5; Bakersfield, CA - San Joaquin Valley Lapidary Society, Kern County Fairgrounds, 1142 South P. Street - Corner S. P & Belle Terrace. Hours: 9-5 Daily. Contact: Lew Helfrich (661) 323-2663, cell (661) 378-4450, lewsrocks@bak.rr.com.

Source: http://cfmsinc.org/.

  Table of Contents.

SUPPORT AND PRACTICE
THE AFMS CODE OF ETHICS.

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