Rock, Gem, Mineral and Fossil Clubs

Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory Open House

2011-09-24T23:38:00.000-07:00

Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory (part of Columbia U.)

is having its annual Open House

on Oct. 1st, from 10 AM to 4 PM

at their campus on Route 9W in Palisades, NY.

Talks on the bill are:

11:30 AM - "The World's Mega Quakes"

12:45 PM - "A Role for Siesmology in Nuclear Arms Control

1:45 PM - Climate Change and Extreme Weather

3 PM - A discussion of careers for students w/science degrees.

For more info:

http://www.ldeo.columbia.edu/

or call 845-365-8998

September Shaver Lake Field Trip Unlikely...

2011-09-03T00:40:00.000-07:00

If you are one of the "happy band of collectors" that added the Shaver Lake Field Trip to your schedule...bad news...most likely canceled.

Diligent, generous and die-hard Rock Hound Kris Rowe is still trying to negotiate this trip and one planned for October. So keep an eye on his Ning Community - Rock Hound Field Trip Fanatics and he will keep us up-to-date on the talks.
This is Kris's Release on the topic:

September 1, 2011

From: Kris Rowe, President 2011

Fresno Gem & Mineral Society, Fresno, CA
Website - www.fgms.us

Re: SCE Restricting Public Access to Shaver Lake, Fall/Winter 2011

For over a quarter century, the amethyst deposits of Shaver Lake in eastern Fresno County, California were accessible resources for the mineral enthusiasts (aka "rockhounds") of Central California and beyond. Then, at the end of the 1990's, the lake level was "regularized" and the deposits of lovely lavender quartz were rendered inaccessible to mineral collection.

During the partial draining of Shaver Lake during late 2010 for repairs and improvements to the dam, a safe and successful rockhounding field trip was conducted to Amethyst Cove, Shaver Lake. Organized and sponsored by the Fresno Gem & Mineral Society (FGMS), the trip was attended by more than 40 mineral enthusiasts. Though muddy conditions made prospecting difficult, a safe & pleasurable trip was successfully conducted.

This August, an FGMS Field Trip to Amethyst Cove at Shaver Lake was announced, scheduled for September 17th, 2011.

Unfortunately, any Shaver Lake mineral collecting during this years draw down is seriously in doubt. The manager for the Shaver Lake Forestry area has informed us that the entire lake bed will be closed to mineral enthusiasts during draw down, for the stated purpose of assessing/"protecting" archeologically & environmentally sensitive sites.

We were contacted this morning by Micheal Esposito from the Shaver Lake Forrestry Resources office, and spoke with the Area Forest Resources Manager, Richard Bagley. We discussed the heretofore unpublicized closure of the lake bed, which he stated would apply to public access in general and rockhounding activities in particular during the draw down period. Though circumspect in his wording, it was clear that the main concern of local managers and So Cal Edison was to minimize liability & safety threats, which are certainly legitimate concerns.

Mr. Bagley emphasized his support of our recreation activities and his ongoing efforts to keep the lake shore and surrounding Edison administered lands open for rock & mineral collectors. He explained that the access denial order had come from the Southern California Edison Big Creek Hydro (aka Northern Hydro) archeological & environmental studies staff, partially in conjunction with agreements with local indigenous tribes, and promised to forward copies of the applicable orders and agreements.

FGMS regularly offers its members, members of CFMS associated Societies and land owners/managers the assurance of experienced, organized and well equipped field trip leadership, in addition to field trip liability insurance through the California Federation of Mineralogical Societies. Our field trips occur at public sites, and when permitted, private lands. We welcome inquiries from individuals who are interested in allowing organized hobby mineral prospecting and collection upon their properties, through the auspices of FGMS.

The Fresno Gem & Mineral Society is hopeful that controlled, Society sponsored access to the historical mineral collection areas at Shaver Lake in general, and Amethyst Cove in particular, may be achieved during the current draw down. As earlier noted, Amethyst Cove, and indeed, numerous mineral deposits in the area have been accessed by collectors for many decades. It is our hope to conduct safe, controlled and successful field trips to these areas this year. When the waters again rise, the amethyst pockets of Shaver Lake will again become inaccessible, perhaps for the remainder of our lifetimes.
-------------------
Helpful links & email addresses:

The Fresno Gem & Mineral Society - www.fgms.us
Kris Rowe, FGMS Publicity - fgms.publicity@gmail.com
Richard Bagley (Manager, Forest Resources) - richard.bagley@sce.com
SCE Media Desk - mediadesk@sce.com

California Federation of Mineralogical Societies - www.cfmsinc.org
American Lands Access Association - http://www.amlands.org
-------------------

The Fresno Gem & Mineral Society welcomes inquiries about our ongoing activities in promotion of the study and practice of mineralogy, geology and the associated arts & sciences. We welcome interested individuals to visit our website at www.fgms.us for more information on our ongoing activities and offerings. We also welcome attendees of the Big Fresno Fair to visit our annual Rock & Gem exhibit, located in the first building south of the Grandstands.

You Know You're A Rockhound If...

2011-08-07T19:41:00.000-07:00

You Might Be A Rockhound if…..
-The severe sunburn acquired on your last vacation was a one inch wide strip of skin at the gap between the tail of your shirt and the top of your pants.
-When you lick a dirty rock to show off the wonderful colors, without stopping to realize that you are the only Rockhound in the group.
-You are convinced that buried deep in some secret government archive is a document that will conclusively prove that the entire US Apollo space program was conceived and developed for the sole purpose of getting a moon rock for a certain Presidential rock collection... The truth is out there!
-Your son hits his hand with your rock hammer, your wife screams it broken, and you reply it's a fracture,
it has good cleavage, and has produced some unusual streaks in your son's underwear.
-The USGS calls to tell you they've discovered a gravitational anomaly centered on your house and to ask
if you might know the reason why.
-Considering the purchase of a spectacular specimen at a mineral show, you wonder if all three of your
kids really need to attend college.
-You begin fussing because the light strips you installed on your bookshelves aren't full spectrum.
-Your idea of a "quiet, romantic evening at home" involves blue mineral tack and thumbnail boxes.
-You've fabricated a backpack for your dog.
-you offer to buy a drink for the woman at the end of the bar only after you find out she drives a 4 wheel
drive truck.
-you have more than one story about a great find in a driveway.
-you have ever uncovered a great specimen, rolled over on your back and lit a cigarette.
-You know you're a rock hound if the only other pair of shoes you have besides high heels are your rock
boots.
-your first thought when making a decision about purchasing a new vehicle is "Is this 4wheel drive?" ...immediately followed by, "How many rocks will this thing carry, still leaving room for essentials
like my suitcases, make-up and rollers?"
-There is a pile of leaverite rocks behind the plant you work at that does not match the other rocks in the gravel used to control erosion.

And last but not least you are definitely a Rockhound if...
most people recognize you from this angle rather than when you are face to face.

Reprinted from the July 2011 "RockChipper" - newsletter from the Woodland Hills Gem & Mineral Society.

Gem Shows This Weekend...WI, MT, WA

2011-07-23T07:20:00.000-07:00

23-24—FREDERIC, WISCONSIN: 44th annual show; Indianhead Rock & Mineral Society; Frederic High School; Sat. 10-5, Sun. 10-4; free admission; contact Roy Wickman, (715) 357-3223, or Dick Huset, (715) 648-5620

23-24—KALISPELL, MONTANA: Annual show; Northwest Montana Rock Chucks; Flathead County Fair Grounds, Grandstand Bldg., 265 N. Meridian Rd.; Sat. 10-6, Sun. 10-4; adults $1; demonstrations, silent auction, door prizes, minerals, jewelry, kids’ activities; contact Milah Gano, P.O. Box 433, Lakeside, MT 59922, (406) 844-3560; e-mail: mallards_g@hotmail.com

23-24—TENINO, WASHINGTON: 17th annual show, “Rock & Gem Rendez-Vous”; Washington Agate & Mineral Society, Tenino Rock Cruisers; Parkside Elementary School, Stage St. South (I-5 exit 88); Sat. 9-6, Sun. 9-5; free admission; dealers, demonstrations, door prizes, spinning wheel, displays, during the Oregon Trail Days Celebration; contact Daniel De Boer, 5107 Brenner Rd. NW, Olympia, WA 98502; e-mail: keylock1@live.com

West Coast Gem & Mineral Show May 20 - 22nd

2011-05-19T11:22:00.000-07:00

Just a quick reminder about the return of one of the most popular Gem & Mineral Show in Southern California.

The West Gem & Mineral Show has something for everyone...Mineral Enthusiasts and Serious Collectors alike will find something to talk about! ....and the Retail area will keep hobby jewelers and professional Artisans busy with one jaw dropping gorgeous gem after the other...

See you there!

Show Website for more info: http://www.mzexpos.com/westcoast_spring.htm

Thanks to The-Vug for the Graphic.

If you like this graphic - it is just one of the services available to advertisers on The-Vug!

The Searchers - Anaheim, CA!

2011-05-10T16:31:00.000-07:00

We are one of the largest, most progressive rockhound clubs in Southern California and perhaps the whole country. We typically have 150-200 members join/rejoin every year to share in the rockhound experience. We are a 501(c)(3) organization which means we are tax exempt due to our educational status. Our members volunteer at the Long Beach VA Hospital and teach veterans new and marketable lapidary and jewelrymaking skills, teach classes at local schools, and host demonstrations available for the public to see every week of the year.

We have monthly meetings, silent auctions, door prizes, field trips, workshops, rockswaps and educational programs from guest speakers from within and outside of the club. Some of the past programs have included presentations on petrified wood, coining, cutting fire agate, casting, silversmithing, wirewrapping, gold panning, Topaz Mtn, The Oceanview Mine, pegmatite minerals, Owens Valley minerals, field trips, videos related to the hobby, geology, and much more.

http://www.searchersrocks.org/

PHOTOS FROM THE SEARCHERS ANNUAL SHOW APRIL 2011

Vendors:

Nevada Mineral & Books

The Agate Hunter - Adam Dean

Lapidary Originals

John E. Garsow Gems & Minerals

Demos:

Jonas Ruzgys - Faceting

Gem Carving Demonstration

Displays:

Meteorites: Rocks From Space

Ammonite Display

Is there a Gem & Mineral near you this weekend? what are you waiting for?

Rockhound State Park to CLOSE TO ROCKHOUNDING!!!

2011-03-25T18:09:00.000-07:00

This note comes from a Yahoo Rock Collecting Group:

Folks, a management plan is in the works in NM to close Rockhound State Park to rockhounding. Please read the following and respond appropriately.

The proposed plan may be read at the following web site:
http://www.emnrd. state.nm. us/PRD/documents /RockhoundPMPPub licReviewDraftMa rch2011.pdf

But, to save you time, the following is the important part from the proposal about rockhounding:

Rockhound State Park was originally established as a destination for rock collectors. At the time, in 1966, rock collecting was a popular pastime. Visitors were encouraged to visit the Park in order to collect rocks, and were allowed to take home up to 15 pounds of rocks.

Today the Division promotes a respect for the natural environment through interpretive and educational programs. Not only does rock collecting in a public park contradict the principle of natural resource protection.

There is only one state park in the United States that permits rock collecting: Crater of Diamonds State Park in Arkansas, which has a 38-acre plowed field set aside for collecting. Nearly all municipal, state, and national parks prohibit the removal of natural artifacts from parks. The practice of rock collecting at the Park would need to comply with NMSA 1978, Section 16-2-32:

"A person who commits any of the following acts is guilty of a petty misdemeanor and shall be sentenced in accordance with the provisions of Section 31-19-1 NMSA 1978:

A. cut, break, injure, destroy, take or remove a tree, shrub, timber, plant or natural object in any state park and recreation area, except in areas designated by the secretary and permitted by regulations adopted by the secretary, such regulations shall only permit the removal of a tree, shrub, timber, plant or natural object for scientific study or for non-commercial use by an individual as a souvenir, the quantity of material authorized for removal from any area shall be strictly regulated by park personnel in order to minimize resource damage."

If the Division were to continue to allow the public to collect rocks at the Park, the EMNRD Cabinet Secretary would designate a specific area and adopt rules pertaining to the collecting of rocks on Park property (such as the amount and location).

The once popular hobby of rock collecting has declined significantly since the 1960s. There are local businesses that cater to rock collectors and can guide or direct them to similar opportunities outside of the Park. Safety is also a concern with the public collecting rocks in the Park, as there are steep and unstable slopes that are becoming more hazardous as the collecting alters the stability of the hillside. There is also a concern that some visitors may go beyond the Park boundaries in their quest for rocks.

Park staff has already begun the transition away from rock collecting and will need to educate the public about the need to respect the natural resources. One crucial step is to modify all Park information (signage, brochures, website), so that this activity is no longer encouraged. All materials need to state that it is a prohibited activity. The namesake theme can continue through educational programs and interpretive information about the rocks that occur in the Park and the geology of the region.
Revise written materials by removing all mention of rock collecting and add a reference to the state statute which prohibits rock collecting on Park property.

Written and oral comments on the plan will be accepted. Comment letters can be dropped off at the park; mailed to P.O. Box 1147, Santa Fe, NM 87505; e-mailed to nmparks@state. nm.us or faxed to (505) 476-3361.

PLEASE, everyone reading this message, email, snail mail or fax a written comment in opposition to the proposed plan to discontinue rockhounding in Rockhound State Park. You have until April 18, 2011 to make comment, so please get on it today. Let's show the NMSPD personnel that rockhounding has not declined since the 1960s and the park should remain true to its namesake. Also, all you club members out there, please let everyone in your club know about this by mass email so we can get all rockhounds throughout this country engaged in the battle to save yet another of our fleeting freedoms. This may be in far away New Mexico now, but in your backyard tomorrow.

PLEASE HELP NOW BECAUSE THERE IS NO TIME TO WAIT!

Below is a link to a drafted response from Mike Streeter, NC Geologist and Rockhound. Feel free to use this draft as a response letter, Following will be a list of contact information to send responses to.

http://mcrocks. com/images- 5/RockhoundState ParkPlanOppositi on.pdf

Contact Information:

The Rockhound State Park Manager:
robertv.apodaca@ state.nm. us
and the Regioanl PArk Manager:
rolf.hechler@ state.nm. us

New Mexico Governor Susana Martinez:
http://www.governor .state.nm. us/Contact_ the_Governor. aspx

US Congressman Steve Pearce:
https://pearce. house.gov/ contact-me/ email-me

Deming Mayor: Andres Z. Silva
Phone: 575-546-8848
Email: asilva@cityofdeming .org

Deming City Council Member David Sanchez
Phone: 575-546-3155
Email: dsanchez505@ msn.com

Deming City Council Member Linda Enis
Phone: 575-546-0333
Email: relex3@gmail. com

Deming City Council Member Joe Milo
Phone: 575-546-7385
Email: deming@cityofdeming .org

Deming City Council Member Bill Shattuck
Phone: 575-544-0455
Email: billshattuck@ 1stvalley. com

Luna County Commissioner Javier Diaz
Phone: 575-936-6446
Email: rjavier_diaz@ lunacountynm. us

Luna County Commissioner Joe "Oleo" Milo
Phone: 575-546-0494
Email: joe_milo@lunacounty nm.us

Luna County Commissioner Jay Spivey
Phone: 575-546-0494
Email: jay_spivey@lunacoun tynm.us

You have to go to the web site addresses to contact the Governor and US Congressman, but to make it easy for you to email all Deming City Government officials and Luna County Commissioners in one fell swoop, all you need to do is cut and paste the following list of email addresses into the address line of your message:
asilva@cityofdeming .org; dsanchez505@ msn.com;relex3@gmail. com; deming@cityofdeming .org; billshattuck@ 1stvalley. com; rjavier_diaz@ lunacountynm. us;joe_milo@lunacounty nm.us; jay_spivey@lunacoun tynm.us

Local Gem & Mineral Shows!

2011-03-18T18:01:00.000-07:00

Corundum from Fieldtrip to
Cascade Canyon in California

All Shows are open to the PUBLIC - most are associated with a local Gem and Mineral Club - meet new friends - go on trips "Field Collecting" with experienced people - monthly meetings with guest speakers!

17-20—SAN BERNARDINO, CALIFORNIA: Show and sale; OrangeBelt Mineralogical Society; Little League Baseball Western Region Headquarters, 6707 Little League Dr.; Thu. 12-5, Fri. 9-6, Sat. 9-6, Sun. 9-3; free admission; rocks, minerals, jewelry, gems, tools, rock auction; contact Ann Mansfield, (909) 297-6652; e-mail:amansfield@live.com; Web site: OBMSRocks.webs.com

18-20—ALBUQUERQUE, NEW MEXICO: 42nd annual show, Treasures of the Earth”; Albuquerque Gem & Mineral Club; Creative Arts Center Bldg., State Fair Grounds, EXPO NM (San Pedro entrance); Fri. 10-6, Sat. 10–6, Sun. 10–5; adults $1 Fri., $3 Sat. and Sun., kids 12 and under free; more than 40 dealers, displays, door prizes, silent auctions, mineral and gem identification, juniors’ booth, live wolf, geode cracking, faceting demonstration, gold panning and more; contact Paul Hlava, (505) 255-5478; e-mail: paulhlava@q.com

18-20—HICKORY, NORTH CAROLINA: 41st show, “Unifour Gem, Mineral, Bead, Fossil and Jewelry Show”; Catawba Valley Gem & Mineral Club; Hickory Metro Convention Center, I-40 Exit 125; Fri. 9-6, Sat. 9-6, Sun. 10-5; adults $4, children and school groups free; contact Baxter Leonard, 2510 Rolling Ridge Dr., Hickory, NC 28602, (828) 320-4028; e-mail: gailandbaxter@aol.com

18-20—JACKSON, MICHIGAN: 49th annual show; Michigan Gem & Mineral Society; Jackson County Fairgrounds, 200 W. Ganeson St.; Fri. 10-7, Sat. 10-7, Sun. 10-5; jewelry, minerals, fossils, dealers, demonstrations, silent auctions, geode cracking; contact John LaMont, (765) 647-4894, or Dan Hovater, (517) 518-1045

18-20—SPANISH FORK, UTAH: 52nd show, “Spring Parade of Gems”; Timpanogos Gem & Mineral Society; Spanish Fork Fair Grounds, 475 S. Main St.; Fri. 10-7, Sat. 10-7, Sun. 10-5; free admission; displays, dealers, jewelry, fossils, equipment, Mr. Bones, door prizes, touch table, rock sales, kids’ grab bags, Wheel of Fortune, instructions on polishing rocks, metal detectors, lapidary equipment, demonstrations, faceting, knapping, wire wrapping, beading, fluorescent mineral display, silent auction; contact Keith Fackrell, 2295 East 700 South, Springville, UT 84663, (801) 489-7525; e-mail: krfackrell@msn.com; Web site: http://timprocks.weebly.com

19-20—BAKERSFIELD, CALIFORNIA: 10th annual show, “Rendezvous”; Lewis M. Helfrich; Kern County Shriners, 1142 S. P St.; Sat. 9-5, Sun. 9-5; free admission; free drawings, demonstrations, sphere making, cabochon making, silversmithing, wire wrapping, grab bags, Wheel of Fortune, raffle, silent auction, General Store, dealers, rocks, fossils, gems, jewelry, rough rock, diachronic glass, lapidary equipment, beads and beading supplies; contact Lewis M. Helfrich, (661) 323-2663 or (661) 378-4450; e-mail: lewsrocks@bak.rr.com

19-20—CEDAR RAPIDS, IOWA: Annual show, “Treasures form Iowa’s Ice Age”; Cedar Valley Rock & Mineral Society; Hawkeye Downs, 4400 6th St. SW; Sat. 8:30-6, Sun. 9:30-5; adults $2, students $1, children under 12 free; displays, Stegadon, Ground Sloth, Saber-tooth Cat, Wooly Rhino, agates, programs on Ice-Age animals, Lake Superior agates, demonstrations, tumbling, faceting, glass bead making, cabbing, beading, wire wrapping, flint knapping; contact Thomas Whitlatch, 1147 Staub Ct. NE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52402, (319) 551-3870; e-mail: witlatcht@aim.com; Web site: www.cedarvalleyrockclub.org

19-20—ESCONDIDO, CALIFORNIA: Show and sale; Palomar Gem & Mineral Club; Orfila Vineyards, 13455 San Pasqual Rd.; Sat. 10-5, Sun. 10-4; free admission; dealers, gems, jewelry, minerals, demonstrations; contact Michael Nelson, 1341 Rincon Villa Dr., Escondido, CA 92027, (760) 580-5902; e-mail: manelson1@cox.net; Web site: http://palomargem.org/index.html

19-20—GAITHERSBURG, MARYLAND: 47th annual show; Gem, Lapidary & Mineral Society of Montgomery County; Montgomery County Fairgrounds, 16 Chestnut St.; Sat. 10-6, Sun. 10-5; adults $6, children under 12 free; 45 exhibits, demonstrations, free cabochon-polishing workshop, door prizes, raffles, fossils, kids’ Touch Table with specimens, fluorescent display tent, kids’ mini-mine, more than 20 dealers; contact George Durland, 8600 Bunnell Dr., Potomac, MD 20854; e-mail: GDurland1@verizon.net; Web site: www.glmsmc.com

19-20—LIVE OAK (SAN ANTONIO), TEXAS: 50th annual show, “Fiesta of Gems”; San Antonio Gem & Mineral Society; Live Oak Civic Center, 8108 Pat Booker Rd.; Sat. 10-6, Sun. 10-4; adults $5, seniors $3, students $2, children 50 cents; 25 dealers; minerals, fossils, jewelry, gemstones, crystals, club exhibits, silent auction, games, hourly door prizes, silent auction; contact Robert Bowie, 1324 Kings Point Dr., Canyon Lake, TX 78133; e-mail: krbotx@gvtc.com; Web site: www.swgemandmineral.org

19-20—SEATTLE, WASHINGTON: 57th annual show; North Seattle Lapidary & Mineral Club; Lake City Community Center, 12531 28th Ave. NE; Sat. 10-5, Sun. 10-5; free admission; junior activities, demonstrations, club member displays, grab bags, Rockosaurus rides, Rockhound Dinner, dealers, door prizes; contact Susan Gardner, 15428 62nd Ave. NE, Kenmore, WA 98028, (425) 483-2295; e-mail: sgardner3@mindspring.com; Web site: www.NorthSeattleRockClub.org

19-20—VALLEJO, CALIFORNIA: Show, “Spring Bling”; Vallejo Gem & Mineral Society; Solano County Fairgrounds, 900 Fairgrounds Dr., County Bldg.; Sat. 10-5, Sun. 10-5; adults $5, children under 14 free with adult; gems, jewelry, minerals, fossils, beads, findings, hourly door prizes, silent auction, “wheel of fortune”, grab bags; contact Dan Wolke, P.O. Box 706, Vallejo, CA 94590, (707) 644-9764; e-mail: vgms01@yahoo.com; Web Site: www.iwired.org

Is There A Gem Show In Your Neck Of The Woods?

2011-03-12T00:31:00.000-08:00

4-13—IMPERIAL, CALIFORNIA: Annual show, “California Mid-Winter Fair and Fiesta”; Imperial Valley Gem & Mineral Society;, IV Expo, 200 E. 2nd; Fri. 12-10, Sat. 12-10, Sun. 12-10, Mon. 4-10, Tue. 4-10, Wed. 4-10, Thu. 4-10, Fri. 4-10, Sat. 12-10, Sun. 12-10; contact John Pyle Jr., P.O. Box 1721, El Centro, CA 92244, (760) 562-3453; e-mail: Jp.IVgms@att.net; Web site: http://ivgms.tumblr.com

11-13—COTTONWOOD, ARIZONA: Show, “Verde Valley Gem Mineral & Jewelry Show”; Mingus Gem & Mineral Club; Verde Valley Fairgrounds, 800 E. Cherry St.; Fri. 9-5, Sat. 9-5, Sun. 10-4; adults $2, children 13 and under free with paying adult; more than 30 vendors, door prize raffles, educational displays, extensive children’s area; contact Sarah Knowles, P.O. Box 1284, Cottonwood, AZ 86326; e-mail: Mingusgemandmineralclub@gmail.com

11-13—HILLSBORO, OREGON: 53rd annual show; Tualatin Valley Gem Club; Washington County Fairgrounds, 873 NE 34th Ave., on Cornell Road, across from Hillsboro Airport; Fri. 10-6, Sat. 10-6, Sun. 10-5; contact Roy Woo, P.O. Box 641, Forest Grove, OR 97116; e-mail: rwoo12648@gmail.com

11-13—KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI: 50th annual show, “Greater Kansas City Gem & Mineral Show”; Association of Earth Science Clubs of Greater Kansas City; MCC-BTC Exhibition Hall, 1775 Universal Ave. (I-435, Front Street Exit); Fri. 9-8, Sat. 10-7, Sun. 10-5; adults $6, 5-12 years $2; or Bruce Stinemetz, (816) 795-1641; e-mail: brucestinemetz@att.net; Web site: www.gemshowkc.org

11-13—LOGAN, UTAH: Show and sale; Cache Geological & Archeological Society; Riverwoods Conference Center, 600 S. Main; Fri. 10-7, Sat. 10-7, Sun. 10-5; free admission; door prizes, club displays, demonstrations, dealers, handcrafted jewelry, silent auction, fossils, crystals, mineral specimens, rough rocks, slabs, grab bags, kids’ activities, faceting rough, artifacts; contact Gary Warren, (435) 720-1775; e-mail: rock_hunter1@hotmail.com

11-13—VICTORVILLE, CALIFORNIA: 35th annual tailgate; Victor Valley Gem & Mineral Club; Stoddard Wells Rd., 12 miles east of I-15; Fri. 9-5, Sat. 9-5, Sun. 9-5; rough materials, gems, jewelry, findings, equipment, Sat. field trip, silent auctions; contact VVGMC, (760) 243-2330, or Brett Ward, (760) 954-4323; Web site: www.vvgmc.org

11-14—DEMING, NEW MEXICO: 46th annual show, “Rockhound Roundup Gem & Mineral Show”; Deming Gem & Mineral Society; SWNM State Fairgrounds, Raymond Reed Blvd.; free admission; more than 100 dealers, display cases, geode cutting, gold panning, spinning wheel, silent and live auctions, door prizes, raffle, guided field trips; contact Terry Dellinger, P.O. Box 1459, Deming, NM 88031, (936) 433-0108; e-mail: theDGMS@gmail.com; Web site: www.dgms.bravehost.com

12—BARTOW, FLORIDA: Show and sale; Bone Valley Gem, Mineral & Fossil Society; Stuart Center (Polk County Ag Bldg.), 1702 US Hwy. 17S; Sat. 10-5; adults $1; children’s sandbox, demonstrations, raffle, silent auction; contact Jim Reed, 5740 Hebron Ln., Lakeland, FL 33812, (863) 644-6665; e-mail: rocks57@tampabay.rr.com; Web site: www.bonevalley.net

12—BATON ROUGE, LOUISIANA: 2nd show, “Rockin’ at the Swamp”; Baton Rouge Recreation Commission; Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center, 10503 N. Oak Hills Pkwy.; Sat. 9-4; adults $5, children $4; activities, displays, rocks, gemstones, minerals, fossils, vendors, exhibits, rough and polished mineral specimens, fossils, geode-busting station; contact Claire Coco, 10503 N. Oak Hills Pkwy., Baton Rouge, LA 70810, (225) 757-8905; e-mail: ccoco@brec.org

12—SKOKIE, ILLINOIS: 62nd annual silent auction; Chicago Rocks & Minerals Society; St. Peter’s United Church of Christ, 8013 Laramie Ave., across from the Skokie Public Library at Oakton; Sat. 6-9; free admission, children must be accompanied by an adult; rocks, minerals, crystals, fossils, handmade jewelry, lapidary treasures, books, magazines; contact Jeanine N. Mielecki, (773) 774-2054; e-mail: jaynine9@aol.com; Web site: www.chicagorocks.org

12-13—FILER, IDAHO: 60th annual show; Magic Valley Gem Club; Twin Falls County Fairgrounds, U.S. Hwy. 30, east side of Filer; Sat. 9-6, Sun. 9-5; contact Harold Waggoner, (208) 423-9668, or Shirley Metts, (208) 423-4827; e?mail: rmetts@cableone.net

12-13—KLAMATH FALLS, OREGON: Annual show; Rock and Arrowhead Club; Klamath County Fairgrounds, 3531 S. 6th St.; Sat. 9-5, Sun. 10-4; Petrified Wood; contact Jennifer Zimmerlee, (541) 545-6773; e?mail: jlazys@hotmail.com; or Marv Stump, (541) 882-8341

12-13—MACOMB, ILLINOIS: 31st annual show; Geodeland Earth Science Clubs; Western Illinois University Union Ballroom, Murray St.; Sat., 10-6, Sun. 10-5; free admission; dealers, minerals, fossils, jewelry, equipment, displays, fluorescent minerals, geodes, meteorites, fossils, minerals, artifacts, demonstrators, shell engraving, fossil preparation, mineral identification, egg and rock painting, wire-wrapping, sphere-making, scrimshaw, geode cracking, flint knapping, glass bead making, lampwork, gemstone faceting, kids’ activities; contact Regina Kapta (217) 433-9585; e-mail: cigmc@comcast.net; or Jim Travis; e-mail: boatnick@aol.com

12-13—SAN MARINO, CALIFORNIA: Show, “Tournament of Gems, Rocks to Art”; Pasadena Lapidary Society; San Marino Masonic Center, 3130 Huntington Dr.; Sat. 10-6, Sun. 10-5; free admission; demonstrations, display cases, dealers; contact Marcia Goetz, 755 W. Dike St., Glendora, CA 91740, (626) 260-7239; e-mail: joenmar1@verizon.net

12-13—SPRECKELS, CALIFORNIA: Show, “Parade of Gems”; Salinas Valley Rock & Gem Club; Spreckels Veteran’s Hall, 5th St. and Llano St.; Sat. 10-5, Sun. 10-5; free admission; demonstrators, cab making, bead enameling, youth beading and rock painting, fluorescent display, rock bags with prizes, “wheel of fortune”, raffles, free drawings, auction, dealers, jewelry, beads, fossils, craft supplies, minerals, crystals; contact Karen Jones, P.O. Box 668, Soledad, CA 93960, (831) 678-0337; e?mail: kenkaren0337@att.net

12-13—TURLOCK, CALIFORNIA: 45th annual show; Mother Lode Mineral Society; Turlock Fairgrounds, 900 N. Broadway; Sat. 10-6, Sun. 10-5; adults $5, children 12 and under free with adult; minerals, rocks, beads, jewelry, fossils, dinosaurs, fluorescents, tools, books, educational material, large children’s area, 40 vendors, 80 exhibits, 20 demonstrations, jewelry making, lapidary arts, gold panning, rock sale, fluorescent tent, speakers (Bob Jones, Dr. Gregg Wilkerson), fossil display, life-size T-rex skull; contact Bud & Terry McMillin, (209) 524-3494; e-mail: terry.mcmillin@yahoo.com; Web site: www.turlockgemshow.com

Just Posted! 2011 Fieldtrips from CFMS South

2011-02-15T17:04:00.000-08:00

CFMS Trip to the Oceanview Mine Dig in 2009

CFMS field trips for 2011, some dates are set some are tentative, they could change.

Set:

Jan-no field trip

Feb 26th - Kanan rd, Piuma Rd for agate, turritella fossils, scallop fossils

March 26th/27th - Jalama Beach for agate, onyx, petrified whale bone, fossils

April 23rd/24th - Kingston Range for amethyst, pyrite, sphalerite

May 28th - Calico for agate

Nov-Wiley's Well (geodes, nodules, chalcedony, fire agate, agate,petrified wood, fossils

Tentative:
June-Cadys (agate
July-Greenhorn Mtns (rose quartz, epidote, tungsten ore sheelite
Aug-Oceanview (Tourmaline
Sept-Jade Cove (nephrite jade, serpentine, actinolite, abalone shells
Oct-Lavic (agate
Dec-open

Robert Sankovich, Adam Dean
CFMS Co Chair Field Trips South

Del Air Rockhounds Announce Beach Fieldtrip!

2011-01-21T15:08:00.000-08:00

Join the Del Air Rockhounds for their annual trip to Gaviota and Refugio Beaches for fossil whalebone! The fieldtrip will be lead by experienced Trip Guide, Jon Meredith and is scheduled for Saturday, January 29th, 2011.

We will be meeting at Refugio Beach at 10:30, then at Gaviota Beach at 1PM for the 1:30 low tide.

With the weather we've been having, the pickin's should be excellent again this year. After last year's storms, we found close to 500# of bone at Gaviota Beach. So come one, come all, and join us for a family friendly excursion to the beach.

There is a $10 per car fee for the beach (paying at one covers both). Dress in layers, might be cold....and wet....

→ Bring food and beverages, as the markets at the beaches are closed

this time of year.

→ Bring a bucket or bag for your findings, and small gardening hand tools

can come in handy.

...as usual - look for the car covered in smiley faces!

Register in advance (appreciated but not required, though signing a waiver will be) by email to Jon at meredith (at) flashercrew.net

Photo credits: Don Ogden, Director, North Orange County Gem & Mineral Society

AFMS: Future Rockhounds of America Rock Stars!

2011-01-08T19:10:00.000-08:00

AFMS/FRA ROCK STARS

Kids participating in the AFMS Future Rockhounds of America program symbolically graduate from “future rockhound” to “full rockhound” status if they complete and earn at least 6 of the 15 individual badges offered within the program. To recognize and reward them for this accomplishment, we award a Rockhound Badge and their names are posted on our Honor Roll within the AFMS web site.

But some exceptional kids have gone on further, becoming super-achievers by completing all badges offered within the program. For them, we award an enameled AFMS cloisonné pin, and we list them here, as our AFMS/FRA Rock Stars! We congratulate each and every one.

CALIFORNIA

William Childress, Bakersfield Mineral Mites, 11/20/10
Cyndal Shermer, Bakersfield Mineral Mites, 11/20/10

FLORIDA

Erica Nathan, Tomoka Gem & Mineral Society Coquina Kids, 11/15/10

WASHINGTON

Hannah Pearce, Rocky Trails Junior Club, 11/4/10
Christian West, Rocky Trails Junior Club, 11/4/10
Johan West, Rocky Trails Junior Club, 11/4/10

We're Losing Access To Public Lands!!

2010-12-29T12:15:00.000-08:00

If you happen to be in the southwest during January, please stop by.

ALAA, the American Lands Access Association is having a meeting in beautiful down town Quartzsite:

Wednesday, January 19, 2011 at 9am (MountainTime).

The meeting will be held at the Senior Center on Moon Mountain Road.

ALL are welcome to attend.

It appears that the desert will be changing and not for the good of the collectors. No matter what activities you enjoy, it appears that large tracts of land will be taken for solar projects and thus we will loose a number of collecting areas.

This meeting should be of interest to all rockhounds and to anyone who recreates on and uses public lands. The purpose of this meeting is for outreach to rockhounds and the public at Quartzsite; to let them know about ALAA and what we do. It is to let Rockhounds and the public know the legislative and regulatory challenges and issues facing all of us and how they can and should be involved.

Your voice and support are needed as we try to work with the "powers that be" on a solution that will satisfy everyone.

YOU can help. Please attend if you're in the area.

More info on the ALAA website: http://amlands.org/

Saying Goodbye to 2010 - Looking To The Future!

2010-12-27T13:58:00.000-08:00

Outgoing CFMS President passes the gavel to in coming President Jim Brace-Thompson

Photo Credit: John Martin

Excerpt: PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE from the December Issue of the C.F.M. S. Newsletter

Grow the Federation!
By Fred Ott

As this is my last newsletter article as President, I’d like to share some observations that I’ve made during the year.

Past: Our Federation exists today based upon a solid foundation of successes constructed by our predecessors. We owe each of them a debt of gratitude that can best be expressed by building upon past efforts and successes and growing our individual Societies and the Federation. Imagine starting your own business and building it up to be a very successful venture, only to have it fail shortly after ‘turning the reins’ over to someone else; what a disappointment! Conversely, there is no greater satisfaction than to have subsequent owners capitalize on the birth and growth of your business by bringing it to new heights. So, too, is it with our societies and the Federation. Not only should we ‘thank’ those who came before us; we need to show our sincerest appreciation by continuing their legacy.

Present: I’ve found that members of most (if not all) societies are eager to learn new ideas and tools to make their jobs easier, our passion for rockhounding more fun and the shows more profitable. The challenge has
always been to develop a system of ‘sharing’ this information and I’m proud to say that we are well on our way of using the Internet, modern technology and the Federation meetings and conventions to do just that. The ‘key’ is constant communications. When gathering email addresses for our new database, I was often surprised to find societies for which there was no way to contact them except by US postal mail. The information on the Federation’s website was either inaccurate or incomplete; all the more reason to capitalize on the new technologies!

Future: Looking ahead, I am very excited about the future of our Federation! We are indeed fortunate to have incoming officers and directors who are talented, motivated and energized to make their contributions and continue leading us to future successes. Please give them your support at every opportunity.

Thank you for allowing me to be the CFMS President this year.

Remember: rockhounding is MORE than a hobby; it’s a PASSION!

Fred Ott, President 2010

There are several regional Federations - find the one that is nearest to you and get involved - links in the right hand column.
For more info on the AFMS go to: http://amfed.org

America’s Great Outdoors - Join the Conversation

2010-12-09T12:18:00.000-08:00

Do you know about the project from the Department of the Interior to get Americans involved in the issues facing us all - environment, land access, land use, regulations, etc

Well - here is your opportunity to become part of the solution - Make your voice heard - but keep it positive please there is already enough ranting on the site. Tell the government what you would like to see and explain the importance of public access:

Americans have a proud tradition of working together - from the ground-up - to conserve farmland and open space for future generations, restore rivers and streams, protect areas for hiking and biking, preserve beaches and coastlines, conserve wildlife habitat for fishing and hunting, and restore the cultural and historic sites that tell America’s story. In fact, community-driven efforts to conserve America’s land, water, and wildlife are a major reason why we are blessed with the parks, refuges, forests, and open spaces that we enjoy today.

Starting with the White House Conference on the Great Outdoors on April 16, President Obama has launched a national dialogue about conservation in America. As part of this dialogue, we are bringing together ranchers, farmers and forest landowners, sportsmen and women, state and local government leaders, tribal leaders, public-lands experts, conservationists, youth leaders, business representatives, and others to learn about some of the smart, creative ways communities are conserving outdoor spaces.

We hope you will join the conversation about America’s Great Outdoors. We want to hear from you about the places you love, your community’s efforts to protect them, and how we can better support modern-day land and water conservation efforts happening in communities across the country.

http://www.doi.gov/americasgreatoutdoors/Join-the-Conversation.cfm

Omnibus Federal Lands Bill - AGAIN?

2010-12-08T14:15:00.000-08:00

There has been talk again about the Omnibus Federal Lands Bill...

One blog reports....

Please, call your US Senators (and others) at least once a day for the next two weeks. Their phones, faxes and e-mail machines must not stop ringing. When you reach their office, ask to speak to the staffer handling the Omnibus Federal Lands Bill being finalized by Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV).

Here’s what you can say:

You oppose the Omnibus Federal Lands Bill that will likely include the LWCF Trust Fund (S 3663):please vote against it.
You oppose the Corps and EPA Wetlands Land Grab (HR 5088 and S 787): please vote against it.
They must filibuster, place a hold on, or otherwise delay the Omnibus Federal Lands Bill for careful bipartisan consideration in the next session of Congress.
Respectfully tell them that you will look to see how they voted and if they haven’t already been retired, their vote on the Omnibus Federal Lands Bill will determine how you vote in the next election.

The Omnibus vote could come as early as this week or it may be delayed until next week or even later. Please forward this message to your entire e-mail list.

http://www.terimurrison.com/2010/12/express-yourself-join-mounting-opposition-to-omnibus-federal-lands-bill/

This one also boasts one of the more complete listings of legislators contact info!

For info on whether your legislator voted in favor of the 2009 Bill see this site! I think you will be surprised to see that while we can't agree on taxes or health care - grabbing land from the public seems to have bi-partisan support!

http://www.landrights.org/OmnibusSenatorsContacts101130.pdf

Local Gem Shows...This Weekend!

2010-11-04T23:57:00.000-07:00

5-7--ANCHORAGE, ALASKA: 9th annual show; Chugach Gem & Mineral Society, Alaska Miners Association; Sheraton Anchorage Hotel, 2nd Floor, 401 E. 6th Ave.; Fri. 5-9, Sat. 10-5, Sun. 11-4; free admission; displays, demonstrations, vendors, rocks, minerals, jewelry, books, kids' activities; contact Anita Williams, (907) 345-2541; e-mail: awilliam@alaska.net

5-7--BLACK CANYON CITY, ARIZONA: Annual show, "Rock-A-Rama"; Braggin' Rock Club; High Desert Park, Jacie St.; free admission; minerals, lapidary supplies, displays, fossils, rough slabs, crystals, beads, tailgaters welcome; contact Phyllis, (623) 374-5451

5-7--EUREKA, CALIFORNIA: 56th annual show; Humboldt Gem & Mineral Society; Redwood Acres Fairgrounds, 3750 Harris St.; Fri. 9-6, Sat. 10-6, Sun. 10-5; dealers, gems, minerals, fossils, kids' games, live demonstrations (lapidary, jewelry making, lampwork beads, flint knapping); contact Steven V. Johnson, (707) 476-8393; e-mail: humboldtcaveman@att.net

6--TUCSON, ARIZONA: 9th annual silent auction; Old Pueblo Lapidary Club; 3118 N. Dale; Sat. 9-2; free admission; contact Danny V. Harmsen, (520) 323-9154

6-7--AMARILLO, TEXAS: Annual show; Golden Spread Gem & Mineral Society; Amarillo Civic Center, 401 S. Buchanan; Sat. 10-6, Sun. 10-5; admission $2; jewelry, gems, minerals, fossils, metal detectors, working demonstrations; contact Roy or Wanda Finley, 9170 FM 1151, Claude, TX 79019, (806) 944-5464; e-mail: finfran@midplains.coop

6-7--ANAHEIM, CALIFORNIA: 43rd annual show; American Opal Society; White House/West Wing Event Center, Hobby City, 1238 S. Beach Blvd.; Sat. 10-6, Sun. 10-5; adults $3, children under 15 free; opal and gem dealers from the USA and Australia, rough and cut opals, gemstones, jewelry, supplies, raffle, free seminars, free gem cutting and jewelry making demonstrations; contact Pete Goetz, (714) 530-3530, e-mail: mpg1022@aol.com; Web site: http://opalsociety.org

6-7--BREWER, MAINE: Show; Penobscot Mineral & Lapidary Club; Brewer Auditorium, Wilson St.; Sat. 10-5, Sun. 10-4; adults $1, children free; silent auctions, door prizes, demonstrations, children's activities; contact Lance Shope, 38 Sunset Strip, Brewer, ME 04412, (207) 989-3342: e-mail: lshope67@yahoo.com

6-7--CONCORD, CALIFORNIA: 51st anniversary show; Contra Costa Mineral & Gem Society; Centre Concord, Clayton Fair Shopping Center, 5298 Clayton Rd. (near Ygnacio Valley Rd.); Sat. 10-5, Sun. 10-5; adults $5, 20 percent discount at Web site, under 16 and Scouts in uniform free with adult; fluorescent room displays, 21 vendors, minerals, fossils, gems, crystals, jewelry, books, tools, equipment, lapidary supplies, 60 exhibitors, 12 demonstrators, beading, wire-wrapping, faceting, stone carving, youth activities, silent auction, prizes, raffle, woolly mammoth skull, giant jade, giant cave bear, giant auction; contact Harry Nichandros, P.O. Box 4667, Walnut Creek, CA 94596, (925) 289-0454; e-mail: bob@ccmgs.org; Web site: http://ccmgs.org

6-7--EDMONDS, WASHINGTON: Annual fall show; Maplewood Rock & Gem Club; Maplewood Clubhouse, 8802 196th St. SW; Sat. 9-5, Sun. 9-4; free admission; raffles, displays, demonstrators, sales; contact Bev Ryder, 4625 Strumme Rd., Bothell, WA 98012, (425) 338-4184; e-mail: famryd@aol.com; Web site: www.maplewoodrockclub.com

6-7--EXTON, PENNSYLVANIA: Show, "Gemarama 2010"; Tuscarora Lapidary Society; School at Church Farm, Bus. Rte. 30 and Rte. 202; Sat. 10-6, Sun. 10-5; adults and students $6, seniors $5, children $1, see Web site for discount; dealers, finished jewelry, cut and uncut stones, fossils, beads, tools, lapidary supplies, demonstrations of jewelry and lapidary arts, exhibits, children's activities, door prizes, silent auction; contact Jim Johnston, (215) 542-7753; e-mail: information@lapidary.org; Web site: www.lapidary.org

6-7--GREENWICH, CONNECTICUT: Annual show; Stamford Mineralogical Society; Eastern Greenwich Civic Center, 90 Harding Rd.; Sat. 9:30-5, Sun. 10-4:30; adults $6, children under 12 $1; gems, minerals, jewelry, fossils, mini-mine, displays, geode cracking; contact Edward Mattson, 11 Soudview St., Port Chester, NY 10573, (914) 935-8893; e-mail: mineralwood@optonline.net

6-7--LANCASTER, CALIFORNIA: Show, "Rock 'N' Gem Roundup"; Palmdale Gem & Mineral Club; Antelope Valley Fairgrounds, 2551 W. Ave. H; Sat. 9-5, Sun. 9-5; free admission; petrified wood seminars by Walt Wright, dinosaur programs by Richard Wade; children's area with interactive games, silent auction, Country Store, more than 25 vendors, more than 30 lapidary displays; contact Susan Chaisson-Walblom, 42122 52nd St. W, Quartz Hill, CA 93536, (661) 406-0143; e-mail: slchaisson@yahoo.com; Web site: www.palmdalegemandmineral.com

6-7--MELBOURNE, FLORIDA: Show, "Parade of Gems"; Canaveral Mineral & Gem Society; Melbourne Auditorium, 625 E. Hibiscus Ave.; Sat. 10-5, Sun. 10-5; adults $4; contact Don McLamb, (321) 723-2592; email: fdjmc@aol.com; Web site: www.canaveral-mgs.com

6-7--MIDLAND, MICHIGAN: Show and sale; Mid Michigan Gemcraft & Mineral Society; Midland Resort Hotel Convention Center, 1500 W. Wackerly St.; Sat. 10-6, Sun. 10-4; free admission; rocks, gems, minerals, fossils, jewelry, beads, Scout patches, photo op. with T. rex skull, demonstrations, presentations; contact Deb Acord, 55 Star Rd., Sanford, MI 48657, (989) 430-4471; e-mail: jackdanred1@aol.com; Web site: http://midlandrockclub.com/

6-7--MIDLAND, TEXAS: 48th annual show; Midland Gem & Mineral Society; Midland Center, 105 N. Main St., corner of Wall and Main; Sat. 9-6, Sun. 10-5; adults $4, students (6-18) $1, children 5 and under free; dealers, demonstrations, exhibits, silent auction, kids' corner, geode cutting, fluorescent mineral room; contact Craig Tellinghuisen, (432) 697-7668; e-mail: mgmstx@gmail.com

6-7--RIDGECREST, CALIFORNIA: 55th annual show; Indian Wells Gem & Mineral Society; Desert Empire Fairgrounds, 520 S. Richmond Rd.; Sat. 9-5, Sun. 9-5; free admission; contact John DeRosa, (760) 375-7905

6-7--SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA: Show, "The GemDiego Show"; San Diego Mineral & Gem Society; The Al Bahr Shrine, 5440 Kearny Mesa Rd.; Sat. 10-5, Sun. 10-4; free admission; dealers, gems, minerals, beads, jewelry, lapidary equipment and supplies, demonstrations, wire wrapping, faceting, lost wax casting, silver chainmaking, intarsia, spheremaking, gemstone identification, Junior Booth, Club Booth; contact Bob Hancock, (619) 889-6886; e-mail: rhbobhancock@cs.com

2011 CFMS Show and Convention

2010-10-04T23:17:00.000-07:00

May 13-15, 2011, is the date for the next CFMS Show and Convention.

The show is being hosted by Superior California Gem and MineralAssociation, Inc. (SCGMA) (http://www.superiorcal.com).

SCGMA is a combination of clubs, the Shasta Gem & Mineral Society (http://www.shastagemandmineral.com) of Redding, CA, and the Paradise Gem & Mineral Club, Inc. of Paradise, CA (website being revised).

The show, convention and awards will all be held one location, the Shasta District Fairgrounds, 1890 Briggs Street, Anderson, CA (just 8 miles south of Redding, CA).

Field trips and self guided field trips are being planned. We are very fortunate to have Walt Wright and Bob Jones on board as our first class speakers!

Forms for non-competitive and competitive displays are located on our website at http://www.superiorcal.com. Please help support us by putting in your first class displays. This website will be updated monthly.

Check on regional attractions surrounding the first ever CFMS show in Shasta County by going to Shasta Cascade Wonderland (http://www.shastacascade.com/vg).

By Kelly O’Leary - excerpted from the Oct. 2010 NOC News

Photos from the AFMS/CFMS joint show earlier this year are in the column to the right - click the slideshow to enlarge.

Local Gem Shows...This Weekend!

2010-09-24T20:15:00.000-07:00

24-26--JACKSONVILLE, FLORIDA: Show; Jacksonville Gem & Mineral Society; Jacksonville Gem & Mineral Society; Morocco Temple, 3800 St. Johns Bluff Rd. S; Fri. 1-6, Sat. 10-6, Sun. 10-5; displays; contact Tom Frame, 3133 Chapelwood Ln., Jacksonville, FL 32216, (940) 737-9867; e-mail: Jgms_show@hotmail.com

24-26--JOPLIN, MISSOURI: 12th annual show, "Rock-a-thon"; TriState Gem & Mineral Society; Joplin Museum Complex, 504 Schifferdecker Ave.; Fri. 9-6, Sat. 9-6, Sun. 9-6; free admission; demonstrations, door prizes, dealers; contact Chris Wiseman, P.O. Box 555, Joplin, MO 64802; e-mail: jmc-cwiseman@sbcglobal.net

24-26--SAN BERNARDINO, CALIFORNIA: Show, "OBMS Tail Gate Gem & Mineral Show"; Orange Belt Mineralogical Society; Western Regional Little League Ball Park, 6707 Little League Dr.; Fri. 9-dusk, Sat. 9-dusk, Sun. 9-dusk; free admission; rocks, jewelry, tools, lapidary display, education, kids' event, kids' club, silent auction, raffle, workshop; contact Shane Ripley, 205 W. Benedict #8, San Bernardino, CA 92408, (909) 557-3605; e-mail: OBMS_PR@yahoo.com; Web site: http://obmsrocks.yolasite.com

25-26--FRANKLIN, NEW JERSEY: 54th annual show; Franklin Mineral Museum; Franklin School, Washington Ave.; contact Lee Lowell, (973) 827-6671

25-26--MISSOULA, MONTANA: Show, "Big Sky Rocks"; Hellgate Mineral Society; Ruby's Reserve Street Inn, 4825 N. Reserve St.; Sat. 10-6, Sun. 10-5; contact Bob Riggs, 14 Holiday Ln., Missoula, MT 59801, (406) 543-3667

25-26--MONTEREY, CALIFORNIA: 51st show; Carmel Valley Gem & Mineral Club; Monterey Fairgrounds, 2004 Fairgrounds Rd.; Sat. 10-6, Sun. 10-5; adults $3.50, senior $2.50, children free with adult; exhibits, kids' stuff, grab bags, door prizes, wheel of fortune, demonstrations (fossil impressions, sphere making, silver jewelry making, grinding and polishing gemstones); contact Janis Rovetti, 1047 Roosevelt St., Monterey, CA 93940, (831) 657-1933; e-mail: janis12@sbcglobal.net; Web site: www.cvgms.org

25-26--OSHKOSH, WISCONSIN: 39th annual show; Oshkosh Earth Science Club; Sunnyview Expo Center, 500 E. County Rd. Y; Winnebago County Fair Grounds; Sat. 9-5, Sun. 10-4; adults $2, students with ID $1, children under 12 free; rocks, minerals, fossils, lapidary arts, jewelry, more than 80 vendors, private collections, Weis Earth Science Museum exhibits, kids' rock polishing and painting, take-home specimen kits, grab bags; contact Bob Fox, (920) 235-4669; e-mail: oesc-webmaster@hotmail.com; Web site: www.oesclub.com

25-26---SOUTH SIOUX CITY, NEBRASKA: 45th annual show; Siouxland Gem & Mineral Society; South Sioux City Senior Center, 1501 W. 29th St.; Sat. 9-6, Sun.10-4; adults $1.50, students (12 and older) 50 cents, children under 12 free; exhibits, four dealers, agates, rough and polished specimens, gems, beads, geodes, minerals, superb faceted jewelry, fossils, door prizes, spin the wheel, silent auction, displays, Siouxland dinosaur hunters' exhibits; contact Bob Powell, (712) 378-2775

25-26--TRAVERSE CITY, MICHIGAN: Annual show; Grand Traverse Area Rock & Mineral Club; Grand Traverse Heritage Center, 322 Sixth St.; Sat. 10-5, Sun. 11-4; adults $2, children free with adult; dealers, rocks, gems, minerals, jewelry, demonstrations, jewelry making, rock cutting and polishing, kids' area; contact Cynthia Vaughn, (231) 276-6150; e-mail: Maple2b@aol.com

CFMS Fieldtrip: Cady Mountains

2010-09-18T01:56:00.000-07:00

WHERE: Cady Mountains

WHEN: October 9, 2010 @ 7:30am sign in - depart 8:00am

MEET: Dairy Queen in Ludlow (North side of I-40) east of Barstow

MATERIAL: Christmas Tree Agate

WHAT TO BRING:

collecting bags/buckets, rock hammer, spray bottles, digging tools, gloves, goggles

This is the heart of California's Mojave Desert and weather can be unpredictable this time of year so dress accordingly. We will be collecting Christmas Tree Agate.

From the meeting spot we will caravan north to the collecting location (4X4) is highly recommended. No sedans.

Bring lunch. This widespread field offers no shade. Gas and food available in Ludlow.

Waiver of Liability will be signed at the meeting spot.

Other materials at this site include agates and jaspers with sections of multi-shaded pink opal and other agates similar to Mexican Lace.

Stayovers may camp at a number of undeveloped sites or the hotel in Ludlow. Treat the desert with respect - tread lightly and pack it in/pack it out.

For further information please contact:

Adam Dean @ 909-489-4899 or email: theagatehunter@ verizon.net

Photo from: http://www.angelfire.com/oh5/ojhoff/moreslabs.html

Find Your Local Gem Show!

2010-09-09T00:56:00.000-07:00

10-12--FERNDALE, CALIFORNIA: 6th annual show, "Wildcat Gem Fest"; Wildcat Gem & Mineral Society; Humboldt Co. Fairgrounds, 1250 5th St.; Fri. 12-7, Sat. 10-7, Sun. 10-5; free admission; door prizes, raffles, kids' games, demonstrations, classes, gems, minerals, fossils, jewelry, silent auction; contact Mike Martin/The Stonery, P.O. Box 189, Miranda, CA 95553, (707) 499-6194; e-mail: micknorma@directv.net

10-12--GREENFIELD, INDIANA: 34th annual show, "Greater Indianapolis Gem, Mineral & Fossil Show"; 500 Earth Sciences Club of Indianapolis; Hancock County 4-H Fairgrounds, 802 Apple St.; Fri. 10-8, Sat. 9-7, Sun. 10-4; free admission; dealers, swappers, fossils, minerals, gems, jewelry, lapidary equipment, silent auctions, door prizes, kids' activities, demonstrations, educational displays and programs, special fossil exhibit by the Children's Museum of Indianapolis; contact Don Mahoney, 17914 Juniper Rd., Argos, IN 46501, (574) 892-5264; e-mail: DLMCNACLU@aol.com; Web site: www.geology.iupui.edu/Outreach/500_earth_sciences/index.htm

10-12--TOLEDO, OHIO: 39th annual show and sale; Toledo Gem & Rockhound Club; Stranahan Complex, 4645 Heatherdowns Blvd.; Fri. 2-8, Sat. 10-6, Sun. 11-5; adults $4, seniors and students $3, children under 12 free; free kids' mineral kits and games, exhibits, demonstrations, mini classes, Touch & Feel Area, scholarship raffle, silent auction, club sales, more than 20 dealers, beads, jewelry, gems, precious metals, fossils, minerals, carvings, gem trees, tools, equipment; contact Jerri Heer, 247 Decatur, Toledo, OH 43609, (419) 531-8124; e-mail: jheerx6@aol.com; Web site: www.rockyreader.com

10-12--WINSTON-SALEM, NORTH CAROLINA: 39th annual show; Forsyth Gem & Mineral Club; Educational Bldg., Dixie Classic Fairgrounds, Gate #9; Fri. 10-7, Sat. 10-7, Sun. 12-5; contact W.A. Marion, 1163 Bear Creek Church Rd., Mocksville, NC 27028; e-mail: MarionA1@yadtel.net

11-12--DOWNEY, CALIFORNIA: Show; Delvers Gem & Mineral Society; Woman's Club of Downey, 9813 Paramount Blvd.; Sat. 10-6, Sun. 10-4; free admission; contact Fred Dexling, (562) 425-0192; e-mail: mdexling@verizon.net

11-12--FAIRFIELD, IOWA: Show; The Sac & Fox Lapidary Club; The Fairfield Arts & Convention Center, Main & Briggs; Sat. 9-6, Sun. 10-5; adults $3, students $1, children under 6 free; children's activities, demonstrations; contact Betty Morris, 618 N. Lincoln St., Mt. Pleasant, IA 52641; e-mail: emorris@lisco.com; Web site: sacandfoxlapidaryclub.com

11-12--POWNAL, VERMONT: 47th annual show; Northern Berkshire Mineral Club; Sat. 10-6, Sun. 10-5; American Legion Post #90, Rte. 7, one mile north of the old Green Mountain Race Track; adults $4, children 15 and under free with adult; minerals, gems, jewelry, gifts, children's fish pond, prizes; contact Larry Michon, P.O. Box 297, North Adams, MA 01247, or (413) 663-8430

11-12--RICHMOND, BRITISH COLUMBIA, CANADA: 50th annual show, "Gold 'N' Opportunities"; Richmond Gem & Mineral Club; Richmond Arts & Cultural Center; 7700 Minoru Gate; Sat. 10-5, Sun. 10-4; dealers, club boutique table, member show cases, kids' corner; contact Livia Waterson, 7700 Minoru Gate, Richmond, BC V6Y 1R9

11-12--ROSEBURG, OREGON: Show, "Rough to Gems"; Umpqua Gem & Mineral Club; Douglas County Fairgrounds, I-5 Exit 123; Sat. 10-6, Sun. 10-4:30; free admission; dealers, rough, gems, minerals, fossils, beads, jewelry, tools, equipment, books, display cases, demonstrators, knapping, UV mineral exhibit, silent auction, wheel of fortune, geode cutting, raffle, door prizes, gold panning, kids' rock hunt; contact Bob Sampson, 752 Cooper Creek Rd., Sutherlin, OR 97479, (541) 459-1755; e-mail: davenmow@q.com

11-12--SILOAM SPRINGS, ARKANSAS: Annual fall swap; Northwest Arkansas Gem & Mineral Society; clubhouse, Hwy. 43N; Sat. 9-5, Sun. 10-5; free admission; auction, kids' gem wash, silent auctions, grab bags; contact Dave Leininger, (479) 787-5619; e-mail: hulagrub@aol.com; Web site: www.nwarockhounds.org

11-12--WALLA WALLA, WASHINGTON: Show, "Walla Walla Gem & Mineral Show"; Marcus Whitman Gem & Mineral Society; Walla Walla County Fair Ground, Community Center, 9th St. and Orchard; Sat. 10-5, Sun. 10-5; dealers, opal, petrified wood, jasper, agate, sunstone, wire wrapping, faceted gems, slabs, rough, jewelry, silent auction, demonstrations, kids' section; contact Warren Rood, (509) 522-2330; e-mail: warrenrood@yahoo.com

SOURCES

Show Listings: Rock & Gem Magazine

Photo: Robyn Hawk of Tom Wolfe Minerals

California State Rock Reprieved!

2010-09-02T19:29:00.000-07:00

The announcement from Fred Ott, Pres. of the CFMS on their Yahoo Group was exciting news!

He thanked everyone for their efforts in defeating Senate Bill 624 which would have removed Serpentine as the California State Rock.

So at the time of this posting it looks like the bill has died in committee!

There are lots of people rejoicing:

Andrew Alden on his Geology Blog at About.com exclaims: Ding Dong SB624 is Dead

...and from Garry Hayes over on the Facebook Group "California Serpentine Awareness! Keep our Rock! Fight SB 624"

"Thanks for all who helped educate the legislature about serpentine with your letters and calls! The bill died in committee, as it should have. It was unfortunate that this battle ever had to take place, when a few well-placed inquiries could have headed it off. Please stick with this Facebook page in case the issue ever arises again!"

Photo credit: Andrew's Photo Gallery of Metamorphic Rock

September Show Schedule...Support Your Local Clubs!

2010-08-27T13:58:00.000-07:00

3-6--CRAWFORD, NEBRASKA: 24th annual show, "Crawford Rock Swap"; Northwest Nebraska Rock Club; Crawford City Park, 1st St. and Main St.; Fri. 8-6, Sat. 8-6, Sun. 8-6, Mon. 8-12; free admission; buy, sell, trade, swap, rocks, minerals, fossils, agates, free agate bed field trips; contact Wade Beins, 120 Gordon Ave., Box 569, Chadron, NE 69337, (308) 432-8950; e-mail: agates@bbc.net

3-6--FORT BRAGG, CALIFORNIA: 48th annual show; Mendocino Coast Gem & Mineral Society; Town Hall, Main and Laurel; Fri. 10-6, Sat. 10-6, Sun. 10-6, Mon. 10-4; free admission; contact Don McDonell, P.O. Box 868, Fort Bragg, CA 95437, (707) 964-3116, or Jane Webb, (707) 964-7182

3-6--HENDERSONVILLE, NORTH CAROLINA: 20th annual show, "Gem & Mineral Spectacular"; Henderson County Gem & Mineral Society; Whitmire Bldg., 301 Lily Pond Rd.; Fri. 10-6, Sat. 10-6, Sun. 10-6, Mon. 10-5; adults $3 (free faceted gemstone), children under 12 free with adult (free grab bag); dealers, gems, minerals, jewelry, supplies, fossils, beads, bench jeweler, educational programs, displays, lapidary demonstrations, geode cracking, door prizes, free shuttle to Hendersonville Apple Festival; contact Ken Gillon, (828) 606-1353; Web site: www.hcgms.org

4-5--ARLINGTON, TEXAS: 53rd annual show, "Texas Treasures"; Arlington Gem & Mineral Club; Arlington Convention Center, 1200 Ballpark Way; Sat. 10-6, Sun. 10-5; adults $6, seniors and children $3; Kids' Korner, Rock Food Table, gem identification, silent auction, Grand Prize, hourly door prizes, vendors, jewelry, beads, gems, minerals, fossils; contact Karen Cessna, 2213 Hackberry Dr., Arlington, TX 76013, (817) 860-5232; e-mail: cessnak@ont.com; Web site: www.agemclub.org

4-5--AUGUSTA, MAINE: 21st annual show; Kennebec Rocks & Minerals Club; National Guard Armory, Western Ave.; Sat. 10-5, Sun. 10-4; door prizes, lapidary demonstrations, fluorescent display, mineral displays, dealers, minerals, jewelry, gems, fossils, geode slicing, mineral mine, kids' games, free kids' stones, "Rocky" the rockhound dog; contact KRMC, (207) 873-6270

4-6--BRUNSWICK, GEORGIA: Show; Golden Isles Gem & Mineral Society; Glynn Place Mall, 100 Mall Blvd.; Sat. 10-7, Sun. 12-6, Mon. 10-5; adults $2, children under 5 free; grab bags, kids' treasure dig, door prizes, exhibits, demonstrations, educational resources, gold, silver, gemstones, mineral specimens, fine jewelry, hand-crafted jewelry, beads, findings, tools; contact Beverly Johnson, 1007 Fountain Lake Dr., Brunswick, GA 31525, (912) 267-7850; e-mail: bevjbj@comcast.net

4-6--CANBY, OREGON: Show, "Willamette Valley Gem, Mineral & Jewelry Show"; Oregon Gem, Mineral & Jewelry Shows; Clackamas County Fairgrounds, 694 N.E. 4th Ave.; Sat. 9-6, Sun. 9-6, Mon. 9-4; free admission; contact Jean Miller, P.O. Box 136, Molalla, OR 97038, (503) 829-2680; e-mail: shadow92337@molalla.net; Web site: www.ogmshows.com

4-6--SILVER CITY, NEW MEXICO: 27th annual show; Rolling Stones Gem & Mineral Society; Grant County Business and Conference Center, 3031 Hwy. 180 E, next to ACE Hardware; Sat. 10-5, Sun. 10-5, Mon. 10-4; free admission; more than 55 dealers, daily free field trips, silent auction, wheel of fortune; contact Marcia Andre, 1311 Peterson Dr., Silver City, NM 88061, (575) 534-0006; e-mail: marciarandre@gmail.com; Web site: www.rollingstonesgms.blogspot.com

10-12--TOLEDO, OHIO: 39th annual show and sale; Toledo Gem & Rockhound Club; Stranahan Complex, 4645 Heatherdowns Blvd.; Fri. 2-8, Sat. 10-6, Sun. 11-5; adults $4, seniors and students $3, children under 12 free; free kids' mineral kits and games, exhibits, demonstrations, mini classes, Touch & Feel Area, scholarship raffle, silent auction, club sales, more than 20 dealers, beads, jewelry, gems, precious metals, fossils, minerals, carvings, gem trees, tools, equipment; contact Jerri Heer, 247 Decatur, Toledo, OH 43609, (419) 531-8124; e-mail: jheerx6@aol.com; Web site: www.rockyreader.com

10-12--WINSTON-SALEM, NORTH CAROLINA: 39th annual show; Forsyth Gem & Mineral Club; Educational Bldg., Dixie Classic Fairgrounds, Gate #9; Fri. 10-7, Sat. 10-7, Sun. 12-5; contact W.A. Marion, 1163 Bear Creek Church Rd., Mocksville, NC 27028; e-mail: MarionA1@yadtel.net

11-12--DOWNEY, CALIFORNIA: Show; Delvers Gem & Mineral Society; Woman's Club of Downey, 9813 Paramount Blvd.; Sat. 10-6, Sun. 10-4; free admission; contact Fred Dexling, (562) 425-0192; e-mail: mdexling@verizon.net

11-12--FAIRFIELD, IOWA: Show; The Sac & Fox Lapidary Club; The Fairfield Arts & Convention Center, Main & Briggs; Sat. 9-6, Sun. 10-5; adults $3, students $1, children under 6 free; children's activities, demonstrations; contact Betty Morris, 618 N. Lincoln St., Mt. Pleasant, IA 52641; e-mail: emorris@lisco.com; Web site: sacandfoxlapidaryclub.com

11-12--POWNAL, VERMONT: 47th annual show; Northern Berkshire Mineral Club; Sat. 10-6, Sun. 10-5; American Legion Post #90, Rte. 7, one mile north of the old Green Mountain Race Track; adults $4, children 15 and under free with adult; minerals, gems, jewelry, gifts, children's fish pond, prizes; contact Larry Michon, P.O. Box 297, North Adams, MA 01247, or (413) 663-8430

11-12--RICHMOND, BRITISH COLUMBIA, CANADA: 50th annual show, "Gold 'N' Opportunities"; Richmond Gem & Mineral Club; Richmond Arts & Cultural Center; 7700 Minoru Gate; Sat. 10-5, Sun. 10-4; dealers, club boutique table, member show cases, kids' corner; contact Livia Waterson, 7700 Minoru Gate, Richmond, BC V6Y 1R9

11-12--ROSEBURG, OREGON: Show, "Rough to Gems"; Umpqua Gem & Mineral Club; Douglas County Fairgrounds, I-5 Exit 123; Sat. 10-6, Sun. 10-4:30; free admission; dealers, rough, gems, minerals, fossils, beads, jewelry, tools, equipment, books, display cases, demonstrators, knapping, UV mineral exhibit, silent auction, wheel of fortune, geode cutting, raffle, door prizes, gold panning, kids' rock hunt; contact Bob Sampson, 752 Cooper Creek Rd., Sutherlin, OR 97479, (541) 459-1755; e-mail: davenmow@q.com

11-12--SILOAM SPRINGS, ARKANSAS: Annual fall swap; Northwest Arkansas Gem & Mineral Society; clubhouse, Hwy. 43N; Sat. 9-5, Sun. 10-5; free admission; auction, kids' gem wash, silent auctions, grab bags; contact Dave Leininger, (479) 787-5619; e-mail: hulagrub@aol.com; Web site: www.nwarockhounds.org

11-12--WALLA WALLA, WASHINGTON: Show, "Walla Walla Gem & Mineral Show"; Marcus Whitman Gem & Mineral Society; Walla Walla County Fair Ground, Community Center, 9th St. and Orchard; Sat. 10-5, Sun. 10-5; dealers, opal, petrified wood, jasper, agate, sunstone, wire wrapping, faceted gems, slabs, rough, jewelry, silent auction, demonstrations, kids' section; contact Warren Rood, (509) 522-2330; e-mail: warrenrood@yahoo.com

17-19--COOS BAY, OREGON: Show, "South Coast Rock & Gem Fest 2010"; Far West Lapidary and Gem Society; 4th St. parking lot, across from Outdoor-In, downtown; Fri. 10-5, Sat. 10-5, Sun. 10-5; dealers, rockhound sales, jewelry, gems, minerals, fossils, rough and finished rocks, tumbled rock, geodes, faceted stones, cabochons, thunder eggs; contact Rocky Pribble, P.O. Box 251, Coos Bay, OR 97420, (541) 572-8301

17-19--ENID, OKLAHOMA: Show; Enid Gem & Mineral Society; Oak Wood Mall, 4125 Owen K. Garriot (Hwy. 412); Fri. 10-6, Sat. 10-6, Sun. 12-5; contact Billy E. Wood, (580) 234-5344

17-19--HILLSBORO, OREGON: 30th annual show; Portland Regional Gem & Mineral Show Association; Washington County Fairgrounds, 873 NE 34th Ave., Hwy. 26 Shute Rd. exit; Fri. 10-6, Sat. 10-6, Sun. 10-5; contact Josh Heater, (971) 570-5456; e-mail: jfrankray@hotmail.com

17-19--HOLLAND, MICHIGAN: Show, "Rockhounding: A Green Hobby"; Tulip City Gem & Mineral Club; Holland Civic Center, 150 W. 8th St.; Fri. 9-8, Sat. 9-7, Sun. 11-5; adults $2, students 50 cents; more than 50 club member, museum and college displays, "green" demonstrations, Petoskey stone polishing, kids' games, touch display, fluorescent mineral display, lapidary demonstrations, silent auction, club sales, children's silent auction, 8 dealers, fossils, minerals, jewelry, lapidary equipment, contact Rebecca Cistaro, 1162 Wintergreen Dr., Holland, MI 49424, (616) 393-9307; e-mail: r4squares@charter.net; Web site: www.tulipcity.org

17-19--LINCOLN, MISSOURI: Show and swap; Mozarkite Society of Lincoln, Missouri; Lincoln City Park; Fri. 10-5, Sat. 9-5, Sun. 10-5; free admission; beading, public digs for Mozarkite; contact Ted Bollick, 1201 S. St., Clinton, MO 64735, (660) 890-4983; e-mail: kayshaver405@wmconnect.com; Web site: www.mozarkite.com

18-19--CASTLE ROCK, WASHINGTON: Show; Southern Washington Mineralogical Society; Castle Rock Fairgrounds; Sat. 10-6, Sun. 10-4; spin table, gem dig, country store, magnetic sand, gold panning, rock cutting, silent auction, live auction Sat., demonstrations, door prizes, scholarship raffle, black light display, dealers; contact Fran Wolff, P.O. Box 1492, Kalama, WA 98625, (360) 560-2987; e-mail: fwolff@comcast.net

18-19--CLARKSVILLE, INDIANA: Show, "Falls Fossil Festival"; Indiana Society for Paleontology; Falls of the Ohio State Park, 201 W. Riverside Dr.; Sat. 9-6, Sun. 10-5; free admission; vendors, fossils, minerals, books, jewelry, polished stones, guided Devonian fossil bed hikes, Silurian and Devonian fossil collecting piles, Cave-in-Rock mineral collecting pile, children's craft activities, guest speakers, fossil and rock ID, fossil park and museum brochures; contact Alan Goldstein, 201 W. Riverside Dr., Clarksville, IN 47129, (812) 280-9970; e-mail: agoldstein@dnr.in.gov; Web site: www.fallsoftheohio.org

18-19--HARRISBURG, PENNSYLVANIA: 45th annual show; Central Pennsylvania Rock & Mineral Club; Zembo Auditorium, 2810 N. 3rd St.; Sat. 10-6, Sun. 10-5; adults $5, children 12 and under and youth Scouts in uniform free; Scouting programs, educational displays and talks; contact RJ Harris, 1109 Gunstock Ln., Mechanicsburg, PA 17050, (717) 795-0922; e-mail: webmaster@rockandmineral.org; Web site: www.rockandmineral.org

18-19--HARTLAND, MICHIGAN: Annual show; Livingston Gem & Mineral Society; Old Hartland High School, 9525 Highland Rd.; Sat. 10-7, Sun. 10-4; adults $2, students 50 cents, children free; dealers, demonstrators, flint knapping, children's games, wire wrapping, show cases; contact Chuck Amberger, 20815 Dixboro, South Lyon, MI 48178, (248) 446-0818; e-mail: camber2@sbcglobal.net

18-19--PASO ROBLES, CALIFORNIA: 19th annual show, "Rockhound Roundup"; Santa Lucia Rockhounds, Pioneer Park, 2010 Riverside Dr.; Sat. 10-5, Sun. 10-5; free admission; exhibits, raffle prizes, silent auction, demonstrations, youth activities, rocks, gems, minerals, fossils, meteorites, crystals, beads, carvings, lapidary equipment; contact Kim Patrick Noyes, 7343 El Camino Real #301, Atascadero, CA 93422, (805) 610-0603; e-mail: kimnoyes@gmail.com

18-19--REDWOOD CITY, CALIFORNIA: 44th annual show, "Harvest of Gems"; Sequoia Gem & Mineral Society; Community Activity Bldg., 1400 Roosevelt Ave.; Sat/ 10-5, Sun. 10-5; free admission; kids' activities, dealers, member displays, silent auction, earth science room; contact Carol Corden, P.O. Box 1245, Redwood City, CA 94064, (650) 248-7155; e-mail: ccorden@earthlink.net; Web site: http://sgms.driftmine.com

18-19--RHINEBECK, NEW YORK: 41st annual show and sale, "The Hidden Beauty of Stone"; Mid-Hudson Valley Gem & Mineral Society; Dutchess County Fairgrounds; Sat. 10-5, Sun. 10-4; adults $5, seniors $4, students $2, children 12 and under and Scouts in uniform free with adult; 30-plus dealers, minerals, gemstones, fossils, meteorites, jewelry, 6 free rocks for kids, exhibits, fluorescent booth, lapidary demonstrations, wholesaler; contact Carolyn Reynard, (845) 471-1224; Web site: www.mhvgms.org

18-19--SCARBOROUGH, TORONTO, CANADA: 42nd annual show, "Wonders of the Earth"; Gem & Mineral Club of Scarborough; Don Montgomery Community Centre, 2467 Eglinton Ave. E; Sat. 10-6, Sun. 11-5; adults $5, children $1; dealers, jewelry, minerals, fossils, displays, lapidary demonstrations, live auction, silent auction, kids' auction, door prizes, kids' quarry; contact GMCS, (416) 282-5319; Web site: www.scarbgemclub.ca

24-26--SAN BERNARDINO, CALIFORNIA: Show, "OBMS Tail Gate Gem & Mineral Show"; Orange Belt Mineralogical Society; Western Regional Little League Ball Park, 6707 Little League Dr.; Fri. 9-dusk, Sat. 9-dusk, Sun. 9-dusk; free admission; rocks, jewelry, tools, lapidary display, education, kids' event, kids' club, silent auction, raffle, workshop; contact Shane Ripley, 205 W. Benedict #8, San Bernardino, CA 92408, (909) 557-3605; e-mail: OBMS_PR@yahoo.com; Web site: http://obmsrocks.yolasite.com

25-26--FRANKLIN, NEW JERSEY: 54th annual show; Franklin Mineral Museum; Franklin School, Washington Ave.; contact Lee Lowell, (973) 827-6671

25-26--MISSOULA, MONTANA: Show, "Big Sky Rocks"; Hellgate Mineral Society; Ruby's Reserve Street Inn, 4825 N. Reserve St.; Sat. 10-6, Sun. 10-5; contact Bob Riggs, 14 Holiday Ln., Missoula, MT 59801, (406) 543-3667

25-26--MONTEREY, CALIFORNIA: 51st show; Carmel Valley Gem & Mineral Club; Monterey Fairgrounds, 2004 Fairgrounds Rd.; Sat. 10-6, Sun. 10-5; adults $3.50, senior $2.50, children free with adult; exhibits, kids' stuff, grab bags, door prizes, wheel of fortune, demonstrations (fossil impressions, sphere making, silver jewelry making, grinding and polishing gemstones); contact Janis Rovetti, 1047 Roosevelt St., Monterey, CA 93940, (831) 657-1933; e-mail: janis12@sbcglobal.net; Web site: www.cvgms.org

25-26--OSHKOSH, WISCONSIN: 39th annual show; Oshkosh Earth Science Club; Sunnyview Expo Center, 500 E. County Rd. Y; Winnebago County Fair Grounds; Sat. 9-5, Sun. 10-4; adults $2, students with ID $1, children under 12 free; rocks, minerals, fossils, lapidary arts, jewelry, more than 80 vendors, private collections, Weis Earth Science Museum exhibits, kids' rock polishing and painting, take-home specimen kits, grab bags; contact Bob Fox, (920) 235-4669; e-mail: oesc-webmaster@hotmail.com; Web site: www.oesclub.com

25-26---SOUTH SIOUX CITY, NEBRASKA: 45th annual show; Siouxland Gem & Mineral Society; South Sioux City Senior Center, 1501 W. 29th St.; Sat. 9-6, Sun.10-4; adults $1.50, students (12 and older) 50 cents, children under 12 free; exhibits, four dealers, agates, rough and polished specimens, gems, beads, geodes, minerals, superb faceted jewelry, fossils, door prizes, spin the wheel, silent auction, displays, Siouxland dinosaur hunters' exhibits; contact Bob Powell, (712) 378-2775

25-26--TRAVERSE CITY, MICHIGAN: Annual show; Grand Traverse Area Rock & Mineral Club; Grand Traverse Heritage Center, 322 Sixth St.; Sat. 10-5, Sun. 11-4; adults $2, children free with adult; dealers, rocks, gems, minerals, jewelry, demonstrations, jewelry making, rock cutting and polishing, kids' area; contact Cynthia Vaughn, (231) 276-6150; e-mail: Maple2b@aol.com

28-3--IDABEL, OKLAHOMA: Show and sale; McCurtain Gem & Mineral Club; Museum of the Red River, 812 SE Lincoln Rd., Hwy. 70 S. bypass; Tue. 9-5, Wed. 9-5, Thu. 9-5, Fri. 9-5, Sat. 9-5, Sun. 11-4; free admission; contact Doris Perkins, 405 SE Ave. G, Idabel, OK 74745, (580) 286-3133; e-mail: rperkins8236@sbcglobal.net

SOURCES

Show Listings: Rock & Gem Magazine

Photo: Robyn Hawk at Nipomo Gem & Mineral Show

State Rock Banned! What is Your Home Built ON?

2010-08-25T16:16:00.000-07:00

I could have printed a teaser and re-directed you to the CFMS Newsletter - but this is an URGENT matter - PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE!!! ACT on this!!!

There is nothing "symbolic" about these actions - a lot of CA homes are built on Serpentine based soils and rock! Imagine trying to sell a home built on a "banned" substance...the only winners here are the lawyers!!!! (the opinion of the author only - not the AFMS, CFMS or Shirley Leeson)

SERPENTINE, CALIFORNIA STATEROCK

By Shirley Leeson

By the time you read this, it may already be too late.

California State Senator Gloria Romero, from the Los Angeles area has introduced SB 624, to strip Serpentine as the California State Rock.

The reasoning is that serpentine is really ASBESTOS in disguise and causes mesothelioma.

Dan Walters of the Sacramento Bee (Friday July 16, 2010 stated “Romero’s office says the language originated with the Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization, an anti-asbestos group whose major sponsors are law firms specializing in asbestos litigation.” These organizations say the bill is a “symbolic measure to correct this historic mistake." It may also give them more ammunition to pursue their lawsuits.

At the time of this writing the California State Senate has passed the bill, 36 – 0.

Currently it’s in the Assembly Committee on Natural Resources and the date of the bill (number unkown if it's different from the senate) coming to the floor in the Assembly is unknown.

The really sad thing is there is no organizations who are opposing the bill. Contact your state Assemblyperson and ask them to vote no on this historical rock. Our serpentine was the FIRST state rock proposed in the U.S. and with it was our state mineral - Gold.

Do something! Do your homework, google State Rock – Serpentine. Most of the California Newspapers have given it a fair shake. Have you contacted your state senator and assemblyperson? I have.

P.S. They are NOT proposing another rock to take it's place...It will be left BLANK!

Article originally appeared in the Sept. 2010 CFMS Newsletter

Photo originally appeared in the SFGate Article: Geologists protest bill to remove state rock

Catch A Gem Show This Weekend...

2010-08-13T23:32:00.000-07:00

12-15--BUENA VISTA, COLORADO: Show, "The Rock Show at Buena Vista: A CONTINental Divide TAILgate"; Contin-tail LLC; Rodeo Grounds, Gregory Rd. and Rodeo Rd.; Thu. 9-5, Fri. 9-5, Sat. 9-5, Sun. 9-5; free admission; more than 120 dealers, rocks, minerals, gemstones, fossils, beads, jewelry, lapidary equipment, demonstrations (glintknapping, stone cutting, wire wrapping, beading, precious metal clay), free rock for children, door prizes, fluorescent mineral display; contact Carolyn Tunnicliff, 1130 Francis #7010, Longmont, CO 80501, (720) 938-4194; e-mail: ctunnicliff@comcast.net; Web site: www.coloradorocks.org

13-15--PASS CHRISTIAN, MISSISSIPPI: Show; Harrison County Gem & Mineral Society; West Harrison County Community Center (Espy Center), 4470 Espy Ave.; Fri. 12-7, Sat. 9-6, Sun. 10-5; adults $3, children 12 and under free; door prizes, grand prize raffle, bring your rock and stump the expert Sun.; contact Tomsey Westermeyer, 9270 Serenity Dr., Pass Christian, MS 39571, (228) 586-5279 or (229) 326-2390; Web site: tomsey@cableone.net

13-15--PORT TOWNSEND, WASHINGTON: Show; Port Townsend Rock Club; Jefferson County Fairgrounds, 4907 Landes St.; Fri. 10-9, Sat. 10-9, Sun. 10-6; contact Tom Madsen, 2915 state Rte. 20, Port Townsend, WA 98368; e-mail: tommadsen@olypen.com

13-15--WEST SPRINGFIELD, MASSACHUSETTS: Show, "East Coast Gem, Mineral & Fossil Show"; Martin Zinn Expositions LLC; Better Living Center, Eastern States Exposition, 1305 Memorial Dr.; Fri. 10-7, Sat. 10-7, Sun. 10-5; adults $6, ages 12 and under free with adult; more than 200 dealers from the U.S. and abroad, door prizes, guest speakers, museum-quality exhibits, gem panning, large wholesale section, collection of Bill Larson, Pala Int'l; contact Martin Zinn Expositions, P.O. Box 665, Bernalillo, NM 87004-0665, fax (303) 223-3478; e-mail: mzexpos@aol.com; Web site: www.mzexpos.com

14-15--EDMONDS, WASHINGTON: 4th annual sale; Maplewood Rock & Gem Club; Maplewood Clubhouse, 8802 196th St. SW; Sat. 9-5, Sun. 9-4; free admission; more than 20 dealers, rocks, rough, jewelry; contact Bev Ryder, 4625 Strumme Rd., Bothell, WA 98012, (425) 338-4184; e-mail: famryd@aol.com; Web site: www.maplewoodrockclub.com

14-15--LAKEVIEW, OREGON: Show, "Tallman Rock Roundup"; Tallman Rockchippers; Lake Co. Fairgrounds, 1900 N. 4th; Sat. 10-4, Sun. 10-3:30; free admission; kids' activities, silent auction, dealers, demonstrators, field trips; contact Johanne Deidrich, 244 N. M St., Lakeview, OR 97630, (541) 947-3237; or LeRoy Johnson; e-mail: lostmymarblesor@yahoo.com

14-15--RICE LAKE, WISCONSIN: 14th annual show; Northwest Wisconsin Gem & Mineral Society; University of Wisconsin, Barron County; Sat. 10-5, Sun. 10-4; free admission; contact Roy Wickman, (715) 357-3223, or Dave Skrupky, (715) 986-2547

Hard Working Volunteers Set Up The Show!

2010-08-11T14:47:00.000-07:00

AFMS/CFMS Gem Show and Convention

Great photos of the set up day...this is WORK!

Photos courtesy of John Martin

AFMS/CFMS Show - Fieldtrip Report: Jalama Beach - June 23rd

2010-07-23T15:57:00.000-07:00

Trip Report: Jalama Beach June 23rd

Jalama Beach, June 23rd
Got to Jalama Beach about 9:30 AM, warned the gate we were coming, and found parking near the store. Weather was clear and cool, with the June gloom hanging about a mile offshore.
There was a lot of sand in front of the parking area, and a lot on the beach too. I walked to the north to scout the area, then to the south. There was alot of sand with pockets and stretches of rock below the cliffs.
It was about 10:30, so I headed back to the car to greet my fellow boneheads:)
A carload of RockChippers met me at my vehicle, and we sat down for a quick tailgate on whalebone- what to look for, how to attempt to tell the difference between bone and leaverite, what else was there (some of the best rootbeer chert I have ever seen), and what to stay away from.
The group headed to the south and I waited for any stragglers.
I headed south about 11:30 and found a couple specimens as I was catching up with the mob. A bunch of chert, agate, and possibly moonstones were found (as informed by a local who collected there regularly). But not much bone :( The rockbeds which usually yield the best finds were under a foot or so of sand for the length of the beach. We found a couple small pieces in the surfline, and the previously mentioned pieces, but that was all. I believe each family group in the car left with a piece of bone.
All in all, it wasn’t a great day for whalebone, but I could have been at work instead :)

Jon Meredith - Trip Leader

Save Our State Rock...Serpentine Gets A Bad Rep!

2010-07-06T09:20:00.000-07:00

Hello fellow rockhounds!

For years we have had the misfortune of being prohibited from collecting at one of California's premier mineral collecting sites, Clear Creek. The reason? Bad science regarding Chrysotile, the sometimes fibrous mineral in the serpentine group.

Now a group of anti-asbestos science unions, lawyers and awareness groups are ganging up to have serpentine removed as our state rock!

We can't let this happen for a few reasons but one big one is the fact that the bill is going to lump all serpentine minerals under the classification of Asbestos! That means MILLIONS of dollars added to each construction plan anywhere near a serpentine deposit, located in 49 counties in California!

http://highway8a. blogspot. com/2010/ 07/serpentine- group-of- minerals. html

While I have written a bit about this issue, the link above does a great job of laying out most of the information! Please take a look at it and if you don't like what you see, PLEASE repost these links on any blogs, forums or email groups you belong to! Contact your local politicians and alert the media!

What seems to be an affront to the mineral community is just the beginning!

This bill is just plain evil!

From - Justin Zzyzx

Zzyzx Gallery of Natural Science

Photo Credit: http://www.nikonsmallworld.com/gallery/year/2007/65

Nikon's Image of Distinction, 2007 Dr. Stephen Lowry

University of Ulster, Coleraine, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom

Polished section of Serpentine rock (Serpentinite) (40x)

Enjoy The Sun at a Gem Show The Weekend!

2010-06-11T10:56:00.000-07:00

10-12--PARK HILLS, MISSOURI: 13th annual swap and sale; Mineral Area Gem & Mineral Society; Greater St. Louis Association of Earth Science Clubs; Missouri Mines State Historic Site, Hwy. 32; Fri. 9-6, Sat. 9-6, Sun. 9-5; free admission; rocks, minerals, fossils, lapidary; contact Lloyd E. Marler, (573) 431-2951, or Missouri Mines State Historic Site, P.O. box 492, Park Hills, MO 63601, (573) 431-6226

11-12--REDWOOD FALLS, MINNESOTA: Show and sale; New Ulm Gem & Mineral Club, Minnesota Inventors Congress; Redwood Area Community Center, 901 Cook St.; Fri. 11-6, Sat. 11-6; club displays, grab bags, jewelry, rocks, amethyst, demonstrations, door prizes; contact Ruth Hacker, P.O. Box 37, Morgan, MN 56266, (507) 249-3811

12--KENT, CONNECTICUT: 8th annual show; Connecticut Antique Machinery Association, Danbury Mineralogical Society; museum grounds, 1 mile north of Kent on Rte. 7; Sat. 9-4; free admission; rocks, minerals, fossils, jewelry, buy and trade, new mining museum exhibits; contact Connecticut Antique Machinery Association, (860) 927-0050; Web site: www.ctamachinery.com

12--SKOKIE, ILLINOIS: 3rd annual show, "Geode Fest"; Chicago Rocks & Minerals Society; St. Peter's United Church of Christ - Gymnasium, 8013 Laramie Ave.; Sat. 1-5; free admission; geodes from Iowa, Missouri, Indiana, Mexico, Brazil, etc., geode cracking, dealers, educational exhibits, mineral inclusion identification; contact Craig Heinze, (847) 584-8637; e-mail: cheinze@flash.net; Web site: www.chicagorocks.org

12-13--BARTO, PENNSYLVANIA: 3rd annual show, "Pennsylvania Prospector Mineral and Fossil Show"; Joshua Sloan; Jake's Flea Market, 1380 Rte. 100; Sat. 7-1, Sun. 7-1; free admission; free mineral samples and identification for kids and teachers; contact Joshua Sloan, P.O. Box 118, Bally, PA 19503, (484) 241-5490; e-mail: josh@paprospector.com; Web site: http://PaProspector.com

12-13--CARTERSVILLE, GEORGIA: Show, "Rockfest"; Tellus Science Museum; 100 Tellus Dr.; Sat. 9-5, Sun. 10-4; adults $12, seniors $10, students and children $8, museum members free; dealers, gems, minerals, fossils, jewelry, children's activities, mineral identification, demonstrations; contact Michelle Pate, 100 Tellus Dr., Cartersville, GA 30120, (770) 606-5711; e-mail: michellep@tellusmuseum.org; Web site: www.tellusmuseum.org

Enjoy Your Local Gem & Mineral Show This Weekend!

2010-05-29T13:20:00.000-07:00

28-31--SCOTTSBLUFF, NEBRASKA: Rock swap; Panhandle Rock & Gem Club; Riverside Zoo and Campground, 1600 S. Beltline Hwy. W; Fri. 8-5, Sat. 8-5, Sun. 8-5, Mon. 8-5; free admission; public auction Sat., demonstrations, raffle; contact Dale Tikalsky, 523 W. 20th St., Scottsbluff, NE 69361, (308) 632-5574; e-mail: tikalsky21@charter.net

29-30--CASPER, WYOMING: Show; Natrona County Rockhounds; Natrona County Fairgrounds, Industrial Bldg., 1700 Fairgrounds Rd.; Sat. 9-5, Sun. 9-4; adults $3, children 12 and under free with adult; displays, demonstrations (flint knapping, wire wrapping, gold panning, faceting), silent auction, raffles, door prizes; contact Randy Sternberg, P.O. Box 123, Mills, WY 82644, (307) 234-6156; e-mail: hmhoff@bresnan.net

29-30--FORT WORTH, TEXAS: 59th annual show, "Fabulous Fossils"; Fort Worth Gem & Mineral Club; Will Rogers Memorial Center, Amon G. Carter Exhibit Bldg., 3401 W. Lancaster; Sat. 9-6, Sun. 10-5; adults $5, seniors $4, children under 12 free; 30 dealers, kids' games, hourly door prizes, grand prize, silent auction, exhibits; contact Steve Hilliard, P.O. Box 418, Decatur, TX 76234; (817) 925-5760; e-mail: fwgmc@embarqmail.com; Web site: www.fortworthgemandmineralclub.org

29-30--LAKESIDE, ARIZONA: Annual show; White Mountain Gem & Mineral Club; Blue Ridge Junior High School, 3050 N. Porter Mountain Rd.; Sat. 9-6, Sun. 9-4; adults $2, students (15 and under) free with paying adult; dealers, gems, minerals, beads, fossils, lapidary equipment, rough and finished rock specimens, silent auction, spinning wheel, kids' activity area, door prizes, raffle prizes, display cases, fluorescent mineral display; contact Larry Legge/Nanz Marshall, (928) 537-2524; e-mail: larrylegge@yahoo.com; Web site: www.whitemountain-azrockclub.org

29-30--TONOPAH, NEVADA: 40th annual show, "Jim Butler Days"; Tonopah Rock & Mineral Club; Tonopah Convention Center; Sat. 9:30-5, Sun. 9:30-3; gems, minerals, jewelry, fossils, bottles, in conjunction with the Nevada State Mining Championships; contact Robert Otteson, P.O. Box 3493, Tonopah, NV 89049

Gem Dino Bone Photo - Courtesy of Different Seasons Jewelry

Gem Show Listings: Source: Rock and Gem Magazine - Event Listings

Gem Show, Speakers and Field Trips...

2010-05-11T22:24:00.000-07:00

Experience the cool blue waters in an Aquamarine (the name means "ocean water")...visit the Dinosaur Museum exhibit and learn how a bone turns to stone...talk to the premiere paleo-botanist, Walt Wright in a room surrounded by his "Petrified Forest" made up of over 100 specimens...return to the days of the California Gold Rush and "pan for gold" on a functioning sluice.

The North Orange County Gem & Mineral Society is excited to be hosting "Hidden Treasures", the annual convention and show of their national (American Federation of Mineral Societies - AFMS) and regional (California Federation of Mineral Societies - CFMS) partners. Equally exciting is the opportunity to bring this educational and entertaining show to a new community in Whittier.

Friday through Sunday, June 18-20 2010
AFMS/CFMS Show & Convention
hosted by:
North Orange County Gem & Mineral Society

At: So. CA Univ. of Health Sciences
16200 E. Amber Valley Dr., Whittier, CA 90604
Hours: 10-5 daily

Tickets: $6 per day 14yo and up ($15 - 3 day ticket available)
Sunday ONLY - Father's Day Special!!!!
Dad gets in Free with the purchase of one ticket.

Vendors: there will be over 35 companies represented and a variety of goods available!

Who should attend? YOU! There is something for everyone at a Gem & Mineral Show...seriously! General Public - Children - Hobbyists - Professionals...

The Fossil Hall will include a "Petrified Forest" a 125 piece collection of Petrified Wood from PaleoBotanist Walt Wright. Mr. Wright is the premiere expert in this field and will share his knowledge in the Rotunda.

Demonstrations: include Faceting Gemstones, Jewelry Making, Cutting a Cabochon Gem...and more!

Speakers: We will be featuring a roster of world renowned Speakers: "A Rock Hound Tour of England" by Bob Jones, Sr. Editor of Rock and Gem Magazine; "The Great Bone Wars" by Dr. Allen Schaffert, MD; "Mount St. Helens - 30 Years After" by Tony and Sandy Fender; "Petrified Wood and Where It Grew" by Walt Wright, Paloebotanist...to name a few!

Meet the Author: Renee Newman is known world wide for her range of gem guides - from her latest "Exotic Gems Series" to field guides for the novice to indepth volumes on Pearls and Diamonds. Ms. Newman will be signing books from 1-3 pm on Sunday June 20th!

Kids will enjoy the authentic Gold panning sluice; Geode Slicer; the "New Crystal Hunters" Theater from BlueCap Productions; the Dinosaur Museum from Clark Park; Face Painting and other activities planned with them in mind.

While we are talking about children, remember that the kids will be out of school for this show and with that in mind we have planned some great Field Trips that will entertain the entire family!

Field Trip Schedule:
Two Tourmaline Mines in Two Days!
(you are not required to attend both days - but it is great fun and the camaraderie shared around a campfire can't be beat!)
Monday, June 21st:
The Oceanview - Fee Dig $50

Caravan to the Lake Henshaw Resort (overnight spaces start at $20 per vehicle)

Tuesday, June 22nd:
The Himalaya - Fee Dig $50

Precious Rubies or Fossils on the Beach - your choice!
Wednesday, June 23rd:
Trip One - Ruby near Cascade Canyon - More Strenuous Option
Trip Two - Jalama Beach - lead by Jon Meredith - less strenuous option

Rock Hound or Tourist - Which are you?
Thursday, June 24th:
Trip One - Lavic Siding - lead by Jay Valle - More Strenuous Option
Trip Two - LA County Natural History Museum - lead by Dr. Larry Barnes - less strenuous option

About Us: The North Orange County Gem and Mineral Society (NOCGMS) is a non profit (501c3) organization dedicated to the advancement of the earth sciences by stimulating interest and encouraging the study of the geological and mineral science and lapidary arts.

NOCGMS is a member of the California Federation of Mineralogical Societies (CFMS), and the AFMS American Federation of Mineralogical Societies (AFMS). We received the AFMS All American Club award from 1985 through 1992.

For more info about the event or organizations mentioned:
http://www.nocgms.com
http://www.cfmsinc.org
http://www.amfed.org

AFMS Field Trip - Lavic Siding

2010-05-08T16:36:00.000-07:00

Thursday, June 24 Field Trip - Join us at Lavic Siding, in the heart of the Mojave! Weather can be unpredictable but expect it to be warm to really, really warm. We will be collecting the world famous Lavic jasper, which comes in a multitude of colors and can be brecciated, layered or solid with veins of white, black or blue agate.

Details:

When: 10 AM, Sat., June 24, 2010
Where: Lavic Siding
Material: Jasper
Meet: hotel/restaurant parking lot in Ludlow south of
I-40, where waiver-of-liability forms will be signed
What to bring: collecting bags/buckets, rock hammer,
spray bottles, lunch & lots of water

The jasper has been found in red, black, yellow, gold, green, purple, or any combination and range from tumble-sized to football-sized. Other materials at this site may include agates and jaspers with sections of multi-shaded pink opal. Most is found as float.

Nearby is Pisgah Crater, a young volcano with an extensive lava field. This site covers a vast area between the Pisgah Crater lava fields, the railroad tracks, and the dry lake.

From the meeting spot we will caravan west to a safe crossing over the tracks, then explore various spots. This widespread field offers no shade.

Gas and food are available in Ludlow. While the roads are traversable in most high-clearance sedans, high-clearance trucks and SUVs are highly recommended.

For stay-overs, this general area also offers the southern Cady’s for a wide variety of material, a nearby obsidian field, Dish Hill for peridot, trilobites and the Hector Hills for chalcedony, opal and agate. Bring your rock collecting guides. For these other sites, 4wd is recommended but high clearance mandatory. Stay-overs may camp at a number of undeveloped sites or at the hotel in Ludlow. Treat the desert with respect: tread lightly and pack it in/pack it out.

To register for this Field Trip email your name, number in your party, and your phone number to Robyn Hawk at robynahawk (at) yahoo.com

Submitted by Field Trip leader: Jay Valle

Adapted from CFMS Newsletter, April 2009, Field Trips South article

AFMS/CFMS Show & Convention: Fieldtrip Schedule

2010-05-04T11:53:00.000-07:00

The 2010 AFMS/CFMS Gem Show and Convention is sneaking up quickly - pre-register for the field trips to assure space!
Friday through Sunday, June 18-20 2010
AFMS/CFMS Gem Show & Convention
hosted by North Orange County Gem & Mineral Society

At: So. CA Univ. of Health Sciences
16200 E. Amber Valley Dr., Whittier, CA 90604
Hours: 10-5 daily

Tickets: $6 per day 14yo and up ($15 - 3 day ticket available)
Sunday ONLY - Father's Day Special!!!!
Dad gets in Free with the purchase of one ticket.

Kids will be out of school for this show and with that in mind we have planned some great Field Trips that will entertain the entire family!

Field Trip Schedule:

Two Tourmaline Mines in Two Days!

(you are not required to attend both days - but it is great fun and the camaraderie shared around a campfire can't be beat!)

June 21st:
The Oceanview - Fee Dig $50

Caravan to the Lake Henshaw Resort (overnight rates start at $20 - if you want a cabin they are limited)

June 22nd:
The Himalaya - Fee Dig $50

For a look at what has been found lately at the Oceanview and Himalaya see: http://flyviewsandreviews.blogspot.com/2010/01/new-years-day-at-himalayaa-socal.html

Fossil Hunters Choice!

A couple of fossicking choices - the Ant Hill trip is a little strenuous as the climb up is fairly steep - but doable! I do it in stages and it works for me - but there will be more digging required as the recent rains filled in a lot of the ledges that were here previously - but there is still great shark teeth and bones coming out! If you want to take the kids to the beach - it is a lot less strenuous and great bone, fossils and agate.

June 23rd:
Trip One - Ant Hill - More Strenuous Option
Trip Two - Jalama Beach - lead by Jon Meredith - less strenuous option

Yes - the big tooth is from Ant Hill!!! There is a great right up about Jalama Beach at Kim's Eclectic Arcania blog: http://eclecticarcania.blogspot.com/2008/07/jalama-beach-rockhounding.html

Rock Hound or Tourist?

We are winding down but for those avid rockhounds one more trip to the desert. Lavic is known for it's gorgeous red patterned Jasper (pictured)!!! For those of you from out of town and looking for a relaxing last day in CA the Natural History Museum is not to be missed. We will have the benefit of the knowledgeable Dr. Larry Barnes (curator) as a guide through the Museum and he will give us some insight into the massive remodeling project at the museum.

June 24th:
Trip One - Lavic Siding - lead by Jay Valle - More Strenuous Option
Trip Two - LA County Natural History Museum - lead by Dr. Larry Barnes - less strenuous option

For info or to pre-register for a field trip contact: Robyn Hawk email: robynahawk (at) yahoo.com

Visit Your Local Gem Show This Weekend!

2010-04-23T19:29:00.000-07:00

23--WICHITA, KANSAS: Show; 57th annual show; Wichita Gem & Mineral Society; Cessna Activity Center, 2744 George Washington Blvd.; Fri. 9-7, Sat. 10-7, Sun. 10-5; adults $5, children $1; annual Rocky Mountain Federation meeting; contact Gene Maggard, 8318 S.E. Hwy. 77, Leon, KS 67074-9026, (316)742-3746

23-25--DECATUR, ILLINOIS: 58th annual show; Central Illinois Gem & Mineral Club; Macon County Fair Grounds, 3700 N. Westlawn Ave.; Fri. 11-6, Sat. 9-6, Sun. 10-4; adults $5 (good all three days), seniors $2, kids under 15 free; dealers, demonstrators, displays, Illinois DNR Oil & Gas Trailer, gemstones, fossils, jewelry, beads, minerals, findings, door prizes, kids' corner, "Running Water Sluice"; contact Tony Kapta, (309) 830-6516; e-mail: cigmc@comcast.net

23-25--GRANTS PASS, OREGON: Show; Rogue Gem & Geology Club; Josephine County Fairgrounds, Redwood Hwy.; Fri. 9-5, Sat. 9-5, Sun. 9-4; adults $1, children free; dealers, displays, demonstrations, door prizes, games, silent auction; contact Mary, P.O. Box 1224, Grants Pass, OR 97528, (541) 479-1045; e-mail: rockhoundclub@yahoo.com; Web site: www.roguegemandgeology.com

23-25--IRVINE, KENTUCKY: Show, "3rd annual Mountain Mushroom Festival Rock, Gem & Mineral Show"; City of Irvine, Mushroom Festival Committee, Blue Grass Gem & Mineral Club; Estill County School's Central Office, 253 Main St.; Fri. 9-3, Sat. 9-7, Sun. 10-5; free admission; Kentucky agate display, Kentucky agate, jewelry, fossil and mineral sales, Kentucky agate field trips Apr. 20-22, register online; contact Phil Daly, 10330 Forkland Rd., Parksville, KY 40464, (859) 854-0418; e-mail: phillipdaly@bellsouth.net; Web site: http://mountainmushroomfestival.org/

23-25--LINCOLNTON, GEORGIA: Graves Mountain Rock Swap and Dig; Junior Norman; Graves Mountain Mine; Fri. 8-6, Sat. 8-6, Sun. 8-6; admission by donation; collect from 8 am to 6 pm each day, sell and trade minerals; contact Junior Norman, (706) 401-3173; e-mail: rick@wncrocks.com; Web site: www.wncrocks.com/resources/Collecting%20sites.htm

23-25--SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH: Show, "Festival of Gems"; Wasatch Gem Society; Utah State Fair Park, 115 North 10th West, Zion Bldg.; Fri. 10-6, Sat. 10-6, Sun. 10-5; adults $2, children free; displays, lapidary demonstrations, grab bags, Wheel of Fortune, silent auction, door prizes, gem and mineral dealers; contact Jeff Huefner, (801) 467-6850; e-mail: WGSShow@gmail.com; Web site: wasatchgemsociety.com

24-25--CUYAHOGA FALLS, OHIO: Show, "Gemboree"; Akron Mineral Society & Summit Lapidary Club; Emidio & Sons Expo Center, 48 E. Bath Rd.; Sat. 10-6, Sun. 10-6; adults $5, students and seniors $4, children $1; lapidary demonstrations, art and educational displays, gem identification, geode cracking, gem mine, make-and-take projects for children, dealers, door prizes, silent auction; contact Evelyn Tryon, 2028 Tallmadge Rd., Kent, OH 44240, (330) 673-9664; e-mail: etjrtryon@juno.com; Web site: www.LapidaryClubofOhio.org

24-25--ELMA, WASHINGTON: Show, "Earth's Treasures"; Grays Harbor Gem & Geology Society; Gray's Harbor County Fairgrounds, 32 Elma-McCleary Rd.; Sat. 10-5, Sun. 10-5; contact Gary Emberly, 624 Fairmont Place, Aberdeen, WA 98520, (360) 533-6196; e-mail: Melissa624@hotmail.com

24-25--FORT DODGE, IOWA: Annual show; River Valley Rockhounds; Webster County Fairgrounds, Old Hwy. 169; Sat. 9-5, Sun. 11-4; admission $1; displays, dealers, door prizes, free specimens for children; contact Robert Wolf, 3521 10th Ave. N, Fort Dodge, IA 50501, (515) 955-2818; e-mail: midnightwriter@frontiernet.net

24-25--FRANKLIN, NEW JERSEY: 38th annual show and swap; Franklin-Ogdensburg Earth Science Association, New Jersey Earth Science Association, Sterling Hill Mining Museum; Franklin School, 50 Washington Ave.; Sat. 9-5:30, Sun. 9-5; adults $5, children under 14 free with paying adult; contact Sterling Hill Mining Museum, (973) 209-7212

24-25--JACKSON, MISSISSIPPI: Show and sale; Mobile Rock & Mineral Society, The Mississippi Gulf Coast Gem & Mineral Society, Nature's Society of Majestic Arts; Mississippi Fairgrounds, Trademark Bldg.; Sat. 9-6, Sun. 10-5; gems, minerals, fossils, beads, crystals, rough and cut stones, finished jewelry, tools and lapidary supplies, fossils, minerals, stone vases and carvings, loose precious stones, mobile gem mining, gold mining, pearls, knapping, faceting, jewelry repairs; contact Sharon McClanahan or Stan Bennett, (601) 898-0407; e-mail: stan@tompkinsbarron.com

24-25--MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE: 32nd Memphis Mineral, Fossil, Jewelry Show; Memphis Archaeological & Geological Society; Memphis International Agricenter, Expo Center, West Pavilion, A and B wings, 7777 Walnut Grove Rd.; Sat. 9-6, Sun. 10-5; adults $5, children 12 and under $2, Scouts free; dealers, exhibits, kids' area, speakers; contact W.C. McDaniel, (901) 274-7706; e-mail: info@theearthwideopen.com; Web site: www.TheEarthWideOpen.com

24-25--NEWBURY PARK, CALIFORNIA: 36th annual show, "Pageant of a Thousand Gems"; Conejo Gem & Mineral Club; Borchard Park Community Center, 190 Reino Rd., at Borchard Rd.; Sat. 9-5, Sun. 10-4:30; free admission; exhibits, sales, gems, jewelry, rocks, minerals, fossils, special youth activities, lapidary and jewelry making demonstrations, silent auction, door prizes; contact Robert Sankovich, (805) 494-7734; e-mail: rmsorca@adelphia.net; Web site: www.cgamc.org

24-25--ROSEVILLE, MINNESOTA: Show; Anoka County Gem & Mineral Club; Har Mar Mall, 2100 Snelling Ave.; Sat. 10-6, Sun. 12-5; free admission; gems, minerals, jewelry, fossils, agates, collectibles; contact Martha Miss, 8445 Grange Blvd., Cottage Grove, MN 55016; e-mail: rockbiz@cs.com

24-25--SANTA CRUZ, CALIFORNIA: Annual show; Santa Cruz Gem & Mineral Society; Santa Cruz Civic Auditorium, corner of Church St. and Center St.; Sat. 10-5, Sun. 10-5; adults $6, children under 12 free; fluorescent room, treasure wheel, exhibits; contact Dean Welder, P.O. Box 343, Santa Cruz, CA 95061; e-mail: wdeanwelder@yahoo.com; Web site: www.scmgs.org

24-25--TROY, OHIO: Show, "Minerals, Meteorites and More"; Brukner Center Gem & Mineral Club; Miami County Fairgrounds, Activities Bldg.; Sat. 10-6, Sun. 10-5; adults $1, small children free; mineral identification, specimens, gems, jewelry, rough stone, demonstrations, displays, silent auction, dealers, raffles, free rock for children, children's activities; contact Tom Dilworth, (937) 602-1929

24-25--WACO, TEXAS: 50th annual show; Waco Gem & Mineral Club; TSTC Industrial Trade Center; Sat. 10-5:30, Sun. 10-5; adults $5 (both days), students $1; contact Kay Coleman, 118 County Rd. 540, Fairfield, TX 75840, (903) 389-8311

25--WATERLOO, IOWA: Show, "The Lapidary Arts: Nature's Beauty Revealed"; Black Hawk Gem & Mineral Society; Waterloo Center for the Arts, 225 Commercial St.; Sun. 12-5; free admission; demonstrations, silversmithing, gem cutting, rock tumbling, sphere making, faceting, silent auction, special displays, dealers, crystals, agates, geodes, fossils, handcrafted jewelry, minerals, fossil plaster casting, Featured Person: Dr. Lee Potter; contact Dave Malm, (319) 266-6433; e-mail: glenr@forbin.net

2010 AFMS/CFMS Show and Convention

2010-04-16T21:04:00.000-07:00

The North Orange County Gem and Mineral Society is looking forward to hosting the AFMS and CFMS visitors...

Visit Your Local Gem Show This Weekend!

2010-04-15T10:48:00.000-07:00

16-18--ALPINE, TEXAS: Show, "Wonders from our desert and beyond"; Chihuahuan Desert Gem & Mineral Club; Kokernot Lodge, Rte. 223 bypass; Fri. 9-6, Sat. 9-6, Sun. 11-5; free admission; Kids' Corner, door prize, dealer demonstrations, video "What's Hot in Tucson"; contact Mary Brogan, P.O. Box 1111, Alpine, TX 79831, (432) 837-3824; e-mail: marybrogan@rocketmail.com; Web site: www.agates123.com/cdgmc/

16-18--RICKREALL, OREGON: Show, "Rocks of Oregon"; Willamette Agate & Mineral Society of Salem; Polk County Fairgrounds, 520 S. Pacific Hwy. W; Fri. 9-6, Sat. 10-6, Sun. 10-4:30; contact Kristi Edwards, 1236 SE Seaport Circle, Corvallis, OR 97333, (541) 738-6811; e-mail: edwardskk@gmail.com

16-18--ROSEVILLE, MICHIGAN: Annual show; Mount Clemens Macomb Gem & Lapidary Society; Roseville Recreation Center, 18185 Sycamore; Fri. 9-7, Sat. 10-7, Sun. 11-4; adults $3, students $1, children under 12 free; contact Jacqueline Swain, 20719 Wendy Ln., Grosse Pointe Woods, MI 48236, (313) 469-7868; e-mail: jacswain018@aol.com

16-18--SAN JOSE, CALIFORNIA: Show, "The Art of Stone"; Santa Clara Valley Gem & Mineral Society; 344 Tully Rd.; Fri. 9-5, Sat. 10-5, Sun. 10-5; adults $6, children under 12 free; dinosaur speaker, antique appraiser, kids' education program, demonstrators, flint knapping, fluorescent minerals, dealers, displays; contact Marc Mullaney, (408) 691-1584; e-mail: geologistm@aol.com; Web site: scvgms.org

17--NORTH LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS: Annual swap; Central Arkansas Gem, Mineral & Geology Society; Burns Park, Elder Johnson Pavilion, I-49 Exit 150, Military Dr.; Sat. 8-5; free admission; bring your own table or tailgate; contact Pat Kissire, 4900 Sparks Rd., Little Rock, AR 72210, (501) 821-2346; e-mail: pkissire@sbcglobal.net; Web site: www.centralarrockhound.org

17-18--COLUMBUS, OHIO: Show, "Central Ohio Mineral, Fossil, Gem & Jewelry Show"; Columbus Rock & Mineral Society, Licking County Rock & Mineral Society; Veterans Memorial, 300 W. Broad St.; Sat. 10-6, Sun. 11-5; adults $7, seniors $6, ages 6-16 $3, children under 6 and Scouts free; exhibits, speakers, demonstrators, ID booth, silent auctions, swap area, 27 dealers; contact Ken Harsh, 297 E. Selby Blvd., Worthington, OH 43085; e-mail: karmakenha@aol.com

17-18--DAVENPORT, IOWA: Spring show; Black Hawk Gem & Mineral Club; Putnam Museum and IMAX Theatre, 1717 W. 12th St.; Sat. 10-5, Sun. 10-4; free admission; rocks, minerals, fossils, agates, geodes, tumbled stones, carved stone, beads, silver and beaded jewelry, spheres, arrowheads, demonstrations, bead making, faceting, flint knapping, arrowhead making; contact Craig or Kellie Moore, 718 Franklin Ave., Davenport, IA 52806, (563) 445-3034; e-mail: blackhawkgemandmineral@q.com; Web site: www.blackhawkgemandmineralclub.com

17-18--DOTHAN, ALABAMA: 3rd annual show; Dothan Gem & Mineral Club; Westgate Park James Grant Center, 501 Recreation Rd.; Sat. 9-5, Sun. 10-4; free admission; door prizes, silent auction, jewelry, minerals, cutting rough, slabs, gem trees, tumbled stones, mineral displays, equipment demonstrations; contact Arnie Lambert, 920 Yorktown Rd., Dothan, AL 36301, (334) 792-7116; e-mail: arlambert@comcast.net

17-18--EAU CLAIRE, WISCONSIN: 47th annual show; Chippewa Valley Gem & Mineral Society; Eau Claire County Expo Center, Lorch Ave. (Hwy 93 and I-94); Sat. 9-5, Sun. 10-4; silent auction, minerals, fossils, crystals, gems, rocks, artifacts, jewelry, demonstrations, hands-on booth; contact Mike Schoenfess, (715) 456-0664

17-18--HELENA, MONTANA: 62nd annual show; Helena Mineral Society; Helena Civic Center, corner of Neill Ave. and Park Ave.; Sat. 9-6, Sun. 10-5; adults $1, children 12 and under free with adult; more than 20 dealers, mineral specimens, equipment, jewelry, faceted gems, facet rough, fossils, beads, cabbing rough, fluorescent display, 20 display cases, children's garnet hunt, ball toss, grab bags, silent auction; contact Gary Parisi, P.O. Box 736, Helena, MT 59624, (406) 442-1226; e-mail: gjparisi72@yahoo.com; Web site: helenamineralsociety.org

17-18--IDAHO FALLS, IDAHO: 45th annual show; Idaho Falls Gem & Mineral Society; Idaho Falls Recreation Center, B St.; Sat. 10-6, Sun. 10-5; adults $2, children under 12 free; contact Greg Hayes, (208) 521-8885

17-18--KENNEWICK, WASHINGTON: Annual show; Lakeside Gem & Mineral Club; Benton County Fairgrounds, 1500 S. Oak; Sat. 10-5, Sun. 10-4; contact Mickee Madden, (509) 582-8599; e-mail: Mickeemadden@charter.net

17-18--PITTSBURGH, PENNSYLVANIA: Show; Monongahela Rockhounds; West Mifflin Volunteer Fire Co. #4 Skyview Hall, 640 Noble Dr.; Sat. 10-6, Sun. 10-4; free admission; contact Bret Howard, (724) 327-8618; e-mail: show@monongahelarockhounds.org; Web site: www.monongahelarockhounds.org

17-18--YAKIMA, WASHINGTON: 49th annual show, "Parade of Gems"; Yakima Rock & Mineral Club; Central Washington State Fairgrounds, Modern Living Bldg., Fair Ave. and E. Nob Hill Blvd.; Sat. 10-6, Sun. 10-4; dealers, demonstrations, gold panning, silent auction, junior activities, grab bags, door prizes, raffle, Spin A Wheel; contact Marti Sondgeroth, (509) 248-6401 or (509) 910-3484; e-mail: marthams@q.net

Photo courtesy of Different Seasons Jewelry http://differentseasonsjewelry.com/

ALAA Event Just Added!!!

2010-04-10T10:21:00.000-07:00

We are proud and excited to say that planning and staging is coming together for the AFMS and CFMS Convention and Show in Southern California:

June 18-20 2010

AFMS/CFMS Show & Convention
hosted by North Orange County Gem & Mineral Society

Convention host hotel:

Anaheim Park Hotel
222 W. Houston Ave.,
Fullerton, CA 92832
(714) 992-1700
Toll Free (877) 491-1011

Gem Show Site:
So. CA Univ. of Health Sciences
16200 E. Amber Valley Dr.
Whittier, CA 90604
Hours: 10-5 daily

If you, like me are concerned about the closure of collecting sites then this announcement is for you!

...an exciting addition to the Convention Schedule is the ALAA Roundtable - Guests are Welcome:

ALAA (American Lands Access Assn.) is an arm of the AFMS. It was formed as a 501-C-4 which enables us to lobby. This is done to keep our collecting sites open and the roads to them. California's collecting sites are under siege by many government entities as well as special interests. We are hoping to have all the clubs in California and beyond become members of ALAA and help us maintain our collecting sites.

Our meeting on Sunday, June 20, 11:30 at the host hotel will have as our featured speaker Del Albright, of the Blue Ribbon Coalition. This organization represents over 600,000 members/motorized clubs throughout the U.S. They have taken the government to court on a number of occasions when negotiations failed to keep roads open. We believe we have a common goal, they keep the roads open to our collecting sites. It's a win win situation.

Join us, we need you!

Shirley Leeson
ALAA Vice President

Find a Local Club Gem Show This Weekend!

2010-04-09T11:20:00.000-07:00

9-11--ABBOTSFORD, BRITISH COLUMBIA, CANADA: Show; Ag-Rec Bldg., CFV Fairgrounds, 32470 Haida Dr.; Fri. 10-8, Sat. 10-6, Sun. 10-6; adults $6, students (6-17) $2, children under 6 free with adult; more than 35 dealers, beads, crystals, minerals, gifts, lapidary supplies, club displays, demonstrations, grab bags, children's creative workshop, gold panning, door prizes; contact Jennifer Moore, (604) 328-9766; e-mail: jenmac02@telus.net

9-11--ALBUQUERQUE, NEW MEXICO: 41st annual show, "Treasures of the Earth"; Albuquerque Gem & Mineral Club; Creative Arts Center, New Mexico State Fairgrounds (Expo NM), San Pedro entrance, across the street from the Lujan Bldg.; Fri. 10-6, Sat. 10-6, Sun. 10-5; adults $1 Fri., $3 Sat. and Sun., children under 13 free; more than 40 dealers, displays, door prizes, kids' booth, silent auctions, faceting demonstrations, gold panning, gem setting, free mineral/gem identification; contact Paul Hlava, (505) 255-5478; e-mail: hpf5@qwest.net

9-11--OGDEN, UTAH: 59th annual show, "2010 Gemstone Junction"; Golden Spike Gem & Mineral Society; Golden Spike Event Center, Weber County Fairgrounds, 1000 N 1200 W; adults $2, students $1.50, children under 12 free with adult; Fri. 9-6, Sat. 10-6, Sun. 10-4; more than 25 dealers, more than 30 display cases, geodes, faceted stones, dinosaur bones, fossils, minerals, beads, jewelry, healing stones and crystals, petrified wood, lapidary tools and equipment, demonstrations, rock bags, Wheel of Fortune, door prizes, silent auction; contact Cindy Aeschlimann, P.O. Box 12835, Ogden, UT 84412-2835, (801) 648-5060; e-mail: club@goldenspikegem.org; Web site: www.goldenspikegem.org

10-11--ABILENE, TEXAS: Show; Central Texas Gem & Mineral Society; Abilene Civic Center, 1100 N. 6th St.; Sat. 9-5, Sun. 10-5; adults $5, children $3; vendors, rock, fossils, tools, gems, sand art, wheel of fortune, raffles, club member demonstrations, geode cracking; contact Betty Scarborough, 422 CR 606, Tuscola, TX 79562, (325) 668-2374; e-mail: waltswife1029@yahoo.com; Web site: www.txol.net/rockclub

10-11--BELLINGHAM, WASHINGTON: 49th show; Mt. Baker Rock & Gem Club; Bloedel-Donovan Park, 2214 Electric Ave.; free admission; Sat. 10-6, Sun. 10-5; rocks, fossils, gems, jewelry, dealers, door prizes, club sales, silent auction, raffle, demonstrations, exhibits, special kids' activities; contact Candi Gerard, (360) 384-3187

10-11--CANTON, ILLINOIS: 50th annual show; Fulton County Rockhounders; Wallace Park; Sat. 10-6, Sun. 10-5; free admission; contact Steven Holley, (309) 231-8861; e-mail: ilfossil@hotmail.com; or George Coursey, (309) 368-2947; e-mail: courseyfarms@hughes.net

10-11--DES PLAINES, ILLINOIS: 45th annual show; Des Plaines Valley Geological Society; Des Plaines Park District Leisure Center, 2222 Birch St. (just west of River Rd. off Touhy); Sat. 9:30-5, Sun. 10-4; adults $3, students $1 with school ID, seniors $2, children under 12 free with adult; educational exhibits, live demonstrations, kids' room, silent auction, dealers, raffles, door prizes; contact Lois Zima or Jeanine Mielecki; (847) 298-4653; e-mail: jaynine9@aol.com; Web site: www.desplainesgeologyclub.org

10-11--GREEN BAY, WISCONSIN: Show, "Green Bay is Rockin' on the Fox"; Green Bay Neville Public Museum Geology Club; Neville Public Museum, 210 Museum Pl., downtown; Sat. 9-5, Sun. 10-4; adults $2, children under 14 free; 14 dealers, fossils, minerals, gemstones, jewelry, free polished stones for children, grab bags, working and special exhibits, wire wrapping demonstrations; contact Randy Westberg, 1815 E. Shore Dr., Green Bay, WI 54302, (920) 619-6060; e-mail: randy.westberg@rhccgb.com

10-11--GRESHAM, OREGON: Show; Mount Hood Rock Club; Mount Hood Community College Gym, 26000 SE Stark (south end of the campus); Sat. 10-6, Sun. 10-5; contact Keene Clay, (503) 558-8500; e-mail; ODROC@comcast.net

10-11--JOHNSON CITY, NEW YORK: 41st annual show; New York Southern Tier Geology Club; Johnson City Senior Citizen Center, 30 Brocton St.; Sat. 9-6, Sun. 10-4; adults $3, kids under 12 free; dealers, silent auctions; contact Al Conklin, 187 Forest Hill Rd., Apalachin, NY 13732, (607) 625-4140; e-mail: allanconklin@aol.com

10-11--KINGMAN, ARIZONA: Show, "Gems of Arizona"; Mohave County Gemstoners; Kingman Academy of Learning High School, 3420 N. Burbank St.; Sat. 9-5, Sun. 9-4; free admission; demonstrations (obsidian knapping, faceting, wire wrapping), mineral displays, silent auction, dealers, cash raffle, hourly door prizes, children's activities; contact Nan Russell, (928) 846-0927, or Donna Robinson, 3202 E. Leroy Ave., Kingman, AZ 86409, (928) 263-1480; e-mail: gemstoners@live.com; Web site: www.gemstoners.org

10-11--LANCASTER, CALIFORNIA: Show; Antelope Valley Gem & Mineral Club; Lancaster High School, 44701 32nd St. W, between Lancaster Blvd. and Ave. J; Sat. 9-5, Sun. 9-5; free admission; demonstrations, vendors, tailgaters, silent auction table, raffle drawing, games; contact Jules Ficke, 4233 W. Ave. L-4, Lancaster, CA 93536, (661) 943-5157; e-mail: av_gem@yahoo.com; Web site: www.avgem.weebly.com

10-11--MARIPOSA, CALIFORNIA: 10th annual show; California State Mining and Mineral Museum, Mariposa Gem & Mineral Club, California State Mining and Mineral Museum Association; Mariposa County Fairgrounds, Hwy. 49; Sat. 10-6, Sun. 10-4; gems, minerals, crafts, speakers, mineral exhibits, educational activities, raffles, silent auctions; contact Dianne Vereschagin or Darci Moore, (209) 742-7625

10-11--PARADISE, CALIFORNIA: Show, "Paradise of Gems"; Paradise Gem & Mineral Club; Elks Lodge, 6309 Clark Rd.; Sat. 10-5, Sun. 10-4; adults $2; contact Manuel Garcia, 5659 Foster Rd., Paradise, CA 95969, (530) 877-7324; e-mail: mmpg@earthlink.net

10-11--PARIS, ONTARIO, CANADA: 38th annual show; Brantford Lapidary & Mineral Society; Paris Fairgrounds, 139 Silver St.; Sat. 10-5, Sun. 10-5; adults $3, children 12 and under free; dealers, gems, minerals, fossils, stones, lapidary equipment and supplies, fine jewelry, supplies, beads, demonstrations, exhibits, silent auction, "Mine for Gems" display; contact Robert Parry, P.O. Box 29, 138 Sugar Maple Rd., St. George, ON N0E 1N0, (519) 448-1236; e-mail: robert@roberthalloriginals.com; Web site: www.brantfordlapidarymineral.ca

10-11--POCATELLO, IDAHO: Show; SouthEast Idaho Gem & Mineral Club; Bannock County Fairgrounds, 10588 Fairgrounds Rd.; Sat. 10-6, Sun. 10-5; contact Martin Rakatansky, (208) 233-2538; e-mail: rak80@cableone.net