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MWF News June 2017, Issue No. 563 Page 1
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
Bulletin Editors Contest Winners ...................................... 2 Scholarship Committee Contributions Report ............... 15
Council of Delegates Meeting Minutes ............................. 1 Scholarship Honoree and Recipients ................................. 9
Endowment Fund-Raising is a Success ............................. 2 State Director and Committee Reports ............................ 12
President’s Message .......................................................... 1 Thanks to Federation Members ......................................... 9
Regional Federations Hold Week-Long Workshops ....... 16 Upcoming Events ............................................................ 10
WHAT’S INSIDE?
MWF News Midwest Federation
of Mineralogical and Geological Societies
June 2017 - Issue No. 563
Web Site - www.amfed.org/mwf
Member of the American Federation of
Mineralogical Societies
COUNCIL OF DELEGATES MEETING MINUTES
Tom Whitlatch, President
As I was contemplating what to talk about this
month, I reflected back on this last weekend. It was
the MWF's convention and show
presented by the Cuyuna Rock & Gem
Club in Brainerd, Minnesota. The
weather was on our side the whole time!
Temperatures in the 60's & 70's with lots
of sun with a little breeze.
But most important was the
number of State Directors that made it to
the meeting along, with several delegates and a few
committee chairpersons. We set forth doing the
business we came for, which you can read about in
the minutes published in this issue.
I want to thank all of you for your time and
effort to travel there and help us conduct our
business. A very special thank-you to Marge Jensen
for the great coordination of all the events that were
put together for us. The whole club also deserves a
(Continued on page 9)
By Donna Moore, MWF Secretary
[Editor’s Note: Following are the minutes of
the MWF Council of Delegates meeting that was held
May 6, 2017, in Brainerd, Minnesota.]
President Tom Whitlatch called the meeting to
order. He said Jim Kraai would be running the extra
microphone to whomever in the audience wished to
talk.
J.C. Moore gave the invocation.
David Rich led the Pledge of Allegiance.
Marge Jensen, representing the host club,
welcomed everyone to Brainerd. She hoped everyone
had a chance to visit the show. She offered to help
with anything people needed. The club president was
tied up at the show, but we would meet him later. She
was glad to have a good group representing the MWF,
but mentioned that registration was slow to come in.
(Continued on page 3)
Page 2 June 2017, Issue No. 563 MWF News
MWF OFFICERS
President: Tom Whitlatch
1147 Staub Court NE
Cedar Rapids, IA 52402
319-551-3870
1st VP: David Root 2nd VP: Kevin Ponzio
1051 Meadow Lane Post Office Box 44
Jenison, MI 49428 Plymouth, WI 53073
616-498-4699 920-980-6413
[email protected] [email protected]
Secretary: Donna Moore Treasurer: Sandy Fuller
25235 N. State Route 97 8445 Grange Boulevard
Cuba, IL 61427 Cottage Grove, MN 55016
309-789-6501 651-459-0343
[email protected] [email protected]
What an exciting weekend we all had at the
Cuyuna Rock Show!
Saturday night, May 6, we put on an
outstanding drawing for six wonderful items. Also,
EBear found a new home. The next day, the Silent
Auction was off and running. I am ever so thankful for
the many MWF and Cuyuna members who were
instrumental in our success.
This year’s total for the Endowment is …
drumroll, please … $983.82.
The drawing had amazing donors – Steve and Pam
Hecht, Julie Whitlatch, Diane Gram, the Blossomland
Gem and Mineral Society, and Susan Stanforth.
The auction had 21 donors with around 114
items. Our top donors were Tom and Julie Whitlatch,
who donated 13 items that brought in $119.50. Second,
Steve and Pam Hecht donated 39 items that brought in
$82.51. President Ron Carman of AFMS donated seven
items that gave us $31.
I wish to thank those who helped run the
auction: Dave Rice, Barbara Sky, Donna and J.C.
Moore, and Marge Jensen. Hope I haven’t forgotten
anyone.
Susan Stanforth, MWF Silent Auction Committee chair
ENDOWMENT FUND-RAISING IS A SUCCESS
BULLETIN EDITORS CONTEST WINNERS
The winners of the 2017 MWF Bulletin Editors’
Contest were announced at the recent convention in
Brainerd, Minnesota. Because the previous Bulletin
Editors’ Aids Committee chair had developed health
problems, the 2016 MWF entries were also judged this
year, and the results were also announced in Brainerd.
Sharon Marburger, the current BEAC chair, provided
this list of both years’ winners.
2016 MWF BULLETIN EDITORS CONTEST
WINNERS
(Judged in 2017 competition)
SMALL BULLETINS
1st Place The Pick and Dop Stick. The Chicago
Rocks and Minerals Society, Rachele
Best, Editor
2nd Place The Facets. Huron Hills Lapidary and
Mineral Society, Pete Batra & Frank
Konieczki, Editors
The Rockfinder (direct entry to
AFMS). Michiana Gem & Mineral
Society, Jason Hefner, Editor
LARGE BULLETINS
1st Place The LOESS Bulletin. Lincoln Orbit
Earth Science Society, Ed Wagner,
Editor
ORIGINAL ADULT ARTICLES – ADVANCED
1st Place (Trying Not to Be) Bad to the Bone by
Steve Morse, Lincoln Orbit Earth
Science Society
2nd Place A Rockhound – How It Got Started by
Jim Reynolds, Lincoln Orbit Earth
Science Society
3rd Place Rescued by Ed Wagner, Lincoln Orbit
Earth Science Society
4th Place A Kame Called Blue Mound by Keith
Peregrine, Lincoln Orbit Earth Science
Society
(Continued on page 8)
MWF News June 2017, Issue No. 563 Page 3
COUNCIL OF DELEGATES MINUTES: MEMORIALS, TREASURER’S REPORT, STATE DIRECTORS
Tom introduced the honorary guests, including
past MWF Presidents Jim Marburger, J.C. Moore,
Sandy Fuller, David Rich, Dennis Westman, Tony
Kapta, and Cindy Root. He also introduced AFMS
President Ron Carman.
Tom read the list of memorials, those members
who had passed away since the last convention. Those
included Bob Weikert, Northwest Wisconsin Gem &
Mineral Society; Rita Helwig, Show-Me Rockhounds
(Kansas City); John and Judy Washburn, Lincoln Orbit
Earth Science Society, both former MWF Presidents;
Bob Kellor (Bob’s Rock Shop), Lincoln Orbit Earth
Science Society; Bill Zachary, Lincoln Orbit Earth
Science Society; George Egger, Peoria Academy of
Science, Geology Section; Shirley Tigner, Rock River
Valley Gem & Mineral Club; Ross Cannizzo,
Wisconsin Geological Society; Lillian Nadeau, L & L
Minerals; Charlene Ridenbach, Eastern Indiana Gem &
Geological Society and LaMont’s Rock Pile; Bob
Beauvais, former MWF Micromount Chairman,
Ishpeming; Jeanne Vandivier, Spring River Gem &
Mineral Club; Esther Mullaly, Former MWF President;
Naida House, Blossomland Gem & Mineral Society;
Vernon Wilson, Tri-County Rocks & Mineral Society;
Larry Graves, Tulip City Gem & Mineral Club; Mary
Murphy, Dayton Gem & Mineral Society. He asked
for a moment of silence to remember them and their
contribution to our hobby.
Cindy Root reviewed the rules of order for the
meeting.
Printed copies of the Council of Delegates
Meeting held on August 20, 2016 in South Bend,
Indiana were available. They had also been printed in
the MWF Newsletter in October 2016.
Sandy Fuller noted there were printed copies of
the treasurer’s report available on the table with the
other reports. This covered through April 15. It also
contained the prior year’s end-of- year report. Six clubs
are still in arrears as of April 30. The number of adult
members had risen while the number of junior
members declined, in part due to the failure of the all-
junior group from Minnesota to renew this year. Sandy
reported that she had recently moved the CD that
(Continued from page 1) matured to a Money Market account. Otherwise, we
are in a good financial position. Jim Marburger moved
to accept the treasurer’s report. Charles Wooldridge
seconded the motion, which carried.
David Rich, who had led the State Directors
Meeting in Kevin Ponzio’s absence, reported on that
meeting. He noted we had the most state directors
present that we had seen for some time. Jim Kraai had
reported on the clubs in Iowa. George Coursey
reported that everything was going well in Illinois.
Spring shows had been well attended with dealers
pleased with sales. John Donker reported shows in
Michigan were doing well. Attendance was up and so
were sales.
Dennis Westman reported the Cuyuna Club was
doing very well. He said the show is drawing about
3,000 people in a town with the population of about
13,000. No report from Missouri/Arkansas. Jim
Marburger reported that Nebraska is trying to rebuild
after their state organization failed. He is hoping to get
a couple of clubs back into the MWF. Tom Kottyan
had sent a short report that the clubs in the middle part
of Ohio were growing. North and South Dakota was
represented by Harlan and Aletha Hoogeterp. Things
were going well in their area. Allison Conrad reported
that Wisconsin is wonderful. She had a written report
with more details. David noted that the state directors
were the first line to contact by the clubs for any MWF
information.
David Root called for reports from the
Permanent Committees.
Archaeology – No report.
Boundaries – Bob Miller had reported no
issues on boundaries.
Bulletin Editors Aides – Sharon Marburger
said she was grateful for the seven clubs that
participated in this year’s contest. The awards would
be given out at the awards banquet.
Club Rockhound of the Year – No report.
(Continued on page 4)
Page 4 June 2017, Issue No. 563 MWF News
COUNCIL OF DELEGATES MINUTES: COMMITTEE REPORTS
Conventions and Show Advisory – J.C.
Moore reported that the South Bend club had 55 people
registered for the convention in 2016. They had gone
above and beyond what was necessary in providing a
very nice convention for the MWF. They did not turn
a profit. There were approximately 1,500 in
attendance at their show. We were in Brainerd,
Minnesota for the 2017 Convention. He reminded
everyone to visit their show. He appreciated the effort
of Marge Jensen and the club to host us. The Lincoln
Orbit Earth Science Society is hosting the 2018
Convention in Springfield, Illinois. Last year they
moved to a larger building on the state fairgrounds. He
said it was a unique setting with all the Abraham
Lincoln sites. If possible people should plan to visit
the Abraham Lincoln Library, which showcases a lot
about the Civil War. The club is planning a field trip
to the Funk Family Prairie Home which includes the
mineral museum housing much of the collection of
former MWF President Lafayette “Big Chunk” Funk.
He noted he had two bids for hosting future
conventions to present in new business.
(Continued from page 3)
Cut mineral panels at the Funk Family Prairie Home
Gem & Mineral Collection in Shirley, Illinois. Photo
from funkprairiehomemuseum.com.
Credentials – Tony Kapta reported there were
15 delegates and 18 members of the executive
committee, including four officers, so we had a
quorum for the meeting. He moved to destroy the
ballots from the 2016 officer election. Sharon
Marburger seconded the motion, which carried.
Director of Supplies – Andrea Morehead
introduced herself, saying she was from the Minnesota
Mineral Club and was taking over this position from
Dennis Westman. She has served as co-education
director and publicity chairman for her club. The new
directories were “hot off the press” and she had extra
copies for sale.
Directory and Calendar of Events – One
directory will be mailed soon to each club and each
member of the Executive Committee. More are
available for sale from the Director of Supplies. Any
correction to this year’s directory should be reported to
Secretary Donna Moore.
Education – No report.
Endowment Fund – Alan Hukill, treasurer for
the fund, had sent a written report. A new chairman is
needed to head up the committee.
Environment and Legislation – Dean Stone
had resigned from this chairmanship, so a new
chairman is needed.
Geology – Dr. Bill Cordua had sent a report
that members of the geology committee were giving
programs, writing articles, providing displays and other
activities promoting the geological knowledge in the
MWF area.
Historian & Archives – Cindy Root reported
she had scanned some of the slides from 3 boxes that
were given to her from past federation activities. All
materials she has been given have been scanned and are
on the cloud. She will give access to anyone who
would like to review the materials. She has scanned
directories, manuals, newsletters, pictures, etc. All
materials may be copied, but credit must be given to
the original issue and author. All are in .pdf format so
that no changes can be made. Cindy reminded members
that if clubs wanted pictures, etc. on their club pages,
she could add those. Her e-mail is d-
(Continued on page 5)
MWF News June 2017, Issue No. 563 Page 5
COUNCIL OF DELEGATES MINUTES: COMMITTEE REPORTS
[email protected]. So far only two people have asked
for access to the history on the cloud.
Insurance – Marge Jensen reported thanks to
Regina Kapta for suggesting we use a reduced rate for
insurance renewals for those getting payment in on
time. This year we had the highest renewal rate by the
deadline that she can remember. She doesn’t expect a
raise in premiums for the coming year. No claims have
been filed so far this year.
Junior Activities – No report.
Lapidary Arts – David Root continues to
maintain a listing of fellow rockhounds who are willing
to be contacted should members have questions
regarding their area of expertise.
Long Range Planning – Tony Kapta had no
report, but the committee was to meet later that day.
Membership – Jim Marburger reported that he
had inquiries from four clubs about joining the MWF.
He also received paperwork from an old club that
wanted to re-form and join the MWF. He is working
with the clubs in Nebraska since their state association
is dissolving. He is hoping a couple of the clubs will
rejoin the MWF.
Merit Awards – J.C. Moore reported that this
committee takes care of the contest for the yearbooks
that cover the clubs’ activities for the previous year.
Only one club entered this year. He would like to see
more clubs enter the competition. He noted that clubs
don’t compete, they are scored against criteria. These
yearbooks are valuable tools to show what your club
does during the year as well as documenting the history
of the club. There is a link on the AFMS website to
articles explaining how to work on the yearbooks.
Mineralogy – No report.
Newsletter – No report. The June issue
deadline was held in order to include the minutes and
reports from this convention.
Paleontology – No report.
(Continued from page 4) Program Competition – Cindy Root reported
that she did not receive any program entries this year.
She has not received any for a while.
Program Requests – Pat Powers had a written
report telling 19 programs were borrowed in 2016 and
so far, in 2017, ten programs have been borrowed.
Publications – No report.
Program Review – No report.
Public Image – Regina Kapta suggested paying
for a Facebook ad pushing the show connected with the
MWF Convention. We could target a specific
audience. She also suggested doing e-mail blasts.
Their club got e-mail addresses from door prize entry
forms and sent out information about this year’s show
by e-mail. They had an increase in their attendance.
She proposed to promote the MWF to specific groups.
It was suggested that clubs need to get Facebook pages
if they don’t have them.
Safety and Field Trips – No report.
Scholarship – Marge Collins had a written
report listing donations that had been made since the
convention in South Bend, Indiana in August 2016.
Silent Auction – Susan Stanforth asked people
to donate, buy things and donate them to the auction,
and bid on items on the auction. Drawing tickets
would be available at the banquet for six special prizes.
The cost would be $1 each or six for $5.
Uniform Rules – Barbara Sky announced there
were two competitive exhibits at the show. Both were
novices getting their feet wet in competitive exhibiting.
She thanked everyone for their help. She announced
that she will be stepping down from this job on
November 1.
Website – Cindy Root announced there were no
entries in the website contest this year. She wondered
if we should just let the contest lie. She will be
updating information on the website this coming week.
Let her know if you have other things for the website.
(Continued on page 6)
Page 6 June 2017, Issue No. 563 MWF News
COUNCIL OF DELEGATES MINUTES: CONVENTION REPORTS, OLD BUSINESS, NEW BUSINESS
She will be glad to put photos, show flyers and other
things on your club page.
Convention Reports
2019 – Julie Whitlatch presented a bid from the
Cedar Valley Rocks and Mineral Society in Cedar
Rapids, Iowa to host the MWF convention March 16-
17, 2017.
2020 – The Livingston Gem & Mineral Society
had a proposal to host the 2020 show and convention
in Howell, Michigan, September 18-20, 2020.
Waldenwoods Resort would be the host
accommodations. Ed Oller, show chairman, was
present to answer any questions.
(Continued from page 5)
A lakefront view of Waldenwoods Resort. Photo from
www.waldenwoods.com.
Ernie Johnson moved to accept the two bids for
the 2019 and 2020 MWF Conventions. Sandy Fuller
seconded the motion, which carried.
Old Business
President Whitlatch asked Secretary Donna
Moore to read the three by-laws change proposals.
(Printed copies had been made available, they had been
e-mailed to the Executive Committee Members and
registered delegates prior to the meeting, and the
proposal was included in the minutes of the Council of
Delegates Meeting 2016. See the Addendum below.).
Charles Wooldridge moved to accept the proposals.
J.C. Moore seconded the motion. J.C. added that the
chairman of the Cancelled Stamps committee had
recommended that this committee be eliminated.
Sharon Marburger asked if the Section 1 change
included individual members who do not belong to a
club. Sandy Fuller explained that we are basically an
organization of clubs, so we need to leave it that
officers and chairmen need to be members of clubs
that are current in their dues payment. There was a call
for the vote. The motion carried with no one voting
against the proposal.
There was no other old business.
New Business
Sandy Fuller explained that it had been the
practice that we could have only “active” members pay
insurance. The insurance company rates risk on all
members. They insist that they should be paid for
every member.
Tom read the clarification from the insurance
committee that all members of each club should be
paying for the insurance. Allison Conrad stated that
their club always pays for all members from the
previous year. J.C. Moore said that he and his wife are
members of four clubs as active members. Sandy
Fuller reminded members that this is a liability policy
for the club. Sharon Marburger stated that the club is
made up of all members – active and inactive. Jim
Kraai suggested that by being in four clubs he is four
times the liability. Tom Whitlatch suggested we might
need a clarification from the insurance committee.
Julie Whitlatch asked if we needed mailing members
only. David Root asked what happens if those
members change their minds and want to attend a
meeting or show.
There was a question about the insurance. Tom
explained we have liability covered for activities to
cover “reasonable stupidity.” Marge Jensen asked how
would you keep track of member activities. It would be
a bookkeeping nightmare. Ernie Johnson said their
club had their own insurance that covered the activity,
not the members. Tom suggested that the consensus is
that we need to clarify the instructions of the insurance
committee. Sandy Fuller said it appears we need to
(Continued on page 7)
MWF News June 2017, Issue No. 563 Page 7
COUNCIL OF DELEGATES MINUTES: BYLAWS CHANGE, REGISTERED AGENT
follow through with the fact that the insurance is now
due on all members of clubs using the MWF insurance.
A member asked where the policy on collecting
invertebrate fossils stood. Jim Kraai said it varies by
where you are collecting. Sandy Fuller recommended
that clubs participate in ALAA. Their legislative
information will help keep clubs and members up to
date on collecting information.
The Wisconsin Geological Society had received
a letter concerning the designation of earth science
officers that was made mention of. Allison suggested
the Wisconsin Geological Society look it over and
decide if they wanted to take any action.
Names were drawn for the meeting door prizes
of Binghamite provided by Marge Jensen.
(Continued from page 6)
Addendum
Art. III, Section 5 of the bylaws will be added to
state:
“Article III, Section 5. (By-Laws clarification)
“Any person serving in a leadership position in
the federation shall be a member in good standing of
any adult society, which is a member of the federation.
This includes officers, state directors, permanent
committee chairmen and all assistants thereof.”
To accommodate this change, we will be
changing Article V, Section 1. Remove the second
sentence – “All officers shall be members in good
standing of an adult Society which is a member of the
Federation.”
This was brought to our attention because a
member of the Executive Committee was a member of
a club that had not paid their MWF dues before the
convention. (This was taken care of in this case, but
the feeling was that it needed to be clarified in the
bylaws.)
2. The second area that needs attention is the
registered agent for the federation. Our registered
agent passed away last year and needs to be replaced.
Since the MWF is registered in Minnesota, we have
had the same agent as the Minnesota Mineral Club as
well as the AFMS. The decision was made that as soon
as the Minnesota Mineral Club selects a new agent, we
will use the same person. His or her name must be
listed in the bylaws. The Minnesota Mineral Club
selected Rita Wurm, 433 10th Ave. S, South St. Paul,
MN 55057.
3. The third area is eliminating the canceled
stamp committee as a permanent committee. This
committee gathered commemorative postage stamps
and made bookmarks and pins of them. It is getting
much harder to get the bookmarks to shows to sell
them, and fewer people are using bookmarks due to the
popularity of e-books.
Binghamite from Minnesota. Photo by James St. John,
via Wikimedia Commons.
Ernie Johnson brought up that clubs need to
have more than one person handling their website in
case the person in charge isn’t able to take care of
things. This had happened recently and no one could
take care of the website.
Jim Marburger moved to adjourn the meeting.
Sharon Marburger seconded the motion, which carried.
Tom Whitlatch declared the meeting adjourned and
thanked everyone for participating.
Page 8 June 2017, Issue No. 563 MWF News
5th Place Learning in Order to Teach:
Diamonds by Antonio Peso, The
Chicago Rocks and Minerals Society
6th Place Rockhounds for Life by John
Washburn, Lincoln Orbit Earth Science
Society
ADULT POETRY
1st Place There’s Rocks in Your Drawers! by
Ed Wagner, Lincoln Orbit Earth
Science Society
2nd Place Oh, Fluorite! by Antonio Peso, The
Chicago Rocks and Minerals Society
SPECIAL PUBLICATIONS
1st Place 2015 LOESS Show Program by Ed
Wagner, Lincoln Orbit Earth Science
Society
2nd Place LOESS 2015 Show Flyer by Sam
Morse, Lincoln Orbit Earth Science
Society
2017 MWF BULLETIN EDITORS’ CONTEST
WINNERS
SMALL BULLETINS
1st Place The Rockfinder. Michiana Gem &
Mineral Society, Jason Hefner, Editor
2nd Place The Quarry. The Cincinnati Mineral
Society, James & Judith Budnik, Editors
3rd Place The Pick and Dop Stick. The Chicago
Rocks and Minerals Society, Rachele
Best, Editor
4th Place The Facets. Huron Hills Lapidary and
Mineral Society, Pete Batra & Frank
Konieczki, Editors
LARGE BULLETINS
1st Place The LOESS Bulletin. Lincoln Orbit
Earth Science Society, Ed Wagner,
Editor
(Continued from page 2) NEW EDITOR
1st Place Arkansas Rockhound News. Central
Arkansas Gem, Mineral and Geological
Society, Nikki Heck, Editor
ORIGINAL ADULT ARTICLES – ADVANCED
1st Place Zincite: Industrial Smelting
Byproduct by Rachele Best, The
Chicago Rocks and Minerals Society
2nd Place The Story of Gold in Granada, Spain by Antonio Peso, The Chicago Rocks
and Minerals Society
3rd Place A Club Working Together is a
Happy Club by Jim Marburger,
Lincoln Gem & Mineral Club, Inc.
4th Place Tors, Regoliths, Saprolites, and
Elephants … What in the World Are
You Talking About? by Ed Wagner,
Lincoln Orbit Earth Science Society
5th Place The Ben E. Clement Mineral
Museum by Keith Peregrine, Lincoln
Orbit Earth Science Society
6th Place Collecting Natrolite from 3M
Quarry, Pulaski County, AR by J.
Michael Howard, Central Arkansas
Gem, Mineral and Geological Society
ORIGINAL ADULT ARTICLES
1st Place Your Slab Saw is Your Friend by
Martin Dougherty, Lincoln Gem &
Mineral Club, Inc.
2nd Place Moonwalking by John M. Rettler,
Kettle Moraine Geological Society
3rd Place 2016: A Spaced-Out Odyssey! by
Mary Boesdorfer, Lincoln Orbit Earth
Science Society
4th Place Turquoise by Marge Dobrofsky, The
Chicago Rocks and Minerals Society
JUNIOR ARTICLES – 12-17
1st Place Hidden in the Mountains by Brandon
P., Chicago Rocks & Minerals Society
(Continued on page 9)
BULLETIN EDITORS CONTEST WINNERS, CONTINUED
MWF News June 2017, Issue No. 563 Page 9
WRITTEN FEATURES
1st Place Dousing is Where You Find It by
James Marburger, Lincoln Gem &
Mineral Club, Inc.
2nd Place Mineral Monkeys by Carolyn
Ashmore, Lincoln Gem & Mineral
Club, Inc.
3rd Place Field Trip to Batesville, AR, Midwest
Lime Quarry, November 2016 by
Doug Stone, Central Arkansas Gem,
Mineral and Geological Society
4th Place Wild Adventure Day by Jayne Beer,
Lincoln Gem & Mineral Club, Inc.
5th Place Central Oregon Rockhounding by Ed
Dvorak, Lincoln Gem & Mineral Club,
Inc.
6th Place The Story Behind “A Fossil
Collector’s Dreams” by George Gray
Major, Central Arkansas Gem, Mineral
and Geological Society
7th Place Cabbing for Dummies by Linda
Kimbrell, Lincoln Orbit Earth Science
Society
8th Place Summer 2016 Road Trip – Colorado by Nikki Heck, Central Arkansas Gem,
Mineral and Geological Society
DRAWN FEATURES
1st Place Emerald by Brandon H. (age 8),
Central Arkansas Gem, Mineral and
Geological Society
(Continued from page 8)
BULLETIN EDITORS CONTEST, CONT. SCHOLARSHIP HONOREE AND RECIPIENTS
THANKS TO FEDERATION MEMBERS
big thank-you for everything they did to pull off a good
show.
Now on to the summer for some great rockhounding
adventures. In doing so, please remember the AFMS code of
ethics and always ask permission before going on
someone’s property to find your treasure.
(Continued from page 1)
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE, CONTINUED
By Marge Jensen, Convention Chair of Cuyuna RGMS
I want to thank all of the AFMS and MWF
people who participated in the convention in Brainerd,
Minnesota. It was especially nice to see everyone again
and renew friendships. The weather cooperated, and
for the most part I think there was something for
everyone to enjoy. Several vendors expressed how
pleased they were with all of you who patronized their
booths at the show. I especially appreciated all of the
help during the meetings on Saturday.
Joe, with Butts & Buns BBQ, did a great job in
preparing the banquet, as well as providing the light
meal for the Meet ’n’ Greet. If you liked it, you can do
so on Facebook. I know he would appreciate it.
I hope you each enjoyed coming to our area
and were able to find a little time to explore. We
welcome you back any time. In the meantime, thanks
again for making the effort to attend.
The MWF Scholarship Honoree and
scholarship recipients were announced at the recent
convention in Brainerd, Michigan. The Scholarship
Honoree is selected for service to rock clubs and earth
sciences, including teaching, writing, and positions
held in organizations, in a particular area. The
Honoree then selects the two MWF scholarship
recipients for that year.
The co-Honorees this year are Bob and Kathy
Miller. Both are past Presidents of MWF, and Bob
also is a past AFMS President. Both are also members
of the Michiana Gem and Mineral Society in South
Bend, Indiana.
This year’s scholarship recipients are Mariah
Romero and William Odom, both of Purdue
University. Romero received her bachelor’s degree
from Purdue and is now enrolled in the master’s
program, studying geology. Her research topic deals
with sedimentary strata. Odom received his bachelor’s
degree in geological sciences at the University of
North Carolina, and is in his second year studying for
his Ph.D. at Purdue.
Page 10 June 2017, Issue No. 563 MWF News
UPCOMING EVENTS
Date and Time Organization Place Contact
May 27-28 Chicagoland Gems & Minerals County Fairgrounds, 525 S. Randall Road, Debby Ballot, [email protected]
Sat 10-6, Sun 10-5 Association St. Charles, IL
June 2-4 State Line Gem & Mineral Society Fulton County Fairgrounds, 8514 SR 108, Sherman Kardatzke,
Fri noon-6, Sat 10-6, Wauseon, OH [email protected]
Sun 11-4
June 3-4 Coulee Rock Club Viroqua Middle School, 100 Blackhawk, Allison Conrad,
Sat 10-5, Sun 10-4 Viroqua, WI [email protected]
June 3-4 Ozark Mountain Gem & Mineral MO Institute of Natural Science, 2327 W. Charles Smith, [email protected]
Sat 10-5, Sun 10-4 Society rock fair Farm Road 190, Springfield, MO
June 3-4 Richland Lithic & Lapidary Society Richland County Fairgrounds, Tom Kottyan,
Sat 10-6, Sun 11-5 750 Home Road, Mansfield, OH [email protected]
June 9-11 Mineral Area Gem & Mineral Missouri Mines State Historic Site, Boneta Hensley,
Fri, Sat, & Sun 9-6 Society 4000 W. Highway 32, Park Hills, MO [email protected]
June 10 Chicago Rock & Minerals Society Gymnasium, St. Peter’s United Church of Betty Novak,
Sat 11-5 rock swap Christ, 8013 Laramie, Skokie, IL [email protected]
June 10 Gem City Rock Club Boudreaux Visitor Center, Mark Twain Jane Huelsmeyer,
Sat 10-2 Lake near Hannibal, MO [email protected]
June 23-25 Lawrence County Rock Club County Fairgrounds, US Highway 50, Michael or Marjorie
Fri 10-6:30, Sat 9-6:30, Bedford, IN Tweedale, 812-675-6034
Sun 10-4
June 23-25 Osage Rock & Mineral Club Community Center, 302 E. 2nd Street, Steve Rudloff,
Fri 2-6, Sat 9-6, Eldon, MO [email protected]
Sun 9-3
July 9 Lincoln Gem & Mineral Club Pioneer Park, Coddington & Sharon Marburger,
Sun 1-4 grinding party West Van Dorn, Lincoln, NE [email protected]
July 11-16 Lake Agassiz Rock Club Red River Valley Fair, Chris Patenaude,
Tues-Sun, 10-7 1805 Main Ave. West, West Fargo, ND [email protected]
July 14-15 Lakeland Gem Club Lakeland Union H.S., Highway 70, Ron Zimmer,
Fri 10-6, Sat 9-5 Minocqua, WI [email protected]
July 15-16 Carlton County Gem & Mineral Moose Lake H.S., 413 Birch Avenue, Gary Pitoscia,
Sat 9-5, Sun 9-4 Club Moose Lake, MN [email protected]
August 5 Ishpeming Rock and Mineral Club Elks Club, 597 Lake Shore Drive, Ernest Johnson,
Sat 9:30-4:30 Ishpeming, MI [email protected]
August 11-13 Copper Country Rock & Mineral Houghton Elementary School, Norm Gruber,
Fri 1-8, Sat 10-6, Sun 11-3 Club 302 W. Jacker Ave., Houghton, MI [email protected]
August 11-13 Midwest Faceters Guild seminar; Tallmadge Township Hall, 1451 Leonard Barb Yost,
Fri 5-8, Sat 8-5, Sun 8-4 pre-registration by 7-29 required Street NW, Grand Rapids, MI [email protected]
August 12 Flint Rock and Gem Club 11350 N. Saginaw Road, Bill Wendling,
Sat 9-4 (rock swap) Clio, MI [email protected]
August 12 Tulip City Gem & Mineral Club Sam’s Club parking lot, 2190 N. Park, Rance Westover,
Sat 9-4 swap ’n’ sell Holland, MI [email protected]
MWF News June 2017, Issue No. 563 Page 11
UPCOMING EVENTS
Date and Time Organization Place Contact
August 12-13 Northwest Wisconsin Gem & Youth Expo Bldg., Barron County Dave Skrupky,
Sat 10-5, Sun 10-4 Mineral Society Fairgrounds, Rice Lake, WI [email protected]
August 18-20 Greater St. Louis Association Machinists Hall, 12365 St. Charles Rock Robert Morse,
Fri 3-8, Sat 10-6, Sun 11-5 of Earth Science Clubs Road, Bridgeton, MO [email protected]
August 18-20 Michiana Gem & Mineral Society Singer Bldg., 4-H Fairgrounds, 5117 John Davis,
Fri noon-7, Sat 10-6, S. Ironwood Road, South Bend, IN [email protected]
Sun 11-5
August 19 Heart of Wisconsin Gem & Parking lot behind Applebee’s, Sandy Brandl,
Sat 10-5 Mineral Society (rock swap) 5609 Highway 10, Stevens Points, WI [email protected]
August 26 Chippewa Valley Gem & Mineral Expo Center, 5530 Fairview Drive, Paul Tubbs, 715-834-5747
Sat 8-5 Society (rock swap) Eau Claire, WI
August 26 Racine Geological Society Bartlett Youth Foundation, 1120 N. Stuart, John Lowman,
Sat 10-5 Mt. Pleasant, WI [email protected]
August 26-27 Ozark Earth Science Club Educational Building, County Madelyn Anderson,
Sat 9-6, Sun 9-4 Fairgrounds, Mountain Home, AR [email protected]
August 26-27 PAS Geology Club Travelodge, 4400 N. Brandywine, Jim Travis, [email protected]
Sat 9-5, Sun 10-5 Peoria, IL
Sept. 8-10 The 500 Earth Sciences Club 4-H Fairgrounds, 620 N. Apple Street Cheryl Hamilton,
Fri & Sat 10-7; Sun 10-4 Greenfield, IN [email protected]
Sept. 8-10 Toledo Gem & Rockhound Club Stranahan Theater, 4645 Heatherdowns, Steve Shimatzki,
Fri 2-8; Sat 10-6; Sun 11-5 Toledo, OH [email protected]
Sept. 15-17 Mozarkite Society of Lincoln Lincoln City Park, Lincoln, MO Pat Monahan,
Fri-Sun, 9-5 [email protected]
Sept. 15-17 Tulip City Gem & Mineral Club The Soccer Stop, 5 River Hills Drive, Sue Goedert,
times TBA Holland, MI [email protected]
Sept. 16 Rock River Valley Gem and Odd Fellows Hall, 6219 Forest Hills Road, John Wood,
Sat 10-4 Mineral Society rock swap Loves Park, IL [email protected]
Sept. 16-17 Livingston Gem & Mineral Hartland Community Education, 9525 Ed Oller,
Sat 10-6, Sun 10-4 Society E. Highland Road, Howell, MI [email protected]
Sept. 22-24 Tri-State Gem and Mineral Joplin Historical and Mineral Museum, Chris Wiseman,
Fri & Sat 10-6, Society 504 Schifferdecker Ave., Joplin, MO [email protected]
Sun 10-3
Sept. 23-24 Cedar Valley Rock and Minerals Amana RV Park & Event Center, 39 Marvin Houg, [email protected]
Sat 8:30-6, Sun 8:30-5 Society rock auction 38th Avenue, Amana, IA
Sept. 23-24 Oshkosh Earth Science Club Sunnyview Expo Center, 500 E. County Ann Voges,
Sat 9-5, Sun 10-4 Road Y (Sunnyview Road), Oshkosh, WI [email protected]
No July or August Newsletter!
September Issue Submissions Deadline: August 9th!
Page 12 June 2017, Issue No. 563 MWF News
STATE DIRECTOR AND COMMITTEE REPORTS
[Editor’s Note: Following are convention reports that were either not covered in the minutes or had more
information than could be summarized in the minutes.]
Iowa State Director’s Report
By Jim Kraai
The Cedar Valley Rocks & Minerals Society of Cedar Rapids, Iowa continues to improve beyond
expectations. “A total of 4,425 [attendees led to] . . . total Receipts of a record $22,725!! Expenses were also a
record high total of $10,550, but even so the CVRMS was able to make a record Profit of $12,168. As is our
tradition, the CVRMS Board of Directors voted to donate approximately 90% of the Show profits to Scholarships
and VAST (the Grant Wood AEA Van Allen Science Teaching Center) . . . for a grand total of $10,500 donated..”
The Central Iowa Mineral Society has had another good year with good programs and field trips around the
state. They curate the Straight Collection, which is housed by Drake University. The space for the collection is in
the process of being remodeled, and while that happens, the club has initiated a fundraising campaign to help finance
modern display and archival cases.
The Des Moines Lapidary Society has continued to maintain three open workshops every week and a number
of classes are held at the workshop throughout the year, including basic equipment use, rock cleaning, wire
wrapping, beading, opal cutting, silversmithing, and kumihimo weaving, which is new this year. They had a
successful show last fall with over 1,000 attending. Meetings are well attended, and they are in the middle of an
exciting remodeling of the workshop and building.
The Blackhawk Gem & Mineral Club continues to host as many as twenty field trips every year. I do not
have a report for the Sac & Fox Lapidary Club. We have had an application submitted to reinstate the Chicauqua
club in New London, Iowa, which we're very excited to see.
Keokuk geode with hematite. This picture is from
geodegallery.com. The geode is the state rock of
Iowa.
Ohio State Director’s Report
By Tom Kottyan
All I have to report is that the club members and clubs from the middle part of Ohio, a/k/a Columbus and
Mansfield, are doing well. The Columbus show was very good. The membership has grown and things look good.
The Mansfield club is growing very fast and members are looking forward to their next show in June.
MWF News June 2017, Issue No. 563 Page 13
STATE DIRECTOR AND COMMITTEE REPORTS, CONTINUED
Wisconsin State Director Report
By Allison Conrad
Club Shows: Newsletters reflected successful club shows for January, February, March and April. The rest
of the Wisconsin clubs are gearing up for their shows yet to come. Unfortunately, we had one club that had to
cancel their show due to a venue issue and some clubs had venue changes. Keep your show information up to date
on the MWF website for dates, times and locations.
Club Websites: This year I’m again seeing clubs developing websites and setting up Facebook pages. This
is great news! By this time, all Wisconsin clubs should have checked their club information on the MWF website to
make sure it is all correct. If not, please let Cindy know.
Increasing Club Memberships: There is a growing trend of increased memberships in the clubs. This is great
to see! We did lose one Wisconsin club this year from the MWF but hope to get them back next year.
MWF Insurance: From time to time, questions regarding what is or isn’t covered under the MWF insurance
umbrella have been coming in from clubs. My first line of reference for clubs who have questions is to first review
the insurance policy and read through the FAQs on the MWF website. If more information is needed or you still
have questions, you can reach out to Marge Jensen, the MWF Insurance Committee chair, by phone at (218) 546-
8288 or by email at [email protected].
Insurance Committee Report
By Marge Jensen, Chair
First of all, congratulations are in order – the percentage of clubs submitting their renewal membership and
insurance premiums on time was the highest ever. That’s great, and it makes it so much easier to have the policy
issued on time. I know Sandy Fuller, our Treasurer, appreciates it, too, as does our insurance agent.
If you have checked the MWF website recently, you have probably noticed a change in the email address to
submit your request for a certificate of insurance. This was done to facilitate better service to the clubs requesting
certificates. The new address is: [email protected]. In case of emergency you may call the number
on the form (Michelle’s) if you have an urgent request (less than 48 hours until the event). However, please try to
keep this type of request to a minimum. Ideally, the certificate should be requested at least two weeks in advance,
and if coverage is needed for a specific item, please request the certificate at least 30 days in advance.
[Editor’s Note: Marge added the following after her report had been submitted to the convention.] Special
Request from our insurance agent: If a club is having more than one show at the same location during the year,
we can (and would prefer) to issue one certificate with both/all dates listed. This allows the club to check one thing
off their list! (It also reduces duplication of paperwork on the part of the club, the MWF and the insurance
company.)
Program Requests Committee Report
By Pat Powers, Chair
Report for Library Lending: In 2016 there were a total of 19 requests: 14 DVD, 4 VHS, 1 CD. In 2017,
there were 10 requests: 8 DVD and 2 VHS.
(Continued on page 14)
Page 14 June 2017, Issue No. 563 MWF News
STATE DIRECTOR AND COMMITTEE REPORTS, CONTINUED
There has been no new material (DVD or VHS) received from the MWF since 2015.
Lending procedure reminders can be found on the MWF website under Library Resources.
The MWF Board needs to decide about what to do with all the slide programs (total approximately 230):
hold them, pitch them, or convert a selected number to DVD.
Scholarship Committee Report
By Marge Collins, Chair
Although the number of donations was down this past year, several clubs were able to make very generous
donations, which helped to maintain our average. We can’t expect such “windfalls” to continue! Please consider
honoring your deceased members, OR you can honor a member or a couple whose generosity / service should be
recognized with a Living Memorial. All Memorials are added to the list in the MWF Directory. Another option is to
hold a fundraiser of your choice and donate the proceeds or a percentage.
Anyone can make a tax-deductible donation to the AFMS Scholarship Foundation. Donations from MWF
members are credited to our Region. A Founders Certificate is presented to individuals or couples for $500.00
cumulative contributions – or donations can be credited to the club of your choice, increasing the club’s Participation
and Cumulative Total.
In addition to the percentage of participation (100% = $1.00 per member), each Club’s cumulative donations
are included on the list on page 15. Two clubs have reached a new thousand-dollar level (in boldface on the list)
and will receive a certificate at the Convention Awards Banquet or by mail if no one is there to accept the
certificate.
(Continued from page 13)
Silent Auction Committee Report
By Susan Stanforth, Chair
[Editor’s Note: This report discusses the 2016 silent auction. There is a separate article about the good
results of this year’s silent auction on page 2.]
Last August in South Bend, Indiana, we had an amazing time at the MWF Silent Auction. Even though we
didn’t outdo the success at the Wheaton show in 2015, we did advance the MWF Endowment Fund by $783.15.
Plus, lots of rockhounds went home with fabulous specimens. Everyone had a super-duper good time. Many
wonderful friends worked many hours, including Barbara Sky, Anne Cook, J.C. and Donna Moore, and my best
buddies from Rockford, Dick Leonard and Dave Rice.
The success was mainly due to our wonderful and generous donors. We had 21 club/member donors who
brought in over 242 items. The top five were: 1) Steve and Pam Hecht; 2) the Lincoln Orbit Earth Science Society of
Springfield, Illinois; 3) Julie and Tom Whitlatch; 4) Barbara Sky; and 5) Bob and Julia Sherwood. Historian Cindy
Root donated those great club pins and binders of Earth Science magazines.
I would really appreciate your input on how we can improve this event. We only get the “Sunday’s” for our
auction. That is a low-attended day compared to the robust attendance on Saturday. Thank you for your continued
support.
MWF News June 2017, Issue No. 563 Page 15
SCHOLARSHIP COMMITTEE REPORT ON CONTRIBUTIONS
$ 25.00 Spring River Gem & Mineral Club (MO). Memorial honoring Jeanne 1,800% $ 566.00
Vandivier.
100.00 Cook, credited to Mineralogical Society of Cleveland (OH). 5,500% 847.00
Memorial honoring J. Blue and J. Spunaugle.
25.00 Sky, credited to Rockwood Gem & Mineral Club (MO). Memorial 1,600% 281.00
honoring John Washburn.
50.00 Collins, credited to Blossomland Gem & Mineral Society. Memorial 1,400% 403.00
honoring John Washburn and Esther Mullaly.
250.00 Fuller, credited to Minnesota Mineral Club. 2,400% 6,362.00
1,000.00 Minnesota Mineral Club. 2,400% 7,362.00
20.00 Collins, credited to Blossomland Gem & Mineral Society (MI). 1,500% 423.00
Memorial honoring Naida House.
50.00 Tri-County Rocks & Minerals Society (MI). Memorial honoring 1,300% 348.00
Vernon Wilson.
125.00 Midwest Mineralogical & Lapidary Society (MI). Percentage of 4,700% 6,128.00
auction profits.
3,077.00 Tulip City Gem & Mineral Club (MI). Memorial honoring Larry 3,700% 4,888.00
Graves.
100.00 Eastern Indiana Gem & Geological Society. 300% 284.00
200.00 Dayton Gem & Mineral Society (OH). Memorial honoring Jim 4,800% 2,913.00
Bailey.
25.00 Sac & Fox Lapidary Club (IA). Memorial honoring Gladys 800% 342.00
honoring Gladys Wanek.
100.00 Dayton Gem & Mineral Society (OH). Memorial honoring Mary 5,000% 3,013.00
Murphy.
25.00 Collins, credited to Blossomland Gem & Mineral Society (MI). 1,600% 448.00
Memorial honoring Judy Washburn.
$5,172.00 TOTAL
SCHOLARSHIP CONTRIBUTIONS FROM 2016 CONVENTION TO 2017 CONVENTION
In Order Received
Donation Club and Notes Participation Cumulative
Page 16 June 2017, Issue No. 563 MWF News
Valerie J. Meyers, Editor
Midwest Federation of Mineralogical and Geological Societies
Post Office Box 13456
Overland Park, KS 66282-3456
Non Profit Org
U.S. Postage
PAID
Fiatt, IL
Permit No. 1
REGIONAL FEDERATIONS HOLD WEEK-LONG WORKSHOPS
Valerie J. Meyers, Editor
Two regional federations of the AFMS are
holding week-long workshops this summer and fall.
While members of those federations have top priority
in making reservations, other members of AFMS and
the general public are also invited.
The Southeast Federation will be holding four
workshops. The first, June 11-17, will be held at the
William Holland School of Lapidary Arts in north
Georgia, and will include classes on beading,
cabochons with intarsia, gemstone faceting, opals, and
silver, among others.
The other three will be held at Wildacres
Retreat in North Carolina near Little Switzerland.
The dates are July 23-29, August 21-27, and
September 18-24; the July workshop will coincide
with five big gem and mineral shows in the area of
Franklin, North Carolina. Among the many topics at
these workshops will be wire, metals and fire, chain
maille, bench building, and soapstone and wood
carving. For more information about these four
workshops, go to http://sfmsworkshops.com.
The Eastern Federation will also be holding a
workshop at Wildacres Retreat September 4-10. The
speaker in residence will be Dr. Timothy Morgan,
whose specialty is gemstones. Classes will include
chain maille, faceting, intarsia, silversmithing, and
wire wrapping. For more information, go to http://
efmls-wildacres.org.
Wildacres Retreat. Photo by Janice Wald Friedman,
from http://wildacres.org.
