May 13th, 2023, First Creek Field Trip Report

On Sat. May 13th we went to First Creek for agate, jasper, and crystal geodes. It was a hot day with temperatures in the mid-80s, but beautiful clear skies and views. We had 22 people in 11 vehicles. After hiking to the 2 mile ravine, the Merriman’s took half the group to the dig pits on east side of the ravine while the rest of us were kind of scattered through the area. I think the heat was a limiting factor in climbing the hills, at least for me. The diggers ended up with some nice agate nodules, while surface collectors found mostly crystal material and seam agate material. Everyone brought extra water and by about 4:00 PM we were back to the parking lot. Such a relief to exchange my boots and socks for sandals. Ticks didn’t seem to be an issue, although a couple of them were spotted.

Our next scheduled trip is on June 17th to Little Naches. The DOT always tries to get Chinook Pass open by Memorial Day weekend. With this long stretch of hot weather I anticipate the road will be open soon, despite the heavy snowpack received this winter.

Attendees were Paul A. and Peggy S., Tammy C., Robert M. with kids Evalyn and Johnathan, Loren M, Gina L. and Michael K., Steve F. (2nd outing), Gina M. and Julie M.,
Also .. new members making their first trip were Jason S. with son Westin, Grady and Maddy N., Lynnette A. and guest Katie, Lorie L., Jeanie L., and guest Martha C.
Thanks Jeanie for a number of these nice photos.

Submitted by Roger Danneman Field Trip Guide (roger.danneman@gmail.com)
425-757-3506 cell and texts

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Updated: July 11, 2023 — 10:12 am

Presidents Message

  • From the Top of the Rock Pile …. by Kat Koch Table Lamps – Remember we are looking for new table lamps for our show ‘n tell tables. If you go to Goodwill, a similar store, or would like to donate, the lights must fold up easily for storage. Save the receipt and the club will reimburse you. Our June meeting is Rock Bingo! Rock Bingo is always a fun night for all members, young and old. The Kent kids are out of school, so they don’t have to worry about school the next day.  The club is looking for

Meeting Announcements

  • Topic: Mount St. Helens, Paul Ahnberg will be giving the presentation. Paul has been taking a months-long class on Mount St. Helens. It has included not only in-class studies but also a few trips to see Mount St. Helens. Paul says, “One thing I quickly recognized is that there is a lot more to the Mount St Helens story beyond the geology and eruption aspects.” So mark your calendar now, as this should be a fascinating lecture. Show ‘n Tell: Bring a sample of volcanic rock from your collection. A few samples of volcanic rock are Obsidian, Rhyolite, Pumice, Basalt, and Andesite.

  • Topic: Our annual club picnic at Lake Wilderness. Our picnic is always a friendly event on the lawn among the trees. For lunch, it is a potluck picnic. So bring a dish to share. If you don’t cook, pick up something from the market. If you are unable to bring anything, that’s okay too. We would rather have you join us for lunch than not. We generally have around 25 to 35 members attend. Bring your plate and silverware. Setup is 11:30 am, and lunch is at noon. We usually wrap things up by 3 pm. The Arboretum has plenty of free parking. Following, we have a club auction. The auction is a great chance to pick up items at a fraction of their retail cost. You are welcome to donate items to the auction. All proceeds go to the club treasury to cover expenses. Our Young Tumblers can also spend their saved “Rock Bucks” at the auction just like cash for items they want. Afterward, Lake Wilderness is nearby for swimming, plus various play areas for the younger kids. Our annual picnics are always a great family event!

  • Topic: Pre-Gem Show Rally and then “I Made It,” “I Found It,” and “I Bought It.” This meeting is a fun new activity on our calendar. “I Made It,” “I Found It,” and “I Bought It.” You may bring up to 3 items for each category. Items must have been made, found, or bought within the last year. Winners of each category receive a prize. Members will vote for their favorites in each category, and then only 1 prize per adult and 1 prize per Young Tumbler for each category will be awarded. Plan on bringing items, as this should be a fun evening as we get to mingle with each other and talk rocks! Show ‘n Tell: They are your above entries.

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