From EFMLS NEWS, Volume 47, Number 1; November, 2009
by Carolyn Weinberger
The 2009 EFMLS Convention and Show are now a thing of the past. I think I speak for everyone attending in thanking the good folks of the Bristol Gem & Mineral Society for giving us a wonderful weekend!
The club show was terrific! For those of us who came from as far away as Florida, seeing dealers specializing in New England minerals was a rare treat. Many of us went home with new specimens for our collections and new jewelry and gems as well.
The enthusiasm of all the club members was infectious…they were everywhere doing everything! The smiles on the faces of all the volunteers was wonderful to see…you could easily tell that everyone was enjoying their tasks.
Every aspect of the convention was handled well — from the “goody bags” that accompanied our badges to the favors on the tables at the banquet to the “convenience dinner” held between the cracker barrel and the annual meeting. The meal was home cooked by the club members and was delicious! I doubt if anyone went away hungry!
If there was a “down” side to the weekend it was the weather. Driving north on Thursday through light snow and seeing a forecast that called for more snow showers on Friday was a bit discouraging as many had hoped to be able to view the fall leaf colors in sunshine. It was cool and overcast throughout the weekend – not something the club could predict or change. Sunday, those who went to Roxbury for the field trip came back with lots of garnets and some mud as an extra souvenir.
Those visiting the Connecticut Mining Museum in Kent saw a wonderful small gem of a teaching museum. Founder Jack Pawloski has expanded the museum considerably and is in the process of revamping several of the exhibits. The focus is on Connecticut minerals and mining and many wonderful specimens line the walls throughout the museum.
We certainly thank the Bristol Gem & Mineral Society for hosting the convention and giving us a wonderful experience. Hats off…Bravo! We had a great time.