Gem and Mineral Show Door Prizes!

Visitors to the 26^th Rolling Stones Gem and Mineral Show on Labor Day Weekend in Silver City will be asked to fill out a brief survey when they arrive. The survey, which takes only a moment, automatically enters the visitor free of charge in a drawing to win one of three fabulous door prizes. Winners will be drawn at the close of the show, and notified by telephone or email.

Among the door prizes is a lovely slab of mineral called Selenite from Mexico that was purchased at the Quartsite show by club members Lee Stockman and Judy Allen. It is approximately 12 x 14 inches and includes a display stand. Gypsum is another name for this mineral, but the colorless, transparent form is called Selenite, from the Greek, meaning "moon stone".

Thanks to a generous donation from Kevin Cook and Sylveen Robinson-Cook, owners of the Royal Scepter Gem and Minerals in Silver City; another door prize is a unique Swan Valley Copper enameled bowl. The artists, Roger and Jerry Watson, have perfected the ancient technique of cooper enameling creating deep color tones and a beautiful porcelain surface with solid copper welded edges and filigree designs.

Rockhounds at all levels of experience will appreciate a door prize that consists of two excellent publications: the New Mexico Geological Society publication Geology of the Gila Wilderness - Silver City Area and the New Mexico Geologic Highway Map.

The survey provides important information that helps plan future shows by demonstrating the diverse demographics of visitors. It provides information that is used to direct advertising efforts and to support the request for funds from the Lodgers Tax. It is also useful in attracting and retaining high quality show vendors.

In the last survey almost 35% of show visitors came from outside of Grant County, encompassing over 20 different States. A telephone survey of local motels indicated full occupancy during the show weekend. Some visitors indicated that they stayed for multiple days. Although the Show was their primary reason for the visit, visits were extended to enjoy the other area amenities.