M.A.G.M.A. and DirtyRockhounds Members
Member profiles:
Bud Oates
Greetings,
I became a Rock Hound in 1971 and have been participating in some way as a Rock Hound ever since.
Rock Hounding: It began like this.
As an employee of a public school, I was assigned to teach Earth Science to eighth grade students. I had never had a geology course in my life but I did have a B.S. in Science. I was introduced to Rock Hound, Hoxie Jones, by a friend. Hoxie began to train me by going with me to all the mines around the Triad area of North Carolina. I read and studied and begin to learn more and more. I began taking my students on trips with me to the mines. We all learned and had a great time doing it. Later, I joined the High Point Mineral Club and have serve the club in many capacities. I really enjoy nature, socializing, and finding the rocks, minerals, and fossils in this state and others. I attend rock shows, have taught and made cabochons and sometimes make purchases of a specimen that catches my eye. I have given many lectures at mineral clubs about many facets of our hobby plus have written our club newsletter. I do not consider myself a collector even though I do have some specimens. I use the specimens only to show and tell others at various instances such as club functions and at schools, scouts, etc. I put on displays at local libraries. To this day I still have a love for fossils rocks, minerals, and Rock Hounding is just another facet of my life. I've met a lot of fine folks this way. I have also encountered chiggers, snakes, and spiders at some dig sites. I don't want any more of them especially the chiggers! My hope is that many others will enjoy the hobby and the hobby will continue. I'm for that. I think our children and their children should always have an opportunity to participate in the hobby if they desire. I enjoy seeing kids eyes light up when I give them a piece of nature. They really get excited and I do too!
I thank everyone who has mentored me in the area of Rock Hounding. You have a special place in my heart.
