SDMG 80th Annual Banquet 2014

Charlene Churilla, Banquet Chair

Saturday, March 8, 2014

A stunning 5cm wide perfect Morganite crystal from the Tourmaline Queen Mine. It sits atop a thatch of cleavlandite laced with lilac-colored crystals of lepidolite.  Collection of William F. Larson.

It's time to celebrate SDMG's illustrious history.  This year's Annual Banquet marks our Society's 80th anniversary.  Looking back on eight decades, we will honor Past SDMG Presidents, announce the two 2014 SDMG Scholarship recipients and enjoy a special program.  Join old friends and meet some new ones at the 94th Aero Squadron Restaurant where a marvelous feast will be served, and of course, there will be door prizes.  All SDMG members and guests are welcome. 

Our Speaker for this year's gala is William F. Larson.  In 1968, Larson and then-partner Ed Swoboda purchased three gem mines in the Pala mining district – the Tourmaline Queen, Stewart Lithia and Pala Chief, whose histories date to the 1800s.  Larson stepped onto the international stage in 1972, when an extraordinary strike established his company and the Pala mining district as one of the prime sources of tourmaline in the world.  The discovery of gem minerals other than tourmaline only burnished Pala's renown.  Bill's presentation will focus on some of these other gem minerals, as well as tourmalines from the area.  Bill will show highlights from his collection (past and present) of exceptional specimens that include Morganite, the Spodumene variety Kunzite and Garnet.

Larson earned an advanced degree in geological engineering, receiving the silver diploma from the Colorado School of Mines.  As President of Pala International Inc., Larson heads a company that is an industry leader among gemstone importers, lapidaries, and gemstone mining operations internationally.  In a joint venture with his wife, Bill and Jeanne Larson own The Collector, a retail shop located in Fallbrook, which showcases fine-colored stones, jewelry and objets d'art.  Today, Larson travels the world as a guest lecturer, media spokesperson, and industry authority on minerals and gems, the mining industry and colored stones pricing index and trends.

After consistently positive reviews of the last three years' restaurant venue, we are pleased to be returning to the 94th Aero Squadron again this year, and the buffet options are terrific!  Our luncheon buffet will feature carved Sliced Top Sirloin of Beef Bordelaise, Teriyaki Salmon, and Lasagna, both with and without meat.  The entrees will be accompanied by a medley of fresh vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, two salads, fresh fruit, rolls and butter, assorted desserts and coffee, tea, and soft drinks – all for just $33 per person.  (Cocktails, beer, wine available for purchase).