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2026 Annual Show Presentations and Speakers
Friday, March 27th, 2026 10:30 AM: Opening: A Legacy Welcome from Our President
Join Jim Urbaniak, President of the Oregon Agate and Mineral Society, as he kicks off the 2026 Annual Show with a brief welcome. Jim will share insights on the Society’s mission, the importance of education and stewardship, and what attendees can look forward to throughout the show.
Friday, February 27th, 2026 12:30 PM: A short documentary about Oregon Agate and Mineral Society
Discover the story of the Oregon Agate and Mineral Society in this special video presentation tracing its roots back to 1933. Produced with OMSI and the Rice Museum, this session highlights the people, passion, and history behind one of the nation’s oldest rock and mineral societies.
Friday, February 27th, 2026 2:30 PM: Sunstones, Mystery of Oregon’s Sunstones with Rick Mauer
Discover the mystery behind Oregon’s famous sunstones in this short video presentation from OPB, exploring the geology, origins, and unique qualities that make these gemstones truly one of a kind.
Saturday, February 28th, 2026 10:30 AM: Paleoclimatology, The Study of Ancient Climates with Greg Carr
Explore how fossils and geological evidence reveal Earth’s ancient climates in this presentation on paleoclimatology, led by paleontology expert Greg Carr, featuring real discoveries and hands-on field insight.
Saturday, February 28th, 2026 12:30 PM: Pixels vs. Pickaxes, The Myth and Reality of Minecraft Rockhounding with Alice Kitchin
Is mining in Minecraft anything like real rockhounding? This session compares game mechanics with real-world geology, exploring how digital exploration stacks up against hands-on mineral discovery in the Pacific Northwest.
Saturday, February 28th, 2026 2:30 PM: Rock Pub Trivia: The Great Earth Duel - Bone Seekers vs. Stone Keepers
Test your geology knowledge and have some fun at this interactive Pub Trivia session featuring OAMS experts. Open to all ages and experience levels, this lively panel blends learning, laughs, and friendly competition.
Sunday, March 1st, 2026 10:30 AM: Historic Rocks, The Stories They Have to Tell with Jim Urbaniak
Discover how rocks, minerals, and fossils tell the story of Earth’s past in this presentation led by OAMS President Jim Urbaniak, blending history, science, and decades of hands-on collecting experience.
Sunday, March 1st, 2026 12:30 PM: Start Your Geological Journey, Rockhounding for All Ages with Chris Lukas
Perfect for beginners and families, this session follows one collector’s journey from first agate find to lifelong passion, offering practical tips and inspiration for starting your own rockhounding adventure at any age.
Sunday, March 1st, 2026 2:30 PM: Panel of Discussion: Cross-Border Rockhounding and Collecting
Join our panel of seasoned experts as they compare the thrill of the hunt within the Beaver State to their adventures across the globe.