Greetings!

I have a strange request for those attending the empeg meet. I would appreciate it if everyone bring a rock (yes, a rock) from wherever your point of origin is. Let me explain...

My brother has a fresh water fish tank, and a collection of rocks from various locations in the US. He recently asked a friend of his that is traveling to China to get a rock from there as well to add to his list, so he is expanding internationally...

So, I thought it would be cool if empeg meet attendees would bring a rock to the meet. It does not need to be very large or exotic in any way, a common rock that would be no bigger than would fit in your pocket. But please attach a label indicating the point of origin.

I would also ask that some random volunteer at the meet collect the rocks and ship them to me in the US. I would, of course, take care of any shipping charges, etc.

Thanks!

Shoot, I have some rocks that your brother would probably love...coated glass-like rocks from Beirut, pieces of rock sarcophagus from Tyre, pure salt rocks from the Dead Sea, layered sandstone rocks from Petra, a plain old rock swiped from Oskar Schindler's grave in Jerusalem (to name a few). Unfortunately, I'm not willing to give them up, but if you are still interested, I can pick up some extra rocks the next time I take a trip to any of these locations. Shipping costs from the Middle East might be a bugger, though.

You'd also do well to avoid anything lime or calcium-based. The sandstone might be out as well.

Paul, if your brother is into freshwater he probably knows to acid-test any rocks before putting them in the tank - but remind him just in case.

Bruno