“Volcanoes, Around the World and (Almost) in Your Back Yard” is the timely topic discussed by John Bethel at the Clallam County Gem & Mineral Association’s annual Rock, Gem & Jewelry Show, scheduled for Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 8-9, at the Vern Burton Community Center, 308 E. Fourth St., Port Angeles.

Admission is free. Hours are 9 a.m.-5 p.m. on Sept. 8, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. on Sept. 9.

Bethel presents his talk at 3 p.m. on Sept. 8 and again at 1 p.m. on Sept. 9.

Bethel is a retired King County licensed engineering geologist who studied geology at the University of Washington, receiving bachelor’s and master’s degrees. As a geologist for King County, Bethel worked on issues related to geological hazards including landsliding, riverine flooding, channel migration, coastal processes and lahar hazards. He has also provided geomorphic direction to numerous fluvial restoration and enhancement projects.

The show will feature “spectacular rock specimens created by Mother Nature, along with crystals, minerals, fossils, rough and polished rocks, and rocks from around the world,” event organizers say. Vendors will be available to answer “rock” questions while youths can play games in “Rock Alley.” The show will also feature wood-based creations.

Add food is provided by the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Olympic Peninsula’s Port Angeles Unit with sales benefiting the club. The event also features a raffle, and flintknapping and cab-making demonstrations.

For more information, contact Kathy Schreiner, show coordinator for the Clallam County Gem & Mineral Association, at 360-681-3811 or 360-460-0827.