We have a once-in-a-two year opportunity to completely change the direction of our society and ensure that it ranks among the best mineral clubs in the world.

Born from the legacy of the New Jersey Zinc Company, once prosperous enough to gift Princeton University a 60,000-seat stadium, our story is rooted in untold possibilities, world-class science, and global collaboration. That same spirit of discovery continues today through the Franklin-Ogdensburg Mineralogical Society.  

A new generation of leadership is needed to bring forward transformational change. Change that is rooted in technology, growth, vision, enthusiasm, and teamwork. Ironically, these are the very ideals upon which the club was founded. We are committed to renewing that spirit for our community of members, locally and across the nation. As we approach the upcoming vote, we invite you to be part of the conversation and the change ahead.  

Why change now
For nearly 20 years, leadership has been concentrated among the same 15 people. We’re asking for the chance to preserve FOMS’s legacy by fixing solvable issues: consistent communication, accurate membership status, and on-time publication of The Picking Table.

Voting

• Ballots: Paper ballots have been mailed out, with a stamped return envelope. The return envelope should have a 3-digit handwritten code. As of October 28, everyone we know in Northern NJ has received a ballot. Please ensure your ballot is mailed back to arrive at the Franklin Mineral Museum before November 15th
• We have requested the board to NOT break seals on the ballot envelopes until the general election meeting. In so doing, both slates can witness the ballots being opened and tallied without any concerns over handling.
• Action: If you have not yet received a ballot by mail, please confirm your contact info with FOMS President Stephanie Koles as soon as possible.
  When: The general election meeting is tentatively still scheduled for Saturday, Nov 15, 1:30 PM ET
• Where: Kraissl Hall, Franklin Mineral Museum

Membership status (quick guide)

• If your FOMS check was cashed in 2025, you’re presumed in good standing.
• If unsure, call or visit the Sterling Hill Mining Museum and ask the FOMS treasurer to confirm.
• If you paid in cash at the museum, you should have been given a physical card.
• Want to join before the vote? Bring your form and check in person to Sterling Hill and see the treasurer. Ask us for help, and we will assist you!

Meet us in person
Representatives of our slate will be at these events:

• Oct 17-18: GANJ Annual Conference at Sterling Hill Museum
• Oct 25: Ultraviolation (Fairless Hills, PA) • 9:00 AM–4:00 PM
• Nov 1: FOMS: Limecrest Quarry Dig • 8:30 AM–12:00 PM
• Nov 1: Night Dig at Franklin Mineral Museum Buckwheat Dump
• Nov 15: FOMS: Andover Mine Dig • 8:30 AM–12:00 PM
  (Vote meeting immediately after at the Franklin Mineral Museum on Saturday)

Stay in touch
Look for our handout cards and contact us at: contact@letsfixfoms.com