November 2022 Current Bubbles Newsletter
President’s Message
By: Owen Autry
Happy Thanksgiving to all our Dolphin family members. This month is a time for us to give thanks to all those in our lives and those that are a part of our lives. I am very thankful to have made some great friends in our club and truly enjoy being a part of the Dolphin family.
While we are giving thanks, we are also inching closer to the season of Christmas and want to take some time on December 10th to share in our friendships and celebrate the Dolphin Clubs Christmas party! It is a time for breaking bread, talking with fellow members, and enjoying the time we have together. I have volunteered to run this years Christmas party, and I’m looking for volunteers to help me put together this fun Holiday event. An email asking for volunteers is being sent to all members, and you may have already seen it in your email box.
At this time, I would like to recognize David Whiteside for all the work he does behind the scenes! David is a Member at Large on the board, and one of the programs he started, and runs, is our new diver member program. David attends the first meeting of an open water class at the Dolphin Scuba and shares information about the club with potential new members, explaining how they can continue to go diving after the class ends, and encourages new members to attend club meetings held each month – where like-minded divers attend. When he is not available, David organizes other board members to take his place and meet with the class. David also attends dive events, and answers questions that participates may have about the many events the club sponsors and conducts.
Another big helper is our own Tracy Clark, our Promotional Chair! Tracy comes to as many Round Table meeting as she can, as well as events, and displays the promotional wear (hoodies, t-shirts, and sweaters, as well as other promotional gear). If you have a special request, she also can make custom clothes for your needs. Be sure to stock up on our dolphin swag gear for future events.
We have so many volunteers that help us in so many ways and we are very fortunate to have an involved club that keeps us moving forward; especially when the world was in a pandemic, the club Board was still meeting and trying very hard to keep the club going by staying as active as we could. I would like to thank everyone that keeps our club running at full strength. KUDOS to you all!
If you have any ideas in running an event, or if you are not able to lead but would like another to run it, please let us know as we have a lot of years of diving experience in the club and many can assist and/or run the event for you.
Our next Dolphin Club General Meeting will be held in-person on Wednesday, November 16th, 2022 from 7:00 pm to 8:30 pm at Round Table Pizza (9500 Greenback Lane in Folsom), and via Zoom for those who would prefer to attend remotely. Marilyn will send information the day of the meeting. Everyone is welcome to join the meeting!
Hope to see you in the water, and bubbles up!!
Owen Autry,
President
QUOTES FROM THE SEA
“There’s nothing wrong with enjoying looking at the surface of the ocean itself, except that when you finally see what goes on underwater, you realized that you’ve been missing the whole point of the ocean.”
– Dave Barry
Safety Officer’s Message
By: Brad Freelove
During the past year, I have been asked several questions about dive computers. Most common questions asked have been (1.) Do I really need a dive computer, and (2.) What is the best one to have.
Do I really need a dive computer
A little history first
I learned to dive before dive computers were readily available. My instructor did not know that such a device existed! We were taught how to work the dive tables backwards and forwards. RAT or Residual + Actual = Total was the mantra that we lived by. Depth gauge, bottom timer or watch, and the dive tables were our best friends. Some of us were taught how to use some slightly different methods on using our best friends. Pyle deep stop method had lots of jokes about it but was practiced by many and is still an option on several current dive computers. A mechanical dive computer was developed in the early 1950’s. A U.S. company developed it, and it was a problem child from the start. It did not work all that well and was scrapped. In the early 1960’s another analog computer was developed. They started showing up for sale in the U.S. around 1966. My dad got one in 1968. I got mine in 1972. We jokingly called it the “bend-o-matix.” No batteries required. All of us hoped that it worked as advertised or a case of the bends was waiting for us. After several years of using the tables and the bend-o-matix at the same time, we came to somewhat trust the computer. Battery operated computers were developed around the late 60’s and early 70’s but they were a failure. I remember hearing about them, but I did not see one being used. Too expensive and unreliable.
Around the late 70’s and the early 80’s, reliable, battery powered dive computers started showing up in the U.S. The Orca Edge was my first. I bought a U.S. Diver model soon after. The USD model had a battery that was glued in place and had to be replaced by a technician. The battery was supposed to last 5 years, but I swear I was replacing it every 2 years. The Edge had leaks. Both brands had issues but were reliable enough that I kind of gave up on using the tables at all.
Dive industry manufacturers, engineers, and scientists have had 70 plus years to refine computer designs and decom algorithms. We as divers have many computers to choose from. The most common issues I see now are from some of the inexpensive computers and operator error. Junk is junk, no matter how you package it. If the owner of the computer cannot remember to check the power remaining in the battery or does not replace the battery correctly, nothing good will happen.
During your dive, your computer will gather up a ton of information. Depth and time are gathered up, shoved into a math formula (algorithm) and out comes a message letting you know how much longer you can dive. It is a little more complicated than that, but you get the idea. Depending upon which computer you have, expect a lot more information to be available to you. Texting is on the way! Just a matter of time.
So, do I really need a dive computer?
Yes…YES…YES! You will spend more time underwater, have more fun, and be a much safer diver when using a computer instead of just the tables. If your dive destination is way out of town, I suggest that you have 2 computers. A trip to Socorro or the Red Sea will be no fun if your computer fails. I have 3 computers that I take with me on most trips. 2 of them go underwater while number 3 stays on the surface out of harms way. If something goes wrong with the first 2, I have a backup plan. Also, many dive tour operators will not let you dive if you are not using a computer.
Your local dive store can assist you in making a wise decision on which model best suits your needs.
What is the best computer for me?
Regardless of your diving intentions or level of experience, a computer is no good to you if you cannot read what the screen is telling you and if the computer is a pain to operate. Can you read the information on the screen while you are underwater? If you cannot see the info on the computer screen, what good is it? And I do not mean that you do not understand what it says……. you just cannot see it. The information on the screen must be viewable. If you have problems viewing the information on the screen of your cell phone, imagine what issues you will have with a dinky screen underwater. Be smart and look at several models before you purchase.
Same goes for being able to operate the computer underwater. Tiny push buttons might work out just fine in the store or at home, but will they work for you with gloves on and under the water? Does the touch screen work with gloves on? You must be able to operate thecomputer underwater.
Finally, does it take a lot of effort to get to some of the information that you want. Having to push a combination of buttons in half a dozen ways to get from one bit of information to another takes all the fun out of diving. Underwater operation must be simple.
If you solve all 3 of these issues, then you are ready to answer the question of what computer is best for you. What kind of information you need is important, and the dive shop can help you out there. But being able to get that information out of the computer is mandatory. Take your time when making your purchase. Price alone should not be your primary decision tool. Figure out what features from what models work best for your intended style of diving. Use the internet to find potential problems with any model that interests you. If the dive store has a rental program for computers, take advantage of it.
For me, I use a combination of computers to keep me safe and having fun. My primary computer is a wrist mounted Scubapro. Big screen and easy to use underwater. 3 large buttons make for easy operation. I mount on my left wrist as I am right-handed. If I am doing photo work, I hold my camera with my left and operate with my right. A slight rotation of my left wrist will let me see the screen. Am I drifting down too deep? Getting low on bottom time? Easy for me to see.
My second computer that comes with me on every dive is mounted in a console. Console contains an attached compass. The wrist mounted computer has a compass, but I find it much easier to use the compass on my console. Console gives me all the information as my wrist mount and is ready for me if something goes goofy with my primary. Oceanic brand for computer and compass.
My third computer is a wrist mount Suunto. Smaller screen than the Scubapro and a little harder to read than the console mounted computer but gets the job done. Does both freediving and scuba stuff. This computer gets a few dives a year when I loan it out to someone that had their computer go dead.
I hope this information helps you with making a smart purchase. I try and purchase good equipment and take care of it. I take my computers in to the store every couple of years for service, battery replacement, and testing. During non-diving times, I review the operations manuals and on-line videos to make sure that I know how to make everything work. Take advantage of the videos and perhaps, take a class on how to operate your computers.
DDS Annual Photo Contest
DUE NOV 10TH
Dolphin Divers of Sacramento
Member of the year time!
Do you know a DDS member that shines above others? Someone that made an impression on you for doing the special things.
Maybe this person helped you carry your equipment. Perhaps this person loaned you a mask or ran an event that you participated in.
Reward this person that did something special by voting for them as the DDS member of the year. Voting will take place in November during the November meeting and via email.
So, make the meeting if you can or vote by email when the ballots come out, but let this member know that you remember what they did for you.
OCTOBER”S SPEAKER
David McGuire from Shark Stewards
October’s guest speaker was David McGuire, he is the founder of the Ocean Health and Shark Conservation nonprofit Shark Stewards. FULL BIO HERE
He gave a talk about “Sharktober” listing ways we could help sharks and rays locally, and globally.
Shark Stewards Mission is: SAVING ENDANGERED SHARKS FROM OVERFISHING AND THE SHARK FIN TRADE AND PROTECTING CRITICAL MARINE HABITAT.
He explained why we should save sharks.
Now for the important part. We rely on the oceans for over half of the oxygen that we breathe. Sharks keep the ocean healthy and functioning correctly. Saving sharks can keep us breathing.
Now please don’t trust me, I am not a scientist and am probably not explaining this dynamic as eloquently as he does, so go read about it here. LINK
The organization has many different projects going, and many ways you can help.
Here are a few of them as well as the links to the articles.
(Much of the following is directly copied and pasted, I edited a bit for space, please follow the links for in-depth information)
Campaign to Save Endangered Sharks at CITES 2022
Shark Stewards is joining the Shark Specialist Group with the Shark Research Institute to advocate and support new listings of sharks and rays at the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna & Flora (CITES) Convention of the Parties (CoP19) in Panama, November 14-25, 2022.
Over 75 species of sharks and rays are being newly listed to Appendix II including several critically endangered species impacted by overfishing, loss of habitat and mislabeled/misidentified or obfuscated as look-alike species mixed in the shark fin trade with more common species
End the Lethal California Driftnet Fishery
Large mesh driftnets are more than a mile long and 250 feet deep with mesh greater than 14 inches. The nets are left in the ocean overnight to catch swordfish and thresher sharks but also indiscriminately capture, injure, and kill other marine species including whales, dolphins, sea lions, sea turtles, fish, and sharks. Most of these animals, referred to as “bycatch,” are then discarded, yet many species like tuna but also thresher and mako sharks are retained. Over half the catch in this fishery is discarded or dead blue sharks.
SUPPORT THE US SHARK FIN SALES ELIMINATION ACT
“The USA facilitates the global decline of sharks through consumption and import/export of unsustainably harvested shark fins. We should be an example to China and the rest of the world by demonstrating that sharks are important to ocean health, and ban the sale and trade of shark fin.”
David McGuire, Director Shark Stewards
ARTICLE HERE SIGN THE PETITION HERE
Ocean Protection: 30% x 2030
In the next three years we have our sights on increasing marine protection in US waters through the creation of two new National Marine Sanctuaries: one in California with the Chumash Heritage National Marine Sanctuary, and one in Hawaii with the creation of the Papahānaumokuākea National Marine Sanctuary.
Tell eBay: Stop Endangered Shark Trade
eBay is openly allowing the traffic of parts from endangered and protected sawfish and sharks, namely sawfish rostrum and shark jaws protected under the Endangered Species Act, and the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES).
Stop Big Plastic From Polluting California Seas
SHARK STEWARDS JOIN’S EARTH ISLAND INSTITUTE IN LAW SUIT AGAINST BIG PLASTIC
Lawsuit seeks to hold major food, beverage, and consumer goods companies accountable for plastic pollution
Fed Ex Shark Fin Shipping
Driven largely by the shark fin trade, many species of sharks are threatened with extinction. As a major shipper between the USA and Asia, Fed Ex is responsible for killing millions of sharks by facilitating the shark fin trade. Each year, fins from as many as 73 to 100 million sharks enter the global market.
AS A RESULT, 25% OF SHARK AND RAY SPECIES ARE ON THE BRINK OF EXTINCTION.
Please at least visit their main page and see the good work that they are doing. There are books for kids, shark face sheets and much more.
DOLPHIN SCUBA
Black Friday Sale
Nov 25th
Do you have some diving equipment that you no longer need and want to get a few dollars out of it?
On November 25th, Dolphin Scuba will be holding their annual Black Friday sale. Hundreds of customers will be charging in to take advantage of their huge sale, pricing, and classes. Mike Johnson, owner of Dolphin Scuba, will allow our club members to set up tables in the parking lot and sell off our not needed diving equipment.
There is no cost to you if you sell something. Tanks, regs., suits, fins, weight belts, and tons of other dive equipment have been sold by club members. Instead of posting on Facebook, Craigslist, or OfferUp, come on over to Dolphin Scuba on November 25th and have some fun selling off your stuff.
If you are interested in taking advantage of this opportunity, you need to let me know soon. We have room for about 10 tables. You can reach me via me email at: bradlinda@frontiernet.net
Member News
November Birthdays:
Ray Brown
Dana Carlson
Barbara Deer
Jason Hamilton
Giulia Marino
Amy Griffin
Mark Naber
Minh Nguyen
Sophia Patterson
Bruce Robbins
Charles Rojas
Leonard Susbilla
Matthew Valdez II
Edward Benger
Randy Diez
Are you interested in becoming a Dolphin Divers of Sacramento member?
CLICK HERE TO JOIN
CHRISTMAS PARTY
Save The Date
CALENDAR OF UPCOMING EVENTS
PICTURES OF PAST EVENTS
Dolphin Divers
History Highlights
1982-1985
1982
Meetings alternate between Social Meeting at Rico’s Pizza on Arden Way and Business Meetings at SMUD meeting room on Elkhorn Boulevard
Board of Directors:
President – Debbie Dunn (replaced by Jan Johnson)
Vice President – Jan Johnson
Secretary/Treasurer – Kim Lewis
Safety Officer –
Activity Chair – Mary Pearson
Members at Large – Skip Smiley,
Scuba Bucs started to reward participation in club meetings.
Ken Schroder awarded first “Lifetime Membership”
1983
Board of Directors:
President – Jan Johnson
Secretary/Treasurer – Dianna Smiley
Safety Officer – John Payne
Activity Chair – Skip Smiley
Members at Large – Alan Austin, Ken Schroeder, George Styer
Club dues changed to $12.00 plus $5.00 per family member
Social Meetings at Foxy Loxy in Country Club Center and Business Meetings at SMUD on 59th Street in Sacramento.
April – 1st Annual Club only “Underwater Easter Egg Hunt” in Monterey Event Leader/s George Styer and John Payne
May – 3rd Annual Carp Shoot & Navigation Contest at Lake Comanche
July – Dolphin Dive Club provided safety divers and boats at San Juan rapids for Eppie’s Great Race – Event Leader/s Alan Austin
Third Annual Spear Fishing Contest at Ocean Cove Event Leader/s John Payne
September 21 – Jack Pabst (owner Mother Lode Dive Shop) awarded Lifetime Membership
First Annual Big Fish Award given to Scott Davis & George Styer for 11 Lb fish
Membership ends year at 64
1984
Board of Directors:
President – Jan Johnson
Vice President – Skip Smiley
Secretary/Treasurer – Dianna Smiley
Safety Officer – Mike Johnson
Activity Chair – Alan Austin
Members at Large – Kim Lewis, Chris Delgado, Yvonne Johnson
Editor – John Payne
Club “T” shirts arranged by Yvonne Johnson
January – Ski Trip at Boreal Ridge Event Leader/s Jan Johnson
April – Social Meetings moved to Spanky’s on Howe Avenue
2nd Annual Club only “Underwater Easter Egg Hunt” in Monterey Event Leader/s George Styer and John Payne
Cost $3.00 per team.
May – 4th Annual Carp Shoot at Lake Comanche Event Leader/s Skip Smiley
July – Dolphin Dive club provided safety divers and boats at San Juan rapids for Eppie’s Great Race – Event Leader/s Alan Austin
Loon Lake Tunnel Dive & Scavenger Hunt Event Leader/s Alan Austin
August – Social Meeting moved to Golden Corral on Fair Oaks Blvd in Carmichael
Inland Lobster Feed at Lake Natoma Event Leader/s George Styer, Patty Austin & Don Rojo
September – Spear Fishing Contest at Ocean Cove
Big Scallop added to Spear Fishing Contest.
First Place team – Joe Wilhelm and Noel Scott, 24.9 Lbs
Big Fish – Chris Delgado, 9.8 Lb Ling Cod
Big Scallop won by George Styer 7 1/16 inch
December – Christmas Party held at dolphin Dive Shop pool
Events included: Bean bag relay (divers swam across pool with bean bags pressed between them)
Underwater shopping cart race
Ping Pong ball race where teams pushed ping pong ball across pool with only a plastic spoon
Jan Johnson named first “Member of the Year”
Annual “Big Fish” won by Gary Lewis for 19.2 Lb
Annual “Big Ab’ won by Noel Scott
1985
Membership $15.00 plus $5.00 per family member
Board of Directors:
President – Skip Smiley
Vice President – Ron Peek
Secretary/Treasurer – Isha Penk
Safety Officer – George Styer
Activity Chair – Alan Austin & Allen Berg
Members at Large – Mike Johnson, Jan Johnson, John Payne, Frank Marr
Editor – Yvonne Johnson
March 19 Dolphin Divers of Sacramento incorporated in the State of California, #C1270791
As a “Mutual Benefit Corporation”
March – 3rd Annual “Underwater Easter Egg Hunt” in Monterey Event Leader/s George Styer and John Payne
Eppie’s Great Race – Safety Divers. Event Leader/s Alan Austin
August – Inland Lobster Feed, Lake Natomas, Event Leader/s John Payne and George Styer
September – Labor Day Spear Fishing contest
Isha Penk got decompression Sickness during Ocean Cove Spearfishing Contest
18 teams entered contest but seals stole all fish from 16 teams! Only 2 teams had fish to enter contest.
December – Dolphin Diver of the Year awarded to Isha Penk
Big Fish awarded to Alan Austin
Big Abalone awarded to Ron Peek 8 7/8 inches
EDITOR’S NOTE
By: Joe Morgan
Each month I will be looking for submissions in the following categories:
- Trip Reviews: Let us know where you have been diving, what operator you used, the hotel you stayed at and how was the diving there. Let us know if the operator was safe and fun. Let us know if the hotel was a good deal, give us as much detail as possible and hopefully more Dolphin Divers will venture there in the future.
- Recipes: I was told that in the past Dolphin Divers gave each other SEAFOOD recipes that they loved so that everyone could enjoy the bounty of the sea, I hope to continue that each month with at least one good recipe.
- Dive and Camping yard-sale items you wish to include in the newsletter.
- Dive Activities: Please let me know if there are any dive-related activities you would like included in the newsletter.
- Pictures from your last dive. Please make sure to let me know how you would like the picture credited in the newsletter. -example – Picture by John Member, of a Silky Shark, at Roca Partida Mexico.
PLEASE MAIL ALL SUBMISSIONS TO
Editor@dolphindivers.org
DOLPHIN DIVERS OF SACRAMENTO
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
President: Owen Autry
Vice President: Ken Takata
Treasurer: Marlyn Sepulveda
Secretary: Elizabeth Marchiondo
Safety Officer: Brad Freelove
Activity Chair: Ilkan Cokgor
Webmaster: Renee Viehmann
Promotions Chair: Tracy Clarke
Newsletter Editor: Joe Morgan
Historian: Jack Millard
Member at Large: David Whiteside
Member at Large: Corinne Fuerst
Member at Large: Marylin Campbell
Member at Large: Steve Campbell
Member at Large: Lalanyia Little
Member at Large: Tom Mischley
Alternate Member at Large: Bob Taylor
Alternate Member at Large: Tom Oja