Shaila_27

At the WFA training Kevin and I were reflecting on what a free-for-all it would have been if you were there...

Same here Shaila

Thanks for setting up that wfa training. I knew that it would be good information to know but after doing the course, I am even more appreciative of the knowledge. I would be intrested in a follow-up risk management as well... Just need to make sure it matches up with my schedule.

I hope this works... Here is a scaled down version of the video from the Olympus 790. It definitely looks better when the file size is not shrunken down. There also is a microphone in the camera that works above and below water but for the sake of the example, I took the actual sound out. I will say that it is difficult to film under water with a PFD on. Olympus_790_Examples.mov Here are a couple of pics from it too. I haven't had many opportunities to take pictures out on the water.

I received an Olympus 790sw for Christmas. So far I like the perfomance but I haven't used it paddling out on the water - just in pool sessions and for personal use. It is shockproof (when dropped from 5ft and under), it is waterproof to 10ft without a case and it is ok to have in freezing temps. The lcd screen is large but I don't think it has a viewfinder. You can put it on different powersave options and I bought 2 back-up batteries for $20 online (way cheaper than olympus site). I have heard that the battery is short-lived but I haven't had that experience. The video clips are pretty clear and you can zoom before (not during) filming for a better shot. I have used it underwater during the pool sessions while taping people rolling and it works well. I also find it easy to hold and snap, but it may be different for different people. The Olympus 770sw works to 30ft underwater without a case and it is crushproof but I can't really say that I will be 10meters underwater too often. If so, my PFD certainly didn't do it's job. I thought the 790 had better picture taking options and features also. I simply like the fact that I can drop it, stick it right into my pfd and I don't have to be too careful if I am in a hurry to put it away (or need to leave it out and attached to my pfd when I need my hands on my paddle in a hurry). Later when I have time I will try to post pictures and/or pool session video clips so you can see what they look like. I am using it as my primary camera on and off of the water and I know that I will be the coolest Aunt to my 14 nieces and nephews this summer when I show them that I can take pictures and video underwater!

I may be interested in this one:)

I have a couple of requests for workshops. -Navitgation (pretty much all aspects) -Day trip planning (tides, conditions, etc.) -Paddling in Current -Kits that you always take with you (what is in boat repair, first aid, etc.) I have learned a lot from just being out with more experienced people but some more thourough and formal information would be great! I missed the beginners session last year but I am assuming basics were covered in that but not specifics. Thanks! Shaila

Just a question... Do we all pay dues in relation to what time of year we joined or do I pay them now?

Many thanks to Brian and Rick for the help at the Beverly Pool Session and Kevin and Gillian for the help at the Salem State pool session!!! Now the challenge is seeing if I can do it again! Oh, a special thanks to Gillian because she took a (light) shot in the head with my paddle. What a demonstration of giving "whatever it takes" for the cause of teaching.

I would be more than happy to talk about Mexico - you may not be able to get me to shut up! I am definitely an "off the beaten path" type of person... and there is a lot of information that tourists don't know about that are safe and will save them a lot of money (ie. taking $4 clean, air conditioned busses up and down the coast vs. a $70 taxi). Shaila sbgent@gmail.com

Hi Gay I visited Holbox in 2000 and stayed at an eco-resort called Chimay http://www.holbox.com.mx . It was a small walk from the center of the tiny village but it is unique, eco-friendly, secluded and beautiful. The woman who owns it is Swiss so she speaks numerous languages so she is a nice reference if your spanish is rusty. If you are going during the whale shark season, it will be warm. I am sure that this place doesn't have air conditioning so that may be a drawback. I haven't been back since (sadly!) so I have not seen the place since Hurricane Wilma hit it a couple of years ago. I know that the rebuilding happened pretty fast, though so it should be better than ever. As far as reefs near Tulum... I know there is a biosphere reserve South of Tulum and you can go on boat tours of the reserve and reefs. I can't really speak to the quality of the reefs though. Right off of Cozumel is the Great Maya Reef - the second largest in the world next to the Great Barrier reef. This reef was hit hard with Hurricane Wilma as well, but reefs tend to come alive fairly quickly and it has been a few years. The really cool aspects of this reef can be far down, so snorkeling would be neat, but scuba would be ideal. Otherwise Cozumel isn't the best place in the area. The oceanside of the island is secluded, has beautiful beaches (but scary undercurrent) and has a couple of places to get a bite of food and drinks. I was in Tulum a couple of years ago (also on the warmer side during Whale shark high season) and I stayed at another eco-friendly resort/spa place. Beautiful huts over looking the carribean paired with the charm of no electricity and a clothing optional beach (?!) made for a wonderful and relaxing couple of days. This place is a couple miles south of Tulum and is called Cabanas Copal http://www.ecotulum.com/. Good luck and sorry for the book. Feel free to contact me if you need any info - I lived in the Yucatan for half a year. I wish I could join you for the Whale sharks... Shaila

I knew this contraption was a good investment! This tree certainly won't flop around on I-95.

This is very helpful info for those of us who are new to cold water paddling:) Thanks!

Sounds like a plan!!! Thanks for setting this up:) Shaila