People attend the "SCUBA Show" for many reasons; some to reunite with their adoring fans, some to see the latest equipment, others to book a trip to some distant shore, while others attend the work shops and seminars to increase their knowledge.
Those who want to obtain equipment are best served to attend the last day. Many but not all exhibitors have no desire to pack up their wares, pay the "Swampers" to move their items to the front door so they will "Sell their Samples" to almost any one. Just make contact have a chat and ask if they are selling samples? If so put your name on the list or on the item. Right before closing drop by with the CORRECT AMOUNT OF CASH, GET A SIGNED NOTE ON THEIR LETTER HEAD AND THE ITEM IS YOURS.
I have been presenting seminars almost since the show began.
Many years ago after co-authoring "Orange County Dive Locations" in the book Diving West the second dive guide published in US. I presented "Orange County Dive locations" at the show for a number of years. After reading some of the posts to this board it is very apparent that I should dust off this presentation.
This year I will be presenting "The history of the red and white dive flag." FYI the flag was developed in Michigan in 1950s by the late Ted Nixon, not by the Floridian imposter who claims to have developed it.
The first accident involving a boater running over a diver displaying a divers flag was in the very early 1960s at Long point Catalina Island. I was called as the only "Expert Witness" to defend the validity and use of the then few years old flag. Certainly an awesome responsibility. We prevailed and the red and white dive flag became the recognized flag of recreational diving. Periodically over the past 60 plus years I have consulted and appeared in a court of law in defense of the flag.
My seminar is scheduled for 1:00 on Saturday, immediately after the great Patrick Smith who wrote a book on California shipwrecks and knows more about California ship wrecks than any one ever knew or will know...a real diving treasure trove
My son Dr. Sam IV, who is also a NAUI (life,) PADI, SSI Pro 5000 diver, ER & Scripps trained Hyperbaric doctor ( I have my own personal Hyperbaric doctor) will be presenting a very humorous but yet serious seminar on "Body Implants and Diving" at 4:00 on Saturday. A must for females contemplating breast implants.
FYI....Interesting that the concept of a SCUBA show was developed by Hal Dunigan, LA Co UW instructor, way back before NAUI, PADI & the rest of the agency alphabet became the norm. He presented a show for two years at the Santa Monica civic Auditorium a good ten years before the SCUBA Show was established.
Only in California are there individuals with historical as well as the most modern medical information...No where but California can you casually chat one to one who has been there done that or with a real live Hyperbaric Doctor.
Southern California - WERE IT ALL BEGAN..
Dr. SDM 111
