Greetings from the President, August 2026
Jim Driggers | Published on 7/26/2026
Hello Aqua Tutus,
Thanks to Past President Neil Benjamin for showing us pictures from his trip to the Philippines, including the island of Malapascua and its thresher sharks. Those of us who visited only the Atlantis Puerto Galera and Dumaguete resorts didn't see threshers.
For August's general meeting, we'll shift locations from the Western Pacific Ocean to the Caribbean. Secretary Arnie Warshawsky will show pictures from his visit to the Cayman Islands.
The club dive for August will be somewhere near Salt Point State Park. The exact location will be decided by those attending the club's annual Salt Point camping event. While California's North Coast beaches are mostly urchin barrens, there is still interesting stuff to see below and above water. For more information, see Salt Point Campout - 8/28/2026 in the Event Calendar and the "Salt Point - August 28-30, 2026" thread in the Club Dive Forum.
For September's general meeting, we'll have a special Philippines focused members night. If you went on the recent trip there, please look through your images and videos and gather anything from one photo to as many as can be shown in five minutes. Look in the Club Event forum in Forums soon for more information.
Speaking of the club website's Forums section, be aware the For Sale forum is there for members to buy and sell equipment. That forum is not often used, but it is available for those wanting to increase -- or decrease! -- their collection of equipment.
Finally, the board discussed the club's annual holiday party location. Director of Training Dennis Hocker said La Cabana's quote of $35 per person includes the buffet, tax, tip and soft drinks. Alcoholic drinks are not included. Since the board has no desire to search for another venue this year, if you'd like to have the party, somewhere else, please let the board know specifically where.
As always, hope to see you at the next general meeting or dive.
Warmly,
Jim Driggers
Club president