2016 Speakers


Thierry Boyer - Discovery of the Erebus from the Franklin Expedition

Underwater Archaeologist with Parks Canada's Underwater Archaeology Team


In 1845, Sir John Franklin and 128 sailors embarked from England to find the Northwest Passage aboard the ships Erebus and Terror. They never made it. Their ships became trapped in the ice and eventually sank. There were no survivors, although evidence indicates read more...

Joan Forsberg - The Wreck of the Griffon – The Greatest Mystery of the Great Lakes

Maritime Historian, Scuba Diver, Author, Speaker, and Underwater Videographer


A MULTI-MEDIA PROGRAM BY CRIS KOHL AND JOAN FORSBERG In the year 1679, the first ship to sail on the upper Great Lakes disappeared with its entire crew and valuable cargo of furs. Built by the explorer, La Salle, near Niagara Falls, its loss nearly ruined him. To this day, more than 335 years later, the wreck of the Griffon has not definitively been found read more...

Melissa Schrock - Operation Wallacea will take you away!

Marine Biologist, Divemaster, World Traveler


Are you looking for a unique travel opportunity that is unlike anything you have experienced thus far? Have you ever wanted to truly get off the grid? Live in a grass hut by the ocean, eat fresh tuna, and have no electricity or running water? Have you ever wanted to take part in a conservation effort that supports eco-tourism in read more...

Jim Matzke - Diving in Raja Ampat

World Traveler, Divemaster, Photographer


Located off the northwest tip of Bird’s Head Peninsula on the island of New Guinea, in Indonesia’s West Papua province, Raja Ampat, or the Four Kings, is an archipelago comprising over 1,500 small islands, cays, and shoals surrounding the four main islands of Misool, Salawati, Batanta, and Waigeo, and the smaller island of Kofiau. Raja […] read more...

Nick Seaton - Caving in Minnesota

Geologist, Speleologist


Nick will discuss the cave forming process and how and where caves form. He will show examples of the different types of caves and show what appropriate equipment is needed to enter caves safely. He will finish with a photo show of various caves he has visited from both the UK and Europe and the […] read more...

Todd Matthies - Exploring Cuyuna’s Hidden Gems

Master Dive Instructor & Co-owner of Minnesota School of Diving


Todd will now share with us, one of his favorite diving spots, the Cuyuna Lakes mines. Join Todd as he highlights many of the 50 dive sites available to divers in the Cuyuna Mines. Although many mid-western divers may have heard of the Cuyuna (Crosby) Mines, and many may have dived there, but they only […] read more...

Steve Daniel - 20 Exciting Years of the GLSPS Protecting Shipwrecks and Artifacts

Author, Historian & Diver


Steve will share highlights of many of the projects and significant actions the GLSPS has accomplished during the past 20 years. While we are often task oriented, it is the people and fellowship who make the GLSPS come alive. Participating in a project, whether it be on the North Shore, Milwaukee or Isle Royale will bring exciting read more...

Mark Dugger - Tips on Traveling Safely - US and Abroad

Retired Military Intelligence Officer & Owner of MidWest School of Diving


Are you planning a vacation outside the U.S.? Learn important tips for safer travel: how to dress and act in public, and where to sit on a bus or plane in order to minimize yourself to violent crime and other threatening situations. read more...

Ryan Sebesta - Getting the Most Out of Your GoPro - Lunch & Learn

SCUBA Instructor / Manager, Aquaventure Dive & Photo Center


Let's face it, the GoPro HD Hero cameras are everywhere. By now, you either have one already or are thinking of picking one up. The GoPro and it's free editing software, has allowed casual users to shoot and edit professional looking videos without breaking the bank. Ryan will walk you through the abilities of the GoPro and some simple tricks for great videos. Session outcomes: read more...

John Wahlstrom, M.D. - Medical Evaluation of Fitness to Dive - Lunch & Learn

DAN consultant physician


MEDICAL STATEMENT To the Participant: The purpose of this medical questionnaire is to find out if you should be examined by your doctor before participating in recreational diver training. Please answer the following questions on your past or present medical history with a YES or NO. If you are not sure, answer YES. If any […] read more...