As published in the March 2011 edition of the Shawnee Outlook:
dive RIGHT IN - by Anthony L. Gilbert
did you know while many pastimes are diminishing, scuba diving is becoming one of the most popular outdoor recreational activities in America? Maybe that's because it isn't as expensive or as difficult as previously thought. No longer a "men" only technical sport, more families are enjoying scuba diving in tropical locations during the warmer seasons and across Oklahoma lakes.
Many feel that scuba diving is too costly, too difficult or entirely too dangerous. Local couples, David and Becki Powell and Larry and Shayla Menhusen were under the same impression several years ago before they started diving. Becki Powell, 8th grade Science teacher for Tecumseh Middle School, said, "I always was a little scared about it before going through with it and being under the water. After snorkeling a few times in Cozumel, I became more comfortable and decided to take a resort course in 2008. I really liked it. I decided I wanted to get my certification and passed it in Cozumel last summer."
Both couples wanted to do something fun and challenging that would allow them to travel and make memories. “The most memorable experience I ever had was when Becki completed her first dive and saw her experience everything for the first time,” Powell said. Through Becki’s eyes, her first experience was breath-taking, “Coming up from my first boat dive I looked up to see myself surrounded by jellyfish. The sunlight was reflecting through the water and the jellyfish. It was awesome,” she said.
Even for a sport as exhilarating as scuba diving, there are risks and precautions divers must follow to ensure safe enjoyment. Larry Menhusen, owner of Integrity Electric, Inc and scuba instructor said, “You have to dive within your limitations. Most accidents occur because of human error. The number one rule in scuba diving is to never hold your breath. Another rule all divers must follow is always use the buddy system. Everything can be worked out under the water. Stay calm and don’t freak out.”
Scuba diving, much like any sport or hobby, requires an investment. Most basic certification courses take less than a week and cost approximately $400 and include the basic scuba gear, class materials and instruction. Eric Hopkins, of Blue Water Divers, began an accredited course this past fall for OBU students. Divers can complete up to four certifications and gain valuable experience and skills. He and Menhusen also teach a course open to the public. This is an excellent, affordable opportunity for anyone in the community to become certified.
Once a diver completes their certifications and training, it’s time to explore a whole new world, that few have yet to experience. Over 70% of the earth’s surface is covered with water and 99% of that living space is under water. Both couples agreed that Cozumel is one of the best locations for family vacations. Family atmosphere, affordability, accessibility and the fact the 2nd largest coral reef runs through those waters is what makes Cozumel so attractive. “Experience is everything. You develop relationships with those who run the shops and the dives. With all the activities available in Cozumel it creates an awesome family experience you will want to do again,” Larry Menhusen said.
While tropical locations like Thailand, Okinawa, Hawaii, Bahamas and Belize were some of our couples most exotic dives, Lake Elmer Thomas and Tenkiller are amongst their favorites in Oklahoma. Larry Menhusen said, “I prefer warm water over cold water. Having a dry suit allows me to stay warm and dive year round in the Oklahoma lakes. I love diving Tenkiller. There’s so much history in that lake. When they built it they flooded the area. There are old school buildings, bridges, barns and foundations of an old town. There’s a lot of history in this lake. There’s nothing cooler than being under water and imagining what this town was like when it was still around.”
Being certified has allowed Powell and Menhusen some unique opportunities. David volunteers every month at the Jenks Aquarium and helps clean the inside and makes minor repairs. He has the opportunity to share with visitors about the Aquarium and the kind of marine life found inside. Larry promotes a PADI certified program that is known as the Bubble-maker program. It introduces children to the growing sport in a safe, birthday party environment for up to eight children. After the party, scuba gear is placed on each child and allows them to play games and breathe under water. As an added touch, the children have their picture taken while breathing under the water. This gives the children an opportunity to share with their friends and classmates.
If you’re looking for an activity that will take you to new depths and allow the opportunity to make some great memories and great friendships or if you need a hobby to cure the couch potato blues, then scuba diving is definitely for you. It’s a sport enjoyed by novices to well-seasoned veterans; whether you’re exploring the ruins beneath Lake Tenkiller or searching for large marine life in the warm waters of Cozumel, regardless of your experience, each dive is a new adventure.
For more information about scuba diving or the courses offered at OBU contact 405-275-2850 or visit www.padi.com or www.bluewaterokc.com.
