2009 Daytime Speakers Print E-mail

The Boston Sea Rovers are the proud sponsors of the “Longest Continuously Running Dive Show in the World,” a distinction made possible primarily due to the excellent quality of speakers that have continued to grace our stages. We take great pleasure in hosting the best educators, explorers, scientists, divers and speakers in the world. The purpose of these lectures help us to achieve our club our mission, “To educate the general public about the underwater world.”

Our daytime presentations form the backbone of our show. In two days we will host over 40 speakers covering a myriad of diving and marine related topics. Each hour there are three simultaneous lectures being held on Saturday and Sunday from 9am to 5 pm. You get to choose which speaker or topic you would like to see based on your interests.

 

2009 Daytime Speakers

Saturday, March 7, 2009

 
 

Venetian Room

State Suite Room

Oval Room

Time:

 

AM: Paul Cater Deaton

PM: Bob Cembrola

Room Chairs:

AM: Christopher Meyfarth

PM: Peter Symasko

AM: Betsy Hackley

PM: Eric Takakjian

9:00 - 9:45 A.M.

Philippine Macro

Stan Waterman

Freediver Blackout: What Causes it and a Device that Might Save your Life.

Terry Maas

Sub Hunting:Searching for Lost Submarines

Vincent J. Capone
10:00 - 10:45 A.M.

Black & White Portfolio

Berkley White

Breath-hold Diving

Dr. John J. Freiberger

Dive Back Into Time: Early East Coast Wreck Diving

Chuck Zimmaro, Tom Roach
11:00 - 11:30 A.M.

Digital Camera

Ethan Gordon

Bizarre Critters of Lembeh, Indonesia

Jeff Rotman

Claustrophobia, anyone? Anyone?

Terrance Tysal & Amy Giannotti
1:00 - 1:45 P.M.

The Sharks of French Polynesia

Michael Salvareza & Christopher Weaver

The History of the WHOI Diving Program

Terry and Maggie Rioux

Palau and Chuuk - Jewels of the Pacific

Doug Sloss
2:00 -2:45 P.M.

Belize, Gem of the Caribbean

Danielle Alary, Michel Gilbert

The Art of Divemastering

Andrea Zaferes

North Wind: Huron's Forgotten Wreck

Marshall Allan
3:00 - 3:45 P.M.

The Best of the Pacific Northwest

Faith Ortins

Dive Into the Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary

Matthew Lawrence

A Deadly Mistake …The Sinking of the U352

Jim & Pat Stayer
4:00 - 4:45 P.M.

Sharks in the Northeast: A Closer Look

Gregory Skomal

Think Whales Were Saved? Think Again: Protecting Whales Around The World

Jake Levenson

Ancient Shipwrecks in the Greek Aegean

Brendan Foley

 

Sunday, March 8, 2009

 

Venetian Room

State Suite Room

Oval Room

Time:

AM: Rhonda Moniz

PM: Patrick Scalli

Room Chairs:

AM: Ricky Simmons

PM: Bill VanderClock

AM: Eric Takakjian

PM: Michael Lodise

9:00 - 9:45 A.M.

From Iron Bottom Sound to Brilliant Riches Found

Nancy McGee

Discovering New Species in Your Backyard

Kris Wilk

The Lore of Lusca: the Blue Holes of the Bahamas

Michael Lombardi
10:00 - 10:45 A.M.

The Beer-Drinking Pigs of St. Croix

Paul Cater Deaton

Medical Fitness to Dive

Dr. John J. Freiberger

A Five Year Quest to Locate the Jennie R. Dubois

Mark Munro
11:00 - 11:30 A.M.

Bonaire...Arguably the Most Pristine Reefs in the Caribbean

Jack Chalk

Earthwatch Institute: Sustainable Oceans Initiative

Anne T. Ogilve

The Making of Axis Mundi

Nathalie Lasselin
1:00 - 1:45 P.M.

The Essence of the Image

Ernie Brooks

Nasha and Nae Nae’s Kids Sea Camp Adventure

Woodrow Tinsley

Journey to the Britannic

Rudi Asseer
2:00 -2:45 P.M.

Underwater Video: More Tips and Tricks from the Pros

John Ellerbrock

Marine Environmental Awareness; Thinking Globally By Acting Locally

Ted Maney

Marine Life of the North Atlantic

Andrew Martinez
3:00 - 3:45 P.M.

How to Pick the Perfect Digital Camera System

Fred Dion

Summer Under the Sea

Kimberly Malkoski

Silent Requiem

Joe Romeiro and Bill Fisher

 

Presentation Abstracts

Click on a presenter's name to learn more.

A Deadly Mistake...The Sinking of the U352

Abstract: During WWII the U352 was one of the German Submarines that patrol the East Coast waiting to ambush any merchant vessel that dared to cross their path. On May 9, 1942 the U352 mistook the Coast Guard Cutter Icarus for a merchant ship and fired upon her. A deadly mistake. This Program includes: the story of the sinking, complete with historical photographs; an interview from George Purifoy, one of the divers that discovered the wreck in the Graveyard of the Atlantic; and footage of the sub on the bottom and deep within her haul.

Presenter: Jim & Pat Stayer

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A Five Year Quest to Locate the Jennie R. Dubois

Abstract: On February 11th, 1902, in West Mystic, Connecticut, the largest coasting schooner built outside of Maine shipyards slid down the ways of the Holmes Shipbuilding Company. Nineteen months later the Jennie R. Dubois would be resting on a sandy bottom southeast of Block Island, Rhode Island. Once cleared as a menace to navigation, the Dubois was lost to history and her location remained unknown to local divers and historians. Join me in this presentation on the recently discovered secrets of the five-masted coasting schooner Jennie R. Dubois.

Presenter: Mark Munro

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Ancient Shipwrecks in the Greek Aegean

Abstract: Ancient Mediterranean shipwrecks offer compelling dive sites. The wrecks typically rest in clear blue water, so divers have unobstructed views of their priceless artifacts: works of art, trade goods, and the personal effects of the crew. In this presentation, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution archaeologist Dr. Brendan Foley will report on his partnership with the Greek Ministry of Culture to document ancient shipwrecks. Using a mix of diving and submersible vehicles, the international team has documented fifteen wrecks dating as far back as the 7th century B.C. in water depths to 500 meters. New techniques determine the original cargoes through remnant ancient DNA, and high-resolution photomosaicking displays entire wrecks in great detail. Though most Mediterranean countries today restrict sport diver access to archaeological sites, the situation may change as governments realize the potential market for archaeological dive tourism.

Presenter:  Brendan Foley

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Belize, Gem of the Caribbean

Abstract: Michel Gilbert and Danielle Alary went twice to Belize in the same year… there must be a reason: come and learn about an underrated destination of the Caribbean.

Presenter: Danielle Alary, Michel Gilbert

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Bizarre Critters of Lembeh, Indonesia

Abstract: In the Lembeh Straits of Saulawesi lies some of the best small critter photography on the planet. New species are being discovered constantly. This presentation will introduce you to pigmy seahorses, bizarre bottom fish, octopus, sea snakes and much more.

Presenter: Jeff Rotman

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Black & White Portfolio

Abstract: Berkley White will share his latest black and white portfolio of underwater images from around the globe. Most divers know the sea as a rainbow of colors, but the black and white images of Berkley White a new world of inky black and shades of gray. Berkley will also share his top 5 tips for shooting black and white images with color digital cameras.

Presenter: Berkley White

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Bonaire..Arguably the Most Pristine Reefs in the Caribbean

Abstract: In this presentation, you will learn why NOAA proclaimed in 2008, The International Year of the Reef and that Bonaire’s coral reefs were “arguably the most pristine reefs in the Caribbean”. Captain Jack Chalk will describe how the partnership between the population of Bonaire and the Bonaire National Marine Park has been able to maintain the coral reefs in pristine condition. Jack will also discuss the future challenges facing Bonaire in maintaining their coral reefs.

Presenter: Jack Chalk

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Breath-hold Diving

Abstract: Breath-hold diving dates from the 3rd century BC when the AMA “Sea Women” of Japan were breath-hold diving for sea life. Today free - diving for sport and competition if prevalent. The body adapts to B-H diving in many different ways and is not without risk. Breath-hold diving will be discussed from these physiological and competitive aspects, and the debate about nitrogen narcosis and DCS from breath-hold dives will be reviewed.

Presenter: Dr. John J. Freiberger

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Claustrophobia, anyone? Anyone?

Abstract: Take OFF your tank, push it in front of you, and join the Cambrian Foundation as we squeeze and push our way exploring some VERY small, high-flow virgin springs in Central Florida that are home to many new species.

Presenter: Terrance Tysal, Amy Giannotti

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Discovering New Species in Your Backyard

Abstract: Since much of the sea is unexplored, it is no surprise that new fishes and invertebrates are always being discovered. But did you know that many of them are found in calm, shallow water on some of the most well known reefs. How have these creatures been over looked, and who finds them? ReefNet's Kris Wilk shares memorable accounts of searches, discovery, and scientific investigation in this engaging seminar.

Presenter: Kris Wilk

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Dive Back Into Time: Early East Coast Wreck Diving

Abstract: See what it was like to be a diver in the 1960’s and 70’s, and be one of the first divers on the shipwrecks, when ship’s helms, portholes, compasses and bells were still on them, and divers used steel 72's to dive the Andrea Doria! With over 3 dozen new slides & enhancements. It's like nothing you've seen before.

Presenter: Chuck Zimmaro, Tom Roach

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Dive Into the Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary

Abstract: Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary encompasses 842 square miles of offshore waters and seafloor between Cape Cod and Cape Ann. Surprisingly, 126 square miles of the sanctuary is shallower than 130 feet. Much of this area is unexplored and intrepid divers venturing to the sanctuary will likely encounter marine life not typically seen closer to shore. Several shipwrecks also lie within recreational diving limits providing glimpses into the past and structure for encrusting invertebrates and fish. Matthew Lawrence will describe the sanctuary’s inhabitants, underwater environment, and dive sites through photos and video.

Presenter: Matthew Lawrence

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Earthwatch Institute: Sustainable Oceans Initiative

Abstract: Earthwatch Institute is an international non-profit organization that engages people worldwide in scientific field research and education to promote the understanding and action necessary for a sustainable environment. We will feature highlights from our sustainable oceans initiative, including research on the coastal ecology of the Seychelles, the coral reefs of Thailand, and our worldwide sea turtle program.

Presenter: Anne T. Ogilve

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Freedriver Blackout: What Causes it and a Device that Might Save Your Life

Abstract: Every year some breath-hold divers lose their life to freediver blackout. Certain physical and psychological factors conspire to make the freediver vulnerable to unconsciousness especially at the end of the dive. Dr. Maas will explore these factors and demonstrate the Freediver Recovery Vest, which will bring the breath-hold diver to the surface if they stray too deep or too long.

Presenter: Terry Maas

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From Iron Bottom Sound to Brilliant Riches Found

Abstract: The Solomon Island Archipelago was the sight of raging war and violent conflict during World War II. Its historical significance as a final battleground to secure victory for the Allied forces is known to all. Vessels of destruction and reefs disturbed by the banging of bombs are now profound symbols of tranquility. The Solomon Islands have a richly diverse marine ecosystem, a fascinating history, and a people who have endured it all with grace and fortitude.

Presenter: Nancy McGee

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Getting the Most Out of Your Digital Camera

Abstract: In this talk, Ethan will talk about some of his top digital shots from around the world with an emphasis on how they were made. Although most images will be from the underwater world, some topside photography will be looked at as well. From exposure, to camera modes, equipment, and set up, each shot will be discussed for the benefit of both beginners and advanced photographers alike. This talk is intended to inspire the creative image-maker in all of us. Non-photographers welcome!

Presenter: Ethan Gordon

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How to Pick the Perfect Digital Camera System

Abstract: This presentation will help you design the perfect digital camera system for your style of shooting. Fred will discuss the latest camera and strobe systems available today. What features you need and what to avoid. Whether you are a beginner or advance shooter this presentation will help take some of the mystery out of picking that perfect system. This will be an interactive talk so bring you questions.

Presenter: Fred Dion

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Journey to the Britannic

Abstract: Join Farallon USA divers Rudi Asseer and Kim Martin as they embark on a journey to the Britannic. The Britannic is the largest underwater ocean-liner in the world; it’s larger than Titanic. The Britannic is Titanic’s younger sister and despite all the modification after the sinking of Titanic, the Britannic still managed to sink in a third of the time. Divers Rudi and Kim teamed up with Hellenic Maritime Research Institute to try and answer some of her last mysteries. This was the was the first time, combining manned divers with remote operated vehicles on the Britannic. Divers Rudi and Kim where responsible for interior exploration and collecting samples for scientific use. Rudi and Kim will walk you through a dive on the Britannic and discuss everything that it takes to make such a dive, as well unveil some of her mysteries.

Presenter: Rudi Asseer

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Marine Environmental Awareness; Thinking Globally by Acting Locally

Abstract: What can you do to protect our local marine environment? This presentation will provide many ways we can all be involved with protecting our local marine environment and promoting marine environmental awareness for both divers and non-divers. Topics will include; coastal monitoring efforts, beach clean-ups, eating sustainable seafood and promoting environmental awareness,

Presenter: Ted Maney

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Marine Life of the North Atlantic

Abstract: Join author and photographer of North Atlantic's most popular field guide Marine Life of the North Atlantic, on an armchair tour of the fascinating creatures of this region on an armchair tour of the fascinating creatures of this region...from Torpedo Rays and Goosefish to tiny Spiny Lumpsuckers and Badge stars The Northwestern Atlantic is a region full of color and variety.

Presenter: Andrew Martinez

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Medical Fitness to Dive

Abstract: Safe diving requires diving specific skills of comprehension, pressure equalization, and exertion, as well as risk management for drowning, barotrauma and DCS. Physical conditioning and some medical conditions in divers can affect performance. Being aware of fitness requirements and medical conditions of special interest such as diabetes, cardiac risk, implants, asthma, eye and ear injuries and PFO will alert the diver to areas of consideration, possible correction and hopefully safer diving.

Presenter: Dr. John J. Freiberger

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Nasha and Nae Nae's Kids Sea Camp Adventure

Abstract: A family fairy tale story about two girls in the Bahamas who overcame great challenges on their quest to learn how to SCUBA dive. The presentation is presented as a fairy tale style story and is appropriate for clinic guests and their family

Presenter: Woodrow Tinsley

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North Wind: Huron's Forgotten Wreck

Abstract: The North Wind was a 299' steel freighter built in 1888. She was lost on a clear day in 1926 in Lake Huron's North Channel. While other shipwrecks grab headlines for weeks, the North Wind was almost immediately forgotten. No visible collision damage. Questions remain as to her sinking. This video will tour both hallways, engine room, and more of this nearly intact wreck in 80-130 ft of water.

Presenter: Marshall Allan

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Palau and Chuuk - Jewels of the Pacific

Abstract: Micronesia contains some of the best diving on the planet. Join Doug Sloss as he takes you an a visual journey through two of the most extraordinary diving spots in the Pacific. Doug will showcase and talk about Palau, its famous Rock Islands, beautiful walls, pelagic predators and exotic Jellyfish Lake. Join Doug as he explore the diving opportunities that exist in Chuuk Lagoon.

Presenter: Doug Sloss

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Philippine Macro

Abstract: Philippine diving is little publicized in our dive journals. Stan Waterman discovered a spectacular "sleeper" with some of the finest macro video he has encountered in his years of diving.

Presenter: Stan Waterman

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Sharks in the Northeast: A Closer Look

Abstract: Not a lot of divers associate cool temperate waters with sharks, but the northeast provides valuable habitat to several oceanic and coastal species. Packed with video and incredible photography, this presentation highlights the diversity and identification of these elusive creatures. This seminar also provides a unique glimpse into how researchers study the ecology and natural history of sharks using new high tech tools.

Presenter: Gregory Skomal

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Silent Requiem

Abstract: Sharks, once the mighty rulers of the sea, are now facing the legitimate threat of extinction. Seeking to dispel the myths and sensationalism surrounding them,Silent Requiem delivers a visually stunning and informative look at these majestic creatures. Through this film you will explore the world of the shark and learn some simple ways to prolong its vital existence.

Presenter: Joe Romeiro, Bill Fisher

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Sub Hunting: Searching for Lost Submarines

Abstract: Join Vince as he shares the disappointments and triumphs in hunting for submarines. From the 19th century Finnean Ram and Alligator JR to the WWII U-215. Vince recounts the adventures in a multimedia presentation including broadcast video never aired in the US from the Sea Hunters TV series.

Presenter: Vincent J. Capone

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Summer Under the Sea

Abstract: The latest chapter in the story of the Scalli Internship, my adventures included assisting researchers at the National Park on Bonaire, working with the marine veterinarian and penguin staff at the New England Aquarium, participation in a Flying after Diving study at DAN, and underwater video training while wreck diving in Lake Huron. Come hear about the amazing people that you can meet and the things that you can do as the Scalli Intern.

Presenter: Kimberly Malkoski

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The Art of Divemastering

Abstract: Learn the fine art of divemastering.

Presenter: Andrea Zaferes

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The Beer-Drinking Pigs of St. Croix

Abstract: From his home in the American Caribbean, Paul Cater Deaton takes us on an “Indiana Jones” style seaplane flight to St. Croix for a high-voltage SCUBA diving adventure on the island's famous walls. With our taxi driver, Calypso singer “The Mighty Pat,” we motor up centuries-old Mahogany Road to have a cold one with the infamous “Beer-Drinking Pigs of St. Croix.” We see remnants of the Colonial Era and romantic Christiansted Boardwalk, and end up dancing Quadrille with the locals. We spend the evening with Senator Shawn-Michael Malone, who made Quelbe, the Official Music of the Virgin Islands.

Presenter: Paul Cater Deaton

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The Best of the Pacific Northwest

Abstract: The Pacific Northwest of the US and Canada represents some of the best exploration diving in the world. From incredible marine life interactions with giant pacific octopus, wolfeels, and sea lions to colorful walls loaded with invertebrates to virgin shipwrecks, this part of the world has something for everyone!

Presenter: Faith Ortins

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The Essence of the Image

Abstract: Join Ernie Brooks, one of the masters of photography on a journey of discovery and imagery as he shares his vision of art and how he captures his wondrous images. If you are serious about your photography or just want to take an intimate voyage with a Michelangelo of the lens, this is a presentation not to be missed.

Presenter: Ernie Brooks

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The History of the WHOI Diving Program

Abstract: Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution was one of the first research institutions to use scuba diving, beginning in 1952. This presentation will take a look behind the history of scientific diving at WHOI.

Presenter: Terry, Maggie Rioux

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The Lore of Lusca: The Blue Holes of the Bahamas

Abstract: Over the course of 5 expeditions to the remote corners of the Bahamas, including a most recent expedition in December 2008, I have documented the critical science being undertaken in the mysterious blue hole cave systems. These systems’ offer clues into lost civilizations, harbor biological resources of interest in discovering new medicines, and are a source of cultural and societal upheaval for the Bahamian people given ancient folklore depicting the ‘Lusca’, a shark/octopus-like monster which resides in the caves . This presentation offers a glimpse at these unique cave systems, and discusses current regional conservation efforts, or lack thereof.

Presenter: Michael Lombardi

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The Making of Axis Mundi

Abstract: For 10 years Curt Bowen has been going back to the middle of the jungle in Yucatan. In this presentation Nathalie shares an inside look into an amazing expedition. Following the team, Nathalie filmed every moment from planning to the descent in the deep of the cenotes, not forgetting the discovery of skeletons.

Presenter: Nathalie Lasselin

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The Sharks of French Polynesia

Abstract: The islands of French Polynesia are a diver’s delight. Spread over a section of the South Pacific Ocean larger than Europe, the many islands and atolls offer rich coral reefs, exciting marine life encounters and heart-stopping drift dives through “passes” in the surrounding reefs. And on many of these islands, sharks are the star attraction. Join Eco-Photo Explorers as they dive with Grey Reef Sharks in Bora Bora, Lemon Sharks in Moorea, Blacktip Reef Sharks in Fakarava and Silvertip Sharks in Rangiroa. Learn about jaw-dropping Manta Ray encounters in Manihi and where the best place is to see Humpback Whales. In addition, fly through the famous Tiputa Pass, one of the most exciting drift dives in all the world. Travel logistics, as well as a wealth of diving information, will be presented on this outstanding destination.

Presenter: Michael Salvareza, Christopher Weaver

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Think Whales Were Saved? Think Again: Protecting Whales Around the World

Abstract: Whale watching is a billion dollar a year industry. Still, thousands of whales annually fall victim to entanglement, vessel collisions, noise pollution, and even commercial whaling. Jake Levenson will speak about the economic benefits of whale conservation and reveal some innovative technological solutions for protecting whales from modern-day threats.

Presenter: Jake Levenson

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Underwater Video: More Tips and Tricks from the Pros

Abstract: A follow up on the popular original, practical underwater video 'Tips and Tricks' provided by notable industry professionals are reviewed. The 'secrets' are graciously provided by award winning pros like Bob Cranston, Howard Hall and Stan Waterman and focus on shooting technique, lighting, color correction, and editing to help the novice to aspire professional improve their underwater video.

Presenter: John Ellerbrock

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