Although diving was a top interest, it did not exceed his love for music, having trained in percussion since childhood.  Bill and Diane joined forces for the next 11 years as professional musicians, touring the country and overseas.

In 1989 it was time for a haircut!  Settling in Crystal River, Florida, the years since have been devoted to guided manatee tours during the winter months and dive instruction year round, primarily during the dog (not a popular aquatic animal) days of summer. 

Bird has now taught thousands of classes, including: Basic Scuba, Full Cave, Tri-Mix and others.

Diane became an instructor in 1992 for PADI, 1993 for NAUI and 1995 for the National Speleological Society's Cave Diving Section.  She has written 4 articles for the Southern diver issue of Skin Diver magazine and opened another small business called Bird's Eye Video Productions to promote an extensive underwater video library.  At this point, Diane limits instruction, professing a full plate with the basic business operations, manatee tours, underwater videography and raising future diver Captain Karl.

Bird and friends

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Diane and Karl

 
Notes to Bird's Underwater

• "... thank you sooo soo much!  The information package is all very wonderful, not to mention the Mana-Tee Shirt.  It fits perfectly."

• "... a lifelong dream fulfilled.  My appreciation of the manatee has been enhanced and my interest deepened."

• "... the service your shop provides is first-rate."

• "... your knowledge of the manatees and the waters in this area is impressive."

Bird, Karl, Victor, Dmitry, and Diane Oestreich