News
Handicapped Scuba Association launches new website
The Handicapped Scuba Association (HSA) have launched a new website.
The new site is built on a strong foundation of intricate coding provided by Victor Grimaldi over his 7 years as HSA Web Master. Now the fresh, fun and fanciful touch comes to you through the inspiration of Web Designer Polett Villalta.
A native of Venezuela, Polett was injured while playing at the ocean’s edge when she was 12 years old. After her injury left her quadriplegic, Polett concentrated on the limitless world of computers and possesses extensive knowledge from programming/hardware/software to her specialty in graphic design. With the eye of the artist Polett has painted a depiction of HSA…past, present and future. Together, Polett and Jim Gatacre (HSA’s founder) composed a site that is quick and easy to navigate.
Traverse a clear path from the basics (i.e. “About Us”) to the specifics: HSA Course Directors (CD’s) and Instructors can effortlessly register a newly certified student and/or update the status of an existing one.
If you’re not already an HSA member the site will show you how to join, donate or find the scuba instruction you’re looking for. If you ARE an HSA CD or Instructor the new look enables you to post your scheduled classes and trips where every visitor will see them.
The site continues the functions and features for which the HSA is known worldwide. It also introduces a bold, modern styling filled with color, action and forward-thinking such as exclusive front page videos. Showing now is the irrepressible Linda Norlund, the star of HSA’s first video. Linda was certified by Gatacre 18 years ago and has since logged over 100 dives. An auto accident when she was 16 resulted in a brain stem injury that affects her muscular control and coordination. Watch her and be amazed!
HSA’s reputation as the source for scuba training and travel for people with disabilities includes their international network of specially trained and certified Course Directors, Instructors, Dive Buddies and, of course, their Open Water divers.
The motive force within the heart of HSA has always been and will be its people… a membership of 8,500 growing steadily since the organisation’s founding in 1981. HSA’s programs are currently taught throughout the USA and in 45 countries.
Visit the new site here: www.hsascuba.com
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Four opportunities to go pro in 2024 with Dive Friends Bonaire
Dive Friends teaches the Instructor Development Course (IDC) several times a year to students who are eager to share their passion for diving with the world.
Dive Friends is known for the personal approach throughout the course. Their in-house course director will lead the students through every essential step, mentoring them to achieve their fullest potential as a dive instructor.
Applications for the following IDC start dates are now open:
- 12 April
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- 29 November
Partnership with Casita Palma
If the student opts for the IDC-Deluxe or IDC-Supreme package, their accommodation will be arranged for them at Casita Palma. This small and quiet resort is within walking distance from Dive Friends Bonaire’s main dive shop location and has everything you need to relax after an intense day of IDC training. Breakfast is included, so the student will always be fuelled and ready for their day.
Contact Dive Friends Bonaire’s Course Director Eddy for more information: coursedirector@divefriendsbonaire.com.
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