Aquatics International articles from March 2006

Aquatics International archives from March 2006

A matter of maturity.(FROM THE EDITOR)(workplace roles)(Editorial)
March 1, 2006... In America, 15-year-olds aren't allowed to do much, at least not legally. They can't drive. They can't drink. And they can't vote. But thanks to the extraordinary efforts of an industry coalition, they can now do something with vastly more...

Ideas for creating diverse pools.(LETTERS)(Letter to the editor)
March 1, 2006... As chronicled by Shabnam Mogharabi in her expose, "In the Minority" (Aquatics International October 2005), minority populations are scarce in swimming programs. So how do municipalities attract diversity for public pools? As it prepares to...

Boatloads of fun: leisure-pool amenities have taken to the seas as luxury liners woo families.(CRUISE SHIPS)
March 1, 2006... It used to be, you sailed the high seas. But with cruise ships offering more leisure-pool amenities, you can also surf it. Along with surf machines, water slides, spraypads, play features, surfing rides and other leisure-pool amenities are...

Cost overruns.(swimming facility shut down)(Brief article)
March 1, 2006... Escalating costs are causing many world-class swimming facility projects to shut down. London's 2012 Olympic pool design cost twice its budget--$266 million--and was rejected. Canada is facing most overruns of $7.8 million for the 2006 Pan...

Northeast waterpark resorts.(Indoor waterpark fever )(Brief article)
March 1, 2006... Indoor waterpark fever has finally hit the Fast Coast. Last year, Great Waft Lodge opened a 67,000-square-foot indoor park in Williamsburg, Va., and a 78,000-square-footer in Pennsylvania's Pocono Mountains. In February, Six Flags Inc. unveiled...

Arch expands in Brazil, sells U.S. land.(Nordesclor S.A.)(Arch Chemicals Inc.)(Brief article)
March 1, 2006... Arch Chemicals Inc. has purchased the remaining 50 percent share of Nordesclor S.A., a Brazilian maker of calcium hypochlorite, from a joint venture partner. The Igarassu, Brazil-based Nordesdor produces cal-hypo under Arch's HTH brand....

2006 CPO handbook released.(National Swimming Pool Foundation)(Brief article)
March 1, 2006... The National Swimming Pool Foundation, based in Colorado Springs, Colo., has released the 2006 edition of the Certified Pool-Spa Operator Handbook. New sections include UV systems, sun safety, bather load calculations and risk management. The...

N.Y. sprayparks require UV: some manufacturers question the effectiveness and cost of the stipulation.(New York)(parks using recycled water)(Brief article)
March 1, 2006... In response to a recent spraypark outbreak, New York has issued a controversial emergency health code that requires ultraviolet disinfection systems. The code, which went into effect in January, was issued in response to the...

Media recognizes SCP, Pentair Stocks.(Brief article)
March 1, 2006... Both SCP Pool Corp. and Pentair Inc. have been recognized as a top-performing stock of the past decade and a best pick for 2006, respectively. Covington, La.-based SCP was ranked 8th on The Motley Fool's annual ranking of the 10 best stocks of...

Heart Association simplifies CPR.(new guidelines)(Brief article)
March 1, 2006... The American Heart Association has published new guidelines for cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and emergency cardiovascular care simplified guidelines make it easier far rescuers to remember the necessary skills, AHA said. The most...

New ruling allows 15-year-old lifeguards: a coalition of industry groups convinces the government to revise its position.(15-year-old lifeguards laws)
March 1, 2006... Many aquatics operators are breathing a collective sigh of relief after the U.S. Department of Labor rescinded a portion of its enforcement position that forbade lifeguards under age 16 to oversee waterparks. Last summer, Labor said...

Court rules in favor of pool.(Brief article)
March 1, 2006... A British Columbia (Canada) Court of Appeal has upheld a ruling that the city of Port Coquitlam is not liable for a swimming accident. In September 2002, Kelly Geraghty was doing the backstroke when she collided with another swimmer. Geraghty...

ISHOF announces this year's inductees.(International Swimming Hall of Fame)(Brief article)
March 1, 2006... The International Swimming Hall of Fame announced its list of 2006 inductees. Honorees will be officially initiated on May 13, 2006, in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. Honor Swimmers include Joe Bottom and Tom Dolan from the USA, and Susan O'Neill and...

NSPF partners with IPSSA: the agreement is vet another strategic partnership for the CPO course.(National Swimming Pool Foundation)(Independent Pool and Spa Service Association Inc)(Certified Pool Operator Program)(Brief article)
March 1, 2006... The National Swimming Pool Foundation has signed a partnership agreement with the Independent Pool & Spa Service Association Inc. that will further expand the Certified Pool Operator Program. As part of the agreement, NSPF will train 10...

Industry bids farewell to Aquatics icon Millay.(father of the waterpark)(Obituary)(Brief article)
March 1, 2006... George Millay, the "father of the waterpark," passed away in his sleep Feb. 6. Millay had been fighting cancer for several years and died in his San Diego home. He was 76. Many credit the native Californian for creating an industry based...

Salt solutions? New technological advances may make saline chlorination worth another look.(Saline chlorination systems)
March 1, 2006... Though facilities have used it for years, saline chlorination, otherwise known as on-site sodium hypochlorite generation or simply chlorine generation, is a little-used technology in the U.S. commercial pool market. However, the process has...

Deadly triggers: genetic drowning triggers may explain why otherwise healthy swimmers drown--and help insulate facilities from liability.(healthy swimmers athletes drown)
March 1, 2006... When perfectly healthy swimmers who are good athletes drown, it is often a mystery. Family and friends typically respond to these tragedies in disbelief, exclaiming, "How could this happen? He loved the water! He was such a good swimmer!" ...

The leisure set.(FIELD REPORT)
March 1, 2006... An exclusive Aquatics International Field Report reveals the latest trends in today's leisure pools. What do they say about the state of the industry--and where do you fit in? READY FOR A FACE-LIFT The leisure pool trend is showing its...

Spraying power: maintaining a spraypark means more than just constantly monitoring chemicals. It also requires changing patrons' attitudes and park policies.
March 1, 2006... Trained staffers test the 10,000-square-foot, 100-jet spraypark daily. On some days, they test multiple times. In the four years since the now infamous Seneca Lake State Park built the first state-run spraypark, it never had any major...

Balancing act: when it comes to a facility's long-term viability, balancing leisure with competition is key. A new study shows why.
March 1, 2006... As designers, whenever we are engaged by a community that wants to build a new aquatics center, we usually face the same dilemma: How do we meet the needs of the entire community when one special interest group, such as competitive swimmers,...

Beach access.(THE SOURCE: THE LATEST PRODUCTS, TECHNOLOGY AND INNOVATIONS FROM MANUFACTURERS)
March 1, 2006... Marine Rescue Products' beach access chair has two new, smaller rear swivel wheels that have been added to improve beach maneuverability; standard larger wheels are still available; comes with rear storage area, brake, sliding footrest and...

Work it out.(THE SOURCE: THE LATEST PRODUCTS, TECHNOLOGY AND INNOVATIONS FROM MANUFACTURERS)
March 1, 2006... H20 Gym presents powerless aqua-gym equipment, packaged with 34 programmable protocols; designed for those interested in fitness and wellness who are overweight, senior and in the low ADL population; the patented design is foldable, and slides...

Comfort collar.(THE SOURCE: THE LATEST PRODUCTS, TECHNOLOGY AND INNOVATIONS FROM MANUFACTURERS)
March 1, 2006... Adolph Kiefer & Associates presents the neoprene float collar, designed for comfortable wear; use for flotation therapy or deep-water exercise; the quick-release, adjustable slide fastener eliminates Velcro, which can damage swimwear; black...

Accessible for all.(THE SOURCE: THE LATEST PRODUCTS, TECHNOLOGY AND INNOVATIONS FROM MANUFACTURERS)
March 1, 2006... Fastsigns International offers ADA-compliant directional signs and graphics designed to make facilities accessible to everyone; in some cases, signs can bring a business into compliance by their very presence, or be incorporated into the plans...

Adolph Kiefer & Associates.(NRPA AQUATIC SHOW EXHIBITORS)
March 1, 2006... Product: CPR Rescue Tube Features: 40-inch multipurpose design with built-in CPR mask pocket (mask sold separately); Derlin buckles, 12-inch extension strap, 6-foot heavy-duty tow line and 40-inch harness Offerings: special pricing for...

Aqua Products.(NRPA AQUATIC SHOW EXHIBITORS)
March 1, 2006... Product: Robotic Pool Vacuums Features: company offers a variety of robotic pool-cleaning vacuums: Gemini (shown), Ultramax, Aquamax, Magnum, Jetmax; options include remote control, air sensor, Aqua Kart and more Contact: Aqua Products...

Arch Chemicals.(NRPA AQUATIC SHOW EXHIBITORS)
March 1, 2006... Product: Pulsar IntelliColor Controller Features: automatic controller measures and regulates pH and residual level of free chlorine in pool and spa water; takes free chlorine readings using colorimetry or DPD technology, a method used in...

American Red Cross.(NRPA AQUATIC SHOW EXHIBITORS)
March 1, 2006... Product: Aquatic Safely Training Features: training in lifeguarding, learn-to-swim, lifeguard management and aquatic examiner service; free online resource for all ARC-certified instructors includes program updates, teaching aids, course...

Aquam Aquatic Specialist.(NRPA AQUATIC SHOW EXHIBITORS)
March 1, 2006... Product: Foam Toys Features: all models are made from EVA foam in a variety of bright colors; wide selection of toys in numerous shapes and sizes; play rafts, ring game, floating basketball game and funny floats are a few examples ...

Brock Enterprises.(NRPA AQUATIC SHOW EXHIBITORS)
March 1, 2006... Product: Weda Pool Cleaner Features: cleaner is guaranteed to handle the largest of swimming pools, per manufacturer; made with cast aluminum pumps, drive units and frames Contact: Brock Enterprises, Hamden, Conn. 800.332.2360; Booth...

Anchor Industries.(NRPA AQUATIC SHOW EXHIBITORS)
March 1, 2006... Product: Funbrella Palm Features: 20-foot permanent, nonretractable umbrella is constructed of a new mesh material that provides 95 percent UV blockage; designed to exceed structural codes for an 85-mph, 3-second gust velocity; 4...

Aquatic Development Group.(NRPA AQUATIC SHOW EXHIBITORS)
March 1, 2006... Product: Commercial Pool Products Features: company offers a line of commercial pool products, including FlowRider surfing system (shown), the WaveTek and Maxawave wave-generating systems, AFW movable pool floor and Whitten commercial...

Chemtrol.(NRPA AQUATIC SHOW EXHIBITORS)
March 1, 2006... Product: Chemical and Filtration Control Systems Features: automated systems provide full programmability of chemistry, filtration, heater, water balance and remote operation Contact: Chemtrol, Santa Barbara, Calif. 800.621.2279; Booth...

ECOmatic by Balboa Direct.(NRPA AQUATIC SHOW EXHIBITORS)
March 1, 2006... Product: Commercial Saltwater Generators Features: systems are designed to reduce chloramines, which cause eye and skin irritation and unpleasant odors; breaks down contaminants such as sun products and body oils; high hourly output and a...

Engineered Treatment Systems.(NRPA AQUATIC SHOW EXHIBITORS)
March 1, 2006... Product: UV Treatment Systems Feotures: new ETS EcoFLo II UV system can be mounted horizontally or vertically and works for retrofit installations; two lamps and a straight through-flow path for high penetration while extending the lamp...

The Finals.(NRPA AQUATIC SHOW EXHIBITORS)
March 1, 2006... Product: Reactor Splice Suits Features: performance suits for women and men are 80 percent nylon, 20 percent Lycra fabric construction with lining for added performance, durability and comfort in the water; sizes 24-40 female, with tough...

[H.sub.2]O Innovations.(NRPA AQUATIC SHOW EXHIBITORS)
March 1, 2006... Product: Aqua Step HD Features: portable access system comes in 36- and 30-inch widths; the heavy-duty design features provide service for users weighing up to 450+ pounds, per maker Offerings: five-year structural warranty Contact:...

NSPF.(NRPA AQUATIC SHOW EXHIBITORS)
March 1, 2006... Product: Educational Products Features: nonprofit organization is committed to encouraging healthier living through aquatic education and research; provides a forum for public health officials and others at the World Aquatic Health...

Neptune-Benson.(NRPA AQUATIC SHOW EXHIBITORS)
March 1, 2006... Product: Griswold Pumps Features: company distributes pumps for the recreational water industry, including pools, waterparks and fountains; constructed of cast iron, with NEMA electric trivoltage motors; made for longevity and easy...

Palintest USA.(NRPA AQUATIC SHOW EXHIBITORS)
March 1, 2006... Product: Pooltest 9 Photometer Features: capable of accurately measuring routine pool and spa parameters, such as chlorine, bromine, ozone, pH, alkatinity, calcium hardness end cyanuric acid; commercial pool operators can calibrate their...

Rain Drop Products.(NRPA AQUATIC SHOW EXHIBITORS)
March 1, 2006... Product: Enhanced Sanitation Protection Features: ESP is designed to reduce chemical usage; helps to rapidly remove organics and reduce the presence of sweat, lotions, oils and other contaminants, per manufacturer; can reduce water lost due...

Paragon Aquatics.(NRPA AQUATIC SHOW EXHIBITORS)
March 1, 2006... Product: Standard and Custom Steel Rails Features: company offers custom and standard fabricated stainless steel railings; variety of grab, stair, therapeutic and exercise rails available; engineers specialize in custom designs ...

Recreonics.(NRPA AQUATIC SHOW EXHIBITORS)
March 1, 2006... Product: Portable Vacuum Filters Features: stainless steel cartridge filter, thermal plastic pump, waterproof switch, prewired GFI protector, 1.5-inch suction and discharge connections, all mounted an stainless steel cart with heavy-duty...

PPG Industries.(NRPA AQUATIC SHOW EXHIBITORS)
March 1, 2006... Product: Titan Chlorination System Features: designed to provide consistent chlorine delivery; can be combined with Accu-Tab calcium hypochlorite tablets for a reliable, NSF-certified system, per maker; available for commercial pools, spas...

Siemens.(NRPA AQUATIC SHOW EXHIBITORS)
March 1, 2006... Product: Strantrol Impact Chemical Controller Features: touch-screen for intuitive menu navigation; remote HMI face panel and modular platform for flexible configurations; proprietary probes simultaneously measure ppm/ORP Contact:...

Spectrum Aquatics.(NRPA AQUATIC SHOW EXHIBITORS)
March 1, 2006... Product: Traveler XRC Features: complies with ADA/ABA laws, per maker; wireless radio frequency controlled, four-channel receiver; three operating control points; options include headrest, upper body restraints and seat cushion ...

Vortex Aquatic Structures Intl.(NRPA AQUATIC SHOW EXHIBITORS)
March 1, 2006... Product: Spray Cannon Features: rotates 360 degrees and has a controllable spray zone that can soak anyone within a 30-foot radius Offerings: 25-year warranty; conceptualized renderings; layout drawings; on-site support and more ...

S.R. Smith.(NRPA AQUATIC SHOW EXHIBITORS)
March 1, 2006... Product: Commercial Pool Products Features: company offers starting blocks, portable and permanent lifeguard chairs, diving boards, ladders and custom rails; new side-mount starting blocks are made for faster, safer starts with customized...

Water Technology.(NRPA AQUATIC SHOW EXHIBITORS)
March 1, 2006... Product: Aquatic Planners, Designers, Engineers Features: portfolio includes indoor and outdoor waterparks, resort/hotel pools, family aquatics centers, sprayparks, indoor and outdoor leisure pools, competition pools, university and high...

Sun Ports International.(NRPA AQUATIC SHOW EXHIBITORS)
March 1, 2006... Product: Coolbrella Features: 20-foot-diameter umbrella is specifically designed to provide e permanent shade solution for weterparks and theme parks; available in a variety of fabric and steel colors; con be custom-designed Contact:...

Whitewater West Industries Ltd.(NRPA AQUATIC SHOW EXHIBITORS)
March 1, 2006... Product: AquaPlay AP200 Features: interactive water-play structure has slides, valves, cranks, cannons, net climbs and spray features that give the user control Contact: Whitewater West Industries Ltd., Richmond, British Columbia,...

4 Sons Custom Palm Trees.(PARKSCAPES)
March 1, 2006... Product: Artificial Palm Trees Features: artificial palm trees for outdoor use; products are available in many styles and sizes Contact: 4 Sons Custom Palm Trees Inc., Langhorne, Pa. 800.223.2051 Circle 490 on Postage-Free Card ...

Aqua Control.(PARKSCAPES)
March 1, 2006... Product: Fountains, Aerators, Waterfall Pumps Features: company offers floating fountains and aerators, free-standing fountains and waterfall pumps; pump sizes up to 40hp for various water-features; controls and lights are available in 35...

Empex Watertoys.(PARKSCAPES)
March 1, 2006... Product: Aquawave T450 Features: new kiddie wave slide is mode from corrosion-resistant fiberglass and can be used in shallow pools and sprayparks with chlorinated water; can be used on sloping beach entries or level play surfaces; product...

American Wave Machines.(PARKSCAPES)
March 1, 2006... Product: SurfStream Features: compact, low-maintenance standing wave machine for hotel/ resorts, waterparks end action sports venues; designed for compact areas without the need for a large surge tank or surf-pool type installation; water...

Counsilman-Hunsaker.(PARKSCAPES)
March 1, 2006... Product: Aquatic Planners and Designers Features: company offers aquatic design, planning and engineering; portfolio includes universities, high schools, recreation centers and more Contact: Counsilman-Hunsaker, St. Louis, 314.894.1245...

Fantasy Fountains.(PARKSCAPES)
March 1, 2006... Product: Fountains and Other Items Features: company offers a variety of fountains, lighting, pumps end floating fountains Contact: Fantasy Fountains, Newport Beach, Calif. 949.955.2007 Circle 483 on Postage-Free Card

Anchor Industries.(PARKSCAPES)
March 1, 2006... Product: Funbrella Palm Features: 20-foot permanent, nonretractable umbrella is constructed of a new mesh material that provides 95 percent UV blockage; designed to exceed structural codes for an 85-mph, 3-second gust velocity; 4...

D&D Technologies.(PARKSCAPES)
March 1, 2006... Product: Magna-Latch and Tru-Close Features: Magna-Latch magnetic pool gate self-latch is rustproof, child-resistant, and adjustable vertically and horizontally; two models for shorter or taller gates; Tru-Close hinges are self-closing,...

Kay Park Recreation Corp.(PARKSCAPES)
March 1, 2006... Product: Pedal Cruisers Features: commercial pedal boats have fiberglass construction, 100 percent foam-filled pontoons, self-draining seats and pedal wells, regreasable bearings, direct-drive paddle wheel; steering wheel is made to steer...

Markey and Associates.(PRODUCT FOCUS)
March 1, 2006... Product: Park Planning Features: company offers planning end design of public or commercial aquatics parks, competition pools and institutional pools; and management of the construction phase Contact: Markey and Associates Inc.,...

OpenAire.(PRODUCT FOCUS)
March 1, 2006... Product: Retractable Roof Structures Features: the company designs, manufactures and installs retractable roof structures with movable skylights; roofs are capable of opening more than 50 percent, designed for an outdoor feel and to save...

Pyramide USA.(PRODUCT FOCUS)
March 1, 2006... Product: AquaClimb Features: poolside climbing walls are based on 3-by-3-meter, chlorine-resistant, nonslip, fiberglass panels with movable, resin-based handholds; models are available for pools of various sizes end shapes Contact:...

Shade Systems.(PRODUCT FOCUS)
March 1, 2006... Product: Shade Covers Features: patented Turn-N-Slide easy canopy removal system; the company manufactures sun-protection products for use at pool or picnic areas, water-play and other outdoor gathering places Contact: Shade Systems...

Most Dependable Fountains.(PRODUCT FOCUS)
March 1, 2006... Product: Safe-Stream Bubbler Features: retrofits to existing chilled and nonchilled drinking fountains; made of heavy-duty stainless steel; self-sealing and sanitary; secure O-ring is made to provide a safe and protective environment...

PEM Surface Creations.(PRODUCT FOCUS)
March 1, 2006... Product: Aquatic Matting Features: utilized at commercial facilities with spray-decks, pool decks, locker rooms, showers, steps, ramps and more; matting incorporates a textured slip-resistant surface, porous design and soft PVC...

R.J. Thomas Mfg. Co.(PRODUCT FOCUS)
March 1, 2006... Product: Square Park Tables Features: pedestal tables offer secure, permanent Locations; square seating pattern is made to enhance interaction between visitors and can be used as e game table; top and seat materials include wood, recycled...

Tailwind Furniture.(PRODUCT FOCUS)
March 1, 2006... Product: Outdoor Furniture Features: environmentally friendly furniture is made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE), a recycled plastic derived from post-consumer bottle waste (milk containers); stainless steel fasteners;...

NorthEast Aquatic Design & Supply.(PRODUCT FOCUS)
March 1, 2006... Product: Spray 'N Play Features: versatile and durable modular spray deck system, per manufacturer Offerings: 10/25-year warranty Contact: NorthEast Aquatic Design & Supply, Peabody, Mass. 978.535.7900; Circle 479 on...

Premier Polysteel.(PRODUCT FOCUS)
March 1, 2006... Product: Outdoor Furniture Features: Plastisol-coated picnic tables, benches, litter receptacles and bike racks the Plastisol coating also is on seats, tops end legs, with stainless steel hardware Contact: Premier Polysteel, Northwood,...

Roman Fountain Corp.(PRODUCT FOCUS)
March 1, 2006... Product: RTN-Series Trident Nozzle Features: company offers one nozzle body with three interchangeable tops producing three different spray patterns Offerings: special pricing and literature Contact: Roman Fountain Corp., Albuquerque,...

Taiyo Birdair Corp.(PRODUCT FOCUS)
March 1, 2006... Product: Umbrellas and Shade Structures Features: preassembled umbrellas with 47-to 222-square-foot coverage; cantilevered, corner or center supports; wind rated; closable and linkable for more coverage; stainless steel connections;...

Aqua Products names executive vice president.(Aqua Products )(Brief article)
March 1, 2006... George Williams has joined Aqua Products as executive vice president, responsible for the firm's North American business operations. With more than 30 years' experience in aquatics sales, marketing and executive management, Williams will...

IAAPA taps Bray to replace Robinson.(International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions)(Brief article)
March 1, 2006... Clark Robinson, president/CEO of the International Association of Amusement Parks & Attractions, announced his retirement, effective Feb. 1. His successor, Charles Bray, was hired as CFO of the Alexandria, Va.-based IAAPA in 2004. He has more...

Calendar.(Calendar)
March 1, 2006... MARCH 1-2 AFO Course Austin, Texas 703.858.0784 www.nrpa.org 1-6 National Aquatic Conference & Exposition Austin, Texas 703.858.0784 www.nrpa.org/nac 11-13 FINA Diving Grand Prix 2 Moscow, Russia...

Lost and found: an operator discovers that letting parents drop off and pick up their children can put facilities in dicey situations.
March 1, 2006... Ashley is the assistant aquatics supervisor of a multiuse facility in Southern California. Like many facilities, "Ashley's" lets parents drop off and pick up kids for swim lessons. It seemed like a straightforward, user-friendly service until...