Aquatics International articles from November 2003

Aquatics International archives from November 2003

Standard strength.(Editorial)
November 1, 2003... The aquatics industry has a lot of strengths: dedicated professionals passionate about what they do and a growing market, to name just two. But it also has a potentially devastating weakness, one that simultaneously threatens its growth...

More water safety needed.(Letters)(Letter to the Editor)
November 1, 2003... I read with great interest your article titled "Standard Issue" that appeared in the October 2003 issue of Aquatics International. Although I agree with most of what was stated in the article, I was somewhat discouraged that there was no...

Beaches should have more lifeguards.(Letters)(Letter to the Editor)
November 1, 2003... Thank you for highlighting the ongoing problem related to beach drownings in the Florida Panhandle in the Newsbrief section of your September edition. I would respectfully wish, however, to correct an important inaccuracy. You stated in...

A disturbing trend.(Letters)(Letter to the Editor)
November 1, 2003... I just read the article Clear the Pool--Now" ("In or Out: Point/Counterpoint," May 2003 issue). The authors, Mr. Kithil and Mr. Johnston, fail to insightfully address why people object to unreasonable "safety" standards. They attribute...

Bully pulpit: water safety is hard enough, but how do you handle bullies creating mayhem at your pool?(Risk Management)
November 1, 2003... Bullies. Every facility has them at one time or another, but not every facility manager knows how to effectively deal with them, or even spot them. "Bullying is something that has gone on for years," says Ron Rhinehart, a vice...

Understimating the problem: drowning deaths are seriously in the U.S.--and everyone pays the price.(Perspectives)(faulty reporting of accidents and lack of funding)
November 1, 2003... Every year, according to statistics, roughly the same number of people die in drowning accidents as fires. Yet drowning-prevention programs receive just a fraction of the billions of dollars dedicated to fire prevention. There are numerous...

Following their hearts: though leaving NRPA, two professionals says a passion for aquatics will keep them in field.(National Recreation and Park Association)(Interview)
November 1, 2003... The National Recreation and Park Association lost two well-known members of the aquatics industry last month when it consolidated several regional offices into its headquarters in Ashburn, Va. Lili McGovern, manager of NRPA's aquatic...

Building character: renovating a beloved neighborhood pool on a shoestring budget taught this park's board valuable lessons in creative designing and community involvement.
November 1, 2003... When the Bloomington (Indiana) Parks and Recreation Department wanted to make over one of its city pools into a spraypark two years ago, the officials were surprised to meet with so much resistance from the community. The 25 meter Ralph R....

Design on a dime: creative design options can breathe new life into your pool facility without costing a fortune.
November 1, 2003... When Fort Collins, Colo., redesigned the town's 50 year-old municipal swimming pool, it built a whole new facility, featuring a pool with a lazy river and two interactive play parks. The redesign made a big splash, but it also cost a small...

Getting better all the time.(From the Editor)(Editorial)
November 1, 2003... Before we get to the winners of this year's Best of Aquatics competition how about a little sympathy for the judges? It was their head-scratching task to sift through the many entries from around the industry and finally pick the best of...

2003 Best of aquatics judges.
November 1, 2003... Adolph Kiefer, a member of the Aquatics International Advisory Board, runs Adolph Kiefer and Associates, a Zion, Ill., aquatic supply company founded in 1947. He won an Olympic gold medal in the 100-meter backstroke at the 1936 Berlin Games,...

School pride: a small high school boasts a big-time aquatics facility.(Best University/School Facility)(Albuquerque Academy)(Brief Article)
November 1, 2003... At first glance, the $5.5-million Albuquerque Academy Natatorium looks like a top-notch university facility. Actually, it's a private high school with a storied aquatics history. As such, the pool, which claims its own share of awards, was...

Wild ride: after 26 years in business, the nation's first waterpark is still tops.(Best Waterpark)(Wet 'n Wild )(Brief Article)
November 1, 2003... Sometimes when you're the first to do something, everyone is always playcatch up. That seems to be the case with Wet 'n Wild, the world's first complete waterpark and the Best Waterpark in this year's Best of Aquatics contest. Though it's...

Following the programs: people are drawn to the diverse activities offered at this facility.(Best Fitness Club/Rehab Facility)(Sioux Valley Hospital Wellness Center)(Brief Article)
November 1, 2003... The staff is the reason the Sioux Valley Wellness Center is continuously recognized as a top-performing fitness and rehabilitation aquatics facility, says aquatic supervisor Kathy Grady. "We're always ahead of the times with our...

Making history: Portage Park Pool is rich with aquatic traditions and offerings.(Best Community Center)(Brief Article)
November 1, 2003... When aquatics legend Adolph Kiefer thinks your pool is tops, there's doubtless a good reason. Consider Chicago's Portage Park Pool, this year's Best Community Center recipient. Besides a venerable history, the pool still has what it takes to...

Best aquatics: awards gallery.
November 1, 2003... Best Waterpark Wet 'n Wild, Orlando, Fla. The world's first complete waterpark opened in 1977 and has been delighting water lovers ever since. The 25-acre Orlando, Fla., location contains 17 rides, including Bubble Up, a large,...

Getting results: over the years, Ted Boyett has produced some inspiring numbers.(Best University Manager)(Brief Article)
November 1, 2003... To understand just how successful Ted Boyett Jr. has made the University of Rhode Island's Tootell Aquatic Center-- and why he was named this year's Best University Manager--just consider the numbers. In 1995, the center taught just one or...

Black's magic: Michael Black's business savvy has kept Wet 'n Wild at the fore.(Best Waterpark Manager)(Brief Article)
November 1, 2003... When Michael Black became general manager of Wet 'n Wild in 1993, the park was at a crossroads. New parks front Disney, Sea World and Universal were giving the worlds first waterpark a run for its money. Black determined to up the ante....

The great motivator: Cal Hanson expects--and gets--the best from his staff. (Best Fitness Club/Rehab Facility Manager.
November 1, 2003... Not all managers have it the ability to inspire and motivate, to challenge and to remain a friend. At the Sioux Valley Hospital Wellness Center, the staff enthusiastically held up their facility director, Cal Hanson, as a model for all others...

Teaching by example: Jeanne Wunderle inspires former guards to pursue aquatic careers.(Best Community Center Manager)(Brief Article)
November 1, 2003... Jeanne Wunderle is the embodiment of the old saying that imitation is the sincerest form of flattery. Five of her former lifeguards now are fulltime parks and recreation professionals, with four of them following in Wunderle's footsteps as...

Basic Training: a new study shows why a lack of certified operators may be compromising water safety, and putting facilities at risk.
November 1, 2003... There's been a lot of talk lately about the need for better public pool water standards. The Centers for Disease Control recently underscored the issue with a report that showed more than half of all public pools in its study violated state...

Court allows student lawsuit.(Newsroom)
November 1, 2003... In a ruling that could open the door For more lawsuits, a California court has ruled that student athletes can sue their coaches. The case was brought by Olivia Kahn, a 14-year-old high school freshman who said she told her swim coach that...

Famous 1950s Water Comedian Led Full Life.
November 1, 2003... Would you believe one guy, starting in 1929, m was a film star... a dancer, acrobat, comic, truck driver's helper, diving champion, bellhop, camp swim instructor, football and track competitor, carhop, lifeguard, water-show star, war hero,...

Notable change at IAAPA headquarters.
November 1, 2003... The International Association of Amusement Parks & Attractions (IAAPA) has formally completed the reorganization of its Communication Services Department to more effectively manage a growing number of organizational goals. Industry image,...

Annual swim turns disastrous.
November 1, 2003... Hundreds of swimmers were rescued over Labor Day weekend during the 34th Waikiki Roughwater Swim in Honolulu. The swim is known for its tough swimming conditions, but race officials were surprised by the strength of the currents, reported...

Gazebos and spa enclosures.(Enclosure Products)
November 1, 2003... Gazebos and spa enclosures By Alliance Woodcraft Mfg. * Features: strongest gazebo be roof on market, according to manufacturer; leak-proof systems; wide selection of gazebos available; 75 models from which to choose * Contact:...

Pool fencing.(Enclosure Products)
November 1, 2003... Pool Fencing By Baby-Loc Ltd. * Features: removable mesh pool fencing helps deter toddlers; reinforced cored-fiberglass pole construction; solid brass, double-ended latches with stainless steel, spring loaded trigger mechanism *...

Magna-latch pool gate latches, tru-close hinges.(Enclosure Products)
November 1, 2003... Magna-Latch Pool Gate Latches, Tru-Close Hinges By D&D Technologies * Features: company says it offers magnetic and selflatching pool gate latches that offer no resistance to closure; Tru-Close self-closing hinges designed so gate...

12- and 20-foot funbrellas.(Enclosure Products)
November 1, 2003... 12-and 20-Foot Funbrellas By Anchor Industries *Features: giant perimanent umbrellas in many colors; made of fade-resistant acrylic fabrics, per maker; frames have 4-inch aluminum center pole and one-piece aluminum ground sleeve;...

Umbrellas, shade structures.(Enclosure Products)
November 1, 2003... Umbrellas, Shade Structures By Birdair * Features: company offers pre-assembled structures and closeable umbrellas in a variety of sizes, shapes and colors; designed for easy installation, wind-resistance; premium-grade materials;...

Pool dehumidification units.(Enclosure Products)
November 1, 2003... Pool Dehumidification Units By Desert Aire * Features: dehumidifiers with water coil eliminate moisture in pool rooms to create a dry environment and prevent structural damage from humidity, mold and mildew; economical; models have...

Superspan dome.(Enclosure Products)
November 1, 2003... Superspan Dome By Aquaflex Vinyl Engineering * Features: constructed using mate- K, rial rated to -40 degrees; air-supported; one-day installation; eliminates fall debris; easy spring removal; 20 colors available *...

Atria/garden prairie pool enclosures.(Enclosure Products)
November 1, 2003... Atria/Garden Prairie Pool Enclosures By CCSI Intl. * Features: color-coated aluminum frames and rafters minimize maintenance, per maker; manual or electronic opening, light-transmitting roof panels and sliding glass doors allow for...

Tensile fabric structures.(Enclosure Products)
November 1, 2003... Tensile Fabric Structures By FabricTec/Shade Concepts * Features:company designed for weather protection and the aestheticenhancement of any property; many fabric choices available; unlimited design options, per maker * Contact:...

Perma-Brella umbrella.(Enclosure Products)
November 1, 2003... By Kay Park Recreation * Features: durable, large shade umbrella; quick, easy installation, per maker; heavyduty framework; washable vinyl canopy; available in 12-,14- and 20-foot diameters * Contact: Kay Park Recreation, Janesville,...

Aluminum canopy.(Enclosure Products)
November 1, 2003... By KD Canopy * Features: aluminum construction designed to be 40 percent stronger, 25 percent lighter than steel models; adjustable legs; polyester fabric is fire-retardant, water-resistant and UV-protected, per maker; available in four...

Pittsburgh series all-steel shelters.(Enclosure Products)
November 1, 2003... By Litchfield Landscape Elements * Features: bolted tubular steel frame with ovencured enamel finish and pro-cut metal roof * Options/Accessories: double- or triple-tier roof, cupola, rails * Contact: Litchfield Landscape Elements....

Retractable roof enclosure and operable skylights.(Enclosure Products)
November 1, 2003... By Openaire * Features: according to manufacturer, the thermally broken aluminum structure is capable of clear spans up to 140 feet; ideal for waterparks, aquatics facilities, hotels, health clubs and more; all skylights and buildings are...

Space arena pool cover enclosure.(Enclosure Products)
November 1, 2003... By Plastimayd Corp. * Features: affordable way to extend swim season; three anchoring systems available; custommade to fit architectural needs; residential and commercial models * Contact: Plastimayd Corp., Clackamas, Ore.,...

Trackless retractable pool and spa enclosures.(Enclosure Products)
November 1, 2003... By Roll-A-Cover * Features: company's trackless, retractable pool and spa enclosures can hold up to 70-pound snow loads and withstand up to 130-mph winds, per maker * Options/Assessories: 10-year warranty * Contact: Roll-A-Cover,...

Pool enclosures.(Enclosure Products)
November 1, 2003... By Structures Unlimited * Features: constructed of corrosion-resistant aluminum box beams; highly insulating, per maker; diffuse light-transmitting panels designed to eliminate glare, shadows; thermally broken panels eliminate...

Shade units.(Enclosure Products)
November 1, 2003... By Sun Ports * Features: shade units designed for attractiveness, affordability, sun and heat protection; Shadesure cloth allows heat to escape; shields more than 90 percent of harmful UV rays, per maker; available in 12 colors *...

Aero-Dome pool enclosures.(Enclosure products)
November 1, 2003... By Vinyl Fabrications * Features: product is designed to allow users to extend the swim season; can be stored for open summer pool usage; custom shapes available; attractively priced * Contact: Vinyl Fabrications, Oroville, Calif....

Permabrella shade umbrellas.(Enclosure Products)
November 1, 2003... By Waterloo Tent and Tarp * Features: available in 12-, 14- and 20-foot diameters; made of Sunbrella fabric or Sunburst vinyl; removable crank handle for increased safety; custom colors, designs and logos available * Contact: Waterloo...

Aquatic barricades, umbrellas.(Enclosure Products)
November 1, 2003... By WMS Aquatics * Features: company offers catalog featuring state-of-the-art products, including barricades and giant umbrellas; wide variety of pool and spa products available at competitive prices, per company * Contact: WMS...

Air-supported structures.(Enclosure Products)
November 1, 2003... By Yeadon Fabric Domes * Features: company offers seasonal buildings that can provide year-round use of pool; more than 20 years' enclosure manufacturing experience * Contact: Yeadon Fabric Domes Inc., St. Paul, Minn. 800.493.2366 ...

Pool equipment.(Design, Theming and Parkscapes)
November 1, 2003... * Features: company manufactures a complete line of pool products, including WaveTek Wave Generation Systems, AFW Movable Pool Floors, Therapy Tubs and Whitten commercial products * Contact: Aquatic Development Group, Cohoes, N.Y....

Aquatics engineers.(Design, Theming and Parkscapes)
November 1, 2003... By Counsllman/Hunsaker & Associates * Features: company provides aquatics facility designers with experience in designing more than 400 aquatics projects * Contact: Counsilman/Hunsaker & Associates Inc., St. Louis 314.894.1245 ...

Play tower water-play product.(Design, Theming and Parkscapes)
November 1, 2003... By Most Dependable Fountains * Features: can be built in customheights; available in nine vibrant, standard colors; designed to be vandal-resistant, accessible, low maintenance; outdoor showers and drinking fountains also available *...

Aquatic and athletic architecture.(Design, Theming and Parkcapes)
November 1, 2003... By Bargman Hendrie & Archtype * Features: company provides design services for colleges and universities, community recreation centers, YMCAs, Boys & Girls Clubs and fitness clubs * Options/ Accessories: pools, rinks and gyms *...

Park equipment and benches.(Design, Theming and Parkcapes)
November 1, 2003... By Kay Park Recreation Corp, * Features: an assortment of park equipment, including tables, grills, benches, bleachers, bike racks, litter receptacles, pedal boats and more * Contact: Kay Park Recreation Corp., Janesville, Iowa...

Architecture and aquatic design.(Design, Theming and Parkscapes)
November 1, 2003... By Ohlson Lavoie Corp, * Features: company offers design, planning, interiors end recreation technology for aquatics facilities * Contact: Ohlson Lavoie Corp., Denver 303.294.9244 Circle 107 on Postage-Free Card [ILLUSTRATION...

Indoor and outdoor aquatics facilities.(Design, Theming and Parkscapes)
November 1, 2003... By Burbach Aquatics * Features: company has 25 years' experience and offers technical evaluations of existing facilities; market research, design, construction and administration of new facilities * Contact: Burbach Aquatics,...

Aquatic planning and design.(Design, Theming and Parkscape)
November 1, 2003... By Markey and Associates * Features: company offers planning and design services for family aquatics centers, commercial waterparks, competition and institutional pools * Contact: Markey and Associates, Kennesaw, Ga. 770.424.1306 ...

Child-sized park table.(Design, Theming and Parkscapes)
November 1, 2003... By Pilot Rock Park Equipment * Features: 12-inch-high seats and 22 inch-high tops to accommodate children up to age 10 or 11 ; all-welded frame construction; can be painted or hot-dip galvanized; tables can be 4-, 6- or 8 feet long *...

Aquatic engineering and design.(Design, Theming and Parkscapes)
November 1, 2003... By Ramaker & Associates * Features: company offers aquatic engineering and design services for aquatics parks and other public facilities * Contact: Ramaker & Associates Inc., Sauk City, Wis. 800.332.7532 Circle 109 on...

Aladdin smokers station.(Design, Theming and Parkscapes)
November 1, 2003... By United Receptacle * Features: product features oxygen-resistant design; nylon base buttons; stainless steel latches; nickel-plated security chain; 4.5 gallon galvanized steel liner; two hammertone finishes; anchoring kit and matching...

Commercial pool facility designers/suppliers.(Design, Theming and Parkscapes)
November 1, 2003... By Recreation Supply Co. * Features: company's commercial design department works with designers to ensure that the proper equipment is provided for aquatics facilities * Options/Accessories: special dealer pricing available *...

Aquatic planners, designers and engineers.(Design, Theming and Parkscapes)
November 1, 2003... By Water Technology * Features: company offers master planning, concept design, facility evaluations, full design services and construction administration; company portfolio includes waterparks, resort/hotel pools, aquatics centers,...

Aquatic design, engineering and consulting.(Design, Theming and Parkscapes)
November 1, 2003... By Rowley Intl. * Features: full-service engineering firm has designed nationally recognized aquatics facilities; more than 25 years' experience in the aquatics industry * Contact: Rowley Intl. Inc., Palos Verdes Estates, Calif.,...

'Spray Park Design' Software.(Design, Theming and Parkscapes)
November 1, 2003... By Waterplay Mtg. * Features: userfriendly product was developed to help landscape architects, parks and recreation directors, engineers or community groups design sprayparks * Contact: Waterplay Mfg. Inc., Penticton, British Columbia,...

Heat$AVR "liquid solar blanket".(Product showcase)
November 1, 2003... Flexible Solutions introduces HEAT$AVR, a transparent "liquid solar blanket." The liquid forms a barrier on the surface of the pool, inhibiting evaporation. HEAT$AVR has been tested and proven to be completely safe and biodegradable. The...

Pyramide Aqua Climb[TM] poolside climbing wall.(Product showcase)
November 1, 2003... Sprint Aquatics presents the newest attraction for aquatic facilities. Rising from the water, the Aqua Climb wall has been designed for workouts or play without leaving the water. The panels have a gentle texture, with a non-slip surface. Can...

New from vortex.(Product showcase)
November 1, 2003... The Seeflow Collection features a variety of organic play products that really bring parks to life. A colorful assortment of translucent polymer accessories and sleek, polished stainless steel delivers refreshing fun with a multitude of...

Pool inflatables.(Product showcase)
November 1, 2003... Bee Tee has developed an extensive line of interactive pool inflatables. Bee Tee pool inflatables create new and thrilling opportunities for aquatic centers. They have been proven to generate additional revenue by increasing attendance at...

Interactive Waterplay System.(Product showcase)
November 1, 2003... An Interactive Waterplay System creating fun for the whole family. The Rain Forest is an array of interactive features, all available from ground level with a highly visible waterfall cascading off the roof on two sides. This feature has no...

Digital Low Nox Heater.(Product showcase)
November 1, 2003... Raypak presents the RP2100 Digital Low Nox Heater that has lab-certified, fanassisted combustion technology with dual voltage combustion blower. It features stainless steel burners and spark ignition pilot, high-limit and pressure switch safety...

Splash waterslide.(Product showcase)
November 1, 2003... Great for when space is limited this slide is usable in just 4' of water and features a 6' UV stabilized polyethylene ride tube accommodating riders up to 275 Ibs. Non-skid stair treads and entry platform are secured with safety railing on both...

Keep wet areas clean and safe!.(Product showcase)
November 1, 2003... Duragrid[R] matting is great for a pool areas, locker rooms, showers and toweling areas. Easy to install mat tiles snap in palce. keep customers high and dry 1/2" off the floor. 10 year limited warranty. Duragrid[R] by Snap Lock Industries,...

New Platform Ballast System for portable lifeguard platforms.(Product showcase)
November 1, 2003... Spectrum Aquatics has developed a unique Platform Ballast System for use with portable lifeguard platforms that are employed at outdoor aquatic facilities. Portable lifeguard platforms are notorious for blowing over in high velocity winds, and...

Plastic benches.(Product showcase)
November 1, 2003... Features: designed for use on the pool deck or in your locker room. Manufactured entirely of recycled plastic and stainless steel hardware, our line of benches are sturdy, durable, and maintenance-free. Offerings: 4 models available, ten-year...

Waterworks International.(Product showcase)
November 1, 2003... A leading innovator of interactive water play environments as well as high-tech water features. Our SplashZONE's are an inexpensive way to have interactive fountain's for parks and play areas. SplashZONE's don't require the personnel and bath...

ATRIA custom aquatic enclosures.(Product showcase)
November 1, 2003... ATRIA aquatic enclosures are designed to provide the most advanced commercial enclosures available. Color coated aluminum frames and rafters minimize maintenance. The light transmitting insulated roof panels open to allow for natural...

Aquatons[R]!.(Product showcase)
November 1, 2003... Empex Watertoys presents their latest creation - the AQUATON SPRAYPARK. Created specifically for Sprayparks without standing water, AQUATONS [R] are a whimsical presentation of AQUATECTURE[R]. Designed of round flowing forms, the structures are...

Lincoln catalog.(Product showcase)
November 1, 2003... Lincoln announces the production of their new, 128 page full color Commercial Pool Equipment Catalog. The catalog contains the most comprehensive selection of high quality swimming pool equipment and aquatic supplies available. The catalog is...

New AK600 Pump Room Controller (PRC). (Product showcase.
November 1, 2003... ACU-TROL's new AK600 controls the entire pool & spa pump room--including heaters, pumps, chemicals, water levels & filters. The unit allows users to program every aspect of the pump room operation for efficiency. The PRC can even run an on-line...

BIGmouth[TM] skimmer.(Product showcase)
November 1, 2003... The BIGmouth [Tm] skimmer is lightweight with a 60" frame that allows staff to clean any size aquatic facility in minutes, Its adjustable handles allow the operator to swim or walk behind, and if released, the "mouth" tilts upward, keeping...

Deck Stor-A-Way[TM].(Product showcase)
November 1, 2003... Clear your deck of clutter: organize and protect your equipment with Triad's non-corrosive deck storage unit. Specially designed for pool environments, the Deck Sto-A Way[TM] has a locking door, selfdraining shelves, is fully ventilated a nd...

National line[TM] fluid strainer system.(Product showcase)
November 1, 2003... Designed to catch debris before it can enter swimming pool or spa pumps and cause clogs, impeller damage or shutdowns. It's the only fiberglass strainer listed by NSF International to ANSI/NSF Standard 50-1996 for pool and spa applications....

New Viceroy[TM] PVC Butterfly Valve.(Product showcase)
November 1, 2003... Neptune-Benson is pleased to announce that Viceroy Butterfly Valves are now NSF listed. Available for immediate shipment, these all PVC valves are completely non-corrosive and pedect for submerged applications. Sizes range from 3" to 12" and...

Aquatek ladder AD-4000, AQ-5000, AQ-5600.(Product showcase)
November 1, 2003... Improve your pool access with the AquaTrek Ladders, Steps, Ramps and Wheel Chairs from Rehab Systems, LLC Constructed of a non-corrosive metal skeleton encased in a rigid PVC skin, they are durable and lighlweight and can be easily removed for...

Pool vacuum system.(Product showcase)
November 1, 2003... The HammerHead 12-volt self contained pool vacuum system-perfect for any water park, municipal swimming pool, or resort. Rapid selup, faster cleaning times, more mobility, and freedom from external power sources, suction lines, or water...

Ride a tricycle on water.(Product showcase)
November 1, 2003... Fun, safe, durable. High profits, low maintenance. Introducing the new AC5 AquaCycle. Whether on a lake, bay, beachfrent or marina, Aqua cycles attract attention and bring in business. Lower maintenance means higher profits. Available in 5...

Strechcordz Kick Trainer... when seconds count!(Product showcase)
November 1, 2003... Our StrechCordz Kick Trainer adds resistance to legs during kick sets, assists ankle recovery from breaststroke kick, and adds resistance to abdominal muscles during dolphin kick. Available in three resistance levels for age-groupers to master...