Aquatics International articles from September 2003

Aquatics International archives from September 2003

Thrill ride.(Aquatics International services to water park industry)(Editorial)
September 1, 2003... It's no secret that the booming waterpark industry has significantly changed the world of aquatics. In fact, many professionals credit waterparks and their thrill rides for helping fill pools and parks across the country. And this growth...

What about swim school history?(Letters)(Letter to the Editor)
September 1, 2003... Your July/August issue was the best yet. I really enjoyed reading it. The history of aquatics was excellent. Your round-table discussion should have included someone from the private swim school industry. I have run a swim school, the Five...

Don't blame 911 operators.(Letters)(Letter to the Editor)
September 1, 2003... I am writing in response to the letter "Call for Action (June 2003). Wendy Wallace states that "the persons answering 911 calls need to have the bigger picture in order to save lives." As a firefighter and emergency medical technician with...

Staying grounded.(Letters)(Letter to the Editor)
September 1, 2003... I have read the Point and Counterpoint articles on lightning safety (May 2003) and feel that the Counterpoint author, Tom Griffiths, has his head in the sand. Let's also understand that he operates a facility (with four pools) in a state...

Still dangerous.(Letters)(Letter to the Editor)
September 1, 2003... I agree with the comments of B. Chris Brewster in his letter, "Admirable, But Dangerous" (May 2003). I do think it is admirable that people try to help those who have disabilities. However, I think that safety is always an overriding...

The greater good: the Red Cross, USLA and YMCA are joining forces to help improve aquatic safety.(Perspectives)(United States Lifesaving Association)(Young Men's Christian Association )
September 1, 2003... The stakes have never been higher, and they knew it. When representatives of the nation's major lifeguard-training nonprofit organizations assembled in St. Louis, they discussed, debated and came to agreement on the need to take action. In...

Party to a lawsuit: if lifeguards work private parties and something goes wrong, they could be sued--and so could their facility.(Risk Management)
September 1, 2003... When rock musician Tommy Lee was found to be "not negligent" earlier this year in the drowning death of a 4-year-old boy who attended a party at his home, he appropriately stated that "there are no winners in this sad situation." The...

The scoop: tell your guests why they should shower before swimming, and they probably will.(Chemistry Corner)
September 1, 2003... Should guests be asked to shower before entering a public pool? The debate has gone on for years. But there is no doubt among some pool professionals that a soapy scrub in the bathhouse prior to taking the plunge makes good sense. "There...

Just add water: more and more dry parks are adding wet attractions--or even complete waterparks--to their operations.
September 1, 2003... It was the largest capital improvement the park had made in its 95-year history. Dubbed "Saturation Station," the interactive water-play system cost "well over" $1 million, says George Frantizis II, vice president and co owner of Quassy...

Indoor attractions: indoor waterpark resorts, long associated with the Wisconsin Dells, are exploding every which way, even in the South.
September 1, 2003... Eight years ago, the ground in the upper Midwest started to move. Not many people paid notice, however; there were only tremors. Soon after, though, those tremors became stronger and now they are beginning to be felt far and wide. The epicenter...

Franchising follies? Big-name fast-food chains are embedding their products in practically any venue with a captive audience. Why are many waterparks so hesitant to join in?
September 1, 2003... With only a three- or four-month season, aquatic parks need to milk as much revenue from visitors as possible. Setting up, ordering and preparing their own food operations can be a very profitable enterprise--and is for many parks. But...

Ambassador locker line.(WWA Show Exhibitors)
September 1, 2003... By American Locker Security Systems * Features: polished stainless steel lockers offer 18 compartment sizes; doors feature a leather-grain finish * Options/Accessories: coin, key, electronic or free use operation models available ...

12- and 20-foot funbrellas.(WWA Show Exhibitors)
September 1, 2003... By Anchor Industries * Features: giant, permanent umbrellas in many color choices; made of fade-resistant acrylic fabrics; frames have 4-inch aluminum center pole and one-piece aluminum ground sleeve; galvanized steel tubing rafters and...

Chemical pool water products.(WWA Show Exhibitors)
September 1, 2003... By BioLab Commercial Division * Features: products are available in comprehensive program that includes chemicals, feeders and controllers, plus a lease program, technical expertise and data communication packages, according to maker *...

Lifeguard management course.(WWA Show Exhibitors)
September 1, 2003... By American Red Cross * Features: Representatives will be at booth to discuss ARC's 7 1/4 hour course, which covers responsibilities of lifeguard supervisors, selection and training of guards, and the principles of injury prevention, risk...

Pulsar system.(WWA Show Exhibitors)
September 1, 2003... By Arch Chemicals * Features: designed to be easy to operate and maintain; improves water clarity, color while removing the hazards of chlorine gas and !/quid bleach; removes organics and metals, boosts hardness and shock-treats in one...

PPM sensor PC5000 controller.(WWA Show Exhibitors)
September 1, 2003... By Chemtrol * Features: solid-state ppm sensor measures free chlorine concentration; made to be easy to use, precise; not affected by cyanuric acid or oxidizers, per maker; available with ORP control on Chemtrol PC5000 controller and for...

Safety training products.(WWA Show Exhibitors)
September 1, 2003... By American Safety & Health Institute * Features: company offers training products designed for the administration of CPR, first aid, CPR PRO, ACLS, water safety, accident investigation, emergency planning and more * Contact: American...

Big Squirt! Portable revenue cart.(WWA Show Exhibitors)
September 1, 2003... By Big Squirt! * Features: cart can be rolled anywhere and prominently displays the Big Squirt! Water Toy for sales at pools or parks; includes lockable storage and tilt shade umbrella * Options/Accessories: optional cash register...

Aquatons.(WWA Show Exhibitors)
September 1, 2003... By Empex Watertoys * Features: created specially for shallow pools or splash pads with no standing water; creative water-play area for children features soft, flowing fiberglass forms that have no moving parts and provide simple...

Solar cover reel systems.(WWA Show Exhibitors)
September 1, 2003... By FeherGuard Products Ltd. * Features: company offers The Blanket Handlers Plus and The Surface Rider; four other models also available; constructed from lightweight, high-density polyethylene with UV-ray inhibitors to protect against sun...

Wristbands.(WWA Show Exhibitors)
September 1, 2003... By MedTech Wristbands * Features: company manufactures quality wristbands for waterparks and other public facilities; fast custom printing, low prices and wide range of stock wristbands available for immediate shipment, per maker *...

Pool grates.(WWA Show Exhibitors)
September 1, 2003... By Grate Technologies * Features: line includes perimeter rim-flow systems, bulkheads and deck drains; fiberglass gutter system and Drain the Deck deck/trench drain; grates are available in traditional perpendicular style or Quiet-Flow...

Water-play equipment.(WWA Show Exhibitors)
September 1, 2003... By Miracle Recreation Equipment Co. * Features: company offers a wide range of water-play systems, including Rainbow Bend slides in more than 20 single or multi-flume configurations, speed slides and drop slides; custom designs available...

WaterColors.(WWA Show Exhibitors)
September 1, 2003... By KoalaPlay Group * Features: ADA-compliant Interactive water-play product line features modular flexibility, designed for seamless expendability; easy installation; standard and themed models * Contact: KoalaPlay Group, 888.214.9698;...

Ticketing systems.(WWA Show Exhibitors)
September 1, 2003... By National Ticket Co. * Features: system uses radio-frequency technology: "Smart ticket" data-processing capacity can be implemented within a card, ticket or bracelet to monitor guest activities; designed to aid the efficiency, logistical...

Bamboo surf shack.(WWA Show Exhibitors)
September 1, 2003... By NBGS Int. * Features: water-play element with interactive, state-of the-art electronic features; designed to be low maintenance; unit includes competitive water-arcade game; three-story, 75B-gallon Hydro Storm, complete with audio...

Visa band wristbands, tickets and admission products.(WWA Show Exhibitors)
September 1, 2003... By Precision Dynamics Corp. * Features: nontransferable Visa wristbands are water-resistant, with locking plastic snaps; made of ultra-stretch-resistant tri-laminate plastic; economical Tyvek wristbands are comfortable, durable and...

SwimGuard USA monitoring system.(WWA Show Exhibitors)
September 1, 2003... By Neptune-Benson * Features: underwater video monitoring system digitally links views from above and below the water's surface to lifeguards and other staff members; provides clear observation, per maker * Contact: Neptune-Benson...

Wristbands.(WWA Show Exhibitors)
September 1, 2003... By Price Chopper Wristbands * Features: company offers a wide variety of stock colors and patterns of Tyvek and vinyl wristbands; low-price guarantee and same-day shipping, per maker * Contact: Price Chopper Wristbands, Orlando, Fla....

PowerBase AT chlorination unit.(WWA Show Exhibitors)
September 1, 2003... By PPG Industries * Features: unit features patented Accu-Tab chlorinator and 3-inch calcium hypochlorite tablets with 65 percent available chlorine; compact size makes conversion and installation simple; long-term reliability *...

Water-play features for pools and zero-depth sprayparks.(WWA Show Exhibitors)
September 1, 2003... By RainDrop Products * Features: models include Rain Drop, Dew Drop, Tee Cup, Tumblebuckets, Rain Forest, Crossbar Jet, Toolip Shower, Hot Lips, Bozo and Cool Dux; re-circulation equipment, Plug 'n' Play and custom equipment vaults also...

Aquatic engineering and design.(WWA Show Exhibitors)
September 1, 2003... By Ramaker & Associates * Features: company reps will be on hand at booth to discuss their aquatic engineering and design services for aquatic parks and other public facilities * Contact: Ramaker & Associates Inc., Sauk City, Wis....

Inflatables.(WWA Show Exhibitors)
September 1, 2003... By Sevylor * Features: company offers inflatables with patented fluted handles; constructed using heavy-duty PVC; extra-strong gusset with double inside seam, per maker * Contact: Sevylor Inc., Los Angeles 323.727.6013: Booths 100, 102...

Rescue tube with hand grips.(WWA Show Exhibitors)
September 1, 2003... By Recreonics * Features: designed for waterparks and bench areas; rescue tube has grips, a 63-inch tow line with 30-inch shoulder harness; made of closed cell ensolite foam with heavy-duty red vinyl skin * Contact: Recreonics Inc.,...

Pool, spa and deck finishes.(WWA Show Exhibitors)
September 1, 2003... By SGM * Features: company offers a variety of finishes, including Diamond Brits, River Rok, Durazzo, Ultra Pearl Brite and Spray Deck * Contact: SGM Inc., Pompano Beach, Fla. 800.641.9247; Booth 537 Circle 135 on Postage-Free Card...

Benches for parks and streetscapes.(WWA Show Exhibitors)
September 1, 2003... By R.J. Thomas Mfg. Co. * Features: four new bench designs incorporate armrests for added accessibility; flat and contour styles available; welded steel frame construction; 3-, 4-, 6- or 8-feet long; interchangeable modular design allows...

Dolphin robotic cleaner.(WWA Show Exhibitors)
September 1, 2003... By SmartPool * Features: Dolphin line of commercial cleaners are designed to be easy to use; vacuums the pool floor and scrubs walls and waterline; microfilters the water; models available to suit every budget, per maker * Contact:...

Smart feed pump.(WWA Show Exhibitors)
September 1, 2003... By Sta-Rite Industries * Features: SR-6000S monitors pH and ORP; adds chemicals as needed; dual pumps with individual electronic controllers designed to dispense two chemicals at two locations; variable-speed pump permits chemical flow...

Test kits and strips.(WWA Show Exhibitors)
September 1, 2003... By Taylor Technologies * Features: complete line of water-testing products, including FAS-DPD chlorine test recommended for calibrating controllers; low-range phosphate test for detecting algae food source and new four-way sureTRACK test...

Shade structures.(WWA Show Exhibitors)
September 1, 2003... By Sun Ports Intl. * Features: company will showcase its line of structures designed to provide shade and protection from harmful UV rays * Contact: Sun Ports Intl., Dallas 800.966.5005; Booth 800 Circle 138 on Postage-Free Card...

USF filtration system.(WWA Show Exhibitors)
September 1, 2003... By U.S. Filter/Stranco Products * Features: high-rate permanent media filtration systems include automated filter and water-chemistry control systems, water-quality control monitoring and data logging, provisions for remote operation,...

Lifeguard chairs and outdoor furniture.(WWA Show Exhibitors)
September 1, 2003... By Tailwind Furniture * Features: made from recycled milk containers; virtually maintenance-free; available in white, cedar, green or sand; includes cup holder, umbrella holder and nonslip surface on platform * Contact: Tailwind...

Castle-medieval theme.(WWA Show Exhibitors)
September 1, 2003... By Vortex Aquatic Structures Intl. * Features: fully automated, interactive play area includes roof-top dumping bucket, two rising flags with flush-mounted pod sprays, six nozzle sprays; two waterfall spray bars and a pair of drawbridge...

No. 727 water safety harness.(WWA Show Exhibitors)
September 1, 2003... By Water Safety Products * Features: ideal for tower slide attendants, slide maintenance, per maker; main belt is 2 1/2 inches wide for comfort; lightweight; smooth, flat stainless steel D-rings and slides; 100 percent adjustable; braided...

Aquaplay rainfortress.(WWA Show Exhibitors)
September 1, 2003... By Whitewater West Industries * Features: units offer family entertainment in a playful setting; custom-themed model available * Contact: Whitewater West Industries, Richmond, British Columbia, Canada 604.273.1068; Booths 201,302 ...

Aquatic planners, designers and engineers.(WWA Show Exhibitors)
September 1, 2003... By Water Technology * Features: reps will be at booth to discuss company offerings; portfolio includes indoor and outdoor waterparks, family aquatics centers, spraygrounds, competition pools, community developments, specialized aquatic...

Aquatic equipment, catalog.(WWA Show Exhibitors)
September 1, 2003... By WMS Aquatics * Features: reps will be on hand to discuss company products available through their catalog; the catalog features state-of-the-art products and competitive pricing, per company * Contact: WMS Aquatics, Ellensburg,...

FlowRider.(WWA Show Exhibitors)
September 1, 2003... By Wave Loch * Features: company offers FlowRider Sheet Wave, Deep Flow Channel Rapids, Run and Action River for leisure and fun; high-capacity, multiuse deck; products are custom-built to fit individual parks, per maker * Contact:...

Inflatable pool & waterpark tubes.(WWA Show Exhibitors)
September 1, 2003... By Zebec * Features: constructed with heavy-duty materials and handles, recessed valves, double outside and inside seams with strong inner gusset and attractive print design; variety of solid and clear colors * Options/Accessories:...

3M colorquartz ceramic-coated crystals.(Renovation and Repair)
September 1, 2003... By 3M Co. * Features: granules colored with a ceramic coating; product is designed to be used as an added ingrediant in pool plaster to create colorful, durable exposed aggregate finishes; 14 colors; two sizes; available in 50-pound bags...

Ceramic tile mosaics.(Renovation and Repair)
September 1, 2003... By Artistry in Mosaics * Features: more than 100 standard, in-stock designs from which to choose; allows company's design department to create one-of-a-kind custom designs, per maker * Options/Accessories: interactive CD enables...

Self draining floor tiles.(Renovation and Repair)
September 1, 2003... By Dri-Dek * Features: anti-skid, self-draining surface is designed to keep wet floors dry; made from oxy-B1 vinyl to fight spread of infectious fungus and bacteria; 12-by-12-inch interlocking squares are easy to use; many colors available...

AquaGuard 5000 pool coating.(Renovation and Repair)
September 1, 2003... By Aquatic Technologies * Features: company offers coatings for fiberglass, concrete, steel pools and spas; several colors; made to resist chlorine and acid; new designer series available * Options/Accessories: up to a 15-year warranty...

Pool plaster.(Renovation and Repair)
September 1, 2003... By Atlantis Pool Plastering * Features: plaster is a white cement and marble mix designed for durability; produces smooth, hard, bright-white marble finish; certified Diamondbrite Ourazzo application; custom colors, finishes * Contact:...

Duragrid matting.(Renovation and Repair)
September 1, 2003... By Duragrid * Features: company offers 12-by-12-by-12-inch modular safety mats that snap together; ideal for use in showers, locker rooms, toweling areas or anywhere water is a problem, per maker * Contact: Duragrid, Salt Lake City...

Hydrazzo, polished marble pool finish.(Renovation and Repair)
September 1, 2003... By Aquavations Corp, * Features: made to provide silky smooth texture and durability of exposed aggregates; company's color selections and natural variegated appearance complement all poolscape and waterfeature designs; resistant to spot...

Pool plaster.(Renovation and Repair)
September 1, 2003... By C-L Industries * Features: company manufactures pool finishes and deck coatings, cements, plaster, grouts, and bonding agents specifically for the commercial and residential pool markets * Options/Accessories: extended warranties;...

Fiberglass pool resurfacing.(Renovation and Repair)
September 1, 2003... By Fibre Tech * Features: company offers fiberglass pool resurfacing services; six-step, hand-laid installation process reduces costs of pool maintenance, per manufacturer * Options/Accessories: 25-year warranty and exclusive...

Dura White.(Renovation and Repair)
September 1, 2003... By Huber Engineered Materials * Features: company's product is designed to deliver bright white, durable, plastered surface * Contact: Huber Engineered Materials, Atlanta 770.607.3345 Circle 90 on Postage-Free Card ...

Metastar plaster additive and poolmix marble aggregate.(Renovation and Repair)
September 1, 2003... By Imerys * Features: MetaStar pool plaster additive is an amorphous-aluminosilicate pozzolan; helps keep a smooth, white finish when formulated Pool Mix high-white marble; MetaStar available in 50 pound bags; Pool Mix available in...

Mosaics-By Inlays.(Renovation and Repair)
September 1, 2003... By Inlays * Features: one-piece; skid- and frost-resistant; easy to install, according to manufacturer * Options/ Accessories: sample program; toll-free phone and fax: Web site * Contact: Inlays Inc., Green Bay, Wis. 800.426.8873...

White cement.(Renovation and Repair)
September 1, 2003... By Lehigh Cement Co. * Features: company offers white portland cement for pool plaster; product is ASTM-certified * Contact: Lehigh Cement Co., White Cement Division, Allentown, Pa. 610.366.4600 Circle 93 on Postage-Free Card ...

Coping molds.(Renovation and Repair)
September 1, 2003... By Mandish Research Intl. * Features: company offers fiber glass molds for coping; 11 designs available * Contact: Mandish Research Intl., Mires, Fla. 321.267.2561 Circle 94 on Postage-Free Card [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED]

Natatec PVC membrane system.(Renovation and Repair)
September 1, 2003... By Nature Corp. * Features: creates watertight liner that eliminates annual surface repair; designed to end painting, plastering, fiberglassing and caulking; cost-effective; available in white, sky blue, Caribbean blue and black; available...

Custom graphics, depth markers and specialty tiles.(Renovation and Repair)
September 1, 2003... By National Pool Tile Group * Features: company color custom tiles, company logos, information signs, wall murals, no size limits; tiles are kiln-fired to ensure durability; easily cleaned; will not fade, per maker; indoor or outdoor use...

Pool coping, pavers.(Renovation and Repair)
September 1, 2003... By Pacific Clay Brick Products * Features: company offers selection of quality pool coping and pavers, including clay brick products and porcelain tiles * Contact: Pacific Clay Brick Products Inc., Lake Elsinore, Calif. 909.674.2131...

Acrylic-polymer cementitious surfacing.(Renovation and Repair)
September 1, 2003... By Perma-Crete * Features: three-part, acrylic-polymer cementitious surfacing system; available in 150 colors; sealed, nonporous surface; designed to be chemical- and weather-resistant * Options/Accessories: on-site, in-house training;...

Pool vinyl-liner renovation tools.(Renovation and Repair)
September 1, 2003... By Plastimayd Corp. * Features: company offers full line of hard-to-find tools for complete liner renovation, aluminum and PVC liner coping, drop-in steel steps, and coping paint for coping touch-up renovation jobs * Contact:...

Ultra Poly One Coat.(Renovation and Repair)
September 1, 2003... By Poly Solutions * Features: company offers specially formulated one-coat hybrid epoxy coating for plaster, concrete fiberglass, metal and previously painted pools * Contact: Poly Solutions Inc., Gibsonia, Pa. 724.449.1040 Circle...

2003 product catalog.(Renovation and Repair)
September 1, 2003... By Q-Products * Features: company will display its 2003 product catalog, featuring tools designed specifically for service professionals, to make pool service, maintenance and repair easier and less time-consuming; catalog highlights the...

Interlocking Showertile.(Renovation and Repair)
September 1, 2003... By R.B. Rubber Products * Features: 12-by-12-inch interlocking Showertile system designed so any level, hard-to-keep-dry surface can be converted into a safe, sanitary, non-slip surface; three-tab, interlocking design aims to assure a more...

Depth markers and safety tiles.(Renovation and Repair)
September 1, 2003... By Tile Specialties * Features: a complete line of depth marker and safety-related tiles for both waterline and deck installation; screen-printed and kiln-fired to ensure permanence; will not fade; made to resist UV rays and chemicals;...

PVC pool shell.(Renovation and Repair)
September 1, 2003... By RenoSys Corp, * Features: company offers 60-mil, reinforced, watertight, slip-resistant PVC pool shell, per maker; custom-fitted on site; available in several colors and patterns; ideal for use during renovations *...

Ornamental railings.(Renovation and Repair)
September 1, 2003... By Tubular Specialties * Features: railings offered in stainless steel, brass and aluminum; custom grab bars for handicapped access; meets ADA guidelines, per maker * Contact: Tubular Specialties Mfg., Los Angeles 800.472.2227 ...

Anti-vortex main drain sumps.(Renovation and Repair)
September 1, 2003... By Standard Bronze Co. * Features: designed for applications such as waterparks and large commercial pools; square, anti-vortex frames; plates range in size from 7- to 19 square inches * Contact: Standard Bronze Co., Bayonne, N.J....

Vitriturf safety surfacing.(Renovation and Repair)
September 1, 2003... By Vitricon * Features: company offers non-slip, seamless, poured-in-place safety surfacing, per maker; graphic designs, logos, blends features * Contact: Vitricon Inc., Hauppauge, N.Y. 800.777.6596 Circle 107 on Postage-Free Card...

NRPA closing regional offices; Johnson to retire.(Newsroom)
September 1, 2003... The National Recreation and Park Association is closing its five regional offices and will relocate them to the organization's headquarters in a cost-cutting move that also will affect the National Aquatic Branch. In an unrelated move,...

CDC issues report on U.S. pools; many violators cited.(Newsroom)(Centers for Disease Control)
September 1, 2003... The first known attempt to gather nationwide pool-inspection information for analysis was recently completed by the Centers for Disease Control in Atlanta. Covering five states the report showed that more than half of the 22,131 public and...

No change to Title IX.(Newsroom)
September 1, 2003... Offering only a warning to schools thinking of cutting men's sports teams, the Bush Administration said that it would not make any changes to the controversial Tide IX law. A presidential commission charged with reviewing the effects of the...

Phelps surpasses spitz.(Newsroomcoasts )(Brief Article)
September 1, 2003... Eighteen-year-old American Michael Phelps made history at the FINA world championships in Barcelona in July when he tallied five individual swimming world records in one meet, surpassing Mark Spitz's four at the 1972 Olympic Games in Munich....

Florida beach goes under microscope again.(Brief Article)
September 1, 2003... An especially high number of drownings along Florida's coast this past summer has led the state to study the cause, continuing debate on a political hot potato for the area. In early June, nine people drowned over the course of a week along...

AEDs safe for young children.(Newsroom)(Automated external defibrillators)(Brief Article)
September 1, 2003... Automated external defibrillators (AEDs) are safe for children as young as 1 year old, the American Heart Association said in a statement published in its Circulation: Journal of the American Heart Association (7/1/03). AEDs, which shock...

Seals vs. humans: saga continues.(Brief Article)
September 1, 2003... A group of scientists met in late July to discuss solutions for the ongoing battle between people and seals at the Children's Pool beach in LaJolla, near San Diego (see AI, June 2003, page 58). The scientists represented the county health...