Aquatics International articles from September 2004

Aquatics International archives from September 2004

Fun factories.(From The Editor)(Editorial)
September 1, 2004... For someone who likes having fun, it's hard to be in a better business than waterparks. I mean, we're talking about an industry that spends countless hours of serious time and money to come up with the latest in slip-sliding thrills. But...

AFO program growing.(Letters)(Letter to the Editor)
September 1, 2004... The responses from the field in support of the National Recreation & Park Association's Aquatic Facility Operator Certification Program (March 2004) are impressive and greatly appreciated. The experience and expertise behind this program...

Zeolite article needs clarification.(Letters)(Letter to the Editor)
September 1, 2004... The Tech Talk article in the June issue about zeolite filtration was quite interesting and informative, but it did have a few points that I think need clarification. The author states that "most clinoptilolite is mined with lots of...

Clearing up ORP misconceptions.(Letters)(Oxidation-Reduction Potential or Redox)(Letter to the Editor)
September 1, 2004... As one of the early proponents of ORP technology for sanitizer control in pools and spas, I would like to comment on the article "All Fouled Up" by Shawn Lin and David Rouse that appeared in your April 2004 issue. As pointed out by previous...

New rides go to the extreme.(Newsroom)
September 1, 2004... You've heard of extreme sports and extreme makeovers. Now say hello to extreme waterpark rides. Loosely defined, an extreme ride nudges people's perceptions of danger, dropping them vertically in free fall or plunging them through dark...

Koala sells part of company.(Brief Article)
September 1, 2004... The KoalaPlay Group's parent company recently divested its convenience and activity products business, including the Koala Bear Kare baby-changing station product line. Koala Corp., located in Englewood, Colo., said it wants to focus on...

Old CDC studies make nationwide headlines.(Centers for Disease Control)(Brief Article)
September 1, 2004... Newspapers nationwide have been picking up an Associated Press story about an ominous rise in pool-borne disease outbreaks and pool closures. But the article, which cites information from two studies conducted by the Atlanta-based Centers for...

Florida allows AutoPilot on public pools.(chlorine-generation technology)(Brief Article)
September 1, 2004... AutoPilot Systems' chlorine-generation technology has been approved for use on public pools in Florida. Before, the public pool code included specific manufacturing criteria for chlorine generators. The Fort Lauderdale-based manufacturer had...

ISHOF embroiled in internal war.(Newsroom)(The International Swimming Hall of Fame)
September 1, 2004... The international Swimming Hall of Fame's long-running battle over a location for its new headquarters has mushroomed into an internal war in which numerous members have resigned or withdrawn, citing discontent with its president/chief...

Florida college to offer two-year, online degree in aquatic engineering.(Newsroom)
September 1, 2004... A filly accredited Florida college has become the first such institution to offer a two-year Associate of Science degree for those entering the aquatics industry. Keiser College, with nine campuses statewide, is partnering with Horner...

NSPI seeks standard feedback.(The National Spa & Pool Institute)(Brief Article)
September 1, 2004... The National Spa & Pool Institute is conducting a public review of a new standard (NSPI-7) concerning suction entrapment avoidance in pools and spas. Conceived in collaboration with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, the proposed...

Wave House brings board sports to Belmont Park.(Brief Article)
September 1, 2004... Wave House has begun Phase One in a $6 million redevelopment of San Diego's Belmont Park beachfront amusement center with the opening of the FlowRider simulated surfing attraction. In 2002, Wave House CEO Thomas J. Lochtefeld acquired the...

Clarification.(Correction Notice)
September 1, 2004... In the news brief "Ill-Fated Russian Waterpark Re-opens" in the June issue, Aquatics International reported that the Transvaal Waterpark had reopened to the public. To clarify, specific park venues such as the bars, restaurants, discotheques...

Playing safety? The industry may be compromising the safety of children--and its own future--by ignoring existing national playground safety standards for water-play equipment.(Perspectives)
September 1, 2004... For the first time in history, the aquatics industry is getting ready to approve ASTM safety standards for water playgrounds. For that it should be applauded. But if the industry approves the standards as discussed, it also may be making a...

Solving a weighty problem: as America grapples with its growing weight problem, waterparks may hold the key to making exercise fun for the whole family.(Bottom Line)
September 1, 2004... During a recent field trip with our son's fifth-grade class, we were alarmed to see that a full one-third of his classmates were substantially overweight. However, the more alarming fact is that this is typical. America is experiencing an...

Adult playgrounds: indoor waterparks are serving up more European-style, grown-up amenities. Is this the trend of the future?
September 1, 2004... A digital Kodak moment from a waterpark of the future: 18-hole golf followed by hour-long massages for Mom and Dad while the kids splash down slippery funicular water slides. Then dinner reserved at the decadent seafood dining room within...

More bang for your buck: eight ways to add new life to your facility without killing your budget.
September 1, 2004... Makeover mania has taken America by storm. Whether it's a makeover beauty queen in television's "The Swan" or outrageous home makeovers on a budget while neighbors are "Trading Spaces," Americans have gone crazy with low-cost improvements. But...

The price of protection: why waterpark insurance premiums are skyrocketing, and what operators are doing to cope--including four ways to keep premiums in check.
September 1, 2004... The rumors have been circulating. "I think there were three or four this last year that opted not to open because the cost of doing business was so high," says Franceen Gonzales, corporate director of operations at Golfland Entertainment...

AK400 system controller.(WWA Show Exhibitors)(Advertisement)
September 1, 2004... by Acu-Trol Programmable Controllers Features: controls chemicals, filtration, temperature, lighting, conductivity, water level, pressure and vacuums; new molded flow cell features a cell sampling port, chemical injection ports and a...

Funbrella shark umbrella.(WWA Show Exhibitors)(Advertisement)
September 1, 2004... by Anchor Industries Inc. Features: design features a catenary curve-style top; fits standard 12- and 20-foot Funbrella frames; 4-inch aluminum center pole; made with easy-care acrylic fabrics Offerings: five-year, limited warranty ...

ECOmatic saltwater sanitizing system.(WWA Show Exhibitors)(Brief Article)(Advertisement)
September 1, 2004... by Balboa Direct Features: automatic cleaning system is designed to be environmentally friendly, economical and easy to install Contact:. Balboa Direct, Tustin, Calif. 800.645.3201; Booth 400 Write 86 on Postage-Free Card ...

SPL2 locker.(WWA Show Exhibitors)(Brief Article)(Advertisement)
September 1, 2004... by Amecican Locker Security Systems Features: formed from custom-engineered ABS and PVC polymer resin; designed with ribbed and slightly angled shelves to help keep contents dry Contact: American Locker Security Systems Inc.,...

FlowRider attraction.(WWA Show Exhibitors)
September 1, 2004... by Aquatic Development Group Features: company will exhibit the FlowRider self-contained, simulated surf ride for waterpark environments Contact: Aquatic Development Group Inc., Cohoes, N.Y. 518.783.0038; Booths 619-720 Write 84...

Digi-flo f-1000 digital flometer.(WWA Show Exhibitors)
September 1, 2004... by Blue-White Industries Features: battery-powered meters accommodate pipe sizes up to 12 inches Offerings: demos and training; technical assistance Contact: Blue-White Industries. Huntington Beach, Calif. 714.893.8529; Booth 1031...

Lifeguard management coarse.(WWA Show Exhibitors)
September 1, 2004... by American Red Crass Features: course is designed to prepare lifeguard supervisors to manage lifeguard teams and keep patrons and facilities safe; manual and CD-ROM include more than 60 in-service outlines and forms Conract: American...

Pulsar 1 commercial sanitation system.(WWA Show Exhibitors)
September 1, 2004... by Arch Chemicals Features: NSF-certified chlorinator for commercial pools that chlorinates, removes organics and metals, boosts hardness and shock treats in one process, per maker; company's wave concept is designed for pools/spas from...

Weda automatic pool cleaners.(WWA Show Exhibitors)
September 1, 2004... by Brock Enterprises Features: company will showcase the Weda automatic cleaner, which is designed to clean large pools Offerings: co-op advertising Contact: Brock Enterprises, Hamden, Conn. 800.332.2360; Booth 615 Write 88 on...

Wireless water quality controller.(WWA Show Exhibitors)
September 1, 2004... by CAT Controllers Features: CAT 4000 wireless control system with Internet-based monitoring capabilities; Web site allows user to view water-quality data, print charts and graphs, customize settings and receive alarm notifications...

CH255 PPM/pH digital controller.(WWA Show Exhibitors)
September 1, 2004... by Chemtrol Features: free-chlorine control with solid-state sensor that is designed to he easy to operate; maintenance-free, per maker Offerings: five-year electronics warranty; toll-free technical support Contact: Chemtrol, Santa...

Electronic lockers.(WWA Show Exhibitors)
September 1, 2004... by Compusafe Electronic Locker Systems Features: company offers electronic lockers with RFID and bar-code technology; custom-built to specifications; stainless steel, powder-coated metal and plastic models available Contact: Compusafe...

Design and engineering services.(WWA Show Exhibitors)
September 1, 2004... by EDSACloward Features: company offers design and engineering services for waterparks, waterfeatures and themed water attractions Contact: EDSACloward, Provo, Utah 801.375.1223; Booth 918 Write 92 on Postage-Free Card ...

Disposable swimpants vendor.(WWA Show Exhibitors)
September 1, 2004... by eLifegeard.com Features: dispenses 24 disposable swimpants; for locker rooms and restrooms; vendor features adjustable pricing; stainless steel design Contact: eLifeguard.com, Rockledge, Fla. 800.852.0284; Booth 1101 Write 93 on...

Aquedek T410-IA water slide structure.(WWA Show Exhibitors)
September 1, 2004... by Empex Watertoys Features: company will highlight its fiberglass water slide structure, which is designed for low maintenance Offerings: lifetime corrosion warranty Contact: Empex Watertoys, Uxbridge, Ontario, Canada 905.649.5047; Booths...

Pool grates.(WWA Show Exhibitors)
September 1, 2004... by Grate Ideas Features: custom-fabricated pool grates require no on-site assembly and feature made-to-measure corners, according to maker; product is ultrasonically welded Contact: Grate Ideas, Burlington, Vt. 800.292.6044; Booths 427-526...

WaterPlay arena.(WWA Show Exhibitors)
September 1, 2004... by KoalaPlay Group Features: arena includes two, three or four blaster towers, one target tower, five blasters at each tower, runnels with dams, hand pumps, solenoid control valves, target control center and patented dumping buckets...

Pool grates and facility management systems.(WWA Show Exhibitors)
September 1, 2004... by Lawson Aquatics Features: on display will be the company's pool grates and facility management systems Contact: Lawson Aquatics Inc., Naples, Fla. 239.435.3700; Booth 415 Write 97 on Postage-Free Card [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED]

Indoor and outdoor water slides.(WWA Show Exhibitors)
September 1, 2004... by Miracle Recreation Equipment Co./Soft Play Features: company will showcase its line of indoor and outdoor water slides, designed for commercial pools Contact: Miracle Recreation Equipment Co./Soft Play, LLC, Charlotte, N.C. 800.782.7529;...

Certified pool and spa operator program.(WWA Show Exhibitors)
September 1, 2004... by National Swimming Pool Foundation Features: program offers education and certification for pool and spa operators; NSPF will display its Certified Pool-Spa Operator Handbook Offerings: scholarships, fellowships, research grants Contact:...

Pool perfect enzymes.(WWA Show Exhibitors)
September 1, 2004... by Natural Chemistry Features: natural enzyme product is designed to biode-grade organic contaminants to reduce maintenance, prevent scum and eliminate chemical odors; available in 5-gallon container Contact: Natural Chemistry Inc.,...

Water slides and shelters.(WWA Show Exhibitors)
September 1, 2004... by Natural Structures Features: water and pool slides with multiple flumes; decktop mounted slides; customized options also offered to meet individual requirements Contact: Natural Structures, Baker City, Ore. 800.252.8475; Booths 612-614...

PVC guardian hair and lint strainers.(WWA Show Exhibitors)
September 1, 2004... by Neptune-Benson Features: new PVC strainers include 1-inch-thick transparent acrylic lid and easy-open securing assemblies that are tested up to 50 psi; side-mount drain connection; compact dimensions; stainless steel basket with...

Retractable roof enclosures.(WWA Show Exhibitors)
September 1, 2004... by OpenAire Features: custom-designed, thermally broken aluminum structures capable of spanning more than 140 feet; operable skylights also offered; can be used for water-park applications Contact: OpenAire Inc., Mississauga, Ontario,...

Water analysis instruments.(WWA Show Exhibitors)
September 1, 2004... by Palintest USA Features: company will exhibit its line of water analysis products for facility managers and commercial pool operators; Pooltest 9 tests for chlorine, bromine, ozone, pH alkalinity, calcium hardness and cyanuric acid...

EQ series pump.(WWA Show Exhibitors)
September 1, 2004... by Pentair Pool Products Features: noncorrosive, all-plastic, self-priming pump is designed for commercial pool and water applications; includes 6-inch suction and 4-inch strainer pot; available in single and three-phase 60 hertz models;...

PV2100 vacuum and service cart.(WWA Show Exhibitors)
September 1, 2004... by Power Vac Features: designed to cut cleaning time in half; durable service cart is specially created to carry everything needed to service pools; 12V battery-powered; Power Vac portable vacuum also available Contact: Power Vac, Fort...

Wristband system.(WWA Show Exhibitors)
September 1, 2004... by Precision Dynamics Corp. Features: Smart Band Radio Frequency ID wristband system combines a microchip and antenna sealed in a waterproof wristband to provide wireless communication for accurate ID, tracking, age verification and more...

Wristbands.(WWA Show Exhibitors)
September 1, 2004... by Price Chopper Wristbands Features: Tyvek and vinyl wristbands available in a variety of stock colors and patterns in either 1/4- or 1-inch sizes Contact: Price Chopper Wristbands, Orlando, Fla. 888.695.6220; Booth 1018 Write 108 on...

Droplet cluster waterfeature.(WWA Show Exhibitors)
September 1, 2004... by Rain Drop Products Features: newest addition to company's line of waterfeatures; product is a smaller version of the Rain Drop and Dew Drop; creates cascading effect with water Contact: Rain Drop Products, LLC, Ashland, Ohio...

Aquatics facility design and engineering.(WWA Show Exhibitors)
September 1, 2004... by Ramaker & Associates Features: company offers aquatics facility design and engineering; examples of previous work will be showcased Contact: Ramaker & Associates, Sauk City, Wis. 800.332.7532; Booths 727, 826 Write 110 on...

Rescue tube.(WWA Show Exhibitors)
September 1, 2004... by Recreonics Features: designed to American Red Cross specifications, per maker; made of closed-cell ensolite foam covered in a heavy-duty, red vinyl skin with a 78-inch towline and shoulder loop Contact: Recreonics Inc., Louisville, Ky....

Parks and attractions software solutions.(WWA Show Exhibitors)
September 1, 2004... by Resort Technology Partners Features: software solutions for access control, ticketing, retail, food and beverage, activity scheduling, kiosks, e-commerce, loyalty programs and more Contact: Resort Technology Partners, Avon, Colo....

LG8BH48 watepark tube.(WWA Show Exhibitors)
September 1, 2004... by Sevylor Features: 48-inch, flume-ride waterpark tube; gusset is reinforced with double inside seam; five contoured, molded handles Contact: Sevylor Inc., Los Alamitos, Calif. 323.727.6013; Booths 500-502 Write 113 on Postage-Free...

Smarte locke electronic lockers.(WWA Show Exhibitors)
September 1, 2004... by Smarte Carte Features: multiple entry; keyless biometric access; coin, bill or credit-card payments; optional remote PC monitoring of locker activity Contact: Smarte Carte Inc., St. Paul, Minn. 800.838.0807; Booth 410 Write 114 on...

Dyne-wave waterfeature pump.(WWA Show Exhibitors)
September 1, 2004... by Sta-Rite Industries Features: with its low-speed, energy-efficient 1/3hp motor, this waterfeature pump is designed to run quietly; operates at 1,725 rpm; self-priming pump body similar to company's Dyna-Glas pump; 2-inch ports with...

The solution chemical feed system.(WWA Show Exhibitors)
September 1, 2004... by SureWater Technolgies Features: adjustable, wide-range sodium hypochlorite feed system is designed to simplify the disinfection process while reducing cost; incorporates patented venturi vacuum feed technology Offerings: two-year...

Strantrol set point controller.(WWA Show Exhibitors)
September 1, 2004... by USFilter Stranco Products Features: company introduces new controller that doses pool-water chemicals to control pH and ORP; utilizes company's high resolution redox technology to measure rate of oxidization regardless of bather load....

The super splash.(WWA Show Exhibitors)
September 1, 2004... by Vortex Aquatic Structures Intl. Features: colorful, 17-foot stainless steel structure features 60-gallon bucket that pours water onto a sloped canopy, creating a cascading effect; designed for splashpads, waterparks and pools Contact:...

Aquatic planners, designers and engineers.(WWA Show Exhibitors)
September 1, 2004... by Water Technology Features: team of planners, designers and engineers whose portfolio includes indoor and outdoor waterparks, resort/hotel pools, family aquatics centers, water spraygrounds, indoor leisure pools and more. Contact: Water...

Custom shade structures.(WWA Show Exhibitors)
September 1, 2004... by Waterloo Tent & Tarp Co. Features: shades include umbrellas, slide canopies, and shade panels with mesh, vinyl and fabric material options in a variety of designs and colors Contact: Waterloo Tent & Tarp Co. Inc., Waterloo, Iowa...

FlowRider action river.(WWA Show Exhibitors)
September 1, 2004... by Wave Loch Features: water attraction is designed to improve riders' skills the more they use it; high-capacity surf-and-river systems combine three separate attractions: the FlowRider Wave-In-A-Box, the Deep Flow Channel and the Action...

AquaPlay.(WWA Show Exhibitors)
September 1, 2004... by Whitewater West Industries Ltd. Features: includes water slides, water cannons, net climbs, jets, ropes, tunnels, bridge, spray features, tipping buckets, valves, cranks and more Contact: Whitewater West Industries Ltd., Richmond,...

Waterpark and pool inflatables.(WWA Show Exhibitors)
September 1, 2004... by Zebec Features: inflatables made with commercial-grade material and handles; double inside and outside seams for increased durability; a variety of models, colors and sizes are offered; custom logos and printing also are available...

Zeobrite fiber media.(WWA Show Exhibitors)
September 1, 2004... by Zeotech Carp. Features: designed to replace sand in sand filters while reducing chemical and operating costs, backwashing frequency and eye-irritating ammonia problems Offerings: literature Contact: Zeotech Corp., Fort Worth, Texas...

3M colorquartz aggregate.(Renovation and Repair)
September 1, 2004... by 3M Corp. Features: granules colored with a ceramic coating; product is designed to be used as an added ingredient 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, 2004... 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 Offerings: interactive CD enables customer to arrange...

Aqua gems.(Renovation and Repair)(Colored Aggregate Systems Inc)(Brief Article)
September 1, 2004... by Colored Aggregate Systems Features: ceramic colored aggregates intended for use in standard pool and spa plaster mixes; increases plaster's durability, per maker Offerings: 10-year limited warranty Contact: Colored Aggregate...

AquaGuard 5000.(Renovation and Repair)
September 1, 2004... by Aquatic Technologies Features: two-part epoxy provides protective coating for pools, spas, steel, cement or fiberglass; available in various colors and styles Offerings: 15-year warranty Contact: Aquatic Technologies Inc.,...

Pool plaster.(Renovation and Repair)
September 1, 2004... 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 Durazzo application; custom colors and finishes Contact:...

Precast concrete coping stone.(Renovation and Repair)
September 1, 2004... by Creacon Co. Features: precast, concrete coping stone is designed for durability; available in 15 standard colors; custom colors and designs also available Contact: Creacon Co. Inc., Grandview, Mo. 888.763.5774 Write 147 on...

AquaPro air-driven grinder.(Renovation and Repair)
September 1, 2004... by Aquavations Corp. Features: designed for applications from light buffing to heavy polishing; lightweight aluminum housing is intended to reduce operator fatigue; diamond abrasives available in many sizes and rigidity for grinding,...

CrystalStones pebble finish.(Renovation and Repair)
September 1, 2004... by CL Industries Features: product combines natural pebble aggregates with bright colors; designed to be durable and to provide etch resistance; can be applied using traditional or sprayed methods Contact: C.L. Industries, Orlando,...

Deck-O-Foam expansion joint filler.(Renovation and Repair)
September 1, 2004... by Deck-O-Seal Features: designed to replace brittle asphalt-impregnated fillers; for use on pool decks, bridge construction, concrete gutters, suspended walkways and more; product is flexible, tough and lightweight, per maker; available...

Matting.(Renovation and Repair)
September 1, 2004... by Duragrid Features: modular safety mats snap together; mats measure 12-by-12-inches; ideal for use in showers or toweling areas Contact: Duragrid, div., Snap Lock Industries, Salt Lake City 800.457.0174 Write 149 an Postage-Free...

Sure-foot decorative finish.(Renovation and Repair)
September 1, 2004... by Environmental Coating Systems Features: decorative, nonskid overlay product for new or old asphalt, concrete, sheet-goods and tile floors; 18 stencils and faux finishing techniques offer a variety of design capabilities; Confetti Finish...

E-Z pooldeck coating.(Renovation and Repair)
September 1, 2004... by E-Z Products Features: professional-grade pool deck and patio coating is formulated with 45 percent acrylic and 3 percent epoxy; designed to be low sheen and easy to apply Offerings: brochures, literature and free instructional...

Uniwall.(Renovation and Repair)
September 1, 2004... by Family Fun Corp. Features: walls offer design freedom of gunite, strength of concrete and low maintenance, per maker; Uniwall becomes self-supporting when reinforced with pockets of concrete; continuous lengths up to 400 linear feet ...

Fiberglass system.(Renovation and Repair)
September 1, 2004... by Fibre Tech Features: company offers a fiberglass system for swimming pool renovation Offerings: 25-year warranty Contact: Fibre Tech Inc., Largo, Fla. 800.393.7283 Write 153 on Postage-Free Card [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED]

Survivor Class 2 transformer.(Renovation and Repair)
September 1, 2004... by Faster Transformer Features: transformer for pool and spa beaters includes patented short circuit and overload protection capable of withstanding a direct short circuit in excess of 15 days, per maker; designed to eliminate need for...

DuraWhite.(Renovation and Repair)
September 1, 2004... by Huber Engineered Materials Features: the DuraWhite plaster designed to deliver a bright white, durable plastered surface Contact: Huber Engineered Materials, Atlanta 770.607.3345 Write 155 on Postage-Free Card [ILLUSTRATION...

Tile, plaster, coping and mosaics.(Renovation and Repair)
September 1, 2004... by International Pool Tile Corp. Features: company offers a variety of finishing material, including pool tile, plaster, coping and mosaics Contact: International Pool Tile Corp., Cranbury, N.J. 888.865.6685 Write 158 on...

Pool mix.(Renovation and Repair)
September 1, 2004... by Imerys Features: product is a high white marble, ground to a specific aggregate for inground pools; when formulated with white cement, the product provides a smooth, long-lasting finish, per manufacturer Contact: Imerys, Roswell,...

Stamped overlays.(Renovation and Repair)
September 1, 2004... by Kover Krete Systems Features: stamp mix is a blend of polymer-modified cement that can be stamped, textured, stenciled, integrally colored and stained; for commercial and residential applications Contact: Kover Krete Systems,...

Pool depth & safety markers.(Renovation and Repair)
September 1, 2004... by Inlays Features: available in ceramic tile, vinyl stick-on and glass overlays; reaches depths up to 14 feet on a single tile; smooth and skid-resistant surfaces; metric depths available Contact: Inlays Inc., Green Bay, Wis....

White cement.(Renovation and Repair)
September 1, 2004... by Lehigh Cement Co. Features: company offers white port-land cement for pool plaster; ASTM-certified Contact: Lehigh Cement Co., White Cement Division, Allentown, Pa. 610.366.4600 Write 160 on Postage-Free Card [ILLUSTRATION...