Pool & Spa News articles from February 2004

Pool & Spa News archives from February 2004

Jandy buys Huron.
February 13, 2004... In a move designed to expand its pool and spa line, Jandy has acquired Huron Tech Systems, a Jacksonville, Fla.-based manufacturer of chlorine generators. The terms of the agreement were not disclosed. Huron, a division of Finnchem USA...

San Juan pools facility burns.
February 13, 2004... San Juan Pools' production facility in Lakeland, Fla., was completely destroyed by a fire last month. However, the loss will not have a major impact on the fiberglass pool manufacturer's ability to do business, according to company...

The sweet smell of success.(Reflections)
February 13, 2004... There's a building right up the street from where I live that has been the home of many failed restaurants. Something about the location makes it difficult for a business to survive there. So it was with pity and trepidation that I first...

Active-adult communities generate profits.(Making News)
February 13, 2004... When Jeffrey Clarkson entered a bid to construct a pool for Brownfields Properties' new condominium complex, he suspected the 134-unit, golf-course-adjacent development was geared toward older Americans. "Developers don't approach you and...

CDC receives research grant from NSPF.
February 13, 2004... The National Swimming Pool Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving public health and aquatic safety, awarded the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention a grant for its Healthy Swimming Project, which aims to prevent the...

RJE enters agreement with Pool Covers.
February 13, 2004... Pool Covers Inc., a dealer of automatic pool covers based in Richmond. Calif., has entered a multimillion-dollar agreement with RJE Technologies Inc. to be the exclusive dealer of its SonarGuard pool security systems in Northern California. RJE...

Aquatech to offer new member benefits.(Making News)
February 13, 2004... Aquatech has added more benefits to its list of membership perks. The Huntington Beach, Calif.-based buying group has teamed up with the MainStreet Cooperative Group to offer medical insurance for its members' employees and families....

Safety symposium slated.
February 13, 2004... The first International Symposium on Swimming Pool and Spa Safety will be held in Orlando, Fla., March 2. at the Rosen Center Hotel. Organizers hope the event will be the most comprehensive symposium ever held on pool safety. The goal is to...

Crystal Pools receives award.
February 13, 2004... W.W. Adcock Co., a distributor based in Huntingdon, Pa., presented Crystal Pools Inc. with the W.W. Adcock Award of Excellence for its perseverance, integrity and leadership in the pool and spa industry and for its commitment to the community....

Cal Spas pleased with first Dealer Expo.(Making News)
February 13, 2004... More than 500 Cal Spa dealers, along with 20,000 consumers, converged on the Ontario (Calif.) Convention Center last month for the first Cal Spas Dealer Expo. "I believe this is the first time a manufacturer went out of the box and...

Housing starts hit another high note.(Making News)
February 13, 2004... Home builders were feeling optimistic, with housing starts in December hitting 2.09 million units. It is a 1.7 percent hike above November's revised 2.05 million units. New-home construction increased by 1.85 million units in 2003--the highest...

S.R. Smith adds Commercial Division.
February 13, 2004... S.R. Smith, a manufacturer of pool and deck equipment based in Canby. Ore., has created a Commercial Division to cater to the needs of commercial aquatics facilities, architects and builders. The new department specializes in manufacturing...

BioGuard allies with alliance.
February 13, 2004... BioGuard, a Lawrenceville. Ga.-based pool/spa chemical maker, announced expansion of its Insignia Dealer vendor partnership to include Aquabilt, LLC, manufacturer of hydrotherapy products for physical rehabilitation based in Canton, Conn. The...

California inspectors head to school.(Making News)
February 13, 2004... The California industry lobbying group SPEC is working with the Contractors State License Board to educate permit and inspection officials in proper pool and spa building practices. Of particular importance is the need to teach permit...

Economic indicators continue to grow.(Making News)
February 13, 2004... "The U.S. Leading Economic Indicators Index increased 0.1 percent to 114.3 in December. The index has increased at a 4.7 percent annual rate from its most recent low in March--and this pickup has continued to be widespread. With vendor...

Big box stores booming.
February 13, 2004... Despite a downturn in commercial construction in the past several months, there's been a building spree among big box stores. Construction in the general merchandise category is up more than 20 percent from November 2002 following a...

Franklin Electric plans consolidation.
February 13, 2004... Franklin Electric Co. Inc. will consolidate the submersible turbine pump operations of FE Petro and the flexible piping operations and service station hardware of EBW Inc. and Advanced Polymer Technology Inc. into a new facility in Madison,...

Dow Jones reaches 31-month high.(Making News)
February 13, 2004... The Dow Jones industrial average soared to its highest level in more than 2 1/2 years last month as investor sentiment was boosted by encouraging comments from Federal Rest, we Chairman Alan Greenspan. At an economic conference in London,...

Pool and Spa Industry Stock Market Transactions.(Making News)
February 13, 2004... Pool and Spa Industry Stock Market Transactions Quotations are for January 26, 2004 Vol. Close Net Change Symbol (100s) 1/26/04 from 1/12/04 NEW...

Paragon earns media award.
February 13, 2004... Caretaker Systems International, a pool/spa equipment manufacturer, honored Joe Vassallo, president of Paragon Pools, with its first CSI Special Award of Recognition for Outstanding Media Coverage. The award recognizes Vassallo's efforts to...

Homeowner group sues over fence.
February 13, 2004... According to a report published on Yahoo.com, Janet Meisinger of Leawood, Kan., was sued by her homeowner association for building a 6-foot fence around her pool to keep kids from using the pool unsupervised. Meisinger, a mother herself, built...

Industry veteran Jeffrey Miller dies.(Making News)
February 13, 2004... Jeffrey Miller, a 30-year veteran of the pool and spa industry, died of cancer Dec. 31. He was 58. Miller, whose career history included stints in manufacturing, retailing and management, most recently was vice president of San Juan Pools,...

Small Business Optimism remains high.(Making News)
February 13, 2004... The Small-Business Optimism Index jumped for a third consecutive month in December to 106.9. This was bolstered by upturns in job creations and sales expectations, according to the National Federation of Independent Business. But rising...

AcuTrol co-founder retires.
February 13, 2004... Bob Lenney, co-founder of Acu-Trol Programmable Controllers, has retired. The past 15 years, Lenney was chief financial officer of the Auburn, Calif.-based company. In retirement, he plans to dedicate more time to his family and to developing...

Plastimayd names Logan, Kindrick.
February 13, 2004... Clackamas, Ore.-based Plastimayd Corp., manufacturer of pool liners and safety products, has hired Mark Logan as territory sales manager for Illinois, Iowa, Indiana, Kansas and Missouri. And Jessica Kindrick was promoted to in-house sales for...

Sundance taps McNamara, Pasley.
February 13, 2004... Sundance Spas Inc. recently hired Maggie McNamara as director of marketing and promoted Jerry Pasley to vice president of sales. McNamara and Pasley are replacing Jerry Greer, who held both positions for the last six years and is leaving to...

Hunter joins Pentair.
February 13, 2004... Pentair Pool Products, a manufacturer of pool and spa products based in Sanford, N.C., appointed Tom Hunter as territory service manager for northern Texas, Oklahoma and Arkansas. The former owner of Cheri Pool Service in Keller, Texas, Hunter...

S.R. Smith hires Gilmour.
February 13, 2004... Larry Gilmour has joined S.R. Smith's new Commercial Division as the inside sales and customer care manager. He brings 18 years' residential and commercial sales experience to the company's sales and product development team. S.R. Smith is a...

Patio Pools promotes Doering.
February 13, 2004... Patio Pools & Spas, a Tucson, Ariz.-based builder of pools and spas, has promoted Rich Doering, the company's former executive design consultant, to sales manager. Doering, who broke the company's 23-year sales record last year, has helped...

Safe and sound: Jeff Ellis' ideas and innovations have helped make the world of aquatics a safer place to be.(People)
February 13, 2004... Few could argue that Jeff Ellis has changed the world of aquatics for the better. In 1982, he was working full time as a criminal investigator at the Texas attorney general's office when his boss, then-Gov. Bill Clements, lost his...

Under cover: installing an automatic cover on a new pool is easier if you follow these tips.(Technically Speaking)
February 13, 2004... Installing automatic covers on new-pool installations is a nice way to add to your bottom line. After the sale, you may be tempted to subcontract out the cover installation. However, you should consider doing it yourself. It's not as...

Trust issues: follow these simple steps to head off potentially devastating lawsuits.(Legal Eagle)
February 13, 2004... One of the most devastating moments for any business is the announcement that the company has become the target of a lawsuit claiming unfair competition. Competition is often the breeding ground for civil disputes and government...

Annual plaster issue.
February 13, 2004... February marks the 15th anniversary of the National Plasterers Council's annual convention. As is tradition, Pool & Spa News presents its special plasterers' issue to coincide with the event. A lot has changed since last year's conference....

In the mix: quartz is becoming a more popular pool-surfacing option among consumers and builders because of its durability and color versatility.
February 13, 2004... Three years ago, Matthew Cyna went to a pool and spa convention and came away with a great new idea for the pools he was designing in New York: a quartz plaster mix. "I brought it back and showed it to the owner, and he said we could try...

A change in direction: now under new leadership, the National Plasterers Council seeks to raise its profile, recruit more members and produce research its critics will find unimpeachable.
February 13, 2004... Ah, the teen years. It's a time known for attempts to find one's path in life, for rebellious impulses and growing pains. That's something to which members of the National Plasterers Council, who are about to hold their 15th annual...

Paid in full: securing that final payment begins as soon as you say, 'Hello'.
February 13, 2004... The big moment is finally at hand. The project may have had its ups and downs, but now it's time to start the pool and collect the final payment. But the customer doesn't want to let go of that last check. Maybe there is a legitimate...

Selling the great outdoors: expanding to a new facility, a pool and spa dealer broadens its business to "outerior" living.
February 13, 2004... Over the past two years, the owners of Pools Plus have been focusing a lot on the plus. Although pool and spa equipment continues to be the bread and butter of Fred and Linda Butler's business, this couple is intent on spreading the entire...

Spring break: the Florida 2004 Pool & Spa show shines down on Orlando.
February 13, 2004... When pool and spa professionals go on "spring break," they do things a little differently than most. While others may flock to Florida for some mindless fun in the sun, these hardworking industry members head to the Sunshine State to learn more...

A new identity: the Florida Swimming Pool Association enters 2004 with a new name and full agenda.
February 13, 2004... Building upon the mission set forth when it changed its name last December, the Florida Swimming Pool Association has big plans for the upcoming year. Formerly known as the National Spa & Pool Institute-Florida or the Florida Pool & Spa...

Boosting brain power: the Florida show's educational program offers a multitude of courses.
February 13, 2004... Pool and spa professionals will have numerous opportunities to hit the books while at the Florida 2004 Pool & Spa Show, Organizers have put together more than 80 hours of education this year. The 50-plus courses deal with diverse topics, from...

CP7 aluminum coping for fiberoptic lighting.(Package Pools and Vinyl Liners)
February 13, 2004... by Cinderella Features: all-aluminum construction; no PVC inserts; designed to hold numerous brands of perimeter fiberoptic cable Offerings: UPS shipping Contact: Cinderella Inc., Saginaw, Mich. (989) 755-7741 Write 149 on...

Pools and spas.(Package Pools and Vinyl Liners)
February 13, 2004... by Aussie Pools Features: company offers thermally insulated wall systems; fast construction; systems are energy-efficient, cost-effective, per manufacturer Offerings: distributorships available Contact: Aussie Pools, Sacramento,...

Pool vinyl liners.(Package Pools and Vinyl Liners)
February 13, 2004... by Factory Direct Liners Features: company will present its line of vinyl liners for pools; durable, quality liners are produced using a completely computerized manufacturing process, per maker Contact: Factory Direct Liners Inc.,...

Tower collection of vinyl patterns.(Package Pools and Vinyl Liners)
February 13, 2004... by Canadian General-Tower Ltd. Features: new additions to company's line of patterns for vinyl liners, including Cambridge Tile (shown); classic tile and stone patterns also available Offerings: full-color brochures; Web site with...

Uniwall.(Package Pools and Vinyl Liners)
February 13, 2004... by Family Fun Corp. Features: product offers complete design freedom; self-supporting flexible fiberglass pool walls are easy to maintain, according to manufacturer Offerings: construction training, designing rods Contact: Family...

Exterior coordinates pool liner.(Package Pools and Vinyl Liners)
February 13, 2004... by Fort Wayne Pools Features: company offers entire line of steps, ladders, handrails and interior pool components; designed to coordinate with firm's most popular liner; 10 liner patterns available; liners are constructed using virgin...

Inground vinyl steel wall pool.(Package Pools and Vinyl Liners)
February 13, 2004... by Fox Pool Corp. Features: company offers exclusive "X"-brace deck support; powder-coated, galvanized universal wall Offerings: protected exclusive market area and propriety product offering Contact: Fox Pool Corp., York, Pa....

Vinyl pool liners.(Package Pools and Vinyl Liners)
February 13, 2004... by Garrett Liners Features: company offers 30 border and bottom patterns for inground pool liners; made to be extra-strong; 28-mil SuperLine; 28/20-mil TUFFside; exclusive Ultrafit process for exceptional fit, according to maker ...

Steel and vinyl inground pool kits.(Package Pools and Vinyl Liners)
February 13, 2004... by Imperial Pools Mfg. And Dist. Features: company offers steel inground pool kits, one-piece thermoplastic steps, and vinyl liners for inground and aboveground pools; new designer patterns available for 2004 Offerings: color...

Polymer inground pools.(Package Pools and Vinyl Liners)
February 13, 2004... by Kafko Mfg. Ltd. features: modular alternative to typical masonry pools intended to reduce labor intensity; walls consist of polymer boxes, each 1m long by 1.22 m high by 15 cm wide, which attach by sliding together; surfaces are...

Vinyl liners.(Package Pools and Vinyl Liners)
February 13, 2004... by Latham Intl. Features: liners offered in overlap, white and blue-beaded styles; all available in Perma 20; select patterns available in Perma 25 and Perma 30 Contact: Latham Intl., Latham, N.Y. (800) 562-0024 Write 157 on...

Natatec PVC membrane system.(Package Pools and Vinyl Liners)
February 13, 2004... by Natare Corp. Features: liners are layered with PVC membranes in an effort to create a watertight surface; cost-effective for renovations and new constructions; primary or slip-resistant models are available in white, sky blue, Caribbean...

Dursila tile liners.(Package Pools and Vinyl Liners)
February 13, 2004... by Pegasus Pool Products Features: durable vinyl liners created using computerized cutting tables networked with the engineers' CAD and designing programs to eliminate the risk of human error, per maker Offerings: a wide selection of...

Vinyl liners by Plastimayd Corp.(Package Pools and Vinyl Liners)
February 13, 2004... by Plastimayd Corp. Features: company offers 22 exclusive patterns in 20- and 30-mil, and 20/30 Perma-Mayd combo; three new patterns include Tuscan Spring, Powder River and Mayan; Ultra-Mayd extended life liners designed to resist UV and...

Package pools and vinyl liners.(Package Pools and Vinyl Liners)
February 13, 2004... by Pool Builders Supply Features: company offers quality polymer wall pools and custom vinyl liners; liners available in many patterns; acrylic fiberglass steps, covers and liner vacuums also available Offerings: exclusive territories...

90-degree corner twin seat cantilever stair.(Package Pools and Vinyl Liners)
February 13, 2004... by Quaker Plastic Corp. Features: patented lock-down bleacher system; TLC for easier installation; works with or without automatic covers Contact: Quaker Plastic Corp., Mountville Pa. (717) 285-4571 Write 164 on Postage-Free Card...

Vinyl liners by Sharkline.(Package Pools and Vinyl Liners)
February 13, 2004... by Sharkline Features: five exclusive patterns to offer with J-bead/hung option; new Mystri liner for 2004; a range of colors also available Offerings: dealer buying program to ensure against stockouts, per maker; color brochures,...

Unibead two-in-one liner.(Package Pools and Vinyl Liners)
February 13, 2004... by Swimline Corp./Intl. Leisure Products Features: liners for inground and aboveground pools; patented innovation allows a single layer to function as either a beaded-hung or over-the-wall J-hook liner: several patterns available ...

Assorted vinyl liner patterns.(Package Pools and Vinyl Liners)
February 13, 2004... by Tara Mfg. Features: company offers an array of liner patterns; new Cumberland design blends a large rock pattern with gold, pewter and teal tones; Inspiration pattern uses blue and aqua tones in a look meant to be soothing, slightly...

Shimmer series of vinyl liners.(Package Pools and Vinyl Liners)
February 13, 2004... by Victory Plastics Features: series is made with new printing techniques to create a shimmer effect, according to manufacturer; new Oahu pattern (shown) available for 2004 Offerings: different lines exclusive to regional markets,...

Vinyl liners, covers and domes.(Package Pools and Vinyl Liners)
February 13, 2004... by Vinyl Fabrications Features: company offers vinyl liners in 20-, 30- and 30/20-mil thickness; a variety of patterns available Offerings: product literature: technical assistance Contact: Vinyl Fabrications Inc., Oroville, Calif....

Vinyl liners by Vogue Pool Products.(Package Pools and Vinyl Liners)
February 13, 2004... by Vogue Pool Products Features: company offers liners designed to be durable and available in attractive patterns; designed to withstand the harmful effects of chemicals, solar rays and seasonal temperature extremes Contact: Vogue...

Inground pool liner.(Package Pools and Vinyl Liners)
February 13, 2004... by Vyn-All Products Corp. Features: company offers its Anchorage Harbor with Granite Shoals Floor inground pool liner, available in a DuraWall combination that features a 28-mil wall with a 20-rail floor: pattern is designed to match the new...

Gazebos.(Backyard Furniture & Patio Accessories)
February 13, 2004... by Abris Penguin Shelters Features: constructed of fully extruded aluminum: all models feature sliding doors; roofs contain ultraviolet light inhibitors to keep gazebo cool during day-time hours, per maker, wind panels available in clear,...

Mosquito-killing systems.(Backyard Furniture & Patio Accessories)
February 13, 2004... by Arctic Products Features: system operates using carbon dioxide; developed with the assistance of NASA, per maker; designed to attract mosquitoes to the unit through use of thermal imagery; made to reduce mosquito population in a...

Splash roller.(Backyard Furniture & Patio Accessories)
February 13, 2004... by Bestway-USA Features: I-beam construction for durability: versatile products can be used in pool or on lawn; designed to provide a safe, fun way for children to play Contact: Bestway-USA, Johnson, R.I. (808) 435-3456 Write 186...

Patio umbrellas.(Backyard Furniture & Patio Accessories)
February 13, 2004... by Accent Umbrellas Features: company offers three wood-frame models; custom design and manufacturing; cushions for outdoor furniture also available Contact: Accent Umbrellas. Oakland, Calif. (510) 569-5491 Write 181 on...

Double-wide lounge with umbrella.(Backyard Furniture & Patio Accessories)
February 13, 2004... by Arizona Casual Furniture Features: three hollow flat with extruded aluminum with all-welded frame; metal adjustable uprights; available with or without cushion; available with umbrella stand (as shown); custom paint, strap and fabric...

BBQ Island.(Backyard Furniture & Patio Accessories)
February 13, 2004... by Bull Outdoor Products Features: standard models include stucco base, rock tile counter, four or five burners, stainless steel access door, refrigerator and sink; GFCI electrical outlet; upgrade options include brick or rock base,...

Gazebos and spa enclosures.(Backyard Furniture & Patio Accessories)
February 13, 2004... by Alliance Woodcraft Mfg. Features: company offers a large selection of gazebos and spa enclosures, each with a strong roof, per maker Offerings: early season and showroom discounts; free sales material Contact; Alliance Woodcraft...

Outdoor towel warmer.(Backyard Furniture & Patio Accessories)
February 13, 2004... by Baltic Leisure Co. Features: heats and dries robes and towels up to 150 degrees Fahrenheit; clear Western red cedar cabinet; 110V plug-in with built-in GFCI; electronic digital time- and temperature control; 8-hour maximum runtime ...

Vinyl gazebos.(Backyard Furniture & Patio Accessories)
February 13, 2004... by Caldera Spas Features: made from durable, virgin vinyl: provides backyard privacy; designed for minimal maintenance; three styles from which to choose; available in tan or gray, both with white trim Offerings: Co-op advertising,...

Cal enclosures Victorian gazebo.(Backyard Furniture & Patio Accessories)
February 13, 2004... by Cal Spas Features: made from redwood or composite materials; 12-, 14- or 16-foot models available; includes balustrade panels, decorative corbels and pagoda roof Contact: Cal Spas, Pomona, Calif. (800) 225-7727 Write 190 on...

Towel tree.(Backyard Furniture & Patio Accessories)
February 13, 2004... by The Cover Valet Features: constructed of rust-free aluminum and designed to keep towels and robes within reach of spa users; available in bronze or pewter finish; company also offers the Spa Side Umbrella, Cover Caddy, Spa Side Handrail...

Side post umbrella.(Backyard Furniture & Patio Accessories)
February 13, 2004... by FIM Mfg. Features: umbrellas offer multidirectional shade; available in various canopy sizes and shapes with four different base options Offerings: quick ship and drop-ship program on all orders, per maker Contact: FIM Mfg....

Hot Ttb gazebos and free-standing gazebos.(Backyard Furniture & Patio Accessories)
February 13, 2004... By Gazebo Works Too Features: built-to-order; redwood, 2-by-4 frame construction Offerings: terms for display units Contact: Gazebo Works Too, Central Point, Ore. (541) 664-2000 Write 199 on Postage-Free Card [ILLUSTRATION...

Outdoor furniture.(Backyard Furniture & Patio Accessories)
February 13, 2004... by Casual Creations Features: company offers quality Furniture in 13 frame colors and 90 fabric choices Offerings: free Design Center, 15-year warranty; special orders ship in one to two weeks, per maker Contact: Casual Creations,...

All season steps.(Backyard Furniture & Patio Accessories)
February 13, 2004... by Essentials Features: spa steps double as storage units; polymer construction with a micro-thin air cushion: available in two sizes, with or without storage bins, and a variety of colors and finishes from which to choose Offerings:...

No. 114 piping boy.(Backyard Furniture & Patio Accessories)
February 13, 2004... by Floretine Craftsmen Features: made of lead; measures 32 inches high; base is 7-by-8-inches; figure shoots streams of water from the two pipes he's playing Contact: Florentine Craftsmen Inc., Long Island City, N.J. (718) 937-7632...

Umbrella greenhouse.(Backyard Furniture & Patio Accessories)
February 13, 2004... by Glasgow Imports Features: designed to protect plants and promote seed growth; drawstring makes it easy to open with one pull; compacts for storage; two available sizes; company also offers grow racks, greenhouses, market umbrella and...

Atria pool enclosures.(Backyard Furniture & Patio Accessories)
February 13, 2004... by CCSI Intl. Features: rigid frame, glazed structures made for various uses; structures provide light garden environment; powder-coated, color aluminum frames, rafters and sliding glass doors designed to be durable; require minimal...

Moodlight fiber optic kit.(Backyard Furniture & Patio Accessories)
February 13, 2004... by Fiber Optic Technologies Features: do-it-yourself fiberoptic kits for inground and aboveground pools, spas, decks and more; product is made to be affordable, easy to install, attractive, safe, maintenance-free, and can be added to any...

Derby ducks and turbo turtles.(Backyard Furniture & Patio Accessories)
February 13, 2004... by GAME Features: wide range of accessories includes racers, chlorinators, thermometers, candle holders, cup holders and spa scents Offerings: spinner racks, counter-top merchandisers, window displays, POP materials Contact: Great...

Commercial grill.(Backyard Furniture & Patio Accessories)
February 13, 2004... by The Holland Co. Features: affordable, quality grill, per maker; options include thermostatically controlled cooking and dual burners; new units available in either 6- or 9-foot trailer versions Contact: The Holland Co. Inc., Holly...