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July 5, 2007
New York Times Features Bill Weber Interview
In response to the drowning of a 3-year-old on Long Island, a June 25 New York Times article on pool safety measures featured an interview with APSP President Bill Weber. Weber’s quote contained useful advice for consumers and sent a positive message about the pool industry’s concern for safety. As a result of the article, APSP has been contacted by the New York State Secretary of State’s office for assistance with public awareness initiatives on pool safety. Click here to view the full article.
Florida Building Commission Adopts APSP Standard for Suction Entrapment Avoidance
On June 27, the Florida Building Commission voted 19-1 to adopt the ANSI/APSP-7 Suction Entrapment Avoidance Standard and remove the existing entrapment language in the Florida building code. According to Jennifer Hatfield, Director of Government and Public Affairs of FSPA, the APSP affiliate in Florida, the action will be ratified by the Commission in August, when a rule adoption hearing is held to approve the entire 2007 Code. The 2007 Code is slated to go into effect October 1, 2008. The Commission also unanimously approved all other swimming pool-related modifications that were accepted by the Plumbing TAC in March. MORE.
New Florida Law Permits Single-Wire Alternative to Bonding Grid for Pools
On June 19, Governor Charlie Crist of Florida signed SB 2836, the Florida Building Commission bill. Section 1 of the bill related to bonding and grounding systems for swimming pools. Upon becoming law, the bill’s provisions became effective immediately. The bill authorizes the commission to review the bonding requirements in the 2005 National Electrical Code (NEC) and adopt an alternative to that 2005 NEC rule. Until the commission takes action, the bill allows the use of a single #8 bare copper wire around the perimeter of a pool as an alternative to a bonding grid. MORE.
Renewal Response Strong
Initial response to the annual membership renewal mailing has been tremendous. Please continue your commitment to the future of the pool and spa industry by renewing your membership today. You are the Association of Pool and Spa Professionals—you and over 5,000 other industry companies who believe in collaboration for industry success. Through your support, APSP increases the professionalism of our industry through education and technical standards, serves as an advocate for local and national legislative issues, and promotes our industry through various public relations and research initiatives. Click here to view Bill Weber’s renewal letter.
For renewal information, contact memberservices@APSP.org or 703.838.0083, ext. 301.
Wall Street Journal: Are Consumers Cooling on Outdoor Rooms?
The Wall Street Journal recently reported that “some homeowners say they’re falling out of love with their expensively furnished backyards, which require hours of upkeep and costly repair.” To counter this possible trend, our industry needs to emphasize how pools, spas, and hot tubs foster family togetherness and relaxation while the maintenance required in their upkeep is low relative to other amenities less suitable for the outdoors. Click here for the article.
Planning to Hire Foreign Workers for Jobs in ’08? Start Now!
If you plan to hire foreign workers for temporary full-time jobs in the spring season of 2008, “now is the time to find a good agent,” says Libby Whitley of Más Labor, LLC, a firm that specializes in providing H2 labor services for employers. ”Familiarize yourself with Department of Labor requirements for H-2B employers, and begin the application process.” MORE.
APSP’s PoolPeopleUSA.com Can Help Grow Your Business
Pool People USA’s dealer locater is the place consumers turn to find qualified pool professionals. In 2006, Pool People USA saw more than 275,000 visitors, generating many qualified leads for pool professionals. You can’t get these leads if your contact information is outdated. Visit the website, call 1.877.343.7665, or email us today to make sure you’re getting the most out of your APSP member benefits.
Judges Needed for Awards of Excellence
APSP is seeking qualified industry professionals to judge its 2007 International Awards of Excellence (AOE) entries. Judging will take place in Alexandria, Virginia, from noon on September 5 to noon on September 7. If you'd like to be considered, contact Marianne Kiernan (mkiernan@APSP.org or 703.838.0083, ext. 121). Judges are responsible for their own airfare and hotel expenses.
Don’t Miss Out . . . Awards of Excellence Entry Deadline is August 3, 2007!
Click here to enter or for more information.
You can contribute to IC. Click here to find out how, or send an email to ic@APSP.org. You may also fax 703.549.0493. |