American Chemistry Council Rebuts New York Times on Chlorine Use
A May 29 New York Times article, Keeping Chlorine Out of the Pool, touts alternative technologies being used in pools instead of chlorine. The article brought this response from the American Chemistry Council:

“It is important to remind the public that alternative treatments do not eliminate the need for chlorine. For copper and silver ionizers to be fully effective (in preventing disease), the Association of Pool & Spa Professionals recommends that they be used in combination with chlorine …. None of the alternatives provide the residual disinfection benefits provided by chlorine.” MORE.

Texas Radio Show Promotes APSP Pool & Spa Safety Week
APSP members Michael Miller (Miller Pools) and Scott Waldo (Platinum Pools), have hosted a weekly call-in radio show since 2001. During APSP Pool & Spa Safety Week, May 31-June 6, they hosted an exciting live show from Michael’s store, Miller Pools in Pasadena, Texas, providing free refreshments, giveaway prizes, and APSP safety materials to more than 70 visitors. MORE.

More Info Available on APSP.org about Suction Entrapment Avoidance
APSP members now have easy access via the APSP website to a recent article on suction safety and the ANSI/APSP-7 standard. The article, “Suction Safety: How ANSI/APSP-7 Prevents Tragedy,” was written by APSP Technical Committee Chair Steve Barnes and appeared in the Winter 2008 issue of AQ. Visit our website for this article and other member resources about suction entrapment avoidance and compliance with the new requirements of the federal Pool and Spa Safety Act. Available documents include a summary of the Act, frequently asked questions (FAQs), and how the Act affects specific businesses, including swimming pool operators, manufacturers, builders, and service companies.
Click here for more information.

A Community of Many, the Importance of One
It’s an exciting, challenging, wonderful time to be a member of the pool, spa and hot tub industry. Innovations, changing markets, and legislative initiatives are creating a business environment where your connection to the APSP community is more important than ever. Membership renewal invoices for 2008-2009 were mailed in late April and the response has been tremendous. Over half of all members have already answered the call to action! APSP is made up of individuals like you who are committed to making a difference in the industry. Don’t lose your connection. If you need a copy of your invoice, please email memberservices@APSP.orgor call 703.838.0083, ext. 301. Renew your membership online.

Hot Tub Industry Growth Initiative “Sell-in” Phase Begins
The comprehensive consumer research is complete and the ad agency is on board. Now, the sell-in begins! The Strategic Planning Committee of the APSP Hot Tub Council, working with The Richards Group of Dallas, Texas, has built an initiative framework that addresses three key factors impacting hot tub sales: (1) low consumer awareness; (2) consumer doubts about hot tub relevance and utility, and (3) industry professionalism. Plan details are being conveyed through WebEx conferences to which industry players are invited. If you are a hot tub manufacturer or supplier, and would like an invitation to the conference call set for Thursday, June 26, at 2 p.m. EDT, please contact Lauren Stack (lstack@APSP.org) by Monday, June 23.

NBA Hall-of-Famer Bill Walton to Deliver Keynote Address at Expo
NBA basketball legend Bill Walton will be the keynote speaker at the "tip-off" of the 2008 International Pool | Spa | Patio Expo in Las Vegas. His keynote address, titled "Nothing but Net," is scheduled on Tuesday, November 18, from 10 a.m. to 10:50 a.m. in the Mandalay Bay Ballroom at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center. Walton’s speech is expected to set the pace for the November 18-20 Expo, discussing the characteristics that create success in business, including a focus on teamwork, overcoming adversity, and mastering the fundamental combination of hard work and a positive attitude. Come to "run the floor" with Bill Walton! See the news releaseand visit www.poolspapatio.comfor more details!

Awards of Excellence Deadline Quickly Approaching
The deadline to submit your entries for the International Awards of Excellence is one month from today. Each year APSP recognizes its members for outstanding pool, hot tub and water feature installations in more than 30 categories. This year, new commercial categorieshave been added to the competition. The entry deadline is July 18. Enter onlinetoday. For more information click hereor visit www.InternationalAwardsofExcellence.com.

Radiant Pools Receives 2008 SBA Award of Excellence
On May 5, the U.S. Small Business Administration and the New York Business Development Corporation recognized APSP member Radiant Pools, of Albany, New York, with a Small Business Excellence Award. The 50-year-old company was lauded as an industry innovator, designing pools with insulated walls to resist heat loss efficiently and save energy. Radiant Pools is also the first swimming pool manufacturer to become an Energy Star^TM Partner.

View the full story.

Find out about partnering with Energy Star^TM.

NOTICE: The Northeast Spa and Pool Association (NESPA) has moved its offices:
6B South Gold Drive
Hamilton, NJ 08691
Phone: 609-689-9111
Fax: 609-689-9110
www.nespapool.org


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.