Bill Introduced to Protect CA Pools

John Norwood, president of SPEC, the California Spa & Pool Industry Education Council, announced the introduction of AB 2409 in the California Legislature, intended to separate pools and spas and hot tubs from the definition of “water feature” for purposes of the state’s Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance.

Research: Reason for Crypto Resistance

MIOX Corp., a leader in safe water disinfection, published a peer-reviewed scientific paper in Applied and Environmental Microbiology, a journal of the American Society for Microbiology. The research for this publication was conducted in collaboration with the Center of Infectious Diseases and Biodefenses, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center.

ACA Offers Reasons for Camping

Families today have more options than ever before. Although most families are limited by time, what they choose to do with that time is a buffet of movies, museums, picnics, parks, classes, vacations and so much more. With all of these options, why should families choose camp?

Soccer Injury Rates on the Rise

With the growing popularity of soccer comes a greater number of injuries, as detailed in a new clinical report from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), “Injuries in Youth Soccer,” published in the February issue of Pediatrics (appearing online Jan. 25).

Text Extends Discussion on Inclusion

The demographic of communities continues to change and expand, changing the dynamic for recreation professionals, who must be prepared to provide access to anyone and everyone who wants to participate.

IAAPA Takes Safety on the Road

On the heels of success in 2008 and 2009, the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) expands its Safety Institutes program in 2010, with stops in Asia, the Middle East, Latin America, and the United States.

ICAA to Power AARP Directory

To support healthier aging, the International Council on Active Aging (ICAA), a professional association that has been leading, connecting and defining the active-aging industry since 2001, is teaming up with AARP, a nonprofit membership organization that serves 40 million Americans 50-plus, to increase awareness of and access to age-friendly wellness and fitness centers and services.

Research Key to Parks & Recreation

The importance of research and evaluation in the park and recreation industry is becoming increasingly evident as agencies are being asked to justify their existence to a variety of stakeholders. By properly evaluating programs, recreation professionals can better understand the impact of their programs and, with data in hand, justify future investments.

Henderson Launches Healthy Rewards

The City of Henderson Parks and Recreation Department is offering residents an opportunity to get healthy and stay fit in 2010 with the help of the newly expanded Healthy Henderson rewards program.

ACE Launches Online Consumer Resource

The American Council on Exercise (ACE), America’s leading authority on fitness and one of the largest fitness certification, education and training organizations in the world, announced the launch of a new online resource for consumers.

Sticks for Kids Program Expands

Even more youth across the country and China are about to be introduced to the game of golf thanks to the Sticks for Kids Program sponsored by the Golf Course Builders Association of America (GCBAA) Foundation.

Sustainability an Opportunity for Clubs

The International Health, Racquet & Sportsclub Association (IHRSA) released the results of its first-ever Green/Sustainability Survey. The purpose of the survey was to gain insight into the opinions and practices of health, racquet, and sports club operators around environmental sustainability and its associated business implications.

HHS Secretary Takes On Obesity Fight

First Lady Michelle Obama, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Kathleen Sebelius and U.S. Surgeon General Regina Benjamin announced plans to help Americans lead healthier lives through better nutrition, regular physical activity, and by encouraging communities to support healthy choices.

Study: Urban 'Green' Space Not So Green?

Dispelling the notion that urban “green” spaces help counteract greenhouse gas emissions, new research has found – in Southern California at least – that total emissions would be lower if lawns did not exist.

NSPF Announces Board Changes

The National Swimming Pool Foundation (NSPF) Board of Directors announced new officers, two retirements, and three new members to support the board’s ongoing focus to carry out the NSPF mission and to prepare for the organization’s continued success and development.

IHRSA Releases Health Club Report

The International Health, Racquet & Sportsclub Association (IHRSA) announced the release of the IHRSA Health Club Consumer Report, which provides detailed insight into the metrics, participation trends, and demographics of both member and non-member consumers in American fitness facilities.

IHRSA Campaign Aims to Cut Health Costs

The International Health, Racquet & Sportsclub Association (IHRSA) announced that as part of its Campaign for a Healthier America, it is urging Americans of all ages and abilities to make 2010 the year we unite in a national effort to create a culture of movement in America wherein regular daily exercise is highly valued and widely practiced.

Aquatic Health Conference a Success

The sixth annual World Aquatic Health Conference (WAHC) sponsored by the National Swimming Pool Foundation (NSPF) held in Atlanta, Georgia, October 28-30, 2009, drew 292 registrations from 40 states and 5 countries, participating in 43 seminars.

Research Considers Fit vs. Fat Debate

Although proper nutrition alone can lead to weight loss, it doesn’t necessarily equal true health or fitness, says a new study in the January issue of the official journal of the American College of Sports Medicine.

NSPF Director Leads Scientific Team

Dr. Alex Antoniou, Ph.D., Director of Educational Programs for the National Swimming Pool Foundation (NSPF), was a member of a special marine conservation team recognized by the Duke of Edinburgh at Buckingham Palace on November 11, 2009.

IAAPA Honors Waterpark Attractions

Two attractions won the title of 2009 Must-See Waterparks during IAAPA Attractions Expo 2009. The award recognizes outstanding waterparks throughout the world which provide visitors with unique and memorable experiences, top-notch guest service, operations and safety.

NSPF Meeting Fosters Dialogue with CPSC

The third annual National Swimming Pool Environmental Health Leaders (NSPEHL) Meeting was held on October 28 in Atlanta, Georgia, prior to the opening of the sixth annual World Aquatic Health Conference (WAHC) hosted by the National Swimming Pool Foundation (NSPF).

Aquatic Conference Returns to Colorado

Industry members should mark their calendars now to plan for the seventh annual World Aquatic Health Conference (WAHC), sponsored by the National Swimming Pool Foundation (NSPF).

APHA Looks at Team Sports Imact on Teens

Contradicting what most parents might think, participation in team sports doesn’t necessarily result in teenage boys adopting healthier behaviors. Instead, new research finds that it is actually associated with increased fighting and drinking.

Camp Is Vital to Education Reform

Education reform is in the news encouraging a nationwide move to extended days and year-round school. Is it possible that our children are beginning to lag behind other nations in academic achievement because we are focusing on the wrong aspects of a child's education?

Pool-Spa Expo Announces 2010 Dates

Originally scheduled to take place two weeks later, the 2010 International Pool | Spa | Patio Expo will now be held Nov. 3 to 5, 2010, in the Bayside Halls at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center in Las Vegas.

ACE Announces Agreement with YMCA

The American Council on Exercise (ACE), one of the largest fitness certification, education and training organizations in the world, announced an agreement with YMCA of the USA to work together in order to enhance local YMCA’s ability to serve health seekers across the country through increased access to materials, resources, certifications and continuing education credits.

ACSM Survey Predicts 2010 Fitness Trends

A lasting trend is developing in health and fitness, according to an American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) survey published in the November/December issue of ACSM’s Health & Fitness Journal. The importance of experienced and educated fitness professionals remains the top predicted fitness trend for the third straight year.

MFMA Designs PUR Standards

The Maple Flooring Manufacturers Association (MFMA) has designed PUR Standards to quantify performance characteristics that best define a “good sports floor.”

IHRSA Introduces 2009 Benchmarking

The International Health, Racquet & Sportsclub Association (IHRSA), in partnership with Sports Marketing Surveys, announced a new research report, the 2009 Health Club Equipment Benchmarking Report, designed to assist fitness equipment brands manage their business with commercial health clubs.

Wilderness at the Smokies Opens Slide

Wilderness at the Smokies in Sevierville, the southeast’s largest indoor and outdoor waterpark resort, opened its newest attraction, Runaway Canyon, in November.

Longview Institute Receives LEED Gold

The Institute for Healthy Living at Good Shepherd, in Longview, Texas, designed by Denver-based Ohlson Lavoie Collaborative, has received Gold Certification from the U.S. Green Building Council’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Program.

Surf Lessons Offered in the Smokies

Wilderness at the Smokies in Sevierville, the southeast’s largest indoor and outdoor waterpark resort, is now offering surfing lessons.

PPG Issues Advisory on Aquatic Practices

The Accu-Tabsystem commercial pool water treatment group of PPG Industries has announced the release of “Smooth Operator: Maintenance & Training Best Practices,” the second in a series of informational advisories.

Sega, Fantasy Announce Agreement

Sega Amusements Europe and Fantasy Entertainment announced that Sega Amusements Europe will represent U.S.-based Fantasy Entertainment’s full product portfolio throughout their territory of the United Kingdom, Europe, Russia and the Middle East, and includes their latest photo booths.

ChlorKing X-Gen NSF-50 Certified

ChlorKing Inc. a manufacturer of commercial salt chlorinators announced that it has received NSF-50 certification on its widely anticipated range of X-GEN on-site chlorine generators for commercial swimming pools.

Gold Medal Updates Web Site

Gold Medal Products is aiming to change the rules with instant, 24-hour access to the industry's best information at its updated Web site.

Turface & SAFE Award Grant

Turface Athletics awarded the Terry Mellor Continuing Education Grant, sponsored by SAFE, to Eddie Atherton, grounds manager for the city of Owensboro, Ky.

Perkins+Will, Shore Tilbe Irwin Merge

Toronto-based Shore Tilbe Irwin & Partners, one of Canada’s premier architectural firms, has joined forces with Perkins+Will, a global integrated design firm.

Rain Bird Nozzles Provide Right Flow

For golf course or athletic field maintenance professionals, syringing, hand-watering or hosing down equipment can be real chores— especially if the hose-end doesn’t provide the right flow rate for the job.

Community's ENTASYS Gets Colorful

Community Professional Loudspeakers has announced the availability of custom color paint for their ENTASYS high-performance column line-array loudspeakers.

Dimmable Power Allows LED Lighting Use

Contractors and end-users wishing to use "green" LED lighting can now do so while retaining the aesthetics of dimmable lighting with a new dimmable LED power supply from Foster Transformer.

PEM Offers Slip-Resistant Flooring

PEM Surface Creations, a leader in premium slip-resistant matting, provides unique solutions for safety and comfort to golf courses, aquatic facilities, marinas, playgrounds and equestrian centers, provides a textured surface that reduces slippage in high traffic areas, along with a soft construction that provides padding on points of harmful contact and comfort to barefoot traffic.

Bobcat Offers Front-Mounted Snowblowers

Bobcat compact tractor owners have a new, more comfortable option to clear snow during the winter.

Splashtacular Honored by Partner Company

SplashTacular Entertainment, a U.S.-based waterslide manufacturer, announced it has been recognized as “Outstanding Customer” by partner company JRL ventures.

Jacobsen Delivers Fleet to Dogwoods Golf

The Dogwoods Golf Course, at Hugh White State Park on Grenada Lake in Mississippi, has taken delivery of a fleet of Jacobsen turf equipment from local dealer Ladd’s, of Memphis.

Community Announces PMB Series

Community Professional Loudspeakers has released new Pole Mount Brackets for convenient mounting of their smaller sized R-Series and WET Series loudspeakers to poles, posts or columns.

Tom Saldarelli Joins S.R. Smith

Tom Saldarelli, one of Aquatics Internationals Power 25 and "Who's Who in Aquatic Leadership in the US" by the US Water Fitness Association, will be joining S.R. Smith – the world leader in swimming pool deck equipment. Tom’s role will be to help S.R. Smith accelerate the growth of its commercial products portfolio.

Williams Architects Announces Retirement

Williams Architects announced the retirement of Lawrence (Larry) M. Kmiecik, Vice President, after 28 years of service.

ET Water Systems Offers Efficiency

ET Water Systems Inc., provider of advanced and efficient irrigation management systems for commercial and municipal landscapes, announced an affordable product solution for California property managers, homeowner associations (HOA), and municipalities to comply with the Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance AB 1881.

True Fitness Treadmill Named "Best Buy"

TRUE Fitness, one of the world’s leading fitness equipment manufacturers, announced that its TRUE PS800 Treadmill has been named a “Best Buy” by Consumers Digest Magazine.

Schools Install Efficient Light Fixtures

The state of California has been a big promoter of energy conservation practices for the last decade. In fact, California is the state doing the most to implement energy-efficiency according to a new 50-state scorecard on energy efficiency policies, programs, and practices from the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE).

Sprinturf Applauds EPA Research

Sprinturf President and CEO Stanley H. Greene announced that he was pleased with the preliminary findings of the EPA study released in December and is committed to continuing his efforts as both an industry executive and chairman of the Synthetic Turf Council (STC) ensuring that the materials used in athletic fields and playing surfaces are deemed safe by agencies at the highest levels.

SCS Interactive Improves Service

In its on-going focus on industry interactivity, SCS has partnered with PurePlay Waterpark Restoration Services and you can now find SCS parts on PurePlay’s new website.

HealthPro Hygiene Announces Dispensers

HealthPro Hygiene, producers of Dispoz-A-Scoop, “No-Touch” Scoopers, introduce Dispoz-A-Scoop Rustic Park Dispensers, the essential enhancement for all dog-friendly / family-friendly environments!

Adolph Kiefer Revamps Online Store

Adolph Kiefer and Associates, Inc., a leading provider of swimwear, training gear, competitive pool equipment, and safety and rescue products, has launched a new online store.

Jungle Joe Brings Climbing to Water

Commercial Recreation Specialists (CRS) announced availability of the commercial-grade Aquaglide Platinum Jungle Joe.

Aquaglide Rockit Delivers Aquatic Play

Commercial Recreation Specialists (CRS) announces availability of the commercial-grade Aquaglide Platinum Rockit, a giant, circular rocker that adults, teens and even tweens will enjoy for hours.

TurfEx Introduces MS4500 Topdresser

TurfEx introduced its 1.4 cubic-yard capacity MS4500 topdresser.

Containers Offer Recycling Solution

New recycling containers from Witt Industries allow either one stream recycling or three separate stream recycling to be collected within a small area.

Cretors Introduces New Popcorn Machines

C. Cretors and Company, a leading designer and manufacturer of food processing and concession equipment, introduced the Econo Line of popcorn machines for homes and small venues such as bars, clubs and casinos.

TMI Salt Pure Expands on East Coast

In mid-October, TMI Salt Pure Corporation opened an East Coast office in Connecticut to support customers East of the Mississippi.

AMF Bowling Centers Works with Verizon

AMF Bowling Centers Inc. faced a challenge – how best to improve customer experience and position itself for growth by tapping the power of leading-edge information technology.

Jacobsen Gets Job Done at Minn. Resort

Joe Wollner has been the golf and grounds superintendent at the 27-hole Ruttger’s Bay Lake Lodge Resort, located in Brainerd, Minn., for the past 10 years and he could not be happier with the Jacobsen equipment he uses on a daily basis to maintain his two golf courses.

Documentary Looks at Adolph Kiefer

On Wednesday, November 18th Producer Michal McClure and Adolph Kiefer and Associates, Inc. released “Olympian For Life,” a video documentary that shares the Olympic accomplishments and inspirational life work of Adolph Kiefer.

Bradley Introduces Verge Lavatory System

Bradley Corp., the inventor of the lavatory system concept and leader in handwashing innovation, introduced its new and elegantly refined Verge Lavatory System for high-end commercial restroom applications.

Playworld Donates Neos Structure

Playworld Systems recently participated in the 2009 NRPA Congress and Exposition in Salt Lake City, Utah. During the events, Playworld gave away a NEOS 360, one of the company’s most innovative and interactive play structures, to Milwaukee County Parks and Recreation through a random drawing.

UVDI Names New President

UltraViolet Devices Inc. (UVDI), a leading manufacturer of ultraviolet (UV) disinfection and advanced molecular filtration products, announced today that Peter Veloz has been named president and chief executive officer of the company.

Concept2 Launches Latest Innovation

Concept2, a leading manufacturer of racing oars and rowing machines, has introduced their newest product: the Concept2 SkiErg. Similar to the Concept2 Indoor Rower, the SkiErg helps athletes build strength and endurance in a sport-specific motion.

Woodruff, S.C., Football Stadium Reborn

For a city of less than 5,000 people Woodruff, S.C., boasts more than its share of football history.

Flaghouse Launches Catch Program

FlagHouse recently announced the launch of the CATCH Early Childhood (CEC) Program, designed to nurture a love of physical activity and healthy behaviors in children ages 3 to 5.

SnowEx Introduces De-Icing Sprayers

Responding to the growing popularity of liquid brine solutions for use in snow and ice maintenance applications, SnowEx, a product division of TrynEx International, introduced a complete line of AccuSpray de-icing/anti-icing sprayers.

A-Turf Expands in United States

A-Turf, a national synthetic turf field builder announced the expansion of the company, opening its third U.S. location and growing its national sales team to provide greater service in the eastern region of the country.

Excel Industries Debuts Product Line

Excel Industries Inc., manufacturer of Hustler Turf Equipment, announced the introduction of a new product line of residential and commercial zero-turn mowers.

Fitness Anywhere Adds Second Boot Camp

Fitness Anywhere Inc., the creators of Suspension Training bodyweight exercise, a revolutionary functional fitness method born within Navy SEAL teams, released the TRX Boot Camp: Ropes & Straps Round 2 DVD and Guide.

Les Mills Purchases Les Mills Northeast

Les Mills has deepened its commitment to the United States with the purchase of Les Mills Northeast (LMNE).

Book Focuses on Hot Tub, Pool Sales

A new book, written by Marco Longley who sold almost $2 million in hot tubs in his very first year in the industry, provides the reader with step-by-step techniques and strategies to instantly increase sales.

Play Mart Introduces 'Nature at Play'

In response to a growing awareness among early childhood caregivers that connecting children with the natural world is crucial for their intellectual and physical development, Play Mart has developed a line of products that integrate nature into play.

RD Weis Carpet Used in NYC Marathon

At the New York City Marathon, crossing the Willis Avenue Bridge was made easier with R.D. Weis' carpet, installed the same morning.

U. of Minnesota Dedicates New Floor

The University of Minnesota officially dedicated its new Connor hardwood playing surface at Williams Arena.

Palintest Offers New Photometers

Palintest, a world-leading producer of water testing products, introduced its new Pooltest 3 and Pooltest 6 handheld photometer kits for water chemistry analysis.

John Deere Launches New ZTrak PRO 900

John Deere announced its latest line of commercial mowers, the ZTrak PRO 900 Series and its “Work it for a Week” program.

GameBike GB 900 Tough Enough for Clubs

High-traffic athletic clubs have a new weapon in their battle for retaining and getting new members. It is the GB 900 GameBike from Source Brands Inc.

Calif. High School Upgrades Sound System

When Center High School decided to upgrade the sound system in Gerety Stadium, home to football and soccer games, as well as other events like the school’s commencement ceremonies, they chose speakers from One Systems.

Bobcat E60 Excavator Works Long Hours

Bobcat Company announced that the E60 excavator — part of the new M-Series line of loaders and excavators — is now available from Bobcat dealers. The E60 is a new model size in the 6-ton weight class.

Expand Sales with One Machine

Once warm, the #2182 Combo Kandy King will make 4 lbs. of frosted nuts in about 15 minutes and 5 gallons of caramel corn in about 20 minutes.

Middleton's Lakeview Splashpad Grows

Commercial Recreation Specialists (CRS) recently partnered with the city of Middleton, Wis., to complete Phase 2 of a 3,400-square-foot Splashpad in Lakeview Park.

Hybri-Flex Floor System Delivers

Hybri-Flex ES is Dur-A-Flex’s first smooth-finish hybrid flooring system offering great looks while standing up to heavy-duty use.

Exmark Unveils Next-Generation Mowers

Exmark, a leading manufacturer of commercial mowers, introduced four new mowers at GIE+EXPO. These products complement Exmark's already impressive line-up of professional-grade mowers, some of which have been enhanced for 2010.

Express Blower's TM-70 Handles All Sizes

Designed to handle jobs of any size, the TM-70 pneumatic blower from Express Blower Inc. spreads a wide array of materials, including mulch, compost, soil blends, wood chips and aggregates.

SnowEx Introduces De-Icing Sprayers

Responding to the growing popularity of liquid brine solutions for use in snow and ice maintenance applications, SnowEx, a product division of TrynEx International, introduced a complete line of AccuSpray de-icing/anti-icing sprayers.

Barker Rinker Seacat Ranked Third

Barker Rinker Seacat Architecture was named No. 13 in CE News/ ZweigWhite’s Top 15 Best Architecture Firms to Work For in the United States, and No. 3 in the Top 4 Best Small Architecture Firms to Work For (firms employing fewer than 50 employees).