July 25, 2007

Action Moves to House on Federal Pool and Spa Safety Legislation
As reported in the attached release, the U.S. Senate Commerce Committee approved S.1771, the bill named “The Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act,” on July 19. The bill, which APSP fully supports, is consistent with all relevant state laws in endorsing a layer of protection approach that enables homeowners to employ whatever safety measures best suit their circumstance.

The House version, H.1721, sponsored by Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL), would require isolation fencing around all pools and spas, new and existing, thus eliminating consumer choice and discouraging compliance.  APSP is carefully coordinating the industry’s representation in the House in advance of a July 31 markup.

Dallas Morning News: ‘Al Fresco Refreshment Said to Help Reduce Stress’
The American Psychological Association recently reported that 47% of Americans are concerned with stress in their lives. APSP’s public relations firm, Gibbs & Soell, wrote an article for newspaper distribution highlighting how outdoor living areas can help homeowners relax and recharge. Hot Tub Council Chair Steve Gorlin was interviewed for the piece and was quoted on the benefits of warm-water therapy to reduce stress. The article was picked up by a large number of newspapers, including The Dallas Morning News (June 19) and many websites.

CBP Recognition Dinner on November 27 in Orlando
The APSP Builders Council, at its July 21 meeting, recommended the allocation of Council funds for a CBP Recognition Dinner to be held Tuesday, November 27, 6:00-8:00 p.m., in Orlando, Florida. The Council is inviting all CBP Certified Building Professionals® to join together and enjoy an evening in their honor with a complimentary dinner and an educational presentation. For more information, send an e-mail to BuildersCouncil@APSP.org.

Time to Rejoin!
It’s time to renew your membership in APSP, the voice of the pool, spa, and hot tub industry. Your dues help promote your industry and support safety, government relations, research, and professional development programs.

For information, contact memberservices@APSP.org or 703.838.0083, ext. 301.

Subscribe to the APSP MSDS Fax/Hotline Service Now!
Why? The law requires Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) of businesses that make, store, or handle hazardous chemicals, including pool chemicals. APSP provides services that enable you to meet the requirements of federal OSHA Standard 29 CFR 1910.1200 and avoid costly fines. MORE.

Important Meeting for Hot Tub Industry Leaders
Come to San Diego on September 19-20 to meet with other hot tub industry leaders to help reverse a three-year, industry-wide downturn. The APSP Hot Tub Council has rallied many hot tub manufacturers and suppliers to create a climate for change. This is a grassroots drive to develop a sustainable funding model to equitably share the load, provide a minimum of $10 million for national promotion, and improve the consumer experience at all levels. Click here for details on the initiative. Contact Lauren Stack if you plan to attend the meeting.

APSP Awards of Excellence Competition Deadline Extended to Aug. 10
Are your products among the world’s most beautiful pools, spas, hot tubs, and water features? Enter the 2007 APSP Awards of Excellence competition to give your company the recognition it deserves. MORE.
Click here to enter.

Advanced Service Program to Include SeaWorld Backstage Tour
On July 18, the APSP Service Council discussed preparations for its third annual Advanced Service Program, an all-day educational event for pool and spa service professionals to be held Tuesday, November 27, during the International Pool & Spa Expo in Orlando, Florida. Educational presentations will include chemical automation, technologies to prevent scale and stain formation, global positioning satellite technology for fleet management, the science behind oxidation, and a SeaWorld Backstage Tour. To sign up, click here.

More details about the Advanced Service Program and the International Pool & Spa Expo.

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.