November 2009 Table of Contents

Photo illustration by Denise BakerJim Kuenzi has seen how new-pool prices have dropped, and he’s had enough. Read more

I have a family friend named Jim whom I’ve known my entire life. Read more

A topic of much conversation in the industry lately has been energy efficiency in swimming pool systems. Read more

The company’s AquaBright is a pneumatically applied thermoplastic powder pool coating; cures in seconds and can be installed on concrete and fiberglass pools by a crew of two; made to resist etching, scaling, mottling, chemical damage; outlasts convention Read more

Celebrating its 23rd year, the Pool Industry Expo hosted another successful show on the California coast. Read more

More than 900 employees gathered last month for the third annual PoolCorp National Sales Conference and Trade Show. Read more

California utilities are phasing out rebates for two-speed pumps to focus solely on incentives for variable-speed models. Read more

Hard times in the spa industry have created opportunities for two manufacturers. Read more

Not long ago, the Phoenix metro area was home to 60 hot tub stores. Read more

As the Florida pool market continues to flounder, pool builders and local enforcement agencies have increased their efforts to stifle unlicensed contractors. Read more

In our culture, service techs often are portrayed as lackadaisical surfer-types who slid into the job. Read more

James Hawkins’ company has thrived, in part, because of its commitment to “The Pool Service America Difference,” a marketing manifesto that details the firm’s policies and credentials. Read more

James Hawkins is not your typical pool guy. Read more

He that wrestles with us strengthens our nerves and sharpens our skills. Our antagonist is our helper.” Read more

Dawn Danik may know her market as well as any hot tub dealer in the country. Read more