A publication of the Florida Swimming Pool Association www.FloridaPoolPro.biz November 2023 Happy Thanksgiving! FSPA State Office Staff Charis Tyson, Alyssa Holcomb, Nicki Pressley-Rice, Jessica Johnson, Janine DeHerrera, Elizabeth McMurray, Dallas Thiesen, Kelly Sauro, Valerie Swika
2 Florida Pool Prosm • November 2023 FSPA CHAPTER NEWS Florida Pool Prosm © 2023 Florida Swimming Pool Association. Al l rights reserved. The contents of this publication may not be reproduced in any form without written permission of the publisher. 2555 Porter Lake Drive, Ste. 106 Sarasota, FL 34240 (941) 952-9293 / (800) 548-6774 Fax: (941) 366-7433 www.FloridaPoolPro.biz Association Mission: Advancing Florida’s swimming pool industry Chief Executive Officer Elizabeth McMurray Sr. Dir. of Marketing & Communications Charis Tyson Senior Director of Government Affairs Dallas Thiesen Office Manager Valerie Swika Finance & Accounting Manager Janine DeHerrera Events & Programs Manager Jessica Johnson Membership Development Manager Nicki Pressley-Rice PR & Digital Media Specialist Alyssa Holcomb Membership Services Specialist Kelly Sauro President Don Ball The Pool Works of Florida, Inc., Largo Vice President Deidre Bedford West Coast Pools, Bradenton Treasurer Ben Evans American Pools and Spas, Inc., Orlando Secretary Roy Waldhauer Waldhauer & Son, Inc., Bunnell At-Large Director Jonathan Mosher Signet Pools, Sarasota Past President Mickey Sigmon Pool Pro, Inc., Fort Pierce Published monthly by the Florida Swimming Pool Association CONTENTS Reflecting on 2023 President's Column S *** You Should Know I am thankful Chief Executive Officer's Column Chlorine shake-up! Regulation updates for commercial spas Managing customer's expectations Service Article Designing splash pads for inclusion Commercial Article GPS - Global Positioning System Insurance Update Thank you, 2023 state Board of Directors Chapter News New members Calendar 4 5 6 9 14 17 20 26 27 39 40 All FSPA members are welcome to attend state Board of Directors meetings. If you would like more information or to RSVP, visit industry.floridapoolpro.com or call 800-548-6774. January 2024 Board of Directors Meeting Marriott Sanibel Harbour Resort Fort Myers
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4 Florida Pool Prosm • November 2023 FSPA PRESIDENT Don Ball FSPA President president@FloridaPoolPro.com Reflecting on 2023 This month is a great time for giving thanks. As I reflect on 2023, I am reminded that it is all of you who make the success of our organization possible, through your time, attention, and expertise. Our colleagues on the Executive Committee and I are grateful for your continued support of Florida’s swimming pool industry. As our industry continues to evolve, it is refreshing to see the dedication our members give to the Florida Swimming Pool Association. I must take a moment to talk about one of our Association’s greatest assets: Our administrative team. So much happens behind the scenes to support and advance our mission. There has never been a more dedicated, skilled and focused group working hard every day to make us the best we can be. I am thankful every day for the team we have supporting us. I have had the honor of watching our CEO Elizabeth McMurray build this team over the last two years. I am impressed with what they have accomplished and excited to see what is to come in the future. This year serving as President has been an incredible experience observing and being close to everything the team in Sarasota is working toward. When I accepted my position as At-Large Director on the Executive Committee back in 2016, I remember the moment when the reality set in that I would actually become the President of the Florida Swimming Pool Association in 2023. Over our long history, there have been many great presidents of our association. It has truly been a humbling experience to serve following in their footsteps. I never dreamed I would be the leader of a prestigious group of business professionals. I hope you feel the same as I do about our future. I look forward to working along with you to make us even stronger. Here is a chuckle. Anun walked by a construction site one day. She overheard a lot of cussing and swearing. She decided to have lunch the next day with the crew on the
November 2023 • Florida Pool Prosm 5 FSPA PRESIDENT The 2023 Florida Building Code (8th Edition) will officially take effect and be enforceable on December 31, 2023. After that date all swimming pool and spa construction must comply with the newly adopted 2023 Building Code. In the new code, there have been extensive changes to the commercial swimming pool and spa code, including a change to the commercial pool sizing formula, the addition of swim-up bars, and limited changes to the residential swimming pool building code. Make sure you and your employees are registered to take the 2023 Florida Building Code updates class at the 2024 Everything Under the Sunsm Expo February 23 – 24, 2024 in Orlando. Registration will open later this month at www.UnderTheSunExpo.com. Questions? Contact FSPASr. Director of Government Affairs Dallas Thiesen at 941-952-9293 or Dallas@FloridaPoolPro.com. S *** You Should Know Q: When can my local building department start enforcing the 2023Building Code? construction site. She showed up with her bag lunch and sat down with the crew at lunch time. She asked if any of them had ever heard of Jesus. One guy trying to be helpful, stood up and yelled to the entire site, “Has anyone heard of Jesus?” One person asked, “Why?” The guy answered, “Because his mom’s here with his lunch!” A:
6 Florida Pool Prosm • November 2023 EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR I am thankful Elizabeth McMurray FSPA Chief Executive Officer Elizabeth@FloridaPoolPro.com Dear Florida Pool Prosm Readers, November is a time when the sun sets earlier in the day, cool(ish) breezes roll over us as we work outside, and we think about things we are thankful for. I have many items on my gratitude list that I want to share with you: • I am thankful for our amazing members. When people ask me why I came back to the pool and spa industry, I gladly tell them it is because of the people. Our members are smart, hardworking, generous, successful folks who innovate and advance us forward each and every day. I love supporting you through our work as your industry association. • I am thankful for our volunteers. This includes each and every council and committee member, Board of Directors and Executive Committee members, Complete your FLEET! Pre-order this license plate now for $33! SwimForLifeFlorida.org Each license plate = a free swim lesson!
November 2023 • Florida Pool Prosm 7 and members who pitch in at events like our Everything Under the Sunsm Expo and Swim Meet year over year. We would be nothing without you – you enhance our success when you show up for us and for your industry. • I am SO thankful for our amazing staff. Many members have no idea what it takes for our small team of people to make this association tick each and every day like a well-oiled clock. Our team is consistent, accountable, inventive and they really care about our body of work and how we support our members. • I am thankful for my family and friends – especially my stalwart husband who has always had my back and supports my work with the FSPA. I’m not sure what the end of the year marks for your company, but for our team, we are in budget season! In planning for 2024, our team has produced a new sponsorship booklet. The entire year, for all of our affiliated organizations, is exhibited in this brochure. It is a great overview of how your company can invest in our association, industry and yourself in 2024. If you are interested in learning about our sponsorship opportunities for next year, please reach out to me or our marketing team! We have some new and exciting opportunities including a re-envisioned FSPAAwards and After Party program at our Expo where you can get exclusive sponsorship visibility! I can’t wait to share it with you. Happy Thanksgiving to you all, and to your family and loved ones! EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
8 Florida Pool Prosm • November 2023 FLORIDA POOL PERMITS Permits provided by HBW / www.hbweekly.com County Name September 2022 September 2023 Alachua County 20 9 Bay County 35 27 Brevard County 76 74 Broward County 85 71 Calhoun County 0 0 Charlotte County 97 75 Citrus County 12 12 Clay County 12 19 Collier County 186 184 Dade County 117 92 Duval County 60 55 Escambia County 25 29 Flagler County 50 19 Franklin County 0 6 Gadsden County 1 3 Gulf County 0 0 Hernando County 46 29 Highlands County 7 10 Hillsborough County 137 126 Holmes County 0 0 Indian River County 24 8 Jackson County 3 0 Jefferson County 7 2 Lake County 50 70 Lee County 243 303 Leon County 19 19 Liberty County 0 0 Manatee County 149 145 Marion County 27 32 Martin County 36 31 Nassau County 22 27 Okaloosa County 43 26 Orange County 158 121 Osceola County 47 102 Palm Beach County 182 158 Pasco County 1 73 Pinellas County 78 39 Polk County 72 65 Putnam County 0 3 Santa Rosa County 55 30 Sarasota County 152 41 Seminole County 6 6 St Johns County 119 76 St Lucie County 68 39 Sumter County 60 78 Volusia County 76 33 Wakulla County 8 4 Walton County 34 35 Washington County 2 3 TOTALS 2707 2409 County Name September 2022 September 2023
November 2023 • Florida Pool Prosm 9 By Tommy Diaz, 365 Pool Service / tdiaz@365pools.com Chlorine shake-up! Regulation updates for commercial spas I am sure that by this time, if you are in the commercial pool sector, you have seen this new rule. Spas residual chlorine limits have been lowered from10ppmto5ppm. You heard me right, lowered. If this is the first time you have seen this new rule your mind is in overdrive thinking about all the ramifications to your business and your customers. You might ask yourself, as I did, why would we want lower chlorine levels in spas? Socrates was declared to be the wisest man in the world by the oracle at Delphi when he said, “I only know that I know nothing.” I can’t answer ARTICLE New Rule: Rule 64E-9.004(1)(d)2.: Disinfection – Free chlorine residual shall be as follows: 1 milligram per liter (mg/L) to a maximum of 10.0 mg/L, inclusive, in conventional swimming pools; 2 mg/L to 10.0 mg/L, inclusive, in all other type pools such as swim-up bars, wading pools, special purpose pools, water recreation attraction pools, and interactive water fountains; and 2 mg/L to 5 mg/L, inclusive, in spatype pools; or available bromine residual shall be 1.5 mg/L to 6 mg/L, inclusive, in conventional swimming pools and 3 mg/L to 6 mg/L, inclusive, in all other type pools. Except that, for indoor conventional swimming pools, themaximumdisinfectant residuals shall be 5 mg/L free chlorine and 6 mg/L free bromine. the reasons for these changes, however, I hope I can help you navigate them. Let’s talk about the perils of a lower chlorine residual in a spa. Bathing Load: In my experience most spas are not regulated by a pool attendant to meet bathing load requirements. Comparing 1.5 bathers in a 1,500-gallon spa, it is roughly equivalent to 6.67 bathers in a 10,000-gallon pool. That’s right folks, that ten-person party in a commercial spa on Friday night is equivalent 66.7 people in a 10,000-gallon pool. Water Borne Diseases 1.Cryptosporidiosis: This is an infection caused by cryptosporidium. Cryptosporidium, as we all know from public pool service certification class, is notoriously resistant to chlorine. Low chlorine levels can allow this harmful bacterium to persist in spa water, leading to gastrointestinal illness. 2.Gastroenteritis: Low chlorine can enable the survival and transmission of
10 Florida Pool Prosm • November 2023 ARTICLE various pathogenic bacteria like E.coli, salmonella, Shigella, which can cause severe gastrointestinal infections. 3.Legionnaires Disease: The bacteria Legionella pheumophila, which causes Legionnaires disease, can thrive in inadequately treated spa water. Inhalation of contaminated aerosols generated by spa jets can lead to severe respiratory illness. 4.Skin infections: Low chlorine levels can also foster the growth of skin pathogens, such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which can cause skin and ear infections in spa users. 5.Respiratory infections: Inhaling mist or vapor from poorly maintained spa water can lead to respiratory issues, especially in individuals with compromised immune systems. Environmental Factors Environmental factors can significantly contribute to low chlorine levels in a swimming pool. Here are few: 1. UV light 2. Rainfall
November 2023 • Florida Pool Prosm 11 ARTICLE 3. Landscaping/trees/organic matter These factors contribute to chlorine demand and can act as nutrient sources for bacteria and algae. Temperature – Hot Water: As we know, hot or warmer water can have a major impact on the effectiveness of chlorine as a disinfectant. Generally, as water temperatures rise, the oxidation rate of chlorine increases. Hotter water temperatures lead to a more rapid depletion of chlorine levels, making it less effective in combating harmful microorganisms and maintaining water quality. As pool service providers our mission is to protect the equipment and the swimmer. As commercial pool service providers it is also our duty to inform our customers about liability and help them understand their exposure. The new lower spa residual rule may seem overwhelming to you as a pool pro. Even with controllers it will challenge your prowess; without controllers it 800.641.9247 www.sgm.cc Specially designed with a patent pending proprietary formula, the six unique Diamond Brite Jewels finishes have unparalleled fade resistance and are highly UV stable. Through the years this will be the catalyst for keeping your rich, vibrant finish color as beautiful as when it was first installed, taking your poolscape from ordinary to something extraordinary. Why the Best Choice for Your Pool is... FSPA_DB_Jewels_half_page_Revision_Aug_2020.indd 1 8/19/2020 11:17:23 AM
12 Florida Pool Prosm • November 2023 ARTICLE is going to be a very difficult target. Here are some things you can do to win. 1.Educate yourself on controllers and learn how to use them to your maximum advantage. Go to the manufacturer website and download the manuals. Find out who your representative is and schedule your team for a training session. 2.Educate your client about controllers and ask them to install them on their spas ASAP. 3.Recommend to your clients that due to the new rules, they need to increase their service intervals to 5-7 days a week. I would recommend that you add a new service to your offerings that is spa-only specific. Take care of the pool for three days and spa only two additional days. Explain the liabilities and how water balance is affected. 4.Educate your team! Train, train, train your team on water balance weekly. Tackling this new rule is absolutely going to be challenging, but with dedication and perseverance and the right strategies, we can do it! We need to stick together. If you want to chat, send me an email at tdiaz@365pools.com. FSPA is working diligently with our partners in the Florida State Legislature, Department of Health, and governor’s office to revisit this rule change as soon as possible. If you have comments or insight on how this rule will affect the operation and maintenance of public spas, please email FSPASr. Director of Government Affairs Dallas Thiesen at Dallas@FloridaPoolPro.com. Instructor: Jason Nokk, Gas Training Services | This class is manufacturer endorsed by Hayward Pool Products Need classes for your LP Gas CE requirement? ademy & Training T·E·C· Center Technology•Education•Careers LP Gas - Florida Fuel Gas Code Monday, November 13 / 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. FSPA Member: $200 \ Non-member: $250 www.FSPACourses.com
November 2023 • Florida Pool Prosm 13 INSURANCE UPDATE YOUR LOYAL FRIEND IN POOL FINANCING ESTABL ISHED IN 1 999 We're here when you need us. Join our network. www.pool loan.net
14 Florida Pool Prosm • November 2023 By Michelle Moser, Sapphire Pools of Florida, Inc. / michele@sapphirepoolsflorida.com THE SCOOP ON SERVICE Managing customer's expectations Are we aware of what our customers expect from us? Managing their expectations may not be our first priority when we review a request for service and installation. Whether it be simple or complicated, we are thinking about product availability, fitting work neatly into already tight schedules, covering the increases that have applied to all products that we purchase, and how many men/women it will take to complete the job. However, considering the customer’s expectations at the start of a project could help to save on headaches and lost revenue at the end of a project. Most of us spend lots of time holding internal company meetings and talking about our expectations for the work we perform. Planning how we are going to perform the services. Setting expectations with our team relevant to our image and behavior for how we represent the company. We expect employees to show up each day and stay on task. We expect our teams to be efficient and reduce expenses so we have positive cash flow. How often do we talk about what the customer expects when we have these meetings? There are really three levels of customer service expectations: • Desired, which is what the customer hopes to obtain. • Sufficient, which is what the customer would find acceptable. • Unsatisfactory, where companies miss the mark entirely. Customers want us to understand their needs. They want us to provide multiple options for solutions. They want us to respond quickly. And they crave a personalized experience. In a perfect world we would provide all of the above in each interaction. Since it’s not a perfect world, we use strategies to manage customer expectations. Try being transparent and honest about the work that is proposed. Being transparent is important for being effective when working with customers because it builds credibility. How many times have customers been told one thing, and then after their project starts they are told something different? So many times in the past, I remember discussing problems about our customers or their pools, and one co-worker would say “What are we going to tell them?” and someone else would say, “Why don’t we tell them the truth.” We cannot go
November 2023 • Florida Pool Prosm 15 wrong with telling the truth, right? Or maybe so? An “honest” mistake can cost money. Do we build that into our proposal? The customer would likely expect that we would be financially responsible to pay for even an honest mistake. We can meter how we are interpreting expectations with feedback from the customer to understand if we met their expectations. Many companies use surveys. After a service is performed, an email or text message automatically transmits to the customer asking about their experience. I’m old fashioned, and I like to just send an email every now and then to a new customer asking how we are doing. I get honest responses with details that way. They will tell me how they feel and if they expected certain things that did not happen. It is a more personalized response, and sometimes the customer surprises me with criticism I would never expect. After processing that, I usually realize they are right, and this information is very helpful for overall improvement. I don’t think we fully understand how much our customers expect from us. The truth is that most people have high expectations, even when paying a small amount of money. It is hard to meet these expectations. And we really should be trying to supersede them. I regularly tell myself to keep trying and don’t give up! THE SCOOP ON SERVICE What might be heard at Mount Rushmore about Salt Water Pools... I keep the pH in the correct range. I add conditioner as needed, honestly. I check the salt level and only use AQUASALT. I clean the cell every 2 to 3 months of use. 7.5 x 4.75 Florida Pool Pro
16 Florida Pool Prosm • November 2023 FSPA members on PSN Top 50 All five Florida companies on the Pool & Spa News’ annual Top 50 Builders list are members of the FSPA. Congratulations on your success. #22A & G Concrete Pools Port Saint Lucie FSPA member for 21 years #5 Coast to Coast Pools Sarasota FSPA member for 13 years #37Van Kirk & Sons Pools & Spas Deerfield Beach FSPA member for 46 years #23 Ike's Carter Pools Oakland Park FSPA member for 40 years #25 American Pools and Spas Orlando FSPA member for 23 years PSN TOP 50
November 2023 • Florida Pool Prosm 17 COMMERCIAL CONNECTION Parks play a pivotal role in defining a community's quality of life, often influencing the perceived livability of an area. Central to this is the principle of inclusion, which supports equal access to opportunities and community resources, particularly for marginalized groups or those with disabilities. Splash pads, with their unique features and absence of standing water, inherently promote inclusion. However, with only 11% of parks currently having splash pads, there exists a significant opportunity to enhance inclusivity in community spaces. To achieve this, splash pad considerations must encompass a holistic view of several key design principles. The concept of universal design, originally created by the Center for Universal Design at North Carolina State University, steers inclusive splash pad creation with three distinct approaches. Firstly, the "Accessibility" approach adheres to ADA Standards, which set clear rules ensuring that facilities are physically accessible to those with disabilities. Secondly, the "Usability" approach moves beyond just access, aiming for comprehensive inclusion regardless of an individual's demographics or abilities. Lastly, "Inclusivity" combines elements of both accessibility and usability, focusing on offering a wide range of play experiences. In this design model, every user is viewed as unique, creating environments that are more usable, by more people, to the greatest extent possible. Design principles that prioritize user inclusivity and accessibility emphasize seven key aspects. Firstly, "Equitable Use" ensures that designs cater to individuals with varied abilities. "Flexibility in Use" accommodates diverse preferences and capabilities. "Simple and Intuitive Use" mandates designs to be easily comprehensible, regardless of the user's background or concentration. "Perceptible Information" ensures that designs convey information effectively, even in varied conditions or to those with sensory challenges. "Tolerance for Error" reduces hazards and potential negative outcomes from unintended actions. "Low Physical Effort" ensures designs demand minimal exertion, while "Size and Space for Approach and Use" guarantees that designs provide adequate space for interaction, irrespective of a user's physique or mobility. Designing splash pads for inclusion By Sylvia Bucklew, AquaWorx / sylvia.bucklew@aquaworxusa.com
18 Florida Pool Prosm • November 2023 COMMERCIAL CONNECTION The inclusive spray park intentionally ensures a developmentally robust and balanced assortment of activities that meet the diverse physical, socialemotional, sensory, cognitive, and communication needs of all children. To successfully achieve this, splash pad designs should include bays with different types of activities, from more “low-flow” areas of comfort, in addition to areas with greater challenge for those who enjoy a more competitive, active environment. These areas can be categorized as contemplative, family, and big water. The "Contemplative Play" bay is designed primarily for toddlers, featuring Book your hotel for the EXPO! Hyatt Regency $232 / night (rate not guaranteed after Jan. 31) 9801 International Dr. / Reservations: 407-284-1234 Rosen Centre $219 / night (rate not guaranteed after Jan. 30) 9840 International Dr. / Reservations: 800-204-7234 Four Points by Sheraton $159 / night (rate not guaranteed after Jan. 30) 6435 Westwood Blvd.
November 2023 • Florida Pool Prosm 19 FSPA CHAPTER NEWS ground sprays and low-flow elements that encourage discovery. These tactile features provide a quiet and calming environment for the youngest users. The "Family Area" is tailored for younger children and boasts features that spark imaginative play. Here, children are prompted towards creativity and roleplaying, with bright, themed water features. Lastly, the "Big Water" section targets teens and young adults, showcasing exciting elements like dumping buckets and other interactive features. This zone is high-energy, designed to foster competition and cater to the more adventurous spirits. Inclusivity isn't just a moral imperative; it's also good for business. Catering to an inclusive model can significantly enhance the bottom line. According to CDC data1, one in four people in the US alone have a disability. By adapting an environment to accommodate all, businesses demonstrate they value everyone in the community equally. By accommodating their needs, businesses not only tap into this lucrative market but also appeal to those who assist the disabled, including their friends and family. Furthermore, many inclusivityfocused modifications cater to seniors, expanding the patron base even more. Adopting inclusivity doesn't only benefit patrons by offering additional services and programs, but it also provides facilities with a competitive edge and increased revenue potential. In the evolving landscape of community recreation, parks stand as pillars, not just as spaces of leisure but as embodiments of a community's commitment to the well-being and inclusivity of its residents. The design of splash pads, with their innate inclusivity and adaptability to varied age groups and abilities, effectively supports this commitment. Through the principles of accessibility, universality, and inclusivity, and by adhering to design principles that prioritize user-centricity, parks can become beacons of inclusiveness. As communities continue to grow and evolve, the holistic approach to splash pad design — encompassing all age groups and abilities — serves as a testament to a future where every individual, regardless of their unique attributes, finds a welcoming space in the heart of their community.
20 Florida Pool Prosm • November 2023 FSPA CHAPTER NEWS By David Griffiths, Insurance by Ken Brown / dgriffiths@insbykenbrown.com GPS - Global Positioning System The insurance world essentially expects you to have GPS installed in your vehicles if you have anything close to a fleet of trucks. They also want it to be monitored and used as a critical tool in your management of drivers/employees. The best way to get attorneys out of our business is to do all we can to prevent accidents and injuries! The business world can only digest so many rate increases and the insurance world needs to find a way to make this line of business profitable (or at least closer to it). Did you know that two of the largest insurance companies in America will no longer insure commercial vehicles in Florida? Yes, it’s true. Allstate and Hartford Insurance have fully withdrawn from the Florida marketplace. More will follow if nothing changes and there are many other carriers which have incredibly tightened their underwriting of what an “acceptable” risk is and what counties they’ll even do business in. So, please embrace this tool and technology and use it to your advantage! There are many compelling reasons to embrace GPS and make it a valuable tool of your business. Make it an asset, not simply another expense. Here is more information about GPS and how it can make your business better! You will be amazed at all of the benefits! Following that is an outline of how to select the right GPS vendor for you and your business. 1.Navigation and Route Optimization: GPS provides real-time navigation and route guidance, helping drivers find the most efficient and fastest routes to their destinations. This reduces travel time and fuel consumption, leading to cost savings. 2.Fleet Management: GPS allows companies to track the location and movement of their entire fleet. This helps improve fleet management by optimizing routes, monitoring driver behavior, and scheduling maintenance more effectively. 3. Increased Efficiency: GPS systems can monitor vehicle performance metrics such as speed, fuel consumption, and idle time. This data can be used to identify areas where drivers can improve their efficiency, ultimately INSURANCE UPDATE
November 2023 • Florida Pool Prosm 21 INSURANCE UPDATE reducing operational costs. 4.Enhanced Safety: GPS can be integrated with other safety features such as collision avoidance systems and driver monitoring. It can also provide real-time traffic updates, helping drivers avoid accidents and traffic congestion. 5.Asset Tracking: GPS can be used to track valuable assets, such as trailers and equipment. This reduces the risk of theft and helps recover stolen property. 6.Compliance and Reporting: GPS systems can assist in compliance with regulations, such as electronic logging devices (ELD) for hours of service (HOS) reporting in the trucking industry. This ensures drivers and companies adhere to legal requirements. 7.Customer Service: Use GPS to provide customers with accurate arrival times and delivery updates, improving customer satisfaction and trust. 8.Maintenance Alerts: GPS systems can monitor vehicle health and provide alerts when maintenance is needed. This proactive approach reduces the likelihood of breakdowns and costly repairs. 9.Geofencing: Use geofences to define specific areas where vehicles Precision Control & BECS Controller Line • Reliable, 30 Year Track Record • All Items in Stock for Immediate Shipment • In-Field Service & Repair by Factory Techs • Leaders in Remote Control & Communication • ORP & Direct Reading PPM • Control Systems at Every Price Level Commercial Energy Specialists Excellence inWater Quality Control Since 1983 FL/Carribean Master Distributor/Service Center www.CESWaterQuality.com 800-940-1557
22 Florida Pool Prosm • November 2023 INSURANCE UPDATE should operate. If a vehicle enters or exits a geofenced area, alerts can be generated, helping prevent unauthorized use. 10. Data Analytics: GPS data can be analyzed to identify trends, optimize operations, and make informed decisions. This data-driven approach can lead to better business strategies and cost reductions. 11. Insurance Savings: Some insurance providers offer discounts to businesses with GPS tracking systems in their vehicles because they can improve driver safety and reduce the risk of accidents. 12. Environmental Benefits: By optimizing routes and reducing fuel consumption, GPS can contribute to a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, making commercial vehicle operations more environmentally friendly. Choosing a GPS provider for commercial vehicles involves considering several factors to ensure that the chosen solution aligns with your specific needs and goals. Here's a guide on how to select a GPS provider: 1. Define Your Requirements: Clearly outline your business objectives and the specific requirements you have for a GPS solution. Consider factors such as fleet size, industry regulations, tracking features, and integration needs. 2.Features and Capabilities: Evaluate the features offered by GPS providers. Common features include real-time tracking, route optimization, geofencing, reporting tools, and maintenance alerts. Choose a provider whose features align with your business priorities. 3.Scalability: Ensure that the GPS solution is scalable to accommodate the growth of your fleet. The provider should offer options that can scale with your business, both in terms of the number of vehicles and additional features. 4.Integration with Existing Systems: If you use other software systems (e.g., fleet management, ERP, or CRM), check if the GPS solution can integrate with these systems. Integration can streamline data management and improve overall efficiency. 5.User-Friendly Interface: Auser-friendly interface is crucial for easy adoption by your team. The GPS provider's platform should be intuitive and provide relevant information in a clear and organized manner. 6.Reliability and Accuracy: Assess the reliability and accuracy of the
November 2023 • Florida Pool Prosm 23 February 23-24, 2024 Orange County Convention Center, Orlando Presented by Be there to experience... Registration opens later this month at www.UnderTheSunExpo.com Be a part of the future at the • NEW Education • NEW Parties • NEW Look, Feel & Vibe
24 Florida Pool Prosm • November 2023 INSURANCE UPDATE GPS provider's tracking technology. Look for a solution that provides realtime updates and accurate location information to ensure effective fleet management. 7.MobileAccessibility: Verify if the GPS solution offers mobile access through apps or mobile-friendly web interfaces. This feature is essential for on-thego monitoring and management. 8.Customer Support and Training: Consider the level of customer support provided by the GPS provider.Adequate support, including training resources, can help your team make the most of the system and address any issues that may arise. 9.Cost and ROI: Evaluate the pricing structure of the GPS provider, including any upfront costs, subscription fees, and additional charges. Compare the costs against the potential return on investment (ROI) in terms of fuel savings, improved efficiency, and other benefits. 10. Security and Data Privacy: Ensure that the GPS provider follows industry standards for data security and privacy. Information about your fleet's movements is sensitive, so it's crucial to choose a provider that takes security seriously. 11. Trial Period or Demo: Many GPS providers offer trial periods or demos. Take advantage of these opportunities to test the system's functionality and see how well it meets your requirements before making a commitment. 12. Reviews and References: Read customer reviews and seek references from businesses that have similar fleet management needs. Insights from other users can provide valuable information about the provider's performance and customer satisfaction. By carefully considering these factors, you can select a GPS provider that best aligns with your business objectives and enhances the efficiency of your commercial vehicle operations. GPS technology is invaluable in commercial vehicles as it enhances efficiency, safety, and asset management while providing cost savings and improving overall operations. It helps businesses remain competitive in their respective industries by providing real-time data and insights that drive better decision-making.
November 2023 • Florida Pool Prosm 25 Pre-order this license plate and fund free swim lessons! www.SwimForLifeFlorida.org We need help to save children from drowning! We need your help to provide funding for free swim lessons! If we can reach 3,000 pre-orders on the Swim for Life license plate pictured below, the Florida Swims Foundation will have a recurring revenue stream to provide free swim lessons for underserved children throughout Florida. We only have until October 2024 to reach our pre-order threshold or the opportunity will be lost. Pre-order these for yourself and for your company vehicles! Let's flood the state with these colorful license plates and make everyone want to order one! The Problem What YOU Can Do Make the commi tment for your company vehicles and personal vehicles by placing your pre-orders at www. SwimforLifeFlorida.org. Help us spread the word! We need thousands of people on board with this mission! Tell your neighbor, tell your friends, tell your local swim instructors, tell your golf buddies. We have items online you can email and mail to your customers to promote this opportunity to save lives! How it Works You complete the form and pay $35 per plate now. This purchases your voucher. Once the plate is in production you can redeem your voucher at your local DMV / Tax Collector. When you redeem the voucher, you will pay a one-time plate replacement fee of around $35. Each year after, your registration will include $30 for the specialty plate and $25 of that goes to the Florida Swims Foundation to pay for swim lessons. www.SwimForLifeFlorida.org FLORIDA SWIMS
26 Florida Pool Prosm • November 2023 BOARD OF DIRECTORS Thank you, 2023 state Board of Directors EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE President: Donald Ball, The Pool Works of Florida, Inc. Vice President: Deidre Bedford, West Coast Pools Treasurer: Ben Evans, American Pools & Spas, Inc. Secretary: Roy Waldhauer, Waldhauer & Son At-Large Director: Jonathan Mosher, Signet Pools Past President: Mickey Sigmon, Pool Pro, Inc. Broward Chapter Don Cesarone III, Aquatic Consulting Engineers Bill Kent, Team Horner Misty Knight, Fluidra Terry Nicholas, Shamrock Pool Services, Inc. Jim Smith, LaGasse Pool Construction Stephanie Taggart, Signature Pools & Spas, Inc. Central Florida Derek Brown, Insurance by Ken Brown Jay Cunningham, Picture Perfect Pools Todd Koonts, Spies Pool LLC Richard Moseley, Holland Pools and Spas, LLC Shawn Wiseman, Wiseman Pools Charlotte Harbor Chapter Billy Freyer, Better Pools and Spas Ken Moyer, Brenntag Mid-South, Inc. East Central Florida Chapter Dennis Brooks, Cypress Creek Outdoors Keith Quint, Gorman Company Kerry Tait, Insurance by Ken Brown Holly Waldhauer, Mermaid Lagoons, Inc. Florida Gulf Coast Chapter William Diefenbach, Aqua Leak Detection David Griffiths, Insurance by Ken Brown Jerry Mason, HornerXpress Michele Moser, Sapphire Pools of Florida, Inc. Floida West Coast Chapter Cathie Alderman, HornerXpress Tim Converse, Solar Solutions, Inc. Alex Fletcher, Aquaworx USA Rick Howard, Rick's Pool Service, Inc. Ray Pearen, Fresh Finish Pools, LLC Greater Miami Chapter David Griffiths, Insurance by Ken Brown Andy Kaner, Aquatic Consultants, Inc. Manasota Chapter Micha Dellinger, Pool Corp, LLC John Ellsworth, AquaTech Pools GC, Inc. Mike Kopke, Universal White Cement Company Rob Sanger, Galaxy Pools Todd Starner, Starner Brothers Pools, Inc. North Central Florida Chapter Mike Canto, Fun State Pools, Inc. Jeremy Hine, Florida Leisure Pool & Spa Dino Muggeo, Dino's Pool Service Northeast Florida Chapter Greg Bowers, Pinch A Penny #030 Jeff Clarkson, Vak Pak, Inc. Brad Correia, Crown Pools, Inc. Brian Curts, Eagle Pools, Inc. John Garner, Pools by John Garner Cole Hairston, USI Insurance Services, LLC Palm Beach Chapter John Adams, Blue Fin Builders Jim Bingold, Proline Steve Hackl, Hackl Pool Construction David Villandry, Commercial Energy Specialists (CES) Matt Wills, Red Rhino Leak Detection Space Coast Chapter Eva Adcock, Best Pools of Brevard Tommy Diaz, 365 Pool Service, Inc. Brett Scully, Vero Pool, Inc. Tampa Bay Chapter Mike Cooper, Cooper Pools, Inc. Jackson Reeves, Odyssey Manufacturing Co. Ryan Roby, Gorman Company Treasure Coast Chapter Jason Draime, Jason Draime, Inc. Bob Miller, Palm City Pool & Spa, Inc. Ericka Villegas, Jason Draime, Inc.
November 2023 • Florida Pool Prosm 27 FSPA CHAPTER NEWS Broward Chapter Volunteer: Stephanie Taggart (954) 868-0230 FSPABroward@FloridaPoolPro.com www.FSPABroward.com The Broward Chapter raffled off some of the Swim for Life license plates (paid the pre-order fee). Thanks to RickMyers, Terry Nicholas and Stephanie Taggart for being the MCs. F e r n a n d o Barragan, Rick My e r s , Te r r y Nicholas, Gary Ka p l a n , E r i k Eikevik, James S m i t h , a n d Stephanie Taggart at the opening of the Broward Ta b l e t o p o n September 20. On September 20, the Broward Chapter had its annual Tabletop. Thank you to our vendors Allied Universal Corporation, Aquabella Tile, AquaCal, Built Right Pool Heaters, Century Motors, Florida Stucco, Fluidra, FWP, Hayward, Jack’s Magic, Lo-Chlor, Pentair, Performance Link, Proline, Raypak, Red Rhino, SCP, SGM, Solaxx, Spa Electric, all the products from Stellar Sales Alliance, StoneHardscapes, and Team Horner. The Chapter and the winners appreciated your raffle donations. In addition, we had a table from the state FSPA office and the B.C. Department of Health Drowning Prevention Program. The Chapter’s next event is a Havana Nights Casino Christmas Party on December 1. Save the date and look for the invite soon. Thank you, sponsors and members, for your continued support of the growing Broward Chapter! Please l ike our Facebook page www. f acebook . com/ FSPABroward and our Instagram @FSPABrowardChapter.
28 Florida Pool Prosm • November 2023 FSPA CHAPTER NEWS Central Florida Chapter Coordinator: Sonja Dickey (941) 952-9293 FSPACentralFlorida@FloridaPoolPro.com www.FSPACentralFlorida.com The Central Florida Chapter Casino Night was a great time and raised money for swim lessons. TheFSPASwimMeet at theRosen Aquatic Center was packed full of student athletes. The Chapter was able to sponsor Oviedo, Seminole, Winter Park and Lake Buena Vista High School swim teams to attend the meet. Thank you to our loyal local volunteers for helping bring it all together. Thank you to our awesome sponsors for the 6th annual Casino Night and Silent Auction presented by HornerXpress: Aquabond, Aq u aWo r x , Ceme x , FWP, Gorman, GulfstreamHeat Pumps, Hayward, Intermatic, JoeMcGrady Excavating, National Pool Route Sales, PAL Lighting, Pentair, Performance Link, Premier Pools of Central Florida, SCP, Solenis, Vak Pak and Water Creations. This event benefited education and safety around water, with an emphasis to provide swim lessons through the Florida Swims Foundation. In case you missed out on this special event, here are some fun pictures. The next Chapter Board meeting, which all members are encouraged to attend, is Tuesday, November 7
November 2023 • Florida Pool Prosm 29 FSPA CHAPTER NEWS at 12:00 p.m. at Solar Source, 925 Sunshine Ln., #1010, Altamonte Springs. Your 2023 Directors are working on exciting and educational events. Please let us hear from you with any suggestions for speakers or events. If you haven’t already, please like our Facebook page at FSPA Central Florida Chapter to keep up with upcoming events and meetings. Charlotte Harbor Chapter Coordinator: Sonja Dickey (941) 952-9293 FSPACharlotteHarbor@FloridaPoolPro.com www.FSPACharlotteHarbor.com The Chapter would like to welcome Patchouli Pools as our newest Chapter member. We are excited to have you be a part of our Chapter! The FSPA Swim Meet at the Rosen Aquatic Center was a success. There were about 100 more athletes than last year! The Chapter was able to sponsor Port Charlotte High School Swim Team to attend the meet. Thank you to our loyal local volunteer Wread Richardson, Nautilus Pools, for helping bring it all together. Last month we had David Griffiths, Insurance by Ken Brown, teach a CE class. Thank you, David, for teaching our members. We will not be holding a Board meeting in November, however watch your inbox for details on our annual Christmas Party in December. Your 2023 Board is working on exciting and educational events. Please let us hear from you with any suggestions for speakers or events. If you haven’t already, please like our Facebook page at FSPA Charlotte Harbor Chapter to keep up with upcoming events and meetings. East Central Florida Chapter Coordinator: Diane Michael (386) 538-1083 FSPAEastCentralFlorida@FloridaPoolPro.com www.FSPAEastCentral.com Thank you to all who attended our Behind-the-Scenes Tour of Aqua Comfort Water Group in Deland. Members and guests were able to tour the manufacturing plant and see how their heaters are made right in Volusia
30 Florida Pool Prosm • November 2023 FSPA CHAPTER NEWS County. Thank you to our volunteer resident Keith Quint, Gorman Company, for being an annual sponsor and supporting the Chapter this month. The Chapter is gearing up for Casino Night on December 14. New location! New date! Same great benefit! Larry Drumb, Pool Renovations by Larry, is our Casino Night chair once again and is excited to announce that a new location has been chosen. Thursday, December 14 from 6:30 p.m. – 11:00 p.m. we will be at The Daytona, Autograph Collection Hotel by Marriott, 1870 Victory Circle, Daytona Beach. Tickets will be $100 or six tickets for $500 and sponsorships are available. We also combined our annual auction with the night of the event, so please help us with items. We have plenty of time so please let us know of your support now so we can make this the biggest fundraiser of the year for our education and swim lesson contributions! Thank you so much to our Title Sponsors: HornerXpress, Lo-Chlor and AquaCal; Bar Sponsors: East Coast Pools & Spas and Fluidra; Craps Table Sponsor: Vak Pak; DJ Sponsor: Cypress Creek Outdoors; and Black Jack Sponsors: Aqua Comfort Water Group. We are looking for food sponsors, gaming sponsors and VIP After Party support. Contact Diane or Larry for more details. We are also collecting auction items. Help us make this year’s event successful! If you are booking a hotel for the night, be sure to let them know you are with the FSPA for the group rate of $161/night plus $20 destination fee at The Daytona. The rate cutoff is November 14. Remember to send your Chapter news in to Diane for all to read your business news and exciting happenings. Thank you to everyone in the East Central Florida Chapter who attended our behindthe-scenes tour of Aqua Comfort Water Group. Congrats to Camren and Basia McBride, McBride Land Services, who recently got married! We are so happy for you two! Thank you to Joel Gray, Jack’s Magic, for sponsoring this month’s meeting on Tuesday, November 14 from 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. at Houligan’s off of International! All meetings are held on the
November 2023 • Florida Pool Prosm 31 FSPA CHAPTER NEWS In October, the Florida Gulf Coast Chapter held a CE course taught by FSPA Sr. Director of Government Affairs Dallas Thiesen. second Tuesday of the month from 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. at Houligans, 1725 W International Speedway Blvd., Daytona Beach, unless otherwise stated. Dinner is not provided but can be purchased individually. Future members, the Chapter would like to buy your first dinner with us to get to know everyone. Guests are welcome to attend two meetings prior to joining. Your Board has decided to go with a hybrid approach to this year's meetings and events. Please likeour Facebook pagewww.facebook.com/FSPAEastCentralChapter and our Instagram@FSPAEastCentralChapter. Thank you for your continued support! Florida Gulf Coast Chapter Coordinator: Kelly Sauro (941) 952-9293 FSPAFloridaGulfCoast@FloridaPoolPro.com www.FSPAGulfCoast.com Welcome to our newest member of the Chapter – YellowDuck Pool Repair! Thank you for joining us. At the Chapter meeting in October, we held a continuing education course taught by Dallas Thiesen, FSPASenior Director of Government Affairs. Thank you, Dallas, it was very informative! The Chapter meeting in November will be hosted by Regions Bank and Aqua Leak Detection. Regions Bank will be providing information to our members on small business loans, cleaning up credit reports to apply for a business loan, and giving some information to your customers who are looking to get a loan for a pool. Will Diefenbach, Aqua Leak Detection, will be talking about leaks and how to detect if the pool has a leak. The meeting will be held Wednesday, November 8 at 6:30 p.m. at The Brass Tap, 28010 Race Track Road, Bonita Springs. In December, we are going to Topgolf for our holiday party! This will be Wednesday, December 13
32 Florida Pool Prosm • November 2023 FSPA CHAPTER NEWS at 6:30 p.m. We are looking for sponsors for this event and we will also need items for a silent auction. If you would like to sponsor, or wish to donate items, please contact Kelly Sauro. The Board is planning for 2024; if you would like to sponsor a meeting or have ideas for events, please contact Kelly. We are working hard to have a fun, involved Chapter! Florida West Coast Chapter Coordinator: Malinda Howard (727) 638-6072 FSPAFloridaWestCoast@FloridaPoolPro.com www.FSPAWestCoast.com The Chapter Board met on Tuesday, October 3 at Queen’s Pizza, Clearwater. Thank you to Joel Gray and Jack’s Magic for sponsoring the lunch. The next Chapter Board of Directors meeting will be held at noon on Tuesday, November 7 at Queen’s Pizza, 1834 N. Belcher Road, Clearwater. Our Board of Directors meetings are usually scheduled for the first Tuesday of the month. All Chapter members are welcome to attend. We are always interested in hearing your ideas for Chapter meetings and programs. The Florida West Coast Chapter's 26th Annual Pool Industry Tabletop Event was held on Tuesday, October 17 at Ruth Eckerd Hall - Great Room in Clearwater. Thank you to all of the volunteers, especially Cathie Alderman, HornerXpress, for chairing the event. The evening was filled with an exciting mixture of pool industry displays, food, drinks, door prizes, and three Grand Prizes. Our theme was Water Safety – At Work and Play! A big thank you to all of the exhibitors including: AAdvanced Aqua Marketing, Aquabella Tile, Aqua Comfort Water Group, AquaStar Pool Products, AquaWorx, Built Right Pool Heaters, Byrd Moreton &Associates, Cardinal Systems, Century Motors, CL Industries, Commercial Energy Specialists, EasyCare Products, FSPA, Fluidra, FWP, Gorman Company, GulfstreamHeat Pumps, Haviland Pool & Spa Products, Hayward, Hydramix-Midcal International, Insurance by Ken Brown, Intermatic, Jack’s Magic, Leslie’s Pro, Lo-Chlor; Modern Moulding, Pentair, Performance Link, Pool Corp/SCP Distributors, PoolPep, Red Rhino, Solar Solutions, Solar Source, Spa Electrics, Stellar
November 2023 • Florida Pool Prosm 33 FSPA CHAPTER NEWS SalesAlliance, Stenner Pump Company, StoneHardscapes, Waterway, and WEK & Associates. Finally, thank you to all of the attendees who helped make the evening a success! Greater Miami Chapter Volunteer: David Griffiths State office: (866) 930-3772 FSPAGreaterMiami@FloridaPoolPro.com www.FSPAMiami.com We were very excited to hold the first FSPA Chapter meeting in Miami in decades! We had more than 20 attendees who came to listen to our speaker and sponsor! The meeting was October 12 at Two Chefs Restaurant. Thank you to our meeting sponsor and presenter, Pentair! Brandon Miranda, Pentair, spoke to the group about pumps, automation and other products. Additional meeting sponsors were Fluidra (Misty Knight), Aquatic Consultants, Inc (Andy Kaner), American Leak Detection (Phillip Weisman), and Pinch A Penny store #112 (Erik Wiborg). The Chapter is planning another meeting; the date, place, and time are TBA. October 17 the FloridaWest Coast Chapter held its annual Tabletop. Jill Pearen, Fresh Finish Pools, helped Cathie Alderman, HornerXpress and chair of this years event, check everyone in.
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