Make Your Way To Monterey

The Pool Industry Expo, or PIE, as it's affectionately known, celebrates its 20th birthday in 2008, having grown from a tiny assemblage of 33 exhibitors and fewer than 500 attendees its first year to a projected 130 exhibitors and attendees in the thousands this year.

The show, known largely as a service-tech show for much of its existence, has been working to expand its appeal to all sectors of the spa and pool industry by offering an excellent educational lineup that attracts attendees from far beyond Northern California.

"There will be a full range of classes, ranging from builder-related problems to business practices," according to press liaison Linda Ligon. "From equipment repair to spa chemistry. From advertising and promoting to licensing and contracting."

In addition to its expanding size and educational offerings, the show has long been known as a place to enjoy oneself before and after floor hours and class time.

"There is a barbecue and entertainment, a golf tournament and awards dinner, and the daily prizes," says Ligon. And for one lucky showgoer, a trip to Hawaii.

The show runs from Oct. 2-4 at the Monterey Convention Center in Monterey, Calif.

Special Features

Fiesta Barbecue, P.I.E. Olympics & Dance, Friday, Oct. 3
A show tradition since 1989, the Monterey Fiesta includes an open barbecue, live entertainment and the Pool Tech Olympics. A special kids version of the Olympics is also slated to return.

Tickets for the all-you-can-eat barbecue can be purchased for $25 per person.

Water Chemistry Certification
Of course, the PIE Show isn't all fun and games. Attendees can take advantage of chemistry certification classes sponsored by IPSSA and the PIE Show during the seminar schedule, which had yet to be finalized at press time. An exam will be give Saturday, Oct. 4, from 1:00-2:00 p.m. Further information, and a full seminar schedule, is available at the show's Web site, www.poolindustryexpo.com.

Antique Showcase
Another popular PIE attraction is the Antique Equipment Museum, a collection of artifacts from the pool industry's past that's sure to lure old-timers who may have actually used some of these relics and newcomers interested in the history of their chosen profession.

AQUA's own piece of pool history, West Coast Sales Rep Stan Chambers, will be holding court in booth 211. Stop by to say hi!

The Basics

When: Oct. 2-4
Where: The Monterey Convention Center
Attendee Contact: Bill Hoy
Contact Phone: 650/323-7743
Web site: www.poolindustryexpo.com