And The Winners Are...
More than 150 service professionals submitted applications for the contest, says Pleatco COO John Antretter.
"Over the three years that Pleatco has sponsored this contest, we've learned that being a professional pool or spa service technician is more than a job . . . it's a passion. Many homeowners treat their service Guy or Gal like family; it's a special relationship.
"A pool or spa is an integral part of a home - a way to relax and it's a place for a family to share time together. Homeowners trust their service professional to keep their 'backyard oasis' safe. The relationship with the homeowner is much deeper than that of the mailman, local handyman or even the family doctor in most cases. Essentially, the Perfect Pool Guy and Gal are the unsung heroes of the neighborhood."
Both Tarricone and Clonts will receive a trip for two to the IPSPE next week, as well as a $5,000 continuing education scholarship from Genesis 3 to attend the G3 Certified Pool Operator Program. They will also star in the national follow-up ad campaign.
Additional awards go to Dan Stebner, Nick Falco and Brian Baraga for the Industry Achievement Award; Courtney Wilson for the Big Heart Award; Jonathan Santoscoy and Adam Litke for the Future Leadership Award; and Steve Miller for the Most Creative Entry.
Kevin James, Paul O'Neil, Len Garavalia, Steve Reid, Kelly Kalfsbeek, Amanda Miller and Kent Simpson were all named Distinguished Finalists
Latham International Purchases Blue Hawaiian Fiberglass
According to the company's Website, Viking plans to relocate Blue Hawaiian's Largo, Fla., manufacturing facility to its Zephyrhills facility. While Viking will continue to produce Blue Hawaiian pools out of its Rocky Mount, N.C., facility, future plans to relocate to Viking's Rockingham, N.C., facility over the next few months are in place.
Former owner of Blue Hawaiian, Roger Erdelac, who plans to retire, says, "I am pleased to be able to ensure that Blue Hawaiian's loyal customers will have ongoing access to their current product line. Blue Hawaiian dealers will benefit from Viking's size, strength and experience."
Terms of the sale were not disclosed.
Viking Pools Founder Retires
Stahl began his venture in 1975 and started engineering the use of Vinyl Ester Resins in fiberglass pool construction in the mid-80's. By the mid-90's, he introduced accent inlayed tiles to the fiberglass category and Viking began offering Crystite colored finishes, a first. Over the years new manufacturing plants were opened throughout the states and Stahl created the Hydro Zone line of swim spas, as well as a variety of other brands.
Colleagues wished Stahl a heartfelt farewell this past September at a dinner at the Red Rock Resort and Spa in Las Vegas.
Splash Extra!
