Yes, hot weather is here and one’s thoughts turn to cooling off in the swimming pool. Now we have to make sure the pool water is clear and pure. How much chemical is necessary? How to keep leaves and other matter out of the water is another concern. Getting the pool in shape is almost as important as getting one’s self in shape. After all, we must look good in that new bathing suit. One thing we don’t want to worry about is the electrical system. We don’t expect to feel tingle shocks when we are in or around the pool. We want the pump to run and the lights to work even if they have not been used since last summer. Well, just like the car or any thing else, there are some things that need to be checked along with the water quality.
Although most of the bonding of metal parts around the pool area is concealed by concrete, there are some other things that can be visually inspected. For a pool owner, visual checks for loose bonding and grounding conductors around the pump and filter area can be easily done. Visual checks of the underwater lights can be done when lamps have to be replaced. More technical tests for bonding continuity should be done by a qualified person. You may think that the electrical system, which includes bonding all metal parts together as well as wiring the lights and motor, would have been done correctly at the time of installation and was inspected. Even if this is true, things change over time. Connections may become loose or lose continuity because of corrosion. So pay as much attention to the pool’s electrical system as you do that body or water quality. In this issue, which is dedicated to swimming pools, there are articles that provide information on the proper installation of the electrical system, bonding and grounding, wet-niche, dry-niche, or no-niche lighting, and feeder and branch-circuit requirements. Happy reading!
In past editorials I have been reminding you that it was not too early to begin planning for the Diamond Jubilee. Well, early has past. The time is now! Over the past issues of IAEI News an overcover has presented information about the Jubilee. Information, registration forms, hotel reservation forms, advanced program schedule, and general information can also be found on the web page—iaei.org. Another exciting opportunity is the availability of the limited edition, numbered and autographed souvenir history publication. This book is one that you will want to keep, read, and display along with your other classics. Just a limited number will be printed; once they are gone there will be no more. My advice is to order your souvenir history book now and it will be ready for you to pick up at the Jubilee meeting in September. If you can’t join us in Florida, the book will be mailed after September 15, 2003.
Kathryn and the publication department have been working hard on assembling information on IAEI’s history. They are very excited about this project. Hardly a day goes by that I don’t get a comment like, “Did you know…?” There are many pictures to go along with the story. You will be sorry you did not get one of these books once you see one. So order now! Register now for the 75th anniversary party also.
IAEI’s 75th anniversary, the Diamond Jubilee, is not just a party. Nearly twenty-four hours of educational opportunities are available during the weeklong stay at The Disney Coronado Resort. Our representatives on the various 19 code-making panels will be making reports on the most important changes for the 2005 NEC and Code experts from around the IAEI will serve on a Code Question Panel. Other educational sessions are also scheduled. A chance to discuss proposed comments from IAEI for the NEC Report on Comments process is scheduled. Of course, all the facilities at Disney World, transportation, shopping and fun are available for those that stay at the resort. A One-Day Hopper pass will be a part of the registration package for each registrant. A relaxed program for the spouse is planned. Most of the activities will take place right on Disney property and in the hotel. A spouses’ center will be provided for fellowship and other activities. The weather in Florida in September is warm, maybe even hot, and so dress accordingly. We are expecting a big crowd. The earlier you register for the Jubilee and make reservations at the Coronado the better your chance of getting your preference of accommodations. And the better we can plan for meal functions and the banquet.
Not many of us can say we have been at all three celebrations—25th, 50th and 75th, and there may be even fewer for the next one—the 100th. It could be a once in a lifetime experience to be able to meet with members from all six Sections and International members. What a great opportunity to network with so many people from all over the IAEI. Don’t miss it!
Happy swimming and see you in Florida September 7 – 13, 2003!
