Pool & Spa News: Boardwalk bound: the Atlantic City Pool, & Spa Show plans for smooth sailin

What does the Atlantic City Pool & Spa Show have in common with your neighborhood postal worker? Both can withstand rain, sleet and snow. Just ask attendees at last year's event. Preshow winter storms were no match for the hardy souls who ventured out in record numbers to participate in the extravaganza.

And while they may still keep a close eye on the weather forecasts, organizers of the 2005 show, to be held Jan. 25-27, are optimistic that they will again deliver a fun and fruitful event.

The New Atlantic City (N.J.) Convention Center will once again host the industry's largest regional show, sponsored by the Northeast Spa & Pool Association. Attendees can see the products and services of more than 400 exhibitors, take in 75 educational seminars and mingle with the nearly 11,900 people expected to attend.

There will be plenty of time for socializing as well. Join thousands of industry professionals at the Welcome Party on Monday night. After show hours, you'll also want to enjoy the sights, sounds and flavors of the city's diverse entertainment, nightlife and dining options.

On the following pages, you'll find extensive coverage of the show events. Plus, we take a look at three Northeast companies and reveal what it's really like to do business in the region. Check out our casino and restaurant guide when planning your nights on the town. For more show details, visit www.nespapool.org. For additional information on Atlantic City-area attractions and events, visit www.atlanticcitynj.com.

Atlantic City Pool & Spa Show Atlantic City (N.J.) Convention Center

SUNDAY, JAN. 23

8:30 a.m.-5 p.m.

CPO Course (Part 1)

MONDAY, JAN. 24

8:30 a.m.-5 p.m.

CPO Course (Part 2)

9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Registration

10 a.m.-4 p.m.

All-Day Programs

* Fiberglass-Pool Installation: From Start To Finish

* Total Design Concepts for Pool Builders

* Estimating and Bidding Strategies

* QuickBooks: Hands-On Computer Training

12:30-3:34 p.m.

Seminars

7-10 p.m.

Welcome Party

Tropicana Casino & Resort

TUESDAY, JAN. 25

7:45 a.m.-5 p.m.

Registration

8:30-11:45 a.m.

Seminars

12-6 p.m.

Exhibits open

WEDNESDAY, JAN. 26

8 a.m.-5 p.m.

Registration

8-11:45 a.m.

Seminars

12-6 p.m.

Exhibits open

THURSDAY, JAN. 27

8 a.m.-12 p.m.

Registration

8:30-10 a.m.

Seminars

10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Exhibits open

Events occur at the Atlantic City Convention Center, unless noted. Shuttles will be available to transport attendees between most hotels and the convention center, and to the Welcome Party. Some events require pre-registration and a fee. The information is the latest available at press time.