Industry News
NPC – Rey Perales Scholarship Fund Accepting Applications
The NPC (National Plasterers Council) is now accepting applications for the Rey Perales Memorial Scholarship Fund. Learn how to apply.
The National Plasterers Council (NPC) and the swimming pool industry in southwest Florida were struck by profound sadness when Reymundo Perales, a dedicated National Board Member, passed away back in August of 2007. Reymundo (Rey to his friends), who was initially admitted to the hospital with pneumonia, was later diagnosed with leukemia. Despite the short time between his diagnosis and his passing, Rey left a lasting impact on the NPC and its members.
In memory of Rey Perales, the NPC established the Rey Perales Memorial Scholarship Fund. Rey was known for his positive outlook, gentle demeanor, and insightful contributions to the council. Often regarded as the “conscience” of the organization, his thoughtful approach and dedication made a significant mark on those around him. This scholarship fund aims to honor Rey’s legacy by supporting the educational pursuits of young individuals connected to the NPC community.

Rey Perales Scholarship Fund Details and Eligibility
The Rey Perales Memorial Scholarship is available to sons and daughters of employees of Member Companies in good standing with the NPC, regardless of the membership category. Eligible applicants must be at least high school seniors or no more than juniors in college, or they can be enrolled in a Master’s program.
Application Process and Deadlines
Applicants must submit their applications and all required materials (including letters of recommendation) to the National Plasterers Council by the close of business on December 15, 2024, to be considered for the upcoming academic year. Successful applicants will be notified by February 1, 2025. It’s important to note that only one application per applicant is allowed.
Resource: Download the Brochure.
Selection Criteria and Award Distribution
The Scholarship Committee will evaluate applications based on three equally weighted criteria:
- Scholastic Achievement: Academic performance and achievements in the educational field.
- Character: Personal qualities and integrity.
- Research Paper: A written submission demonstrating the applicant’s research skills and knowledge.
The review process will be conducted in a “blind” format to ensure impartiality, with no committee member knowing the identity of any applicant. The decisions made by the Scholarship Committee are final.
Awards will be mailed directly to the recipients for the summer or fall semester of study in the year they are granted. To avoid forfeiture, recipients must provide proof of registration by June 1 of the award year.
Keeping Rey’s Spirit Alive
The Rey Perales Memorial Scholarship Fund is more than just financial support; it is a testament to Rey’s enduring influence on the NPC and the swimming pool industry. Through this scholarship, the NPC continues to honor Rey’s memory by fostering the educational development of the next generation, ensuring that his legacy of dedication, positivity, and thoughtful leadership remains a guiding light for years to come.

Industry News
JED Pool Tools Receives Excellence Award
JED Pool Tools, manufacturer of swimming pool maintenance equipment and accessories, was pleased to recently receive a ‘Customer Excellence Award’ from Estes Freight company, the largest privately held freight transportation company in North America. This award recognizes customers that demonstrate strong shipment values, revenue growth, and foster a collaborative relationship. This award celebrates a few select customers for outstanding engagement, enabling a strategic partnership, and committing to mutual success.
“We’re pleased to earn such high recognition from a leader like Estes,” said Glenn Jonelunas Manager of Warehouse Operations at JED Pool Tools. “We’re honored to be recognized for this award, which is a reflection of the well-established and trusted partnership we’ve built together.”
The Estes Customer Excellence Award was created to recognize and celebrate customers who exemplify outstanding collaboration, commitment and service. Estes presented JED Pool Tools with a celebratory cake and plaque.
About JED Pool Tools
JED Pool Tools has been making high-quality pool tools and pool accessories in the USA for 30 years. JED Pool Tools sells over 400 different products including residential and commercial skimmers, leaf rakes, poles, wall brushes and vacuum heads as well as hoses and through-wall skimmer parts. JED is a family-run company with 3-generations of Heyen family working for the company and is committed to creating and providing jobs for residents of Scranton, PA. JED isproud of and committed to manufacturing in the USA, many it its own facility in Scranton, PA. To learn more about the company and its products visit www.JEDPoolTools.com.
About Estes
Estes is North America’s largest privately owned freight carrier. As an asset-based transportation provider with a global footprint, Estes combines nearly a century of regional freight shipping expertise with the resources, reach, and reliability of a national carrier. Backed by its more than 300 North American terminals and nearly 7,000 next-day lanes, as well as its fleet of more than 10,500 tractors, Estes is committed to getting America’s freight where it needs to go, when it needs to get there. And with its continued investment in leading-edge technology, as well as the support of its more than 24,000 employees. To learn more about Estes visit www.estes-express.com.
Industry News
AquaCal AutoPilot and Devin Cahn Associates Join Forces
ST. PETERSBURG, FL ‒ We’re thrilled to announce a new partnership between AquaCal AutoPilot, Inc. and Devin Cahn Associates (DCA)—a highly respected sales agency with deep roots in the pool and spa industry.
Beginning next month, DCA will represent AquaCal and AutoPilot products in key markets across the U.S. Their team brings trusted relationships, real-world experience, and a hands-on approach that aligns with how we do business.
Founded by Devin Cahn, a long-time leader in the pool and spa space with over 40 years of industry experience, DCA has grown into a national team of professional reps focused on building strong relationships and driving results.
👉 Learn more about DCA
Please join us in welcoming the DCA team to the AquaCal AutoPilot family.
We’re looking forward to a strong partnership built on shared values, expert support, and continued growth.
Media Contact:
Michiko Prussing
Product Manager AquaCal AutoPilot, Inc.
Industry News
RB Retail Software Appoints Sleeman to Lead Business Sales
MONROEVILLE, PA – RB Retail & Service Solutions software, supplier of business software designed specifically for the pool and spa industry, is pleased to announce it has hired Taylor Sleeman as the company’s new Business Sales Consultant. In this new role, Sleeman partners with pool and spa companies to help them modernize and grown their business operations. “I take a consultative approach to sales by focusing on understanding each company’s challenges and aligning these needs with the RB Retail & Service software tools to improve efficiency and profitability for pool and spa businesses,” says Sleeman who has over 10 years of sales experience and a proven track record of helping businesses adopt technology that drives measurable growth.
“We are very pleased to have Taylor on our team as she has already connected with many pool and spa businesses to help adopt and implement our industry-specific software for the 2026 season,” says Rachael Pritz, Vice President for the company. “She is already an invaluable asset to our company.” To contact Taylor and learn more about how RB Retail & Service Solutions software can help your pool and spa business this coming season, email [email protected].
866-933-9099
Monroeville, PA
-
Pool News2 weeks agoBlue Wave Recall on Over 13,000 Above Ground Pools
-
Industry News4 weeks agoLatham Group Appoints Sean Gadd as Chief Executive Officer
-
News3 weeks agoBuilt on Relationships: Pentair Pool’s New Sales Structure and the People Who Make It Work
-
Pool Service News3 weeks agoEaston Select Group Adds Harrison Pool & Spa, Expanding Service Across MetroWest Boston
-
Press Releases4 weeks agoFSPA Wins Big at Florida Building Commission
-
News4 weeks agoAquadei Technologies Announces Strategic Alliance with the Master Pool Guild
-
Features4 weeks agoAdopting Engineered, Reliable Pool Waterproofing Innovations — Why North America pool builders are shifting toward PVC membranes
-
Manufacturer4 weeks agoRicoRock® Offers New Temple Stone Firepit























