Collaboration advances the future of pool care with data-driven insights that enable more proactive, connected pool management. 

LONDON – Aug. 19, 20626 — Pentair Pool, a leader in smart, sustainable pool solutions, today announced the launch of its planned technology integration with Pool Brain, a leading software platform for swimming pool service and repair professionals. The integration combines Pentair’s IntelliFlo3® variable-speed pump, the only Wi-Fi-enabled automation pool pump, with Pool Brain’s service management capabilities, providing pool professionals with actionable insights that help streamline operations, improve efficiency, and deliver better service for pool owners. 

The integration combines Pentair’s Lighthouse connected equipment intelligence data stream, delivering greater visibility into equipment performance, with Pool Brain’s service management capabilities, providing pool professionals with actionable insights that help streamline operations, improve efficiency, and deliver better service for pool owners. Upon launch, the integration will deliver insights from Pentair’s IntelliFlo3 pump directly into Pool Brain’s service management platform. The IntelliFlo3 pump provides pool owners with entry-level automation capabilities that deliver a connected, simple, enjoyable pool management experience. 

“Pentair Pool is committed to providing innovative solutions that help pool professionals grow their businesses while giving pool owners more carefree days by the pool,” said Christine Richardson, Chief Product and Innovation Officer for Pentair Pool. “By bringing actionable equipment intelligence and water turnover insights directly into the Pool Brain workflow, we’re helping service professionals operate more efficiently, prevent issues before they occur, and deliver exceptional experiences for homeowners.” 

The combination of intelligence from Pentair’s IntelliFlo3 with Pool Brain’s service management platform provides proactive alerts, remote diagnostics, equipment intelligence, turnover monitoring, and daily equipment status within a single workflow. Service professionals can receive early warnings on issues such as priming failures, pressure changes, and operational anomalies, helping them identify and diagnose problems before they lead to costly repairs, water quality concerns, or unexpected service calls. With greater visibility into pool health between visits, service companies can arrive on-site with the right tools and parts, reduce unnecessary truck rolls, improve operational efficiency, and manage more pools without adding headcount. By automating insights and alerts, the integration helps pool professionals increase productivity, scale operations more effectively, and deliver more proactive service. 

“Launching our integration with Pentair marks an important milestone for the pool service industry. Pool companies can finally connect the equipment on the pad to the software platform they use to run their business every day, which has been our vision from day one,” said Adam Beech, founder and CEO of Pool Brain. “Together with Pentair, we’re giving pool pros a more connected and automated way to manage their business. Device data flows into Pool Brain automatically; water movement issues are surfaced proactively to prevent algae growth, companies operate more efficiently, and on-site visits are reduced. We believe this is only the beginning of what’s possible.” 

Together, Pentair and Pool Brain are helping redefine the future of pool service through connected, insight-driven technology. By bringing equipment intelligence and service operations together in a seamless experience, the integration empowers professionals to make better decisions, improve service outcomes, and transition from reactive maintenance to more proactive pool management. 

“Even in the early stages of deployment, we’re seeing the value,” said Brittney Mendez, Service Team Manager for Tribal Waters, a Phoenix-based custom pool and spa builder and 

service provider. “The level of insight and visibility we’re gaining through the integration helps us be more proactive and provide a better experience for pool owners.” 

The collaboration represents another step toward a more connected and efficient future of pool care. Pool servicers interested in connecting with Pentair Pool for information about how to they can help streamline operations, improve efficiency, and deliver better service for pool owners through the integration can click here to connect with a Pentair representative. Learn more about Pentair Pool Lighthouse and the Pool Brain integration here. 

About Pentair Pool 

Pentair Pool is a Pentair plc business. At Pentair, we help the world sustainably move, improve, and enjoy water, life’s most essential resource. From our residential and commercial water solutions, to industrial water management and everything in between, Pentair is a core large cap value S&P 500 equity stock focused on smart, sustainable water solutions that help our planet and people thrive. 

As an industry leader in the pool and spa space, Pentair Pool is driven to help people sustainably enjoy water. Our solutions include industry-leading pumps, automation, lighting, heating, and filtration technologies that help customers enjoy a smarter and more efficient pool. Customer success is central to our vision—bringing family and friends together in the pool and on the deck to build social connections, create lifelong memories, and promote fitness and enjoyment. 

For more information, visit pentair.com/pool and follow Pentair Pool on Facebook and Instagram. 

About Pool Brain 

A modern “all in one” pool software platform built by industry experts to give you more time, more money, and less stress. Key features include fully automated chemical dosing, remote data monitoring, custom alerts, guided workflows, scheduling, route optimization, quotes (estimates), jobs (work orders), automatic billing, self-serve customer portal, products & services management, customer management, multiple bodies of water, equipment tracking, issue reporting, technician controls, built-in customer feedback, mobile app (no signal required), auto-notifications, group emails, reporting and integrations, and more. For more information, visit www.poolbrain.com. 

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LATHAM, N.Y., Aug. 18, 2026 — Latham Group, Inc. (Nasdaq: SWIM), the largest designer, manufacturer, and marketer of in-ground residential swimming pools in North America, Australia, and New Zealand, today announced the appointment of Todd Antonelli as Chief Commercial Officer.

Mr. Antonelli brings more than 25 years of commercial leadership experience across leading building products organizations, with a track record of driving profitable growth, optimizing sales channels, and leading commercial transformations.

In his role as Chief Commercial Officer, Mr. Antonelli will oversee Latham’s commercial strategy and sales organization, with a focus on strengthening customer relationships, optimizing go-to-market execution, and positioning the Company for continued growth in established markets and accelerated growth in line with our Sand State strategy.

Mr. Antonelli most recently served as Chief Revenue Officer of Cabinetworks Group, the largest privately held cabinet manufacturer in the United States. He led a broad commercial transformation across retail sales, dealer and distributor channels, customer service, and sales operations, strengthening go-to-market execution and building infrastructure to support scalable growth.

Previously, Mr. Antonelli spent nearly a decade with Marvin Windows & Doors, a leading manufacturer of premium windows and doors, most recently serving as Senior Vice President, Sales, and a member of the executive leadership team. During his tenure, he helped nearly triple revenue growth in five years while advancing sales strategy and optimizing distribution channels.

“I am pleased to welcome Todd to Latham,” said Sean Gadd, President and Chief Executive Officer of Latham. “As we enter our next phase of growth, we are focused on building a world-class commercial organization to advance the four pillars of our growth strategy: growing our core business, accelerating conversion from concrete to fiberglass, advancing our autocover business, and pursuing accretive acquisitions. Todd’s deep commercial leadership experience and proven track record of driving profitable growth make him an outstanding addition to our leadership team. I look forward to his contributions as we continue creating value for our customers, dealers, partners, and shareholders.”

Mr. Antonelli holds a Master of Business Administration from California Lutheran University and a Bachelor of Arts from California State University, Chico.

About Latham Group, Inc.

Latham Group, Inc., headquartered in Latham, NY, is the largest designer, manufacturer, and marketer of in-ground residential swimming pools in North America, Australia, and New Zealand. Latham has a coast-to-coast operations platform consisting of approximately 1,900 employees on average across around 40 locations.

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Aquatic professionals from across the industry will gather in Houston this fall as All Things Aquatics returns to the University of Houston on Saturday, September 26, 2026.

Designed as an alternative to the traditional conference format, All Things Aquatics puts the emphasis on conversation, practical learning, and building connections among professionals working throughout the aquatics industry.

The event will feature 16 aquatic professionals representing four areas of the industry. Rather than spending the entire day listening to presentations from a stage, attendees will have an opportunity to interact directly with speakers through smaller roundtable discussions.

Each featured professional will introduce themselves and their area of expertise before joining attendees for more focused conversations. The format gives participants an opportunity to ask questions, exchange experiences, discuss challenges, and connect with industry professionals in a more personal setting.

The event is geared toward a broad cross-section of the aquatics community, including facility managers, swim school operators, lifeguard trainers, parks and recreation professionals, aquatic safety specialists, and companies providing products and services to the industry.

FRIDAY – Lifeguard Night

A full evening dedicated to lifeguards: culture, readiness, rescue mindset, and the reality of what it takes to hold the line.

SATURDAY – Industry Day

Workshops, conversations, and sessions built for the other 99% of aquatics professionals — the people who run the pools, teach the lessons, manage the chaos, and keep communities safe.

In addition to attending, organizations can participate by securing one of the event’s limited speaking opportunities, sponsoring a table, or bringing team members for a day of professional development and networking.

With space limited, organizers are encouraging aquatic professionals and organizations interested in participating to secure their place early.

All Things Aquatics Houston

Saturday, September 26, 2026
University of Houston
Houston, Texas

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The Porch Swing Company launches new East Green Teak Collection and shoppable look book

CINCINNATI, Ohio, August 18 — Hand selected, Grade-A teak from Indonesian groves is shaped by The Porch Swing Company’s craftsmen into resort-style, outdoor pieces built for both structural integrity and genuine comfort in the company’s newest East Green Teak Collection. The new collection by TPSC is designed in-house and was originally built for the homeowner looking for a comprehensive collection that offers generous seat proportions and is shaped for leisure.

The entire collection is meticulously detailed by traditional timber experts ensuring top-tier structural integrity and high-end finish. Naturally celebrated for its strength, weather resistance, and stunning grain, the East Green Teak Collection highlights ergonomic design to experience life outdoors, beautifully.

The collection includes:

East Green Grayton Rocking Chair
Featuring a contoured, ergonomic design that cradles your back and provides superior lumbar support for hours of comfortable lounging. Shoppable here.

East Green Clearwater Bench
Crafted with a careful eye to highlight the natural curve of your spine in the cradle, providing superior comfort and support for long, relaxing afternoons outdoors. Shoppable here.

East Green Fairmont Bench
Brings resort-style relaxation to a porch or garden, masterfully hand-crafted in Indonesia by traditional teak experts. Shoppable here.

East Green Truman Adirondack Chair and Ottoman Set
Skillfully shaped and hand-finished to a silky, splinter-free perfection, ensuring robust structural joints, smooth edges, and flawless attention to detail. Shoppable here.

The Porch Swing Company is proud to launch this new collection to the trade professional alongside its re-tooled trade program which has seen a number of changes to better serve the audience with a new, dedicated support team, and residential project pricing with larger scopes.

“I’m personally very excited to see this new collection come to life. We dedicated a great deal of time to identify the right partners and skillset to make this product a reality. Our office was filled with samples to get it just right and meet our standards in both design and functionality,” said Sean Fisher, CEO of The Porch Swing Company.

The East Green Teak Collection Look Book can be accessed here, and includes shoppable links and additional information essential to know before you order. The brand’s teak collection landing page can be found here: https://theporchswingcompany.com/pages/east-green-teak-collection

About The Porch Swing Company

The Porch Swing Company is an energetic team of outdoor living enthusiasts passionate about helping homeowners and trade professionals create the perfect outdoor space. The team has built strong partnerships with talented Amish artisans across Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Indiana, offering high-quality, handcrafted furniture with exclusive designs and extensive collections that you won’t find anywhere else. In addition, The Porch Swing Company collaborates with top-tier porch furniture brands, ensuring homeowners have access to an exceptional selection from across the globe.

Follow The Porch Swing Company on:
Website
Instagram
LinkedIn

For media inquiries please contact:
Micah Paldino
micah@makepbj.com
513.668.7676

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Appointment reflects Veridian’s continued investment in executive leadership as the multi-brand outdoor renovation platform accelerates growth across Texas and prepares for expansion into new markets

DALLAS, TX — August 18, 2026 — Veridian Service Partners, a direct-to-consumer home improvement company focused on delivering high-quality outdoor renovation solutions, today announced the appointment of Dave Peterson as Chief Sales Officer.

Peterson joins the executive leadership team with more than 20 years of experience building and scaling high-performance sales organizations in the home improvement industry, with deep expertise in in-home selling, KPI-driven performance management, and repeatable sales systems.

Most recently, Peterson served as Senior Vice President of Sales at Renuity, one of the home improvement industry’s most recognized multi-brand platforms. There, he led the Sales Center of Excellence, driving sales strategy and execution across a multi-brand portfolio with over 800 sales representatives. Prior to Renuity, he spent nearly 17 years at Mad City Windows and Baths, rising from an outside sales representative to Vice President of Sales and helping grow the company into a regional powerhouse with more than $300 million in revenue.

Throughout his career, Peterson has built a reputation for developing sales cultures grounded in accountability, structured systems, and a people-first mentality. His expertise spans one-sit close execution, sales training and development, and leadership of large field organizations.

“Dave brings exactly the kind of hands-on, field-tested sales leadership that will strengthen Veridian’s growth as we continue to scale,” said Jeff Nutkis, CEO of Veridian Service Partners. “He has built and scaled some of the most effective sales organizations in the home improvement industry, and we are confident he will bring that same expertise to our team and our customers.”

As Chief Sales Officer, Peterson will lead the sales organization across Veridian’s growing portfolio of brands, shaping commercial strategy, building and developing sales talent, and driving consistent performance across markets.

“Veridian Service Partners has built something special — a clear market opportunity, a strong operational foundation, and a leadership team that knows how to execute,” said Peterson. “I have spent my career developing sales organizations that scale, and I see tremendous potential to do exactly that here.”

Peterson’s appointment reflects Veridian’s strategy of investing in proven executive leadership ahead of growth as the company expands its portfolio of outdoor renovation brands across Texas and prepares to enter new markets in 2027.

About Veridian Service Partners
Veridian Service Partners is a direct-to-consumer home improvement company focused on delivering high-quality outdoor renovation solutions with a consistent and reliable customer experience. Built on centralized marketing, technology, and operational systems, Veridian is designed to bring professionalism and efficiency to a historically fragmented sector. The company serves homeowners across the Sun Belt through a growing platform dedicated to craftsmanship, service, and operational excellence. For more information visit https://www.veridianservicepartners.com/.

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KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Landmark Aquatic, a national leader in commercial aquatic construction and renovation, is pleased to announce the promotion of Jason Hill to General Manager of its Kansas City, Missouri market. Hill brings nearly two decades of commercial aquatic experience to the role, having worked his way through the industry as a laborer, plumber, project superintendent and project manager. That hands-on path through the trades gives him a perspective few general managers share.

“I truly understand the jobs of everyone here,” explains Hill. “It’s not just how they’re supposed to perform, I actually understand their day-to-day struggles, their desire for growth, and their need to have the best tools at their disposal to do their job efficiently.”

As he begins his tenure, Hill said mentorship and workforce development will be a top priority, particularly given how few professionals nationwide specialize in commercial pools.

“The commercial pool industry is such an anomaly,” he said. “As we grow our team, we are not likely to find commercial pool people waiting in our market to be hired, rather I am going to have to make commercial pool people. Training and coaching them is a big part of making that happen.” Hill’s emphasis on training echoes the company culture that earned Landmark a Top Workplace award, given in part for its investment in employee career development.

Hill is already collaborating closely with Landmark’s marketing team to grow the company’s visibility across the Kansas City market, contributing fresh ideas that are helping generate excitement. “I’m excited to compete with our other markets and see how far we can climb,” he said, noting his hometown ties add extra motivation.

With his depth of field experience and people-first approach, Hill is positioned to grow Landmark Aquatic’s presence and reputation throughout the region.

Jason can be reached at jhill@landmarkaquatic.com.

About Landmark Aquatic:

Landmark Aquatic is a nationwide provider of commercial aquatic facility design, construction, and maintenance services, with more than six decades of industry experience. Serving clients across most of the U.S., Landmark delivers construction-led solutions and on-going support though its AquatiCare maintenance team, ensuring excellence “for the life of your pool.” Committed to the full lifecycle of every facility, Landmark prioritizes long-term partnerships while adapting to client needs through exceptional service, operational excellence, and forward-thinking solutions. For more about Landmark Aquatic visit www.landmarkaquatic.com.

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Now in its third year, the Pentair Pool Pro Awards Recognize the Best of the Best in the Pool Industry

[LONDON, August 17, 2026] — Pentair Pool, a leading global provider of safer, smart, and sustainable pool solutions, is pleased to announce the launch of the 2026 Pentair Pool Pro Awards. This annual event, now in its third year, celebrates pool industry professionals who work to keep pools swim-ready in their communities. Appropriately, this year’s theme recognizes backyard legends.

The Awards will recognize and honor seven dedicated pool professionals who exemplify a deep commitment to the pool industry, possess extensive product knowledge, prioritize their customers and safety, and demonstrate outstanding leadership. This year’s Pool Pro Award categories are:

• Premiere Pool Pro (Two winners)
• Lifetime Achievement (Two winners)
• NEW: Wave Maker Award
• Unsung Hero
• Safety Advocate

Nominations for the Pentair Pool Pro Awards open on Sept. 1, 2026. Pool professionals are invited to nominate themselves or peers who have provided standout service and made significant contributions to the pool industry.

Voting will take place in October and will give the community the opportunity to select the most deserving professionals from the list of nominees. Winners will be announced in January 2027 and honored during a private awards ceremony at the Pool and Spa Show in Atlantic City, New Jersey on Jan. 25, 2027.

For more information on the Pentair Pool Pro Awards, including nomination guidelines and voting details, please visit www.pentair.com/pool-pro-awards.

About Pentair Pool

At Pentair, we help the world safely and sustainably move, improve, and enjoy water, life’s most essential resource. From our residential and business solutions to industrial water management and everything in between, Pentair is focused on smart, sustainable water solutions that help our planet and people thrive.

As an industry leader in the pool and spa space, Pentair Pool is driven to help people sustainably enjoy water. Our solutions include industry-leading pumps, automation, lighting, heating, and filtration technology that help our customers enjoy a smarter and more sustainable pool. Customer success is at the heart of our vision for bringing family and friends together in the pool and on the deck to build social connections, create lifelong memories, and help promote fitness and enjoyment. For more information, visit www.pentair.com/poolandspa.

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A recent Federal Communications Commission action could create new compliance questions for the next generation of connected robotic pool cleaners entering the U.S. market.

On July 28, 2026, the FCC added two equipment categories to its Covered List: foreign-produced advanced robotic devices and foreign-produced power inverters. The move means certain new products in those categories may no longer receive the FCC equipment authorization required for U.S. sale unless they qualify for a Conditional Approval process.

For the pool and spa industry, the practical message is not that robotic cleaners are being banned. Existing products are not suddenly illegal, and consumers do not need to remove their current cleaner from the pool.

The more relevant question is whether some future robotic pool-cleaner models—particularly connected, sensor-equipped, app-controlled products manufactured outside the United States—could meet the FCC’s definition of an “advanced robotic device.”

That answer will likely depend on the details of each product.

What the FCC Actually Changed

The FCC’s Covered List identifies communications equipment and services that federal authorities have determined present unacceptable national-security risks.

The agency’s July 28 action applies on a prospective basis. It affects whether newly covered equipment can receive an FCC authorization after the effective date. A product that already received the appropriate authorization before the update can generally continue to be imported, marketed, sold, and used in the United States, according to the FCC’s robotics and inverter FAQ.

That distinction matters for pool professionals, distributors, retailers, and pool owners:

• Existing authorized robotic cleaners are not automatically prohibited.
• Current owners do not need to stop using their equipment.
• Inventory of already authorized models is not automatically removed from sale.
• The principal concern is the authorization path for future covered models.

The FCC provides a Conditional Approval process for certain foreign-produced advanced robotic devices. As legal analyses from Sidley and Morgan Lewis explain, that process may require substantial disclosure regarding ownership, manufacturing, components, software, cybersecurity, supply chains, and plans to establish or expand qualifying U.S. manufacturing.

Why Pool Cleaners Are Worth Watching

Neither the FCC’s announcement nor the legal analyses reviewed specifically names robotic pool cleaners as a covered category. They do, however, describe a broad class of connected, mobile robots that can include products such as robot vacuums and robotic lawn equipment.

Some sophisticated pool-cleaning robots may share characteristics that regulators are examining:

• Self-propelled movement and autonomous navigation
• Sensors used for navigation, obstacle detection, route planning, or environmental awareness
• Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or other network connectivity
• Mobile-app control and cloud-connected functions
• Local or remote software that controls movement, perception, data collection, or updates
• Increasing use of mapping, advanced sensing, and automated decision-making

That does not mean every robotic pool cleaner falls under the new rule. In fact, many may not.

The FCC definition is technical and depends on a combination of features—not simply whether a product is marketed as a “robot.” A cleaner’s weight, mobility, sensor configuration, wireless capabilities, software functions, manufacturing origin, and certification status could all matter. The agency’s own Frequently Asked Questions on the Covered List update should be the starting point for manufacturers evaluating the issue.

A basic, offline cleaner with limited sensing and no meaningful communications capability may raise a different compliance question than a connected model that maps its environment, operates through an app, receives over-the-air updates, and integrates with cloud services.

Not Every Foreign-Made Cleaner Is Automatically Blocked

The phrase “foreign-produced” is broader and more technical than many readers may assume.

The rule is not limited to products from a particular country. It can apply to products made outside the United States, including those manufactured in China, Europe, or elsewhere, if they do not qualify as a domestic end product under the applicable federal standard. Global law firm Sidley’s most recent analysis outlines the relationship between the FCC’s rule and the Buy American Act standard.

At the same time, a foreign-made robotic pool cleaner is not automatically barred from the U.S. market merely because it is made abroad.

For the FCC restriction to matter, the product must first fit the definition of an advanced robotic device and require a new equipment authorization. If it does, the manufacturer may need to pursue Conditional Approval or adjust its manufacturing and sourcing approach.

A qualifying domestic-end-product robot is outside this specific Covered List entry, although it may still need to meet the FCC’s ordinary equipment authorization requirements.

Why the Government Is Looking at Connected Robots

The policy reflects a broader federal concern about connected devices that can sense, collect, store, transmit, or respond to information.

Modern robotic devices can include cameras, environmental sensors, radios, processors, onboard storage, mapping functions, remote-control capability, cloud integration, and software-update systems. The government’s stated concern is not simply that a robot can move. It is the combination of physical mobility, connectivity, software control, and potential access to information or networks, as detailed in the FCC’s Covered List guidance and legal analyses by Morgan Lewis.

For most pool owners, a robotic cleaner remains a practical appliance designed to scrub surfaces, collect debris, and reduce manual maintenance. But as the category evolves, some units are becoming more like connected autonomous devices than traditional pool equipment.

That shift is what makes the FCC development relevant to manufacturers and importers.

What Pool Professionals Should Watch

There is no immediate reason for pool companies to change their recommendations, remove existing cleaners from pools, or tell customers that current equipment has become unlawful.

Instead, the industry should monitor how the FCC’s definition is applied to specific robotic pool-cleaner products.

Manufacturers, distributors, and importers should be asking:

• Does a new model meet each element of the FCC’s advanced-robotic-device definition?
• Does the cleaner require a new FCC authorization?
• Has the model—or a substantially similar predecessor—already received authorization?
• Where is the product manufactured, and does it qualify as a domestic end product?
• Does the unit have sensors, wireless connectivity, and software functions that may bring it within the rule?
• Is Conditional Approval necessary before a new model can enter the U.S. market?

The near-term impact on retail shelves may be limited because previously authorized products can generally remain available. The longer-term effects, however, could be more significant if popular manufacturers must redesign products, change supply chains, delay launches, pursue Conditional Approval, or add U.S. manufacturing capacity to preserve market access.

A Regulatory Development to Watch

The FCC action does not amount to a ban on robotic pool cleaners. It is better understood as a new regulatory hurdle that may apply to certain future, foreign-produced, connected robotic cleaners.

The pool industry has embraced cordless operation, mobile apps, automation, advanced navigation, and increasingly capable onboard software. Those same features could place some future products closer to the line drawn by the FCC.

For manufacturers and importers, the issue is now part of product planning and compliance. For pool professionals and consumers, it is a development to watch—not a reason to panic or pull a functioning cleaner out of the water.

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Pool industry professional launches “She Swims So They Can” campaign ahead of three endurance races this fall

Pool and aquatics industry professional and lifelong swimmer Natalie Hood of the The Grit Game is taking her passion for the water beyond the pool this fall, tackling three open-water endurance races in support of Every Child A Swimmer (ECAS), an organization dedicated to providing children with access to lifesaving swim education.

Through her campaign, She Swims So They Can, Hood will take on the Tennessee Triple Crown of open-water swimming, completing more than 21 miles of open-water racing in just three weeks:

● September 13 – Bridges to Bluffs, 6.2 miles in Knoxville, Tennessee
● September 20 – Hobbs Island, 5 miles in Huntsville, Alabama
● October 3 – Swim the Suck, 10 miles in Chattanooga, Tennessee

For Hood, the challenge brings together a lifelong connection to swimming with a cause deeply rooted in the aquatics industry: making sure more children have the opportunity to learn how to swim.

“Swimming has been part of my life for as long as I can remember, and it has given me so much,” Hood said. “I wanted these swims to mean something beyond crossing a finish line. If the miles I swim can help give more children access to swim lessons and the skills that could one day save their lives, then every mile is worth it.”

Hood has spent more than two decades in the pool and aquatics industry and competed in swimming through college. After years away from endurance swimming, she is returning to the sport with a focus extending beyond her own performance.

“What Natalie is doing through She Swims So They Can is such a beautiful example of how one person can create a ripple effect of change and hope. We are incredibly thankful for Natalie’s commitment, dedication, and belief in our mission. The entire Every Child a Swimmer team is cheering her on, and we are honored to be part of this journey with her.” – Casey McGovern, Executive Director, Every Child a Swimmer

Supporters can contribute directly to the campaign, purchase campaign apparel, or join the growing group of industry partners supporting Hood’s three-race challenge. 100% of all proceeds goes to Every Child a Swimmer, where every dollar will continue to be tracked.

Industry Support

RevdUp Apparel has joined the campaign, with 100% of the profits from the limited-edition She Swims So They Can fundraising apparel donated directly to Every Child A Swimmer.

“When we learned more about the She Swims So They Can campaign and the mission of Every Child A Swimmer, supporting it was an easy decision for us,” said Don Douglas, Founder of RevdUp Apparel. “Teaching children how to swim isn’t just about recreation— it’s a life-saving skill. As a company that works closely with the pool and aquatic industry, this mission really hits home for us. We wanted to do more than simply create the apparel; we wanted every purchase to make a meaningful impact.” Don Douglas, Founder of RevdUp Apparel.

The campaign is also supported by The Talking Pools Podcast, H2Flow Controls, Tenjam, OnlyPools, Aqua Water Comfort Group, and The Grit Game.

“This isn’t about seeing how fast I can swim,” Hood said. “It’s about using something I know how to do to help more kids learn something every child should have the opportunity to learn. I can swim, so I’m swimming so they can.”

Support the Campaign

Supporters can get involved with the She Swims So They Can campaign in several ways.

● Purchase limited-edition campaign apparel through RevedUp Apparel’s She Swims So They Can store, with 100% of the profits donated directly to Every Child A Swimmer.
● To donate, learn more about Hood’s journey, and follow her progress toward more than 21 miles of open-water racing, visit the She Swims So They Can campaign page.
● Businesses and organizations interested in becoming a She Swims So They Can sponsor can contact Hood directly at nhood@thegritgame.com.

About Every Child A Swimmer

Every Child A Swimmer is dedicated to expanding access to lifesaving swim education and helping more children learn the skills needed to be safer and more confident in and around the water.

Media & Sponsorship Contact
Natalie Hood
nhood@thegritgame.com

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Southern Nevada pool builder repeats as Home Services – Pool Builder champion in FOX5’s community-voted awards program

(August 2026) Las Vegas, NV— Paragon Pools has been named the GOLD winner in the Home Services – Pool Builder category of the 2026 Vegas Viewer’s Choice Awards, presented by FOX5 Las Vegas, the company’s second consecutive year taking the top honor.

This marks the second consecutive GOLD award for Paragon Pools in the Viewer’s Choice Awards, which launched in 2025 to recognize and celebrate businesses that make Southern Nevada unique. Hosted on the FOX5 website, the competition unfolds over several online phases: a nomination phase, in which community members submit businesses across 15 main categories, followed by a 31-day voting phase in which verified voters may cast one vote per category, per email address, per day. The business earning the most votes in each category receives the GOLD award.

“Earning the top award two years in a row confirms that Southern Nevada households appreciate our commitment to designing and building high-quality pools and spas for their families,” said Paragon Pools President Joseph M. Vassallo, CBP, PHTA Fellow. “We’re proud to receive this recognition and grateful to everyone who took the time to vote for us.”

Founded in 2001, Paragon Pools is a licensed residential and commercial pool construction company specializing in new builds and renovations throughout Southern Nevada. The custom builder is known for luxury-style projects designed within the Las Vegas Valley Water District’s residential pool size limit of 600 square feet of surface area. Over the years, Paragon Pools has earned numerous design, business and philanthropic honors. A longtime member of the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance (PHTA), Vassallo and his son, Joseph Anthony, have each been named PHTA “Pool Builder of the Year” — Joe Sr. in 2012 and Joe Jr. in 2021.

ABOUT PARAGON POOLS

Paragon Pools is an award-winning, custom in-ground swimming pool and spa design/build company based in Las Vegas, Nevada. The contractor specializes in new construction and major renovations for residential and commercial clients. Paragon Pools has received numerous accolades worldwide for its distinctive designs, trend-setting techniques and renovation work. Its client roster includes major hotels, casino executives, professional athletes and celebrities, and the company has been featured in numerous TV, cable and news profiles, including HGTV.com’s Designers Showcase.

Learn more about the 2026 Vegas Viewer’s Choice Awards at fox5vegas.com/page/viewers-choice.

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