July 2008 Issue

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  Taylor Made Group sponsors Earthrace

  The Taylor Made Group sponsored the Earthrace eco boat’s attempt to break the round-the-world speed record.

• Reports provide market outlook

  The Royal Bank of Canada (RBC) Capital Markets found that domestic boat sales are down about 25 percent at retail, year-to-date, in new sport boats and smaller cruisers.

• Discover Boating updates website

  The DiscoverBoating.com website features an updated design and focuses on boat-related activities such as fishing, sailing, powerboat cruising and watersports.

• High-tech materials used for sailboats

  The fastest sailboats in the world are now being outfitted with high tech materials like carbon fiber for hulls and Kevlar, used in bulletproof vests, for sails.

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  Industry associations converge at IFAI Expo 2008

  The Industrial Fabrics Association International (IFAI) announced that multiple textile industry associations will conduct meetings at IFAI Expo 2008.

• Clean Boating Act of 2008 passes

  The House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee approved the Clean Boating Act to ensure recreational boaters and anglers, including uninspected charter fishing boats, won’t need federal permits.

• Congressional act to help recreational marine workers

  The House of Representatives approved the U.S. Coast Guard Authorization Act in April.

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  New York National Boat Show changes dates

  The New York National Boat Show changed its show dates to Dec. 13-21 this year, nearly two weeks earlier than originally scheduled.

• N.J. boating study results released

  A two-year economic study on recreational boating in New Jersey indicates that in 2006, the state’s boaters spent about $2.1 billion on in-state recreational boating activities.

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  EPA finalizes yacht builder emission regulation

  The EPA published a rule in the Federal Register designed to reduce exhaust emissions from diesel-powered recreational boats and help the industry avoid a series of aftertreatment catalyst-based standards.

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  Belting leather features water-repellent finish

  A new collection of belting leather from Spinneybeck is 100-percent post consumer recyclable and features an aqueous-based, water-repellent finish.

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  Foam repels water

  Polydamp Hydrophobic Melamine (PHM) foam from Polymer Technologies repels water, while keeping low flame, smoke and toxicity levels.

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  Fabrics feature built-in color

  Using a new process, the color is permanently built into the fibers, which eliminates waste and energy used by traditional dyeing processes.

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  Thread designed for outdoor use

  Solar Thread, from Plastomer Technologies, is designed for the industrial outdoor fabric market and offers durability, strength and weather resistance.

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  Sinclair releases grommet machines and line of plastic grommets

  Plastic grommets from Sinclair Equipment Company are transparent so fabric colors are visible, not the grommets.

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  Vinyl template made for sizing grommets

  METALgrommets.com developed GROMMETsizer, a heavy-duty vinyl template for sizing grommets, ropes, cables and barbs.

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  Insect repellent apparel blocks sun's rays

  Sloggers Garden Outfitters teamed up with Buzz Off Insect Shield to develop a collection of insect repellent apparel that blocks more than 98 percent of the sun’s harmful rays.

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  Custom pilot house allows customer to see clearly

  A customer can see clearly now with a custom pilot house on a 26-foot Monterey.

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  Striped cushions add updated look to boat exterior

  Canvas Designers Inc., Riviera Beach, Fla.

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  Design creates uniform interior

  Seafarer Canvas, Norwalk, Conn.

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  Custom seating adds function and comfort

  Sand, Sea and Air Interiors, San Juan, Puerto Rico

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  Unique seating features colorful contrast

  Lorenzo Canvas, Pompano Beach, Fla.

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  Upholstery recover features matching accent color

  Afton Marina & Yacht Club, Afton, Minn.

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  Cushions constructed of reticulated foam

  Needle Loft Inc., Kemah, Texas

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  Attached bags add storage space

  The Nautical Needle, Holland, Mich.

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  "Couch" area adds a family room feel to salon

  Custom Canvas of Charleston Inc., N. Charleston, S.C.

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  Wall panels create alternative look

  Sand Sea and Air Interiors, San Juan, Puerto Rico

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  Framework design fits lines of powerboat

  Beyond Canvas Inc., Point Roberts, Wash.

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  How to handle hassles in administering human resource programs

  You know the basics to keep in compliance with federal and state employment laws, but there always seem to be unique issues and questions that you are not sure how to handle.

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  Fabric design expertise creates colorful new business opportunities

  As a designer, I am often asked where I find inspirations for colors and patterns. My short answer is “everywhere.”

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• Nonwoven material engineered for dust protection

  Where to purchase Dustop fabric.

• Measuring tools can be used as fabric is unrolled

  Where to find measuring tools that measure yardage as fabric is being unrolled.

• Fabric treatments for sun protection

  Our experts offer suggestions on how to best protect interior cotton fabric from sun damage.

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