May 2009 Table of Contents

Features

• 14Reading Between the Lines: The Pumper Survey: We’ve Got the Answers
  Surveys like this one can be enlightening for everyone in the industry. They provide a good snapshot of the robustness of a business sector at any given point in time.
• 22Building the Business: The ‘Good Habit’ Groove
  When small business owners and managers embrace 12 effective management habits, success is sure to follow
• 28Rules and Regs: Florida Regulations Aimed at Fixing Systems, Sewer Hookups
  The Springs Protection Bill would create a pilot program featuring Rainbow and Silver Springs to combat their reduced water flow and declining water quality.
• 36Cover Story: SHOVEL READY
  Over the years, Wisconsin excavator John Laudolff strengthened his business by taking on new roles as a trusted onsite system installer and pumping professional
• 44Special Feature: Is it Time to Quit Talking on the Go?
  Efforts to limit use of cell phones while driving are picking up steam. Here’s how some contractors balance mobile communication with the need to drive safely.
• 54Profile: The Road to Retirement
  When it comes to financing the golden years, one savvy New England pumper says contractors can’t rely solely on the sale of equipment and a customer list to support a comfortable lifestyle
• 70Special Feature: Be a Drainfield Detective
  An accurate diagnosis of an onsite system problem can help a homeowner avoid considerable time, expense, and yard and landscaping disruption
• 76Overheard Online: It’s System Upgrade Time
  Faced with a saturated drainfield, a poster turns to the pros for a second opinion on a costly proposed retrofit
• 78Interview: California Regulations a Long Time Coming
  Proposed septic system restrictions generate debate across the state. Will their eventual impact reverberate across the United States?

Columns

• 64After Hours: Memories Made in China
  New Jersey contractor David Zuidema III travels to Olympics with javelin-thrower son
• 72Septic System Answer Man: Pump and Install?
  Seeing customers with failing septic systems, an experienced pumper wonders if he should add onsite system installation to his service menu
• 82NAWT: NAWT Improves Access to Vacuum Truck Training Program
  Filming the course enabled us to create a classroom atmosphere with questions from the audience and answers from the instructors. Even the PowerPoint presentations and field components are included.
• 88Money Manager: The Audit Trail
  In most cases, an IRS income tax audit is nothing to fear. The keys are to keep calm, and make sure you’re accompanied by an accounting professional.
• 90Industry News: Industry News
  SJE-Rhombus Employees Receive Certification; Aqua-Aerobic Wastewater System Undergoes Field Testing; Phoenix Process Equipment Marks 25th Anniversary
• 96Product Spotlight: Geoflow Inc. BioDisc Filters
  Making repeated return trips to clean plugged effluent filters decreases productivity and profitability for septic waste haulers.
• 100Reader Pipelines: The Name Game
  Does your company’s moniker still accurately describe the varied work you perform?
• 102Classy Trucks: Classy Truck of May
  This month we feature Imperial Western Products Pumping Division
• 120Association News: Association News
  News, Training & Education and Calendar of Events

s

• 94Lighter Side: An Expo Engagement
  Amid a backdrop of gleaming new vacuum trucks at the Kentucky Exposition Center, a pumper proposes marriage … and she accepts