Luella, glad you had a good time. Sorry wasn't able to make it to hockey in San Jose while you were around, I was in the middle of a monster chest cold. Also too bad San Francisco's pools were closed, they are a fun young group that stays somewhat segregated from San Jose.

RE: the pool situation in LA is sadly pretty typical of the States, rough slow bottoms, weird depths, strange slopes... etc.
One of the reasons we have issues at worlds. We go from the wierd slow rough bottoms to proper tile and have no clue where the puck is going. Some adapt some don't but our first timers definetly are at a disadvantage.

One of the best parts about hockey is the hockey tourist. Love to hear about hockey travels!!!