It is said that in 1919 Belinda Bergan created the first bubbling
whirlpool bath by holding the hose of a hand-operated tire pump underwater. Now, while it's unclear whether she operated it herself, or she had an assistant, there's no question it started a bathing revolution. At the recent national kitchen and bath industry show that fact was in evidence. There was no question that Bergan's whirlpool tubs were the feature attraction. Starting at about $800, one can slip into a soothing, bubbling basic model, and for a few more dollars here and there, one can start adding creature-comfort options, like extra adjustable foot, neck and body jets, head rests and soft pillows. Also, changing underwater color-light chroma-theraphy, variable speed bubbles, extra heaters and even total home theater systems are available. You can add a 42-inch plasma screen and surround-sound, with internet access and a waterproof floating keyboard, if you really get carried away. For more tips, visit our Web site at onthehouse.com. And that's the On The House tip for today.