Important
      Dates:

2009
TCATA Annual Management
& Educational
Conference
April 22 - 25
Westin
Our Lucaya Resort
Grand Bahama Island

2009
Clean Show
June 18-21
New Orleans, LA

Updated May 7, 2008

TCATA Co-Sponsors Conference for Distribution Professionals TCATA & Coalition Partners Fight New Jersey Perc Phase-out UPDATED Three Members Celebrate 25 Years of Membership TCATA Hosts Webinar On Employee Retention Edro Celebrates 50th Membership Anniversary In TCATA President Signs Economic Stimulus Package Adco Purchases Laidlaw's Chemical Division Adco Celebrates 100 Years in Business Welcome New Members TCATA Opposes Expansion of ADA RV Davies Ceases Operations, Merges Sales Staff with Minda Supply Dr. Revenue Offers Marketing Ideas For 2008 EPA Announces Shift in Chemical Assessment Companies Announce New Appointments UPDATED IN MEMORIAM UPDATED TCATA Acknowledges Contributors to Scholarship Fund UPDATED

TCATA Co-Sponsors Conference for Distribution Professionals

In its continuing effort to offer quality education to members, TCATA is pleased to inform you about a unique opportunity. The Association is co-sponsoring the "Young Distribution Professionals Conference," a three day meeting from August 3-6 near Chicago that will cover a variety of important distribution issues designed for marketing, sales and operations personnel. While the program has been tailored to those with less than ten years experience in distribution, all are welcome to attend. Last year's Conference sold out quickly, so don't delay in registering.
   

TCATA & Coalition Partners Fight New Jersey Perc Phase-out

UPDATE: Three bills have been introduced in the New Jersey legislature in response to the Department of Environmental Protection’s proposal to ban perc drycleaning by 2021. Most recently, Senate Majority Leader Stephen Sweeney and Senator John Adler introduced legislation in mid-March that would prohibit the DEP from imposing additional controls on the states’ cleaners until 2012 and would require the DEP to conduct further study on alternative solvents.

TCATA CEO David Cotter was one of many concerned allied trades and drycleaner representatives who testified on January 18 in Trenton, New Jersey against the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection’s (NJDEP) proposed new rules governing perchlorethylene. The NJDEP proposes to completely ban the use of perc by 2021, requires new equipment upgrades by 2010, and forbids perc machines from being used in co-residential locations as of July 2009.

Speaking before a packed room of about 120 people – mostly cleaners – Mr. Cotter testified that the NJDEP rules are simply not justified. “If the logic and reasoning used to support the NJDEP plan were applied equally to other products, then it would also be necessary to phase out the use of diesel fuel, gasoline, and natural gas, all of which are important products whose manufacture, transportation and use contribute far more risk to public health, safety and the environment than does perc. Further, based on the relative magnitude of the risks, phase out plans for those products would be of much higher priority. Singling out a product such as perchlorethylene, which presents far less risk, yet is of similar importance to those whose livelihoods depend on its continued use, is simply capricious and unfair,” Mr. Cotter stated.

Mr. Cotter also pointed out – as did several others who gave testimony – that the NJDEP has ignored much of the data that the industry has presented to them, particularly the comprehensive, peer-reviewed 2006 Nordic study, which shows no increased risk of cancer among drycleaning workers. “The data and assumptions that the NJDEP is using grossly overstate the risks and therefore also overstate the benefits to be achieved from this proposal,” he noted.

Many cleaners testified about the severe economic hardship that the NJDEP rules would cause them. Virtually all of TCATA’s partners in this coalition testified on various aspects of the rules: Nora Nealis of the National Cleaners Association noted that many cleaners work safely with perc every day and would not work with a chemical that would harm themselves or their employees. Bill Fisher of the Drycleaning & Laundry Institute outlined how the drycleaning industry has been – more than practically any other industry – at the forefront of regulating itself. Peter Blake of the North East Fabricare Association spoke about the unintended consequences of the proposed rules, particularly as they would push cleaners to alternative solvents not fully tested. Steve Risotto of the Halogenated Solvents Industry Alliance pointed out some of the specific areas in which the NJDEP data is outdated or simply incorrect. All who testified urged the NJDEP to withdraw this proposal and to work with stakeholders to draft a rule that makes sense for all concerned. Industry representatives will continue to work with the NJDEP to draft a different proposal that reflects sound science and takes into account the economic impact of the new regulation.

The NJDEP is accepting written comments on the proposed rules until February 15.
   

Three Members Celebrate 25 Years of Membership

In 2008, three TCATA members celebrate their 25th anniversary of membership in the Association:

Chicago Dryer Company in Chicago, Illinois has been in business since 1886. The company designs and manufactures flatwork finishing equipment such as spreader/feeders, ironers of all sizes and sheet, table linen and towel folders. The company's concentration on this line of products only is one of the reasons for its place as a major leader in this sector of the market. Chicago Dryer has also been a leader in product innovation and support and service.

Ideal Products LLC has been in business in the town of Beacon Falls, Connecticut since 1950. The company began with the manufacturing of safety pins and today remains one of the two North American companies manufacturing a full range of pins. Ideal's 60 employees proudly manufacture the majority of pins in America under the original quality trade names. In recent years, Ideal has expanded its capabilities, through acquisition, to include the manufacture of screws, rivets, fasteners and other items.

Des-L Industries of Irvington, New Jersey has been serving the drycleaning industry since 1960 with innovative packing products. Those items include collar supports, shoulder guards, skirt clips, storage boxes, twist ties and many other items.

We thank these three members for their years of support, and wish them much continued success.
   

TCATA Hosts Webinar On Employee Retention

As part of its continuing series, TCATA is pleased to cosponsor another webinar on “How to Find and Keep the Right Employees…Without Stealing from the Competition.” While many companies often spend as much as half their gross margin dollars on employee wages and benefits, they rarely invest much time and energy in selecting and retaining good employees. This seminar will include a practical examination of both the practices that may be working against your organization and the tools you need to hire and develop a good staff.
   

Edro Celebrates 50th Membership Anniversary In TCATA

The Edro Corporation of East Berlin, Connecticut celebrates its 50th year of consecutive membership in TCATA in 2008 – a hearty congratulations to Edro on the occasion of this important anniversary.

The Edro Corporation opened its doors in 1946 as a small specialty tool and die shop to serve the local manufacturing market. The company was noted for its high quality craftsmanship and ability to manufacture custom machined parts. The company is now led by both a second and third generation of family ownership – Ed Kirejczyk, Jr., Ed Kirejczyk III, Scott Kirejczyk and Caroline Wojcicki – from its founder and original president, Roman Galinski, and is a leading producer of laundry equipment.

In the 1950’s, Roman Galinski invented a unique design for washer-extractors – a triangular-designed three pocket wash basket that he named “Dyna Wash.” This design eliminated the time-consuming step of transferring water-laden laundry from a washer to a separate extractor and, for the first time, allowed large volumes to be processed in a combination washer-extractor. In the 1970’s, Dyna Wash was introduced to the U.S. Navy and commercial shipboard markets and has since become the brand of choice for marine and cruise ship vessels.

Over the last decade, Edro has enjoyed success in its core business while constantly looking to the future for new products and services. The company’s new washing technology – Dyna Wash Ozone System – is changing the way laundry is processed, further improving efficiency.

We wish Edro all the best, and want to thank them for 50 years of support of TCATA!
   

President Signs Economic Stimulus Package

President Bush signed the economic stimulus package into law on February 13. In addition to sending checks to millions of Americans, the bill contains some tax incentives for small business. Click here for a brief review of these incentives.
   

Adco Purchases Laidlaw's Chemical Division

Adco Cleaning Products of Sedalia, Missouri, a leading manufacturer and distributor of chemicals for the drycleaning industry and Mentor Partners of Boston, Massachusetts are pleased to announce the purchase of Laidlaw’s Chemical Products Division. Laidlaw’s sales team will continue servicing their accounts who will receive Laidlaw products through their normal distribution channels.

Brent McWilliams, formerly Vice President of Laidlaw, will be joining Adco as Vice President of Sales. Charles Van Dyne, Adco’s CEO, says that Laidlaw products will be manufactured in Adco’s facilities and will continue to be sold and shipped through existing distributors. Laidlaw is one of the nation’s largest suppliers of wire hangers and related products, and will concentrate on its import business.

Adco was founded 100 years ago in Sedalia, Missouri by John and Vivia Van Dyne. It remained family owned and operated until it was sold to Mentor Partners in April of 2006.
   

Adco Celebrates 100 Years in Business

Adco Cleaning Products of Sedalia, Missouri, a long time TCATA member, celebrates its 100th year of operation in 2008 – congratulations to them!

Established in 1908 as American Disinfecting Company in Sedalia, Adco has established itself as a leader in research and development, manufacturing and distribution for drycleaning and laundry products. Over the years, Adco has produced many products that are considered classics, and it continues to research new products to serve the industry. It manufactures and tests each product in its own manufacturing facility.

Three generations of the Van Dyne family have provided the company with the same leadership and vision that established Adco 100 years ago. Charles Van Dyne currently serves as CEO.

Last year, Adco sold its business to Mentor Partners of Boston, Massachusetts. In January 2008, it announced the purchase of the chemical products division of Laidlaw.

We wish Adco all the best for their next 100 years!
   

Welcome New Members

TCATA is pleased to welcome the following companies as members of the Association:

Colmac Industries in Colville, Washington manufactures a complete line of tunnel finishers, pressing equipment, automated hangering systems and soil sorting and counting systems.

Paratherm Corporation in West Conshohocken, Pennsylvania manufactures heat transfer fluid products that improve the efficiency of thermal processing applications.

Banner Machinery in Benson, North Carolina manufactures and distributes the Cindy Lou Sleeve Finisher and Banner Spray Tank, and is a full line distributor representing many major manufacturers.
   

TCATA Opposes Expansion of ADA

TCATA has joined with many other associations and organizations - including the National Association of Manufacturers - in opposing legislation that would substantially expand the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The ADA prohibits employers from discriminating against qualified individuals in hiring, compensation, advancement, etc. TCATA and many other business organizations have co-signed a letter to several Senators and Congressmen urging them to oppose the proposed legislation (H.R. 3195 and S1881 – the “ADA Restoration Act”) because it would drastically expand the ADA to cover individuals with minor impairments rather than serious disabilities. The misnamed “ADA Restoration Act” would also exclude consideration of mitigating measures taken by the employer to accommodate a disabled person, contradicting legal precedents. Essentially, this legislation would establish that anything less than a perfect bill of health would qualify an employee under the ADA.
   

RV Davies Ceases Operations, Merges Sales Staff with Minda Supply

R.V. Davies, a distribution company and long-time TCATA member based in New Jersey, has announced that it has closed its doors and merged its sales force with Minda Supply, a major distributor in the Northeast. The ownership of R.V. Davies determined that, like other companies in the drycleaning industry, consolidation was the only viable way to survive in a vastly changed industry. Seth Haubenstock will assume the position of director of sales at Minda; Marty Haubenstock will head up export sales; Howard Schweibel will be the director of operations.
   

Dr. Revenue Offers Marketing Ideas For 2008

Those TCATA members who attended the 2007 Annual Conference in Napa Valley heard a presentation from marketing guru John Haskell, aka Dr. Revenue, who delineated ways that companies can increase their marketing efforts on their own. We often hear many good ideas from the speakers at these conferences, but often get so busy when we return to our office that we forget to actually use them. This follow-up article from Dr. Revenue, which can be accessed by all members, may help motivate you to start 2008 off on the right marketing foot.
   

EPA Announces Shift in Chemical Assessment

In August, President Bush met with the Prime Minister of Canada and the President of Mexico to discuss the Security and Prosperity Partnership of North America. As a result of this meeting, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has announced a trilateral agreement (the Montebello Agreement) that will be a significant shift in how chemicals will be managed in the U.S. The goal of this agreement is to enhance trade among the three countries while protecting human health. Click here for a brief summary.
   

Companies Announce New Appointments

Howard Herman has been promoted to president of Wascomat Laundry Equipment of Inwood, New York. Herman has been with the company for 36 years, having served most recently as vice president of sales and marketing.
     

The Tingue Brown Co. of Saddle Brook, New Jersey has announced the appointment of David Tingue as President and CEO. A fourth-generation executive, David replaces his father William, who will retire to the post of non-executive chairman. David has led the Tingue, Brown Division since 2000. He joined the company in 1992 after working in the banking business. David currently serves on TCATA’s ACME Committee, where he advises the Board of Directions on Clean Show matters.

Mark O’Bryan has been named President and CEO of CTS Packaging in Covington, Kentucky. He has been with the company for 16 years as a sales representative, sales manager, and Vice President.

Jesper Jensen, CEO of the Jensen Group, has announced some changes in the operation of Jensen USA. Effective January 1, 2008, Jens Voldbaek will assume a new role as director of the Jensen Group’s sales activity in the Americas. Mr. Voldbaek previously served as president of Jensen USA. Mr. Simon Nield, who was the managing director of Jensen UK, will become president of Jensen USA.

IN MEMORIAM

It is with sadness that TCATA reports on the passing of three individuals who worked for allied trades companies in our industry. TCATA member David Costabile, Vice President of Marketing for PAC Industries of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, was an accomplished athlete in high school and college and an avid golfer. He is survived by his parents, several brothers and sisters and his son David. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, Tennessee 38105. To send condolences, visit hetrickfuneralhome.com.

TCATA member Gordon Kratz, founder of Tri-Supply in Loves Park, Illinois. Mr. Kratz founded the distribution company in 1958. An avid golfer, he also ushered Sunday morning at his church an was a past member of the Shriners Club. He is survived by his wife Bernice, three children and several grandchildren. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Trinity Lutheran Church in Rockford or Shepherd of the Glades.

John Corwin of PROS in Blaine, Minnesota. In his 13 years at PROS, Mr. Corwin worked his way to sales manager. Memorial contributions can be made to the ALS Association.
    

TCATA Acknowledges Contributors to Scholarship Fund

TCATA extends its thanks and appreciation to the following members who recently made contributions to the Association’s scholarship funds: Alex Atwater of A-1 Products, Jim and Shelly Hericks of FabriClean Supply, Milton Magnus of M & B Hangers, Joel Goldman of United Wire Hanger Corp., all of whom made their contribution in memory of Steve Allen. Jack Reiff, J. Reiff Consulting, Inc. in memory of Lawrence and Edith Reiff. David Dawson of RR Street in memory of Gordon Kratz. Dale Loomis of Loomis Bros. Equipment and Paul Zackin of Drycleaners News Corp. made contributions to the general fund.
   
    
      
       

TCATA's mission is to increase professionalism through business operations and sales improvement education, provide forums where business challenges are discussed and solved, generate and apply business intelligence, and create a favorable business climate by seeking fair regulation and legislation.