Wanderings

by Bob McBride
Summer finally came. Where did the spring go? At any rate it's summer and sure is hot today while I'm writing this article on my computer.
            I suppose I should have my air conditioning on, but since I intend to leave the office shortly, have decided to leave it off. By the time it would start to cool off my office there will be no reason for it to be on.
            That is my contribution for saving energy for today.
            Energy and the costs associated with it are of interest to us all. As you know, I drive a lot of miles and the cost of gas is becoming a major concern to me. I do what I can to reduce gas consumption, but when you got to go, you know the rest.
            An energy saving trick I use while on the road has been to slow down my driving speed. I have discovered that gas mileage is greatly improved for every five miles less speed I use on the highway. That doesn't mean that I am stuck out there in the left lane with a turn signal blinking either. I still manage to get where I'm going in a timely fashion,
            However, don't be too surprised if you get a phone call from me, instead of an actual visit occasionally.
            As this is going to press, you already should have received a document for reregistering dry-cleaning equipment. This has been in development for some time.
            PDCA has been working with the regulators to help develop this document.  Dale Kaplan, our man in Harrisburg, has made every effort, working with DEP, to create a usable form that can be understood and complied with. We are grateful of Dale's efforts.
            The registration is required by EPA and is being handled by DEP in PA and DNREC in Delaware.
            It is required that the form be completed and returned by July 28. If for some reason you have not yet received it, call us at PDCA and we will see that you are supplied with the appropriate information.
            As stated, this document is required. To not do so, could possibly put your business in jeopardy of being out of compliance. This could cause unnecessary problems.
            We have worked very hard with the regulators to develop and maintain an excellent relationship with them, this has made life a lot easier for us all.
            Let's keep up the good work.
            Speaking again about energy, have you ever seen a Smart Car?  They are popular in Europe, Diminutive in size yet practical for their purpose. I first noticed them several years ago on one of my trips to Italy, by their distinctive appearance. A two-seater that is as tall as it is long that can be parked virtually anywhere. A great gas saver, getting fifty to sixty miles to the gallon and can go fast when needed. You could practically put one in your SUV. They were a practical solution for the purpose of providing reliable transportation in crowded urban areas. They are popular in Europe and are becoming available in the U.S. We'll be seeing more of them I bet.
            With the economy going the way it is presently, costs escalating and markets shrinking, it is time for us to become not smart cars, but rather, Smart Dry-cleaners.
            We must adapt to the times.
            This can be partly achieved by supporting your associations and becoming involved with your friendly competition to help each other out and conversely, yourself as well. A local organization can be a great tool.
            We are happy to support you to the best of our ability and want you to call upon us when you have questions or ideas that you feel can improve our industry.
            Keep in touch.

See you on the Road.