TRSA News
This year’s Production Management Institute (PMI, May 2-8) will feature a renowned safety instructor who has trained managers at top corporations such as Federal Express, Wal-Mart and others.

Chairman’s Message
Immigration restrictions are threatening to choke off future growth in textile services due to labor shortages. It’s time to get involved in speaking out for documented immigrant employees. Gregory P. Jeltema

Commentary
Make a difference! Join our DC Fly-In, June 22-24. Roger F. Cocivera

From the Editor
In good times and bad, you can market your textile service company by touting the industry’s progressive outlook in areas such as environmental conservation, safety, value-added tech innovations and more!
Jack Morgan

On the Environment
Are laundry detergents a factor in the rise of “intersex” fish in the Potomac River? Probably not. But no matter—in today’s hypersensitive atmosphere, potentially costly restrictions go on ‘just in case.’ Bob Schaffer

News from Washington
A visit to Lake Tahoe reminds TRSA’s lobbyist of how pervasive textile service operators are in all 50 states. This is a strategic advantage that can enable the industry to deliver a potent message to Capitol Hill. Lawrence A. Fineran

HR Adviser
OSHA rules require employers to make sure that every employee, including Hispanics or others with limited English-language skills, understands what he or she needs to do to work safely. Charles Tomlinson

Corporate Briefs
Textile service and supplier news

Weave Safety Into Everything
Textile service managers reflect on how safety committees reduce work-related accidents by making hazard prevention an essential part of the culture of a plant.—Ruth Davis

Envisioning Greatness: '08 Tech/Plant Summit
Highlights of Summit educational sessions on safety, best practices, data-sharing software for plant machinery, employee empowerment and more.—Jack Morgan

Cart Makeup Anyone?
Textile service managers discuss developments in cart makeup services, which provide companies with a value-added service, while helping hospital staff stay focused on patients.—Ruth Davis

Tough Targets
An industry veteran looks at two problems facing healthcare linen suppliers: stopping textile pilfering and controlling the spread of “superbugs” in hospitals.—Nate Belkin

H2E and TRSA—The Green Team
We talk with Laura Brannen of Hospitals for a Healthy Environment, a not-for-profit group dedicated to reducing healthcare waste, including OR disposables.—Ruth Davis

Bundling Benefits Through Dust Control
Textile service companies can use environmentally friendly floor mats in an array of healthcare settings, including entrances, food service areas and more.—Amy B. Streeton

Driving Profitability: Transportation Management Software
Software tools help lower fleet costs by automating the territory-planning process. This technology enables managers to optimize routes, thus improving efficiency and profitability.—Cyndi Brandt

Red Kap—A New Look for an Iconic Brand
Red Kap is relaunching its venerable brand in a strategic marketing plan aimed at fueling 21st century growth based on the latest workwear innovations.—Jamey Cashman

Breaking Through — Women in Management
A tight labor market and shifting social attitudes have contributed to the rise of a generation of women managers in textile service companies. We hear their stories of success and challenges.—Ruth Davis