ARM provides molders strength in numbers
In response to Keith Luker's Aug. 20, Page 6 letter: It is he who is clearly wrong, not Bill Tobin (Aug. 6, Page 6, ``Societies need to regain focus''). As a former professor, I never avoid an opportunity to learn. As a long-standing member of the Association of Rotational Molders, I have never come away from a meeting without having gained a valuable insight or piece of technical information that I would have otherwise missed out on.
I believe that two heads are better than one, provided that both are willing to communicate. I also believe that there is power in numbers.
When ARM began 25 years ago, there were molders and machine manufacturers and material suppliers. It is only because of ARM that a rotational molding industry now exists.
As individuals, we could not get the attention of the suppliers that we needed to develop suitable materials, molds or equipment.
As a group, we could command their attention. We needed to educate not only each other, but also engineers, designers and original equipment manufacturers about rotomolding. Because there was no formal training available in rotational molding, we had to learn from each other. The majority of problems facing any individual were common to the group. Discussing potential solutions became a catalyst for improvement.
We meet twice each year to share challenges and solutions. Workshops and talks are presented by volunteer molders and suppliers to help educate other molders. Suppliers introduce new products and services. Committees direct programs to further improve the industry and consequently the individual molder. We even hold our own trade show (Rotoplas).
I agree with Mr. Tobin. If you are not getting what you could from your society or association, let them know. Better yet, get involved! Serve on a committee. Volunteer for the board. Invest your time in the future of your industry and in the future of your business. If none of this works, look for an association that does.
Your problems are not unique. Don't get caught in the maelstrom of thought that cries, ``I think [alone], therefore I am [alone].''
David C. Mulligan
Roto Plastics Corp.
Adrian, Mich.
Death sells: plastic caskets on the market
Regarding your July 2 Viewpoint, ``The future of plastics,'' I have two patents awarded for plastic caskets. One is a full-size urn style, which is vacuum formed from textured ABS. I have production tooling and seven units complete and ready for marketing.
I also have a blow molded, low-cost casket ready for prototype pattern and aluminum tooling.
I have been fighting the funeral industry for years with no success. However, the Federal Trade Commission rulings, from 1994 on, now open the doors to selling direct to consumers, like your baby boomers, via retail stores, TV and the Internet.
Will McClure
Margaret Hart Co. Inc.
Troy, Ohio
