**Date:** 1973
**Source:** CHEM-TEXTS
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The end of the year is upon us and traditionally it is an ideal time to review the past year and take a peak at the next. Obviously, it is impossible to review all of the little steps of progress we have made this year beforehand. I would like to offer a general review of our plant and business in 1973. The epitome of working together, I think, is this year’s outstanding safety performance over last year’s. Without the complete involvement of all “Chemical People”, we would not have been as successful.
We still have a long way to go, particularly in the number of lost time accidents. But this year’s performance has built from the base from which we can launch the effort needed to overcome this next difficult hurdle.
In the business line, Chemical Production came through a fortuitous year with encouraging vigor. The year started great, only to slow down at mid year when uncertain business conditions caused customers to hedge on their purchases.
Then when sales started to pick up, we were staggered by the continuing energy-related raw material shortages.
Heading into the new year, we face the confusing problem of having the sales, but perhaps not the raw materials. In addition, these materials are skyrocketing in cost. Survival next year can be difficult as having the ability to make the most of a difficult situation.
We all know the problems facing our Reclaim Plant. But if this year’s performance and attitude are any indication of our strength and perseverance, we are going to give that business a real run for the money in 1974. Turning an old giant like that around, enough to make it competitive, is a formidable task. Time is a problem and 1974 is our year to show them what we’re made of.
It is unfortunate that we have become non-competitive in the Synthetic Fiber business. We must quickly recover from this shutdown and adjust ourselves to solving today’s problems. Attitude and cooperation did it with our Safety performance. The same approach must be used in improving the competitive and economic position of our plant. A healthy business means secure jobs—for one and all.
Despite the lack of Christmas lights this year, I would like to extend to all of you, and your families, my best wishes for the Christmas holiday. It is a comforting time of the year, but also a time to remind ourselves how fortunate we really are.
$50,000 Unit…
The pilot gently lands the helicopter in the Reclaim yard. Eric Storch, Project Engineer for the Installation, was in charge of the operation. It required several days of clearing and for the helicopter landing and control which against the tele-vised contract watch, was completed. The new collector cost $50,000 and is expected to be in full operation by January 1974.
Energy Force Formed
A Conservation Resources Task Force of Engineering Specialists have now been in existence over two months to coordinate the efforts of all departments to conserve steam, water, air, and raw materials throughout the 145 units of the plant.
The two critical areas that the Task Force will concentrate on are the conservation of fuel oil and electric utility.
Because of the critical shortage of low sulfur fuel the Continental State Department of Environmental Protection recently approved the use of a 1.25% sulfur content fuel oil, and coal with 2% sulfur content by the Utilities companies.
Task Force Members
Douglas Ritchie, William Leek-feld, Charles Reich, Jon Korpusik, Victor Anderson, George Arudi, and Arthur Aronson—have initiated monitoring plans for energy conservation and organized sub-committees to assist in supplementing the program.
The plant’s 500 HP motors will come under special surveillance by the force along with the high pressure steam systems, and the hot water usage throughout the plant.
A significant way everyone can help is to close windows and doors, turn off motors and lights when not in use; use water carefully; and turn down heating units.
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Chittenden Insurance Agency, Inc.
Insurance—Mutual Funds—Real Estate
180 Church Street
Naugatuck, Connecticut
Tel. 729-8209
Frederick D. Zonino
Nathan M. Pierpont, Jr.