American Recycler, November 2008

I’ve been remiss. This month marks the fifth edition of American Recycler’s Waste section that I’ve been responsible for and I’ve yet to introduce myself. I’d like to take the time now to remedy that.

I’m sure that not many of you pay much attention to the credits bar on Page 4 of the Main Section. I don’t blame you – it isn’t nearly as important as the information in the Scrap Metals Market Watch, or the insights into new tech and market trends that the rest of the paper affords.

But some of you may have noticed that a new name and position have been shoehorned beneath our venerable editor’s spot at the top. That would be me, Dave Fournier, the Waste Section Associate Editor.

My job is to help decide what’s newsworthy in waste, to be the person who sifts through the trash and finds the stories that you need to see each month. Sometimes, when my inbox is piled high with press releases and articles, it can be a daunting task. That’s why I’d like to ask for your help.

I need feedback. I thrive on creative criticism. I love suggestions and reader response. Play a part in shaping the section – drop me a line and let me know what I can do to make it more relevant to you. More articles, more pictures, or fewer letters from the editor – you tell me. I’ll do my best to make sure the section is what my readers need.

That being said, unless I hear that readers hate my letters (speak now or forever hold your peace), you can expect me to drop in from time to time and comment on happenings around here. Like this past September, for example. I attended my first industry event, the National Recycling Coalition’s 27th Annual Congress and Expo in Pittsburgh.

I have to say that those of you who didn’t manage to attend missed out on a phenomenal experience. Pittsburgh is a beautiful city, and the Expo was a great success. The informational sessions were inspirational and I learned quite a bit from the industry experts who conducted them. The exhibitor hall was impressive, and those who put on displays did a nice job of it. All in all, I can’t wait for the next one.

Luckily, I have the chance to attend another event shortly. By the time this month’s edition goes to print, American Recycler will have headed out to Kansas City, Missouri for ARA’s 65th Annual Convention, where on October 24th and 25th I’ll be wandering the exhibitor’s hall. Hopefully I’ll see a lot of our readers there. I’m looking forward to meeting you all.

It’s not news unless it matters to you, so be sure to keep in touch. Thanks for reading,