[Backtalk] letters, e-mails and faxes from PCT readers

OTHER IDEAS FOR BED BUGS

Your bed bug article in the July 2003 of PCT was excellent, timely and informative. I could add an additional alternative to conventional pesticides for control of this parasite — a high-powered vacuum cleaner with appropriate tools that could dislodge the bugs from crevices and seams.

In addition, a light layer of diatomaceous earth (with or without pyrethrins) applied to potential harborages would provide long residual control of adults and emerging nymphs.

Harry L Katz

Board Certified Entomologist

Deerfield Beach, Fla.

THANK YOU TO PCT

I appreciate the coverage PCT gave us in the June issue — being featured as the cover story in the indus-try’s premier periodical is a source of great pride for our entire staff. The executive team enjoyed talking with PCT Editor Jodi Dorsch and sharing a little bit of Steritech with the rest of the industry. Your editorial team does an outstanding job of covering a broad range of pest issues and the companies in our industry that make a difference.

John Whitley

CEO

Steritech

Charlotte, N.C.

RICH ROACHES?

How do you think Warren Buffet, the second-most wealthy American (behind Bill Gates) and perhaps this country’s most honored and admired investor, would know that, "There is seldom just one cockroach in the kitchen"?

That is the expression he used in his most recent "Annual Letter to Shareholders." He was warning investors that "When managements take the low road in aspects that are visible, it is likely they are following a similar path behind the scenes."

We ought to be entertained by his use of one of our industry’s trade facts, and alerted to the point he makes about management services.

Tim Saunders

Pest Control Consultant

Laguna Beach, Calif.

Readers with comments may e-mail PCT at jdorsch@pctonline.com or fax letters to 216/961-0364. Letters may be edited for space or clarity.