CHICAGO — The Midwest Textile Services Association (MTSA) hosted textile service operators, suppliers and guests June 7 at Wrigley Field to network and enjoy some baseball action as the Chicago Cubs took on the Philadelphia Phillies.
MTSA reserved the Left Field Porch, located beneath the jumbo video board above the left field bleachers.
One hundred attendees enjoyed the amenities of the venue, which included snacks and drinks, comfortable seats toward the back of the porch, a ledge for leaning and viewing toward the front of the porch, and reserved seating in the last row of the bleachers.
“This has been a great event,” says Janet Trimble, executive director of MTSA. “The weather report kept changing, but it turned out wonderful.”
While discussing the event, Trimble emphasizes its social nature; however, she also believes it benefits attendees.
“It’s a chance for operators to learn from each other,” she says. “They’re doing business in the morning, but they can come here and learn from each other.”
Ed Rohn, president of Specialty Mat Services in Aurora, Ill., attended the game because he’s an ardent supporter of the textile services industry.
“Jim Buik from Roscoe Co. got me involved with MTSA, and I do this to support the industry,” he says. “It’s a great day for this event.”
Like Rohn, many MTSA members attend events to support the industry—and to interact with other operators and suppliers (allied trade members). Some also use the event to honor and reward star employees and valued customers.
MTSA hosts several social events, like the Left Field Porch Cubs game, throughout the year for its members. In the past, the association has attended Chicago Blackhawks hockey games and put on golf outings.
In addition, MTSA hosts an educational event in the fall.
“The social events give everyone a chance to interact in a more relaxed setting,” Trimble says.
MTSA was founded in 1889. While some things about the association have changed, such as the name and the industry, it says its dedication to helping members improve their business hasn’t changed.
And if the interaction that took place on the Left Field Porch is any indication, members’ businesses will likely keep growing.
The game also ended on a high note, with the Cubs edging out the Phillies 4-3.
Have a question or comment? E-mail our editor Matt Poe at [email protected].