Frequently Asked Questions About The Drycleaning & Laundry Institute’s Hall of Fame

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: March 5, 2026

CONTACT: Harry A. Kimmel III, APR PRSA • HKimmel@DLIonline.org • 800-638-2627

Frequently Asked Questions About The Drycleaning & Laundry Institute’s Hall of Fame

What is DLI’s Hall of Fame Award?

DLI’s Hall of Fame Award is established by the Drycleaning & Laundry Institute (DLI) to recognize and honor outstanding individuals in the drycleaning and laundry industry for their excellence in leadership, business operations, community involvement, environmental stewardship, and passion for the industry.

Is DLI membership required to be nominated or receive an award?

No. DLI’s Hall of Fame recognizes excellence in the industry regardless of membership in any association or group.

When will nominations for the DLI Hall of Fame Award open?

Nominations for the DLI Hall of Fame Award will open on April 1, 2026.

April 1 is April Fool’s Day. Is this some kind of elaborate prank?

No. We take recognizing industry greatness very seriously.

When will nominations for the DLI Hall of Fame Award close?

Nominations for the DLI Hall of Fame Award will close on May 15, 2026.

How can I nominate someone for the DLI Hall of Fame Award?

Nominations open on April 1, 2026. You can nominate an industry professional by providing details on their contributions to the industry, leadership, integrity, community involvement, environmental stewardship, and passion for the industry. Use the form at DLIonline.org/HoF to nominate a candidate.

What criteria are considered for the DLI Hall of Fame Award?

Nominees are evaluated based on their industry contributions, leadership, integrity and ethics, community involvement, environmental stewardship, passion for the industry, and the lasting impact of their achievements. Only the information included on the nomination form will be considered in the decision-making process.

Who decides the recipients for the award?

DLI’s Board of Directors make the decision about which nominees will become award recipients. Only the information included on the nomination form will be considered in the decision-making process.

When will recipients be announced?

DLI will make an official announcement later in the year.

Who is in DLI’s Hall of Fame?

Past inductees into DLI’s Hall of Fame include:

• Jim Barry, GreenEarth Cleaning
• Walter “Buster” Bell, Bell Laundry and Cleaners, Spartanburg, South Carolina
• Milt Chortkoff, Milt & Edie’s Drycleaning & Tailoring Center, Burbank, California
• Barney Deden, retired drycleaner in Omaha, Nebraska
• James Douglas, GreenEarth Cleaning
• Chris Edwards, A Cleaner World, High Point, North Carolina
• Dan Eisen, industry educator
• Don Fawcett, Dependable Cleaners, Quincy, Massachusetts
• Stan Golomb, Founder of The Golomb Group, Chicago, Illinois
• Jeffrey Miller, Miller’s Fine Drycleaning, Hendersonville, North Carolina
• Michael Nesbit, MW Cleaners and DLI Past President
• James Peuster, The Route Pros
• William Joseph “Dixie” Stoddard, inventor or Stoddard solvent
• Sid Tuchman, Tuchman Training Systems, San Francisco, California
• Jane Zellers, industry educator

What are the benefits of this program?

DLI’s Hall of Fame provides numerous benefits, including:

• Recognition of Excellence: It honors individuals who made significant contributions to the industry and encourages others to strive for excellence.
• Industry Standards: The program sets benchmarks for achievement and innovation, promoting higher standards within the industry.
• Networking Opportunities: The award ceremonies and associated events provide a platform for professionals to connect, share ideas, and build relationships.
• Industry Engagement: It engages industry professionals by showcasing the accomplishments of their peers, fostering a sense of pride and community.
• Innovation and Progress: By recognizing forward-thinking individuals, the program encourages innovation and progress within the industry.
• Historical Documentation: The program archives the achievements and contributions of industry leaders, preserving the history of the field.
• Professional Development: The award process can inspire professionals to pursue continuing education and personal growth.
• Public Relations: The positive stories generated by the awards can improve the industry's image and attract media attention.
• Legacy Building: The program creates a legacy of excellence, inspiring future generations to contribute to the industry's growth and success.

Overall, an award program like the DLI Hall of Fame can have a profound impact on both the organization and the industry as a whole, fostering a culture of excellence and achievement.

For more information about the DLI Hall of Fame Award and to make a nomination, please visit DLI's official Hall of Fame page at DLIonline.org/HoF

About DLI:

The Drycleaning and Laundry Institute (DLI) is the premier international trade association for garment care professionals since 1883. The organization's mission is to empower fabricare professionals and elevate the industry through education, research, and advocacy. DLI offers a wide range of resources, education, and support to its members. For more information, please contact DLI at 800-638-2627.

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