The Drycleaning & Laundry Institute (DLI) is proud to announce the induction of three outstanding industry professionals into its Hall of Fame. This prestigious honor recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the drycleaning and laundry industry.
Jim Douglas, representing GreenEarth Cleaning, played a pivotal role in advancing environmentally-friendly cleaning technologies. As a co-founder of Prestige Cleaners in Sacramento, CA and GreenEarth Cleaning, Douglas developed and promotes safe, sustainable cleaning methods. His leadership roles, including serving as President of the California Cleaners Association and other industry groups, reflect his commitment to the industry.
DLI inducted Jim Douglas of GreenEarth Cleaning, LLC, and Prestige Cleaners in Sacramento, CA, into its Hall of Fame to recognize his innovations in promoting safe and sustainable drycleaning.
Mike Nesbit, of Texas-based Edit TX, LLC., one of the largest drycleaning businesses in the U.S., has made substantial contributions through his leadership and innovation. As a Past President of DLI and a key figure in the establishment of the Texas Dry Cleaner Remediation Program, Nesbit is a strong advocate for environmental responsibility. His innovative spirit is also evident in his role as a pioneer of offsite locker pickup and delivery systems, which have since become standard in the industry.
DLI inducted Mike Nesbit of Texas-based MW Cleaners into its Hall of Fame to recognize his contributions to industry leadership and environmental responsibility
Joseph William “Dixie” Stoddard, Past President of DLI and inventor of Stoddard Solvent, revolutionized the drycleaning industry in the 1920s with the development of the less-flammable Stoddard Solvent, significantly enhancing safety standards throughout the industry. Stoddard’s dedication to improving industry practices and promoting education continues to influence DLI’s priorities and modern drycleaning practices.
DLI inducted W.J. “Dixie” Stoddard into its Hall of Fame to recognize his role in saving the industry from fiery destruction with the introduction of his high-flashpoint Stoddard Solvent in the 1920s. Around that time Stoddard also commissioned a study that resulted in the creation of what is known today as DLI School of Drycleaning Technology (est. 1927). The school he commissioned has educated thousands of drycleaning business owners and employees in nearly 100 years.
Honoring Excellence
These inductees exemplify the highest standards of leadership, integrity and dedication to the industry. The DLI Hall of Fame Award recognizes industry professionals who have demonstrated exemplary leadership, innovation and commitment to excellence. This year’s group of inductees join the following professionals in receiving this award: Barney Deden, Stan Golomb, Chris Edwards, Jeffrey Miller, Sid Tuchman, Donald Fawcett, Walter “Buster” Bell and Milton Chortkoff.
“We are grateful to everyone who nominated an industry legend for this award, be they members of DLI or otherwise,” Mary Scalco, DLI’s CEO said. “We know excellence on this level can be found in all corners of our industry. Our goals is to spotlight those professionals whose contributions stand to inspire others and help make our industry stronger.”
DLI’s Board of Directors will present the awards to this year’s group of Hall of Fame inductees at events of their choosing. Details for the 2025 Hall of Fame nomination period will be released early next year.
For more information on DLI’s Hall of Fame, please visit DLIonline.org/HoF.
