Editor’s Note – September 2024

Harrell Kerkhoff

The global cleaning industry is remembering Don Aslett, who died on August 21, 2024, at 89. A longtime industry entrepreneur, businessman and founder of the Museum Of Clean (museumofclean.com), Aslett also authored 40 books and participated in scores of seminars, workshops, and TV appearances, with the latter including such national programs as Good Morning America, The Today Show, and The Oprah Winfrey Show — all while promoting the importance of proper cleaning.

“As the founder and driving force behind Varsity Cleaner, Don Aslett revolutionized the cleaning industry with his forward-thinking approach and unwavering commitment to excellence,” the Museum Of Clean website stated in a recent tribute to Aslett. “Together with his close friend and business partner, Arlo Luke, Don transformed Varsity Cleaner from a modest start-up into one of the most respected names in the cleaning service industry. Their shared vision set new standards in cleanliness and efficiency while delivering unparalleled service to clients, establishing Varsity Cleaner as a model of quality and reliability. Also, his commitment to employee training and customer satisfaction set a benchmark for others to follow.”

Aslett’s legacy is further distinguished by his contributions to the Clean World Foundation and the Museum of Clean, the latter established in Pocatello, ID, in 2011.

“The museum stands as a testament to Don’s passion for preserving the history and advancement of cleaning technologies. It serves as an educational resource and a celebration of the innovation in the field, providing visitors with a unique glimpse into the evolution of cleaning practices,” the website added. “The Museum of Clean has also played a significant role in providing opportunities for the local community in Pocatello. It has fostered local engagement through educational programs, interactive exhibits, and events that highlight both the historical and contemporary aspects of cleaning. The museum’s presence has created jobs, supported local businesses, and offered a venue for cultural and educational activities, enriching the Pocatello community and beyond.

“In addition, the Clean World Foundation, founded by Aslett, is dedicated to promoting better cleaning practices and environmental sustainability. This initiative reflects Don’s commitment to improving both the industry and the world, advocating for advancements that benefit public health and the environment.”

The cover feature for the September 2024 issue of MSN focuses on Colker Janitorial Supplies, a jan/san distributorship that has been a fixture in the heart of Pittsburgh, PA, for 50 years. The company has a second facility in Indiana, PA.

Starting as a supplier of natural sea sponges and chamois cloths, company founder Lynne Colker helped transform the business into a leading distributor of various cleaning products, equipment and services for a variety of customers.

Colker’s daughter, Sandy Hanberry, is now President, CEO and Co-Owner of the business, and is joined by several family members and other key people who help keep the company a leading jan/san distributor in southwestern Pennsylvania.

“I am very fortunate that my mentor growing up was my mother. She has always been a great role model, demonstrating to me what is possible. I was never told I couldn’t do something because I was a woman. That confidence has greatly helped me throughout my business career,” Hanberry said.

Along with several informative thought leadership articles, the September issue of MSN also focuses on the magazine’s inaugural New Products Award winners. MSN subscribers voted on the entries, with first place given in different categories.

There were many different products to be judged, which indicated to me the amount of innovation that continually takes place in the industry — allowing away-from-home facilities of all types to remain clean and safe well into the future. Product innovation also benefits distributors as it gives them new items to showcase when meeting with current and potential customers.

I would like to thank everyone for their continued support of Maintenance Sales News. Please send news items and story ideas to my email address at: harrellk@rdgmedia.net.

Harrell Kerkhoff

Editor, Maintenance Sales News Magazine