Oakbrook Terrace, IL – July 16, 2013 – The Coin Laundry Association (CLA) recognized laundry industry leaders during its 2013 Annual Meeting in New Orleans on June 21. . The CLA recognized eight categories in this years award ceremony including the elusive ‘Founder’s Award’ and highly-competitive ‘Affiliate of the Year’ distinction.
In all, sixteen laundry industry leaders were recognized – their pursuit of excellence and tireless commitment to improving the industry were common themes throughout the ceremony.The evening’s awards were punctuated at the CLA Mardi Gras party with the CLA’s most prestigious award, the Founder’s Award, being given to Bill Reed for over four decades of selfless service to others and the industry.
“The Founder’s Award is meant to recognize an individual’s lifetime contributions to the vended laundry industry. This award is reserved for individuals who are true pioneers in the business and are directly responsible for the continued growth of the industry and our association,” explained Brian Wallace, CLA President and CEO. “Bill Reed, embodies all that the Founder’s Award is designed to recognize, and we are very grateful to all he has done for the industry and the Association.”
Adding to Reed’s praise, was long-time friend Jim Whitmore, stating “Bill Reed is a man who serves for service sake. He stands out for his commitment to serve and his care. His care and appreciation of each person in his path… As such, his award is a reminder to us all that ultimately the men and women we value most are like Bill.”
Ron Kelley (right) accepts 2013 Affiliate of the Year Award for Golden State CLA
The other highly-anticipated award was the Affiliate of the Year distinction which was given to Golden State CLA in Northern California for the fourth time in the Affiliate’s history. “Strong governance, excellent meetings, and an unmatched esprit de corps among its volunteers are just a few of the traits which other CLA Affiliates aspire to follow,” explained Wallace.
