Jimmie’s Mailbox-
Testimonials
sent to Bane-Clene^®

Hi, Mr. Bane

I don't know if you're aware of it, but I snatched up one of the Wm. F. Bane Company's used vans with a PARA-MOUNT® in it and Lord Willing, will be picking it up July 15th, there in Indianapolis. In fact, I just sent the last 10k payment in to Dan Willis TODAY!!!! I'm really EXCITED about this, Mr. Bane, for SEVERAL reasons.....

1. This is the 25th anniversary of my company switching to YOURS for our equipment and supplies needs, but it's the FIRST time I'm buying van AND equipment as a PACKAGE from you!
2. Though I thought up the tradename Para-Mount, in 1984 at the Convention, it'll be the first time I'm OWNING one, Hahaha!!!
3. Though in my very first "Digest" article, (also in '84), I urged everyone to "LEARN, LEARN, LEARN", this will be my FIRST time at a Bane-Clene School of any kind, by my recollection, since Sept. 1995 (I'm hanging around Indy for Craig Jasper's school on the 15th and for the Bane Management School from the 16th-18th.) That is WAY too long!!!!

But MOST OF ALL, I look forward to seeing YOU old friend!!!!

If only I didn't have to miss being at the ALL-STAR GAME at YANKEE STADIUM, to DO it, Hahaha!!!! But it shows you how badly I wanted this van and equipment AND the chance to further my education!!!!

Be seeing you SOON, Lord Willing!!!!

Chet Jelinski, Bloomfield, New Jersey

To Jimmie:

It was an honor to be in the presence of such great and superior teachers who by far surpassed all my expectations at the Bane-Clene Institute.

Name withheld on request

Hi Gents -

You really made a diference - and you truly are appreciated..

Thanks for your friendly hospitality on our recent visit to your facility. The new unit is performing very, very well.

Bill Morgan II and Bill Morgan, Jr.; Raymond, ME

Dear Dan,

Thank you for getting our order to us so quickly. It’s great to deal with someone who does what they say when they say!! You will be getting our business from now on. Thanks again!

Janet Brown, Williamsburg, VA

To Bane-Clene people:

Can't tell you how great it is to have your equipment. I didn't buy it from you but you have treated me like a real customer. I had a gas powered direct drive machine that was eating my lunch. Now all that down-time and expense is going to my bottom line. Thank you for being everything you say you are.

Jeff Brown, Los Angeles, CA

Attention Bill Bane Sr.
   I just wanted to say thank you for having the Bane-Clene system certified by the CRI. We are an IICRC certified company and very satisfied user of the Bane-Clene system. Thanks again for the time and expense it took. God bless.

Steve Yelle, ServiceMaster of Sheboygan

   Very well organized class. I gained a lot of good knowledge that I have already put to use for a profit! Thank you again and I look forward to doing business with Bane-Clene in the future.

Garrett Lofstedt, Reno, NY

Dear Dan,
   Thank you for getting our order to us so quickly. It's great to deal with someone who does what they say when they say!! You will be getting our business from now on. Thanks again.

Janet Brown, Williamsburg, VA

   Very well organized class. I gained a lot of good knowledge that I have already put to use for a profit! Thank you again and I look forward to doing business with Bane-Clene in the future.

Garrett Lofstedt, Reno, NY

   I will be buying the Duo Mount very soon because petrol is $4.29 on Long Island and for the quality of your unit as well as no fumes. I have been communicating with Dan Willis who is a true professional. But the gas prices are food for thought. Almost purchased a Butler unit until I witnessed the petrol consumption as well as the noise and fumes.
   Thank You all.

Scott Barden, New York

Dear Bane-Clene,
   School instructors were outstanding! Classes were very informative and went over every aspect of carpet cleaning. The trip from Phoenix was well worth it. The food was good, too!

Don Paprocki, Phoenix, AZ

Dear Bane-Clene,
   Just a note to formally thank you again for your help in acquiring our new Mega-Port® and Ultra-Port® units.
   It has been 35 years now (hard to believe!) since our company switched to Bane-Clene, and I've said this before and I'll say it again: IT'S THE BEST BUSINESS MOVE WE EVER MADE. Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! You guys (and gals) are the greatest, bar none.

Chet Jelinski, Bloomfield, New Jersey

   Overall everyone was extremely nice and helpful. All instructors were very knowledgeable and effective in sharing their knowledge. The chemist, Don Terry, was very amazing and really held our attention. Kevin Stark was our first point of contact and was instrumental in getting us enrolled in school. Thank you!

Brian and Lynn Rothstein, Springfield, VA

Dear Bill and staff,
   I wanted to take this opportunity to thank you and everyone else on your staff for making our move into the carpet cleaning field one of the most informative and easy transitions possible today.
   I feel your school was very complete and gave all present a clear understanding of what is needed on our part to have a successful business in today's competitive market.
   I especially want to thank Dan Willis for his professional salesmanship, product knowledge, and the time he personally spent with us long before purchasing a Bane-Clene unit and during our stay in Indiana. Not only was he patient with us as we worked out things on our end, but he never once tried to pressure our business into buying anything we didn't want or could not purchase at the time.
   I look forward to doing business with Bane-Clene and Dan Willis in the future and hope to be back soon for additional schooling and to add another system to our company.

Todd Symanietz, Rochester, MN

   Everyone at Bane-Clene was very helpful. The instruction was top notch. Every question was answered whether it be from a carpet cleaning pro or someone that had never held a cleaning head before. Don Terry is a wealth of information and glad to know he is on my side if I ever run into any problems. Bill Bane Sr. had a message that was well received and passionate. He speaks from his heart. Dan and Kevin both had a lot to offer by way of experience. Especially liked Dan’s sense of humor and common sense approach. I am sure after years of putting on this class you have tweaked and refined it. Some first-time students seem afraid to ask questions - afraid they would look silly. I learned a long time ago the only dumb question is the one you don’t ask. Oka does an excellent job of providing a wealth of info for future use. Overall this was the best money I have spent on a business school or instruction of any kind. Thank you all for such a great time. I would recommend this school for the seasoned technician or rookie just starting out. Excellent course and instructors.

Dan Jaquay, Kendallville, IN

   When I returned home from a vacation in Arizona over the holidays, I was greeted by one very outwardly proud father. When I asked what was going on, he handed me the latest copy of the Cleaning Digest. To say the least, I am flattered by your kind words about my family and me. What an honor it is to be recognized by one of the truly outstanding people in our profession. And, what great motivation it is to try and live up to those standards! Thanks again, and I look forward to talking with you all soon.

Kevin Day, Evansville, IN

   I’ve been watching the debate about the CRI testing program. This is my 24th year in business and I’ve worked for several carpet retailers in my town solving their problems. Some of the mill reps that have been sent out don’t know near as much about carpet as I do.
   Now CRI is telling me I have to use only equipment and chemicals approved by them. What do they know about my business?
   I’m proud to have been certified at Bane-Clene, have updated my trucks and equipment every 5 years and I come back to school every 3 or 4. I signed up for the other SOA program and it faded in a year.
   I for one am not going to get involved with them. Some of the retailers I work for don’t think much of them either. I don’t want to get them in dutch, so please omit my name and town since the mills would know who I worked for.

Name & city withheld on request

Hi to you all: Thanks for the update on Brown Out®. I really enjoy cleaning carpet with my Bane-Clene® Mini-Mount®. Keep up the great work and we will also. Thanks a million times.

Fred Silva, Los Banos, California

Hi Mr. Bane
   Dan Willis’s article in the November Clene Times on commercial accounts hit the nail right on the head. We only do one restaurant, probably the nicest one in Baltimore. When it opened 15 years ago I told the owner the only way I would do it is every 3 months.
   After two years he was tempted by a cheaper price and went with them. The owner called me personally and told me what he had done. He was very disappointed and said he had learned his lesson. I agreed to do it but it would cost him. He said he deserved to pay more and I’m still doing it. When a restaurant calls me for an estimate I tell them they probably can’t afford us and then quote .45 Sq. Ft. Saves a lot of running around.
   The real reason I wanted to send you this e-mail was to tell you that we raised our prices 10% in September after being advised not to because of the economy. I did anyway. We had our biggest October ever and for the first time did over $100,000.00 in a single month.
   Raise those prices. The economic tax base spoke on Nov. 7, and said they don’t mind spending more money (i.e. Taxes) so raise those prices!!!! After 20 years I’m still here.
   God Bless America.

Chuck Arnold, Baltimore, Maryland

   I would like to thank everyone at Bane. You all are truly good people. I’m totally happy. I feel I’ve learned a lot and look forward to returning for more training. The instructors did a great job. Thanks again for everything.

Richard Taplin, Brookings, Oregon

   You guys were great!! I’m looking forward to a long relationship. Thanks again!

Gregory J. Ducati, Blackwood, NJ

   MTO Clean of Los Angeles, Glendora, California sent this letter from one of their customers to Jimmies Mail Box:
   To Whom It May Concern:
I would like to extend my warmest thanks to all of your hard working employees who provided cleaning services to my home. I requested a one-time cleaning and carpet cleaning for my home in Monrovia. The home is a rental. I was in the process of moving and wanted the cleaning so that the location was left in fresh condition for the new tenant. The cleaning provided by your employees was spectacular. Unfortunately, I neglected to get the names of the cleaners involved. I am sure though, that you will be able to identify them and pass along my gratitude for a superlative performance. I was amazed, when the ladies were finished, that my home could have looked so beautiful!
   During the estimate for the carpet cleaning, I was informed by your technicians that, “you were the best!” What an understatement! The carpet in the home was at least 16 years old and oil stains saturated the majority of the carpet surface. When your wonderful crew began treating the carpet the difference was immediate and unbelievable. One stroke of your machine made the unclean area of the carpet stand out ‘like a sore thumb.’ When the carpet cleaning was accomplished the entire home looked so beautiful that I did not want to move. I was so impressed.
   Thanks to the efforts of your wonderful and professional cleaners, I received my complete deposit back from the landlord. How rare is that? The landlord inspected the job done by your employees and complimented me on the ‘move-in’ condition of the home. I recommended your company to him with confidence. I hope that he takes the opportunity to use your services.
   Please extend my heartfelt thanks to each of the people responsible for cleaning my home. I appreciate the effort that went into ensuring the beautiful results. You are fortunate to have such professionals in your employ.
You’re the best!

Rachel Sanchez

Dan Willis,
   You deserve a gold star and a bottle of champagne. Sorry, the champagne wouldn’t fit in the envelope. Thanks for everything you have done in helping Sandi and me launch our new business. We will do everything possible to make you and Bane-Clene proud of us. I look forward to seeing you in August when Sandi comes to the training class.

Sincerely, Alex & Sandi Otte, Safety Harbor, FL

Mr. Bane,
   I just wanted to say thank you for having the Bane-Clene System certified by the CRI. We are an IICRC certified company and very satisfied users of Bane-Clene cleaning systems. Thank you again for the time and expense it took. God bless.

Steve Yelle ServiceMaster, Sheboygan, WI

   All the staff at your school were remarkable in all ways. They are all very nice and helpful and knowledgeable.

Aaron Soto, Whitehouse, TX

   I really want to thank all of you - school was great! The best part was Terry in the shop fixing my equipment.

Allen Wemyss, Franklin, KY

   Everyone at school was very informative and very helpful. I have been busy since I got back home.

Sherry Cullen, Shelby, MT

Bill,
   I want to personally thank you for a wonderful, enlightening and most informative class. As my family and I start our cleaning business, your insight will assist us in avoiding pitfalls and lead us to strive for success. Congratulations on your 45th year in business. Also please accept our warmest wishes on yours and Elizabeth’s 60th wedding anniversary. Thanks for letting us join “the Bane-Clene” family.

Alex and Sandi Otte, Safety Harbor, FL

Dear Bill:
   I had my carpets cleaned today by two nice young fellows from Quality Clean. They did a great job, at least it looked good when I left. John better not walk on it. I did take a couple of pictures so I will send them to you with our recommendation. Of course we did tell them that John is family. They said they met you at classes and spoke highly of all the family. One of the guy's name is Matt Poehlmann and he said his grandfather goes way back with you. They did have an easy job as far as moving furniture as we had the walls and ceilings painted, so there was very little furniture to be moved. They were so nice and didn’t mind if I pointed out some paint spots on the rug. I am a very satisfied customer.

Mary Ann Horan, Philadelphia, PA

   I feel much more confident now. I plan to use the Bane-Clene system and products. Your staff made me feel at ease. Enjoyed listening to instructors who are in the top of their expertise.

Chuck Stallings, Jonesboro, AR

   Just wanted to send a quick thank you to everyone who was involved in the re-install of our truck-mount. As always, the work was completed in a quick and timely manner. Kevin and the technician that completed the install were both so kind and helpful and were a pleasure to work with. Thanks again for everything!

Bob and Jennifer Taylor, Cleveland, Ohio

   Thank you to everyone at Bane-Clene for a very informative and helpful three days at your school. I especially appreciate your business ethics and common sense approach to the carpet cleaning business.

Gary Jones, Gulf Breeze, Florida

   I enjoyed the school and meeting the staff. The information I received was invaluable.
   Thanks!

Tim Dyar, Mt. Pleasant, SC

Mr. Bane:
   Thank you for making a fine product in LCA® 256. I can’t use powders because I have an aluminum head on my pump. But LCA 256 is doing the job just fine, nothing but cheerleaders here. Once again, thank you!

Vincent Annunziato, Toms River, New Jersey

   First of all I would like to say thanks for teaching me everything I learned in your school. I learned a lot in the three days I was there and I hope I can make it to another class in the next year or so.
   Thanks

Shannon McCrady
Morgantown, Kentucky

   I've used your products since I started in the carpet cleaning business. I like the fact that you test all of them in your own service company. Also, your service representatives are very helpful. Great products!

Greg Gillmeister
Mindoro, Wisconsin

   I thoroughly enjoyed the Bane-Clene school course. A lot of material was covered in three days, and it gave us the basics for getting started in the carpet cleaning business from not only a very successful company but a friendly one as well. I thank you very much. Now it’s up to us to gain knowledge and experience in the world of carpets.

Karen Schlenvogt
Tucson, Arizona

   We wanted to send along some pictures of a recent job that we had completed. The job was at a nearby Catholic Retreat Center, a beautiful place off the beaten path. When we had originally provided them with a quote they had asked what type of equipment we use and what level of noise it produced. We usually get asked what kind of equipment we use but noise level is not usually an issue
   The reason for their concern was because a Silent Retreat was taking place the same time we were scheduled to clean their upholstery. A Silent Retreat being no talking or any outside noise. So, to accommodate our client and everyone involved we cleaned the 21 pieces of upholstery out on their patio. It was a beautiful day so Matt and David didn't mind!

David, Karenne, Matt and Jennifer
Kingston, Massachusetts

   A good way to go - good job done - pat on the back to All American Cleaners and Ken Hilbert in Ohio. He's been working with us on a spin finish problem in the field and it's tough to get good lasting results, but he's come in there and done a great job and I just wanted to pass that word on to you folks. I don't want a good job done left unnoticed.

Mark Johnston
Beaulieu United
Chatsworth, Georgia

   Crystal and I were both very impressed with how smoothly everything ran during the classes. Please tell all the instructors they did a great job. Having different instructors teach the class throughout the three days was a nice change. Everyone was very thorough and it is a nice reassurance to know there is always an expert on the other end of the line should a problem or question arise. We look forward to talking with all of you for years to come.

Mark Jesmer
Dover, Pennsylvania

   I'm writing to let you know what a fantastic service you guys provide. I live outside of NYC and called CleanRite Carpet Co. WOW, my carpet looks as good as the day I bought it, if not better. And with two dogs, it wasn't an easy job.
   And I can't even begin to tell you how impressed I was by the courteous and professional men who came to perform the cleaning. They introduced themselves right away and were the nicest guys in the world!
   Thank you again and from now on I'll never have to wonder if I can ever get my carpet looking new again.

Sincerely yours,
Mrs. Regina Pantori
Bronx, New York

Ed Note: Mrs. Pantori is a consumer who had called our toll-free locator service to find a Bane-Clene Operator in her area.

   I feel the course at Bane-Clene Institute is a huge benefit for anyone in the carpet cleaning business. Your staff is very hospitable and personable.
   Thank you for being "honest." We are 35 and 32 years old and through our lives we have been told one thing and another has been done. However, in this case, you were honest in your approach. We were told we were going to learn about carpet cleaning and that is truly what occurred.
   We did have in the back of our minds that this was going to be nothing but a "hard sell" situation where you were going to push your company and products but it wasn't and we thank you for that. With that said, we are also confident that anytime we would call in a questionable situation we know you would be there.

Shane Brown and Michelle Davis
Tarentum, Pennsylvania

   I was amazed at how much I was able to learn during my three-day visit/training. I have always considered myself a better hands-on learner than a classroom learner, but your lessons were given in a "down-to-earth" format resulting in an "easier-to-understand" and to grasp education on my part. Thank you again for your continued support (especially Dan who answered his phone on a Sunday afternoon)

Randy Fallon
Wappinger Falls, New York

   Very impressed with the knowledge and professionalism of your entire staff at school. It's no wonder Mr. Bane has become so successful. I will model my carpet cleaning business around the knowledge I gained at the Bane-Clene Institute. Well done!

Darren Hearns
Lady Lake, Florida

   Just a note to thank you for the time you spent with me the day we installed the Perma-Mount 120. It is working wonderfully...in fact, the day after it was installed I had a call from the owner of a prominent insurance company in our area whose basement flooded following a heavy rain. So, we had a chance to try out the Aqua-Mount vacuum and it performed admirably (or with that much water, would we say Admirally!) . Anyway, we are appreciating it very much. Again, thanks!

Sincerely,
Dale Leensvaart
Eaton, Ohio

   My thought on the Bane-Clene school: The staff is quite good and the curriculum is superb. Well done to all!

Eric Holt
Westlake, Louisiana

   I just wanted to express my appreciation to you and the other Bane-Clene staff for an excellent training opportunity. It was not only beneficial, but I feel essential as well. I would highly recommend it to anyone. Thank you very much!

Perry M. Warner
Catlin, IL

   I want to thank you for your monthly news and specials. It has a wealth of knowledge for everyone who reads them, well I know that it has helped me a lot. The article was good that stated that you should leave enough distance between your vehicle and the one in front of you and that going from job-to-job should be relaxing. If someone cuts you off they don't hear the anger you have for them. Another article where you mentioned about the cell phone ringing when you're talking to the customer or cleaning the carpet is annoying - so I turn the phone off and leave a message I'll get back with you. My business has grown since I invested in the Bane-Clene system. Keep on inspiring your customers.

Thomas A. Robinson III
Clinton, MD

   My wife and I are the owners of Rose Carpet Cleaning of Churubusco, Indiana. We have been using only Bane-Clene products for over ten years. We do mostly residential carpet cleaning; however, that leads to RVs, boats and automotive detailing.
   I want you to know that I have been using Preface to clean the engine compartments of many vehicles...even my police car...it does a wonderful job. With a warm motor while running,I coat the complete engine compartment, firewall, battery, fenderwells, wiring, everything,
   Then before it dries, I rinse well with water from a garden hose. I have never had a car stall. I let the vehicle run with the hood closed, so that it can dry completely. The end result is an engine compartment looking wonderful. The wires, hoses, battery firewall, all come out looking like new. There are no water spots and no need to use any dressing like armorall. Heavy oil and grease from leaks may need an extra cleaning. I did try this for heavy oil but it left the rubber products looking dry and not shiny at all.    I get $125.00 for an auto clean up. That includes interior cleaning of carpet and cloth (never do a head liner) windows, dash, console, engine compartment, exterior wash.I charge extra for hand wax and buffing.
   The best money for me is residential, and I like to look around for other stuff to clean while I am there. Thanks Bane-Clene for all you do.

Garry Jones
Churubusco, IN

   Thank you for making a great machine, my pump froze up on me last week. Instead of the housing on the pump cracking, the screws popped. So instead of paying $600.00 for a pump, I paid $2.40 for screws - unreal that other manufacturers gave it no thought. Thanks for the insight and a great machine.

Vinnie Annunziato
Highland Lakes, NJ

   I wanted to take a minute and write to THANK YOU for your expert help over the telephone last week. In twenty years of carpet cleaning I had never even heard of BHT yellowing. The problem arose; I called and explained it to you, and you recognized it immediately. You told me how to cure the problem. I followed your instructions, and while having to apply the procedure twice, the problem disappeared. You made me look good, and my customer is happy.It's nice to be dealing with people such as yourself who know what they are doing. Since I'm too far away to shake your hand, I thought I'd just send this little note to say '"THANK YOU."

T. Dean Miller
Paulding, OH

   I received a letter today from Bill Gary at Green Turtle Bay that I want to share with you. I would like to say that without your equipment, products and training, it is questionable that I would have received such an endorsement. Thank you and your staff for helping me and my business get off to such a good start.

Mike Ladd
Paducah, KY

Dear Mike:
   This is a letter of recommendation to all whom you may choose to see it. Your company assumed the responsibility for cleaning all of the carpets in sixty five rental condos at Green Turtle Bay Resort in October, 2003. As rental units, these condos take a lot of wear and tear, often being occupied almost continuously for the entire summer season. You have managed this project in a highly professional manner and the job your company has done has been no less than excellent. The carpets all look like new and we are ready for the spring rental season well ahead of schedule.
   Please feel free to share this letter with your prospective customers. Should they desire further assurances about the quality of your work, please have them call me.

Sincerely,
William E. Gary, III

   I'm sure glad Bane-Clene offered hard floor training. While the carpet cleaning has slowed down a bit for the holidays, we (my son and I) have done over $3800.00 in cleaning ceramic tile and grout, brick and concrete in the last six days. Thanks for showing us the way!! (This doesn't include a $650.00 emergency flood extraction job.)

Terry Long
Washington, IL

   My thoughts on the Bane-Clene School: The whole process was informative and crucial to anyone getting into the business. They were long days, absorbing a lot of knowledge, but better it be three days than five days when you have to travel a long way.

Paul Milam
Baltimore, MD

   I was working in NYC today doing a warranty job for 3M, cruising along through Manhattan and guess what? The city has renamed a section of W. 29th St., near the Marble Collegiate Church, "Norman Vincent Peale Way". When I saw Norman Vincent Peale Way it made me think of Bane-Clene Way and to recall how Bane-Clene treated us to Dr. Peale on three different occasions at conventions in 1980, 1983 and 1986. It was my remarkable privilege to be asked to speak at the 1986 convention shortly after Dr. Peale.
   Come to think of it, I owe the referral of hundreds and hundreds of 3M warranty jobs over the years to you. Thank you again is all I can say!

Chet Jelinski
Bloomfield, New Jersey

   I would like to see the school last longer, maybe a full week. But I learned a lot in the three days I was there

John Willis
St. Pauls, North Carolina

   I like your magazine and would like to give your carpet cleaners a consumer tip from a professional carpet installer that they could pass along to their customers.
   The cheapest way may not be the best way when contracting carpet installation. When buying carpet, ask the retailer to figure the layout of the installation in another way besides the cheapest way.
   Normally, a retailer thinking that the customer is interested in only savings, will measure the job and plan cuts and seams to allow for the least amount of waste and the purchase of the least amount of carpeting. They think of only price competition.
   In many cases, a little more carpet waste will make a much nicer finished product by virtually eliminating seams where they are likely to show wear. They may have a little more carpet scrap left over, but chances are they will be much happier with the installation job.
   Ask a carpet retailer to use certified installation people and to figure the job with as few seams as possible. Be sure the installation includes power stretching. Ask questions and remember that nothing is FREE!
   The installation of carpet has taken on an unsavory reputation. Part of the reason for slipshod workmanship is the refusal of many carpet dealers to pay decent prices for the job. Too often, ads will give away pad and offer free installation which is the most difficult and hardest job in the carpet chain.
   I work for several carpet retailers, and even though I have said nothing that isn't true, some may not like seeing it in print so please do not publish my name or city.

Name and city withheld on request

   My husband and I attended your school last week and I wanted to tell you - it's no wonder your company is such a success! Each and everyone of the staff were most courteous, helpful and professional. I know the knowledge I gained at Bane-Clene will be very beneficial to the success of our business. Thanks!

Sincerely
Lou Ann Faginkrantz
Little Rock, AR

   The Bane-Clene school had a myriad of information that was given on every aspect of owning and operating a business. Your school is A+ topnotch. I am a representative of a carpet mill and appreciate all you do in maintaining our products.

(name and city withheld on request)

To whom it may concern,
   I just wanted to send a quick thank you to everyone who was involved in the re-install of our truck mount. As always, the work was completed in a quick and timely manner. Kevin and the technician that completed the install were both so kind and helpful and were a pleasure to work with. Thanks Again for everything!

Bob and Jennifer Taylor
Clean Again Inc.
Cleveland, Ohio

   Both Joe and I want to express our sincere thanks for putting on such a professional seminar. It was great!
   We also enjoyed reading the Bane Family Story and feel it has much to say about business and life. You may be sure we'll be using your proven ideas.
   Besides learning a tremendous amount of knowledge, we were made to feel very welcome.
   Thanks again for everything!

Gay Murphy
Vincennes, Indiana

   At school everyone was polite and helpful. It was a great week being with you all. I also learned a lot that is helping my business. I sincerely thank you.

Carlton Charran
Elizabethtown, PA

This is a testimonial sent to one of our customers:

Sincerely,

Rachel Sanchez

   I hope everyone attending Bane Clene Institute listens up and gets linked to your web page. I have had a lot of success by customers using web search. The biggest job was a stone granite floor at the Chinese Embassy in Washington, DC. This job alone was $4,209.00.

   The web site is the jack pot to me! Thank You Mr. Bane and Dan Willis for all the support you have given my company. Since I've started Cleaning Carpet the business has gotten so large I left my government job and I'm working full time in the business.

   I did all this with one Bane Clene system. The main thing is to keep the system out of below freezing temperatures when not in use, back flush regularly and clean the screens and filters. Do your maintenance and you can't go wrong.

God bless you all,

Thomas A. Robinson, Clinton, Maryland

   Thank you again for making our yacht cleaning job the cover story for the Winter '06 Cleaning Digest magazine. I thank the Lord how smoothly everything went on that job. I was re-reading an old Digest where a Bane-Clene owner cleaned a yacht many years ago, and the value of the yacht then was 50 million dollars. Good thing I didn't recall that detail or it would have added to the pressure I felt!

   We obtained a great new account, at least due in part to this Digest write up which someone saw. We're cleaning 39 branches of Enterprise Rent-A-Car, four times a year. The first time through these branches illustrates the superiority of our equipment as this took place in February. There were alarm issues as we went into each location after hours. When calling each branch to advise the manager we'd be coming, if we had "other" truck-mounted equipment we'd have to arrange to have outside water hose outlets turned on, and remember to turn them off in the freezing weather. We carry the water we need, saving time and stress and giving us one less thing to think about and one less thing that could go wrong. Travel between the 39 locations consumes gas, but we don't have to use more precious gas just to clean with our electrically powered equipment.

   I never get tired of saying how much I appreciate the equipment, chemicals and support you have given us for 23 years. When am I going to wake up and find out you guys are a "dream?" I say that as one who has known some "nightmares" with "other" suppliers before we switched to Bane-Clene. Words really cannot express my gratitude, but I had to try! Thank you again!

Chet Jelinski, Bloomfield, NJ

To Mr. Bane:

   I wish you a very happy anniversary. My wife, Susan, & I celebrate our wedding anniversary on the same day, and today we celebrate our 28th year of marriage. I opened my janitorial business in September of 1980, and my first carpet cleaning unit was a Bane Clene system 5. I have kept the system and to this day, it still works very well.

   I realized while reading your book, " WE DID IT THEIR WAY," that we have many things in common. Throughout the years, we have been through tough times, and good times as well. You have not only inspired me, but you have also been my mentor from the beginning. I have great respect and admiration for not only the professional ethics you demonstrate daily in your business, but also the personal touch you deliver making every person you encounter feel like family. Your sincerity and integrity are a blessing to myself and our industry.

   I had the pleasure of meeting you and your wife once, and look forward to seeing you again.

Winston Bigham, Salinas, California

Dear Jimmie:

   I thought the instructors were very friendly and informative at school. It was a great three days. Thank you for a great class. I enjoyed the instructors. They were great. Thank you again for class and support.

Don Taylor, Flora IL

   My overall experience in the class was great. It was just as Nick Snyder had promised me prior to signing up. He told me I would be more confident in knowing what I was doing or going to do when I walked into a job. Thanks!

Brian Hoskins, West Lebanon, IN

Mr. Bane:

   Wow, I just saw your blog on www.baneclene.com, what a GREAT IDEA! Though I recognize some of what's been posted as material that already appeared in the Digest, it is worth reading again! Frankly, I only visited the site a couple times a year previously...but I'm going to consider going on DAILY if that means reading your stuff every day! "Old" or new material, it ALL sounds new! Congratulations on a great idea!

Chet Jelinski, Bloomfield, NJ

Thanks Don Terry!

   Thank you so much for the web site. Immediately after speaking with you on the phone today, I logged onto the Bane web page to view our site. It is great. Thank you!

Ron Smith, Adamsville, AL

   Hi Rich,

   Seth and I want to thank you and the members of the Bane-Clene team for the wonderful and informative school that was held last week. We certainly walked away Friday afternoon feeling good about our new adventure into carpet cleaning. But more so, we felt very confident in the support team at Bane-Clene.

   I told Seth that it makes a world of difference having not only confidence in the equipment but confident that when we have an issuer we can call Bane knowing we will have answers.

   Thanks again for all you and Bane-Clene have done for us.

Marty Murphy, Manchester, New Hampshire

   PS, Please find our application for membership in the referral program enclosed.

Bane Family

   I want to wish you more success beyond your 44th anniversary.

   I have been one of your customers since 1975. I started cleaning carpet in 1964. I am the guy who had you put one of your units in the back of my station wagon. Your equipment, supplies and service have always been the best.

   Thank you from an old friend,

Dave Worl, Cambridge City, IN

Dear Mr. Bane;

   I spent the day with Don Terry Tuesday April 18th at his "Chemistry of Cleaning" class in Shawnee,Ks. The class was very informative and it was good to see Don & his wife. It was also good to meet some other people in the cleaning industry.

   I personally thank you for this educational opportunity.

   Sincerely

   In His Name

Clyde W. Pucket, Wichita KS

Dear Mr. Bane,

    I just wanted to say thank you for such enjoyable reading matter, your Cleaning Digest and Clene Times, with so much common sense. I love your Thought for Today and Daily Blog. It is amazing to think that the carpet cleaning industry has been around so long in the USA and here in the U.K. it has a long way to go! "I've only had the carpet 10 years, do you think it needs cleaning," is a typical comment over here. It really makes us wonder sometimes!

   Best Regards,

Nicholas J. Brown, Cheltenham, England

   I had been wanting to attend the Institute for many years. When I attend a seminar, I usually hope to come away with one helpful chemical, technique, or thought. I received several by attending your school. Everyone I met was polite and helpful from Mr. Bane to the gentleman in the warehouse, who helped me with my order. Keep up the great work!

Don Strode, Aurora, IL

Dale A. Fridley, Fond du Lac, WI

   I just wanted to thank you for the referral from Mohawk Carpets. I really appreciate all the help over the past year. It really means a lot! The support is great. Thanks again.

Sean P. Dillon, Etna, Pennsylvania

   Coming back to school for the refresher course was the best thing I've done for my company this year. My service manager got the training he needed and I got a booster that invigorated and energized me. I will now be able to energize my troops. Thanks.

Mark Tucker, Lexington, Kentucky

   Oka, do you remember the carpet you recommended to us when we built the new house. It is now 15 years old and still going strong, which is a lot , I think, for something in a rental house. One of my last military tenants cleaned it every month because of her crawling age child. She said there was a lot of soap in it when she started but other than that have been no problems.

Bob Cly, Prattville, Alabama

Ed Note: This is a testimonial for Marquesa Lana fibers by Amoco. What a shame it was taken off the market!

   I cannot tell you how grateful I am to be a part of Bane-Clene. Thank you for your principles.

Jeff Hensley, Richmond, Indiana

   Mr. Bane, I just wanted to thank you for your time and the inspirational speech you gave to our class Wednesday morning. I have to say that I am very impressed with your operation and staff. Your staff displays so much passion for their work and I do consider it an honor to be in such company. I am aware of the dedication it takes to be in a service business and it inspires me seeing you still involved. I pray that others will also be inspired by your operation and carry your message, principles and values into their own lives and businesses so they may be of service to our consumers. "I believe that I can have everything I need as long as I give my customers everything they want." Please keep up the daily thoughts on your excellent web site and I will keep reading them.
   Bless you and your family.

Brooks Swanson, Priest River, Idaho

   Bill, some thoughts - The new '3D' rocks. You and your family look as young as ever. The Detroit Tigers look good this spring. Tell your Pacers to stay out of the stands when they play here, and I will tell the local fans to chill out. I know you love spring as it brings your beloved baseball.
   All the best to you, Betty and the boys.

Michael Meagher, Clawson, Michigan

   We just wanted to share a profitable idea with you. We have recently been contracted to clean 300 panels of office cubicles at the BlueCross^® BlueShield^® office building here in Little Rock, Arkansas. They are remodeling and will have many more for us to do as well. There are many office buildings with cubicles in every city, so this might be an idea for others.

John Faginkrantz, Little Rock, Arkansas

My Bane-Clene experience - WHAT A RIDE!
   It all started in 1977 with a Clark shampoo scrubbing machine. After a few years I graduated to a portable steam cleaning machine with a drag head that took three men and a boy to get it into the home. In 1980 things started to change when the wife and I went to a Bane-Clene demonstration in Atlanta, GA. Seeing the hoses running from the van and cleaning those little rugs and not getting the backing wet. I remember so well leaving there and saying to my wife, "I gotta have me one of them one of these days." In April 1981, I called Bane-Clene and made arrangements to go to school, lease the van and equipment, then made the airline reservation. Everything was set to go. As the days started getting closer to going, I started having second thoughts. I can remember the morning before I was to leave, sitting at the table with phone in hand, getting ready to call and cancel the whole thing. I slammed the phone down and said to myself, if you don't try, you will never amount to anything.
   That was the best decision I ever made. Enjoyed and learned a lot at the school. Inside I was very excited about my new van and equipment. Before leaving, Bill Bane, Jr. took a picture of me standing by the van and I remember him saying, you don't seem very excited, or words to that effect. All I could say was that I would get excited when I get back on the job. Little did he know that I was scared to death. A good month was $1,200.00 to $1,300.00, and the lease payment was $539.39 a month. You bet I was scared. It didn't take long to get over it. By 1983, the business was getting bigger and more demanding, so my wife, Viola, quit her full-time job and started handling the office end.
   Our son, Pat, also joined in to help out and has worked with us off and on over the years. We would tell folks in this, what used to be small town of Warner Robins, GA, if it's cleanable we can clean it. Things went so well that in 1986 we purchased our second van and equipment and our small business continued to grow. Here it is April 2005 and my age has told me to stop, so our son has taken over the business and we know he will carry on the tradition in the Bane-Clene way.
   Just wanted to say a BIG THANK YOU to the Bane-Clene family, especially Ron Baker and Kevin Stark. Thanks Kevin for patiently helping with all my dumb questions and problems back in those early days. Yes, it was quite a ride, and we are so glad it was your company we took the ride with.

Joe and Viola Gootee, Bonaire, GA

   You all are great!! Thank you for the no nonsense, low pressure approach in everything you do. I check the web sites periodically and am very disappointed in the level of professionalism and general attitude of "I know it all and have the best equipment."
   How about a Bane-Clene web site filtered for only Bane owners? I also see a window cleaners' site that is actively monitored by a "supervisor" who filters out people posting useless information.
   Please just keep doing what you do!! Once I clean carpet for someone, they nearly always come back. Not the cheapest, but the best!!
   One more thing about the other web sites - I notice the time of day people post - seems they should be out working?! I knew you were the company I wanted to deal with the first day I called after receiving an "ad card" in the mail. Talked to Dan Willis, ordered some LCA and got no pressure to buy anything. He called periodically to check on me, and when I was ready, he was there - yet again - no pressure - no nonsense.
   I guess, as they say on the web sites - I AM BANE-WASHED!! God's Blessings on all of you.

Steve Robine, Warrenton, Missouri

   I learned a lot about our industry and a lot about equipment, repairs, what chemicals to use, what to look for and listen for. I make good money in the industry and I enjoy it. I've been out on my own a lot now and done several jobs and three of my score cards came back as a 10! I was so worried I would not do well. I was wrong, thanks to Mr. Bane, his equipment and his school.

Rich Dunson, Kenton, Ohio

   School was very informative and all of the people were very helpful and showed great pride in where they work. Says a lot for the Banes! Special "thank you" to Dan Willis for guiding us through this process.

Gary and Robin Kemper, Gettysburg, Pennsylvania

   Folks at Bane-Clene,
Thanks so much for your help this morning. Your advice was right on target and the problem is fixed. You never fail to surprise and impress us with your ability to quickly determine the problem and give us a solution - from 2500 miles away!

Dave and Valerie, Antelope, California

   Thank you for the very informative article posted at http://www.baneclene.com/a ticles/methods.html This information was enlightening and helped me develop guidelines for choosing a professional cleaning service.

Tim Lash, Jacksonville, FL

   I appreciated the professionalism in school! Look forward to great success!

Michael Miller, Mt. Pleasant, SC

   The course was extremely informative. I learned a lot more than I had expected to. Every aspect of carpet cleaning business was covered. Thanks Kevin, Dan, Don, Nick and Mr. Bane. Well worth the cost.

Robert Urkums, Ft. Washington, MD

   Not a day goes by that I am not thankful for being affiliated with Bane-Clene. You put my web page on line, and two days later I booked a $289 job from it. After the new customer had read all of the information on the Bane-Clene site, she called and told me that I was the one she wanted to clean her carpet. If I never get another lead from the site, it cost me nothing. I think we both know that I'm sure to get additional leads.
   Thanks again for the wonderful service that I have come to expect from Bane-Clene.

Bill Comber, Punta Gorda, Florida

   Please let everybody know that I am extremely impressed with your customer service. I received my order yesterday. It took only two days to receive everything exactly as ordered, and neatly packed. EXCELLENT JOB!!! I will do my best to treat my clients with the same urgency you treat yours. If I can do that, and I will, we are definitely looking at a long term relationship.
   Once again, thanks,

Jim Giel, Grand Rapids, Michigan

   Yesterday we benefitted from Bane-Clene's excellent training program. A family new to our area called simply because our Yellow Pages ad advertises our use of the Bane-Clene system. The lady calling told us of her wonderful experience, having used Precision Carpet Cleaning (a Bane-Clene operator) from West Chester, Ohio. It seems that while doing a pre-cleaning walk-through, she asked Precision's technician if they could take care of certain spots or stains. The answer she got was that he wasn't sure but he'd do his best. And that's where Bane's training of "under promising and over delivering" helped us...because they got the spots out and when they moved to this area, she looked for Bane. She said they did a beautiful job. Now, we too had a challenge because they own a landscaping company, including the sod farm on which they live. They bring in a lot of dirt and grime, including what the two children are able to transport from the outside onto the carpet. And, again she was thoroughly satisfied with the Bane-Clene system.
   Thanks for your system, continuing support, excellent chemicals and training programs...and for always taking the time to answer the questions we have.

Dale Leensvaart, Eaton, Ohio

   Thanks for hosting the stain and odor removal classes. You were all very hospitable and I enjoyed both the class and getting a chance to see your facility.

Keith Mealy, Cincinnati, Ohio

   As a Chem-Dry franchise owner, I appreciate your reaffirmation of the inferiority of your steam cleaning system. You must be embarrassed to use the term steam cleaning. I suppose you think it's not significant to mention that you soak carpet with massive amounts of soap, water and other toxic high pH chemicals, forcing carpet to take many days to dry. Have you ever looked at the backing of a carpet that has been steam cleaned, especially multiple times?
   Anyone who has a certification based on knowledge, knows that high pH is bad for the carpet and the customer; bad, bad, bad. Your "Primer On Carpet Protector" is equally poor. You may think that there are only two basic types; silicone and fluorochemical, but apparently you don't know about the most superior protector; Chem-Dry's acid-dye blocking fluorochemical. Maybe the problem is with your definition of "basic"; sort of like what the definition of "is"" is. DuPont is well aware of it.
   I'd be happy to receive your feed back.

Robert Medred, Chapel Hill, North Carolina

Ed note: This was the reply sent to Mr. Medred

   Thank you for your comments concerning our Cleaning Digest magazine. I regret that you have such harsh feelings about my company and the system we utilize. I have had the pleasure of meeting some of your franchise officials and have found them to be most cordial.
   Perhaps someday you will temper your viewpoint somewhat as most of us in the industry have done about our competitors. In any case, I wish you the best and may you enjoy success in your business.

Bill Bane

Note to Bane-Clene operators:

   Unfortunately, in the cleaning industry it is a common practice to say unkind things about the competition.
   In looking for a correlation in the world of sports, many baseball fans seem to hate the New York Yankees, one of the most successful franchises in baseball. Love them or hate them, the Yankees are at the top of their profession. It is noteworthy that most Yankee haters are supporters of teams that are regional or perennial rivals.
   Bane-Clene has supplied and trained professional cleaners for more than 30 years and probably has more successful operators in more locations than any other organization in the world. Many of the very successful operators use Bane-Clene's advertsing programs which obviously rankles some of their less successful competitors. Thank goodness most local competitors are not as biased as Mr. Medred who obviously dislikes a competitor and especially a winner.

WFB

   I just wanted to let you know what a good decision it was to join the Bane-Clene referral network and have a web link to your website on the internet. I always ask my customers how they heard about my company, and when they tell me it was from the internet, I know they have linked to the Bane-Clene site. I have gone as far as asking what word they typed into the search engine and I'm really impressed that Bane-Clene comes up in almost all searches that have anything to do with carpet cleaning. Customers are using the web more and more for services so keep up the great job guys!

Manny Mulas, Wilmington, Massachusetts

   We are in the habit of leaving the "Thank You" comment card with all of our customers, along with a helpful hints brochure and brochures about other services we offer. I have found that our customers fill these out with helpful comments. Very rarely do we receive negative feedback. I was very surprised when I received the enclosed letter. I was impressed that our customer took the time to write it. We are very proud of this letter and of every job that we perform and wanted to forward a copy to you.

Robert F. Maurer, Lansing, Michigan

Dear Mr. Maurer:

   I have opted to write a letter rather than to fill out your card because I can never manage to say everything I want to say on response cards!
   I am incredibly impressed with your carpet and furniture cleaning. The telephone representative was very courteous and helpful -- and seemed happy to talk to me...a great first impression for your company. Both service operators were especially courteous to me. I noticed and appreciated their elevated level of manners. Their answers to my questions were thorough, and it made me realize the expertise they have. They were in clean and neat uniforms. Everything about them was clean-cut and professional looking. I absolutely would use your service again, and I would look forward to your return visits. Not only have I recommended your service to others, I have told them specifically why I hold your company in such high regard.
   The first thing I noticed was your arrival fifteen minutes early. Many services that arrange for me to be here at a certain time, come whenever they can - always late. You get an A+ for punctuality! It shows your respect for my time. I always notice professionalism...do service people make eye contact when they speak to me, and are they able to speak standard English in an intelligent manner? You get an A+ in both of those categories too. The respectable presentation by the service operators made me feel at ease with having them in my home. The work was done efficiently and extremely well. I have had a lot of other carpet cleaners, but I have never had one who actually got the carpet clean. I have had these experiences with the others:
   - Living room and dining room carpets were shrunk, leaving an inch and a half of the wood floor showing where the carpets had previously met. (The service operator sewed them together with fish line.)
   - They were so young, they looked like they'd skipped middle school to come and do the work and came in clothing that looked like they'd been cleaning the barn and interrupted their work to come to my house.
   - When the carpet was left very dirty, I called the company and was told this was the service operator's first job, so he didn't really know what he was doing, and besides, he had poor eyesight and couldn't see the dirt. He returned and didn't clean the carpet any better the second time.
   - I've had things broken while having the carpet cleaned.
   - Service operators have cleaned our carpet at break-neck speed - running around and cleaning in a hit-and-miss fashion. Clearly, their main objective was to collect their money and get out the door...not to clean the carpet.
   When your service operators completed their work, I was amazed at how clean our furniture was and the carpet as well. I didn't know it was possible to bring it back to such good condition. These items have not looked this good since they were brand new. Everything looks clean, and it smells clean.
    also noticed the service operators' pride in a job well done. They actually cared that our carpets and furniture were thoroughly cleaned. Personal integrity and accountability are obviously strong points for your employees.
   Your efficiency and expertise in cleaning coupled with your incredible ability to communicate with excellent manners and professionalism puts you a cut above.
   Simply put, in every aspect, you are a class act.

Linda Williams

   We are in Tahlequah, Oklahoma, population about 10,000. We purchased your 2002 show van in Las Vegas and currently run three cleaning vans. We have been in business for over 34 years. Not until we added carpet cleaning did our carpet sales business really take off.
   Our first van, bought from you, is a 1988, still going strong. My grandson is using this van in Lawton, Oklahoma, working his way through college.
   Enclosed is a fold-out from a 1948 Ladies Home Journal on carpet care, which I found very interesting.

Ron Osentowski, Tahlequah, Oklahoma

   I want to thank ALL of you for a great three days at school. Not only did I learn a lot (still am and always will), but you taught me to take extra care and pride in the service I am providing.

J. Phil Byers, Newburgh, Indiana

   Mr. Bane: I cannot thank you enough for the time you spent with us talking about the carpet cleaning industry. I was thoroughly impressed with everyone I came in contact with at Bane-Clene and look forward to dealing with your people in the future.
   Don Terry: Just a short note to thank you for the excellent job you did explaining the chemicals and their relationship to the cleaning process. Because of a short retention span, you may be hearing from me in the near future.
   Kevin Stark: Thanks for your help this past week with the maintenance on the van and for the great job you did going over the equipment in class. (By the way, while you were explaining the screens in the T-valves, I could not help thinking that those screens play the same role as stints in a blood vessel.)
   Dan Willis: Just a note to thank you for the thorough job you did of explaining the carpet cleaning process. Being new to the business, the three days I spent in Indianapolis was time well spent.

David O'Barr, Montevallo, Alabama

   I recently read an article about the rising cost of fuel affecting the carpet cleaning industry. It said that diesel power would greatly reduce costs and would be the engine of choice for cleaning equipment in the future. I assume that distributors will want carpet cleaners who own gasoline powered equipment to convert to the new diesels.
   Thank God for Bane-Clene systems! We operate at a fraction of the cost of any other truck-mounted machine and it is easier to operate. Our equipment does not break down, is quieter than any unit I have ever used and can run inside a closed building (try that with any gas or diesel engine). And we use clean electric power - NO FUEL!
   We have cleaned beside our competitors in the dirtiest of commercial buildings over the years and never have I seen any system outperform us when it comes to cleaning. For those who say Bane-Clene has not kept up with the times, let me just say, I think Bane-Clene is ahead of the times. Way ahead! I suspect more and more carpet cleaners will become Bane-Clene operators as the cost of fuel continues to soar. When they do, I'm sure like myself, they will be much more profitable and happier for it.

Keith Martin, Columbus, Indiana

   I'm a practicing carpet inspector, and look forward to adding carpet cleaning as another service I can offer to the mills as well as my local community. I will keep you updated as things go along.
   Again, the main purpose of this letter is to just thank you and your fine staff for such a wonderful and thought provoking three days. God Bless!

Jon Firari, Spring Hill, Tennessee

   Thanks to everyone at school. I felt very welcome, being so far from home. See you again soon.

Jamie Hill, Paragould, Arkansas

Dear Bane Family,
   I recently read about Steve Fretzin, of "Sales Results," in the Clene-Times. I contacted Mr. Fretzin to inquire about his company, and how he could build and help me with my own company. As a result, I received from him, invaluable and professional marketing advice and strategies. Mr. Fretzin has given me great motivation, and has pointed me in a direction that will not only increase the sales of my business, but also put me in a place where I can be personally involved with the business people of my local area. =It has been an absolute pleasure and profitable experience working with Mr. Fretzin.
   I want to thank the Bane Family for mentioning Mr. Fretzin in the Clene-Times, and I also want to thank you for all your professional advice during the times. I have called your company when I needed assistance. You have been very supportive and helpful. Thank you.

Tim Oxendine, Salinas, CA