From Toiling in the Dirt to Green Clean

Green Clean is a carpet cleaning company owned by the Kenders family, Al, Sally and Peter. It is ironic that Al toiled in the dirt as a baseball catcher in his early days, and then co-founded a company that is known for its "green" environmentally-safe products. "The New Chamber" is proud to share this 'feel-good' story with you.

Al Kenders was born in Bellmaur Park, New Jersey. His father, Albert Kenders, taught him the game of baseball, and by the age of 13, he was becoming known as a player with a future. As a pitcher, his fastball was already hitting speeds in the high 80's and low 90's. But, he could also hit a ton and was playing in all-men's leagues in his hometown. As a 16 year-old, he set the record for New Jersey catchers by compiling a .536 batting average.

As a senior in high school, he became known as a top-notch catcher with a rifle arm that gunned down runners trying to steal second base. And, his reputation as a hitter was catching the eyes of major league scouts. He signed with the Philadelphia Phillies for the tidy sum of $8800 which was a lot of money in those days.

He played in the tough Eastern League and was called up to the major leagues in 1961. In his first game, he got a double off of the great Warren Spahn, arguably the greatest left-handed pitcher with more than 300 wins during his famous career. He was also fortunate to have caught for Robin Roberts, another Hall of Fame pitcher.

His major league baseball career lasted until 1964. He then went to work for the studios and was a set painter for the next 30-plus years. He retired in 1996 and quickly became bored. He and son Peter decided to start their own business—carpet cleaning. They decided to do this new venture the right way—hard work using environmentally-safe products, hence "Green Clean."

Green Clean is safe for children, pets and seniors, and for mommies and daddies too. No more waiting for days for the carpet to dry—it only takes an hour and it is back to living a normal life on clean carpets with a wonderful citrus smell. Plus, they clean upholstery and area rugs, and offer discounts for seniors and "The New Chamber" members. You can count on the Kenders to offer quality work at fair prices.

For more information, and to schedule an appointment for a free estimate, call the Kenders (You will probably reach Sally) at 818.920.3819. You may also get a great story about baseball from Al.

We welcome the Kenders and Green Clean to your "The New Chamber."