Sweeping Magazine- January 2017

Sweeping January 2017 VOLUME 41 #1

The Journal of Chimney and Venting Technology

2017 NCSG Board of Directors Nominees

Are You a Service Area or Home Services Business?

Have You Met Your Business Goals?

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Departments President’s Letter 3 Editor’s Letter 5 Coach’s Corner 12 New Members 22 Technical Q&A 24 History Project 25 Progressive Perks 26 Date and Events 28 Around the Tech Center 34 Classifieds 35 Darwin Award 36

Table of Contents

Cover illustration provided by Steve Snyder of Big Steve's Chimney Repair San Luis Obispo, Calif.

Sweeping January 2017 Volume 41 Issue 1

Features Are You a Service Area or Home Services Business?

Have You Met Your Business Goals?

2017 NCSG Board of Directors Nominees

6 16 18 e hehreYr AnAontot CoCm Mete YoYuou M HaHvaeve

January 2017

Jim Brewer Gas Venting and NFPA 54 (317) 203-0088 x: 3 John Pilger Oil Flue Sizing, Relining or NFPA 31 (317) 203-0088 x: 4 Randy Brooks IRC, NFPA 211 or Customer Communications (317) 203-0088 x: 5 Bart Ogden Stainless Steel Lining, Video Scanning and Narrative Report Writing (317) 203-0088 x: 6

Fred Joy Installation and Venting of Pellet Stoves (317) 203-0088 x: 7 Jay Walker Dryer Vents (317) 203-0088 x: 8 Rett Rasmussen Vented and Vent Free Gas Logs and Controls (317) 203-0088 x: 9 Rich Martinez Dryer Vents or Masonry (317) 203-0088 x: * Rich Rua General Sweeping or Relining (317) 203-0088 x: 0

NATIONAL CHIMNEY SWEEP GUILD BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2016-2017

TECHNICAL ADVISORY COUNCIL

Chris Prior Masonry Construction and Restoration and Priorfire Fireboxes (317) 203-0088 x: 2

S W E E P I N G

2155 Commercial Drive Plainfield, IN 46168 (317) 837-1500 Fax: (317) 837-5365

Frances Kelly Excecutive Director fkelly@ncsg.org Megan McMahon Director of Finance mmcmahon@ncsg.org Debbie Cornelius Membership Development Coordinator dcornelius@ncsg.org Donna Lee Kasmer CSIA Certification Coordinator dkasmer@csia.org Claire Rutledge Program Coordinator crutledge@ncsg.org

January 2017

Darcy Marlett Director of Communications and Marketing dmarlett@ncsg.org Jordan Whitt CSIA Director of Communications and Marketing jwhitt@csia.org Ashley Edridge Director of Education ashley@csia.org Sara Sichting Office Manager ssichting@ncsg.org

COMMITTEE CHAIRS and TASK FORCES 2016 – 2017

2

STAFF

Resources

Region 6 Bob Ferrari (530) 941-5818 bob@flueseason.com

Vice President, Region 5 Jasper Drengler (715) 304-8934 drengler01@gmail.com

Secretary, At Large Director Gregg Boss (636) 391-2226 englishsweep@att.net

Treasurer, Region 3 Ron Rust (803) 730-5858 tophatswp@aol.com

At-Large Director Tom Hunkele (515) 249-6337 nopnotchchimney@gmail.com

Region 1 Mike Elliott (508) 987-6348 sootguy@aol.com

At-Large Director Dennis Dobbs (256) 845- 9814 info@fireplaceservicecenter. com

Region 2 Ed Ridgeway (856) 241-7999 masons@chimney-duct.com

To contact any member of the Technical Advisory Council, please call (317) 203-0088 and select the extension for the person who is best qualified to answer your question: Be advised that advice given by NCSG’s Technical Advisory Council (TAC) reflects best practices of the chimney sweeping industry. However, we are unable to account for any particular type of situation since regional variations in construction practices and additional environmental, physical and geographical factors necessarily vary the level of service appropriate for a particular fireplace and/or chimney.

Additionally, local laws and ordinances may govern and/ or supersede the information and any recommendations provided. Final determinations are the responsibility of a local professional with firsthand knowledge of the situation, and the local Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ). Neither NCSG nor any member of TAC will be held liable for any damages whatsoever resulting from the use of or reliance on information provided by anyone associated with TAC. By your use of this member benefit you acknowledge acceptance of these terms.

President, At Large Director Jeremy Biswell (913) 236-7141 fluesbrothers@yahoo.com

Region 4 Jeff Keefer 513-248-9600 info@chimneycareco.com

Supplier Representative Stuart Karanovich (765) 966-5084 stuartk@saversystems.com

Bylaws Jasper Drengler (715) 304-8934 drangler01@yahoo.com

Membership Bob Ferrari (530) 221-3331 bob@flueseason.com

Ethics Andy Raycroft (703) 836-7858 andy@rooftopchimneysweeps.con

NFPA 211 Representative Jim Brewer (757) 523-2400 jbrewer@magic-sweep.com

Governance Jay Walker (850) 562-4692 sweepingJ@aol.com

NFPA 31 Representative John Pilger (631) 863-2460 chimneyman@aol.com

Government Affairs Mike Elliot (508) 987-6348 sootguy@aol.com

NFPA 54 Jim Brewer (757) 523-2400 jbrewer@magic-sweep.com

International Relations John Pilger (631) 863-2460 chimneyman@aol.com

Technical Advisory Council Michael Segerstrom (908) 253-9190 chimneysweeps@optonline.net

Long Range Planning Jeremy Biswell (913) 236-7141 fluesbrothers@yahoo.com

Scholarship Committee Greg Boss (636) 391-2226 englishsweep@att.net

ADVERTISING RATES for Sweeping: The Journal of Chimney & Venting Technology may be obtained by contacting Malisa Minetree at (317) 815-4688 or sweepingads@me.com Layout and design by David Bruce, Red2 Design Bureau NCSG encourages industry partners to submit press releases and articles to editor Darcy Marlett at dmarlett@ncsg.org. Submissions should contain items of interest or importance to the chimney and venting industry. Submissions should not contain direct solicitations, prices, or a call to action on the part of our readers. Submissions may contain images or artwork attached in a .jpg format.

In all cases, NCSG reserves the right to edit submissions to fit space limitations, keep the release and publish at a later date, or refuse to publish the release for any reason. Neither publishing, nor refusing to publish the submission should be considered a statement of NCSG’s opinion regarding the release.

NCSG further reserves the right to reject at any time any advertising determined not to be in keeping with the publication’s standards.

Acceptance of advertising by Sweeping magazine does not necessarily constitute endorsement of products or services advertised. NCSG does not make any effort to review or substantiate claims made by advertisers. © 2017 National Chimney Sweep Guild, 2155 Commercial Drive, Plainfield, IN 46168. (317) 837-1500

A

s we finish off 2016 and reflect on the past year, we should always be thinking about our goals for the upcoming year.

I always consider several categories of goal setting: Business, personal, and family.

This exercise and reflection helps me better plan for my future and gives me a path to where I want my life to lead.

Let’s talk about some business goals. Here are some ideas: 1. Education – maybe attend some CSIA classes – online or live at the tech center.

Maybe attend a college course? Any local or state guilds holding any classes?

2. Attend the National Chimney Sweep Guild convention. It’s the 40th anniversary and it will be packed with networking opportunities, great speakers and education, and just a good way to get away and unwind with like-minded individuals.

It’s a great way to recharge after the busy season.

3. Set up an advertising schedule to keep in touch with your customers and attract new customers.

4. Work on your companies systems and operations.

5. Hire and train new employees.

I have found the slower months are a great time to do this in preparation for next season.

6. Set new financial goals and shop for better rates on insurance, equipment, etc. Also make sure you are charging what you are worth.

7. Eat lunch with someone a couple times a week. Maybe

another business owner to network with? Maybe an employee? Talk about something other than just business.

8. Hire a business coach. This is you allowing a coach to come in to your business and critique things for you. It may be a good way to improve things that you may not see need improvement.

President’s

Letter Jeremy Biswell

President

9. Delegate more. You can’t do it all. It's time to stop wearing all of the hats in your business and start bringing in others to pick up the slack.

10. Work on becoming a better communicator. Frequent issues with misunderstandings among employees, customers, lack of employee morale, and consistently wasting time repeating the same information over and over is a sign that you are communicating ineffectively.

Personal goals:

Happy New Year!

1. Fitness. This is an area everyone always needs work on. My goal for 2017 is to run a charity based 5k every month.

2. Nutrition. Try to eat better.

More of the green stuff.

Maybe try eating vegetarian a couple days a week? One bite at a time of course.

3. Financial — maybe save some more. Get out of debt?

Set up a retirement plan or tune up the one you have.

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4. Reconnect with friends.

We all get way too busy these days. Facebook is great, but breaking bread with an old friend is better. People want to feel known and needed.

5. Meditate more. Try to relieve the body of stress. Is your attitude suffering? Try some mental relaxation.

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January 2017

2. More date nights with your spouse.

Start a list of new restaurants to try.

3. Teach your kids how to work with their hands. It is a skill that is disappearing with children these days and will be the path to gold in the future as the trades search for more and more knowledgeable people.

4. Play with your kids.

Find some new parks to explore. Go on an adventure. Go camping.

Try a farmers market or local event. There are tons of weekend activities that are easily found with a quick internet search of “what’s happening this weekend in city”.

5. Take a class with your family. Martial arts, painting, crafts, cooking.

Whatever. There are lots of free classes put on at grocery stores.

6. Take a vacation.

It doesn’t have to be elaborate. Just go on an adventure.

7. Volunteer with your family. We help out at church. Brandi and Noah help occasionally at a local food kitchen.

8. Update or draft a will. They say there are two things in life you can’t get away from: death and taxes. Let’s make sure we have the death thing whipped as well as the taxes!

Hopefully this has given you a few ideas about goal setting for the next year.

Life is about trying, failing, conquering, then repeating. Do your best and good things will happen.

See you soon in Louisville, Kentucky.

Home of the NCSG 40th anniversary convention!

Jeremy Biswell, President NCSG

H

appy New Year Sweeps!

January is a time when many look ahead at the coming year and set new goals for their businesses. I recommend starting with this month’s President’s Letter from Jeremy Biswell. This month’s letter focuses on goal setting for your business, life, and family in the new year.

The diverse team of professionals who write for Sweeping are here to help you tackle tough business challenges with this month’s articles on working with Google (pg. 6), eliminating waste (pg. 12), and even legal advice (pg 16).

You will also want to check out this year’s board of directors nominees on page 18. Ballots will begin arriving in member mailboxes in mid-January.

Ballots are due back February 18, 2017. Our new board members will be seated at our convention board of directors meeting on March 14, 2017 in Louisville.

Editor’s

Letter Darcy Marlett Editor

I hope your year is off to a great start!

Cheers,

While you are making business resolutions for the year don’t forget to register for convention! You will find the convention schedule and registration form in this issue.

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January 2017

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Are You a Service Area or Home Services Business? Google Will Help You for The Right Price Taylor Hill

Spark Marketer

6 S W E E P I N G

F

or years, if you did the right things, it was relatively easy to show up in search results online. You just played by the rules, and if that didn’t work for you, you could hack the system with very little fear of repercussion.

Although our company never practiced grey or black hat practices to get around Google rules and guidelines, we knew that there were many marketing companies out there that did. And what pained us most was that it seemed that not only did those who were unethical in their practices go unpunished, they were sometimes rewarded.

At long last, Google has caught up to most of these practices and started penalizing those who don’t play by the rules. But, although their intention is to target scammy practices, the

January 2017

algorithm changes Google has made to do this oftentimes negatively impacts the innocents, and those of us in the optimization/marketing world are left scrambling to fix things.

As people continue to find new ways to adapt and scam the system, Google makes more and more changes. As a result, we’ve come to accept constant Google changes as normal. But over time, it’s become apparent that Google isn’t all that altruistic in their motives.

The Ugly Truth Google is a business. As is the case with most businesses, money talks. One thing that’s made itself more and more evident over time is that it’s becoming less and less about playing by Google’s rules and more and more about paying to play.

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Unfortunately, home services businesses seem to suffer the most from Google’s changes. And if you want my opinion, it’s because Google is so far removed from the home services industry, they don’t know how much their changes negatively impact these types of businesses.

Here are some examples…

Google Maps For a service area business, location is everything. But because you’re going to your customers’ homes instead of having them come to your location, where your shop is located is somewhat irrelevant to business.

Google doesn’t seem to get that.

Take a look at Google Maps and all the changes that have happened in that area. For a while, you could create a map listing for your business and have it show up when those in areas nearby searched for your services. Gradually, it became more and more about where you were located, and even where your searcher was located, not about the areas you served. For example, if your company serves Chicago but is located in a suburb outside of Chicago, you can forget about showing up when people searched for your services in Chicago, because you aren’t physically located there. Google also introduced paid ads to Google Maps, which means that even if you do show up, you may be competing for those top spots with companies that have much larger budgets.

Local Packs Look at the local packs that show up above organic search results. These local packs used to be premium real estate for service area businesses, but they’ve shrunk from 7 to 5 to 3, and, one of them is a paid ad.

That means there are 4 fewer spots for your business; 5 fewer if you aren’t willing to pay to play.

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Organic Organic search results, the one area that money can’t touch, right? But how far down the page do people have to look to even get to organic search results? Do a quick Google search. Your results will look like this: paid ads, map listings (which may be paid), and finally (after scrolling and scrolling), you get to organic results, followed by more ads. If we know one thing, it’s that humans are lazy, and Google’s making searchers work to get to the organic search results.

KeyWord Planner Looking to see what keywords and searches are leading people to your site? If you aren’t an active AdWords user, Google’s Keyword Planner isn’t going to help you out anymore! In the past, you could see how many people were searching for specific keywords no matter who you were. But now, in order to use this tool, you have to have an AdWords account. Even then, Google isn’t giving it all away anymore. They now provide “search volume data ranges,” like 10,000-1 million.

Now, that’s a pretty large and unhelpful range, if you ask me. Google has also started grouping similar or related terms together, so you don’t see keyword variants, like words that don’t have proper punctuation, shortened words, plurals, regional spellings, acronyms, etc. As a result, you get a bigger number with less truly helpful data.

Home Service Ads

8 S W E E P I N G

Google’s also pushing down the local 3 pack with their carousel of Home Service Ads. These ads carry a green checkmark and the words “Google Guaranteed,” as well as a click-to-call button and the company’s review ratings and locations. Want to show up as a qualified, pre-screened, “Google Guaranteed” business? You’re going to need an AdWords Express account (i.e. you’ll need money.)

These Home Service Ads are currently active in the San Francisco Bay Area and will be rolling out nationwide in 2017. It’s set up to look like Google is doing the hard work for the customer researching the best company for the job. But in reality, these are ads, which means companies are paying to show up as a “Google Guaranteed” service area business. Yes, they do perform background checks and require proof that the company is licensed and insured, but does Google really have the customer’s best interests in mind?

January 2017

If you read the fine print on what being a Google-backed home service company means, you’ll quickly realize that Google’s promise or backing of these companies is a joke. Here’s what you’ll find under the “What It Covers” area of the Google Guarantee: • If you are dissatisfied with the work quality, we’ll cover claims up to the job invoice amount, with a lifetime cap of $2,000.

• Jobs must be booked through Home Services.

Add-on or future projects, damages to property, dissatisfaction with price or provider responsiveness, and cancellations are not covered.

Here are the problems I see with this “Guarantee” for the consumer: • A lot of home services cost upwards of $1,000, but Google will only cover up to $2,000 over your lifetime. In other words, after a service or two, you’re not really protected.

• What if you choose to hire the company again, but this time you don’t do it through Google?

There’s no Google Guarantee to fall back on.

• What if the company damages your property? If the company isn’t responsive to your calls about the damage, oh well - not Google’s problem.

• Many home service companies require a down payment - especially if it’s a large job. If the “Google Guaranteed” company ends up being unresponsive or cancelling your service after you’ve handed over that deposit, you’re on your own.

Here are the problems I see for the business owner: • Should a dispute arise, Google will most likely side with the consumer because they are the end user, and Google knows there is another business just waiting for them to send over referrals. (i.e. they don’t care about you).

• If there is no “Guarantee” if the consumer doesn’t go through Google, then consumers will be more inclined to book services through this third party, which is a pipeline the business owner has no control over (Read the above again.)

• If Google gets complaints from consumers, they can drop you from the program at any time and leave you high and dry.

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• Any time there is a third party between you and your clients, it hinders the relationshipbuilding aspects necessary for better customer service and retention possibilities.

The fact is, the smaller companies without the budgets to “buy” their trustworthiness are going to lose business to those companies who can afford it. They won’t even show up above the fold if they can’t afford to pay to play. And ultimately, I see that as bad for both consumers and companies of all sizes. Competition is good for the market, and if a consumer can only find providers with the wallet breadth to ensure they’re seen, they may not be getting the company that best suits them. And those small companies that can’t afford to be seen are the very companies that can’t afford not to be seen.

10 S W E E P I N G January 2017

The Bottom Line So what’s the bottom line? There’s a lot we can’t control and no one out in Googleland is looking out for you. What this means for you as a business owner is that you need to do everything you can to boost customer retention and loyalty so consumers will stop looking online for your services. Provide the type of service that has them calling you - and only you - for the services you provide. Stay in touch with your customers throughout the year. The more you do to make yourself memorable and make your customers happy, the less you’ll have to worry about being at the mercy of an algorithm or a pay to play system.

Taylor Hill is Co-Founder and Crew Chief for Spark Marketer, a local online marketing company specializing in marketing for service businesses across the US. He loves the chimney industry and is passionate about helping service business owners navigate the Internet oceans filled with sharks and unsavory pirates. @ sparkmarketer, facebook.com/sparkmarketer, @taylorkhill

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rofit definition: The return one gets on an investment.

Waste definition: The following is the definition according to Webster • loss of something valuable that occurs because too much of it is being used or because it is being used in a way that is not necessary or effective • an action or use that results in the unnecessary loss of something valuable

Waste; Is It Where Your Profits May Be Hiding?

12 S W E E P I N G

• a situation in which something valuable is not being used or is being used in a way that is not appropriate or effective As the title states, waste is where your profits may be going.

After all, you operate a business that should have as one of its objectives building a business of value and operating with a healthy profit. Most financial experts will advise that you should have a goal of 15% as our profit and that does NOT include your salary or the salaries of others in your business. The goal should be for you to receive a salary commensurate with what it would cost to replace you in the business and have a 15% or higher profit on top of that. This can be done, and it can be done in the chimney and venting industries. It is being done. And if you are not doing that, then please stay with me.

You may have several concerns that are at the heart of your business frustrations. These could be things like building your sales to a higher level, or, the cost of insurance, or the ability to find people to work on your team. Very seldom do I find companies who have made

January 2017

the reduction and elimination of waste a priority goal. For some reason, it is hard for this issue to gain traction in our minds and as a major concern.

Probably right now it is RUN RUN RUN get to the next job, answer the phone, and any of a thousand things that need to be done every day, every minute, and even every second.

But, as we run and run and run, what is happening? Often we are unaware of waste eating into our profits, and, in effect, taking a large percentage of what we could be depositing into our bank accounts and sharing with our team members.

The problem is, we simply do not see the waste. We grow so accustomed to this, we become blind to it, we may even add a cost to cover it by raising our prices and penalizing our customers for this.

As an example, let’s take Toyota some years ago, a small Japanese car manufacturer that decided to enter the US Market.

And enter it they did to the point they became a leading supplier. Now how did they do this? They instituted TPS, the Toyota Production System, now utilized in many industries, and one we commonly call Lean.

I suggest as a business owner you research Lean. Check out the access we have to industry people who are users of the Lean concept in their businesses. We also have access to specialists in lean. There is a panel discussion at the next NCSG convention of people in the industry, and industry experts in Lean who will discuss this and you can hear how it works in the chimney service industry.

They will likely discuss “5 S” this is the infamous part of Lean that stands for Sort, Set in order, Shine, Standardize & Sustain. This involves the day to day organization of the work place and work flow. Some fellow industry members have had this process implemented into their operations, from warehouse to truck. All for the purpose to conserve and eliminate waste.

Waste will usually be divided as follows: Materials 5% Manpower 95% Unfortunately, the process of wasted manpower is something we cannot observe in our scrap piles. It simply disappears. And, the bad thing is you can never regain even one minute of lost time.

So, what do you as the manager

do? How do you track that invisible waste you simply never see? To accomplish this involves the daily collection of data, recording daily the incidents of waste, assigning them a cost, and from there tracing the cause of the waste, and figure out how to eliminate the cause so it does not repeat itself over and over and over.

That means, you must set up a system of waste tracking within the company, of recording each incident of waste you have, and assigning a cost to it. Only by doing this every day will you ever grasp the full depth of the problem. But this is only the start of the journey. Your next move is to track down the cause of each incident and then eliminate it from every occurring again.

There is of course more to the system than this, I am sure if you talk to some of the people at the next convention who are using this process they can share their thoughts on how to implement it.

And, just imagine, if you can cut your waste, the money you save goes directly to your bottom line. It becomes profit.

And profit is probably one of the goals for your business. I mean I am hopeful you are not in this industry as a non-profit entity.

To tackle the waste issue will take the following: First, dedicate this as a set goal; Second, commit to working on this daily; Third, understand it will never end Realize those things. Make this one of the goals of your business.

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January 2017

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It is right there, just like all the other required parts of the business management system, and you can watch your profits grow as your waste shrinks.

That way, as you grow your sales more ends up on the profit side and less ends up in the trash.

Think about it, and go for it. Your business return and value will thank you for this!

Jerry Isenhour is an industry consultant, educator and coach who authors article in Sweeping as a service to the industry. For more information about Jerry and how his team can assist you individually and your business in your quest for success and your ascent to the next level, take a look at his web site www.cvccoaching.com He can be contacted at jerry@cvccoaching. com or by phone at (704) 425-0217.

You can also obtain great business tips from his Facebook page CVC Coaching and Youtube channel CVCCoaching.

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S W E E P I N II G

asas eaeraHr H hehreYr Y onoen:e: AnAontot AndndGG lasl?s?

A a e o e o CoCmom sessGG e n n BuBsuisi Youorur Metet Y YoYuou M HaHvaeve Eugene M. LaFlamme

16 S W E E P I N G

A

nother year is in the books and it is time for us all to make our annual New Year’s resolutions. This is an annual exercise in my house and one that probably has about a 50% success rate – or less. So instead of focusing on resolutions that we likely won’t fulfill (i.e. spending less money, eating better, working less, or exercising more – although those are all admirable goals), take this opportunity to critically evaluate your business practices and assess what you and your team can do better.

A successful New Year’s resolution is one that is achievable and introspective. Set the goals early and see to it throughout the year that these goals

January 2017

are met, or at least are in the process of being met.

For sweeps and hearth professionals, some good New Year’s resolutions would include increasing safety training and awareness, better and more complete work documentation, and greater customer communication and education. The end goal of all these resolutions, of course, is to prevent mistakes, accidents and other misfortunes while fostering a successful business environment.

The reality is that each time a sweep or hearth professional has a claim filed against them, such activity could adversely affect their insurance in that they could be dropped or their premiums could increase. Over the past couple of years, the industry certainly has encountered struggles with maintaining consistent and cost effective insurance coverage. Consequently, sweeps and hearth

professionals should take every opportunity they can to present a business environment that is an attractive risk for insurers. New Year’s resolutions to better the industries’ safety and training practices will advance this effort.

If sweeps and hearth professionals are deemed a good risk, then more insurers will come into the marketplace. As more insurers write policies for the industry, the more competition there will be which “should” decrease premium costs.

While some claims are unavoidable, it is important for sweeps and hearth professionals to do what they can to minimize the potential for liability claims. This starts with adopting best business practices and ensuring that those practices are implemented from top to bottom. Incorporate your New Year’s resolutions into the business’ training process. Involve your employees and seek their input on what type of resolutions the company should make. This will allow all employees to be involved in a critical assessment of what best practices the company could improve on.

When making your New Year’s resolutions, write them down and check the list periodically throughout the year. For example, if one of the resolutions is to ensure all jobs are properly documented in detail, review the work documentation each month to see if the goals are being met. If certain employees are not documenting jobs, or not documenting them in enough detail, discuss the issue with the offending employee and work to rectify the problem. Remember, a safer business is a better business.

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Here’s to a great 2017!

Eugene M. LaFlamme is a partner at McCoy Leavitt Laskey LLC, a national defense firm specializing in fire and explosion cases. Eugene’s practice focuses on the defense of companies involved in the hearth and chimney industries. He can be contacted at elaflamme@MLLlaw.com or (262) 522-7000.

17 Call your favorite Lock-Top distributor today!

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January 2017

S W E E P I N G

2017 NCSG Board of Directors Nominees Here are your nominees for the upcoming election of NCSG directors. Please note that the following nominees are running for two-year terms (2017-18). New board members will be seated at the March 14, 2016 board of directors meeting in Louisville, Kentucky.

Voting Members: Ballots will be mailed from the NCSG office on January 17, 2017 and must be postmarked no later than February 18, 2017 when returned.

Seat: Region 1 (One Nominee) Representing: Voting members in Connecticut, Vermont, Massachusetts, New York, Maine, Rhode Island, New Hampshire

Matt Mair My name is Matt Mair and I, along with my wife Sarah, own Black Moose Chimney in Hillsborough, New Hampshire. Joining the Guild in 2009 was a pivotal time in my life and career – I learned the value of the experience, depth of insight, and camaraderie the Guild membership had to offer, and I would like to share that with others with others in the industry. We're not just sticking brushes in flues – we truly are improving the lives of our customers through our work!

I became CSIA-certified the same year as joining the Guild. From supporting and advocating for local gatherings of chimney professionals and the National Convention to currently participating on the board of directors for the NEACHP, I have been a long-time proponent of education in the industry.

A bit more about myself: I'm a father of six, love to hunt, ride motorcycles, hike in the White Mountains, and spend quiet evenings with my family at home with a warm fire burning in the stove.

Seat: Region 5 (One Nominee) Representing: Voting members in North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, Nebraska, Colorado, Kansas, Arkansas, Oklahoma, New Mexico, Texas, Louisiana

Jasper Drengler (Incumbent) Drengler is the owner of Chimney Mechanix in Shawano, WI. He is currently Region 5 Director and Vice President of NCSG. When asked why he seeks election, Drengler responds, “I want to help other business owners; I want to share with them what I have learned. There is always room for improvements, for learning, for adapting for the future.

NCSG members are the best sweeps, we need to continue this and educate ourselves and the public.” Drengler spends a fair amount of time visiting sweep gatherings around the country on his own dime. He desires to keep the Guild heading in the right direction.

Drengler attended Northeast Wisconsin Technical College to be an auto mechanic. He has seventeen years of experience in the industry and has owned his own company for over a decade.

18 S W E E P I N G January 2017

Seat: At Large Director #1 (One Nominee) Representing: National Membership

Dennis Dobbs (Incumbent) Dennis Dobbs is the owner of The Fireplace Service Company a chimney service company and retail hearth store located in Fort Payne, AL. He has been an active chimney sweep for 33 years and a CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep and a member of NCSG since 1989.

Dobbs has previously served on the NCSG Board of Directors and as the NCSG Technical Advisory Council Chairman and is current President of The Southern Association of Chimney Professionals.

Seat: At Large Director #2 (Two Nominees) Representing: National Membership

Jeff Peterson Jeff Peterson is a retired Army Colonel (Corps of Engineers) with 30 years of leadership experience. Peterson believes his background and expertise as a retired senior military officer with extensive experience leading people, organizations and developing strategic policy guidance will be of benefit to NCSG. He is the president of Potomac Services in Sterling, VA and also serves as the Education Director of the Mid-Atlantic Chimney Association.

Lauren Pilger Lauren Pilger is a second generation Chimney sweep. Beginning her career with her parents in New York and then moving to Colorado and continuing her career there.

She has previously served as the area VP for the NYSCG. She grew in the industry and is an dedicated volunteer for Sweeps week and enjoys furthering her education in the Chimney Industry.

Seat: Supplier Director (One Nominee) Representing: National Supplier Membership

Seat: Supplier Director (One Nominee) Representing: National Supplier Membership

Stuart Karanovich (Incumbent) Stuart Karanovich spent over a decade in the industry. He currently serves as the Director of Sales at SaverSystems.

When asked why he wished to serve on the board of directors Karanovich said, “My motivation is simple, to give back. Our industry has provided me with a challenging and enjoyable profession, as well as supporting my family. I realize that there is a lot of heavy lifting behind the scenes which makes that possible. It’s time to add my shoulder to the wheel…”

NCSG Board Members Are Responsible for: Attending four board meetings each year: Two of the meetings are held at the CSIA Technology Center in Indianapolis (Spring- typically held for three days, Summer- typically held for two days), the November meeting is typically held online and via teleconference and the fourth is held immediately before the annual NCSG convention at the host city. Travel and lodging expenses are reimbursed for board members attending meetings, with the exception of the convention meeting only.

Connecting members to regional legislation affecting the industry Communicating with members in region

January 2017

19 S W E E P I N G

NCSG National Convention 2017 March 15- 18 - Louisville, KY Schedule as of 12/27/2017 and Subject to Change Tuesday, March 14 8:00 AM CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review & Exam 9:00 AM CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician Review & Exam - Additional Registration Required 1:00 PM NCSG Board of Directors Meeting 3:00 PM CSIA Board of Directors Meeting 6:00 PM State Guild President’s Meeting 6:00 PM Chimney Sweeping Around the World Wednesday, March 15 9:00 AM NCSG Annual Membership Meeting 9:45 AM CSIA Information Meeting 10:30 AM Coffee Break 11:00 AM Opening Keynote: The Cold Hard Ugly Truth About Success w/ Larry Winget 12:30 AM Opening Keynote Book Signing 2:00 PM How to be Successful Regardles of Company Size w/ Chuck Roydhouse 2:00 PM Fireplace Testing at the Wardenclyffe Hearth Lab w/ Chris Prior & John Meredith 2:00 PM How to Build a Cricket Pt. 1 w/ Trent Simmons 3:30 PM Soda Break 4:00 PM Grass Roots Marketing-Using Networking and Social Media to Grow Your Business w/ Jamie Pagliei 4:00 PM Fireplace Testing at the Wardenclyffe Hearth Lab w/ Chris Prior & John Meredith 4:00 PM How to Build a Cricket Pt. 2 w/ Trent Simmons 7:00 PM Opening Night Party @ Sports and Social Club - Additional Registration Required Thursday, March 16 8:15 AM Hearth Industry Jeopardy! w/ Rick Vlahos 8:15 AM Speaking of Wood Stoves w/ Chris Neufeld 8:15 AM How to Get Paid on Time While Keeping Happy Customers PLUS Tax Tips Your Accountant Never Told You About! w/ Tom Grandy

10:00 AM General Session: More with Less: LEAN Discussion Panel 11:30 AM Group Photo 11:50 AM New Sweep Seminar & Trade Show Sneak Peak 1:00 PM Opening Trade Show Session Friday, March 17 9:00 AM Closing Trade Show Session 9:00 AM Bakery Basket Sponsored by CSIA 1:30 PM The Factory-Built Fireplace Change-Out Market w/ Jerry Isenhour 1:30 PM What Every Chimney Sweep Should Know about Animals in Chimneys w/ Ken Robinson 1:30 PM Making Forward Scheduling Easy & Effective w/ Russ Dimmitt 3:15 PM Techniques to Improve the Quality of Service & Sales w/ Victor Imgarten 3:15 PM First Aid and the Chimney Sweep w/ Bob Fish 3:15 PM Making Forward Scheduling Easy & Effective w/ Russ Dimmitt 8:00 PM CSIA Benefit Auction Saturday, March 18 8:30 AM Masonry Arch Construction w/ Chris Prior 8:30 AM Dryer Vents: The Time is Now w/ John Bently 8:30 AM Selling Has Nothing to do with Selling w/ Rick Farrell 10:00 AM Coffee Break 11:00 AM Chimney Sweeping, the Last 40 Years w/ Bob Daniels 11:00 AM Selling Has Nothing to do with Selling w/ Rick Farrell 11:00 AM Masonry Arch Construction w/ Chris Prior 2:00 PM Closing Keynote: Get it Done, Win the Battle w/ Chuck Hall 6:00 PM Cocktail Hour 7:00 PM Annual Banquet and 40th Anniversary Celebration

Find out more at: www.ncsgconvention.org

NCSG Convention 2017 • March 15-18 • Louisville, KY NCSG Member Rates Primary

Through 1/14/17

1/15/172/15/17

$499 (399)

$549 (449)

After 2/15/17 $599 (499)

Spouse $199 $249 $299 1st Additional $349 ($249) $399 ($299) $449($349) 2nd Additional $299 ($199) $349 ($249) $399($299) 3+ Additional $249 ($149) $299 ($199) $349($249) Single Day $199 $199 $199 Banquet Only $79 $79 $79 Child Banquet 5-12 $39 $39 $39 Tradeshow Only $69 $69 $69 NOTE: First Time Attendee prices for members are in parenthesis ( ).

Company_________________________________________ Address __________________________________________ City, State, Zip _____________________________________ Phone ___________________________________________ Email ____________________________________________ □ Check here to opt-out to emails from exhibitors

Standard Rates

Through 1/14/17

1/15/172/15/17

After 2/15/17

Primary

$599 $649 $699 (499) (549) (599) Spouse $299 $349 $399 1st Additional $449 $499 $549 nd 2 Additional $399 $449 $499 3+ Additional $349 $399 $449 Single Day $299 $299 $299 Banquet Only $99 $99 $99 Child Banquet 5-12 $39 $39 $39 Tradeshow Only $99 $99 $99 - Opening Night ReceptionAdditional Registration Required $25/ per person. Join us for heavy appetizers, a cash bar, games, fun and catching up with old friends at Sports and Social on Louisville’s famous 4th Street Live! Wednesday night.

Please write your name as you’d like it to appear on your badge.

Check if wanting an additional information packet mailed (primary packet emailed with registration confirmation).

Name _____________________________________________________________ Registrant Type ______________________________________________________ $ ___________________ Name _____________________________________________________________ Registrant Type ______________________________________________________ $ ___________________ Name _____________________________________________________________ Registrant Type ______________________________________________________ $ ___________________ Name _____________________________________________________________ Registrant Type ______________________________________________________ $ ___________________ Registration Total $ ___________________ Opening Night Tickets ($25/each) Qty: ________ Ticket Total $ ___________ 2017 Convention Patch ($3/each - Pickup on-site.) Qty: ________ Patch Total $ ___________ GRAND TOTAL $ ___________ MAIL TO: National Chimney Sweep Guild 2155 Commercial Drive, Plainfield, IN 46168 PAYMENT INFORMATION FAX TO: (317) 837-5365 CALL: (317) 837-1500 Payment Method: □ Check # ___________ REGISTER ONLINE at www.ncsgconvention.org □ Visa □ MC □ AmEx Account # ________________________________________ Card Security Code ______________ Exp. __________ Office Use Only O2CR C2F AUTH__________ Name on Card ____________________________________ Org ID___________ Profile ID____________ Signature ________________________________________ Rec’d By__________ Date ____________ Refund policy: Prior to 1/15/17, 90%; 1/15/17-2/15/17, 75%.

No refunds are available after 2/15/17.

New

Members

NEW YORK

VIRGINIA

OHIO

TEXAS

WASHINGTON

David Dimarco | Paramount Chimney & Gutter Corp |East Islip

Brian Reeder | SirVent | Falls Church

Benjamin D. Hickey | Thermo-Rite Manufacturing | Akron

Chad Murray | Master Services, Inc. | Denton

John Beiermann | Travis Industries | Mukilteo

SOUTH CAROLINA

Darren Sparks | Sparks Monroe Heating and Chimney | Ontario

Drew Stein | Chimspector Venting Specialists |Columbia

NEW JERSEY

MISSOURI Chris Morris | STL Chimney | St. Charles

ILLINOIS

S W E E P I N G January 2017

REGION

22

REGION

REGION

Bill Cummins | Appliance Master |Flemington

James Levendahl | Clean Sweep Fireplace and Chimney Service | Rantoul Jeffey Thornton | Fireplace and Chimney Tech Services LLC | Joliet Rick Vlahos | National Fireplace Institute | McHenry

6

REGION

54 65 Gregory Rampertab | High Point Chimney Services, LLC | Raritan Boro

REGION

REGION REGION

REGION

REGION REGION

REGION REGION

REGION REGION

2 14 34 245 5 356 6

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Technical

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Michael Segerstrom

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Question:

24 S W E E P I N G

As a business owner I try to build on my business at the start of each year; sort of like a New Year's resolution. One year we added dryer vent cleaning and got several technicians certified. Before that we added chimney rebuilding services.

This year I was thinking about adding pellet appliance installation and service. The first question that comes to my mind about it is, do I need a whole new set of tools?

Answer: Generally speaking, no. But there are a few must-have pieces of equipment specific to servicing pellet appliances.

Some of the things that we already have as chimney service professionals include a good vacuum, a variety of hand tools, smaller handheld brushes, and likely high temperature silicone.

We will need specialized rods and brushes for cleaning the vent, whether it's a short through the wall vent, a vertical vent, or a chimney liner for a pellet insert. Especially for the longer venting systems, will need smaller diameter flexible rods. If we already clean dryer vents, then our dryer vent rods and brushes may be suitable.

Three and four inch brushes will be necessary. Similar to dryer vent service, many sweeps that service pellet appliances will attach the rods to a drill for rotary service of the pellet venting system.

There's often more passageways in a pellet stove. We will need hand tools for disassembly of internal components, and small brushes and small vacuum hoses for servicing of these areas.

One must-have item is a multimeter, as pellet stoves have multiple electronic parts and safety controls.

When troubleshooting a pellet appliance that isn't working properly, we may have to test voltage in different parts of the system to ensure it is being delivered to the motors and switches.

Perhaps the biggest tool we will use is our knowledge and understanding of these

January 2017

appliances. So the biggest investment we will probably make when adding pellet appliance service, will be the necessary training. We should get this training and education before we offer the service.

There are a variety of sources, including from manufacturers, trade organizations and the National Fireplace Institute (NFI) which offers pellet certification.

Many pellet appliances have very similar basic functions and components, but the locations and access to these can vary widely. Understanding the similarities and differences is vital to providing professional service.

Once we have received the proper training and have the necessary servicing tools and equipment, we should also request the appliance manual from the homeowner on every call. If they don't have it, it's usually not that hard to obtain if the homeowner knows the make and model. The manuals typically have very helpful servicing instructions and diagrams of components that need disassembly during service.

Like any new provided service we undertake, not everything can be taught in the classroom.

But having the right training and equipment ahead of time will help hone our skills as we move forward working in the field.

“From the Desk of the President” Recently donated by CSIA’s Director of Education Ashley Eldridge, this letter from President Ronald Reagan discusses the forever present threat of fires in the home. Enjoy this piece of presidential history!

History

Project Claire Rutledge

Prgram Coordinator

25 S W E E P I N G January 2017

Progressive

Perks

Debbie Cornelius

Membership Development Coordinator

7 Reasons Why You Join A Trade Association!

E

very few years I like to run this article in Sweeping for current NCSG members and those that should be members. The first question one should ask is “Why go it alone when taking one of the biggest risks in your lives?” Next, review the 7 reasons why you have or should join a trade association.

opportunities of belonging.

• SUPPORT: As a member you now have access to hundreds of individuals who are actually unpaid consultants or advisors that can help you succeed.

They offer information, inspiration and sometimes even a shoulder to cry on.

• INFORMATION: Opportunity to learn about key industry trends, regulations, vendors thru newsletters, magazines, emails, discussion list, technical sessions at convention and networking with peers.

• INSPIRATION: “Aha!” moments may be one person’s idea that springboards your own. Again this comes about thru the many networking

• REFERRALS AND OTHER NEW BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES: Not only do these come from the trade association’s website but from other members of the trade as well. And again, it may be a referral from another member of the trade in an area they do not service or possibly a need for assistance in a project that is too large to handle alone.

• RESOURCES: The best resource is a colleague

ENERVEX CHIMNEY FANS: THE GUARANTEED SOLUTION TO SMOKING FIREPLACES SAFE

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January 2017

willing to share information or experiences.

The most obvious is access to qualified vendors who understand the industry. And finally, member benefits such as industryspecific insurance at a discounted price.

• AFFIRMATION: You may think everyone else is more knowledgeable but then you share an idea and other members use the information. This is definitely an ego kick and confidence builder when other members of the trade say it and show it.

• FUN: Those that succeed are those that have fun both at home and in business. Becoming an “Active” member of the trade can make you a happier person plus you will make life long friends and meet interesting colleagues.

The best resources in business are the people you meet within your trade – informed and experienced. And it is so easy. Attend a training class, join the Discussion List, join in all of the activities available at the Annual Convention

and Tradeshow and you will be exposed to many different colleagues from all over the country who are more than willing to share their experiences, knowledge and even the mistakes they have made. This all adds up to spending your time wisely, increasing your chances of success in business and having some fun as well!

I look forward to seeing many of you at the NCSG 2017 Convention and Tradeshow in Louisville, KY. Be sure to stop by the tradeshow booth and say hello!

Dates and

Events January 2016

28 S W E E P I N G

January 2-8, 2017 CSIA (online) - Chimney Physics - CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review - CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician Review - CSIA eLearning - Health & Safety Multi-User Courses - Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.CSIA.org January 9-10, 2017 Ropes Safety Class Houston, TX For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.CSIA.org CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep® Review & Exams CSIA Technology Center For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.CSIA.org January 9-15, 2017 CSIA (online) - Chimney Physics - CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review - CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician Review - CSIA eLearning - Health & Safety Multi-User Courses - Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.CSIA.org January 16-22, 2017 CSIA (online) - Chimney Physics - CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review - CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician Review - CSIA eLearning - Health & Safety Multi-User Courses - Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.CSIA.org January 18-20, 2017 Olympia All Star Event - 3-days Hilton - Scranton, PA For more information, please call (570) 504-7128 or visit www.olympiachimney.com January 20, 2017 CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep® Review & Exams CSIA Technology Center

January 2017

For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.CSIA.org January 23-29, 2017 CSIA (online) - Chimney Physics - CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review - CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician Review - CSIA eLearning - Health & Safety Multi-User Courses - Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.CSIA.org January 30 – February 5, 2017 CSIA (online) - Chimney Physics - CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review - CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician Review - CSIA eLearning - Health & Safety Multi-User Courses - Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.CSIA.org

February 2017 February 6-12, 2017 CSIA (online) - Chimney Physics - CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review - CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician Review - CSIA eLearning - Health & Safety Multi-User Courses - Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.CSIA.org February 3, 2017 CSIA One Day Chimney Physics CSIA Technology Center For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.CSIA.org February 13-18, 2017 CSIA National Chimney Sweep Training School CSIA Technology Center For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.CSIA.org February 13-19, 2017 CSIA (online) - Chimney Physics - CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review - CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician Review - CSIA eLearning - Health & Safety Multi-User Courses - Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.CSIA.org

February 20-26, 2017 CSIA (online) - Chimney Physics - CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review - CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician Review - CSIA eLearning - Health & Safety Multi-User Courses - Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.CSIA.org February 27- March 5, 2017 CSIA (online) - Chimney Physics - CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review - CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician Review - CSIA eLearning - Health & Safety Multi-User Courses - Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.CSIA.org

March 2017

- Health & Safety Multi-User Courses - Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.CSIA.org March 13-26, 2017 CSIA (Online Education) NO ONLINE CLASSES – DUE TO NCSG CONVENTION March 10-24, 2017 CSIA (Online Exams) NO ONLINE EXAMS – DUE TO NCSG CONVENTION March 14, 2017 CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep® Review & Exams Galt House – Louisville, KY (NCSG Convention) For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.CSIA.org March 14, 2017 CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician® Review & Exams Galt House – Louisville, KY (NCSG Convention) For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.CSIA.org

March 6-12, 2017 CSIA (online) - Chimney Physics - CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review - CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician Review - CSIA eLearning

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29 S W E E P I N G

CSIA UPDATE January 2017 Report

www.CSIA.org

CSIA Launches New Website The Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) has launched a new version of www. csia.org, which replaces a version that had been in use for nearly a decade. The new website contains the same essential content for both homeowners and industry professionals, but is a drastic leap forward in terms of design and functionality.

“We are incredibly excited about the new CSIA website”, said CSIA Executive Director, Frances Kelly. “With the huge growth in web traffic we have experienced over the past few years, making our website easier to navigate for both desktop and mobile users became a top priority for us. We are incredibly pleased with the final result.”

As part of the new website launch, CSIA also introduced a new logo for their CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician (C-DET) credential. The new C-DET logo, based on the current CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep logo, will begin gradually replacing the pervious C-DET logo on C-DET credential holder’s identification badges in the beginning of 2017.

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January 2017 Report

Newly Certified Chimney Sweeps: California Gideon Miller | A to Z Chimney Sweeps | Lincoln Indiana Craig Dukate | Dukate Fine Remodeling | Franklin

MASTER

Florida Randy Russo | Averus | Middleburg New York Nathaniel Larson | North American Chimney & Gutter | Bay Shore

Newly Certified MASTER SWEEP: Dave Bancroft | Sweepnman, Inc. | North Reading, MA

Newly Certified Dryer Exhaust Technicians: Illinois Mark Borgens | Kleen Sweep Maintenance Chimney Sweeps | Lombard Michigan Lawrence Winer | Neat Sweep Dryer Vent Services | Oak Park

CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps Renewing with CEUs: Paul Bogdonoff | Tri-State Chimney Sweep, LLC | Winchester, NH Jason Avery | Ryan & Son Chimney Contractors | Landing, NJ William Ryan | Ryan & Son Chimney Contractors | Landing, NJ Joe WIll | Glowing Embers Fireplace Gallery at Aftons | Erie, PA Lee Roff | Lords Chimney | Houston, TX

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Unsure of where you stand on CEUs for your credential renewal? Just log into your CSIA.org profile and click the “View My CEUs” link!

www.CSIA.org

2017 UPCOMING CLASSES Chimney Physics

February 3, 2017 | CSIA Technology Center | Plainfield, IN

National Chimney Sweep Training School February 13 - 18, 2017 | CSIA Technology Center | Plainfield, IN

CCS & CDET Reviews & Exams March 14, 2017 | NCSG Convention | Louisville, KY

Find additional upcoming classes at www.csia.org/education.

Annual CSIA Benefit Auction

Contact Us: Mailing Address 2155 Commercial Drive Plainfield, IN 46168 Telephone (317) 837-5362 Email: Office@CSIA.org Twitter: @Chimney_Safety Facebook: /ChimneySafety

March 17, 2017 NCSG National Convention Louisiville, Kentucky Ready to become a CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep or Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician?

Give us a call at (317) 837-5362!

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January 2017 Report Meet the CSIA Executive Director: Frances Kelly craft meaningful legislation.

Why CSIA certification is important to Frances: Through my work at the State of Indiana, it became clear to me that it’s important to make sure professionals have an easily identifiable base line of training in order to provide customers with a good product or service.

Where Frances sees herself in 15 years: Somewhere on a beach! I also see myself having the time to do volunteer work for children’s causes, something I’m very passionate about.

Hometown: I grew up in Fairfield, Ohio, but I fell in love with Indiana while attending Indiana University and I eventually made the Indianapolis area my permanent home.

How she got her start in the industry: I originally started working with associations while employed by

the State of Indiana with an agency named Indiana Professional Licensing Agency (IPLA). IPLA was responsible for compliance oversight of regulated occupations within Indiana. Part of the oversight function was to propose legislative actions to further regulate or deregulate various professions.

In doing so, it was important to with various associations and lobbyists to

Best piece of advice she’s ever been given (and from whom): “No one’s going to fight your battles for you.”

That was my grandmother who raised me from the time I was 18 months old.

That said, I’m immensely fortunate to have had my husband Frank along my side for more than 30 years now. He’s always been my biggest advocate.

A little more about Frances: The Kelly house consists of my husband Frank, daughter Regan, two dogs (Oscar and Sadie, and a cat named George.)

CSIA Education Roadshow

Excellence in Education. Delivered.

To-your-door expertise.

grow your business.

CSIA Education Roadshow allows you to experience the industry standard in chimney sweep education and earn valuable CEUs through in-person courses provided by one of CSIA’s expert instructors at YOUR event.

Including CSIA Roadshow as part of your event will provide you with several opportunities for promoting your company or product, both on-site during the session, as well as through CSIA’s social networks and e-newsletter.

Leverage the CSIA’s network and

Get started.

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Literally anyone who wants to include a CSIA Roadshow session and has access to a suitable location can submit a request.

For more information on how to bring CSIA education to your event, please contact CSIA Program Coordinator, Claire Rutledge, at (317) 837-5362.

Around the

Tech Center.

H Frances Kelly

Executive Director

appy New Year! We’ve had a lot to celebrate here at the Tech Center as 2016 came to a close.

Along with the holidays we have had quite a few staff birthdays to celebrate. Additionally, we were proud to show off the Tech Center on a morning broadcast of local Indianapolis News Station WTHR.

34 S W E E P I N G January 2017

In December our lab’s “Telltale House” was repaired. We are excited to once again share this invaluable learning tool with National Chimney Sweep Training School students in 2017.

We hope your 2017 is off to a great start and the staff and I can’t wait to see you at convention in Louisville!

Classifieds GasVent Software for Sizing Chimneys only $195 Call 1-800-648-9523 for more info and visit www.elitesoft.com to download a free trial version.

Chimney Solutions, based in Atlanta, GA, is looking for Installers and Salespeople with the desire to move into management. Pay is commensurate with experience. CS is willing to pay for certifications for those who qualify. Send resumes to dpace@chimneysolutions. com or visit our website at www. chimneysolutions.com.

CLASSIFIED ADS FREE FOR NCSG MEMBERS Members can run one 35-word classified free each year! Regular classified ads are $2/word or $1/ word for NCSG members. Classified ads are non-commissionable and must be pre-paid. To place a classified ad, please contact Sara Sichting at ssichting@ncsg.org or 317-837-1500.

35 S W E E P I N G January 2017

Darwin

Award

“Looks like this chimney just wants to blend in with the railings.”

-Photo taken by Griffin King, Rooftop Chimney Sweeps LLC in Alexandria, VA

Have you snapped a photo of a peculiar chimney in your area that made you shake your head in disbelief?

Send it to editor Darcy Marlett at dmarlett@ ncsg.org. for publication in Sweeping. Or, mail it to NCSG, 2155 Commercial Drive, Plainfield, IN 46168. Include a few words about the scene and location.

Ad Index A Step In Time

757-754-1388

Ray@ChimneySweep.com

Cathedral Stone Products, Inc

800-684-0901

info@cathedralstone.com 7

Back Cover

Copperfield 800-247-3305 www.copperfield.com 9 CVC Coaching

704-425-0217

www.cvccoaching.com 10

Duct Cleaners Supply

507-465-3829

4viper@ductcleanerssupply.com 35

ENERVEX 770-587-3238 www.enervex.com 26 Firesafe Industries, Inc.

800-545-6607

Gelco™, Lyemance™, and Lock-Top®

www.firesafeinc.com 14 www.gllchimneyproducts.com

15, 17

ICP 508-695-7000 www.chimneycaps.com 29

36 S W E E P I N G

Lindemann Chimney Company

866-629-8006

www.lindemannsupply.com 13

National Chimney

800-897-8481

www.nationalchimney.com

New England Chimney Supply

888-900-8106

www.newenglandchimneysupply.com 23

Olympia Chimney Supply

800-569-1425

www.olympiachimney.com 11

Sand Hill Wholesale & Mfg., Inc

800-258-5496

www.sandhillwholesale.com 5

SaverSystems, Inc

800-860-6327

www.saversystems.com 27

Ventech Industries

207-439-0069

info@ventechindustries.com 4

January 2017

Inside Front Cover

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