May 2012 by National Chimney Sweep Guild

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NCSG Innovation 2013 Branson, MO April 4-7, 2013

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May 2012 Volume 36 #4

Table of Contents Features 14 Name that Fireplace! P.30

16 Power of Attorney, Why Have One? 22 Sweep up Savings, Success and Profit 30 The Luckiest Hand You’ll Ever Shake 32 Meet the Guild 34 7 Keys to Business Networking Growth 39 Damper Claims P.32

Departments 3 Moving Forward 6 Editor’s Letter 8 Industry Watch 10 Technical Q&A 12 Chimney Sense P.43

Sweeping: The Journal of Chimney and Venting Technology (ISSN# 10416692) is published 11 times annually, by the National Chimney Sweep Guild, 2155 Commercial Drive, Plainfield, IN 46168. Annual dues to the National Chimney Sweep Guild are $459 for Voting Member Companies and $689 for Supplier Member Companies, of which $80 goes toward a subscription to Sweeping: The Journal of Chimney and Venting Technology. Additional annual subscriptions are available for $80 by contacting the National Chimney Sweep Guild at the office of publication (NCSG, 2155 Commercial Drive, Plainfield, IN 46168). POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Sweeping: The Journal of Chimney and Venting Technology National Chimney Sweep Guild 2155 Commercial Drive Plainfield, IN 46168

14 Coach’s Corner 20 Progressive Perks 20 Sweeps Advantage Coupons 38 New NCSG Members 40 Dates & Events 41 Perspective 43 Darwin Awards 43 Display Ad Index 44 Classified Ads MAY 12 SWEEPING 1

ResourcePage

NATIONAL CHIMNEY SWEEP GUILD

COMMITTEE CHAIRS AND TASK FORCES FOR 2011-2012 Bylaws Diane Pilger (631) 863-2460 chimneygal@aol.com

Governance Randy Brooks (805) 646-8961 hearthhunter@aol.com

NFPA 211 Representative Randy Brooks (805) 646-8961 hearthhunter@aol.com

Convention Site Selection Diane Pilger (631) 863-2460 chimneygal@aol.com

Government Affairs Phil Mitchell (603) 659-7776 sootski@aol.com

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

Discussion List Marge Padgitt (816) 461-3665 margepadgitt@comcast.net

International Relations Victor Imgarten (636) 477-9966 stlswp@accessus.net

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

Ethics Mark Stoner (615) 459-2546 ashbusters@aol.com

Long Range Planning Diane Pilger (631) 863-2460 chimneygal@aol.com

Public Awareness Task Force Marge Padgitt (816) 461-3665 margepadgitt@comcast.net

Finance Mark Maynard (920) 830-1920 mark@chimneyguy.com

Membership Jeremy Biswell (913) 236-7141 fluesbrothers@yahoo.com

Technical Advisory Council Dennis Dobbs (256) 845-9814 info@fireplaceservicescenter.com

TECHNICAL ADVISORY COUNCIL 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: Dennis Dobbs Technical Advisory Council Chair Installation or Service of Direct Vent Gas Appliances 317-203-0088 x: 1 Chris Prior Masonry Construction and Restoration and Priorfire Fireboxes 317-203-0088 x: 2 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

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

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

Rich Martinez Dryer Vents or Masonry 317-203-0088 x: * Rich Rua General Sweeping or Relining 317-203-0088 x: 0

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 first-hand 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.

ADVERTISING RATES for Sweeping: The Journal of Chimney & Venting Technology may be obtained by contacting Malisa Minetree at (317) 815-4688 or SweepingAds@indy.rr.com Design by Laura Houser Design • laurahouser.com • (317) 213-7497 NCSG encourages industry partners to submit press release and articles to Melissa Heeke, Sweeping Editor at mheeke@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 publications’ 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. © 2012 National Chimney Sweep Guild, 2155 Commercial Drive, Plainfield, IN 46168 (317) 837-1500

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NCSG BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2012-2013 President, Region 3 Jay Walker (850) 562-4692 • president@ncsg.org Vice President At-Large Diane Pilger (631) 863-2460 • chimneygal@aol.com Treasurer, Region 5 Mark Maynard (920) 830-1920 • mark@chimneyguy.com Secretary Jeremy Biswell (913) 236-7141 • fluesbrothers@yahoo.com Region 1 Phil Mitchell (603) 659-7776 • sootski@aol.com Region 2 Bob Fleer (410) 544-7600 • bobfleer@aol.com Region 4 Ken Hoelscher (937) 833-0505 • ken@abbeyroadchimneysweeps.com Region 6 Bob Ferrari (530) 941-5818 • bob@flueseason.com At-Large Directors Dennis Dobbs (256) 845-9814 • info@fireplaceservicecenter.com Fred Joy (785) 986-6432 • joyfredm@live.com Supplier Representative Edmund Poplawski (570) 504-7107 • epoplawski@olympiachimney.com

STAFF 2155 Commercial Drive Plainfield, IN 46168 (317) 837-1500 Fax: (317) 837-5365 Mark McSweeney, CAE Executive Director mmcsweeney@ncsg.org

Megan McMahon Office Manager mmcmahon@ncsg.org

Melissa Heeke, CAE Director of Communications & Marketing mheeke@ncsg.org

Sara Sichting Certification Coordinator (CSIA) ssichting@csia.org

Ashley Eldridge, COI, CPP Director of Education ashley@ncsg.org

Debbie Cornelius Membership Development Coordinator dcornelius@ncsg.org

Candice Bradbury Director of Finance cbradbury@ncsg.org

Donna Lee Kasmer Program Coordinator dkasmer@ncsg.org

Moving Forward

JAY WALKER NCSG PRESIDENT

hat are you doing this spring to help your business down the road? Have you started implementing new services? Hopefully, if you were in Orlando for NCSG Innovation 2012, you brought back some gold nuggets and are busy implementing them. If you weren’t in Orlando, have you taken some time to review how your business has operated since last year at this time? Is it what you expected? How can you improve on it for next year? If you’re an NCSG member, are you utilizing your membership benefits? If you’re not a member, what are you waiting for? According to our industry-wide survey, NCSG members reported a better financial performance than the industry average. This better performance is 186% better than those who have never been members of the NCSG. By this data alone, it tells us there is power in numbers and education and communication. Also, NCSG members reported that their gross income status was up 127% more than that from 10 years ago. Those who have never been members reported their gross income only up a mere 2% over the same 10 years of time. Those are just a couple of the nuggets that we have pulled from the recent industry survey. Every year in May, the NCSG Board of Directors focuses on planning and setting a path for implementation for the coming year. It’s a never ending process of tweaking the system. Sometimes, implementation can be some very simple change that we’ve not seen and have made too complicated to get the intended results. This is where the “KISS”, (keep it simple stupid), principle come into play. We

strive to recognize items that need to be implemented and shelve the items that are completed or didn’t do as well as expected. We hope to uncover even more useful nuggets of information from the industry survey that we may have been missing so we can better the Guild and better the industry. At the last board meeting in Orlando, the entire board met and elected officers. The elected slate of officers remained the same. However, due to my neglect, I had forgotten the calling from Jeremy Biswell to seek the top chair one day. Phil Mitchell, has

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expressed his willingness to serve again as Secretary. However, he did express that he would be more than willing to step off as an officer if some other board member had the “calling”. Phil, understanding Jeremy’s calling, submitted his resignation as officer so Jeremy can have more Executive Board experience. No worries. Phil is still our Region 1 Director. In turn, I asked the board for a vote to approve my appointment of Jeremy Biswell as NCSG Secretary in the interim, until such formal vote can be taken at the May 2012 board meeting. You can find your calling to support the Guild without joining the NCSG Board of Directors. There are plenty of ways that you can participate. One way is to send pictures and information of factory-built termination caps to Blume at blume357@bellsouth. net. He in turn will format and relay the information to staff, so that it can be hung in the Members Only section at www.NCSG. org for the benefit of all members. Speaking of the web site, last year, NCSG and CSIA decided to go together to upgrade their database and web sites (www. NCSG.org and www.CSIA.org, respectively). By the time you read this, the new www.NCSG.org will have been up and running

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for almost a month. Of course, we hope that new technology will facilitate faster and higher-quality actions by staff. We also hope that it will make accessing your member benefits easier, make interacting with the Guild easier and make it easier for homeowners to find your company. And, finally, a generous welcome to all sweeps regardless of affiliation. Please take a moment now to consider attending Sweeps Week this year. It will be held June 4-8, 2012 at the Tech Center near Indianapolis. Sweep participation grows each year and we expect another great turnout this year. How about a week of hands on masonry training from one of the best in the business, at no charge? Last year Chris Prior spent Sweeps Week teaching participants some chimney-specific masonry skills. No charge for the instruction and CEUs were awarded. I understand Chris Prior will be there doing some more masonry instruction. For information: Contact Ron Brigman at (864) 682-5422 or ronb@sweepstuff.com. We hope to see you there! As always, sweeps luck to you and your family and God Bless! Jay Walker

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Editor’s Letter

MELISSA HEEKE, CAE NCSG DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS

his month’s issue is our annual Progress Edition. It’s our chance to reach out to the entire chimney service industry with an update on the state of the Guild. Of course, we’d love to have you join us as we work to build stronger chimney businesses. We have fuel efficiency tips and advice on how smaller companies can compete for the big jobs from our Technical Advisory Chair, Dennis Dobbs. Jerry Isenhour of Chimney & Venting Consultants encourages businesses of all sizes to appreciate the practice of business. Brian Noe of MW Financial Group reminds us all of the importance of having a Power of Attorney. It’s not something that we want to think about, but if we aren’t able to make decisions, we definitely want to know who will be making them on our behalf.

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Also in this issue, Brion Barnhill of Barnhill Chimney Company in Lexington, KY introduces us to his mentor, Jeff Gitlin, a retired sweep from Nonesuch, KY. Jeff is a familiar name to those on the NCSG Discussion list, as are several of the sweeps we will also introduce to you this month in our Meet the Guild feature. While I realize that the Guild can’t please every sweep, I hope that there is something in this issue that each of you reading this will enjoy. All the best to you and yours!

Industry Watch ANSI Z223.1/NFPA 54-2012 Proposal Deadline: June 22, 2012 The ANSI ASC Z223 and the NFPA 54 Committees announce a Call for Proposals on the ANSI Z223.1/NFPA 54-2012, National Fuel Gas Code. Proposals must be received by June 22, 2012, for them to be considered for the 2015 edition of the code. Proposals may be submitted either on the joint AGA/NFPA proposal form or can be submitted electronically via the NFPA website. The two committees will jointly act on all proposals. The National Fuel Gas Code provides criteria on most aspects of fuel-gas installation on consumer premises. Coverage includes gas piping materials; piping system sizing and design; installation and inspections; combustion air; appliance venting; and specific equipment installation criteria. The code is use by many local gas utilities and officials of Federal, State, and local governments to judge the acceptability of fuel-gas installations. Many of the code’s provisions are extracted into the International Fuel Gas Code and the Uniform Pluming and Mechanical Codes. Gas appliance installation instructions also refer to the code. Interested persons can submit their proposals to either the American Gas Association or the National Fire Protection

Association. Downloadable forms and on-line submittals are available on both organizations’ websites: www.aga.org or www.nfpa.org. Direct links to the submittal pages are: http:// www.aga.org/membercenter/gotocommitteepages/Z223/ Pages/2013NationalFuelGasCode.aspx and http://www.nfpa.org/ AboutTheCodes/AboutTheCodes.asp?docnum=54&tab=nextedition. For additional guidance and information contact Paul Cabot, Secretary, ASC Z223 & NFPA 54, American Gas Association, 400 N Capitol St, NW, Washington, DC 20001; PHONE: (202) 824-7312; FAX: (202) 824-9122: e-mail: pcabot@aga.org

Industry Watch Policy NCSG encourages industry partners to submit press releases to Melissa Heeke, Sweeping: The Journal of Chimney & Venting Technology editor, via email at mheeke@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.

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Technical Q&A

DENNIS DOBBS, NCSG TECHNICAL ADVISORY CHAIR

It is normally hard for me to compete with larger companies but with fuel higher prices it is even harder. What can I do?

Start with the basics such as checking the air pressure in your tires making sure they are properly inflated. Always make sure your vehicle’s engine is in tune. And don’t forget to check your air filter because a dirty air filter can starve your engine of much needed oxygen greatly reducing your engine’s efficiency. Travel lighter when possible. Do you really need all those tools on board? By reducing the overall weight you can increase your miles per gallon. What about your scheduling? Arrange your appointments so that you do more appointments and travel fewer

miles per day. If you can schedule your traveling times in larger cities between the morning and evening rush hours you will save fuel, time and aggravation but you may not get as much advertisement time for your vehicle signage. For multi-truck operations, a truck routing program may be useful. Large delivery companies use these all the time. Even small companies can use smartphone apps to find the cheapest gas prices in their area such as GasBuddy, Smart Fuel or Fuel Finder.

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Leave the demolition to the competition. Smoktite® is a unique ceramic product sprayed into smoke chambers to seal holes and gaps. This breakthrough spray technology allows smoke chamber repairs to be done faster, easier, and more cost effectively. Quick, clean and easy to install, simply spray our unique ceramic formula onto the smoke chamber surface to seal holes, creating a smooth, insulative and protective coating, without removing the damper frame. Smoktite™ is THE choice of chimney professionals.

Ceramics that coat from the firebox to the chimney cap. The Thermocrete® process coats the inside of the chimney from top to bottom with a highly durable ceramic sealant. Thermocrete is the most versatile solution for chimney restoration & repair. No significant downsizing makes it ideal for use in fireplace flues. Strengthens and restores flues serving gas, oil, wood or coal appliances. Repairs problem flue shapes & sizes & offsets with ease. Tested. Listed. Guaranteed. Transferable lifetime warranty. “Being in business for over 20 years, I can honestly say Thermocrete is the best investment we’ve made to increase our bottom line and help protect our valued customers.” Steve Lovsteen, CEO and Founder Oliver Twist Chimney Sweep,Huntington Beach, California

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Chimney Sense

DENNIS DOBBS, NCSG TECHNICAL ADVISORY CHAIR

The Big Job

have met many chimney sweeps in my career and have had many conversations about their businesses. With larger companies, I have noticed a common thread. They seem to have the knack for landing the big jobs, those high paying jobs that require team effort involving the majority of their crews. Sometimes it may be rebuilding chimneys with intricate masonry designs for Victorian homes or relining extremely tall chimneys, bringing the chimney and fireplace up to current code requirements. But for chimney sweeps having smaller businesses, the odds of landing the big jobs are minimal because of the lack of man power, equipment needed and the owner usually struggles to do the work himself which by the time the job is complete the profit that was thought to be there has greatly diminished. How can small companies compete? The number one thing to consider is that large jobs usually have large price tags so you must think big. Since most single truck operators do not have a large crew on standby, it would be wise to start a networking campaign. You can do this by building relationships with home builders, masons, roofers, equipment rental companies, etc. You may be able to find the necessary expertise in your own backyard to help you bid the jobs correctly. Learning the pay

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rates of your network as well as the price for equipment rental is key to making the big job a profitable one. Another tactic that seems to work well is sharing the big job experience with fellow sweeps. There is a group of sweeps in the southeast that works together quite frequently. When more help is needed, sweeps are brought in based on their availability and levels of expertise. Some sweeps contribute special tools and equipment toward the job, ensuring safety and efficiency. It seems to me that this group is content with their small businesses because of the great relationships they have built with their neighboring sweeps. Having a large chimney sweep company may not be for everyone because of population base or personal goals. If you are contemplating the possibility of landing the big job consider the perception of your company from the homeowner’s view point. Many small companies are perceived as being just that, small, with limited abilities and not being fully equipped to meet the requirements necessary. Words of caution, if you talk the talk but can’t walk the walk a lawsuit could be imminent. Having all your ducks in a row before making the bid will keep you from getting in over your head. With that said, go forth, get the big jobs and “git r dun”!

Name that Fireplace!

Contribute to the Guild’s Fireplace and Chimney Photo Project

We’re building a fireplace photo bank to help Guild members identify older model factorybuilt fireplaces and chimneys out in the wild. This should be especially useful to new sweeps that may not be able to identify a Preway or Marco fireplace or a Van Packer chimney as was recently discussed on the NCSG discussion list. You can contribute by sending us photos, photos and more photos. Please include photos of the firebox, any identifying marks, numbers or model and manufacturer and as much information gathered off the fireplace label, chimney and rain cover as possible. It would also be great if we were to know when the fireplace/chimney was installed. We will select the best images, but more is always better. Please send photos to Blume of The Merry Sweep at blume357@bellsouth.net. We’ll post your photos and descriptions to the Members Only section at www.NCSG.org to be used as a resource for years to come.

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The

Coach’s Corner

BY JERRY ISENHOUR OF CHIMNEY & VENTING CONSULTANTS IN CONCORD, NC

Ready to Practice Business? Make Some Noise The practice of business is similar in many ways to the sport of hunting. But there are also some distinct differences. The similarity is that we are on a quest. Our quest involves how we find our prey and then how we bag it. We have the same goal no matter if we are hunting or are in the practice of business. Now you may wonder why I’m using the term “practice of business”. I’m using it because business is an ever changing sport. What works one year, may not work the next year. I also developed this term from my experience with lawyers. Their general term is to “practice law”. This means the profession of law is one that involves constantly researching what has worked previously and applying it to the present situation that one lives and “practices” in. All too often the business owner practices for a short while and then he puts the wheels in motion so the machine (the business model) operates at one set speed on the road map that was developed in the early days. Then one day, quite sadly at times, the business owner realizes that the business is simply not bringing the results he envisioned when he started. Even though the business may be the best in the market area, like fruit on the tree, the buyer is not picking the fruit. So we need to look at the difference in the sport of business and the sport of hunting. The hunter researches the animal’s behavior. He studies the terrain, the animal’s feeding habits and appetite. If one person is hunting elephant, one is hunting deer and another is hunting rabbit, their goal is still the same; to bag the game. The great hunter also practices his aim, increases his field of vision with a rifle scope and uses binoculars. Many will even go and scout the hunting grounds to get a better feeling for the quarry and just how to bag the trophy. Now the hunter must also blend into the environment. He does this with the purchase of apparel to camouflage himself into the environment. He blends in and becomes a part of the landscape.

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He lays in wait and when the prey comes into view he narrows his sights. If successful we have a meal or perhaps our trophy. Now in the practice of business, this too is often the case; the difference is the approach taken by the hunter of quietly waiting and blending in does not work in the world of practicing business. If one blends in then the prey simply never walks by. All too often the business is operating camouflaged! In the practice of business we must make noise. We must make a lot of noise. But the noise we make must be a noise that attracts the potential client. However, all too often, the noise the business makes is not a sound that appeals to the client. It is only understood by people who have an intimate knowledge of the product, and that is others in the same occupation. So to be successful in the world of business, you have to conceive of the hunting methods that will attract the consumer. And the message will change season by season, year by year. What attracts the client in September is likely not the noise that will attract them in March. In my last column, I discussed the three seasons of the chimney sweeping industry. In today’s world we have to design a message for each of these seasons and we must look at it often to ensure that the message of last March is a message that will make the proper noise this March and last September’s message is the noise that will attract the buyer this coming September. The game goes on and on. Additionally the message must be prepared well in advance of the hunting season. Yeah, I know, you are “just too busy to do it at that time”. And “It works better to wait until the hunt is here.” You work better under pressure and under the gun! Right… The truth is that the methods for March hunting are best conceived in January. For years, this was made more difficult by the limited availability of marketing mediums. The main artery of noise was one that

could not be regulated to the needs of the season. Today it is much easier. At one time we relied on the yellow pages, but we had to set up our ads for the year. We relied on our trucks, but we set them up for 3-5 years. We relied on direct mail coupons, but they had to be done weeks or months in advance. I think we look at the way that radio and television give the ability to change our marketing thrust based on the days immediately ahead. Not that I am promoting these two mediums as the way to go. Even if they do work, these may be out of reach of your budget. But what is in the reach of your budget is the ability to do electronic communication. Quite frankly this is the yellow pages of 2012. Between web sites, social networking, constant contact email blasts and so many other mediums, we now have the unique ability to drive business to us. Remember the message has to be the message the buyer understands. In the world of advertising, hitting that magic message is a tough one. There is not a world of “Where’s the beef?” ideas sitting there waiting. But it can be done. Say “bread” to today’s consumer and commonly their minds will go to “Panera”. Say “doughnut” and they will say “Dunkin”. Say

“coffee” and they will say “Starbucks”. There are other examples of branding of products and companies that have paid off in huge ways. If you stood in the doorway of the mall and said the word “chimney sweep” how many would instantly say your name? So look at the noise you make, analyze the efforts you expend and come up with the noise makers you need to enhance your business practice in 2012 and beyond. You are the controller of your destiny. Think about it! About the Author: Jerry Isenhour is an industry consultant and coach who authors a monthly article in Sweeping as a service to the industry. For more information about Jerry and how he can assist you individually in your quest for success, take a look at his web site www.chimneyandventingconsultants.com He can be contacted at jerry@chimneyandventingconsultants.com or by phone at (704) 425-0217. You can also obtain great business tips from his Facebook page Chimney & Venting Consultants.

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Power of Attorney, Why Have One?

n previous articles we have discussed health care directives, wills and revocable trusts. Congratulations if you have completed these very important documents or updated your existing documents!

The next critical piece of your estate and business plan is a valid Power of Attorney (POA). There are various types of POA, such as Durable POA, power of attorney with durable powers or a “Springing” POA. There are also special, limited and general types of POAs. It is not the intent of this article to describe or recommend a specific type of POA. Please consult with an Attorney for that conversation. The purpose here is to provide consideration on why you would want a POA, who would appoint to be your agent, what is included in a POA, when to make your POA effective, and how to begin the process to complete a valid POA. When POA is referenced in this article I am not referring to a specific type of POA.

If the court agrees they may appoint a Guardian; who may not be a family member or friend. The court may determine how much they will be paid from your assets causing more of a financial burden. And the court may then decide what powers the Guardian shall have (see below). Is this how you would want your affairs handled? Can you imagine the hardships your family and employees may have to go through during this process?

Without a POA the court may determine how your affairs are to be run.

Do not make the cavalier mistake that ‘planning is only for the wealthy’. You are successful, so do not forget that mistakes due to lack of estate planning have a larger negative impact on ”modest estates” than the wealthy. Without a valid POA, your family and/or employees may be burdened with emotional and legal burdens that a health care directive cannot address; i.e. managing your personal and business affairs. Without a POA the court may determine how your affairs are to be run. Let us consider a hypothetical but not uncommon scenario: You become incapacitated without a POA. Someone you know or some organization you are not familiar with may petition a court requesting to act on your behalf due to your inability to perform your daily activities.

16 SWEEPING MAY 12

You may be required to appear before the court and/or medical testimony may be required to assure the court that you are incapacitated.

Now let’s shift our perspective to questions and considerations required to develop a solid POA to avoid these burdens. These questions may be difficult to answer. Perhaps the best place to start the conversation is with a trusted advisor(s) who tends to be an associate and does not carry the emotional connections of a more personal relationship. Selecting advisors with formal training or associates with personal experience with POAs may be a plus.

Who do you choose to be your appointed agent under your POA? For your POA, consider a trusted friend or colleague who shares your character and values. Using a professional has a cost but may be worth it. What powers do you grant to your appointed agent under your POA? This is strictly up to you and varies from person to person. The following is a general list of considerations than is not intended to be all inclusive.

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• Access to Post Office box When do you want the POA to be effective – now or only when you are incapacitated?

• Sell/Buy manage investments • Sell/Buy real estate • File tax returns • Institute/Defend lawsuits (Did you get hit by a car? Did you hit someone?) • Make gifts • Fund a revocable trust • Nominate a Guardian • Nominate a care giver • Access to legal documents (Wills, health care directives, trusts, business documents) • Access to safe deposit box • Access to Post Office box

In general a POA that is in effect and remains in effect if you are deemed incapacitated is referred to as a Durable Power of Attorney. This strategy allows you and your appointed agent the potential to build a trusted relationship with you, your family, your business associates, and financial institutions. You can use your POA to deal with matters while traveling. Or your POA can address specific matters, such as legal proceedings or negotiating a contract, while you concentrate on your business and family.

Business • Operate and run your business • Collect revenue and make deposits • Collect outstanding debts • Pay bills • Complete and implement contracts • Institute/Defend lawsuits • Sell/buy/lease equipment/assets • Settle state and legal issues • File tax returns • Name a general manager • Access to legal and business documents • Access to safe deposit box

Another strategy is to wait until you are incapacitated before a (“Springing”) POA is triggered. This may provide a sense (real or perceived) of control while you are competent and healthy. Having a comprehensive set of guidelines for this strategy may be prudent. How can you complete a POA? Many standardized forms are available for various kinds of POA. However POA documents may be challenged by financial institutions, family members or business partners.

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Ensure that you have a valid POA that can withstand legal scrutiny. Have your document(s) signed and stamped (if available or required) by a notary public. Ensure you have the appropriate number of witnesses execute your POA as defined by your state’s law. Provide a copy of your POA to appropriate individuals and institutions. If you update or replace an existing POA it may be wise to specifically note the previous document(s) that are now invalid. One last consideration. You must be competent to complete a Power of Attorney. If you wait until you need one, it is not an option under your control. Running a successful business also means making decisions that take advantage of what the law allows you to do to ensure that you can provide for the people that rely on you in the event of your incapacitation. One of the most powerful tools that a small business owner can use to help them in legal matters is the Power of Attorney. Registered Representative and Financial Advisor of Park Avenue

Securities LLC (PAS), 197 Scott Swamp Road, Farmington, CT 06032, 860•677•2600. Securities products/services and advisory services are offered through PAS, a registered broker•dealer and investment advisor. Financial Representative, The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America (Guardian), New York, NY. PAS is an indirect, wholly owned subsidiary of Guardian. MW Financial Group, Ltd. is not an affiliate or subsidiary of PAS or Guardian. PAS is a member FINRA, SIPC. Guardian, its subsidiaries, agents or employees do not give tax or legal advice. Individuals should consult a qualified professional to evaluate their individual circumstances. About the Author: Brian Noe of MW Financial Group, Ltd. was a guest speaker at the NCSG 2011 convention held in Hartford, CT where he discussed How to Get Out of Business and The Economy and Animal Spirits. Brian has a son Eric who served four years in the U.S. Army. Eric has accepted a Government position upon graduation in May 2012. Eric is ranked first in his class with a degree in Computer Science. His daughter Kara recently graduated undergraduate school with distinction and is planning to attend graduate school to become a Physicians’ Assistant. Brian thoroughly enjoys helping others spend more time with their families and friends while becoming financially successful. He can be reached at (860) 606•0834 or Brian_Noe@ MWFinancial.com

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NCSG Benefits Add Value and Savings To You And Your Business The NCSG continues to work diligently to enhance member benefits to save members time and money. In the past few years the following benefits at a discounted price have been added: • chimney & venting consulting services • Technical Solutions on-demand computer repair services • general liability insurance • website services • telephone messaging service • health insurance options • freight and small package shipping service • payment processing services • payroll and tax services • real estate network of service providers

• background check service • office supplies PLUS, we have public service announcements (PSAs) now available for downloading. There are many other benefits available for you as a member of the National Chimney Sweep Guild. Keep reading this month’s Sweeping magazine for the complete list! As always, please contact me at (317) 837-1500 or dcornelius@ ncsg.org to learn how you can make the most of NCSG membership benefits. You may be surprised!

2011 – 2012 SWEEPS ADVANTAGE COUPON PROGRAM Featured Coupons of the Month Look for the 2011 – 2012 coupon offers in the “Members Only” section of the NCSG website at www.NCSG.org. Here you will find information necessary to redeem these coupon offers and others from these participating vendors: AHRENS Chimney Technique • AirJet, Division of Continental Industries • Alpha American Company BAC Sales, Inc. • Condar Company • Copperfield Chimney Supply • Duct Cleaners’ Supply • Dynacote LLC • Earthcore Industries, LLC • Enervex, Inc.(formerly Exhausto) • Firesafe Industries • Fireside Distributors, Inc. • Hearth Classics • High Stepper, LLC • HY-C Company, Inc. • Lifetime Chimney Supply• Lindemann Chimney Supply • Longleaf Lighter Company • Matters of the Hearth • Meyer Machine & Equipment • National Chimney Supply • Neuex Hearth Products • New England Chimney Supply • Olympia Chimney Supply • SaverSystems • Smoktite LLC • SNEWS - The Chimney Sweep News • U.S. Fireplace Products, Inc. • Ventech Industries, Inc. • Wakefield Brush • Whitecaps • Wohler USA, Inc. • Z-Flex.

These are just a few of the many offers available to you as a member of the National Chimney Sweep Guild. Visit www.NCSG.org to learn more and to start saving!

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When you join NCSG, you Sweep Up… Savings, Success and Profit! Through cooperative efforts of the NCSG and chimney professionals like you, more and more people are aware of the chimney sweeping trade and the effects it can have on their overall safety. But, is there more in it for you? Yes, membership provides you with a network of professional advisors and, if you get involved - lifelong friendships with the leading professionals in your field. Plus we even throw in a lot of great benefits help make your business profitable and eliminate hours spent running the day-to-day operation of your business allowing you more time to spend with family and friends.

NCSG Members Sweep Up Savings Saving on office supplies is easy with discounts from Staples! When NCSG members order online, they save up to 7% off and qualify for free shipping! Join the Guild Today and Your Savings Immediately Exceed $20,000 With This Coupon Program Savings Approach $23,000 with the NCSG Member’s Coupon Program – With valuable offers like “buy one, get one free”, discounts and rebates on industry-leading products and items that you already use! Better Insurance for Less Money - Sign up and Save Up to $1400 Every Year Through NCSG’s Discounted General Liability Insurance Program. Health Insurance – Affordable Availability for NCSG Members - Comprehensive Health Insurance Plan, Low Cost, Guaranteed Health Plan With Limited Accident and Sickness Benefits, Optional Dental, Vision and Life Plans Also includes a Free Prescription Discount Card that will save you 10% to 60% on your prescription medications! Let These Savings Drive You Away - Get a free weekend day when you rent two days with Avis and up to $15 off your weekend rentals from Hertz. – Sign Up And Save On Rental Car Expenses, A $45 value. Save up to 64% on Freight Shipping with YRC (formerly Yellow & Roadway) to get a stove from Point-A to Point B! Save with this Safety Program Tailgate safety programs from Safety Services Co. are tailored for your company and may even reduce your Worker’s Compensation rates. – Sign Up As An NCSG Member And Save $200 on the program rate. Save $100 on Real Estate Prep Pro is the easy-to-use service that helps connect homeowners and institutions with quality contractors.

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NCSG Members Sweep Up Success What Next? Put The Power Of Experienced Colleagues To Work For You Often referred to as one of NCSG’s most valuable benefits, the member email discussion list is a forum for peer networking, technical resolution, sweep-to-sweep referrals and occasional nuggets of industry trivia. – The NCSG Discussion List is free to you as an NCSG Member (but worth a ton more)! Put a Team of Expert Technical Consultants in the Palm of Your Hand As a member of the NCSG you have access to our 11 member advisory council. You’ll have over 318 years of experience on call and at your fingertips with assistance from NCSG’s Technical Advisory Council. – Few could afford to have a team of 11 expert business consultants behind them. You get it for free! Hire the Right Employee the First Time It’s been proven that hiring the wrong employee costs up to two years in lost training and opportunities. NCSG members save almost 50% on employee background checks from LABORCHEX. - Save up to $10 on background checks to lower turnover, increase safety and security before hiring your next employee. Get Back Up to Speed with Your Personal Computer Tech Hotline Get discounts on your information technology issues in a fast and friendly manner. Tech Hotline, your personal onestop support center can answer a broad range of topics that include: MS Windows and Office suite applications and major hardware. - Save your time and $100 right off the top! Time in the office doesn’t have to be a hassle. With discounts from Paycor Payroll Services, you’ll know that your payroll and tax responsibilities are covered (and guaranteed!) Discounted rates any accountant would envy! Save up to $300 annually! Protect Your Business By Having Representation NCSG actively participates in the creation of codes and standards that you use every day, including NFPA 211, 54 and 31 and the ICC. The NFPA 211’s Three Levels of Inspection are due in large part to NCSG. What would it cost you to send a representative of your company to these countless meetings to make sure your business interests are secured? – NCSG works for you every day! Learn, Earn And Save Money Too The CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep credential is just one way NCSG members save on education and certification from the Chimney Safety Institute of America. Each employee of NCSG member companies receives

discounts toward CSIA programs. – Savings run between $50 and $200 per employee, per session. Technical and Business Knowledge Just for Sweeps Delivered To Your Door Monthly Sweeping: The Journal of Chimney & Venting Technology and eNewslink give you the technical and business information to keep your business thriving with articles from technical experts and business consultants as well as current industry news. -Sweeping magazine and electronic newsletter – $80 subscription worth thousands in technical and business tips each month. ECHO (Credit Card Processing Discounts) With no startup fees, no termination fees, a free manual imprinter and low transaction rates, this program could help you save, save, save on credit card payment processing. - Save up to $450 annually!

NCSG Members Sweep Up Profits Keep Earning While You’re Away From the Job NCSG has teamed with Market Hardware to keep customers coming to you with $150 off a Custom Website Package. More homeowners rely on the Internet to learn about your products and services than ever before. Keep their attention and make the sale. – Custom Website Package discounts from Market Hardware, Save $150. Do This and Put $10,000 in Your Pocket Attend valuable business building seminars at NCSG’s annual convention. Talk

with industry suppliers and see new products and services at the tradeshow to help solve your customer’s problems and grow your business. Almost any sweep that has attended will tell you that they leave the convention with at least one idea or bit of knowledge that will either make or save you $10,000 a year. – Plus members save $100 on each convention registration. Including employees and spouses! Get Referrals from Your NCSG Web Listing As a member, your company will be listed on the NCSG web site. The NCSG web site is visited by over 20,000 consumers every month looking to solve their chimney problems and find qualified chimney professionals. A recent survey of sweeps that track leads report receiving about $2,000 worth of work each year from their NCSG and CSIA web listings. Give Customers Confidence To Do Business With You Belonging to the National Chimney Sweep Guild raises the credibility of your business because it implies a level of quality and ethical integrity on behalf of your company. Put The Power Of On-Hold Messaging To Work For You We’ve negotiated $200 off of your virtual sales force’s salary. Put Commercials on Hold to work for you to keep your services at the top of your customers’ minds while you have them on the line. – Sign Up As An NCSG Member And Save $200 Off Your Commercials on Hold Service. Call (317) 837-1500 or www.NCSG.org to learn more.

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National Chimney Sweep Guild Membership Application

Our mission: To promote the success of our members by providing progressive services, encouraging professionalism and ethical accountability, and advancing the chimney and venting industry through public awareness of the trade.

1 Provide Company Contact Information

Name of Primary Individual Contact Person ________________________________________________________ Company Name ____________________________________________________________________________ (One company name will be listed online at www.NCSG.org, check which ONE name to post.) Legal name registered with state of incorporation Other name (trade/assumed/fictitious/DBA) registered in states where doing business Not Yet Incorporated. Company name will be listed at Last, First. Company Mailing Address _____________________________________________________________________ City __________________________________________State ____________ ZIP _______________________ Business Phone (______) __________________Cell? Fax (______) ________________________________ Email Address ________________________________Web site Address http://____________________________ Company Shipping Address ( same as above) _____________________________________________________ City __________________________________________State ____________ ZIP _______________________ # of Full Time Employees ___________________________# of Seasonal & Part Time Employees _______________ Services Provided: Sweeping Inspections Dryer Vent Cleaning Masonry Repair Relining Installation Retail Sales Other _________________________________________________________

2 Who referred you to NCSG? ____________________ 3 Sign the NCSG Code of Ethics on Behalf of Your Company I fully acknowledge that membership in the National Chimney Sweep Guild carries with it certain responsibilities and obligations. In this regard, I pledge: • To represent myself and my company in a professional manner by providing services, education and skills that are in compliance with all codes and regulations applicable to the chimney service industry that are in effect in my service area. • To continually update my knowledge, skills and techniques as new information evolves within the industry. • To render my services and represent my company in an honest and fair manner and to refrain from engaging in deceptive practices or making any deceptive statements, including but not limited to use of the NCSG logo. • To conduct myself in a decent, respectful, and professional manner when serving in my capacity as a chimney sweep, or when attending a function or event of an organization in the chimney or hearth products industry. I agree to conform to NCSG’s Code of Ethics during the term of my membership. I understand that failure to abide by these ethical obligations is a violation of NCSG policy and, in accordance with NCSG’s Grievance Procedures adopted October 21, 1989, as so amended February 2001, may result in disciplinary action. I agree to hold harmless the NCSG organization from liability resulting from any disciplinary action taken against me. I represent and warrant that I am authorized to sign this application, and the information contained herein is true, accurate, and complete. Signature ___________________________ Date __________

For Office Use Only O2F C2F AUTH_________________________________ COID ________________________________ REC’D BY: _____________________________ REC’D DATE: ___________________________ FAXED COE Rev. 9/1/11 - PE12 Valid 9/1/11 - 8/31/12

4 Select the appropriate membership category for your company. (Annual membership dues are noted next to each category.)

Voting ($459): Chimney service company membership. Entitles company to one (1) vote in NCSG elections (voter must be designated representative who signed the Code of Ethics). Affiliate ($239): Includes non-chimney service

companies and groups affiliated with the industry which are also not defined as a Supplier Member.

International ($239): Non-voting membership for

chimney service companies outside of the United States.

Senior ($139): Non-voting membership for retired

sweep company owners. Includes significant discounts on convention registration.

5 Payment Information Check Enclosed - Check # __________________________ NCSG also accepts Visa, MasterCard and AmericanExpress. Card Number _________________________________ Card Security Code _______________ Exp. __________ Name on Card ________________________________ Cardholder Signature ______________________________ NCSG also accepts direct debit payments. Please contact Candice Bradbury at (317) 837-1500 or cbradbury@ncsg.org for more information on using electronic checks.

Payment plans now available! 6 Send this application with dues payment to: National Chimney Sweep Guild 2155 Commercial Drive Plainfield, IN 46168 By Fax: (317) 837-5365 For assistance or to learn more about membership, call NCSG at (317) 837-1500 or visit us online at www.ncsg.org

nd g

_ __

___

CSIA Update Publication for CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep®s

www.CSIA.org

Taking the CSIA Code of Ethics Seriously BY JEREMY BISWELL, CSIA ETHICS CHAIRMAN A quick Google search for the word “ethical” gives us the definition “in accordance with principles of conduct that are considered correct, especially those of a given profession or group”. The CSIA has built a wonderful and respected organization. As with all associations, the actions of few can harm many. This is why the CSIA has a Code of Ethics in place and an Ethics Committee to help enforce that code. Being a CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep carries with it certain responsibilities and obligations which hold you to a higher standard of performance and professional behavior than your peers in the industry. In this regard, you pledge: 1. To learn and utilize all chimney and venting safety practices and techniques that are promoted by CSIA. 2. To render my services in an honest and fair manner and to refrain from engaging in deceptive practices or making any deceptive statements. 3. To comply with all applicable building codes in the areas I service, with the manufacturer’s installation instructions for the products I install, and with recognized chimney and venting practices. 4. To promote and educate consumers about safe chimney and venting practices.

5. To strive to continually update my knowledge, skills, and technique with regard to currently accepted chimney and venting safety practices. 6. To conduct myself in a decent, respectful, and professional manner when serving in my capacity as a chimney sweep, or when attending a function or event of an organization in the chimney or hearth products industry. 7. To comply with the proper usage of all CSIA Registered Trademarks as defined in the CSIA Trademark Use Guidelines document. Furthermore, as a CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep, it is your responsibility to remain abreast of any changes to the Code of Ethics and that your actions may be reviewed by a committee of your peers. Failure to abide by these ethical obligations is a violation of CSIA policy and, in accordance with the CSIA Code of Ethics Violation Procedures, may result in disciplinary action by the CSIA or its delegated committee. When an ethics complaint is submitted to the CSIA office against you, the information is initially reviewed by the Ethics Committee Chair and Administrators. If the complaint is determined to be valid, the complaint is assigned milestones in our project tracking system and a notification letter ADVERTISEMENT

is sent to you, along with all material submitted by the complainant. At that point, you have 30 days to complete and return the response packet. If this is not completed, the complaint is reviewed to be heavily in favor of the complainant and does not give you much merit. Once your side of the story is received, all documentation is posted and open to committee for review and discussion. After the review period, the Chairperson will post the results of the general consensus and request a vote of yay or nay from the members on whether the complaint is a valid ethical violation. A letter is then drafted based on the results of the final vote and sent you with the committee’s decision. When a complaint is deemed an ethical violation, the Ethics Committee has been given the responsibility to disperse disciplinary actions. Disciplinary actions on an ethics violation can range from a warning (probation) to temporary removal of your credential from the CSIA website. Some actions lead to revocation of your CSIA certification for years. All actions and complaints are kept on file for future reference. Are you proud of your company’s behavior? Treat the customer with respect and kindness. Run an ethical business.

Congratulations to Our New CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps COLORADO James Rowan • Ashes Away LLC • Durango Chris Goodrich • Goodrich Chimney Services, Inc. • Golden DELAWARE Duane Lapp • Byler’s Stove Shoppe • Dover ILLINOIS Todd Busch •Weigmann Woodworking & Fireplaces, Inc. • Damiansville INDIANA Jeff Bassemier • Bassemier’s Fireplace & Patio Inc. • Evansville Mike Dale •Edwards Heating & Cooling • Waynetown Dennis Kochenour • Schlemmer Brothers Metal Works • Wabash Tom Wilder • Bassemier’s Fireplace & Patio Inc. • Evansville IOWA Adam Rebling • Copperfield Chimney Supply, Inc. • Fairfield KANSAS Curtis Criswell • Chimney & Stone Specialists, Inc. • McPherson Aaron Dennett • Chimney & Stone Specialists, Inc. • McPherson KENTUCKY Michael Roberts • Homestead Stonery • Stanford MASSACHUSETTS Jim Davis • Enchanted Fireside, Inc. • Worcester MICHIGAN Trae Cabello • Doctor Flue, Inc.• Techumseh Dennis Doerr • Rockford Chimney Supply • South Lyon Matthew Desbrough • CLM Construction.• Manchester Sean Harrington • D & S Masonry, Inc. • Clarkston

MISSOURI Dale Vanormer •Ashley Mcsooty’s of Central Missouri • Rolla NEW JERSEY Ben Earle • Hearth & Home • Ledgewood NEW YORK Jim George • Town & Counry Agway • Dansville Tom Howell • McNamara Fireplace & Stove • Pearl River Lauren Pilger • Chief Chimney Services, Inc. • Smithtown Scott Sisson •Sisson’s Chainsaws & Stoves • Boivar John Willis • Butler’s Sales & Service, Inc. • Auburn

Gaining Ground with CSIA’s Google Adwords Grant For several years, the Chimney Safety Institute of America has held a grant from Google for a sizeable Adwords campaign. The grant has helped CSIA.org maintain a presence with the ads in the highlighted boxes at the top of the page when you do a search on Google.com. This year, CSIA’s presence has dramatically increased as the CSIA Certification Marketing Task Force, led by Rob Lindemann of Lindemann Chimney in Lake Bluff, IL, has hired a firm

OKLAHOMA Thomas Fouts • Hearth & Pool Services LLC • Tahlequah

to manage CSIA’s campaign within the

PENNSYLVANIA Robert Wright, Jr. • Anderson’s Chimney Sweeps, Inc. • New Cumberland Ryan Bartel • Anderson’s Chimney Sweeps, Inc. • New Cumberland Jeffrey Herrold •Hoffman’s Outdoor Power & Repair • Halifax Joseph Bongart, Jr. • Jamison Masonry Restoration • Oreland Patrick Murphy • Jamison Masonry Restoration • Oreland

ago, but we haven’t been able to spend the

VERMONT Justin Turner • Brickliners Corp. • Williston Christopher Stoughton • Friends of the Sun, Ltd.• Brattleboro

grant’s guidelines. “We were awarded the grant several years time aggressively managing the account,” said Melissa Heeke, CSIA’s Director of Communications and Marketing. “When we called in the experts, we started seeing some serious results.” Since hiring the firm to manage CSIA’s Adwords account in the autumn, referral traffic to CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps has grown 46% overall with much of that traffic able to be traced back to CSIA’s Google Adwords. This trend is expected to

VIRGINIA Ryan McElraft • Black Goose Chimney Sweep • Newport News

continue as the CCS Marketing Task Force

JAPAN Takeo Onozawa • Makimen • Ina, Nagano

seasonal changes.

continues to work with the firm to tailor the campaign along with the industry’s

Military Vet? CSIA Classes Approved for VA Education Benefits The following courses held at the CSIA Technology Center near Indianapolis have been approved for U.S. Veteran’s Administration (VA) benefits: • Chimney Physics • Installing & Troubleshooting Gas Hearth Appliances • Installing & Troubleshooting Woodburning Hearth Appliances • Inspection & Report Writing

• National Chimney Sweep Training School This means that course registration and housing costs may be covered under the Post-9/11 GI Bill, the Montgomery GI Bill (Active or Selected Reserve), the Reserve Educational Assistance Program or the Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance Program, depending on personal eligibility. ADVERTISEMENT

Since individual benefits are based on a complex formula including the dates and length of service, veterans must contact the Department of Veterans Affairs directly for personal eligibility information. Vets can call the National Call Center directly at (888) 442-4551 or visit the GI Bill website at www.gibill.va.gov.

CSIA Calendar of Events Schedule subject to change. Please contact CSIA prior to making travel arrangements.

CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician Review and Exam February 14, 2012 | Orlando, FL August 3, 2012 | CSIA Technology Center In-person intensive review sessions help candidates prepare for the CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician® exam. The review sessions are not a substitute for advanced study. CSIA CEUs: 1.25-T, 1.25 CS, 1-HS, 1-CL

National Chimney Sweep Training School April 2–7, 2012 | CSIA Technology Center June 11–16, 2012 | CSIA Technology Center August 6–11, 2012 | CSIA Technology Center September 24–29, 2012 | CSIA Technology Center

In-person intensive review sessions help candidates prepare for the CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep® exams. The review sessions are not a substitute for advanced study.

Fundamentals of sweeping and inspection of chimney systems, equipment operation, health and safety considerations and step-by-step instruction in codes, clearances, standards and practices.

CSIA CEUs: 1.25-T, 1.25-CS, 1.25-HS, 1.25 CL

CCS CEUs: 4 T, 4 C&S, 4 C&L, 4 H&S NFI CEUs: 6 T

Chimney Physics—2 Day March 22–23, 2012 | Lake Bluff, IL Sponsored by Lindemann Chimney Supply March 23–24, 2012 | Albany, NY Sponsored by NYSCSG Diagnosis and resolution of chimney performance problems, solving air pressure problems, identifying the symptoms of indoor air pollutants, determining combustion air requirements for vented appliances in a twoday in-person format. CSIA CEUs: 3-T 3-CS 3-HS 3-CL

Inspection and Report Writing July 19–20, 2012 | CSIA Technology Center Chimney inspections and evaluations, report writing including regional and environmental influences, effective photo documentation, digital organization and administrative procedures. CSIA CEUs: 6-T, 6-CL

Installing and Troubleshooting Gas Hearth Appliances June 25–29, 2012 | CSIA Technology Center Service and installation, including appliance standards, combustion requirements, pipe sizing and installation, troubleshooting, carbon monoxide testing and fuel conversion. CEUs: 4-T 4-CS 4-HS 4-CL

Installing & Troubleshooting Woodburning Hearth Appliances July 9–13, 2012 | CSIA Technology Center Energy efficiency, appliance selection and sizing, installation of woodburning fireplaces and stoves, system operation, maintenance and troubleshooting. Subject to availability. CSIA CEUs: 4-T 4-CS 4-HS 4-CLL

Upcoming Education from the CSIA June 1, 2012 CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review and Exam CSIA Technology Center In-person intensive review sessions help candidates prepare for the CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep® exams. The review sessions are not a substitute for advanced study. Learn more about earning the CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep credential. CSIA CEUs: 2 T, 2 C&S, 1 H&S, 1C&L June 4, 5, 6 and 7, 2012 Codes and Standards Quizzes (online) You can earn CSIA CEUs by taking Codes & Standards quizzes. Two quizzes are available to be challenged during a 24-hour period of your choice during the first week of each month. Learn more about the CSIA C&S Quizzes. CSIA CEUs: 2 C&S/quiz June 11-16, 2012 National Chimney Sweep Training School CSIA Technology Center Fundamentals of sweeping and inspection of chimney systems, equipment operation, health and safety considerations and step-by-step instruction in codes, clearances, standards and practices. Learn more about the National Chimney Sweep Training School. CCS CEUs: 4 T, 4 C&S, 4 C&L, 4 H&S NFI CEUs: 16 T June 11-15, 2012 CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review Online

The online CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep® review sessions are offered each month and feature five sets of lessons and practice quizzes to be completed anytime during the seven day timeframe. Learn more about the online review sessions. June 11-15, 2012 CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician Review Online The online Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician review features daily reading assignments, lessons and interactive quizzes designed to help you pass the CDET exam. Learn more about the online CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician review. June 15, 2012 CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review and Exam Richmond, VA In-person intensive review sessions help candidates prepare for the CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep® exams. The review sessions are not a substitute for advanced study. Learn more about earning the CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep credential. CSIA CEUs: 2 T, 2 C&S, 1 H&S, 1C&L June 18-22, 2012 Health and Safety Week (online) Each month, you have the opportunity to register for one of the many topics in our bank of online health and safety sessions. We’ll add a new session every month to help you keep on top of your company’s regular safety meetings. Learn more about Health & Safety Week, CSIA & NFI CEUs: Vary by topic selected.

Venting Problems Solved

June 25-29, 2012 CSIA eLearning Online The industry’s favorite seminars in a new online format allowing you to earn CEUs online. A new topic will be added each month! Learn more and see the sessions available. CSIA & NFI CEUs: Vary by topic selected.

Solve your customers’ smoking, sooting, odor and draft problems. It’s easy with CSIA’s new ONLINE course!

Are these problems frustrating you and your clients?

Spillage from factory-built fireplaces

Sooting with vented gas logs

Odor problems from fireplaces

Ghosting/sooting on ceiling

Erratic smoking problems with fireplace

Problems with fireplaces after remodeling

Cross-over smoking from one fireplace to another

Cold drafts around factory-built fireplaces

Upstairs fireplace works but the downstairs fireplace doesn’t

Performance problems in one-story fireplaces in two-story houses

to solve these problems, save time and money, and keep Learn your clients happy with CSIA’s Online Chimney Physics program.

June 25-29, 2012 Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel (online) This self-paced online course features five class sessions plus when you register, you will receive two DVDs with three separate jobs to review from start-to-finish along with a discussion of each job which reflects the various components and tools which are useful to the process. Learn more

CSIA: 1.5 Tech, 1.5 C&L, 1.5 H&S, 1.5 C&L NFI: 5 Tech ADVERTISEMENT

about this online course. CSIA CEUs: 3.5 T, 3.5 C&S, 1 H&S, 2 C&L, 1 B NFI CEUs: 4:5 T June 25-29, 2012 Chimney Physics (online) Diagnosis and resolution of chimney performance problems, solving air pressure problems, identifying the symptoms of indoor air pollutants, determining combustion air requirements for vented appliances in a self-paced online format. Learn more about Chimney Physics Online. June 25-29, 2012 Installing and Troubleshooting Gas Hearth Appliances CSIA Technology Center Service and installation, including appliance standards, combustion requirements, pipe sizing and installation, troubleshooting, carbon monoxide testing and fuel conversion. Learn more about Installing and Troubleshooting Gas Hearth Appliances. July 2, 3, 4 and 6, 2012 Codes and Standards Quizzes (online) You can earn CSIA CEUs by taking Codes & Standards quizzes. Two quizzes are available to be challenged during a 24-hour period of your choice during the first week of each month. Learn more about the CSIA C&S Quizzes. CSIA CEUs: 2 C&S/quiz July 9, 2012 CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review and Exam CA/NV In-person intensive review sessions help candidates prepare for the CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep® exams. The review sessions are not a substitute for advanced study. Learn more about earning the CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep credential. July 9-13, 2012 CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review Online The online CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep® review sessions are offered each month and feature five sets of lessons and practice quizzes to be completed anytime during the seven day timeframe. Learn more about the online review sessions. July 9-13, 2012 CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician Review Online The online Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician review features daily reading assignments, lessons and interactive quizzes designed to help you pass the CDET exam. Learn more about the online CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician review.

See the complete 2012 CSIA Educational Events calendar online at www.CSIA.org.

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BY BRION BARNHILL OF BARNHILL CHIMNEY COMPANY IN LEXINGTON, KY

The Luckiest Hand You’ll Ever Shake: Getting Yourself a Mentor

t was early morning in the fall in Lexington, Kentucky. The chill was in the air along with the smell of wood smoke. As a sweep with more than a few years of experience, this time of year meant chimneys were the main thing on my mind. My cell phone rang. It was another sweep in town, Jeff Gitlin. He was calling to let me know that he was retiring and would like to discuss some possibilities. Jeff wanted his clients to be well-served and wanted to know if I would like to set up a simple referral relationship. I absolutely did! That phone call was the start of a mentoring relationship and lasting friendship I can’t imagine not having. Jeff’s reputation preceded him. A CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep for over 30 years, he was considered to be the “only guy around” to many central Kentuckians. To me, he was part of the reason for wanting to be a sweep in the first place. Years before I had come across an article about him in Smithsonian magazine which featured him and his business. To me the article was lemon drops and chimney tops! Here was a person who had mastered the eternal struggle between maintaining personal freedom and running a successful business. As it turns out, that quest for personal freedom is a challenging one. As owner of Barnhill Chimney, my life is filled with deadlines and commitments. Over the past decade Barnhill Chimney has grown from myself, running a one truck operation out of a shed in my backyard, to a company running four

30 SWEEPING MAY 12

trucks, with a certified sweep on each one, a retail store in a 5,000 square foot brick building and a national chimney cap supply business. The company has grown through innovation and hard work for sure, but having an experienced and knowledgeable sweep as a mentor and friend has been an invaluable resource for me and my business. Networking with a local sweep has benefited me in many ways. The most immediate benefit I experienced was the connections that I made and continue to make through our association. They opened doors. There is an inherent benefit to doing business with someone you know, or with someone who knows someone you know. There is a built-in trust. They aren’t just a name in the phone book, or a van on the street, but a part of your community. You feel a connection. I don’t know how many times I’ve heard, “You’re a friend of Jeff’s? Well, that’s good enough for me.” Lexington isn’t a small town, but customers like knowing the people who support any business, and a personal connection can take you further than any slick advertisement. Having someone off whom to bounce ideas not directly involved in my business has been another strong benefit to me. You can’t see the forest for the trees and often times you can’t see the chimneys for the soot! It’s all too easy to get bogged down in the crises of the moment. Whether it’s squaring off with an angry raccoon or dealing with taxes, chances are that

down in the crises of the moment. Whether it’s squaring off with an angry raccoon or dealing with taxes, chances are that someone who has been in business successfully for a long time might just have some very useful information to share about how to balance life both on chimneys and on the ground. Jeff has helped me keep things in perspective over the years, and stay on a path to, not simply just, a successful business, but also that sense of personal freedom that drew me in to the sweeping business years ago. My relationship with Jeff goes beyond chimney codes, public relations and customer service. In the age of Twitter, Facebook, e-mail and text messaging, there is still something to be gained from a real interaction. A meeting that starts with a smile between two friends often ends accomplishing more than you ever could over the internet or on the phone. I’ve shared more camaraderie over a plate of tacos at the local Mexican joint with Jeff than I ever could in an online chat room. Even with all the gadgets the world is still made of the people that use them. As Charles Dickens said, “Electric communication will never be a substitute for the face of someone who with their soul encourages another person to be brave and true.” The handshake that Jeff and I share at the end of our meetings reminds me that it is truly our relationships in life that make any job one worth doing.

Jeff’s presence in the life of Barnhill Chimney also helps to solidify a sense of tradition, of history, of honor, that harkens back to that original strong bond, the bond of a master to the apprentice. Having a successful retired sweep come into the shop is inspiring for our techs looking to make a career at Barnhill Chimney. It reinforces a culture of craftsmen that are striving for perfection whether we are putting the final touches on a copper hip and ridge cap or shaking a customer’s hand after a job well done. In a trade as old as chimney sweeping, it feels good to have ties to something lasting. The mentoring relationship is serving me and my company well. I know I have a stronger sense of my community, a better view of the “big picture” and a friend I can count on. Jeff says it serves him well too. He enjoys sharing the talents and expertise that he has accrued after a lifetime of diligent service in our trade. There are only so many people who get excited to talk about chimney sweep standard operating procedures. While Barnhill Chimney and I continue to carve out a living in what Jeff affectionately refers to as the “soot mines,” I look forward to a time in my own fruitful retirement that I can share years of hard fought knowledge with the next generation – a time when I too can empathize with a younger man over a cup of coffee or a plate of tacos and share the wisdom that I have gained, when I am able to pass down the tradition and good luck of a handshake shared with a chimney sweep.

MAY 12 SWEEPING 31

Meet The Guild NCSG member companies come to the Guild from many different backgrounds and with many different goals. This month, we introduce you to eight members from across the country. Tim Reiher Clean and Green Dryer Vent Experts, LLC Redford, MI How long have you been in business? We are beginning our 4th year this April but I just got into Chimney Sweeping in September of 2011 after many requests from my customers. How long has your company been a member of NCSG? We have been members for 3 years. We wanted to support the organization because of their involvement with the CSIA. Plus it’s really nice to know that I am a part of something bigger than just my company. All the wonderful support and friendships with other businesses across the country have been more than helpful. If you could offer just one piece of technical advice to a new sweep company owner, what would it be? The chimney tech support hotline - (317) 203-0088. When it comes to Dryer Vents I think I know it all. But after taking the training at the Tech Center for the chimney sweeping, I found myself in the field with a lot of questions. Luckily I belong to NCSG and with the help of all the guys in the field and the tech lines, I am on my way to having a very successful chimney sweeping business. Also, customer service has been key to the growth of Clean & Green Dryer Vent Experts.

Aaron Woodward Pristine Sweeps, LLC Seattle, WA How long have you been in business? The company started in 2008. How long has your company been a member of NCSG? We have been NCSG members since 2010. The NCSG seemed like a great option during my 2nd year of business. I really wanted to become an expert on chimneys and graduate from just sweeping chimneys to actually inspecting and repairing them properly with the best available techniques methods, and materials. Which ONE member benefit is most valuable to your company? I originally joined the NCSG because it offered discounts to the upcoming convention in Hartford, and in the future the CSIA exam and review. Not only did I get discounts but the access to an email discussion list of other industry professionals who all have the same desire to do the job the best way possible. Access to that list has transformed my business and I couldn’t imagine going without it again.

Mike and Marietta O’Mara Weststar Chimney Sweeps Chula Vista, CA How long have you been in business? Since 1999 How long has your company been a member of NCSG? Since 2001 If you could offer just one piece of advice to a new sweep company owner about staying in business, what would it be? Number one get Certified by the CSIA. Become members of the Guild. Go to as many conventions as possible to stay current on the industry and establish networking with other sweeps. Apply the CSIA Code in every area of your business.

32 SWEEPING MAY 12

Lee Roff Lords Chimney - A Division of Lords Services, LLC Houston, TX How long have you been in business? Since 2003 How long has your company been a member of NCSG? Since 2004 What do you know now about the industry that you wish you knew when you started your company? Other people have gone through the same issues you are currently going through and solved the problems. Steal other people’s ideas and adapt them to your situation. If you ask for help, people in the guild are willing to give you ideas. You don’t have to solve every problem yourself.

David Askue Mr. Chimney Sweep Ashland, WI How long have you been in business? I have been in business since 1984. How long has your company been a member of NCSG? Mr. Chimney Sweep was a member of NCSG since 1980, I believe. Since before I bought the company. If you could offer just one piece of advice to a new sweep company owner about business management, what would it be? I piece of advice would be to hire an office person to answer the phone, but I still haven’t done that. I hired helpers to assist me in the field and never did hire an office person. Today, I am constantly checking my messages, plus I carry a cell phone.

April Costa Island Chimney Services, LLC Middletown, RI How long have you been in business? We became chimney sweep business owners in July 2007 but have owned Island Chimney Services, LLC since July 2009. How long has your company been a member of NCSG? Members of NCSG since about the same time. If you could offer just one piece of advice to a new sweep company owner about marketing, what would it be? One piece of marketing advice for a new chimney sweep company: For us, a big marketing nugget has been that we are “firefighter owned,” and we have it on our truck, our brochures and on other media. So I would say try to figure out what will set you apart from your “competition.” ServiceMagic has been good for us as well in that they spend a lot of money advertising and their SEO consistently places our company near the top when people do searches – the great reviews help too! We are fortunate to live in an area that is not very metropolitan – people give a lot of weight to referrals and being local.

Mark Dent Chesapeake Chimney Co. Prince Frederick, MD How long have you been in business? 16 Years (1996) How long has your company been a member of NCSG? Since1997. What do you know now about customer service that you wish you knew when you started out? Then: I have always felt that you should have your clients’ best interest in mind at all times. Make things right no matter the cost. Respect other people’s property at all times (flower beds, yards, gutters, roofing.). Treat it like it is your own. BE CLEAN. Always have on your game face. That an educated client is a happy client. Stand behind your work!!!!!! These philosophies combined with high quality materials and qualified technicians has been what puts us above our competition in all areas. Now: I now know that it isn’t just the appearance of a good job that counts…. It is the underlying integrity of the job as a whole that counts the most (the appearance of the job, the quality of the job, the manner in which the job is done, the attitude of the people doing the job, etc.). If you LISTEN to what the client says…. You will be ready to give them what they want (it becomes a WIN-WIN situation). Also, with technology the way it is today – customers want to have estimates/proposal, phone calls and any other response very quickly. We have made it a point to return every phone call, no matter what and provide any follow up within two days of our service call. No one thing can be accredited as the “sure fire” thing. It has to be all of the above.

Anrdrew Raycroft Rooftop Chimney Sweeps, Ltd. Alexandria, VA How long have you been in business and how long has your company been a member of NCSG? I began Rooftop Chimney Sweeps, Ltd. in August 1978 so we are in our 34 year. I learned chimney sweeping from Ken Hinkley who was a sweep in Williamsport Mass. He also had what he called The New England School of Chimney Sweeping. For $500 he would have you help him sweep for a week. That’s right, you paid him so you could work. Upon graduation I received my diploma and a red scarf, which apparently made me an official chimney sweep. Ken was active in the Chimney Sweep Guid and encouraged me to join. I joined that year and attended my first chimney sweep convention in Chicago in 1979. The following year the first certification was issued at the Minneapolis convention. I have held my certification and membership ever since. If you could offer just one piece of advice to a new sweep company owner about marketing, what would it be? There are so many facets to running a chimney sweep business or any business that it is hard to narrow it down to just one piece of advice but I would say, always maintain integrity with everyone, especially your employees and your customers. I often hear people refer to their careers as if it is some separate entity apart from them personally. It is not. You are you 24 hours a day, what and how you do business is part of who you are.

MAY 12 SWEEPING 33

7 Keys To Business Networking Growth

BY ADAM PRICE OF SYNERGYBIZNET

etworking is not going away. No matter how hightech, plugged in, or globalized the world becomes, networking will be around forever. You need networking, and you need it to work for you.

begin to network, your circle of acquaintances grows. Your rolodex of numbers increases. And you start running out of room to put business cards. In time, you will build a reputation as a pretty good networker.

But as consumers, clients, customers, and executives all realize the power and usefulness of networking you are faced with the difficulty of discriminating how, when, why, and how much networking you should be doing.

Now and then someone may come up to you and say, “Hey, do you happen to know a good franchise consultant?” You dig in your drawer, whip out a business card and say, “Give him a call. I met him last March. Nice guy.” Bingo. You’ve scored a point. You’ve made a connection.

For example, if you joined every networking web site there was, you could make a full time job of just filling out web forms. Or, if you attended every networking function in your industry, you would do nothing but eat, drink, and mingle. So, what are you going to do. This article attempts to lay out seven keys to business networking growth.

And you’ve won some trust. Eventually, a few more people will come up to you and say, “Hey, I heard that you may know a good marketing firm...” And so it has begun. By and by, you will receive a certain degree of recognition as someone who is very well connected, knows a lot of people, and can point people in the right direction. But networking is a snowballing adventure.

1. Become the go-to guy for a networking question. As you The more people you know, the more people you can get to know. The more people that come to you with networking questions, the more people you can find out about and get to know. Make it your goal to become the networking guru in your space. 2. Seek opportunities to help others. Helping people is at the core of networking. A networking attempt is so much more than a handshake and an exchange of a name card. It is so much more than accepting a connection on LinkedIn. The value of your network is not measured by the amount of names that you know, but by the amount of help you can provide. As you survey the networking landscape, don’t look at is as a host of names to know. Look at is as a host of people to help. After all, the only truly valuable networking will be from people whom you know personally and whom you have helped. Once you help people, especially in a sacrificial or altruistic way, you’ve won their trust. They have a degree of confidence in you. That confidence will translate into them recommending you. That is exactly what you want. That is the way to grow your network, and that is a crucial key to business networking growth. 3. Seek opportunities for others to help you. But it works both ways. Not only should you be helping others, but others can be helping you. If you need help, ask for it. Gaining help from others creates a human connection that can’t be gained any other way. Besides, you get to

34 SWEEPING MAY 12

see the skills of another from a unique angle. You get to see how the person works. You get to experience their product. And you get to establish a mutual relationship of trust. That goes miles in the networking world. People will remember those whom they help, and it is the perfect way to build a strong, lasting network. 4. Be everywhere often. Though it sounds daunting, it is possible to carve out a significant presence for yourself. The key word here is “strategic.” As I mentioned, it is an incredible waste of time to join every networking site out there. Though you will receive a plethora of invitations, be selective. Join only the ones that will best accomplish your purposes. It should be standard, however, to at least have a presence on LinkedIn, the current networking site leader. Other industry-specific websites should be consulted as well. In addition, attend several strategic functions as often as you can. Again, too much is too much, but make it your practice to be at the important ones as often as possible. 5. Know people well. When you meet people, remember their names and some specifics about them. Don’t be ashamed to write names down. You need to remember them. Carry around

a pen and pad of paper, and jot down notes. Not just for names, but facts, too. When you pick up the phone to call that potential customer, it will go a long way to say, “By the way, how’s your mother-in-law? I remember you mentioned she had surgery last week.” 6. Host something. Be a networking leader and go ahead and host something. It can be as simple as a backyard barbecue for all the CFOs in your town. Or it can be as big as a golf outing for all the engineering firms. Either way, you can quickly become a networking mogul, just by organizing events. After all, once the event is over, you have a list of everyone who signed up--complete with numbers and all. 7. Finally, make it fun. Networking can be a fulfilling hobby. After all, you’re interacting with people. People can be a lot of fun. Face the challenge of being a networking guru, but make it an enjoyable and refreshing hobby. About the Author: Adam Price is a master at the art of online networking and internet marketing in business. He challenges business owners to grow their offline business by harnessing the power of the internet. He’s also the co-founder of SynergyBizNet, find out more at: www.Synergy-Biz-Net.com

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NewNCSG Members

NCSG REGIONS

REGION 1 NEW YORK Scott Sisson • Sisson’s Chain Saws & Stoves , Inc. • Bolivar

REGION 2 PENNSYLVANIA Jason Mabie • Absolute Chimney & Masonry Restoration •Philadelphia NEW JERSEY Michael Lizza • Safety Clean Dryer Vent Service LLC • West Milford Armando Amezquita • Armando Handyman • Galloway

REGION 1 Connecticut, Vermont, Massachusetts, New York, Maine, Rhode Island, New Hampshire

REGION 2 REGION 4 ILLINOIS Todd Busch •Wiegmann Woodworking & Fireplaces, Inc. • Daminasville

REGION 5 WISCONSIN Diane Hasting • 4 Season Professional Chimney Service • Salem John Kees • Kees, John • Brillion

Delaware, District of Columbia, Maryland, New Jersey, Pennsylvania

REGION 3 Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia

REGION 4 Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Missouri, Ohio

REGION 5

NCSG Charter Members Paul Bourque Huntsville, AL

John Cline, Menlo Park, CA

Don Leavitt San Diego, CA

Dale Meisinger, N. Augusta, SC

David Harris Broken Arrow, Oklahoma

Eva B. Horton, Greenwich, CT

Dan Wheeler Santa Rosa, CA

38 SWEEPING MAY 12

Alan Hisey, St. Louis, MO

Harry Richart, Hasbrouck Heights, NJ

Arkansas, Colorado, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Minnesota, Nebraska, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Texas, Wisconsin

REGION 6 Alaska, Arizona, California, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, Washington, Wyoming

What You Need to Know From Veracity Insurance Solutions BY CHELSEA CIENA, PROGRAM UNDERWRITER

Energy-Saving Dampers Reduce Your Customer’s Utility Bills

Damper Claims The damper is an important part of a chimney, and if left closed while a fire is burning it can cause big issues with smoke damage in a home. Lately multiple claims have arisen where an insured chimney sweep serviced a chimney and closed the damper. The homeowner started a fire without checking the damper and smoke poured into the home, causing damage. The problem arises when the homeowner says that they always leave the damper open, so they didn’t think to check it. Currently there is no industry standard for whether or not to leave the damper open, but most sweeps tend to close them in an effort to keep the home from losing energy through the chimney. Good practices suggest always asking the homeowner what position they would like the damper left in and document the response on the work order or invoice. Also, leave a clearly visible note on the fireplace identifying that the damper is closed. About the Author: Chelsea Ciena is an Insurance Agent/ Underwriter at Veracity Insurance Solutions, LLC near Provo, UT. She been with Veracity for two years and works with chimney sweeps and HPBA members. You can reach Chelsea at (866) 395-1308 or chelsea@veracityins.com.

• Over 80,000 Sold in the Last 10 Years • Superior Design & Quality – Cast-Aluminum Construction – Easy Opening With Power-Lever Assist – Easily Mounts Atop a Flue Tile

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Call your favorite Lyemance distributor today! Lyemance Damper Cap fits over any Lyemance Damper

An industry stAndArd for over 25 yeArs

MAY 12 SWEEPING 39

11 Sweeping April lyemance .indd 1

2/24/11 8:35:25 AM

Dates & Events May 21-25, 2012 Online CSIA eLearning For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.CSIA.org May 21-25, 2012 CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.CSIA.org May 21-25, 2012 CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.CSIA.org June 1, 2012 CSIA Technology Center CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review and Exam For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.CSIA.org June 4, 5, 6 and 7, 2012 CSIA (online) Codes and Standards Quizzes For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.CSIA.org/quiz June 4-8, 2012 CSIA Technology Center Sweeps Week For more information, please contact: Ronnie Brigman at ronb@sweepstuff. com or Renee Brigman at renee@sweepstuff.com or call 864-682-5422 June 7-9, 2012 Cedar Hill, Missouri Bake Oven Workshop II Sponsored by the Midwest Chimney Safety Council For more information, please contact Marge Padgitt at (816) 461-3665 or ympadgitt@yahoo.com June 11-16, 2012 CSIA Technology Center National Chimney Sweep Training School For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.CSIA.org/ NCSTS June 11-15, 2012 Online CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.CSIA.org June 11-15, 2012 Online CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician Review For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.CSIA.org June 15, 2012 Richmond, VA CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review and Exam For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.CSIA.org June 18-22, 2012 CSIA (online) Health and Safety Week For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.CSIA.org/ safetyweek June 23-24, 2012 Newmarket, NH Sweepfest 2012 For more information, please contact Phil Mitchell at sootski@aol.com

40 SWEEPING MAY 12

June 25-29, 2012 CSIA Technology Center Installing and Troubleshooting Gas Hearth Appliances For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.CSIA.org June 25-29, 2012 Online CSIA eLearning For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.CSIA.org June 25-29, 2012 CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.CSIA.org June 25-29, 2012 CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.CSIA.org July 2, 3, 5 and 6, 2012 CSIA (online) Codes and Standards Quizzes For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.CSIA.org/quiz July 9, 2012 GSCSG - CA/NV CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review and Exam For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.CSIA.org July 9-13, 2012 Online CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.CSIA.org July 9-13, 2012 Online CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.CSIA.org July 9-12, 2012 Circus Circus- Reno, Nevada GSCSG Convention & Tradeshow For more information, please contact Mike Danskin at www. cachimneysweeps.org July 9-13, 2012- Subject to Availability CSIA Technology Center Installing and Troubleshooting Woodburning Hearth Appliances For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.CSIA.org July 16-20, 2012 CSIA (online) Health and Saftey Week For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.CSIA.org/ safetyweek July 19-20, 2012 CSIA Technology Center Inspection and Report Writing For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.CSIA.org

Please send notice of your events for NCSG Dates & Events listings at mmcmahon@ncsg.org for inclusion here, in weekly posts to the discussion list and online at www.NCSG.org/dates. The event must be considered educational or informative for the industry (sales events and open houses will not be listed).

BY MARK MCSWEENEY, CAE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Perspective

What’s In It For Me?

“If you run with wolves, you will learn to howl but, if you associate with eagles, you will learn how to soar to great heights.” -Gen. Colin Powell

his past winter the National Chimney Sweep Guild and the Chimney Safety Institute of America partnered to conduct an industry-wide survey about the state of the chimney service trade. In the near future both organizations will be communicating their respective findings from those surveys, but I want to thank each of you who took the time to share your input as the record participation we saw will go a long way toward helping both organizations improve the services and support they offer the industry. People have an inherent need to belong. Cost notwithstanding, do you usually prefer to see a movie in a theater rather than at home on DVD? Do you ever chat with a colleague or coworker about a TV show or some local news event? At a sporting event, have you ever given a high five to a complete stranger next to you after your team has just made an amazing play or incredible score? These types of things, and all sorts of other every day actions, satisfy our innate need to belong. It has been said that after satisfying the basic needs of food, water and shelter, the next greatest human need is the need to feel like you belong to something bigger than yourself. The concept of “associations” was borne of that need centuries ago, when people of similar needs and interests figured out there were benefits to coming together as a group that cumulatively exceeded their potential when solely going it alone. Among those benefits are a sense of teamwork, developing social skills, experiencing support and camaraderie, brainstorming ideas, strength in numbers, and in the case of a trade association, increasing your professional network and taking advantage of your position within a larger industry rather than feeling like you are fighting the daily grind all by yourself. Since 1977, the National Chimney Sweep Guild has existed to further satisfy that fundamental need of chimney service professionals. NCSG has little reason for existence without our membership, but our potential impact is far greater than merely those within our member ranks. The Guild’s activities have an opportunity to benefit not only our current membership, but indeed affect the entire industry

of chimney professionals and suppliers. Our influence has the potential of reaching the consuming public at large, affiliated trades and a multitude of additional associated industries. With an eye toward an increasingly diverse professional and consumer population, NCSG’s mission is three-fold. First and foremost, we exist to promote the success of our members and the chimney service industry. The Guild strives to provide services to our membership that not only encourage their own business achievements but progresses the strength of the industry as a whole. The professional and volunteer leadership of the Guild is continually investigating ways to enhance the benefits of membership in NCSG. While no single “benefit” will ever meet the needs of every professional out there, our hope is to provide enough variety to offer needed resources to sweeps that can collectively further their abilities to effectively and profitably manage their individual businesses. The survey we conducted indicates that the majority of benefits and services we offer are in fact in demand by sweeps across the country. Unfortunately, the survey also indicates that far too many sweeps are completely unfamiliar with what NCSG has to offer. If you are a member, please help us spread the word. If you are not a member, I invite you to spend a few minutes on www.ncsg.org in the “Chimney Sweeps” and “Join NCSG” sections to explore how we can immediately help you in your business. One example of that continues to be our general liability program offered through Veracity Insurance Solutions (formerly Stratus). While several sweeps have reported annual savings well in excess of their membership dues, even more importantly the vast majority of sweeps are finding the coverage through this program to be considerably more comprehensive and accurate than their expiring policies. If you haven’t already done so, it is certainly worth checking out and seeking a quote whether you are a member of NCSG or not. NCSG’s Sweeps Advantage coupon program speaks to the bottom line of our members’ financial operations and can easily pay for Guild membership several times over. These coupons MAY 12 SWEEPING 41

represent well over $20,000 in savings for supplies and services that many of you already use every day. Participation in the program by generous suppliers has continued to grow each year since its inception, which means that its value to our membership is continually growing. Taking advantage of just one offer can often pay for your annual NCSG membership dues!

We know the influence these professionals have on the public, so we continue targeting these industries to explore ways to partner with them and further our mutual goals. Additionally, for our members, our new website is beginning to track referrals for our members companies that are generated when homeowners visit NCSG.org.

Also worth noting is our continually growing online library of almost 500 appliance installation and service manuals, many of which are no longer in print or circulation (even though the appliances are still out there). Going to our website can save you literally hours of frustrating research when you are trying to track down a manual for the latest antique you need to service.

Rounding out our mission, the glue that bonds together the success of our members to the success and growth of the industry is the Guild’s encouragement of professionalism and integrity within the trade. As a service industry, our members are dependent upon the level of confidence and competence they are able to maintain among the consumer market. Perception is reality in the eye of the consumer and, to the extent that homeowners begin to doubt the reliability of their service professionals, they will begin to seek alternatives – or worse yet, opt to do nothing at all.

A second component of our mission is to promote the chimney service industry itself to the general public. While we will continue to partner with others to promote public awareness issues, the NCSG board of directors is increasing its focus on spreading the word about chimney maintenance and specifically the professionals who are out there providing the service. The more service companies we have backing up our efforts and helping us as foot soldiers to spread the word, the greater our ability to meet this goal and the greater the business impact on the entire industry. The value of referrals through membership in NCSG can be incredible. I routinely hear testimonials from members who have had new business referred to them from professionals outside our traditional ranks. Home inspectors, firefighters and Realtors are among the more popular sources, and that’s not by accident.

The greatest strength of any association is the membership itself. Through the power of networking, members learn from each other every day. American icon Will Rogers is credited with saying, “A man only learns in two ways, one by reading, and the other by association with smarter people.” When you are active in a trade association, you are surrounded by a group of people who love to talk about their business and share their ideas with one another. It’s not about being competitive but rather finding strength in the notion that “we are all in this together.” As the world becomes increasingly intimate, the proliferation of free (and far too often times incorrect) information is available in greater abundance, and businesses continue to be challenged by the economy and emerging less-thanscrupulous competition, the need for associations is only intensifying. Adlai Stevenson once said, “On this shrunken globe, (we) can no longer live as strangers.” Never before in our history has this been truer than it is today. NCSG is proud of its accomplishments over the years, but our continued success on behalf the entire trade can only be ensured through increased participation. NCSG wants to do whatever it can to help make each of you a success by whatever measure is meaningful to you. Achieving excellence is a goal we have for the entire chimney service industry. Whether that’s through insurance, education, referrals, business discounts or networking we want to help you succeed. Thank you for helping us to help you. Until next time, I continue to wish you every success!

42 SWEEPING MAY 12

Darwin Awards Have you snapped a photo of a peculiar chimney in your area that made you shake your head in disbelief? Send it to Melissa Heeke at mheeke@ncsg.org for publication in Sweeping. Or, mail it to NCSG, 2155 Commercial Drive, Plainfield, IN 46168.

Submitted by Dillon Jewell of Firesafe Industries in Bealeton, VA.

Display Ad Index Page #

Advertiser

34 Ahrens Chimney Technique 21 Barnhill Chimney Company 25-28 Chimney Safety Institute of America 14 Cobra Chimney Caps 19 Communications Network Inc 23 Copperfield Chimney 42 Duct Cleaners’ Supply 9 DuraVent 12 ENERVEX Inc. 36 Estoban Corporation (Chim-scan®) 18 Firesafe Industries, Inc. 39 Gelco, Lyemance, Lock-Top 35 Golden Flue, Inc. 29 Hose Master 10 HY-C Company 8 ICP BC Lifetime Chimney Supply LLC 7 Lindemann Chimney Company 37 Meyer Machine & Equipment 6 National Chimney Supply IFC NCSG Innovation 2013 17 New England Supply 5 Olympia Chimney Supply 13 Sand Hill Wholesale 11 Ventech Industries 31 Wakefield Brush 3 Whitecaps 44 Wohler 15 Z-Flex

Phone

Email or Website Address

800-582-1392 859-219-8736 317-837-5362 888-463-0636 800-875-8118 800-247-3305 800-634-2822 800-835-4429 800-255-2923 800-722-8439 800-545-6607 800-334-2154 800-468-1052 800-221-2319 800-325-7076 508-695-7000 877-234-7473 800-722-7230 800-728-3828 800-897-8481 317-837-1500 888-900-8106 800-569-1425 800-258-5496 866-439-0069 800-264-7007 800-335-2534 978-750-9876 800-654-5600

ahrenschimney@qwestoffice.net www.barnhillchimney.com www.csia.org sales@cobrachimney.com tkemper@comnetmessage.com www.copperfield.com www.ductcleanerssupply.com www.duravent.com info@enervex.com www.chimscan.net www.firesafeinc.com www.GLLchimneyproducts.com www.goldenflue.com bobdaniels@hosemaster.com www.hyccompany.com www.chimneycaps.com www.lifetimechimneysupply.com www.lindemannchimney.com www.meyermachine.com www.nationalchimneysupply.com www.ncsg.org www.newenglandchimneysupply.com www.olympiachimney.com www.sandhillwholesale.com www.ventechindustries.com www.wakefieldbrush.com www.whitecaps.com www.wohlerusa.com www.z-flex.com

MAY 12 SWEEPING 43

The Measure of Technology

See for yourself. Pan & Tilt Camera!

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44 SWEEPING MAY 12

CLASSIFIED ADS FREE FOR NCSG MEMBERS Members can run one 35 word classified free each year! Regularly classified ads are $2/word or $1/ word for NCSG members. Classified ads are noncommissionable and must be pre-paid. To place a classified ad, please contact Megan McMahon at mmcmahon@ncsg.org or (317) 837-1500.

2 3:48:03 PM

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National Chimney Sweep Guild 2155 Commercial Drive Plainfield, IN 46168

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