Sweeping December 2018 VOLUME 42 #11
The Journal of Chimney and Venting Technology
What Does Finishing the Year Strong Look Like? Meet a Member— Jesse Doucette Call for Nominations Join the NCSG Community 2019 NCSG Convention Schedule
Registration is now open!
Picture yourself here
NCSG 2019 National Convention Waterside Marriott - Norfolk, VA April 17- 20, 2019 www.ncsgconvention.org
Departments President’s Letter 3 In case You Missed It 4 Editor’s Letter 5 History Project 10 Technical Q&A 12 Coach’s Corner 18 Dates and Events 34 Membership Memo 36 New Members 41 Around the Tech Center 42 Classifieds 43 Darwin Award 44
Table of Contents Sweeping December 2018 Volume 42 Issue 11
NCSG Norfolk 2019 National Convention Logo
Features What Does Finishing the Year Strong Look Like?
Meet a Member— Jesse Doucette
Bell M Call for Nominations
Join the NCSG Community
2019 NCSG Convention Schedule
6 16 22 26 29 NCS
Norfol December 2018
Smoke Chambers and Cast in Place Liner Installation (866) 283-8667 Ext. 706
Factory Built Fireplace Installation and Replacement (866) 283-8667 Ext. 701
Dryer Vents (866) 283-8667 Ext. 707
Gas Appliance Venting, Gas Logs and NFPA 54 (866) 283-8667 Ext. 702 Oil Appliance Venting and NFPA 31 (866) 283-8667 Ext. 703 Chimney Inspection, Documentation and NFPA 211 (Levels of Inspection) (866) 283-8667 Ext. 704
Installation and Venting of Pellet Stoves (866) 283-8667 Ext. 708 IRC and NFPA 211 (Code Questions) (866) 283-8667 Ext. 709 Customer Service and Customer Communication (866) 283-8667 Ext. 710 General Sweeping and Repair (866) 283-8667 Ext. 711
NATIONAL CHIMNEY SWEEP GUILD BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2018-2019
TECHNICAL ADVISORY COUNCIL
Masonry Fireplace Construction and Restoration (866) 283-8667 Ext. 700
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STAFF
Resources 2155 Commercial Drive Plainfield, IN 46168 (317) 837-1500 Fax: (317) 837-5365
Megan McMahon Executive Director mmcmahon@ncsg.org
Donna Lee Kasmer CSIA Certification Coordinator dkasmer@csia.org
Darcy Marlett Director of Communications and Marketing dmarlett@ncsg.org
Penny Seals Program Coordinator pseals@ncsg.org
Zach Zagar CSIA Marketing Director zzagar@csia.org Russell Dimmitt Education Director rdimmitt@ncsg.org Charissa Benge Mahaffey Office Coordinator cmahaffey@ncsg.org
December 2018
Sara Sichting Systems and Records Coordinator ssichting@ncsg.org Annemarie Stockton Membership & Outreach Coordinator astockton@ncsg.org
COMMITTEE CHAIRS and TASK FORCES 2018 – 2019
Be advised that advice given by NCSG’s Technical Advisory Council (TAC) reflects best practices of the chimney sweeping industry. However, we are unable to account for any particular type of situation since regional variations in construction practices and additional environmental, physical and geographical factors necessarily vary the level of service appropriate for a particular fireplace and/or chimney. Additionally, local laws and ordinances may govern and/ or supersede the information and any recommendations provided. Final determinations are the responsibility of a local professional with firsthand knowledge of the situation, and the local Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ). Neither NCSG nor any member of TAC will be held liable for any damages whatsoever resulting from the use of or reliance on information provided by anyone associated with TAC. By your use of this member benefit you acknowledge acceptance of these terms.
Region 6 Bob Ferrari (530) 941-5818 bob@flueseason.com
Vice President, Region 4 Jeff Keefer 513-248-9600 info@chimneycareco.com
At-Large Director Gregg Boss (636) 391-2226 englishsweep@att.net
Treasurer, Region 3 Ron Rust (803) 730-5858 tophatswp@aol.com
At-Large Director Jeff Peterson (703) 444-5155 jeff@potomacservices.net
Secretary, Region 1 Matt Mair (603) 525-7905 matt@blackmoosechimney. com
Supplier Representative Stuart Karanovich (765) 966-5084 stuartk@saversystems.com
Region 2 Bill Thornton (215) 540-9787 wissahickonvalleysweep@ yahoo.com
Stainless Steel Liner Installation (866) 283-8667 Ext. 705 To contact any member of the Technical Advisory Council, please call (866) 283-8667 and select the extension for the person who is best qualified to answer your question:
President, Region 5 Jasper Drengler (715) 304-8934 drengler01@gmail.com
Bylaws Jeff Keefer 513-248-9600 info@chimneycareco.com
NFPA 211 Representative Jim Brewer (757) 523-2400 jbrewer@magic-sweep.com
Ethics Andy Raycroft (703) 836-7858 andy@rooftopchimneysweeps.con
NFPA 31 Representative John Pilger (631) 863-2460 chimneyman@aol.com
Governance Tom Hunkele (641) 774-8056 topnotchchimney@gmail.com
NFPA 54 Jim Brewer (757) 523-2400 jbrewer@magic-sweep.com
Government Affairs Jeff Keefer 513-248-9600 info@chimneycareco.com
Technical Advisory Council Michael Segerstrom (908) 253-9190 chimneysweeps@optonline.net
International Relations John Pilger (631) 863-2460 chimneyman@aol.com
Scholarship Committee Gregg Boss (636) 391-2226 englishsweep@att.net
Membership Bob Ferrari (530) 221-3331 bob@flueseason.com
ADVERTISING RATES for Sweeping: The Journal of Chimney & Venting Technology may be obtained by contacting Malisa Minetree at (317) 815-4688 or sweepingads@me.com Layout and design by David Bruce, Red2 Design Bureau NCSG encourages industry partners to submit press releases and articles to editor Darcy Marlett at dmarlett@ncsg.org. Submissions should contain items of interest or importance to the chimney and venting industry. Submissions should not contain direct solicitations, prices, or a call to action on the part of our readers. Submissions may contain images or artwork attached in a .jpg format. In all cases, NCSG reserves the right to edit submissions to fit space limitations, keep the release and publish at a later date, or refuse to publish the release for any reason. Neither publishing, nor refusing to publish the submission should be considered a statement of NCSG’s opinion regarding the release. NCSG further reserves the right to reject at any time any advertising determined not to be in keeping with the publication’s standards. Acceptance of advertising by Sweeping magazine does not necessarily constitute endorsement of products or services advertised. NCSG does not make any effort to review or substantiate claims made by advertisers. © 2018 National Chimney Sweep Guild, 2155 Commercial Drive, Plainfield, IN 46168. (317) 837-1500
T
his is the special issue of sweeping that the National Chimney Sweep Guild sends out to every sweep we can find. The NCSG is here to serve our members. Our members include companies sized from one single operator to husband and wife teams to large companies. We have sweeps who are in their first year of business to guys who had pet dinosaurs as kids. We have a wonderful staff in Indiana who work diligently to provide our membership many benefits. To save costs we share a building with the Chimney Safety Institute of America. The NCSG does a lot of work to help every sweep in the industry by keeping an eye out for government regulations, code changes and we are currently working hard on
OSHA regulations to help sweeps be in compliance and do their job safely. I encourage each of you to attend our convention and trade show April 17 to the 20th in Norfolk Virginia. You will have a chance to meet many different manufacturers and suppliers of chimney related products along with many brilliant speakers geared towards technical and business improvement. The best part is meeting other sweeps who willingly share advice
and stories from the rooftop. NCSG president Jasper Drengler
President’s
Letter Jasper Drengler
President
Welcome sweeps!
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December 2018
In Case You
Missed
it‌
4 S W E E P I N G December 2018
Convention Registration is Now Open You won't want to miss our opening Keynote Eric Chester or any of the other opportunities for education and fun at the 2019 NCSG National Convention in Norfolk, VA. Registration is now open and you won't want to miss early-bird pricing! www.ncsgconvention.org/register Enhance Your Listing on NCSG.org You can now add a list of services your company provides along with a brief description of your company on your http://www.NCSG.org profile. Just fill out the short form at this link: http://bit.ly/NCSGlisting Nominations for Meet a Member Do you know a friend or colleague doing great work in our industry that deserves a little recognition? Nominate them to be featured on NCSG.org and in Sweeping magazine for the Meet a Member feature. Send names to Annemarie Stockton at astockton@ncsg.org.
W
elcome to the Progress Edition of Sweeping Magazine!
What is the progress edition? Once a year the National Chimney Sweep Guild sends Sweeping Magazine to our regular member subscribers plus nearly 5,000 chimney sweep companies from across the country that are not yet members of our Guild community. If you are considering NCSG membership you will want to read our special membership section with a letter from our Membership & Outreach Coordinator Annemarie Stockton, an overview of the benefits membership offers and a membership form.
Convention in Norfolk, VA. Find out what classes will be available plus their CEU values for both CSIA and NFI certification holders. Throughout the rest of the issue you will find columns and articles from a wide variety of professionals that work in and with the industry.
Editor’s
Letter Darcy Marlett Editor
If you’re not currently a member, or would like to get more out of your membership by getting involved, we would love to talk to you. Check out www.NCSG.org , give us a call at 317-837-1500, or send an email to Annemarie at astockton@ncsg.org. Cheers,
Of interest to both veteran members and those new to the industry will be the schedule for the 2019 NCSG National
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December 2018
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What Does Finishing the Year Strong Look Like?
Taylor Hill
Spark Marketer can hear some of you right now saying, “Duh, it’s making more money than last year!” And while many think the answer is as simple as that, I would like to discuss why it might not be the right answer at all.
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Statistically, there are many businesses who continually bring in more money each year, and yet go out of business. The reason being that they actually spend more every year than they bring in, which over time is a formula for disaster. You see, making more money every year doesn’t solve issues with controlling expenses, and if you aren’t properly managing expenses, you won’t be successful. So that can’t be the answer. With that myth out of the way, many of you may suggest another common answer, which is “profitability.” While I believe this is a much better answer than just “making more money,” there are reasons to question this as well.
December 2018
Being profitable is awesome! It means you made more money than you spent, which is the goal of every company in the short and long run. However, at what cost did you profit? Many business owners actually inhibit their company’s growth in order to make a healthy profit every year. They overwork or underpay those who do a good day's work, or they simply refuse to get the help they need. With their eyes on profit as the end all, be all, they cut corners or shortchange their customers, overbooking, missing appointments, or pushing them back to fit the owner/operator’s schedule. I am not insinuating that owner/operators are not paying attention to or capable of taking care of their customers. I am saying that, as long as you manage to treat your customers well and make a profit, great! But if you make a profit at the expense of service, then
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you are most likely hurting your reputation, and thus your company, over time. So profit in and of itself can’t be the answer. Ok, Ok, What’s The Answer?! The answer is: finishing the year strong looks different for every company. There is a myth that every company that offers the same services operates the same way and has the same definition of success. That’s just not true. We work with almost two hundred companies, many of which are chimney sweeps, and no two operate exactly the same, even though many have the same coaches, mentors, and vendors. Think about it: every company has different people running it. Those people have different goals for their company; different attitudes, personalities, and approaches; and a different group of employees supporting them. So it makes sense that finishing the year strong looks different for everyone. For mature companies that have stopped growing and just want to maintain where they are, profitability might be the most important thing at the end of the year. At the other end of the spectrum, an owner/ operator who just needs someone else to answer the phone and free him up to make service calls might see a “strong win” as having enough money left over to fill that position.
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Others may have suffered setbacks from health issues, natural disasters, and personal changes, and for them, the strongest finish may be to get to the end of the year and still be standing. What Does Finishing Strong Look Like For You? Most of us don’t have a clue what constitutes “finishing the year strong,” because we haven’t identified what our company needs more than anything else. What do you need to move forward towards your dreams? We all know what we want, right? Work less, make more! But few ever consider what our companies need and how our companies need to shift or grow in order to allow for that.
December 2018
So to finish strong this year, figure out the one or two things your company needs or ways your company needs to change in order for you to reach your dreams. End the year with a plan to make that happen in 2019. Coming up with a plan and getting those one or two things, people, etc., in place in 2019 will help you decide the same thing going into 2020, and every year beyond. And no matter how you define success and a strong finish, keep your customer, your employees, and your longterm mission and goal in mind. Do that, and one day you will look back in wonder at the company you built, and I can’t wait to see it! Taylor Hill is co-founder and crew chief of Spark Marketer, a local online marketing company that specializes in marketing service businesses across the US. He’s passionate about helping service business owners navigate the Internet oceans filled with sharks and unsavory pirates. He’s also co-host of the Blue Collar Proud (BCP) Show, the podcast that’s all about having and living the blue collar dream, and coauthor of Blue Collar Proud: 10 Principles For Building A Kickass Business You Love. @sparkmarketer, facebook.com/ sparkmarketer, facebook.com/bcpshow/, facebook.com/ groups/bluecollarproudnation/, @taylorkhill @bcpshow
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History
Project T
his holiday greeting was originally published in Sweeping magazine 30 years ago in 1988 but the sentiment is just as true now as it was then! Happy Holidays from the board and staff of the National Chimney Sweep Guild!
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2019
ALL STAR SEMINAR TECHNICAL AND BUSINESS CLASSES RUNNING SIMULTANEOUSLY — BRING YOUR WHOLE CREW! COST
DAY 1 SCHEDULE
DAY 2 SCHEDULE
$199/PERSON
TECHNICAL CLASSES
TECHNICAL CLASSES
CEU’S
8:30 AM – 12:00 PM Carbon Monoxide And The Venting Professional by Bob Harper
8 AM – 12:00 PM Professional Ahrens-Fire Installation by Michael Segerstrom
12:00 PM – 1:00 PM Lunch provided by Olympia Chimney Supply
12:15 PM – 1:00 PM Lunch provided by Olympia Chimney Supply
1:00 PM – 5:00 PM Professional Ahren-Fire Installation by Michael Segerstrom
1:15 PM – 4:45 PM Carbon Monoxide And The Venting Professional by Bob Harper
BUSINESS CLASSES
BUSINESS CLASSES
8:30 AM – 9:30 AM Is Your Chimney Protected? Crown vs. Outside Mount Caps by Brian Cline
8:00 AM – 10:00 AM 5 Critical Insurance Mistakes That Chimney Companies Make by Cam Arnold
TBD
WHEN & WHERE 1/16/19 – 1/17/19 HILTON SCRANTON 100 Adams Ave. Scranton, PA 18503 570-343-3000 $99/night (cutoff date for rooms is 1/4/2019)
1/23/19 – 1/24/19 HILTON BRENTWOOD 9000 Overlook Blvd. Brentwood, TN 37027 615-370-0111 $129/night (cutoff date for rooms is 12/21/18)
1/30/19 – 1/31/19 DOUBLETREE BY HILTON DENVER 3203 Quebec St. Denver, CO 80207 303-321-3333 $189/night (cutoff date for rooms is 12/30/2018)
9:45 AM – 11:45 AM Sketch Up Designs For Chimney Pros by Will Omlor 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM Lunch provided by Olympia Chimney Supply 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM Defining Your Business Model-Define Your Profit by Bill Ryan
KEYNOTE SPEAKER 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM
10:15 AM – 12:15 PM Building A Better Workplace Culture by Colin Healey 12:15 PM – 1:00 PM Lunch provided by Olympia Chimney Supply 1:15 PM – 3:15 PM Transition: Creating A Path For New Management by Andy Raycroft
BRYAN ANDERSON – Veteran of the Iraq War, triple amputee, purple heart recipient, author, actor and national spokesperson for USA Cares.
COCKTAIL RECEPTION 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM An evening with Will Kozlansky, cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, and conversations.
REGISTER TODAY! CALL OR TEXT 570-504-7177 OR VISIT OLYMPIACHIMNEY.COM A minimum of 15 registrants are required for training to commence. Should fewer than fifteen people be registered for the event 14 days prior to the scheduled date, Olympia will regrettably cancel the event. If the event is sold out, you will be placed on a waiting list and notified if there is a cancellation. Important: If any event details do change, we will communicate directly to each person registered to attend.
BRYAN ANDERSON 2019 Keynote Speaker
(Technical classes repeated at opposite times on Day 2 for scheduling flexibility)
Technical
Q&A
Michael Segerstrom
NCSG Technical Advisory Chair
Question
My company is a member of our state guild, I'm a member of a local business network group, and my company has a pretty good internet presence. Do I really need to become a member of the National Chimney Sweep Guild, and if so, why?
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Answer: Yes you do! There are too many reasons to cover in a short answer, so let’s look at the highlights. The biggest and best reason is the people! There are many great people involved with, members of and supporting the National Chimney Sweep Guild. Membership is made up of folks from all across the country, Canada and even member companies in Europe and beyond. As an NCSG member, we have the opportunity to network with such a wide variety of people and companies with different business models, strategies, and levels and types of service. Insight into such a wealth of information will prove invaluable as a business owner or manager. Then there's the great people that make up the NCSG Board of Directors and staff. The Board is made up of all volunteers, with regional directors from across the country. They give their personal time and often personal resources to help and support the NCSG membership. The staff works tirelessly year-round on a variety of benefits for our members, including marketing, convention planning, the website and networking with suppliers, manufacturers and distributors that support the NCSG.
Those suppliers, manufacturers and distributors are led and represented by great people who continually support the organization in a variety of ways, including sponsorship and discounts. As an NCSG member you get exclusive discounts on a host of products and services available to our industry. When these discounts are used, it can save a company thousands of dollars! In my opinion, one of the biggest benefits are the discounts on becoming CSIA Certified. The savings can really add up when a company has or desires multiple CSIA Certified technicians. While the two organizations are separate, the NCSG recognizes the great value in CSIA education and certification, and in turn, the CSIA supports the NCSG and its membership. The NCSG TAC (Technical Advisory Council Phone Line) is another great group of people directly supporting the members, providing a very valuable benefit. NCSG members have access to experts across the country through the phone line for technical support in a wide range of categories including masonry, gas appliances, dryer vents, codes and standards, customer service and much more! As an NCSG member, this access and support is free!
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The NCSG’s Government Affairs Committee watches both federal and state regulations that may affect the chimney service industry. NCSG advocates for its members, and has been responsible for changes in codes and standards over the years. With many business owners having little time to be involved with these things, it's a great benefit to have the NCSG looking out for us. Another often important member benefit is free access to the NCSG Manual Library. As many factory-built fireplace manufacturers have gone out of business and many of these fireplaces are now aged, having access to the installation manual can be priceless! It is really helpful when performing inspections, but having the manual can also be a great resource for dimensions when planning a replacement.
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These are just a few of the great benefits of being an NCSG member. There are more, including a subscription to Sweeping magazine, the always powerful experience of attending the NCSG Convention, the NCSG outreach with affiliated trades, and the NCSG's work with State and Regional Guilds and Associations. Each member has their own favorite benefit, and as you can see, the benefits are worth it!
Meet A
Member
Jesse Doucette
Approaching his 10th year of membership with NCSG, Jesse Doucette of Crown Chimney in Hooksett, New Hampshire shares part of his experience as a chimney sweep with us.
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What is a question you get asked most about being a chimney sweep/chimney sweeping? How often should I have my chimney swept?
What is your proudest accomplishment? Becoming a CSIA Master Sweep! Becoming F.I.R.E Certified
What advice do you wish you had received when you were getting started? I wish I had been given advice on anything! I was kind of thrown into the industry and had to learn from scratch. What is the biggest challenge you face on the job? What are your best strategies for overcoming it? Every job is different from the last. The best strategy that I use is to be open minded and look at each job as an individual job and not like any others. This allows us to be creative for the customer with coming up with the best solution for them and their needs.
Have you ever had to make your own tool to solve a particular problem? I do that almost daily. Again every job is different and the tools that we buy don't always work. Open-mindedness and creativity are key to the jobs continuing.
Who was your most famous customer? Roger Clemens (Baseball Player)
December 2018
Weirdest thing you have ever found in a chimney? Civil War guns. What do you like to do outside of work? Wood working and mountain biking.
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I Corner Coach’s Bob Ferrari
Ferrari’s Thoughts On Behavior Assessments
18
recently had an opportunity to have a DISC Assessment and debriefing by Sheryl Isenhour, a Certified DISC Assessor and Coach. The DISC assessment is a tool in relation to hiring and maintaining the employees that we have invested time and money into. I went over my results with Sheryl this morning and thought I’d share a bit about how I experienced this tool and others similar to it. Hopefully I can help you, if you are curious, see where this tool may help you and your team. This is a little long so be forewarned. If you want to cut to the chase – Yes, I think there are some good applications for assessments, within limits. I worked for a business consultant back in the early 1980s. We helped companies like the Forest Service whittle 100 job applicants down to two and, once, took a growing telecommunications company with personnel problems into a cultural space that understood the personality fit and preferences that the leaders were ignorant of and which were killing the company. DISC was part of the work we did. Of the 2500 or so personality assessments available in the USA I’ve taken Meyers-Brigs and DISC several times, The Flag Page, Strength Finder, 5 Love Languages, How to Fascinate, Maxwell Leadership Assessment, Berke, BNI’s Room Full Of Referrals, and probably some others I’ve forgotten. I don’t know the psychological structure behind them, but all have pegged me in similar buckets consistently.
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Eighty-nine of the Fortune 100 companies use assessments. I read somewhere that the top 10 percent of companies measuring turnover, sales per employee, and market value, use assessments. Do they work? Being both naturally skeptical and curious I’ve been dubious. How can a 15 or 20 minute questionnaire reveal the mystery and complexities of personhood? Short answer: It can’t. And, it doesn’t need to. However, I am most often Yoda, based on social media assessments (Which Star Wars Character are You) unless I have someone close to me fill it out, in which case I sometimes come out as Jabba the Hutt. Dumb as this example is there can be a difference between how we see ourselves and how others experience us and vice versa. Assessments (ones not on social media) can help bridge the gap. On DISC I’m a high D. One of those traits is decisiveness with a bit of risk tolerance. My wife, ummm… not so much. She’s my opposite in nearly every way. Most of us are attracted to our opposite hence, sometimes, one spouse thinks the other is yelling when they are just talking and the other thinks their partner is closed up and cold when they are simply thinking, etc. One spouse might like being communicated with directly and succinctly and the other might prefer a more round about and roomy approach. The better we understand how each other thinks and prefers communication the better we move forward in life together.
At work there are similar dynamics. I think fast on my feet (in certain areas) and I tend to approach creativity and problem solving with quick, intuitive ideas. If I want team input, ideas, and details, which, amazingly, I sometimes miss, then I need to understand that two of my leadership team like to have some time to mull things over. They are smart and have good insights but if I call a meeting and ask for ideas and discussion right now they will hold back and have little input. On the other hand, if I lay out the plan and what I’m hoping to achieve a few days beforehand they show up armed and full of great counsel. We found those personality traits more quickly and efficiently, and were able to articulate them more clearly, through assessments and discussion rather than by trial and error. If, in your life or business, you feel like people aren’t listening to you, are misunderstanding you, or are missing your points altogether making work a battle – doing the DISC assessment will give you the knowledge you need to help reduce stress and produce better outcomes.
The most important benefit, in my opinion, is that assessments can help clarify communication by getting us in the ballpark. There are as many nuances as there are people. There are contradictions, circumstances, and last nights dinner that affect each day – but assessments give us a context to start from. The second thing that can come from doing an assessment is building a better company culture. People feel better about themselves, their job, and each other when given room to learn and grow, and when they feel respected and listened to. Just doing the assessment and talking about it moves people closer together. The third area in which they benefit a business is that assessments lay a sales foundation for our people by helping them to understand the customers they interact with. For example, is this a “cut to the bottom line”, or a “give me more information” client? And while DISC tells us our natural type of behavior it also tells us our adaptive style.
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The more we can recognize and adapt to the other person’s style the more successful the transaction usually is. In terms of hiring, assessments can help us put people in the right seat. I’m not much in favor of saying you need this or that profile for such and such job. I think there are as many ways of doing things as there are persons to do them. Much is influenced by who else is on the team, their style of play and the company culture. The telecommunications company I mentioned at the beginning of this article was started by an electronics engineer. As he grew he hired another engineer and then another until there were five of them sharing ownership
and running the company. They didn’t like selling so they hired outside sales people and flung them into cubicles to do their work. These people were unhappy and complaining. As we got the story sitting in a meeting with both leadership and personnel, the sales side was saying, “I’m all alone out here in this office”. The engineers where replying, “Yes, isn’t that great? No interruptions, so we get more work done!”. Typical engineer personalities are more task oriented and don’t want people to stop by their desk, have the phone ring, or other interruptions. A dark little cubicle was heaven to them. But the typical sales person is more people oriented. They needed interaction. What was heaven to the leaders was hell to their
support staff. Once that became clear the company changed the way the outside sales staff offices and social rules were set up and the company prospered. If you put a task-oriented person in a position with lots of interruptions the job will stress them. Conversely, if you put a people oriented person in a job with little social interaction they are prone to fail. Assessments can help put the right person in the right seat. The drawback is that these assessments often get read like horoscopes or fortunes. We say, “Yep, pretty much nailed me”, and that’s as far as it goes. For the information to be useful we need the time to drill down deeper and find the applications.
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20 S W E E P I N G
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This brings us to the “why” aspect – I act based on my values and beliefs. This is the part, where the assessment can really help the hiring process. We need shared values in addition to skillsets for our company to thrive. Few companies get to this level of understanding. Some of us don’t like untangling motivations in ourselves (and they can be convoluted and contradictory – that’s human), let alone finding out what motivates others, and without a facilitator few of us have the skills and knowledge needed to draw this out. Having a professional facilitator can help us to dig deep into the assessment tools insights. Sometimes we give financial rewards to people who would prefer praise. Or, we give public recognition to people who hate the spotlight and would prefer a thank you note with a dinner gift card. We want our people to wake up excited and happy about coming to work – because it feeds something inside them, something that we took the time to understand and accommodate.
the assessment, but the debriefing is critical as understanding the assessment is difficult without this. Even if we felt the results were dead wrong, (though I’ve never seen that happen), the conversation and good will sparked from the discussion has value. When choosing the assessment, ask “who is this for”, and “what will we do with the results?” then make sure the time is set aside to follow through with applying the insights. Bob Ferrari is a member of the NCSG Board of Directors and operates White Glove Chimney Service in Redmond California. He has presented numerous educational presentations within the industry and is like one of the leading subject matter experts on fall protection safety in the industry and has developed industry specific training in this area that he presents to industry members.
In summary, I think there is much benefit in
21 S W E E P I N G December 2018
Call for Nominations: Board of Directors When you serve on the NCSG Board of Directors, you help lead the chimney industry into the future and can develop leadership, management and communication skills that will serve you in your business and personal life. You can make an immediate difference in the chimney service industry by helping to determine the organizations' strategic plan and annual budget.
NCSG board members are responsible for: • Attending four board meetings each year: Two of the meetings are held at the CSIA Technology Center in Indianapolis (Spring- typically held for three days, Summer- typically held for two days), the November meeting is usually held online via and via teleconference and the fourth is held immediately before the NCSG convention at the host city. Travel and lodging expenses
are reimbursed for board members attending, with the exception of the convention meeting only. • Participating in the NCSG members-only and board of directors' electronic discussion lists. • Welcoming new and reinstated members to the organization via phone calls and email • Connecting members to regional legislation affecting the industry Continued on page 24
22 S W E E P I N G
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And NCSG board members receive: • Complimentary NCSG National Convention registration for you and your spouse while you serve on the board. • Networking opportunities at board meetings which help develop life-long friendships with business associations from across the country.
The NCSG Governance Committee is now accepting nominations for the following positions.
At Large Supplier Member: 2-year term
Region 1: 2-year term
Names of candidates must be received by December 18, 2018. The newly elected directors will be seated at the April 16, 2019 board of directors meeting in Norfolk, VA. If you would like additional information, please feel free to contact NCSG Governance Chair Tom Hunkele at topnotchchimney@gmail.com or NCSG Executive Director Megan McMahon at mmcmahon@ncsg.org.
Represents: Connecticut, Vermont, Massachusetts, New York, Maine, Rhode Island, New Hampshire
Region 5: 2-year term Represents: Wisconsin, Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska, Iowa, Kansas, Colorado, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Texas, Arkansas, Louisiana
At Large Director #1: 2-year term Represents: National Membership
At Large Director #2: 2-year term Represents: National Membership
24 S W E E P I N G December 2018
Represents: Supplier and Dual members nationally
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Be a Part of Our Community Hello! On behalf of the Board of Directors, Staff, and Members, I am pleased to extend to you an invite to join the National Chimney Sweep Guild. This issue of Sweeping will give you a peek into the NCSG and what we have to offer businesses like yours.
26 S W E E P I N G
Founded in 1977, the National Chimney Sweep Guild has long set the precedent for innovation, professionalism, and community among chimney and hearth professionals. The aim of NCSG is to provide representation, proven industry standards, camaraderie, and networking. We accomplish this through education, industry specific publications, and a yearly convention that brings the industry together on a national platform. We are here to connect you to the resources and tools your business needs to thrive. NCSG is comprised of an incredible network of chimney and hearth professionals, so I would be thrilled to add you to the team! If you have any questions about NCSG Membership and if it’s right for you, please give me a call at (317) 837-1500 or email me at astockton@ncsg.org. Our office is open Monday-Friday, 8am to 5pm EST. Cheers,
Annemarie Stockton NCSG Membership & Outreach Coordinator
December 2018
Connect with the Chimney Community
NCSG Member Benefits
What’s the number one benefit of being an NCSG Member? The people! Network with your fellow members via the online discussion lists and of course in person at the annual NCSG National Convention each spring.
Gain from our Knowledge
Run into questions on the job? The Technical Advisory Council has experts on a wide variety of subjects that can be reached via the TAC Phone Line. Also members have access to the NCSG Manual Library which has over 750 rare and hard to find manuals, and is accessible on your phone, tablet or computer.
Learn from the Best, Be the Best
Want to get certified? NCSG members save big 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.
Know Your Coverage
Looking for the perfect insurance policies for your company? Whether you are looking for liability or health insurance the NCSG partners with companies to make sure you find the right policy for your company.
Advance Your Business
Ready to grow your business?The National Chimney Sweep Guild provides our members with the resources you need to help grow a successful business. These include free business seminars exclusive to NCSG Members as well as discounts on many services you use day to day in your business.
See the Larger Sweeping World
Want to get away? Whether you are traveling for business or just to take a well deserved break, NCSG members receive discounts on hotel rooms and car rentals.
27 Know What Your Competition Doesn’t
Want to keep up to date with the chimney industry? Sweeping: The Journal of Chimney & Venting Technology gives 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.
Make an Impact on Regulations
Want to feel heard? The NCSG works with affiliate orgainziations throughout the country to represent our membership and trade to local and state governments and national lawmakers on NFPA code councils.
December 2018
S W E E P I N G
National Chimney Sweep Guild Membership Application
Our mission: The National Chimney Sweep Guild inspires innovation, professionalism and community among chimney sweeps and venting professionals through advocacy, industry leading conferences and journalism, covering people, tools, health, standards, and education for a successful business and the safety of the American people.
1 Provide company contact information as you would like it to appear at www.NCSG.org
(One company name will be listed at www.NCSG.org.) Company Name _________________________________ 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.
Name of Primary Contact Person _______________________________________________________________ Company Mailing Address _____________________________________________________________________ City __________________________________________State ____________ ZIP _______________________ Fax (______) ________________________________ Business Phone (______) __________________Cell? Email Address ________________________________Web site Address http://____________________________ No May we share your email address with NCSG Supplier and Dual members? Yes Accessing Your Benefits Please choose your username and password for NCSG.org. Username ________________ Password _____________ What email address would you like to use for the NCSG Discussion List? __________________________________ _ 2 How Did You Hear About the 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 which may hold me to a higher standard of performance and professional behavior than applicable laws, rules or regulations. In this regard, I pledge: 1.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. 2. To continually update my knowledge, skills and techniques as new information evolves within the industry. 3. To render my services and represent my company in an honest and fair manner and to refrain from engaging in unfair or deceptive practices or making any unfair or deceptive statements, including but not limited to use of the NCSG logo. 4. 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. 5. To comply with the proper usage of the NCSG Trademark as defined in the NCSG Trademark Use Guidelines document. I agree to conform to NCSG’s Code of Ethics during the term of my membership. By agreeing to this Code of Ethics, I understand that it is my responsibility to remain abreast of any changes to the Code of Ethics, that my actions and those of my company and employees may be reviewed by a committee of my peers, and that failure to abide by these ethical obligations is a violation of NCSG policy and, in accordance with NCSG’s Ethics Violation Procedure originally adopted October 21, 1989, and subsequently amended, may result in disciplinary action as determined by NCSG or its delegated committee. I agree to hold harmless NCSG and its committees from any and all 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 ___________________
4 Select the appropriate membership category for your company. (Annual membership dues are noted next to each category.) $80 of your membership dues is applied to a one-year subscription to Sweeping:The Journal of Chimney & Venting Technology. Members may not deduct this subscription from dues. Voting ($499): 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 ($279): Includes non-chimney service companies and groups affiliated with the industry which are also not defined as a Supplier Member.
International ($279): Non-voting membership for
chimney service companies outside of the United States.
Senior ($179): Non-voting membership for retired sweep
company owners. Includes significant discounts on convention registration.
For Office Use Only O2F 2- C2F AUTH__________________ COID ________________ REC’D BY: ______________ DATE: ________________ FAXED COE Rev. 7/17/17 Valid 9/1/18- 8/31/19
5 Payment Information Check Enclosed - Check # ____________________________ NCSG also accepts Visa, MasterCard and AmericanExpress. Card Number ____________________________________ Card Security Code _________________ Exp. __________ Name on Card ____________________________________ Cardholder Signature _______________________________
6 Send this application with dues payment to: National Chimney Sweep Guild 2155 Commercial Drive Plainfield, IN 46168 By Fax: (317) 837-5365
Apply Online: www.NCSG.org For assistance or to learn more, please call NCSG at (317) 837-1500 or visit us online at www.ncsg.org.
Bell MT Regular
Norfolk
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NC
NCSG
NCSG
Norfolk
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l a C n o o i n t v e a ntion N 9 1 0
a n d Tr a d e S h ow
Whether you are planning to attend your first or 30th convention you’ll find great takeaways at the 2019 NCSG National Convention. Convention offers opportunities to learn from peers, both in the classroom and at the many social events throughout the week. Read on below to find out about class offering, CEUs (for both CSIA and NFI certifications!), and special events. Want to learn more? Visit the convention website at www. ncsgconvention.org to register, reserve your hotel room, find out fun things to do in our host city and much more!
e l u Sc hed
Business SkillsThis icon designates classes that are primarily focused on business skills
Technical SkillsThis icon designates classes that are primarily focused on technical and in the field skills
Wednesday, April 17
8:00 AM
Convention Registration Opens (will continue until 5pm)
9:00 AM
NCSG Annual Meeting
9:45 AM
Coffee and Refreshment Break
10:00 AM
CSIA Informational Meeting
11:00 AM
Opening Keynote "Fully Staffed” with Eric Chester CSIA- . 75 C&L, .75 B | NFI- 1.5 E
12:30 PM
Group Photo
2:45 PM
Lunch on your own
2:00 PM
Breakout Sessions"Make Your Business CONTAGIOUS" with Anne Obarski CSIA- 1.5 C&L| NFI- 1.5 E
"So You Think You Have Insurance" with Cam Arnold CSIA- 1.5 C&L | NFI- 1.5 E
"Is This a Code Violation?" with Jesse Doucette CSIA- 1.5 C&S, .5 B | NFI- 1.5 SHL
Breakout Sessions-
4:00 PM
29
"Dealing with Conflicting Personalities-Employees, Customers and More" with Anne Obarski CSIA- 1.5 C&L | NFI- 1.5
"The Right Venting Solution for the Job" with Brian Barclay CSIA- 1.5 T | NFI- 1.5 T
"Is This a Code Violation?" with Jesse Doucette CSIA- 1.5 C&S | NFI- 1.5 SHL
Opening Night Celebration on the Spirit of Norfolk (Must Pre-Purchase Tickets)
7:00 PM
December 2018
S W E E P I N G
Thursday, April 18 8:15 AM
Breakout Session"Mentoring, Personality Types" with Gregg Boss CSIA- 1.5 C&L | NFI- 1.5 E "Improve Customer Satisfaction with EPA's Education Material" with Larry Brockman CSIA- .75 C&L; .75 B | NFI- 1.5 E
"The 7 Properties of a Properly Constructed Crown" with Stuart Karanovich CSIA- 1.5 T | NFI- 1.5 T
9:45 AM
General SessionOSHA Panel Discussion CSIA- .5 H&S, 1 C&L | NFI- 1.5 SHL
11:30 AM
New Sweep Seminar
1:00 PM
Opening Trade Show Session
After 6 PM Free Night- Explore Norfolk!
Friday, April 19
7:30 AM
Chimney Chase 5k
9:00 AM
Closing Trade Show Session
1:30 PM
Breakout Session-
FIREPLACE, WOOD, AND GAS HEATING PRODUCTS
30 S W E E P I N G
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"Sales- It Will Roll Down to Trust, Relationships, and Perceived Risks" with Jerry Isenhour CSIA- .75 C&L, .75 B | NFI- 1.5 E
"The 'Teched Out' Toolbox " with Jim Ferguson CSIA- 1 T, .5 B | NFI- 1.5 E
"Level 2 Inspection of a Factory- Built UL 127 Wood Burning Fireplace" with Mike Segerstrom CSIA- 1 C&S, .5 C&L | NFI- 1.5 T
Breakout Session-
3:15 PM
"Transformational Leadership" with John Meredith CSIA- .75 C&L, .75 B | NFI- 1.5 E
"Marketing Trends, Challenges & Predictions for 2019" with Taylor Hill and Carter Harkins CSIA- 1 C&L, .5 B | NFI- 1.5 E
"The 'Teched Out' Toolbox " with Jim Ferguson CSIA- 1 T, .5 B | NFI- 1.5 E
7:30 PM
CSIA Auction Preview
8:00 PM
CSIA Benefit Auction
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31 S W E E P I N G
Saturday, April 20 9:00 AM Breakout Sessions
"Recruiting Employees" with Kent Wessley CSIA- .75 C&L, .75 B | NFI- 1.5 E
"Building a Properly Constructed Crown" Hands-On Course with Chris Prior and Stuart Karanovich CSIA- 1.5 T | NFI- 1.5 T
“Scaffold Safety Awareness” Hands-On Course with Safway Scaffolding CSIA- 1.5 H&S | NFI- 1.5 SHL
Quality & Strength The Superior Features You Expect From Gelco: Embossed or cross-braced lid for more strength & stability.
10:30 AM Coffee Break 11:00 AM Breakout Sessions-
32 S W E E P I N G
"Sweeping up the Cash: How to Get More Word of Mouth Referrals" with Matt Ward CSIA- 1.5 C&L | NFI- 1.5 E
"Building a Properly Constructed Crown" Hands-On Course with Chris Prior and Stuart Karanovich CSIA- 1.5 T | NFI- 1.5 T
“Scaffold Safety Awareness” with Safway Scaffolding CSIA- 1.5 H&S | NFI- 1.5 SHL
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2:00 PM Closing Keynote “Becoming a Champion” with Howard Kellman CSIA- 1.5 B | NFI- 1.5 E 6:00 PM Cocktail Hour 7:00 PM Annual Banquet
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NCSG Convention 2019 • April 17-20 • Norfolk, VA NCSG/ MACA Members Primary Spouse 1st Additional 2nd Additional 3+ Additional Single Day Banquet Only Child Banquet 5-12 Tradeshow Only
Through 2/14/19
2/15/19 3/15/19
After 3/15/19
$499 (399)
$549 (449)
$599 (499)
Primary
$199 $349 ($249) $299 ($199) $249 ($149) $199 $79 $39 $69
$249 $399 ($299) $349 ($249) $299 ($199) $199 $79 $39 $69
$299 $449($349) $399($299) $349($249) $199 $79 $39 $69
Spouse 1st Additional 2nd Additional 3+ Additional Single Day Banquet Only Child Banquet 5-12 Tradeshow Only
NOTE: First Time Attendee prices for members are in parenthesis ( ).
Company_________________________________________ Address __________________________________________ City, State, Zip _____________________________________ Phone ___________________________________________ Email ____________________________________________ □ Check here to opt-out of emails from exhibitors
Standard Rates
Through 2/14/19 $599 (499) $299 $449 $399 $349 $299 $99 $39 $99
2/15/19 3/15/19 $649 (549) $349 $499 $449 $399 $299 $99 $39 $99
After 3/15/19 $699 (599) $399 $549 $499 $449 $299 $99 $39 $99
- Opening Night ReceptionAdditional Registration Required $30/per person. Join us for a dinner cruise on the Spirit of Norfolk. We will be hosting a cocktail hour on board followed by a 2-Hour cruise of the Elizabeth River. NEW! Optional Convention Insurance $25/per registrant. Companies now have the option to insure their convention registrations. If insurance is chosen it must be purchased for each registrant. Official Policies below.
Please write your name as you’d like it to appear on your badge. Name _____________________________________________________________ Registrant Type _______________________________T-Shirt Size______________ $ ___________________ Name _____________________________________________________________ Registrant Type ______________________________ T-Shirt Size______________
$ ___________________
Name _____________________________________________________________ Registrant Type ______________________________ T-Shirt Size______________
$ ___________________
Name _____________________________________________________________ Registrant Type ______________________________ T-Shirt Size______________ $ ___________________ Registration Total $ ___________________ Opening Night Tickets ($30/each) Qty: ________ Ticket Total $ ___________ Convention Insurance ($25/each) Qty:_________Insurance Total $ ___________ 2019 Convention Patch ($3/each - Pickup on-site.) Qty: ________ Patch Total $ ___________ GRAND TOTAL $ ____________ MAIL TO: National Chimney Sweep Guild PAYMENT INFORMATION 2155 Commercial Drive, Plainfield, IN 46168 □ Check # ___________ Payment Method: FAX TO: (317) 837-5365 CALL: (317) 837-1500 □ Visa □ MC □ AmEx REGISTER ONLINE at www.ncsgconvention.org Account # ________________________________________ Office Use Only O2CR C2F AUTH__________ Card Security Code ______________ Exp. __________ Org ID___________ Profile ID____________ Name on Card ____________________________________ Rec’d By__________ Date ____________ Signature ________________________________________ Refund policy: Prior to 3/15/19, 50%. No refunds are available after 3/15/19.
Optional Convention Insurance
The NCSG offers optional convention registration insurance for attendees. Purchase of insurance guarantees you to a 100% refund on registration less the insurance fee. Tickets for the opening night event and purchases of patches are non-refundable and not included under this policy. This insurance is per registrant and non-transferable. If insurance is purchased it must be purchased for every registrant from that company.
Dates and
Events December 2018
December 1-31 CSIA (online) CCS Online Review - www.csia.org CDET Online Review - www.csia.org Online & Paper Proctored Exams - www.csia.org/exams or ProctorU eLearning Courses - CSIA eLearning Chimney Physics - CSIA OL Chimney Physics Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel - CSIA OL Stainless Steel
January 2019 January 1-31 CSIA (online) CCS Online Review - www.csia.org CDET Online Review - www.csia.org Online & Paper Proctored Exams - www.csia.org/exams or ProctorU eLearning Courses - CSIA eLearning Chimney Physics - CSIA OL Chimney Physics Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel - CSIA OL Stainless Steel
34 S W E E P I N G
January 16-17, 2019 All Star Seminar OlympiAacademy Scranton, PA For more information, please call 570-507-7177 or Olympiacademy January 23-24, 2019 All Star Seminar OlympiAacademy Brentwood, TN For more information, please call 570-507-7177 or Olympiacademy January 23-25, 2019 Warrior Leadership Conference Shreveport, LA For more information, please call (800) 897-8481
December 2018
January 30-31, 2019 All Star Seminar OlympiAacademy Denver, CO For more information, please call 570-507-7177 or Olympiacademy
February 2019 February 1-28 CSIA (online) CCS Online Review - www.csia.org CDET Online Review - www.csia.org Online & Paper Proctored Exams - www.csia.org/exams or ProctorU eLearning Courses - CSIA eLearning Chimney Physics - CSIA OL Chimney Physics Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel - CSIA OL Stainless Steel February 7-8, 2019 CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician® Review & Exams CSIA Technology Center For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.CSIA.org February 13, 2019 CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep® Review & Exams Day before Mid-Atlantic Chimney Expo King Of Prussia, PA For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.csia.org February 14-16, 2019 Northeast / Mid-Atlantic Chimney Expo Valley Forge Casino, King of Prussia, PA For more information, please email contact@ certifiedchimneyprofessionals.com or visit www. chimneyexpo.com
February 15, 2019 Last Day to register for Early Rate Convention Discount By phone: 5pm EST By Fax, Email or Online: 11:59pm EST Waterside Marriott – Norfolk, VA For more information, please call (317) 837-1500 or visit http://www.ncsgconvention.org February 18-19, 2019 2 Day Masonry Richmond, IN For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.csia.org
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February 20-22, 2019 Advanced Masonry Richmond, IN For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.csia.org February 25 – March 2, 2019 CSIA National Chimney Sweep Training School CSIA Technology Center For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.csia.org
March 2018 March 1-31 CSIA (online) CCS Online Review - www.csia.org CDET Online Review - www.csia.org Online & Paper Proctored Exams - www.csia.org/exams or ProctorU eLearning Courses - CSIA eLearning Chimney Physics - CSIA OL Chimney Physics Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel - CSIA OL Stainless Steel March 15, 2019 CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep® Review & Exams HPBA Dallas, TX For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.csia.org
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35 S W E E P I N G
Membership
Memo
By Annemarie Stockton Membership & Outreach Coordinator
1 Expand Your Network When most people think of joining a trade association, networking is the first thing to come to mind. And for a good reason. Developing professional and personal relationships with both like- and unlike-minded individuals in the industry is a great way to share ideas and best practices. Whether you run across a question in the field or need some advice on how to best run your business, likely someone has been in your shoes (or boots).
2 Learn New Skills It doesn’t matter if you are new to the trade or have been running your business for years; an industry association can provide you with the tools to support and maintain your growth. Training and education are key to remaining at the top of your game. Professional associations usually hold events with classes and workshops to help members learn and grow in their profession. Outside of these events, there are often many other opportunities to learn new skills whether via peer-to-peer communication, publications, or educational seminars.
3 Boost your Reputation Joining an industry association like NCSG means you take your business seriously enough to devote extra attention, efforts, and funds to stand out and above the competition. Due to the high ethical standards required of association members, customers know your commitment to the industry’s association means excellent service. Being a member associates you with the very best in the industry, which fosters a system of growth and integrity.
4 Advocate for your Industry It’s no surprise that there is strength in numbers. An industry association’s growth increases its political clout, and by joining, you allow that trade to have a louder voice. Professional associations regularly advocate and act on behalf of the industry to ensure their interests are protected. You will be kept aware of what is being done on your behalf and you can even be active in those efforts.
5 Take Advantage of Exclusive Discounts and Benefits
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To help you achieve both your business and personal goals, industry associations grant you access to members-only offers. The NCSG is no exception, connecting you to exclusive benefits like discounts on business services, education, insurance, and more. Regular publications and newsletters keep you up to date and informed on recent industry developments.
S W E E P I N G
Why wouldn’t you join? December 2018
CSIA UPDATE December 2018
Checking In with Chuck by Chuck Hall, CSIA President president@csia.org
www.CSIA.org
which teams create solutions for the building industry. The Wood Stove Design Challenge, while smaller in scale than its solar counterpart, focuses on the energy wood stoves can create and the continual search for greater efficiency in wood stoves, as opposed to solar energy.
The CSIA recently partnered with the Alliance for Green Heat by sending volunteer technicians to install chimneys for the National Wood Stove Design Challenge.
Maine Energy System’s Pellematic e-max
One stove was a pellet boiler that could heat a large home or business and provide electricity. In fact, it was demonstrated by recharging a Tesla car while helping to heat the tent.
CSIA volunteers prepare pipe for install
United States Capitol
The Wood Stove Design Challenge took place November 9 - 13 and was held on the National Mall in Washington, DC, pretty much midway between the United States Capitol (which Winston’s Chimney Service has the pleasure of servicing) and the Washington Monument.
Design Challenge Tent on National Mall
Along with Jerry Neal of Sugarloaf Chimney Restoration (Barnesville, MD), myself and two of my installation technicians volunteered to represent CSIA by installing the chimneys that the competitors’ stoves would be using. Additionally, Olympia Chimney provided the pipe for the chimneys, and Dennis Dobbs with much-needed installation assistance. This was a really great event and it was exciting to see some of the technology that is either coming or already in the field. Events like this break a lot of the misconceptions the general public may have about the uses and users of wood stoves.
The event was created to mimic the US Department of Energy’s Solar Decathlon Design Challenge, which is a competition in ADVERTISEMENT
509 Fabrications’ Optimum
Another stove was designed to burn pressed sawdust in a gravity fed stove. You can find out more about the competition, including the winners, on the Alliance for Green Heat’s website at www. forgreenheat.org. Follow CSIA’s social media for a video about our participation in the event to be released soon.
December 2018
New Certifications Saxton Lynch Crown Chimney Hooksett
CERTIFIED
DRYER EXHAUST
TECHNICIAN
New York Sherry Burger Joseph Fagan Hudson Valley Chimney Service
California
Poughkeepsie
Robert Ornelas Ashtree AC & Chimney
Colorado Derek London
North Carolina
High Mountain Hearth Solutions
Jason Beck
Delta
Smoke Alert
New Jersey
Garner, NC
Alan Trombetsky
Fresno
Carpet Restoration Plus
Florida Allen Moore
Craig Rivera
Doodlebuggers Service Network
Chimneys Plus
Pensacola
Pittsboro
Hamilton New York Vincent Pippo Gansevoort
Idaho
Pennsylvania
Joel McDermeit
Shane Senick
Jake’s Chimney Sweep
Jamison Chimney Services
North Carolina
Sandpoint
Oreland
Frederick (Erick) Mohn, Jr Smoke Alert
Maryland
Tennessee
Abraham Velasquez
Michael Gregory
Capitol Chimney Service
Timmy Kneller
Silver Spring
Ryan Russell Ashbusters Chimney Service
New Hampshire
Garner
MASTER
Smyrna
Josh Lutz Kristoffer Skinner
Vermont
Lakes Region Chimney Pro
George Foucher
Gilford
Black Magic Chimney Sweeps of Southern Vermont Manchester Center
Learn more about the CSIA Master Chimney Sweep credential: www.csia.org/mastersweep
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www.CSIA.org National Chimney Sweep Training School Dates Set for 2019 2019 National Chimney Sweep Training School: • February 25 - March 2 • May 13-18 • July 22-27 • August 19-24 • September 16-21 In line with the new Successful Chimney Sweeping textbook, due in early 2019, the training school is being updated for 2019 students.
In addition to manual updates, there will be a stronger focus on safety with the updated school.
Held five times throughout the year, the Training School is the preferred method for credentialing and training your technicians. The CSIA Tech Center is in Plainfield, Indiana (right next to the Indianapolis International Airport).
Even veteran technicians come away with a fresh perspective on ways to improve their inspections and business operations.
Steve Pietila instructs students during the September 2018 school.
Students learn so much because our instructors know so much. For fun, we tried to estimate the total years of experience all of our instructors have, and it was somewhere around 300 years of cumulative experience in the trade.
Recognition is in order for our Training School sponsors. Copperfield Chimney Supply (February 25 - March 2 and July 22 - 27 schools) and My Fireplace Products (August 19 - 24 school). Additional sponsorship opportunities in 2019 are still available for the May and September schools, as well as other in-person classes at the Tech Center. Contact Zach Zagar (zzagar@csia.org) for information.
Education Director, Russ Dimmitt, fields questions from students.
In addition to access to the nation’s best instructors, the CSIA Tech Center itself is a major factor in the success of students. We have the equipment for you to learn in a safe setting before “experimenting” in a customer’s home.
Chimney fire demonstration - August 2018
Over six days, students will learn the trade from top to bottom. ADVERTISEMENT
Waiting on a Response? Both the CSIA and NCSG email servers have had some technical issues recently and a response from us might be hiding in your spam. We aim to respond to email within 1 business day. Need a response? Give us a call 317-837-5362 and please mark us “not spam” to ensure timely delivery of our emails and replies to you.
December 2018
Upcoming Classes & Events
2019 Education Calendar National Chimney Sweep Training School
REVAMPED FOR 2019 CSIA Tech Center | Feb 25-Mar 2, May 6-11, Jul 22-27, Aug 19-24, Sep 16-21
Certified Chimney Sweep® Review & Exam CSIA Tech Center | Jun 17, Aug 9, Oct 4 King of Prussia, PA | Feb 13 Dallas, TX (HPBExpo) | Mar 15 Norfolk, VA (NCSG Convention) | Apr 16 Scranton, PA | May 17 Richmond, VA | Aug 16 Albany, NY | Sep 13 Atlantic City, NJ | Oct 4
CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician® CSIA Technology Center | 2-Day Workshop - Feb 7 - 8, Oct 10-11 Norolk, VA (NCSG Convention) | 1-Day Review/Exam - Apr 16
CERTIFIED
DRYER EXHAUST
TECHNICIAN
Inspection & Report Writing REVAMPED FOR 2019 CSIA Tech Center | Mar 25-26, Aug 5-6
Chimney Physics REVAMPED FOR 2019 CSIA Tech Center | Mar 27-28, Aug 7-8
Installing and Troubleshooting Gas Hearth Appliances CSIA Tech Center | Jun 3-7
Masonry Repair Courses at SaverSystems 2-Day Masonry Repair | Feb 18-19 3-Day Advanced Masonry Repair | Feb 20-22
Contact Us: Mailing Address
Dates subject ot change. Register at www.csia.org/in_person_course
2155 Commercial Drive Plainfield, IN 46168
CSIA Education will come to you.
Telephone
Book your own CSIA Road Show course(s).
(317) 837-5362
Learn more at: www.csia.org/roadshow. Keep up on CEUs and training during the busy season with a CSIA-SureFire eLearning subscription or individual courses at www.csia.org/elearning
Email: Office@CSIA.org Twitter: @Chimney_Safety Facebook: /ChimneySafety ADVERTISEMENT
New
Members
REGION
REGION
REGION
REGION
KANSAS Turn of the Century Chimney Sweep • Braxton Hill • Andover
MISSOURI Affordable Chimney Sweeps • Brian Pohl • Foristell Northwest Chimney Solutions • Brett Weaver • Platte City
OKLAHOMA Inside and Out Chimney Services • Kyle Jones • Broken Bow
REGION
MICHIGAN Tim’s Chimney Sweep of Saginaw, Inc. • Tim Ellithorpe • Saginaw
REGION
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VERMONT Lincoln Peak Properties • James Donovan • Waitsfield
PENNSYLVANIA Olympic Services • Andrew Wilson • Warminster
REGION
NEW YORK Collar City Soot Slayer • Bryan Delamater • Averill Park Home Improvement Pros Inc. • Edward Ehrhardt • Farmingdale Top Hat Chimney Sweeps, Inc. • Matthew Moisio • Fort Plain
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1 1 242 4 3 53 5 3 44 55 66 6 41 S W E E P I N G
CALIFORNIA ServiceTitan • Joseph Elias Philips • Glendale
December 2018
Around the
Tech Center. Megan McMahon
Executive Director
As 2018 is ending, I thought it would be appropriate to look back on some of the highlights from the past year:
42 S W E E P I N G
• In January, we said goodbye to our well-loved Education Director, Ashley Eldridge after 24 years of service. Following that goodbye, we welcomed Russ Dimmitt to the role. Russ leaped in feet first and has big plans for education in 2019. • In April, NCSG took the convention the Portland, OR for the first time in 20 years and it was a roaring success where Ashley was a guest of honor. • The Tech Center classroom was updated and hosted 5 training schools and countless other educational opportunities. For information on scheduled courses for 2019 please visit: https://www.csia.org/in_person_courses.html • In addition to amazing camaraderie and food, Sweeps Week broke ground to start work on the “World’s Worst Chimney” (to be used for training purposes). Come see us in June 2019 to continue with the project
December 2018
• In August, several representatives from NCSG and CSIA made their way to Romania for the European Chimney Sweep Conference (ESCHFOE). • In October, I was fortunate enough to sweep and inspect the flues at the US Capital Building with CSIA President Chuck Hall and some of his crew. • Also in October, the NCSG and CSIA staff raised $2625 for Sweep Away Cancer by promising to be dropped into a dunk tank! Want to take part in the 2019 highlights? Join the National Chimney Sweep Guild to enhance your business, gain valuable knowledge from the industry’s best and be a member of our growing community. From all of us here at the Tech Center, we wish you and yours a successful close to 2018, Happy Holidays and Cheers to a New Year!
Classifieds GasVent Software for Sizing Chimneys only $195
Experienced Sweep Wanted
Call 1-800-648-9523 for more info and visit www. elitesoft.com to download a free trial version.
Looking for a certified sweep to join our team. 40 year old, family owned chimney sweeping company located near Sacramento, CA.
Work for a Growing Company! Chimney Solutions, based in Atlanta, GA, is looking for Salespeople and Installers with the desire to move up within our company. A $1000-$2000 signing bonus is available, depending on certifications. Pay will be commensurate with experience. Relocation is available for the individual that meets our needs and qualifications. Send resumes to dpace@ chimneysolutions.com or visit our website at www. chimneysolutions.com. Chimney Sweep Business Opportunity- Wilmington, NC We are seeking an experienced chimney professional that is eager to join a winning team and live on the beautiful East Coast of NC.
Signing bonus available Competitive salary/ commission Medical & vacation Available Full Time position Please email resumes to Amie Ryan- amie@ryanbrothers.com CLASSIFIED ADS FREE FOR NCSG MEMBERS Members can run one 35-word classified free each year! Regular classified ads are $2/word or $1/word for NCSG members. Classified ads are non-commissionable and must be pre-paid. To place a classified ad, please contact Charissa Mahaffey at cmahaffey@ncsg.org or 317-837-1500.
This opportunity could lead to future ownership in an established business as the owners are looking to retire in the near future. Please send resumes to info@seasidesweep.com
December 2018
43 S W E E P I N G
Darwin
Award
Ad Index 44 S W E E P I N G
Spotted by Nolan Calkins of Sweep’s Luck Chimney Service in Lake Arrowhead, CA.
See a chimney in your area that had you scratching your head? Send it to the editor, Darcy Marlett at dmarlett@ncsg.org for publication in Sweeping. Include a few words about the scene and location.
Ahrens Chimney Technique 800-843-4417 ahrenschimney@qwestoffice.net 24 Approved Industries 866-439-0069 info@approvedindustries.com 13 Chim Cap Corp 800-262-9622 www.chimcapcorp.com 14 Closing Commander 615-205-5959 www.closingcommander.com 15 Copperfield 800-247-3305 www.copperfield.com 7 and 25 CVC 704-425-0217 jerry@cvccoaching.com 4 Duct Cleaners' Supply 800-634-2822 www.ductcleanerssupply.com 21 ENERVEX 770-587-3238 www.enervex.com 31 Firesafe Industries, Inc. 800-545-6607 www.firesafeinc.com 5 Gelco www.gllchimneyproducts.com 32 ICP 508-695-7000 www.chimneycaps.com 20 Lindemann Chimney Company 866-629-8006 www.lindemannsupply.com 9 Lyemance www.gllchimneyproducts.com 35 National Chimney 800-897-8481 www.nationalchimney.com Back cover New England Chimney Supply 888-900-8106 www.newenglandchimneysupply.com 17 Olympia Chimney Supply 800-569-1425 www.olympiachimney.com 11 Peke Safety 800-277-1637 www.pekesafety.com 8 Roydhouse Effect Inc 410-863-0157 www.roydhouseeffect.com 22 Sand Hill Wholesale & Mfg., Inc 800-258-5496 www.sandhillwholesale.com 30 SaverSystems, Inc 800-860-6327 www.saversystems.com 10 SnapLok Rotary Sweep Systems 702-790-4197 www.snaploksystems.com 23 Z-Flex 800-654-5600 sales@z-flex.com 19 Wohler USA, Inc. 978-750-9876 www.wohlerusa.com 3
December 2018
Everything’s Bigger in Texas... including the Opportunities at HPBExpo 2019 in Dallas. Get inside access to the BIG developments in indoor-outdoor living at HPBExpo 2019. Exciting new brands. Product launches. Certifications and education that keep your business one step ahead. It’ll all be here waiting to be experienced. REGISTER TODAY at hpbexpo.com/register.
EXHIBITION: March 14-16, 2019 • EDUCATION: March 13-15, 2019 Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center • Dallas, TX
HPBExpo.com
/HPBExp0
@HPBExpo
2019
/hpbexpo
HPBExpo 2019 KEYNOTE SPEAKER
THE BIG OF INDOOR-OUTDOOR LIVING
MIKE HOLMES Host of HGTV’s Holmes on Homes, Holmes Inspection, and All American Handyman, Mike Holmes will share his thoughts on housing and product trends, the importance of fireplaces in the home, and how outdoor products enhance the homebuying experience. Sponsored by Napoleon Products.
THURSDAY, MARCH 14 | 8:00AM – 9:15AM
‘Tis the Season
Less Stress this December
WE HAVE MANY LOCATIONS
Call 800.897.8481 Now to Order!
TRUST US WITH YOUR FULL BUSINESS! EXTENSIVE DELIVERY SERVICE ROUTES AND CAPABILITIES MORE TRUCKS ADDED TO THE FLEET LIFETIME WARRANTIES THAT YOU CAN BE CONFIDENT IN National Chimney
2147C Fletcher Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46203 www.nationalchimney.com
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