September 2012

36

description

Sweeping: The Journal of Chimney & Venting Technology

Transcript of September 2012

Page 1: September 2012

OR

NCSG Innovation 2013 Convention and Trade Show Hotel reservations are now being accepted for NCSG Innovation 2013 at Chateau on the Lake in Branson MO April 4-7 2013 Just call 1-888-333-LAKE (5253) and mention that yoursquore with the National Chimney Sweep Guild to lock in rates starting at $129 for a mountain view and $134 for a lake view

Get ready for some RampR Yoursquore earned it

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 1

Sweeping The Journal of Chimney and Venting Technology (ISSN 1041-6692) 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 toSweeping The Journal of Chimney and Venting TechnologyNational Chimney Sweep Guild2155 Commercial DrivePlainfield IN 46168

September 2012 Volume 36 8

Features

Table of Contents

Departments

P29

P31

P10

3 Moving Forward

6 Editorrsquos Letter

10 Industry Watch

12 The Coachrsquos Corner

25 Progressive Perks

26 New NCSG Members

27 Sweeps Advantage Coupon Program

29 Perspective

31 Darwin Awards

31 Display Ad Index

32 Dates amp Events

32 Classifieds

8 Are Small Businesses Protecting Themselves from a Data Breach

14 The One and Only Thing

18 Focus on What You Can Control

28 Four Things About Fall Allergies

2 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

ResourcePage

TECHNICAL ADVISORY COUNCIL

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

Randy Brooks IRC NFPA 211 or Customer Communications

317-203-0088 x 5

Bart Ogden Stainless Steel Lining Video Scanning and Narrative

Report Writing 317-203-0088 x 6

Fred Joy Installation and Venting of Pellet Stoves

317-203-0088 x 7

Jay Walker Dryer Vents

317-203-0088 x 8

Rett RasmussenVented and Vent Free Gas Logs and Controls

317-203-0088 x 9

Rich Martinez Dryer Vents or Masonry

317-203-0088 x

Rich Rua General Sweeping or Relining

317-203-0088 x 0

Committee Chairs and Task Forces for 2012-2013Bylaws

Diane Pilger(631) 863-2460

chimneygalaolcom

Convention Site SelectionDiane Pilger

(631) 863-2460chimneygalaolcom

Discussion ListBo Tasso

(815) 645-8103bobotassocom

EthicsMark Stoner

(615) 459-2546ashbustersaolcom

FinanceMark Maynard(920) 830-1920

markchimneyguycom

GovernanceRandy Brooks(805) 646-8961

hearthhunteraolcom

Government AffairsPhil Mitchell

(603) 659-7776sootskiaolcom

International RelationsSteve Pietila

(503) 644-0393steveamerican-chimneycom

Long Range PlanningDiane Pilger

(631) 863-2460chimneygalaolcom

MembershipBob Ferrari

(530) 221-3331bobflueseasoncom

NFPA 211 RepresentativeRandy Brooks(805) 646-8961

hearthhunteraolcom

NFPA 31 RepresentativeJohn Pilger

(631) 863-2460chimneymanaolcom

NFPA 54 RepresentativeJim Brewer

(757) 523-2400jbrewermagic-sweepcom

Technical Advisory CouncilDennis Dobbs(256) 845-9814

infofireplaceservicescentercom

Public Awareness Task ForceRob Lindemann(847) 918-7994

Roblindemannchimneycom

ADVERTISING RATES for Sweeping The Journal of Chimney amp Venting Technology may be obtained by contacting Malisa Minetree at (317) 815-4688 or SweepingAdsindyrrcom

Design by Laura Houser Design bull laurahousercom bull (317) 213-7497

President Region 3Jay Walker

(850) 562-4692 bull presidentncsgorg

Vice PresidentAt-Large

Diane Pilger(631) 863-2460 bull chimneygalaolcom

Treasurer Region 5Mark Maynard

(920) 830-1920 bull markchimneyguycom

SecretaryJeremy Biswell

(913) 236-7141 bull fluesbrothersyahoocom

Region 1Phil Mitchell

(603) 659-7776 bull sootskiaolcom

Region 2Bob Fleer

(410) 544-7600 bull bobfleeraolcom

Region 4Ken Hoelscher

(937) 833-0505 bull kenabbeyroadchimneysweepscom

Region 6Bob Ferrari

(530) 941-5818 bull bobflueseasoncom

At-Large DirectorsDennis Dobbs

(256) 845-9814 bull infofireplaceservicecentercom

Fred Joy(785) 986-6432 bull joyfredmlivecom

Supplier RepresentativeEdmund Poplawski

(570) 504-7107 bull epoplawskiolympiachimneycom

NCSG BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2011-2012

Melissa Heeke CAE Director of Communications amp

Marketing mheekencsgorg

Ashley Eldridge COI CPP Director of Education

ashleyncsgorg

Candice Bradbury Director of Finance

cbradburyncsgorg

Megan McMahon Office Manager

mmcmahonncsgorg

Debbie Cornelius Membership Development

Coordinator dcorneliusncsgorg

Donna Lee Kasmer Program Coordinator dkasmerncsgorg

STAFF

2155 Commercial Drive Plainfield IN 46168

(317) 837-1500 Fax (317) 837-5365

Mark McSweeney CAE Executive Director

mmcsweeneyncsgorg

NCSG encourages industry partners to submit press release and articles to Melissa Heeke Sweeping Editor at mheekencsgorg 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 NCSGrsquos opinion regarding the release

NCSG further reserves the right to reject at any time any advertising determined not to be in keeping with the publicationsrsquo 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

copy 2012 National Chimney Sweep Guild 2155 Commercial Drive Plainfield IN 46168 (317) 837-1500

NATIONAL CHIMNEY SWEEP GUILD

Be advised that advice given by NCSGrsquos 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 andor chimney Additionally local laws and ordinances may govern andor 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

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

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 3

JAY WALKERNCSG PRESIDENT Forward

Moving

ello fellow sweeps I hope this monthrsquos issue finds you well rested and ready for the crazy season ahead of us

This month of September has always been one of anticipation You have stocked your inventory put your systems in place ongoing training is taking place your trucks are loaded foryear and your equipment is in top condition You anticipate a full phone appointment book and an increased bottom line

I looked recently back into Dave Ramseyrsquos Entre Leadership Article and found the following I would like to share My hopes are that if you are a one-man or a multi-truck operation you can pull some good tidbits from this article and hopefully implement them into your business

Fight the Summer Slowdown How to Keep Your Momentum Goingfrom daveramseycom

Every EntreLeader has it That fire in their belly to succeed a passion for their company But despite all that love itrsquos easy to fall into the trap of losing that spark especially during the lazy hazy days of summer when everything just seems to move a little slower

So how do you keep that momentum going in order for your business to continue moving forward As Dave teaches in EntreLeadership Master Series there are a number of ways to stay productive during the dog days of summer Use these tips to get back on track so life once again can be a day at the beach 1 Step Away From the Remote

Have you ever been at home with a long

list of errands when you hear the siren song of your TV Your remote is calling and before you know it yoursquore sucked in You have to see that last episode of Pawn Stars The same holds true at work You walk through the door and are faced with hundreds of distractions Soon the day is gone and you feel like yoursquove accomplished nothing The Solution Each morning make a prioritized list of tasks for the day and stick to it If therersquos a fire to put out throw some water on it But then get back to the chores at hand quickly As Dave says ldquoYou will either tell your day what to do or you will wonder where it wentrdquo To avoid distractions trybull Scheduling email viewing times

Hm

erry

des

ign

A Smoking Hot DealBuy Six Get One Free

Save even more with Pallet Purchasing

4 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

HomeSaverreg Smooth-N-Litetrade Fills the Smoothwall Niche

5-8 Diameters Light 010 stainless strip Available in 304 and 316 stainless steel alloys Interlocked seams are easy to flex Smooth inner wall Crush resistant No memory Ideal for smoothwall application

Now smoothwall liner doesnt have to be stiff and clumsy Because HomeSavers new Smooth-N-Lite gives you smooth without the headache Nestling right into HomeSavers famous family of UltraPro Pro RoundFlex RectangleFlex OvalFlex and Dial-A-Flex liners our new 010 Smooth-N-Lite gives you the superior weight flexibility and strength you need for smooth liner applications

6 times 25 (304-Alloy)

WIth ShIppINg$36786

~Free Freight bull On orders of $1800 or morebull 65rsquo of liner liner and components ship free

Speed Service Selection 8002473305 bull wwwcopperfieldcom

SmoothNLite Adindd 3 71212 335 PM

bull Setting time limits on meetingsbull Avoiding other distractions

If you feel tempted to look at your email at non-scheduled hours hand your assistant your phone or turn off your Internet connection Avoid distractions by putting away your electronic devices hanging a do-not-disturb sign or going off-site Do whatever it takes to keep on track 2 Get Fired Up Starting a company creating a new product or signing that contract with your dream client is unbelievably exciting Itrsquos what makes business a lot of fun But along with those incredible moments comes a lot of everyday hard work and worry that can cause you to lose your passion

The Solution The best way to get re-energized is actually to use no energy at all Taking a vacation revitalizes your brain allowing creativity and passion to flow Herersquos even a better reason Taking time off can save your life Research shows that men who miss annual breaks are 32 more likely to die of heart attacks while women who take a vacation less than once every six years are eight times more likely to develop coronary heart disease

3 Learn Something New There is a scientific evidence that when you are feeling uninspired picking up a book can help According to a study by researchers at Harvard and MIT learning something new and having success fires up the pleasure section of your brain

leading you to even more education and prosperity

The Solution Dave is a huge proponent of reading nonfiction leadershipbusiness books as a way to grow his business Hersquos not alone The average millionaire reads a book a month Leaders are readers But thatrsquos just one way to gain more knowledge Find a mentor network with fellow business leaders or attend seminars or other business events

Take advantage of your summer downtime to refocus recharge and learn Itrsquos an awesome way to keep the momentum flowing and get your team fired up for the fall

To learn more about business team building and leadership download Dave Ramseyrsquos EntreLeadership podcasts (httpwwwdaveramseycom) which include lessons from Dave plus interviews with key business leaders from across the nation

NCSG is about helping sweeps grow their businesses and providing progressive services By the time you read this ndash your NCSG board would have reviewed the next budget for the upcoming fiscal year (2012-13)and have revisited our goals and plans moving forward

Please start planning now for the 2013 NCSG Innovation convention and trade show at Chateau on the Lake in Branson MO April 4-7

As always Sweeps Luck to you and your family and God Bless

Jay WalkerNCSG President

Keep the Cold Air Out and the Cool Look InM E C H A N I C A L V E N T I N G O F F I R E P L A C E S

Eliminate Glass Doors on Gas Fireplaces

The ENERVEX EcoDamper System is the first completely automated draft and damper system designed for use with gas fireplaces

bull Allows for open fireplace designsbull Offers a larger more natural lookbull Creates a new profit center for you

The Guaranteed Solution to Smoking FireplacesThe Guaranteed Solution to Smoking Fireplaces

wwwchimneyfanscominfochimneyfanscomP 8002552923

HomeSaverreg Smooth-N-Litetrade Fills the Smoothwall Niche

5-8 Diameters Light 010 stainless strip Available in 304 and 316 stainless steel alloys Interlocked seams are easy to flex Smooth inner wall Crush resistant No memory Ideal for smoothwall application

Now smoothwall liner doesnt have to be stiff and clumsy Because HomeSavers new Smooth-N-Lite gives you smooth without the headache Nestling right into HomeSavers famous family of UltraPro Pro RoundFlex RectangleFlex OvalFlex and Dial-A-Flex liners our new 010 Smooth-N-Lite gives you the superior weight flexibility and strength you need for smooth liner applications

6 times 25 (304-Alloy)

WIth ShIppINg$36786

~Free Freight bull On orders of $1800 or morebull 65rsquo of liner liner and components ship free

Speed Service Selection 8002473305 bull wwwcopperfieldcom

SmoothNLite Adindd 3 71212 335 PM

6 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

MELISSA HEEKE CAENCSG DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS

EditorrsquosLetter

elcome to September Hopefully the season has been

kind to you so far this year and yoursquore in good shape

for a safe and sane remainder of the home heating season

This month we look at how small businesses can protect

themselves from a data breach how to avoid hitting the proverbial

ldquowallrdquo in your business and focusing on what you can control

Strong and steady wins this game This monthrsquos issue should help

you play your next move with confidence

Until next time I wish you all the best for a safe and successful

season

W

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Get 20 More CrownSeal FREEGet 20 More CrownSeal FREESpecial Size

Available from Participating ChimneySaver DistributorsAvailable from Participating ChimneySaver Distributors

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(800) 860-6327

Call your favorite ChimneySaver distributor today to order this special 6 gallon size CrownSeal for the price of a 5 gallon Quantities are limited to what each distributor has placed in inventory so order yours today before they run out

NCSG can help you promote your event

Please email officencsgorg with info on your upcoming meetings and events Wersquoll list your event on the NCSG website in Sweeping magazine and in our weekly dates and events post to the NCSG Discussion List Yoursquore also encouraged to submit meeting and workshop photos and recaps for publication in Sweeping They say a picture is worth a thousand words and we agree Let everyone know what a great time you had and welcome them to your next event Please send photos and articles directly to Melissa Heeke at mheekencsgorg

8 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

Are Small Businesses Protecting Themselves From a Data Breach

Adata breach can be a challenge for any business but this is especially true for smaller businesses Not only can it be more difficult for a smaller business to recover from a data breach but criminals may also be more likely to target smaller firms

When a data breach occurs at a large firm or government agency it winds up all over the news If one occurred at a small business down the street those unaffected would probably never hear about it But a recent report released by Verizon found that nearly three-quarters of data breaches analyzed last year involved businesses with 100 employees or fewer

ldquoMost small-business owners simply do not believe they are at riskrdquo says Lynn LaGram assistant vice president of small commercial underwriting for The Hartford ldquoThe reality is that small businesses are often more vulnerable - making them easier targetsrdquo

LaGram says part of the reason may be that small-business owners often donrsquot have the time or resources that larger companies may have to assist them in protecting data However protecting data may not be as difficult as one would think

Hose Master Invented the Wheel

Smooth-N-Lite bullYourchoice-304or316stainlesssteelcoils5rdquo-8rdquodiameters bullInterlockedseamsareeasytoflex bullSmoothinnerwall bullCrushresistant bullIdealforsmoothwallapplications bullAvailableinroundovalorrectangle

HeavyFlex bullYourchoice-304or316stainlesssteelcoils bullInterlockedseamsareeasytoflex bullSmoothinnerwall bullHighlycrushresistant bullIdealforfireplacerelines bullAvailableinroundovalrectangleorDial-A-Flex

UltraPro bull Patentedrolllockseamdesignforeasyflexibility bullLargebendrange bullSteepcorrugationslope-resultinginhighcrushresistance bullIdeallysuitedforforbothstraightandmultiplebendrelines bullUncoilseasilyrightoutofthebox

NEW

CopperfieldkeepsturningthewheelwithHomeSaverrsquosnew Smooth-N-LitelinerSmooth-N-Litetakesawaythestiffnessand clumsinessnormallyassociatedwithsmoothwallliner-itgivesyouldquosmoothrdquowithnoheadacheNestlingintoHomeSaverrsquosfamousfamilyofUltraProProRoundFlexRectangleFlexOvalFlexandDial-A-FlexCopperfieldrsquosnewSmooth-N-Litegivesyouthesuperiorweight flexibilityandstrengthyouneedforsmoothlinerapplications

Copperfield Chimney Supply Technical800-246-1926Support800-247-3305

Manufactured by Hose Master Exclusively For

When It Comes to Chimney Liners

Almost50yearsagoSamFotiHoseMasterrsquosCEOredesignedinterlockedmachine technologyHisinnovationsarestillthecoreofmanufacturingflexiblechimneylinertoday

HeavyFlex bull 25yearsagoSaminventedRectangleFlex OvalFlexandDial-A-Flextechnology

UltraPro bull 15yearsagoSaminventedUltraPro-the onlypatentedroll-lockdesignlight-weight linerwithextremeflexibilityandcrush resistance

Smooth-N-Lite bullTodaySamhasdesignedSmooth-N-Lite- thelightinterlockedlinerforsmoothwall applications

and now he invented Smooth-N-Lite

Now We Have It All

All Flexible Liner Is Not Created EqualLet Us Prove It

1964

1983

2000

2012

Pro amp UltraProInvented UltraPro - the only patented roll-lock design light-weight liner with extreme flexibility and crush resistance

Redesigned Interlocked Machine TechnologyInnovations are still the core of manufacturing flexible chimney liner today

HeavyFlexInvented RectangleFlex OvalFlex and Dial-A-Flex technology

Smooth-N-LiteToday Sam has designed Smooth-N-Lite the light interlocked liner for smoothwall applications Manufactured on the same machine technology he invented in 1964

Meet Sam Foti Hose Master CEO engineer and innovator

In 1964 Sam got involved with interlocked products Identifying the problems associated with manufacturing the hose Sam redesigned the tooling and machinery to not only produce a consistent interlocked hose but to also speed-up the production

Today the results of Sams ingenuity is the technology used throughout the industry in the production of interlocked products His designs not only changed the way that stripwound hose is made but the way that it is used and perceived in the industry

SmoothNLite Adindd 2 71212 335 PM

Steps to help prevent a breachFor a business or organization that must handle sensitive customer patient or employee information itrsquos important to take measures that decrease the likelihood of a breach ldquoA data breach can involve electronic or paper recordsrdquo says LaGram She shares eight data protection ldquobest practicesrdquo for a business

bull Lock and secure sensitive customer patient member or employee information

bull Restrict employee access to sensitive informationbull Shred or otherwise securely dispose of all sensitive customer patient

member or employee informationbull Use password protection and data encryption for sensitive filesbull Have a privacy policybull Update systems and software on a regular basisbull Use firewalls to control access to sites that could compromise your

security and lock out hackersbull Ensure that remote access to your network is secure

If a breach occursWhile itrsquos important to take proactive steps to help prevent a data breach from occurring therersquos no way to eliminate the risk entirely so it is also

important to have data breach insurance

According to LaGram a business owner should consider insurance that provides

1 Coverage for expenses associated with responding to and recovering from a breach ldquoBusiness owners may not realize that they must comply with various notification requirements which can be costlyrdquo says LaGram Additional advertising expenses to help a business restore its reputation after a breach would also fall into this category

2 Legal expense and liability coverage A customer or employee whose personal data is compromised may sue the business owner for damages This insurance provides coverage for defense costs civil awards settlements or judgments that a business owner may be obligated to pay

3 Access to data security experts to help the business owner navigate the various notification requirements as well as determine the cause of the breach and take steps to prevent it from happening againBoth consumers and business owners can learn more about what to do if they are involved in a data breach at wwwftcgovidtheft

ldquoA data breach can happen to anyone so itrsquos important for business owners to be preparedrdquo says LaGram For more information about protecting your business from a data breach visit wwwhartforddatabreachcom

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 9

Hose Master Invented the Wheel

Smooth-N-Lite bullYourchoice-304or316stainlesssteelcoils5rdquo-8rdquodiameters bullInterlockedseamsareeasytoflex bullSmoothinnerwall bullCrushresistant bullIdealforsmoothwallapplications bullAvailableinroundovalorrectangle

HeavyFlex bullYourchoice-304or316stainlesssteelcoils bullInterlockedseamsareeasytoflex bullSmoothinnerwall bullHighlycrushresistant bullIdealforfireplacerelines bullAvailableinroundovalrectangleorDial-A-Flex

UltraPro bull Patentedrolllockseamdesignforeasyflexibility bullLargebendrange bullSteepcorrugationslope-resultinginhighcrushresistance bullIdeallysuitedforforbothstraightandmultiplebendrelines bullUncoilseasilyrightoutofthebox

NEW

CopperfieldkeepsturningthewheelwithHomeSaverrsquosnew Smooth-N-LitelinerSmooth-N-Litetakesawaythestiffnessand clumsinessnormallyassociatedwithsmoothwallliner-itgivesyouldquosmoothrdquowithnoheadacheNestlingintoHomeSaverrsquosfamousfamilyofUltraProProRoundFlexRectangleFlexOvalFlexandDial-A-FlexCopperfieldrsquosnewSmooth-N-Litegivesyouthesuperiorweight flexibilityandstrengthyouneedforsmoothlinerapplications

Copperfield Chimney Supply Technical800-246-1926Support800-247-3305

Manufactured by Hose Master Exclusively For

When It Comes to Chimney Liners

Almost50yearsagoSamFotiHoseMasterrsquosCEOredesignedinterlockedmachine technologyHisinnovationsarestillthecoreofmanufacturingflexiblechimneylinertoday

HeavyFlex bull 25yearsagoSaminventedRectangleFlex OvalFlexandDial-A-Flextechnology

UltraPro bull 15yearsagoSaminventedUltraPro-the onlypatentedroll-lockdesignlight-weight linerwithextremeflexibilityandcrush resistance

Smooth-N-Lite bullTodaySamhasdesignedSmooth-N-Lite- thelightinterlockedlinerforsmoothwall applications

and now he invented Smooth-N-Lite

Now We Have It All

All Flexible Liner Is Not Created EqualLet Us Prove It

1964

1983

2000

2012

Pro amp UltraProInvented UltraPro - the only patented roll-lock design light-weight liner with extreme flexibility and crush resistance

Redesigned Interlocked Machine TechnologyInnovations are still the core of manufacturing flexible chimney liner today

HeavyFlexInvented RectangleFlex OvalFlex and Dial-A-Flex technology

Smooth-N-LiteToday Sam has designed Smooth-N-Lite the light interlocked liner for smoothwall applications Manufactured on the same machine technology he invented in 1964

Meet Sam Foti Hose Master CEO engineer and innovator

In 1964 Sam got involved with interlocked products Identifying the problems associated with manufacturing the hose Sam redesigned the tooling and machinery to not only produce a consistent interlocked hose but to also speed-up the production

Today the results of Sams ingenuity is the technology used throughout the industry in the production of interlocked products His designs not only changed the way that stripwound hose is made but the way that it is used and perceived in the industry

SmoothNLite Adindd 2 71212 335 PM

10 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

Jim Cochran of Magic Mountain Chimney Sweeps Passes

Jim Cochran of Magic Mountain Chimney Sweeps in Thurmont MD passed away on Thursday April 5 2012 He and wife Debra Cochran have owned and operated this company since 1979 Debra continues to operate Magic Mountain Chimney Sweeps

Jim is survived by his wife Debra Howell Cochran married October 6 1973 in Tampa FL He is also survived by one son Wesly M H Cochran of Frederick MD and one daughter Wendy V Cochran Taylor of Thurmont Debby writes ldquoJim was a legend and many people and sweeps knew and loved him He was one of a kind He had chimney sweeps in top hats and tails for his pallbearers and had a real chimney sweeps funeral It was a great tribute to himrdquoContributions may be made to Cancer Support Community 1050 17th Street NW Suite 500 Washington DC 20036

Sweeping MagazineSept 2012 issue Full page 4 color

Dura-Ventkaren josephson contact

kjosephsonduraventcom800-835-4429

Engineered Excellencereg MampG DuraVent is a member of the MampG Group copy Copyright 2012 Made in the USA 800-835-4429 wwwduraventcom

Stunning design and engineered excellence in manufacture DirectVent Pro combines style with performance Featuring precision tolerances for a tight seal low-pro le locks with no hems or beads for an elegant pro le No gaskets or sealants required (unless by appliance manufacturer) Laser-welded outer seams on all black pipe for a slim nish Several termiantion choices to cap o the system perfectly See why it is speci ed exclusively by nearly every major stove and replace manufacturer in the US and Canada DirectVent Pro is backed by a limited lifetime warranty Find out more at www duraventcom

Dir

ectV

ent

Pro

FOR

DIR

ECT

VEN

T G

AS O

R PR

OPA

NE

STO

VES

HEA

TERS

amp F

IREP

LACE

S

Dire

ctVe

nt Pr

o reg

regIndustryWatch

Industry Watch PolicyNCSG encourages industry partners to submit press releases to Melissa Heeke Sweeping The Journal of Chimney amp Venting Technology editor via email at mheekencsgorg 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 NCSGrsquos opinion regarding the release

Sweeping MagazineSept 2012 issue Full page 4 color

Dura-Ventkaren josephson contact

kjosephsonduraventcom800-835-4429

Engineered Excellencereg MampG DuraVent is a member of the MampG Group copy Copyright 2012 Made in the USA 800-835-4429 wwwduraventcom

Stunning design and engineered excellence in manufacture DirectVent Pro combines style with performance Featuring precision tolerances for a tight seal low-pro le locks with no hems or beads for an elegant pro le No gaskets or sealants required (unless by appliance manufacturer) Laser-welded outer seams on all black pipe for a slim nish Several termiantion choices to cap o the system perfectly See why it is speci ed exclusively by nearly every major stove and replace manufacturer in the US and Canada DirectVent Pro is backed by a limited lifetime warranty Find out more at www duraventcom

Dir

ectV

ent

Pro

FOR

DIR

ECT

VEN

T G

AS O

R PR

OPA

NE

STO

VES

HEA

TERS

amp F

IREP

LACE

S

Dire

ctVe

nt Pr

o reg

reg

12 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

irst of all if you are reading this CONGRATUATIONS As I shared at a recent MIX group meeting I did a presentation for many of you have survived the worst economic downturn in the history of our country one that in many ways rivaled the Great Depression So congratulations

are definitely in order Many American businesses did not survive the economic downturn and others are still on the borderline of survival andor failure I am sure each of you knows of successful business owners who have had their lives (and their lifestyles) undergo a tremendous transition during the past few years Others among you may have only entered our industry since this economic devil revealed itself

What is even more remarkable is that some who read this have done much more Not only have they survived they actually prospered Their businesses grew their profits increased and their business models strengthened Each business that did this faced the same economic conditions as others Yet due to their grit and determination they became true winners Yes there may have been geographic considerations but few areas have escaped the wrath of the economic turmoil our country has faced

What the economic conditions have done for many is force them to become better managers better watchers of their numbers better students of lean methods of operation and better in so many other beneficial ways And it is truly enlightening to see the benefits that have been awarded to those who have continued to make their businesses grow in truly tough economic times and without assistance from banks or other lenders The true success stories of business owners who have completely revamped their operations and have shown levels of excellence that many dream of

But even as a survivor many will encounter roadblocks that will cause stress will slow progress and will serve to raise caution to the wind At times it will come at you with a warning at other times it will simply pop up in front of you with no warning Perhaps it hits you when you awaken in a cold sweat or perhaps it hits you at times when things are just not going as you feel they should The roadblock I refer to is something I classify as the WALL

I feel that a successful business manager can be compared to a star athlete The star athlete will practice he will work out

he will have a strict regimen that will include his diet his sleep habits and will govern his life As he undergoes his training any and all things that can hamper his performance are examined and examined again No matter if he is a runner a swimmer a baseball or football player or a star in other sports He will dedicate himself to excellence just as you do each and every day in your business We saw this in August as we watched the Olympics and see those who receive the gold and hear the stories of the work they did to prepare for the competition

But even with the preparation even with the regiment he has posed to himself at times he will find that his energy is zapped His will to go on will be challenged his fortitude questioned HE HITS THE WALL

As a business manager this is no different than what you encounter at times Not only does the wall come up and block your progress as one person even explained to me about the dreaded wall at times it will even collapse on top of you and you may have to dig out of the rubble During a recent conversation a business owner related ldquoI am digging out of the rubble where that wall fell on top of merdquo when asked how he was doing Has this ever happened to you causing you to stop and wonder just why am I doing this and will I meet my objective Even worse the thought comes to the forefront is it really worth what I am putting into it

In my business endeavors I deal with a lot of folks in different stages of their business models Some have recently launched a business some are transforming a business some preparing exit plans and others are building infrastructure Others still have found success and are working to bring in new management to begin to pursue their true dreams of more free time as the free time was a goal of the original business start-up plan In preparation for this article I asked several who always seem to be going up up and up just what was their secret Just how did the walls not stop them in the progress of the business I think the overall answer I heard was best summed up by one phenomenal business owner His answer was ldquoJerry I keep myself up all the time because I always look at the potential and the markets we have not tapped into yet I just donrsquot see how anyone can get beat due to the problems when there is so much potential and so much untapped businessrdquo

BY JERRY ISENHOUR OF CHIMNEY amp VENTING

CONSULTANTS IN CONCORD NCCoachrsquos Corner

The

The Wall

F

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 13

Quite frankly this hit it on the head Each and every day as a business owner you face adversity perhaps from a customer perhaps from the world around us perhaps simply from an employee who did not meet our expectations But you know this is life and life has a way of throwing curve ball after curve ball The real winner will anticipate what the curve balls will be and will develop the methods to hit the ball no matter how it is thrown at us

The true winner will always view each and every adversary as a learning experience taking what is learned from each error each loss and each hiccup and use these as the basis for new procedures new methods and new ways to grow and prosper The true winner knows that his 1 accountability partner is that guy with him all the time the guy he knows as the man in the mirror

Some are even developing methods within the business to pull these errors and mistakes out of the hidden abyss of the unknown to find the ones we may not even be paying attention to Recently observing several who have instituted a new method that can isolate and eliminate issues is producing astounding results As a respected colleague shared with me ldquoJerry it feels like we are walking on glass but we are finding the ways to end the dreaded Groundhog Day happening over and overrdquo Successful business managers use this as the basis of how they will change the business model adapt their procedures

and continue to grow and prosper All the while raising the PERCENTAGE of profit from the gross figure They do not look at the number they view the number as the percentage Only through viewing the percentage can we truly have a yardstick by which to measure our progress as we grow our management skills

With this my wish is for you to have an excellent fall By the time you read this we will have hit that great part of the year called FALL and what so many call THE BUSY SEASON As you enter this make plans now as to how you plan to promote your business come January 1 2013 This is what the guys who are moving forward are doing The fall is already through the planning stages and they are ready for action ARE YOU If not ask that man in the mirror if he is truly operating at the level he needs to be He has the answer I am sure

About the Author Jerry Isenhour is an industry consultant coach and educator 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 and your business in your quest for success and your rise to the next level take a look at his web site wwwchimneyandventingconsultantscom He can be contacted at jerrychimneyandventingconsultantscom or by phone at (704) 425-0217 You can also obtain great business tips from his Facebook page Chimney amp Venting Consultants

ldquoMy company uses most products available to chimney contractors but Firesafersquos products and systems are hands-down the very best and the most profitable Great technical support and their constant improvements make the products even better which makes my company stand out over my competitionrdquo Kevin Knight Chadds Ford Chimney Sweeps PA

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14 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

erhaps the most important thing to recognize about business is that customer service is not an afterthought to everything else It IS everything else Or as Leon Gorman the CEO of LL Bean puts it ldquoCustomer Service is just a day in day out

ongoing never ending unremitting persevering compassionate type of activityrdquo

Oh thatrsquos a nice thought you say Irsquoll be certain to put a little more attention on that the next free moment I get

If this is your response yoursquove missed the point and perhaps the boat too

So what does it mean when we say service What does good customer service look like Herersquos a good hint from Peter Drucker ldquoQuality in service or product is not what you put into it Itrsquos what the customer gets out of itrdquo

In other words in the final analysis itrsquos not simply how

well you do your job that matters What matters is how your customer feels about you or your company once the job is completed What matters is what they got out of it And in that regard in any arena of competitors the battle will be won by the company who leaves the customer feeling the best the happiest the most satisfied

Jerry Gregoire CIO of Dell believes ldquoThe customer experience is the next competitive battlegroundrdquo

Now you might be thinking your customers must be pretty satisfied since most of the time they donrsquot seem to have any complaints

If you are feeling this way it would behoove you to remember most customers donrsquot complain even if there are dramatic issues with the work Why People donrsquot like confrontations And many people feel their complaints will be neither appreciated nor dealt with so why bother

The One and Only Thing

P

BY GREG POLAKOW OF COPPERFIELD

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 15

The course of action they choose rather than wasting their time and emotions complaining to someone they feel will be either hostile or unresponsive is to select one of your competitors next time they need work done As the saying goes they vote with their wallet

You might rightly be asking yourself well if my customers donrsquot tell me when theyrsquore not satisfied what can I possibly do about it

The answer is there are many things that can be done about it But the first starts with the understanding that customer service is not something that kicks in only when therersquos a problem Customer service has to be part of every contact you have with your customers It is how you treat your customers before you even show up at their door It is how you conduct yourself during your visit And it is most certainly the way in which you handle follow up

Remember it is how your customers feel after all is said and done that matters

We are always forming opinions about others It is a natural part of being human And we begin formulating those opinions with our very first encounter The initial opinions may later give way to either better or worse opinions but initial opinions are extremely influential So ask yourself what are you doing to

insure that the very first impression a customer has of you and your business is excellent What are you doing to make this very first customer service experience positive What are you doing to provide your customer at the very outset with a feel good experience

Whatever your answer is remember it is often this first impression that will determine whether or not a customer will call and complain if there is a problem later rather than simply opt to call one of your competitors next time Why Because it is in this first encounter with you that a customer begins to decide if they trust you If you trust that a company has your best interests at heart you are much more likely to call if there is a problem

So how do you establish a feeling of well being and trust with your customer from the get go Again it has to do with how you make them feel the moment you pick up your phone to answer their first call If your tone is cold indifferent or even matter of fact they are not likely to feel you care And if you donrsquot seem to care about them can you really be trusted to have their best interests at heart EVERTHING you do from the outset absolutely everything will create an opinion of you in the customerrsquos mind That means your tone of voice the patience with which you respond to their questions And the very language and even diction you use to talk to them about whatever chimney related issue they are having

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Sweeping News (Snews)_Smoothcore_Z-Max_no booth_HR_March 29 2012pdf 1 12-03-30 212 PM

16 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

Use language that is too technical and you lose them and put them on the defensive ldquoAm I supposed to understand what this guy is talking aboutrdquo they wonder Speak too fast or indistinctly and you get the same result

Seem like picky details They may be to you but they will not be to your customer

Remember when a customer comes to you he is laying his problem at your feet If he could remedy it himself he would But he canrsquot He needs you to help him So he is feeling a bit vulnerable a bit out of his league How you respond to him in this circumstance can either make him feel immediately comfortable and in safe hands or something less desirable You decide which effect you want to create

I think you can see that if this first encounter leaves your customer glowing instead of glowering you win You win his confidence his trust and even here at the very outset his gratitude If yoursquove done this well ie addressed his initial questions and concerns in a compassionate understanding thorough manner well you are off to an excellent start

But the battle has not been won because yoursquove also set some expectations and your customerrsquos expectation that this kind of treatment will continue must be met If your crew shows up to do the work and forgets they are in the customer service business first and foremost all you accomplished at the beginning can be ruined

Good customer service must build on itself from day one in order to maintain that feeling in your customer of confidence happiness and trust It cannot be hit and miss Being inconsistent might be worse than being just plain ornery from the beginning

Does good customer service trump sloppy careless or substandard work Of course not Because the quality of your product is a huge part of the customer service package Itrsquos all customer service

The bottom line is your customer will appreciate value and respect you to exactly the same degree you appreciate value and respect him No more and no less And the great thing is when you treat your customers as friends when you gladly and openly address their concerns and fix their problems your work and your life become easier and more fulfilling

Try it out Start thinking of customer service as being the be all and end all of your business and see how well things go Yoursquoll be amazed

Remember as Tony Allesandra has observed ldquoBeing on par in terms of price and quality only gets you into the game Service wins the gamerdquo

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18 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

ou all have accomplishments You support your family your employees and their families your vendors and you provide comfort and safety for your customers

Some of you can enjoy your success and can focus on preserving what you have Many of you want to and have the capacity to grow and be more successful Some of you may be struggling with the seasonality and economics of your business Regardless of your level of success almost all of you have varying degrees of uncertainty

Many articles books conferences and videos have been made about the importance of having a strategic plan to help guide you to fulfill your potential

This magazine has offered numerous articles written to help you fulfill your potential The NCSG offers courses to help you gain skills to be more successful

Yet there still appears to be too many business owners

struggling to achieve their goals ndash or have yet to explicitly define their goals which could help them to get their time back and allow them (you) to enjoy their (your) lives

Maybe yoursquore stuck on tactics without a strategy Maybe yoursquore stuck on ldquonoiserdquo ndash noise that the media airs about events you cannot control and distracts you from your business Perhaps that ldquonoiserdquo has contributed to a pessimistic perspective

Perhaps all of the above is ldquonoiserdquo that covers up past or current mistakes or regret either real or perceived

Letrsquos work on facing your concerns and your past Fear fades when facts are faced Regrets can become wisdom when success lies ahead

Consider forming a team of trusted professionals emulate successful associates select friends and close family members who can create a ldquojudgment freerdquo zone to allow you to unwind the past that may be keeping you from achieving your potential

Focus on What You Can Control

Y

BY BRIAN NOE OF MW FINANCIAL GROUP

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 19

Your team can help you realize your dreams by developing a sound strategy employing objective facts without bias Your team has your back

So letrsquos throw out the rear view mirror set aside our mistakes and regrets and look forward to what you can control that can lead to success

You and your team can control your personal finances You and your team can control your business Here are some steps you can take to help seize the day sleep easy and get your time back

1 Budget ndash do you have a personal and business budget Do you adhere to your budget Does your budget include protection and savings for retirement and your legacy Do you know how much you need to save for retirement and your legacy Are you prepared in the event that you may ldquolive too longrdquo

2 Help Protect Yourself your Family and your Business ndash you can take steps to control your risk

Do you let your employees drive your personal vehicles Do your employees drive your work vehicles for personal use Are you covered for that activity These are a just a few examples of ldquohiddenrdquo liabilities that you may be exposed to but unaware of

Do you have adequate umbrella insurance protection in addition to home and auto insurance that covers you and your employees

Do you take steps to relieve stress Do you have disability insurance to provide you with income or your business with funds to pay expenses in the event of illness or injury that prevents you from working

For your business you can implement a safety program This sets up a plan of employee procedures for handling vendors customers and inter-employee communication skills to improve workmanship and other employee development For events you cannot control do you have liability EampO and similar insurance

Does your business take advantage of legal structure asset titling (multiple businesses Spouse ownership) retirement plans life insurance annuities trusts and homestead

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20 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

exemptions (if available) to help protect assets from creditors and frivolous lawsuits

3 Employ Efficient Debt ndash we may be at the bottom of the interest rate and inflation cycle If interest rates rise andor inflation heats up the general rule of thumb for most of us is debtors win creditors lose If you have the cash you have control If the banker has the cash they have control

4 Manage Taxes ndash whether or not income or estate taxes increase in the future a retirement assetincome distribution business succession and legacy strategy is a must for everyone

5 Investment Management ndash you have plenty of risk with your business Do you want to have unnecessary risk with your investments

You cannot control macroeconomics (sequence of return risk rising interest rates trade and budget deficits unemployment inflation taxes real estate values commodity markets fluctuating foreign currency etc)

You cannot control geopolitical events (elections Euro zone issues violent foreign government changes war etc) or environmental events (hurricanes earthquakes fires tsunamis etc)

How do you insulate yourself from economic events you cannot control Consider historically tried tested and true strategies Consider strategies that your grandparentrsquos generation may have used They had to protect themselves ndash government bailouts and subsidies were few and far between

Congratulations if you can assemble a team to help you define and implement a strategy using the tactics described above This can be achieved in a relatively short period of time (a few hours a week over several short weeks can do it) which can help give you your time back so you can focus on your business and family

6 Manage your Business ndash this you can completely control You can engage in any of the following business expansion activities without losing energy and enthusiasm to the issues you and your team of advisors tackled above

Perhaps you would ratherbull Recruit and develop key employees (and future buyers of

your business)bull Market expansion (are you getting on board the e-marketing

train)bull Develop operating procedures and processesbull Improve safety (reduce liability)bull Expand into new territoriesbull Enter a new industry

bull Purchase and manage real estate

Life Happens ndash Enjoy It

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 US Army Eric is ranked first in his class with a degree in Computer Science is working in his field and plans on attending graduate school in 2013 His daughter Kara recently graduated undergraduate school with distinction and is planning to attend graduate school to become a Physiciansrsquo 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_NoeMWFinancialcom

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CSIA Update wwwCSIAorg

Publication for CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepregs

ADVERTISEMENT

The Virginia Association of Chimney amp

Hearth Professionals sponsored CSIArsquos

Inspection amp Report Writing class in

Arlington VA this August 6-7 Tom Urban

served as the instructor for the two-day

session Forty one professionals were

in attendance with 19 being business

owners and 22 being employees The

session drew attendees from as far away

as Louisville KY

The event was sponsored by Wakefield

Brush The Chimney Sweep News

Ahrenrsquos Copperfield Wohler Estoban

Lindemann Chimney Supply National

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Supply SaverSystems and Whitecaps

VACHP Sponsored Inspection amp Report Writing

Fred Regar served as auctioneer of the sponsor-donated items on the second day of the session

Tom Urban teaching the CSIA Inspection and Report Writing Class in Arlington

When renewing a credential earned after September 1 2009 a CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg is required to

Available downloads for CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepsreg and CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Techniciansreg include

bull CSIACertifiedChimneySweepandCSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician Trademarks

bull ButtonsforyourWebsite

bull CustomizablePowerPointpresentationfor home inspectors

bull InspectionSOPs

bull LadderSafetyTips

bull ldquoChimneyFiresCausesEffectsampEvaluationrdquo Prepared by Chimney Safety Institute of America- Chimney Fire Education and Research Task Force

bull Printversionofthiswhitepaperisalsoavailable for purchase

bull Top10WoodburningTipsfromtheChimney Safety Institute of America

Check out the CCS amp CDET area at CSIAorg

bull Submitaminimumof9CEUsearnedwithin the preceeding 3 years (in any category) before testing NOTE This requirement will not apply to CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps already holding the credential on September 1 2009untiltheirnext3-yearcertificationcycle

bull Passaone-hourexambasedonSuccessfulChimneySweeping(2009)andNFPA211(2010)

bull Passaninety-minuteopen-bookexambasedonthe2006IRCreg

bull AgreetopaytheAnnualCertificationFee

bull SignCSIACodeofEthics

OR

bull SubmitappropriatenumberofContinuing Education Units (CEUs) in the relevant categories

bull AgreetopaytheAnnualCertificationFee

bull SignCSIACodeofEthics

Upon earning the CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg credential your certification is valid for one year You will need to recertify annually by paying the annual certification fee This fee will be invoiced annually prior to your expiration date Please note that your credential will require renewal every three years by submittal of the minimum 48 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) in accordance with the CSIA Credential Renewal Policy or by passing the certification exams and either submitting a minimum of 9 CEUs or completing a CSIA Review

If your annual certification fee is not paid prior to your certification expiration date your credential will be considered lapsed and you will immediately lose all rights and privileges of the CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg credential The following terms will then apply if reinstatement of the credential is desired

If you do not pay your annual certification fee by your expiration date the following timeline will begin

bull Within90daysfromthedateofexpiration if you submit payment in full for the annual certification fee your credential will be reinstated and you will be considered a CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg in good standing maintaining your original annual expiration date and certification number

bull Ifmorethan90daysandlessthan12months beyond your expiration date you will be required to Pay the current annual certification fee and current testing fees and test again Doing so will reinstate your previous annual certification expiration date and certification number You will still be required to pay your next annual fee within the next 12 months

bull Ifmorethan12monthsbeyondyourexpiration date you will be required to either participate in a CSIA approved certification review course or submit evidence of 9 CEUs that were accumulated during the time your credential was active In addition you will be required to pass the CSIA certification exams Upon successful completion a new certification number will be assigned and you will have a new annual certification expiration date

CaliforniaMichaelGipsonbullMidtownSweepsbullLancasterOmarSaenzbullAFiddlerontheRoodDuctampChimneyServicebullVanNuys

IndianaAlexStewartbullOldSmokeyrsquosFireplaceampChimneyIncbullAshley

KansasRyanBerrybullFullServiceChimneybullOlathe

New YorkJayFellibullHearthampHomeofIthacabullIthaca

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West VirginiaMichaelAdwellbullTopHatChimneySweepbullLewisburg

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Congratulations to Our New CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps

Top 10 Woodburning Tips from the Chimney Safety Institute of America

To aid in the prevention of chimney fires and carbon monoxide intrusion and to help keep heating appliances and fireplaces functioning properly the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) offers the following safety tips

1 Get an annual chimney check Have chimneys inspected annually and cleaned as necessary by a qualified professional chimney service technician This reduces the risk of fires and carbon monoxide poisonings due to creosote buildup or obstructions in the chimneys

2 Keep it clear Keep tree branches and leaves at least 15 feet away from the top of the chimney

3 Install a chimney cap to keep debris and animals out of the chimney

4 Choose the right fuel For burning firewood in wood stoves or fireplaces choose wellseasoned wood that has been split for a minimum of six months - one year and stored in a covered and elevated location Never burn Christmas trees or treated wood in your fireplace or wood stove

5 Build it right Place firewood or firelogs at the rear of the fireplace on a supporting grate To start the fire use kindling or a commercial firelighter Never use flammable liquids

6 Keep the hearth area clear Combustible material too close to the fireplace or to a wood stove could easily catch fire Keep furniture at least 36rdquo away from the hearth

7 Use a fireplace screen Use metal mesh or a screen in front of the fireplace to catch flying sparks that could ignite or burn holes in the carpet or flooring

8 Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors Place detectors throughout the house and check batteries in the spring and fall

When you change your clocks for Daylight Savings Time remember to check your batteries

9 Never leave a fire unattended Before turning in for the evening be sure that the fire is fully

extinguished Supervise children and pets closely around wood stoves and fireplaces

10 The CSIA recommends annual inspections performed by CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps These chimney sweeps have earned the industryrsquos most respected credential by passing an intensive examination based on fire codes clearances and standards for the construction and maintenance of chimney and venting systems The National Fire Protection Association also recommends that all chimneys are inspected on an annual basis

For more chimney and fireplace safety tips visit the Chimney Safety Institute of America online at wwwCSIAorg

Solve your customersrsquo smoking sooting odor and draft problems Itrsquos easy with CSIArsquos 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 Ghostingsooting 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 doesnrsquot

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

Learn to solve these problems save time and money and keep

your clients happy with CSIArsquos Online Chimney Physics program

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Register today at wwwcsiaorg

CSIA 15 Tech 15 CampL 15 HampS 15 CampS NFI 5 Tech

Annual Certification Requirements

Top 10 Woodburning Tips from the Chimney Safety Institute of America

To aid in the prevention of chimney fires and carbon monoxide intrusion and to help keep heating appliances and fireplaces functioning properly the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) offers the following safety tips

1 Get an annual chimney check Have chimneys inspected annually and cleaned as necessary by a qualified professional chimney service technician This reduces the risk of fires and carbon monoxide poisonings due to creosote buildup or obstructions in the chimneys

2 Keep it clear Keep tree branches and leaves at least 15 feet away from the top of the chimney

3 Install a chimney cap to keep debris and animals out of the chimney

4 Choose the right fuel For burning firewood in wood stoves or fireplaces choose wellseasoned wood that has been split for a minimum of six months - one year and stored in a covered and elevated location Never burn Christmas trees or treated wood in your fireplace or wood stove

5 Build it right Place firewood or firelogs at the rear of the fireplace on a supporting grate To start the fire use kindling or a commercial firelighter Never use flammable liquids

6 Keep the hearth area clear Combustible material too close to the fireplace or to a wood stove could easily catch fire Keep furniture at least 36rdquo away from the hearth

7 Use a fireplace screen Use metal mesh or a screen in front of the fireplace to catch flying sparks that could ignite or burn holes in the carpet or flooring

8 Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors Place detectors throughout the house and check batteries in the spring and fall

When you change your clocks for Daylight Savings Time remember to check your batteries

9 Never leave a fire unattended Before turning in for the evening be sure that the fire is fully

extinguished Supervise children and pets closely around wood stoves and fireplaces

10 The CSIA recommends annual inspections performed by CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps These chimney sweeps have earned the industryrsquos most respected credential by passing an intensive examination based on fire codes clearances and standards for the construction and maintenance of chimney and venting systems The National Fire Protection Association also recommends that all chimneys are inspected on an annual basis

For more chimney and fireplace safety tips visit the Chimney Safety Institute of America online at wwwCSIAorg

ADVERTISEMENT

You can spend weeks trying to get a new employee up to speed In the process yoursquoll have used up your valuable time your patience and more money than you would like to admit

Instead send your employee to the most popular cost-effective chimney sweep training in North America CSIArsquos National Chimney Sweep Training School In less than a week wersquoll create an employee that yoursquoll be proud to send on a call ndash and happy to count toward your bottom line

Register today at wwwcsiaorg or call us at (317) 837-5362

At the 6-day hands-on Training School your employee will learn

How to inspect and service chimney systems serving any fuel burning appliance

How to be safe with the latest health and safety equipment and methods

How to work with residential heating appliances including wood stoves pellet stoves inserts factory-built fireplaces central heaters and furnaces

How to diagnose chimney performance problems understanding draft and flow diagnosing down drafts flow reversals inadequate flow stack effects updrafts pressure effects and gauges

How to navigate the International Residential Codes How to follow the NFPA 211 standards

Class size is limited to ensure a ratio of no more than eight students per instructor This small class size means that students have the opportunity for individual attention from the schoolrsquos experienced instructors and ample opportunities for hands-on training Because class size is limited it is important to apply early to reserve your place

The online CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience

The online Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician (CDET) review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience designed to help you pass the CDET exam

Take advantage of these other CSIA educational offerings that can build your business

Send us your greenhorn

and wersquoll send you back a pro

in 6 days Classes fill quickly so register now

2012 DATeS April 2ndash7June 4ndash9August 6ndash11September 24ndash29

April 2-7June 11-16August 6-11September 24-29

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 25

You can spend weeks trying to get a new employee up to speed In the process yoursquoll have used up your valuable time your patience and more money than you would like to admit

Instead send your employee to the most popular cost-effective chimney sweep training in North America CSIArsquos National Chimney Sweep Training School In less than a week wersquoll create an employee that yoursquoll be proud to send on a call ndash and happy to count toward your bottom line

Register today at wwwcsiaorg or call us at (317) 837-5362

At the 6-day hands-on Training School your employee will learn

How to inspect and service chimney systems serving any fuel burning appliance

How to be safe with the latest health and safety equipment and methods

How to work with residential heating appliances including wood stoves pellet stoves inserts factory-built fireplaces central heaters and furnaces

How to diagnose chimney performance problems understanding draft and flow diagnosing down drafts flow reversals inadequate flow stack effects updrafts pressure effects and gauges

How to navigate the International Residential Codes How to follow the NFPA 211 standards

Class size is limited to ensure a ratio of no more than eight students per instructor This small class size means that students have the opportunity for individual attention from the schoolrsquos experienced instructors and ample opportunities for hands-on training Because class size is limited it is important to apply early to reserve your place

The online CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience

The online Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician (CDET) review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience designed to help you pass the CDET exam

Take advantage of these other CSIA educational offerings that can build your business

Send us your greenhorn

and wersquoll send you back a pro

in 6 days Classes fill quickly so register now

2012 DATeS April 2ndash7June 4ndash9August 6ndash11September 24ndash29

April 2-7June 11-16August 6-11September 24-29

ProgressivePerksBY DEBBIE CORNELIUS

MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT COORDINATOR

Get Organized and Make the Most of Your Busy Season

Sometimes it really surprises me that more NCSG members do not take advantage of the discounted benefits available to them These will not only save you time buthellip money too

Paycor Payroll Services price reduction on payroll and tax services One specialist will be dedicated to your account with a team of tax specialists available to resolve issues in the fastest amount of time should an issue arise

Market Hardware can bring your business up to speed in the competitive market of technology where more and more customers are looking to the Web Once they have customized the design that includes a ldquoHome Pagerdquo ldquoAbout Usrdquo and ldquoOur Servicesrdquo page you will have the ability to easily update and edit your Web site yourself instead of paying someone else to do it

Technical Solutions the ldquoSurvival Kit for Small Businessesrdquo can provide on-demand remote repair 247 365 days a year For the price of $2499month with no long term contact involved you can cover up to 20 computers including multiple office locations

Commercials On Hold provides a great way to brand and promote your full range of services when callers are on hold before they talk to a member of your staff

Take a few minutes to just explore these benefits It would be well worth your time to compare the savings to save you time and help increase your profits

26 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

REGION 6

NCSG Charter Members

Paul Bourque Huntsville AL

Don Leavitt San Diego CA

David Harris Broken Arrow Oklahoma

Dan Wheeler Santa Rosa CA

John Cline Menlo Park CA

Dale Meisinger N Augusta SC

Alan Hisey St Louis MO

Eva B Horton Greenwich CT

Harry Richart Hasbrouck Heights NJ

NewNCSGMembers

REGION 3

REGION 2

REGION 5

REGION 4

NCSG REGIONS

REGION 1

Connecticut Vermont Massachusetts New York Maine Rhode Island New Hampshire

REGION 2

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

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

CONNECTICUTChristopher Gonsalves bull Millstream Construction bull HebronDavid Heissenbuttel bull DMH amp Associates Inc bull Wilton

VIRGINAJack Johnston bull Johnstonrsquos Chimney Sweep bull Yorktown

MISSOURIJason Patrick bull Shamrock Qualty Services bull St LouisBill Bonney bull Bonney Bill bull Jackson

KENTUCKYJoshua Moore bull Moore Joshua bull Mt Sterling

ILLINOISJack Lutz bull Lutz Jack bull EurekaClay Nelson bull Clean Sweep bull Collinsville

OHIOAnthony Ramsey bull Elite Chimney Solutions bull Beavercreek

INDIANATravis Beckley bull Beckley Travis bull Coal City

TEXASMatthew Milner bull Milner Matthew bull WhitesboroTony Drew bull AC Contractors dba Fireplaces bull LongviewChristopher A Hess bull Atlas Chimney bull Leander

MINNESOTARenee Gustafson bull John C Gustafson Builder LLC bull Little Falls

COLORADOKent Macintosh bull Russian River Chimney Sweeps bull Healdsburg

CALIFORNIA Errol Davis bull The Chimney Specialist bull Huntington Beach

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 27

The 2012 ndash 2013 offers are being added daily in the ldquoMembers Onlyrdquo section of the NCSG website at wwwNCSGorg So start checking for these new offers each week These coupons will be good until June 30 2013

Copperfield Chimney Supply bull Lindemann Chimney Supply bull Meyer Machine amp Equipment bull National Chimney Supply bull SNEWS - The Chimney Sweep News bull Wakefield Brush bull Wohler USA Inc

2012 ndash 2013 SWEEPS ADVANTAGE COUPON PROGRAM

Featured Coupons of the Month

COPPERFIELD CHIMNEY SUPPLY

SAVE Up to $ 12650 FREE 13 x 13 Lock-Top with an order of $250

SAVE Up to $ 123 One FREE component Kit with any purchase of 6rdquo UltraPro

SAVE Up to $ 52One 225 quart Woodfield porcelain-coated steamer with any Napoleon appliance

purchase

SAVE Up to $ 46 One 13 x 13 HomeSaver Stainless Steel chimney cap with any Order of $250 or more

SAVE Up to $ 64 One EasyClean Cap with any purchase of $250

SAVE UP TO $ 75 $75 off any 25rsquo order of UltraPro Stainless Steel Liner

SAVE UP TO $ 40 $40 off any Flue Stretcher Chimney Cap

SAVE UP TO $ 20 Sign up for a Copperfield Reline Workshop and Save $20

SAVE UP TO FRE FREE 4 foot sample of HomeSaver Ultrapro

WOHLER USA INC SAVE UP TO $ 500$500 rebate with proof of purchase of VIS2000

Pro Camera System

hellip when opportunity calls we answer 1-800-875-8118

wwwcomnetmessagecom

Benefits of Answering Service

Award Winning Telephone Agents

Never Miss A Call

Better Time Management

Appointment Scheduling

Affordable

28 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

Meyer Machine amp Equipment

SUCKINGDUCTS

ampINSULATION

FOR OVER 20 YEARS

As most allergy sufferers will tell you allergy symptoms can always be bothersome turning any time of year into sneezing season A runny nose itchy eyes and scratchy throat can arise as the days get shorter and the leaves begin to change

The fall can be especially difficult for people who are sensitive to mold and ragweed pollen But these seasonal elements arenrsquot the only triggers that can make symptoms worse this time of year There are also a few lesser known triggers Here are four things you might not know about fall allergies courtesy of the American College of Allergy Asthma and Immunology

Hay fever - Hay fever a term from a bygone era actually has nothing to do with hay Instead itrsquos a general term used to describe the symptoms of late summer allergies Ragweed is a common cause of hay fever which is also known as allergic rhinitis The plant usually begins to pollinate in mid-August and may continue to be a problem until a hard freeze depending on where you live See an allergist for prescription medications to control symptoms or to see if allergy shots may be your best option

Lingering warm weather - While most people enjoy Indian summer unseasonably warm temperatures can make rhinitis symptoms last longer Mold spores can also be released when humidity is high or the weather is dry and windy Be sure to begin taking medications before your symptoms start Track your allergy symptoms with MyNasalAllergyJournalorg and visit with your allergist to find relief

Pesky leaves - Some folks might find it difficult to keep up with raking leaves throughout the autumn But for allergy sufferers raking presents its own problem It can stir agitating pollen and mold into the air causing allergy and asthma symptoms Those with allergies should wear an NIOSH-rated N95 mask when raking leaves mowing the lawn and gardening

School allergens - Itrsquos not only seasonal pollen and mold that triggers allergies this time of year Kids are often exposed to classroom irritants and allergy triggers These can include chalk dust and classroom pets Students with food allergies may also be exposed to allergens in the lunch roomKids with exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB) may experience attacks during recess or gym class Help your child understand what can trigger their allergies and asthma and how they can avoid symptoms Be sure to notify teachers and the school nurse of any emergency medications such as quick relief inhalers and epinephrine

No matter the season itrsquos important for those who think they may be suffering from allergies or asthma to see a board-certified allergist An allergist can help you develop a treatment plan which can include both medication and avoidance techniques

Having your allergies properly identified and treated will help you and your family enjoy the season To find an allergist and learn more about allergies and asthma visit wwwAllergyandAsthmaRelieforg

Four Things You Might Not Know About Fall Allergies

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 29

trategic partnerships Sounds fancy but what does it really mean They are called what they are called because there is a true strategy behind them the thought and planning that goes into identifying and development those relationships in a way that will

ultimately help those who are participating to achieve their mission The fact that it is indeed a ldquopartnershiprdquo indicates that everyone involved mutually stands to benefit in some wayhellipItrsquos a win-win

The strategic part of establishing partnerships is analyzing who you are your goals and your current resources and then finding organizations (partners) that will allow you to get the things that you need in order to take your organization to the next level But true partnerships are about what you can bring to each other to help achieve your goals and enhance your resources It is not solely about what you can give me but rather what we can give each other As the great John F Kennedy is well known for encouraging of a world partnership ldquoask not what America will do for you but what together we can do for the freedom of manrdquo

So where does this leave an association like NCSG The key to nonprofits establishing strategic partnerships is having the infrastructure to attract and maintain these relationships In this country there are plenty of nonprofits that are doing great work but there is no organization that will be able to survive if they try

to achieve their mission without establishing partnerships that help provide resources and relationships that allow us to achieve our mission

NCSG is very fortunate to have an impressive array of partners who have for many years some since our inception done just that Our partners have advertised in this magazine exhibited at our conventions contributed to the building and maintaining of our headquarters and the premier industry training facility in Indianapolis discounted thousands of dollars in products and services to our members and have helped us promote the Guild and recruit membership in countless ways not the least of which includes maintaining their own membership in NCSG

Our partners are committed to helping us advance our mission and in turn propel our professional field forward Their partnership supports that programs that ignite your professional and technical development and provide the products and services that have helped you bring your own businesses to life They are integral to the success of this industry and most renew their support of the Guild year after year

Without their support of Sweeping magazine through their advertising we would not have been able to come close to bringing this publication to our members and the industry for the past 35 years (originally The Chimney Sweep Guild News) without significant taxation on the readers Without their support

BY MARK MCSWEENEY CAEEXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Perspective

Support Those Who Support YouldquoOur success has really been based on partnerships from the very beginningrdquo -Bill Gates

S

30 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

of NCSGrsquos annual convention through exhibiting and additional sponsorships registration fees for attendees would easily be double what they are today

When viewing our relationship with exhibitors sponsors advertisers and supplier members as a partnership the question needs to be asked How are we as an association mutually helping them achieve their respective goals

The answer comes back to us having infrastructure to attract and maintain these partnerships And that infrastructure is you the member NCSG cultivates and maintains the relationship with our industry partners on your behalf You are asked to back that up through your support of these partner service providers

Now Irsquom not saying you should buy everything you need at any one place or only through our partners At the end of the day you ultimately need to make your purchasing decisions based on your individual business needs However what would be great to see is our members calling our partners up and giving them a chance to compete for your business Let them know you are a part of NCSG and even if you are not in a position to do business with them this time around let them know you appreciate their continued support of the Guild and the industry Itrsquos one thing to call up to a supplier and ask about a product get a price and hang up Itrsquos another thing to make sure you let them know you saw their ad in Sweeping you read about them

online or you remember they exhibited at the convention so that they know they are getting positive exposure and that their investment in our partnership is not going unnoticed

With that said here are some simple and tangible things things you can do to help the partnership you are a part ofbull Consider our partners each and every time you need to make a

purchasing decision and give them an opportunity to earn your business when you can Look at those who are advertising in Sweeping or see a full listing of NCSG Supplier Members under the Chimney Sweep tab on ncsgorg

bull When you talk to them let them know yoursquore part of NCSG and thank them for their support of your association

bull If you like them even if you canrsquot do business with them currently spread the word and help get their name out there

bull Attend events where our partners have stepped up to sponsor Help show them we value them being there and appreciate their efforts This helps everyone when it comes to working out future programs discounts events and more

We are all in this together Just as you want to ensure you are receiving the return you need on the investments you make our supplier members advertisers exhibitors and sponsors need to justify their own ROI on the variety of support avenues they offer

to NCSG I thought Irsquod take a minute this month to say ldquothank yourdquo to all of you who support us in so many different ways and would like to encourage others to do the same

Until next time I continue to wish you every success

Double Locking CrimpRemains StrongYet Very Flexibl e

With No Memo ry

Strong Triple Locking CrimpHolds T ogether Even OnTough Jobs

Horizontal Sides Of CorrugationOffer Added Strengthamp Flexibility

Manufactured by CHIMNEY TECHNIQUE INC

Chim-Pro Interlock Flex

Chim-Pro Corrugated

Flex

Chim-Pro RigidADDED SAFETY EFFICIENCY AND VALUE

In Which ALL FITTINGS Are Attached With A Band Even The Tee Cap And Elbows Quick amp Simple No Drilling amp Riveting

Featuring

Visit wwwchim-prolinercom for more detailsbull 2000 Industrial Ave bull Sioux Falls SD 57104

1-800-582-1392

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 31

Display Ad Index

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 mheekencsgorg for publication in Sweeping Or mail it to NCSG 2155 Commercial Drive Plainfield IN 46168

Page Advertiser Phone Email or Website Address

30 Ahrens Chimney Technique 800-582-1392 ahrenschimneyqwestofficenet

21-24 Chimney Safety Institute of America 317-837-5362 wwwcsiaorg

14 Cobra Chimney Caps 888-463-0636 salescobrachimneycom

27 Communications Network Inc 800-875-8118 tkempercomnetmessagecom

5 Copperfield 800-247-3305 wwwcopperfieldcom

4 ENERVEX Inc 800-255-2923 infochimneyfanscom

13 Firesafe Industries Inc 800-545-6607 wwwfiresafeinccom

16 Gelco Lyemance Lock-Top 800-334-2154 wwwGLLchimneyproductscom

9 Hose Master 800-221-2319 bobdanielshosemastercom

10 ICP 508-695-7000 wwwchimneycapscom

BC Lifetime Chimney Supply LLC 877-234-7473 wwwlifetimechimneysupplycom

7 Lindemann Chimney Company 800-722-7230 wwwlindemannchimneycom

11 M amp G Duravent 800-835-4429 wwwduraventcom

28 Meyer Machine amp Equipment 800-728-3828 wwwmeyermachinecom

25 National Chimney Supply 800-897-8481 wwwnationalchimneysupplycom

17 Olympia Chimney Supply 800-569-1425 wwwolympiachimneycom

19 Sand Hill Wholesale 800-258-5496 wwwsandhillwholesalecom

6 SaverSystems Inc 800-860-6327 wwwchimneysavercom

3 Smoktite 866-439-0069 wwwsmoktitecom

8 Wakefield Brush 800-264-7007 wwwwakefieldbrushcom

19 Whitecaps 800-335-2534 wwwwhitecapscom

15 Z-Flex 800-654-5600 wwwz-flexcom

The pole and bucket chimney That is how they keep rain and birds out during off season Notice the class A is just an extension of a masonry chimney

Submitted by Kevon Binder of Doctor Flue Inc

September 13-15 2012Lake Murray SCSouth Carolina Chimney Sweep Guildrsquos ldquoThe GatheringrdquoFor more information please contact Blume at (864) 232-9811 or blume357bellsouthnet

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 19 2012 Taunton MAFall Protection User Training Class Including OSHArsquos 2011 ruling on alternate fall protection methods - Sponsored by the Massachusetts Chimney Sweep GuildFor more information please call Jeffrey Wright at (781) 233-2321

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-29 2012CSIA Technology CenterCSIA National Chimney Sweep Training SchoolFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

Dates amp Events

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 8-12 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg October 8-12 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

Please send notice of your events for NCSG Dates amp Events listings at mmcmahonncsgorg for inclusion here in weekly posts to the discussion list and online at wwwNCSGorgdates The event must be considered educational or informative for the industry (sales events and open houses will not be listed)

32 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

ClassifiedsGotta chimney question Sizing Codes Call Royal Edwards Make Royal your tech department CALL NOW 813-982-0219 for on-call tech support Continuing Education special bonus ndash ask how you can get the Friday morning E-Blast for FREE CALL NOW 813-982-0219

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

Chimney Sweep business for sell in the Northern Rocky Mountains of New Mexico Services a large area with three ski resorts in the service area Equipment and signed three year contracts goes with the business Business is well established For pricing and other info please email your questions to ridgeriders1gmailcom

CLASSIFIED ADS FREE FOR NCSG MEMBERSMembers can run one 35 word classified free each year Regularly classified ads are $2word or $1word for NCSG members Classified ads are non-commissionable and must be pre-paid To place a classified ad please contact Megan McMahon at mmcmahonncsgorg or (317) 837-1500

NCSG Innovation 2013 Convention and Trade Show Hotel reservations are now being accepted for NCSG Innovation 2013 at Chateau on the Lake in Branson MO April 4-7 2013 Just call 1-888-333-LAKE (5253) and mention that yoursquore with the National Chimney Sweep Guild to lock in rates starting at $129 for a mountain view and $134 for a lake view

Get ready for some RampR Yoursquore earned it

Order Your FREEAnnual Maintenance Reminder Postcards

A great way to remind homeowners to schedule their annual maintenance check up

Each card has space available for your business information

Use them as reminders for your existing clients or send them to generate new business

To order postcards and other free Burn Wise products contact

Leigh Herringtonherringtonleighepagov

ampKristen Bremer

bremerkristenepagov

wwwepagovburnwise

Follow us on

Wood-Burning Safety

Starts with You

Have you scheduled your

annual inspection

The National Fire Protection Association estimates

that 25 percent of home heating fires are caused

primarily by creosote buildup in the chimney

Make your home healthier and safer A properly

installed and maintained appliance burns more

efficiently and saves you money Contact your local

certified chimney sweep to schedule an annual

inspection today

Before You Burn

The right wayThe right way is hot and bright

In the right applianceThe right appliance is an EPA-approved appliance inspected annually by a certified chimney sweep

Burn the right woodBurn only dry well-seasoned wood that has been split and stored properly

wwwepagovburnwise

wwwcsiaorg

Printed on 100 recycledrecyclable paper with a minimum 50 post-consumer waste using vegetable-based

EPA 456-F-10-004

National Chimney Sweep Guild2155 Commercial DrivePlainfield IN 46168

1208

OR

Page 2: September 2012

NCSG Innovation 2013 Convention and Trade Show Hotel reservations are now being accepted for NCSG Innovation 2013 at Chateau on the Lake in Branson MO April 4-7 2013 Just call 1-888-333-LAKE (5253) and mention that yoursquore with the National Chimney Sweep Guild to lock in rates starting at $129 for a mountain view and $134 for a lake view

Get ready for some RampR Yoursquore earned it

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 1

Sweeping The Journal of Chimney and Venting Technology (ISSN 1041-6692) 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 toSweeping The Journal of Chimney and Venting TechnologyNational Chimney Sweep Guild2155 Commercial DrivePlainfield IN 46168

September 2012 Volume 36 8

Features

Table of Contents

Departments

P29

P31

P10

3 Moving Forward

6 Editorrsquos Letter

10 Industry Watch

12 The Coachrsquos Corner

25 Progressive Perks

26 New NCSG Members

27 Sweeps Advantage Coupon Program

29 Perspective

31 Darwin Awards

31 Display Ad Index

32 Dates amp Events

32 Classifieds

8 Are Small Businesses Protecting Themselves from a Data Breach

14 The One and Only Thing

18 Focus on What You Can Control

28 Four Things About Fall Allergies

2 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

ResourcePage

TECHNICAL ADVISORY COUNCIL

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

Randy Brooks IRC NFPA 211 or Customer Communications

317-203-0088 x 5

Bart Ogden Stainless Steel Lining Video Scanning and Narrative

Report Writing 317-203-0088 x 6

Fred Joy Installation and Venting of Pellet Stoves

317-203-0088 x 7

Jay Walker Dryer Vents

317-203-0088 x 8

Rett RasmussenVented and Vent Free Gas Logs and Controls

317-203-0088 x 9

Rich Martinez Dryer Vents or Masonry

317-203-0088 x

Rich Rua General Sweeping or Relining

317-203-0088 x 0

Committee Chairs and Task Forces for 2012-2013Bylaws

Diane Pilger(631) 863-2460

chimneygalaolcom

Convention Site SelectionDiane Pilger

(631) 863-2460chimneygalaolcom

Discussion ListBo Tasso

(815) 645-8103bobotassocom

EthicsMark Stoner

(615) 459-2546ashbustersaolcom

FinanceMark Maynard(920) 830-1920

markchimneyguycom

GovernanceRandy Brooks(805) 646-8961

hearthhunteraolcom

Government AffairsPhil Mitchell

(603) 659-7776sootskiaolcom

International RelationsSteve Pietila

(503) 644-0393steveamerican-chimneycom

Long Range PlanningDiane Pilger

(631) 863-2460chimneygalaolcom

MembershipBob Ferrari

(530) 221-3331bobflueseasoncom

NFPA 211 RepresentativeRandy Brooks(805) 646-8961

hearthhunteraolcom

NFPA 31 RepresentativeJohn Pilger

(631) 863-2460chimneymanaolcom

NFPA 54 RepresentativeJim Brewer

(757) 523-2400jbrewermagic-sweepcom

Technical Advisory CouncilDennis Dobbs(256) 845-9814

infofireplaceservicescentercom

Public Awareness Task ForceRob Lindemann(847) 918-7994

Roblindemannchimneycom

ADVERTISING RATES for Sweeping The Journal of Chimney amp Venting Technology may be obtained by contacting Malisa Minetree at (317) 815-4688 or SweepingAdsindyrrcom

Design by Laura Houser Design bull laurahousercom bull (317) 213-7497

President Region 3Jay Walker

(850) 562-4692 bull presidentncsgorg

Vice PresidentAt-Large

Diane Pilger(631) 863-2460 bull chimneygalaolcom

Treasurer Region 5Mark Maynard

(920) 830-1920 bull markchimneyguycom

SecretaryJeremy Biswell

(913) 236-7141 bull fluesbrothersyahoocom

Region 1Phil Mitchell

(603) 659-7776 bull sootskiaolcom

Region 2Bob Fleer

(410) 544-7600 bull bobfleeraolcom

Region 4Ken Hoelscher

(937) 833-0505 bull kenabbeyroadchimneysweepscom

Region 6Bob Ferrari

(530) 941-5818 bull bobflueseasoncom

At-Large DirectorsDennis Dobbs

(256) 845-9814 bull infofireplaceservicecentercom

Fred Joy(785) 986-6432 bull joyfredmlivecom

Supplier RepresentativeEdmund Poplawski

(570) 504-7107 bull epoplawskiolympiachimneycom

NCSG BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2011-2012

Melissa Heeke CAE Director of Communications amp

Marketing mheekencsgorg

Ashley Eldridge COI CPP Director of Education

ashleyncsgorg

Candice Bradbury Director of Finance

cbradburyncsgorg

Megan McMahon Office Manager

mmcmahonncsgorg

Debbie Cornelius Membership Development

Coordinator dcorneliusncsgorg

Donna Lee Kasmer Program Coordinator dkasmerncsgorg

STAFF

2155 Commercial Drive Plainfield IN 46168

(317) 837-1500 Fax (317) 837-5365

Mark McSweeney CAE Executive Director

mmcsweeneyncsgorg

NCSG encourages industry partners to submit press release and articles to Melissa Heeke Sweeping Editor at mheekencsgorg 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 NCSGrsquos opinion regarding the release

NCSG further reserves the right to reject at any time any advertising determined not to be in keeping with the publicationsrsquo 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

copy 2012 National Chimney Sweep Guild 2155 Commercial Drive Plainfield IN 46168 (317) 837-1500

NATIONAL CHIMNEY SWEEP GUILD

Be advised that advice given by NCSGrsquos 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 andor chimney Additionally local laws and ordinances may govern andor 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

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

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 3

JAY WALKERNCSG PRESIDENT Forward

Moving

ello fellow sweeps I hope this monthrsquos issue finds you well rested and ready for the crazy season ahead of us

This month of September has always been one of anticipation You have stocked your inventory put your systems in place ongoing training is taking place your trucks are loaded foryear and your equipment is in top condition You anticipate a full phone appointment book and an increased bottom line

I looked recently back into Dave Ramseyrsquos Entre Leadership Article and found the following I would like to share My hopes are that if you are a one-man or a multi-truck operation you can pull some good tidbits from this article and hopefully implement them into your business

Fight the Summer Slowdown How to Keep Your Momentum Goingfrom daveramseycom

Every EntreLeader has it That fire in their belly to succeed a passion for their company But despite all that love itrsquos easy to fall into the trap of losing that spark especially during the lazy hazy days of summer when everything just seems to move a little slower

So how do you keep that momentum going in order for your business to continue moving forward As Dave teaches in EntreLeadership Master Series there are a number of ways to stay productive during the dog days of summer Use these tips to get back on track so life once again can be a day at the beach 1 Step Away From the Remote

Have you ever been at home with a long

list of errands when you hear the siren song of your TV Your remote is calling and before you know it yoursquore sucked in You have to see that last episode of Pawn Stars The same holds true at work You walk through the door and are faced with hundreds of distractions Soon the day is gone and you feel like yoursquove accomplished nothing The Solution Each morning make a prioritized list of tasks for the day and stick to it If therersquos a fire to put out throw some water on it But then get back to the chores at hand quickly As Dave says ldquoYou will either tell your day what to do or you will wonder where it wentrdquo To avoid distractions trybull Scheduling email viewing times

Hm

erry

des

ign

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4 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

HomeSaverreg Smooth-N-Litetrade Fills the Smoothwall Niche

5-8 Diameters Light 010 stainless strip Available in 304 and 316 stainless steel alloys Interlocked seams are easy to flex Smooth inner wall Crush resistant No memory Ideal for smoothwall application

Now smoothwall liner doesnt have to be stiff and clumsy Because HomeSavers new Smooth-N-Lite gives you smooth without the headache Nestling right into HomeSavers famous family of UltraPro Pro RoundFlex RectangleFlex OvalFlex and Dial-A-Flex liners our new 010 Smooth-N-Lite gives you the superior weight flexibility and strength you need for smooth liner applications

6 times 25 (304-Alloy)

WIth ShIppINg$36786

~Free Freight bull On orders of $1800 or morebull 65rsquo of liner liner and components ship free

Speed Service Selection 8002473305 bull wwwcopperfieldcom

SmoothNLite Adindd 3 71212 335 PM

bull Setting time limits on meetingsbull Avoiding other distractions

If you feel tempted to look at your email at non-scheduled hours hand your assistant your phone or turn off your Internet connection Avoid distractions by putting away your electronic devices hanging a do-not-disturb sign or going off-site Do whatever it takes to keep on track 2 Get Fired Up Starting a company creating a new product or signing that contract with your dream client is unbelievably exciting Itrsquos what makes business a lot of fun But along with those incredible moments comes a lot of everyday hard work and worry that can cause you to lose your passion

The Solution The best way to get re-energized is actually to use no energy at all Taking a vacation revitalizes your brain allowing creativity and passion to flow Herersquos even a better reason Taking time off can save your life Research shows that men who miss annual breaks are 32 more likely to die of heart attacks while women who take a vacation less than once every six years are eight times more likely to develop coronary heart disease

3 Learn Something New There is a scientific evidence that when you are feeling uninspired picking up a book can help According to a study by researchers at Harvard and MIT learning something new and having success fires up the pleasure section of your brain

leading you to even more education and prosperity

The Solution Dave is a huge proponent of reading nonfiction leadershipbusiness books as a way to grow his business Hersquos not alone The average millionaire reads a book a month Leaders are readers But thatrsquos just one way to gain more knowledge Find a mentor network with fellow business leaders or attend seminars or other business events

Take advantage of your summer downtime to refocus recharge and learn Itrsquos an awesome way to keep the momentum flowing and get your team fired up for the fall

To learn more about business team building and leadership download Dave Ramseyrsquos EntreLeadership podcasts (httpwwwdaveramseycom) which include lessons from Dave plus interviews with key business leaders from across the nation

NCSG is about helping sweeps grow their businesses and providing progressive services By the time you read this ndash your NCSG board would have reviewed the next budget for the upcoming fiscal year (2012-13)and have revisited our goals and plans moving forward

Please start planning now for the 2013 NCSG Innovation convention and trade show at Chateau on the Lake in Branson MO April 4-7

As always Sweeps Luck to you and your family and God Bless

Jay WalkerNCSG President

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wwwchimneyfanscominfochimneyfanscomP 8002552923

HomeSaverreg Smooth-N-Litetrade Fills the Smoothwall Niche

5-8 Diameters Light 010 stainless strip Available in 304 and 316 stainless steel alloys Interlocked seams are easy to flex Smooth inner wall Crush resistant No memory Ideal for smoothwall application

Now smoothwall liner doesnt have to be stiff and clumsy Because HomeSavers new Smooth-N-Lite gives you smooth without the headache Nestling right into HomeSavers famous family of UltraPro Pro RoundFlex RectangleFlex OvalFlex and Dial-A-Flex liners our new 010 Smooth-N-Lite gives you the superior weight flexibility and strength you need for smooth liner applications

6 times 25 (304-Alloy)

WIth ShIppINg$36786

~Free Freight bull On orders of $1800 or morebull 65rsquo of liner liner and components ship free

Speed Service Selection 8002473305 bull wwwcopperfieldcom

SmoothNLite Adindd 3 71212 335 PM

6 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

MELISSA HEEKE CAENCSG DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS

EditorrsquosLetter

elcome to September Hopefully the season has been

kind to you so far this year and yoursquore in good shape

for a safe and sane remainder of the home heating season

This month we look at how small businesses can protect

themselves from a data breach how to avoid hitting the proverbial

ldquowallrdquo in your business and focusing on what you can control

Strong and steady wins this game This monthrsquos issue should help

you play your next move with confidence

Until next time I wish you all the best for a safe and successful

season

W

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NCSG can help you promote your event

Please email officencsgorg with info on your upcoming meetings and events Wersquoll list your event on the NCSG website in Sweeping magazine and in our weekly dates and events post to the NCSG Discussion List Yoursquore also encouraged to submit meeting and workshop photos and recaps for publication in Sweeping They say a picture is worth a thousand words and we agree Let everyone know what a great time you had and welcome them to your next event Please send photos and articles directly to Melissa Heeke at mheekencsgorg

8 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

Are Small Businesses Protecting Themselves From a Data Breach

Adata breach can be a challenge for any business but this is especially true for smaller businesses Not only can it be more difficult for a smaller business to recover from a data breach but criminals may also be more likely to target smaller firms

When a data breach occurs at a large firm or government agency it winds up all over the news If one occurred at a small business down the street those unaffected would probably never hear about it But a recent report released by Verizon found that nearly three-quarters of data breaches analyzed last year involved businesses with 100 employees or fewer

ldquoMost small-business owners simply do not believe they are at riskrdquo says Lynn LaGram assistant vice president of small commercial underwriting for The Hartford ldquoThe reality is that small businesses are often more vulnerable - making them easier targetsrdquo

LaGram says part of the reason may be that small-business owners often donrsquot have the time or resources that larger companies may have to assist them in protecting data However protecting data may not be as difficult as one would think

Hose Master Invented the Wheel

Smooth-N-Lite bullYourchoice-304or316stainlesssteelcoils5rdquo-8rdquodiameters bullInterlockedseamsareeasytoflex bullSmoothinnerwall bullCrushresistant bullIdealforsmoothwallapplications bullAvailableinroundovalorrectangle

HeavyFlex bullYourchoice-304or316stainlesssteelcoils bullInterlockedseamsareeasytoflex bullSmoothinnerwall bullHighlycrushresistant bullIdealforfireplacerelines bullAvailableinroundovalrectangleorDial-A-Flex

UltraPro bull Patentedrolllockseamdesignforeasyflexibility bullLargebendrange bullSteepcorrugationslope-resultinginhighcrushresistance bullIdeallysuitedforforbothstraightandmultiplebendrelines bullUncoilseasilyrightoutofthebox

NEW

CopperfieldkeepsturningthewheelwithHomeSaverrsquosnew Smooth-N-LitelinerSmooth-N-Litetakesawaythestiffnessand clumsinessnormallyassociatedwithsmoothwallliner-itgivesyouldquosmoothrdquowithnoheadacheNestlingintoHomeSaverrsquosfamousfamilyofUltraProProRoundFlexRectangleFlexOvalFlexandDial-A-FlexCopperfieldrsquosnewSmooth-N-Litegivesyouthesuperiorweight flexibilityandstrengthyouneedforsmoothlinerapplications

Copperfield Chimney Supply Technical800-246-1926Support800-247-3305

Manufactured by Hose Master Exclusively For

When It Comes to Chimney Liners

Almost50yearsagoSamFotiHoseMasterrsquosCEOredesignedinterlockedmachine technologyHisinnovationsarestillthecoreofmanufacturingflexiblechimneylinertoday

HeavyFlex bull 25yearsagoSaminventedRectangleFlex OvalFlexandDial-A-Flextechnology

UltraPro bull 15yearsagoSaminventedUltraPro-the onlypatentedroll-lockdesignlight-weight linerwithextremeflexibilityandcrush resistance

Smooth-N-Lite bullTodaySamhasdesignedSmooth-N-Lite- thelightinterlockedlinerforsmoothwall applications

and now he invented Smooth-N-Lite

Now We Have It All

All Flexible Liner Is Not Created EqualLet Us Prove It

1964

1983

2000

2012

Pro amp UltraProInvented UltraPro - the only patented roll-lock design light-weight liner with extreme flexibility and crush resistance

Redesigned Interlocked Machine TechnologyInnovations are still the core of manufacturing flexible chimney liner today

HeavyFlexInvented RectangleFlex OvalFlex and Dial-A-Flex technology

Smooth-N-LiteToday Sam has designed Smooth-N-Lite the light interlocked liner for smoothwall applications Manufactured on the same machine technology he invented in 1964

Meet Sam Foti Hose Master CEO engineer and innovator

In 1964 Sam got involved with interlocked products Identifying the problems associated with manufacturing the hose Sam redesigned the tooling and machinery to not only produce a consistent interlocked hose but to also speed-up the production

Today the results of Sams ingenuity is the technology used throughout the industry in the production of interlocked products His designs not only changed the way that stripwound hose is made but the way that it is used and perceived in the industry

SmoothNLite Adindd 2 71212 335 PM

Steps to help prevent a breachFor a business or organization that must handle sensitive customer patient or employee information itrsquos important to take measures that decrease the likelihood of a breach ldquoA data breach can involve electronic or paper recordsrdquo says LaGram She shares eight data protection ldquobest practicesrdquo for a business

bull Lock and secure sensitive customer patient member or employee information

bull Restrict employee access to sensitive informationbull Shred or otherwise securely dispose of all sensitive customer patient

member or employee informationbull Use password protection and data encryption for sensitive filesbull Have a privacy policybull Update systems and software on a regular basisbull Use firewalls to control access to sites that could compromise your

security and lock out hackersbull Ensure that remote access to your network is secure

If a breach occursWhile itrsquos important to take proactive steps to help prevent a data breach from occurring therersquos no way to eliminate the risk entirely so it is also

important to have data breach insurance

According to LaGram a business owner should consider insurance that provides

1 Coverage for expenses associated with responding to and recovering from a breach ldquoBusiness owners may not realize that they must comply with various notification requirements which can be costlyrdquo says LaGram Additional advertising expenses to help a business restore its reputation after a breach would also fall into this category

2 Legal expense and liability coverage A customer or employee whose personal data is compromised may sue the business owner for damages This insurance provides coverage for defense costs civil awards settlements or judgments that a business owner may be obligated to pay

3 Access to data security experts to help the business owner navigate the various notification requirements as well as determine the cause of the breach and take steps to prevent it from happening againBoth consumers and business owners can learn more about what to do if they are involved in a data breach at wwwftcgovidtheft

ldquoA data breach can happen to anyone so itrsquos important for business owners to be preparedrdquo says LaGram For more information about protecting your business from a data breach visit wwwhartforddatabreachcom

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 9

Hose Master Invented the Wheel

Smooth-N-Lite bullYourchoice-304or316stainlesssteelcoils5rdquo-8rdquodiameters bullInterlockedseamsareeasytoflex bullSmoothinnerwall bullCrushresistant bullIdealforsmoothwallapplications bullAvailableinroundovalorrectangle

HeavyFlex bullYourchoice-304or316stainlesssteelcoils bullInterlockedseamsareeasytoflex bullSmoothinnerwall bullHighlycrushresistant bullIdealforfireplacerelines bullAvailableinroundovalrectangleorDial-A-Flex

UltraPro bull Patentedrolllockseamdesignforeasyflexibility bullLargebendrange bullSteepcorrugationslope-resultinginhighcrushresistance bullIdeallysuitedforforbothstraightandmultiplebendrelines bullUncoilseasilyrightoutofthebox

NEW

CopperfieldkeepsturningthewheelwithHomeSaverrsquosnew Smooth-N-LitelinerSmooth-N-Litetakesawaythestiffnessand clumsinessnormallyassociatedwithsmoothwallliner-itgivesyouldquosmoothrdquowithnoheadacheNestlingintoHomeSaverrsquosfamousfamilyofUltraProProRoundFlexRectangleFlexOvalFlexandDial-A-FlexCopperfieldrsquosnewSmooth-N-Litegivesyouthesuperiorweight flexibilityandstrengthyouneedforsmoothlinerapplications

Copperfield Chimney Supply Technical800-246-1926Support800-247-3305

Manufactured by Hose Master Exclusively For

When It Comes to Chimney Liners

Almost50yearsagoSamFotiHoseMasterrsquosCEOredesignedinterlockedmachine technologyHisinnovationsarestillthecoreofmanufacturingflexiblechimneylinertoday

HeavyFlex bull 25yearsagoSaminventedRectangleFlex OvalFlexandDial-A-Flextechnology

UltraPro bull 15yearsagoSaminventedUltraPro-the onlypatentedroll-lockdesignlight-weight linerwithextremeflexibilityandcrush resistance

Smooth-N-Lite bullTodaySamhasdesignedSmooth-N-Lite- thelightinterlockedlinerforsmoothwall applications

and now he invented Smooth-N-Lite

Now We Have It All

All Flexible Liner Is Not Created EqualLet Us Prove It

1964

1983

2000

2012

Pro amp UltraProInvented UltraPro - the only patented roll-lock design light-weight liner with extreme flexibility and crush resistance

Redesigned Interlocked Machine TechnologyInnovations are still the core of manufacturing flexible chimney liner today

HeavyFlexInvented RectangleFlex OvalFlex and Dial-A-Flex technology

Smooth-N-LiteToday Sam has designed Smooth-N-Lite the light interlocked liner for smoothwall applications Manufactured on the same machine technology he invented in 1964

Meet Sam Foti Hose Master CEO engineer and innovator

In 1964 Sam got involved with interlocked products Identifying the problems associated with manufacturing the hose Sam redesigned the tooling and machinery to not only produce a consistent interlocked hose but to also speed-up the production

Today the results of Sams ingenuity is the technology used throughout the industry in the production of interlocked products His designs not only changed the way that stripwound hose is made but the way that it is used and perceived in the industry

SmoothNLite Adindd 2 71212 335 PM

10 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

Jim Cochran of Magic Mountain Chimney Sweeps Passes

Jim Cochran of Magic Mountain Chimney Sweeps in Thurmont MD passed away on Thursday April 5 2012 He and wife Debra Cochran have owned and operated this company since 1979 Debra continues to operate Magic Mountain Chimney Sweeps

Jim is survived by his wife Debra Howell Cochran married October 6 1973 in Tampa FL He is also survived by one son Wesly M H Cochran of Frederick MD and one daughter Wendy V Cochran Taylor of Thurmont Debby writes ldquoJim was a legend and many people and sweeps knew and loved him He was one of a kind He had chimney sweeps in top hats and tails for his pallbearers and had a real chimney sweeps funeral It was a great tribute to himrdquoContributions may be made to Cancer Support Community 1050 17th Street NW Suite 500 Washington DC 20036

Sweeping MagazineSept 2012 issue Full page 4 color

Dura-Ventkaren josephson contact

kjosephsonduraventcom800-835-4429

Engineered Excellencereg MampG DuraVent is a member of the MampG Group copy Copyright 2012 Made in the USA 800-835-4429 wwwduraventcom

Stunning design and engineered excellence in manufacture DirectVent Pro combines style with performance Featuring precision tolerances for a tight seal low-pro le locks with no hems or beads for an elegant pro le No gaskets or sealants required (unless by appliance manufacturer) Laser-welded outer seams on all black pipe for a slim nish Several termiantion choices to cap o the system perfectly See why it is speci ed exclusively by nearly every major stove and replace manufacturer in the US and Canada DirectVent Pro is backed by a limited lifetime warranty Find out more at www duraventcom

Dir

ectV

ent

Pro

FOR

DIR

ECT

VEN

T G

AS O

R PR

OPA

NE

STO

VES

HEA

TERS

amp F

IREP

LACE

S

Dire

ctVe

nt Pr

o reg

regIndustryWatch

Industry Watch PolicyNCSG encourages industry partners to submit press releases to Melissa Heeke Sweeping The Journal of Chimney amp Venting Technology editor via email at mheekencsgorg 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 NCSGrsquos opinion regarding the release

Sweeping MagazineSept 2012 issue Full page 4 color

Dura-Ventkaren josephson contact

kjosephsonduraventcom800-835-4429

Engineered Excellencereg MampG DuraVent is a member of the MampG Group copy Copyright 2012 Made in the USA 800-835-4429 wwwduraventcom

Stunning design and engineered excellence in manufacture DirectVent Pro combines style with performance Featuring precision tolerances for a tight seal low-pro le locks with no hems or beads for an elegant pro le No gaskets or sealants required (unless by appliance manufacturer) Laser-welded outer seams on all black pipe for a slim nish Several termiantion choices to cap o the system perfectly See why it is speci ed exclusively by nearly every major stove and replace manufacturer in the US and Canada DirectVent Pro is backed by a limited lifetime warranty Find out more at www duraventcom

Dir

ectV

ent

Pro

FOR

DIR

ECT

VEN

T G

AS O

R PR

OPA

NE

STO

VES

HEA

TERS

amp F

IREP

LACE

S

Dire

ctVe

nt Pr

o reg

reg

12 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

irst of all if you are reading this CONGRATUATIONS As I shared at a recent MIX group meeting I did a presentation for many of you have survived the worst economic downturn in the history of our country one that in many ways rivaled the Great Depression So congratulations

are definitely in order Many American businesses did not survive the economic downturn and others are still on the borderline of survival andor failure I am sure each of you knows of successful business owners who have had their lives (and their lifestyles) undergo a tremendous transition during the past few years Others among you may have only entered our industry since this economic devil revealed itself

What is even more remarkable is that some who read this have done much more Not only have they survived they actually prospered Their businesses grew their profits increased and their business models strengthened Each business that did this faced the same economic conditions as others Yet due to their grit and determination they became true winners Yes there may have been geographic considerations but few areas have escaped the wrath of the economic turmoil our country has faced

What the economic conditions have done for many is force them to become better managers better watchers of their numbers better students of lean methods of operation and better in so many other beneficial ways And it is truly enlightening to see the benefits that have been awarded to those who have continued to make their businesses grow in truly tough economic times and without assistance from banks or other lenders The true success stories of business owners who have completely revamped their operations and have shown levels of excellence that many dream of

But even as a survivor many will encounter roadblocks that will cause stress will slow progress and will serve to raise caution to the wind At times it will come at you with a warning at other times it will simply pop up in front of you with no warning Perhaps it hits you when you awaken in a cold sweat or perhaps it hits you at times when things are just not going as you feel they should The roadblock I refer to is something I classify as the WALL

I feel that a successful business manager can be compared to a star athlete The star athlete will practice he will work out

he will have a strict regimen that will include his diet his sleep habits and will govern his life As he undergoes his training any and all things that can hamper his performance are examined and examined again No matter if he is a runner a swimmer a baseball or football player or a star in other sports He will dedicate himself to excellence just as you do each and every day in your business We saw this in August as we watched the Olympics and see those who receive the gold and hear the stories of the work they did to prepare for the competition

But even with the preparation even with the regiment he has posed to himself at times he will find that his energy is zapped His will to go on will be challenged his fortitude questioned HE HITS THE WALL

As a business manager this is no different than what you encounter at times Not only does the wall come up and block your progress as one person even explained to me about the dreaded wall at times it will even collapse on top of you and you may have to dig out of the rubble During a recent conversation a business owner related ldquoI am digging out of the rubble where that wall fell on top of merdquo when asked how he was doing Has this ever happened to you causing you to stop and wonder just why am I doing this and will I meet my objective Even worse the thought comes to the forefront is it really worth what I am putting into it

In my business endeavors I deal with a lot of folks in different stages of their business models Some have recently launched a business some are transforming a business some preparing exit plans and others are building infrastructure Others still have found success and are working to bring in new management to begin to pursue their true dreams of more free time as the free time was a goal of the original business start-up plan In preparation for this article I asked several who always seem to be going up up and up just what was their secret Just how did the walls not stop them in the progress of the business I think the overall answer I heard was best summed up by one phenomenal business owner His answer was ldquoJerry I keep myself up all the time because I always look at the potential and the markets we have not tapped into yet I just donrsquot see how anyone can get beat due to the problems when there is so much potential and so much untapped businessrdquo

BY JERRY ISENHOUR OF CHIMNEY amp VENTING

CONSULTANTS IN CONCORD NCCoachrsquos Corner

The

The Wall

F

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 13

Quite frankly this hit it on the head Each and every day as a business owner you face adversity perhaps from a customer perhaps from the world around us perhaps simply from an employee who did not meet our expectations But you know this is life and life has a way of throwing curve ball after curve ball The real winner will anticipate what the curve balls will be and will develop the methods to hit the ball no matter how it is thrown at us

The true winner will always view each and every adversary as a learning experience taking what is learned from each error each loss and each hiccup and use these as the basis for new procedures new methods and new ways to grow and prosper The true winner knows that his 1 accountability partner is that guy with him all the time the guy he knows as the man in the mirror

Some are even developing methods within the business to pull these errors and mistakes out of the hidden abyss of the unknown to find the ones we may not even be paying attention to Recently observing several who have instituted a new method that can isolate and eliminate issues is producing astounding results As a respected colleague shared with me ldquoJerry it feels like we are walking on glass but we are finding the ways to end the dreaded Groundhog Day happening over and overrdquo Successful business managers use this as the basis of how they will change the business model adapt their procedures

and continue to grow and prosper All the while raising the PERCENTAGE of profit from the gross figure They do not look at the number they view the number as the percentage Only through viewing the percentage can we truly have a yardstick by which to measure our progress as we grow our management skills

With this my wish is for you to have an excellent fall By the time you read this we will have hit that great part of the year called FALL and what so many call THE BUSY SEASON As you enter this make plans now as to how you plan to promote your business come January 1 2013 This is what the guys who are moving forward are doing The fall is already through the planning stages and they are ready for action ARE YOU If not ask that man in the mirror if he is truly operating at the level he needs to be He has the answer I am sure

About the Author Jerry Isenhour is an industry consultant coach and educator 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 and your business in your quest for success and your rise to the next level take a look at his web site wwwchimneyandventingconsultantscom He can be contacted at jerrychimneyandventingconsultantscom or by phone at (704) 425-0217 You can also obtain great business tips from his Facebook page Chimney amp Venting Consultants

ldquoMy company uses most products available to chimney contractors but Firesafersquos products and systems are hands-down the very best and the most profitable Great technical support and their constant improvements make the products even better which makes my company stand out over my competitionrdquo Kevin Knight Chadds Ford Chimney Sweeps PA

TO order call 800 TO order call 800--545545--66076607

infofiresafeinccom infofiresafeinccom wwwfiresafeinccomwwwfiresafeinccom

FireFireGuardGuard Ceramic mortar jointCeramic mortar jointCeramic mortar joint amp resurfacing systemamp resurfacing systemamp resurfacing system

PatentedPatented The most advanced chimney liner in the world

reg

CrownGuardCrownGuard Severe weather crown repair amp protectionSevere weather crown repair amp protection

Centering system for metal chimney liners

14 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

erhaps the most important thing to recognize about business is that customer service is not an afterthought to everything else It IS everything else Or as Leon Gorman the CEO of LL Bean puts it ldquoCustomer Service is just a day in day out

ongoing never ending unremitting persevering compassionate type of activityrdquo

Oh thatrsquos a nice thought you say Irsquoll be certain to put a little more attention on that the next free moment I get

If this is your response yoursquove missed the point and perhaps the boat too

So what does it mean when we say service What does good customer service look like Herersquos a good hint from Peter Drucker ldquoQuality in service or product is not what you put into it Itrsquos what the customer gets out of itrdquo

In other words in the final analysis itrsquos not simply how

well you do your job that matters What matters is how your customer feels about you or your company once the job is completed What matters is what they got out of it And in that regard in any arena of competitors the battle will be won by the company who leaves the customer feeling the best the happiest the most satisfied

Jerry Gregoire CIO of Dell believes ldquoThe customer experience is the next competitive battlegroundrdquo

Now you might be thinking your customers must be pretty satisfied since most of the time they donrsquot seem to have any complaints

If you are feeling this way it would behoove you to remember most customers donrsquot complain even if there are dramatic issues with the work Why People donrsquot like confrontations And many people feel their complaints will be neither appreciated nor dealt with so why bother

The One and Only Thing

P

BY GREG POLAKOW OF COPPERFIELD

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 15

The course of action they choose rather than wasting their time and emotions complaining to someone they feel will be either hostile or unresponsive is to select one of your competitors next time they need work done As the saying goes they vote with their wallet

You might rightly be asking yourself well if my customers donrsquot tell me when theyrsquore not satisfied what can I possibly do about it

The answer is there are many things that can be done about it But the first starts with the understanding that customer service is not something that kicks in only when therersquos a problem Customer service has to be part of every contact you have with your customers It is how you treat your customers before you even show up at their door It is how you conduct yourself during your visit And it is most certainly the way in which you handle follow up

Remember it is how your customers feel after all is said and done that matters

We are always forming opinions about others It is a natural part of being human And we begin formulating those opinions with our very first encounter The initial opinions may later give way to either better or worse opinions but initial opinions are extremely influential So ask yourself what are you doing to

insure that the very first impression a customer has of you and your business is excellent What are you doing to make this very first customer service experience positive What are you doing to provide your customer at the very outset with a feel good experience

Whatever your answer is remember it is often this first impression that will determine whether or not a customer will call and complain if there is a problem later rather than simply opt to call one of your competitors next time Why Because it is in this first encounter with you that a customer begins to decide if they trust you If you trust that a company has your best interests at heart you are much more likely to call if there is a problem

So how do you establish a feeling of well being and trust with your customer from the get go Again it has to do with how you make them feel the moment you pick up your phone to answer their first call If your tone is cold indifferent or even matter of fact they are not likely to feel you care And if you donrsquot seem to care about them can you really be trusted to have their best interests at heart EVERTHING you do from the outset absolutely everything will create an opinion of you in the customerrsquos mind That means your tone of voice the patience with which you respond to their questions And the very language and even diction you use to talk to them about whatever chimney related issue they are having

USAT 18006545600F 18888893539

CANADAT 4166790045F 4166790051

salesz-flexcom wwwz-flexcom

Triple Lockreg Smoothcoretrade

All Fuels Chimney Linerbull Eliminates the turbulence thatrsquos inherent with

corrugated liners improving draft

bull Resists corrosive attack by not impeding the flow of condensate down the liner and less opportunity for soot to accumulate

Z-Max Rain Cap ampLock lsquoN Go Base Tee

bull Z-Max Rain Cap with protective ember screen shields chimney from snow driving rain and animal intrusions Quick removal for easy cleaning

bull Z-Max Lock lsquoN Go Base Tee installs in half the time of standard tees with no special installation tools required

bull All products cULus tested and listed by UL to UL1777 and ULC S635

S P E C I A L I Z E D V E N T S H O S E S D U C T S amp C O N N E C T O R S F O R A N Y U S E A N Y I N D U S T R Y

C H I M N E Y amp V E N T I N G S O L U T I O N S

TRIPLE LOCKreg

SMOOTHCOREtrade amp Z-MAX

Smoothcoretrade

All Fuels Chimney LinerEliminates the turbulence thatrsquos inherent with

bull Z-Max Rain Cap with protective ember screen

bull Z-Max Lock lsquoN Go Base Tee installs in half the Pellet GasWood Oil

Suitable For All Fuels

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

Sweeping News (Snews)_Smoothcore_Z-Max_no booth_HR_March 29 2012pdf 1 12-03-30 212 PM

16 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

Use language that is too technical and you lose them and put them on the defensive ldquoAm I supposed to understand what this guy is talking aboutrdquo they wonder Speak too fast or indistinctly and you get the same result

Seem like picky details They may be to you but they will not be to your customer

Remember when a customer comes to you he is laying his problem at your feet If he could remedy it himself he would But he canrsquot He needs you to help him So he is feeling a bit vulnerable a bit out of his league How you respond to him in this circumstance can either make him feel immediately comfortable and in safe hands or something less desirable You decide which effect you want to create

I think you can see that if this first encounter leaves your customer glowing instead of glowering you win You win his confidence his trust and even here at the very outset his gratitude If yoursquove done this well ie addressed his initial questions and concerns in a compassionate understanding thorough manner well you are off to an excellent start

But the battle has not been won because yoursquove also set some expectations and your customerrsquos expectation that this kind of treatment will continue must be met If your crew shows up to do the work and forgets they are in the customer service business first and foremost all you accomplished at the beginning can be ruined

Good customer service must build on itself from day one in order to maintain that feeling in your customer of confidence happiness and trust It cannot be hit and miss Being inconsistent might be worse than being just plain ornery from the beginning

Does good customer service trump sloppy careless or substandard work Of course not Because the quality of your product is a huge part of the customer service package Itrsquos all customer service

The bottom line is your customer will appreciate value and respect you to exactly the same degree you appreciate value and respect him No more and no less And the great thing is when you treat your customers as friends when you gladly and openly address their concerns and fix their problems your work and your life become easier and more fulfilling

Try it out Start thinking of customer service as being the be all and end all of your business and see how well things go Yoursquoll be amazed

Remember as Tony Allesandra has observed ldquoBeing on par in terms of price and quality only gets you into the game Service wins the gamerdquo

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AN INDUSTRY STANDARD FOR OVER 25 YEARS

Call your favorite Lock-Topdistributor today

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ndashEasilyMountsAtopaFlueTile

bullOver25YearsintheBusiness

AnOpen Chimneyis like anOpen Window-All Year Round

11 May lock top indd 1 72612 148 PM

w w wolympiachimneycom bull Phone 1-800-569-1425

Will KozlanskyOwner amp Co-Founder

The NEW Smoothwall Chimney Liner thathas the Perfect Combination of

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n No memory amp very flexible n Smooth Interior n One liner multiple applicationsn Available ovalized amp coiled

w w wolympiachimneycom bull Phone 1-800-569-1425

Will KozlanskyOwner amp Co-Founder

The NEW Smoothwall Chimney Liner thathas the Perfect Combination of

Weight Ruggedness amp Flexibility

n No memory amp very flexible n Smooth Interior n One liner multiple applicationsn Available ovalized amp coiled

18 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

ou all have accomplishments You support your family your employees and their families your vendors and you provide comfort and safety for your customers

Some of you can enjoy your success and can focus on preserving what you have Many of you want to and have the capacity to grow and be more successful Some of you may be struggling with the seasonality and economics of your business Regardless of your level of success almost all of you have varying degrees of uncertainty

Many articles books conferences and videos have been made about the importance of having a strategic plan to help guide you to fulfill your potential

This magazine has offered numerous articles written to help you fulfill your potential The NCSG offers courses to help you gain skills to be more successful

Yet there still appears to be too many business owners

struggling to achieve their goals ndash or have yet to explicitly define their goals which could help them to get their time back and allow them (you) to enjoy their (your) lives

Maybe yoursquore stuck on tactics without a strategy Maybe yoursquore stuck on ldquonoiserdquo ndash noise that the media airs about events you cannot control and distracts you from your business Perhaps that ldquonoiserdquo has contributed to a pessimistic perspective

Perhaps all of the above is ldquonoiserdquo that covers up past or current mistakes or regret either real or perceived

Letrsquos work on facing your concerns and your past Fear fades when facts are faced Regrets can become wisdom when success lies ahead

Consider forming a team of trusted professionals emulate successful associates select friends and close family members who can create a ldquojudgment freerdquo zone to allow you to unwind the past that may be keeping you from achieving your potential

Focus on What You Can Control

Y

BY BRIAN NOE OF MW FINANCIAL GROUP

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 19

Your team can help you realize your dreams by developing a sound strategy employing objective facts without bias Your team has your back

So letrsquos throw out the rear view mirror set aside our mistakes and regrets and look forward to what you can control that can lead to success

You and your team can control your personal finances You and your team can control your business Here are some steps you can take to help seize the day sleep easy and get your time back

1 Budget ndash do you have a personal and business budget Do you adhere to your budget Does your budget include protection and savings for retirement and your legacy Do you know how much you need to save for retirement and your legacy Are you prepared in the event that you may ldquolive too longrdquo

2 Help Protect Yourself your Family and your Business ndash you can take steps to control your risk

Do you let your employees drive your personal vehicles Do your employees drive your work vehicles for personal use Are you covered for that activity These are a just a few examples of ldquohiddenrdquo liabilities that you may be exposed to but unaware of

Do you have adequate umbrella insurance protection in addition to home and auto insurance that covers you and your employees

Do you take steps to relieve stress Do you have disability insurance to provide you with income or your business with funds to pay expenses in the event of illness or injury that prevents you from working

For your business you can implement a safety program This sets up a plan of employee procedures for handling vendors customers and inter-employee communication skills to improve workmanship and other employee development For events you cannot control do you have liability EampO and similar insurance

Does your business take advantage of legal structure asset titling (multiple businesses Spouse ownership) retirement plans life insurance annuities trusts and homestead

Its Not Too Late For Fall Dating

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20 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

exemptions (if available) to help protect assets from creditors and frivolous lawsuits

3 Employ Efficient Debt ndash we may be at the bottom of the interest rate and inflation cycle If interest rates rise andor inflation heats up the general rule of thumb for most of us is debtors win creditors lose If you have the cash you have control If the banker has the cash they have control

4 Manage Taxes ndash whether or not income or estate taxes increase in the future a retirement assetincome distribution business succession and legacy strategy is a must for everyone

5 Investment Management ndash you have plenty of risk with your business Do you want to have unnecessary risk with your investments

You cannot control macroeconomics (sequence of return risk rising interest rates trade and budget deficits unemployment inflation taxes real estate values commodity markets fluctuating foreign currency etc)

You cannot control geopolitical events (elections Euro zone issues violent foreign government changes war etc) or environmental events (hurricanes earthquakes fires tsunamis etc)

How do you insulate yourself from economic events you cannot control Consider historically tried tested and true strategies Consider strategies that your grandparentrsquos generation may have used They had to protect themselves ndash government bailouts and subsidies were few and far between

Congratulations if you can assemble a team to help you define and implement a strategy using the tactics described above This can be achieved in a relatively short period of time (a few hours a week over several short weeks can do it) which can help give you your time back so you can focus on your business and family

6 Manage your Business ndash this you can completely control You can engage in any of the following business expansion activities without losing energy and enthusiasm to the issues you and your team of advisors tackled above

Perhaps you would ratherbull Recruit and develop key employees (and future buyers of

your business)bull Market expansion (are you getting on board the e-marketing

train)bull Develop operating procedures and processesbull Improve safety (reduce liability)bull Expand into new territoriesbull Enter a new industry

bull Purchase and manage real estate

Life Happens ndash Enjoy It

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 US Army Eric is ranked first in his class with a degree in Computer Science is working in his field and plans on attending graduate school in 2013 His daughter Kara recently graduated undergraduate school with distinction and is planning to attend graduate school to become a Physiciansrsquo 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_NoeMWFinancialcom

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CSIA Update wwwCSIAorg

Publication for CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepregs

ADVERTISEMENT

The Virginia Association of Chimney amp

Hearth Professionals sponsored CSIArsquos

Inspection amp Report Writing class in

Arlington VA this August 6-7 Tom Urban

served as the instructor for the two-day

session Forty one professionals were

in attendance with 19 being business

owners and 22 being employees The

session drew attendees from as far away

as Louisville KY

The event was sponsored by Wakefield

Brush The Chimney Sweep News

Ahrenrsquos Copperfield Wohler Estoban

Lindemann Chimney Supply National

Chimney Supply Olympia Chimney

Supply SaverSystems and Whitecaps

VACHP Sponsored Inspection amp Report Writing

Fred Regar served as auctioneer of the sponsor-donated items on the second day of the session

Tom Urban teaching the CSIA Inspection and Report Writing Class in Arlington

When renewing a credential earned after September 1 2009 a CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg is required to

Available downloads for CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepsreg and CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Techniciansreg include

bull CSIACertifiedChimneySweepandCSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician Trademarks

bull ButtonsforyourWebsite

bull CustomizablePowerPointpresentationfor home inspectors

bull InspectionSOPs

bull LadderSafetyTips

bull ldquoChimneyFiresCausesEffectsampEvaluationrdquo Prepared by Chimney Safety Institute of America- Chimney Fire Education and Research Task Force

bull Printversionofthiswhitepaperisalsoavailable for purchase

bull Top10WoodburningTipsfromtheChimney Safety Institute of America

Check out the CCS amp CDET area at CSIAorg

bull Submitaminimumof9CEUsearnedwithin the preceeding 3 years (in any category) before testing NOTE This requirement will not apply to CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps already holding the credential on September 1 2009untiltheirnext3-yearcertificationcycle

bull Passaone-hourexambasedonSuccessfulChimneySweeping(2009)andNFPA211(2010)

bull Passaninety-minuteopen-bookexambasedonthe2006IRCreg

bull AgreetopaytheAnnualCertificationFee

bull SignCSIACodeofEthics

OR

bull SubmitappropriatenumberofContinuing Education Units (CEUs) in the relevant categories

bull AgreetopaytheAnnualCertificationFee

bull SignCSIACodeofEthics

Upon earning the CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg credential your certification is valid for one year You will need to recertify annually by paying the annual certification fee This fee will be invoiced annually prior to your expiration date Please note that your credential will require renewal every three years by submittal of the minimum 48 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) in accordance with the CSIA Credential Renewal Policy or by passing the certification exams and either submitting a minimum of 9 CEUs or completing a CSIA Review

If your annual certification fee is not paid prior to your certification expiration date your credential will be considered lapsed and you will immediately lose all rights and privileges of the CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg credential The following terms will then apply if reinstatement of the credential is desired

If you do not pay your annual certification fee by your expiration date the following timeline will begin

bull Within90daysfromthedateofexpiration if you submit payment in full for the annual certification fee your credential will be reinstated and you will be considered a CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg in good standing maintaining your original annual expiration date and certification number

bull Ifmorethan90daysandlessthan12months beyond your expiration date you will be required to Pay the current annual certification fee and current testing fees and test again Doing so will reinstate your previous annual certification expiration date and certification number You will still be required to pay your next annual fee within the next 12 months

bull Ifmorethan12monthsbeyondyourexpiration date you will be required to either participate in a CSIA approved certification review course or submit evidence of 9 CEUs that were accumulated during the time your credential was active In addition you will be required to pass the CSIA certification exams Upon successful completion a new certification number will be assigned and you will have a new annual certification expiration date

CaliforniaMichaelGipsonbullMidtownSweepsbullLancasterOmarSaenzbullAFiddlerontheRoodDuctampChimneyServicebullVanNuys

IndianaAlexStewartbullOldSmokeyrsquosFireplaceampChimneyIncbullAshley

KansasRyanBerrybullFullServiceChimneybullOlathe

New YorkJayFellibullHearthampHomeofIthacabullIthaca

VermontJamesDonovanbullLincolnPeakPropertiesbullWaitsfield

West VirginiaMichaelAdwellbullTopHatChimneySweepbullLewisburg

WisconsinDustinMyersbullChimneySpecialistsIncbullHighland

ADVERTISEMENT

Congratulations to Our New CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps

Top 10 Woodburning Tips from the Chimney Safety Institute of America

To aid in the prevention of chimney fires and carbon monoxide intrusion and to help keep heating appliances and fireplaces functioning properly the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) offers the following safety tips

1 Get an annual chimney check Have chimneys inspected annually and cleaned as necessary by a qualified professional chimney service technician This reduces the risk of fires and carbon monoxide poisonings due to creosote buildup or obstructions in the chimneys

2 Keep it clear Keep tree branches and leaves at least 15 feet away from the top of the chimney

3 Install a chimney cap to keep debris and animals out of the chimney

4 Choose the right fuel For burning firewood in wood stoves or fireplaces choose wellseasoned wood that has been split for a minimum of six months - one year and stored in a covered and elevated location Never burn Christmas trees or treated wood in your fireplace or wood stove

5 Build it right Place firewood or firelogs at the rear of the fireplace on a supporting grate To start the fire use kindling or a commercial firelighter Never use flammable liquids

6 Keep the hearth area clear Combustible material too close to the fireplace or to a wood stove could easily catch fire Keep furniture at least 36rdquo away from the hearth

7 Use a fireplace screen Use metal mesh or a screen in front of the fireplace to catch flying sparks that could ignite or burn holes in the carpet or flooring

8 Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors Place detectors throughout the house and check batteries in the spring and fall

When you change your clocks for Daylight Savings Time remember to check your batteries

9 Never leave a fire unattended Before turning in for the evening be sure that the fire is fully

extinguished Supervise children and pets closely around wood stoves and fireplaces

10 The CSIA recommends annual inspections performed by CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps These chimney sweeps have earned the industryrsquos most respected credential by passing an intensive examination based on fire codes clearances and standards for the construction and maintenance of chimney and venting systems The National Fire Protection Association also recommends that all chimneys are inspected on an annual basis

For more chimney and fireplace safety tips visit the Chimney Safety Institute of America online at wwwCSIAorg

Solve your customersrsquo smoking sooting odor and draft problems Itrsquos easy with CSIArsquos 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 Ghostingsooting 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 doesnrsquot

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

Learn to solve these problems save time and money and keep

your clients happy with CSIArsquos Online Chimney Physics program

SolvedVenting Problems

Register today at wwwcsiaorg

CSIA 15 Tech 15 CampL 15 HampS 15 CampS NFI 5 Tech

Annual Certification Requirements

Top 10 Woodburning Tips from the Chimney Safety Institute of America

To aid in the prevention of chimney fires and carbon monoxide intrusion and to help keep heating appliances and fireplaces functioning properly the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) offers the following safety tips

1 Get an annual chimney check Have chimneys inspected annually and cleaned as necessary by a qualified professional chimney service technician This reduces the risk of fires and carbon monoxide poisonings due to creosote buildup or obstructions in the chimneys

2 Keep it clear Keep tree branches and leaves at least 15 feet away from the top of the chimney

3 Install a chimney cap to keep debris and animals out of the chimney

4 Choose the right fuel For burning firewood in wood stoves or fireplaces choose wellseasoned wood that has been split for a minimum of six months - one year and stored in a covered and elevated location Never burn Christmas trees or treated wood in your fireplace or wood stove

5 Build it right Place firewood or firelogs at the rear of the fireplace on a supporting grate To start the fire use kindling or a commercial firelighter Never use flammable liquids

6 Keep the hearth area clear Combustible material too close to the fireplace or to a wood stove could easily catch fire Keep furniture at least 36rdquo away from the hearth

7 Use a fireplace screen Use metal mesh or a screen in front of the fireplace to catch flying sparks that could ignite or burn holes in the carpet or flooring

8 Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors Place detectors throughout the house and check batteries in the spring and fall

When you change your clocks for Daylight Savings Time remember to check your batteries

9 Never leave a fire unattended Before turning in for the evening be sure that the fire is fully

extinguished Supervise children and pets closely around wood stoves and fireplaces

10 The CSIA recommends annual inspections performed by CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps These chimney sweeps have earned the industryrsquos most respected credential by passing an intensive examination based on fire codes clearances and standards for the construction and maintenance of chimney and venting systems The National Fire Protection Association also recommends that all chimneys are inspected on an annual basis

For more chimney and fireplace safety tips visit the Chimney Safety Institute of America online at wwwCSIAorg

ADVERTISEMENT

You can spend weeks trying to get a new employee up to speed In the process yoursquoll have used up your valuable time your patience and more money than you would like to admit

Instead send your employee to the most popular cost-effective chimney sweep training in North America CSIArsquos National Chimney Sweep Training School In less than a week wersquoll create an employee that yoursquoll be proud to send on a call ndash and happy to count toward your bottom line

Register today at wwwcsiaorg or call us at (317) 837-5362

At the 6-day hands-on Training School your employee will learn

How to inspect and service chimney systems serving any fuel burning appliance

How to be safe with the latest health and safety equipment and methods

How to work with residential heating appliances including wood stoves pellet stoves inserts factory-built fireplaces central heaters and furnaces

How to diagnose chimney performance problems understanding draft and flow diagnosing down drafts flow reversals inadequate flow stack effects updrafts pressure effects and gauges

How to navigate the International Residential Codes How to follow the NFPA 211 standards

Class size is limited to ensure a ratio of no more than eight students per instructor This small class size means that students have the opportunity for individual attention from the schoolrsquos experienced instructors and ample opportunities for hands-on training Because class size is limited it is important to apply early to reserve your place

The online CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience

The online Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician (CDET) review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience designed to help you pass the CDET exam

Take advantage of these other CSIA educational offerings that can build your business

Send us your greenhorn

and wersquoll send you back a pro

in 6 days Classes fill quickly so register now

2012 DATeS April 2ndash7June 4ndash9August 6ndash11September 24ndash29

April 2-7June 11-16August 6-11September 24-29

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 25

You can spend weeks trying to get a new employee up to speed In the process yoursquoll have used up your valuable time your patience and more money than you would like to admit

Instead send your employee to the most popular cost-effective chimney sweep training in North America CSIArsquos National Chimney Sweep Training School In less than a week wersquoll create an employee that yoursquoll be proud to send on a call ndash and happy to count toward your bottom line

Register today at wwwcsiaorg or call us at (317) 837-5362

At the 6-day hands-on Training School your employee will learn

How to inspect and service chimney systems serving any fuel burning appliance

How to be safe with the latest health and safety equipment and methods

How to work with residential heating appliances including wood stoves pellet stoves inserts factory-built fireplaces central heaters and furnaces

How to diagnose chimney performance problems understanding draft and flow diagnosing down drafts flow reversals inadequate flow stack effects updrafts pressure effects and gauges

How to navigate the International Residential Codes How to follow the NFPA 211 standards

Class size is limited to ensure a ratio of no more than eight students per instructor This small class size means that students have the opportunity for individual attention from the schoolrsquos experienced instructors and ample opportunities for hands-on training Because class size is limited it is important to apply early to reserve your place

The online CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience

The online Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician (CDET) review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience designed to help you pass the CDET exam

Take advantage of these other CSIA educational offerings that can build your business

Send us your greenhorn

and wersquoll send you back a pro

in 6 days Classes fill quickly so register now

2012 DATeS April 2ndash7June 4ndash9August 6ndash11September 24ndash29

April 2-7June 11-16August 6-11September 24-29

ProgressivePerksBY DEBBIE CORNELIUS

MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT COORDINATOR

Get Organized and Make the Most of Your Busy Season

Sometimes it really surprises me that more NCSG members do not take advantage of the discounted benefits available to them These will not only save you time buthellip money too

Paycor Payroll Services price reduction on payroll and tax services One specialist will be dedicated to your account with a team of tax specialists available to resolve issues in the fastest amount of time should an issue arise

Market Hardware can bring your business up to speed in the competitive market of technology where more and more customers are looking to the Web Once they have customized the design that includes a ldquoHome Pagerdquo ldquoAbout Usrdquo and ldquoOur Servicesrdquo page you will have the ability to easily update and edit your Web site yourself instead of paying someone else to do it

Technical Solutions the ldquoSurvival Kit for Small Businessesrdquo can provide on-demand remote repair 247 365 days a year For the price of $2499month with no long term contact involved you can cover up to 20 computers including multiple office locations

Commercials On Hold provides a great way to brand and promote your full range of services when callers are on hold before they talk to a member of your staff

Take a few minutes to just explore these benefits It would be well worth your time to compare the savings to save you time and help increase your profits

26 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

REGION 6

NCSG Charter Members

Paul Bourque Huntsville AL

Don Leavitt San Diego CA

David Harris Broken Arrow Oklahoma

Dan Wheeler Santa Rosa CA

John Cline Menlo Park CA

Dale Meisinger N Augusta SC

Alan Hisey St Louis MO

Eva B Horton Greenwich CT

Harry Richart Hasbrouck Heights NJ

NewNCSGMembers

REGION 3

REGION 2

REGION 5

REGION 4

NCSG REGIONS

REGION 1

Connecticut Vermont Massachusetts New York Maine Rhode Island New Hampshire

REGION 2

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

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

CONNECTICUTChristopher Gonsalves bull Millstream Construction bull HebronDavid Heissenbuttel bull DMH amp Associates Inc bull Wilton

VIRGINAJack Johnston bull Johnstonrsquos Chimney Sweep bull Yorktown

MISSOURIJason Patrick bull Shamrock Qualty Services bull St LouisBill Bonney bull Bonney Bill bull Jackson

KENTUCKYJoshua Moore bull Moore Joshua bull Mt Sterling

ILLINOISJack Lutz bull Lutz Jack bull EurekaClay Nelson bull Clean Sweep bull Collinsville

OHIOAnthony Ramsey bull Elite Chimney Solutions bull Beavercreek

INDIANATravis Beckley bull Beckley Travis bull Coal City

TEXASMatthew Milner bull Milner Matthew bull WhitesboroTony Drew bull AC Contractors dba Fireplaces bull LongviewChristopher A Hess bull Atlas Chimney bull Leander

MINNESOTARenee Gustafson bull John C Gustafson Builder LLC bull Little Falls

COLORADOKent Macintosh bull Russian River Chimney Sweeps bull Healdsburg

CALIFORNIA Errol Davis bull The Chimney Specialist bull Huntington Beach

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 27

The 2012 ndash 2013 offers are being added daily in the ldquoMembers Onlyrdquo section of the NCSG website at wwwNCSGorg So start checking for these new offers each week These coupons will be good until June 30 2013

Copperfield Chimney Supply bull Lindemann Chimney Supply bull Meyer Machine amp Equipment bull National Chimney Supply bull SNEWS - The Chimney Sweep News bull Wakefield Brush bull Wohler USA Inc

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Featured Coupons of the Month

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purchase

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28 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

Meyer Machine amp Equipment

SUCKINGDUCTS

ampINSULATION

FOR OVER 20 YEARS

As most allergy sufferers will tell you allergy symptoms can always be bothersome turning any time of year into sneezing season A runny nose itchy eyes and scratchy throat can arise as the days get shorter and the leaves begin to change

The fall can be especially difficult for people who are sensitive to mold and ragweed pollen But these seasonal elements arenrsquot the only triggers that can make symptoms worse this time of year There are also a few lesser known triggers Here are four things you might not know about fall allergies courtesy of the American College of Allergy Asthma and Immunology

Hay fever - Hay fever a term from a bygone era actually has nothing to do with hay Instead itrsquos a general term used to describe the symptoms of late summer allergies Ragweed is a common cause of hay fever which is also known as allergic rhinitis The plant usually begins to pollinate in mid-August and may continue to be a problem until a hard freeze depending on where you live See an allergist for prescription medications to control symptoms or to see if allergy shots may be your best option

Lingering warm weather - While most people enjoy Indian summer unseasonably warm temperatures can make rhinitis symptoms last longer Mold spores can also be released when humidity is high or the weather is dry and windy Be sure to begin taking medications before your symptoms start Track your allergy symptoms with MyNasalAllergyJournalorg and visit with your allergist to find relief

Pesky leaves - Some folks might find it difficult to keep up with raking leaves throughout the autumn But for allergy sufferers raking presents its own problem It can stir agitating pollen and mold into the air causing allergy and asthma symptoms Those with allergies should wear an NIOSH-rated N95 mask when raking leaves mowing the lawn and gardening

School allergens - Itrsquos not only seasonal pollen and mold that triggers allergies this time of year Kids are often exposed to classroom irritants and allergy triggers These can include chalk dust and classroom pets Students with food allergies may also be exposed to allergens in the lunch roomKids with exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB) may experience attacks during recess or gym class Help your child understand what can trigger their allergies and asthma and how they can avoid symptoms Be sure to notify teachers and the school nurse of any emergency medications such as quick relief inhalers and epinephrine

No matter the season itrsquos important for those who think they may be suffering from allergies or asthma to see a board-certified allergist An allergist can help you develop a treatment plan which can include both medication and avoidance techniques

Having your allergies properly identified and treated will help you and your family enjoy the season To find an allergist and learn more about allergies and asthma visit wwwAllergyandAsthmaRelieforg

Four Things You Might Not Know About Fall Allergies

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 29

trategic partnerships Sounds fancy but what does it really mean They are called what they are called because there is a true strategy behind them the thought and planning that goes into identifying and development those relationships in a way that will

ultimately help those who are participating to achieve their mission The fact that it is indeed a ldquopartnershiprdquo indicates that everyone involved mutually stands to benefit in some wayhellipItrsquos a win-win

The strategic part of establishing partnerships is analyzing who you are your goals and your current resources and then finding organizations (partners) that will allow you to get the things that you need in order to take your organization to the next level But true partnerships are about what you can bring to each other to help achieve your goals and enhance your resources It is not solely about what you can give me but rather what we can give each other As the great John F Kennedy is well known for encouraging of a world partnership ldquoask not what America will do for you but what together we can do for the freedom of manrdquo

So where does this leave an association like NCSG The key to nonprofits establishing strategic partnerships is having the infrastructure to attract and maintain these relationships In this country there are plenty of nonprofits that are doing great work but there is no organization that will be able to survive if they try

to achieve their mission without establishing partnerships that help provide resources and relationships that allow us to achieve our mission

NCSG is very fortunate to have an impressive array of partners who have for many years some since our inception done just that Our partners have advertised in this magazine exhibited at our conventions contributed to the building and maintaining of our headquarters and the premier industry training facility in Indianapolis discounted thousands of dollars in products and services to our members and have helped us promote the Guild and recruit membership in countless ways not the least of which includes maintaining their own membership in NCSG

Our partners are committed to helping us advance our mission and in turn propel our professional field forward Their partnership supports that programs that ignite your professional and technical development and provide the products and services that have helped you bring your own businesses to life They are integral to the success of this industry and most renew their support of the Guild year after year

Without their support of Sweeping magazine through their advertising we would not have been able to come close to bringing this publication to our members and the industry for the past 35 years (originally The Chimney Sweep Guild News) without significant taxation on the readers Without their support

BY MARK MCSWEENEY CAEEXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Perspective

Support Those Who Support YouldquoOur success has really been based on partnerships from the very beginningrdquo -Bill Gates

S

30 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

of NCSGrsquos annual convention through exhibiting and additional sponsorships registration fees for attendees would easily be double what they are today

When viewing our relationship with exhibitors sponsors advertisers and supplier members as a partnership the question needs to be asked How are we as an association mutually helping them achieve their respective goals

The answer comes back to us having infrastructure to attract and maintain these partnerships And that infrastructure is you the member NCSG cultivates and maintains the relationship with our industry partners on your behalf You are asked to back that up through your support of these partner service providers

Now Irsquom not saying you should buy everything you need at any one place or only through our partners At the end of the day you ultimately need to make your purchasing decisions based on your individual business needs However what would be great to see is our members calling our partners up and giving them a chance to compete for your business Let them know you are a part of NCSG and even if you are not in a position to do business with them this time around let them know you appreciate their continued support of the Guild and the industry Itrsquos one thing to call up to a supplier and ask about a product get a price and hang up Itrsquos another thing to make sure you let them know you saw their ad in Sweeping you read about them

online or you remember they exhibited at the convention so that they know they are getting positive exposure and that their investment in our partnership is not going unnoticed

With that said here are some simple and tangible things things you can do to help the partnership you are a part ofbull Consider our partners each and every time you need to make a

purchasing decision and give them an opportunity to earn your business when you can Look at those who are advertising in Sweeping or see a full listing of NCSG Supplier Members under the Chimney Sweep tab on ncsgorg

bull When you talk to them let them know yoursquore part of NCSG and thank them for their support of your association

bull If you like them even if you canrsquot do business with them currently spread the word and help get their name out there

bull Attend events where our partners have stepped up to sponsor Help show them we value them being there and appreciate their efforts This helps everyone when it comes to working out future programs discounts events and more

We are all in this together Just as you want to ensure you are receiving the return you need on the investments you make our supplier members advertisers exhibitors and sponsors need to justify their own ROI on the variety of support avenues they offer

to NCSG I thought Irsquod take a minute this month to say ldquothank yourdquo to all of you who support us in so many different ways and would like to encourage others to do the same

Until next time I continue to wish you every success

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Featuring

Visit wwwchim-prolinercom for more detailsbull 2000 Industrial Ave bull Sioux Falls SD 57104

1-800-582-1392

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 31

Display Ad Index

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 mheekencsgorg for publication in Sweeping Or mail it to NCSG 2155 Commercial Drive Plainfield IN 46168

Page Advertiser Phone Email or Website Address

30 Ahrens Chimney Technique 800-582-1392 ahrenschimneyqwestofficenet

21-24 Chimney Safety Institute of America 317-837-5362 wwwcsiaorg

14 Cobra Chimney Caps 888-463-0636 salescobrachimneycom

27 Communications Network Inc 800-875-8118 tkempercomnetmessagecom

5 Copperfield 800-247-3305 wwwcopperfieldcom

4 ENERVEX Inc 800-255-2923 infochimneyfanscom

13 Firesafe Industries Inc 800-545-6607 wwwfiresafeinccom

16 Gelco Lyemance Lock-Top 800-334-2154 wwwGLLchimneyproductscom

9 Hose Master 800-221-2319 bobdanielshosemastercom

10 ICP 508-695-7000 wwwchimneycapscom

BC Lifetime Chimney Supply LLC 877-234-7473 wwwlifetimechimneysupplycom

7 Lindemann Chimney Company 800-722-7230 wwwlindemannchimneycom

11 M amp G Duravent 800-835-4429 wwwduraventcom

28 Meyer Machine amp Equipment 800-728-3828 wwwmeyermachinecom

25 National Chimney Supply 800-897-8481 wwwnationalchimneysupplycom

17 Olympia Chimney Supply 800-569-1425 wwwolympiachimneycom

19 Sand Hill Wholesale 800-258-5496 wwwsandhillwholesalecom

6 SaverSystems Inc 800-860-6327 wwwchimneysavercom

3 Smoktite 866-439-0069 wwwsmoktitecom

8 Wakefield Brush 800-264-7007 wwwwakefieldbrushcom

19 Whitecaps 800-335-2534 wwwwhitecapscom

15 Z-Flex 800-654-5600 wwwz-flexcom

The pole and bucket chimney That is how they keep rain and birds out during off season Notice the class A is just an extension of a masonry chimney

Submitted by Kevon Binder of Doctor Flue Inc

September 13-15 2012Lake Murray SCSouth Carolina Chimney Sweep Guildrsquos ldquoThe GatheringrdquoFor more information please contact Blume at (864) 232-9811 or blume357bellsouthnet

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 19 2012 Taunton MAFall Protection User Training Class Including OSHArsquos 2011 ruling on alternate fall protection methods - Sponsored by the Massachusetts Chimney Sweep GuildFor more information please call Jeffrey Wright at (781) 233-2321

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-29 2012CSIA Technology CenterCSIA National Chimney Sweep Training SchoolFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

Dates amp Events

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 8-12 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg October 8-12 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

Please send notice of your events for NCSG Dates amp Events listings at mmcmahonncsgorg for inclusion here in weekly posts to the discussion list and online at wwwNCSGorgdates The event must be considered educational or informative for the industry (sales events and open houses will not be listed)

32 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

ClassifiedsGotta chimney question Sizing Codes Call Royal Edwards Make Royal your tech department CALL NOW 813-982-0219 for on-call tech support Continuing Education special bonus ndash ask how you can get the Friday morning E-Blast for FREE CALL NOW 813-982-0219

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

Chimney Sweep business for sell in the Northern Rocky Mountains of New Mexico Services a large area with three ski resorts in the service area Equipment and signed three year contracts goes with the business Business is well established For pricing and other info please email your questions to ridgeriders1gmailcom

CLASSIFIED ADS FREE FOR NCSG MEMBERSMembers can run one 35 word classified free each year Regularly classified ads are $2word or $1word for NCSG members Classified ads are non-commissionable and must be pre-paid To place a classified ad please contact Megan McMahon at mmcmahonncsgorg or (317) 837-1500

NCSG Innovation 2013 Convention and Trade Show Hotel reservations are now being accepted for NCSG Innovation 2013 at Chateau on the Lake in Branson MO April 4-7 2013 Just call 1-888-333-LAKE (5253) and mention that yoursquore with the National Chimney Sweep Guild to lock in rates starting at $129 for a mountain view and $134 for a lake view

Get ready for some RampR Yoursquore earned it

Order Your FREEAnnual Maintenance Reminder Postcards

A great way to remind homeowners to schedule their annual maintenance check up

Each card has space available for your business information

Use them as reminders for your existing clients or send them to generate new business

To order postcards and other free Burn Wise products contact

Leigh Herringtonherringtonleighepagov

ampKristen Bremer

bremerkristenepagov

wwwepagovburnwise

Follow us on

Wood-Burning Safety

Starts with You

Have you scheduled your

annual inspection

The National Fire Protection Association estimates

that 25 percent of home heating fires are caused

primarily by creosote buildup in the chimney

Make your home healthier and safer A properly

installed and maintained appliance burns more

efficiently and saves you money Contact your local

certified chimney sweep to schedule an annual

inspection today

Before You Burn

The right wayThe right way is hot and bright

In the right applianceThe right appliance is an EPA-approved appliance inspected annually by a certified chimney sweep

Burn the right woodBurn only dry well-seasoned wood that has been split and stored properly

wwwepagovburnwise

wwwcsiaorg

Printed on 100 recycledrecyclable paper with a minimum 50 post-consumer waste using vegetable-based

EPA 456-F-10-004

National Chimney Sweep Guild2155 Commercial DrivePlainfield IN 46168

1208

OR

Page 3: September 2012

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 1

Sweeping The Journal of Chimney and Venting Technology (ISSN 1041-6692) 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 toSweeping The Journal of Chimney and Venting TechnologyNational Chimney Sweep Guild2155 Commercial DrivePlainfield IN 46168

September 2012 Volume 36 8

Features

Table of Contents

Departments

P29

P31

P10

3 Moving Forward

6 Editorrsquos Letter

10 Industry Watch

12 The Coachrsquos Corner

25 Progressive Perks

26 New NCSG Members

27 Sweeps Advantage Coupon Program

29 Perspective

31 Darwin Awards

31 Display Ad Index

32 Dates amp Events

32 Classifieds

8 Are Small Businesses Protecting Themselves from a Data Breach

14 The One and Only Thing

18 Focus on What You Can Control

28 Four Things About Fall Allergies

2 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

ResourcePage

TECHNICAL ADVISORY COUNCIL

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

Randy Brooks IRC NFPA 211 or Customer Communications

317-203-0088 x 5

Bart Ogden Stainless Steel Lining Video Scanning and Narrative

Report Writing 317-203-0088 x 6

Fred Joy Installation and Venting of Pellet Stoves

317-203-0088 x 7

Jay Walker Dryer Vents

317-203-0088 x 8

Rett RasmussenVented and Vent Free Gas Logs and Controls

317-203-0088 x 9

Rich Martinez Dryer Vents or Masonry

317-203-0088 x

Rich Rua General Sweeping or Relining

317-203-0088 x 0

Committee Chairs and Task Forces for 2012-2013Bylaws

Diane Pilger(631) 863-2460

chimneygalaolcom

Convention Site SelectionDiane Pilger

(631) 863-2460chimneygalaolcom

Discussion ListBo Tasso

(815) 645-8103bobotassocom

EthicsMark Stoner

(615) 459-2546ashbustersaolcom

FinanceMark Maynard(920) 830-1920

markchimneyguycom

GovernanceRandy Brooks(805) 646-8961

hearthhunteraolcom

Government AffairsPhil Mitchell

(603) 659-7776sootskiaolcom

International RelationsSteve Pietila

(503) 644-0393steveamerican-chimneycom

Long Range PlanningDiane Pilger

(631) 863-2460chimneygalaolcom

MembershipBob Ferrari

(530) 221-3331bobflueseasoncom

NFPA 211 RepresentativeRandy Brooks(805) 646-8961

hearthhunteraolcom

NFPA 31 RepresentativeJohn Pilger

(631) 863-2460chimneymanaolcom

NFPA 54 RepresentativeJim Brewer

(757) 523-2400jbrewermagic-sweepcom

Technical Advisory CouncilDennis Dobbs(256) 845-9814

infofireplaceservicescentercom

Public Awareness Task ForceRob Lindemann(847) 918-7994

Roblindemannchimneycom

ADVERTISING RATES for Sweeping The Journal of Chimney amp Venting Technology may be obtained by contacting Malisa Minetree at (317) 815-4688 or SweepingAdsindyrrcom

Design by Laura Houser Design bull laurahousercom bull (317) 213-7497

President Region 3Jay Walker

(850) 562-4692 bull presidentncsgorg

Vice PresidentAt-Large

Diane Pilger(631) 863-2460 bull chimneygalaolcom

Treasurer Region 5Mark Maynard

(920) 830-1920 bull markchimneyguycom

SecretaryJeremy Biswell

(913) 236-7141 bull fluesbrothersyahoocom

Region 1Phil Mitchell

(603) 659-7776 bull sootskiaolcom

Region 2Bob Fleer

(410) 544-7600 bull bobfleeraolcom

Region 4Ken Hoelscher

(937) 833-0505 bull kenabbeyroadchimneysweepscom

Region 6Bob Ferrari

(530) 941-5818 bull bobflueseasoncom

At-Large DirectorsDennis Dobbs

(256) 845-9814 bull infofireplaceservicecentercom

Fred Joy(785) 986-6432 bull joyfredmlivecom

Supplier RepresentativeEdmund Poplawski

(570) 504-7107 bull epoplawskiolympiachimneycom

NCSG BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2011-2012

Melissa Heeke CAE Director of Communications amp

Marketing mheekencsgorg

Ashley Eldridge COI CPP Director of Education

ashleyncsgorg

Candice Bradbury Director of Finance

cbradburyncsgorg

Megan McMahon Office Manager

mmcmahonncsgorg

Debbie Cornelius Membership Development

Coordinator dcorneliusncsgorg

Donna Lee Kasmer Program Coordinator dkasmerncsgorg

STAFF

2155 Commercial Drive Plainfield IN 46168

(317) 837-1500 Fax (317) 837-5365

Mark McSweeney CAE Executive Director

mmcsweeneyncsgorg

NCSG encourages industry partners to submit press release and articles to Melissa Heeke Sweeping Editor at mheekencsgorg 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 NCSGrsquos opinion regarding the release

NCSG further reserves the right to reject at any time any advertising determined not to be in keeping with the publicationsrsquo 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

copy 2012 National Chimney Sweep Guild 2155 Commercial Drive Plainfield IN 46168 (317) 837-1500

NATIONAL CHIMNEY SWEEP GUILD

Be advised that advice given by NCSGrsquos 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 andor chimney Additionally local laws and ordinances may govern andor 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

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

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 3

JAY WALKERNCSG PRESIDENT Forward

Moving

ello fellow sweeps I hope this monthrsquos issue finds you well rested and ready for the crazy season ahead of us

This month of September has always been one of anticipation You have stocked your inventory put your systems in place ongoing training is taking place your trucks are loaded foryear and your equipment is in top condition You anticipate a full phone appointment book and an increased bottom line

I looked recently back into Dave Ramseyrsquos Entre Leadership Article and found the following I would like to share My hopes are that if you are a one-man or a multi-truck operation you can pull some good tidbits from this article and hopefully implement them into your business

Fight the Summer Slowdown How to Keep Your Momentum Goingfrom daveramseycom

Every EntreLeader has it That fire in their belly to succeed a passion for their company But despite all that love itrsquos easy to fall into the trap of losing that spark especially during the lazy hazy days of summer when everything just seems to move a little slower

So how do you keep that momentum going in order for your business to continue moving forward As Dave teaches in EntreLeadership Master Series there are a number of ways to stay productive during the dog days of summer Use these tips to get back on track so life once again can be a day at the beach 1 Step Away From the Remote

Have you ever been at home with a long

list of errands when you hear the siren song of your TV Your remote is calling and before you know it yoursquore sucked in You have to see that last episode of Pawn Stars The same holds true at work You walk through the door and are faced with hundreds of distractions Soon the day is gone and you feel like yoursquove accomplished nothing The Solution Each morning make a prioritized list of tasks for the day and stick to it If therersquos a fire to put out throw some water on it But then get back to the chores at hand quickly As Dave says ldquoYou will either tell your day what to do or you will wonder where it wentrdquo To avoid distractions trybull Scheduling email viewing times

Hm

erry

des

ign

A Smoking Hot DealBuy Six Get One Free

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4 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

HomeSaverreg Smooth-N-Litetrade Fills the Smoothwall Niche

5-8 Diameters Light 010 stainless strip Available in 304 and 316 stainless steel alloys Interlocked seams are easy to flex Smooth inner wall Crush resistant No memory Ideal for smoothwall application

Now smoothwall liner doesnt have to be stiff and clumsy Because HomeSavers new Smooth-N-Lite gives you smooth without the headache Nestling right into HomeSavers famous family of UltraPro Pro RoundFlex RectangleFlex OvalFlex and Dial-A-Flex liners our new 010 Smooth-N-Lite gives you the superior weight flexibility and strength you need for smooth liner applications

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Speed Service Selection 8002473305 bull wwwcopperfieldcom

SmoothNLite Adindd 3 71212 335 PM

bull Setting time limits on meetingsbull Avoiding other distractions

If you feel tempted to look at your email at non-scheduled hours hand your assistant your phone or turn off your Internet connection Avoid distractions by putting away your electronic devices hanging a do-not-disturb sign or going off-site Do whatever it takes to keep on track 2 Get Fired Up Starting a company creating a new product or signing that contract with your dream client is unbelievably exciting Itrsquos what makes business a lot of fun But along with those incredible moments comes a lot of everyday hard work and worry that can cause you to lose your passion

The Solution The best way to get re-energized is actually to use no energy at all Taking a vacation revitalizes your brain allowing creativity and passion to flow Herersquos even a better reason Taking time off can save your life Research shows that men who miss annual breaks are 32 more likely to die of heart attacks while women who take a vacation less than once every six years are eight times more likely to develop coronary heart disease

3 Learn Something New There is a scientific evidence that when you are feeling uninspired picking up a book can help According to a study by researchers at Harvard and MIT learning something new and having success fires up the pleasure section of your brain

leading you to even more education and prosperity

The Solution Dave is a huge proponent of reading nonfiction leadershipbusiness books as a way to grow his business Hersquos not alone The average millionaire reads a book a month Leaders are readers But thatrsquos just one way to gain more knowledge Find a mentor network with fellow business leaders or attend seminars or other business events

Take advantage of your summer downtime to refocus recharge and learn Itrsquos an awesome way to keep the momentum flowing and get your team fired up for the fall

To learn more about business team building and leadership download Dave Ramseyrsquos EntreLeadership podcasts (httpwwwdaveramseycom) which include lessons from Dave plus interviews with key business leaders from across the nation

NCSG is about helping sweeps grow their businesses and providing progressive services By the time you read this ndash your NCSG board would have reviewed the next budget for the upcoming fiscal year (2012-13)and have revisited our goals and plans moving forward

Please start planning now for the 2013 NCSG Innovation convention and trade show at Chateau on the Lake in Branson MO April 4-7

As always Sweeps Luck to you and your family and God Bless

Jay WalkerNCSG President

Keep the Cold Air Out and the Cool Look InM E C H A N I C A L V E N T I N G O F F I R E P L A C E S

Eliminate Glass Doors on Gas Fireplaces

The ENERVEX EcoDamper System is the first completely automated draft and damper system designed for use with gas fireplaces

bull Allows for open fireplace designsbull Offers a larger more natural lookbull Creates a new profit center for you

The Guaranteed Solution to Smoking FireplacesThe Guaranteed Solution to Smoking Fireplaces

wwwchimneyfanscominfochimneyfanscomP 8002552923

HomeSaverreg Smooth-N-Litetrade Fills the Smoothwall Niche

5-8 Diameters Light 010 stainless strip Available in 304 and 316 stainless steel alloys Interlocked seams are easy to flex Smooth inner wall Crush resistant No memory Ideal for smoothwall application

Now smoothwall liner doesnt have to be stiff and clumsy Because HomeSavers new Smooth-N-Lite gives you smooth without the headache Nestling right into HomeSavers famous family of UltraPro Pro RoundFlex RectangleFlex OvalFlex and Dial-A-Flex liners our new 010 Smooth-N-Lite gives you the superior weight flexibility and strength you need for smooth liner applications

6 times 25 (304-Alloy)

WIth ShIppINg$36786

~Free Freight bull On orders of $1800 or morebull 65rsquo of liner liner and components ship free

Speed Service Selection 8002473305 bull wwwcopperfieldcom

SmoothNLite Adindd 3 71212 335 PM

6 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

MELISSA HEEKE CAENCSG DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS

EditorrsquosLetter

elcome to September Hopefully the season has been

kind to you so far this year and yoursquore in good shape

for a safe and sane remainder of the home heating season

This month we look at how small businesses can protect

themselves from a data breach how to avoid hitting the proverbial

ldquowallrdquo in your business and focusing on what you can control

Strong and steady wins this game This monthrsquos issue should help

you play your next move with confidence

Until next time I wish you all the best for a safe and successful

season

W

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NCSG can help you promote your event

Please email officencsgorg with info on your upcoming meetings and events Wersquoll list your event on the NCSG website in Sweeping magazine and in our weekly dates and events post to the NCSG Discussion List Yoursquore also encouraged to submit meeting and workshop photos and recaps for publication in Sweeping They say a picture is worth a thousand words and we agree Let everyone know what a great time you had and welcome them to your next event Please send photos and articles directly to Melissa Heeke at mheekencsgorg

8 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

Are Small Businesses Protecting Themselves From a Data Breach

Adata breach can be a challenge for any business but this is especially true for smaller businesses Not only can it be more difficult for a smaller business to recover from a data breach but criminals may also be more likely to target smaller firms

When a data breach occurs at a large firm or government agency it winds up all over the news If one occurred at a small business down the street those unaffected would probably never hear about it But a recent report released by Verizon found that nearly three-quarters of data breaches analyzed last year involved businesses with 100 employees or fewer

ldquoMost small-business owners simply do not believe they are at riskrdquo says Lynn LaGram assistant vice president of small commercial underwriting for The Hartford ldquoThe reality is that small businesses are often more vulnerable - making them easier targetsrdquo

LaGram says part of the reason may be that small-business owners often donrsquot have the time or resources that larger companies may have to assist them in protecting data However protecting data may not be as difficult as one would think

Hose Master Invented the Wheel

Smooth-N-Lite bullYourchoice-304or316stainlesssteelcoils5rdquo-8rdquodiameters bullInterlockedseamsareeasytoflex bullSmoothinnerwall bullCrushresistant bullIdealforsmoothwallapplications bullAvailableinroundovalorrectangle

HeavyFlex bullYourchoice-304or316stainlesssteelcoils bullInterlockedseamsareeasytoflex bullSmoothinnerwall bullHighlycrushresistant bullIdealforfireplacerelines bullAvailableinroundovalrectangleorDial-A-Flex

UltraPro bull Patentedrolllockseamdesignforeasyflexibility bullLargebendrange bullSteepcorrugationslope-resultinginhighcrushresistance bullIdeallysuitedforforbothstraightandmultiplebendrelines bullUncoilseasilyrightoutofthebox

NEW

CopperfieldkeepsturningthewheelwithHomeSaverrsquosnew Smooth-N-LitelinerSmooth-N-Litetakesawaythestiffnessand clumsinessnormallyassociatedwithsmoothwallliner-itgivesyouldquosmoothrdquowithnoheadacheNestlingintoHomeSaverrsquosfamousfamilyofUltraProProRoundFlexRectangleFlexOvalFlexandDial-A-FlexCopperfieldrsquosnewSmooth-N-Litegivesyouthesuperiorweight flexibilityandstrengthyouneedforsmoothlinerapplications

Copperfield Chimney Supply Technical800-246-1926Support800-247-3305

Manufactured by Hose Master Exclusively For

When It Comes to Chimney Liners

Almost50yearsagoSamFotiHoseMasterrsquosCEOredesignedinterlockedmachine technologyHisinnovationsarestillthecoreofmanufacturingflexiblechimneylinertoday

HeavyFlex bull 25yearsagoSaminventedRectangleFlex OvalFlexandDial-A-Flextechnology

UltraPro bull 15yearsagoSaminventedUltraPro-the onlypatentedroll-lockdesignlight-weight linerwithextremeflexibilityandcrush resistance

Smooth-N-Lite bullTodaySamhasdesignedSmooth-N-Lite- thelightinterlockedlinerforsmoothwall applications

and now he invented Smooth-N-Lite

Now We Have It All

All Flexible Liner Is Not Created EqualLet Us Prove It

1964

1983

2000

2012

Pro amp UltraProInvented UltraPro - the only patented roll-lock design light-weight liner with extreme flexibility and crush resistance

Redesigned Interlocked Machine TechnologyInnovations are still the core of manufacturing flexible chimney liner today

HeavyFlexInvented RectangleFlex OvalFlex and Dial-A-Flex technology

Smooth-N-LiteToday Sam has designed Smooth-N-Lite the light interlocked liner for smoothwall applications Manufactured on the same machine technology he invented in 1964

Meet Sam Foti Hose Master CEO engineer and innovator

In 1964 Sam got involved with interlocked products Identifying the problems associated with manufacturing the hose Sam redesigned the tooling and machinery to not only produce a consistent interlocked hose but to also speed-up the production

Today the results of Sams ingenuity is the technology used throughout the industry in the production of interlocked products His designs not only changed the way that stripwound hose is made but the way that it is used and perceived in the industry

SmoothNLite Adindd 2 71212 335 PM

Steps to help prevent a breachFor a business or organization that must handle sensitive customer patient or employee information itrsquos important to take measures that decrease the likelihood of a breach ldquoA data breach can involve electronic or paper recordsrdquo says LaGram She shares eight data protection ldquobest practicesrdquo for a business

bull Lock and secure sensitive customer patient member or employee information

bull Restrict employee access to sensitive informationbull Shred or otherwise securely dispose of all sensitive customer patient

member or employee informationbull Use password protection and data encryption for sensitive filesbull Have a privacy policybull Update systems and software on a regular basisbull Use firewalls to control access to sites that could compromise your

security and lock out hackersbull Ensure that remote access to your network is secure

If a breach occursWhile itrsquos important to take proactive steps to help prevent a data breach from occurring therersquos no way to eliminate the risk entirely so it is also

important to have data breach insurance

According to LaGram a business owner should consider insurance that provides

1 Coverage for expenses associated with responding to and recovering from a breach ldquoBusiness owners may not realize that they must comply with various notification requirements which can be costlyrdquo says LaGram Additional advertising expenses to help a business restore its reputation after a breach would also fall into this category

2 Legal expense and liability coverage A customer or employee whose personal data is compromised may sue the business owner for damages This insurance provides coverage for defense costs civil awards settlements or judgments that a business owner may be obligated to pay

3 Access to data security experts to help the business owner navigate the various notification requirements as well as determine the cause of the breach and take steps to prevent it from happening againBoth consumers and business owners can learn more about what to do if they are involved in a data breach at wwwftcgovidtheft

ldquoA data breach can happen to anyone so itrsquos important for business owners to be preparedrdquo says LaGram For more information about protecting your business from a data breach visit wwwhartforddatabreachcom

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 9

Hose Master Invented the Wheel

Smooth-N-Lite bullYourchoice-304or316stainlesssteelcoils5rdquo-8rdquodiameters bullInterlockedseamsareeasytoflex bullSmoothinnerwall bullCrushresistant bullIdealforsmoothwallapplications bullAvailableinroundovalorrectangle

HeavyFlex bullYourchoice-304or316stainlesssteelcoils bullInterlockedseamsareeasytoflex bullSmoothinnerwall bullHighlycrushresistant bullIdealforfireplacerelines bullAvailableinroundovalrectangleorDial-A-Flex

UltraPro bull Patentedrolllockseamdesignforeasyflexibility bullLargebendrange bullSteepcorrugationslope-resultinginhighcrushresistance bullIdeallysuitedforforbothstraightandmultiplebendrelines bullUncoilseasilyrightoutofthebox

NEW

CopperfieldkeepsturningthewheelwithHomeSaverrsquosnew Smooth-N-LitelinerSmooth-N-Litetakesawaythestiffnessand clumsinessnormallyassociatedwithsmoothwallliner-itgivesyouldquosmoothrdquowithnoheadacheNestlingintoHomeSaverrsquosfamousfamilyofUltraProProRoundFlexRectangleFlexOvalFlexandDial-A-FlexCopperfieldrsquosnewSmooth-N-Litegivesyouthesuperiorweight flexibilityandstrengthyouneedforsmoothlinerapplications

Copperfield Chimney Supply Technical800-246-1926Support800-247-3305

Manufactured by Hose Master Exclusively For

When It Comes to Chimney Liners

Almost50yearsagoSamFotiHoseMasterrsquosCEOredesignedinterlockedmachine technologyHisinnovationsarestillthecoreofmanufacturingflexiblechimneylinertoday

HeavyFlex bull 25yearsagoSaminventedRectangleFlex OvalFlexandDial-A-Flextechnology

UltraPro bull 15yearsagoSaminventedUltraPro-the onlypatentedroll-lockdesignlight-weight linerwithextremeflexibilityandcrush resistance

Smooth-N-Lite bullTodaySamhasdesignedSmooth-N-Lite- thelightinterlockedlinerforsmoothwall applications

and now he invented Smooth-N-Lite

Now We Have It All

All Flexible Liner Is Not Created EqualLet Us Prove It

1964

1983

2000

2012

Pro amp UltraProInvented UltraPro - the only patented roll-lock design light-weight liner with extreme flexibility and crush resistance

Redesigned Interlocked Machine TechnologyInnovations are still the core of manufacturing flexible chimney liner today

HeavyFlexInvented RectangleFlex OvalFlex and Dial-A-Flex technology

Smooth-N-LiteToday Sam has designed Smooth-N-Lite the light interlocked liner for smoothwall applications Manufactured on the same machine technology he invented in 1964

Meet Sam Foti Hose Master CEO engineer and innovator

In 1964 Sam got involved with interlocked products Identifying the problems associated with manufacturing the hose Sam redesigned the tooling and machinery to not only produce a consistent interlocked hose but to also speed-up the production

Today the results of Sams ingenuity is the technology used throughout the industry in the production of interlocked products His designs not only changed the way that stripwound hose is made but the way that it is used and perceived in the industry

SmoothNLite Adindd 2 71212 335 PM

10 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

Jim Cochran of Magic Mountain Chimney Sweeps Passes

Jim Cochran of Magic Mountain Chimney Sweeps in Thurmont MD passed away on Thursday April 5 2012 He and wife Debra Cochran have owned and operated this company since 1979 Debra continues to operate Magic Mountain Chimney Sweeps

Jim is survived by his wife Debra Howell Cochran married October 6 1973 in Tampa FL He is also survived by one son Wesly M H Cochran of Frederick MD and one daughter Wendy V Cochran Taylor of Thurmont Debby writes ldquoJim was a legend and many people and sweeps knew and loved him He was one of a kind He had chimney sweeps in top hats and tails for his pallbearers and had a real chimney sweeps funeral It was a great tribute to himrdquoContributions may be made to Cancer Support Community 1050 17th Street NW Suite 500 Washington DC 20036

Sweeping MagazineSept 2012 issue Full page 4 color

Dura-Ventkaren josephson contact

kjosephsonduraventcom800-835-4429

Engineered Excellencereg MampG DuraVent is a member of the MampG Group copy Copyright 2012 Made in the USA 800-835-4429 wwwduraventcom

Stunning design and engineered excellence in manufacture DirectVent Pro combines style with performance Featuring precision tolerances for a tight seal low-pro le locks with no hems or beads for an elegant pro le No gaskets or sealants required (unless by appliance manufacturer) Laser-welded outer seams on all black pipe for a slim nish Several termiantion choices to cap o the system perfectly See why it is speci ed exclusively by nearly every major stove and replace manufacturer in the US and Canada DirectVent Pro is backed by a limited lifetime warranty Find out more at www duraventcom

Dir

ectV

ent

Pro

FOR

DIR

ECT

VEN

T G

AS O

R PR

OPA

NE

STO

VES

HEA

TERS

amp F

IREP

LACE

S

Dire

ctVe

nt Pr

o reg

regIndustryWatch

Industry Watch PolicyNCSG encourages industry partners to submit press releases to Melissa Heeke Sweeping The Journal of Chimney amp Venting Technology editor via email at mheekencsgorg 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 NCSGrsquos opinion regarding the release

Sweeping MagazineSept 2012 issue Full page 4 color

Dura-Ventkaren josephson contact

kjosephsonduraventcom800-835-4429

Engineered Excellencereg MampG DuraVent is a member of the MampG Group copy Copyright 2012 Made in the USA 800-835-4429 wwwduraventcom

Stunning design and engineered excellence in manufacture DirectVent Pro combines style with performance Featuring precision tolerances for a tight seal low-pro le locks with no hems or beads for an elegant pro le No gaskets or sealants required (unless by appliance manufacturer) Laser-welded outer seams on all black pipe for a slim nish Several termiantion choices to cap o the system perfectly See why it is speci ed exclusively by nearly every major stove and replace manufacturer in the US and Canada DirectVent Pro is backed by a limited lifetime warranty Find out more at www duraventcom

Dir

ectV

ent

Pro

FOR

DIR

ECT

VEN

T G

AS O

R PR

OPA

NE

STO

VES

HEA

TERS

amp F

IREP

LACE

S

Dire

ctVe

nt Pr

o reg

reg

12 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

irst of all if you are reading this CONGRATUATIONS As I shared at a recent MIX group meeting I did a presentation for many of you have survived the worst economic downturn in the history of our country one that in many ways rivaled the Great Depression So congratulations

are definitely in order Many American businesses did not survive the economic downturn and others are still on the borderline of survival andor failure I am sure each of you knows of successful business owners who have had their lives (and their lifestyles) undergo a tremendous transition during the past few years Others among you may have only entered our industry since this economic devil revealed itself

What is even more remarkable is that some who read this have done much more Not only have they survived they actually prospered Their businesses grew their profits increased and their business models strengthened Each business that did this faced the same economic conditions as others Yet due to their grit and determination they became true winners Yes there may have been geographic considerations but few areas have escaped the wrath of the economic turmoil our country has faced

What the economic conditions have done for many is force them to become better managers better watchers of their numbers better students of lean methods of operation and better in so many other beneficial ways And it is truly enlightening to see the benefits that have been awarded to those who have continued to make their businesses grow in truly tough economic times and without assistance from banks or other lenders The true success stories of business owners who have completely revamped their operations and have shown levels of excellence that many dream of

But even as a survivor many will encounter roadblocks that will cause stress will slow progress and will serve to raise caution to the wind At times it will come at you with a warning at other times it will simply pop up in front of you with no warning Perhaps it hits you when you awaken in a cold sweat or perhaps it hits you at times when things are just not going as you feel they should The roadblock I refer to is something I classify as the WALL

I feel that a successful business manager can be compared to a star athlete The star athlete will practice he will work out

he will have a strict regimen that will include his diet his sleep habits and will govern his life As he undergoes his training any and all things that can hamper his performance are examined and examined again No matter if he is a runner a swimmer a baseball or football player or a star in other sports He will dedicate himself to excellence just as you do each and every day in your business We saw this in August as we watched the Olympics and see those who receive the gold and hear the stories of the work they did to prepare for the competition

But even with the preparation even with the regiment he has posed to himself at times he will find that his energy is zapped His will to go on will be challenged his fortitude questioned HE HITS THE WALL

As a business manager this is no different than what you encounter at times Not only does the wall come up and block your progress as one person even explained to me about the dreaded wall at times it will even collapse on top of you and you may have to dig out of the rubble During a recent conversation a business owner related ldquoI am digging out of the rubble where that wall fell on top of merdquo when asked how he was doing Has this ever happened to you causing you to stop and wonder just why am I doing this and will I meet my objective Even worse the thought comes to the forefront is it really worth what I am putting into it

In my business endeavors I deal with a lot of folks in different stages of their business models Some have recently launched a business some are transforming a business some preparing exit plans and others are building infrastructure Others still have found success and are working to bring in new management to begin to pursue their true dreams of more free time as the free time was a goal of the original business start-up plan In preparation for this article I asked several who always seem to be going up up and up just what was their secret Just how did the walls not stop them in the progress of the business I think the overall answer I heard was best summed up by one phenomenal business owner His answer was ldquoJerry I keep myself up all the time because I always look at the potential and the markets we have not tapped into yet I just donrsquot see how anyone can get beat due to the problems when there is so much potential and so much untapped businessrdquo

BY JERRY ISENHOUR OF CHIMNEY amp VENTING

CONSULTANTS IN CONCORD NCCoachrsquos Corner

The

The Wall

F

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 13

Quite frankly this hit it on the head Each and every day as a business owner you face adversity perhaps from a customer perhaps from the world around us perhaps simply from an employee who did not meet our expectations But you know this is life and life has a way of throwing curve ball after curve ball The real winner will anticipate what the curve balls will be and will develop the methods to hit the ball no matter how it is thrown at us

The true winner will always view each and every adversary as a learning experience taking what is learned from each error each loss and each hiccup and use these as the basis for new procedures new methods and new ways to grow and prosper The true winner knows that his 1 accountability partner is that guy with him all the time the guy he knows as the man in the mirror

Some are even developing methods within the business to pull these errors and mistakes out of the hidden abyss of the unknown to find the ones we may not even be paying attention to Recently observing several who have instituted a new method that can isolate and eliminate issues is producing astounding results As a respected colleague shared with me ldquoJerry it feels like we are walking on glass but we are finding the ways to end the dreaded Groundhog Day happening over and overrdquo Successful business managers use this as the basis of how they will change the business model adapt their procedures

and continue to grow and prosper All the while raising the PERCENTAGE of profit from the gross figure They do not look at the number they view the number as the percentage Only through viewing the percentage can we truly have a yardstick by which to measure our progress as we grow our management skills

With this my wish is for you to have an excellent fall By the time you read this we will have hit that great part of the year called FALL and what so many call THE BUSY SEASON As you enter this make plans now as to how you plan to promote your business come January 1 2013 This is what the guys who are moving forward are doing The fall is already through the planning stages and they are ready for action ARE YOU If not ask that man in the mirror if he is truly operating at the level he needs to be He has the answer I am sure

About the Author Jerry Isenhour is an industry consultant coach and educator 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 and your business in your quest for success and your rise to the next level take a look at his web site wwwchimneyandventingconsultantscom He can be contacted at jerrychimneyandventingconsultantscom or by phone at (704) 425-0217 You can also obtain great business tips from his Facebook page Chimney amp Venting Consultants

ldquoMy company uses most products available to chimney contractors but Firesafersquos products and systems are hands-down the very best and the most profitable Great technical support and their constant improvements make the products even better which makes my company stand out over my competitionrdquo Kevin Knight Chadds Ford Chimney Sweeps PA

TO order call 800 TO order call 800--545545--66076607

infofiresafeinccom infofiresafeinccom wwwfiresafeinccomwwwfiresafeinccom

FireFireGuardGuard Ceramic mortar jointCeramic mortar jointCeramic mortar joint amp resurfacing systemamp resurfacing systemamp resurfacing system

PatentedPatented The most advanced chimney liner in the world

reg

CrownGuardCrownGuard Severe weather crown repair amp protectionSevere weather crown repair amp protection

Centering system for metal chimney liners

14 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

erhaps the most important thing to recognize about business is that customer service is not an afterthought to everything else It IS everything else Or as Leon Gorman the CEO of LL Bean puts it ldquoCustomer Service is just a day in day out

ongoing never ending unremitting persevering compassionate type of activityrdquo

Oh thatrsquos a nice thought you say Irsquoll be certain to put a little more attention on that the next free moment I get

If this is your response yoursquove missed the point and perhaps the boat too

So what does it mean when we say service What does good customer service look like Herersquos a good hint from Peter Drucker ldquoQuality in service or product is not what you put into it Itrsquos what the customer gets out of itrdquo

In other words in the final analysis itrsquos not simply how

well you do your job that matters What matters is how your customer feels about you or your company once the job is completed What matters is what they got out of it And in that regard in any arena of competitors the battle will be won by the company who leaves the customer feeling the best the happiest the most satisfied

Jerry Gregoire CIO of Dell believes ldquoThe customer experience is the next competitive battlegroundrdquo

Now you might be thinking your customers must be pretty satisfied since most of the time they donrsquot seem to have any complaints

If you are feeling this way it would behoove you to remember most customers donrsquot complain even if there are dramatic issues with the work Why People donrsquot like confrontations And many people feel their complaints will be neither appreciated nor dealt with so why bother

The One and Only Thing

P

BY GREG POLAKOW OF COPPERFIELD

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 15

The course of action they choose rather than wasting their time and emotions complaining to someone they feel will be either hostile or unresponsive is to select one of your competitors next time they need work done As the saying goes they vote with their wallet

You might rightly be asking yourself well if my customers donrsquot tell me when theyrsquore not satisfied what can I possibly do about it

The answer is there are many things that can be done about it But the first starts with the understanding that customer service is not something that kicks in only when therersquos a problem Customer service has to be part of every contact you have with your customers It is how you treat your customers before you even show up at their door It is how you conduct yourself during your visit And it is most certainly the way in which you handle follow up

Remember it is how your customers feel after all is said and done that matters

We are always forming opinions about others It is a natural part of being human And we begin formulating those opinions with our very first encounter The initial opinions may later give way to either better or worse opinions but initial opinions are extremely influential So ask yourself what are you doing to

insure that the very first impression a customer has of you and your business is excellent What are you doing to make this very first customer service experience positive What are you doing to provide your customer at the very outset with a feel good experience

Whatever your answer is remember it is often this first impression that will determine whether or not a customer will call and complain if there is a problem later rather than simply opt to call one of your competitors next time Why Because it is in this first encounter with you that a customer begins to decide if they trust you If you trust that a company has your best interests at heart you are much more likely to call if there is a problem

So how do you establish a feeling of well being and trust with your customer from the get go Again it has to do with how you make them feel the moment you pick up your phone to answer their first call If your tone is cold indifferent or even matter of fact they are not likely to feel you care And if you donrsquot seem to care about them can you really be trusted to have their best interests at heart EVERTHING you do from the outset absolutely everything will create an opinion of you in the customerrsquos mind That means your tone of voice the patience with which you respond to their questions And the very language and even diction you use to talk to them about whatever chimney related issue they are having

USAT 18006545600F 18888893539

CANADAT 4166790045F 4166790051

salesz-flexcom wwwz-flexcom

Triple Lockreg Smoothcoretrade

All Fuels Chimney Linerbull Eliminates the turbulence thatrsquos inherent with

corrugated liners improving draft

bull Resists corrosive attack by not impeding the flow of condensate down the liner and less opportunity for soot to accumulate

Z-Max Rain Cap ampLock lsquoN Go Base Tee

bull Z-Max Rain Cap with protective ember screen shields chimney from snow driving rain and animal intrusions Quick removal for easy cleaning

bull Z-Max Lock lsquoN Go Base Tee installs in half the time of standard tees with no special installation tools required

bull All products cULus tested and listed by UL to UL1777 and ULC S635

S P E C I A L I Z E D V E N T S H O S E S D U C T S amp C O N N E C T O R S F O R A N Y U S E A N Y I N D U S T R Y

C H I M N E Y amp V E N T I N G S O L U T I O N S

TRIPLE LOCKreg

SMOOTHCOREtrade amp Z-MAX

Smoothcoretrade

All Fuels Chimney LinerEliminates the turbulence thatrsquos inherent with

bull Z-Max Rain Cap with protective ember screen

bull Z-Max Lock lsquoN Go Base Tee installs in half the Pellet GasWood Oil

Suitable For All Fuels

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

Sweeping News (Snews)_Smoothcore_Z-Max_no booth_HR_March 29 2012pdf 1 12-03-30 212 PM

16 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

Use language that is too technical and you lose them and put them on the defensive ldquoAm I supposed to understand what this guy is talking aboutrdquo they wonder Speak too fast or indistinctly and you get the same result

Seem like picky details They may be to you but they will not be to your customer

Remember when a customer comes to you he is laying his problem at your feet If he could remedy it himself he would But he canrsquot He needs you to help him So he is feeling a bit vulnerable a bit out of his league How you respond to him in this circumstance can either make him feel immediately comfortable and in safe hands or something less desirable You decide which effect you want to create

I think you can see that if this first encounter leaves your customer glowing instead of glowering you win You win his confidence his trust and even here at the very outset his gratitude If yoursquove done this well ie addressed his initial questions and concerns in a compassionate understanding thorough manner well you are off to an excellent start

But the battle has not been won because yoursquove also set some expectations and your customerrsquos expectation that this kind of treatment will continue must be met If your crew shows up to do the work and forgets they are in the customer service business first and foremost all you accomplished at the beginning can be ruined

Good customer service must build on itself from day one in order to maintain that feeling in your customer of confidence happiness and trust It cannot be hit and miss Being inconsistent might be worse than being just plain ornery from the beginning

Does good customer service trump sloppy careless or substandard work Of course not Because the quality of your product is a huge part of the customer service package Itrsquos all customer service

The bottom line is your customer will appreciate value and respect you to exactly the same degree you appreciate value and respect him No more and no less And the great thing is when you treat your customers as friends when you gladly and openly address their concerns and fix their problems your work and your life become easier and more fulfilling

Try it out Start thinking of customer service as being the be all and end all of your business and see how well things go Yoursquoll be amazed

Remember as Tony Allesandra has observed ldquoBeing on par in terms of price and quality only gets you into the game Service wins the gamerdquo

Energy-Saving Dampers

AN INDUSTRY STANDARD FOR OVER 25 YEARS

Call your favorite Lock-Topdistributor today

Reduce Your Customerrsquos Utility Bills

bullOver140000SoldintheLast10YearsbullSuperiorDesignampQualityndashSiliconeRubberSealsTight

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bullOver25YearsintheBusiness

AnOpen Chimneyis like anOpen Window-All Year Round

11 May lock top indd 1 72612 148 PM

w w wolympiachimneycom bull Phone 1-800-569-1425

Will KozlanskyOwner amp Co-Founder

The NEW Smoothwall Chimney Liner thathas the Perfect Combination of

Weight Ruggedness amp Flexibility

n No memory amp very flexible n Smooth Interior n One liner multiple applicationsn Available ovalized amp coiled

w w wolympiachimneycom bull Phone 1-800-569-1425

Will KozlanskyOwner amp Co-Founder

The NEW Smoothwall Chimney Liner thathas the Perfect Combination of

Weight Ruggedness amp Flexibility

n No memory amp very flexible n Smooth Interior n One liner multiple applicationsn Available ovalized amp coiled

18 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

ou all have accomplishments You support your family your employees and their families your vendors and you provide comfort and safety for your customers

Some of you can enjoy your success and can focus on preserving what you have Many of you want to and have the capacity to grow and be more successful Some of you may be struggling with the seasonality and economics of your business Regardless of your level of success almost all of you have varying degrees of uncertainty

Many articles books conferences and videos have been made about the importance of having a strategic plan to help guide you to fulfill your potential

This magazine has offered numerous articles written to help you fulfill your potential The NCSG offers courses to help you gain skills to be more successful

Yet there still appears to be too many business owners

struggling to achieve their goals ndash or have yet to explicitly define their goals which could help them to get their time back and allow them (you) to enjoy their (your) lives

Maybe yoursquore stuck on tactics without a strategy Maybe yoursquore stuck on ldquonoiserdquo ndash noise that the media airs about events you cannot control and distracts you from your business Perhaps that ldquonoiserdquo has contributed to a pessimistic perspective

Perhaps all of the above is ldquonoiserdquo that covers up past or current mistakes or regret either real or perceived

Letrsquos work on facing your concerns and your past Fear fades when facts are faced Regrets can become wisdom when success lies ahead

Consider forming a team of trusted professionals emulate successful associates select friends and close family members who can create a ldquojudgment freerdquo zone to allow you to unwind the past that may be keeping you from achieving your potential

Focus on What You Can Control

Y

BY BRIAN NOE OF MW FINANCIAL GROUP

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 19

Your team can help you realize your dreams by developing a sound strategy employing objective facts without bias Your team has your back

So letrsquos throw out the rear view mirror set aside our mistakes and regrets and look forward to what you can control that can lead to success

You and your team can control your personal finances You and your team can control your business Here are some steps you can take to help seize the day sleep easy and get your time back

1 Budget ndash do you have a personal and business budget Do you adhere to your budget Does your budget include protection and savings for retirement and your legacy Do you know how much you need to save for retirement and your legacy Are you prepared in the event that you may ldquolive too longrdquo

2 Help Protect Yourself your Family and your Business ndash you can take steps to control your risk

Do you let your employees drive your personal vehicles Do your employees drive your work vehicles for personal use Are you covered for that activity These are a just a few examples of ldquohiddenrdquo liabilities that you may be exposed to but unaware of

Do you have adequate umbrella insurance protection in addition to home and auto insurance that covers you and your employees

Do you take steps to relieve stress Do you have disability insurance to provide you with income or your business with funds to pay expenses in the event of illness or injury that prevents you from working

For your business you can implement a safety program This sets up a plan of employee procedures for handling vendors customers and inter-employee communication skills to improve workmanship and other employee development For events you cannot control do you have liability EampO and similar insurance

Does your business take advantage of legal structure asset titling (multiple businesses Spouse ownership) retirement plans life insurance annuities trusts and homestead

Its Not Too Late For Fall Dating

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20 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

exemptions (if available) to help protect assets from creditors and frivolous lawsuits

3 Employ Efficient Debt ndash we may be at the bottom of the interest rate and inflation cycle If interest rates rise andor inflation heats up the general rule of thumb for most of us is debtors win creditors lose If you have the cash you have control If the banker has the cash they have control

4 Manage Taxes ndash whether or not income or estate taxes increase in the future a retirement assetincome distribution business succession and legacy strategy is a must for everyone

5 Investment Management ndash you have plenty of risk with your business Do you want to have unnecessary risk with your investments

You cannot control macroeconomics (sequence of return risk rising interest rates trade and budget deficits unemployment inflation taxes real estate values commodity markets fluctuating foreign currency etc)

You cannot control geopolitical events (elections Euro zone issues violent foreign government changes war etc) or environmental events (hurricanes earthquakes fires tsunamis etc)

How do you insulate yourself from economic events you cannot control Consider historically tried tested and true strategies Consider strategies that your grandparentrsquos generation may have used They had to protect themselves ndash government bailouts and subsidies were few and far between

Congratulations if you can assemble a team to help you define and implement a strategy using the tactics described above This can be achieved in a relatively short period of time (a few hours a week over several short weeks can do it) which can help give you your time back so you can focus on your business and family

6 Manage your Business ndash this you can completely control You can engage in any of the following business expansion activities without losing energy and enthusiasm to the issues you and your team of advisors tackled above

Perhaps you would ratherbull Recruit and develop key employees (and future buyers of

your business)bull Market expansion (are you getting on board the e-marketing

train)bull Develop operating procedures and processesbull Improve safety (reduce liability)bull Expand into new territoriesbull Enter a new industry

bull Purchase and manage real estate

Life Happens ndash Enjoy It

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 US Army Eric is ranked first in his class with a degree in Computer Science is working in his field and plans on attending graduate school in 2013 His daughter Kara recently graduated undergraduate school with distinction and is planning to attend graduate school to become a Physiciansrsquo 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_NoeMWFinancialcom

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CSIA Update wwwCSIAorg

Publication for CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepregs

ADVERTISEMENT

The Virginia Association of Chimney amp

Hearth Professionals sponsored CSIArsquos

Inspection amp Report Writing class in

Arlington VA this August 6-7 Tom Urban

served as the instructor for the two-day

session Forty one professionals were

in attendance with 19 being business

owners and 22 being employees The

session drew attendees from as far away

as Louisville KY

The event was sponsored by Wakefield

Brush The Chimney Sweep News

Ahrenrsquos Copperfield Wohler Estoban

Lindemann Chimney Supply National

Chimney Supply Olympia Chimney

Supply SaverSystems and Whitecaps

VACHP Sponsored Inspection amp Report Writing

Fred Regar served as auctioneer of the sponsor-donated items on the second day of the session

Tom Urban teaching the CSIA Inspection and Report Writing Class in Arlington

When renewing a credential earned after September 1 2009 a CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg is required to

Available downloads for CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepsreg and CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Techniciansreg include

bull CSIACertifiedChimneySweepandCSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician Trademarks

bull ButtonsforyourWebsite

bull CustomizablePowerPointpresentationfor home inspectors

bull InspectionSOPs

bull LadderSafetyTips

bull ldquoChimneyFiresCausesEffectsampEvaluationrdquo Prepared by Chimney Safety Institute of America- Chimney Fire Education and Research Task Force

bull Printversionofthiswhitepaperisalsoavailable for purchase

bull Top10WoodburningTipsfromtheChimney Safety Institute of America

Check out the CCS amp CDET area at CSIAorg

bull Submitaminimumof9CEUsearnedwithin the preceeding 3 years (in any category) before testing NOTE This requirement will not apply to CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps already holding the credential on September 1 2009untiltheirnext3-yearcertificationcycle

bull Passaone-hourexambasedonSuccessfulChimneySweeping(2009)andNFPA211(2010)

bull Passaninety-minuteopen-bookexambasedonthe2006IRCreg

bull AgreetopaytheAnnualCertificationFee

bull SignCSIACodeofEthics

OR

bull SubmitappropriatenumberofContinuing Education Units (CEUs) in the relevant categories

bull AgreetopaytheAnnualCertificationFee

bull SignCSIACodeofEthics

Upon earning the CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg credential your certification is valid for one year You will need to recertify annually by paying the annual certification fee This fee will be invoiced annually prior to your expiration date Please note that your credential will require renewal every three years by submittal of the minimum 48 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) in accordance with the CSIA Credential Renewal Policy or by passing the certification exams and either submitting a minimum of 9 CEUs or completing a CSIA Review

If your annual certification fee is not paid prior to your certification expiration date your credential will be considered lapsed and you will immediately lose all rights and privileges of the CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg credential The following terms will then apply if reinstatement of the credential is desired

If you do not pay your annual certification fee by your expiration date the following timeline will begin

bull Within90daysfromthedateofexpiration if you submit payment in full for the annual certification fee your credential will be reinstated and you will be considered a CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg in good standing maintaining your original annual expiration date and certification number

bull Ifmorethan90daysandlessthan12months beyond your expiration date you will be required to Pay the current annual certification fee and current testing fees and test again Doing so will reinstate your previous annual certification expiration date and certification number You will still be required to pay your next annual fee within the next 12 months

bull Ifmorethan12monthsbeyondyourexpiration date you will be required to either participate in a CSIA approved certification review course or submit evidence of 9 CEUs that were accumulated during the time your credential was active In addition you will be required to pass the CSIA certification exams Upon successful completion a new certification number will be assigned and you will have a new annual certification expiration date

CaliforniaMichaelGipsonbullMidtownSweepsbullLancasterOmarSaenzbullAFiddlerontheRoodDuctampChimneyServicebullVanNuys

IndianaAlexStewartbullOldSmokeyrsquosFireplaceampChimneyIncbullAshley

KansasRyanBerrybullFullServiceChimneybullOlathe

New YorkJayFellibullHearthampHomeofIthacabullIthaca

VermontJamesDonovanbullLincolnPeakPropertiesbullWaitsfield

West VirginiaMichaelAdwellbullTopHatChimneySweepbullLewisburg

WisconsinDustinMyersbullChimneySpecialistsIncbullHighland

ADVERTISEMENT

Congratulations to Our New CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps

Top 10 Woodburning Tips from the Chimney Safety Institute of America

To aid in the prevention of chimney fires and carbon monoxide intrusion and to help keep heating appliances and fireplaces functioning properly the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) offers the following safety tips

1 Get an annual chimney check Have chimneys inspected annually and cleaned as necessary by a qualified professional chimney service technician This reduces the risk of fires and carbon monoxide poisonings due to creosote buildup or obstructions in the chimneys

2 Keep it clear Keep tree branches and leaves at least 15 feet away from the top of the chimney

3 Install a chimney cap to keep debris and animals out of the chimney

4 Choose the right fuel For burning firewood in wood stoves or fireplaces choose wellseasoned wood that has been split for a minimum of six months - one year and stored in a covered and elevated location Never burn Christmas trees or treated wood in your fireplace or wood stove

5 Build it right Place firewood or firelogs at the rear of the fireplace on a supporting grate To start the fire use kindling or a commercial firelighter Never use flammable liquids

6 Keep the hearth area clear Combustible material too close to the fireplace or to a wood stove could easily catch fire Keep furniture at least 36rdquo away from the hearth

7 Use a fireplace screen Use metal mesh or a screen in front of the fireplace to catch flying sparks that could ignite or burn holes in the carpet or flooring

8 Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors Place detectors throughout the house and check batteries in the spring and fall

When you change your clocks for Daylight Savings Time remember to check your batteries

9 Never leave a fire unattended Before turning in for the evening be sure that the fire is fully

extinguished Supervise children and pets closely around wood stoves and fireplaces

10 The CSIA recommends annual inspections performed by CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps These chimney sweeps have earned the industryrsquos most respected credential by passing an intensive examination based on fire codes clearances and standards for the construction and maintenance of chimney and venting systems The National Fire Protection Association also recommends that all chimneys are inspected on an annual basis

For more chimney and fireplace safety tips visit the Chimney Safety Institute of America online at wwwCSIAorg

Solve your customersrsquo smoking sooting odor and draft problems Itrsquos easy with CSIArsquos 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 Ghostingsooting 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 doesnrsquot

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

Learn to solve these problems save time and money and keep

your clients happy with CSIArsquos Online Chimney Physics program

SolvedVenting Problems

Register today at wwwcsiaorg

CSIA 15 Tech 15 CampL 15 HampS 15 CampS NFI 5 Tech

Annual Certification Requirements

Top 10 Woodburning Tips from the Chimney Safety Institute of America

To aid in the prevention of chimney fires and carbon monoxide intrusion and to help keep heating appliances and fireplaces functioning properly the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) offers the following safety tips

1 Get an annual chimney check Have chimneys inspected annually and cleaned as necessary by a qualified professional chimney service technician This reduces the risk of fires and carbon monoxide poisonings due to creosote buildup or obstructions in the chimneys

2 Keep it clear Keep tree branches and leaves at least 15 feet away from the top of the chimney

3 Install a chimney cap to keep debris and animals out of the chimney

4 Choose the right fuel For burning firewood in wood stoves or fireplaces choose wellseasoned wood that has been split for a minimum of six months - one year and stored in a covered and elevated location Never burn Christmas trees or treated wood in your fireplace or wood stove

5 Build it right Place firewood or firelogs at the rear of the fireplace on a supporting grate To start the fire use kindling or a commercial firelighter Never use flammable liquids

6 Keep the hearth area clear Combustible material too close to the fireplace or to a wood stove could easily catch fire Keep furniture at least 36rdquo away from the hearth

7 Use a fireplace screen Use metal mesh or a screen in front of the fireplace to catch flying sparks that could ignite or burn holes in the carpet or flooring

8 Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors Place detectors throughout the house and check batteries in the spring and fall

When you change your clocks for Daylight Savings Time remember to check your batteries

9 Never leave a fire unattended Before turning in for the evening be sure that the fire is fully

extinguished Supervise children and pets closely around wood stoves and fireplaces

10 The CSIA recommends annual inspections performed by CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps These chimney sweeps have earned the industryrsquos most respected credential by passing an intensive examination based on fire codes clearances and standards for the construction and maintenance of chimney and venting systems The National Fire Protection Association also recommends that all chimneys are inspected on an annual basis

For more chimney and fireplace safety tips visit the Chimney Safety Institute of America online at wwwCSIAorg

ADVERTISEMENT

You can spend weeks trying to get a new employee up to speed In the process yoursquoll have used up your valuable time your patience and more money than you would like to admit

Instead send your employee to the most popular cost-effective chimney sweep training in North America CSIArsquos National Chimney Sweep Training School In less than a week wersquoll create an employee that yoursquoll be proud to send on a call ndash and happy to count toward your bottom line

Register today at wwwcsiaorg or call us at (317) 837-5362

At the 6-day hands-on Training School your employee will learn

How to inspect and service chimney systems serving any fuel burning appliance

How to be safe with the latest health and safety equipment and methods

How to work with residential heating appliances including wood stoves pellet stoves inserts factory-built fireplaces central heaters and furnaces

How to diagnose chimney performance problems understanding draft and flow diagnosing down drafts flow reversals inadequate flow stack effects updrafts pressure effects and gauges

How to navigate the International Residential Codes How to follow the NFPA 211 standards

Class size is limited to ensure a ratio of no more than eight students per instructor This small class size means that students have the opportunity for individual attention from the schoolrsquos experienced instructors and ample opportunities for hands-on training Because class size is limited it is important to apply early to reserve your place

The online CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience

The online Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician (CDET) review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience designed to help you pass the CDET exam

Take advantage of these other CSIA educational offerings that can build your business

Send us your greenhorn

and wersquoll send you back a pro

in 6 days Classes fill quickly so register now

2012 DATeS April 2ndash7June 4ndash9August 6ndash11September 24ndash29

April 2-7June 11-16August 6-11September 24-29

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 25

You can spend weeks trying to get a new employee up to speed In the process yoursquoll have used up your valuable time your patience and more money than you would like to admit

Instead send your employee to the most popular cost-effective chimney sweep training in North America CSIArsquos National Chimney Sweep Training School In less than a week wersquoll create an employee that yoursquoll be proud to send on a call ndash and happy to count toward your bottom line

Register today at wwwcsiaorg or call us at (317) 837-5362

At the 6-day hands-on Training School your employee will learn

How to inspect and service chimney systems serving any fuel burning appliance

How to be safe with the latest health and safety equipment and methods

How to work with residential heating appliances including wood stoves pellet stoves inserts factory-built fireplaces central heaters and furnaces

How to diagnose chimney performance problems understanding draft and flow diagnosing down drafts flow reversals inadequate flow stack effects updrafts pressure effects and gauges

How to navigate the International Residential Codes How to follow the NFPA 211 standards

Class size is limited to ensure a ratio of no more than eight students per instructor This small class size means that students have the opportunity for individual attention from the schoolrsquos experienced instructors and ample opportunities for hands-on training Because class size is limited it is important to apply early to reserve your place

The online CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience

The online Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician (CDET) review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience designed to help you pass the CDET exam

Take advantage of these other CSIA educational offerings that can build your business

Send us your greenhorn

and wersquoll send you back a pro

in 6 days Classes fill quickly so register now

2012 DATeS April 2ndash7June 4ndash9August 6ndash11September 24ndash29

April 2-7June 11-16August 6-11September 24-29

ProgressivePerksBY DEBBIE CORNELIUS

MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT COORDINATOR

Get Organized and Make the Most of Your Busy Season

Sometimes it really surprises me that more NCSG members do not take advantage of the discounted benefits available to them These will not only save you time buthellip money too

Paycor Payroll Services price reduction on payroll and tax services One specialist will be dedicated to your account with a team of tax specialists available to resolve issues in the fastest amount of time should an issue arise

Market Hardware can bring your business up to speed in the competitive market of technology where more and more customers are looking to the Web Once they have customized the design that includes a ldquoHome Pagerdquo ldquoAbout Usrdquo and ldquoOur Servicesrdquo page you will have the ability to easily update and edit your Web site yourself instead of paying someone else to do it

Technical Solutions the ldquoSurvival Kit for Small Businessesrdquo can provide on-demand remote repair 247 365 days a year For the price of $2499month with no long term contact involved you can cover up to 20 computers including multiple office locations

Commercials On Hold provides a great way to brand and promote your full range of services when callers are on hold before they talk to a member of your staff

Take a few minutes to just explore these benefits It would be well worth your time to compare the savings to save you time and help increase your profits

26 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

REGION 6

NCSG Charter Members

Paul Bourque Huntsville AL

Don Leavitt San Diego CA

David Harris Broken Arrow Oklahoma

Dan Wheeler Santa Rosa CA

John Cline Menlo Park CA

Dale Meisinger N Augusta SC

Alan Hisey St Louis MO

Eva B Horton Greenwich CT

Harry Richart Hasbrouck Heights NJ

NewNCSGMembers

REGION 3

REGION 2

REGION 5

REGION 4

NCSG REGIONS

REGION 1

Connecticut Vermont Massachusetts New York Maine Rhode Island New Hampshire

REGION 2

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

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

CONNECTICUTChristopher Gonsalves bull Millstream Construction bull HebronDavid Heissenbuttel bull DMH amp Associates Inc bull Wilton

VIRGINAJack Johnston bull Johnstonrsquos Chimney Sweep bull Yorktown

MISSOURIJason Patrick bull Shamrock Qualty Services bull St LouisBill Bonney bull Bonney Bill bull Jackson

KENTUCKYJoshua Moore bull Moore Joshua bull Mt Sterling

ILLINOISJack Lutz bull Lutz Jack bull EurekaClay Nelson bull Clean Sweep bull Collinsville

OHIOAnthony Ramsey bull Elite Chimney Solutions bull Beavercreek

INDIANATravis Beckley bull Beckley Travis bull Coal City

TEXASMatthew Milner bull Milner Matthew bull WhitesboroTony Drew bull AC Contractors dba Fireplaces bull LongviewChristopher A Hess bull Atlas Chimney bull Leander

MINNESOTARenee Gustafson bull John C Gustafson Builder LLC bull Little Falls

COLORADOKent Macintosh bull Russian River Chimney Sweeps bull Healdsburg

CALIFORNIA Errol Davis bull The Chimney Specialist bull Huntington Beach

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 27

The 2012 ndash 2013 offers are being added daily in the ldquoMembers Onlyrdquo section of the NCSG website at wwwNCSGorg So start checking for these new offers each week These coupons will be good until June 30 2013

Copperfield Chimney Supply bull Lindemann Chimney Supply bull Meyer Machine amp Equipment bull National Chimney Supply bull SNEWS - The Chimney Sweep News bull Wakefield Brush bull Wohler USA Inc

2012 ndash 2013 SWEEPS ADVANTAGE COUPON PROGRAM

Featured Coupons of the Month

COPPERFIELD CHIMNEY SUPPLY

SAVE Up to $ 12650 FREE 13 x 13 Lock-Top with an order of $250

SAVE Up to $ 123 One FREE component Kit with any purchase of 6rdquo UltraPro

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purchase

SAVE Up to $ 46 One 13 x 13 HomeSaver Stainless Steel chimney cap with any Order of $250 or more

SAVE Up to $ 64 One EasyClean Cap with any purchase of $250

SAVE UP TO $ 75 $75 off any 25rsquo order of UltraPro Stainless Steel Liner

SAVE UP TO $ 40 $40 off any Flue Stretcher Chimney Cap

SAVE UP TO $ 20 Sign up for a Copperfield Reline Workshop and Save $20

SAVE UP TO FRE FREE 4 foot sample of HomeSaver Ultrapro

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Benefits of Answering Service

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28 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

Meyer Machine amp Equipment

SUCKINGDUCTS

ampINSULATION

FOR OVER 20 YEARS

As most allergy sufferers will tell you allergy symptoms can always be bothersome turning any time of year into sneezing season A runny nose itchy eyes and scratchy throat can arise as the days get shorter and the leaves begin to change

The fall can be especially difficult for people who are sensitive to mold and ragweed pollen But these seasonal elements arenrsquot the only triggers that can make symptoms worse this time of year There are also a few lesser known triggers Here are four things you might not know about fall allergies courtesy of the American College of Allergy Asthma and Immunology

Hay fever - Hay fever a term from a bygone era actually has nothing to do with hay Instead itrsquos a general term used to describe the symptoms of late summer allergies Ragweed is a common cause of hay fever which is also known as allergic rhinitis The plant usually begins to pollinate in mid-August and may continue to be a problem until a hard freeze depending on where you live See an allergist for prescription medications to control symptoms or to see if allergy shots may be your best option

Lingering warm weather - While most people enjoy Indian summer unseasonably warm temperatures can make rhinitis symptoms last longer Mold spores can also be released when humidity is high or the weather is dry and windy Be sure to begin taking medications before your symptoms start Track your allergy symptoms with MyNasalAllergyJournalorg and visit with your allergist to find relief

Pesky leaves - Some folks might find it difficult to keep up with raking leaves throughout the autumn But for allergy sufferers raking presents its own problem It can stir agitating pollen and mold into the air causing allergy and asthma symptoms Those with allergies should wear an NIOSH-rated N95 mask when raking leaves mowing the lawn and gardening

School allergens - Itrsquos not only seasonal pollen and mold that triggers allergies this time of year Kids are often exposed to classroom irritants and allergy triggers These can include chalk dust and classroom pets Students with food allergies may also be exposed to allergens in the lunch roomKids with exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB) may experience attacks during recess or gym class Help your child understand what can trigger their allergies and asthma and how they can avoid symptoms Be sure to notify teachers and the school nurse of any emergency medications such as quick relief inhalers and epinephrine

No matter the season itrsquos important for those who think they may be suffering from allergies or asthma to see a board-certified allergist An allergist can help you develop a treatment plan which can include both medication and avoidance techniques

Having your allergies properly identified and treated will help you and your family enjoy the season To find an allergist and learn more about allergies and asthma visit wwwAllergyandAsthmaRelieforg

Four Things You Might Not Know About Fall Allergies

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 29

trategic partnerships Sounds fancy but what does it really mean They are called what they are called because there is a true strategy behind them the thought and planning that goes into identifying and development those relationships in a way that will

ultimately help those who are participating to achieve their mission The fact that it is indeed a ldquopartnershiprdquo indicates that everyone involved mutually stands to benefit in some wayhellipItrsquos a win-win

The strategic part of establishing partnerships is analyzing who you are your goals and your current resources and then finding organizations (partners) that will allow you to get the things that you need in order to take your organization to the next level But true partnerships are about what you can bring to each other to help achieve your goals and enhance your resources It is not solely about what you can give me but rather what we can give each other As the great John F Kennedy is well known for encouraging of a world partnership ldquoask not what America will do for you but what together we can do for the freedom of manrdquo

So where does this leave an association like NCSG The key to nonprofits establishing strategic partnerships is having the infrastructure to attract and maintain these relationships In this country there are plenty of nonprofits that are doing great work but there is no organization that will be able to survive if they try

to achieve their mission without establishing partnerships that help provide resources and relationships that allow us to achieve our mission

NCSG is very fortunate to have an impressive array of partners who have for many years some since our inception done just that Our partners have advertised in this magazine exhibited at our conventions contributed to the building and maintaining of our headquarters and the premier industry training facility in Indianapolis discounted thousands of dollars in products and services to our members and have helped us promote the Guild and recruit membership in countless ways not the least of which includes maintaining their own membership in NCSG

Our partners are committed to helping us advance our mission and in turn propel our professional field forward Their partnership supports that programs that ignite your professional and technical development and provide the products and services that have helped you bring your own businesses to life They are integral to the success of this industry and most renew their support of the Guild year after year

Without their support of Sweeping magazine through their advertising we would not have been able to come close to bringing this publication to our members and the industry for the past 35 years (originally The Chimney Sweep Guild News) without significant taxation on the readers Without their support

BY MARK MCSWEENEY CAEEXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Perspective

Support Those Who Support YouldquoOur success has really been based on partnerships from the very beginningrdquo -Bill Gates

S

30 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

of NCSGrsquos annual convention through exhibiting and additional sponsorships registration fees for attendees would easily be double what they are today

When viewing our relationship with exhibitors sponsors advertisers and supplier members as a partnership the question needs to be asked How are we as an association mutually helping them achieve their respective goals

The answer comes back to us having infrastructure to attract and maintain these partnerships And that infrastructure is you the member NCSG cultivates and maintains the relationship with our industry partners on your behalf You are asked to back that up through your support of these partner service providers

Now Irsquom not saying you should buy everything you need at any one place or only through our partners At the end of the day you ultimately need to make your purchasing decisions based on your individual business needs However what would be great to see is our members calling our partners up and giving them a chance to compete for your business Let them know you are a part of NCSG and even if you are not in a position to do business with them this time around let them know you appreciate their continued support of the Guild and the industry Itrsquos one thing to call up to a supplier and ask about a product get a price and hang up Itrsquos another thing to make sure you let them know you saw their ad in Sweeping you read about them

online or you remember they exhibited at the convention so that they know they are getting positive exposure and that their investment in our partnership is not going unnoticed

With that said here are some simple and tangible things things you can do to help the partnership you are a part ofbull Consider our partners each and every time you need to make a

purchasing decision and give them an opportunity to earn your business when you can Look at those who are advertising in Sweeping or see a full listing of NCSG Supplier Members under the Chimney Sweep tab on ncsgorg

bull When you talk to them let them know yoursquore part of NCSG and thank them for their support of your association

bull If you like them even if you canrsquot do business with them currently spread the word and help get their name out there

bull Attend events where our partners have stepped up to sponsor Help show them we value them being there and appreciate their efforts This helps everyone when it comes to working out future programs discounts events and more

We are all in this together Just as you want to ensure you are receiving the return you need on the investments you make our supplier members advertisers exhibitors and sponsors need to justify their own ROI on the variety of support avenues they offer

to NCSG I thought Irsquod take a minute this month to say ldquothank yourdquo to all of you who support us in so many different ways and would like to encourage others to do the same

Until next time I continue to wish you every success

Double Locking CrimpRemains StrongYet Very Flexibl e

With No Memo ry

Strong Triple Locking CrimpHolds T ogether Even OnTough Jobs

Horizontal Sides Of CorrugationOffer Added Strengthamp Flexibility

Manufactured by CHIMNEY TECHNIQUE INC

Chim-Pro Interlock Flex

Chim-Pro Corrugated

Flex

Chim-Pro RigidADDED SAFETY EFFICIENCY AND VALUE

In Which ALL FITTINGS Are Attached With A Band Even The Tee Cap And Elbows Quick amp Simple No Drilling amp Riveting

Featuring

Visit wwwchim-prolinercom for more detailsbull 2000 Industrial Ave bull Sioux Falls SD 57104

1-800-582-1392

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 31

Display Ad Index

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 mheekencsgorg for publication in Sweeping Or mail it to NCSG 2155 Commercial Drive Plainfield IN 46168

Page Advertiser Phone Email or Website Address

30 Ahrens Chimney Technique 800-582-1392 ahrenschimneyqwestofficenet

21-24 Chimney Safety Institute of America 317-837-5362 wwwcsiaorg

14 Cobra Chimney Caps 888-463-0636 salescobrachimneycom

27 Communications Network Inc 800-875-8118 tkempercomnetmessagecom

5 Copperfield 800-247-3305 wwwcopperfieldcom

4 ENERVEX Inc 800-255-2923 infochimneyfanscom

13 Firesafe Industries Inc 800-545-6607 wwwfiresafeinccom

16 Gelco Lyemance Lock-Top 800-334-2154 wwwGLLchimneyproductscom

9 Hose Master 800-221-2319 bobdanielshosemastercom

10 ICP 508-695-7000 wwwchimneycapscom

BC Lifetime Chimney Supply LLC 877-234-7473 wwwlifetimechimneysupplycom

7 Lindemann Chimney Company 800-722-7230 wwwlindemannchimneycom

11 M amp G Duravent 800-835-4429 wwwduraventcom

28 Meyer Machine amp Equipment 800-728-3828 wwwmeyermachinecom

25 National Chimney Supply 800-897-8481 wwwnationalchimneysupplycom

17 Olympia Chimney Supply 800-569-1425 wwwolympiachimneycom

19 Sand Hill Wholesale 800-258-5496 wwwsandhillwholesalecom

6 SaverSystems Inc 800-860-6327 wwwchimneysavercom

3 Smoktite 866-439-0069 wwwsmoktitecom

8 Wakefield Brush 800-264-7007 wwwwakefieldbrushcom

19 Whitecaps 800-335-2534 wwwwhitecapscom

15 Z-Flex 800-654-5600 wwwz-flexcom

The pole and bucket chimney That is how they keep rain and birds out during off season Notice the class A is just an extension of a masonry chimney

Submitted by Kevon Binder of Doctor Flue Inc

September 13-15 2012Lake Murray SCSouth Carolina Chimney Sweep Guildrsquos ldquoThe GatheringrdquoFor more information please contact Blume at (864) 232-9811 or blume357bellsouthnet

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 19 2012 Taunton MAFall Protection User Training Class Including OSHArsquos 2011 ruling on alternate fall protection methods - Sponsored by the Massachusetts Chimney Sweep GuildFor more information please call Jeffrey Wright at (781) 233-2321

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-29 2012CSIA Technology CenterCSIA National Chimney Sweep Training SchoolFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

Dates amp Events

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 8-12 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg October 8-12 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

Please send notice of your events for NCSG Dates amp Events listings at mmcmahonncsgorg for inclusion here in weekly posts to the discussion list and online at wwwNCSGorgdates The event must be considered educational or informative for the industry (sales events and open houses will not be listed)

32 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

ClassifiedsGotta chimney question Sizing Codes Call Royal Edwards Make Royal your tech department CALL NOW 813-982-0219 for on-call tech support Continuing Education special bonus ndash ask how you can get the Friday morning E-Blast for FREE CALL NOW 813-982-0219

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

Chimney Sweep business for sell in the Northern Rocky Mountains of New Mexico Services a large area with three ski resorts in the service area Equipment and signed three year contracts goes with the business Business is well established For pricing and other info please email your questions to ridgeriders1gmailcom

CLASSIFIED ADS FREE FOR NCSG MEMBERSMembers can run one 35 word classified free each year Regularly classified ads are $2word or $1word for NCSG members Classified ads are non-commissionable and must be pre-paid To place a classified ad please contact Megan McMahon at mmcmahonncsgorg or (317) 837-1500

NCSG Innovation 2013 Convention and Trade Show Hotel reservations are now being accepted for NCSG Innovation 2013 at Chateau on the Lake in Branson MO April 4-7 2013 Just call 1-888-333-LAKE (5253) and mention that yoursquore with the National Chimney Sweep Guild to lock in rates starting at $129 for a mountain view and $134 for a lake view

Get ready for some RampR Yoursquore earned it

Order Your FREEAnnual Maintenance Reminder Postcards

A great way to remind homeowners to schedule their annual maintenance check up

Each card has space available for your business information

Use them as reminders for your existing clients or send them to generate new business

To order postcards and other free Burn Wise products contact

Leigh Herringtonherringtonleighepagov

ampKristen Bremer

bremerkristenepagov

wwwepagovburnwise

Follow us on

Wood-Burning Safety

Starts with You

Have you scheduled your

annual inspection

The National Fire Protection Association estimates

that 25 percent of home heating fires are caused

primarily by creosote buildup in the chimney

Make your home healthier and safer A properly

installed and maintained appliance burns more

efficiently and saves you money Contact your local

certified chimney sweep to schedule an annual

inspection today

Before You Burn

The right wayThe right way is hot and bright

In the right applianceThe right appliance is an EPA-approved appliance inspected annually by a certified chimney sweep

Burn the right woodBurn only dry well-seasoned wood that has been split and stored properly

wwwepagovburnwise

wwwcsiaorg

Printed on 100 recycledrecyclable paper with a minimum 50 post-consumer waste using vegetable-based

EPA 456-F-10-004

National Chimney Sweep Guild2155 Commercial DrivePlainfield IN 46168

1208

OR

Page 4: September 2012

2 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

ResourcePage

TECHNICAL ADVISORY COUNCIL

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

Randy Brooks IRC NFPA 211 or Customer Communications

317-203-0088 x 5

Bart Ogden Stainless Steel Lining Video Scanning and Narrative

Report Writing 317-203-0088 x 6

Fred Joy Installation and Venting of Pellet Stoves

317-203-0088 x 7

Jay Walker Dryer Vents

317-203-0088 x 8

Rett RasmussenVented and Vent Free Gas Logs and Controls

317-203-0088 x 9

Rich Martinez Dryer Vents or Masonry

317-203-0088 x

Rich Rua General Sweeping or Relining

317-203-0088 x 0

Committee Chairs and Task Forces for 2012-2013Bylaws

Diane Pilger(631) 863-2460

chimneygalaolcom

Convention Site SelectionDiane Pilger

(631) 863-2460chimneygalaolcom

Discussion ListBo Tasso

(815) 645-8103bobotassocom

EthicsMark Stoner

(615) 459-2546ashbustersaolcom

FinanceMark Maynard(920) 830-1920

markchimneyguycom

GovernanceRandy Brooks(805) 646-8961

hearthhunteraolcom

Government AffairsPhil Mitchell

(603) 659-7776sootskiaolcom

International RelationsSteve Pietila

(503) 644-0393steveamerican-chimneycom

Long Range PlanningDiane Pilger

(631) 863-2460chimneygalaolcom

MembershipBob Ferrari

(530) 221-3331bobflueseasoncom

NFPA 211 RepresentativeRandy Brooks(805) 646-8961

hearthhunteraolcom

NFPA 31 RepresentativeJohn Pilger

(631) 863-2460chimneymanaolcom

NFPA 54 RepresentativeJim Brewer

(757) 523-2400jbrewermagic-sweepcom

Technical Advisory CouncilDennis Dobbs(256) 845-9814

infofireplaceservicescentercom

Public Awareness Task ForceRob Lindemann(847) 918-7994

Roblindemannchimneycom

ADVERTISING RATES for Sweeping The Journal of Chimney amp Venting Technology may be obtained by contacting Malisa Minetree at (317) 815-4688 or SweepingAdsindyrrcom

Design by Laura Houser Design bull laurahousercom bull (317) 213-7497

President Region 3Jay Walker

(850) 562-4692 bull presidentncsgorg

Vice PresidentAt-Large

Diane Pilger(631) 863-2460 bull chimneygalaolcom

Treasurer Region 5Mark Maynard

(920) 830-1920 bull markchimneyguycom

SecretaryJeremy Biswell

(913) 236-7141 bull fluesbrothersyahoocom

Region 1Phil Mitchell

(603) 659-7776 bull sootskiaolcom

Region 2Bob Fleer

(410) 544-7600 bull bobfleeraolcom

Region 4Ken Hoelscher

(937) 833-0505 bull kenabbeyroadchimneysweepscom

Region 6Bob Ferrari

(530) 941-5818 bull bobflueseasoncom

At-Large DirectorsDennis Dobbs

(256) 845-9814 bull infofireplaceservicecentercom

Fred Joy(785) 986-6432 bull joyfredmlivecom

Supplier RepresentativeEdmund Poplawski

(570) 504-7107 bull epoplawskiolympiachimneycom

NCSG BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2011-2012

Melissa Heeke CAE Director of Communications amp

Marketing mheekencsgorg

Ashley Eldridge COI CPP Director of Education

ashleyncsgorg

Candice Bradbury Director of Finance

cbradburyncsgorg

Megan McMahon Office Manager

mmcmahonncsgorg

Debbie Cornelius Membership Development

Coordinator dcorneliusncsgorg

Donna Lee Kasmer Program Coordinator dkasmerncsgorg

STAFF

2155 Commercial Drive Plainfield IN 46168

(317) 837-1500 Fax (317) 837-5365

Mark McSweeney CAE Executive Director

mmcsweeneyncsgorg

NCSG encourages industry partners to submit press release and articles to Melissa Heeke Sweeping Editor at mheekencsgorg 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 NCSGrsquos opinion regarding the release

NCSG further reserves the right to reject at any time any advertising determined not to be in keeping with the publicationsrsquo 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

copy 2012 National Chimney Sweep Guild 2155 Commercial Drive Plainfield IN 46168 (317) 837-1500

NATIONAL CHIMNEY SWEEP GUILD

Be advised that advice given by NCSGrsquos 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 andor chimney Additionally local laws and ordinances may govern andor 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

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

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 3

JAY WALKERNCSG PRESIDENT Forward

Moving

ello fellow sweeps I hope this monthrsquos issue finds you well rested and ready for the crazy season ahead of us

This month of September has always been one of anticipation You have stocked your inventory put your systems in place ongoing training is taking place your trucks are loaded foryear and your equipment is in top condition You anticipate a full phone appointment book and an increased bottom line

I looked recently back into Dave Ramseyrsquos Entre Leadership Article and found the following I would like to share My hopes are that if you are a one-man or a multi-truck operation you can pull some good tidbits from this article and hopefully implement them into your business

Fight the Summer Slowdown How to Keep Your Momentum Goingfrom daveramseycom

Every EntreLeader has it That fire in their belly to succeed a passion for their company But despite all that love itrsquos easy to fall into the trap of losing that spark especially during the lazy hazy days of summer when everything just seems to move a little slower

So how do you keep that momentum going in order for your business to continue moving forward As Dave teaches in EntreLeadership Master Series there are a number of ways to stay productive during the dog days of summer Use these tips to get back on track so life once again can be a day at the beach 1 Step Away From the Remote

Have you ever been at home with a long

list of errands when you hear the siren song of your TV Your remote is calling and before you know it yoursquore sucked in You have to see that last episode of Pawn Stars The same holds true at work You walk through the door and are faced with hundreds of distractions Soon the day is gone and you feel like yoursquove accomplished nothing The Solution Each morning make a prioritized list of tasks for the day and stick to it If therersquos a fire to put out throw some water on it But then get back to the chores at hand quickly As Dave says ldquoYou will either tell your day what to do or you will wonder where it wentrdquo To avoid distractions trybull Scheduling email viewing times

Hm

erry

des

ign

A Smoking Hot DealBuy Six Get One Free

Save even more with Pallet Purchasing

4 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

HomeSaverreg Smooth-N-Litetrade Fills the Smoothwall Niche

5-8 Diameters Light 010 stainless strip Available in 304 and 316 stainless steel alloys Interlocked seams are easy to flex Smooth inner wall Crush resistant No memory Ideal for smoothwall application

Now smoothwall liner doesnt have to be stiff and clumsy Because HomeSavers new Smooth-N-Lite gives you smooth without the headache Nestling right into HomeSavers famous family of UltraPro Pro RoundFlex RectangleFlex OvalFlex and Dial-A-Flex liners our new 010 Smooth-N-Lite gives you the superior weight flexibility and strength you need for smooth liner applications

6 times 25 (304-Alloy)

WIth ShIppINg$36786

~Free Freight bull On orders of $1800 or morebull 65rsquo of liner liner and components ship free

Speed Service Selection 8002473305 bull wwwcopperfieldcom

SmoothNLite Adindd 3 71212 335 PM

bull Setting time limits on meetingsbull Avoiding other distractions

If you feel tempted to look at your email at non-scheduled hours hand your assistant your phone or turn off your Internet connection Avoid distractions by putting away your electronic devices hanging a do-not-disturb sign or going off-site Do whatever it takes to keep on track 2 Get Fired Up Starting a company creating a new product or signing that contract with your dream client is unbelievably exciting Itrsquos what makes business a lot of fun But along with those incredible moments comes a lot of everyday hard work and worry that can cause you to lose your passion

The Solution The best way to get re-energized is actually to use no energy at all Taking a vacation revitalizes your brain allowing creativity and passion to flow Herersquos even a better reason Taking time off can save your life Research shows that men who miss annual breaks are 32 more likely to die of heart attacks while women who take a vacation less than once every six years are eight times more likely to develop coronary heart disease

3 Learn Something New There is a scientific evidence that when you are feeling uninspired picking up a book can help According to a study by researchers at Harvard and MIT learning something new and having success fires up the pleasure section of your brain

leading you to even more education and prosperity

The Solution Dave is a huge proponent of reading nonfiction leadershipbusiness books as a way to grow his business Hersquos not alone The average millionaire reads a book a month Leaders are readers But thatrsquos just one way to gain more knowledge Find a mentor network with fellow business leaders or attend seminars or other business events

Take advantage of your summer downtime to refocus recharge and learn Itrsquos an awesome way to keep the momentum flowing and get your team fired up for the fall

To learn more about business team building and leadership download Dave Ramseyrsquos EntreLeadership podcasts (httpwwwdaveramseycom) which include lessons from Dave plus interviews with key business leaders from across the nation

NCSG is about helping sweeps grow their businesses and providing progressive services By the time you read this ndash your NCSG board would have reviewed the next budget for the upcoming fiscal year (2012-13)and have revisited our goals and plans moving forward

Please start planning now for the 2013 NCSG Innovation convention and trade show at Chateau on the Lake in Branson MO April 4-7

As always Sweeps Luck to you and your family and God Bless

Jay WalkerNCSG President

Keep the Cold Air Out and the Cool Look InM E C H A N I C A L V E N T I N G O F F I R E P L A C E S

Eliminate Glass Doors on Gas Fireplaces

The ENERVEX EcoDamper System is the first completely automated draft and damper system designed for use with gas fireplaces

bull Allows for open fireplace designsbull Offers a larger more natural lookbull Creates a new profit center for you

The Guaranteed Solution to Smoking FireplacesThe Guaranteed Solution to Smoking Fireplaces

wwwchimneyfanscominfochimneyfanscomP 8002552923

HomeSaverreg Smooth-N-Litetrade Fills the Smoothwall Niche

5-8 Diameters Light 010 stainless strip Available in 304 and 316 stainless steel alloys Interlocked seams are easy to flex Smooth inner wall Crush resistant No memory Ideal for smoothwall application

Now smoothwall liner doesnt have to be stiff and clumsy Because HomeSavers new Smooth-N-Lite gives you smooth without the headache Nestling right into HomeSavers famous family of UltraPro Pro RoundFlex RectangleFlex OvalFlex and Dial-A-Flex liners our new 010 Smooth-N-Lite gives you the superior weight flexibility and strength you need for smooth liner applications

6 times 25 (304-Alloy)

WIth ShIppINg$36786

~Free Freight bull On orders of $1800 or morebull 65rsquo of liner liner and components ship free

Speed Service Selection 8002473305 bull wwwcopperfieldcom

SmoothNLite Adindd 3 71212 335 PM

6 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

MELISSA HEEKE CAENCSG DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS

EditorrsquosLetter

elcome to September Hopefully the season has been

kind to you so far this year and yoursquore in good shape

for a safe and sane remainder of the home heating season

This month we look at how small businesses can protect

themselves from a data breach how to avoid hitting the proverbial

ldquowallrdquo in your business and focusing on what you can control

Strong and steady wins this game This monthrsquos issue should help

you play your next move with confidence

Until next time I wish you all the best for a safe and successful

season

W

6 Gallons for the Price of 5 Gallons

Get 20 More CrownSeal FREEGet 20 More CrownSeal FREESpecial Size

Available from Participating ChimneySaver DistributorsAvailable from Participating ChimneySaver Distributors

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Call your favorite ChimneySaver distributor today to order this special 6 gallon size CrownSeal for the price of a 5 gallon Quantities are limited to what each distributor has placed in inventory so order yours today before they run out

NCSG can help you promote your event

Please email officencsgorg with info on your upcoming meetings and events Wersquoll list your event on the NCSG website in Sweeping magazine and in our weekly dates and events post to the NCSG Discussion List Yoursquore also encouraged to submit meeting and workshop photos and recaps for publication in Sweeping They say a picture is worth a thousand words and we agree Let everyone know what a great time you had and welcome them to your next event Please send photos and articles directly to Melissa Heeke at mheekencsgorg

8 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

Are Small Businesses Protecting Themselves From a Data Breach

Adata breach can be a challenge for any business but this is especially true for smaller businesses Not only can it be more difficult for a smaller business to recover from a data breach but criminals may also be more likely to target smaller firms

When a data breach occurs at a large firm or government agency it winds up all over the news If one occurred at a small business down the street those unaffected would probably never hear about it But a recent report released by Verizon found that nearly three-quarters of data breaches analyzed last year involved businesses with 100 employees or fewer

ldquoMost small-business owners simply do not believe they are at riskrdquo says Lynn LaGram assistant vice president of small commercial underwriting for The Hartford ldquoThe reality is that small businesses are often more vulnerable - making them easier targetsrdquo

LaGram says part of the reason may be that small-business owners often donrsquot have the time or resources that larger companies may have to assist them in protecting data However protecting data may not be as difficult as one would think

Hose Master Invented the Wheel

Smooth-N-Lite bullYourchoice-304or316stainlesssteelcoils5rdquo-8rdquodiameters bullInterlockedseamsareeasytoflex bullSmoothinnerwall bullCrushresistant bullIdealforsmoothwallapplications bullAvailableinroundovalorrectangle

HeavyFlex bullYourchoice-304or316stainlesssteelcoils bullInterlockedseamsareeasytoflex bullSmoothinnerwall bullHighlycrushresistant bullIdealforfireplacerelines bullAvailableinroundovalrectangleorDial-A-Flex

UltraPro bull Patentedrolllockseamdesignforeasyflexibility bullLargebendrange bullSteepcorrugationslope-resultinginhighcrushresistance bullIdeallysuitedforforbothstraightandmultiplebendrelines bullUncoilseasilyrightoutofthebox

NEW

CopperfieldkeepsturningthewheelwithHomeSaverrsquosnew Smooth-N-LitelinerSmooth-N-Litetakesawaythestiffnessand clumsinessnormallyassociatedwithsmoothwallliner-itgivesyouldquosmoothrdquowithnoheadacheNestlingintoHomeSaverrsquosfamousfamilyofUltraProProRoundFlexRectangleFlexOvalFlexandDial-A-FlexCopperfieldrsquosnewSmooth-N-Litegivesyouthesuperiorweight flexibilityandstrengthyouneedforsmoothlinerapplications

Copperfield Chimney Supply Technical800-246-1926Support800-247-3305

Manufactured by Hose Master Exclusively For

When It Comes to Chimney Liners

Almost50yearsagoSamFotiHoseMasterrsquosCEOredesignedinterlockedmachine technologyHisinnovationsarestillthecoreofmanufacturingflexiblechimneylinertoday

HeavyFlex bull 25yearsagoSaminventedRectangleFlex OvalFlexandDial-A-Flextechnology

UltraPro bull 15yearsagoSaminventedUltraPro-the onlypatentedroll-lockdesignlight-weight linerwithextremeflexibilityandcrush resistance

Smooth-N-Lite bullTodaySamhasdesignedSmooth-N-Lite- thelightinterlockedlinerforsmoothwall applications

and now he invented Smooth-N-Lite

Now We Have It All

All Flexible Liner Is Not Created EqualLet Us Prove It

1964

1983

2000

2012

Pro amp UltraProInvented UltraPro - the only patented roll-lock design light-weight liner with extreme flexibility and crush resistance

Redesigned Interlocked Machine TechnologyInnovations are still the core of manufacturing flexible chimney liner today

HeavyFlexInvented RectangleFlex OvalFlex and Dial-A-Flex technology

Smooth-N-LiteToday Sam has designed Smooth-N-Lite the light interlocked liner for smoothwall applications Manufactured on the same machine technology he invented in 1964

Meet Sam Foti Hose Master CEO engineer and innovator

In 1964 Sam got involved with interlocked products Identifying the problems associated with manufacturing the hose Sam redesigned the tooling and machinery to not only produce a consistent interlocked hose but to also speed-up the production

Today the results of Sams ingenuity is the technology used throughout the industry in the production of interlocked products His designs not only changed the way that stripwound hose is made but the way that it is used and perceived in the industry

SmoothNLite Adindd 2 71212 335 PM

Steps to help prevent a breachFor a business or organization that must handle sensitive customer patient or employee information itrsquos important to take measures that decrease the likelihood of a breach ldquoA data breach can involve electronic or paper recordsrdquo says LaGram She shares eight data protection ldquobest practicesrdquo for a business

bull Lock and secure sensitive customer patient member or employee information

bull Restrict employee access to sensitive informationbull Shred or otherwise securely dispose of all sensitive customer patient

member or employee informationbull Use password protection and data encryption for sensitive filesbull Have a privacy policybull Update systems and software on a regular basisbull Use firewalls to control access to sites that could compromise your

security and lock out hackersbull Ensure that remote access to your network is secure

If a breach occursWhile itrsquos important to take proactive steps to help prevent a data breach from occurring therersquos no way to eliminate the risk entirely so it is also

important to have data breach insurance

According to LaGram a business owner should consider insurance that provides

1 Coverage for expenses associated with responding to and recovering from a breach ldquoBusiness owners may not realize that they must comply with various notification requirements which can be costlyrdquo says LaGram Additional advertising expenses to help a business restore its reputation after a breach would also fall into this category

2 Legal expense and liability coverage A customer or employee whose personal data is compromised may sue the business owner for damages This insurance provides coverage for defense costs civil awards settlements or judgments that a business owner may be obligated to pay

3 Access to data security experts to help the business owner navigate the various notification requirements as well as determine the cause of the breach and take steps to prevent it from happening againBoth consumers and business owners can learn more about what to do if they are involved in a data breach at wwwftcgovidtheft

ldquoA data breach can happen to anyone so itrsquos important for business owners to be preparedrdquo says LaGram For more information about protecting your business from a data breach visit wwwhartforddatabreachcom

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 9

Hose Master Invented the Wheel

Smooth-N-Lite bullYourchoice-304or316stainlesssteelcoils5rdquo-8rdquodiameters bullInterlockedseamsareeasytoflex bullSmoothinnerwall bullCrushresistant bullIdealforsmoothwallapplications bullAvailableinroundovalorrectangle

HeavyFlex bullYourchoice-304or316stainlesssteelcoils bullInterlockedseamsareeasytoflex bullSmoothinnerwall bullHighlycrushresistant bullIdealforfireplacerelines bullAvailableinroundovalrectangleorDial-A-Flex

UltraPro bull Patentedrolllockseamdesignforeasyflexibility bullLargebendrange bullSteepcorrugationslope-resultinginhighcrushresistance bullIdeallysuitedforforbothstraightandmultiplebendrelines bullUncoilseasilyrightoutofthebox

NEW

CopperfieldkeepsturningthewheelwithHomeSaverrsquosnew Smooth-N-LitelinerSmooth-N-Litetakesawaythestiffnessand clumsinessnormallyassociatedwithsmoothwallliner-itgivesyouldquosmoothrdquowithnoheadacheNestlingintoHomeSaverrsquosfamousfamilyofUltraProProRoundFlexRectangleFlexOvalFlexandDial-A-FlexCopperfieldrsquosnewSmooth-N-Litegivesyouthesuperiorweight flexibilityandstrengthyouneedforsmoothlinerapplications

Copperfield Chimney Supply Technical800-246-1926Support800-247-3305

Manufactured by Hose Master Exclusively For

When It Comes to Chimney Liners

Almost50yearsagoSamFotiHoseMasterrsquosCEOredesignedinterlockedmachine technologyHisinnovationsarestillthecoreofmanufacturingflexiblechimneylinertoday

HeavyFlex bull 25yearsagoSaminventedRectangleFlex OvalFlexandDial-A-Flextechnology

UltraPro bull 15yearsagoSaminventedUltraPro-the onlypatentedroll-lockdesignlight-weight linerwithextremeflexibilityandcrush resistance

Smooth-N-Lite bullTodaySamhasdesignedSmooth-N-Lite- thelightinterlockedlinerforsmoothwall applications

and now he invented Smooth-N-Lite

Now We Have It All

All Flexible Liner Is Not Created EqualLet Us Prove It

1964

1983

2000

2012

Pro amp UltraProInvented UltraPro - the only patented roll-lock design light-weight liner with extreme flexibility and crush resistance

Redesigned Interlocked Machine TechnologyInnovations are still the core of manufacturing flexible chimney liner today

HeavyFlexInvented RectangleFlex OvalFlex and Dial-A-Flex technology

Smooth-N-LiteToday Sam has designed Smooth-N-Lite the light interlocked liner for smoothwall applications Manufactured on the same machine technology he invented in 1964

Meet Sam Foti Hose Master CEO engineer and innovator

In 1964 Sam got involved with interlocked products Identifying the problems associated with manufacturing the hose Sam redesigned the tooling and machinery to not only produce a consistent interlocked hose but to also speed-up the production

Today the results of Sams ingenuity is the technology used throughout the industry in the production of interlocked products His designs not only changed the way that stripwound hose is made but the way that it is used and perceived in the industry

SmoothNLite Adindd 2 71212 335 PM

10 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

Jim Cochran of Magic Mountain Chimney Sweeps Passes

Jim Cochran of Magic Mountain Chimney Sweeps in Thurmont MD passed away on Thursday April 5 2012 He and wife Debra Cochran have owned and operated this company since 1979 Debra continues to operate Magic Mountain Chimney Sweeps

Jim is survived by his wife Debra Howell Cochran married October 6 1973 in Tampa FL He is also survived by one son Wesly M H Cochran of Frederick MD and one daughter Wendy V Cochran Taylor of Thurmont Debby writes ldquoJim was a legend and many people and sweeps knew and loved him He was one of a kind He had chimney sweeps in top hats and tails for his pallbearers and had a real chimney sweeps funeral It was a great tribute to himrdquoContributions may be made to Cancer Support Community 1050 17th Street NW Suite 500 Washington DC 20036

Sweeping MagazineSept 2012 issue Full page 4 color

Dura-Ventkaren josephson contact

kjosephsonduraventcom800-835-4429

Engineered Excellencereg MampG DuraVent is a member of the MampG Group copy Copyright 2012 Made in the USA 800-835-4429 wwwduraventcom

Stunning design and engineered excellence in manufacture DirectVent Pro combines style with performance Featuring precision tolerances for a tight seal low-pro le locks with no hems or beads for an elegant pro le No gaskets or sealants required (unless by appliance manufacturer) Laser-welded outer seams on all black pipe for a slim nish Several termiantion choices to cap o the system perfectly See why it is speci ed exclusively by nearly every major stove and replace manufacturer in the US and Canada DirectVent Pro is backed by a limited lifetime warranty Find out more at www duraventcom

Dir

ectV

ent

Pro

FOR

DIR

ECT

VEN

T G

AS O

R PR

OPA

NE

STO

VES

HEA

TERS

amp F

IREP

LACE

S

Dire

ctVe

nt Pr

o reg

regIndustryWatch

Industry Watch PolicyNCSG encourages industry partners to submit press releases to Melissa Heeke Sweeping The Journal of Chimney amp Venting Technology editor via email at mheekencsgorg 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 NCSGrsquos opinion regarding the release

Sweeping MagazineSept 2012 issue Full page 4 color

Dura-Ventkaren josephson contact

kjosephsonduraventcom800-835-4429

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12 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

irst of all if you are reading this CONGRATUATIONS As I shared at a recent MIX group meeting I did a presentation for many of you have survived the worst economic downturn in the history of our country one that in many ways rivaled the Great Depression So congratulations

are definitely in order Many American businesses did not survive the economic downturn and others are still on the borderline of survival andor failure I am sure each of you knows of successful business owners who have had their lives (and their lifestyles) undergo a tremendous transition during the past few years Others among you may have only entered our industry since this economic devil revealed itself

What is even more remarkable is that some who read this have done much more Not only have they survived they actually prospered Their businesses grew their profits increased and their business models strengthened Each business that did this faced the same economic conditions as others Yet due to their grit and determination they became true winners Yes there may have been geographic considerations but few areas have escaped the wrath of the economic turmoil our country has faced

What the economic conditions have done for many is force them to become better managers better watchers of their numbers better students of lean methods of operation and better in so many other beneficial ways And it is truly enlightening to see the benefits that have been awarded to those who have continued to make their businesses grow in truly tough economic times and without assistance from banks or other lenders The true success stories of business owners who have completely revamped their operations and have shown levels of excellence that many dream of

But even as a survivor many will encounter roadblocks that will cause stress will slow progress and will serve to raise caution to the wind At times it will come at you with a warning at other times it will simply pop up in front of you with no warning Perhaps it hits you when you awaken in a cold sweat or perhaps it hits you at times when things are just not going as you feel they should The roadblock I refer to is something I classify as the WALL

I feel that a successful business manager can be compared to a star athlete The star athlete will practice he will work out

he will have a strict regimen that will include his diet his sleep habits and will govern his life As he undergoes his training any and all things that can hamper his performance are examined and examined again No matter if he is a runner a swimmer a baseball or football player or a star in other sports He will dedicate himself to excellence just as you do each and every day in your business We saw this in August as we watched the Olympics and see those who receive the gold and hear the stories of the work they did to prepare for the competition

But even with the preparation even with the regiment he has posed to himself at times he will find that his energy is zapped His will to go on will be challenged his fortitude questioned HE HITS THE WALL

As a business manager this is no different than what you encounter at times Not only does the wall come up and block your progress as one person even explained to me about the dreaded wall at times it will even collapse on top of you and you may have to dig out of the rubble During a recent conversation a business owner related ldquoI am digging out of the rubble where that wall fell on top of merdquo when asked how he was doing Has this ever happened to you causing you to stop and wonder just why am I doing this and will I meet my objective Even worse the thought comes to the forefront is it really worth what I am putting into it

In my business endeavors I deal with a lot of folks in different stages of their business models Some have recently launched a business some are transforming a business some preparing exit plans and others are building infrastructure Others still have found success and are working to bring in new management to begin to pursue their true dreams of more free time as the free time was a goal of the original business start-up plan In preparation for this article I asked several who always seem to be going up up and up just what was their secret Just how did the walls not stop them in the progress of the business I think the overall answer I heard was best summed up by one phenomenal business owner His answer was ldquoJerry I keep myself up all the time because I always look at the potential and the markets we have not tapped into yet I just donrsquot see how anyone can get beat due to the problems when there is so much potential and so much untapped businessrdquo

BY JERRY ISENHOUR OF CHIMNEY amp VENTING

CONSULTANTS IN CONCORD NCCoachrsquos Corner

The

The Wall

F

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 13

Quite frankly this hit it on the head Each and every day as a business owner you face adversity perhaps from a customer perhaps from the world around us perhaps simply from an employee who did not meet our expectations But you know this is life and life has a way of throwing curve ball after curve ball The real winner will anticipate what the curve balls will be and will develop the methods to hit the ball no matter how it is thrown at us

The true winner will always view each and every adversary as a learning experience taking what is learned from each error each loss and each hiccup and use these as the basis for new procedures new methods and new ways to grow and prosper The true winner knows that his 1 accountability partner is that guy with him all the time the guy he knows as the man in the mirror

Some are even developing methods within the business to pull these errors and mistakes out of the hidden abyss of the unknown to find the ones we may not even be paying attention to Recently observing several who have instituted a new method that can isolate and eliminate issues is producing astounding results As a respected colleague shared with me ldquoJerry it feels like we are walking on glass but we are finding the ways to end the dreaded Groundhog Day happening over and overrdquo Successful business managers use this as the basis of how they will change the business model adapt their procedures

and continue to grow and prosper All the while raising the PERCENTAGE of profit from the gross figure They do not look at the number they view the number as the percentage Only through viewing the percentage can we truly have a yardstick by which to measure our progress as we grow our management skills

With this my wish is for you to have an excellent fall By the time you read this we will have hit that great part of the year called FALL and what so many call THE BUSY SEASON As you enter this make plans now as to how you plan to promote your business come January 1 2013 This is what the guys who are moving forward are doing The fall is already through the planning stages and they are ready for action ARE YOU If not ask that man in the mirror if he is truly operating at the level he needs to be He has the answer I am sure

About the Author Jerry Isenhour is an industry consultant coach and educator 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 and your business in your quest for success and your rise to the next level take a look at his web site wwwchimneyandventingconsultantscom He can be contacted at jerrychimneyandventingconsultantscom or by phone at (704) 425-0217 You can also obtain great business tips from his Facebook page Chimney amp Venting Consultants

ldquoMy company uses most products available to chimney contractors but Firesafersquos products and systems are hands-down the very best and the most profitable Great technical support and their constant improvements make the products even better which makes my company stand out over my competitionrdquo Kevin Knight Chadds Ford Chimney Sweeps PA

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14 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

erhaps the most important thing to recognize about business is that customer service is not an afterthought to everything else It IS everything else Or as Leon Gorman the CEO of LL Bean puts it ldquoCustomer Service is just a day in day out

ongoing never ending unremitting persevering compassionate type of activityrdquo

Oh thatrsquos a nice thought you say Irsquoll be certain to put a little more attention on that the next free moment I get

If this is your response yoursquove missed the point and perhaps the boat too

So what does it mean when we say service What does good customer service look like Herersquos a good hint from Peter Drucker ldquoQuality in service or product is not what you put into it Itrsquos what the customer gets out of itrdquo

In other words in the final analysis itrsquos not simply how

well you do your job that matters What matters is how your customer feels about you or your company once the job is completed What matters is what they got out of it And in that regard in any arena of competitors the battle will be won by the company who leaves the customer feeling the best the happiest the most satisfied

Jerry Gregoire CIO of Dell believes ldquoThe customer experience is the next competitive battlegroundrdquo

Now you might be thinking your customers must be pretty satisfied since most of the time they donrsquot seem to have any complaints

If you are feeling this way it would behoove you to remember most customers donrsquot complain even if there are dramatic issues with the work Why People donrsquot like confrontations And many people feel their complaints will be neither appreciated nor dealt with so why bother

The One and Only Thing

P

BY GREG POLAKOW OF COPPERFIELD

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 15

The course of action they choose rather than wasting their time and emotions complaining to someone they feel will be either hostile or unresponsive is to select one of your competitors next time they need work done As the saying goes they vote with their wallet

You might rightly be asking yourself well if my customers donrsquot tell me when theyrsquore not satisfied what can I possibly do about it

The answer is there are many things that can be done about it But the first starts with the understanding that customer service is not something that kicks in only when therersquos a problem Customer service has to be part of every contact you have with your customers It is how you treat your customers before you even show up at their door It is how you conduct yourself during your visit And it is most certainly the way in which you handle follow up

Remember it is how your customers feel after all is said and done that matters

We are always forming opinions about others It is a natural part of being human And we begin formulating those opinions with our very first encounter The initial opinions may later give way to either better or worse opinions but initial opinions are extremely influential So ask yourself what are you doing to

insure that the very first impression a customer has of you and your business is excellent What are you doing to make this very first customer service experience positive What are you doing to provide your customer at the very outset with a feel good experience

Whatever your answer is remember it is often this first impression that will determine whether or not a customer will call and complain if there is a problem later rather than simply opt to call one of your competitors next time Why Because it is in this first encounter with you that a customer begins to decide if they trust you If you trust that a company has your best interests at heart you are much more likely to call if there is a problem

So how do you establish a feeling of well being and trust with your customer from the get go Again it has to do with how you make them feel the moment you pick up your phone to answer their first call If your tone is cold indifferent or even matter of fact they are not likely to feel you care And if you donrsquot seem to care about them can you really be trusted to have their best interests at heart EVERTHING you do from the outset absolutely everything will create an opinion of you in the customerrsquos mind That means your tone of voice the patience with which you respond to their questions And the very language and even diction you use to talk to them about whatever chimney related issue they are having

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Sweeping News (Snews)_Smoothcore_Z-Max_no booth_HR_March 29 2012pdf 1 12-03-30 212 PM

16 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

Use language that is too technical and you lose them and put them on the defensive ldquoAm I supposed to understand what this guy is talking aboutrdquo they wonder Speak too fast or indistinctly and you get the same result

Seem like picky details They may be to you but they will not be to your customer

Remember when a customer comes to you he is laying his problem at your feet If he could remedy it himself he would But he canrsquot He needs you to help him So he is feeling a bit vulnerable a bit out of his league How you respond to him in this circumstance can either make him feel immediately comfortable and in safe hands or something less desirable You decide which effect you want to create

I think you can see that if this first encounter leaves your customer glowing instead of glowering you win You win his confidence his trust and even here at the very outset his gratitude If yoursquove done this well ie addressed his initial questions and concerns in a compassionate understanding thorough manner well you are off to an excellent start

But the battle has not been won because yoursquove also set some expectations and your customerrsquos expectation that this kind of treatment will continue must be met If your crew shows up to do the work and forgets they are in the customer service business first and foremost all you accomplished at the beginning can be ruined

Good customer service must build on itself from day one in order to maintain that feeling in your customer of confidence happiness and trust It cannot be hit and miss Being inconsistent might be worse than being just plain ornery from the beginning

Does good customer service trump sloppy careless or substandard work Of course not Because the quality of your product is a huge part of the customer service package Itrsquos all customer service

The bottom line is your customer will appreciate value and respect you to exactly the same degree you appreciate value and respect him No more and no less And the great thing is when you treat your customers as friends when you gladly and openly address their concerns and fix their problems your work and your life become easier and more fulfilling

Try it out Start thinking of customer service as being the be all and end all of your business and see how well things go Yoursquoll be amazed

Remember as Tony Allesandra has observed ldquoBeing on par in terms of price and quality only gets you into the game Service wins the gamerdquo

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18 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

ou all have accomplishments You support your family your employees and their families your vendors and you provide comfort and safety for your customers

Some of you can enjoy your success and can focus on preserving what you have Many of you want to and have the capacity to grow and be more successful Some of you may be struggling with the seasonality and economics of your business Regardless of your level of success almost all of you have varying degrees of uncertainty

Many articles books conferences and videos have been made about the importance of having a strategic plan to help guide you to fulfill your potential

This magazine has offered numerous articles written to help you fulfill your potential The NCSG offers courses to help you gain skills to be more successful

Yet there still appears to be too many business owners

struggling to achieve their goals ndash or have yet to explicitly define their goals which could help them to get their time back and allow them (you) to enjoy their (your) lives

Maybe yoursquore stuck on tactics without a strategy Maybe yoursquore stuck on ldquonoiserdquo ndash noise that the media airs about events you cannot control and distracts you from your business Perhaps that ldquonoiserdquo has contributed to a pessimistic perspective

Perhaps all of the above is ldquonoiserdquo that covers up past or current mistakes or regret either real or perceived

Letrsquos work on facing your concerns and your past Fear fades when facts are faced Regrets can become wisdom when success lies ahead

Consider forming a team of trusted professionals emulate successful associates select friends and close family members who can create a ldquojudgment freerdquo zone to allow you to unwind the past that may be keeping you from achieving your potential

Focus on What You Can Control

Y

BY BRIAN NOE OF MW FINANCIAL GROUP

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 19

Your team can help you realize your dreams by developing a sound strategy employing objective facts without bias Your team has your back

So letrsquos throw out the rear view mirror set aside our mistakes and regrets and look forward to what you can control that can lead to success

You and your team can control your personal finances You and your team can control your business Here are some steps you can take to help seize the day sleep easy and get your time back

1 Budget ndash do you have a personal and business budget Do you adhere to your budget Does your budget include protection and savings for retirement and your legacy Do you know how much you need to save for retirement and your legacy Are you prepared in the event that you may ldquolive too longrdquo

2 Help Protect Yourself your Family and your Business ndash you can take steps to control your risk

Do you let your employees drive your personal vehicles Do your employees drive your work vehicles for personal use Are you covered for that activity These are a just a few examples of ldquohiddenrdquo liabilities that you may be exposed to but unaware of

Do you have adequate umbrella insurance protection in addition to home and auto insurance that covers you and your employees

Do you take steps to relieve stress Do you have disability insurance to provide you with income or your business with funds to pay expenses in the event of illness or injury that prevents you from working

For your business you can implement a safety program This sets up a plan of employee procedures for handling vendors customers and inter-employee communication skills to improve workmanship and other employee development For events you cannot control do you have liability EampO and similar insurance

Does your business take advantage of legal structure asset titling (multiple businesses Spouse ownership) retirement plans life insurance annuities trusts and homestead

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20 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

exemptions (if available) to help protect assets from creditors and frivolous lawsuits

3 Employ Efficient Debt ndash we may be at the bottom of the interest rate and inflation cycle If interest rates rise andor inflation heats up the general rule of thumb for most of us is debtors win creditors lose If you have the cash you have control If the banker has the cash they have control

4 Manage Taxes ndash whether or not income or estate taxes increase in the future a retirement assetincome distribution business succession and legacy strategy is a must for everyone

5 Investment Management ndash you have plenty of risk with your business Do you want to have unnecessary risk with your investments

You cannot control macroeconomics (sequence of return risk rising interest rates trade and budget deficits unemployment inflation taxes real estate values commodity markets fluctuating foreign currency etc)

You cannot control geopolitical events (elections Euro zone issues violent foreign government changes war etc) or environmental events (hurricanes earthquakes fires tsunamis etc)

How do you insulate yourself from economic events you cannot control Consider historically tried tested and true strategies Consider strategies that your grandparentrsquos generation may have used They had to protect themselves ndash government bailouts and subsidies were few and far between

Congratulations if you can assemble a team to help you define and implement a strategy using the tactics described above This can be achieved in a relatively short period of time (a few hours a week over several short weeks can do it) which can help give you your time back so you can focus on your business and family

6 Manage your Business ndash this you can completely control You can engage in any of the following business expansion activities without losing energy and enthusiasm to the issues you and your team of advisors tackled above

Perhaps you would ratherbull Recruit and develop key employees (and future buyers of

your business)bull Market expansion (are you getting on board the e-marketing

train)bull Develop operating procedures and processesbull Improve safety (reduce liability)bull Expand into new territoriesbull Enter a new industry

bull Purchase and manage real estate

Life Happens ndash Enjoy It

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 US Army Eric is ranked first in his class with a degree in Computer Science is working in his field and plans on attending graduate school in 2013 His daughter Kara recently graduated undergraduate school with distinction and is planning to attend graduate school to become a Physiciansrsquo 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_NoeMWFinancialcom

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CSIA Update wwwCSIAorg

Publication for CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepregs

ADVERTISEMENT

The Virginia Association of Chimney amp

Hearth Professionals sponsored CSIArsquos

Inspection amp Report Writing class in

Arlington VA this August 6-7 Tom Urban

served as the instructor for the two-day

session Forty one professionals were

in attendance with 19 being business

owners and 22 being employees The

session drew attendees from as far away

as Louisville KY

The event was sponsored by Wakefield

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VACHP Sponsored Inspection amp Report Writing

Fred Regar served as auctioneer of the sponsor-donated items on the second day of the session

Tom Urban teaching the CSIA Inspection and Report Writing Class in Arlington

When renewing a credential earned after September 1 2009 a CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg is required to

Available downloads for CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepsreg and CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Techniciansreg include

bull CSIACertifiedChimneySweepandCSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician Trademarks

bull ButtonsforyourWebsite

bull CustomizablePowerPointpresentationfor home inspectors

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bull LadderSafetyTips

bull ldquoChimneyFiresCausesEffectsampEvaluationrdquo Prepared by Chimney Safety Institute of America- Chimney Fire Education and Research Task Force

bull Printversionofthiswhitepaperisalsoavailable for purchase

bull Top10WoodburningTipsfromtheChimney Safety Institute of America

Check out the CCS amp CDET area at CSIAorg

bull Submitaminimumof9CEUsearnedwithin the preceeding 3 years (in any category) before testing NOTE This requirement will not apply to CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps already holding the credential on September 1 2009untiltheirnext3-yearcertificationcycle

bull Passaone-hourexambasedonSuccessfulChimneySweeping(2009)andNFPA211(2010)

bull Passaninety-minuteopen-bookexambasedonthe2006IRCreg

bull AgreetopaytheAnnualCertificationFee

bull SignCSIACodeofEthics

OR

bull SubmitappropriatenumberofContinuing Education Units (CEUs) in the relevant categories

bull AgreetopaytheAnnualCertificationFee

bull SignCSIACodeofEthics

Upon earning the CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg credential your certification is valid for one year You will need to recertify annually by paying the annual certification fee This fee will be invoiced annually prior to your expiration date Please note that your credential will require renewal every three years by submittal of the minimum 48 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) in accordance with the CSIA Credential Renewal Policy or by passing the certification exams and either submitting a minimum of 9 CEUs or completing a CSIA Review

If your annual certification fee is not paid prior to your certification expiration date your credential will be considered lapsed and you will immediately lose all rights and privileges of the CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg credential The following terms will then apply if reinstatement of the credential is desired

If you do not pay your annual certification fee by your expiration date the following timeline will begin

bull Within90daysfromthedateofexpiration if you submit payment in full for the annual certification fee your credential will be reinstated and you will be considered a CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg in good standing maintaining your original annual expiration date and certification number

bull Ifmorethan90daysandlessthan12months beyond your expiration date you will be required to Pay the current annual certification fee and current testing fees and test again Doing so will reinstate your previous annual certification expiration date and certification number You will still be required to pay your next annual fee within the next 12 months

bull Ifmorethan12monthsbeyondyourexpiration date you will be required to either participate in a CSIA approved certification review course or submit evidence of 9 CEUs that were accumulated during the time your credential was active In addition you will be required to pass the CSIA certification exams Upon successful completion a new certification number will be assigned and you will have a new annual certification expiration date

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Congratulations to Our New CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps

Top 10 Woodburning Tips from the Chimney Safety Institute of America

To aid in the prevention of chimney fires and carbon monoxide intrusion and to help keep heating appliances and fireplaces functioning properly the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) offers the following safety tips

1 Get an annual chimney check Have chimneys inspected annually and cleaned as necessary by a qualified professional chimney service technician This reduces the risk of fires and carbon monoxide poisonings due to creosote buildup or obstructions in the chimneys

2 Keep it clear Keep tree branches and leaves at least 15 feet away from the top of the chimney

3 Install a chimney cap to keep debris and animals out of the chimney

4 Choose the right fuel For burning firewood in wood stoves or fireplaces choose wellseasoned wood that has been split for a minimum of six months - one year and stored in a covered and elevated location Never burn Christmas trees or treated wood in your fireplace or wood stove

5 Build it right Place firewood or firelogs at the rear of the fireplace on a supporting grate To start the fire use kindling or a commercial firelighter Never use flammable liquids

6 Keep the hearth area clear Combustible material too close to the fireplace or to a wood stove could easily catch fire Keep furniture at least 36rdquo away from the hearth

7 Use a fireplace screen Use metal mesh or a screen in front of the fireplace to catch flying sparks that could ignite or burn holes in the carpet or flooring

8 Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors Place detectors throughout the house and check batteries in the spring and fall

When you change your clocks for Daylight Savings Time remember to check your batteries

9 Never leave a fire unattended Before turning in for the evening be sure that the fire is fully

extinguished Supervise children and pets closely around wood stoves and fireplaces

10 The CSIA recommends annual inspections performed by CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps These chimney sweeps have earned the industryrsquos most respected credential by passing an intensive examination based on fire codes clearances and standards for the construction and maintenance of chimney and venting systems The National Fire Protection Association also recommends that all chimneys are inspected on an annual basis

For more chimney and fireplace safety tips visit the Chimney Safety Institute of America online at wwwCSIAorg

Solve your customersrsquo smoking sooting odor and draft problems Itrsquos easy with CSIArsquos 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 Ghostingsooting 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 doesnrsquot

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

Learn to solve these problems save time and money and keep

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Annual Certification Requirements

Top 10 Woodburning Tips from the Chimney Safety Institute of America

To aid in the prevention of chimney fires and carbon monoxide intrusion and to help keep heating appliances and fireplaces functioning properly the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) offers the following safety tips

1 Get an annual chimney check Have chimneys inspected annually and cleaned as necessary by a qualified professional chimney service technician This reduces the risk of fires and carbon monoxide poisonings due to creosote buildup or obstructions in the chimneys

2 Keep it clear Keep tree branches and leaves at least 15 feet away from the top of the chimney

3 Install a chimney cap to keep debris and animals out of the chimney

4 Choose the right fuel For burning firewood in wood stoves or fireplaces choose wellseasoned wood that has been split for a minimum of six months - one year and stored in a covered and elevated location Never burn Christmas trees or treated wood in your fireplace or wood stove

5 Build it right Place firewood or firelogs at the rear of the fireplace on a supporting grate To start the fire use kindling or a commercial firelighter Never use flammable liquids

6 Keep the hearth area clear Combustible material too close to the fireplace or to a wood stove could easily catch fire Keep furniture at least 36rdquo away from the hearth

7 Use a fireplace screen Use metal mesh or a screen in front of the fireplace to catch flying sparks that could ignite or burn holes in the carpet or flooring

8 Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors Place detectors throughout the house and check batteries in the spring and fall

When you change your clocks for Daylight Savings Time remember to check your batteries

9 Never leave a fire unattended Before turning in for the evening be sure that the fire is fully

extinguished Supervise children and pets closely around wood stoves and fireplaces

10 The CSIA recommends annual inspections performed by CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps These chimney sweeps have earned the industryrsquos most respected credential by passing an intensive examination based on fire codes clearances and standards for the construction and maintenance of chimney and venting systems The National Fire Protection Association also recommends that all chimneys are inspected on an annual basis

For more chimney and fireplace safety tips visit the Chimney Safety Institute of America online at wwwCSIAorg

ADVERTISEMENT

You can spend weeks trying to get a new employee up to speed In the process yoursquoll have used up your valuable time your patience and more money than you would like to admit

Instead send your employee to the most popular cost-effective chimney sweep training in North America CSIArsquos National Chimney Sweep Training School In less than a week wersquoll create an employee that yoursquoll be proud to send on a call ndash and happy to count toward your bottom line

Register today at wwwcsiaorg or call us at (317) 837-5362

At the 6-day hands-on Training School your employee will learn

How to inspect and service chimney systems serving any fuel burning appliance

How to be safe with the latest health and safety equipment and methods

How to work with residential heating appliances including wood stoves pellet stoves inserts factory-built fireplaces central heaters and furnaces

How to diagnose chimney performance problems understanding draft and flow diagnosing down drafts flow reversals inadequate flow stack effects updrafts pressure effects and gauges

How to navigate the International Residential Codes How to follow the NFPA 211 standards

Class size is limited to ensure a ratio of no more than eight students per instructor This small class size means that students have the opportunity for individual attention from the schoolrsquos experienced instructors and ample opportunities for hands-on training Because class size is limited it is important to apply early to reserve your place

The online CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience

The online Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician (CDET) review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience designed to help you pass the CDET exam

Take advantage of these other CSIA educational offerings that can build your business

Send us your greenhorn

and wersquoll send you back a pro

in 6 days Classes fill quickly so register now

2012 DATeS April 2ndash7June 4ndash9August 6ndash11September 24ndash29

April 2-7June 11-16August 6-11September 24-29

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 25

You can spend weeks trying to get a new employee up to speed In the process yoursquoll have used up your valuable time your patience and more money than you would like to admit

Instead send your employee to the most popular cost-effective chimney sweep training in North America CSIArsquos National Chimney Sweep Training School In less than a week wersquoll create an employee that yoursquoll be proud to send on a call ndash and happy to count toward your bottom line

Register today at wwwcsiaorg or call us at (317) 837-5362

At the 6-day hands-on Training School your employee will learn

How to inspect and service chimney systems serving any fuel burning appliance

How to be safe with the latest health and safety equipment and methods

How to work with residential heating appliances including wood stoves pellet stoves inserts factory-built fireplaces central heaters and furnaces

How to diagnose chimney performance problems understanding draft and flow diagnosing down drafts flow reversals inadequate flow stack effects updrafts pressure effects and gauges

How to navigate the International Residential Codes How to follow the NFPA 211 standards

Class size is limited to ensure a ratio of no more than eight students per instructor This small class size means that students have the opportunity for individual attention from the schoolrsquos experienced instructors and ample opportunities for hands-on training Because class size is limited it is important to apply early to reserve your place

The online CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience

The online Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician (CDET) review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience designed to help you pass the CDET exam

Take advantage of these other CSIA educational offerings that can build your business

Send us your greenhorn

and wersquoll send you back a pro

in 6 days Classes fill quickly so register now

2012 DATeS April 2ndash7June 4ndash9August 6ndash11September 24ndash29

April 2-7June 11-16August 6-11September 24-29

ProgressivePerksBY DEBBIE CORNELIUS

MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT COORDINATOR

Get Organized and Make the Most of Your Busy Season

Sometimes it really surprises me that more NCSG members do not take advantage of the discounted benefits available to them These will not only save you time buthellip money too

Paycor Payroll Services price reduction on payroll and tax services One specialist will be dedicated to your account with a team of tax specialists available to resolve issues in the fastest amount of time should an issue arise

Market Hardware can bring your business up to speed in the competitive market of technology where more and more customers are looking to the Web Once they have customized the design that includes a ldquoHome Pagerdquo ldquoAbout Usrdquo and ldquoOur Servicesrdquo page you will have the ability to easily update and edit your Web site yourself instead of paying someone else to do it

Technical Solutions the ldquoSurvival Kit for Small Businessesrdquo can provide on-demand remote repair 247 365 days a year For the price of $2499month with no long term contact involved you can cover up to 20 computers including multiple office locations

Commercials On Hold provides a great way to brand and promote your full range of services when callers are on hold before they talk to a member of your staff

Take a few minutes to just explore these benefits It would be well worth your time to compare the savings to save you time and help increase your profits

26 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

REGION 6

NCSG Charter Members

Paul Bourque Huntsville AL

Don Leavitt San Diego CA

David Harris Broken Arrow Oklahoma

Dan Wheeler Santa Rosa CA

John Cline Menlo Park CA

Dale Meisinger N Augusta SC

Alan Hisey St Louis MO

Eva B Horton Greenwich CT

Harry Richart Hasbrouck Heights NJ

NewNCSGMembers

REGION 3

REGION 2

REGION 5

REGION 4

NCSG REGIONS

REGION 1

Connecticut Vermont Massachusetts New York Maine Rhode Island New Hampshire

REGION 2

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

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

CONNECTICUTChristopher Gonsalves bull Millstream Construction bull HebronDavid Heissenbuttel bull DMH amp Associates Inc bull Wilton

VIRGINAJack Johnston bull Johnstonrsquos Chimney Sweep bull Yorktown

MISSOURIJason Patrick bull Shamrock Qualty Services bull St LouisBill Bonney bull Bonney Bill bull Jackson

KENTUCKYJoshua Moore bull Moore Joshua bull Mt Sterling

ILLINOISJack Lutz bull Lutz Jack bull EurekaClay Nelson bull Clean Sweep bull Collinsville

OHIOAnthony Ramsey bull Elite Chimney Solutions bull Beavercreek

INDIANATravis Beckley bull Beckley Travis bull Coal City

TEXASMatthew Milner bull Milner Matthew bull WhitesboroTony Drew bull AC Contractors dba Fireplaces bull LongviewChristopher A Hess bull Atlas Chimney bull Leander

MINNESOTARenee Gustafson bull John C Gustafson Builder LLC bull Little Falls

COLORADOKent Macintosh bull Russian River Chimney Sweeps bull Healdsburg

CALIFORNIA Errol Davis bull The Chimney Specialist bull Huntington Beach

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 27

The 2012 ndash 2013 offers are being added daily in the ldquoMembers Onlyrdquo section of the NCSG website at wwwNCSGorg So start checking for these new offers each week These coupons will be good until June 30 2013

Copperfield Chimney Supply bull Lindemann Chimney Supply bull Meyer Machine amp Equipment bull National Chimney Supply bull SNEWS - The Chimney Sweep News bull Wakefield Brush bull Wohler USA Inc

2012 ndash 2013 SWEEPS ADVANTAGE COUPON PROGRAM

Featured Coupons of the Month

COPPERFIELD CHIMNEY SUPPLY

SAVE Up to $ 12650 FREE 13 x 13 Lock-Top with an order of $250

SAVE Up to $ 123 One FREE component Kit with any purchase of 6rdquo UltraPro

SAVE Up to $ 52One 225 quart Woodfield porcelain-coated steamer with any Napoleon appliance

purchase

SAVE Up to $ 46 One 13 x 13 HomeSaver Stainless Steel chimney cap with any Order of $250 or more

SAVE Up to $ 64 One EasyClean Cap with any purchase of $250

SAVE UP TO $ 75 $75 off any 25rsquo order of UltraPro Stainless Steel Liner

SAVE UP TO $ 40 $40 off any Flue Stretcher Chimney Cap

SAVE UP TO $ 20 Sign up for a Copperfield Reline Workshop and Save $20

SAVE UP TO FRE FREE 4 foot sample of HomeSaver Ultrapro

WOHLER USA INC SAVE UP TO $ 500$500 rebate with proof of purchase of VIS2000

Pro Camera System

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wwwcomnetmessagecom

Benefits of Answering Service

Award Winning Telephone Agents

Never Miss A Call

Better Time Management

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28 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

Meyer Machine amp Equipment

SUCKINGDUCTS

ampINSULATION

FOR OVER 20 YEARS

As most allergy sufferers will tell you allergy symptoms can always be bothersome turning any time of year into sneezing season A runny nose itchy eyes and scratchy throat can arise as the days get shorter and the leaves begin to change

The fall can be especially difficult for people who are sensitive to mold and ragweed pollen But these seasonal elements arenrsquot the only triggers that can make symptoms worse this time of year There are also a few lesser known triggers Here are four things you might not know about fall allergies courtesy of the American College of Allergy Asthma and Immunology

Hay fever - Hay fever a term from a bygone era actually has nothing to do with hay Instead itrsquos a general term used to describe the symptoms of late summer allergies Ragweed is a common cause of hay fever which is also known as allergic rhinitis The plant usually begins to pollinate in mid-August and may continue to be a problem until a hard freeze depending on where you live See an allergist for prescription medications to control symptoms or to see if allergy shots may be your best option

Lingering warm weather - While most people enjoy Indian summer unseasonably warm temperatures can make rhinitis symptoms last longer Mold spores can also be released when humidity is high or the weather is dry and windy Be sure to begin taking medications before your symptoms start Track your allergy symptoms with MyNasalAllergyJournalorg and visit with your allergist to find relief

Pesky leaves - Some folks might find it difficult to keep up with raking leaves throughout the autumn But for allergy sufferers raking presents its own problem It can stir agitating pollen and mold into the air causing allergy and asthma symptoms Those with allergies should wear an NIOSH-rated N95 mask when raking leaves mowing the lawn and gardening

School allergens - Itrsquos not only seasonal pollen and mold that triggers allergies this time of year Kids are often exposed to classroom irritants and allergy triggers These can include chalk dust and classroom pets Students with food allergies may also be exposed to allergens in the lunch roomKids with exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB) may experience attacks during recess or gym class Help your child understand what can trigger their allergies and asthma and how they can avoid symptoms Be sure to notify teachers and the school nurse of any emergency medications such as quick relief inhalers and epinephrine

No matter the season itrsquos important for those who think they may be suffering from allergies or asthma to see a board-certified allergist An allergist can help you develop a treatment plan which can include both medication and avoidance techniques

Having your allergies properly identified and treated will help you and your family enjoy the season To find an allergist and learn more about allergies and asthma visit wwwAllergyandAsthmaRelieforg

Four Things You Might Not Know About Fall Allergies

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 29

trategic partnerships Sounds fancy but what does it really mean They are called what they are called because there is a true strategy behind them the thought and planning that goes into identifying and development those relationships in a way that will

ultimately help those who are participating to achieve their mission The fact that it is indeed a ldquopartnershiprdquo indicates that everyone involved mutually stands to benefit in some wayhellipItrsquos a win-win

The strategic part of establishing partnerships is analyzing who you are your goals and your current resources and then finding organizations (partners) that will allow you to get the things that you need in order to take your organization to the next level But true partnerships are about what you can bring to each other to help achieve your goals and enhance your resources It is not solely about what you can give me but rather what we can give each other As the great John F Kennedy is well known for encouraging of a world partnership ldquoask not what America will do for you but what together we can do for the freedom of manrdquo

So where does this leave an association like NCSG The key to nonprofits establishing strategic partnerships is having the infrastructure to attract and maintain these relationships In this country there are plenty of nonprofits that are doing great work but there is no organization that will be able to survive if they try

to achieve their mission without establishing partnerships that help provide resources and relationships that allow us to achieve our mission

NCSG is very fortunate to have an impressive array of partners who have for many years some since our inception done just that Our partners have advertised in this magazine exhibited at our conventions contributed to the building and maintaining of our headquarters and the premier industry training facility in Indianapolis discounted thousands of dollars in products and services to our members and have helped us promote the Guild and recruit membership in countless ways not the least of which includes maintaining their own membership in NCSG

Our partners are committed to helping us advance our mission and in turn propel our professional field forward Their partnership supports that programs that ignite your professional and technical development and provide the products and services that have helped you bring your own businesses to life They are integral to the success of this industry and most renew their support of the Guild year after year

Without their support of Sweeping magazine through their advertising we would not have been able to come close to bringing this publication to our members and the industry for the past 35 years (originally The Chimney Sweep Guild News) without significant taxation on the readers Without their support

BY MARK MCSWEENEY CAEEXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Perspective

Support Those Who Support YouldquoOur success has really been based on partnerships from the very beginningrdquo -Bill Gates

S

30 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

of NCSGrsquos annual convention through exhibiting and additional sponsorships registration fees for attendees would easily be double what they are today

When viewing our relationship with exhibitors sponsors advertisers and supplier members as a partnership the question needs to be asked How are we as an association mutually helping them achieve their respective goals

The answer comes back to us having infrastructure to attract and maintain these partnerships And that infrastructure is you the member NCSG cultivates and maintains the relationship with our industry partners on your behalf You are asked to back that up through your support of these partner service providers

Now Irsquom not saying you should buy everything you need at any one place or only through our partners At the end of the day you ultimately need to make your purchasing decisions based on your individual business needs However what would be great to see is our members calling our partners up and giving them a chance to compete for your business Let them know you are a part of NCSG and even if you are not in a position to do business with them this time around let them know you appreciate their continued support of the Guild and the industry Itrsquos one thing to call up to a supplier and ask about a product get a price and hang up Itrsquos another thing to make sure you let them know you saw their ad in Sweeping you read about them

online or you remember they exhibited at the convention so that they know they are getting positive exposure and that their investment in our partnership is not going unnoticed

With that said here are some simple and tangible things things you can do to help the partnership you are a part ofbull Consider our partners each and every time you need to make a

purchasing decision and give them an opportunity to earn your business when you can Look at those who are advertising in Sweeping or see a full listing of NCSG Supplier Members under the Chimney Sweep tab on ncsgorg

bull When you talk to them let them know yoursquore part of NCSG and thank them for their support of your association

bull If you like them even if you canrsquot do business with them currently spread the word and help get their name out there

bull Attend events where our partners have stepped up to sponsor Help show them we value them being there and appreciate their efforts This helps everyone when it comes to working out future programs discounts events and more

We are all in this together Just as you want to ensure you are receiving the return you need on the investments you make our supplier members advertisers exhibitors and sponsors need to justify their own ROI on the variety of support avenues they offer

to NCSG I thought Irsquod take a minute this month to say ldquothank yourdquo to all of you who support us in so many different ways and would like to encourage others to do the same

Until next time I continue to wish you every success

Double Locking CrimpRemains StrongYet Very Flexibl e

With No Memo ry

Strong Triple Locking CrimpHolds T ogether Even OnTough Jobs

Horizontal Sides Of CorrugationOffer Added Strengthamp Flexibility

Manufactured by CHIMNEY TECHNIQUE INC

Chim-Pro Interlock Flex

Chim-Pro Corrugated

Flex

Chim-Pro RigidADDED SAFETY EFFICIENCY AND VALUE

In Which ALL FITTINGS Are Attached With A Band Even The Tee Cap And Elbows Quick amp Simple No Drilling amp Riveting

Featuring

Visit wwwchim-prolinercom for more detailsbull 2000 Industrial Ave bull Sioux Falls SD 57104

1-800-582-1392

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 31

Display Ad Index

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 mheekencsgorg for publication in Sweeping Or mail it to NCSG 2155 Commercial Drive Plainfield IN 46168

Page Advertiser Phone Email or Website Address

30 Ahrens Chimney Technique 800-582-1392 ahrenschimneyqwestofficenet

21-24 Chimney Safety Institute of America 317-837-5362 wwwcsiaorg

14 Cobra Chimney Caps 888-463-0636 salescobrachimneycom

27 Communications Network Inc 800-875-8118 tkempercomnetmessagecom

5 Copperfield 800-247-3305 wwwcopperfieldcom

4 ENERVEX Inc 800-255-2923 infochimneyfanscom

13 Firesafe Industries Inc 800-545-6607 wwwfiresafeinccom

16 Gelco Lyemance Lock-Top 800-334-2154 wwwGLLchimneyproductscom

9 Hose Master 800-221-2319 bobdanielshosemastercom

10 ICP 508-695-7000 wwwchimneycapscom

BC Lifetime Chimney Supply LLC 877-234-7473 wwwlifetimechimneysupplycom

7 Lindemann Chimney Company 800-722-7230 wwwlindemannchimneycom

11 M amp G Duravent 800-835-4429 wwwduraventcom

28 Meyer Machine amp Equipment 800-728-3828 wwwmeyermachinecom

25 National Chimney Supply 800-897-8481 wwwnationalchimneysupplycom

17 Olympia Chimney Supply 800-569-1425 wwwolympiachimneycom

19 Sand Hill Wholesale 800-258-5496 wwwsandhillwholesalecom

6 SaverSystems Inc 800-860-6327 wwwchimneysavercom

3 Smoktite 866-439-0069 wwwsmoktitecom

8 Wakefield Brush 800-264-7007 wwwwakefieldbrushcom

19 Whitecaps 800-335-2534 wwwwhitecapscom

15 Z-Flex 800-654-5600 wwwz-flexcom

The pole and bucket chimney That is how they keep rain and birds out during off season Notice the class A is just an extension of a masonry chimney

Submitted by Kevon Binder of Doctor Flue Inc

September 13-15 2012Lake Murray SCSouth Carolina Chimney Sweep Guildrsquos ldquoThe GatheringrdquoFor more information please contact Blume at (864) 232-9811 or blume357bellsouthnet

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 19 2012 Taunton MAFall Protection User Training Class Including OSHArsquos 2011 ruling on alternate fall protection methods - Sponsored by the Massachusetts Chimney Sweep GuildFor more information please call Jeffrey Wright at (781) 233-2321

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-29 2012CSIA Technology CenterCSIA National Chimney Sweep Training SchoolFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

Dates amp Events

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 8-12 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg October 8-12 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

Please send notice of your events for NCSG Dates amp Events listings at mmcmahonncsgorg for inclusion here in weekly posts to the discussion list and online at wwwNCSGorgdates The event must be considered educational or informative for the industry (sales events and open houses will not be listed)

32 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

ClassifiedsGotta chimney question Sizing Codes Call Royal Edwards Make Royal your tech department CALL NOW 813-982-0219 for on-call tech support Continuing Education special bonus ndash ask how you can get the Friday morning E-Blast for FREE CALL NOW 813-982-0219

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

Chimney Sweep business for sell in the Northern Rocky Mountains of New Mexico Services a large area with three ski resorts in the service area Equipment and signed three year contracts goes with the business Business is well established For pricing and other info please email your questions to ridgeriders1gmailcom

CLASSIFIED ADS FREE FOR NCSG MEMBERSMembers can run one 35 word classified free each year Regularly classified ads are $2word or $1word for NCSG members Classified ads are non-commissionable and must be pre-paid To place a classified ad please contact Megan McMahon at mmcmahonncsgorg or (317) 837-1500

NCSG Innovation 2013 Convention and Trade Show Hotel reservations are now being accepted for NCSG Innovation 2013 at Chateau on the Lake in Branson MO April 4-7 2013 Just call 1-888-333-LAKE (5253) and mention that yoursquore with the National Chimney Sweep Guild to lock in rates starting at $129 for a mountain view and $134 for a lake view

Get ready for some RampR Yoursquore earned it

Order Your FREEAnnual Maintenance Reminder Postcards

A great way to remind homeowners to schedule their annual maintenance check up

Each card has space available for your business information

Use them as reminders for your existing clients or send them to generate new business

To order postcards and other free Burn Wise products contact

Leigh Herringtonherringtonleighepagov

ampKristen Bremer

bremerkristenepagov

wwwepagovburnwise

Follow us on

Wood-Burning Safety

Starts with You

Have you scheduled your

annual inspection

The National Fire Protection Association estimates

that 25 percent of home heating fires are caused

primarily by creosote buildup in the chimney

Make your home healthier and safer A properly

installed and maintained appliance burns more

efficiently and saves you money Contact your local

certified chimney sweep to schedule an annual

inspection today

Before You Burn

The right wayThe right way is hot and bright

In the right applianceThe right appliance is an EPA-approved appliance inspected annually by a certified chimney sweep

Burn the right woodBurn only dry well-seasoned wood that has been split and stored properly

wwwepagovburnwise

wwwcsiaorg

Printed on 100 recycledrecyclable paper with a minimum 50 post-consumer waste using vegetable-based

EPA 456-F-10-004

National Chimney Sweep Guild2155 Commercial DrivePlainfield IN 46168

1208

OR

Page 5: September 2012

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 3

JAY WALKERNCSG PRESIDENT Forward

Moving

ello fellow sweeps I hope this monthrsquos issue finds you well rested and ready for the crazy season ahead of us

This month of September has always been one of anticipation You have stocked your inventory put your systems in place ongoing training is taking place your trucks are loaded foryear and your equipment is in top condition You anticipate a full phone appointment book and an increased bottom line

I looked recently back into Dave Ramseyrsquos Entre Leadership Article and found the following I would like to share My hopes are that if you are a one-man or a multi-truck operation you can pull some good tidbits from this article and hopefully implement them into your business

Fight the Summer Slowdown How to Keep Your Momentum Goingfrom daveramseycom

Every EntreLeader has it That fire in their belly to succeed a passion for their company But despite all that love itrsquos easy to fall into the trap of losing that spark especially during the lazy hazy days of summer when everything just seems to move a little slower

So how do you keep that momentum going in order for your business to continue moving forward As Dave teaches in EntreLeadership Master Series there are a number of ways to stay productive during the dog days of summer Use these tips to get back on track so life once again can be a day at the beach 1 Step Away From the Remote

Have you ever been at home with a long

list of errands when you hear the siren song of your TV Your remote is calling and before you know it yoursquore sucked in You have to see that last episode of Pawn Stars The same holds true at work You walk through the door and are faced with hundreds of distractions Soon the day is gone and you feel like yoursquove accomplished nothing The Solution Each morning make a prioritized list of tasks for the day and stick to it If therersquos a fire to put out throw some water on it But then get back to the chores at hand quickly As Dave says ldquoYou will either tell your day what to do or you will wonder where it wentrdquo To avoid distractions trybull Scheduling email viewing times

Hm

erry

des

ign

A Smoking Hot DealBuy Six Get One Free

Save even more with Pallet Purchasing

4 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

HomeSaverreg Smooth-N-Litetrade Fills the Smoothwall Niche

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Now smoothwall liner doesnt have to be stiff and clumsy Because HomeSavers new Smooth-N-Lite gives you smooth without the headache Nestling right into HomeSavers famous family of UltraPro Pro RoundFlex RectangleFlex OvalFlex and Dial-A-Flex liners our new 010 Smooth-N-Lite gives you the superior weight flexibility and strength you need for smooth liner applications

6 times 25 (304-Alloy)

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Speed Service Selection 8002473305 bull wwwcopperfieldcom

SmoothNLite Adindd 3 71212 335 PM

bull Setting time limits on meetingsbull Avoiding other distractions

If you feel tempted to look at your email at non-scheduled hours hand your assistant your phone or turn off your Internet connection Avoid distractions by putting away your electronic devices hanging a do-not-disturb sign or going off-site Do whatever it takes to keep on track 2 Get Fired Up Starting a company creating a new product or signing that contract with your dream client is unbelievably exciting Itrsquos what makes business a lot of fun But along with those incredible moments comes a lot of everyday hard work and worry that can cause you to lose your passion

The Solution The best way to get re-energized is actually to use no energy at all Taking a vacation revitalizes your brain allowing creativity and passion to flow Herersquos even a better reason Taking time off can save your life Research shows that men who miss annual breaks are 32 more likely to die of heart attacks while women who take a vacation less than once every six years are eight times more likely to develop coronary heart disease

3 Learn Something New There is a scientific evidence that when you are feeling uninspired picking up a book can help According to a study by researchers at Harvard and MIT learning something new and having success fires up the pleasure section of your brain

leading you to even more education and prosperity

The Solution Dave is a huge proponent of reading nonfiction leadershipbusiness books as a way to grow his business Hersquos not alone The average millionaire reads a book a month Leaders are readers But thatrsquos just one way to gain more knowledge Find a mentor network with fellow business leaders or attend seminars or other business events

Take advantage of your summer downtime to refocus recharge and learn Itrsquos an awesome way to keep the momentum flowing and get your team fired up for the fall

To learn more about business team building and leadership download Dave Ramseyrsquos EntreLeadership podcasts (httpwwwdaveramseycom) which include lessons from Dave plus interviews with key business leaders from across the nation

NCSG is about helping sweeps grow their businesses and providing progressive services By the time you read this ndash your NCSG board would have reviewed the next budget for the upcoming fiscal year (2012-13)and have revisited our goals and plans moving forward

Please start planning now for the 2013 NCSG Innovation convention and trade show at Chateau on the Lake in Branson MO April 4-7

As always Sweeps Luck to you and your family and God Bless

Jay WalkerNCSG President

Keep the Cold Air Out and the Cool Look InM E C H A N I C A L V E N T I N G O F F I R E P L A C E S

Eliminate Glass Doors on Gas Fireplaces

The ENERVEX EcoDamper System is the first completely automated draft and damper system designed for use with gas fireplaces

bull Allows for open fireplace designsbull Offers a larger more natural lookbull Creates a new profit center for you

The Guaranteed Solution to Smoking FireplacesThe Guaranteed Solution to Smoking Fireplaces

wwwchimneyfanscominfochimneyfanscomP 8002552923

HomeSaverreg Smooth-N-Litetrade Fills the Smoothwall Niche

5-8 Diameters Light 010 stainless strip Available in 304 and 316 stainless steel alloys Interlocked seams are easy to flex Smooth inner wall Crush resistant No memory Ideal for smoothwall application

Now smoothwall liner doesnt have to be stiff and clumsy Because HomeSavers new Smooth-N-Lite gives you smooth without the headache Nestling right into HomeSavers famous family of UltraPro Pro RoundFlex RectangleFlex OvalFlex and Dial-A-Flex liners our new 010 Smooth-N-Lite gives you the superior weight flexibility and strength you need for smooth liner applications

6 times 25 (304-Alloy)

WIth ShIppINg$36786

~Free Freight bull On orders of $1800 or morebull 65rsquo of liner liner and components ship free

Speed Service Selection 8002473305 bull wwwcopperfieldcom

SmoothNLite Adindd 3 71212 335 PM

6 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

MELISSA HEEKE CAENCSG DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS

EditorrsquosLetter

elcome to September Hopefully the season has been

kind to you so far this year and yoursquore in good shape

for a safe and sane remainder of the home heating season

This month we look at how small businesses can protect

themselves from a data breach how to avoid hitting the proverbial

ldquowallrdquo in your business and focusing on what you can control

Strong and steady wins this game This monthrsquos issue should help

you play your next move with confidence

Until next time I wish you all the best for a safe and successful

season

W

6 Gallons for the Price of 5 Gallons

Get 20 More CrownSeal FREEGet 20 More CrownSeal FREESpecial Size

Available from Participating ChimneySaver DistributorsAvailable from Participating ChimneySaver Distributors

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NCSG can help you promote your event

Please email officencsgorg with info on your upcoming meetings and events Wersquoll list your event on the NCSG website in Sweeping magazine and in our weekly dates and events post to the NCSG Discussion List Yoursquore also encouraged to submit meeting and workshop photos and recaps for publication in Sweeping They say a picture is worth a thousand words and we agree Let everyone know what a great time you had and welcome them to your next event Please send photos and articles directly to Melissa Heeke at mheekencsgorg

8 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

Are Small Businesses Protecting Themselves From a Data Breach

Adata breach can be a challenge for any business but this is especially true for smaller businesses Not only can it be more difficult for a smaller business to recover from a data breach but criminals may also be more likely to target smaller firms

When a data breach occurs at a large firm or government agency it winds up all over the news If one occurred at a small business down the street those unaffected would probably never hear about it But a recent report released by Verizon found that nearly three-quarters of data breaches analyzed last year involved businesses with 100 employees or fewer

ldquoMost small-business owners simply do not believe they are at riskrdquo says Lynn LaGram assistant vice president of small commercial underwriting for The Hartford ldquoThe reality is that small businesses are often more vulnerable - making them easier targetsrdquo

LaGram says part of the reason may be that small-business owners often donrsquot have the time or resources that larger companies may have to assist them in protecting data However protecting data may not be as difficult as one would think

Hose Master Invented the Wheel

Smooth-N-Lite bullYourchoice-304or316stainlesssteelcoils5rdquo-8rdquodiameters bullInterlockedseamsareeasytoflex bullSmoothinnerwall bullCrushresistant bullIdealforsmoothwallapplications bullAvailableinroundovalorrectangle

HeavyFlex bullYourchoice-304or316stainlesssteelcoils bullInterlockedseamsareeasytoflex bullSmoothinnerwall bullHighlycrushresistant bullIdealforfireplacerelines bullAvailableinroundovalrectangleorDial-A-Flex

UltraPro bull Patentedrolllockseamdesignforeasyflexibility bullLargebendrange bullSteepcorrugationslope-resultinginhighcrushresistance bullIdeallysuitedforforbothstraightandmultiplebendrelines bullUncoilseasilyrightoutofthebox

NEW

CopperfieldkeepsturningthewheelwithHomeSaverrsquosnew Smooth-N-LitelinerSmooth-N-Litetakesawaythestiffnessand clumsinessnormallyassociatedwithsmoothwallliner-itgivesyouldquosmoothrdquowithnoheadacheNestlingintoHomeSaverrsquosfamousfamilyofUltraProProRoundFlexRectangleFlexOvalFlexandDial-A-FlexCopperfieldrsquosnewSmooth-N-Litegivesyouthesuperiorweight flexibilityandstrengthyouneedforsmoothlinerapplications

Copperfield Chimney Supply Technical800-246-1926Support800-247-3305

Manufactured by Hose Master Exclusively For

When It Comes to Chimney Liners

Almost50yearsagoSamFotiHoseMasterrsquosCEOredesignedinterlockedmachine technologyHisinnovationsarestillthecoreofmanufacturingflexiblechimneylinertoday

HeavyFlex bull 25yearsagoSaminventedRectangleFlex OvalFlexandDial-A-Flextechnology

UltraPro bull 15yearsagoSaminventedUltraPro-the onlypatentedroll-lockdesignlight-weight linerwithextremeflexibilityandcrush resistance

Smooth-N-Lite bullTodaySamhasdesignedSmooth-N-Lite- thelightinterlockedlinerforsmoothwall applications

and now he invented Smooth-N-Lite

Now We Have It All

All Flexible Liner Is Not Created EqualLet Us Prove It

1964

1983

2000

2012

Pro amp UltraProInvented UltraPro - the only patented roll-lock design light-weight liner with extreme flexibility and crush resistance

Redesigned Interlocked Machine TechnologyInnovations are still the core of manufacturing flexible chimney liner today

HeavyFlexInvented RectangleFlex OvalFlex and Dial-A-Flex technology

Smooth-N-LiteToday Sam has designed Smooth-N-Lite the light interlocked liner for smoothwall applications Manufactured on the same machine technology he invented in 1964

Meet Sam Foti Hose Master CEO engineer and innovator

In 1964 Sam got involved with interlocked products Identifying the problems associated with manufacturing the hose Sam redesigned the tooling and machinery to not only produce a consistent interlocked hose but to also speed-up the production

Today the results of Sams ingenuity is the technology used throughout the industry in the production of interlocked products His designs not only changed the way that stripwound hose is made but the way that it is used and perceived in the industry

SmoothNLite Adindd 2 71212 335 PM

Steps to help prevent a breachFor a business or organization that must handle sensitive customer patient or employee information itrsquos important to take measures that decrease the likelihood of a breach ldquoA data breach can involve electronic or paper recordsrdquo says LaGram She shares eight data protection ldquobest practicesrdquo for a business

bull Lock and secure sensitive customer patient member or employee information

bull Restrict employee access to sensitive informationbull Shred or otherwise securely dispose of all sensitive customer patient

member or employee informationbull Use password protection and data encryption for sensitive filesbull Have a privacy policybull Update systems and software on a regular basisbull Use firewalls to control access to sites that could compromise your

security and lock out hackersbull Ensure that remote access to your network is secure

If a breach occursWhile itrsquos important to take proactive steps to help prevent a data breach from occurring therersquos no way to eliminate the risk entirely so it is also

important to have data breach insurance

According to LaGram a business owner should consider insurance that provides

1 Coverage for expenses associated with responding to and recovering from a breach ldquoBusiness owners may not realize that they must comply with various notification requirements which can be costlyrdquo says LaGram Additional advertising expenses to help a business restore its reputation after a breach would also fall into this category

2 Legal expense and liability coverage A customer or employee whose personal data is compromised may sue the business owner for damages This insurance provides coverage for defense costs civil awards settlements or judgments that a business owner may be obligated to pay

3 Access to data security experts to help the business owner navigate the various notification requirements as well as determine the cause of the breach and take steps to prevent it from happening againBoth consumers and business owners can learn more about what to do if they are involved in a data breach at wwwftcgovidtheft

ldquoA data breach can happen to anyone so itrsquos important for business owners to be preparedrdquo says LaGram For more information about protecting your business from a data breach visit wwwhartforddatabreachcom

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 9

Hose Master Invented the Wheel

Smooth-N-Lite bullYourchoice-304or316stainlesssteelcoils5rdquo-8rdquodiameters bullInterlockedseamsareeasytoflex bullSmoothinnerwall bullCrushresistant bullIdealforsmoothwallapplications bullAvailableinroundovalorrectangle

HeavyFlex bullYourchoice-304or316stainlesssteelcoils bullInterlockedseamsareeasytoflex bullSmoothinnerwall bullHighlycrushresistant bullIdealforfireplacerelines bullAvailableinroundovalrectangleorDial-A-Flex

UltraPro bull Patentedrolllockseamdesignforeasyflexibility bullLargebendrange bullSteepcorrugationslope-resultinginhighcrushresistance bullIdeallysuitedforforbothstraightandmultiplebendrelines bullUncoilseasilyrightoutofthebox

NEW

CopperfieldkeepsturningthewheelwithHomeSaverrsquosnew Smooth-N-LitelinerSmooth-N-Litetakesawaythestiffnessand clumsinessnormallyassociatedwithsmoothwallliner-itgivesyouldquosmoothrdquowithnoheadacheNestlingintoHomeSaverrsquosfamousfamilyofUltraProProRoundFlexRectangleFlexOvalFlexandDial-A-FlexCopperfieldrsquosnewSmooth-N-Litegivesyouthesuperiorweight flexibilityandstrengthyouneedforsmoothlinerapplications

Copperfield Chimney Supply Technical800-246-1926Support800-247-3305

Manufactured by Hose Master Exclusively For

When It Comes to Chimney Liners

Almost50yearsagoSamFotiHoseMasterrsquosCEOredesignedinterlockedmachine technologyHisinnovationsarestillthecoreofmanufacturingflexiblechimneylinertoday

HeavyFlex bull 25yearsagoSaminventedRectangleFlex OvalFlexandDial-A-Flextechnology

UltraPro bull 15yearsagoSaminventedUltraPro-the onlypatentedroll-lockdesignlight-weight linerwithextremeflexibilityandcrush resistance

Smooth-N-Lite bullTodaySamhasdesignedSmooth-N-Lite- thelightinterlockedlinerforsmoothwall applications

and now he invented Smooth-N-Lite

Now We Have It All

All Flexible Liner Is Not Created EqualLet Us Prove It

1964

1983

2000

2012

Pro amp UltraProInvented UltraPro - the only patented roll-lock design light-weight liner with extreme flexibility and crush resistance

Redesigned Interlocked Machine TechnologyInnovations are still the core of manufacturing flexible chimney liner today

HeavyFlexInvented RectangleFlex OvalFlex and Dial-A-Flex technology

Smooth-N-LiteToday Sam has designed Smooth-N-Lite the light interlocked liner for smoothwall applications Manufactured on the same machine technology he invented in 1964

Meet Sam Foti Hose Master CEO engineer and innovator

In 1964 Sam got involved with interlocked products Identifying the problems associated with manufacturing the hose Sam redesigned the tooling and machinery to not only produce a consistent interlocked hose but to also speed-up the production

Today the results of Sams ingenuity is the technology used throughout the industry in the production of interlocked products His designs not only changed the way that stripwound hose is made but the way that it is used and perceived in the industry

SmoothNLite Adindd 2 71212 335 PM

10 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

Jim Cochran of Magic Mountain Chimney Sweeps Passes

Jim Cochran of Magic Mountain Chimney Sweeps in Thurmont MD passed away on Thursday April 5 2012 He and wife Debra Cochran have owned and operated this company since 1979 Debra continues to operate Magic Mountain Chimney Sweeps

Jim is survived by his wife Debra Howell Cochran married October 6 1973 in Tampa FL He is also survived by one son Wesly M H Cochran of Frederick MD and one daughter Wendy V Cochran Taylor of Thurmont Debby writes ldquoJim was a legend and many people and sweeps knew and loved him He was one of a kind He had chimney sweeps in top hats and tails for his pallbearers and had a real chimney sweeps funeral It was a great tribute to himrdquoContributions may be made to Cancer Support Community 1050 17th Street NW Suite 500 Washington DC 20036

Sweeping MagazineSept 2012 issue Full page 4 color

Dura-Ventkaren josephson contact

kjosephsonduraventcom800-835-4429

Engineered Excellencereg MampG DuraVent is a member of the MampG Group copy Copyright 2012 Made in the USA 800-835-4429 wwwduraventcom

Stunning design and engineered excellence in manufacture DirectVent Pro combines style with performance Featuring precision tolerances for a tight seal low-pro le locks with no hems or beads for an elegant pro le No gaskets or sealants required (unless by appliance manufacturer) Laser-welded outer seams on all black pipe for a slim nish Several termiantion choices to cap o the system perfectly See why it is speci ed exclusively by nearly every major stove and replace manufacturer in the US and Canada DirectVent Pro is backed by a limited lifetime warranty Find out more at www duraventcom

Dir

ectV

ent

Pro

FOR

DIR

ECT

VEN

T G

AS O

R PR

OPA

NE

STO

VES

HEA

TERS

amp F

IREP

LACE

S

Dire

ctVe

nt Pr

o reg

regIndustryWatch

Industry Watch PolicyNCSG encourages industry partners to submit press releases to Melissa Heeke Sweeping The Journal of Chimney amp Venting Technology editor via email at mheekencsgorg 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 NCSGrsquos opinion regarding the release

Sweeping MagazineSept 2012 issue Full page 4 color

Dura-Ventkaren josephson contact

kjosephsonduraventcom800-835-4429

Engineered Excellencereg MampG DuraVent is a member of the MampG Group copy Copyright 2012 Made in the USA 800-835-4429 wwwduraventcom

Stunning design and engineered excellence in manufacture DirectVent Pro combines style with performance Featuring precision tolerances for a tight seal low-pro le locks with no hems or beads for an elegant pro le No gaskets or sealants required (unless by appliance manufacturer) Laser-welded outer seams on all black pipe for a slim nish Several termiantion choices to cap o the system perfectly See why it is speci ed exclusively by nearly every major stove and replace manufacturer in the US and Canada DirectVent Pro is backed by a limited lifetime warranty Find out more at www duraventcom

Dir

ectV

ent

Pro

FOR

DIR

ECT

VEN

T G

AS O

R PR

OPA

NE

STO

VES

HEA

TERS

amp F

IREP

LACE

S

Dire

ctVe

nt Pr

o reg

reg

12 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

irst of all if you are reading this CONGRATUATIONS As I shared at a recent MIX group meeting I did a presentation for many of you have survived the worst economic downturn in the history of our country one that in many ways rivaled the Great Depression So congratulations

are definitely in order Many American businesses did not survive the economic downturn and others are still on the borderline of survival andor failure I am sure each of you knows of successful business owners who have had their lives (and their lifestyles) undergo a tremendous transition during the past few years Others among you may have only entered our industry since this economic devil revealed itself

What is even more remarkable is that some who read this have done much more Not only have they survived they actually prospered Their businesses grew their profits increased and their business models strengthened Each business that did this faced the same economic conditions as others Yet due to their grit and determination they became true winners Yes there may have been geographic considerations but few areas have escaped the wrath of the economic turmoil our country has faced

What the economic conditions have done for many is force them to become better managers better watchers of their numbers better students of lean methods of operation and better in so many other beneficial ways And it is truly enlightening to see the benefits that have been awarded to those who have continued to make their businesses grow in truly tough economic times and without assistance from banks or other lenders The true success stories of business owners who have completely revamped their operations and have shown levels of excellence that many dream of

But even as a survivor many will encounter roadblocks that will cause stress will slow progress and will serve to raise caution to the wind At times it will come at you with a warning at other times it will simply pop up in front of you with no warning Perhaps it hits you when you awaken in a cold sweat or perhaps it hits you at times when things are just not going as you feel they should The roadblock I refer to is something I classify as the WALL

I feel that a successful business manager can be compared to a star athlete The star athlete will practice he will work out

he will have a strict regimen that will include his diet his sleep habits and will govern his life As he undergoes his training any and all things that can hamper his performance are examined and examined again No matter if he is a runner a swimmer a baseball or football player or a star in other sports He will dedicate himself to excellence just as you do each and every day in your business We saw this in August as we watched the Olympics and see those who receive the gold and hear the stories of the work they did to prepare for the competition

But even with the preparation even with the regiment he has posed to himself at times he will find that his energy is zapped His will to go on will be challenged his fortitude questioned HE HITS THE WALL

As a business manager this is no different than what you encounter at times Not only does the wall come up and block your progress as one person even explained to me about the dreaded wall at times it will even collapse on top of you and you may have to dig out of the rubble During a recent conversation a business owner related ldquoI am digging out of the rubble where that wall fell on top of merdquo when asked how he was doing Has this ever happened to you causing you to stop and wonder just why am I doing this and will I meet my objective Even worse the thought comes to the forefront is it really worth what I am putting into it

In my business endeavors I deal with a lot of folks in different stages of their business models Some have recently launched a business some are transforming a business some preparing exit plans and others are building infrastructure Others still have found success and are working to bring in new management to begin to pursue their true dreams of more free time as the free time was a goal of the original business start-up plan In preparation for this article I asked several who always seem to be going up up and up just what was their secret Just how did the walls not stop them in the progress of the business I think the overall answer I heard was best summed up by one phenomenal business owner His answer was ldquoJerry I keep myself up all the time because I always look at the potential and the markets we have not tapped into yet I just donrsquot see how anyone can get beat due to the problems when there is so much potential and so much untapped businessrdquo

BY JERRY ISENHOUR OF CHIMNEY amp VENTING

CONSULTANTS IN CONCORD NCCoachrsquos Corner

The

The Wall

F

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 13

Quite frankly this hit it on the head Each and every day as a business owner you face adversity perhaps from a customer perhaps from the world around us perhaps simply from an employee who did not meet our expectations But you know this is life and life has a way of throwing curve ball after curve ball The real winner will anticipate what the curve balls will be and will develop the methods to hit the ball no matter how it is thrown at us

The true winner will always view each and every adversary as a learning experience taking what is learned from each error each loss and each hiccup and use these as the basis for new procedures new methods and new ways to grow and prosper The true winner knows that his 1 accountability partner is that guy with him all the time the guy he knows as the man in the mirror

Some are even developing methods within the business to pull these errors and mistakes out of the hidden abyss of the unknown to find the ones we may not even be paying attention to Recently observing several who have instituted a new method that can isolate and eliminate issues is producing astounding results As a respected colleague shared with me ldquoJerry it feels like we are walking on glass but we are finding the ways to end the dreaded Groundhog Day happening over and overrdquo Successful business managers use this as the basis of how they will change the business model adapt their procedures

and continue to grow and prosper All the while raising the PERCENTAGE of profit from the gross figure They do not look at the number they view the number as the percentage Only through viewing the percentage can we truly have a yardstick by which to measure our progress as we grow our management skills

With this my wish is for you to have an excellent fall By the time you read this we will have hit that great part of the year called FALL and what so many call THE BUSY SEASON As you enter this make plans now as to how you plan to promote your business come January 1 2013 This is what the guys who are moving forward are doing The fall is already through the planning stages and they are ready for action ARE YOU If not ask that man in the mirror if he is truly operating at the level he needs to be He has the answer I am sure

About the Author Jerry Isenhour is an industry consultant coach and educator 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 and your business in your quest for success and your rise to the next level take a look at his web site wwwchimneyandventingconsultantscom He can be contacted at jerrychimneyandventingconsultantscom or by phone at (704) 425-0217 You can also obtain great business tips from his Facebook page Chimney amp Venting Consultants

ldquoMy company uses most products available to chimney contractors but Firesafersquos products and systems are hands-down the very best and the most profitable Great technical support and their constant improvements make the products even better which makes my company stand out over my competitionrdquo Kevin Knight Chadds Ford Chimney Sweeps PA

TO order call 800 TO order call 800--545545--66076607

infofiresafeinccom infofiresafeinccom wwwfiresafeinccomwwwfiresafeinccom

FireFireGuardGuard Ceramic mortar jointCeramic mortar jointCeramic mortar joint amp resurfacing systemamp resurfacing systemamp resurfacing system

PatentedPatented The most advanced chimney liner in the world

reg

CrownGuardCrownGuard Severe weather crown repair amp protectionSevere weather crown repair amp protection

Centering system for metal chimney liners

14 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

erhaps the most important thing to recognize about business is that customer service is not an afterthought to everything else It IS everything else Or as Leon Gorman the CEO of LL Bean puts it ldquoCustomer Service is just a day in day out

ongoing never ending unremitting persevering compassionate type of activityrdquo

Oh thatrsquos a nice thought you say Irsquoll be certain to put a little more attention on that the next free moment I get

If this is your response yoursquove missed the point and perhaps the boat too

So what does it mean when we say service What does good customer service look like Herersquos a good hint from Peter Drucker ldquoQuality in service or product is not what you put into it Itrsquos what the customer gets out of itrdquo

In other words in the final analysis itrsquos not simply how

well you do your job that matters What matters is how your customer feels about you or your company once the job is completed What matters is what they got out of it And in that regard in any arena of competitors the battle will be won by the company who leaves the customer feeling the best the happiest the most satisfied

Jerry Gregoire CIO of Dell believes ldquoThe customer experience is the next competitive battlegroundrdquo

Now you might be thinking your customers must be pretty satisfied since most of the time they donrsquot seem to have any complaints

If you are feeling this way it would behoove you to remember most customers donrsquot complain even if there are dramatic issues with the work Why People donrsquot like confrontations And many people feel their complaints will be neither appreciated nor dealt with so why bother

The One and Only Thing

P

BY GREG POLAKOW OF COPPERFIELD

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 15

The course of action they choose rather than wasting their time and emotions complaining to someone they feel will be either hostile or unresponsive is to select one of your competitors next time they need work done As the saying goes they vote with their wallet

You might rightly be asking yourself well if my customers donrsquot tell me when theyrsquore not satisfied what can I possibly do about it

The answer is there are many things that can be done about it But the first starts with the understanding that customer service is not something that kicks in only when therersquos a problem Customer service has to be part of every contact you have with your customers It is how you treat your customers before you even show up at their door It is how you conduct yourself during your visit And it is most certainly the way in which you handle follow up

Remember it is how your customers feel after all is said and done that matters

We are always forming opinions about others It is a natural part of being human And we begin formulating those opinions with our very first encounter The initial opinions may later give way to either better or worse opinions but initial opinions are extremely influential So ask yourself what are you doing to

insure that the very first impression a customer has of you and your business is excellent What are you doing to make this very first customer service experience positive What are you doing to provide your customer at the very outset with a feel good experience

Whatever your answer is remember it is often this first impression that will determine whether or not a customer will call and complain if there is a problem later rather than simply opt to call one of your competitors next time Why Because it is in this first encounter with you that a customer begins to decide if they trust you If you trust that a company has your best interests at heart you are much more likely to call if there is a problem

So how do you establish a feeling of well being and trust with your customer from the get go Again it has to do with how you make them feel the moment you pick up your phone to answer their first call If your tone is cold indifferent or even matter of fact they are not likely to feel you care And if you donrsquot seem to care about them can you really be trusted to have their best interests at heart EVERTHING you do from the outset absolutely everything will create an opinion of you in the customerrsquos mind That means your tone of voice the patience with which you respond to their questions And the very language and even diction you use to talk to them about whatever chimney related issue they are having

USAT 18006545600F 18888893539

CANADAT 4166790045F 4166790051

salesz-flexcom wwwz-flexcom

Triple Lockreg Smoothcoretrade

All Fuels Chimney Linerbull Eliminates the turbulence thatrsquos inherent with

corrugated liners improving draft

bull Resists corrosive attack by not impeding the flow of condensate down the liner and less opportunity for soot to accumulate

Z-Max Rain Cap ampLock lsquoN Go Base Tee

bull Z-Max Rain Cap with protective ember screen shields chimney from snow driving rain and animal intrusions Quick removal for easy cleaning

bull Z-Max Lock lsquoN Go Base Tee installs in half the time of standard tees with no special installation tools required

bull All products cULus tested and listed by UL to UL1777 and ULC S635

S P E C I A L I Z E D V E N T S H O S E S D U C T S amp C O N N E C T O R S F O R A N Y U S E A N Y I N D U S T R Y

C H I M N E Y amp V E N T I N G S O L U T I O N S

TRIPLE LOCKreg

SMOOTHCOREtrade amp Z-MAX

Smoothcoretrade

All Fuels Chimney LinerEliminates the turbulence thatrsquos inherent with

bull Z-Max Rain Cap with protective ember screen

bull Z-Max Lock lsquoN Go Base Tee installs in half the Pellet GasWood Oil

Suitable For All Fuels

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

Sweeping News (Snews)_Smoothcore_Z-Max_no booth_HR_March 29 2012pdf 1 12-03-30 212 PM

16 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

Use language that is too technical and you lose them and put them on the defensive ldquoAm I supposed to understand what this guy is talking aboutrdquo they wonder Speak too fast or indistinctly and you get the same result

Seem like picky details They may be to you but they will not be to your customer

Remember when a customer comes to you he is laying his problem at your feet If he could remedy it himself he would But he canrsquot He needs you to help him So he is feeling a bit vulnerable a bit out of his league How you respond to him in this circumstance can either make him feel immediately comfortable and in safe hands or something less desirable You decide which effect you want to create

I think you can see that if this first encounter leaves your customer glowing instead of glowering you win You win his confidence his trust and even here at the very outset his gratitude If yoursquove done this well ie addressed his initial questions and concerns in a compassionate understanding thorough manner well you are off to an excellent start

But the battle has not been won because yoursquove also set some expectations and your customerrsquos expectation that this kind of treatment will continue must be met If your crew shows up to do the work and forgets they are in the customer service business first and foremost all you accomplished at the beginning can be ruined

Good customer service must build on itself from day one in order to maintain that feeling in your customer of confidence happiness and trust It cannot be hit and miss Being inconsistent might be worse than being just plain ornery from the beginning

Does good customer service trump sloppy careless or substandard work Of course not Because the quality of your product is a huge part of the customer service package Itrsquos all customer service

The bottom line is your customer will appreciate value and respect you to exactly the same degree you appreciate value and respect him No more and no less And the great thing is when you treat your customers as friends when you gladly and openly address their concerns and fix their problems your work and your life become easier and more fulfilling

Try it out Start thinking of customer service as being the be all and end all of your business and see how well things go Yoursquoll be amazed

Remember as Tony Allesandra has observed ldquoBeing on par in terms of price and quality only gets you into the game Service wins the gamerdquo

Energy-Saving Dampers

AN INDUSTRY STANDARD FOR OVER 25 YEARS

Call your favorite Lock-Topdistributor today

Reduce Your Customerrsquos Utility Bills

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bullOver25YearsintheBusiness

AnOpen Chimneyis like anOpen Window-All Year Round

11 May lock top indd 1 72612 148 PM

w w wolympiachimneycom bull Phone 1-800-569-1425

Will KozlanskyOwner amp Co-Founder

The NEW Smoothwall Chimney Liner thathas the Perfect Combination of

Weight Ruggedness amp Flexibility

n No memory amp very flexible n Smooth Interior n One liner multiple applicationsn Available ovalized amp coiled

w w wolympiachimneycom bull Phone 1-800-569-1425

Will KozlanskyOwner amp Co-Founder

The NEW Smoothwall Chimney Liner thathas the Perfect Combination of

Weight Ruggedness amp Flexibility

n No memory amp very flexible n Smooth Interior n One liner multiple applicationsn Available ovalized amp coiled

18 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

ou all have accomplishments You support your family your employees and their families your vendors and you provide comfort and safety for your customers

Some of you can enjoy your success and can focus on preserving what you have Many of you want to and have the capacity to grow and be more successful Some of you may be struggling with the seasonality and economics of your business Regardless of your level of success almost all of you have varying degrees of uncertainty

Many articles books conferences and videos have been made about the importance of having a strategic plan to help guide you to fulfill your potential

This magazine has offered numerous articles written to help you fulfill your potential The NCSG offers courses to help you gain skills to be more successful

Yet there still appears to be too many business owners

struggling to achieve their goals ndash or have yet to explicitly define their goals which could help them to get their time back and allow them (you) to enjoy their (your) lives

Maybe yoursquore stuck on tactics without a strategy Maybe yoursquore stuck on ldquonoiserdquo ndash noise that the media airs about events you cannot control and distracts you from your business Perhaps that ldquonoiserdquo has contributed to a pessimistic perspective

Perhaps all of the above is ldquonoiserdquo that covers up past or current mistakes or regret either real or perceived

Letrsquos work on facing your concerns and your past Fear fades when facts are faced Regrets can become wisdom when success lies ahead

Consider forming a team of trusted professionals emulate successful associates select friends and close family members who can create a ldquojudgment freerdquo zone to allow you to unwind the past that may be keeping you from achieving your potential

Focus on What You Can Control

Y

BY BRIAN NOE OF MW FINANCIAL GROUP

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 19

Your team can help you realize your dreams by developing a sound strategy employing objective facts without bias Your team has your back

So letrsquos throw out the rear view mirror set aside our mistakes and regrets and look forward to what you can control that can lead to success

You and your team can control your personal finances You and your team can control your business Here are some steps you can take to help seize the day sleep easy and get your time back

1 Budget ndash do you have a personal and business budget Do you adhere to your budget Does your budget include protection and savings for retirement and your legacy Do you know how much you need to save for retirement and your legacy Are you prepared in the event that you may ldquolive too longrdquo

2 Help Protect Yourself your Family and your Business ndash you can take steps to control your risk

Do you let your employees drive your personal vehicles Do your employees drive your work vehicles for personal use Are you covered for that activity These are a just a few examples of ldquohiddenrdquo liabilities that you may be exposed to but unaware of

Do you have adequate umbrella insurance protection in addition to home and auto insurance that covers you and your employees

Do you take steps to relieve stress Do you have disability insurance to provide you with income or your business with funds to pay expenses in the event of illness or injury that prevents you from working

For your business you can implement a safety program This sets up a plan of employee procedures for handling vendors customers and inter-employee communication skills to improve workmanship and other employee development For events you cannot control do you have liability EampO and similar insurance

Does your business take advantage of legal structure asset titling (multiple businesses Spouse ownership) retirement plans life insurance annuities trusts and homestead

Its Not Too Late For Fall Dating

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20 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

exemptions (if available) to help protect assets from creditors and frivolous lawsuits

3 Employ Efficient Debt ndash we may be at the bottom of the interest rate and inflation cycle If interest rates rise andor inflation heats up the general rule of thumb for most of us is debtors win creditors lose If you have the cash you have control If the banker has the cash they have control

4 Manage Taxes ndash whether or not income or estate taxes increase in the future a retirement assetincome distribution business succession and legacy strategy is a must for everyone

5 Investment Management ndash you have plenty of risk with your business Do you want to have unnecessary risk with your investments

You cannot control macroeconomics (sequence of return risk rising interest rates trade and budget deficits unemployment inflation taxes real estate values commodity markets fluctuating foreign currency etc)

You cannot control geopolitical events (elections Euro zone issues violent foreign government changes war etc) or environmental events (hurricanes earthquakes fires tsunamis etc)

How do you insulate yourself from economic events you cannot control Consider historically tried tested and true strategies Consider strategies that your grandparentrsquos generation may have used They had to protect themselves ndash government bailouts and subsidies were few and far between

Congratulations if you can assemble a team to help you define and implement a strategy using the tactics described above This can be achieved in a relatively short period of time (a few hours a week over several short weeks can do it) which can help give you your time back so you can focus on your business and family

6 Manage your Business ndash this you can completely control You can engage in any of the following business expansion activities without losing energy and enthusiasm to the issues you and your team of advisors tackled above

Perhaps you would ratherbull Recruit and develop key employees (and future buyers of

your business)bull Market expansion (are you getting on board the e-marketing

train)bull Develop operating procedures and processesbull Improve safety (reduce liability)bull Expand into new territoriesbull Enter a new industry

bull Purchase and manage real estate

Life Happens ndash Enjoy It

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 US Army Eric is ranked first in his class with a degree in Computer Science is working in his field and plans on attending graduate school in 2013 His daughter Kara recently graduated undergraduate school with distinction and is planning to attend graduate school to become a Physiciansrsquo 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_NoeMWFinancialcom

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CSIA Update wwwCSIAorg

Publication for CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepregs

ADVERTISEMENT

The Virginia Association of Chimney amp

Hearth Professionals sponsored CSIArsquos

Inspection amp Report Writing class in

Arlington VA this August 6-7 Tom Urban

served as the instructor for the two-day

session Forty one professionals were

in attendance with 19 being business

owners and 22 being employees The

session drew attendees from as far away

as Louisville KY

The event was sponsored by Wakefield

Brush The Chimney Sweep News

Ahrenrsquos Copperfield Wohler Estoban

Lindemann Chimney Supply National

Chimney Supply Olympia Chimney

Supply SaverSystems and Whitecaps

VACHP Sponsored Inspection amp Report Writing

Fred Regar served as auctioneer of the sponsor-donated items on the second day of the session

Tom Urban teaching the CSIA Inspection and Report Writing Class in Arlington

When renewing a credential earned after September 1 2009 a CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg is required to

Available downloads for CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepsreg and CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Techniciansreg include

bull CSIACertifiedChimneySweepandCSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician Trademarks

bull ButtonsforyourWebsite

bull CustomizablePowerPointpresentationfor home inspectors

bull InspectionSOPs

bull LadderSafetyTips

bull ldquoChimneyFiresCausesEffectsampEvaluationrdquo Prepared by Chimney Safety Institute of America- Chimney Fire Education and Research Task Force

bull Printversionofthiswhitepaperisalsoavailable for purchase

bull Top10WoodburningTipsfromtheChimney Safety Institute of America

Check out the CCS amp CDET area at CSIAorg

bull Submitaminimumof9CEUsearnedwithin the preceeding 3 years (in any category) before testing NOTE This requirement will not apply to CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps already holding the credential on September 1 2009untiltheirnext3-yearcertificationcycle

bull Passaone-hourexambasedonSuccessfulChimneySweeping(2009)andNFPA211(2010)

bull Passaninety-minuteopen-bookexambasedonthe2006IRCreg

bull AgreetopaytheAnnualCertificationFee

bull SignCSIACodeofEthics

OR

bull SubmitappropriatenumberofContinuing Education Units (CEUs) in the relevant categories

bull AgreetopaytheAnnualCertificationFee

bull SignCSIACodeofEthics

Upon earning the CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg credential your certification is valid for one year You will need to recertify annually by paying the annual certification fee This fee will be invoiced annually prior to your expiration date Please note that your credential will require renewal every three years by submittal of the minimum 48 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) in accordance with the CSIA Credential Renewal Policy or by passing the certification exams and either submitting a minimum of 9 CEUs or completing a CSIA Review

If your annual certification fee is not paid prior to your certification expiration date your credential will be considered lapsed and you will immediately lose all rights and privileges of the CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg credential The following terms will then apply if reinstatement of the credential is desired

If you do not pay your annual certification fee by your expiration date the following timeline will begin

bull Within90daysfromthedateofexpiration if you submit payment in full for the annual certification fee your credential will be reinstated and you will be considered a CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg in good standing maintaining your original annual expiration date and certification number

bull Ifmorethan90daysandlessthan12months beyond your expiration date you will be required to Pay the current annual certification fee and current testing fees and test again Doing so will reinstate your previous annual certification expiration date and certification number You will still be required to pay your next annual fee within the next 12 months

bull Ifmorethan12monthsbeyondyourexpiration date you will be required to either participate in a CSIA approved certification review course or submit evidence of 9 CEUs that were accumulated during the time your credential was active In addition you will be required to pass the CSIA certification exams Upon successful completion a new certification number will be assigned and you will have a new annual certification expiration date

CaliforniaMichaelGipsonbullMidtownSweepsbullLancasterOmarSaenzbullAFiddlerontheRoodDuctampChimneyServicebullVanNuys

IndianaAlexStewartbullOldSmokeyrsquosFireplaceampChimneyIncbullAshley

KansasRyanBerrybullFullServiceChimneybullOlathe

New YorkJayFellibullHearthampHomeofIthacabullIthaca

VermontJamesDonovanbullLincolnPeakPropertiesbullWaitsfield

West VirginiaMichaelAdwellbullTopHatChimneySweepbullLewisburg

WisconsinDustinMyersbullChimneySpecialistsIncbullHighland

ADVERTISEMENT

Congratulations to Our New CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps

Top 10 Woodburning Tips from the Chimney Safety Institute of America

To aid in the prevention of chimney fires and carbon monoxide intrusion and to help keep heating appliances and fireplaces functioning properly the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) offers the following safety tips

1 Get an annual chimney check Have chimneys inspected annually and cleaned as necessary by a qualified professional chimney service technician This reduces the risk of fires and carbon monoxide poisonings due to creosote buildup or obstructions in the chimneys

2 Keep it clear Keep tree branches and leaves at least 15 feet away from the top of the chimney

3 Install a chimney cap to keep debris and animals out of the chimney

4 Choose the right fuel For burning firewood in wood stoves or fireplaces choose wellseasoned wood that has been split for a minimum of six months - one year and stored in a covered and elevated location Never burn Christmas trees or treated wood in your fireplace or wood stove

5 Build it right Place firewood or firelogs at the rear of the fireplace on a supporting grate To start the fire use kindling or a commercial firelighter Never use flammable liquids

6 Keep the hearth area clear Combustible material too close to the fireplace or to a wood stove could easily catch fire Keep furniture at least 36rdquo away from the hearth

7 Use a fireplace screen Use metal mesh or a screen in front of the fireplace to catch flying sparks that could ignite or burn holes in the carpet or flooring

8 Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors Place detectors throughout the house and check batteries in the spring and fall

When you change your clocks for Daylight Savings Time remember to check your batteries

9 Never leave a fire unattended Before turning in for the evening be sure that the fire is fully

extinguished Supervise children and pets closely around wood stoves and fireplaces

10 The CSIA recommends annual inspections performed by CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps These chimney sweeps have earned the industryrsquos most respected credential by passing an intensive examination based on fire codes clearances and standards for the construction and maintenance of chimney and venting systems The National Fire Protection Association also recommends that all chimneys are inspected on an annual basis

For more chimney and fireplace safety tips visit the Chimney Safety Institute of America online at wwwCSIAorg

Solve your customersrsquo smoking sooting odor and draft problems Itrsquos easy with CSIArsquos 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 Ghostingsooting 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 doesnrsquot

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

Learn to solve these problems save time and money and keep

your clients happy with CSIArsquos Online Chimney Physics program

SolvedVenting Problems

Register today at wwwcsiaorg

CSIA 15 Tech 15 CampL 15 HampS 15 CampS NFI 5 Tech

Annual Certification Requirements

Top 10 Woodburning Tips from the Chimney Safety Institute of America

To aid in the prevention of chimney fires and carbon monoxide intrusion and to help keep heating appliances and fireplaces functioning properly the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) offers the following safety tips

1 Get an annual chimney check Have chimneys inspected annually and cleaned as necessary by a qualified professional chimney service technician This reduces the risk of fires and carbon monoxide poisonings due to creosote buildup or obstructions in the chimneys

2 Keep it clear Keep tree branches and leaves at least 15 feet away from the top of the chimney

3 Install a chimney cap to keep debris and animals out of the chimney

4 Choose the right fuel For burning firewood in wood stoves or fireplaces choose wellseasoned wood that has been split for a minimum of six months - one year and stored in a covered and elevated location Never burn Christmas trees or treated wood in your fireplace or wood stove

5 Build it right Place firewood or firelogs at the rear of the fireplace on a supporting grate To start the fire use kindling or a commercial firelighter Never use flammable liquids

6 Keep the hearth area clear Combustible material too close to the fireplace or to a wood stove could easily catch fire Keep furniture at least 36rdquo away from the hearth

7 Use a fireplace screen Use metal mesh or a screen in front of the fireplace to catch flying sparks that could ignite or burn holes in the carpet or flooring

8 Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors Place detectors throughout the house and check batteries in the spring and fall

When you change your clocks for Daylight Savings Time remember to check your batteries

9 Never leave a fire unattended Before turning in for the evening be sure that the fire is fully

extinguished Supervise children and pets closely around wood stoves and fireplaces

10 The CSIA recommends annual inspections performed by CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps These chimney sweeps have earned the industryrsquos most respected credential by passing an intensive examination based on fire codes clearances and standards for the construction and maintenance of chimney and venting systems The National Fire Protection Association also recommends that all chimneys are inspected on an annual basis

For more chimney and fireplace safety tips visit the Chimney Safety Institute of America online at wwwCSIAorg

ADVERTISEMENT

You can spend weeks trying to get a new employee up to speed In the process yoursquoll have used up your valuable time your patience and more money than you would like to admit

Instead send your employee to the most popular cost-effective chimney sweep training in North America CSIArsquos National Chimney Sweep Training School In less than a week wersquoll create an employee that yoursquoll be proud to send on a call ndash and happy to count toward your bottom line

Register today at wwwcsiaorg or call us at (317) 837-5362

At the 6-day hands-on Training School your employee will learn

How to inspect and service chimney systems serving any fuel burning appliance

How to be safe with the latest health and safety equipment and methods

How to work with residential heating appliances including wood stoves pellet stoves inserts factory-built fireplaces central heaters and furnaces

How to diagnose chimney performance problems understanding draft and flow diagnosing down drafts flow reversals inadequate flow stack effects updrafts pressure effects and gauges

How to navigate the International Residential Codes How to follow the NFPA 211 standards

Class size is limited to ensure a ratio of no more than eight students per instructor This small class size means that students have the opportunity for individual attention from the schoolrsquos experienced instructors and ample opportunities for hands-on training Because class size is limited it is important to apply early to reserve your place

The online CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience

The online Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician (CDET) review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience designed to help you pass the CDET exam

Take advantage of these other CSIA educational offerings that can build your business

Send us your greenhorn

and wersquoll send you back a pro

in 6 days Classes fill quickly so register now

2012 DATeS April 2ndash7June 4ndash9August 6ndash11September 24ndash29

April 2-7June 11-16August 6-11September 24-29

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 25

You can spend weeks trying to get a new employee up to speed In the process yoursquoll have used up your valuable time your patience and more money than you would like to admit

Instead send your employee to the most popular cost-effective chimney sweep training in North America CSIArsquos National Chimney Sweep Training School In less than a week wersquoll create an employee that yoursquoll be proud to send on a call ndash and happy to count toward your bottom line

Register today at wwwcsiaorg or call us at (317) 837-5362

At the 6-day hands-on Training School your employee will learn

How to inspect and service chimney systems serving any fuel burning appliance

How to be safe with the latest health and safety equipment and methods

How to work with residential heating appliances including wood stoves pellet stoves inserts factory-built fireplaces central heaters and furnaces

How to diagnose chimney performance problems understanding draft and flow diagnosing down drafts flow reversals inadequate flow stack effects updrafts pressure effects and gauges

How to navigate the International Residential Codes How to follow the NFPA 211 standards

Class size is limited to ensure a ratio of no more than eight students per instructor This small class size means that students have the opportunity for individual attention from the schoolrsquos experienced instructors and ample opportunities for hands-on training Because class size is limited it is important to apply early to reserve your place

The online CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience

The online Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician (CDET) review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience designed to help you pass the CDET exam

Take advantage of these other CSIA educational offerings that can build your business

Send us your greenhorn

and wersquoll send you back a pro

in 6 days Classes fill quickly so register now

2012 DATeS April 2ndash7June 4ndash9August 6ndash11September 24ndash29

April 2-7June 11-16August 6-11September 24-29

ProgressivePerksBY DEBBIE CORNELIUS

MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT COORDINATOR

Get Organized and Make the Most of Your Busy Season

Sometimes it really surprises me that more NCSG members do not take advantage of the discounted benefits available to them These will not only save you time buthellip money too

Paycor Payroll Services price reduction on payroll and tax services One specialist will be dedicated to your account with a team of tax specialists available to resolve issues in the fastest amount of time should an issue arise

Market Hardware can bring your business up to speed in the competitive market of technology where more and more customers are looking to the Web Once they have customized the design that includes a ldquoHome Pagerdquo ldquoAbout Usrdquo and ldquoOur Servicesrdquo page you will have the ability to easily update and edit your Web site yourself instead of paying someone else to do it

Technical Solutions the ldquoSurvival Kit for Small Businessesrdquo can provide on-demand remote repair 247 365 days a year For the price of $2499month with no long term contact involved you can cover up to 20 computers including multiple office locations

Commercials On Hold provides a great way to brand and promote your full range of services when callers are on hold before they talk to a member of your staff

Take a few minutes to just explore these benefits It would be well worth your time to compare the savings to save you time and help increase your profits

26 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

REGION 6

NCSG Charter Members

Paul Bourque Huntsville AL

Don Leavitt San Diego CA

David Harris Broken Arrow Oklahoma

Dan Wheeler Santa Rosa CA

John Cline Menlo Park CA

Dale Meisinger N Augusta SC

Alan Hisey St Louis MO

Eva B Horton Greenwich CT

Harry Richart Hasbrouck Heights NJ

NewNCSGMembers

REGION 3

REGION 2

REGION 5

REGION 4

NCSG REGIONS

REGION 1

Connecticut Vermont Massachusetts New York Maine Rhode Island New Hampshire

REGION 2

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

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

CONNECTICUTChristopher Gonsalves bull Millstream Construction bull HebronDavid Heissenbuttel bull DMH amp Associates Inc bull Wilton

VIRGINAJack Johnston bull Johnstonrsquos Chimney Sweep bull Yorktown

MISSOURIJason Patrick bull Shamrock Qualty Services bull St LouisBill Bonney bull Bonney Bill bull Jackson

KENTUCKYJoshua Moore bull Moore Joshua bull Mt Sterling

ILLINOISJack Lutz bull Lutz Jack bull EurekaClay Nelson bull Clean Sweep bull Collinsville

OHIOAnthony Ramsey bull Elite Chimney Solutions bull Beavercreek

INDIANATravis Beckley bull Beckley Travis bull Coal City

TEXASMatthew Milner bull Milner Matthew bull WhitesboroTony Drew bull AC Contractors dba Fireplaces bull LongviewChristopher A Hess bull Atlas Chimney bull Leander

MINNESOTARenee Gustafson bull John C Gustafson Builder LLC bull Little Falls

COLORADOKent Macintosh bull Russian River Chimney Sweeps bull Healdsburg

CALIFORNIA Errol Davis bull The Chimney Specialist bull Huntington Beach

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 27

The 2012 ndash 2013 offers are being added daily in the ldquoMembers Onlyrdquo section of the NCSG website at wwwNCSGorg So start checking for these new offers each week These coupons will be good until June 30 2013

Copperfield Chimney Supply bull Lindemann Chimney Supply bull Meyer Machine amp Equipment bull National Chimney Supply bull SNEWS - The Chimney Sweep News bull Wakefield Brush bull Wohler USA Inc

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Featured Coupons of the Month

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purchase

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SAVE Up to $ 64 One EasyClean Cap with any purchase of $250

SAVE UP TO $ 75 $75 off any 25rsquo order of UltraPro Stainless Steel Liner

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28 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

Meyer Machine amp Equipment

SUCKINGDUCTS

ampINSULATION

FOR OVER 20 YEARS

As most allergy sufferers will tell you allergy symptoms can always be bothersome turning any time of year into sneezing season A runny nose itchy eyes and scratchy throat can arise as the days get shorter and the leaves begin to change

The fall can be especially difficult for people who are sensitive to mold and ragweed pollen But these seasonal elements arenrsquot the only triggers that can make symptoms worse this time of year There are also a few lesser known triggers Here are four things you might not know about fall allergies courtesy of the American College of Allergy Asthma and Immunology

Hay fever - Hay fever a term from a bygone era actually has nothing to do with hay Instead itrsquos a general term used to describe the symptoms of late summer allergies Ragweed is a common cause of hay fever which is also known as allergic rhinitis The plant usually begins to pollinate in mid-August and may continue to be a problem until a hard freeze depending on where you live See an allergist for prescription medications to control symptoms or to see if allergy shots may be your best option

Lingering warm weather - While most people enjoy Indian summer unseasonably warm temperatures can make rhinitis symptoms last longer Mold spores can also be released when humidity is high or the weather is dry and windy Be sure to begin taking medications before your symptoms start Track your allergy symptoms with MyNasalAllergyJournalorg and visit with your allergist to find relief

Pesky leaves - Some folks might find it difficult to keep up with raking leaves throughout the autumn But for allergy sufferers raking presents its own problem It can stir agitating pollen and mold into the air causing allergy and asthma symptoms Those with allergies should wear an NIOSH-rated N95 mask when raking leaves mowing the lawn and gardening

School allergens - Itrsquos not only seasonal pollen and mold that triggers allergies this time of year Kids are often exposed to classroom irritants and allergy triggers These can include chalk dust and classroom pets Students with food allergies may also be exposed to allergens in the lunch roomKids with exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB) may experience attacks during recess or gym class Help your child understand what can trigger their allergies and asthma and how they can avoid symptoms Be sure to notify teachers and the school nurse of any emergency medications such as quick relief inhalers and epinephrine

No matter the season itrsquos important for those who think they may be suffering from allergies or asthma to see a board-certified allergist An allergist can help you develop a treatment plan which can include both medication and avoidance techniques

Having your allergies properly identified and treated will help you and your family enjoy the season To find an allergist and learn more about allergies and asthma visit wwwAllergyandAsthmaRelieforg

Four Things You Might Not Know About Fall Allergies

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 29

trategic partnerships Sounds fancy but what does it really mean They are called what they are called because there is a true strategy behind them the thought and planning that goes into identifying and development those relationships in a way that will

ultimately help those who are participating to achieve their mission The fact that it is indeed a ldquopartnershiprdquo indicates that everyone involved mutually stands to benefit in some wayhellipItrsquos a win-win

The strategic part of establishing partnerships is analyzing who you are your goals and your current resources and then finding organizations (partners) that will allow you to get the things that you need in order to take your organization to the next level But true partnerships are about what you can bring to each other to help achieve your goals and enhance your resources It is not solely about what you can give me but rather what we can give each other As the great John F Kennedy is well known for encouraging of a world partnership ldquoask not what America will do for you but what together we can do for the freedom of manrdquo

So where does this leave an association like NCSG The key to nonprofits establishing strategic partnerships is having the infrastructure to attract and maintain these relationships In this country there are plenty of nonprofits that are doing great work but there is no organization that will be able to survive if they try

to achieve their mission without establishing partnerships that help provide resources and relationships that allow us to achieve our mission

NCSG is very fortunate to have an impressive array of partners who have for many years some since our inception done just that Our partners have advertised in this magazine exhibited at our conventions contributed to the building and maintaining of our headquarters and the premier industry training facility in Indianapolis discounted thousands of dollars in products and services to our members and have helped us promote the Guild and recruit membership in countless ways not the least of which includes maintaining their own membership in NCSG

Our partners are committed to helping us advance our mission and in turn propel our professional field forward Their partnership supports that programs that ignite your professional and technical development and provide the products and services that have helped you bring your own businesses to life They are integral to the success of this industry and most renew their support of the Guild year after year

Without their support of Sweeping magazine through their advertising we would not have been able to come close to bringing this publication to our members and the industry for the past 35 years (originally The Chimney Sweep Guild News) without significant taxation on the readers Without their support

BY MARK MCSWEENEY CAEEXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Perspective

Support Those Who Support YouldquoOur success has really been based on partnerships from the very beginningrdquo -Bill Gates

S

30 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

of NCSGrsquos annual convention through exhibiting and additional sponsorships registration fees for attendees would easily be double what they are today

When viewing our relationship with exhibitors sponsors advertisers and supplier members as a partnership the question needs to be asked How are we as an association mutually helping them achieve their respective goals

The answer comes back to us having infrastructure to attract and maintain these partnerships And that infrastructure is you the member NCSG cultivates and maintains the relationship with our industry partners on your behalf You are asked to back that up through your support of these partner service providers

Now Irsquom not saying you should buy everything you need at any one place or only through our partners At the end of the day you ultimately need to make your purchasing decisions based on your individual business needs However what would be great to see is our members calling our partners up and giving them a chance to compete for your business Let them know you are a part of NCSG and even if you are not in a position to do business with them this time around let them know you appreciate their continued support of the Guild and the industry Itrsquos one thing to call up to a supplier and ask about a product get a price and hang up Itrsquos another thing to make sure you let them know you saw their ad in Sweeping you read about them

online or you remember they exhibited at the convention so that they know they are getting positive exposure and that their investment in our partnership is not going unnoticed

With that said here are some simple and tangible things things you can do to help the partnership you are a part ofbull Consider our partners each and every time you need to make a

purchasing decision and give them an opportunity to earn your business when you can Look at those who are advertising in Sweeping or see a full listing of NCSG Supplier Members under the Chimney Sweep tab on ncsgorg

bull When you talk to them let them know yoursquore part of NCSG and thank them for their support of your association

bull If you like them even if you canrsquot do business with them currently spread the word and help get their name out there

bull Attend events where our partners have stepped up to sponsor Help show them we value them being there and appreciate their efforts This helps everyone when it comes to working out future programs discounts events and more

We are all in this together Just as you want to ensure you are receiving the return you need on the investments you make our supplier members advertisers exhibitors and sponsors need to justify their own ROI on the variety of support avenues they offer

to NCSG I thought Irsquod take a minute this month to say ldquothank yourdquo to all of you who support us in so many different ways and would like to encourage others to do the same

Until next time I continue to wish you every success

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Visit wwwchim-prolinercom for more detailsbull 2000 Industrial Ave bull Sioux Falls SD 57104

1-800-582-1392

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 31

Display Ad Index

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 mheekencsgorg for publication in Sweeping Or mail it to NCSG 2155 Commercial Drive Plainfield IN 46168

Page Advertiser Phone Email or Website Address

30 Ahrens Chimney Technique 800-582-1392 ahrenschimneyqwestofficenet

21-24 Chimney Safety Institute of America 317-837-5362 wwwcsiaorg

14 Cobra Chimney Caps 888-463-0636 salescobrachimneycom

27 Communications Network Inc 800-875-8118 tkempercomnetmessagecom

5 Copperfield 800-247-3305 wwwcopperfieldcom

4 ENERVEX Inc 800-255-2923 infochimneyfanscom

13 Firesafe Industries Inc 800-545-6607 wwwfiresafeinccom

16 Gelco Lyemance Lock-Top 800-334-2154 wwwGLLchimneyproductscom

9 Hose Master 800-221-2319 bobdanielshosemastercom

10 ICP 508-695-7000 wwwchimneycapscom

BC Lifetime Chimney Supply LLC 877-234-7473 wwwlifetimechimneysupplycom

7 Lindemann Chimney Company 800-722-7230 wwwlindemannchimneycom

11 M amp G Duravent 800-835-4429 wwwduraventcom

28 Meyer Machine amp Equipment 800-728-3828 wwwmeyermachinecom

25 National Chimney Supply 800-897-8481 wwwnationalchimneysupplycom

17 Olympia Chimney Supply 800-569-1425 wwwolympiachimneycom

19 Sand Hill Wholesale 800-258-5496 wwwsandhillwholesalecom

6 SaverSystems Inc 800-860-6327 wwwchimneysavercom

3 Smoktite 866-439-0069 wwwsmoktitecom

8 Wakefield Brush 800-264-7007 wwwwakefieldbrushcom

19 Whitecaps 800-335-2534 wwwwhitecapscom

15 Z-Flex 800-654-5600 wwwz-flexcom

The pole and bucket chimney That is how they keep rain and birds out during off season Notice the class A is just an extension of a masonry chimney

Submitted by Kevon Binder of Doctor Flue Inc

September 13-15 2012Lake Murray SCSouth Carolina Chimney Sweep Guildrsquos ldquoThe GatheringrdquoFor more information please contact Blume at (864) 232-9811 or blume357bellsouthnet

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 19 2012 Taunton MAFall Protection User Training Class Including OSHArsquos 2011 ruling on alternate fall protection methods - Sponsored by the Massachusetts Chimney Sweep GuildFor more information please call Jeffrey Wright at (781) 233-2321

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-29 2012CSIA Technology CenterCSIA National Chimney Sweep Training SchoolFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

Dates amp Events

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 8-12 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg October 8-12 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

Please send notice of your events for NCSG Dates amp Events listings at mmcmahonncsgorg for inclusion here in weekly posts to the discussion list and online at wwwNCSGorgdates The event must be considered educational or informative for the industry (sales events and open houses will not be listed)

32 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

ClassifiedsGotta chimney question Sizing Codes Call Royal Edwards Make Royal your tech department CALL NOW 813-982-0219 for on-call tech support Continuing Education special bonus ndash ask how you can get the Friday morning E-Blast for FREE CALL NOW 813-982-0219

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

Chimney Sweep business for sell in the Northern Rocky Mountains of New Mexico Services a large area with three ski resorts in the service area Equipment and signed three year contracts goes with the business Business is well established For pricing and other info please email your questions to ridgeriders1gmailcom

CLASSIFIED ADS FREE FOR NCSG MEMBERSMembers can run one 35 word classified free each year Regularly classified ads are $2word or $1word for NCSG members Classified ads are non-commissionable and must be pre-paid To place a classified ad please contact Megan McMahon at mmcmahonncsgorg or (317) 837-1500

NCSG Innovation 2013 Convention and Trade Show Hotel reservations are now being accepted for NCSG Innovation 2013 at Chateau on the Lake in Branson MO April 4-7 2013 Just call 1-888-333-LAKE (5253) and mention that yoursquore with the National Chimney Sweep Guild to lock in rates starting at $129 for a mountain view and $134 for a lake view

Get ready for some RampR Yoursquore earned it

Order Your FREEAnnual Maintenance Reminder Postcards

A great way to remind homeowners to schedule their annual maintenance check up

Each card has space available for your business information

Use them as reminders for your existing clients or send them to generate new business

To order postcards and other free Burn Wise products contact

Leigh Herringtonherringtonleighepagov

ampKristen Bremer

bremerkristenepagov

wwwepagovburnwise

Follow us on

Wood-Burning Safety

Starts with You

Have you scheduled your

annual inspection

The National Fire Protection Association estimates

that 25 percent of home heating fires are caused

primarily by creosote buildup in the chimney

Make your home healthier and safer A properly

installed and maintained appliance burns more

efficiently and saves you money Contact your local

certified chimney sweep to schedule an annual

inspection today

Before You Burn

The right wayThe right way is hot and bright

In the right applianceThe right appliance is an EPA-approved appliance inspected annually by a certified chimney sweep

Burn the right woodBurn only dry well-seasoned wood that has been split and stored properly

wwwepagovburnwise

wwwcsiaorg

Printed on 100 recycledrecyclable paper with a minimum 50 post-consumer waste using vegetable-based

EPA 456-F-10-004

National Chimney Sweep Guild2155 Commercial DrivePlainfield IN 46168

1208

OR

Page 6: September 2012

4 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

HomeSaverreg Smooth-N-Litetrade Fills the Smoothwall Niche

5-8 Diameters Light 010 stainless strip Available in 304 and 316 stainless steel alloys Interlocked seams are easy to flex Smooth inner wall Crush resistant No memory Ideal for smoothwall application

Now smoothwall liner doesnt have to be stiff and clumsy Because HomeSavers new Smooth-N-Lite gives you smooth without the headache Nestling right into HomeSavers famous family of UltraPro Pro RoundFlex RectangleFlex OvalFlex and Dial-A-Flex liners our new 010 Smooth-N-Lite gives you the superior weight flexibility and strength you need for smooth liner applications

6 times 25 (304-Alloy)

WIth ShIppINg$36786

~Free Freight bull On orders of $1800 or morebull 65rsquo of liner liner and components ship free

Speed Service Selection 8002473305 bull wwwcopperfieldcom

SmoothNLite Adindd 3 71212 335 PM

bull Setting time limits on meetingsbull Avoiding other distractions

If you feel tempted to look at your email at non-scheduled hours hand your assistant your phone or turn off your Internet connection Avoid distractions by putting away your electronic devices hanging a do-not-disturb sign or going off-site Do whatever it takes to keep on track 2 Get Fired Up Starting a company creating a new product or signing that contract with your dream client is unbelievably exciting Itrsquos what makes business a lot of fun But along with those incredible moments comes a lot of everyday hard work and worry that can cause you to lose your passion

The Solution The best way to get re-energized is actually to use no energy at all Taking a vacation revitalizes your brain allowing creativity and passion to flow Herersquos even a better reason Taking time off can save your life Research shows that men who miss annual breaks are 32 more likely to die of heart attacks while women who take a vacation less than once every six years are eight times more likely to develop coronary heart disease

3 Learn Something New There is a scientific evidence that when you are feeling uninspired picking up a book can help According to a study by researchers at Harvard and MIT learning something new and having success fires up the pleasure section of your brain

leading you to even more education and prosperity

The Solution Dave is a huge proponent of reading nonfiction leadershipbusiness books as a way to grow his business Hersquos not alone The average millionaire reads a book a month Leaders are readers But thatrsquos just one way to gain more knowledge Find a mentor network with fellow business leaders or attend seminars or other business events

Take advantage of your summer downtime to refocus recharge and learn Itrsquos an awesome way to keep the momentum flowing and get your team fired up for the fall

To learn more about business team building and leadership download Dave Ramseyrsquos EntreLeadership podcasts (httpwwwdaveramseycom) which include lessons from Dave plus interviews with key business leaders from across the nation

NCSG is about helping sweeps grow their businesses and providing progressive services By the time you read this ndash your NCSG board would have reviewed the next budget for the upcoming fiscal year (2012-13)and have revisited our goals and plans moving forward

Please start planning now for the 2013 NCSG Innovation convention and trade show at Chateau on the Lake in Branson MO April 4-7

As always Sweeps Luck to you and your family and God Bless

Jay WalkerNCSG President

Keep the Cold Air Out and the Cool Look InM E C H A N I C A L V E N T I N G O F F I R E P L A C E S

Eliminate Glass Doors on Gas Fireplaces

The ENERVEX EcoDamper System is the first completely automated draft and damper system designed for use with gas fireplaces

bull Allows for open fireplace designsbull Offers a larger more natural lookbull Creates a new profit center for you

The Guaranteed Solution to Smoking FireplacesThe Guaranteed Solution to Smoking Fireplaces

wwwchimneyfanscominfochimneyfanscomP 8002552923

HomeSaverreg Smooth-N-Litetrade Fills the Smoothwall Niche

5-8 Diameters Light 010 stainless strip Available in 304 and 316 stainless steel alloys Interlocked seams are easy to flex Smooth inner wall Crush resistant No memory Ideal for smoothwall application

Now smoothwall liner doesnt have to be stiff and clumsy Because HomeSavers new Smooth-N-Lite gives you smooth without the headache Nestling right into HomeSavers famous family of UltraPro Pro RoundFlex RectangleFlex OvalFlex and Dial-A-Flex liners our new 010 Smooth-N-Lite gives you the superior weight flexibility and strength you need for smooth liner applications

6 times 25 (304-Alloy)

WIth ShIppINg$36786

~Free Freight bull On orders of $1800 or morebull 65rsquo of liner liner and components ship free

Speed Service Selection 8002473305 bull wwwcopperfieldcom

SmoothNLite Adindd 3 71212 335 PM

6 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

MELISSA HEEKE CAENCSG DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS

EditorrsquosLetter

elcome to September Hopefully the season has been

kind to you so far this year and yoursquore in good shape

for a safe and sane remainder of the home heating season

This month we look at how small businesses can protect

themselves from a data breach how to avoid hitting the proverbial

ldquowallrdquo in your business and focusing on what you can control

Strong and steady wins this game This monthrsquos issue should help

you play your next move with confidence

Until next time I wish you all the best for a safe and successful

season

W

6 Gallons for the Price of 5 Gallons

Get 20 More CrownSeal FREEGet 20 More CrownSeal FREESpecial Size

Available from Participating ChimneySaver DistributorsAvailable from Participating ChimneySaver Distributors

The Leader in Chimney Protection

(800) 860-6327

Call your favorite ChimneySaver distributor today to order this special 6 gallon size CrownSeal for the price of a 5 gallon Quantities are limited to what each distributor has placed in inventory so order yours today before they run out

NCSG can help you promote your event

Please email officencsgorg with info on your upcoming meetings and events Wersquoll list your event on the NCSG website in Sweeping magazine and in our weekly dates and events post to the NCSG Discussion List Yoursquore also encouraged to submit meeting and workshop photos and recaps for publication in Sweeping They say a picture is worth a thousand words and we agree Let everyone know what a great time you had and welcome them to your next event Please send photos and articles directly to Melissa Heeke at mheekencsgorg

8 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

Are Small Businesses Protecting Themselves From a Data Breach

Adata breach can be a challenge for any business but this is especially true for smaller businesses Not only can it be more difficult for a smaller business to recover from a data breach but criminals may also be more likely to target smaller firms

When a data breach occurs at a large firm or government agency it winds up all over the news If one occurred at a small business down the street those unaffected would probably never hear about it But a recent report released by Verizon found that nearly three-quarters of data breaches analyzed last year involved businesses with 100 employees or fewer

ldquoMost small-business owners simply do not believe they are at riskrdquo says Lynn LaGram assistant vice president of small commercial underwriting for The Hartford ldquoThe reality is that small businesses are often more vulnerable - making them easier targetsrdquo

LaGram says part of the reason may be that small-business owners often donrsquot have the time or resources that larger companies may have to assist them in protecting data However protecting data may not be as difficult as one would think

Hose Master Invented the Wheel

Smooth-N-Lite bullYourchoice-304or316stainlesssteelcoils5rdquo-8rdquodiameters bullInterlockedseamsareeasytoflex bullSmoothinnerwall bullCrushresistant bullIdealforsmoothwallapplications bullAvailableinroundovalorrectangle

HeavyFlex bullYourchoice-304or316stainlesssteelcoils bullInterlockedseamsareeasytoflex bullSmoothinnerwall bullHighlycrushresistant bullIdealforfireplacerelines bullAvailableinroundovalrectangleorDial-A-Flex

UltraPro bull Patentedrolllockseamdesignforeasyflexibility bullLargebendrange bullSteepcorrugationslope-resultinginhighcrushresistance bullIdeallysuitedforforbothstraightandmultiplebendrelines bullUncoilseasilyrightoutofthebox

NEW

CopperfieldkeepsturningthewheelwithHomeSaverrsquosnew Smooth-N-LitelinerSmooth-N-Litetakesawaythestiffnessand clumsinessnormallyassociatedwithsmoothwallliner-itgivesyouldquosmoothrdquowithnoheadacheNestlingintoHomeSaverrsquosfamousfamilyofUltraProProRoundFlexRectangleFlexOvalFlexandDial-A-FlexCopperfieldrsquosnewSmooth-N-Litegivesyouthesuperiorweight flexibilityandstrengthyouneedforsmoothlinerapplications

Copperfield Chimney Supply Technical800-246-1926Support800-247-3305

Manufactured by Hose Master Exclusively For

When It Comes to Chimney Liners

Almost50yearsagoSamFotiHoseMasterrsquosCEOredesignedinterlockedmachine technologyHisinnovationsarestillthecoreofmanufacturingflexiblechimneylinertoday

HeavyFlex bull 25yearsagoSaminventedRectangleFlex OvalFlexandDial-A-Flextechnology

UltraPro bull 15yearsagoSaminventedUltraPro-the onlypatentedroll-lockdesignlight-weight linerwithextremeflexibilityandcrush resistance

Smooth-N-Lite bullTodaySamhasdesignedSmooth-N-Lite- thelightinterlockedlinerforsmoothwall applications

and now he invented Smooth-N-Lite

Now We Have It All

All Flexible Liner Is Not Created EqualLet Us Prove It

1964

1983

2000

2012

Pro amp UltraProInvented UltraPro - the only patented roll-lock design light-weight liner with extreme flexibility and crush resistance

Redesigned Interlocked Machine TechnologyInnovations are still the core of manufacturing flexible chimney liner today

HeavyFlexInvented RectangleFlex OvalFlex and Dial-A-Flex technology

Smooth-N-LiteToday Sam has designed Smooth-N-Lite the light interlocked liner for smoothwall applications Manufactured on the same machine technology he invented in 1964

Meet Sam Foti Hose Master CEO engineer and innovator

In 1964 Sam got involved with interlocked products Identifying the problems associated with manufacturing the hose Sam redesigned the tooling and machinery to not only produce a consistent interlocked hose but to also speed-up the production

Today the results of Sams ingenuity is the technology used throughout the industry in the production of interlocked products His designs not only changed the way that stripwound hose is made but the way that it is used and perceived in the industry

SmoothNLite Adindd 2 71212 335 PM

Steps to help prevent a breachFor a business or organization that must handle sensitive customer patient or employee information itrsquos important to take measures that decrease the likelihood of a breach ldquoA data breach can involve electronic or paper recordsrdquo says LaGram She shares eight data protection ldquobest practicesrdquo for a business

bull Lock and secure sensitive customer patient member or employee information

bull Restrict employee access to sensitive informationbull Shred or otherwise securely dispose of all sensitive customer patient

member or employee informationbull Use password protection and data encryption for sensitive filesbull Have a privacy policybull Update systems and software on a regular basisbull Use firewalls to control access to sites that could compromise your

security and lock out hackersbull Ensure that remote access to your network is secure

If a breach occursWhile itrsquos important to take proactive steps to help prevent a data breach from occurring therersquos no way to eliminate the risk entirely so it is also

important to have data breach insurance

According to LaGram a business owner should consider insurance that provides

1 Coverage for expenses associated with responding to and recovering from a breach ldquoBusiness owners may not realize that they must comply with various notification requirements which can be costlyrdquo says LaGram Additional advertising expenses to help a business restore its reputation after a breach would also fall into this category

2 Legal expense and liability coverage A customer or employee whose personal data is compromised may sue the business owner for damages This insurance provides coverage for defense costs civil awards settlements or judgments that a business owner may be obligated to pay

3 Access to data security experts to help the business owner navigate the various notification requirements as well as determine the cause of the breach and take steps to prevent it from happening againBoth consumers and business owners can learn more about what to do if they are involved in a data breach at wwwftcgovidtheft

ldquoA data breach can happen to anyone so itrsquos important for business owners to be preparedrdquo says LaGram For more information about protecting your business from a data breach visit wwwhartforddatabreachcom

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 9

Hose Master Invented the Wheel

Smooth-N-Lite bullYourchoice-304or316stainlesssteelcoils5rdquo-8rdquodiameters bullInterlockedseamsareeasytoflex bullSmoothinnerwall bullCrushresistant bullIdealforsmoothwallapplications bullAvailableinroundovalorrectangle

HeavyFlex bullYourchoice-304or316stainlesssteelcoils bullInterlockedseamsareeasytoflex bullSmoothinnerwall bullHighlycrushresistant bullIdealforfireplacerelines bullAvailableinroundovalrectangleorDial-A-Flex

UltraPro bull Patentedrolllockseamdesignforeasyflexibility bullLargebendrange bullSteepcorrugationslope-resultinginhighcrushresistance bullIdeallysuitedforforbothstraightandmultiplebendrelines bullUncoilseasilyrightoutofthebox

NEW

CopperfieldkeepsturningthewheelwithHomeSaverrsquosnew Smooth-N-LitelinerSmooth-N-Litetakesawaythestiffnessand clumsinessnormallyassociatedwithsmoothwallliner-itgivesyouldquosmoothrdquowithnoheadacheNestlingintoHomeSaverrsquosfamousfamilyofUltraProProRoundFlexRectangleFlexOvalFlexandDial-A-FlexCopperfieldrsquosnewSmooth-N-Litegivesyouthesuperiorweight flexibilityandstrengthyouneedforsmoothlinerapplications

Copperfield Chimney Supply Technical800-246-1926Support800-247-3305

Manufactured by Hose Master Exclusively For

When It Comes to Chimney Liners

Almost50yearsagoSamFotiHoseMasterrsquosCEOredesignedinterlockedmachine technologyHisinnovationsarestillthecoreofmanufacturingflexiblechimneylinertoday

HeavyFlex bull 25yearsagoSaminventedRectangleFlex OvalFlexandDial-A-Flextechnology

UltraPro bull 15yearsagoSaminventedUltraPro-the onlypatentedroll-lockdesignlight-weight linerwithextremeflexibilityandcrush resistance

Smooth-N-Lite bullTodaySamhasdesignedSmooth-N-Lite- thelightinterlockedlinerforsmoothwall applications

and now he invented Smooth-N-Lite

Now We Have It All

All Flexible Liner Is Not Created EqualLet Us Prove It

1964

1983

2000

2012

Pro amp UltraProInvented UltraPro - the only patented roll-lock design light-weight liner with extreme flexibility and crush resistance

Redesigned Interlocked Machine TechnologyInnovations are still the core of manufacturing flexible chimney liner today

HeavyFlexInvented RectangleFlex OvalFlex and Dial-A-Flex technology

Smooth-N-LiteToday Sam has designed Smooth-N-Lite the light interlocked liner for smoothwall applications Manufactured on the same machine technology he invented in 1964

Meet Sam Foti Hose Master CEO engineer and innovator

In 1964 Sam got involved with interlocked products Identifying the problems associated with manufacturing the hose Sam redesigned the tooling and machinery to not only produce a consistent interlocked hose but to also speed-up the production

Today the results of Sams ingenuity is the technology used throughout the industry in the production of interlocked products His designs not only changed the way that stripwound hose is made but the way that it is used and perceived in the industry

SmoothNLite Adindd 2 71212 335 PM

10 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

Jim Cochran of Magic Mountain Chimney Sweeps Passes

Jim Cochran of Magic Mountain Chimney Sweeps in Thurmont MD passed away on Thursday April 5 2012 He and wife Debra Cochran have owned and operated this company since 1979 Debra continues to operate Magic Mountain Chimney Sweeps

Jim is survived by his wife Debra Howell Cochran married October 6 1973 in Tampa FL He is also survived by one son Wesly M H Cochran of Frederick MD and one daughter Wendy V Cochran Taylor of Thurmont Debby writes ldquoJim was a legend and many people and sweeps knew and loved him He was one of a kind He had chimney sweeps in top hats and tails for his pallbearers and had a real chimney sweeps funeral It was a great tribute to himrdquoContributions may be made to Cancer Support Community 1050 17th Street NW Suite 500 Washington DC 20036

Sweeping MagazineSept 2012 issue Full page 4 color

Dura-Ventkaren josephson contact

kjosephsonduraventcom800-835-4429

Engineered Excellencereg MampG DuraVent is a member of the MampG Group copy Copyright 2012 Made in the USA 800-835-4429 wwwduraventcom

Stunning design and engineered excellence in manufacture DirectVent Pro combines style with performance Featuring precision tolerances for a tight seal low-pro le locks with no hems or beads for an elegant pro le No gaskets or sealants required (unless by appliance manufacturer) Laser-welded outer seams on all black pipe for a slim nish Several termiantion choices to cap o the system perfectly See why it is speci ed exclusively by nearly every major stove and replace manufacturer in the US and Canada DirectVent Pro is backed by a limited lifetime warranty Find out more at www duraventcom

Dir

ectV

ent

Pro

FOR

DIR

ECT

VEN

T G

AS O

R PR

OPA

NE

STO

VES

HEA

TERS

amp F

IREP

LACE

S

Dire

ctVe

nt Pr

o reg

regIndustryWatch

Industry Watch PolicyNCSG encourages industry partners to submit press releases to Melissa Heeke Sweeping The Journal of Chimney amp Venting Technology editor via email at mheekencsgorg 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 NCSGrsquos opinion regarding the release

Sweeping MagazineSept 2012 issue Full page 4 color

Dura-Ventkaren josephson contact

kjosephsonduraventcom800-835-4429

Engineered Excellencereg MampG DuraVent is a member of the MampG Group copy Copyright 2012 Made in the USA 800-835-4429 wwwduraventcom

Stunning design and engineered excellence in manufacture DirectVent Pro combines style with performance Featuring precision tolerances for a tight seal low-pro le locks with no hems or beads for an elegant pro le No gaskets or sealants required (unless by appliance manufacturer) Laser-welded outer seams on all black pipe for a slim nish Several termiantion choices to cap o the system perfectly See why it is speci ed exclusively by nearly every major stove and replace manufacturer in the US and Canada DirectVent Pro is backed by a limited lifetime warranty Find out more at www duraventcom

Dir

ectV

ent

Pro

FOR

DIR

ECT

VEN

T G

AS O

R PR

OPA

NE

STO

VES

HEA

TERS

amp F

IREP

LACE

S

Dire

ctVe

nt Pr

o reg

reg

12 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

irst of all if you are reading this CONGRATUATIONS As I shared at a recent MIX group meeting I did a presentation for many of you have survived the worst economic downturn in the history of our country one that in many ways rivaled the Great Depression So congratulations

are definitely in order Many American businesses did not survive the economic downturn and others are still on the borderline of survival andor failure I am sure each of you knows of successful business owners who have had their lives (and their lifestyles) undergo a tremendous transition during the past few years Others among you may have only entered our industry since this economic devil revealed itself

What is even more remarkable is that some who read this have done much more Not only have they survived they actually prospered Their businesses grew their profits increased and their business models strengthened Each business that did this faced the same economic conditions as others Yet due to their grit and determination they became true winners Yes there may have been geographic considerations but few areas have escaped the wrath of the economic turmoil our country has faced

What the economic conditions have done for many is force them to become better managers better watchers of their numbers better students of lean methods of operation and better in so many other beneficial ways And it is truly enlightening to see the benefits that have been awarded to those who have continued to make their businesses grow in truly tough economic times and without assistance from banks or other lenders The true success stories of business owners who have completely revamped their operations and have shown levels of excellence that many dream of

But even as a survivor many will encounter roadblocks that will cause stress will slow progress and will serve to raise caution to the wind At times it will come at you with a warning at other times it will simply pop up in front of you with no warning Perhaps it hits you when you awaken in a cold sweat or perhaps it hits you at times when things are just not going as you feel they should The roadblock I refer to is something I classify as the WALL

I feel that a successful business manager can be compared to a star athlete The star athlete will practice he will work out

he will have a strict regimen that will include his diet his sleep habits and will govern his life As he undergoes his training any and all things that can hamper his performance are examined and examined again No matter if he is a runner a swimmer a baseball or football player or a star in other sports He will dedicate himself to excellence just as you do each and every day in your business We saw this in August as we watched the Olympics and see those who receive the gold and hear the stories of the work they did to prepare for the competition

But even with the preparation even with the regiment he has posed to himself at times he will find that his energy is zapped His will to go on will be challenged his fortitude questioned HE HITS THE WALL

As a business manager this is no different than what you encounter at times Not only does the wall come up and block your progress as one person even explained to me about the dreaded wall at times it will even collapse on top of you and you may have to dig out of the rubble During a recent conversation a business owner related ldquoI am digging out of the rubble where that wall fell on top of merdquo when asked how he was doing Has this ever happened to you causing you to stop and wonder just why am I doing this and will I meet my objective Even worse the thought comes to the forefront is it really worth what I am putting into it

In my business endeavors I deal with a lot of folks in different stages of their business models Some have recently launched a business some are transforming a business some preparing exit plans and others are building infrastructure Others still have found success and are working to bring in new management to begin to pursue their true dreams of more free time as the free time was a goal of the original business start-up plan In preparation for this article I asked several who always seem to be going up up and up just what was their secret Just how did the walls not stop them in the progress of the business I think the overall answer I heard was best summed up by one phenomenal business owner His answer was ldquoJerry I keep myself up all the time because I always look at the potential and the markets we have not tapped into yet I just donrsquot see how anyone can get beat due to the problems when there is so much potential and so much untapped businessrdquo

BY JERRY ISENHOUR OF CHIMNEY amp VENTING

CONSULTANTS IN CONCORD NCCoachrsquos Corner

The

The Wall

F

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 13

Quite frankly this hit it on the head Each and every day as a business owner you face adversity perhaps from a customer perhaps from the world around us perhaps simply from an employee who did not meet our expectations But you know this is life and life has a way of throwing curve ball after curve ball The real winner will anticipate what the curve balls will be and will develop the methods to hit the ball no matter how it is thrown at us

The true winner will always view each and every adversary as a learning experience taking what is learned from each error each loss and each hiccup and use these as the basis for new procedures new methods and new ways to grow and prosper The true winner knows that his 1 accountability partner is that guy with him all the time the guy he knows as the man in the mirror

Some are even developing methods within the business to pull these errors and mistakes out of the hidden abyss of the unknown to find the ones we may not even be paying attention to Recently observing several who have instituted a new method that can isolate and eliminate issues is producing astounding results As a respected colleague shared with me ldquoJerry it feels like we are walking on glass but we are finding the ways to end the dreaded Groundhog Day happening over and overrdquo Successful business managers use this as the basis of how they will change the business model adapt their procedures

and continue to grow and prosper All the while raising the PERCENTAGE of profit from the gross figure They do not look at the number they view the number as the percentage Only through viewing the percentage can we truly have a yardstick by which to measure our progress as we grow our management skills

With this my wish is for you to have an excellent fall By the time you read this we will have hit that great part of the year called FALL and what so many call THE BUSY SEASON As you enter this make plans now as to how you plan to promote your business come January 1 2013 This is what the guys who are moving forward are doing The fall is already through the planning stages and they are ready for action ARE YOU If not ask that man in the mirror if he is truly operating at the level he needs to be He has the answer I am sure

About the Author Jerry Isenhour is an industry consultant coach and educator 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 and your business in your quest for success and your rise to the next level take a look at his web site wwwchimneyandventingconsultantscom He can be contacted at jerrychimneyandventingconsultantscom or by phone at (704) 425-0217 You can also obtain great business tips from his Facebook page Chimney amp Venting Consultants

ldquoMy company uses most products available to chimney contractors but Firesafersquos products and systems are hands-down the very best and the most profitable Great technical support and their constant improvements make the products even better which makes my company stand out over my competitionrdquo Kevin Knight Chadds Ford Chimney Sweeps PA

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14 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

erhaps the most important thing to recognize about business is that customer service is not an afterthought to everything else It IS everything else Or as Leon Gorman the CEO of LL Bean puts it ldquoCustomer Service is just a day in day out

ongoing never ending unremitting persevering compassionate type of activityrdquo

Oh thatrsquos a nice thought you say Irsquoll be certain to put a little more attention on that the next free moment I get

If this is your response yoursquove missed the point and perhaps the boat too

So what does it mean when we say service What does good customer service look like Herersquos a good hint from Peter Drucker ldquoQuality in service or product is not what you put into it Itrsquos what the customer gets out of itrdquo

In other words in the final analysis itrsquos not simply how

well you do your job that matters What matters is how your customer feels about you or your company once the job is completed What matters is what they got out of it And in that regard in any arena of competitors the battle will be won by the company who leaves the customer feeling the best the happiest the most satisfied

Jerry Gregoire CIO of Dell believes ldquoThe customer experience is the next competitive battlegroundrdquo

Now you might be thinking your customers must be pretty satisfied since most of the time they donrsquot seem to have any complaints

If you are feeling this way it would behoove you to remember most customers donrsquot complain even if there are dramatic issues with the work Why People donrsquot like confrontations And many people feel their complaints will be neither appreciated nor dealt with so why bother

The One and Only Thing

P

BY GREG POLAKOW OF COPPERFIELD

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 15

The course of action they choose rather than wasting their time and emotions complaining to someone they feel will be either hostile or unresponsive is to select one of your competitors next time they need work done As the saying goes they vote with their wallet

You might rightly be asking yourself well if my customers donrsquot tell me when theyrsquore not satisfied what can I possibly do about it

The answer is there are many things that can be done about it But the first starts with the understanding that customer service is not something that kicks in only when therersquos a problem Customer service has to be part of every contact you have with your customers It is how you treat your customers before you even show up at their door It is how you conduct yourself during your visit And it is most certainly the way in which you handle follow up

Remember it is how your customers feel after all is said and done that matters

We are always forming opinions about others It is a natural part of being human And we begin formulating those opinions with our very first encounter The initial opinions may later give way to either better or worse opinions but initial opinions are extremely influential So ask yourself what are you doing to

insure that the very first impression a customer has of you and your business is excellent What are you doing to make this very first customer service experience positive What are you doing to provide your customer at the very outset with a feel good experience

Whatever your answer is remember it is often this first impression that will determine whether or not a customer will call and complain if there is a problem later rather than simply opt to call one of your competitors next time Why Because it is in this first encounter with you that a customer begins to decide if they trust you If you trust that a company has your best interests at heart you are much more likely to call if there is a problem

So how do you establish a feeling of well being and trust with your customer from the get go Again it has to do with how you make them feel the moment you pick up your phone to answer their first call If your tone is cold indifferent or even matter of fact they are not likely to feel you care And if you donrsquot seem to care about them can you really be trusted to have their best interests at heart EVERTHING you do from the outset absolutely everything will create an opinion of you in the customerrsquos mind That means your tone of voice the patience with which you respond to their questions And the very language and even diction you use to talk to them about whatever chimney related issue they are having

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Z-Max Rain Cap ampLock lsquoN Go Base Tee

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Sweeping News (Snews)_Smoothcore_Z-Max_no booth_HR_March 29 2012pdf 1 12-03-30 212 PM

16 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

Use language that is too technical and you lose them and put them on the defensive ldquoAm I supposed to understand what this guy is talking aboutrdquo they wonder Speak too fast or indistinctly and you get the same result

Seem like picky details They may be to you but they will not be to your customer

Remember when a customer comes to you he is laying his problem at your feet If he could remedy it himself he would But he canrsquot He needs you to help him So he is feeling a bit vulnerable a bit out of his league How you respond to him in this circumstance can either make him feel immediately comfortable and in safe hands or something less desirable You decide which effect you want to create

I think you can see that if this first encounter leaves your customer glowing instead of glowering you win You win his confidence his trust and even here at the very outset his gratitude If yoursquove done this well ie addressed his initial questions and concerns in a compassionate understanding thorough manner well you are off to an excellent start

But the battle has not been won because yoursquove also set some expectations and your customerrsquos expectation that this kind of treatment will continue must be met If your crew shows up to do the work and forgets they are in the customer service business first and foremost all you accomplished at the beginning can be ruined

Good customer service must build on itself from day one in order to maintain that feeling in your customer of confidence happiness and trust It cannot be hit and miss Being inconsistent might be worse than being just plain ornery from the beginning

Does good customer service trump sloppy careless or substandard work Of course not Because the quality of your product is a huge part of the customer service package Itrsquos all customer service

The bottom line is your customer will appreciate value and respect you to exactly the same degree you appreciate value and respect him No more and no less And the great thing is when you treat your customers as friends when you gladly and openly address their concerns and fix their problems your work and your life become easier and more fulfilling

Try it out Start thinking of customer service as being the be all and end all of your business and see how well things go Yoursquoll be amazed

Remember as Tony Allesandra has observed ldquoBeing on par in terms of price and quality only gets you into the game Service wins the gamerdquo

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18 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

ou all have accomplishments You support your family your employees and their families your vendors and you provide comfort and safety for your customers

Some of you can enjoy your success and can focus on preserving what you have Many of you want to and have the capacity to grow and be more successful Some of you may be struggling with the seasonality and economics of your business Regardless of your level of success almost all of you have varying degrees of uncertainty

Many articles books conferences and videos have been made about the importance of having a strategic plan to help guide you to fulfill your potential

This magazine has offered numerous articles written to help you fulfill your potential The NCSG offers courses to help you gain skills to be more successful

Yet there still appears to be too many business owners

struggling to achieve their goals ndash or have yet to explicitly define their goals which could help them to get their time back and allow them (you) to enjoy their (your) lives

Maybe yoursquore stuck on tactics without a strategy Maybe yoursquore stuck on ldquonoiserdquo ndash noise that the media airs about events you cannot control and distracts you from your business Perhaps that ldquonoiserdquo has contributed to a pessimistic perspective

Perhaps all of the above is ldquonoiserdquo that covers up past or current mistakes or regret either real or perceived

Letrsquos work on facing your concerns and your past Fear fades when facts are faced Regrets can become wisdom when success lies ahead

Consider forming a team of trusted professionals emulate successful associates select friends and close family members who can create a ldquojudgment freerdquo zone to allow you to unwind the past that may be keeping you from achieving your potential

Focus on What You Can Control

Y

BY BRIAN NOE OF MW FINANCIAL GROUP

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 19

Your team can help you realize your dreams by developing a sound strategy employing objective facts without bias Your team has your back

So letrsquos throw out the rear view mirror set aside our mistakes and regrets and look forward to what you can control that can lead to success

You and your team can control your personal finances You and your team can control your business Here are some steps you can take to help seize the day sleep easy and get your time back

1 Budget ndash do you have a personal and business budget Do you adhere to your budget Does your budget include protection and savings for retirement and your legacy Do you know how much you need to save for retirement and your legacy Are you prepared in the event that you may ldquolive too longrdquo

2 Help Protect Yourself your Family and your Business ndash you can take steps to control your risk

Do you let your employees drive your personal vehicles Do your employees drive your work vehicles for personal use Are you covered for that activity These are a just a few examples of ldquohiddenrdquo liabilities that you may be exposed to but unaware of

Do you have adequate umbrella insurance protection in addition to home and auto insurance that covers you and your employees

Do you take steps to relieve stress Do you have disability insurance to provide you with income or your business with funds to pay expenses in the event of illness or injury that prevents you from working

For your business you can implement a safety program This sets up a plan of employee procedures for handling vendors customers and inter-employee communication skills to improve workmanship and other employee development For events you cannot control do you have liability EampO and similar insurance

Does your business take advantage of legal structure asset titling (multiple businesses Spouse ownership) retirement plans life insurance annuities trusts and homestead

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20 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

exemptions (if available) to help protect assets from creditors and frivolous lawsuits

3 Employ Efficient Debt ndash we may be at the bottom of the interest rate and inflation cycle If interest rates rise andor inflation heats up the general rule of thumb for most of us is debtors win creditors lose If you have the cash you have control If the banker has the cash they have control

4 Manage Taxes ndash whether or not income or estate taxes increase in the future a retirement assetincome distribution business succession and legacy strategy is a must for everyone

5 Investment Management ndash you have plenty of risk with your business Do you want to have unnecessary risk with your investments

You cannot control macroeconomics (sequence of return risk rising interest rates trade and budget deficits unemployment inflation taxes real estate values commodity markets fluctuating foreign currency etc)

You cannot control geopolitical events (elections Euro zone issues violent foreign government changes war etc) or environmental events (hurricanes earthquakes fires tsunamis etc)

How do you insulate yourself from economic events you cannot control Consider historically tried tested and true strategies Consider strategies that your grandparentrsquos generation may have used They had to protect themselves ndash government bailouts and subsidies were few and far between

Congratulations if you can assemble a team to help you define and implement a strategy using the tactics described above This can be achieved in a relatively short period of time (a few hours a week over several short weeks can do it) which can help give you your time back so you can focus on your business and family

6 Manage your Business ndash this you can completely control You can engage in any of the following business expansion activities without losing energy and enthusiasm to the issues you and your team of advisors tackled above

Perhaps you would ratherbull Recruit and develop key employees (and future buyers of

your business)bull Market expansion (are you getting on board the e-marketing

train)bull Develop operating procedures and processesbull Improve safety (reduce liability)bull Expand into new territoriesbull Enter a new industry

bull Purchase and manage real estate

Life Happens ndash Enjoy It

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 US Army Eric is ranked first in his class with a degree in Computer Science is working in his field and plans on attending graduate school in 2013 His daughter Kara recently graduated undergraduate school with distinction and is planning to attend graduate school to become a Physiciansrsquo 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_NoeMWFinancialcom

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CSIA Update wwwCSIAorg

Publication for CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepregs

ADVERTISEMENT

The Virginia Association of Chimney amp

Hearth Professionals sponsored CSIArsquos

Inspection amp Report Writing class in

Arlington VA this August 6-7 Tom Urban

served as the instructor for the two-day

session Forty one professionals were

in attendance with 19 being business

owners and 22 being employees The

session drew attendees from as far away

as Louisville KY

The event was sponsored by Wakefield

Brush The Chimney Sweep News

Ahrenrsquos Copperfield Wohler Estoban

Lindemann Chimney Supply National

Chimney Supply Olympia Chimney

Supply SaverSystems and Whitecaps

VACHP Sponsored Inspection amp Report Writing

Fred Regar served as auctioneer of the sponsor-donated items on the second day of the session

Tom Urban teaching the CSIA Inspection and Report Writing Class in Arlington

When renewing a credential earned after September 1 2009 a CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg is required to

Available downloads for CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepsreg and CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Techniciansreg include

bull CSIACertifiedChimneySweepandCSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician Trademarks

bull ButtonsforyourWebsite

bull CustomizablePowerPointpresentationfor home inspectors

bull InspectionSOPs

bull LadderSafetyTips

bull ldquoChimneyFiresCausesEffectsampEvaluationrdquo Prepared by Chimney Safety Institute of America- Chimney Fire Education and Research Task Force

bull Printversionofthiswhitepaperisalsoavailable for purchase

bull Top10WoodburningTipsfromtheChimney Safety Institute of America

Check out the CCS amp CDET area at CSIAorg

bull Submitaminimumof9CEUsearnedwithin the preceeding 3 years (in any category) before testing NOTE This requirement will not apply to CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps already holding the credential on September 1 2009untiltheirnext3-yearcertificationcycle

bull Passaone-hourexambasedonSuccessfulChimneySweeping(2009)andNFPA211(2010)

bull Passaninety-minuteopen-bookexambasedonthe2006IRCreg

bull AgreetopaytheAnnualCertificationFee

bull SignCSIACodeofEthics

OR

bull SubmitappropriatenumberofContinuing Education Units (CEUs) in the relevant categories

bull AgreetopaytheAnnualCertificationFee

bull SignCSIACodeofEthics

Upon earning the CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg credential your certification is valid for one year You will need to recertify annually by paying the annual certification fee This fee will be invoiced annually prior to your expiration date Please note that your credential will require renewal every three years by submittal of the minimum 48 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) in accordance with the CSIA Credential Renewal Policy or by passing the certification exams and either submitting a minimum of 9 CEUs or completing a CSIA Review

If your annual certification fee is not paid prior to your certification expiration date your credential will be considered lapsed and you will immediately lose all rights and privileges of the CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg credential The following terms will then apply if reinstatement of the credential is desired

If you do not pay your annual certification fee by your expiration date the following timeline will begin

bull Within90daysfromthedateofexpiration if you submit payment in full for the annual certification fee your credential will be reinstated and you will be considered a CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg in good standing maintaining your original annual expiration date and certification number

bull Ifmorethan90daysandlessthan12months beyond your expiration date you will be required to Pay the current annual certification fee and current testing fees and test again Doing so will reinstate your previous annual certification expiration date and certification number You will still be required to pay your next annual fee within the next 12 months

bull Ifmorethan12monthsbeyondyourexpiration date you will be required to either participate in a CSIA approved certification review course or submit evidence of 9 CEUs that were accumulated during the time your credential was active In addition you will be required to pass the CSIA certification exams Upon successful completion a new certification number will be assigned and you will have a new annual certification expiration date

CaliforniaMichaelGipsonbullMidtownSweepsbullLancasterOmarSaenzbullAFiddlerontheRoodDuctampChimneyServicebullVanNuys

IndianaAlexStewartbullOldSmokeyrsquosFireplaceampChimneyIncbullAshley

KansasRyanBerrybullFullServiceChimneybullOlathe

New YorkJayFellibullHearthampHomeofIthacabullIthaca

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West VirginiaMichaelAdwellbullTopHatChimneySweepbullLewisburg

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Congratulations to Our New CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps

Top 10 Woodburning Tips from the Chimney Safety Institute of America

To aid in the prevention of chimney fires and carbon monoxide intrusion and to help keep heating appliances and fireplaces functioning properly the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) offers the following safety tips

1 Get an annual chimney check Have chimneys inspected annually and cleaned as necessary by a qualified professional chimney service technician This reduces the risk of fires and carbon monoxide poisonings due to creosote buildup or obstructions in the chimneys

2 Keep it clear Keep tree branches and leaves at least 15 feet away from the top of the chimney

3 Install a chimney cap to keep debris and animals out of the chimney

4 Choose the right fuel For burning firewood in wood stoves or fireplaces choose wellseasoned wood that has been split for a minimum of six months - one year and stored in a covered and elevated location Never burn Christmas trees or treated wood in your fireplace or wood stove

5 Build it right Place firewood or firelogs at the rear of the fireplace on a supporting grate To start the fire use kindling or a commercial firelighter Never use flammable liquids

6 Keep the hearth area clear Combustible material too close to the fireplace or to a wood stove could easily catch fire Keep furniture at least 36rdquo away from the hearth

7 Use a fireplace screen Use metal mesh or a screen in front of the fireplace to catch flying sparks that could ignite or burn holes in the carpet or flooring

8 Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors Place detectors throughout the house and check batteries in the spring and fall

When you change your clocks for Daylight Savings Time remember to check your batteries

9 Never leave a fire unattended Before turning in for the evening be sure that the fire is fully

extinguished Supervise children and pets closely around wood stoves and fireplaces

10 The CSIA recommends annual inspections performed by CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps These chimney sweeps have earned the industryrsquos most respected credential by passing an intensive examination based on fire codes clearances and standards for the construction and maintenance of chimney and venting systems The National Fire Protection Association also recommends that all chimneys are inspected on an annual basis

For more chimney and fireplace safety tips visit the Chimney Safety Institute of America online at wwwCSIAorg

Solve your customersrsquo smoking sooting odor and draft problems Itrsquos easy with CSIArsquos 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 Ghostingsooting 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 doesnrsquot

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

Learn to solve these problems save time and money and keep

your clients happy with CSIArsquos Online Chimney Physics program

SolvedVenting Problems

Register today at wwwcsiaorg

CSIA 15 Tech 15 CampL 15 HampS 15 CampS NFI 5 Tech

Annual Certification Requirements

Top 10 Woodburning Tips from the Chimney Safety Institute of America

To aid in the prevention of chimney fires and carbon monoxide intrusion and to help keep heating appliances and fireplaces functioning properly the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) offers the following safety tips

1 Get an annual chimney check Have chimneys inspected annually and cleaned as necessary by a qualified professional chimney service technician This reduces the risk of fires and carbon monoxide poisonings due to creosote buildup or obstructions in the chimneys

2 Keep it clear Keep tree branches and leaves at least 15 feet away from the top of the chimney

3 Install a chimney cap to keep debris and animals out of the chimney

4 Choose the right fuel For burning firewood in wood stoves or fireplaces choose wellseasoned wood that has been split for a minimum of six months - one year and stored in a covered and elevated location Never burn Christmas trees or treated wood in your fireplace or wood stove

5 Build it right Place firewood or firelogs at the rear of the fireplace on a supporting grate To start the fire use kindling or a commercial firelighter Never use flammable liquids

6 Keep the hearth area clear Combustible material too close to the fireplace or to a wood stove could easily catch fire Keep furniture at least 36rdquo away from the hearth

7 Use a fireplace screen Use metal mesh or a screen in front of the fireplace to catch flying sparks that could ignite or burn holes in the carpet or flooring

8 Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors Place detectors throughout the house and check batteries in the spring and fall

When you change your clocks for Daylight Savings Time remember to check your batteries

9 Never leave a fire unattended Before turning in for the evening be sure that the fire is fully

extinguished Supervise children and pets closely around wood stoves and fireplaces

10 The CSIA recommends annual inspections performed by CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps These chimney sweeps have earned the industryrsquos most respected credential by passing an intensive examination based on fire codes clearances and standards for the construction and maintenance of chimney and venting systems The National Fire Protection Association also recommends that all chimneys are inspected on an annual basis

For more chimney and fireplace safety tips visit the Chimney Safety Institute of America online at wwwCSIAorg

ADVERTISEMENT

You can spend weeks trying to get a new employee up to speed In the process yoursquoll have used up your valuable time your patience and more money than you would like to admit

Instead send your employee to the most popular cost-effective chimney sweep training in North America CSIArsquos National Chimney Sweep Training School In less than a week wersquoll create an employee that yoursquoll be proud to send on a call ndash and happy to count toward your bottom line

Register today at wwwcsiaorg or call us at (317) 837-5362

At the 6-day hands-on Training School your employee will learn

How to inspect and service chimney systems serving any fuel burning appliance

How to be safe with the latest health and safety equipment and methods

How to work with residential heating appliances including wood stoves pellet stoves inserts factory-built fireplaces central heaters and furnaces

How to diagnose chimney performance problems understanding draft and flow diagnosing down drafts flow reversals inadequate flow stack effects updrafts pressure effects and gauges

How to navigate the International Residential Codes How to follow the NFPA 211 standards

Class size is limited to ensure a ratio of no more than eight students per instructor This small class size means that students have the opportunity for individual attention from the schoolrsquos experienced instructors and ample opportunities for hands-on training Because class size is limited it is important to apply early to reserve your place

The online CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience

The online Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician (CDET) review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience designed to help you pass the CDET exam

Take advantage of these other CSIA educational offerings that can build your business

Send us your greenhorn

and wersquoll send you back a pro

in 6 days Classes fill quickly so register now

2012 DATeS April 2ndash7June 4ndash9August 6ndash11September 24ndash29

April 2-7June 11-16August 6-11September 24-29

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 25

You can spend weeks trying to get a new employee up to speed In the process yoursquoll have used up your valuable time your patience and more money than you would like to admit

Instead send your employee to the most popular cost-effective chimney sweep training in North America CSIArsquos National Chimney Sweep Training School In less than a week wersquoll create an employee that yoursquoll be proud to send on a call ndash and happy to count toward your bottom line

Register today at wwwcsiaorg or call us at (317) 837-5362

At the 6-day hands-on Training School your employee will learn

How to inspect and service chimney systems serving any fuel burning appliance

How to be safe with the latest health and safety equipment and methods

How to work with residential heating appliances including wood stoves pellet stoves inserts factory-built fireplaces central heaters and furnaces

How to diagnose chimney performance problems understanding draft and flow diagnosing down drafts flow reversals inadequate flow stack effects updrafts pressure effects and gauges

How to navigate the International Residential Codes How to follow the NFPA 211 standards

Class size is limited to ensure a ratio of no more than eight students per instructor This small class size means that students have the opportunity for individual attention from the schoolrsquos experienced instructors and ample opportunities for hands-on training Because class size is limited it is important to apply early to reserve your place

The online CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience

The online Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician (CDET) review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience designed to help you pass the CDET exam

Take advantage of these other CSIA educational offerings that can build your business

Send us your greenhorn

and wersquoll send you back a pro

in 6 days Classes fill quickly so register now

2012 DATeS April 2ndash7June 4ndash9August 6ndash11September 24ndash29

April 2-7June 11-16August 6-11September 24-29

ProgressivePerksBY DEBBIE CORNELIUS

MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT COORDINATOR

Get Organized and Make the Most of Your Busy Season

Sometimes it really surprises me that more NCSG members do not take advantage of the discounted benefits available to them These will not only save you time buthellip money too

Paycor Payroll Services price reduction on payroll and tax services One specialist will be dedicated to your account with a team of tax specialists available to resolve issues in the fastest amount of time should an issue arise

Market Hardware can bring your business up to speed in the competitive market of technology where more and more customers are looking to the Web Once they have customized the design that includes a ldquoHome Pagerdquo ldquoAbout Usrdquo and ldquoOur Servicesrdquo page you will have the ability to easily update and edit your Web site yourself instead of paying someone else to do it

Technical Solutions the ldquoSurvival Kit for Small Businessesrdquo can provide on-demand remote repair 247 365 days a year For the price of $2499month with no long term contact involved you can cover up to 20 computers including multiple office locations

Commercials On Hold provides a great way to brand and promote your full range of services when callers are on hold before they talk to a member of your staff

Take a few minutes to just explore these benefits It would be well worth your time to compare the savings to save you time and help increase your profits

26 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

REGION 6

NCSG Charter Members

Paul Bourque Huntsville AL

Don Leavitt San Diego CA

David Harris Broken Arrow Oklahoma

Dan Wheeler Santa Rosa CA

John Cline Menlo Park CA

Dale Meisinger N Augusta SC

Alan Hisey St Louis MO

Eva B Horton Greenwich CT

Harry Richart Hasbrouck Heights NJ

NewNCSGMembers

REGION 3

REGION 2

REGION 5

REGION 4

NCSG REGIONS

REGION 1

Connecticut Vermont Massachusetts New York Maine Rhode Island New Hampshire

REGION 2

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

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

CONNECTICUTChristopher Gonsalves bull Millstream Construction bull HebronDavid Heissenbuttel bull DMH amp Associates Inc bull Wilton

VIRGINAJack Johnston bull Johnstonrsquos Chimney Sweep bull Yorktown

MISSOURIJason Patrick bull Shamrock Qualty Services bull St LouisBill Bonney bull Bonney Bill bull Jackson

KENTUCKYJoshua Moore bull Moore Joshua bull Mt Sterling

ILLINOISJack Lutz bull Lutz Jack bull EurekaClay Nelson bull Clean Sweep bull Collinsville

OHIOAnthony Ramsey bull Elite Chimney Solutions bull Beavercreek

INDIANATravis Beckley bull Beckley Travis bull Coal City

TEXASMatthew Milner bull Milner Matthew bull WhitesboroTony Drew bull AC Contractors dba Fireplaces bull LongviewChristopher A Hess bull Atlas Chimney bull Leander

MINNESOTARenee Gustafson bull John C Gustafson Builder LLC bull Little Falls

COLORADOKent Macintosh bull Russian River Chimney Sweeps bull Healdsburg

CALIFORNIA Errol Davis bull The Chimney Specialist bull Huntington Beach

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 27

The 2012 ndash 2013 offers are being added daily in the ldquoMembers Onlyrdquo section of the NCSG website at wwwNCSGorg So start checking for these new offers each week These coupons will be good until June 30 2013

Copperfield Chimney Supply bull Lindemann Chimney Supply bull Meyer Machine amp Equipment bull National Chimney Supply bull SNEWS - The Chimney Sweep News bull Wakefield Brush bull Wohler USA Inc

2012 ndash 2013 SWEEPS ADVANTAGE COUPON PROGRAM

Featured Coupons of the Month

COPPERFIELD CHIMNEY SUPPLY

SAVE Up to $ 12650 FREE 13 x 13 Lock-Top with an order of $250

SAVE Up to $ 123 One FREE component Kit with any purchase of 6rdquo UltraPro

SAVE Up to $ 52One 225 quart Woodfield porcelain-coated steamer with any Napoleon appliance

purchase

SAVE Up to $ 46 One 13 x 13 HomeSaver Stainless Steel chimney cap with any Order of $250 or more

SAVE Up to $ 64 One EasyClean Cap with any purchase of $250

SAVE UP TO $ 75 $75 off any 25rsquo order of UltraPro Stainless Steel Liner

SAVE UP TO $ 40 $40 off any Flue Stretcher Chimney Cap

SAVE UP TO $ 20 Sign up for a Copperfield Reline Workshop and Save $20

SAVE UP TO FRE FREE 4 foot sample of HomeSaver Ultrapro

WOHLER USA INC SAVE UP TO $ 500$500 rebate with proof of purchase of VIS2000

Pro Camera System

hellip when opportunity calls we answer 1-800-875-8118

wwwcomnetmessagecom

Benefits of Answering Service

Award Winning Telephone Agents

Never Miss A Call

Better Time Management

Appointment Scheduling

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28 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

Meyer Machine amp Equipment

SUCKINGDUCTS

ampINSULATION

FOR OVER 20 YEARS

As most allergy sufferers will tell you allergy symptoms can always be bothersome turning any time of year into sneezing season A runny nose itchy eyes and scratchy throat can arise as the days get shorter and the leaves begin to change

The fall can be especially difficult for people who are sensitive to mold and ragweed pollen But these seasonal elements arenrsquot the only triggers that can make symptoms worse this time of year There are also a few lesser known triggers Here are four things you might not know about fall allergies courtesy of the American College of Allergy Asthma and Immunology

Hay fever - Hay fever a term from a bygone era actually has nothing to do with hay Instead itrsquos a general term used to describe the symptoms of late summer allergies Ragweed is a common cause of hay fever which is also known as allergic rhinitis The plant usually begins to pollinate in mid-August and may continue to be a problem until a hard freeze depending on where you live See an allergist for prescription medications to control symptoms or to see if allergy shots may be your best option

Lingering warm weather - While most people enjoy Indian summer unseasonably warm temperatures can make rhinitis symptoms last longer Mold spores can also be released when humidity is high or the weather is dry and windy Be sure to begin taking medications before your symptoms start Track your allergy symptoms with MyNasalAllergyJournalorg and visit with your allergist to find relief

Pesky leaves - Some folks might find it difficult to keep up with raking leaves throughout the autumn But for allergy sufferers raking presents its own problem It can stir agitating pollen and mold into the air causing allergy and asthma symptoms Those with allergies should wear an NIOSH-rated N95 mask when raking leaves mowing the lawn and gardening

School allergens - Itrsquos not only seasonal pollen and mold that triggers allergies this time of year Kids are often exposed to classroom irritants and allergy triggers These can include chalk dust and classroom pets Students with food allergies may also be exposed to allergens in the lunch roomKids with exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB) may experience attacks during recess or gym class Help your child understand what can trigger their allergies and asthma and how they can avoid symptoms Be sure to notify teachers and the school nurse of any emergency medications such as quick relief inhalers and epinephrine

No matter the season itrsquos important for those who think they may be suffering from allergies or asthma to see a board-certified allergist An allergist can help you develop a treatment plan which can include both medication and avoidance techniques

Having your allergies properly identified and treated will help you and your family enjoy the season To find an allergist and learn more about allergies and asthma visit wwwAllergyandAsthmaRelieforg

Four Things You Might Not Know About Fall Allergies

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 29

trategic partnerships Sounds fancy but what does it really mean They are called what they are called because there is a true strategy behind them the thought and planning that goes into identifying and development those relationships in a way that will

ultimately help those who are participating to achieve their mission The fact that it is indeed a ldquopartnershiprdquo indicates that everyone involved mutually stands to benefit in some wayhellipItrsquos a win-win

The strategic part of establishing partnerships is analyzing who you are your goals and your current resources and then finding organizations (partners) that will allow you to get the things that you need in order to take your organization to the next level But true partnerships are about what you can bring to each other to help achieve your goals and enhance your resources It is not solely about what you can give me but rather what we can give each other As the great John F Kennedy is well known for encouraging of a world partnership ldquoask not what America will do for you but what together we can do for the freedom of manrdquo

So where does this leave an association like NCSG The key to nonprofits establishing strategic partnerships is having the infrastructure to attract and maintain these relationships In this country there are plenty of nonprofits that are doing great work but there is no organization that will be able to survive if they try

to achieve their mission without establishing partnerships that help provide resources and relationships that allow us to achieve our mission

NCSG is very fortunate to have an impressive array of partners who have for many years some since our inception done just that Our partners have advertised in this magazine exhibited at our conventions contributed to the building and maintaining of our headquarters and the premier industry training facility in Indianapolis discounted thousands of dollars in products and services to our members and have helped us promote the Guild and recruit membership in countless ways not the least of which includes maintaining their own membership in NCSG

Our partners are committed to helping us advance our mission and in turn propel our professional field forward Their partnership supports that programs that ignite your professional and technical development and provide the products and services that have helped you bring your own businesses to life They are integral to the success of this industry and most renew their support of the Guild year after year

Without their support of Sweeping magazine through their advertising we would not have been able to come close to bringing this publication to our members and the industry for the past 35 years (originally The Chimney Sweep Guild News) without significant taxation on the readers Without their support

BY MARK MCSWEENEY CAEEXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Perspective

Support Those Who Support YouldquoOur success has really been based on partnerships from the very beginningrdquo -Bill Gates

S

30 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

of NCSGrsquos annual convention through exhibiting and additional sponsorships registration fees for attendees would easily be double what they are today

When viewing our relationship with exhibitors sponsors advertisers and supplier members as a partnership the question needs to be asked How are we as an association mutually helping them achieve their respective goals

The answer comes back to us having infrastructure to attract and maintain these partnerships And that infrastructure is you the member NCSG cultivates and maintains the relationship with our industry partners on your behalf You are asked to back that up through your support of these partner service providers

Now Irsquom not saying you should buy everything you need at any one place or only through our partners At the end of the day you ultimately need to make your purchasing decisions based on your individual business needs However what would be great to see is our members calling our partners up and giving them a chance to compete for your business Let them know you are a part of NCSG and even if you are not in a position to do business with them this time around let them know you appreciate their continued support of the Guild and the industry Itrsquos one thing to call up to a supplier and ask about a product get a price and hang up Itrsquos another thing to make sure you let them know you saw their ad in Sweeping you read about them

online or you remember they exhibited at the convention so that they know they are getting positive exposure and that their investment in our partnership is not going unnoticed

With that said here are some simple and tangible things things you can do to help the partnership you are a part ofbull Consider our partners each and every time you need to make a

purchasing decision and give them an opportunity to earn your business when you can Look at those who are advertising in Sweeping or see a full listing of NCSG Supplier Members under the Chimney Sweep tab on ncsgorg

bull When you talk to them let them know yoursquore part of NCSG and thank them for their support of your association

bull If you like them even if you canrsquot do business with them currently spread the word and help get their name out there

bull Attend events where our partners have stepped up to sponsor Help show them we value them being there and appreciate their efforts This helps everyone when it comes to working out future programs discounts events and more

We are all in this together Just as you want to ensure you are receiving the return you need on the investments you make our supplier members advertisers exhibitors and sponsors need to justify their own ROI on the variety of support avenues they offer

to NCSG I thought Irsquod take a minute this month to say ldquothank yourdquo to all of you who support us in so many different ways and would like to encourage others to do the same

Until next time I continue to wish you every success

Double Locking CrimpRemains StrongYet Very Flexibl e

With No Memo ry

Strong Triple Locking CrimpHolds T ogether Even OnTough Jobs

Horizontal Sides Of CorrugationOffer Added Strengthamp Flexibility

Manufactured by CHIMNEY TECHNIQUE INC

Chim-Pro Interlock Flex

Chim-Pro Corrugated

Flex

Chim-Pro RigidADDED SAFETY EFFICIENCY AND VALUE

In Which ALL FITTINGS Are Attached With A Band Even The Tee Cap And Elbows Quick amp Simple No Drilling amp Riveting

Featuring

Visit wwwchim-prolinercom for more detailsbull 2000 Industrial Ave bull Sioux Falls SD 57104

1-800-582-1392

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 31

Display Ad Index

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 mheekencsgorg for publication in Sweeping Or mail it to NCSG 2155 Commercial Drive Plainfield IN 46168

Page Advertiser Phone Email or Website Address

30 Ahrens Chimney Technique 800-582-1392 ahrenschimneyqwestofficenet

21-24 Chimney Safety Institute of America 317-837-5362 wwwcsiaorg

14 Cobra Chimney Caps 888-463-0636 salescobrachimneycom

27 Communications Network Inc 800-875-8118 tkempercomnetmessagecom

5 Copperfield 800-247-3305 wwwcopperfieldcom

4 ENERVEX Inc 800-255-2923 infochimneyfanscom

13 Firesafe Industries Inc 800-545-6607 wwwfiresafeinccom

16 Gelco Lyemance Lock-Top 800-334-2154 wwwGLLchimneyproductscom

9 Hose Master 800-221-2319 bobdanielshosemastercom

10 ICP 508-695-7000 wwwchimneycapscom

BC Lifetime Chimney Supply LLC 877-234-7473 wwwlifetimechimneysupplycom

7 Lindemann Chimney Company 800-722-7230 wwwlindemannchimneycom

11 M amp G Duravent 800-835-4429 wwwduraventcom

28 Meyer Machine amp Equipment 800-728-3828 wwwmeyermachinecom

25 National Chimney Supply 800-897-8481 wwwnationalchimneysupplycom

17 Olympia Chimney Supply 800-569-1425 wwwolympiachimneycom

19 Sand Hill Wholesale 800-258-5496 wwwsandhillwholesalecom

6 SaverSystems Inc 800-860-6327 wwwchimneysavercom

3 Smoktite 866-439-0069 wwwsmoktitecom

8 Wakefield Brush 800-264-7007 wwwwakefieldbrushcom

19 Whitecaps 800-335-2534 wwwwhitecapscom

15 Z-Flex 800-654-5600 wwwz-flexcom

The pole and bucket chimney That is how they keep rain and birds out during off season Notice the class A is just an extension of a masonry chimney

Submitted by Kevon Binder of Doctor Flue Inc

September 13-15 2012Lake Murray SCSouth Carolina Chimney Sweep Guildrsquos ldquoThe GatheringrdquoFor more information please contact Blume at (864) 232-9811 or blume357bellsouthnet

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 19 2012 Taunton MAFall Protection User Training Class Including OSHArsquos 2011 ruling on alternate fall protection methods - Sponsored by the Massachusetts Chimney Sweep GuildFor more information please call Jeffrey Wright at (781) 233-2321

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-29 2012CSIA Technology CenterCSIA National Chimney Sweep Training SchoolFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

Dates amp Events

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 8-12 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg October 8-12 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

Please send notice of your events for NCSG Dates amp Events listings at mmcmahonncsgorg for inclusion here in weekly posts to the discussion list and online at wwwNCSGorgdates The event must be considered educational or informative for the industry (sales events and open houses will not be listed)

32 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

ClassifiedsGotta chimney question Sizing Codes Call Royal Edwards Make Royal your tech department CALL NOW 813-982-0219 for on-call tech support Continuing Education special bonus ndash ask how you can get the Friday morning E-Blast for FREE CALL NOW 813-982-0219

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

Chimney Sweep business for sell in the Northern Rocky Mountains of New Mexico Services a large area with three ski resorts in the service area Equipment and signed three year contracts goes with the business Business is well established For pricing and other info please email your questions to ridgeriders1gmailcom

CLASSIFIED ADS FREE FOR NCSG MEMBERSMembers can run one 35 word classified free each year Regularly classified ads are $2word or $1word for NCSG members Classified ads are non-commissionable and must be pre-paid To place a classified ad please contact Megan McMahon at mmcmahonncsgorg or (317) 837-1500

NCSG Innovation 2013 Convention and Trade Show Hotel reservations are now being accepted for NCSG Innovation 2013 at Chateau on the Lake in Branson MO April 4-7 2013 Just call 1-888-333-LAKE (5253) and mention that yoursquore with the National Chimney Sweep Guild to lock in rates starting at $129 for a mountain view and $134 for a lake view

Get ready for some RampR Yoursquore earned it

Order Your FREEAnnual Maintenance Reminder Postcards

A great way to remind homeowners to schedule their annual maintenance check up

Each card has space available for your business information

Use them as reminders for your existing clients or send them to generate new business

To order postcards and other free Burn Wise products contact

Leigh Herringtonherringtonleighepagov

ampKristen Bremer

bremerkristenepagov

wwwepagovburnwise

Follow us on

Wood-Burning Safety

Starts with You

Have you scheduled your

annual inspection

The National Fire Protection Association estimates

that 25 percent of home heating fires are caused

primarily by creosote buildup in the chimney

Make your home healthier and safer A properly

installed and maintained appliance burns more

efficiently and saves you money Contact your local

certified chimney sweep to schedule an annual

inspection today

Before You Burn

The right wayThe right way is hot and bright

In the right applianceThe right appliance is an EPA-approved appliance inspected annually by a certified chimney sweep

Burn the right woodBurn only dry well-seasoned wood that has been split and stored properly

wwwepagovburnwise

wwwcsiaorg

Printed on 100 recycledrecyclable paper with a minimum 50 post-consumer waste using vegetable-based

EPA 456-F-10-004

National Chimney Sweep Guild2155 Commercial DrivePlainfield IN 46168

1208

OR

Page 7: September 2012

HomeSaverreg Smooth-N-Litetrade Fills the Smoothwall Niche

5-8 Diameters Light 010 stainless strip Available in 304 and 316 stainless steel alloys Interlocked seams are easy to flex Smooth inner wall Crush resistant No memory Ideal for smoothwall application

Now smoothwall liner doesnt have to be stiff and clumsy Because HomeSavers new Smooth-N-Lite gives you smooth without the headache Nestling right into HomeSavers famous family of UltraPro Pro RoundFlex RectangleFlex OvalFlex and Dial-A-Flex liners our new 010 Smooth-N-Lite gives you the superior weight flexibility and strength you need for smooth liner applications

6 times 25 (304-Alloy)

WIth ShIppINg$36786

~Free Freight bull On orders of $1800 or morebull 65rsquo of liner liner and components ship free

Speed Service Selection 8002473305 bull wwwcopperfieldcom

SmoothNLite Adindd 3 71212 335 PM

6 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

MELISSA HEEKE CAENCSG DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS

EditorrsquosLetter

elcome to September Hopefully the season has been

kind to you so far this year and yoursquore in good shape

for a safe and sane remainder of the home heating season

This month we look at how small businesses can protect

themselves from a data breach how to avoid hitting the proverbial

ldquowallrdquo in your business and focusing on what you can control

Strong and steady wins this game This monthrsquos issue should help

you play your next move with confidence

Until next time I wish you all the best for a safe and successful

season

W

6 Gallons for the Price of 5 Gallons

Get 20 More CrownSeal FREEGet 20 More CrownSeal FREESpecial Size

Available from Participating ChimneySaver DistributorsAvailable from Participating ChimneySaver Distributors

The Leader in Chimney Protection

(800) 860-6327

Call your favorite ChimneySaver distributor today to order this special 6 gallon size CrownSeal for the price of a 5 gallon Quantities are limited to what each distributor has placed in inventory so order yours today before they run out

NCSG can help you promote your event

Please email officencsgorg with info on your upcoming meetings and events Wersquoll list your event on the NCSG website in Sweeping magazine and in our weekly dates and events post to the NCSG Discussion List Yoursquore also encouraged to submit meeting and workshop photos and recaps for publication in Sweeping They say a picture is worth a thousand words and we agree Let everyone know what a great time you had and welcome them to your next event Please send photos and articles directly to Melissa Heeke at mheekencsgorg

8 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

Are Small Businesses Protecting Themselves From a Data Breach

Adata breach can be a challenge for any business but this is especially true for smaller businesses Not only can it be more difficult for a smaller business to recover from a data breach but criminals may also be more likely to target smaller firms

When a data breach occurs at a large firm or government agency it winds up all over the news If one occurred at a small business down the street those unaffected would probably never hear about it But a recent report released by Verizon found that nearly three-quarters of data breaches analyzed last year involved businesses with 100 employees or fewer

ldquoMost small-business owners simply do not believe they are at riskrdquo says Lynn LaGram assistant vice president of small commercial underwriting for The Hartford ldquoThe reality is that small businesses are often more vulnerable - making them easier targetsrdquo

LaGram says part of the reason may be that small-business owners often donrsquot have the time or resources that larger companies may have to assist them in protecting data However protecting data may not be as difficult as one would think

Hose Master Invented the Wheel

Smooth-N-Lite bullYourchoice-304or316stainlesssteelcoils5rdquo-8rdquodiameters bullInterlockedseamsareeasytoflex bullSmoothinnerwall bullCrushresistant bullIdealforsmoothwallapplications bullAvailableinroundovalorrectangle

HeavyFlex bullYourchoice-304or316stainlesssteelcoils bullInterlockedseamsareeasytoflex bullSmoothinnerwall bullHighlycrushresistant bullIdealforfireplacerelines bullAvailableinroundovalrectangleorDial-A-Flex

UltraPro bull Patentedrolllockseamdesignforeasyflexibility bullLargebendrange bullSteepcorrugationslope-resultinginhighcrushresistance bullIdeallysuitedforforbothstraightandmultiplebendrelines bullUncoilseasilyrightoutofthebox

NEW

CopperfieldkeepsturningthewheelwithHomeSaverrsquosnew Smooth-N-LitelinerSmooth-N-Litetakesawaythestiffnessand clumsinessnormallyassociatedwithsmoothwallliner-itgivesyouldquosmoothrdquowithnoheadacheNestlingintoHomeSaverrsquosfamousfamilyofUltraProProRoundFlexRectangleFlexOvalFlexandDial-A-FlexCopperfieldrsquosnewSmooth-N-Litegivesyouthesuperiorweight flexibilityandstrengthyouneedforsmoothlinerapplications

Copperfield Chimney Supply Technical800-246-1926Support800-247-3305

Manufactured by Hose Master Exclusively For

When It Comes to Chimney Liners

Almost50yearsagoSamFotiHoseMasterrsquosCEOredesignedinterlockedmachine technologyHisinnovationsarestillthecoreofmanufacturingflexiblechimneylinertoday

HeavyFlex bull 25yearsagoSaminventedRectangleFlex OvalFlexandDial-A-Flextechnology

UltraPro bull 15yearsagoSaminventedUltraPro-the onlypatentedroll-lockdesignlight-weight linerwithextremeflexibilityandcrush resistance

Smooth-N-Lite bullTodaySamhasdesignedSmooth-N-Lite- thelightinterlockedlinerforsmoothwall applications

and now he invented Smooth-N-Lite

Now We Have It All

All Flexible Liner Is Not Created EqualLet Us Prove It

1964

1983

2000

2012

Pro amp UltraProInvented UltraPro - the only patented roll-lock design light-weight liner with extreme flexibility and crush resistance

Redesigned Interlocked Machine TechnologyInnovations are still the core of manufacturing flexible chimney liner today

HeavyFlexInvented RectangleFlex OvalFlex and Dial-A-Flex technology

Smooth-N-LiteToday Sam has designed Smooth-N-Lite the light interlocked liner for smoothwall applications Manufactured on the same machine technology he invented in 1964

Meet Sam Foti Hose Master CEO engineer and innovator

In 1964 Sam got involved with interlocked products Identifying the problems associated with manufacturing the hose Sam redesigned the tooling and machinery to not only produce a consistent interlocked hose but to also speed-up the production

Today the results of Sams ingenuity is the technology used throughout the industry in the production of interlocked products His designs not only changed the way that stripwound hose is made but the way that it is used and perceived in the industry

SmoothNLite Adindd 2 71212 335 PM

Steps to help prevent a breachFor a business or organization that must handle sensitive customer patient or employee information itrsquos important to take measures that decrease the likelihood of a breach ldquoA data breach can involve electronic or paper recordsrdquo says LaGram She shares eight data protection ldquobest practicesrdquo for a business

bull Lock and secure sensitive customer patient member or employee information

bull Restrict employee access to sensitive informationbull Shred or otherwise securely dispose of all sensitive customer patient

member or employee informationbull Use password protection and data encryption for sensitive filesbull Have a privacy policybull Update systems and software on a regular basisbull Use firewalls to control access to sites that could compromise your

security and lock out hackersbull Ensure that remote access to your network is secure

If a breach occursWhile itrsquos important to take proactive steps to help prevent a data breach from occurring therersquos no way to eliminate the risk entirely so it is also

important to have data breach insurance

According to LaGram a business owner should consider insurance that provides

1 Coverage for expenses associated with responding to and recovering from a breach ldquoBusiness owners may not realize that they must comply with various notification requirements which can be costlyrdquo says LaGram Additional advertising expenses to help a business restore its reputation after a breach would also fall into this category

2 Legal expense and liability coverage A customer or employee whose personal data is compromised may sue the business owner for damages This insurance provides coverage for defense costs civil awards settlements or judgments that a business owner may be obligated to pay

3 Access to data security experts to help the business owner navigate the various notification requirements as well as determine the cause of the breach and take steps to prevent it from happening againBoth consumers and business owners can learn more about what to do if they are involved in a data breach at wwwftcgovidtheft

ldquoA data breach can happen to anyone so itrsquos important for business owners to be preparedrdquo says LaGram For more information about protecting your business from a data breach visit wwwhartforddatabreachcom

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 9

Hose Master Invented the Wheel

Smooth-N-Lite bullYourchoice-304or316stainlesssteelcoils5rdquo-8rdquodiameters bullInterlockedseamsareeasytoflex bullSmoothinnerwall bullCrushresistant bullIdealforsmoothwallapplications bullAvailableinroundovalorrectangle

HeavyFlex bullYourchoice-304or316stainlesssteelcoils bullInterlockedseamsareeasytoflex bullSmoothinnerwall bullHighlycrushresistant bullIdealforfireplacerelines bullAvailableinroundovalrectangleorDial-A-Flex

UltraPro bull Patentedrolllockseamdesignforeasyflexibility bullLargebendrange bullSteepcorrugationslope-resultinginhighcrushresistance bullIdeallysuitedforforbothstraightandmultiplebendrelines bullUncoilseasilyrightoutofthebox

NEW

CopperfieldkeepsturningthewheelwithHomeSaverrsquosnew Smooth-N-LitelinerSmooth-N-Litetakesawaythestiffnessand clumsinessnormallyassociatedwithsmoothwallliner-itgivesyouldquosmoothrdquowithnoheadacheNestlingintoHomeSaverrsquosfamousfamilyofUltraProProRoundFlexRectangleFlexOvalFlexandDial-A-FlexCopperfieldrsquosnewSmooth-N-Litegivesyouthesuperiorweight flexibilityandstrengthyouneedforsmoothlinerapplications

Copperfield Chimney Supply Technical800-246-1926Support800-247-3305

Manufactured by Hose Master Exclusively For

When It Comes to Chimney Liners

Almost50yearsagoSamFotiHoseMasterrsquosCEOredesignedinterlockedmachine technologyHisinnovationsarestillthecoreofmanufacturingflexiblechimneylinertoday

HeavyFlex bull 25yearsagoSaminventedRectangleFlex OvalFlexandDial-A-Flextechnology

UltraPro bull 15yearsagoSaminventedUltraPro-the onlypatentedroll-lockdesignlight-weight linerwithextremeflexibilityandcrush resistance

Smooth-N-Lite bullTodaySamhasdesignedSmooth-N-Lite- thelightinterlockedlinerforsmoothwall applications

and now he invented Smooth-N-Lite

Now We Have It All

All Flexible Liner Is Not Created EqualLet Us Prove It

1964

1983

2000

2012

Pro amp UltraProInvented UltraPro - the only patented roll-lock design light-weight liner with extreme flexibility and crush resistance

Redesigned Interlocked Machine TechnologyInnovations are still the core of manufacturing flexible chimney liner today

HeavyFlexInvented RectangleFlex OvalFlex and Dial-A-Flex technology

Smooth-N-LiteToday Sam has designed Smooth-N-Lite the light interlocked liner for smoothwall applications Manufactured on the same machine technology he invented in 1964

Meet Sam Foti Hose Master CEO engineer and innovator

In 1964 Sam got involved with interlocked products Identifying the problems associated with manufacturing the hose Sam redesigned the tooling and machinery to not only produce a consistent interlocked hose but to also speed-up the production

Today the results of Sams ingenuity is the technology used throughout the industry in the production of interlocked products His designs not only changed the way that stripwound hose is made but the way that it is used and perceived in the industry

SmoothNLite Adindd 2 71212 335 PM

10 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

Jim Cochran of Magic Mountain Chimney Sweeps Passes

Jim Cochran of Magic Mountain Chimney Sweeps in Thurmont MD passed away on Thursday April 5 2012 He and wife Debra Cochran have owned and operated this company since 1979 Debra continues to operate Magic Mountain Chimney Sweeps

Jim is survived by his wife Debra Howell Cochran married October 6 1973 in Tampa FL He is also survived by one son Wesly M H Cochran of Frederick MD and one daughter Wendy V Cochran Taylor of Thurmont Debby writes ldquoJim was a legend and many people and sweeps knew and loved him He was one of a kind He had chimney sweeps in top hats and tails for his pallbearers and had a real chimney sweeps funeral It was a great tribute to himrdquoContributions may be made to Cancer Support Community 1050 17th Street NW Suite 500 Washington DC 20036

Sweeping MagazineSept 2012 issue Full page 4 color

Dura-Ventkaren josephson contact

kjosephsonduraventcom800-835-4429

Engineered Excellencereg MampG DuraVent is a member of the MampG Group copy Copyright 2012 Made in the USA 800-835-4429 wwwduraventcom

Stunning design and engineered excellence in manufacture DirectVent Pro combines style with performance Featuring precision tolerances for a tight seal low-pro le locks with no hems or beads for an elegant pro le No gaskets or sealants required (unless by appliance manufacturer) Laser-welded outer seams on all black pipe for a slim nish Several termiantion choices to cap o the system perfectly See why it is speci ed exclusively by nearly every major stove and replace manufacturer in the US and Canada DirectVent Pro is backed by a limited lifetime warranty Find out more at www duraventcom

Dir

ectV

ent

Pro

FOR

DIR

ECT

VEN

T G

AS O

R PR

OPA

NE

STO

VES

HEA

TERS

amp F

IREP

LACE

S

Dire

ctVe

nt Pr

o reg

regIndustryWatch

Industry Watch PolicyNCSG encourages industry partners to submit press releases to Melissa Heeke Sweeping The Journal of Chimney amp Venting Technology editor via email at mheekencsgorg 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 NCSGrsquos opinion regarding the release

Sweeping MagazineSept 2012 issue Full page 4 color

Dura-Ventkaren josephson contact

kjosephsonduraventcom800-835-4429

Engineered Excellencereg MampG DuraVent is a member of the MampG Group copy Copyright 2012 Made in the USA 800-835-4429 wwwduraventcom

Stunning design and engineered excellence in manufacture DirectVent Pro combines style with performance Featuring precision tolerances for a tight seal low-pro le locks with no hems or beads for an elegant pro le No gaskets or sealants required (unless by appliance manufacturer) Laser-welded outer seams on all black pipe for a slim nish Several termiantion choices to cap o the system perfectly See why it is speci ed exclusively by nearly every major stove and replace manufacturer in the US and Canada DirectVent Pro is backed by a limited lifetime warranty Find out more at www duraventcom

Dir

ectV

ent

Pro

FOR

DIR

ECT

VEN

T G

AS O

R PR

OPA

NE

STO

VES

HEA

TERS

amp F

IREP

LACE

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o reg

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12 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

irst of all if you are reading this CONGRATUATIONS As I shared at a recent MIX group meeting I did a presentation for many of you have survived the worst economic downturn in the history of our country one that in many ways rivaled the Great Depression So congratulations

are definitely in order Many American businesses did not survive the economic downturn and others are still on the borderline of survival andor failure I am sure each of you knows of successful business owners who have had their lives (and their lifestyles) undergo a tremendous transition during the past few years Others among you may have only entered our industry since this economic devil revealed itself

What is even more remarkable is that some who read this have done much more Not only have they survived they actually prospered Their businesses grew their profits increased and their business models strengthened Each business that did this faced the same economic conditions as others Yet due to their grit and determination they became true winners Yes there may have been geographic considerations but few areas have escaped the wrath of the economic turmoil our country has faced

What the economic conditions have done for many is force them to become better managers better watchers of their numbers better students of lean methods of operation and better in so many other beneficial ways And it is truly enlightening to see the benefits that have been awarded to those who have continued to make their businesses grow in truly tough economic times and without assistance from banks or other lenders The true success stories of business owners who have completely revamped their operations and have shown levels of excellence that many dream of

But even as a survivor many will encounter roadblocks that will cause stress will slow progress and will serve to raise caution to the wind At times it will come at you with a warning at other times it will simply pop up in front of you with no warning Perhaps it hits you when you awaken in a cold sweat or perhaps it hits you at times when things are just not going as you feel they should The roadblock I refer to is something I classify as the WALL

I feel that a successful business manager can be compared to a star athlete The star athlete will practice he will work out

he will have a strict regimen that will include his diet his sleep habits and will govern his life As he undergoes his training any and all things that can hamper his performance are examined and examined again No matter if he is a runner a swimmer a baseball or football player or a star in other sports He will dedicate himself to excellence just as you do each and every day in your business We saw this in August as we watched the Olympics and see those who receive the gold and hear the stories of the work they did to prepare for the competition

But even with the preparation even with the regiment he has posed to himself at times he will find that his energy is zapped His will to go on will be challenged his fortitude questioned HE HITS THE WALL

As a business manager this is no different than what you encounter at times Not only does the wall come up and block your progress as one person even explained to me about the dreaded wall at times it will even collapse on top of you and you may have to dig out of the rubble During a recent conversation a business owner related ldquoI am digging out of the rubble where that wall fell on top of merdquo when asked how he was doing Has this ever happened to you causing you to stop and wonder just why am I doing this and will I meet my objective Even worse the thought comes to the forefront is it really worth what I am putting into it

In my business endeavors I deal with a lot of folks in different stages of their business models Some have recently launched a business some are transforming a business some preparing exit plans and others are building infrastructure Others still have found success and are working to bring in new management to begin to pursue their true dreams of more free time as the free time was a goal of the original business start-up plan In preparation for this article I asked several who always seem to be going up up and up just what was their secret Just how did the walls not stop them in the progress of the business I think the overall answer I heard was best summed up by one phenomenal business owner His answer was ldquoJerry I keep myself up all the time because I always look at the potential and the markets we have not tapped into yet I just donrsquot see how anyone can get beat due to the problems when there is so much potential and so much untapped businessrdquo

BY JERRY ISENHOUR OF CHIMNEY amp VENTING

CONSULTANTS IN CONCORD NCCoachrsquos Corner

The

The Wall

F

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 13

Quite frankly this hit it on the head Each and every day as a business owner you face adversity perhaps from a customer perhaps from the world around us perhaps simply from an employee who did not meet our expectations But you know this is life and life has a way of throwing curve ball after curve ball The real winner will anticipate what the curve balls will be and will develop the methods to hit the ball no matter how it is thrown at us

The true winner will always view each and every adversary as a learning experience taking what is learned from each error each loss and each hiccup and use these as the basis for new procedures new methods and new ways to grow and prosper The true winner knows that his 1 accountability partner is that guy with him all the time the guy he knows as the man in the mirror

Some are even developing methods within the business to pull these errors and mistakes out of the hidden abyss of the unknown to find the ones we may not even be paying attention to Recently observing several who have instituted a new method that can isolate and eliminate issues is producing astounding results As a respected colleague shared with me ldquoJerry it feels like we are walking on glass but we are finding the ways to end the dreaded Groundhog Day happening over and overrdquo Successful business managers use this as the basis of how they will change the business model adapt their procedures

and continue to grow and prosper All the while raising the PERCENTAGE of profit from the gross figure They do not look at the number they view the number as the percentage Only through viewing the percentage can we truly have a yardstick by which to measure our progress as we grow our management skills

With this my wish is for you to have an excellent fall By the time you read this we will have hit that great part of the year called FALL and what so many call THE BUSY SEASON As you enter this make plans now as to how you plan to promote your business come January 1 2013 This is what the guys who are moving forward are doing The fall is already through the planning stages and they are ready for action ARE YOU If not ask that man in the mirror if he is truly operating at the level he needs to be He has the answer I am sure

About the Author Jerry Isenhour is an industry consultant coach and educator 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 and your business in your quest for success and your rise to the next level take a look at his web site wwwchimneyandventingconsultantscom He can be contacted at jerrychimneyandventingconsultantscom or by phone at (704) 425-0217 You can also obtain great business tips from his Facebook page Chimney amp Venting Consultants

ldquoMy company uses most products available to chimney contractors but Firesafersquos products and systems are hands-down the very best and the most profitable Great technical support and their constant improvements make the products even better which makes my company stand out over my competitionrdquo Kevin Knight Chadds Ford Chimney Sweeps PA

TO order call 800 TO order call 800--545545--66076607

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14 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

erhaps the most important thing to recognize about business is that customer service is not an afterthought to everything else It IS everything else Or as Leon Gorman the CEO of LL Bean puts it ldquoCustomer Service is just a day in day out

ongoing never ending unremitting persevering compassionate type of activityrdquo

Oh thatrsquos a nice thought you say Irsquoll be certain to put a little more attention on that the next free moment I get

If this is your response yoursquove missed the point and perhaps the boat too

So what does it mean when we say service What does good customer service look like Herersquos a good hint from Peter Drucker ldquoQuality in service or product is not what you put into it Itrsquos what the customer gets out of itrdquo

In other words in the final analysis itrsquos not simply how

well you do your job that matters What matters is how your customer feels about you or your company once the job is completed What matters is what they got out of it And in that regard in any arena of competitors the battle will be won by the company who leaves the customer feeling the best the happiest the most satisfied

Jerry Gregoire CIO of Dell believes ldquoThe customer experience is the next competitive battlegroundrdquo

Now you might be thinking your customers must be pretty satisfied since most of the time they donrsquot seem to have any complaints

If you are feeling this way it would behoove you to remember most customers donrsquot complain even if there are dramatic issues with the work Why People donrsquot like confrontations And many people feel their complaints will be neither appreciated nor dealt with so why bother

The One and Only Thing

P

BY GREG POLAKOW OF COPPERFIELD

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 15

The course of action they choose rather than wasting their time and emotions complaining to someone they feel will be either hostile or unresponsive is to select one of your competitors next time they need work done As the saying goes they vote with their wallet

You might rightly be asking yourself well if my customers donrsquot tell me when theyrsquore not satisfied what can I possibly do about it

The answer is there are many things that can be done about it But the first starts with the understanding that customer service is not something that kicks in only when therersquos a problem Customer service has to be part of every contact you have with your customers It is how you treat your customers before you even show up at their door It is how you conduct yourself during your visit And it is most certainly the way in which you handle follow up

Remember it is how your customers feel after all is said and done that matters

We are always forming opinions about others It is a natural part of being human And we begin formulating those opinions with our very first encounter The initial opinions may later give way to either better or worse opinions but initial opinions are extremely influential So ask yourself what are you doing to

insure that the very first impression a customer has of you and your business is excellent What are you doing to make this very first customer service experience positive What are you doing to provide your customer at the very outset with a feel good experience

Whatever your answer is remember it is often this first impression that will determine whether or not a customer will call and complain if there is a problem later rather than simply opt to call one of your competitors next time Why Because it is in this first encounter with you that a customer begins to decide if they trust you If you trust that a company has your best interests at heart you are much more likely to call if there is a problem

So how do you establish a feeling of well being and trust with your customer from the get go Again it has to do with how you make them feel the moment you pick up your phone to answer their first call If your tone is cold indifferent or even matter of fact they are not likely to feel you care And if you donrsquot seem to care about them can you really be trusted to have their best interests at heart EVERTHING you do from the outset absolutely everything will create an opinion of you in the customerrsquos mind That means your tone of voice the patience with which you respond to their questions And the very language and even diction you use to talk to them about whatever chimney related issue they are having

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All Fuels Chimney Linerbull Eliminates the turbulence thatrsquos inherent with

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Z-Max Rain Cap ampLock lsquoN Go Base Tee

bull Z-Max Rain Cap with protective ember screen shields chimney from snow driving rain and animal intrusions Quick removal for easy cleaning

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C H I M N E Y amp V E N T I N G S O L U T I O N S

TRIPLE LOCKreg

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Sweeping News (Snews)_Smoothcore_Z-Max_no booth_HR_March 29 2012pdf 1 12-03-30 212 PM

16 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

Use language that is too technical and you lose them and put them on the defensive ldquoAm I supposed to understand what this guy is talking aboutrdquo they wonder Speak too fast or indistinctly and you get the same result

Seem like picky details They may be to you but they will not be to your customer

Remember when a customer comes to you he is laying his problem at your feet If he could remedy it himself he would But he canrsquot He needs you to help him So he is feeling a bit vulnerable a bit out of his league How you respond to him in this circumstance can either make him feel immediately comfortable and in safe hands or something less desirable You decide which effect you want to create

I think you can see that if this first encounter leaves your customer glowing instead of glowering you win You win his confidence his trust and even here at the very outset his gratitude If yoursquove done this well ie addressed his initial questions and concerns in a compassionate understanding thorough manner well you are off to an excellent start

But the battle has not been won because yoursquove also set some expectations and your customerrsquos expectation that this kind of treatment will continue must be met If your crew shows up to do the work and forgets they are in the customer service business first and foremost all you accomplished at the beginning can be ruined

Good customer service must build on itself from day one in order to maintain that feeling in your customer of confidence happiness and trust It cannot be hit and miss Being inconsistent might be worse than being just plain ornery from the beginning

Does good customer service trump sloppy careless or substandard work Of course not Because the quality of your product is a huge part of the customer service package Itrsquos all customer service

The bottom line is your customer will appreciate value and respect you to exactly the same degree you appreciate value and respect him No more and no less And the great thing is when you treat your customers as friends when you gladly and openly address their concerns and fix their problems your work and your life become easier and more fulfilling

Try it out Start thinking of customer service as being the be all and end all of your business and see how well things go Yoursquoll be amazed

Remember as Tony Allesandra has observed ldquoBeing on par in terms of price and quality only gets you into the game Service wins the gamerdquo

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The NEW Smoothwall Chimney Liner thathas the Perfect Combination of

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18 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

ou all have accomplishments You support your family your employees and their families your vendors and you provide comfort and safety for your customers

Some of you can enjoy your success and can focus on preserving what you have Many of you want to and have the capacity to grow and be more successful Some of you may be struggling with the seasonality and economics of your business Regardless of your level of success almost all of you have varying degrees of uncertainty

Many articles books conferences and videos have been made about the importance of having a strategic plan to help guide you to fulfill your potential

This magazine has offered numerous articles written to help you fulfill your potential The NCSG offers courses to help you gain skills to be more successful

Yet there still appears to be too many business owners

struggling to achieve their goals ndash or have yet to explicitly define their goals which could help them to get their time back and allow them (you) to enjoy their (your) lives

Maybe yoursquore stuck on tactics without a strategy Maybe yoursquore stuck on ldquonoiserdquo ndash noise that the media airs about events you cannot control and distracts you from your business Perhaps that ldquonoiserdquo has contributed to a pessimistic perspective

Perhaps all of the above is ldquonoiserdquo that covers up past or current mistakes or regret either real or perceived

Letrsquos work on facing your concerns and your past Fear fades when facts are faced Regrets can become wisdom when success lies ahead

Consider forming a team of trusted professionals emulate successful associates select friends and close family members who can create a ldquojudgment freerdquo zone to allow you to unwind the past that may be keeping you from achieving your potential

Focus on What You Can Control

Y

BY BRIAN NOE OF MW FINANCIAL GROUP

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 19

Your team can help you realize your dreams by developing a sound strategy employing objective facts without bias Your team has your back

So letrsquos throw out the rear view mirror set aside our mistakes and regrets and look forward to what you can control that can lead to success

You and your team can control your personal finances You and your team can control your business Here are some steps you can take to help seize the day sleep easy and get your time back

1 Budget ndash do you have a personal and business budget Do you adhere to your budget Does your budget include protection and savings for retirement and your legacy Do you know how much you need to save for retirement and your legacy Are you prepared in the event that you may ldquolive too longrdquo

2 Help Protect Yourself your Family and your Business ndash you can take steps to control your risk

Do you let your employees drive your personal vehicles Do your employees drive your work vehicles for personal use Are you covered for that activity These are a just a few examples of ldquohiddenrdquo liabilities that you may be exposed to but unaware of

Do you have adequate umbrella insurance protection in addition to home and auto insurance that covers you and your employees

Do you take steps to relieve stress Do you have disability insurance to provide you with income or your business with funds to pay expenses in the event of illness or injury that prevents you from working

For your business you can implement a safety program This sets up a plan of employee procedures for handling vendors customers and inter-employee communication skills to improve workmanship and other employee development For events you cannot control do you have liability EampO and similar insurance

Does your business take advantage of legal structure asset titling (multiple businesses Spouse ownership) retirement plans life insurance annuities trusts and homestead

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20 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

exemptions (if available) to help protect assets from creditors and frivolous lawsuits

3 Employ Efficient Debt ndash we may be at the bottom of the interest rate and inflation cycle If interest rates rise andor inflation heats up the general rule of thumb for most of us is debtors win creditors lose If you have the cash you have control If the banker has the cash they have control

4 Manage Taxes ndash whether or not income or estate taxes increase in the future a retirement assetincome distribution business succession and legacy strategy is a must for everyone

5 Investment Management ndash you have plenty of risk with your business Do you want to have unnecessary risk with your investments

You cannot control macroeconomics (sequence of return risk rising interest rates trade and budget deficits unemployment inflation taxes real estate values commodity markets fluctuating foreign currency etc)

You cannot control geopolitical events (elections Euro zone issues violent foreign government changes war etc) or environmental events (hurricanes earthquakes fires tsunamis etc)

How do you insulate yourself from economic events you cannot control Consider historically tried tested and true strategies Consider strategies that your grandparentrsquos generation may have used They had to protect themselves ndash government bailouts and subsidies were few and far between

Congratulations if you can assemble a team to help you define and implement a strategy using the tactics described above This can be achieved in a relatively short period of time (a few hours a week over several short weeks can do it) which can help give you your time back so you can focus on your business and family

6 Manage your Business ndash this you can completely control You can engage in any of the following business expansion activities without losing energy and enthusiasm to the issues you and your team of advisors tackled above

Perhaps you would ratherbull Recruit and develop key employees (and future buyers of

your business)bull Market expansion (are you getting on board the e-marketing

train)bull Develop operating procedures and processesbull Improve safety (reduce liability)bull Expand into new territoriesbull Enter a new industry

bull Purchase and manage real estate

Life Happens ndash Enjoy It

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 US Army Eric is ranked first in his class with a degree in Computer Science is working in his field and plans on attending graduate school in 2013 His daughter Kara recently graduated undergraduate school with distinction and is planning to attend graduate school to become a Physiciansrsquo 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_NoeMWFinancialcom

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CSIA Update wwwCSIAorg

Publication for CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepregs

ADVERTISEMENT

The Virginia Association of Chimney amp

Hearth Professionals sponsored CSIArsquos

Inspection amp Report Writing class in

Arlington VA this August 6-7 Tom Urban

served as the instructor for the two-day

session Forty one professionals were

in attendance with 19 being business

owners and 22 being employees The

session drew attendees from as far away

as Louisville KY

The event was sponsored by Wakefield

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Supply SaverSystems and Whitecaps

VACHP Sponsored Inspection amp Report Writing

Fred Regar served as auctioneer of the sponsor-donated items on the second day of the session

Tom Urban teaching the CSIA Inspection and Report Writing Class in Arlington

When renewing a credential earned after September 1 2009 a CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg is required to

Available downloads for CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepsreg and CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Techniciansreg include

bull CSIACertifiedChimneySweepandCSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician Trademarks

bull ButtonsforyourWebsite

bull CustomizablePowerPointpresentationfor home inspectors

bull InspectionSOPs

bull LadderSafetyTips

bull ldquoChimneyFiresCausesEffectsampEvaluationrdquo Prepared by Chimney Safety Institute of America- Chimney Fire Education and Research Task Force

bull Printversionofthiswhitepaperisalsoavailable for purchase

bull Top10WoodburningTipsfromtheChimney Safety Institute of America

Check out the CCS amp CDET area at CSIAorg

bull Submitaminimumof9CEUsearnedwithin the preceeding 3 years (in any category) before testing NOTE This requirement will not apply to CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps already holding the credential on September 1 2009untiltheirnext3-yearcertificationcycle

bull Passaone-hourexambasedonSuccessfulChimneySweeping(2009)andNFPA211(2010)

bull Passaninety-minuteopen-bookexambasedonthe2006IRCreg

bull AgreetopaytheAnnualCertificationFee

bull SignCSIACodeofEthics

OR

bull SubmitappropriatenumberofContinuing Education Units (CEUs) in the relevant categories

bull AgreetopaytheAnnualCertificationFee

bull SignCSIACodeofEthics

Upon earning the CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg credential your certification is valid for one year You will need to recertify annually by paying the annual certification fee This fee will be invoiced annually prior to your expiration date Please note that your credential will require renewal every three years by submittal of the minimum 48 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) in accordance with the CSIA Credential Renewal Policy or by passing the certification exams and either submitting a minimum of 9 CEUs or completing a CSIA Review

If your annual certification fee is not paid prior to your certification expiration date your credential will be considered lapsed and you will immediately lose all rights and privileges of the CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg credential The following terms will then apply if reinstatement of the credential is desired

If you do not pay your annual certification fee by your expiration date the following timeline will begin

bull Within90daysfromthedateofexpiration if you submit payment in full for the annual certification fee your credential will be reinstated and you will be considered a CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg in good standing maintaining your original annual expiration date and certification number

bull Ifmorethan90daysandlessthan12months beyond your expiration date you will be required to Pay the current annual certification fee and current testing fees and test again Doing so will reinstate your previous annual certification expiration date and certification number You will still be required to pay your next annual fee within the next 12 months

bull Ifmorethan12monthsbeyondyourexpiration date you will be required to either participate in a CSIA approved certification review course or submit evidence of 9 CEUs that were accumulated during the time your credential was active In addition you will be required to pass the CSIA certification exams Upon successful completion a new certification number will be assigned and you will have a new annual certification expiration date

CaliforniaMichaelGipsonbullMidtownSweepsbullLancasterOmarSaenzbullAFiddlerontheRoodDuctampChimneyServicebullVanNuys

IndianaAlexStewartbullOldSmokeyrsquosFireplaceampChimneyIncbullAshley

KansasRyanBerrybullFullServiceChimneybullOlathe

New YorkJayFellibullHearthampHomeofIthacabullIthaca

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West VirginiaMichaelAdwellbullTopHatChimneySweepbullLewisburg

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Top 10 Woodburning Tips from the Chimney Safety Institute of America

To aid in the prevention of chimney fires and carbon monoxide intrusion and to help keep heating appliances and fireplaces functioning properly the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) offers the following safety tips

1 Get an annual chimney check Have chimneys inspected annually and cleaned as necessary by a qualified professional chimney service technician This reduces the risk of fires and carbon monoxide poisonings due to creosote buildup or obstructions in the chimneys

2 Keep it clear Keep tree branches and leaves at least 15 feet away from the top of the chimney

3 Install a chimney cap to keep debris and animals out of the chimney

4 Choose the right fuel For burning firewood in wood stoves or fireplaces choose wellseasoned wood that has been split for a minimum of six months - one year and stored in a covered and elevated location Never burn Christmas trees or treated wood in your fireplace or wood stove

5 Build it right Place firewood or firelogs at the rear of the fireplace on a supporting grate To start the fire use kindling or a commercial firelighter Never use flammable liquids

6 Keep the hearth area clear Combustible material too close to the fireplace or to a wood stove could easily catch fire Keep furniture at least 36rdquo away from the hearth

7 Use a fireplace screen Use metal mesh or a screen in front of the fireplace to catch flying sparks that could ignite or burn holes in the carpet or flooring

8 Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors Place detectors throughout the house and check batteries in the spring and fall

When you change your clocks for Daylight Savings Time remember to check your batteries

9 Never leave a fire unattended Before turning in for the evening be sure that the fire is fully

extinguished Supervise children and pets closely around wood stoves and fireplaces

10 The CSIA recommends annual inspections performed by CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps These chimney sweeps have earned the industryrsquos most respected credential by passing an intensive examination based on fire codes clearances and standards for the construction and maintenance of chimney and venting systems The National Fire Protection Association also recommends that all chimneys are inspected on an annual basis

For more chimney and fireplace safety tips visit the Chimney Safety Institute of America online at wwwCSIAorg

Solve your customersrsquo smoking sooting odor and draft problems Itrsquos easy with CSIArsquos 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 Ghostingsooting 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 doesnrsquot

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

Learn to solve these problems save time and money and keep

your clients happy with CSIArsquos Online Chimney Physics program

SolvedVenting Problems

Register today at wwwcsiaorg

CSIA 15 Tech 15 CampL 15 HampS 15 CampS NFI 5 Tech

Annual Certification Requirements

Top 10 Woodburning Tips from the Chimney Safety Institute of America

To aid in the prevention of chimney fires and carbon monoxide intrusion and to help keep heating appliances and fireplaces functioning properly the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) offers the following safety tips

1 Get an annual chimney check Have chimneys inspected annually and cleaned as necessary by a qualified professional chimney service technician This reduces the risk of fires and carbon monoxide poisonings due to creosote buildup or obstructions in the chimneys

2 Keep it clear Keep tree branches and leaves at least 15 feet away from the top of the chimney

3 Install a chimney cap to keep debris and animals out of the chimney

4 Choose the right fuel For burning firewood in wood stoves or fireplaces choose wellseasoned wood that has been split for a minimum of six months - one year and stored in a covered and elevated location Never burn Christmas trees or treated wood in your fireplace or wood stove

5 Build it right Place firewood or firelogs at the rear of the fireplace on a supporting grate To start the fire use kindling or a commercial firelighter Never use flammable liquids

6 Keep the hearth area clear Combustible material too close to the fireplace or to a wood stove could easily catch fire Keep furniture at least 36rdquo away from the hearth

7 Use a fireplace screen Use metal mesh or a screen in front of the fireplace to catch flying sparks that could ignite or burn holes in the carpet or flooring

8 Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors Place detectors throughout the house and check batteries in the spring and fall

When you change your clocks for Daylight Savings Time remember to check your batteries

9 Never leave a fire unattended Before turning in for the evening be sure that the fire is fully

extinguished Supervise children and pets closely around wood stoves and fireplaces

10 The CSIA recommends annual inspections performed by CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps These chimney sweeps have earned the industryrsquos most respected credential by passing an intensive examination based on fire codes clearances and standards for the construction and maintenance of chimney and venting systems The National Fire Protection Association also recommends that all chimneys are inspected on an annual basis

For more chimney and fireplace safety tips visit the Chimney Safety Institute of America online at wwwCSIAorg

ADVERTISEMENT

You can spend weeks trying to get a new employee up to speed In the process yoursquoll have used up your valuable time your patience and more money than you would like to admit

Instead send your employee to the most popular cost-effective chimney sweep training in North America CSIArsquos National Chimney Sweep Training School In less than a week wersquoll create an employee that yoursquoll be proud to send on a call ndash and happy to count toward your bottom line

Register today at wwwcsiaorg or call us at (317) 837-5362

At the 6-day hands-on Training School your employee will learn

How to inspect and service chimney systems serving any fuel burning appliance

How to be safe with the latest health and safety equipment and methods

How to work with residential heating appliances including wood stoves pellet stoves inserts factory-built fireplaces central heaters and furnaces

How to diagnose chimney performance problems understanding draft and flow diagnosing down drafts flow reversals inadequate flow stack effects updrafts pressure effects and gauges

How to navigate the International Residential Codes How to follow the NFPA 211 standards

Class size is limited to ensure a ratio of no more than eight students per instructor This small class size means that students have the opportunity for individual attention from the schoolrsquos experienced instructors and ample opportunities for hands-on training Because class size is limited it is important to apply early to reserve your place

The online CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience

The online Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician (CDET) review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience designed to help you pass the CDET exam

Take advantage of these other CSIA educational offerings that can build your business

Send us your greenhorn

and wersquoll send you back a pro

in 6 days Classes fill quickly so register now

2012 DATeS April 2ndash7June 4ndash9August 6ndash11September 24ndash29

April 2-7June 11-16August 6-11September 24-29

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 25

You can spend weeks trying to get a new employee up to speed In the process yoursquoll have used up your valuable time your patience and more money than you would like to admit

Instead send your employee to the most popular cost-effective chimney sweep training in North America CSIArsquos National Chimney Sweep Training School In less than a week wersquoll create an employee that yoursquoll be proud to send on a call ndash and happy to count toward your bottom line

Register today at wwwcsiaorg or call us at (317) 837-5362

At the 6-day hands-on Training School your employee will learn

How to inspect and service chimney systems serving any fuel burning appliance

How to be safe with the latest health and safety equipment and methods

How to work with residential heating appliances including wood stoves pellet stoves inserts factory-built fireplaces central heaters and furnaces

How to diagnose chimney performance problems understanding draft and flow diagnosing down drafts flow reversals inadequate flow stack effects updrafts pressure effects and gauges

How to navigate the International Residential Codes How to follow the NFPA 211 standards

Class size is limited to ensure a ratio of no more than eight students per instructor This small class size means that students have the opportunity for individual attention from the schoolrsquos experienced instructors and ample opportunities for hands-on training Because class size is limited it is important to apply early to reserve your place

The online CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience

The online Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician (CDET) review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience designed to help you pass the CDET exam

Take advantage of these other CSIA educational offerings that can build your business

Send us your greenhorn

and wersquoll send you back a pro

in 6 days Classes fill quickly so register now

2012 DATeS April 2ndash7June 4ndash9August 6ndash11September 24ndash29

April 2-7June 11-16August 6-11September 24-29

ProgressivePerksBY DEBBIE CORNELIUS

MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT COORDINATOR

Get Organized and Make the Most of Your Busy Season

Sometimes it really surprises me that more NCSG members do not take advantage of the discounted benefits available to them These will not only save you time buthellip money too

Paycor Payroll Services price reduction on payroll and tax services One specialist will be dedicated to your account with a team of tax specialists available to resolve issues in the fastest amount of time should an issue arise

Market Hardware can bring your business up to speed in the competitive market of technology where more and more customers are looking to the Web Once they have customized the design that includes a ldquoHome Pagerdquo ldquoAbout Usrdquo and ldquoOur Servicesrdquo page you will have the ability to easily update and edit your Web site yourself instead of paying someone else to do it

Technical Solutions the ldquoSurvival Kit for Small Businessesrdquo can provide on-demand remote repair 247 365 days a year For the price of $2499month with no long term contact involved you can cover up to 20 computers including multiple office locations

Commercials On Hold provides a great way to brand and promote your full range of services when callers are on hold before they talk to a member of your staff

Take a few minutes to just explore these benefits It would be well worth your time to compare the savings to save you time and help increase your profits

26 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

REGION 6

NCSG Charter Members

Paul Bourque Huntsville AL

Don Leavitt San Diego CA

David Harris Broken Arrow Oklahoma

Dan Wheeler Santa Rosa CA

John Cline Menlo Park CA

Dale Meisinger N Augusta SC

Alan Hisey St Louis MO

Eva B Horton Greenwich CT

Harry Richart Hasbrouck Heights NJ

NewNCSGMembers

REGION 3

REGION 2

REGION 5

REGION 4

NCSG REGIONS

REGION 1

Connecticut Vermont Massachusetts New York Maine Rhode Island New Hampshire

REGION 2

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

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

CONNECTICUTChristopher Gonsalves bull Millstream Construction bull HebronDavid Heissenbuttel bull DMH amp Associates Inc bull Wilton

VIRGINAJack Johnston bull Johnstonrsquos Chimney Sweep bull Yorktown

MISSOURIJason Patrick bull Shamrock Qualty Services bull St LouisBill Bonney bull Bonney Bill bull Jackson

KENTUCKYJoshua Moore bull Moore Joshua bull Mt Sterling

ILLINOISJack Lutz bull Lutz Jack bull EurekaClay Nelson bull Clean Sweep bull Collinsville

OHIOAnthony Ramsey bull Elite Chimney Solutions bull Beavercreek

INDIANATravis Beckley bull Beckley Travis bull Coal City

TEXASMatthew Milner bull Milner Matthew bull WhitesboroTony Drew bull AC Contractors dba Fireplaces bull LongviewChristopher A Hess bull Atlas Chimney bull Leander

MINNESOTARenee Gustafson bull John C Gustafson Builder LLC bull Little Falls

COLORADOKent Macintosh bull Russian River Chimney Sweeps bull Healdsburg

CALIFORNIA Errol Davis bull The Chimney Specialist bull Huntington Beach

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 27

The 2012 ndash 2013 offers are being added daily in the ldquoMembers Onlyrdquo section of the NCSG website at wwwNCSGorg So start checking for these new offers each week These coupons will be good until June 30 2013

Copperfield Chimney Supply bull Lindemann Chimney Supply bull Meyer Machine amp Equipment bull National Chimney Supply bull SNEWS - The Chimney Sweep News bull Wakefield Brush bull Wohler USA Inc

2012 ndash 2013 SWEEPS ADVANTAGE COUPON PROGRAM

Featured Coupons of the Month

COPPERFIELD CHIMNEY SUPPLY

SAVE Up to $ 12650 FREE 13 x 13 Lock-Top with an order of $250

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purchase

SAVE Up to $ 46 One 13 x 13 HomeSaver Stainless Steel chimney cap with any Order of $250 or more

SAVE Up to $ 64 One EasyClean Cap with any purchase of $250

SAVE UP TO $ 75 $75 off any 25rsquo order of UltraPro Stainless Steel Liner

SAVE UP TO $ 40 $40 off any Flue Stretcher Chimney Cap

SAVE UP TO $ 20 Sign up for a Copperfield Reline Workshop and Save $20

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28 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

Meyer Machine amp Equipment

SUCKINGDUCTS

ampINSULATION

FOR OVER 20 YEARS

As most allergy sufferers will tell you allergy symptoms can always be bothersome turning any time of year into sneezing season A runny nose itchy eyes and scratchy throat can arise as the days get shorter and the leaves begin to change

The fall can be especially difficult for people who are sensitive to mold and ragweed pollen But these seasonal elements arenrsquot the only triggers that can make symptoms worse this time of year There are also a few lesser known triggers Here are four things you might not know about fall allergies courtesy of the American College of Allergy Asthma and Immunology

Hay fever - Hay fever a term from a bygone era actually has nothing to do with hay Instead itrsquos a general term used to describe the symptoms of late summer allergies Ragweed is a common cause of hay fever which is also known as allergic rhinitis The plant usually begins to pollinate in mid-August and may continue to be a problem until a hard freeze depending on where you live See an allergist for prescription medications to control symptoms or to see if allergy shots may be your best option

Lingering warm weather - While most people enjoy Indian summer unseasonably warm temperatures can make rhinitis symptoms last longer Mold spores can also be released when humidity is high or the weather is dry and windy Be sure to begin taking medications before your symptoms start Track your allergy symptoms with MyNasalAllergyJournalorg and visit with your allergist to find relief

Pesky leaves - Some folks might find it difficult to keep up with raking leaves throughout the autumn But for allergy sufferers raking presents its own problem It can stir agitating pollen and mold into the air causing allergy and asthma symptoms Those with allergies should wear an NIOSH-rated N95 mask when raking leaves mowing the lawn and gardening

School allergens - Itrsquos not only seasonal pollen and mold that triggers allergies this time of year Kids are often exposed to classroom irritants and allergy triggers These can include chalk dust and classroom pets Students with food allergies may also be exposed to allergens in the lunch roomKids with exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB) may experience attacks during recess or gym class Help your child understand what can trigger their allergies and asthma and how they can avoid symptoms Be sure to notify teachers and the school nurse of any emergency medications such as quick relief inhalers and epinephrine

No matter the season itrsquos important for those who think they may be suffering from allergies or asthma to see a board-certified allergist An allergist can help you develop a treatment plan which can include both medication and avoidance techniques

Having your allergies properly identified and treated will help you and your family enjoy the season To find an allergist and learn more about allergies and asthma visit wwwAllergyandAsthmaRelieforg

Four Things You Might Not Know About Fall Allergies

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 29

trategic partnerships Sounds fancy but what does it really mean They are called what they are called because there is a true strategy behind them the thought and planning that goes into identifying and development those relationships in a way that will

ultimately help those who are participating to achieve their mission The fact that it is indeed a ldquopartnershiprdquo indicates that everyone involved mutually stands to benefit in some wayhellipItrsquos a win-win

The strategic part of establishing partnerships is analyzing who you are your goals and your current resources and then finding organizations (partners) that will allow you to get the things that you need in order to take your organization to the next level But true partnerships are about what you can bring to each other to help achieve your goals and enhance your resources It is not solely about what you can give me but rather what we can give each other As the great John F Kennedy is well known for encouraging of a world partnership ldquoask not what America will do for you but what together we can do for the freedom of manrdquo

So where does this leave an association like NCSG The key to nonprofits establishing strategic partnerships is having the infrastructure to attract and maintain these relationships In this country there are plenty of nonprofits that are doing great work but there is no organization that will be able to survive if they try

to achieve their mission without establishing partnerships that help provide resources and relationships that allow us to achieve our mission

NCSG is very fortunate to have an impressive array of partners who have for many years some since our inception done just that Our partners have advertised in this magazine exhibited at our conventions contributed to the building and maintaining of our headquarters and the premier industry training facility in Indianapolis discounted thousands of dollars in products and services to our members and have helped us promote the Guild and recruit membership in countless ways not the least of which includes maintaining their own membership in NCSG

Our partners are committed to helping us advance our mission and in turn propel our professional field forward Their partnership supports that programs that ignite your professional and technical development and provide the products and services that have helped you bring your own businesses to life They are integral to the success of this industry and most renew their support of the Guild year after year

Without their support of Sweeping magazine through their advertising we would not have been able to come close to bringing this publication to our members and the industry for the past 35 years (originally The Chimney Sweep Guild News) without significant taxation on the readers Without their support

BY MARK MCSWEENEY CAEEXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Perspective

Support Those Who Support YouldquoOur success has really been based on partnerships from the very beginningrdquo -Bill Gates

S

30 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

of NCSGrsquos annual convention through exhibiting and additional sponsorships registration fees for attendees would easily be double what they are today

When viewing our relationship with exhibitors sponsors advertisers and supplier members as a partnership the question needs to be asked How are we as an association mutually helping them achieve their respective goals

The answer comes back to us having infrastructure to attract and maintain these partnerships And that infrastructure is you the member NCSG cultivates and maintains the relationship with our industry partners on your behalf You are asked to back that up through your support of these partner service providers

Now Irsquom not saying you should buy everything you need at any one place or only through our partners At the end of the day you ultimately need to make your purchasing decisions based on your individual business needs However what would be great to see is our members calling our partners up and giving them a chance to compete for your business Let them know you are a part of NCSG and even if you are not in a position to do business with them this time around let them know you appreciate their continued support of the Guild and the industry Itrsquos one thing to call up to a supplier and ask about a product get a price and hang up Itrsquos another thing to make sure you let them know you saw their ad in Sweeping you read about them

online or you remember they exhibited at the convention so that they know they are getting positive exposure and that their investment in our partnership is not going unnoticed

With that said here are some simple and tangible things things you can do to help the partnership you are a part ofbull Consider our partners each and every time you need to make a

purchasing decision and give them an opportunity to earn your business when you can Look at those who are advertising in Sweeping or see a full listing of NCSG Supplier Members under the Chimney Sweep tab on ncsgorg

bull When you talk to them let them know yoursquore part of NCSG and thank them for their support of your association

bull If you like them even if you canrsquot do business with them currently spread the word and help get their name out there

bull Attend events where our partners have stepped up to sponsor Help show them we value them being there and appreciate their efforts This helps everyone when it comes to working out future programs discounts events and more

We are all in this together Just as you want to ensure you are receiving the return you need on the investments you make our supplier members advertisers exhibitors and sponsors need to justify their own ROI on the variety of support avenues they offer

to NCSG I thought Irsquod take a minute this month to say ldquothank yourdquo to all of you who support us in so many different ways and would like to encourage others to do the same

Until next time I continue to wish you every success

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With No Memo ry

Strong Triple Locking CrimpHolds T ogether Even OnTough Jobs

Horizontal Sides Of CorrugationOffer Added Strengthamp Flexibility

Manufactured by CHIMNEY TECHNIQUE INC

Chim-Pro Interlock Flex

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Chim-Pro RigidADDED SAFETY EFFICIENCY AND VALUE

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Featuring

Visit wwwchim-prolinercom for more detailsbull 2000 Industrial Ave bull Sioux Falls SD 57104

1-800-582-1392

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 31

Display Ad Index

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 mheekencsgorg for publication in Sweeping Or mail it to NCSG 2155 Commercial Drive Plainfield IN 46168

Page Advertiser Phone Email or Website Address

30 Ahrens Chimney Technique 800-582-1392 ahrenschimneyqwestofficenet

21-24 Chimney Safety Institute of America 317-837-5362 wwwcsiaorg

14 Cobra Chimney Caps 888-463-0636 salescobrachimneycom

27 Communications Network Inc 800-875-8118 tkempercomnetmessagecom

5 Copperfield 800-247-3305 wwwcopperfieldcom

4 ENERVEX Inc 800-255-2923 infochimneyfanscom

13 Firesafe Industries Inc 800-545-6607 wwwfiresafeinccom

16 Gelco Lyemance Lock-Top 800-334-2154 wwwGLLchimneyproductscom

9 Hose Master 800-221-2319 bobdanielshosemastercom

10 ICP 508-695-7000 wwwchimneycapscom

BC Lifetime Chimney Supply LLC 877-234-7473 wwwlifetimechimneysupplycom

7 Lindemann Chimney Company 800-722-7230 wwwlindemannchimneycom

11 M amp G Duravent 800-835-4429 wwwduraventcom

28 Meyer Machine amp Equipment 800-728-3828 wwwmeyermachinecom

25 National Chimney Supply 800-897-8481 wwwnationalchimneysupplycom

17 Olympia Chimney Supply 800-569-1425 wwwolympiachimneycom

19 Sand Hill Wholesale 800-258-5496 wwwsandhillwholesalecom

6 SaverSystems Inc 800-860-6327 wwwchimneysavercom

3 Smoktite 866-439-0069 wwwsmoktitecom

8 Wakefield Brush 800-264-7007 wwwwakefieldbrushcom

19 Whitecaps 800-335-2534 wwwwhitecapscom

15 Z-Flex 800-654-5600 wwwz-flexcom

The pole and bucket chimney That is how they keep rain and birds out during off season Notice the class A is just an extension of a masonry chimney

Submitted by Kevon Binder of Doctor Flue Inc

September 13-15 2012Lake Murray SCSouth Carolina Chimney Sweep Guildrsquos ldquoThe GatheringrdquoFor more information please contact Blume at (864) 232-9811 or blume357bellsouthnet

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 19 2012 Taunton MAFall Protection User Training Class Including OSHArsquos 2011 ruling on alternate fall protection methods - Sponsored by the Massachusetts Chimney Sweep GuildFor more information please call Jeffrey Wright at (781) 233-2321

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-29 2012CSIA Technology CenterCSIA National Chimney Sweep Training SchoolFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

Dates amp Events

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 8-12 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg October 8-12 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

Please send notice of your events for NCSG Dates amp Events listings at mmcmahonncsgorg for inclusion here in weekly posts to the discussion list and online at wwwNCSGorgdates The event must be considered educational or informative for the industry (sales events and open houses will not be listed)

32 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

ClassifiedsGotta chimney question Sizing Codes Call Royal Edwards Make Royal your tech department CALL NOW 813-982-0219 for on-call tech support Continuing Education special bonus ndash ask how you can get the Friday morning E-Blast for FREE CALL NOW 813-982-0219

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

Chimney Sweep business for sell in the Northern Rocky Mountains of New Mexico Services a large area with three ski resorts in the service area Equipment and signed three year contracts goes with the business Business is well established For pricing and other info please email your questions to ridgeriders1gmailcom

CLASSIFIED ADS FREE FOR NCSG MEMBERSMembers can run one 35 word classified free each year Regularly classified ads are $2word or $1word for NCSG members Classified ads are non-commissionable and must be pre-paid To place a classified ad please contact Megan McMahon at mmcmahonncsgorg or (317) 837-1500

NCSG Innovation 2013 Convention and Trade Show Hotel reservations are now being accepted for NCSG Innovation 2013 at Chateau on the Lake in Branson MO April 4-7 2013 Just call 1-888-333-LAKE (5253) and mention that yoursquore with the National Chimney Sweep Guild to lock in rates starting at $129 for a mountain view and $134 for a lake view

Get ready for some RampR Yoursquore earned it

Order Your FREEAnnual Maintenance Reminder Postcards

A great way to remind homeowners to schedule their annual maintenance check up

Each card has space available for your business information

Use them as reminders for your existing clients or send them to generate new business

To order postcards and other free Burn Wise products contact

Leigh Herringtonherringtonleighepagov

ampKristen Bremer

bremerkristenepagov

wwwepagovburnwise

Follow us on

Wood-Burning Safety

Starts with You

Have you scheduled your

annual inspection

The National Fire Protection Association estimates

that 25 percent of home heating fires are caused

primarily by creosote buildup in the chimney

Make your home healthier and safer A properly

installed and maintained appliance burns more

efficiently and saves you money Contact your local

certified chimney sweep to schedule an annual

inspection today

Before You Burn

The right wayThe right way is hot and bright

In the right applianceThe right appliance is an EPA-approved appliance inspected annually by a certified chimney sweep

Burn the right woodBurn only dry well-seasoned wood that has been split and stored properly

wwwepagovburnwise

wwwcsiaorg

Printed on 100 recycledrecyclable paper with a minimum 50 post-consumer waste using vegetable-based

EPA 456-F-10-004

National Chimney Sweep Guild2155 Commercial DrivePlainfield IN 46168

1208

OR

Page 8: September 2012

6 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

MELISSA HEEKE CAENCSG DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS

EditorrsquosLetter

elcome to September Hopefully the season has been

kind to you so far this year and yoursquore in good shape

for a safe and sane remainder of the home heating season

This month we look at how small businesses can protect

themselves from a data breach how to avoid hitting the proverbial

ldquowallrdquo in your business and focusing on what you can control

Strong and steady wins this game This monthrsquos issue should help

you play your next move with confidence

Until next time I wish you all the best for a safe and successful

season

W

6 Gallons for the Price of 5 Gallons

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NCSG can help you promote your event

Please email officencsgorg with info on your upcoming meetings and events Wersquoll list your event on the NCSG website in Sweeping magazine and in our weekly dates and events post to the NCSG Discussion List Yoursquore also encouraged to submit meeting and workshop photos and recaps for publication in Sweeping They say a picture is worth a thousand words and we agree Let everyone know what a great time you had and welcome them to your next event Please send photos and articles directly to Melissa Heeke at mheekencsgorg

8 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

Are Small Businesses Protecting Themselves From a Data Breach

Adata breach can be a challenge for any business but this is especially true for smaller businesses Not only can it be more difficult for a smaller business to recover from a data breach but criminals may also be more likely to target smaller firms

When a data breach occurs at a large firm or government agency it winds up all over the news If one occurred at a small business down the street those unaffected would probably never hear about it But a recent report released by Verizon found that nearly three-quarters of data breaches analyzed last year involved businesses with 100 employees or fewer

ldquoMost small-business owners simply do not believe they are at riskrdquo says Lynn LaGram assistant vice president of small commercial underwriting for The Hartford ldquoThe reality is that small businesses are often more vulnerable - making them easier targetsrdquo

LaGram says part of the reason may be that small-business owners often donrsquot have the time or resources that larger companies may have to assist them in protecting data However protecting data may not be as difficult as one would think

Hose Master Invented the Wheel

Smooth-N-Lite bullYourchoice-304or316stainlesssteelcoils5rdquo-8rdquodiameters bullInterlockedseamsareeasytoflex bullSmoothinnerwall bullCrushresistant bullIdealforsmoothwallapplications bullAvailableinroundovalorrectangle

HeavyFlex bullYourchoice-304or316stainlesssteelcoils bullInterlockedseamsareeasytoflex bullSmoothinnerwall bullHighlycrushresistant bullIdealforfireplacerelines bullAvailableinroundovalrectangleorDial-A-Flex

UltraPro bull Patentedrolllockseamdesignforeasyflexibility bullLargebendrange bullSteepcorrugationslope-resultinginhighcrushresistance bullIdeallysuitedforforbothstraightandmultiplebendrelines bullUncoilseasilyrightoutofthebox

NEW

CopperfieldkeepsturningthewheelwithHomeSaverrsquosnew Smooth-N-LitelinerSmooth-N-Litetakesawaythestiffnessand clumsinessnormallyassociatedwithsmoothwallliner-itgivesyouldquosmoothrdquowithnoheadacheNestlingintoHomeSaverrsquosfamousfamilyofUltraProProRoundFlexRectangleFlexOvalFlexandDial-A-FlexCopperfieldrsquosnewSmooth-N-Litegivesyouthesuperiorweight flexibilityandstrengthyouneedforsmoothlinerapplications

Copperfield Chimney Supply Technical800-246-1926Support800-247-3305

Manufactured by Hose Master Exclusively For

When It Comes to Chimney Liners

Almost50yearsagoSamFotiHoseMasterrsquosCEOredesignedinterlockedmachine technologyHisinnovationsarestillthecoreofmanufacturingflexiblechimneylinertoday

HeavyFlex bull 25yearsagoSaminventedRectangleFlex OvalFlexandDial-A-Flextechnology

UltraPro bull 15yearsagoSaminventedUltraPro-the onlypatentedroll-lockdesignlight-weight linerwithextremeflexibilityandcrush resistance

Smooth-N-Lite bullTodaySamhasdesignedSmooth-N-Lite- thelightinterlockedlinerforsmoothwall applications

and now he invented Smooth-N-Lite

Now We Have It All

All Flexible Liner Is Not Created EqualLet Us Prove It

1964

1983

2000

2012

Pro amp UltraProInvented UltraPro - the only patented roll-lock design light-weight liner with extreme flexibility and crush resistance

Redesigned Interlocked Machine TechnologyInnovations are still the core of manufacturing flexible chimney liner today

HeavyFlexInvented RectangleFlex OvalFlex and Dial-A-Flex technology

Smooth-N-LiteToday Sam has designed Smooth-N-Lite the light interlocked liner for smoothwall applications Manufactured on the same machine technology he invented in 1964

Meet Sam Foti Hose Master CEO engineer and innovator

In 1964 Sam got involved with interlocked products Identifying the problems associated with manufacturing the hose Sam redesigned the tooling and machinery to not only produce a consistent interlocked hose but to also speed-up the production

Today the results of Sams ingenuity is the technology used throughout the industry in the production of interlocked products His designs not only changed the way that stripwound hose is made but the way that it is used and perceived in the industry

SmoothNLite Adindd 2 71212 335 PM

Steps to help prevent a breachFor a business or organization that must handle sensitive customer patient or employee information itrsquos important to take measures that decrease the likelihood of a breach ldquoA data breach can involve electronic or paper recordsrdquo says LaGram She shares eight data protection ldquobest practicesrdquo for a business

bull Lock and secure sensitive customer patient member or employee information

bull Restrict employee access to sensitive informationbull Shred or otherwise securely dispose of all sensitive customer patient

member or employee informationbull Use password protection and data encryption for sensitive filesbull Have a privacy policybull Update systems and software on a regular basisbull Use firewalls to control access to sites that could compromise your

security and lock out hackersbull Ensure that remote access to your network is secure

If a breach occursWhile itrsquos important to take proactive steps to help prevent a data breach from occurring therersquos no way to eliminate the risk entirely so it is also

important to have data breach insurance

According to LaGram a business owner should consider insurance that provides

1 Coverage for expenses associated with responding to and recovering from a breach ldquoBusiness owners may not realize that they must comply with various notification requirements which can be costlyrdquo says LaGram Additional advertising expenses to help a business restore its reputation after a breach would also fall into this category

2 Legal expense and liability coverage A customer or employee whose personal data is compromised may sue the business owner for damages This insurance provides coverage for defense costs civil awards settlements or judgments that a business owner may be obligated to pay

3 Access to data security experts to help the business owner navigate the various notification requirements as well as determine the cause of the breach and take steps to prevent it from happening againBoth consumers and business owners can learn more about what to do if they are involved in a data breach at wwwftcgovidtheft

ldquoA data breach can happen to anyone so itrsquos important for business owners to be preparedrdquo says LaGram For more information about protecting your business from a data breach visit wwwhartforddatabreachcom

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 9

Hose Master Invented the Wheel

Smooth-N-Lite bullYourchoice-304or316stainlesssteelcoils5rdquo-8rdquodiameters bullInterlockedseamsareeasytoflex bullSmoothinnerwall bullCrushresistant bullIdealforsmoothwallapplications bullAvailableinroundovalorrectangle

HeavyFlex bullYourchoice-304or316stainlesssteelcoils bullInterlockedseamsareeasytoflex bullSmoothinnerwall bullHighlycrushresistant bullIdealforfireplacerelines bullAvailableinroundovalrectangleorDial-A-Flex

UltraPro bull Patentedrolllockseamdesignforeasyflexibility bullLargebendrange bullSteepcorrugationslope-resultinginhighcrushresistance bullIdeallysuitedforforbothstraightandmultiplebendrelines bullUncoilseasilyrightoutofthebox

NEW

CopperfieldkeepsturningthewheelwithHomeSaverrsquosnew Smooth-N-LitelinerSmooth-N-Litetakesawaythestiffnessand clumsinessnormallyassociatedwithsmoothwallliner-itgivesyouldquosmoothrdquowithnoheadacheNestlingintoHomeSaverrsquosfamousfamilyofUltraProProRoundFlexRectangleFlexOvalFlexandDial-A-FlexCopperfieldrsquosnewSmooth-N-Litegivesyouthesuperiorweight flexibilityandstrengthyouneedforsmoothlinerapplications

Copperfield Chimney Supply Technical800-246-1926Support800-247-3305

Manufactured by Hose Master Exclusively For

When It Comes to Chimney Liners

Almost50yearsagoSamFotiHoseMasterrsquosCEOredesignedinterlockedmachine technologyHisinnovationsarestillthecoreofmanufacturingflexiblechimneylinertoday

HeavyFlex bull 25yearsagoSaminventedRectangleFlex OvalFlexandDial-A-Flextechnology

UltraPro bull 15yearsagoSaminventedUltraPro-the onlypatentedroll-lockdesignlight-weight linerwithextremeflexibilityandcrush resistance

Smooth-N-Lite bullTodaySamhasdesignedSmooth-N-Lite- thelightinterlockedlinerforsmoothwall applications

and now he invented Smooth-N-Lite

Now We Have It All

All Flexible Liner Is Not Created EqualLet Us Prove It

1964

1983

2000

2012

Pro amp UltraProInvented UltraPro - the only patented roll-lock design light-weight liner with extreme flexibility and crush resistance

Redesigned Interlocked Machine TechnologyInnovations are still the core of manufacturing flexible chimney liner today

HeavyFlexInvented RectangleFlex OvalFlex and Dial-A-Flex technology

Smooth-N-LiteToday Sam has designed Smooth-N-Lite the light interlocked liner for smoothwall applications Manufactured on the same machine technology he invented in 1964

Meet Sam Foti Hose Master CEO engineer and innovator

In 1964 Sam got involved with interlocked products Identifying the problems associated with manufacturing the hose Sam redesigned the tooling and machinery to not only produce a consistent interlocked hose but to also speed-up the production

Today the results of Sams ingenuity is the technology used throughout the industry in the production of interlocked products His designs not only changed the way that stripwound hose is made but the way that it is used and perceived in the industry

SmoothNLite Adindd 2 71212 335 PM

10 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

Jim Cochran of Magic Mountain Chimney Sweeps Passes

Jim Cochran of Magic Mountain Chimney Sweeps in Thurmont MD passed away on Thursday April 5 2012 He and wife Debra Cochran have owned and operated this company since 1979 Debra continues to operate Magic Mountain Chimney Sweeps

Jim is survived by his wife Debra Howell Cochran married October 6 1973 in Tampa FL He is also survived by one son Wesly M H Cochran of Frederick MD and one daughter Wendy V Cochran Taylor of Thurmont Debby writes ldquoJim was a legend and many people and sweeps knew and loved him He was one of a kind He had chimney sweeps in top hats and tails for his pallbearers and had a real chimney sweeps funeral It was a great tribute to himrdquoContributions may be made to Cancer Support Community 1050 17th Street NW Suite 500 Washington DC 20036

Sweeping MagazineSept 2012 issue Full page 4 color

Dura-Ventkaren josephson contact

kjosephsonduraventcom800-835-4429

Engineered Excellencereg MampG DuraVent is a member of the MampG Group copy Copyright 2012 Made in the USA 800-835-4429 wwwduraventcom

Stunning design and engineered excellence in manufacture DirectVent Pro combines style with performance Featuring precision tolerances for a tight seal low-pro le locks with no hems or beads for an elegant pro le No gaskets or sealants required (unless by appliance manufacturer) Laser-welded outer seams on all black pipe for a slim nish Several termiantion choices to cap o the system perfectly See why it is speci ed exclusively by nearly every major stove and replace manufacturer in the US and Canada DirectVent Pro is backed by a limited lifetime warranty Find out more at www duraventcom

Dir

ectV

ent

Pro

FOR

DIR

ECT

VEN

T G

AS O

R PR

OPA

NE

STO

VES

HEA

TERS

amp F

IREP

LACE

S

Dire

ctVe

nt Pr

o reg

regIndustryWatch

Industry Watch PolicyNCSG encourages industry partners to submit press releases to Melissa Heeke Sweeping The Journal of Chimney amp Venting Technology editor via email at mheekencsgorg 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 NCSGrsquos opinion regarding the release

Sweeping MagazineSept 2012 issue Full page 4 color

Dura-Ventkaren josephson contact

kjosephsonduraventcom800-835-4429

Engineered Excellencereg MampG DuraVent is a member of the MampG Group copy Copyright 2012 Made in the USA 800-835-4429 wwwduraventcom

Stunning design and engineered excellence in manufacture DirectVent Pro combines style with performance Featuring precision tolerances for a tight seal low-pro le locks with no hems or beads for an elegant pro le No gaskets or sealants required (unless by appliance manufacturer) Laser-welded outer seams on all black pipe for a slim nish Several termiantion choices to cap o the system perfectly See why it is speci ed exclusively by nearly every major stove and replace manufacturer in the US and Canada DirectVent Pro is backed by a limited lifetime warranty Find out more at www duraventcom

Dir

ectV

ent

Pro

FOR

DIR

ECT

VEN

T G

AS O

R PR

OPA

NE

STO

VES

HEA

TERS

amp F

IREP

LACE

S

Dire

ctVe

nt Pr

o reg

reg

12 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

irst of all if you are reading this CONGRATUATIONS As I shared at a recent MIX group meeting I did a presentation for many of you have survived the worst economic downturn in the history of our country one that in many ways rivaled the Great Depression So congratulations

are definitely in order Many American businesses did not survive the economic downturn and others are still on the borderline of survival andor failure I am sure each of you knows of successful business owners who have had their lives (and their lifestyles) undergo a tremendous transition during the past few years Others among you may have only entered our industry since this economic devil revealed itself

What is even more remarkable is that some who read this have done much more Not only have they survived they actually prospered Their businesses grew their profits increased and their business models strengthened Each business that did this faced the same economic conditions as others Yet due to their grit and determination they became true winners Yes there may have been geographic considerations but few areas have escaped the wrath of the economic turmoil our country has faced

What the economic conditions have done for many is force them to become better managers better watchers of their numbers better students of lean methods of operation and better in so many other beneficial ways And it is truly enlightening to see the benefits that have been awarded to those who have continued to make their businesses grow in truly tough economic times and without assistance from banks or other lenders The true success stories of business owners who have completely revamped their operations and have shown levels of excellence that many dream of

But even as a survivor many will encounter roadblocks that will cause stress will slow progress and will serve to raise caution to the wind At times it will come at you with a warning at other times it will simply pop up in front of you with no warning Perhaps it hits you when you awaken in a cold sweat or perhaps it hits you at times when things are just not going as you feel they should The roadblock I refer to is something I classify as the WALL

I feel that a successful business manager can be compared to a star athlete The star athlete will practice he will work out

he will have a strict regimen that will include his diet his sleep habits and will govern his life As he undergoes his training any and all things that can hamper his performance are examined and examined again No matter if he is a runner a swimmer a baseball or football player or a star in other sports He will dedicate himself to excellence just as you do each and every day in your business We saw this in August as we watched the Olympics and see those who receive the gold and hear the stories of the work they did to prepare for the competition

But even with the preparation even with the regiment he has posed to himself at times he will find that his energy is zapped His will to go on will be challenged his fortitude questioned HE HITS THE WALL

As a business manager this is no different than what you encounter at times Not only does the wall come up and block your progress as one person even explained to me about the dreaded wall at times it will even collapse on top of you and you may have to dig out of the rubble During a recent conversation a business owner related ldquoI am digging out of the rubble where that wall fell on top of merdquo when asked how he was doing Has this ever happened to you causing you to stop and wonder just why am I doing this and will I meet my objective Even worse the thought comes to the forefront is it really worth what I am putting into it

In my business endeavors I deal with a lot of folks in different stages of their business models Some have recently launched a business some are transforming a business some preparing exit plans and others are building infrastructure Others still have found success and are working to bring in new management to begin to pursue their true dreams of more free time as the free time was a goal of the original business start-up plan In preparation for this article I asked several who always seem to be going up up and up just what was their secret Just how did the walls not stop them in the progress of the business I think the overall answer I heard was best summed up by one phenomenal business owner His answer was ldquoJerry I keep myself up all the time because I always look at the potential and the markets we have not tapped into yet I just donrsquot see how anyone can get beat due to the problems when there is so much potential and so much untapped businessrdquo

BY JERRY ISENHOUR OF CHIMNEY amp VENTING

CONSULTANTS IN CONCORD NCCoachrsquos Corner

The

The Wall

F

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 13

Quite frankly this hit it on the head Each and every day as a business owner you face adversity perhaps from a customer perhaps from the world around us perhaps simply from an employee who did not meet our expectations But you know this is life and life has a way of throwing curve ball after curve ball The real winner will anticipate what the curve balls will be and will develop the methods to hit the ball no matter how it is thrown at us

The true winner will always view each and every adversary as a learning experience taking what is learned from each error each loss and each hiccup and use these as the basis for new procedures new methods and new ways to grow and prosper The true winner knows that his 1 accountability partner is that guy with him all the time the guy he knows as the man in the mirror

Some are even developing methods within the business to pull these errors and mistakes out of the hidden abyss of the unknown to find the ones we may not even be paying attention to Recently observing several who have instituted a new method that can isolate and eliminate issues is producing astounding results As a respected colleague shared with me ldquoJerry it feels like we are walking on glass but we are finding the ways to end the dreaded Groundhog Day happening over and overrdquo Successful business managers use this as the basis of how they will change the business model adapt their procedures

and continue to grow and prosper All the while raising the PERCENTAGE of profit from the gross figure They do not look at the number they view the number as the percentage Only through viewing the percentage can we truly have a yardstick by which to measure our progress as we grow our management skills

With this my wish is for you to have an excellent fall By the time you read this we will have hit that great part of the year called FALL and what so many call THE BUSY SEASON As you enter this make plans now as to how you plan to promote your business come January 1 2013 This is what the guys who are moving forward are doing The fall is already through the planning stages and they are ready for action ARE YOU If not ask that man in the mirror if he is truly operating at the level he needs to be He has the answer I am sure

About the Author Jerry Isenhour is an industry consultant coach and educator 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 and your business in your quest for success and your rise to the next level take a look at his web site wwwchimneyandventingconsultantscom He can be contacted at jerrychimneyandventingconsultantscom or by phone at (704) 425-0217 You can also obtain great business tips from his Facebook page Chimney amp Venting Consultants

ldquoMy company uses most products available to chimney contractors but Firesafersquos products and systems are hands-down the very best and the most profitable Great technical support and their constant improvements make the products even better which makes my company stand out over my competitionrdquo Kevin Knight Chadds Ford Chimney Sweeps PA

TO order call 800 TO order call 800--545545--66076607

infofiresafeinccom infofiresafeinccom wwwfiresafeinccomwwwfiresafeinccom

FireFireGuardGuard Ceramic mortar jointCeramic mortar jointCeramic mortar joint amp resurfacing systemamp resurfacing systemamp resurfacing system

PatentedPatented The most advanced chimney liner in the world

reg

CrownGuardCrownGuard Severe weather crown repair amp protectionSevere weather crown repair amp protection

Centering system for metal chimney liners

14 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

erhaps the most important thing to recognize about business is that customer service is not an afterthought to everything else It IS everything else Or as Leon Gorman the CEO of LL Bean puts it ldquoCustomer Service is just a day in day out

ongoing never ending unremitting persevering compassionate type of activityrdquo

Oh thatrsquos a nice thought you say Irsquoll be certain to put a little more attention on that the next free moment I get

If this is your response yoursquove missed the point and perhaps the boat too

So what does it mean when we say service What does good customer service look like Herersquos a good hint from Peter Drucker ldquoQuality in service or product is not what you put into it Itrsquos what the customer gets out of itrdquo

In other words in the final analysis itrsquos not simply how

well you do your job that matters What matters is how your customer feels about you or your company once the job is completed What matters is what they got out of it And in that regard in any arena of competitors the battle will be won by the company who leaves the customer feeling the best the happiest the most satisfied

Jerry Gregoire CIO of Dell believes ldquoThe customer experience is the next competitive battlegroundrdquo

Now you might be thinking your customers must be pretty satisfied since most of the time they donrsquot seem to have any complaints

If you are feeling this way it would behoove you to remember most customers donrsquot complain even if there are dramatic issues with the work Why People donrsquot like confrontations And many people feel their complaints will be neither appreciated nor dealt with so why bother

The One and Only Thing

P

BY GREG POLAKOW OF COPPERFIELD

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 15

The course of action they choose rather than wasting their time and emotions complaining to someone they feel will be either hostile or unresponsive is to select one of your competitors next time they need work done As the saying goes they vote with their wallet

You might rightly be asking yourself well if my customers donrsquot tell me when theyrsquore not satisfied what can I possibly do about it

The answer is there are many things that can be done about it But the first starts with the understanding that customer service is not something that kicks in only when therersquos a problem Customer service has to be part of every contact you have with your customers It is how you treat your customers before you even show up at their door It is how you conduct yourself during your visit And it is most certainly the way in which you handle follow up

Remember it is how your customers feel after all is said and done that matters

We are always forming opinions about others It is a natural part of being human And we begin formulating those opinions with our very first encounter The initial opinions may later give way to either better or worse opinions but initial opinions are extremely influential So ask yourself what are you doing to

insure that the very first impression a customer has of you and your business is excellent What are you doing to make this very first customer service experience positive What are you doing to provide your customer at the very outset with a feel good experience

Whatever your answer is remember it is often this first impression that will determine whether or not a customer will call and complain if there is a problem later rather than simply opt to call one of your competitors next time Why Because it is in this first encounter with you that a customer begins to decide if they trust you If you trust that a company has your best interests at heart you are much more likely to call if there is a problem

So how do you establish a feeling of well being and trust with your customer from the get go Again it has to do with how you make them feel the moment you pick up your phone to answer their first call If your tone is cold indifferent or even matter of fact they are not likely to feel you care And if you donrsquot seem to care about them can you really be trusted to have their best interests at heart EVERTHING you do from the outset absolutely everything will create an opinion of you in the customerrsquos mind That means your tone of voice the patience with which you respond to their questions And the very language and even diction you use to talk to them about whatever chimney related issue they are having

USAT 18006545600F 18888893539

CANADAT 4166790045F 4166790051

salesz-flexcom wwwz-flexcom

Triple Lockreg Smoothcoretrade

All Fuels Chimney Linerbull Eliminates the turbulence thatrsquos inherent with

corrugated liners improving draft

bull Resists corrosive attack by not impeding the flow of condensate down the liner and less opportunity for soot to accumulate

Z-Max Rain Cap ampLock lsquoN Go Base Tee

bull Z-Max Rain Cap with protective ember screen shields chimney from snow driving rain and animal intrusions Quick removal for easy cleaning

bull Z-Max Lock lsquoN Go Base Tee installs in half the time of standard tees with no special installation tools required

bull All products cULus tested and listed by UL to UL1777 and ULC S635

S P E C I A L I Z E D V E N T S H O S E S D U C T S amp C O N N E C T O R S F O R A N Y U S E A N Y I N D U S T R Y

C H I M N E Y amp V E N T I N G S O L U T I O N S

TRIPLE LOCKreg

SMOOTHCOREtrade amp Z-MAX

Smoothcoretrade

All Fuels Chimney LinerEliminates the turbulence thatrsquos inherent with

bull Z-Max Rain Cap with protective ember screen

bull Z-Max Lock lsquoN Go Base Tee installs in half the Pellet GasWood Oil

Suitable For All Fuels

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

Sweeping News (Snews)_Smoothcore_Z-Max_no booth_HR_March 29 2012pdf 1 12-03-30 212 PM

16 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

Use language that is too technical and you lose them and put them on the defensive ldquoAm I supposed to understand what this guy is talking aboutrdquo they wonder Speak too fast or indistinctly and you get the same result

Seem like picky details They may be to you but they will not be to your customer

Remember when a customer comes to you he is laying his problem at your feet If he could remedy it himself he would But he canrsquot He needs you to help him So he is feeling a bit vulnerable a bit out of his league How you respond to him in this circumstance can either make him feel immediately comfortable and in safe hands or something less desirable You decide which effect you want to create

I think you can see that if this first encounter leaves your customer glowing instead of glowering you win You win his confidence his trust and even here at the very outset his gratitude If yoursquove done this well ie addressed his initial questions and concerns in a compassionate understanding thorough manner well you are off to an excellent start

But the battle has not been won because yoursquove also set some expectations and your customerrsquos expectation that this kind of treatment will continue must be met If your crew shows up to do the work and forgets they are in the customer service business first and foremost all you accomplished at the beginning can be ruined

Good customer service must build on itself from day one in order to maintain that feeling in your customer of confidence happiness and trust It cannot be hit and miss Being inconsistent might be worse than being just plain ornery from the beginning

Does good customer service trump sloppy careless or substandard work Of course not Because the quality of your product is a huge part of the customer service package Itrsquos all customer service

The bottom line is your customer will appreciate value and respect you to exactly the same degree you appreciate value and respect him No more and no less And the great thing is when you treat your customers as friends when you gladly and openly address their concerns and fix their problems your work and your life become easier and more fulfilling

Try it out Start thinking of customer service as being the be all and end all of your business and see how well things go Yoursquoll be amazed

Remember as Tony Allesandra has observed ldquoBeing on par in terms of price and quality only gets you into the game Service wins the gamerdquo

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AnOpen Chimneyis like anOpen Window-All Year Round

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Will KozlanskyOwner amp Co-Founder

The NEW Smoothwall Chimney Liner thathas the Perfect Combination of

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n No memory amp very flexible n Smooth Interior n One liner multiple applicationsn Available ovalized amp coiled

w w wolympiachimneycom bull Phone 1-800-569-1425

Will KozlanskyOwner amp Co-Founder

The NEW Smoothwall Chimney Liner thathas the Perfect Combination of

Weight Ruggedness amp Flexibility

n No memory amp very flexible n Smooth Interior n One liner multiple applicationsn Available ovalized amp coiled

18 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

ou all have accomplishments You support your family your employees and their families your vendors and you provide comfort and safety for your customers

Some of you can enjoy your success and can focus on preserving what you have Many of you want to and have the capacity to grow and be more successful Some of you may be struggling with the seasonality and economics of your business Regardless of your level of success almost all of you have varying degrees of uncertainty

Many articles books conferences and videos have been made about the importance of having a strategic plan to help guide you to fulfill your potential

This magazine has offered numerous articles written to help you fulfill your potential The NCSG offers courses to help you gain skills to be more successful

Yet there still appears to be too many business owners

struggling to achieve their goals ndash or have yet to explicitly define their goals which could help them to get their time back and allow them (you) to enjoy their (your) lives

Maybe yoursquore stuck on tactics without a strategy Maybe yoursquore stuck on ldquonoiserdquo ndash noise that the media airs about events you cannot control and distracts you from your business Perhaps that ldquonoiserdquo has contributed to a pessimistic perspective

Perhaps all of the above is ldquonoiserdquo that covers up past or current mistakes or regret either real or perceived

Letrsquos work on facing your concerns and your past Fear fades when facts are faced Regrets can become wisdom when success lies ahead

Consider forming a team of trusted professionals emulate successful associates select friends and close family members who can create a ldquojudgment freerdquo zone to allow you to unwind the past that may be keeping you from achieving your potential

Focus on What You Can Control

Y

BY BRIAN NOE OF MW FINANCIAL GROUP

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 19

Your team can help you realize your dreams by developing a sound strategy employing objective facts without bias Your team has your back

So letrsquos throw out the rear view mirror set aside our mistakes and regrets and look forward to what you can control that can lead to success

You and your team can control your personal finances You and your team can control your business Here are some steps you can take to help seize the day sleep easy and get your time back

1 Budget ndash do you have a personal and business budget Do you adhere to your budget Does your budget include protection and savings for retirement and your legacy Do you know how much you need to save for retirement and your legacy Are you prepared in the event that you may ldquolive too longrdquo

2 Help Protect Yourself your Family and your Business ndash you can take steps to control your risk

Do you let your employees drive your personal vehicles Do your employees drive your work vehicles for personal use Are you covered for that activity These are a just a few examples of ldquohiddenrdquo liabilities that you may be exposed to but unaware of

Do you have adequate umbrella insurance protection in addition to home and auto insurance that covers you and your employees

Do you take steps to relieve stress Do you have disability insurance to provide you with income or your business with funds to pay expenses in the event of illness or injury that prevents you from working

For your business you can implement a safety program This sets up a plan of employee procedures for handling vendors customers and inter-employee communication skills to improve workmanship and other employee development For events you cannot control do you have liability EampO and similar insurance

Does your business take advantage of legal structure asset titling (multiple businesses Spouse ownership) retirement plans life insurance annuities trusts and homestead

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20 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

exemptions (if available) to help protect assets from creditors and frivolous lawsuits

3 Employ Efficient Debt ndash we may be at the bottom of the interest rate and inflation cycle If interest rates rise andor inflation heats up the general rule of thumb for most of us is debtors win creditors lose If you have the cash you have control If the banker has the cash they have control

4 Manage Taxes ndash whether or not income or estate taxes increase in the future a retirement assetincome distribution business succession and legacy strategy is a must for everyone

5 Investment Management ndash you have plenty of risk with your business Do you want to have unnecessary risk with your investments

You cannot control macroeconomics (sequence of return risk rising interest rates trade and budget deficits unemployment inflation taxes real estate values commodity markets fluctuating foreign currency etc)

You cannot control geopolitical events (elections Euro zone issues violent foreign government changes war etc) or environmental events (hurricanes earthquakes fires tsunamis etc)

How do you insulate yourself from economic events you cannot control Consider historically tried tested and true strategies Consider strategies that your grandparentrsquos generation may have used They had to protect themselves ndash government bailouts and subsidies were few and far between

Congratulations if you can assemble a team to help you define and implement a strategy using the tactics described above This can be achieved in a relatively short period of time (a few hours a week over several short weeks can do it) which can help give you your time back so you can focus on your business and family

6 Manage your Business ndash this you can completely control You can engage in any of the following business expansion activities without losing energy and enthusiasm to the issues you and your team of advisors tackled above

Perhaps you would ratherbull Recruit and develop key employees (and future buyers of

your business)bull Market expansion (are you getting on board the e-marketing

train)bull Develop operating procedures and processesbull Improve safety (reduce liability)bull Expand into new territoriesbull Enter a new industry

bull Purchase and manage real estate

Life Happens ndash Enjoy It

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 US Army Eric is ranked first in his class with a degree in Computer Science is working in his field and plans on attending graduate school in 2013 His daughter Kara recently graduated undergraduate school with distinction and is planning to attend graduate school to become a Physiciansrsquo 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_NoeMWFinancialcom

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CSIA Update wwwCSIAorg

Publication for CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepregs

ADVERTISEMENT

The Virginia Association of Chimney amp

Hearth Professionals sponsored CSIArsquos

Inspection amp Report Writing class in

Arlington VA this August 6-7 Tom Urban

served as the instructor for the two-day

session Forty one professionals were

in attendance with 19 being business

owners and 22 being employees The

session drew attendees from as far away

as Louisville KY

The event was sponsored by Wakefield

Brush The Chimney Sweep News

Ahrenrsquos Copperfield Wohler Estoban

Lindemann Chimney Supply National

Chimney Supply Olympia Chimney

Supply SaverSystems and Whitecaps

VACHP Sponsored Inspection amp Report Writing

Fred Regar served as auctioneer of the sponsor-donated items on the second day of the session

Tom Urban teaching the CSIA Inspection and Report Writing Class in Arlington

When renewing a credential earned after September 1 2009 a CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg is required to

Available downloads for CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepsreg and CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Techniciansreg include

bull CSIACertifiedChimneySweepandCSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician Trademarks

bull ButtonsforyourWebsite

bull CustomizablePowerPointpresentationfor home inspectors

bull InspectionSOPs

bull LadderSafetyTips

bull ldquoChimneyFiresCausesEffectsampEvaluationrdquo Prepared by Chimney Safety Institute of America- Chimney Fire Education and Research Task Force

bull Printversionofthiswhitepaperisalsoavailable for purchase

bull Top10WoodburningTipsfromtheChimney Safety Institute of America

Check out the CCS amp CDET area at CSIAorg

bull Submitaminimumof9CEUsearnedwithin the preceeding 3 years (in any category) before testing NOTE This requirement will not apply to CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps already holding the credential on September 1 2009untiltheirnext3-yearcertificationcycle

bull Passaone-hourexambasedonSuccessfulChimneySweeping(2009)andNFPA211(2010)

bull Passaninety-minuteopen-bookexambasedonthe2006IRCreg

bull AgreetopaytheAnnualCertificationFee

bull SignCSIACodeofEthics

OR

bull SubmitappropriatenumberofContinuing Education Units (CEUs) in the relevant categories

bull AgreetopaytheAnnualCertificationFee

bull SignCSIACodeofEthics

Upon earning the CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg credential your certification is valid for one year You will need to recertify annually by paying the annual certification fee This fee will be invoiced annually prior to your expiration date Please note that your credential will require renewal every three years by submittal of the minimum 48 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) in accordance with the CSIA Credential Renewal Policy or by passing the certification exams and either submitting a minimum of 9 CEUs or completing a CSIA Review

If your annual certification fee is not paid prior to your certification expiration date your credential will be considered lapsed and you will immediately lose all rights and privileges of the CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg credential The following terms will then apply if reinstatement of the credential is desired

If you do not pay your annual certification fee by your expiration date the following timeline will begin

bull Within90daysfromthedateofexpiration if you submit payment in full for the annual certification fee your credential will be reinstated and you will be considered a CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg in good standing maintaining your original annual expiration date and certification number

bull Ifmorethan90daysandlessthan12months beyond your expiration date you will be required to Pay the current annual certification fee and current testing fees and test again Doing so will reinstate your previous annual certification expiration date and certification number You will still be required to pay your next annual fee within the next 12 months

bull Ifmorethan12monthsbeyondyourexpiration date you will be required to either participate in a CSIA approved certification review course or submit evidence of 9 CEUs that were accumulated during the time your credential was active In addition you will be required to pass the CSIA certification exams Upon successful completion a new certification number will be assigned and you will have a new annual certification expiration date

CaliforniaMichaelGipsonbullMidtownSweepsbullLancasterOmarSaenzbullAFiddlerontheRoodDuctampChimneyServicebullVanNuys

IndianaAlexStewartbullOldSmokeyrsquosFireplaceampChimneyIncbullAshley

KansasRyanBerrybullFullServiceChimneybullOlathe

New YorkJayFellibullHearthampHomeofIthacabullIthaca

VermontJamesDonovanbullLincolnPeakPropertiesbullWaitsfield

West VirginiaMichaelAdwellbullTopHatChimneySweepbullLewisburg

WisconsinDustinMyersbullChimneySpecialistsIncbullHighland

ADVERTISEMENT

Congratulations to Our New CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps

Top 10 Woodburning Tips from the Chimney Safety Institute of America

To aid in the prevention of chimney fires and carbon monoxide intrusion and to help keep heating appliances and fireplaces functioning properly the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) offers the following safety tips

1 Get an annual chimney check Have chimneys inspected annually and cleaned as necessary by a qualified professional chimney service technician This reduces the risk of fires and carbon monoxide poisonings due to creosote buildup or obstructions in the chimneys

2 Keep it clear Keep tree branches and leaves at least 15 feet away from the top of the chimney

3 Install a chimney cap to keep debris and animals out of the chimney

4 Choose the right fuel For burning firewood in wood stoves or fireplaces choose wellseasoned wood that has been split for a minimum of six months - one year and stored in a covered and elevated location Never burn Christmas trees or treated wood in your fireplace or wood stove

5 Build it right Place firewood or firelogs at the rear of the fireplace on a supporting grate To start the fire use kindling or a commercial firelighter Never use flammable liquids

6 Keep the hearth area clear Combustible material too close to the fireplace or to a wood stove could easily catch fire Keep furniture at least 36rdquo away from the hearth

7 Use a fireplace screen Use metal mesh or a screen in front of the fireplace to catch flying sparks that could ignite or burn holes in the carpet or flooring

8 Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors Place detectors throughout the house and check batteries in the spring and fall

When you change your clocks for Daylight Savings Time remember to check your batteries

9 Never leave a fire unattended Before turning in for the evening be sure that the fire is fully

extinguished Supervise children and pets closely around wood stoves and fireplaces

10 The CSIA recommends annual inspections performed by CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps These chimney sweeps have earned the industryrsquos most respected credential by passing an intensive examination based on fire codes clearances and standards for the construction and maintenance of chimney and venting systems The National Fire Protection Association also recommends that all chimneys are inspected on an annual basis

For more chimney and fireplace safety tips visit the Chimney Safety Institute of America online at wwwCSIAorg

Solve your customersrsquo smoking sooting odor and draft problems Itrsquos easy with CSIArsquos 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 Ghostingsooting 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 doesnrsquot

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

Learn to solve these problems save time and money and keep

your clients happy with CSIArsquos Online Chimney Physics program

SolvedVenting Problems

Register today at wwwcsiaorg

CSIA 15 Tech 15 CampL 15 HampS 15 CampS NFI 5 Tech

Annual Certification Requirements

Top 10 Woodburning Tips from the Chimney Safety Institute of America

To aid in the prevention of chimney fires and carbon monoxide intrusion and to help keep heating appliances and fireplaces functioning properly the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) offers the following safety tips

1 Get an annual chimney check Have chimneys inspected annually and cleaned as necessary by a qualified professional chimney service technician This reduces the risk of fires and carbon monoxide poisonings due to creosote buildup or obstructions in the chimneys

2 Keep it clear Keep tree branches and leaves at least 15 feet away from the top of the chimney

3 Install a chimney cap to keep debris and animals out of the chimney

4 Choose the right fuel For burning firewood in wood stoves or fireplaces choose wellseasoned wood that has been split for a minimum of six months - one year and stored in a covered and elevated location Never burn Christmas trees or treated wood in your fireplace or wood stove

5 Build it right Place firewood or firelogs at the rear of the fireplace on a supporting grate To start the fire use kindling or a commercial firelighter Never use flammable liquids

6 Keep the hearth area clear Combustible material too close to the fireplace or to a wood stove could easily catch fire Keep furniture at least 36rdquo away from the hearth

7 Use a fireplace screen Use metal mesh or a screen in front of the fireplace to catch flying sparks that could ignite or burn holes in the carpet or flooring

8 Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors Place detectors throughout the house and check batteries in the spring and fall

When you change your clocks for Daylight Savings Time remember to check your batteries

9 Never leave a fire unattended Before turning in for the evening be sure that the fire is fully

extinguished Supervise children and pets closely around wood stoves and fireplaces

10 The CSIA recommends annual inspections performed by CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps These chimney sweeps have earned the industryrsquos most respected credential by passing an intensive examination based on fire codes clearances and standards for the construction and maintenance of chimney and venting systems The National Fire Protection Association also recommends that all chimneys are inspected on an annual basis

For more chimney and fireplace safety tips visit the Chimney Safety Institute of America online at wwwCSIAorg

ADVERTISEMENT

You can spend weeks trying to get a new employee up to speed In the process yoursquoll have used up your valuable time your patience and more money than you would like to admit

Instead send your employee to the most popular cost-effective chimney sweep training in North America CSIArsquos National Chimney Sweep Training School In less than a week wersquoll create an employee that yoursquoll be proud to send on a call ndash and happy to count toward your bottom line

Register today at wwwcsiaorg or call us at (317) 837-5362

At the 6-day hands-on Training School your employee will learn

How to inspect and service chimney systems serving any fuel burning appliance

How to be safe with the latest health and safety equipment and methods

How to work with residential heating appliances including wood stoves pellet stoves inserts factory-built fireplaces central heaters and furnaces

How to diagnose chimney performance problems understanding draft and flow diagnosing down drafts flow reversals inadequate flow stack effects updrafts pressure effects and gauges

How to navigate the International Residential Codes How to follow the NFPA 211 standards

Class size is limited to ensure a ratio of no more than eight students per instructor This small class size means that students have the opportunity for individual attention from the schoolrsquos experienced instructors and ample opportunities for hands-on training Because class size is limited it is important to apply early to reserve your place

The online CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience

The online Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician (CDET) review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience designed to help you pass the CDET exam

Take advantage of these other CSIA educational offerings that can build your business

Send us your greenhorn

and wersquoll send you back a pro

in 6 days Classes fill quickly so register now

2012 DATeS April 2ndash7June 4ndash9August 6ndash11September 24ndash29

April 2-7June 11-16August 6-11September 24-29

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 25

You can spend weeks trying to get a new employee up to speed In the process yoursquoll have used up your valuable time your patience and more money than you would like to admit

Instead send your employee to the most popular cost-effective chimney sweep training in North America CSIArsquos National Chimney Sweep Training School In less than a week wersquoll create an employee that yoursquoll be proud to send on a call ndash and happy to count toward your bottom line

Register today at wwwcsiaorg or call us at (317) 837-5362

At the 6-day hands-on Training School your employee will learn

How to inspect and service chimney systems serving any fuel burning appliance

How to be safe with the latest health and safety equipment and methods

How to work with residential heating appliances including wood stoves pellet stoves inserts factory-built fireplaces central heaters and furnaces

How to diagnose chimney performance problems understanding draft and flow diagnosing down drafts flow reversals inadequate flow stack effects updrafts pressure effects and gauges

How to navigate the International Residential Codes How to follow the NFPA 211 standards

Class size is limited to ensure a ratio of no more than eight students per instructor This small class size means that students have the opportunity for individual attention from the schoolrsquos experienced instructors and ample opportunities for hands-on training Because class size is limited it is important to apply early to reserve your place

The online CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience

The online Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician (CDET) review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience designed to help you pass the CDET exam

Take advantage of these other CSIA educational offerings that can build your business

Send us your greenhorn

and wersquoll send you back a pro

in 6 days Classes fill quickly so register now

2012 DATeS April 2ndash7June 4ndash9August 6ndash11September 24ndash29

April 2-7June 11-16August 6-11September 24-29

ProgressivePerksBY DEBBIE CORNELIUS

MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT COORDINATOR

Get Organized and Make the Most of Your Busy Season

Sometimes it really surprises me that more NCSG members do not take advantage of the discounted benefits available to them These will not only save you time buthellip money too

Paycor Payroll Services price reduction on payroll and tax services One specialist will be dedicated to your account with a team of tax specialists available to resolve issues in the fastest amount of time should an issue arise

Market Hardware can bring your business up to speed in the competitive market of technology where more and more customers are looking to the Web Once they have customized the design that includes a ldquoHome Pagerdquo ldquoAbout Usrdquo and ldquoOur Servicesrdquo page you will have the ability to easily update and edit your Web site yourself instead of paying someone else to do it

Technical Solutions the ldquoSurvival Kit for Small Businessesrdquo can provide on-demand remote repair 247 365 days a year For the price of $2499month with no long term contact involved you can cover up to 20 computers including multiple office locations

Commercials On Hold provides a great way to brand and promote your full range of services when callers are on hold before they talk to a member of your staff

Take a few minutes to just explore these benefits It would be well worth your time to compare the savings to save you time and help increase your profits

26 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

REGION 6

NCSG Charter Members

Paul Bourque Huntsville AL

Don Leavitt San Diego CA

David Harris Broken Arrow Oklahoma

Dan Wheeler Santa Rosa CA

John Cline Menlo Park CA

Dale Meisinger N Augusta SC

Alan Hisey St Louis MO

Eva B Horton Greenwich CT

Harry Richart Hasbrouck Heights NJ

NewNCSGMembers

REGION 3

REGION 2

REGION 5

REGION 4

NCSG REGIONS

REGION 1

Connecticut Vermont Massachusetts New York Maine Rhode Island New Hampshire

REGION 2

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

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

CONNECTICUTChristopher Gonsalves bull Millstream Construction bull HebronDavid Heissenbuttel bull DMH amp Associates Inc bull Wilton

VIRGINAJack Johnston bull Johnstonrsquos Chimney Sweep bull Yorktown

MISSOURIJason Patrick bull Shamrock Qualty Services bull St LouisBill Bonney bull Bonney Bill bull Jackson

KENTUCKYJoshua Moore bull Moore Joshua bull Mt Sterling

ILLINOISJack Lutz bull Lutz Jack bull EurekaClay Nelson bull Clean Sweep bull Collinsville

OHIOAnthony Ramsey bull Elite Chimney Solutions bull Beavercreek

INDIANATravis Beckley bull Beckley Travis bull Coal City

TEXASMatthew Milner bull Milner Matthew bull WhitesboroTony Drew bull AC Contractors dba Fireplaces bull LongviewChristopher A Hess bull Atlas Chimney bull Leander

MINNESOTARenee Gustafson bull John C Gustafson Builder LLC bull Little Falls

COLORADOKent Macintosh bull Russian River Chimney Sweeps bull Healdsburg

CALIFORNIA Errol Davis bull The Chimney Specialist bull Huntington Beach

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 27

The 2012 ndash 2013 offers are being added daily in the ldquoMembers Onlyrdquo section of the NCSG website at wwwNCSGorg So start checking for these new offers each week These coupons will be good until June 30 2013

Copperfield Chimney Supply bull Lindemann Chimney Supply bull Meyer Machine amp Equipment bull National Chimney Supply bull SNEWS - The Chimney Sweep News bull Wakefield Brush bull Wohler USA Inc

2012 ndash 2013 SWEEPS ADVANTAGE COUPON PROGRAM

Featured Coupons of the Month

COPPERFIELD CHIMNEY SUPPLY

SAVE Up to $ 12650 FREE 13 x 13 Lock-Top with an order of $250

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purchase

SAVE Up to $ 46 One 13 x 13 HomeSaver Stainless Steel chimney cap with any Order of $250 or more

SAVE Up to $ 64 One EasyClean Cap with any purchase of $250

SAVE UP TO $ 75 $75 off any 25rsquo order of UltraPro Stainless Steel Liner

SAVE UP TO $ 40 $40 off any Flue Stretcher Chimney Cap

SAVE UP TO $ 20 Sign up for a Copperfield Reline Workshop and Save $20

SAVE UP TO FRE FREE 4 foot sample of HomeSaver Ultrapro

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28 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

Meyer Machine amp Equipment

SUCKINGDUCTS

ampINSULATION

FOR OVER 20 YEARS

As most allergy sufferers will tell you allergy symptoms can always be bothersome turning any time of year into sneezing season A runny nose itchy eyes and scratchy throat can arise as the days get shorter and the leaves begin to change

The fall can be especially difficult for people who are sensitive to mold and ragweed pollen But these seasonal elements arenrsquot the only triggers that can make symptoms worse this time of year There are also a few lesser known triggers Here are four things you might not know about fall allergies courtesy of the American College of Allergy Asthma and Immunology

Hay fever - Hay fever a term from a bygone era actually has nothing to do with hay Instead itrsquos a general term used to describe the symptoms of late summer allergies Ragweed is a common cause of hay fever which is also known as allergic rhinitis The plant usually begins to pollinate in mid-August and may continue to be a problem until a hard freeze depending on where you live See an allergist for prescription medications to control symptoms or to see if allergy shots may be your best option

Lingering warm weather - While most people enjoy Indian summer unseasonably warm temperatures can make rhinitis symptoms last longer Mold spores can also be released when humidity is high or the weather is dry and windy Be sure to begin taking medications before your symptoms start Track your allergy symptoms with MyNasalAllergyJournalorg and visit with your allergist to find relief

Pesky leaves - Some folks might find it difficult to keep up with raking leaves throughout the autumn But for allergy sufferers raking presents its own problem It can stir agitating pollen and mold into the air causing allergy and asthma symptoms Those with allergies should wear an NIOSH-rated N95 mask when raking leaves mowing the lawn and gardening

School allergens - Itrsquos not only seasonal pollen and mold that triggers allergies this time of year Kids are often exposed to classroom irritants and allergy triggers These can include chalk dust and classroom pets Students with food allergies may also be exposed to allergens in the lunch roomKids with exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB) may experience attacks during recess or gym class Help your child understand what can trigger their allergies and asthma and how they can avoid symptoms Be sure to notify teachers and the school nurse of any emergency medications such as quick relief inhalers and epinephrine

No matter the season itrsquos important for those who think they may be suffering from allergies or asthma to see a board-certified allergist An allergist can help you develop a treatment plan which can include both medication and avoidance techniques

Having your allergies properly identified and treated will help you and your family enjoy the season To find an allergist and learn more about allergies and asthma visit wwwAllergyandAsthmaRelieforg

Four Things You Might Not Know About Fall Allergies

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 29

trategic partnerships Sounds fancy but what does it really mean They are called what they are called because there is a true strategy behind them the thought and planning that goes into identifying and development those relationships in a way that will

ultimately help those who are participating to achieve their mission The fact that it is indeed a ldquopartnershiprdquo indicates that everyone involved mutually stands to benefit in some wayhellipItrsquos a win-win

The strategic part of establishing partnerships is analyzing who you are your goals and your current resources and then finding organizations (partners) that will allow you to get the things that you need in order to take your organization to the next level But true partnerships are about what you can bring to each other to help achieve your goals and enhance your resources It is not solely about what you can give me but rather what we can give each other As the great John F Kennedy is well known for encouraging of a world partnership ldquoask not what America will do for you but what together we can do for the freedom of manrdquo

So where does this leave an association like NCSG The key to nonprofits establishing strategic partnerships is having the infrastructure to attract and maintain these relationships In this country there are plenty of nonprofits that are doing great work but there is no organization that will be able to survive if they try

to achieve their mission without establishing partnerships that help provide resources and relationships that allow us to achieve our mission

NCSG is very fortunate to have an impressive array of partners who have for many years some since our inception done just that Our partners have advertised in this magazine exhibited at our conventions contributed to the building and maintaining of our headquarters and the premier industry training facility in Indianapolis discounted thousands of dollars in products and services to our members and have helped us promote the Guild and recruit membership in countless ways not the least of which includes maintaining their own membership in NCSG

Our partners are committed to helping us advance our mission and in turn propel our professional field forward Their partnership supports that programs that ignite your professional and technical development and provide the products and services that have helped you bring your own businesses to life They are integral to the success of this industry and most renew their support of the Guild year after year

Without their support of Sweeping magazine through their advertising we would not have been able to come close to bringing this publication to our members and the industry for the past 35 years (originally The Chimney Sweep Guild News) without significant taxation on the readers Without their support

BY MARK MCSWEENEY CAEEXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Perspective

Support Those Who Support YouldquoOur success has really been based on partnerships from the very beginningrdquo -Bill Gates

S

30 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

of NCSGrsquos annual convention through exhibiting and additional sponsorships registration fees for attendees would easily be double what they are today

When viewing our relationship with exhibitors sponsors advertisers and supplier members as a partnership the question needs to be asked How are we as an association mutually helping them achieve their respective goals

The answer comes back to us having infrastructure to attract and maintain these partnerships And that infrastructure is you the member NCSG cultivates and maintains the relationship with our industry partners on your behalf You are asked to back that up through your support of these partner service providers

Now Irsquom not saying you should buy everything you need at any one place or only through our partners At the end of the day you ultimately need to make your purchasing decisions based on your individual business needs However what would be great to see is our members calling our partners up and giving them a chance to compete for your business Let them know you are a part of NCSG and even if you are not in a position to do business with them this time around let them know you appreciate their continued support of the Guild and the industry Itrsquos one thing to call up to a supplier and ask about a product get a price and hang up Itrsquos another thing to make sure you let them know you saw their ad in Sweeping you read about them

online or you remember they exhibited at the convention so that they know they are getting positive exposure and that their investment in our partnership is not going unnoticed

With that said here are some simple and tangible things things you can do to help the partnership you are a part ofbull Consider our partners each and every time you need to make a

purchasing decision and give them an opportunity to earn your business when you can Look at those who are advertising in Sweeping or see a full listing of NCSG Supplier Members under the Chimney Sweep tab on ncsgorg

bull When you talk to them let them know yoursquore part of NCSG and thank them for their support of your association

bull If you like them even if you canrsquot do business with them currently spread the word and help get their name out there

bull Attend events where our partners have stepped up to sponsor Help show them we value them being there and appreciate their efforts This helps everyone when it comes to working out future programs discounts events and more

We are all in this together Just as you want to ensure you are receiving the return you need on the investments you make our supplier members advertisers exhibitors and sponsors need to justify their own ROI on the variety of support avenues they offer

to NCSG I thought Irsquod take a minute this month to say ldquothank yourdquo to all of you who support us in so many different ways and would like to encourage others to do the same

Until next time I continue to wish you every success

Double Locking CrimpRemains StrongYet Very Flexibl e

With No Memo ry

Strong Triple Locking CrimpHolds T ogether Even OnTough Jobs

Horizontal Sides Of CorrugationOffer Added Strengthamp Flexibility

Manufactured by CHIMNEY TECHNIQUE INC

Chim-Pro Interlock Flex

Chim-Pro Corrugated

Flex

Chim-Pro RigidADDED SAFETY EFFICIENCY AND VALUE

In Which ALL FITTINGS Are Attached With A Band Even The Tee Cap And Elbows Quick amp Simple No Drilling amp Riveting

Featuring

Visit wwwchim-prolinercom for more detailsbull 2000 Industrial Ave bull Sioux Falls SD 57104

1-800-582-1392

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 31

Display Ad Index

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 mheekencsgorg for publication in Sweeping Or mail it to NCSG 2155 Commercial Drive Plainfield IN 46168

Page Advertiser Phone Email or Website Address

30 Ahrens Chimney Technique 800-582-1392 ahrenschimneyqwestofficenet

21-24 Chimney Safety Institute of America 317-837-5362 wwwcsiaorg

14 Cobra Chimney Caps 888-463-0636 salescobrachimneycom

27 Communications Network Inc 800-875-8118 tkempercomnetmessagecom

5 Copperfield 800-247-3305 wwwcopperfieldcom

4 ENERVEX Inc 800-255-2923 infochimneyfanscom

13 Firesafe Industries Inc 800-545-6607 wwwfiresafeinccom

16 Gelco Lyemance Lock-Top 800-334-2154 wwwGLLchimneyproductscom

9 Hose Master 800-221-2319 bobdanielshosemastercom

10 ICP 508-695-7000 wwwchimneycapscom

BC Lifetime Chimney Supply LLC 877-234-7473 wwwlifetimechimneysupplycom

7 Lindemann Chimney Company 800-722-7230 wwwlindemannchimneycom

11 M amp G Duravent 800-835-4429 wwwduraventcom

28 Meyer Machine amp Equipment 800-728-3828 wwwmeyermachinecom

25 National Chimney Supply 800-897-8481 wwwnationalchimneysupplycom

17 Olympia Chimney Supply 800-569-1425 wwwolympiachimneycom

19 Sand Hill Wholesale 800-258-5496 wwwsandhillwholesalecom

6 SaverSystems Inc 800-860-6327 wwwchimneysavercom

3 Smoktite 866-439-0069 wwwsmoktitecom

8 Wakefield Brush 800-264-7007 wwwwakefieldbrushcom

19 Whitecaps 800-335-2534 wwwwhitecapscom

15 Z-Flex 800-654-5600 wwwz-flexcom

The pole and bucket chimney That is how they keep rain and birds out during off season Notice the class A is just an extension of a masonry chimney

Submitted by Kevon Binder of Doctor Flue Inc

September 13-15 2012Lake Murray SCSouth Carolina Chimney Sweep Guildrsquos ldquoThe GatheringrdquoFor more information please contact Blume at (864) 232-9811 or blume357bellsouthnet

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 19 2012 Taunton MAFall Protection User Training Class Including OSHArsquos 2011 ruling on alternate fall protection methods - Sponsored by the Massachusetts Chimney Sweep GuildFor more information please call Jeffrey Wright at (781) 233-2321

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-29 2012CSIA Technology CenterCSIA National Chimney Sweep Training SchoolFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

Dates amp Events

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 8-12 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg October 8-12 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

Please send notice of your events for NCSG Dates amp Events listings at mmcmahonncsgorg for inclusion here in weekly posts to the discussion list and online at wwwNCSGorgdates The event must be considered educational or informative for the industry (sales events and open houses will not be listed)

32 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

ClassifiedsGotta chimney question Sizing Codes Call Royal Edwards Make Royal your tech department CALL NOW 813-982-0219 for on-call tech support Continuing Education special bonus ndash ask how you can get the Friday morning E-Blast for FREE CALL NOW 813-982-0219

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

Chimney Sweep business for sell in the Northern Rocky Mountains of New Mexico Services a large area with three ski resorts in the service area Equipment and signed three year contracts goes with the business Business is well established For pricing and other info please email your questions to ridgeriders1gmailcom

CLASSIFIED ADS FREE FOR NCSG MEMBERSMembers can run one 35 word classified free each year Regularly classified ads are $2word or $1word for NCSG members Classified ads are non-commissionable and must be pre-paid To place a classified ad please contact Megan McMahon at mmcmahonncsgorg or (317) 837-1500

NCSG Innovation 2013 Convention and Trade Show Hotel reservations are now being accepted for NCSG Innovation 2013 at Chateau on the Lake in Branson MO April 4-7 2013 Just call 1-888-333-LAKE (5253) and mention that yoursquore with the National Chimney Sweep Guild to lock in rates starting at $129 for a mountain view and $134 for a lake view

Get ready for some RampR Yoursquore earned it

Order Your FREEAnnual Maintenance Reminder Postcards

A great way to remind homeowners to schedule their annual maintenance check up

Each card has space available for your business information

Use them as reminders for your existing clients or send them to generate new business

To order postcards and other free Burn Wise products contact

Leigh Herringtonherringtonleighepagov

ampKristen Bremer

bremerkristenepagov

wwwepagovburnwise

Follow us on

Wood-Burning Safety

Starts with You

Have you scheduled your

annual inspection

The National Fire Protection Association estimates

that 25 percent of home heating fires are caused

primarily by creosote buildup in the chimney

Make your home healthier and safer A properly

installed and maintained appliance burns more

efficiently and saves you money Contact your local

certified chimney sweep to schedule an annual

inspection today

Before You Burn

The right wayThe right way is hot and bright

In the right applianceThe right appliance is an EPA-approved appliance inspected annually by a certified chimney sweep

Burn the right woodBurn only dry well-seasoned wood that has been split and stored properly

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Printed on 100 recycledrecyclable paper with a minimum 50 post-consumer waste using vegetable-based

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National Chimney Sweep Guild2155 Commercial DrivePlainfield IN 46168

1208

OR

Page 9: September 2012

8 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

Are Small Businesses Protecting Themselves From a Data Breach

Adata breach can be a challenge for any business but this is especially true for smaller businesses Not only can it be more difficult for a smaller business to recover from a data breach but criminals may also be more likely to target smaller firms

When a data breach occurs at a large firm or government agency it winds up all over the news If one occurred at a small business down the street those unaffected would probably never hear about it But a recent report released by Verizon found that nearly three-quarters of data breaches analyzed last year involved businesses with 100 employees or fewer

ldquoMost small-business owners simply do not believe they are at riskrdquo says Lynn LaGram assistant vice president of small commercial underwriting for The Hartford ldquoThe reality is that small businesses are often more vulnerable - making them easier targetsrdquo

LaGram says part of the reason may be that small-business owners often donrsquot have the time or resources that larger companies may have to assist them in protecting data However protecting data may not be as difficult as one would think

Hose Master Invented the Wheel

Smooth-N-Lite bullYourchoice-304or316stainlesssteelcoils5rdquo-8rdquodiameters bullInterlockedseamsareeasytoflex bullSmoothinnerwall bullCrushresistant bullIdealforsmoothwallapplications bullAvailableinroundovalorrectangle

HeavyFlex bullYourchoice-304or316stainlesssteelcoils bullInterlockedseamsareeasytoflex bullSmoothinnerwall bullHighlycrushresistant bullIdealforfireplacerelines bullAvailableinroundovalrectangleorDial-A-Flex

UltraPro bull Patentedrolllockseamdesignforeasyflexibility bullLargebendrange bullSteepcorrugationslope-resultinginhighcrushresistance bullIdeallysuitedforforbothstraightandmultiplebendrelines bullUncoilseasilyrightoutofthebox

NEW

CopperfieldkeepsturningthewheelwithHomeSaverrsquosnew Smooth-N-LitelinerSmooth-N-Litetakesawaythestiffnessand clumsinessnormallyassociatedwithsmoothwallliner-itgivesyouldquosmoothrdquowithnoheadacheNestlingintoHomeSaverrsquosfamousfamilyofUltraProProRoundFlexRectangleFlexOvalFlexandDial-A-FlexCopperfieldrsquosnewSmooth-N-Litegivesyouthesuperiorweight flexibilityandstrengthyouneedforsmoothlinerapplications

Copperfield Chimney Supply Technical800-246-1926Support800-247-3305

Manufactured by Hose Master Exclusively For

When It Comes to Chimney Liners

Almost50yearsagoSamFotiHoseMasterrsquosCEOredesignedinterlockedmachine technologyHisinnovationsarestillthecoreofmanufacturingflexiblechimneylinertoday

HeavyFlex bull 25yearsagoSaminventedRectangleFlex OvalFlexandDial-A-Flextechnology

UltraPro bull 15yearsagoSaminventedUltraPro-the onlypatentedroll-lockdesignlight-weight linerwithextremeflexibilityandcrush resistance

Smooth-N-Lite bullTodaySamhasdesignedSmooth-N-Lite- thelightinterlockedlinerforsmoothwall applications

and now he invented Smooth-N-Lite

Now We Have It All

All Flexible Liner Is Not Created EqualLet Us Prove It

1964

1983

2000

2012

Pro amp UltraProInvented UltraPro - the only patented roll-lock design light-weight liner with extreme flexibility and crush resistance

Redesigned Interlocked Machine TechnologyInnovations are still the core of manufacturing flexible chimney liner today

HeavyFlexInvented RectangleFlex OvalFlex and Dial-A-Flex technology

Smooth-N-LiteToday Sam has designed Smooth-N-Lite the light interlocked liner for smoothwall applications Manufactured on the same machine technology he invented in 1964

Meet Sam Foti Hose Master CEO engineer and innovator

In 1964 Sam got involved with interlocked products Identifying the problems associated with manufacturing the hose Sam redesigned the tooling and machinery to not only produce a consistent interlocked hose but to also speed-up the production

Today the results of Sams ingenuity is the technology used throughout the industry in the production of interlocked products His designs not only changed the way that stripwound hose is made but the way that it is used and perceived in the industry

SmoothNLite Adindd 2 71212 335 PM

Steps to help prevent a breachFor a business or organization that must handle sensitive customer patient or employee information itrsquos important to take measures that decrease the likelihood of a breach ldquoA data breach can involve electronic or paper recordsrdquo says LaGram She shares eight data protection ldquobest practicesrdquo for a business

bull Lock and secure sensitive customer patient member or employee information

bull Restrict employee access to sensitive informationbull Shred or otherwise securely dispose of all sensitive customer patient

member or employee informationbull Use password protection and data encryption for sensitive filesbull Have a privacy policybull Update systems and software on a regular basisbull Use firewalls to control access to sites that could compromise your

security and lock out hackersbull Ensure that remote access to your network is secure

If a breach occursWhile itrsquos important to take proactive steps to help prevent a data breach from occurring therersquos no way to eliminate the risk entirely so it is also

important to have data breach insurance

According to LaGram a business owner should consider insurance that provides

1 Coverage for expenses associated with responding to and recovering from a breach ldquoBusiness owners may not realize that they must comply with various notification requirements which can be costlyrdquo says LaGram Additional advertising expenses to help a business restore its reputation after a breach would also fall into this category

2 Legal expense and liability coverage A customer or employee whose personal data is compromised may sue the business owner for damages This insurance provides coverage for defense costs civil awards settlements or judgments that a business owner may be obligated to pay

3 Access to data security experts to help the business owner navigate the various notification requirements as well as determine the cause of the breach and take steps to prevent it from happening againBoth consumers and business owners can learn more about what to do if they are involved in a data breach at wwwftcgovidtheft

ldquoA data breach can happen to anyone so itrsquos important for business owners to be preparedrdquo says LaGram For more information about protecting your business from a data breach visit wwwhartforddatabreachcom

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 9

Hose Master Invented the Wheel

Smooth-N-Lite bullYourchoice-304or316stainlesssteelcoils5rdquo-8rdquodiameters bullInterlockedseamsareeasytoflex bullSmoothinnerwall bullCrushresistant bullIdealforsmoothwallapplications bullAvailableinroundovalorrectangle

HeavyFlex bullYourchoice-304or316stainlesssteelcoils bullInterlockedseamsareeasytoflex bullSmoothinnerwall bullHighlycrushresistant bullIdealforfireplacerelines bullAvailableinroundovalrectangleorDial-A-Flex

UltraPro bull Patentedrolllockseamdesignforeasyflexibility bullLargebendrange bullSteepcorrugationslope-resultinginhighcrushresistance bullIdeallysuitedforforbothstraightandmultiplebendrelines bullUncoilseasilyrightoutofthebox

NEW

CopperfieldkeepsturningthewheelwithHomeSaverrsquosnew Smooth-N-LitelinerSmooth-N-Litetakesawaythestiffnessand clumsinessnormallyassociatedwithsmoothwallliner-itgivesyouldquosmoothrdquowithnoheadacheNestlingintoHomeSaverrsquosfamousfamilyofUltraProProRoundFlexRectangleFlexOvalFlexandDial-A-FlexCopperfieldrsquosnewSmooth-N-Litegivesyouthesuperiorweight flexibilityandstrengthyouneedforsmoothlinerapplications

Copperfield Chimney Supply Technical800-246-1926Support800-247-3305

Manufactured by Hose Master Exclusively For

When It Comes to Chimney Liners

Almost50yearsagoSamFotiHoseMasterrsquosCEOredesignedinterlockedmachine technologyHisinnovationsarestillthecoreofmanufacturingflexiblechimneylinertoday

HeavyFlex bull 25yearsagoSaminventedRectangleFlex OvalFlexandDial-A-Flextechnology

UltraPro bull 15yearsagoSaminventedUltraPro-the onlypatentedroll-lockdesignlight-weight linerwithextremeflexibilityandcrush resistance

Smooth-N-Lite bullTodaySamhasdesignedSmooth-N-Lite- thelightinterlockedlinerforsmoothwall applications

and now he invented Smooth-N-Lite

Now We Have It All

All Flexible Liner Is Not Created EqualLet Us Prove It

1964

1983

2000

2012

Pro amp UltraProInvented UltraPro - the only patented roll-lock design light-weight liner with extreme flexibility and crush resistance

Redesigned Interlocked Machine TechnologyInnovations are still the core of manufacturing flexible chimney liner today

HeavyFlexInvented RectangleFlex OvalFlex and Dial-A-Flex technology

Smooth-N-LiteToday Sam has designed Smooth-N-Lite the light interlocked liner for smoothwall applications Manufactured on the same machine technology he invented in 1964

Meet Sam Foti Hose Master CEO engineer and innovator

In 1964 Sam got involved with interlocked products Identifying the problems associated with manufacturing the hose Sam redesigned the tooling and machinery to not only produce a consistent interlocked hose but to also speed-up the production

Today the results of Sams ingenuity is the technology used throughout the industry in the production of interlocked products His designs not only changed the way that stripwound hose is made but the way that it is used and perceived in the industry

SmoothNLite Adindd 2 71212 335 PM

10 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

Jim Cochran of Magic Mountain Chimney Sweeps Passes

Jim Cochran of Magic Mountain Chimney Sweeps in Thurmont MD passed away on Thursday April 5 2012 He and wife Debra Cochran have owned and operated this company since 1979 Debra continues to operate Magic Mountain Chimney Sweeps

Jim is survived by his wife Debra Howell Cochran married October 6 1973 in Tampa FL He is also survived by one son Wesly M H Cochran of Frederick MD and one daughter Wendy V Cochran Taylor of Thurmont Debby writes ldquoJim was a legend and many people and sweeps knew and loved him He was one of a kind He had chimney sweeps in top hats and tails for his pallbearers and had a real chimney sweeps funeral It was a great tribute to himrdquoContributions may be made to Cancer Support Community 1050 17th Street NW Suite 500 Washington DC 20036

Sweeping MagazineSept 2012 issue Full page 4 color

Dura-Ventkaren josephson contact

kjosephsonduraventcom800-835-4429

Engineered Excellencereg MampG DuraVent is a member of the MampG Group copy Copyright 2012 Made in the USA 800-835-4429 wwwduraventcom

Stunning design and engineered excellence in manufacture DirectVent Pro combines style with performance Featuring precision tolerances for a tight seal low-pro le locks with no hems or beads for an elegant pro le No gaskets or sealants required (unless by appliance manufacturer) Laser-welded outer seams on all black pipe for a slim nish Several termiantion choices to cap o the system perfectly See why it is speci ed exclusively by nearly every major stove and replace manufacturer in the US and Canada DirectVent Pro is backed by a limited lifetime warranty Find out more at www duraventcom

Dir

ectV

ent

Pro

FOR

DIR

ECT

VEN

T G

AS O

R PR

OPA

NE

STO

VES

HEA

TERS

amp F

IREP

LACE

S

Dire

ctVe

nt Pr

o reg

regIndustryWatch

Industry Watch PolicyNCSG encourages industry partners to submit press releases to Melissa Heeke Sweeping The Journal of Chimney amp Venting Technology editor via email at mheekencsgorg 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 NCSGrsquos opinion regarding the release

Sweeping MagazineSept 2012 issue Full page 4 color

Dura-Ventkaren josephson contact

kjosephsonduraventcom800-835-4429

Engineered Excellencereg MampG DuraVent is a member of the MampG Group copy Copyright 2012 Made in the USA 800-835-4429 wwwduraventcom

Stunning design and engineered excellence in manufacture DirectVent Pro combines style with performance Featuring precision tolerances for a tight seal low-pro le locks with no hems or beads for an elegant pro le No gaskets or sealants required (unless by appliance manufacturer) Laser-welded outer seams on all black pipe for a slim nish Several termiantion choices to cap o the system perfectly See why it is speci ed exclusively by nearly every major stove and replace manufacturer in the US and Canada DirectVent Pro is backed by a limited lifetime warranty Find out more at www duraventcom

Dir

ectV

ent

Pro

FOR

DIR

ECT

VEN

T G

AS O

R PR

OPA

NE

STO

VES

HEA

TERS

amp F

IREP

LACE

S

Dire

ctVe

nt Pr

o reg

reg

12 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

irst of all if you are reading this CONGRATUATIONS As I shared at a recent MIX group meeting I did a presentation for many of you have survived the worst economic downturn in the history of our country one that in many ways rivaled the Great Depression So congratulations

are definitely in order Many American businesses did not survive the economic downturn and others are still on the borderline of survival andor failure I am sure each of you knows of successful business owners who have had their lives (and their lifestyles) undergo a tremendous transition during the past few years Others among you may have only entered our industry since this economic devil revealed itself

What is even more remarkable is that some who read this have done much more Not only have they survived they actually prospered Their businesses grew their profits increased and their business models strengthened Each business that did this faced the same economic conditions as others Yet due to their grit and determination they became true winners Yes there may have been geographic considerations but few areas have escaped the wrath of the economic turmoil our country has faced

What the economic conditions have done for many is force them to become better managers better watchers of their numbers better students of lean methods of operation and better in so many other beneficial ways And it is truly enlightening to see the benefits that have been awarded to those who have continued to make their businesses grow in truly tough economic times and without assistance from banks or other lenders The true success stories of business owners who have completely revamped their operations and have shown levels of excellence that many dream of

But even as a survivor many will encounter roadblocks that will cause stress will slow progress and will serve to raise caution to the wind At times it will come at you with a warning at other times it will simply pop up in front of you with no warning Perhaps it hits you when you awaken in a cold sweat or perhaps it hits you at times when things are just not going as you feel they should The roadblock I refer to is something I classify as the WALL

I feel that a successful business manager can be compared to a star athlete The star athlete will practice he will work out

he will have a strict regimen that will include his diet his sleep habits and will govern his life As he undergoes his training any and all things that can hamper his performance are examined and examined again No matter if he is a runner a swimmer a baseball or football player or a star in other sports He will dedicate himself to excellence just as you do each and every day in your business We saw this in August as we watched the Olympics and see those who receive the gold and hear the stories of the work they did to prepare for the competition

But even with the preparation even with the regiment he has posed to himself at times he will find that his energy is zapped His will to go on will be challenged his fortitude questioned HE HITS THE WALL

As a business manager this is no different than what you encounter at times Not only does the wall come up and block your progress as one person even explained to me about the dreaded wall at times it will even collapse on top of you and you may have to dig out of the rubble During a recent conversation a business owner related ldquoI am digging out of the rubble where that wall fell on top of merdquo when asked how he was doing Has this ever happened to you causing you to stop and wonder just why am I doing this and will I meet my objective Even worse the thought comes to the forefront is it really worth what I am putting into it

In my business endeavors I deal with a lot of folks in different stages of their business models Some have recently launched a business some are transforming a business some preparing exit plans and others are building infrastructure Others still have found success and are working to bring in new management to begin to pursue their true dreams of more free time as the free time was a goal of the original business start-up plan In preparation for this article I asked several who always seem to be going up up and up just what was their secret Just how did the walls not stop them in the progress of the business I think the overall answer I heard was best summed up by one phenomenal business owner His answer was ldquoJerry I keep myself up all the time because I always look at the potential and the markets we have not tapped into yet I just donrsquot see how anyone can get beat due to the problems when there is so much potential and so much untapped businessrdquo

BY JERRY ISENHOUR OF CHIMNEY amp VENTING

CONSULTANTS IN CONCORD NCCoachrsquos Corner

The

The Wall

F

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 13

Quite frankly this hit it on the head Each and every day as a business owner you face adversity perhaps from a customer perhaps from the world around us perhaps simply from an employee who did not meet our expectations But you know this is life and life has a way of throwing curve ball after curve ball The real winner will anticipate what the curve balls will be and will develop the methods to hit the ball no matter how it is thrown at us

The true winner will always view each and every adversary as a learning experience taking what is learned from each error each loss and each hiccup and use these as the basis for new procedures new methods and new ways to grow and prosper The true winner knows that his 1 accountability partner is that guy with him all the time the guy he knows as the man in the mirror

Some are even developing methods within the business to pull these errors and mistakes out of the hidden abyss of the unknown to find the ones we may not even be paying attention to Recently observing several who have instituted a new method that can isolate and eliminate issues is producing astounding results As a respected colleague shared with me ldquoJerry it feels like we are walking on glass but we are finding the ways to end the dreaded Groundhog Day happening over and overrdquo Successful business managers use this as the basis of how they will change the business model adapt their procedures

and continue to grow and prosper All the while raising the PERCENTAGE of profit from the gross figure They do not look at the number they view the number as the percentage Only through viewing the percentage can we truly have a yardstick by which to measure our progress as we grow our management skills

With this my wish is for you to have an excellent fall By the time you read this we will have hit that great part of the year called FALL and what so many call THE BUSY SEASON As you enter this make plans now as to how you plan to promote your business come January 1 2013 This is what the guys who are moving forward are doing The fall is already through the planning stages and they are ready for action ARE YOU If not ask that man in the mirror if he is truly operating at the level he needs to be He has the answer I am sure

About the Author Jerry Isenhour is an industry consultant coach and educator 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 and your business in your quest for success and your rise to the next level take a look at his web site wwwchimneyandventingconsultantscom He can be contacted at jerrychimneyandventingconsultantscom or by phone at (704) 425-0217 You can also obtain great business tips from his Facebook page Chimney amp Venting Consultants

ldquoMy company uses most products available to chimney contractors but Firesafersquos products and systems are hands-down the very best and the most profitable Great technical support and their constant improvements make the products even better which makes my company stand out over my competitionrdquo Kevin Knight Chadds Ford Chimney Sweeps PA

TO order call 800 TO order call 800--545545--66076607

infofiresafeinccom infofiresafeinccom wwwfiresafeinccomwwwfiresafeinccom

FireFireGuardGuard Ceramic mortar jointCeramic mortar jointCeramic mortar joint amp resurfacing systemamp resurfacing systemamp resurfacing system

PatentedPatented The most advanced chimney liner in the world

reg

CrownGuardCrownGuard Severe weather crown repair amp protectionSevere weather crown repair amp protection

Centering system for metal chimney liners

14 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

erhaps the most important thing to recognize about business is that customer service is not an afterthought to everything else It IS everything else Or as Leon Gorman the CEO of LL Bean puts it ldquoCustomer Service is just a day in day out

ongoing never ending unremitting persevering compassionate type of activityrdquo

Oh thatrsquos a nice thought you say Irsquoll be certain to put a little more attention on that the next free moment I get

If this is your response yoursquove missed the point and perhaps the boat too

So what does it mean when we say service What does good customer service look like Herersquos a good hint from Peter Drucker ldquoQuality in service or product is not what you put into it Itrsquos what the customer gets out of itrdquo

In other words in the final analysis itrsquos not simply how

well you do your job that matters What matters is how your customer feels about you or your company once the job is completed What matters is what they got out of it And in that regard in any arena of competitors the battle will be won by the company who leaves the customer feeling the best the happiest the most satisfied

Jerry Gregoire CIO of Dell believes ldquoThe customer experience is the next competitive battlegroundrdquo

Now you might be thinking your customers must be pretty satisfied since most of the time they donrsquot seem to have any complaints

If you are feeling this way it would behoove you to remember most customers donrsquot complain even if there are dramatic issues with the work Why People donrsquot like confrontations And many people feel their complaints will be neither appreciated nor dealt with so why bother

The One and Only Thing

P

BY GREG POLAKOW OF COPPERFIELD

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 15

The course of action they choose rather than wasting their time and emotions complaining to someone they feel will be either hostile or unresponsive is to select one of your competitors next time they need work done As the saying goes they vote with their wallet

You might rightly be asking yourself well if my customers donrsquot tell me when theyrsquore not satisfied what can I possibly do about it

The answer is there are many things that can be done about it But the first starts with the understanding that customer service is not something that kicks in only when therersquos a problem Customer service has to be part of every contact you have with your customers It is how you treat your customers before you even show up at their door It is how you conduct yourself during your visit And it is most certainly the way in which you handle follow up

Remember it is how your customers feel after all is said and done that matters

We are always forming opinions about others It is a natural part of being human And we begin formulating those opinions with our very first encounter The initial opinions may later give way to either better or worse opinions but initial opinions are extremely influential So ask yourself what are you doing to

insure that the very first impression a customer has of you and your business is excellent What are you doing to make this very first customer service experience positive What are you doing to provide your customer at the very outset with a feel good experience

Whatever your answer is remember it is often this first impression that will determine whether or not a customer will call and complain if there is a problem later rather than simply opt to call one of your competitors next time Why Because it is in this first encounter with you that a customer begins to decide if they trust you If you trust that a company has your best interests at heart you are much more likely to call if there is a problem

So how do you establish a feeling of well being and trust with your customer from the get go Again it has to do with how you make them feel the moment you pick up your phone to answer their first call If your tone is cold indifferent or even matter of fact they are not likely to feel you care And if you donrsquot seem to care about them can you really be trusted to have their best interests at heart EVERTHING you do from the outset absolutely everything will create an opinion of you in the customerrsquos mind That means your tone of voice the patience with which you respond to their questions And the very language and even diction you use to talk to them about whatever chimney related issue they are having

USAT 18006545600F 18888893539

CANADAT 4166790045F 4166790051

salesz-flexcom wwwz-flexcom

Triple Lockreg Smoothcoretrade

All Fuels Chimney Linerbull Eliminates the turbulence thatrsquos inherent with

corrugated liners improving draft

bull Resists corrosive attack by not impeding the flow of condensate down the liner and less opportunity for soot to accumulate

Z-Max Rain Cap ampLock lsquoN Go Base Tee

bull Z-Max Rain Cap with protective ember screen shields chimney from snow driving rain and animal intrusions Quick removal for easy cleaning

bull Z-Max Lock lsquoN Go Base Tee installs in half the time of standard tees with no special installation tools required

bull All products cULus tested and listed by UL to UL1777 and ULC S635

S P E C I A L I Z E D V E N T S H O S E S D U C T S amp C O N N E C T O R S F O R A N Y U S E A N Y I N D U S T R Y

C H I M N E Y amp V E N T I N G S O L U T I O N S

TRIPLE LOCKreg

SMOOTHCOREtrade amp Z-MAX

Smoothcoretrade

All Fuels Chimney LinerEliminates the turbulence thatrsquos inherent with

bull Z-Max Rain Cap with protective ember screen

bull Z-Max Lock lsquoN Go Base Tee installs in half the Pellet GasWood Oil

Suitable For All Fuels

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

Sweeping News (Snews)_Smoothcore_Z-Max_no booth_HR_March 29 2012pdf 1 12-03-30 212 PM

16 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

Use language that is too technical and you lose them and put them on the defensive ldquoAm I supposed to understand what this guy is talking aboutrdquo they wonder Speak too fast or indistinctly and you get the same result

Seem like picky details They may be to you but they will not be to your customer

Remember when a customer comes to you he is laying his problem at your feet If he could remedy it himself he would But he canrsquot He needs you to help him So he is feeling a bit vulnerable a bit out of his league How you respond to him in this circumstance can either make him feel immediately comfortable and in safe hands or something less desirable You decide which effect you want to create

I think you can see that if this first encounter leaves your customer glowing instead of glowering you win You win his confidence his trust and even here at the very outset his gratitude If yoursquove done this well ie addressed his initial questions and concerns in a compassionate understanding thorough manner well you are off to an excellent start

But the battle has not been won because yoursquove also set some expectations and your customerrsquos expectation that this kind of treatment will continue must be met If your crew shows up to do the work and forgets they are in the customer service business first and foremost all you accomplished at the beginning can be ruined

Good customer service must build on itself from day one in order to maintain that feeling in your customer of confidence happiness and trust It cannot be hit and miss Being inconsistent might be worse than being just plain ornery from the beginning

Does good customer service trump sloppy careless or substandard work Of course not Because the quality of your product is a huge part of the customer service package Itrsquos all customer service

The bottom line is your customer will appreciate value and respect you to exactly the same degree you appreciate value and respect him No more and no less And the great thing is when you treat your customers as friends when you gladly and openly address their concerns and fix their problems your work and your life become easier and more fulfilling

Try it out Start thinking of customer service as being the be all and end all of your business and see how well things go Yoursquoll be amazed

Remember as Tony Allesandra has observed ldquoBeing on par in terms of price and quality only gets you into the game Service wins the gamerdquo

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AnOpen Chimneyis like anOpen Window-All Year Round

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The NEW Smoothwall Chimney Liner thathas the Perfect Combination of

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n No memory amp very flexible n Smooth Interior n One liner multiple applicationsn Available ovalized amp coiled

18 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

ou all have accomplishments You support your family your employees and their families your vendors and you provide comfort and safety for your customers

Some of you can enjoy your success and can focus on preserving what you have Many of you want to and have the capacity to grow and be more successful Some of you may be struggling with the seasonality and economics of your business Regardless of your level of success almost all of you have varying degrees of uncertainty

Many articles books conferences and videos have been made about the importance of having a strategic plan to help guide you to fulfill your potential

This magazine has offered numerous articles written to help you fulfill your potential The NCSG offers courses to help you gain skills to be more successful

Yet there still appears to be too many business owners

struggling to achieve their goals ndash or have yet to explicitly define their goals which could help them to get their time back and allow them (you) to enjoy their (your) lives

Maybe yoursquore stuck on tactics without a strategy Maybe yoursquore stuck on ldquonoiserdquo ndash noise that the media airs about events you cannot control and distracts you from your business Perhaps that ldquonoiserdquo has contributed to a pessimistic perspective

Perhaps all of the above is ldquonoiserdquo that covers up past or current mistakes or regret either real or perceived

Letrsquos work on facing your concerns and your past Fear fades when facts are faced Regrets can become wisdom when success lies ahead

Consider forming a team of trusted professionals emulate successful associates select friends and close family members who can create a ldquojudgment freerdquo zone to allow you to unwind the past that may be keeping you from achieving your potential

Focus on What You Can Control

Y

BY BRIAN NOE OF MW FINANCIAL GROUP

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 19

Your team can help you realize your dreams by developing a sound strategy employing objective facts without bias Your team has your back

So letrsquos throw out the rear view mirror set aside our mistakes and regrets and look forward to what you can control that can lead to success

You and your team can control your personal finances You and your team can control your business Here are some steps you can take to help seize the day sleep easy and get your time back

1 Budget ndash do you have a personal and business budget Do you adhere to your budget Does your budget include protection and savings for retirement and your legacy Do you know how much you need to save for retirement and your legacy Are you prepared in the event that you may ldquolive too longrdquo

2 Help Protect Yourself your Family and your Business ndash you can take steps to control your risk

Do you let your employees drive your personal vehicles Do your employees drive your work vehicles for personal use Are you covered for that activity These are a just a few examples of ldquohiddenrdquo liabilities that you may be exposed to but unaware of

Do you have adequate umbrella insurance protection in addition to home and auto insurance that covers you and your employees

Do you take steps to relieve stress Do you have disability insurance to provide you with income or your business with funds to pay expenses in the event of illness or injury that prevents you from working

For your business you can implement a safety program This sets up a plan of employee procedures for handling vendors customers and inter-employee communication skills to improve workmanship and other employee development For events you cannot control do you have liability EampO and similar insurance

Does your business take advantage of legal structure asset titling (multiple businesses Spouse ownership) retirement plans life insurance annuities trusts and homestead

Its Not Too Late For Fall Dating

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20 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

exemptions (if available) to help protect assets from creditors and frivolous lawsuits

3 Employ Efficient Debt ndash we may be at the bottom of the interest rate and inflation cycle If interest rates rise andor inflation heats up the general rule of thumb for most of us is debtors win creditors lose If you have the cash you have control If the banker has the cash they have control

4 Manage Taxes ndash whether or not income or estate taxes increase in the future a retirement assetincome distribution business succession and legacy strategy is a must for everyone

5 Investment Management ndash you have plenty of risk with your business Do you want to have unnecessary risk with your investments

You cannot control macroeconomics (sequence of return risk rising interest rates trade and budget deficits unemployment inflation taxes real estate values commodity markets fluctuating foreign currency etc)

You cannot control geopolitical events (elections Euro zone issues violent foreign government changes war etc) or environmental events (hurricanes earthquakes fires tsunamis etc)

How do you insulate yourself from economic events you cannot control Consider historically tried tested and true strategies Consider strategies that your grandparentrsquos generation may have used They had to protect themselves ndash government bailouts and subsidies were few and far between

Congratulations if you can assemble a team to help you define and implement a strategy using the tactics described above This can be achieved in a relatively short period of time (a few hours a week over several short weeks can do it) which can help give you your time back so you can focus on your business and family

6 Manage your Business ndash this you can completely control You can engage in any of the following business expansion activities without losing energy and enthusiasm to the issues you and your team of advisors tackled above

Perhaps you would ratherbull Recruit and develop key employees (and future buyers of

your business)bull Market expansion (are you getting on board the e-marketing

train)bull Develop operating procedures and processesbull Improve safety (reduce liability)bull Expand into new territoriesbull Enter a new industry

bull Purchase and manage real estate

Life Happens ndash Enjoy It

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 US Army Eric is ranked first in his class with a degree in Computer Science is working in his field and plans on attending graduate school in 2013 His daughter Kara recently graduated undergraduate school with distinction and is planning to attend graduate school to become a Physiciansrsquo 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_NoeMWFinancialcom

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CSIA Update wwwCSIAorg

Publication for CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepregs

ADVERTISEMENT

The Virginia Association of Chimney amp

Hearth Professionals sponsored CSIArsquos

Inspection amp Report Writing class in

Arlington VA this August 6-7 Tom Urban

served as the instructor for the two-day

session Forty one professionals were

in attendance with 19 being business

owners and 22 being employees The

session drew attendees from as far away

as Louisville KY

The event was sponsored by Wakefield

Brush The Chimney Sweep News

Ahrenrsquos Copperfield Wohler Estoban

Lindemann Chimney Supply National

Chimney Supply Olympia Chimney

Supply SaverSystems and Whitecaps

VACHP Sponsored Inspection amp Report Writing

Fred Regar served as auctioneer of the sponsor-donated items on the second day of the session

Tom Urban teaching the CSIA Inspection and Report Writing Class in Arlington

When renewing a credential earned after September 1 2009 a CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg is required to

Available downloads for CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepsreg and CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Techniciansreg include

bull CSIACertifiedChimneySweepandCSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician Trademarks

bull ButtonsforyourWebsite

bull CustomizablePowerPointpresentationfor home inspectors

bull InspectionSOPs

bull LadderSafetyTips

bull ldquoChimneyFiresCausesEffectsampEvaluationrdquo Prepared by Chimney Safety Institute of America- Chimney Fire Education and Research Task Force

bull Printversionofthiswhitepaperisalsoavailable for purchase

bull Top10WoodburningTipsfromtheChimney Safety Institute of America

Check out the CCS amp CDET area at CSIAorg

bull Submitaminimumof9CEUsearnedwithin the preceeding 3 years (in any category) before testing NOTE This requirement will not apply to CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps already holding the credential on September 1 2009untiltheirnext3-yearcertificationcycle

bull Passaone-hourexambasedonSuccessfulChimneySweeping(2009)andNFPA211(2010)

bull Passaninety-minuteopen-bookexambasedonthe2006IRCreg

bull AgreetopaytheAnnualCertificationFee

bull SignCSIACodeofEthics

OR

bull SubmitappropriatenumberofContinuing Education Units (CEUs) in the relevant categories

bull AgreetopaytheAnnualCertificationFee

bull SignCSIACodeofEthics

Upon earning the CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg credential your certification is valid for one year You will need to recertify annually by paying the annual certification fee This fee will be invoiced annually prior to your expiration date Please note that your credential will require renewal every three years by submittal of the minimum 48 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) in accordance with the CSIA Credential Renewal Policy or by passing the certification exams and either submitting a minimum of 9 CEUs or completing a CSIA Review

If your annual certification fee is not paid prior to your certification expiration date your credential will be considered lapsed and you will immediately lose all rights and privileges of the CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg credential The following terms will then apply if reinstatement of the credential is desired

If you do not pay your annual certification fee by your expiration date the following timeline will begin

bull Within90daysfromthedateofexpiration if you submit payment in full for the annual certification fee your credential will be reinstated and you will be considered a CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg in good standing maintaining your original annual expiration date and certification number

bull Ifmorethan90daysandlessthan12months beyond your expiration date you will be required to Pay the current annual certification fee and current testing fees and test again Doing so will reinstate your previous annual certification expiration date and certification number You will still be required to pay your next annual fee within the next 12 months

bull Ifmorethan12monthsbeyondyourexpiration date you will be required to either participate in a CSIA approved certification review course or submit evidence of 9 CEUs that were accumulated during the time your credential was active In addition you will be required to pass the CSIA certification exams Upon successful completion a new certification number will be assigned and you will have a new annual certification expiration date

CaliforniaMichaelGipsonbullMidtownSweepsbullLancasterOmarSaenzbullAFiddlerontheRoodDuctampChimneyServicebullVanNuys

IndianaAlexStewartbullOldSmokeyrsquosFireplaceampChimneyIncbullAshley

KansasRyanBerrybullFullServiceChimneybullOlathe

New YorkJayFellibullHearthampHomeofIthacabullIthaca

VermontJamesDonovanbullLincolnPeakPropertiesbullWaitsfield

West VirginiaMichaelAdwellbullTopHatChimneySweepbullLewisburg

WisconsinDustinMyersbullChimneySpecialistsIncbullHighland

ADVERTISEMENT

Congratulations to Our New CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps

Top 10 Woodburning Tips from the Chimney Safety Institute of America

To aid in the prevention of chimney fires and carbon monoxide intrusion and to help keep heating appliances and fireplaces functioning properly the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) offers the following safety tips

1 Get an annual chimney check Have chimneys inspected annually and cleaned as necessary by a qualified professional chimney service technician This reduces the risk of fires and carbon monoxide poisonings due to creosote buildup or obstructions in the chimneys

2 Keep it clear Keep tree branches and leaves at least 15 feet away from the top of the chimney

3 Install a chimney cap to keep debris and animals out of the chimney

4 Choose the right fuel For burning firewood in wood stoves or fireplaces choose wellseasoned wood that has been split for a minimum of six months - one year and stored in a covered and elevated location Never burn Christmas trees or treated wood in your fireplace or wood stove

5 Build it right Place firewood or firelogs at the rear of the fireplace on a supporting grate To start the fire use kindling or a commercial firelighter Never use flammable liquids

6 Keep the hearth area clear Combustible material too close to the fireplace or to a wood stove could easily catch fire Keep furniture at least 36rdquo away from the hearth

7 Use a fireplace screen Use metal mesh or a screen in front of the fireplace to catch flying sparks that could ignite or burn holes in the carpet or flooring

8 Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors Place detectors throughout the house and check batteries in the spring and fall

When you change your clocks for Daylight Savings Time remember to check your batteries

9 Never leave a fire unattended Before turning in for the evening be sure that the fire is fully

extinguished Supervise children and pets closely around wood stoves and fireplaces

10 The CSIA recommends annual inspections performed by CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps These chimney sweeps have earned the industryrsquos most respected credential by passing an intensive examination based on fire codes clearances and standards for the construction and maintenance of chimney and venting systems The National Fire Protection Association also recommends that all chimneys are inspected on an annual basis

For more chimney and fireplace safety tips visit the Chimney Safety Institute of America online at wwwCSIAorg

Solve your customersrsquo smoking sooting odor and draft problems Itrsquos easy with CSIArsquos 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 Ghostingsooting 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 doesnrsquot

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

Learn to solve these problems save time and money and keep

your clients happy with CSIArsquos Online Chimney Physics program

SolvedVenting Problems

Register today at wwwcsiaorg

CSIA 15 Tech 15 CampL 15 HampS 15 CampS NFI 5 Tech

Annual Certification Requirements

Top 10 Woodburning Tips from the Chimney Safety Institute of America

To aid in the prevention of chimney fires and carbon monoxide intrusion and to help keep heating appliances and fireplaces functioning properly the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) offers the following safety tips

1 Get an annual chimney check Have chimneys inspected annually and cleaned as necessary by a qualified professional chimney service technician This reduces the risk of fires and carbon monoxide poisonings due to creosote buildup or obstructions in the chimneys

2 Keep it clear Keep tree branches and leaves at least 15 feet away from the top of the chimney

3 Install a chimney cap to keep debris and animals out of the chimney

4 Choose the right fuel For burning firewood in wood stoves or fireplaces choose wellseasoned wood that has been split for a minimum of six months - one year and stored in a covered and elevated location Never burn Christmas trees or treated wood in your fireplace or wood stove

5 Build it right Place firewood or firelogs at the rear of the fireplace on a supporting grate To start the fire use kindling or a commercial firelighter Never use flammable liquids

6 Keep the hearth area clear Combustible material too close to the fireplace or to a wood stove could easily catch fire Keep furniture at least 36rdquo away from the hearth

7 Use a fireplace screen Use metal mesh or a screen in front of the fireplace to catch flying sparks that could ignite or burn holes in the carpet or flooring

8 Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors Place detectors throughout the house and check batteries in the spring and fall

When you change your clocks for Daylight Savings Time remember to check your batteries

9 Never leave a fire unattended Before turning in for the evening be sure that the fire is fully

extinguished Supervise children and pets closely around wood stoves and fireplaces

10 The CSIA recommends annual inspections performed by CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps These chimney sweeps have earned the industryrsquos most respected credential by passing an intensive examination based on fire codes clearances and standards for the construction and maintenance of chimney and venting systems The National Fire Protection Association also recommends that all chimneys are inspected on an annual basis

For more chimney and fireplace safety tips visit the Chimney Safety Institute of America online at wwwCSIAorg

ADVERTISEMENT

You can spend weeks trying to get a new employee up to speed In the process yoursquoll have used up your valuable time your patience and more money than you would like to admit

Instead send your employee to the most popular cost-effective chimney sweep training in North America CSIArsquos National Chimney Sweep Training School In less than a week wersquoll create an employee that yoursquoll be proud to send on a call ndash and happy to count toward your bottom line

Register today at wwwcsiaorg or call us at (317) 837-5362

At the 6-day hands-on Training School your employee will learn

How to inspect and service chimney systems serving any fuel burning appliance

How to be safe with the latest health and safety equipment and methods

How to work with residential heating appliances including wood stoves pellet stoves inserts factory-built fireplaces central heaters and furnaces

How to diagnose chimney performance problems understanding draft and flow diagnosing down drafts flow reversals inadequate flow stack effects updrafts pressure effects and gauges

How to navigate the International Residential Codes How to follow the NFPA 211 standards

Class size is limited to ensure a ratio of no more than eight students per instructor This small class size means that students have the opportunity for individual attention from the schoolrsquos experienced instructors and ample opportunities for hands-on training Because class size is limited it is important to apply early to reserve your place

The online CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience

The online Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician (CDET) review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience designed to help you pass the CDET exam

Take advantage of these other CSIA educational offerings that can build your business

Send us your greenhorn

and wersquoll send you back a pro

in 6 days Classes fill quickly so register now

2012 DATeS April 2ndash7June 4ndash9August 6ndash11September 24ndash29

April 2-7June 11-16August 6-11September 24-29

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 25

You can spend weeks trying to get a new employee up to speed In the process yoursquoll have used up your valuable time your patience and more money than you would like to admit

Instead send your employee to the most popular cost-effective chimney sweep training in North America CSIArsquos National Chimney Sweep Training School In less than a week wersquoll create an employee that yoursquoll be proud to send on a call ndash and happy to count toward your bottom line

Register today at wwwcsiaorg or call us at (317) 837-5362

At the 6-day hands-on Training School your employee will learn

How to inspect and service chimney systems serving any fuel burning appliance

How to be safe with the latest health and safety equipment and methods

How to work with residential heating appliances including wood stoves pellet stoves inserts factory-built fireplaces central heaters and furnaces

How to diagnose chimney performance problems understanding draft and flow diagnosing down drafts flow reversals inadequate flow stack effects updrafts pressure effects and gauges

How to navigate the International Residential Codes How to follow the NFPA 211 standards

Class size is limited to ensure a ratio of no more than eight students per instructor This small class size means that students have the opportunity for individual attention from the schoolrsquos experienced instructors and ample opportunities for hands-on training Because class size is limited it is important to apply early to reserve your place

The online CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience

The online Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician (CDET) review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience designed to help you pass the CDET exam

Take advantage of these other CSIA educational offerings that can build your business

Send us your greenhorn

and wersquoll send you back a pro

in 6 days Classes fill quickly so register now

2012 DATeS April 2ndash7June 4ndash9August 6ndash11September 24ndash29

April 2-7June 11-16August 6-11September 24-29

ProgressivePerksBY DEBBIE CORNELIUS

MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT COORDINATOR

Get Organized and Make the Most of Your Busy Season

Sometimes it really surprises me that more NCSG members do not take advantage of the discounted benefits available to them These will not only save you time buthellip money too

Paycor Payroll Services price reduction on payroll and tax services One specialist will be dedicated to your account with a team of tax specialists available to resolve issues in the fastest amount of time should an issue arise

Market Hardware can bring your business up to speed in the competitive market of technology where more and more customers are looking to the Web Once they have customized the design that includes a ldquoHome Pagerdquo ldquoAbout Usrdquo and ldquoOur Servicesrdquo page you will have the ability to easily update and edit your Web site yourself instead of paying someone else to do it

Technical Solutions the ldquoSurvival Kit for Small Businessesrdquo can provide on-demand remote repair 247 365 days a year For the price of $2499month with no long term contact involved you can cover up to 20 computers including multiple office locations

Commercials On Hold provides a great way to brand and promote your full range of services when callers are on hold before they talk to a member of your staff

Take a few minutes to just explore these benefits It would be well worth your time to compare the savings to save you time and help increase your profits

26 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

REGION 6

NCSG Charter Members

Paul Bourque Huntsville AL

Don Leavitt San Diego CA

David Harris Broken Arrow Oklahoma

Dan Wheeler Santa Rosa CA

John Cline Menlo Park CA

Dale Meisinger N Augusta SC

Alan Hisey St Louis MO

Eva B Horton Greenwich CT

Harry Richart Hasbrouck Heights NJ

NewNCSGMembers

REGION 3

REGION 2

REGION 5

REGION 4

NCSG REGIONS

REGION 1

Connecticut Vermont Massachusetts New York Maine Rhode Island New Hampshire

REGION 2

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

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

CONNECTICUTChristopher Gonsalves bull Millstream Construction bull HebronDavid Heissenbuttel bull DMH amp Associates Inc bull Wilton

VIRGINAJack Johnston bull Johnstonrsquos Chimney Sweep bull Yorktown

MISSOURIJason Patrick bull Shamrock Qualty Services bull St LouisBill Bonney bull Bonney Bill bull Jackson

KENTUCKYJoshua Moore bull Moore Joshua bull Mt Sterling

ILLINOISJack Lutz bull Lutz Jack bull EurekaClay Nelson bull Clean Sweep bull Collinsville

OHIOAnthony Ramsey bull Elite Chimney Solutions bull Beavercreek

INDIANATravis Beckley bull Beckley Travis bull Coal City

TEXASMatthew Milner bull Milner Matthew bull WhitesboroTony Drew bull AC Contractors dba Fireplaces bull LongviewChristopher A Hess bull Atlas Chimney bull Leander

MINNESOTARenee Gustafson bull John C Gustafson Builder LLC bull Little Falls

COLORADOKent Macintosh bull Russian River Chimney Sweeps bull Healdsburg

CALIFORNIA Errol Davis bull The Chimney Specialist bull Huntington Beach

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 27

The 2012 ndash 2013 offers are being added daily in the ldquoMembers Onlyrdquo section of the NCSG website at wwwNCSGorg So start checking for these new offers each week These coupons will be good until June 30 2013

Copperfield Chimney Supply bull Lindemann Chimney Supply bull Meyer Machine amp Equipment bull National Chimney Supply bull SNEWS - The Chimney Sweep News bull Wakefield Brush bull Wohler USA Inc

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28 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

Meyer Machine amp Equipment

SUCKINGDUCTS

ampINSULATION

FOR OVER 20 YEARS

As most allergy sufferers will tell you allergy symptoms can always be bothersome turning any time of year into sneezing season A runny nose itchy eyes and scratchy throat can arise as the days get shorter and the leaves begin to change

The fall can be especially difficult for people who are sensitive to mold and ragweed pollen But these seasonal elements arenrsquot the only triggers that can make symptoms worse this time of year There are also a few lesser known triggers Here are four things you might not know about fall allergies courtesy of the American College of Allergy Asthma and Immunology

Hay fever - Hay fever a term from a bygone era actually has nothing to do with hay Instead itrsquos a general term used to describe the symptoms of late summer allergies Ragweed is a common cause of hay fever which is also known as allergic rhinitis The plant usually begins to pollinate in mid-August and may continue to be a problem until a hard freeze depending on where you live See an allergist for prescription medications to control symptoms or to see if allergy shots may be your best option

Lingering warm weather - While most people enjoy Indian summer unseasonably warm temperatures can make rhinitis symptoms last longer Mold spores can also be released when humidity is high or the weather is dry and windy Be sure to begin taking medications before your symptoms start Track your allergy symptoms with MyNasalAllergyJournalorg and visit with your allergist to find relief

Pesky leaves - Some folks might find it difficult to keep up with raking leaves throughout the autumn But for allergy sufferers raking presents its own problem It can stir agitating pollen and mold into the air causing allergy and asthma symptoms Those with allergies should wear an NIOSH-rated N95 mask when raking leaves mowing the lawn and gardening

School allergens - Itrsquos not only seasonal pollen and mold that triggers allergies this time of year Kids are often exposed to classroom irritants and allergy triggers These can include chalk dust and classroom pets Students with food allergies may also be exposed to allergens in the lunch roomKids with exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB) may experience attacks during recess or gym class Help your child understand what can trigger their allergies and asthma and how they can avoid symptoms Be sure to notify teachers and the school nurse of any emergency medications such as quick relief inhalers and epinephrine

No matter the season itrsquos important for those who think they may be suffering from allergies or asthma to see a board-certified allergist An allergist can help you develop a treatment plan which can include both medication and avoidance techniques

Having your allergies properly identified and treated will help you and your family enjoy the season To find an allergist and learn more about allergies and asthma visit wwwAllergyandAsthmaRelieforg

Four Things You Might Not Know About Fall Allergies

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 29

trategic partnerships Sounds fancy but what does it really mean They are called what they are called because there is a true strategy behind them the thought and planning that goes into identifying and development those relationships in a way that will

ultimately help those who are participating to achieve their mission The fact that it is indeed a ldquopartnershiprdquo indicates that everyone involved mutually stands to benefit in some wayhellipItrsquos a win-win

The strategic part of establishing partnerships is analyzing who you are your goals and your current resources and then finding organizations (partners) that will allow you to get the things that you need in order to take your organization to the next level But true partnerships are about what you can bring to each other to help achieve your goals and enhance your resources It is not solely about what you can give me but rather what we can give each other As the great John F Kennedy is well known for encouraging of a world partnership ldquoask not what America will do for you but what together we can do for the freedom of manrdquo

So where does this leave an association like NCSG The key to nonprofits establishing strategic partnerships is having the infrastructure to attract and maintain these relationships In this country there are plenty of nonprofits that are doing great work but there is no organization that will be able to survive if they try

to achieve their mission without establishing partnerships that help provide resources and relationships that allow us to achieve our mission

NCSG is very fortunate to have an impressive array of partners who have for many years some since our inception done just that Our partners have advertised in this magazine exhibited at our conventions contributed to the building and maintaining of our headquarters and the premier industry training facility in Indianapolis discounted thousands of dollars in products and services to our members and have helped us promote the Guild and recruit membership in countless ways not the least of which includes maintaining their own membership in NCSG

Our partners are committed to helping us advance our mission and in turn propel our professional field forward Their partnership supports that programs that ignite your professional and technical development and provide the products and services that have helped you bring your own businesses to life They are integral to the success of this industry and most renew their support of the Guild year after year

Without their support of Sweeping magazine through their advertising we would not have been able to come close to bringing this publication to our members and the industry for the past 35 years (originally The Chimney Sweep Guild News) without significant taxation on the readers Without their support

BY MARK MCSWEENEY CAEEXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Perspective

Support Those Who Support YouldquoOur success has really been based on partnerships from the very beginningrdquo -Bill Gates

S

30 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

of NCSGrsquos annual convention through exhibiting and additional sponsorships registration fees for attendees would easily be double what they are today

When viewing our relationship with exhibitors sponsors advertisers and supplier members as a partnership the question needs to be asked How are we as an association mutually helping them achieve their respective goals

The answer comes back to us having infrastructure to attract and maintain these partnerships And that infrastructure is you the member NCSG cultivates and maintains the relationship with our industry partners on your behalf You are asked to back that up through your support of these partner service providers

Now Irsquom not saying you should buy everything you need at any one place or only through our partners At the end of the day you ultimately need to make your purchasing decisions based on your individual business needs However what would be great to see is our members calling our partners up and giving them a chance to compete for your business Let them know you are a part of NCSG and even if you are not in a position to do business with them this time around let them know you appreciate their continued support of the Guild and the industry Itrsquos one thing to call up to a supplier and ask about a product get a price and hang up Itrsquos another thing to make sure you let them know you saw their ad in Sweeping you read about them

online or you remember they exhibited at the convention so that they know they are getting positive exposure and that their investment in our partnership is not going unnoticed

With that said here are some simple and tangible things things you can do to help the partnership you are a part ofbull Consider our partners each and every time you need to make a

purchasing decision and give them an opportunity to earn your business when you can Look at those who are advertising in Sweeping or see a full listing of NCSG Supplier Members under the Chimney Sweep tab on ncsgorg

bull When you talk to them let them know yoursquore part of NCSG and thank them for their support of your association

bull If you like them even if you canrsquot do business with them currently spread the word and help get their name out there

bull Attend events where our partners have stepped up to sponsor Help show them we value them being there and appreciate their efforts This helps everyone when it comes to working out future programs discounts events and more

We are all in this together Just as you want to ensure you are receiving the return you need on the investments you make our supplier members advertisers exhibitors and sponsors need to justify their own ROI on the variety of support avenues they offer

to NCSG I thought Irsquod take a minute this month to say ldquothank yourdquo to all of you who support us in so many different ways and would like to encourage others to do the same

Until next time I continue to wish you every success

Double Locking CrimpRemains StrongYet Very Flexibl e

With No Memo ry

Strong Triple Locking CrimpHolds T ogether Even OnTough Jobs

Horizontal Sides Of CorrugationOffer Added Strengthamp Flexibility

Manufactured by CHIMNEY TECHNIQUE INC

Chim-Pro Interlock Flex

Chim-Pro Corrugated

Flex

Chim-Pro RigidADDED SAFETY EFFICIENCY AND VALUE

In Which ALL FITTINGS Are Attached With A Band Even The Tee Cap And Elbows Quick amp Simple No Drilling amp Riveting

Featuring

Visit wwwchim-prolinercom for more detailsbull 2000 Industrial Ave bull Sioux Falls SD 57104

1-800-582-1392

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 31

Display Ad Index

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 mheekencsgorg for publication in Sweeping Or mail it to NCSG 2155 Commercial Drive Plainfield IN 46168

Page Advertiser Phone Email or Website Address

30 Ahrens Chimney Technique 800-582-1392 ahrenschimneyqwestofficenet

21-24 Chimney Safety Institute of America 317-837-5362 wwwcsiaorg

14 Cobra Chimney Caps 888-463-0636 salescobrachimneycom

27 Communications Network Inc 800-875-8118 tkempercomnetmessagecom

5 Copperfield 800-247-3305 wwwcopperfieldcom

4 ENERVEX Inc 800-255-2923 infochimneyfanscom

13 Firesafe Industries Inc 800-545-6607 wwwfiresafeinccom

16 Gelco Lyemance Lock-Top 800-334-2154 wwwGLLchimneyproductscom

9 Hose Master 800-221-2319 bobdanielshosemastercom

10 ICP 508-695-7000 wwwchimneycapscom

BC Lifetime Chimney Supply LLC 877-234-7473 wwwlifetimechimneysupplycom

7 Lindemann Chimney Company 800-722-7230 wwwlindemannchimneycom

11 M amp G Duravent 800-835-4429 wwwduraventcom

28 Meyer Machine amp Equipment 800-728-3828 wwwmeyermachinecom

25 National Chimney Supply 800-897-8481 wwwnationalchimneysupplycom

17 Olympia Chimney Supply 800-569-1425 wwwolympiachimneycom

19 Sand Hill Wholesale 800-258-5496 wwwsandhillwholesalecom

6 SaverSystems Inc 800-860-6327 wwwchimneysavercom

3 Smoktite 866-439-0069 wwwsmoktitecom

8 Wakefield Brush 800-264-7007 wwwwakefieldbrushcom

19 Whitecaps 800-335-2534 wwwwhitecapscom

15 Z-Flex 800-654-5600 wwwz-flexcom

The pole and bucket chimney That is how they keep rain and birds out during off season Notice the class A is just an extension of a masonry chimney

Submitted by Kevon Binder of Doctor Flue Inc

September 13-15 2012Lake Murray SCSouth Carolina Chimney Sweep Guildrsquos ldquoThe GatheringrdquoFor more information please contact Blume at (864) 232-9811 or blume357bellsouthnet

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 19 2012 Taunton MAFall Protection User Training Class Including OSHArsquos 2011 ruling on alternate fall protection methods - Sponsored by the Massachusetts Chimney Sweep GuildFor more information please call Jeffrey Wright at (781) 233-2321

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-29 2012CSIA Technology CenterCSIA National Chimney Sweep Training SchoolFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

Dates amp Events

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 8-12 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg October 8-12 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

Please send notice of your events for NCSG Dates amp Events listings at mmcmahonncsgorg for inclusion here in weekly posts to the discussion list and online at wwwNCSGorgdates The event must be considered educational or informative for the industry (sales events and open houses will not be listed)

32 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

ClassifiedsGotta chimney question Sizing Codes Call Royal Edwards Make Royal your tech department CALL NOW 813-982-0219 for on-call tech support Continuing Education special bonus ndash ask how you can get the Friday morning E-Blast for FREE CALL NOW 813-982-0219

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

Chimney Sweep business for sell in the Northern Rocky Mountains of New Mexico Services a large area with three ski resorts in the service area Equipment and signed three year contracts goes with the business Business is well established For pricing and other info please email your questions to ridgeriders1gmailcom

CLASSIFIED ADS FREE FOR NCSG MEMBERSMembers can run one 35 word classified free each year Regularly classified ads are $2word or $1word for NCSG members Classified ads are non-commissionable and must be pre-paid To place a classified ad please contact Megan McMahon at mmcmahonncsgorg or (317) 837-1500

NCSG Innovation 2013 Convention and Trade Show Hotel reservations are now being accepted for NCSG Innovation 2013 at Chateau on the Lake in Branson MO April 4-7 2013 Just call 1-888-333-LAKE (5253) and mention that yoursquore with the National Chimney Sweep Guild to lock in rates starting at $129 for a mountain view and $134 for a lake view

Get ready for some RampR Yoursquore earned it

Order Your FREEAnnual Maintenance Reminder Postcards

A great way to remind homeowners to schedule their annual maintenance check up

Each card has space available for your business information

Use them as reminders for your existing clients or send them to generate new business

To order postcards and other free Burn Wise products contact

Leigh Herringtonherringtonleighepagov

ampKristen Bremer

bremerkristenepagov

wwwepagovburnwise

Follow us on

Wood-Burning Safety

Starts with You

Have you scheduled your

annual inspection

The National Fire Protection Association estimates

that 25 percent of home heating fires are caused

primarily by creosote buildup in the chimney

Make your home healthier and safer A properly

installed and maintained appliance burns more

efficiently and saves you money Contact your local

certified chimney sweep to schedule an annual

inspection today

Before You Burn

The right wayThe right way is hot and bright

In the right applianceThe right appliance is an EPA-approved appliance inspected annually by a certified chimney sweep

Burn the right woodBurn only dry well-seasoned wood that has been split and stored properly

wwwepagovburnwise

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Printed on 100 recycledrecyclable paper with a minimum 50 post-consumer waste using vegetable-based

EPA 456-F-10-004

National Chimney Sweep Guild2155 Commercial DrivePlainfield IN 46168

1208

OR

Page 10: September 2012

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 9

Hose Master Invented the Wheel

Smooth-N-Lite bullYourchoice-304or316stainlesssteelcoils5rdquo-8rdquodiameters bullInterlockedseamsareeasytoflex bullSmoothinnerwall bullCrushresistant bullIdealforsmoothwallapplications bullAvailableinroundovalorrectangle

HeavyFlex bullYourchoice-304or316stainlesssteelcoils bullInterlockedseamsareeasytoflex bullSmoothinnerwall bullHighlycrushresistant bullIdealforfireplacerelines bullAvailableinroundovalrectangleorDial-A-Flex

UltraPro bull Patentedrolllockseamdesignforeasyflexibility bullLargebendrange bullSteepcorrugationslope-resultinginhighcrushresistance bullIdeallysuitedforforbothstraightandmultiplebendrelines bullUncoilseasilyrightoutofthebox

NEW

CopperfieldkeepsturningthewheelwithHomeSaverrsquosnew Smooth-N-LitelinerSmooth-N-Litetakesawaythestiffnessand clumsinessnormallyassociatedwithsmoothwallliner-itgivesyouldquosmoothrdquowithnoheadacheNestlingintoHomeSaverrsquosfamousfamilyofUltraProProRoundFlexRectangleFlexOvalFlexandDial-A-FlexCopperfieldrsquosnewSmooth-N-Litegivesyouthesuperiorweight flexibilityandstrengthyouneedforsmoothlinerapplications

Copperfield Chimney Supply Technical800-246-1926Support800-247-3305

Manufactured by Hose Master Exclusively For

When It Comes to Chimney Liners

Almost50yearsagoSamFotiHoseMasterrsquosCEOredesignedinterlockedmachine technologyHisinnovationsarestillthecoreofmanufacturingflexiblechimneylinertoday

HeavyFlex bull 25yearsagoSaminventedRectangleFlex OvalFlexandDial-A-Flextechnology

UltraPro bull 15yearsagoSaminventedUltraPro-the onlypatentedroll-lockdesignlight-weight linerwithextremeflexibilityandcrush resistance

Smooth-N-Lite bullTodaySamhasdesignedSmooth-N-Lite- thelightinterlockedlinerforsmoothwall applications

and now he invented Smooth-N-Lite

Now We Have It All

All Flexible Liner Is Not Created EqualLet Us Prove It

1964

1983

2000

2012

Pro amp UltraProInvented UltraPro - the only patented roll-lock design light-weight liner with extreme flexibility and crush resistance

Redesigned Interlocked Machine TechnologyInnovations are still the core of manufacturing flexible chimney liner today

HeavyFlexInvented RectangleFlex OvalFlex and Dial-A-Flex technology

Smooth-N-LiteToday Sam has designed Smooth-N-Lite the light interlocked liner for smoothwall applications Manufactured on the same machine technology he invented in 1964

Meet Sam Foti Hose Master CEO engineer and innovator

In 1964 Sam got involved with interlocked products Identifying the problems associated with manufacturing the hose Sam redesigned the tooling and machinery to not only produce a consistent interlocked hose but to also speed-up the production

Today the results of Sams ingenuity is the technology used throughout the industry in the production of interlocked products His designs not only changed the way that stripwound hose is made but the way that it is used and perceived in the industry

SmoothNLite Adindd 2 71212 335 PM

10 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

Jim Cochran of Magic Mountain Chimney Sweeps Passes

Jim Cochran of Magic Mountain Chimney Sweeps in Thurmont MD passed away on Thursday April 5 2012 He and wife Debra Cochran have owned and operated this company since 1979 Debra continues to operate Magic Mountain Chimney Sweeps

Jim is survived by his wife Debra Howell Cochran married October 6 1973 in Tampa FL He is also survived by one son Wesly M H Cochran of Frederick MD and one daughter Wendy V Cochran Taylor of Thurmont Debby writes ldquoJim was a legend and many people and sweeps knew and loved him He was one of a kind He had chimney sweeps in top hats and tails for his pallbearers and had a real chimney sweeps funeral It was a great tribute to himrdquoContributions may be made to Cancer Support Community 1050 17th Street NW Suite 500 Washington DC 20036

Sweeping MagazineSept 2012 issue Full page 4 color

Dura-Ventkaren josephson contact

kjosephsonduraventcom800-835-4429

Engineered Excellencereg MampG DuraVent is a member of the MampG Group copy Copyright 2012 Made in the USA 800-835-4429 wwwduraventcom

Stunning design and engineered excellence in manufacture DirectVent Pro combines style with performance Featuring precision tolerances for a tight seal low-pro le locks with no hems or beads for an elegant pro le No gaskets or sealants required (unless by appliance manufacturer) Laser-welded outer seams on all black pipe for a slim nish Several termiantion choices to cap o the system perfectly See why it is speci ed exclusively by nearly every major stove and replace manufacturer in the US and Canada DirectVent Pro is backed by a limited lifetime warranty Find out more at www duraventcom

Dir

ectV

ent

Pro

FOR

DIR

ECT

VEN

T G

AS O

R PR

OPA

NE

STO

VES

HEA

TERS

amp F

IREP

LACE

S

Dire

ctVe

nt Pr

o reg

regIndustryWatch

Industry Watch PolicyNCSG encourages industry partners to submit press releases to Melissa Heeke Sweeping The Journal of Chimney amp Venting Technology editor via email at mheekencsgorg 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 NCSGrsquos opinion regarding the release

Sweeping MagazineSept 2012 issue Full page 4 color

Dura-Ventkaren josephson contact

kjosephsonduraventcom800-835-4429

Engineered Excellencereg MampG DuraVent is a member of the MampG Group copy Copyright 2012 Made in the USA 800-835-4429 wwwduraventcom

Stunning design and engineered excellence in manufacture DirectVent Pro combines style with performance Featuring precision tolerances for a tight seal low-pro le locks with no hems or beads for an elegant pro le No gaskets or sealants required (unless by appliance manufacturer) Laser-welded outer seams on all black pipe for a slim nish Several termiantion choices to cap o the system perfectly See why it is speci ed exclusively by nearly every major stove and replace manufacturer in the US and Canada DirectVent Pro is backed by a limited lifetime warranty Find out more at www duraventcom

Dir

ectV

ent

Pro

FOR

DIR

ECT

VEN

T G

AS O

R PR

OPA

NE

STO

VES

HEA

TERS

amp F

IREP

LACE

S

Dire

ctVe

nt Pr

o reg

reg

12 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

irst of all if you are reading this CONGRATUATIONS As I shared at a recent MIX group meeting I did a presentation for many of you have survived the worst economic downturn in the history of our country one that in many ways rivaled the Great Depression So congratulations

are definitely in order Many American businesses did not survive the economic downturn and others are still on the borderline of survival andor failure I am sure each of you knows of successful business owners who have had their lives (and their lifestyles) undergo a tremendous transition during the past few years Others among you may have only entered our industry since this economic devil revealed itself

What is even more remarkable is that some who read this have done much more Not only have they survived they actually prospered Their businesses grew their profits increased and their business models strengthened Each business that did this faced the same economic conditions as others Yet due to their grit and determination they became true winners Yes there may have been geographic considerations but few areas have escaped the wrath of the economic turmoil our country has faced

What the economic conditions have done for many is force them to become better managers better watchers of their numbers better students of lean methods of operation and better in so many other beneficial ways And it is truly enlightening to see the benefits that have been awarded to those who have continued to make their businesses grow in truly tough economic times and without assistance from banks or other lenders The true success stories of business owners who have completely revamped their operations and have shown levels of excellence that many dream of

But even as a survivor many will encounter roadblocks that will cause stress will slow progress and will serve to raise caution to the wind At times it will come at you with a warning at other times it will simply pop up in front of you with no warning Perhaps it hits you when you awaken in a cold sweat or perhaps it hits you at times when things are just not going as you feel they should The roadblock I refer to is something I classify as the WALL

I feel that a successful business manager can be compared to a star athlete The star athlete will practice he will work out

he will have a strict regimen that will include his diet his sleep habits and will govern his life As he undergoes his training any and all things that can hamper his performance are examined and examined again No matter if he is a runner a swimmer a baseball or football player or a star in other sports He will dedicate himself to excellence just as you do each and every day in your business We saw this in August as we watched the Olympics and see those who receive the gold and hear the stories of the work they did to prepare for the competition

But even with the preparation even with the regiment he has posed to himself at times he will find that his energy is zapped His will to go on will be challenged his fortitude questioned HE HITS THE WALL

As a business manager this is no different than what you encounter at times Not only does the wall come up and block your progress as one person even explained to me about the dreaded wall at times it will even collapse on top of you and you may have to dig out of the rubble During a recent conversation a business owner related ldquoI am digging out of the rubble where that wall fell on top of merdquo when asked how he was doing Has this ever happened to you causing you to stop and wonder just why am I doing this and will I meet my objective Even worse the thought comes to the forefront is it really worth what I am putting into it

In my business endeavors I deal with a lot of folks in different stages of their business models Some have recently launched a business some are transforming a business some preparing exit plans and others are building infrastructure Others still have found success and are working to bring in new management to begin to pursue their true dreams of more free time as the free time was a goal of the original business start-up plan In preparation for this article I asked several who always seem to be going up up and up just what was their secret Just how did the walls not stop them in the progress of the business I think the overall answer I heard was best summed up by one phenomenal business owner His answer was ldquoJerry I keep myself up all the time because I always look at the potential and the markets we have not tapped into yet I just donrsquot see how anyone can get beat due to the problems when there is so much potential and so much untapped businessrdquo

BY JERRY ISENHOUR OF CHIMNEY amp VENTING

CONSULTANTS IN CONCORD NCCoachrsquos Corner

The

The Wall

F

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 13

Quite frankly this hit it on the head Each and every day as a business owner you face adversity perhaps from a customer perhaps from the world around us perhaps simply from an employee who did not meet our expectations But you know this is life and life has a way of throwing curve ball after curve ball The real winner will anticipate what the curve balls will be and will develop the methods to hit the ball no matter how it is thrown at us

The true winner will always view each and every adversary as a learning experience taking what is learned from each error each loss and each hiccup and use these as the basis for new procedures new methods and new ways to grow and prosper The true winner knows that his 1 accountability partner is that guy with him all the time the guy he knows as the man in the mirror

Some are even developing methods within the business to pull these errors and mistakes out of the hidden abyss of the unknown to find the ones we may not even be paying attention to Recently observing several who have instituted a new method that can isolate and eliminate issues is producing astounding results As a respected colleague shared with me ldquoJerry it feels like we are walking on glass but we are finding the ways to end the dreaded Groundhog Day happening over and overrdquo Successful business managers use this as the basis of how they will change the business model adapt their procedures

and continue to grow and prosper All the while raising the PERCENTAGE of profit from the gross figure They do not look at the number they view the number as the percentage Only through viewing the percentage can we truly have a yardstick by which to measure our progress as we grow our management skills

With this my wish is for you to have an excellent fall By the time you read this we will have hit that great part of the year called FALL and what so many call THE BUSY SEASON As you enter this make plans now as to how you plan to promote your business come January 1 2013 This is what the guys who are moving forward are doing The fall is already through the planning stages and they are ready for action ARE YOU If not ask that man in the mirror if he is truly operating at the level he needs to be He has the answer I am sure

About the Author Jerry Isenhour is an industry consultant coach and educator 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 and your business in your quest for success and your rise to the next level take a look at his web site wwwchimneyandventingconsultantscom He can be contacted at jerrychimneyandventingconsultantscom or by phone at (704) 425-0217 You can also obtain great business tips from his Facebook page Chimney amp Venting Consultants

ldquoMy company uses most products available to chimney contractors but Firesafersquos products and systems are hands-down the very best and the most profitable Great technical support and their constant improvements make the products even better which makes my company stand out over my competitionrdquo Kevin Knight Chadds Ford Chimney Sweeps PA

TO order call 800 TO order call 800--545545--66076607

infofiresafeinccom infofiresafeinccom wwwfiresafeinccomwwwfiresafeinccom

FireFireGuardGuard Ceramic mortar jointCeramic mortar jointCeramic mortar joint amp resurfacing systemamp resurfacing systemamp resurfacing system

PatentedPatented The most advanced chimney liner in the world

reg

CrownGuardCrownGuard Severe weather crown repair amp protectionSevere weather crown repair amp protection

Centering system for metal chimney liners

14 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

erhaps the most important thing to recognize about business is that customer service is not an afterthought to everything else It IS everything else Or as Leon Gorman the CEO of LL Bean puts it ldquoCustomer Service is just a day in day out

ongoing never ending unremitting persevering compassionate type of activityrdquo

Oh thatrsquos a nice thought you say Irsquoll be certain to put a little more attention on that the next free moment I get

If this is your response yoursquove missed the point and perhaps the boat too

So what does it mean when we say service What does good customer service look like Herersquos a good hint from Peter Drucker ldquoQuality in service or product is not what you put into it Itrsquos what the customer gets out of itrdquo

In other words in the final analysis itrsquos not simply how

well you do your job that matters What matters is how your customer feels about you or your company once the job is completed What matters is what they got out of it And in that regard in any arena of competitors the battle will be won by the company who leaves the customer feeling the best the happiest the most satisfied

Jerry Gregoire CIO of Dell believes ldquoThe customer experience is the next competitive battlegroundrdquo

Now you might be thinking your customers must be pretty satisfied since most of the time they donrsquot seem to have any complaints

If you are feeling this way it would behoove you to remember most customers donrsquot complain even if there are dramatic issues with the work Why People donrsquot like confrontations And many people feel their complaints will be neither appreciated nor dealt with so why bother

The One and Only Thing

P

BY GREG POLAKOW OF COPPERFIELD

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 15

The course of action they choose rather than wasting their time and emotions complaining to someone they feel will be either hostile or unresponsive is to select one of your competitors next time they need work done As the saying goes they vote with their wallet

You might rightly be asking yourself well if my customers donrsquot tell me when theyrsquore not satisfied what can I possibly do about it

The answer is there are many things that can be done about it But the first starts with the understanding that customer service is not something that kicks in only when therersquos a problem Customer service has to be part of every contact you have with your customers It is how you treat your customers before you even show up at their door It is how you conduct yourself during your visit And it is most certainly the way in which you handle follow up

Remember it is how your customers feel after all is said and done that matters

We are always forming opinions about others It is a natural part of being human And we begin formulating those opinions with our very first encounter The initial opinions may later give way to either better or worse opinions but initial opinions are extremely influential So ask yourself what are you doing to

insure that the very first impression a customer has of you and your business is excellent What are you doing to make this very first customer service experience positive What are you doing to provide your customer at the very outset with a feel good experience

Whatever your answer is remember it is often this first impression that will determine whether or not a customer will call and complain if there is a problem later rather than simply opt to call one of your competitors next time Why Because it is in this first encounter with you that a customer begins to decide if they trust you If you trust that a company has your best interests at heart you are much more likely to call if there is a problem

So how do you establish a feeling of well being and trust with your customer from the get go Again it has to do with how you make them feel the moment you pick up your phone to answer their first call If your tone is cold indifferent or even matter of fact they are not likely to feel you care And if you donrsquot seem to care about them can you really be trusted to have their best interests at heart EVERTHING you do from the outset absolutely everything will create an opinion of you in the customerrsquos mind That means your tone of voice the patience with which you respond to their questions And the very language and even diction you use to talk to them about whatever chimney related issue they are having

USAT 18006545600F 18888893539

CANADAT 4166790045F 4166790051

salesz-flexcom wwwz-flexcom

Triple Lockreg Smoothcoretrade

All Fuels Chimney Linerbull Eliminates the turbulence thatrsquos inherent with

corrugated liners improving draft

bull Resists corrosive attack by not impeding the flow of condensate down the liner and less opportunity for soot to accumulate

Z-Max Rain Cap ampLock lsquoN Go Base Tee

bull Z-Max Rain Cap with protective ember screen shields chimney from snow driving rain and animal intrusions Quick removal for easy cleaning

bull Z-Max Lock lsquoN Go Base Tee installs in half the time of standard tees with no special installation tools required

bull All products cULus tested and listed by UL to UL1777 and ULC S635

S P E C I A L I Z E D V E N T S H O S E S D U C T S amp C O N N E C T O R S F O R A N Y U S E A N Y I N D U S T R Y

C H I M N E Y amp V E N T I N G S O L U T I O N S

TRIPLE LOCKreg

SMOOTHCOREtrade amp Z-MAX

Smoothcoretrade

All Fuels Chimney LinerEliminates the turbulence thatrsquos inherent with

bull Z-Max Rain Cap with protective ember screen

bull Z-Max Lock lsquoN Go Base Tee installs in half the Pellet GasWood Oil

Suitable For All Fuels

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

Sweeping News (Snews)_Smoothcore_Z-Max_no booth_HR_March 29 2012pdf 1 12-03-30 212 PM

16 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

Use language that is too technical and you lose them and put them on the defensive ldquoAm I supposed to understand what this guy is talking aboutrdquo they wonder Speak too fast or indistinctly and you get the same result

Seem like picky details They may be to you but they will not be to your customer

Remember when a customer comes to you he is laying his problem at your feet If he could remedy it himself he would But he canrsquot He needs you to help him So he is feeling a bit vulnerable a bit out of his league How you respond to him in this circumstance can either make him feel immediately comfortable and in safe hands or something less desirable You decide which effect you want to create

I think you can see that if this first encounter leaves your customer glowing instead of glowering you win You win his confidence his trust and even here at the very outset his gratitude If yoursquove done this well ie addressed his initial questions and concerns in a compassionate understanding thorough manner well you are off to an excellent start

But the battle has not been won because yoursquove also set some expectations and your customerrsquos expectation that this kind of treatment will continue must be met If your crew shows up to do the work and forgets they are in the customer service business first and foremost all you accomplished at the beginning can be ruined

Good customer service must build on itself from day one in order to maintain that feeling in your customer of confidence happiness and trust It cannot be hit and miss Being inconsistent might be worse than being just plain ornery from the beginning

Does good customer service trump sloppy careless or substandard work Of course not Because the quality of your product is a huge part of the customer service package Itrsquos all customer service

The bottom line is your customer will appreciate value and respect you to exactly the same degree you appreciate value and respect him No more and no less And the great thing is when you treat your customers as friends when you gladly and openly address their concerns and fix their problems your work and your life become easier and more fulfilling

Try it out Start thinking of customer service as being the be all and end all of your business and see how well things go Yoursquoll be amazed

Remember as Tony Allesandra has observed ldquoBeing on par in terms of price and quality only gets you into the game Service wins the gamerdquo

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AnOpen Chimneyis like anOpen Window-All Year Round

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Will KozlanskyOwner amp Co-Founder

The NEW Smoothwall Chimney Liner thathas the Perfect Combination of

Weight Ruggedness amp Flexibility

n No memory amp very flexible n Smooth Interior n One liner multiple applicationsn Available ovalized amp coiled

18 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

ou all have accomplishments You support your family your employees and their families your vendors and you provide comfort and safety for your customers

Some of you can enjoy your success and can focus on preserving what you have Many of you want to and have the capacity to grow and be more successful Some of you may be struggling with the seasonality and economics of your business Regardless of your level of success almost all of you have varying degrees of uncertainty

Many articles books conferences and videos have been made about the importance of having a strategic plan to help guide you to fulfill your potential

This magazine has offered numerous articles written to help you fulfill your potential The NCSG offers courses to help you gain skills to be more successful

Yet there still appears to be too many business owners

struggling to achieve their goals ndash or have yet to explicitly define their goals which could help them to get their time back and allow them (you) to enjoy their (your) lives

Maybe yoursquore stuck on tactics without a strategy Maybe yoursquore stuck on ldquonoiserdquo ndash noise that the media airs about events you cannot control and distracts you from your business Perhaps that ldquonoiserdquo has contributed to a pessimistic perspective

Perhaps all of the above is ldquonoiserdquo that covers up past or current mistakes or regret either real or perceived

Letrsquos work on facing your concerns and your past Fear fades when facts are faced Regrets can become wisdom when success lies ahead

Consider forming a team of trusted professionals emulate successful associates select friends and close family members who can create a ldquojudgment freerdquo zone to allow you to unwind the past that may be keeping you from achieving your potential

Focus on What You Can Control

Y

BY BRIAN NOE OF MW FINANCIAL GROUP

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 19

Your team can help you realize your dreams by developing a sound strategy employing objective facts without bias Your team has your back

So letrsquos throw out the rear view mirror set aside our mistakes and regrets and look forward to what you can control that can lead to success

You and your team can control your personal finances You and your team can control your business Here are some steps you can take to help seize the day sleep easy and get your time back

1 Budget ndash do you have a personal and business budget Do you adhere to your budget Does your budget include protection and savings for retirement and your legacy Do you know how much you need to save for retirement and your legacy Are you prepared in the event that you may ldquolive too longrdquo

2 Help Protect Yourself your Family and your Business ndash you can take steps to control your risk

Do you let your employees drive your personal vehicles Do your employees drive your work vehicles for personal use Are you covered for that activity These are a just a few examples of ldquohiddenrdquo liabilities that you may be exposed to but unaware of

Do you have adequate umbrella insurance protection in addition to home and auto insurance that covers you and your employees

Do you take steps to relieve stress Do you have disability insurance to provide you with income or your business with funds to pay expenses in the event of illness or injury that prevents you from working

For your business you can implement a safety program This sets up a plan of employee procedures for handling vendors customers and inter-employee communication skills to improve workmanship and other employee development For events you cannot control do you have liability EampO and similar insurance

Does your business take advantage of legal structure asset titling (multiple businesses Spouse ownership) retirement plans life insurance annuities trusts and homestead

Its Not Too Late For Fall Dating

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20 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

exemptions (if available) to help protect assets from creditors and frivolous lawsuits

3 Employ Efficient Debt ndash we may be at the bottom of the interest rate and inflation cycle If interest rates rise andor inflation heats up the general rule of thumb for most of us is debtors win creditors lose If you have the cash you have control If the banker has the cash they have control

4 Manage Taxes ndash whether or not income or estate taxes increase in the future a retirement assetincome distribution business succession and legacy strategy is a must for everyone

5 Investment Management ndash you have plenty of risk with your business Do you want to have unnecessary risk with your investments

You cannot control macroeconomics (sequence of return risk rising interest rates trade and budget deficits unemployment inflation taxes real estate values commodity markets fluctuating foreign currency etc)

You cannot control geopolitical events (elections Euro zone issues violent foreign government changes war etc) or environmental events (hurricanes earthquakes fires tsunamis etc)

How do you insulate yourself from economic events you cannot control Consider historically tried tested and true strategies Consider strategies that your grandparentrsquos generation may have used They had to protect themselves ndash government bailouts and subsidies were few and far between

Congratulations if you can assemble a team to help you define and implement a strategy using the tactics described above This can be achieved in a relatively short period of time (a few hours a week over several short weeks can do it) which can help give you your time back so you can focus on your business and family

6 Manage your Business ndash this you can completely control You can engage in any of the following business expansion activities without losing energy and enthusiasm to the issues you and your team of advisors tackled above

Perhaps you would ratherbull Recruit and develop key employees (and future buyers of

your business)bull Market expansion (are you getting on board the e-marketing

train)bull Develop operating procedures and processesbull Improve safety (reduce liability)bull Expand into new territoriesbull Enter a new industry

bull Purchase and manage real estate

Life Happens ndash Enjoy It

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 US Army Eric is ranked first in his class with a degree in Computer Science is working in his field and plans on attending graduate school in 2013 His daughter Kara recently graduated undergraduate school with distinction and is planning to attend graduate school to become a Physiciansrsquo 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_NoeMWFinancialcom

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CSIA Update wwwCSIAorg

Publication for CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepregs

ADVERTISEMENT

The Virginia Association of Chimney amp

Hearth Professionals sponsored CSIArsquos

Inspection amp Report Writing class in

Arlington VA this August 6-7 Tom Urban

served as the instructor for the two-day

session Forty one professionals were

in attendance with 19 being business

owners and 22 being employees The

session drew attendees from as far away

as Louisville KY

The event was sponsored by Wakefield

Brush The Chimney Sweep News

Ahrenrsquos Copperfield Wohler Estoban

Lindemann Chimney Supply National

Chimney Supply Olympia Chimney

Supply SaverSystems and Whitecaps

VACHP Sponsored Inspection amp Report Writing

Fred Regar served as auctioneer of the sponsor-donated items on the second day of the session

Tom Urban teaching the CSIA Inspection and Report Writing Class in Arlington

When renewing a credential earned after September 1 2009 a CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg is required to

Available downloads for CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepsreg and CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Techniciansreg include

bull CSIACertifiedChimneySweepandCSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician Trademarks

bull ButtonsforyourWebsite

bull CustomizablePowerPointpresentationfor home inspectors

bull InspectionSOPs

bull LadderSafetyTips

bull ldquoChimneyFiresCausesEffectsampEvaluationrdquo Prepared by Chimney Safety Institute of America- Chimney Fire Education and Research Task Force

bull Printversionofthiswhitepaperisalsoavailable for purchase

bull Top10WoodburningTipsfromtheChimney Safety Institute of America

Check out the CCS amp CDET area at CSIAorg

bull Submitaminimumof9CEUsearnedwithin the preceeding 3 years (in any category) before testing NOTE This requirement will not apply to CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps already holding the credential on September 1 2009untiltheirnext3-yearcertificationcycle

bull Passaone-hourexambasedonSuccessfulChimneySweeping(2009)andNFPA211(2010)

bull Passaninety-minuteopen-bookexambasedonthe2006IRCreg

bull AgreetopaytheAnnualCertificationFee

bull SignCSIACodeofEthics

OR

bull SubmitappropriatenumberofContinuing Education Units (CEUs) in the relevant categories

bull AgreetopaytheAnnualCertificationFee

bull SignCSIACodeofEthics

Upon earning the CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg credential your certification is valid for one year You will need to recertify annually by paying the annual certification fee This fee will be invoiced annually prior to your expiration date Please note that your credential will require renewal every three years by submittal of the minimum 48 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) in accordance with the CSIA Credential Renewal Policy or by passing the certification exams and either submitting a minimum of 9 CEUs or completing a CSIA Review

If your annual certification fee is not paid prior to your certification expiration date your credential will be considered lapsed and you will immediately lose all rights and privileges of the CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg credential The following terms will then apply if reinstatement of the credential is desired

If you do not pay your annual certification fee by your expiration date the following timeline will begin

bull Within90daysfromthedateofexpiration if you submit payment in full for the annual certification fee your credential will be reinstated and you will be considered a CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg in good standing maintaining your original annual expiration date and certification number

bull Ifmorethan90daysandlessthan12months beyond your expiration date you will be required to Pay the current annual certification fee and current testing fees and test again Doing so will reinstate your previous annual certification expiration date and certification number You will still be required to pay your next annual fee within the next 12 months

bull Ifmorethan12monthsbeyondyourexpiration date you will be required to either participate in a CSIA approved certification review course or submit evidence of 9 CEUs that were accumulated during the time your credential was active In addition you will be required to pass the CSIA certification exams Upon successful completion a new certification number will be assigned and you will have a new annual certification expiration date

CaliforniaMichaelGipsonbullMidtownSweepsbullLancasterOmarSaenzbullAFiddlerontheRoodDuctampChimneyServicebullVanNuys

IndianaAlexStewartbullOldSmokeyrsquosFireplaceampChimneyIncbullAshley

KansasRyanBerrybullFullServiceChimneybullOlathe

New YorkJayFellibullHearthampHomeofIthacabullIthaca

VermontJamesDonovanbullLincolnPeakPropertiesbullWaitsfield

West VirginiaMichaelAdwellbullTopHatChimneySweepbullLewisburg

WisconsinDustinMyersbullChimneySpecialistsIncbullHighland

ADVERTISEMENT

Congratulations to Our New CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps

Top 10 Woodburning Tips from the Chimney Safety Institute of America

To aid in the prevention of chimney fires and carbon monoxide intrusion and to help keep heating appliances and fireplaces functioning properly the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) offers the following safety tips

1 Get an annual chimney check Have chimneys inspected annually and cleaned as necessary by a qualified professional chimney service technician This reduces the risk of fires and carbon monoxide poisonings due to creosote buildup or obstructions in the chimneys

2 Keep it clear Keep tree branches and leaves at least 15 feet away from the top of the chimney

3 Install a chimney cap to keep debris and animals out of the chimney

4 Choose the right fuel For burning firewood in wood stoves or fireplaces choose wellseasoned wood that has been split for a minimum of six months - one year and stored in a covered and elevated location Never burn Christmas trees or treated wood in your fireplace or wood stove

5 Build it right Place firewood or firelogs at the rear of the fireplace on a supporting grate To start the fire use kindling or a commercial firelighter Never use flammable liquids

6 Keep the hearth area clear Combustible material too close to the fireplace or to a wood stove could easily catch fire Keep furniture at least 36rdquo away from the hearth

7 Use a fireplace screen Use metal mesh or a screen in front of the fireplace to catch flying sparks that could ignite or burn holes in the carpet or flooring

8 Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors Place detectors throughout the house and check batteries in the spring and fall

When you change your clocks for Daylight Savings Time remember to check your batteries

9 Never leave a fire unattended Before turning in for the evening be sure that the fire is fully

extinguished Supervise children and pets closely around wood stoves and fireplaces

10 The CSIA recommends annual inspections performed by CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps These chimney sweeps have earned the industryrsquos most respected credential by passing an intensive examination based on fire codes clearances and standards for the construction and maintenance of chimney and venting systems The National Fire Protection Association also recommends that all chimneys are inspected on an annual basis

For more chimney and fireplace safety tips visit the Chimney Safety Institute of America online at wwwCSIAorg

Solve your customersrsquo smoking sooting odor and draft problems Itrsquos easy with CSIArsquos 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 Ghostingsooting 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 doesnrsquot

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

Learn to solve these problems save time and money and keep

your clients happy with CSIArsquos Online Chimney Physics program

SolvedVenting Problems

Register today at wwwcsiaorg

CSIA 15 Tech 15 CampL 15 HampS 15 CampS NFI 5 Tech

Annual Certification Requirements

Top 10 Woodburning Tips from the Chimney Safety Institute of America

To aid in the prevention of chimney fires and carbon monoxide intrusion and to help keep heating appliances and fireplaces functioning properly the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) offers the following safety tips

1 Get an annual chimney check Have chimneys inspected annually and cleaned as necessary by a qualified professional chimney service technician This reduces the risk of fires and carbon monoxide poisonings due to creosote buildup or obstructions in the chimneys

2 Keep it clear Keep tree branches and leaves at least 15 feet away from the top of the chimney

3 Install a chimney cap to keep debris and animals out of the chimney

4 Choose the right fuel For burning firewood in wood stoves or fireplaces choose wellseasoned wood that has been split for a minimum of six months - one year and stored in a covered and elevated location Never burn Christmas trees or treated wood in your fireplace or wood stove

5 Build it right Place firewood or firelogs at the rear of the fireplace on a supporting grate To start the fire use kindling or a commercial firelighter Never use flammable liquids

6 Keep the hearth area clear Combustible material too close to the fireplace or to a wood stove could easily catch fire Keep furniture at least 36rdquo away from the hearth

7 Use a fireplace screen Use metal mesh or a screen in front of the fireplace to catch flying sparks that could ignite or burn holes in the carpet or flooring

8 Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors Place detectors throughout the house and check batteries in the spring and fall

When you change your clocks for Daylight Savings Time remember to check your batteries

9 Never leave a fire unattended Before turning in for the evening be sure that the fire is fully

extinguished Supervise children and pets closely around wood stoves and fireplaces

10 The CSIA recommends annual inspections performed by CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps These chimney sweeps have earned the industryrsquos most respected credential by passing an intensive examination based on fire codes clearances and standards for the construction and maintenance of chimney and venting systems The National Fire Protection Association also recommends that all chimneys are inspected on an annual basis

For more chimney and fireplace safety tips visit the Chimney Safety Institute of America online at wwwCSIAorg

ADVERTISEMENT

You can spend weeks trying to get a new employee up to speed In the process yoursquoll have used up your valuable time your patience and more money than you would like to admit

Instead send your employee to the most popular cost-effective chimney sweep training in North America CSIArsquos National Chimney Sweep Training School In less than a week wersquoll create an employee that yoursquoll be proud to send on a call ndash and happy to count toward your bottom line

Register today at wwwcsiaorg or call us at (317) 837-5362

At the 6-day hands-on Training School your employee will learn

How to inspect and service chimney systems serving any fuel burning appliance

How to be safe with the latest health and safety equipment and methods

How to work with residential heating appliances including wood stoves pellet stoves inserts factory-built fireplaces central heaters and furnaces

How to diagnose chimney performance problems understanding draft and flow diagnosing down drafts flow reversals inadequate flow stack effects updrafts pressure effects and gauges

How to navigate the International Residential Codes How to follow the NFPA 211 standards

Class size is limited to ensure a ratio of no more than eight students per instructor This small class size means that students have the opportunity for individual attention from the schoolrsquos experienced instructors and ample opportunities for hands-on training Because class size is limited it is important to apply early to reserve your place

The online CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience

The online Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician (CDET) review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience designed to help you pass the CDET exam

Take advantage of these other CSIA educational offerings that can build your business

Send us your greenhorn

and wersquoll send you back a pro

in 6 days Classes fill quickly so register now

2012 DATeS April 2ndash7June 4ndash9August 6ndash11September 24ndash29

April 2-7June 11-16August 6-11September 24-29

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 25

You can spend weeks trying to get a new employee up to speed In the process yoursquoll have used up your valuable time your patience and more money than you would like to admit

Instead send your employee to the most popular cost-effective chimney sweep training in North America CSIArsquos National Chimney Sweep Training School In less than a week wersquoll create an employee that yoursquoll be proud to send on a call ndash and happy to count toward your bottom line

Register today at wwwcsiaorg or call us at (317) 837-5362

At the 6-day hands-on Training School your employee will learn

How to inspect and service chimney systems serving any fuel burning appliance

How to be safe with the latest health and safety equipment and methods

How to work with residential heating appliances including wood stoves pellet stoves inserts factory-built fireplaces central heaters and furnaces

How to diagnose chimney performance problems understanding draft and flow diagnosing down drafts flow reversals inadequate flow stack effects updrafts pressure effects and gauges

How to navigate the International Residential Codes How to follow the NFPA 211 standards

Class size is limited to ensure a ratio of no more than eight students per instructor This small class size means that students have the opportunity for individual attention from the schoolrsquos experienced instructors and ample opportunities for hands-on training Because class size is limited it is important to apply early to reserve your place

The online CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience

The online Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician (CDET) review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience designed to help you pass the CDET exam

Take advantage of these other CSIA educational offerings that can build your business

Send us your greenhorn

and wersquoll send you back a pro

in 6 days Classes fill quickly so register now

2012 DATeS April 2ndash7June 4ndash9August 6ndash11September 24ndash29

April 2-7June 11-16August 6-11September 24-29

ProgressivePerksBY DEBBIE CORNELIUS

MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT COORDINATOR

Get Organized and Make the Most of Your Busy Season

Sometimes it really surprises me that more NCSG members do not take advantage of the discounted benefits available to them These will not only save you time buthellip money too

Paycor Payroll Services price reduction on payroll and tax services One specialist will be dedicated to your account with a team of tax specialists available to resolve issues in the fastest amount of time should an issue arise

Market Hardware can bring your business up to speed in the competitive market of technology where more and more customers are looking to the Web Once they have customized the design that includes a ldquoHome Pagerdquo ldquoAbout Usrdquo and ldquoOur Servicesrdquo page you will have the ability to easily update and edit your Web site yourself instead of paying someone else to do it

Technical Solutions the ldquoSurvival Kit for Small Businessesrdquo can provide on-demand remote repair 247 365 days a year For the price of $2499month with no long term contact involved you can cover up to 20 computers including multiple office locations

Commercials On Hold provides a great way to brand and promote your full range of services when callers are on hold before they talk to a member of your staff

Take a few minutes to just explore these benefits It would be well worth your time to compare the savings to save you time and help increase your profits

26 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

REGION 6

NCSG Charter Members

Paul Bourque Huntsville AL

Don Leavitt San Diego CA

David Harris Broken Arrow Oklahoma

Dan Wheeler Santa Rosa CA

John Cline Menlo Park CA

Dale Meisinger N Augusta SC

Alan Hisey St Louis MO

Eva B Horton Greenwich CT

Harry Richart Hasbrouck Heights NJ

NewNCSGMembers

REGION 3

REGION 2

REGION 5

REGION 4

NCSG REGIONS

REGION 1

Connecticut Vermont Massachusetts New York Maine Rhode Island New Hampshire

REGION 2

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

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

CONNECTICUTChristopher Gonsalves bull Millstream Construction bull HebronDavid Heissenbuttel bull DMH amp Associates Inc bull Wilton

VIRGINAJack Johnston bull Johnstonrsquos Chimney Sweep bull Yorktown

MISSOURIJason Patrick bull Shamrock Qualty Services bull St LouisBill Bonney bull Bonney Bill bull Jackson

KENTUCKYJoshua Moore bull Moore Joshua bull Mt Sterling

ILLINOISJack Lutz bull Lutz Jack bull EurekaClay Nelson bull Clean Sweep bull Collinsville

OHIOAnthony Ramsey bull Elite Chimney Solutions bull Beavercreek

INDIANATravis Beckley bull Beckley Travis bull Coal City

TEXASMatthew Milner bull Milner Matthew bull WhitesboroTony Drew bull AC Contractors dba Fireplaces bull LongviewChristopher A Hess bull Atlas Chimney bull Leander

MINNESOTARenee Gustafson bull John C Gustafson Builder LLC bull Little Falls

COLORADOKent Macintosh bull Russian River Chimney Sweeps bull Healdsburg

CALIFORNIA Errol Davis bull The Chimney Specialist bull Huntington Beach

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 27

The 2012 ndash 2013 offers are being added daily in the ldquoMembers Onlyrdquo section of the NCSG website at wwwNCSGorg So start checking for these new offers each week These coupons will be good until June 30 2013

Copperfield Chimney Supply bull Lindemann Chimney Supply bull Meyer Machine amp Equipment bull National Chimney Supply bull SNEWS - The Chimney Sweep News bull Wakefield Brush bull Wohler USA Inc

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28 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

Meyer Machine amp Equipment

SUCKINGDUCTS

ampINSULATION

FOR OVER 20 YEARS

As most allergy sufferers will tell you allergy symptoms can always be bothersome turning any time of year into sneezing season A runny nose itchy eyes and scratchy throat can arise as the days get shorter and the leaves begin to change

The fall can be especially difficult for people who are sensitive to mold and ragweed pollen But these seasonal elements arenrsquot the only triggers that can make symptoms worse this time of year There are also a few lesser known triggers Here are four things you might not know about fall allergies courtesy of the American College of Allergy Asthma and Immunology

Hay fever - Hay fever a term from a bygone era actually has nothing to do with hay Instead itrsquos a general term used to describe the symptoms of late summer allergies Ragweed is a common cause of hay fever which is also known as allergic rhinitis The plant usually begins to pollinate in mid-August and may continue to be a problem until a hard freeze depending on where you live See an allergist for prescription medications to control symptoms or to see if allergy shots may be your best option

Lingering warm weather - While most people enjoy Indian summer unseasonably warm temperatures can make rhinitis symptoms last longer Mold spores can also be released when humidity is high or the weather is dry and windy Be sure to begin taking medications before your symptoms start Track your allergy symptoms with MyNasalAllergyJournalorg and visit with your allergist to find relief

Pesky leaves - Some folks might find it difficult to keep up with raking leaves throughout the autumn But for allergy sufferers raking presents its own problem It can stir agitating pollen and mold into the air causing allergy and asthma symptoms Those with allergies should wear an NIOSH-rated N95 mask when raking leaves mowing the lawn and gardening

School allergens - Itrsquos not only seasonal pollen and mold that triggers allergies this time of year Kids are often exposed to classroom irritants and allergy triggers These can include chalk dust and classroom pets Students with food allergies may also be exposed to allergens in the lunch roomKids with exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB) may experience attacks during recess or gym class Help your child understand what can trigger their allergies and asthma and how they can avoid symptoms Be sure to notify teachers and the school nurse of any emergency medications such as quick relief inhalers and epinephrine

No matter the season itrsquos important for those who think they may be suffering from allergies or asthma to see a board-certified allergist An allergist can help you develop a treatment plan which can include both medication and avoidance techniques

Having your allergies properly identified and treated will help you and your family enjoy the season To find an allergist and learn more about allergies and asthma visit wwwAllergyandAsthmaRelieforg

Four Things You Might Not Know About Fall Allergies

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 29

trategic partnerships Sounds fancy but what does it really mean They are called what they are called because there is a true strategy behind them the thought and planning that goes into identifying and development those relationships in a way that will

ultimately help those who are participating to achieve their mission The fact that it is indeed a ldquopartnershiprdquo indicates that everyone involved mutually stands to benefit in some wayhellipItrsquos a win-win

The strategic part of establishing partnerships is analyzing who you are your goals and your current resources and then finding organizations (partners) that will allow you to get the things that you need in order to take your organization to the next level But true partnerships are about what you can bring to each other to help achieve your goals and enhance your resources It is not solely about what you can give me but rather what we can give each other As the great John F Kennedy is well known for encouraging of a world partnership ldquoask not what America will do for you but what together we can do for the freedom of manrdquo

So where does this leave an association like NCSG The key to nonprofits establishing strategic partnerships is having the infrastructure to attract and maintain these relationships In this country there are plenty of nonprofits that are doing great work but there is no organization that will be able to survive if they try

to achieve their mission without establishing partnerships that help provide resources and relationships that allow us to achieve our mission

NCSG is very fortunate to have an impressive array of partners who have for many years some since our inception done just that Our partners have advertised in this magazine exhibited at our conventions contributed to the building and maintaining of our headquarters and the premier industry training facility in Indianapolis discounted thousands of dollars in products and services to our members and have helped us promote the Guild and recruit membership in countless ways not the least of which includes maintaining their own membership in NCSG

Our partners are committed to helping us advance our mission and in turn propel our professional field forward Their partnership supports that programs that ignite your professional and technical development and provide the products and services that have helped you bring your own businesses to life They are integral to the success of this industry and most renew their support of the Guild year after year

Without their support of Sweeping magazine through their advertising we would not have been able to come close to bringing this publication to our members and the industry for the past 35 years (originally The Chimney Sweep Guild News) without significant taxation on the readers Without their support

BY MARK MCSWEENEY CAEEXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Perspective

Support Those Who Support YouldquoOur success has really been based on partnerships from the very beginningrdquo -Bill Gates

S

30 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

of NCSGrsquos annual convention through exhibiting and additional sponsorships registration fees for attendees would easily be double what they are today

When viewing our relationship with exhibitors sponsors advertisers and supplier members as a partnership the question needs to be asked How are we as an association mutually helping them achieve their respective goals

The answer comes back to us having infrastructure to attract and maintain these partnerships And that infrastructure is you the member NCSG cultivates and maintains the relationship with our industry partners on your behalf You are asked to back that up through your support of these partner service providers

Now Irsquom not saying you should buy everything you need at any one place or only through our partners At the end of the day you ultimately need to make your purchasing decisions based on your individual business needs However what would be great to see is our members calling our partners up and giving them a chance to compete for your business Let them know you are a part of NCSG and even if you are not in a position to do business with them this time around let them know you appreciate their continued support of the Guild and the industry Itrsquos one thing to call up to a supplier and ask about a product get a price and hang up Itrsquos another thing to make sure you let them know you saw their ad in Sweeping you read about them

online or you remember they exhibited at the convention so that they know they are getting positive exposure and that their investment in our partnership is not going unnoticed

With that said here are some simple and tangible things things you can do to help the partnership you are a part ofbull Consider our partners each and every time you need to make a

purchasing decision and give them an opportunity to earn your business when you can Look at those who are advertising in Sweeping or see a full listing of NCSG Supplier Members under the Chimney Sweep tab on ncsgorg

bull When you talk to them let them know yoursquore part of NCSG and thank them for their support of your association

bull If you like them even if you canrsquot do business with them currently spread the word and help get their name out there

bull Attend events where our partners have stepped up to sponsor Help show them we value them being there and appreciate their efforts This helps everyone when it comes to working out future programs discounts events and more

We are all in this together Just as you want to ensure you are receiving the return you need on the investments you make our supplier members advertisers exhibitors and sponsors need to justify their own ROI on the variety of support avenues they offer

to NCSG I thought Irsquod take a minute this month to say ldquothank yourdquo to all of you who support us in so many different ways and would like to encourage others to do the same

Until next time I continue to wish you every success

Double Locking CrimpRemains StrongYet Very Flexibl e

With No Memo ry

Strong Triple Locking CrimpHolds T ogether Even OnTough Jobs

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Featuring

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SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 31

Display Ad Index

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 mheekencsgorg for publication in Sweeping Or mail it to NCSG 2155 Commercial Drive Plainfield IN 46168

Page Advertiser Phone Email or Website Address

30 Ahrens Chimney Technique 800-582-1392 ahrenschimneyqwestofficenet

21-24 Chimney Safety Institute of America 317-837-5362 wwwcsiaorg

14 Cobra Chimney Caps 888-463-0636 salescobrachimneycom

27 Communications Network Inc 800-875-8118 tkempercomnetmessagecom

5 Copperfield 800-247-3305 wwwcopperfieldcom

4 ENERVEX Inc 800-255-2923 infochimneyfanscom

13 Firesafe Industries Inc 800-545-6607 wwwfiresafeinccom

16 Gelco Lyemance Lock-Top 800-334-2154 wwwGLLchimneyproductscom

9 Hose Master 800-221-2319 bobdanielshosemastercom

10 ICP 508-695-7000 wwwchimneycapscom

BC Lifetime Chimney Supply LLC 877-234-7473 wwwlifetimechimneysupplycom

7 Lindemann Chimney Company 800-722-7230 wwwlindemannchimneycom

11 M amp G Duravent 800-835-4429 wwwduraventcom

28 Meyer Machine amp Equipment 800-728-3828 wwwmeyermachinecom

25 National Chimney Supply 800-897-8481 wwwnationalchimneysupplycom

17 Olympia Chimney Supply 800-569-1425 wwwolympiachimneycom

19 Sand Hill Wholesale 800-258-5496 wwwsandhillwholesalecom

6 SaverSystems Inc 800-860-6327 wwwchimneysavercom

3 Smoktite 866-439-0069 wwwsmoktitecom

8 Wakefield Brush 800-264-7007 wwwwakefieldbrushcom

19 Whitecaps 800-335-2534 wwwwhitecapscom

15 Z-Flex 800-654-5600 wwwz-flexcom

The pole and bucket chimney That is how they keep rain and birds out during off season Notice the class A is just an extension of a masonry chimney

Submitted by Kevon Binder of Doctor Flue Inc

September 13-15 2012Lake Murray SCSouth Carolina Chimney Sweep Guildrsquos ldquoThe GatheringrdquoFor more information please contact Blume at (864) 232-9811 or blume357bellsouthnet

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 19 2012 Taunton MAFall Protection User Training Class Including OSHArsquos 2011 ruling on alternate fall protection methods - Sponsored by the Massachusetts Chimney Sweep GuildFor more information please call Jeffrey Wright at (781) 233-2321

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-29 2012CSIA Technology CenterCSIA National Chimney Sweep Training SchoolFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

Dates amp Events

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 8-12 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg October 8-12 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

Please send notice of your events for NCSG Dates amp Events listings at mmcmahonncsgorg for inclusion here in weekly posts to the discussion list and online at wwwNCSGorgdates The event must be considered educational or informative for the industry (sales events and open houses will not be listed)

32 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

ClassifiedsGotta chimney question Sizing Codes Call Royal Edwards Make Royal your tech department CALL NOW 813-982-0219 for on-call tech support Continuing Education special bonus ndash ask how you can get the Friday morning E-Blast for FREE CALL NOW 813-982-0219

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

Chimney Sweep business for sell in the Northern Rocky Mountains of New Mexico Services a large area with three ski resorts in the service area Equipment and signed three year contracts goes with the business Business is well established For pricing and other info please email your questions to ridgeriders1gmailcom

CLASSIFIED ADS FREE FOR NCSG MEMBERSMembers can run one 35 word classified free each year Regularly classified ads are $2word or $1word for NCSG members Classified ads are non-commissionable and must be pre-paid To place a classified ad please contact Megan McMahon at mmcmahonncsgorg or (317) 837-1500

NCSG Innovation 2013 Convention and Trade Show Hotel reservations are now being accepted for NCSG Innovation 2013 at Chateau on the Lake in Branson MO April 4-7 2013 Just call 1-888-333-LAKE (5253) and mention that yoursquore with the National Chimney Sweep Guild to lock in rates starting at $129 for a mountain view and $134 for a lake view

Get ready for some RampR Yoursquore earned it

Order Your FREEAnnual Maintenance Reminder Postcards

A great way to remind homeowners to schedule their annual maintenance check up

Each card has space available for your business information

Use them as reminders for your existing clients or send them to generate new business

To order postcards and other free Burn Wise products contact

Leigh Herringtonherringtonleighepagov

ampKristen Bremer

bremerkristenepagov

wwwepagovburnwise

Follow us on

Wood-Burning Safety

Starts with You

Have you scheduled your

annual inspection

The National Fire Protection Association estimates

that 25 percent of home heating fires are caused

primarily by creosote buildup in the chimney

Make your home healthier and safer A properly

installed and maintained appliance burns more

efficiently and saves you money Contact your local

certified chimney sweep to schedule an annual

inspection today

Before You Burn

The right wayThe right way is hot and bright

In the right applianceThe right appliance is an EPA-approved appliance inspected annually by a certified chimney sweep

Burn the right woodBurn only dry well-seasoned wood that has been split and stored properly

wwwepagovburnwise

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Printed on 100 recycledrecyclable paper with a minimum 50 post-consumer waste using vegetable-based

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National Chimney Sweep Guild2155 Commercial DrivePlainfield IN 46168

1208

OR

Page 11: September 2012

10 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

Jim Cochran of Magic Mountain Chimney Sweeps Passes

Jim Cochran of Magic Mountain Chimney Sweeps in Thurmont MD passed away on Thursday April 5 2012 He and wife Debra Cochran have owned and operated this company since 1979 Debra continues to operate Magic Mountain Chimney Sweeps

Jim is survived by his wife Debra Howell Cochran married October 6 1973 in Tampa FL He is also survived by one son Wesly M H Cochran of Frederick MD and one daughter Wendy V Cochran Taylor of Thurmont Debby writes ldquoJim was a legend and many people and sweeps knew and loved him He was one of a kind He had chimney sweeps in top hats and tails for his pallbearers and had a real chimney sweeps funeral It was a great tribute to himrdquoContributions may be made to Cancer Support Community 1050 17th Street NW Suite 500 Washington DC 20036

Sweeping MagazineSept 2012 issue Full page 4 color

Dura-Ventkaren josephson contact

kjosephsonduraventcom800-835-4429

Engineered Excellencereg MampG DuraVent is a member of the MampG Group copy Copyright 2012 Made in the USA 800-835-4429 wwwduraventcom

Stunning design and engineered excellence in manufacture DirectVent Pro combines style with performance Featuring precision tolerances for a tight seal low-pro le locks with no hems or beads for an elegant pro le No gaskets or sealants required (unless by appliance manufacturer) Laser-welded outer seams on all black pipe for a slim nish Several termiantion choices to cap o the system perfectly See why it is speci ed exclusively by nearly every major stove and replace manufacturer in the US and Canada DirectVent Pro is backed by a limited lifetime warranty Find out more at www duraventcom

Dir

ectV

ent

Pro

FOR

DIR

ECT

VEN

T G

AS O

R PR

OPA

NE

STO

VES

HEA

TERS

amp F

IREP

LACE

S

Dire

ctVe

nt Pr

o reg

regIndustryWatch

Industry Watch PolicyNCSG encourages industry partners to submit press releases to Melissa Heeke Sweeping The Journal of Chimney amp Venting Technology editor via email at mheekencsgorg 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 NCSGrsquos opinion regarding the release

Sweeping MagazineSept 2012 issue Full page 4 color

Dura-Ventkaren josephson contact

kjosephsonduraventcom800-835-4429

Engineered Excellencereg MampG DuraVent is a member of the MampG Group copy Copyright 2012 Made in the USA 800-835-4429 wwwduraventcom

Stunning design and engineered excellence in manufacture DirectVent Pro combines style with performance Featuring precision tolerances for a tight seal low-pro le locks with no hems or beads for an elegant pro le No gaskets or sealants required (unless by appliance manufacturer) Laser-welded outer seams on all black pipe for a slim nish Several termiantion choices to cap o the system perfectly See why it is speci ed exclusively by nearly every major stove and replace manufacturer in the US and Canada DirectVent Pro is backed by a limited lifetime warranty Find out more at www duraventcom

Dir

ectV

ent

Pro

FOR

DIR

ECT

VEN

T G

AS O

R PR

OPA

NE

STO

VES

HEA

TERS

amp F

IREP

LACE

S

Dire

ctVe

nt Pr

o reg

reg

12 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

irst of all if you are reading this CONGRATUATIONS As I shared at a recent MIX group meeting I did a presentation for many of you have survived the worst economic downturn in the history of our country one that in many ways rivaled the Great Depression So congratulations

are definitely in order Many American businesses did not survive the economic downturn and others are still on the borderline of survival andor failure I am sure each of you knows of successful business owners who have had their lives (and their lifestyles) undergo a tremendous transition during the past few years Others among you may have only entered our industry since this economic devil revealed itself

What is even more remarkable is that some who read this have done much more Not only have they survived they actually prospered Their businesses grew their profits increased and their business models strengthened Each business that did this faced the same economic conditions as others Yet due to their grit and determination they became true winners Yes there may have been geographic considerations but few areas have escaped the wrath of the economic turmoil our country has faced

What the economic conditions have done for many is force them to become better managers better watchers of their numbers better students of lean methods of operation and better in so many other beneficial ways And it is truly enlightening to see the benefits that have been awarded to those who have continued to make their businesses grow in truly tough economic times and without assistance from banks or other lenders The true success stories of business owners who have completely revamped their operations and have shown levels of excellence that many dream of

But even as a survivor many will encounter roadblocks that will cause stress will slow progress and will serve to raise caution to the wind At times it will come at you with a warning at other times it will simply pop up in front of you with no warning Perhaps it hits you when you awaken in a cold sweat or perhaps it hits you at times when things are just not going as you feel they should The roadblock I refer to is something I classify as the WALL

I feel that a successful business manager can be compared to a star athlete The star athlete will practice he will work out

he will have a strict regimen that will include his diet his sleep habits and will govern his life As he undergoes his training any and all things that can hamper his performance are examined and examined again No matter if he is a runner a swimmer a baseball or football player or a star in other sports He will dedicate himself to excellence just as you do each and every day in your business We saw this in August as we watched the Olympics and see those who receive the gold and hear the stories of the work they did to prepare for the competition

But even with the preparation even with the regiment he has posed to himself at times he will find that his energy is zapped His will to go on will be challenged his fortitude questioned HE HITS THE WALL

As a business manager this is no different than what you encounter at times Not only does the wall come up and block your progress as one person even explained to me about the dreaded wall at times it will even collapse on top of you and you may have to dig out of the rubble During a recent conversation a business owner related ldquoI am digging out of the rubble where that wall fell on top of merdquo when asked how he was doing Has this ever happened to you causing you to stop and wonder just why am I doing this and will I meet my objective Even worse the thought comes to the forefront is it really worth what I am putting into it

In my business endeavors I deal with a lot of folks in different stages of their business models Some have recently launched a business some are transforming a business some preparing exit plans and others are building infrastructure Others still have found success and are working to bring in new management to begin to pursue their true dreams of more free time as the free time was a goal of the original business start-up plan In preparation for this article I asked several who always seem to be going up up and up just what was their secret Just how did the walls not stop them in the progress of the business I think the overall answer I heard was best summed up by one phenomenal business owner His answer was ldquoJerry I keep myself up all the time because I always look at the potential and the markets we have not tapped into yet I just donrsquot see how anyone can get beat due to the problems when there is so much potential and so much untapped businessrdquo

BY JERRY ISENHOUR OF CHIMNEY amp VENTING

CONSULTANTS IN CONCORD NCCoachrsquos Corner

The

The Wall

F

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 13

Quite frankly this hit it on the head Each and every day as a business owner you face adversity perhaps from a customer perhaps from the world around us perhaps simply from an employee who did not meet our expectations But you know this is life and life has a way of throwing curve ball after curve ball The real winner will anticipate what the curve balls will be and will develop the methods to hit the ball no matter how it is thrown at us

The true winner will always view each and every adversary as a learning experience taking what is learned from each error each loss and each hiccup and use these as the basis for new procedures new methods and new ways to grow and prosper The true winner knows that his 1 accountability partner is that guy with him all the time the guy he knows as the man in the mirror

Some are even developing methods within the business to pull these errors and mistakes out of the hidden abyss of the unknown to find the ones we may not even be paying attention to Recently observing several who have instituted a new method that can isolate and eliminate issues is producing astounding results As a respected colleague shared with me ldquoJerry it feels like we are walking on glass but we are finding the ways to end the dreaded Groundhog Day happening over and overrdquo Successful business managers use this as the basis of how they will change the business model adapt their procedures

and continue to grow and prosper All the while raising the PERCENTAGE of profit from the gross figure They do not look at the number they view the number as the percentage Only through viewing the percentage can we truly have a yardstick by which to measure our progress as we grow our management skills

With this my wish is for you to have an excellent fall By the time you read this we will have hit that great part of the year called FALL and what so many call THE BUSY SEASON As you enter this make plans now as to how you plan to promote your business come January 1 2013 This is what the guys who are moving forward are doing The fall is already through the planning stages and they are ready for action ARE YOU If not ask that man in the mirror if he is truly operating at the level he needs to be He has the answer I am sure

About the Author Jerry Isenhour is an industry consultant coach and educator 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 and your business in your quest for success and your rise to the next level take a look at his web site wwwchimneyandventingconsultantscom He can be contacted at jerrychimneyandventingconsultantscom or by phone at (704) 425-0217 You can also obtain great business tips from his Facebook page Chimney amp Venting Consultants

ldquoMy company uses most products available to chimney contractors but Firesafersquos products and systems are hands-down the very best and the most profitable Great technical support and their constant improvements make the products even better which makes my company stand out over my competitionrdquo Kevin Knight Chadds Ford Chimney Sweeps PA

TO order call 800 TO order call 800--545545--66076607

infofiresafeinccom infofiresafeinccom wwwfiresafeinccomwwwfiresafeinccom

FireFireGuardGuard Ceramic mortar jointCeramic mortar jointCeramic mortar joint amp resurfacing systemamp resurfacing systemamp resurfacing system

PatentedPatented The most advanced chimney liner in the world

reg

CrownGuardCrownGuard Severe weather crown repair amp protectionSevere weather crown repair amp protection

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14 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

erhaps the most important thing to recognize about business is that customer service is not an afterthought to everything else It IS everything else Or as Leon Gorman the CEO of LL Bean puts it ldquoCustomer Service is just a day in day out

ongoing never ending unremitting persevering compassionate type of activityrdquo

Oh thatrsquos a nice thought you say Irsquoll be certain to put a little more attention on that the next free moment I get

If this is your response yoursquove missed the point and perhaps the boat too

So what does it mean when we say service What does good customer service look like Herersquos a good hint from Peter Drucker ldquoQuality in service or product is not what you put into it Itrsquos what the customer gets out of itrdquo

In other words in the final analysis itrsquos not simply how

well you do your job that matters What matters is how your customer feels about you or your company once the job is completed What matters is what they got out of it And in that regard in any arena of competitors the battle will be won by the company who leaves the customer feeling the best the happiest the most satisfied

Jerry Gregoire CIO of Dell believes ldquoThe customer experience is the next competitive battlegroundrdquo

Now you might be thinking your customers must be pretty satisfied since most of the time they donrsquot seem to have any complaints

If you are feeling this way it would behoove you to remember most customers donrsquot complain even if there are dramatic issues with the work Why People donrsquot like confrontations And many people feel their complaints will be neither appreciated nor dealt with so why bother

The One and Only Thing

P

BY GREG POLAKOW OF COPPERFIELD

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 15

The course of action they choose rather than wasting their time and emotions complaining to someone they feel will be either hostile or unresponsive is to select one of your competitors next time they need work done As the saying goes they vote with their wallet

You might rightly be asking yourself well if my customers donrsquot tell me when theyrsquore not satisfied what can I possibly do about it

The answer is there are many things that can be done about it But the first starts with the understanding that customer service is not something that kicks in only when therersquos a problem Customer service has to be part of every contact you have with your customers It is how you treat your customers before you even show up at their door It is how you conduct yourself during your visit And it is most certainly the way in which you handle follow up

Remember it is how your customers feel after all is said and done that matters

We are always forming opinions about others It is a natural part of being human And we begin formulating those opinions with our very first encounter The initial opinions may later give way to either better or worse opinions but initial opinions are extremely influential So ask yourself what are you doing to

insure that the very first impression a customer has of you and your business is excellent What are you doing to make this very first customer service experience positive What are you doing to provide your customer at the very outset with a feel good experience

Whatever your answer is remember it is often this first impression that will determine whether or not a customer will call and complain if there is a problem later rather than simply opt to call one of your competitors next time Why Because it is in this first encounter with you that a customer begins to decide if they trust you If you trust that a company has your best interests at heart you are much more likely to call if there is a problem

So how do you establish a feeling of well being and trust with your customer from the get go Again it has to do with how you make them feel the moment you pick up your phone to answer their first call If your tone is cold indifferent or even matter of fact they are not likely to feel you care And if you donrsquot seem to care about them can you really be trusted to have their best interests at heart EVERTHING you do from the outset absolutely everything will create an opinion of you in the customerrsquos mind That means your tone of voice the patience with which you respond to their questions And the very language and even diction you use to talk to them about whatever chimney related issue they are having

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All Fuels Chimney Linerbull Eliminates the turbulence thatrsquos inherent with

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Z-Max Rain Cap ampLock lsquoN Go Base Tee

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TRIPLE LOCKreg

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Sweeping News (Snews)_Smoothcore_Z-Max_no booth_HR_March 29 2012pdf 1 12-03-30 212 PM

16 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

Use language that is too technical and you lose them and put them on the defensive ldquoAm I supposed to understand what this guy is talking aboutrdquo they wonder Speak too fast or indistinctly and you get the same result

Seem like picky details They may be to you but they will not be to your customer

Remember when a customer comes to you he is laying his problem at your feet If he could remedy it himself he would But he canrsquot He needs you to help him So he is feeling a bit vulnerable a bit out of his league How you respond to him in this circumstance can either make him feel immediately comfortable and in safe hands or something less desirable You decide which effect you want to create

I think you can see that if this first encounter leaves your customer glowing instead of glowering you win You win his confidence his trust and even here at the very outset his gratitude If yoursquove done this well ie addressed his initial questions and concerns in a compassionate understanding thorough manner well you are off to an excellent start

But the battle has not been won because yoursquove also set some expectations and your customerrsquos expectation that this kind of treatment will continue must be met If your crew shows up to do the work and forgets they are in the customer service business first and foremost all you accomplished at the beginning can be ruined

Good customer service must build on itself from day one in order to maintain that feeling in your customer of confidence happiness and trust It cannot be hit and miss Being inconsistent might be worse than being just plain ornery from the beginning

Does good customer service trump sloppy careless or substandard work Of course not Because the quality of your product is a huge part of the customer service package Itrsquos all customer service

The bottom line is your customer will appreciate value and respect you to exactly the same degree you appreciate value and respect him No more and no less And the great thing is when you treat your customers as friends when you gladly and openly address their concerns and fix their problems your work and your life become easier and more fulfilling

Try it out Start thinking of customer service as being the be all and end all of your business and see how well things go Yoursquoll be amazed

Remember as Tony Allesandra has observed ldquoBeing on par in terms of price and quality only gets you into the game Service wins the gamerdquo

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AnOpen Chimneyis like anOpen Window-All Year Round

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The NEW Smoothwall Chimney Liner thathas the Perfect Combination of

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The NEW Smoothwall Chimney Liner thathas the Perfect Combination of

Weight Ruggedness amp Flexibility

n No memory amp very flexible n Smooth Interior n One liner multiple applicationsn Available ovalized amp coiled

18 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

ou all have accomplishments You support your family your employees and their families your vendors and you provide comfort and safety for your customers

Some of you can enjoy your success and can focus on preserving what you have Many of you want to and have the capacity to grow and be more successful Some of you may be struggling with the seasonality and economics of your business Regardless of your level of success almost all of you have varying degrees of uncertainty

Many articles books conferences and videos have been made about the importance of having a strategic plan to help guide you to fulfill your potential

This magazine has offered numerous articles written to help you fulfill your potential The NCSG offers courses to help you gain skills to be more successful

Yet there still appears to be too many business owners

struggling to achieve their goals ndash or have yet to explicitly define their goals which could help them to get their time back and allow them (you) to enjoy their (your) lives

Maybe yoursquore stuck on tactics without a strategy Maybe yoursquore stuck on ldquonoiserdquo ndash noise that the media airs about events you cannot control and distracts you from your business Perhaps that ldquonoiserdquo has contributed to a pessimistic perspective

Perhaps all of the above is ldquonoiserdquo that covers up past or current mistakes or regret either real or perceived

Letrsquos work on facing your concerns and your past Fear fades when facts are faced Regrets can become wisdom when success lies ahead

Consider forming a team of trusted professionals emulate successful associates select friends and close family members who can create a ldquojudgment freerdquo zone to allow you to unwind the past that may be keeping you from achieving your potential

Focus on What You Can Control

Y

BY BRIAN NOE OF MW FINANCIAL GROUP

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 19

Your team can help you realize your dreams by developing a sound strategy employing objective facts without bias Your team has your back

So letrsquos throw out the rear view mirror set aside our mistakes and regrets and look forward to what you can control that can lead to success

You and your team can control your personal finances You and your team can control your business Here are some steps you can take to help seize the day sleep easy and get your time back

1 Budget ndash do you have a personal and business budget Do you adhere to your budget Does your budget include protection and savings for retirement and your legacy Do you know how much you need to save for retirement and your legacy Are you prepared in the event that you may ldquolive too longrdquo

2 Help Protect Yourself your Family and your Business ndash you can take steps to control your risk

Do you let your employees drive your personal vehicles Do your employees drive your work vehicles for personal use Are you covered for that activity These are a just a few examples of ldquohiddenrdquo liabilities that you may be exposed to but unaware of

Do you have adequate umbrella insurance protection in addition to home and auto insurance that covers you and your employees

Do you take steps to relieve stress Do you have disability insurance to provide you with income or your business with funds to pay expenses in the event of illness or injury that prevents you from working

For your business you can implement a safety program This sets up a plan of employee procedures for handling vendors customers and inter-employee communication skills to improve workmanship and other employee development For events you cannot control do you have liability EampO and similar insurance

Does your business take advantage of legal structure asset titling (multiple businesses Spouse ownership) retirement plans life insurance annuities trusts and homestead

Its Not Too Late For Fall Dating

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20 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

exemptions (if available) to help protect assets from creditors and frivolous lawsuits

3 Employ Efficient Debt ndash we may be at the bottom of the interest rate and inflation cycle If interest rates rise andor inflation heats up the general rule of thumb for most of us is debtors win creditors lose If you have the cash you have control If the banker has the cash they have control

4 Manage Taxes ndash whether or not income or estate taxes increase in the future a retirement assetincome distribution business succession and legacy strategy is a must for everyone

5 Investment Management ndash you have plenty of risk with your business Do you want to have unnecessary risk with your investments

You cannot control macroeconomics (sequence of return risk rising interest rates trade and budget deficits unemployment inflation taxes real estate values commodity markets fluctuating foreign currency etc)

You cannot control geopolitical events (elections Euro zone issues violent foreign government changes war etc) or environmental events (hurricanes earthquakes fires tsunamis etc)

How do you insulate yourself from economic events you cannot control Consider historically tried tested and true strategies Consider strategies that your grandparentrsquos generation may have used They had to protect themselves ndash government bailouts and subsidies were few and far between

Congratulations if you can assemble a team to help you define and implement a strategy using the tactics described above This can be achieved in a relatively short period of time (a few hours a week over several short weeks can do it) which can help give you your time back so you can focus on your business and family

6 Manage your Business ndash this you can completely control You can engage in any of the following business expansion activities without losing energy and enthusiasm to the issues you and your team of advisors tackled above

Perhaps you would ratherbull Recruit and develop key employees (and future buyers of

your business)bull Market expansion (are you getting on board the e-marketing

train)bull Develop operating procedures and processesbull Improve safety (reduce liability)bull Expand into new territoriesbull Enter a new industry

bull Purchase and manage real estate

Life Happens ndash Enjoy It

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 US Army Eric is ranked first in his class with a degree in Computer Science is working in his field and plans on attending graduate school in 2013 His daughter Kara recently graduated undergraduate school with distinction and is planning to attend graduate school to become a Physiciansrsquo 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_NoeMWFinancialcom

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CSIA Update wwwCSIAorg

Publication for CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepregs

ADVERTISEMENT

The Virginia Association of Chimney amp

Hearth Professionals sponsored CSIArsquos

Inspection amp Report Writing class in

Arlington VA this August 6-7 Tom Urban

served as the instructor for the two-day

session Forty one professionals were

in attendance with 19 being business

owners and 22 being employees The

session drew attendees from as far away

as Louisville KY

The event was sponsored by Wakefield

Brush The Chimney Sweep News

Ahrenrsquos Copperfield Wohler Estoban

Lindemann Chimney Supply National

Chimney Supply Olympia Chimney

Supply SaverSystems and Whitecaps

VACHP Sponsored Inspection amp Report Writing

Fred Regar served as auctioneer of the sponsor-donated items on the second day of the session

Tom Urban teaching the CSIA Inspection and Report Writing Class in Arlington

When renewing a credential earned after September 1 2009 a CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg is required to

Available downloads for CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepsreg and CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Techniciansreg include

bull CSIACertifiedChimneySweepandCSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician Trademarks

bull ButtonsforyourWebsite

bull CustomizablePowerPointpresentationfor home inspectors

bull InspectionSOPs

bull LadderSafetyTips

bull ldquoChimneyFiresCausesEffectsampEvaluationrdquo Prepared by Chimney Safety Institute of America- Chimney Fire Education and Research Task Force

bull Printversionofthiswhitepaperisalsoavailable for purchase

bull Top10WoodburningTipsfromtheChimney Safety Institute of America

Check out the CCS amp CDET area at CSIAorg

bull Submitaminimumof9CEUsearnedwithin the preceeding 3 years (in any category) before testing NOTE This requirement will not apply to CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps already holding the credential on September 1 2009untiltheirnext3-yearcertificationcycle

bull Passaone-hourexambasedonSuccessfulChimneySweeping(2009)andNFPA211(2010)

bull Passaninety-minuteopen-bookexambasedonthe2006IRCreg

bull AgreetopaytheAnnualCertificationFee

bull SignCSIACodeofEthics

OR

bull SubmitappropriatenumberofContinuing Education Units (CEUs) in the relevant categories

bull AgreetopaytheAnnualCertificationFee

bull SignCSIACodeofEthics

Upon earning the CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg credential your certification is valid for one year You will need to recertify annually by paying the annual certification fee This fee will be invoiced annually prior to your expiration date Please note that your credential will require renewal every three years by submittal of the minimum 48 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) in accordance with the CSIA Credential Renewal Policy or by passing the certification exams and either submitting a minimum of 9 CEUs or completing a CSIA Review

If your annual certification fee is not paid prior to your certification expiration date your credential will be considered lapsed and you will immediately lose all rights and privileges of the CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg credential The following terms will then apply if reinstatement of the credential is desired

If you do not pay your annual certification fee by your expiration date the following timeline will begin

bull Within90daysfromthedateofexpiration if you submit payment in full for the annual certification fee your credential will be reinstated and you will be considered a CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg in good standing maintaining your original annual expiration date and certification number

bull Ifmorethan90daysandlessthan12months beyond your expiration date you will be required to Pay the current annual certification fee and current testing fees and test again Doing so will reinstate your previous annual certification expiration date and certification number You will still be required to pay your next annual fee within the next 12 months

bull Ifmorethan12monthsbeyondyourexpiration date you will be required to either participate in a CSIA approved certification review course or submit evidence of 9 CEUs that were accumulated during the time your credential was active In addition you will be required to pass the CSIA certification exams Upon successful completion a new certification number will be assigned and you will have a new annual certification expiration date

CaliforniaMichaelGipsonbullMidtownSweepsbullLancasterOmarSaenzbullAFiddlerontheRoodDuctampChimneyServicebullVanNuys

IndianaAlexStewartbullOldSmokeyrsquosFireplaceampChimneyIncbullAshley

KansasRyanBerrybullFullServiceChimneybullOlathe

New YorkJayFellibullHearthampHomeofIthacabullIthaca

VermontJamesDonovanbullLincolnPeakPropertiesbullWaitsfield

West VirginiaMichaelAdwellbullTopHatChimneySweepbullLewisburg

WisconsinDustinMyersbullChimneySpecialistsIncbullHighland

ADVERTISEMENT

Congratulations to Our New CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps

Top 10 Woodburning Tips from the Chimney Safety Institute of America

To aid in the prevention of chimney fires and carbon monoxide intrusion and to help keep heating appliances and fireplaces functioning properly the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) offers the following safety tips

1 Get an annual chimney check Have chimneys inspected annually and cleaned as necessary by a qualified professional chimney service technician This reduces the risk of fires and carbon monoxide poisonings due to creosote buildup or obstructions in the chimneys

2 Keep it clear Keep tree branches and leaves at least 15 feet away from the top of the chimney

3 Install a chimney cap to keep debris and animals out of the chimney

4 Choose the right fuel For burning firewood in wood stoves or fireplaces choose wellseasoned wood that has been split for a minimum of six months - one year and stored in a covered and elevated location Never burn Christmas trees or treated wood in your fireplace or wood stove

5 Build it right Place firewood or firelogs at the rear of the fireplace on a supporting grate To start the fire use kindling or a commercial firelighter Never use flammable liquids

6 Keep the hearth area clear Combustible material too close to the fireplace or to a wood stove could easily catch fire Keep furniture at least 36rdquo away from the hearth

7 Use a fireplace screen Use metal mesh or a screen in front of the fireplace to catch flying sparks that could ignite or burn holes in the carpet or flooring

8 Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors Place detectors throughout the house and check batteries in the spring and fall

When you change your clocks for Daylight Savings Time remember to check your batteries

9 Never leave a fire unattended Before turning in for the evening be sure that the fire is fully

extinguished Supervise children and pets closely around wood stoves and fireplaces

10 The CSIA recommends annual inspections performed by CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps These chimney sweeps have earned the industryrsquos most respected credential by passing an intensive examination based on fire codes clearances and standards for the construction and maintenance of chimney and venting systems The National Fire Protection Association also recommends that all chimneys are inspected on an annual basis

For more chimney and fireplace safety tips visit the Chimney Safety Institute of America online at wwwCSIAorg

Solve your customersrsquo smoking sooting odor and draft problems Itrsquos easy with CSIArsquos 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 Ghostingsooting 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 doesnrsquot

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

Learn to solve these problems save time and money and keep

your clients happy with CSIArsquos Online Chimney Physics program

SolvedVenting Problems

Register today at wwwcsiaorg

CSIA 15 Tech 15 CampL 15 HampS 15 CampS NFI 5 Tech

Annual Certification Requirements

Top 10 Woodburning Tips from the Chimney Safety Institute of America

To aid in the prevention of chimney fires and carbon monoxide intrusion and to help keep heating appliances and fireplaces functioning properly the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) offers the following safety tips

1 Get an annual chimney check Have chimneys inspected annually and cleaned as necessary by a qualified professional chimney service technician This reduces the risk of fires and carbon monoxide poisonings due to creosote buildup or obstructions in the chimneys

2 Keep it clear Keep tree branches and leaves at least 15 feet away from the top of the chimney

3 Install a chimney cap to keep debris and animals out of the chimney

4 Choose the right fuel For burning firewood in wood stoves or fireplaces choose wellseasoned wood that has been split for a minimum of six months - one year and stored in a covered and elevated location Never burn Christmas trees or treated wood in your fireplace or wood stove

5 Build it right Place firewood or firelogs at the rear of the fireplace on a supporting grate To start the fire use kindling or a commercial firelighter Never use flammable liquids

6 Keep the hearth area clear Combustible material too close to the fireplace or to a wood stove could easily catch fire Keep furniture at least 36rdquo away from the hearth

7 Use a fireplace screen Use metal mesh or a screen in front of the fireplace to catch flying sparks that could ignite or burn holes in the carpet or flooring

8 Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors Place detectors throughout the house and check batteries in the spring and fall

When you change your clocks for Daylight Savings Time remember to check your batteries

9 Never leave a fire unattended Before turning in for the evening be sure that the fire is fully

extinguished Supervise children and pets closely around wood stoves and fireplaces

10 The CSIA recommends annual inspections performed by CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps These chimney sweeps have earned the industryrsquos most respected credential by passing an intensive examination based on fire codes clearances and standards for the construction and maintenance of chimney and venting systems The National Fire Protection Association also recommends that all chimneys are inspected on an annual basis

For more chimney and fireplace safety tips visit the Chimney Safety Institute of America online at wwwCSIAorg

ADVERTISEMENT

You can spend weeks trying to get a new employee up to speed In the process yoursquoll have used up your valuable time your patience and more money than you would like to admit

Instead send your employee to the most popular cost-effective chimney sweep training in North America CSIArsquos National Chimney Sweep Training School In less than a week wersquoll create an employee that yoursquoll be proud to send on a call ndash and happy to count toward your bottom line

Register today at wwwcsiaorg or call us at (317) 837-5362

At the 6-day hands-on Training School your employee will learn

How to inspect and service chimney systems serving any fuel burning appliance

How to be safe with the latest health and safety equipment and methods

How to work with residential heating appliances including wood stoves pellet stoves inserts factory-built fireplaces central heaters and furnaces

How to diagnose chimney performance problems understanding draft and flow diagnosing down drafts flow reversals inadequate flow stack effects updrafts pressure effects and gauges

How to navigate the International Residential Codes How to follow the NFPA 211 standards

Class size is limited to ensure a ratio of no more than eight students per instructor This small class size means that students have the opportunity for individual attention from the schoolrsquos experienced instructors and ample opportunities for hands-on training Because class size is limited it is important to apply early to reserve your place

The online CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience

The online Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician (CDET) review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience designed to help you pass the CDET exam

Take advantage of these other CSIA educational offerings that can build your business

Send us your greenhorn

and wersquoll send you back a pro

in 6 days Classes fill quickly so register now

2012 DATeS April 2ndash7June 4ndash9August 6ndash11September 24ndash29

April 2-7June 11-16August 6-11September 24-29

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 25

You can spend weeks trying to get a new employee up to speed In the process yoursquoll have used up your valuable time your patience and more money than you would like to admit

Instead send your employee to the most popular cost-effective chimney sweep training in North America CSIArsquos National Chimney Sweep Training School In less than a week wersquoll create an employee that yoursquoll be proud to send on a call ndash and happy to count toward your bottom line

Register today at wwwcsiaorg or call us at (317) 837-5362

At the 6-day hands-on Training School your employee will learn

How to inspect and service chimney systems serving any fuel burning appliance

How to be safe with the latest health and safety equipment and methods

How to work with residential heating appliances including wood stoves pellet stoves inserts factory-built fireplaces central heaters and furnaces

How to diagnose chimney performance problems understanding draft and flow diagnosing down drafts flow reversals inadequate flow stack effects updrafts pressure effects and gauges

How to navigate the International Residential Codes How to follow the NFPA 211 standards

Class size is limited to ensure a ratio of no more than eight students per instructor This small class size means that students have the opportunity for individual attention from the schoolrsquos experienced instructors and ample opportunities for hands-on training Because class size is limited it is important to apply early to reserve your place

The online CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience

The online Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician (CDET) review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience designed to help you pass the CDET exam

Take advantage of these other CSIA educational offerings that can build your business

Send us your greenhorn

and wersquoll send you back a pro

in 6 days Classes fill quickly so register now

2012 DATeS April 2ndash7June 4ndash9August 6ndash11September 24ndash29

April 2-7June 11-16August 6-11September 24-29

ProgressivePerksBY DEBBIE CORNELIUS

MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT COORDINATOR

Get Organized and Make the Most of Your Busy Season

Sometimes it really surprises me that more NCSG members do not take advantage of the discounted benefits available to them These will not only save you time buthellip money too

Paycor Payroll Services price reduction on payroll and tax services One specialist will be dedicated to your account with a team of tax specialists available to resolve issues in the fastest amount of time should an issue arise

Market Hardware can bring your business up to speed in the competitive market of technology where more and more customers are looking to the Web Once they have customized the design that includes a ldquoHome Pagerdquo ldquoAbout Usrdquo and ldquoOur Servicesrdquo page you will have the ability to easily update and edit your Web site yourself instead of paying someone else to do it

Technical Solutions the ldquoSurvival Kit for Small Businessesrdquo can provide on-demand remote repair 247 365 days a year For the price of $2499month with no long term contact involved you can cover up to 20 computers including multiple office locations

Commercials On Hold provides a great way to brand and promote your full range of services when callers are on hold before they talk to a member of your staff

Take a few minutes to just explore these benefits It would be well worth your time to compare the savings to save you time and help increase your profits

26 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

REGION 6

NCSG Charter Members

Paul Bourque Huntsville AL

Don Leavitt San Diego CA

David Harris Broken Arrow Oklahoma

Dan Wheeler Santa Rosa CA

John Cline Menlo Park CA

Dale Meisinger N Augusta SC

Alan Hisey St Louis MO

Eva B Horton Greenwich CT

Harry Richart Hasbrouck Heights NJ

NewNCSGMembers

REGION 3

REGION 2

REGION 5

REGION 4

NCSG REGIONS

REGION 1

Connecticut Vermont Massachusetts New York Maine Rhode Island New Hampshire

REGION 2

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

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

CONNECTICUTChristopher Gonsalves bull Millstream Construction bull HebronDavid Heissenbuttel bull DMH amp Associates Inc bull Wilton

VIRGINAJack Johnston bull Johnstonrsquos Chimney Sweep bull Yorktown

MISSOURIJason Patrick bull Shamrock Qualty Services bull St LouisBill Bonney bull Bonney Bill bull Jackson

KENTUCKYJoshua Moore bull Moore Joshua bull Mt Sterling

ILLINOISJack Lutz bull Lutz Jack bull EurekaClay Nelson bull Clean Sweep bull Collinsville

OHIOAnthony Ramsey bull Elite Chimney Solutions bull Beavercreek

INDIANATravis Beckley bull Beckley Travis bull Coal City

TEXASMatthew Milner bull Milner Matthew bull WhitesboroTony Drew bull AC Contractors dba Fireplaces bull LongviewChristopher A Hess bull Atlas Chimney bull Leander

MINNESOTARenee Gustafson bull John C Gustafson Builder LLC bull Little Falls

COLORADOKent Macintosh bull Russian River Chimney Sweeps bull Healdsburg

CALIFORNIA Errol Davis bull The Chimney Specialist bull Huntington Beach

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 27

The 2012 ndash 2013 offers are being added daily in the ldquoMembers Onlyrdquo section of the NCSG website at wwwNCSGorg So start checking for these new offers each week These coupons will be good until June 30 2013

Copperfield Chimney Supply bull Lindemann Chimney Supply bull Meyer Machine amp Equipment bull National Chimney Supply bull SNEWS - The Chimney Sweep News bull Wakefield Brush bull Wohler USA Inc

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28 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

Meyer Machine amp Equipment

SUCKINGDUCTS

ampINSULATION

FOR OVER 20 YEARS

As most allergy sufferers will tell you allergy symptoms can always be bothersome turning any time of year into sneezing season A runny nose itchy eyes and scratchy throat can arise as the days get shorter and the leaves begin to change

The fall can be especially difficult for people who are sensitive to mold and ragweed pollen But these seasonal elements arenrsquot the only triggers that can make symptoms worse this time of year There are also a few lesser known triggers Here are four things you might not know about fall allergies courtesy of the American College of Allergy Asthma and Immunology

Hay fever - Hay fever a term from a bygone era actually has nothing to do with hay Instead itrsquos a general term used to describe the symptoms of late summer allergies Ragweed is a common cause of hay fever which is also known as allergic rhinitis The plant usually begins to pollinate in mid-August and may continue to be a problem until a hard freeze depending on where you live See an allergist for prescription medications to control symptoms or to see if allergy shots may be your best option

Lingering warm weather - While most people enjoy Indian summer unseasonably warm temperatures can make rhinitis symptoms last longer Mold spores can also be released when humidity is high or the weather is dry and windy Be sure to begin taking medications before your symptoms start Track your allergy symptoms with MyNasalAllergyJournalorg and visit with your allergist to find relief

Pesky leaves - Some folks might find it difficult to keep up with raking leaves throughout the autumn But for allergy sufferers raking presents its own problem It can stir agitating pollen and mold into the air causing allergy and asthma symptoms Those with allergies should wear an NIOSH-rated N95 mask when raking leaves mowing the lawn and gardening

School allergens - Itrsquos not only seasonal pollen and mold that triggers allergies this time of year Kids are often exposed to classroom irritants and allergy triggers These can include chalk dust and classroom pets Students with food allergies may also be exposed to allergens in the lunch roomKids with exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB) may experience attacks during recess or gym class Help your child understand what can trigger their allergies and asthma and how they can avoid symptoms Be sure to notify teachers and the school nurse of any emergency medications such as quick relief inhalers and epinephrine

No matter the season itrsquos important for those who think they may be suffering from allergies or asthma to see a board-certified allergist An allergist can help you develop a treatment plan which can include both medication and avoidance techniques

Having your allergies properly identified and treated will help you and your family enjoy the season To find an allergist and learn more about allergies and asthma visit wwwAllergyandAsthmaRelieforg

Four Things You Might Not Know About Fall Allergies

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 29

trategic partnerships Sounds fancy but what does it really mean They are called what they are called because there is a true strategy behind them the thought and planning that goes into identifying and development those relationships in a way that will

ultimately help those who are participating to achieve their mission The fact that it is indeed a ldquopartnershiprdquo indicates that everyone involved mutually stands to benefit in some wayhellipItrsquos a win-win

The strategic part of establishing partnerships is analyzing who you are your goals and your current resources and then finding organizations (partners) that will allow you to get the things that you need in order to take your organization to the next level But true partnerships are about what you can bring to each other to help achieve your goals and enhance your resources It is not solely about what you can give me but rather what we can give each other As the great John F Kennedy is well known for encouraging of a world partnership ldquoask not what America will do for you but what together we can do for the freedom of manrdquo

So where does this leave an association like NCSG The key to nonprofits establishing strategic partnerships is having the infrastructure to attract and maintain these relationships In this country there are plenty of nonprofits that are doing great work but there is no organization that will be able to survive if they try

to achieve their mission without establishing partnerships that help provide resources and relationships that allow us to achieve our mission

NCSG is very fortunate to have an impressive array of partners who have for many years some since our inception done just that Our partners have advertised in this magazine exhibited at our conventions contributed to the building and maintaining of our headquarters and the premier industry training facility in Indianapolis discounted thousands of dollars in products and services to our members and have helped us promote the Guild and recruit membership in countless ways not the least of which includes maintaining their own membership in NCSG

Our partners are committed to helping us advance our mission and in turn propel our professional field forward Their partnership supports that programs that ignite your professional and technical development and provide the products and services that have helped you bring your own businesses to life They are integral to the success of this industry and most renew their support of the Guild year after year

Without their support of Sweeping magazine through their advertising we would not have been able to come close to bringing this publication to our members and the industry for the past 35 years (originally The Chimney Sweep Guild News) without significant taxation on the readers Without their support

BY MARK MCSWEENEY CAEEXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Perspective

Support Those Who Support YouldquoOur success has really been based on partnerships from the very beginningrdquo -Bill Gates

S

30 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

of NCSGrsquos annual convention through exhibiting and additional sponsorships registration fees for attendees would easily be double what they are today

When viewing our relationship with exhibitors sponsors advertisers and supplier members as a partnership the question needs to be asked How are we as an association mutually helping them achieve their respective goals

The answer comes back to us having infrastructure to attract and maintain these partnerships And that infrastructure is you the member NCSG cultivates and maintains the relationship with our industry partners on your behalf You are asked to back that up through your support of these partner service providers

Now Irsquom not saying you should buy everything you need at any one place or only through our partners At the end of the day you ultimately need to make your purchasing decisions based on your individual business needs However what would be great to see is our members calling our partners up and giving them a chance to compete for your business Let them know you are a part of NCSG and even if you are not in a position to do business with them this time around let them know you appreciate their continued support of the Guild and the industry Itrsquos one thing to call up to a supplier and ask about a product get a price and hang up Itrsquos another thing to make sure you let them know you saw their ad in Sweeping you read about them

online or you remember they exhibited at the convention so that they know they are getting positive exposure and that their investment in our partnership is not going unnoticed

With that said here are some simple and tangible things things you can do to help the partnership you are a part ofbull Consider our partners each and every time you need to make a

purchasing decision and give them an opportunity to earn your business when you can Look at those who are advertising in Sweeping or see a full listing of NCSG Supplier Members under the Chimney Sweep tab on ncsgorg

bull When you talk to them let them know yoursquore part of NCSG and thank them for their support of your association

bull If you like them even if you canrsquot do business with them currently spread the word and help get their name out there

bull Attend events where our partners have stepped up to sponsor Help show them we value them being there and appreciate their efforts This helps everyone when it comes to working out future programs discounts events and more

We are all in this together Just as you want to ensure you are receiving the return you need on the investments you make our supplier members advertisers exhibitors and sponsors need to justify their own ROI on the variety of support avenues they offer

to NCSG I thought Irsquod take a minute this month to say ldquothank yourdquo to all of you who support us in so many different ways and would like to encourage others to do the same

Until next time I continue to wish you every success

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With No Memo ry

Strong Triple Locking CrimpHolds T ogether Even OnTough Jobs

Horizontal Sides Of CorrugationOffer Added Strengthamp Flexibility

Manufactured by CHIMNEY TECHNIQUE INC

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Featuring

Visit wwwchim-prolinercom for more detailsbull 2000 Industrial Ave bull Sioux Falls SD 57104

1-800-582-1392

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 31

Display Ad Index

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 mheekencsgorg for publication in Sweeping Or mail it to NCSG 2155 Commercial Drive Plainfield IN 46168

Page Advertiser Phone Email or Website Address

30 Ahrens Chimney Technique 800-582-1392 ahrenschimneyqwestofficenet

21-24 Chimney Safety Institute of America 317-837-5362 wwwcsiaorg

14 Cobra Chimney Caps 888-463-0636 salescobrachimneycom

27 Communications Network Inc 800-875-8118 tkempercomnetmessagecom

5 Copperfield 800-247-3305 wwwcopperfieldcom

4 ENERVEX Inc 800-255-2923 infochimneyfanscom

13 Firesafe Industries Inc 800-545-6607 wwwfiresafeinccom

16 Gelco Lyemance Lock-Top 800-334-2154 wwwGLLchimneyproductscom

9 Hose Master 800-221-2319 bobdanielshosemastercom

10 ICP 508-695-7000 wwwchimneycapscom

BC Lifetime Chimney Supply LLC 877-234-7473 wwwlifetimechimneysupplycom

7 Lindemann Chimney Company 800-722-7230 wwwlindemannchimneycom

11 M amp G Duravent 800-835-4429 wwwduraventcom

28 Meyer Machine amp Equipment 800-728-3828 wwwmeyermachinecom

25 National Chimney Supply 800-897-8481 wwwnationalchimneysupplycom

17 Olympia Chimney Supply 800-569-1425 wwwolympiachimneycom

19 Sand Hill Wholesale 800-258-5496 wwwsandhillwholesalecom

6 SaverSystems Inc 800-860-6327 wwwchimneysavercom

3 Smoktite 866-439-0069 wwwsmoktitecom

8 Wakefield Brush 800-264-7007 wwwwakefieldbrushcom

19 Whitecaps 800-335-2534 wwwwhitecapscom

15 Z-Flex 800-654-5600 wwwz-flexcom

The pole and bucket chimney That is how they keep rain and birds out during off season Notice the class A is just an extension of a masonry chimney

Submitted by Kevon Binder of Doctor Flue Inc

September 13-15 2012Lake Murray SCSouth Carolina Chimney Sweep Guildrsquos ldquoThe GatheringrdquoFor more information please contact Blume at (864) 232-9811 or blume357bellsouthnet

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 19 2012 Taunton MAFall Protection User Training Class Including OSHArsquos 2011 ruling on alternate fall protection methods - Sponsored by the Massachusetts Chimney Sweep GuildFor more information please call Jeffrey Wright at (781) 233-2321

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-29 2012CSIA Technology CenterCSIA National Chimney Sweep Training SchoolFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

Dates amp Events

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 8-12 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg October 8-12 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

Please send notice of your events for NCSG Dates amp Events listings at mmcmahonncsgorg for inclusion here in weekly posts to the discussion list and online at wwwNCSGorgdates The event must be considered educational or informative for the industry (sales events and open houses will not be listed)

32 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

ClassifiedsGotta chimney question Sizing Codes Call Royal Edwards Make Royal your tech department CALL NOW 813-982-0219 for on-call tech support Continuing Education special bonus ndash ask how you can get the Friday morning E-Blast for FREE CALL NOW 813-982-0219

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

Chimney Sweep business for sell in the Northern Rocky Mountains of New Mexico Services a large area with three ski resorts in the service area Equipment and signed three year contracts goes with the business Business is well established For pricing and other info please email your questions to ridgeriders1gmailcom

CLASSIFIED ADS FREE FOR NCSG MEMBERSMembers can run one 35 word classified free each year Regularly classified ads are $2word or $1word for NCSG members Classified ads are non-commissionable and must be pre-paid To place a classified ad please contact Megan McMahon at mmcmahonncsgorg or (317) 837-1500

NCSG Innovation 2013 Convention and Trade Show Hotel reservations are now being accepted for NCSG Innovation 2013 at Chateau on the Lake in Branson MO April 4-7 2013 Just call 1-888-333-LAKE (5253) and mention that yoursquore with the National Chimney Sweep Guild to lock in rates starting at $129 for a mountain view and $134 for a lake view

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Follow us on

Wood-Burning Safety

Starts with You

Have you scheduled your

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The National Fire Protection Association estimates

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Make your home healthier and safer A properly

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National Chimney Sweep Guild2155 Commercial DrivePlainfield IN 46168

1208

OR

Page 12: September 2012

Sweeping MagazineSept 2012 issue Full page 4 color

Dura-Ventkaren josephson contact

kjosephsonduraventcom800-835-4429

Engineered Excellencereg MampG DuraVent is a member of the MampG Group copy Copyright 2012 Made in the USA 800-835-4429 wwwduraventcom

Stunning design and engineered excellence in manufacture DirectVent Pro combines style with performance Featuring precision tolerances for a tight seal low-pro le locks with no hems or beads for an elegant pro le No gaskets or sealants required (unless by appliance manufacturer) Laser-welded outer seams on all black pipe for a slim nish Several termiantion choices to cap o the system perfectly See why it is speci ed exclusively by nearly every major stove and replace manufacturer in the US and Canada DirectVent Pro is backed by a limited lifetime warranty Find out more at www duraventcom

Dir

ectV

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FOR

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T G

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IREP

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12 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

irst of all if you are reading this CONGRATUATIONS As I shared at a recent MIX group meeting I did a presentation for many of you have survived the worst economic downturn in the history of our country one that in many ways rivaled the Great Depression So congratulations

are definitely in order Many American businesses did not survive the economic downturn and others are still on the borderline of survival andor failure I am sure each of you knows of successful business owners who have had their lives (and their lifestyles) undergo a tremendous transition during the past few years Others among you may have only entered our industry since this economic devil revealed itself

What is even more remarkable is that some who read this have done much more Not only have they survived they actually prospered Their businesses grew their profits increased and their business models strengthened Each business that did this faced the same economic conditions as others Yet due to their grit and determination they became true winners Yes there may have been geographic considerations but few areas have escaped the wrath of the economic turmoil our country has faced

What the economic conditions have done for many is force them to become better managers better watchers of their numbers better students of lean methods of operation and better in so many other beneficial ways And it is truly enlightening to see the benefits that have been awarded to those who have continued to make their businesses grow in truly tough economic times and without assistance from banks or other lenders The true success stories of business owners who have completely revamped their operations and have shown levels of excellence that many dream of

But even as a survivor many will encounter roadblocks that will cause stress will slow progress and will serve to raise caution to the wind At times it will come at you with a warning at other times it will simply pop up in front of you with no warning Perhaps it hits you when you awaken in a cold sweat or perhaps it hits you at times when things are just not going as you feel they should The roadblock I refer to is something I classify as the WALL

I feel that a successful business manager can be compared to a star athlete The star athlete will practice he will work out

he will have a strict regimen that will include his diet his sleep habits and will govern his life As he undergoes his training any and all things that can hamper his performance are examined and examined again No matter if he is a runner a swimmer a baseball or football player or a star in other sports He will dedicate himself to excellence just as you do each and every day in your business We saw this in August as we watched the Olympics and see those who receive the gold and hear the stories of the work they did to prepare for the competition

But even with the preparation even with the regiment he has posed to himself at times he will find that his energy is zapped His will to go on will be challenged his fortitude questioned HE HITS THE WALL

As a business manager this is no different than what you encounter at times Not only does the wall come up and block your progress as one person even explained to me about the dreaded wall at times it will even collapse on top of you and you may have to dig out of the rubble During a recent conversation a business owner related ldquoI am digging out of the rubble where that wall fell on top of merdquo when asked how he was doing Has this ever happened to you causing you to stop and wonder just why am I doing this and will I meet my objective Even worse the thought comes to the forefront is it really worth what I am putting into it

In my business endeavors I deal with a lot of folks in different stages of their business models Some have recently launched a business some are transforming a business some preparing exit plans and others are building infrastructure Others still have found success and are working to bring in new management to begin to pursue their true dreams of more free time as the free time was a goal of the original business start-up plan In preparation for this article I asked several who always seem to be going up up and up just what was their secret Just how did the walls not stop them in the progress of the business I think the overall answer I heard was best summed up by one phenomenal business owner His answer was ldquoJerry I keep myself up all the time because I always look at the potential and the markets we have not tapped into yet I just donrsquot see how anyone can get beat due to the problems when there is so much potential and so much untapped businessrdquo

BY JERRY ISENHOUR OF CHIMNEY amp VENTING

CONSULTANTS IN CONCORD NCCoachrsquos Corner

The

The Wall

F

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 13

Quite frankly this hit it on the head Each and every day as a business owner you face adversity perhaps from a customer perhaps from the world around us perhaps simply from an employee who did not meet our expectations But you know this is life and life has a way of throwing curve ball after curve ball The real winner will anticipate what the curve balls will be and will develop the methods to hit the ball no matter how it is thrown at us

The true winner will always view each and every adversary as a learning experience taking what is learned from each error each loss and each hiccup and use these as the basis for new procedures new methods and new ways to grow and prosper The true winner knows that his 1 accountability partner is that guy with him all the time the guy he knows as the man in the mirror

Some are even developing methods within the business to pull these errors and mistakes out of the hidden abyss of the unknown to find the ones we may not even be paying attention to Recently observing several who have instituted a new method that can isolate and eliminate issues is producing astounding results As a respected colleague shared with me ldquoJerry it feels like we are walking on glass but we are finding the ways to end the dreaded Groundhog Day happening over and overrdquo Successful business managers use this as the basis of how they will change the business model adapt their procedures

and continue to grow and prosper All the while raising the PERCENTAGE of profit from the gross figure They do not look at the number they view the number as the percentage Only through viewing the percentage can we truly have a yardstick by which to measure our progress as we grow our management skills

With this my wish is for you to have an excellent fall By the time you read this we will have hit that great part of the year called FALL and what so many call THE BUSY SEASON As you enter this make plans now as to how you plan to promote your business come January 1 2013 This is what the guys who are moving forward are doing The fall is already through the planning stages and they are ready for action ARE YOU If not ask that man in the mirror if he is truly operating at the level he needs to be He has the answer I am sure

About the Author Jerry Isenhour is an industry consultant coach and educator 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 and your business in your quest for success and your rise to the next level take a look at his web site wwwchimneyandventingconsultantscom He can be contacted at jerrychimneyandventingconsultantscom or by phone at (704) 425-0217 You can also obtain great business tips from his Facebook page Chimney amp Venting Consultants

ldquoMy company uses most products available to chimney contractors but Firesafersquos products and systems are hands-down the very best and the most profitable Great technical support and their constant improvements make the products even better which makes my company stand out over my competitionrdquo Kevin Knight Chadds Ford Chimney Sweeps PA

TO order call 800 TO order call 800--545545--66076607

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PatentedPatented The most advanced chimney liner in the world

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CrownGuardCrownGuard Severe weather crown repair amp protectionSevere weather crown repair amp protection

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14 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

erhaps the most important thing to recognize about business is that customer service is not an afterthought to everything else It IS everything else Or as Leon Gorman the CEO of LL Bean puts it ldquoCustomer Service is just a day in day out

ongoing never ending unremitting persevering compassionate type of activityrdquo

Oh thatrsquos a nice thought you say Irsquoll be certain to put a little more attention on that the next free moment I get

If this is your response yoursquove missed the point and perhaps the boat too

So what does it mean when we say service What does good customer service look like Herersquos a good hint from Peter Drucker ldquoQuality in service or product is not what you put into it Itrsquos what the customer gets out of itrdquo

In other words in the final analysis itrsquos not simply how

well you do your job that matters What matters is how your customer feels about you or your company once the job is completed What matters is what they got out of it And in that regard in any arena of competitors the battle will be won by the company who leaves the customer feeling the best the happiest the most satisfied

Jerry Gregoire CIO of Dell believes ldquoThe customer experience is the next competitive battlegroundrdquo

Now you might be thinking your customers must be pretty satisfied since most of the time they donrsquot seem to have any complaints

If you are feeling this way it would behoove you to remember most customers donrsquot complain even if there are dramatic issues with the work Why People donrsquot like confrontations And many people feel their complaints will be neither appreciated nor dealt with so why bother

The One and Only Thing

P

BY GREG POLAKOW OF COPPERFIELD

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 15

The course of action they choose rather than wasting their time and emotions complaining to someone they feel will be either hostile or unresponsive is to select one of your competitors next time they need work done As the saying goes they vote with their wallet

You might rightly be asking yourself well if my customers donrsquot tell me when theyrsquore not satisfied what can I possibly do about it

The answer is there are many things that can be done about it But the first starts with the understanding that customer service is not something that kicks in only when therersquos a problem Customer service has to be part of every contact you have with your customers It is how you treat your customers before you even show up at their door It is how you conduct yourself during your visit And it is most certainly the way in which you handle follow up

Remember it is how your customers feel after all is said and done that matters

We are always forming opinions about others It is a natural part of being human And we begin formulating those opinions with our very first encounter The initial opinions may later give way to either better or worse opinions but initial opinions are extremely influential So ask yourself what are you doing to

insure that the very first impression a customer has of you and your business is excellent What are you doing to make this very first customer service experience positive What are you doing to provide your customer at the very outset with a feel good experience

Whatever your answer is remember it is often this first impression that will determine whether or not a customer will call and complain if there is a problem later rather than simply opt to call one of your competitors next time Why Because it is in this first encounter with you that a customer begins to decide if they trust you If you trust that a company has your best interests at heart you are much more likely to call if there is a problem

So how do you establish a feeling of well being and trust with your customer from the get go Again it has to do with how you make them feel the moment you pick up your phone to answer their first call If your tone is cold indifferent or even matter of fact they are not likely to feel you care And if you donrsquot seem to care about them can you really be trusted to have their best interests at heart EVERTHING you do from the outset absolutely everything will create an opinion of you in the customerrsquos mind That means your tone of voice the patience with which you respond to their questions And the very language and even diction you use to talk to them about whatever chimney related issue they are having

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C H I M N E Y amp V E N T I N G S O L U T I O N S

TRIPLE LOCKreg

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Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

Sweeping News (Snews)_Smoothcore_Z-Max_no booth_HR_March 29 2012pdf 1 12-03-30 212 PM

16 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

Use language that is too technical and you lose them and put them on the defensive ldquoAm I supposed to understand what this guy is talking aboutrdquo they wonder Speak too fast or indistinctly and you get the same result

Seem like picky details They may be to you but they will not be to your customer

Remember when a customer comes to you he is laying his problem at your feet If he could remedy it himself he would But he canrsquot He needs you to help him So he is feeling a bit vulnerable a bit out of his league How you respond to him in this circumstance can either make him feel immediately comfortable and in safe hands or something less desirable You decide which effect you want to create

I think you can see that if this first encounter leaves your customer glowing instead of glowering you win You win his confidence his trust and even here at the very outset his gratitude If yoursquove done this well ie addressed his initial questions and concerns in a compassionate understanding thorough manner well you are off to an excellent start

But the battle has not been won because yoursquove also set some expectations and your customerrsquos expectation that this kind of treatment will continue must be met If your crew shows up to do the work and forgets they are in the customer service business first and foremost all you accomplished at the beginning can be ruined

Good customer service must build on itself from day one in order to maintain that feeling in your customer of confidence happiness and trust It cannot be hit and miss Being inconsistent might be worse than being just plain ornery from the beginning

Does good customer service trump sloppy careless or substandard work Of course not Because the quality of your product is a huge part of the customer service package Itrsquos all customer service

The bottom line is your customer will appreciate value and respect you to exactly the same degree you appreciate value and respect him No more and no less And the great thing is when you treat your customers as friends when you gladly and openly address their concerns and fix their problems your work and your life become easier and more fulfilling

Try it out Start thinking of customer service as being the be all and end all of your business and see how well things go Yoursquoll be amazed

Remember as Tony Allesandra has observed ldquoBeing on par in terms of price and quality only gets you into the game Service wins the gamerdquo

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Weight Ruggedness amp Flexibility

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18 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

ou all have accomplishments You support your family your employees and their families your vendors and you provide comfort and safety for your customers

Some of you can enjoy your success and can focus on preserving what you have Many of you want to and have the capacity to grow and be more successful Some of you may be struggling with the seasonality and economics of your business Regardless of your level of success almost all of you have varying degrees of uncertainty

Many articles books conferences and videos have been made about the importance of having a strategic plan to help guide you to fulfill your potential

This magazine has offered numerous articles written to help you fulfill your potential The NCSG offers courses to help you gain skills to be more successful

Yet there still appears to be too many business owners

struggling to achieve their goals ndash or have yet to explicitly define their goals which could help them to get their time back and allow them (you) to enjoy their (your) lives

Maybe yoursquore stuck on tactics without a strategy Maybe yoursquore stuck on ldquonoiserdquo ndash noise that the media airs about events you cannot control and distracts you from your business Perhaps that ldquonoiserdquo has contributed to a pessimistic perspective

Perhaps all of the above is ldquonoiserdquo that covers up past or current mistakes or regret either real or perceived

Letrsquos work on facing your concerns and your past Fear fades when facts are faced Regrets can become wisdom when success lies ahead

Consider forming a team of trusted professionals emulate successful associates select friends and close family members who can create a ldquojudgment freerdquo zone to allow you to unwind the past that may be keeping you from achieving your potential

Focus on What You Can Control

Y

BY BRIAN NOE OF MW FINANCIAL GROUP

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 19

Your team can help you realize your dreams by developing a sound strategy employing objective facts without bias Your team has your back

So letrsquos throw out the rear view mirror set aside our mistakes and regrets and look forward to what you can control that can lead to success

You and your team can control your personal finances You and your team can control your business Here are some steps you can take to help seize the day sleep easy and get your time back

1 Budget ndash do you have a personal and business budget Do you adhere to your budget Does your budget include protection and savings for retirement and your legacy Do you know how much you need to save for retirement and your legacy Are you prepared in the event that you may ldquolive too longrdquo

2 Help Protect Yourself your Family and your Business ndash you can take steps to control your risk

Do you let your employees drive your personal vehicles Do your employees drive your work vehicles for personal use Are you covered for that activity These are a just a few examples of ldquohiddenrdquo liabilities that you may be exposed to but unaware of

Do you have adequate umbrella insurance protection in addition to home and auto insurance that covers you and your employees

Do you take steps to relieve stress Do you have disability insurance to provide you with income or your business with funds to pay expenses in the event of illness or injury that prevents you from working

For your business you can implement a safety program This sets up a plan of employee procedures for handling vendors customers and inter-employee communication skills to improve workmanship and other employee development For events you cannot control do you have liability EampO and similar insurance

Does your business take advantage of legal structure asset titling (multiple businesses Spouse ownership) retirement plans life insurance annuities trusts and homestead

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20 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

exemptions (if available) to help protect assets from creditors and frivolous lawsuits

3 Employ Efficient Debt ndash we may be at the bottom of the interest rate and inflation cycle If interest rates rise andor inflation heats up the general rule of thumb for most of us is debtors win creditors lose If you have the cash you have control If the banker has the cash they have control

4 Manage Taxes ndash whether or not income or estate taxes increase in the future a retirement assetincome distribution business succession and legacy strategy is a must for everyone

5 Investment Management ndash you have plenty of risk with your business Do you want to have unnecessary risk with your investments

You cannot control macroeconomics (sequence of return risk rising interest rates trade and budget deficits unemployment inflation taxes real estate values commodity markets fluctuating foreign currency etc)

You cannot control geopolitical events (elections Euro zone issues violent foreign government changes war etc) or environmental events (hurricanes earthquakes fires tsunamis etc)

How do you insulate yourself from economic events you cannot control Consider historically tried tested and true strategies Consider strategies that your grandparentrsquos generation may have used They had to protect themselves ndash government bailouts and subsidies were few and far between

Congratulations if you can assemble a team to help you define and implement a strategy using the tactics described above This can be achieved in a relatively short period of time (a few hours a week over several short weeks can do it) which can help give you your time back so you can focus on your business and family

6 Manage your Business ndash this you can completely control You can engage in any of the following business expansion activities without losing energy and enthusiasm to the issues you and your team of advisors tackled above

Perhaps you would ratherbull Recruit and develop key employees (and future buyers of

your business)bull Market expansion (are you getting on board the e-marketing

train)bull Develop operating procedures and processesbull Improve safety (reduce liability)bull Expand into new territoriesbull Enter a new industry

bull Purchase and manage real estate

Life Happens ndash Enjoy It

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 US Army Eric is ranked first in his class with a degree in Computer Science is working in his field and plans on attending graduate school in 2013 His daughter Kara recently graduated undergraduate school with distinction and is planning to attend graduate school to become a Physiciansrsquo 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_NoeMWFinancialcom

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CSIA Update wwwCSIAorg

Publication for CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepregs

ADVERTISEMENT

The Virginia Association of Chimney amp

Hearth Professionals sponsored CSIArsquos

Inspection amp Report Writing class in

Arlington VA this August 6-7 Tom Urban

served as the instructor for the two-day

session Forty one professionals were

in attendance with 19 being business

owners and 22 being employees The

session drew attendees from as far away

as Louisville KY

The event was sponsored by Wakefield

Brush The Chimney Sweep News

Ahrenrsquos Copperfield Wohler Estoban

Lindemann Chimney Supply National

Chimney Supply Olympia Chimney

Supply SaverSystems and Whitecaps

VACHP Sponsored Inspection amp Report Writing

Fred Regar served as auctioneer of the sponsor-donated items on the second day of the session

Tom Urban teaching the CSIA Inspection and Report Writing Class in Arlington

When renewing a credential earned after September 1 2009 a CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg is required to

Available downloads for CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepsreg and CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Techniciansreg include

bull CSIACertifiedChimneySweepandCSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician Trademarks

bull ButtonsforyourWebsite

bull CustomizablePowerPointpresentationfor home inspectors

bull InspectionSOPs

bull LadderSafetyTips

bull ldquoChimneyFiresCausesEffectsampEvaluationrdquo Prepared by Chimney Safety Institute of America- Chimney Fire Education and Research Task Force

bull Printversionofthiswhitepaperisalsoavailable for purchase

bull Top10WoodburningTipsfromtheChimney Safety Institute of America

Check out the CCS amp CDET area at CSIAorg

bull Submitaminimumof9CEUsearnedwithin the preceeding 3 years (in any category) before testing NOTE This requirement will not apply to CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps already holding the credential on September 1 2009untiltheirnext3-yearcertificationcycle

bull Passaone-hourexambasedonSuccessfulChimneySweeping(2009)andNFPA211(2010)

bull Passaninety-minuteopen-bookexambasedonthe2006IRCreg

bull AgreetopaytheAnnualCertificationFee

bull SignCSIACodeofEthics

OR

bull SubmitappropriatenumberofContinuing Education Units (CEUs) in the relevant categories

bull AgreetopaytheAnnualCertificationFee

bull SignCSIACodeofEthics

Upon earning the CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg credential your certification is valid for one year You will need to recertify annually by paying the annual certification fee This fee will be invoiced annually prior to your expiration date Please note that your credential will require renewal every three years by submittal of the minimum 48 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) in accordance with the CSIA Credential Renewal Policy or by passing the certification exams and either submitting a minimum of 9 CEUs or completing a CSIA Review

If your annual certification fee is not paid prior to your certification expiration date your credential will be considered lapsed and you will immediately lose all rights and privileges of the CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg credential The following terms will then apply if reinstatement of the credential is desired

If you do not pay your annual certification fee by your expiration date the following timeline will begin

bull Within90daysfromthedateofexpiration if you submit payment in full for the annual certification fee your credential will be reinstated and you will be considered a CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg in good standing maintaining your original annual expiration date and certification number

bull Ifmorethan90daysandlessthan12months beyond your expiration date you will be required to Pay the current annual certification fee and current testing fees and test again Doing so will reinstate your previous annual certification expiration date and certification number You will still be required to pay your next annual fee within the next 12 months

bull Ifmorethan12monthsbeyondyourexpiration date you will be required to either participate in a CSIA approved certification review course or submit evidence of 9 CEUs that were accumulated during the time your credential was active In addition you will be required to pass the CSIA certification exams Upon successful completion a new certification number will be assigned and you will have a new annual certification expiration date

CaliforniaMichaelGipsonbullMidtownSweepsbullLancasterOmarSaenzbullAFiddlerontheRoodDuctampChimneyServicebullVanNuys

IndianaAlexStewartbullOldSmokeyrsquosFireplaceampChimneyIncbullAshley

KansasRyanBerrybullFullServiceChimneybullOlathe

New YorkJayFellibullHearthampHomeofIthacabullIthaca

VermontJamesDonovanbullLincolnPeakPropertiesbullWaitsfield

West VirginiaMichaelAdwellbullTopHatChimneySweepbullLewisburg

WisconsinDustinMyersbullChimneySpecialistsIncbullHighland

ADVERTISEMENT

Congratulations to Our New CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps

Top 10 Woodburning Tips from the Chimney Safety Institute of America

To aid in the prevention of chimney fires and carbon monoxide intrusion and to help keep heating appliances and fireplaces functioning properly the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) offers the following safety tips

1 Get an annual chimney check Have chimneys inspected annually and cleaned as necessary by a qualified professional chimney service technician This reduces the risk of fires and carbon monoxide poisonings due to creosote buildup or obstructions in the chimneys

2 Keep it clear Keep tree branches and leaves at least 15 feet away from the top of the chimney

3 Install a chimney cap to keep debris and animals out of the chimney

4 Choose the right fuel For burning firewood in wood stoves or fireplaces choose wellseasoned wood that has been split for a minimum of six months - one year and stored in a covered and elevated location Never burn Christmas trees or treated wood in your fireplace or wood stove

5 Build it right Place firewood or firelogs at the rear of the fireplace on a supporting grate To start the fire use kindling or a commercial firelighter Never use flammable liquids

6 Keep the hearth area clear Combustible material too close to the fireplace or to a wood stove could easily catch fire Keep furniture at least 36rdquo away from the hearth

7 Use a fireplace screen Use metal mesh or a screen in front of the fireplace to catch flying sparks that could ignite or burn holes in the carpet or flooring

8 Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors Place detectors throughout the house and check batteries in the spring and fall

When you change your clocks for Daylight Savings Time remember to check your batteries

9 Never leave a fire unattended Before turning in for the evening be sure that the fire is fully

extinguished Supervise children and pets closely around wood stoves and fireplaces

10 The CSIA recommends annual inspections performed by CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps These chimney sweeps have earned the industryrsquos most respected credential by passing an intensive examination based on fire codes clearances and standards for the construction and maintenance of chimney and venting systems The National Fire Protection Association also recommends that all chimneys are inspected on an annual basis

For more chimney and fireplace safety tips visit the Chimney Safety Institute of America online at wwwCSIAorg

Solve your customersrsquo smoking sooting odor and draft problems Itrsquos easy with CSIArsquos 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 Ghostingsooting 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 doesnrsquot

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

Learn to solve these problems save time and money and keep

your clients happy with CSIArsquos Online Chimney Physics program

SolvedVenting Problems

Register today at wwwcsiaorg

CSIA 15 Tech 15 CampL 15 HampS 15 CampS NFI 5 Tech

Annual Certification Requirements

Top 10 Woodburning Tips from the Chimney Safety Institute of America

To aid in the prevention of chimney fires and carbon monoxide intrusion and to help keep heating appliances and fireplaces functioning properly the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) offers the following safety tips

1 Get an annual chimney check Have chimneys inspected annually and cleaned as necessary by a qualified professional chimney service technician This reduces the risk of fires and carbon monoxide poisonings due to creosote buildup or obstructions in the chimneys

2 Keep it clear Keep tree branches and leaves at least 15 feet away from the top of the chimney

3 Install a chimney cap to keep debris and animals out of the chimney

4 Choose the right fuel For burning firewood in wood stoves or fireplaces choose wellseasoned wood that has been split for a minimum of six months - one year and stored in a covered and elevated location Never burn Christmas trees or treated wood in your fireplace or wood stove

5 Build it right Place firewood or firelogs at the rear of the fireplace on a supporting grate To start the fire use kindling or a commercial firelighter Never use flammable liquids

6 Keep the hearth area clear Combustible material too close to the fireplace or to a wood stove could easily catch fire Keep furniture at least 36rdquo away from the hearth

7 Use a fireplace screen Use metal mesh or a screen in front of the fireplace to catch flying sparks that could ignite or burn holes in the carpet or flooring

8 Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors Place detectors throughout the house and check batteries in the spring and fall

When you change your clocks for Daylight Savings Time remember to check your batteries

9 Never leave a fire unattended Before turning in for the evening be sure that the fire is fully

extinguished Supervise children and pets closely around wood stoves and fireplaces

10 The CSIA recommends annual inspections performed by CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps These chimney sweeps have earned the industryrsquos most respected credential by passing an intensive examination based on fire codes clearances and standards for the construction and maintenance of chimney and venting systems The National Fire Protection Association also recommends that all chimneys are inspected on an annual basis

For more chimney and fireplace safety tips visit the Chimney Safety Institute of America online at wwwCSIAorg

ADVERTISEMENT

You can spend weeks trying to get a new employee up to speed In the process yoursquoll have used up your valuable time your patience and more money than you would like to admit

Instead send your employee to the most popular cost-effective chimney sweep training in North America CSIArsquos National Chimney Sweep Training School In less than a week wersquoll create an employee that yoursquoll be proud to send on a call ndash and happy to count toward your bottom line

Register today at wwwcsiaorg or call us at (317) 837-5362

At the 6-day hands-on Training School your employee will learn

How to inspect and service chimney systems serving any fuel burning appliance

How to be safe with the latest health and safety equipment and methods

How to work with residential heating appliances including wood stoves pellet stoves inserts factory-built fireplaces central heaters and furnaces

How to diagnose chimney performance problems understanding draft and flow diagnosing down drafts flow reversals inadequate flow stack effects updrafts pressure effects and gauges

How to navigate the International Residential Codes How to follow the NFPA 211 standards

Class size is limited to ensure a ratio of no more than eight students per instructor This small class size means that students have the opportunity for individual attention from the schoolrsquos experienced instructors and ample opportunities for hands-on training Because class size is limited it is important to apply early to reserve your place

The online CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience

The online Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician (CDET) review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience designed to help you pass the CDET exam

Take advantage of these other CSIA educational offerings that can build your business

Send us your greenhorn

and wersquoll send you back a pro

in 6 days Classes fill quickly so register now

2012 DATeS April 2ndash7June 4ndash9August 6ndash11September 24ndash29

April 2-7June 11-16August 6-11September 24-29

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 25

You can spend weeks trying to get a new employee up to speed In the process yoursquoll have used up your valuable time your patience and more money than you would like to admit

Instead send your employee to the most popular cost-effective chimney sweep training in North America CSIArsquos National Chimney Sweep Training School In less than a week wersquoll create an employee that yoursquoll be proud to send on a call ndash and happy to count toward your bottom line

Register today at wwwcsiaorg or call us at (317) 837-5362

At the 6-day hands-on Training School your employee will learn

How to inspect and service chimney systems serving any fuel burning appliance

How to be safe with the latest health and safety equipment and methods

How to work with residential heating appliances including wood stoves pellet stoves inserts factory-built fireplaces central heaters and furnaces

How to diagnose chimney performance problems understanding draft and flow diagnosing down drafts flow reversals inadequate flow stack effects updrafts pressure effects and gauges

How to navigate the International Residential Codes How to follow the NFPA 211 standards

Class size is limited to ensure a ratio of no more than eight students per instructor This small class size means that students have the opportunity for individual attention from the schoolrsquos experienced instructors and ample opportunities for hands-on training Because class size is limited it is important to apply early to reserve your place

The online CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience

The online Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician (CDET) review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience designed to help you pass the CDET exam

Take advantage of these other CSIA educational offerings that can build your business

Send us your greenhorn

and wersquoll send you back a pro

in 6 days Classes fill quickly so register now

2012 DATeS April 2ndash7June 4ndash9August 6ndash11September 24ndash29

April 2-7June 11-16August 6-11September 24-29

ProgressivePerksBY DEBBIE CORNELIUS

MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT COORDINATOR

Get Organized and Make the Most of Your Busy Season

Sometimes it really surprises me that more NCSG members do not take advantage of the discounted benefits available to them These will not only save you time buthellip money too

Paycor Payroll Services price reduction on payroll and tax services One specialist will be dedicated to your account with a team of tax specialists available to resolve issues in the fastest amount of time should an issue arise

Market Hardware can bring your business up to speed in the competitive market of technology where more and more customers are looking to the Web Once they have customized the design that includes a ldquoHome Pagerdquo ldquoAbout Usrdquo and ldquoOur Servicesrdquo page you will have the ability to easily update and edit your Web site yourself instead of paying someone else to do it

Technical Solutions the ldquoSurvival Kit for Small Businessesrdquo can provide on-demand remote repair 247 365 days a year For the price of $2499month with no long term contact involved you can cover up to 20 computers including multiple office locations

Commercials On Hold provides a great way to brand and promote your full range of services when callers are on hold before they talk to a member of your staff

Take a few minutes to just explore these benefits It would be well worth your time to compare the savings to save you time and help increase your profits

26 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

REGION 6

NCSG Charter Members

Paul Bourque Huntsville AL

Don Leavitt San Diego CA

David Harris Broken Arrow Oklahoma

Dan Wheeler Santa Rosa CA

John Cline Menlo Park CA

Dale Meisinger N Augusta SC

Alan Hisey St Louis MO

Eva B Horton Greenwich CT

Harry Richart Hasbrouck Heights NJ

NewNCSGMembers

REGION 3

REGION 2

REGION 5

REGION 4

NCSG REGIONS

REGION 1

Connecticut Vermont Massachusetts New York Maine Rhode Island New Hampshire

REGION 2

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

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

CONNECTICUTChristopher Gonsalves bull Millstream Construction bull HebronDavid Heissenbuttel bull DMH amp Associates Inc bull Wilton

VIRGINAJack Johnston bull Johnstonrsquos Chimney Sweep bull Yorktown

MISSOURIJason Patrick bull Shamrock Qualty Services bull St LouisBill Bonney bull Bonney Bill bull Jackson

KENTUCKYJoshua Moore bull Moore Joshua bull Mt Sterling

ILLINOISJack Lutz bull Lutz Jack bull EurekaClay Nelson bull Clean Sweep bull Collinsville

OHIOAnthony Ramsey bull Elite Chimney Solutions bull Beavercreek

INDIANATravis Beckley bull Beckley Travis bull Coal City

TEXASMatthew Milner bull Milner Matthew bull WhitesboroTony Drew bull AC Contractors dba Fireplaces bull LongviewChristopher A Hess bull Atlas Chimney bull Leander

MINNESOTARenee Gustafson bull John C Gustafson Builder LLC bull Little Falls

COLORADOKent Macintosh bull Russian River Chimney Sweeps bull Healdsburg

CALIFORNIA Errol Davis bull The Chimney Specialist bull Huntington Beach

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 27

The 2012 ndash 2013 offers are being added daily in the ldquoMembers Onlyrdquo section of the NCSG website at wwwNCSGorg So start checking for these new offers each week These coupons will be good until June 30 2013

Copperfield Chimney Supply bull Lindemann Chimney Supply bull Meyer Machine amp Equipment bull National Chimney Supply bull SNEWS - The Chimney Sweep News bull Wakefield Brush bull Wohler USA Inc

2012 ndash 2013 SWEEPS ADVANTAGE COUPON PROGRAM

Featured Coupons of the Month

COPPERFIELD CHIMNEY SUPPLY

SAVE Up to $ 12650 FREE 13 x 13 Lock-Top with an order of $250

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purchase

SAVE Up to $ 46 One 13 x 13 HomeSaver Stainless Steel chimney cap with any Order of $250 or more

SAVE Up to $ 64 One EasyClean Cap with any purchase of $250

SAVE UP TO $ 75 $75 off any 25rsquo order of UltraPro Stainless Steel Liner

SAVE UP TO $ 40 $40 off any Flue Stretcher Chimney Cap

SAVE UP TO $ 20 Sign up for a Copperfield Reline Workshop and Save $20

SAVE UP TO FRE FREE 4 foot sample of HomeSaver Ultrapro

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28 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

Meyer Machine amp Equipment

SUCKINGDUCTS

ampINSULATION

FOR OVER 20 YEARS

As most allergy sufferers will tell you allergy symptoms can always be bothersome turning any time of year into sneezing season A runny nose itchy eyes and scratchy throat can arise as the days get shorter and the leaves begin to change

The fall can be especially difficult for people who are sensitive to mold and ragweed pollen But these seasonal elements arenrsquot the only triggers that can make symptoms worse this time of year There are also a few lesser known triggers Here are four things you might not know about fall allergies courtesy of the American College of Allergy Asthma and Immunology

Hay fever - Hay fever a term from a bygone era actually has nothing to do with hay Instead itrsquos a general term used to describe the symptoms of late summer allergies Ragweed is a common cause of hay fever which is also known as allergic rhinitis The plant usually begins to pollinate in mid-August and may continue to be a problem until a hard freeze depending on where you live See an allergist for prescription medications to control symptoms or to see if allergy shots may be your best option

Lingering warm weather - While most people enjoy Indian summer unseasonably warm temperatures can make rhinitis symptoms last longer Mold spores can also be released when humidity is high or the weather is dry and windy Be sure to begin taking medications before your symptoms start Track your allergy symptoms with MyNasalAllergyJournalorg and visit with your allergist to find relief

Pesky leaves - Some folks might find it difficult to keep up with raking leaves throughout the autumn But for allergy sufferers raking presents its own problem It can stir agitating pollen and mold into the air causing allergy and asthma symptoms Those with allergies should wear an NIOSH-rated N95 mask when raking leaves mowing the lawn and gardening

School allergens - Itrsquos not only seasonal pollen and mold that triggers allergies this time of year Kids are often exposed to classroom irritants and allergy triggers These can include chalk dust and classroom pets Students with food allergies may also be exposed to allergens in the lunch roomKids with exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB) may experience attacks during recess or gym class Help your child understand what can trigger their allergies and asthma and how they can avoid symptoms Be sure to notify teachers and the school nurse of any emergency medications such as quick relief inhalers and epinephrine

No matter the season itrsquos important for those who think they may be suffering from allergies or asthma to see a board-certified allergist An allergist can help you develop a treatment plan which can include both medication and avoidance techniques

Having your allergies properly identified and treated will help you and your family enjoy the season To find an allergist and learn more about allergies and asthma visit wwwAllergyandAsthmaRelieforg

Four Things You Might Not Know About Fall Allergies

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 29

trategic partnerships Sounds fancy but what does it really mean They are called what they are called because there is a true strategy behind them the thought and planning that goes into identifying and development those relationships in a way that will

ultimately help those who are participating to achieve their mission The fact that it is indeed a ldquopartnershiprdquo indicates that everyone involved mutually stands to benefit in some wayhellipItrsquos a win-win

The strategic part of establishing partnerships is analyzing who you are your goals and your current resources and then finding organizations (partners) that will allow you to get the things that you need in order to take your organization to the next level But true partnerships are about what you can bring to each other to help achieve your goals and enhance your resources It is not solely about what you can give me but rather what we can give each other As the great John F Kennedy is well known for encouraging of a world partnership ldquoask not what America will do for you but what together we can do for the freedom of manrdquo

So where does this leave an association like NCSG The key to nonprofits establishing strategic partnerships is having the infrastructure to attract and maintain these relationships In this country there are plenty of nonprofits that are doing great work but there is no organization that will be able to survive if they try

to achieve their mission without establishing partnerships that help provide resources and relationships that allow us to achieve our mission

NCSG is very fortunate to have an impressive array of partners who have for many years some since our inception done just that Our partners have advertised in this magazine exhibited at our conventions contributed to the building and maintaining of our headquarters and the premier industry training facility in Indianapolis discounted thousands of dollars in products and services to our members and have helped us promote the Guild and recruit membership in countless ways not the least of which includes maintaining their own membership in NCSG

Our partners are committed to helping us advance our mission and in turn propel our professional field forward Their partnership supports that programs that ignite your professional and technical development and provide the products and services that have helped you bring your own businesses to life They are integral to the success of this industry and most renew their support of the Guild year after year

Without their support of Sweeping magazine through their advertising we would not have been able to come close to bringing this publication to our members and the industry for the past 35 years (originally The Chimney Sweep Guild News) without significant taxation on the readers Without their support

BY MARK MCSWEENEY CAEEXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Perspective

Support Those Who Support YouldquoOur success has really been based on partnerships from the very beginningrdquo -Bill Gates

S

30 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

of NCSGrsquos annual convention through exhibiting and additional sponsorships registration fees for attendees would easily be double what they are today

When viewing our relationship with exhibitors sponsors advertisers and supplier members as a partnership the question needs to be asked How are we as an association mutually helping them achieve their respective goals

The answer comes back to us having infrastructure to attract and maintain these partnerships And that infrastructure is you the member NCSG cultivates and maintains the relationship with our industry partners on your behalf You are asked to back that up through your support of these partner service providers

Now Irsquom not saying you should buy everything you need at any one place or only through our partners At the end of the day you ultimately need to make your purchasing decisions based on your individual business needs However what would be great to see is our members calling our partners up and giving them a chance to compete for your business Let them know you are a part of NCSG and even if you are not in a position to do business with them this time around let them know you appreciate their continued support of the Guild and the industry Itrsquos one thing to call up to a supplier and ask about a product get a price and hang up Itrsquos another thing to make sure you let them know you saw their ad in Sweeping you read about them

online or you remember they exhibited at the convention so that they know they are getting positive exposure and that their investment in our partnership is not going unnoticed

With that said here are some simple and tangible things things you can do to help the partnership you are a part ofbull Consider our partners each and every time you need to make a

purchasing decision and give them an opportunity to earn your business when you can Look at those who are advertising in Sweeping or see a full listing of NCSG Supplier Members under the Chimney Sweep tab on ncsgorg

bull When you talk to them let them know yoursquore part of NCSG and thank them for their support of your association

bull If you like them even if you canrsquot do business with them currently spread the word and help get their name out there

bull Attend events where our partners have stepped up to sponsor Help show them we value them being there and appreciate their efforts This helps everyone when it comes to working out future programs discounts events and more

We are all in this together Just as you want to ensure you are receiving the return you need on the investments you make our supplier members advertisers exhibitors and sponsors need to justify their own ROI on the variety of support avenues they offer

to NCSG I thought Irsquod take a minute this month to say ldquothank yourdquo to all of you who support us in so many different ways and would like to encourage others to do the same

Until next time I continue to wish you every success

Double Locking CrimpRemains StrongYet Very Flexibl e

With No Memo ry

Strong Triple Locking CrimpHolds T ogether Even OnTough Jobs

Horizontal Sides Of CorrugationOffer Added Strengthamp Flexibility

Manufactured by CHIMNEY TECHNIQUE INC

Chim-Pro Interlock Flex

Chim-Pro Corrugated

Flex

Chim-Pro RigidADDED SAFETY EFFICIENCY AND VALUE

In Which ALL FITTINGS Are Attached With A Band Even The Tee Cap And Elbows Quick amp Simple No Drilling amp Riveting

Featuring

Visit wwwchim-prolinercom for more detailsbull 2000 Industrial Ave bull Sioux Falls SD 57104

1-800-582-1392

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 31

Display Ad Index

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 mheekencsgorg for publication in Sweeping Or mail it to NCSG 2155 Commercial Drive Plainfield IN 46168

Page Advertiser Phone Email or Website Address

30 Ahrens Chimney Technique 800-582-1392 ahrenschimneyqwestofficenet

21-24 Chimney Safety Institute of America 317-837-5362 wwwcsiaorg

14 Cobra Chimney Caps 888-463-0636 salescobrachimneycom

27 Communications Network Inc 800-875-8118 tkempercomnetmessagecom

5 Copperfield 800-247-3305 wwwcopperfieldcom

4 ENERVEX Inc 800-255-2923 infochimneyfanscom

13 Firesafe Industries Inc 800-545-6607 wwwfiresafeinccom

16 Gelco Lyemance Lock-Top 800-334-2154 wwwGLLchimneyproductscom

9 Hose Master 800-221-2319 bobdanielshosemastercom

10 ICP 508-695-7000 wwwchimneycapscom

BC Lifetime Chimney Supply LLC 877-234-7473 wwwlifetimechimneysupplycom

7 Lindemann Chimney Company 800-722-7230 wwwlindemannchimneycom

11 M amp G Duravent 800-835-4429 wwwduraventcom

28 Meyer Machine amp Equipment 800-728-3828 wwwmeyermachinecom

25 National Chimney Supply 800-897-8481 wwwnationalchimneysupplycom

17 Olympia Chimney Supply 800-569-1425 wwwolympiachimneycom

19 Sand Hill Wholesale 800-258-5496 wwwsandhillwholesalecom

6 SaverSystems Inc 800-860-6327 wwwchimneysavercom

3 Smoktite 866-439-0069 wwwsmoktitecom

8 Wakefield Brush 800-264-7007 wwwwakefieldbrushcom

19 Whitecaps 800-335-2534 wwwwhitecapscom

15 Z-Flex 800-654-5600 wwwz-flexcom

The pole and bucket chimney That is how they keep rain and birds out during off season Notice the class A is just an extension of a masonry chimney

Submitted by Kevon Binder of Doctor Flue Inc

September 13-15 2012Lake Murray SCSouth Carolina Chimney Sweep Guildrsquos ldquoThe GatheringrdquoFor more information please contact Blume at (864) 232-9811 or blume357bellsouthnet

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 19 2012 Taunton MAFall Protection User Training Class Including OSHArsquos 2011 ruling on alternate fall protection methods - Sponsored by the Massachusetts Chimney Sweep GuildFor more information please call Jeffrey Wright at (781) 233-2321

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-29 2012CSIA Technology CenterCSIA National Chimney Sweep Training SchoolFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

Dates amp Events

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 8-12 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg October 8-12 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

Please send notice of your events for NCSG Dates amp Events listings at mmcmahonncsgorg for inclusion here in weekly posts to the discussion list and online at wwwNCSGorgdates The event must be considered educational or informative for the industry (sales events and open houses will not be listed)

32 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

ClassifiedsGotta chimney question Sizing Codes Call Royal Edwards Make Royal your tech department CALL NOW 813-982-0219 for on-call tech support Continuing Education special bonus ndash ask how you can get the Friday morning E-Blast for FREE CALL NOW 813-982-0219

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Chimney Sweep business for sell in the Northern Rocky Mountains of New Mexico Services a large area with three ski resorts in the service area Equipment and signed three year contracts goes with the business Business is well established For pricing and other info please email your questions to ridgeriders1gmailcom

CLASSIFIED ADS FREE FOR NCSG MEMBERSMembers can run one 35 word classified free each year Regularly classified ads are $2word or $1word for NCSG members Classified ads are non-commissionable and must be pre-paid To place a classified ad please contact Megan McMahon at mmcmahonncsgorg or (317) 837-1500

NCSG Innovation 2013 Convention and Trade Show Hotel reservations are now being accepted for NCSG Innovation 2013 at Chateau on the Lake in Branson MO April 4-7 2013 Just call 1-888-333-LAKE (5253) and mention that yoursquore with the National Chimney Sweep Guild to lock in rates starting at $129 for a mountain view and $134 for a lake view

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Wood-Burning Safety

Starts with You

Have you scheduled your

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The National Fire Protection Association estimates

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National Chimney Sweep Guild2155 Commercial DrivePlainfield IN 46168

1208

OR

Page 13: September 2012

12 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

irst of all if you are reading this CONGRATUATIONS As I shared at a recent MIX group meeting I did a presentation for many of you have survived the worst economic downturn in the history of our country one that in many ways rivaled the Great Depression So congratulations

are definitely in order Many American businesses did not survive the economic downturn and others are still on the borderline of survival andor failure I am sure each of you knows of successful business owners who have had their lives (and their lifestyles) undergo a tremendous transition during the past few years Others among you may have only entered our industry since this economic devil revealed itself

What is even more remarkable is that some who read this have done much more Not only have they survived they actually prospered Their businesses grew their profits increased and their business models strengthened Each business that did this faced the same economic conditions as others Yet due to their grit and determination they became true winners Yes there may have been geographic considerations but few areas have escaped the wrath of the economic turmoil our country has faced

What the economic conditions have done for many is force them to become better managers better watchers of their numbers better students of lean methods of operation and better in so many other beneficial ways And it is truly enlightening to see the benefits that have been awarded to those who have continued to make their businesses grow in truly tough economic times and without assistance from banks or other lenders The true success stories of business owners who have completely revamped their operations and have shown levels of excellence that many dream of

But even as a survivor many will encounter roadblocks that will cause stress will slow progress and will serve to raise caution to the wind At times it will come at you with a warning at other times it will simply pop up in front of you with no warning Perhaps it hits you when you awaken in a cold sweat or perhaps it hits you at times when things are just not going as you feel they should The roadblock I refer to is something I classify as the WALL

I feel that a successful business manager can be compared to a star athlete The star athlete will practice he will work out

he will have a strict regimen that will include his diet his sleep habits and will govern his life As he undergoes his training any and all things that can hamper his performance are examined and examined again No matter if he is a runner a swimmer a baseball or football player or a star in other sports He will dedicate himself to excellence just as you do each and every day in your business We saw this in August as we watched the Olympics and see those who receive the gold and hear the stories of the work they did to prepare for the competition

But even with the preparation even with the regiment he has posed to himself at times he will find that his energy is zapped His will to go on will be challenged his fortitude questioned HE HITS THE WALL

As a business manager this is no different than what you encounter at times Not only does the wall come up and block your progress as one person even explained to me about the dreaded wall at times it will even collapse on top of you and you may have to dig out of the rubble During a recent conversation a business owner related ldquoI am digging out of the rubble where that wall fell on top of merdquo when asked how he was doing Has this ever happened to you causing you to stop and wonder just why am I doing this and will I meet my objective Even worse the thought comes to the forefront is it really worth what I am putting into it

In my business endeavors I deal with a lot of folks in different stages of their business models Some have recently launched a business some are transforming a business some preparing exit plans and others are building infrastructure Others still have found success and are working to bring in new management to begin to pursue their true dreams of more free time as the free time was a goal of the original business start-up plan In preparation for this article I asked several who always seem to be going up up and up just what was their secret Just how did the walls not stop them in the progress of the business I think the overall answer I heard was best summed up by one phenomenal business owner His answer was ldquoJerry I keep myself up all the time because I always look at the potential and the markets we have not tapped into yet I just donrsquot see how anyone can get beat due to the problems when there is so much potential and so much untapped businessrdquo

BY JERRY ISENHOUR OF CHIMNEY amp VENTING

CONSULTANTS IN CONCORD NCCoachrsquos Corner

The

The Wall

F

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 13

Quite frankly this hit it on the head Each and every day as a business owner you face adversity perhaps from a customer perhaps from the world around us perhaps simply from an employee who did not meet our expectations But you know this is life and life has a way of throwing curve ball after curve ball The real winner will anticipate what the curve balls will be and will develop the methods to hit the ball no matter how it is thrown at us

The true winner will always view each and every adversary as a learning experience taking what is learned from each error each loss and each hiccup and use these as the basis for new procedures new methods and new ways to grow and prosper The true winner knows that his 1 accountability partner is that guy with him all the time the guy he knows as the man in the mirror

Some are even developing methods within the business to pull these errors and mistakes out of the hidden abyss of the unknown to find the ones we may not even be paying attention to Recently observing several who have instituted a new method that can isolate and eliminate issues is producing astounding results As a respected colleague shared with me ldquoJerry it feels like we are walking on glass but we are finding the ways to end the dreaded Groundhog Day happening over and overrdquo Successful business managers use this as the basis of how they will change the business model adapt their procedures

and continue to grow and prosper All the while raising the PERCENTAGE of profit from the gross figure They do not look at the number they view the number as the percentage Only through viewing the percentage can we truly have a yardstick by which to measure our progress as we grow our management skills

With this my wish is for you to have an excellent fall By the time you read this we will have hit that great part of the year called FALL and what so many call THE BUSY SEASON As you enter this make plans now as to how you plan to promote your business come January 1 2013 This is what the guys who are moving forward are doing The fall is already through the planning stages and they are ready for action ARE YOU If not ask that man in the mirror if he is truly operating at the level he needs to be He has the answer I am sure

About the Author Jerry Isenhour is an industry consultant coach and educator 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 and your business in your quest for success and your rise to the next level take a look at his web site wwwchimneyandventingconsultantscom He can be contacted at jerrychimneyandventingconsultantscom or by phone at (704) 425-0217 You can also obtain great business tips from his Facebook page Chimney amp Venting Consultants

ldquoMy company uses most products available to chimney contractors but Firesafersquos products and systems are hands-down the very best and the most profitable Great technical support and their constant improvements make the products even better which makes my company stand out over my competitionrdquo Kevin Knight Chadds Ford Chimney Sweeps PA

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14 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

erhaps the most important thing to recognize about business is that customer service is not an afterthought to everything else It IS everything else Or as Leon Gorman the CEO of LL Bean puts it ldquoCustomer Service is just a day in day out

ongoing never ending unremitting persevering compassionate type of activityrdquo

Oh thatrsquos a nice thought you say Irsquoll be certain to put a little more attention on that the next free moment I get

If this is your response yoursquove missed the point and perhaps the boat too

So what does it mean when we say service What does good customer service look like Herersquos a good hint from Peter Drucker ldquoQuality in service or product is not what you put into it Itrsquos what the customer gets out of itrdquo

In other words in the final analysis itrsquos not simply how

well you do your job that matters What matters is how your customer feels about you or your company once the job is completed What matters is what they got out of it And in that regard in any arena of competitors the battle will be won by the company who leaves the customer feeling the best the happiest the most satisfied

Jerry Gregoire CIO of Dell believes ldquoThe customer experience is the next competitive battlegroundrdquo

Now you might be thinking your customers must be pretty satisfied since most of the time they donrsquot seem to have any complaints

If you are feeling this way it would behoove you to remember most customers donrsquot complain even if there are dramatic issues with the work Why People donrsquot like confrontations And many people feel their complaints will be neither appreciated nor dealt with so why bother

The One and Only Thing

P

BY GREG POLAKOW OF COPPERFIELD

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 15

The course of action they choose rather than wasting their time and emotions complaining to someone they feel will be either hostile or unresponsive is to select one of your competitors next time they need work done As the saying goes they vote with their wallet

You might rightly be asking yourself well if my customers donrsquot tell me when theyrsquore not satisfied what can I possibly do about it

The answer is there are many things that can be done about it But the first starts with the understanding that customer service is not something that kicks in only when therersquos a problem Customer service has to be part of every contact you have with your customers It is how you treat your customers before you even show up at their door It is how you conduct yourself during your visit And it is most certainly the way in which you handle follow up

Remember it is how your customers feel after all is said and done that matters

We are always forming opinions about others It is a natural part of being human And we begin formulating those opinions with our very first encounter The initial opinions may later give way to either better or worse opinions but initial opinions are extremely influential So ask yourself what are you doing to

insure that the very first impression a customer has of you and your business is excellent What are you doing to make this very first customer service experience positive What are you doing to provide your customer at the very outset with a feel good experience

Whatever your answer is remember it is often this first impression that will determine whether or not a customer will call and complain if there is a problem later rather than simply opt to call one of your competitors next time Why Because it is in this first encounter with you that a customer begins to decide if they trust you If you trust that a company has your best interests at heart you are much more likely to call if there is a problem

So how do you establish a feeling of well being and trust with your customer from the get go Again it has to do with how you make them feel the moment you pick up your phone to answer their first call If your tone is cold indifferent or even matter of fact they are not likely to feel you care And if you donrsquot seem to care about them can you really be trusted to have their best interests at heart EVERTHING you do from the outset absolutely everything will create an opinion of you in the customerrsquos mind That means your tone of voice the patience with which you respond to their questions And the very language and even diction you use to talk to them about whatever chimney related issue they are having

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Sweeping News (Snews)_Smoothcore_Z-Max_no booth_HR_March 29 2012pdf 1 12-03-30 212 PM

16 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

Use language that is too technical and you lose them and put them on the defensive ldquoAm I supposed to understand what this guy is talking aboutrdquo they wonder Speak too fast or indistinctly and you get the same result

Seem like picky details They may be to you but they will not be to your customer

Remember when a customer comes to you he is laying his problem at your feet If he could remedy it himself he would But he canrsquot He needs you to help him So he is feeling a bit vulnerable a bit out of his league How you respond to him in this circumstance can either make him feel immediately comfortable and in safe hands or something less desirable You decide which effect you want to create

I think you can see that if this first encounter leaves your customer glowing instead of glowering you win You win his confidence his trust and even here at the very outset his gratitude If yoursquove done this well ie addressed his initial questions and concerns in a compassionate understanding thorough manner well you are off to an excellent start

But the battle has not been won because yoursquove also set some expectations and your customerrsquos expectation that this kind of treatment will continue must be met If your crew shows up to do the work and forgets they are in the customer service business first and foremost all you accomplished at the beginning can be ruined

Good customer service must build on itself from day one in order to maintain that feeling in your customer of confidence happiness and trust It cannot be hit and miss Being inconsistent might be worse than being just plain ornery from the beginning

Does good customer service trump sloppy careless or substandard work Of course not Because the quality of your product is a huge part of the customer service package Itrsquos all customer service

The bottom line is your customer will appreciate value and respect you to exactly the same degree you appreciate value and respect him No more and no less And the great thing is when you treat your customers as friends when you gladly and openly address their concerns and fix their problems your work and your life become easier and more fulfilling

Try it out Start thinking of customer service as being the be all and end all of your business and see how well things go Yoursquoll be amazed

Remember as Tony Allesandra has observed ldquoBeing on par in terms of price and quality only gets you into the game Service wins the gamerdquo

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18 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

ou all have accomplishments You support your family your employees and their families your vendors and you provide comfort and safety for your customers

Some of you can enjoy your success and can focus on preserving what you have Many of you want to and have the capacity to grow and be more successful Some of you may be struggling with the seasonality and economics of your business Regardless of your level of success almost all of you have varying degrees of uncertainty

Many articles books conferences and videos have been made about the importance of having a strategic plan to help guide you to fulfill your potential

This magazine has offered numerous articles written to help you fulfill your potential The NCSG offers courses to help you gain skills to be more successful

Yet there still appears to be too many business owners

struggling to achieve their goals ndash or have yet to explicitly define their goals which could help them to get their time back and allow them (you) to enjoy their (your) lives

Maybe yoursquore stuck on tactics without a strategy Maybe yoursquore stuck on ldquonoiserdquo ndash noise that the media airs about events you cannot control and distracts you from your business Perhaps that ldquonoiserdquo has contributed to a pessimistic perspective

Perhaps all of the above is ldquonoiserdquo that covers up past or current mistakes or regret either real or perceived

Letrsquos work on facing your concerns and your past Fear fades when facts are faced Regrets can become wisdom when success lies ahead

Consider forming a team of trusted professionals emulate successful associates select friends and close family members who can create a ldquojudgment freerdquo zone to allow you to unwind the past that may be keeping you from achieving your potential

Focus on What You Can Control

Y

BY BRIAN NOE OF MW FINANCIAL GROUP

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 19

Your team can help you realize your dreams by developing a sound strategy employing objective facts without bias Your team has your back

So letrsquos throw out the rear view mirror set aside our mistakes and regrets and look forward to what you can control that can lead to success

You and your team can control your personal finances You and your team can control your business Here are some steps you can take to help seize the day sleep easy and get your time back

1 Budget ndash do you have a personal and business budget Do you adhere to your budget Does your budget include protection and savings for retirement and your legacy Do you know how much you need to save for retirement and your legacy Are you prepared in the event that you may ldquolive too longrdquo

2 Help Protect Yourself your Family and your Business ndash you can take steps to control your risk

Do you let your employees drive your personal vehicles Do your employees drive your work vehicles for personal use Are you covered for that activity These are a just a few examples of ldquohiddenrdquo liabilities that you may be exposed to but unaware of

Do you have adequate umbrella insurance protection in addition to home and auto insurance that covers you and your employees

Do you take steps to relieve stress Do you have disability insurance to provide you with income or your business with funds to pay expenses in the event of illness or injury that prevents you from working

For your business you can implement a safety program This sets up a plan of employee procedures for handling vendors customers and inter-employee communication skills to improve workmanship and other employee development For events you cannot control do you have liability EampO and similar insurance

Does your business take advantage of legal structure asset titling (multiple businesses Spouse ownership) retirement plans life insurance annuities trusts and homestead

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20 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

exemptions (if available) to help protect assets from creditors and frivolous lawsuits

3 Employ Efficient Debt ndash we may be at the bottom of the interest rate and inflation cycle If interest rates rise andor inflation heats up the general rule of thumb for most of us is debtors win creditors lose If you have the cash you have control If the banker has the cash they have control

4 Manage Taxes ndash whether or not income or estate taxes increase in the future a retirement assetincome distribution business succession and legacy strategy is a must for everyone

5 Investment Management ndash you have plenty of risk with your business Do you want to have unnecessary risk with your investments

You cannot control macroeconomics (sequence of return risk rising interest rates trade and budget deficits unemployment inflation taxes real estate values commodity markets fluctuating foreign currency etc)

You cannot control geopolitical events (elections Euro zone issues violent foreign government changes war etc) or environmental events (hurricanes earthquakes fires tsunamis etc)

How do you insulate yourself from economic events you cannot control Consider historically tried tested and true strategies Consider strategies that your grandparentrsquos generation may have used They had to protect themselves ndash government bailouts and subsidies were few and far between

Congratulations if you can assemble a team to help you define and implement a strategy using the tactics described above This can be achieved in a relatively short period of time (a few hours a week over several short weeks can do it) which can help give you your time back so you can focus on your business and family

6 Manage your Business ndash this you can completely control You can engage in any of the following business expansion activities without losing energy and enthusiasm to the issues you and your team of advisors tackled above

Perhaps you would ratherbull Recruit and develop key employees (and future buyers of

your business)bull Market expansion (are you getting on board the e-marketing

train)bull Develop operating procedures and processesbull Improve safety (reduce liability)bull Expand into new territoriesbull Enter a new industry

bull Purchase and manage real estate

Life Happens ndash Enjoy It

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 US Army Eric is ranked first in his class with a degree in Computer Science is working in his field and plans on attending graduate school in 2013 His daughter Kara recently graduated undergraduate school with distinction and is planning to attend graduate school to become a Physiciansrsquo 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_NoeMWFinancialcom

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Publication for CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepregs

ADVERTISEMENT

The Virginia Association of Chimney amp

Hearth Professionals sponsored CSIArsquos

Inspection amp Report Writing class in

Arlington VA this August 6-7 Tom Urban

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Fred Regar served as auctioneer of the sponsor-donated items on the second day of the session

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When renewing a credential earned after September 1 2009 a CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg is required to

Available downloads for CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepsreg and CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Techniciansreg include

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Check out the CCS amp CDET area at CSIAorg

bull Submitaminimumof9CEUsearnedwithin the preceeding 3 years (in any category) before testing NOTE This requirement will not apply to CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps already holding the credential on September 1 2009untiltheirnext3-yearcertificationcycle

bull Passaone-hourexambasedonSuccessfulChimneySweeping(2009)andNFPA211(2010)

bull Passaninety-minuteopen-bookexambasedonthe2006IRCreg

bull AgreetopaytheAnnualCertificationFee

bull SignCSIACodeofEthics

OR

bull SubmitappropriatenumberofContinuing Education Units (CEUs) in the relevant categories

bull AgreetopaytheAnnualCertificationFee

bull SignCSIACodeofEthics

Upon earning the CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg credential your certification is valid for one year You will need to recertify annually by paying the annual certification fee This fee will be invoiced annually prior to your expiration date Please note that your credential will require renewal every three years by submittal of the minimum 48 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) in accordance with the CSIA Credential Renewal Policy or by passing the certification exams and either submitting a minimum of 9 CEUs or completing a CSIA Review

If your annual certification fee is not paid prior to your certification expiration date your credential will be considered lapsed and you will immediately lose all rights and privileges of the CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg credential The following terms will then apply if reinstatement of the credential is desired

If you do not pay your annual certification fee by your expiration date the following timeline will begin

bull Within90daysfromthedateofexpiration if you submit payment in full for the annual certification fee your credential will be reinstated and you will be considered a CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg in good standing maintaining your original annual expiration date and certification number

bull Ifmorethan90daysandlessthan12months beyond your expiration date you will be required to Pay the current annual certification fee and current testing fees and test again Doing so will reinstate your previous annual certification expiration date and certification number You will still be required to pay your next annual fee within the next 12 months

bull Ifmorethan12monthsbeyondyourexpiration date you will be required to either participate in a CSIA approved certification review course or submit evidence of 9 CEUs that were accumulated during the time your credential was active In addition you will be required to pass the CSIA certification exams Upon successful completion a new certification number will be assigned and you will have a new annual certification expiration date

CaliforniaMichaelGipsonbullMidtownSweepsbullLancasterOmarSaenzbullAFiddlerontheRoodDuctampChimneyServicebullVanNuys

IndianaAlexStewartbullOldSmokeyrsquosFireplaceampChimneyIncbullAshley

KansasRyanBerrybullFullServiceChimneybullOlathe

New YorkJayFellibullHearthampHomeofIthacabullIthaca

VermontJamesDonovanbullLincolnPeakPropertiesbullWaitsfield

West VirginiaMichaelAdwellbullTopHatChimneySweepbullLewisburg

WisconsinDustinMyersbullChimneySpecialistsIncbullHighland

ADVERTISEMENT

Congratulations to Our New CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps

Top 10 Woodburning Tips from the Chimney Safety Institute of America

To aid in the prevention of chimney fires and carbon monoxide intrusion and to help keep heating appliances and fireplaces functioning properly the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) offers the following safety tips

1 Get an annual chimney check Have chimneys inspected annually and cleaned as necessary by a qualified professional chimney service technician This reduces the risk of fires and carbon monoxide poisonings due to creosote buildup or obstructions in the chimneys

2 Keep it clear Keep tree branches and leaves at least 15 feet away from the top of the chimney

3 Install a chimney cap to keep debris and animals out of the chimney

4 Choose the right fuel For burning firewood in wood stoves or fireplaces choose wellseasoned wood that has been split for a minimum of six months - one year and stored in a covered and elevated location Never burn Christmas trees or treated wood in your fireplace or wood stove

5 Build it right Place firewood or firelogs at the rear of the fireplace on a supporting grate To start the fire use kindling or a commercial firelighter Never use flammable liquids

6 Keep the hearth area clear Combustible material too close to the fireplace or to a wood stove could easily catch fire Keep furniture at least 36rdquo away from the hearth

7 Use a fireplace screen Use metal mesh or a screen in front of the fireplace to catch flying sparks that could ignite or burn holes in the carpet or flooring

8 Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors Place detectors throughout the house and check batteries in the spring and fall

When you change your clocks for Daylight Savings Time remember to check your batteries

9 Never leave a fire unattended Before turning in for the evening be sure that the fire is fully

extinguished Supervise children and pets closely around wood stoves and fireplaces

10 The CSIA recommends annual inspections performed by CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps These chimney sweeps have earned the industryrsquos most respected credential by passing an intensive examination based on fire codes clearances and standards for the construction and maintenance of chimney and venting systems The National Fire Protection Association also recommends that all chimneys are inspected on an annual basis

For more chimney and fireplace safety tips visit the Chimney Safety Institute of America online at wwwCSIAorg

Solve your customersrsquo smoking sooting odor and draft problems Itrsquos easy with CSIArsquos 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 Ghostingsooting 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 doesnrsquot

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

Learn to solve these problems save time and money and keep

your clients happy with CSIArsquos Online Chimney Physics program

SolvedVenting Problems

Register today at wwwcsiaorg

CSIA 15 Tech 15 CampL 15 HampS 15 CampS NFI 5 Tech

Annual Certification Requirements

Top 10 Woodburning Tips from the Chimney Safety Institute of America

To aid in the prevention of chimney fires and carbon monoxide intrusion and to help keep heating appliances and fireplaces functioning properly the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) offers the following safety tips

1 Get an annual chimney check Have chimneys inspected annually and cleaned as necessary by a qualified professional chimney service technician This reduces the risk of fires and carbon monoxide poisonings due to creosote buildup or obstructions in the chimneys

2 Keep it clear Keep tree branches and leaves at least 15 feet away from the top of the chimney

3 Install a chimney cap to keep debris and animals out of the chimney

4 Choose the right fuel For burning firewood in wood stoves or fireplaces choose wellseasoned wood that has been split for a minimum of six months - one year and stored in a covered and elevated location Never burn Christmas trees or treated wood in your fireplace or wood stove

5 Build it right Place firewood or firelogs at the rear of the fireplace on a supporting grate To start the fire use kindling or a commercial firelighter Never use flammable liquids

6 Keep the hearth area clear Combustible material too close to the fireplace or to a wood stove could easily catch fire Keep furniture at least 36rdquo away from the hearth

7 Use a fireplace screen Use metal mesh or a screen in front of the fireplace to catch flying sparks that could ignite or burn holes in the carpet or flooring

8 Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors Place detectors throughout the house and check batteries in the spring and fall

When you change your clocks for Daylight Savings Time remember to check your batteries

9 Never leave a fire unattended Before turning in for the evening be sure that the fire is fully

extinguished Supervise children and pets closely around wood stoves and fireplaces

10 The CSIA recommends annual inspections performed by CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps These chimney sweeps have earned the industryrsquos most respected credential by passing an intensive examination based on fire codes clearances and standards for the construction and maintenance of chimney and venting systems The National Fire Protection Association also recommends that all chimneys are inspected on an annual basis

For more chimney and fireplace safety tips visit the Chimney Safety Institute of America online at wwwCSIAorg

ADVERTISEMENT

You can spend weeks trying to get a new employee up to speed In the process yoursquoll have used up your valuable time your patience and more money than you would like to admit

Instead send your employee to the most popular cost-effective chimney sweep training in North America CSIArsquos National Chimney Sweep Training School In less than a week wersquoll create an employee that yoursquoll be proud to send on a call ndash and happy to count toward your bottom line

Register today at wwwcsiaorg or call us at (317) 837-5362

At the 6-day hands-on Training School your employee will learn

How to inspect and service chimney systems serving any fuel burning appliance

How to be safe with the latest health and safety equipment and methods

How to work with residential heating appliances including wood stoves pellet stoves inserts factory-built fireplaces central heaters and furnaces

How to diagnose chimney performance problems understanding draft and flow diagnosing down drafts flow reversals inadequate flow stack effects updrafts pressure effects and gauges

How to navigate the International Residential Codes How to follow the NFPA 211 standards

Class size is limited to ensure a ratio of no more than eight students per instructor This small class size means that students have the opportunity for individual attention from the schoolrsquos experienced instructors and ample opportunities for hands-on training Because class size is limited it is important to apply early to reserve your place

The online CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience

The online Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician (CDET) review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience designed to help you pass the CDET exam

Take advantage of these other CSIA educational offerings that can build your business

Send us your greenhorn

and wersquoll send you back a pro

in 6 days Classes fill quickly so register now

2012 DATeS April 2ndash7June 4ndash9August 6ndash11September 24ndash29

April 2-7June 11-16August 6-11September 24-29

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 25

You can spend weeks trying to get a new employee up to speed In the process yoursquoll have used up your valuable time your patience and more money than you would like to admit

Instead send your employee to the most popular cost-effective chimney sweep training in North America CSIArsquos National Chimney Sweep Training School In less than a week wersquoll create an employee that yoursquoll be proud to send on a call ndash and happy to count toward your bottom line

Register today at wwwcsiaorg or call us at (317) 837-5362

At the 6-day hands-on Training School your employee will learn

How to inspect and service chimney systems serving any fuel burning appliance

How to be safe with the latest health and safety equipment and methods

How to work with residential heating appliances including wood stoves pellet stoves inserts factory-built fireplaces central heaters and furnaces

How to diagnose chimney performance problems understanding draft and flow diagnosing down drafts flow reversals inadequate flow stack effects updrafts pressure effects and gauges

How to navigate the International Residential Codes How to follow the NFPA 211 standards

Class size is limited to ensure a ratio of no more than eight students per instructor This small class size means that students have the opportunity for individual attention from the schoolrsquos experienced instructors and ample opportunities for hands-on training Because class size is limited it is important to apply early to reserve your place

The online CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience

The online Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician (CDET) review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience designed to help you pass the CDET exam

Take advantage of these other CSIA educational offerings that can build your business

Send us your greenhorn

and wersquoll send you back a pro

in 6 days Classes fill quickly so register now

2012 DATeS April 2ndash7June 4ndash9August 6ndash11September 24ndash29

April 2-7June 11-16August 6-11September 24-29

ProgressivePerksBY DEBBIE CORNELIUS

MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT COORDINATOR

Get Organized and Make the Most of Your Busy Season

Sometimes it really surprises me that more NCSG members do not take advantage of the discounted benefits available to them These will not only save you time buthellip money too

Paycor Payroll Services price reduction on payroll and tax services One specialist will be dedicated to your account with a team of tax specialists available to resolve issues in the fastest amount of time should an issue arise

Market Hardware can bring your business up to speed in the competitive market of technology where more and more customers are looking to the Web Once they have customized the design that includes a ldquoHome Pagerdquo ldquoAbout Usrdquo and ldquoOur Servicesrdquo page you will have the ability to easily update and edit your Web site yourself instead of paying someone else to do it

Technical Solutions the ldquoSurvival Kit for Small Businessesrdquo can provide on-demand remote repair 247 365 days a year For the price of $2499month with no long term contact involved you can cover up to 20 computers including multiple office locations

Commercials On Hold provides a great way to brand and promote your full range of services when callers are on hold before they talk to a member of your staff

Take a few minutes to just explore these benefits It would be well worth your time to compare the savings to save you time and help increase your profits

26 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

REGION 6

NCSG Charter Members

Paul Bourque Huntsville AL

Don Leavitt San Diego CA

David Harris Broken Arrow Oklahoma

Dan Wheeler Santa Rosa CA

John Cline Menlo Park CA

Dale Meisinger N Augusta SC

Alan Hisey St Louis MO

Eva B Horton Greenwich CT

Harry Richart Hasbrouck Heights NJ

NewNCSGMembers

REGION 3

REGION 2

REGION 5

REGION 4

NCSG REGIONS

REGION 1

Connecticut Vermont Massachusetts New York Maine Rhode Island New Hampshire

REGION 2

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

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

CONNECTICUTChristopher Gonsalves bull Millstream Construction bull HebronDavid Heissenbuttel bull DMH amp Associates Inc bull Wilton

VIRGINAJack Johnston bull Johnstonrsquos Chimney Sweep bull Yorktown

MISSOURIJason Patrick bull Shamrock Qualty Services bull St LouisBill Bonney bull Bonney Bill bull Jackson

KENTUCKYJoshua Moore bull Moore Joshua bull Mt Sterling

ILLINOISJack Lutz bull Lutz Jack bull EurekaClay Nelson bull Clean Sweep bull Collinsville

OHIOAnthony Ramsey bull Elite Chimney Solutions bull Beavercreek

INDIANATravis Beckley bull Beckley Travis bull Coal City

TEXASMatthew Milner bull Milner Matthew bull WhitesboroTony Drew bull AC Contractors dba Fireplaces bull LongviewChristopher A Hess bull Atlas Chimney bull Leander

MINNESOTARenee Gustafson bull John C Gustafson Builder LLC bull Little Falls

COLORADOKent Macintosh bull Russian River Chimney Sweeps bull Healdsburg

CALIFORNIA Errol Davis bull The Chimney Specialist bull Huntington Beach

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 27

The 2012 ndash 2013 offers are being added daily in the ldquoMembers Onlyrdquo section of the NCSG website at wwwNCSGorg So start checking for these new offers each week These coupons will be good until June 30 2013

Copperfield Chimney Supply bull Lindemann Chimney Supply bull Meyer Machine amp Equipment bull National Chimney Supply bull SNEWS - The Chimney Sweep News bull Wakefield Brush bull Wohler USA Inc

2012 ndash 2013 SWEEPS ADVANTAGE COUPON PROGRAM

Featured Coupons of the Month

COPPERFIELD CHIMNEY SUPPLY

SAVE Up to $ 12650 FREE 13 x 13 Lock-Top with an order of $250

SAVE Up to $ 123 One FREE component Kit with any purchase of 6rdquo UltraPro

SAVE Up to $ 52One 225 quart Woodfield porcelain-coated steamer with any Napoleon appliance

purchase

SAVE Up to $ 46 One 13 x 13 HomeSaver Stainless Steel chimney cap with any Order of $250 or more

SAVE Up to $ 64 One EasyClean Cap with any purchase of $250

SAVE UP TO $ 75 $75 off any 25rsquo order of UltraPro Stainless Steel Liner

SAVE UP TO $ 40 $40 off any Flue Stretcher Chimney Cap

SAVE UP TO $ 20 Sign up for a Copperfield Reline Workshop and Save $20

SAVE UP TO FRE FREE 4 foot sample of HomeSaver Ultrapro

WOHLER USA INC SAVE UP TO $ 500$500 rebate with proof of purchase of VIS2000

Pro Camera System

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Benefits of Answering Service

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28 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

Meyer Machine amp Equipment

SUCKINGDUCTS

ampINSULATION

FOR OVER 20 YEARS

As most allergy sufferers will tell you allergy symptoms can always be bothersome turning any time of year into sneezing season A runny nose itchy eyes and scratchy throat can arise as the days get shorter and the leaves begin to change

The fall can be especially difficult for people who are sensitive to mold and ragweed pollen But these seasonal elements arenrsquot the only triggers that can make symptoms worse this time of year There are also a few lesser known triggers Here are four things you might not know about fall allergies courtesy of the American College of Allergy Asthma and Immunology

Hay fever - Hay fever a term from a bygone era actually has nothing to do with hay Instead itrsquos a general term used to describe the symptoms of late summer allergies Ragweed is a common cause of hay fever which is also known as allergic rhinitis The plant usually begins to pollinate in mid-August and may continue to be a problem until a hard freeze depending on where you live See an allergist for prescription medications to control symptoms or to see if allergy shots may be your best option

Lingering warm weather - While most people enjoy Indian summer unseasonably warm temperatures can make rhinitis symptoms last longer Mold spores can also be released when humidity is high or the weather is dry and windy Be sure to begin taking medications before your symptoms start Track your allergy symptoms with MyNasalAllergyJournalorg and visit with your allergist to find relief

Pesky leaves - Some folks might find it difficult to keep up with raking leaves throughout the autumn But for allergy sufferers raking presents its own problem It can stir agitating pollen and mold into the air causing allergy and asthma symptoms Those with allergies should wear an NIOSH-rated N95 mask when raking leaves mowing the lawn and gardening

School allergens - Itrsquos not only seasonal pollen and mold that triggers allergies this time of year Kids are often exposed to classroom irritants and allergy triggers These can include chalk dust and classroom pets Students with food allergies may also be exposed to allergens in the lunch roomKids with exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB) may experience attacks during recess or gym class Help your child understand what can trigger their allergies and asthma and how they can avoid symptoms Be sure to notify teachers and the school nurse of any emergency medications such as quick relief inhalers and epinephrine

No matter the season itrsquos important for those who think they may be suffering from allergies or asthma to see a board-certified allergist An allergist can help you develop a treatment plan which can include both medication and avoidance techniques

Having your allergies properly identified and treated will help you and your family enjoy the season To find an allergist and learn more about allergies and asthma visit wwwAllergyandAsthmaRelieforg

Four Things You Might Not Know About Fall Allergies

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 29

trategic partnerships Sounds fancy but what does it really mean They are called what they are called because there is a true strategy behind them the thought and planning that goes into identifying and development those relationships in a way that will

ultimately help those who are participating to achieve their mission The fact that it is indeed a ldquopartnershiprdquo indicates that everyone involved mutually stands to benefit in some wayhellipItrsquos a win-win

The strategic part of establishing partnerships is analyzing who you are your goals and your current resources and then finding organizations (partners) that will allow you to get the things that you need in order to take your organization to the next level But true partnerships are about what you can bring to each other to help achieve your goals and enhance your resources It is not solely about what you can give me but rather what we can give each other As the great John F Kennedy is well known for encouraging of a world partnership ldquoask not what America will do for you but what together we can do for the freedom of manrdquo

So where does this leave an association like NCSG The key to nonprofits establishing strategic partnerships is having the infrastructure to attract and maintain these relationships In this country there are plenty of nonprofits that are doing great work but there is no organization that will be able to survive if they try

to achieve their mission without establishing partnerships that help provide resources and relationships that allow us to achieve our mission

NCSG is very fortunate to have an impressive array of partners who have for many years some since our inception done just that Our partners have advertised in this magazine exhibited at our conventions contributed to the building and maintaining of our headquarters and the premier industry training facility in Indianapolis discounted thousands of dollars in products and services to our members and have helped us promote the Guild and recruit membership in countless ways not the least of which includes maintaining their own membership in NCSG

Our partners are committed to helping us advance our mission and in turn propel our professional field forward Their partnership supports that programs that ignite your professional and technical development and provide the products and services that have helped you bring your own businesses to life They are integral to the success of this industry and most renew their support of the Guild year after year

Without their support of Sweeping magazine through their advertising we would not have been able to come close to bringing this publication to our members and the industry for the past 35 years (originally The Chimney Sweep Guild News) without significant taxation on the readers Without their support

BY MARK MCSWEENEY CAEEXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Perspective

Support Those Who Support YouldquoOur success has really been based on partnerships from the very beginningrdquo -Bill Gates

S

30 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

of NCSGrsquos annual convention through exhibiting and additional sponsorships registration fees for attendees would easily be double what they are today

When viewing our relationship with exhibitors sponsors advertisers and supplier members as a partnership the question needs to be asked How are we as an association mutually helping them achieve their respective goals

The answer comes back to us having infrastructure to attract and maintain these partnerships And that infrastructure is you the member NCSG cultivates and maintains the relationship with our industry partners on your behalf You are asked to back that up through your support of these partner service providers

Now Irsquom not saying you should buy everything you need at any one place or only through our partners At the end of the day you ultimately need to make your purchasing decisions based on your individual business needs However what would be great to see is our members calling our partners up and giving them a chance to compete for your business Let them know you are a part of NCSG and even if you are not in a position to do business with them this time around let them know you appreciate their continued support of the Guild and the industry Itrsquos one thing to call up to a supplier and ask about a product get a price and hang up Itrsquos another thing to make sure you let them know you saw their ad in Sweeping you read about them

online or you remember they exhibited at the convention so that they know they are getting positive exposure and that their investment in our partnership is not going unnoticed

With that said here are some simple and tangible things things you can do to help the partnership you are a part ofbull Consider our partners each and every time you need to make a

purchasing decision and give them an opportunity to earn your business when you can Look at those who are advertising in Sweeping or see a full listing of NCSG Supplier Members under the Chimney Sweep tab on ncsgorg

bull When you talk to them let them know yoursquore part of NCSG and thank them for their support of your association

bull If you like them even if you canrsquot do business with them currently spread the word and help get their name out there

bull Attend events where our partners have stepped up to sponsor Help show them we value them being there and appreciate their efforts This helps everyone when it comes to working out future programs discounts events and more

We are all in this together Just as you want to ensure you are receiving the return you need on the investments you make our supplier members advertisers exhibitors and sponsors need to justify their own ROI on the variety of support avenues they offer

to NCSG I thought Irsquod take a minute this month to say ldquothank yourdquo to all of you who support us in so many different ways and would like to encourage others to do the same

Until next time I continue to wish you every success

Double Locking CrimpRemains StrongYet Very Flexibl e

With No Memo ry

Strong Triple Locking CrimpHolds T ogether Even OnTough Jobs

Horizontal Sides Of CorrugationOffer Added Strengthamp Flexibility

Manufactured by CHIMNEY TECHNIQUE INC

Chim-Pro Interlock Flex

Chim-Pro Corrugated

Flex

Chim-Pro RigidADDED SAFETY EFFICIENCY AND VALUE

In Which ALL FITTINGS Are Attached With A Band Even The Tee Cap And Elbows Quick amp Simple No Drilling amp Riveting

Featuring

Visit wwwchim-prolinercom for more detailsbull 2000 Industrial Ave bull Sioux Falls SD 57104

1-800-582-1392

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 31

Display Ad Index

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 mheekencsgorg for publication in Sweeping Or mail it to NCSG 2155 Commercial Drive Plainfield IN 46168

Page Advertiser Phone Email or Website Address

30 Ahrens Chimney Technique 800-582-1392 ahrenschimneyqwestofficenet

21-24 Chimney Safety Institute of America 317-837-5362 wwwcsiaorg

14 Cobra Chimney Caps 888-463-0636 salescobrachimneycom

27 Communications Network Inc 800-875-8118 tkempercomnetmessagecom

5 Copperfield 800-247-3305 wwwcopperfieldcom

4 ENERVEX Inc 800-255-2923 infochimneyfanscom

13 Firesafe Industries Inc 800-545-6607 wwwfiresafeinccom

16 Gelco Lyemance Lock-Top 800-334-2154 wwwGLLchimneyproductscom

9 Hose Master 800-221-2319 bobdanielshosemastercom

10 ICP 508-695-7000 wwwchimneycapscom

BC Lifetime Chimney Supply LLC 877-234-7473 wwwlifetimechimneysupplycom

7 Lindemann Chimney Company 800-722-7230 wwwlindemannchimneycom

11 M amp G Duravent 800-835-4429 wwwduraventcom

28 Meyer Machine amp Equipment 800-728-3828 wwwmeyermachinecom

25 National Chimney Supply 800-897-8481 wwwnationalchimneysupplycom

17 Olympia Chimney Supply 800-569-1425 wwwolympiachimneycom

19 Sand Hill Wholesale 800-258-5496 wwwsandhillwholesalecom

6 SaverSystems Inc 800-860-6327 wwwchimneysavercom

3 Smoktite 866-439-0069 wwwsmoktitecom

8 Wakefield Brush 800-264-7007 wwwwakefieldbrushcom

19 Whitecaps 800-335-2534 wwwwhitecapscom

15 Z-Flex 800-654-5600 wwwz-flexcom

The pole and bucket chimney That is how they keep rain and birds out during off season Notice the class A is just an extension of a masonry chimney

Submitted by Kevon Binder of Doctor Flue Inc

September 13-15 2012Lake Murray SCSouth Carolina Chimney Sweep Guildrsquos ldquoThe GatheringrdquoFor more information please contact Blume at (864) 232-9811 or blume357bellsouthnet

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 19 2012 Taunton MAFall Protection User Training Class Including OSHArsquos 2011 ruling on alternate fall protection methods - Sponsored by the Massachusetts Chimney Sweep GuildFor more information please call Jeffrey Wright at (781) 233-2321

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-29 2012CSIA Technology CenterCSIA National Chimney Sweep Training SchoolFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

Dates amp Events

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 8-12 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg October 8-12 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

Please send notice of your events for NCSG Dates amp Events listings at mmcmahonncsgorg for inclusion here in weekly posts to the discussion list and online at wwwNCSGorgdates The event must be considered educational or informative for the industry (sales events and open houses will not be listed)

32 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

ClassifiedsGotta chimney question Sizing Codes Call Royal Edwards Make Royal your tech department CALL NOW 813-982-0219 for on-call tech support Continuing Education special bonus ndash ask how you can get the Friday morning E-Blast for FREE CALL NOW 813-982-0219

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

Chimney Sweep business for sell in the Northern Rocky Mountains of New Mexico Services a large area with three ski resorts in the service area Equipment and signed three year contracts goes with the business Business is well established For pricing and other info please email your questions to ridgeriders1gmailcom

CLASSIFIED ADS FREE FOR NCSG MEMBERSMembers can run one 35 word classified free each year Regularly classified ads are $2word or $1word for NCSG members Classified ads are non-commissionable and must be pre-paid To place a classified ad please contact Megan McMahon at mmcmahonncsgorg or (317) 837-1500

NCSG Innovation 2013 Convention and Trade Show Hotel reservations are now being accepted for NCSG Innovation 2013 at Chateau on the Lake in Branson MO April 4-7 2013 Just call 1-888-333-LAKE (5253) and mention that yoursquore with the National Chimney Sweep Guild to lock in rates starting at $129 for a mountain view and $134 for a lake view

Get ready for some RampR Yoursquore earned it

Order Your FREEAnnual Maintenance Reminder Postcards

A great way to remind homeowners to schedule their annual maintenance check up

Each card has space available for your business information

Use them as reminders for your existing clients or send them to generate new business

To order postcards and other free Burn Wise products contact

Leigh Herringtonherringtonleighepagov

ampKristen Bremer

bremerkristenepagov

wwwepagovburnwise

Follow us on

Wood-Burning Safety

Starts with You

Have you scheduled your

annual inspection

The National Fire Protection Association estimates

that 25 percent of home heating fires are caused

primarily by creosote buildup in the chimney

Make your home healthier and safer A properly

installed and maintained appliance burns more

efficiently and saves you money Contact your local

certified chimney sweep to schedule an annual

inspection today

Before You Burn

The right wayThe right way is hot and bright

In the right applianceThe right appliance is an EPA-approved appliance inspected annually by a certified chimney sweep

Burn the right woodBurn only dry well-seasoned wood that has been split and stored properly

wwwepagovburnwise

wwwcsiaorg

Printed on 100 recycledrecyclable paper with a minimum 50 post-consumer waste using vegetable-based

EPA 456-F-10-004

National Chimney Sweep Guild2155 Commercial DrivePlainfield IN 46168

1208

OR

Page 14: September 2012

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 13

Quite frankly this hit it on the head Each and every day as a business owner you face adversity perhaps from a customer perhaps from the world around us perhaps simply from an employee who did not meet our expectations But you know this is life and life has a way of throwing curve ball after curve ball The real winner will anticipate what the curve balls will be and will develop the methods to hit the ball no matter how it is thrown at us

The true winner will always view each and every adversary as a learning experience taking what is learned from each error each loss and each hiccup and use these as the basis for new procedures new methods and new ways to grow and prosper The true winner knows that his 1 accountability partner is that guy with him all the time the guy he knows as the man in the mirror

Some are even developing methods within the business to pull these errors and mistakes out of the hidden abyss of the unknown to find the ones we may not even be paying attention to Recently observing several who have instituted a new method that can isolate and eliminate issues is producing astounding results As a respected colleague shared with me ldquoJerry it feels like we are walking on glass but we are finding the ways to end the dreaded Groundhog Day happening over and overrdquo Successful business managers use this as the basis of how they will change the business model adapt their procedures

and continue to grow and prosper All the while raising the PERCENTAGE of profit from the gross figure They do not look at the number they view the number as the percentage Only through viewing the percentage can we truly have a yardstick by which to measure our progress as we grow our management skills

With this my wish is for you to have an excellent fall By the time you read this we will have hit that great part of the year called FALL and what so many call THE BUSY SEASON As you enter this make plans now as to how you plan to promote your business come January 1 2013 This is what the guys who are moving forward are doing The fall is already through the planning stages and they are ready for action ARE YOU If not ask that man in the mirror if he is truly operating at the level he needs to be He has the answer I am sure

About the Author Jerry Isenhour is an industry consultant coach and educator 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 and your business in your quest for success and your rise to the next level take a look at his web site wwwchimneyandventingconsultantscom He can be contacted at jerrychimneyandventingconsultantscom or by phone at (704) 425-0217 You can also obtain great business tips from his Facebook page Chimney amp Venting Consultants

ldquoMy company uses most products available to chimney contractors but Firesafersquos products and systems are hands-down the very best and the most profitable Great technical support and their constant improvements make the products even better which makes my company stand out over my competitionrdquo Kevin Knight Chadds Ford Chimney Sweeps PA

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14 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

erhaps the most important thing to recognize about business is that customer service is not an afterthought to everything else It IS everything else Or as Leon Gorman the CEO of LL Bean puts it ldquoCustomer Service is just a day in day out

ongoing never ending unremitting persevering compassionate type of activityrdquo

Oh thatrsquos a nice thought you say Irsquoll be certain to put a little more attention on that the next free moment I get

If this is your response yoursquove missed the point and perhaps the boat too

So what does it mean when we say service What does good customer service look like Herersquos a good hint from Peter Drucker ldquoQuality in service or product is not what you put into it Itrsquos what the customer gets out of itrdquo

In other words in the final analysis itrsquos not simply how

well you do your job that matters What matters is how your customer feels about you or your company once the job is completed What matters is what they got out of it And in that regard in any arena of competitors the battle will be won by the company who leaves the customer feeling the best the happiest the most satisfied

Jerry Gregoire CIO of Dell believes ldquoThe customer experience is the next competitive battlegroundrdquo

Now you might be thinking your customers must be pretty satisfied since most of the time they donrsquot seem to have any complaints

If you are feeling this way it would behoove you to remember most customers donrsquot complain even if there are dramatic issues with the work Why People donrsquot like confrontations And many people feel their complaints will be neither appreciated nor dealt with so why bother

The One and Only Thing

P

BY GREG POLAKOW OF COPPERFIELD

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 15

The course of action they choose rather than wasting their time and emotions complaining to someone they feel will be either hostile or unresponsive is to select one of your competitors next time they need work done As the saying goes they vote with their wallet

You might rightly be asking yourself well if my customers donrsquot tell me when theyrsquore not satisfied what can I possibly do about it

The answer is there are many things that can be done about it But the first starts with the understanding that customer service is not something that kicks in only when therersquos a problem Customer service has to be part of every contact you have with your customers It is how you treat your customers before you even show up at their door It is how you conduct yourself during your visit And it is most certainly the way in which you handle follow up

Remember it is how your customers feel after all is said and done that matters

We are always forming opinions about others It is a natural part of being human And we begin formulating those opinions with our very first encounter The initial opinions may later give way to either better or worse opinions but initial opinions are extremely influential So ask yourself what are you doing to

insure that the very first impression a customer has of you and your business is excellent What are you doing to make this very first customer service experience positive What are you doing to provide your customer at the very outset with a feel good experience

Whatever your answer is remember it is often this first impression that will determine whether or not a customer will call and complain if there is a problem later rather than simply opt to call one of your competitors next time Why Because it is in this first encounter with you that a customer begins to decide if they trust you If you trust that a company has your best interests at heart you are much more likely to call if there is a problem

So how do you establish a feeling of well being and trust with your customer from the get go Again it has to do with how you make them feel the moment you pick up your phone to answer their first call If your tone is cold indifferent or even matter of fact they are not likely to feel you care And if you donrsquot seem to care about them can you really be trusted to have their best interests at heart EVERTHING you do from the outset absolutely everything will create an opinion of you in the customerrsquos mind That means your tone of voice the patience with which you respond to their questions And the very language and even diction you use to talk to them about whatever chimney related issue they are having

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Z-Max Rain Cap ampLock lsquoN Go Base Tee

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Sweeping News (Snews)_Smoothcore_Z-Max_no booth_HR_March 29 2012pdf 1 12-03-30 212 PM

16 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

Use language that is too technical and you lose them and put them on the defensive ldquoAm I supposed to understand what this guy is talking aboutrdquo they wonder Speak too fast or indistinctly and you get the same result

Seem like picky details They may be to you but they will not be to your customer

Remember when a customer comes to you he is laying his problem at your feet If he could remedy it himself he would But he canrsquot He needs you to help him So he is feeling a bit vulnerable a bit out of his league How you respond to him in this circumstance can either make him feel immediately comfortable and in safe hands or something less desirable You decide which effect you want to create

I think you can see that if this first encounter leaves your customer glowing instead of glowering you win You win his confidence his trust and even here at the very outset his gratitude If yoursquove done this well ie addressed his initial questions and concerns in a compassionate understanding thorough manner well you are off to an excellent start

But the battle has not been won because yoursquove also set some expectations and your customerrsquos expectation that this kind of treatment will continue must be met If your crew shows up to do the work and forgets they are in the customer service business first and foremost all you accomplished at the beginning can be ruined

Good customer service must build on itself from day one in order to maintain that feeling in your customer of confidence happiness and trust It cannot be hit and miss Being inconsistent might be worse than being just plain ornery from the beginning

Does good customer service trump sloppy careless or substandard work Of course not Because the quality of your product is a huge part of the customer service package Itrsquos all customer service

The bottom line is your customer will appreciate value and respect you to exactly the same degree you appreciate value and respect him No more and no less And the great thing is when you treat your customers as friends when you gladly and openly address their concerns and fix their problems your work and your life become easier and more fulfilling

Try it out Start thinking of customer service as being the be all and end all of your business and see how well things go Yoursquoll be amazed

Remember as Tony Allesandra has observed ldquoBeing on par in terms of price and quality only gets you into the game Service wins the gamerdquo

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18 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

ou all have accomplishments You support your family your employees and their families your vendors and you provide comfort and safety for your customers

Some of you can enjoy your success and can focus on preserving what you have Many of you want to and have the capacity to grow and be more successful Some of you may be struggling with the seasonality and economics of your business Regardless of your level of success almost all of you have varying degrees of uncertainty

Many articles books conferences and videos have been made about the importance of having a strategic plan to help guide you to fulfill your potential

This magazine has offered numerous articles written to help you fulfill your potential The NCSG offers courses to help you gain skills to be more successful

Yet there still appears to be too many business owners

struggling to achieve their goals ndash or have yet to explicitly define their goals which could help them to get their time back and allow them (you) to enjoy their (your) lives

Maybe yoursquore stuck on tactics without a strategy Maybe yoursquore stuck on ldquonoiserdquo ndash noise that the media airs about events you cannot control and distracts you from your business Perhaps that ldquonoiserdquo has contributed to a pessimistic perspective

Perhaps all of the above is ldquonoiserdquo that covers up past or current mistakes or regret either real or perceived

Letrsquos work on facing your concerns and your past Fear fades when facts are faced Regrets can become wisdom when success lies ahead

Consider forming a team of trusted professionals emulate successful associates select friends and close family members who can create a ldquojudgment freerdquo zone to allow you to unwind the past that may be keeping you from achieving your potential

Focus on What You Can Control

Y

BY BRIAN NOE OF MW FINANCIAL GROUP

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 19

Your team can help you realize your dreams by developing a sound strategy employing objective facts without bias Your team has your back

So letrsquos throw out the rear view mirror set aside our mistakes and regrets and look forward to what you can control that can lead to success

You and your team can control your personal finances You and your team can control your business Here are some steps you can take to help seize the day sleep easy and get your time back

1 Budget ndash do you have a personal and business budget Do you adhere to your budget Does your budget include protection and savings for retirement and your legacy Do you know how much you need to save for retirement and your legacy Are you prepared in the event that you may ldquolive too longrdquo

2 Help Protect Yourself your Family and your Business ndash you can take steps to control your risk

Do you let your employees drive your personal vehicles Do your employees drive your work vehicles for personal use Are you covered for that activity These are a just a few examples of ldquohiddenrdquo liabilities that you may be exposed to but unaware of

Do you have adequate umbrella insurance protection in addition to home and auto insurance that covers you and your employees

Do you take steps to relieve stress Do you have disability insurance to provide you with income or your business with funds to pay expenses in the event of illness or injury that prevents you from working

For your business you can implement a safety program This sets up a plan of employee procedures for handling vendors customers and inter-employee communication skills to improve workmanship and other employee development For events you cannot control do you have liability EampO and similar insurance

Does your business take advantage of legal structure asset titling (multiple businesses Spouse ownership) retirement plans life insurance annuities trusts and homestead

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20 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

exemptions (if available) to help protect assets from creditors and frivolous lawsuits

3 Employ Efficient Debt ndash we may be at the bottom of the interest rate and inflation cycle If interest rates rise andor inflation heats up the general rule of thumb for most of us is debtors win creditors lose If you have the cash you have control If the banker has the cash they have control

4 Manage Taxes ndash whether or not income or estate taxes increase in the future a retirement assetincome distribution business succession and legacy strategy is a must for everyone

5 Investment Management ndash you have plenty of risk with your business Do you want to have unnecessary risk with your investments

You cannot control macroeconomics (sequence of return risk rising interest rates trade and budget deficits unemployment inflation taxes real estate values commodity markets fluctuating foreign currency etc)

You cannot control geopolitical events (elections Euro zone issues violent foreign government changes war etc) or environmental events (hurricanes earthquakes fires tsunamis etc)

How do you insulate yourself from economic events you cannot control Consider historically tried tested and true strategies Consider strategies that your grandparentrsquos generation may have used They had to protect themselves ndash government bailouts and subsidies were few and far between

Congratulations if you can assemble a team to help you define and implement a strategy using the tactics described above This can be achieved in a relatively short period of time (a few hours a week over several short weeks can do it) which can help give you your time back so you can focus on your business and family

6 Manage your Business ndash this you can completely control You can engage in any of the following business expansion activities without losing energy and enthusiasm to the issues you and your team of advisors tackled above

Perhaps you would ratherbull Recruit and develop key employees (and future buyers of

your business)bull Market expansion (are you getting on board the e-marketing

train)bull Develop operating procedures and processesbull Improve safety (reduce liability)bull Expand into new territoriesbull Enter a new industry

bull Purchase and manage real estate

Life Happens ndash Enjoy It

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 US Army Eric is ranked first in his class with a degree in Computer Science is working in his field and plans on attending graduate school in 2013 His daughter Kara recently graduated undergraduate school with distinction and is planning to attend graduate school to become a Physiciansrsquo 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_NoeMWFinancialcom

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CSIA Update wwwCSIAorg

Publication for CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepregs

ADVERTISEMENT

The Virginia Association of Chimney amp

Hearth Professionals sponsored CSIArsquos

Inspection amp Report Writing class in

Arlington VA this August 6-7 Tom Urban

served as the instructor for the two-day

session Forty one professionals were

in attendance with 19 being business

owners and 22 being employees The

session drew attendees from as far away

as Louisville KY

The event was sponsored by Wakefield

Brush The Chimney Sweep News

Ahrenrsquos Copperfield Wohler Estoban

Lindemann Chimney Supply National

Chimney Supply Olympia Chimney

Supply SaverSystems and Whitecaps

VACHP Sponsored Inspection amp Report Writing

Fred Regar served as auctioneer of the sponsor-donated items on the second day of the session

Tom Urban teaching the CSIA Inspection and Report Writing Class in Arlington

When renewing a credential earned after September 1 2009 a CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg is required to

Available downloads for CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepsreg and CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Techniciansreg include

bull CSIACertifiedChimneySweepandCSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician Trademarks

bull ButtonsforyourWebsite

bull CustomizablePowerPointpresentationfor home inspectors

bull InspectionSOPs

bull LadderSafetyTips

bull ldquoChimneyFiresCausesEffectsampEvaluationrdquo Prepared by Chimney Safety Institute of America- Chimney Fire Education and Research Task Force

bull Printversionofthiswhitepaperisalsoavailable for purchase

bull Top10WoodburningTipsfromtheChimney Safety Institute of America

Check out the CCS amp CDET area at CSIAorg

bull Submitaminimumof9CEUsearnedwithin the preceeding 3 years (in any category) before testing NOTE This requirement will not apply to CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps already holding the credential on September 1 2009untiltheirnext3-yearcertificationcycle

bull Passaone-hourexambasedonSuccessfulChimneySweeping(2009)andNFPA211(2010)

bull Passaninety-minuteopen-bookexambasedonthe2006IRCreg

bull AgreetopaytheAnnualCertificationFee

bull SignCSIACodeofEthics

OR

bull SubmitappropriatenumberofContinuing Education Units (CEUs) in the relevant categories

bull AgreetopaytheAnnualCertificationFee

bull SignCSIACodeofEthics

Upon earning the CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg credential your certification is valid for one year You will need to recertify annually by paying the annual certification fee This fee will be invoiced annually prior to your expiration date Please note that your credential will require renewal every three years by submittal of the minimum 48 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) in accordance with the CSIA Credential Renewal Policy or by passing the certification exams and either submitting a minimum of 9 CEUs or completing a CSIA Review

If your annual certification fee is not paid prior to your certification expiration date your credential will be considered lapsed and you will immediately lose all rights and privileges of the CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg credential The following terms will then apply if reinstatement of the credential is desired

If you do not pay your annual certification fee by your expiration date the following timeline will begin

bull Within90daysfromthedateofexpiration if you submit payment in full for the annual certification fee your credential will be reinstated and you will be considered a CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg in good standing maintaining your original annual expiration date and certification number

bull Ifmorethan90daysandlessthan12months beyond your expiration date you will be required to Pay the current annual certification fee and current testing fees and test again Doing so will reinstate your previous annual certification expiration date and certification number You will still be required to pay your next annual fee within the next 12 months

bull Ifmorethan12monthsbeyondyourexpiration date you will be required to either participate in a CSIA approved certification review course or submit evidence of 9 CEUs that were accumulated during the time your credential was active In addition you will be required to pass the CSIA certification exams Upon successful completion a new certification number will be assigned and you will have a new annual certification expiration date

CaliforniaMichaelGipsonbullMidtownSweepsbullLancasterOmarSaenzbullAFiddlerontheRoodDuctampChimneyServicebullVanNuys

IndianaAlexStewartbullOldSmokeyrsquosFireplaceampChimneyIncbullAshley

KansasRyanBerrybullFullServiceChimneybullOlathe

New YorkJayFellibullHearthampHomeofIthacabullIthaca

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West VirginiaMichaelAdwellbullTopHatChimneySweepbullLewisburg

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Congratulations to Our New CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps

Top 10 Woodburning Tips from the Chimney Safety Institute of America

To aid in the prevention of chimney fires and carbon monoxide intrusion and to help keep heating appliances and fireplaces functioning properly the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) offers the following safety tips

1 Get an annual chimney check Have chimneys inspected annually and cleaned as necessary by a qualified professional chimney service technician This reduces the risk of fires and carbon monoxide poisonings due to creosote buildup or obstructions in the chimneys

2 Keep it clear Keep tree branches and leaves at least 15 feet away from the top of the chimney

3 Install a chimney cap to keep debris and animals out of the chimney

4 Choose the right fuel For burning firewood in wood stoves or fireplaces choose wellseasoned wood that has been split for a minimum of six months - one year and stored in a covered and elevated location Never burn Christmas trees or treated wood in your fireplace or wood stove

5 Build it right Place firewood or firelogs at the rear of the fireplace on a supporting grate To start the fire use kindling or a commercial firelighter Never use flammable liquids

6 Keep the hearth area clear Combustible material too close to the fireplace or to a wood stove could easily catch fire Keep furniture at least 36rdquo away from the hearth

7 Use a fireplace screen Use metal mesh or a screen in front of the fireplace to catch flying sparks that could ignite or burn holes in the carpet or flooring

8 Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors Place detectors throughout the house and check batteries in the spring and fall

When you change your clocks for Daylight Savings Time remember to check your batteries

9 Never leave a fire unattended Before turning in for the evening be sure that the fire is fully

extinguished Supervise children and pets closely around wood stoves and fireplaces

10 The CSIA recommends annual inspections performed by CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps These chimney sweeps have earned the industryrsquos most respected credential by passing an intensive examination based on fire codes clearances and standards for the construction and maintenance of chimney and venting systems The National Fire Protection Association also recommends that all chimneys are inspected on an annual basis

For more chimney and fireplace safety tips visit the Chimney Safety Institute of America online at wwwCSIAorg

Solve your customersrsquo smoking sooting odor and draft problems Itrsquos easy with CSIArsquos 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 Ghostingsooting 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 doesnrsquot

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

Learn to solve these problems save time and money and keep

your clients happy with CSIArsquos Online Chimney Physics program

SolvedVenting Problems

Register today at wwwcsiaorg

CSIA 15 Tech 15 CampL 15 HampS 15 CampS NFI 5 Tech

Annual Certification Requirements

Top 10 Woodburning Tips from the Chimney Safety Institute of America

To aid in the prevention of chimney fires and carbon monoxide intrusion and to help keep heating appliances and fireplaces functioning properly the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) offers the following safety tips

1 Get an annual chimney check Have chimneys inspected annually and cleaned as necessary by a qualified professional chimney service technician This reduces the risk of fires and carbon monoxide poisonings due to creosote buildup or obstructions in the chimneys

2 Keep it clear Keep tree branches and leaves at least 15 feet away from the top of the chimney

3 Install a chimney cap to keep debris and animals out of the chimney

4 Choose the right fuel For burning firewood in wood stoves or fireplaces choose wellseasoned wood that has been split for a minimum of six months - one year and stored in a covered and elevated location Never burn Christmas trees or treated wood in your fireplace or wood stove

5 Build it right Place firewood or firelogs at the rear of the fireplace on a supporting grate To start the fire use kindling or a commercial firelighter Never use flammable liquids

6 Keep the hearth area clear Combustible material too close to the fireplace or to a wood stove could easily catch fire Keep furniture at least 36rdquo away from the hearth

7 Use a fireplace screen Use metal mesh or a screen in front of the fireplace to catch flying sparks that could ignite or burn holes in the carpet or flooring

8 Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors Place detectors throughout the house and check batteries in the spring and fall

When you change your clocks for Daylight Savings Time remember to check your batteries

9 Never leave a fire unattended Before turning in for the evening be sure that the fire is fully

extinguished Supervise children and pets closely around wood stoves and fireplaces

10 The CSIA recommends annual inspections performed by CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps These chimney sweeps have earned the industryrsquos most respected credential by passing an intensive examination based on fire codes clearances and standards for the construction and maintenance of chimney and venting systems The National Fire Protection Association also recommends that all chimneys are inspected on an annual basis

For more chimney and fireplace safety tips visit the Chimney Safety Institute of America online at wwwCSIAorg

ADVERTISEMENT

You can spend weeks trying to get a new employee up to speed In the process yoursquoll have used up your valuable time your patience and more money than you would like to admit

Instead send your employee to the most popular cost-effective chimney sweep training in North America CSIArsquos National Chimney Sweep Training School In less than a week wersquoll create an employee that yoursquoll be proud to send on a call ndash and happy to count toward your bottom line

Register today at wwwcsiaorg or call us at (317) 837-5362

At the 6-day hands-on Training School your employee will learn

How to inspect and service chimney systems serving any fuel burning appliance

How to be safe with the latest health and safety equipment and methods

How to work with residential heating appliances including wood stoves pellet stoves inserts factory-built fireplaces central heaters and furnaces

How to diagnose chimney performance problems understanding draft and flow diagnosing down drafts flow reversals inadequate flow stack effects updrafts pressure effects and gauges

How to navigate the International Residential Codes How to follow the NFPA 211 standards

Class size is limited to ensure a ratio of no more than eight students per instructor This small class size means that students have the opportunity for individual attention from the schoolrsquos experienced instructors and ample opportunities for hands-on training Because class size is limited it is important to apply early to reserve your place

The online CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience

The online Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician (CDET) review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience designed to help you pass the CDET exam

Take advantage of these other CSIA educational offerings that can build your business

Send us your greenhorn

and wersquoll send you back a pro

in 6 days Classes fill quickly so register now

2012 DATeS April 2ndash7June 4ndash9August 6ndash11September 24ndash29

April 2-7June 11-16August 6-11September 24-29

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 25

You can spend weeks trying to get a new employee up to speed In the process yoursquoll have used up your valuable time your patience and more money than you would like to admit

Instead send your employee to the most popular cost-effective chimney sweep training in North America CSIArsquos National Chimney Sweep Training School In less than a week wersquoll create an employee that yoursquoll be proud to send on a call ndash and happy to count toward your bottom line

Register today at wwwcsiaorg or call us at (317) 837-5362

At the 6-day hands-on Training School your employee will learn

How to inspect and service chimney systems serving any fuel burning appliance

How to be safe with the latest health and safety equipment and methods

How to work with residential heating appliances including wood stoves pellet stoves inserts factory-built fireplaces central heaters and furnaces

How to diagnose chimney performance problems understanding draft and flow diagnosing down drafts flow reversals inadequate flow stack effects updrafts pressure effects and gauges

How to navigate the International Residential Codes How to follow the NFPA 211 standards

Class size is limited to ensure a ratio of no more than eight students per instructor This small class size means that students have the opportunity for individual attention from the schoolrsquos experienced instructors and ample opportunities for hands-on training Because class size is limited it is important to apply early to reserve your place

The online CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience

The online Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician (CDET) review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience designed to help you pass the CDET exam

Take advantage of these other CSIA educational offerings that can build your business

Send us your greenhorn

and wersquoll send you back a pro

in 6 days Classes fill quickly so register now

2012 DATeS April 2ndash7June 4ndash9August 6ndash11September 24ndash29

April 2-7June 11-16August 6-11September 24-29

ProgressivePerksBY DEBBIE CORNELIUS

MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT COORDINATOR

Get Organized and Make the Most of Your Busy Season

Sometimes it really surprises me that more NCSG members do not take advantage of the discounted benefits available to them These will not only save you time buthellip money too

Paycor Payroll Services price reduction on payroll and tax services One specialist will be dedicated to your account with a team of tax specialists available to resolve issues in the fastest amount of time should an issue arise

Market Hardware can bring your business up to speed in the competitive market of technology where more and more customers are looking to the Web Once they have customized the design that includes a ldquoHome Pagerdquo ldquoAbout Usrdquo and ldquoOur Servicesrdquo page you will have the ability to easily update and edit your Web site yourself instead of paying someone else to do it

Technical Solutions the ldquoSurvival Kit for Small Businessesrdquo can provide on-demand remote repair 247 365 days a year For the price of $2499month with no long term contact involved you can cover up to 20 computers including multiple office locations

Commercials On Hold provides a great way to brand and promote your full range of services when callers are on hold before they talk to a member of your staff

Take a few minutes to just explore these benefits It would be well worth your time to compare the savings to save you time and help increase your profits

26 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

REGION 6

NCSG Charter Members

Paul Bourque Huntsville AL

Don Leavitt San Diego CA

David Harris Broken Arrow Oklahoma

Dan Wheeler Santa Rosa CA

John Cline Menlo Park CA

Dale Meisinger N Augusta SC

Alan Hisey St Louis MO

Eva B Horton Greenwich CT

Harry Richart Hasbrouck Heights NJ

NewNCSGMembers

REGION 3

REGION 2

REGION 5

REGION 4

NCSG REGIONS

REGION 1

Connecticut Vermont Massachusetts New York Maine Rhode Island New Hampshire

REGION 2

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

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

CONNECTICUTChristopher Gonsalves bull Millstream Construction bull HebronDavid Heissenbuttel bull DMH amp Associates Inc bull Wilton

VIRGINAJack Johnston bull Johnstonrsquos Chimney Sweep bull Yorktown

MISSOURIJason Patrick bull Shamrock Qualty Services bull St LouisBill Bonney bull Bonney Bill bull Jackson

KENTUCKYJoshua Moore bull Moore Joshua bull Mt Sterling

ILLINOISJack Lutz bull Lutz Jack bull EurekaClay Nelson bull Clean Sweep bull Collinsville

OHIOAnthony Ramsey bull Elite Chimney Solutions bull Beavercreek

INDIANATravis Beckley bull Beckley Travis bull Coal City

TEXASMatthew Milner bull Milner Matthew bull WhitesboroTony Drew bull AC Contractors dba Fireplaces bull LongviewChristopher A Hess bull Atlas Chimney bull Leander

MINNESOTARenee Gustafson bull John C Gustafson Builder LLC bull Little Falls

COLORADOKent Macintosh bull Russian River Chimney Sweeps bull Healdsburg

CALIFORNIA Errol Davis bull The Chimney Specialist bull Huntington Beach

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 27

The 2012 ndash 2013 offers are being added daily in the ldquoMembers Onlyrdquo section of the NCSG website at wwwNCSGorg So start checking for these new offers each week These coupons will be good until June 30 2013

Copperfield Chimney Supply bull Lindemann Chimney Supply bull Meyer Machine amp Equipment bull National Chimney Supply bull SNEWS - The Chimney Sweep News bull Wakefield Brush bull Wohler USA Inc

2012 ndash 2013 SWEEPS ADVANTAGE COUPON PROGRAM

Featured Coupons of the Month

COPPERFIELD CHIMNEY SUPPLY

SAVE Up to $ 12650 FREE 13 x 13 Lock-Top with an order of $250

SAVE Up to $ 123 One FREE component Kit with any purchase of 6rdquo UltraPro

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purchase

SAVE Up to $ 46 One 13 x 13 HomeSaver Stainless Steel chimney cap with any Order of $250 or more

SAVE Up to $ 64 One EasyClean Cap with any purchase of $250

SAVE UP TO $ 75 $75 off any 25rsquo order of UltraPro Stainless Steel Liner

SAVE UP TO $ 40 $40 off any Flue Stretcher Chimney Cap

SAVE UP TO $ 20 Sign up for a Copperfield Reline Workshop and Save $20

SAVE UP TO FRE FREE 4 foot sample of HomeSaver Ultrapro

WOHLER USA INC SAVE UP TO $ 500$500 rebate with proof of purchase of VIS2000

Pro Camera System

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Benefits of Answering Service

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28 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

Meyer Machine amp Equipment

SUCKINGDUCTS

ampINSULATION

FOR OVER 20 YEARS

As most allergy sufferers will tell you allergy symptoms can always be bothersome turning any time of year into sneezing season A runny nose itchy eyes and scratchy throat can arise as the days get shorter and the leaves begin to change

The fall can be especially difficult for people who are sensitive to mold and ragweed pollen But these seasonal elements arenrsquot the only triggers that can make symptoms worse this time of year There are also a few lesser known triggers Here are four things you might not know about fall allergies courtesy of the American College of Allergy Asthma and Immunology

Hay fever - Hay fever a term from a bygone era actually has nothing to do with hay Instead itrsquos a general term used to describe the symptoms of late summer allergies Ragweed is a common cause of hay fever which is also known as allergic rhinitis The plant usually begins to pollinate in mid-August and may continue to be a problem until a hard freeze depending on where you live See an allergist for prescription medications to control symptoms or to see if allergy shots may be your best option

Lingering warm weather - While most people enjoy Indian summer unseasonably warm temperatures can make rhinitis symptoms last longer Mold spores can also be released when humidity is high or the weather is dry and windy Be sure to begin taking medications before your symptoms start Track your allergy symptoms with MyNasalAllergyJournalorg and visit with your allergist to find relief

Pesky leaves - Some folks might find it difficult to keep up with raking leaves throughout the autumn But for allergy sufferers raking presents its own problem It can stir agitating pollen and mold into the air causing allergy and asthma symptoms Those with allergies should wear an NIOSH-rated N95 mask when raking leaves mowing the lawn and gardening

School allergens - Itrsquos not only seasonal pollen and mold that triggers allergies this time of year Kids are often exposed to classroom irritants and allergy triggers These can include chalk dust and classroom pets Students with food allergies may also be exposed to allergens in the lunch roomKids with exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB) may experience attacks during recess or gym class Help your child understand what can trigger their allergies and asthma and how they can avoid symptoms Be sure to notify teachers and the school nurse of any emergency medications such as quick relief inhalers and epinephrine

No matter the season itrsquos important for those who think they may be suffering from allergies or asthma to see a board-certified allergist An allergist can help you develop a treatment plan which can include both medication and avoidance techniques

Having your allergies properly identified and treated will help you and your family enjoy the season To find an allergist and learn more about allergies and asthma visit wwwAllergyandAsthmaRelieforg

Four Things You Might Not Know About Fall Allergies

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 29

trategic partnerships Sounds fancy but what does it really mean They are called what they are called because there is a true strategy behind them the thought and planning that goes into identifying and development those relationships in a way that will

ultimately help those who are participating to achieve their mission The fact that it is indeed a ldquopartnershiprdquo indicates that everyone involved mutually stands to benefit in some wayhellipItrsquos a win-win

The strategic part of establishing partnerships is analyzing who you are your goals and your current resources and then finding organizations (partners) that will allow you to get the things that you need in order to take your organization to the next level But true partnerships are about what you can bring to each other to help achieve your goals and enhance your resources It is not solely about what you can give me but rather what we can give each other As the great John F Kennedy is well known for encouraging of a world partnership ldquoask not what America will do for you but what together we can do for the freedom of manrdquo

So where does this leave an association like NCSG The key to nonprofits establishing strategic partnerships is having the infrastructure to attract and maintain these relationships In this country there are plenty of nonprofits that are doing great work but there is no organization that will be able to survive if they try

to achieve their mission without establishing partnerships that help provide resources and relationships that allow us to achieve our mission

NCSG is very fortunate to have an impressive array of partners who have for many years some since our inception done just that Our partners have advertised in this magazine exhibited at our conventions contributed to the building and maintaining of our headquarters and the premier industry training facility in Indianapolis discounted thousands of dollars in products and services to our members and have helped us promote the Guild and recruit membership in countless ways not the least of which includes maintaining their own membership in NCSG

Our partners are committed to helping us advance our mission and in turn propel our professional field forward Their partnership supports that programs that ignite your professional and technical development and provide the products and services that have helped you bring your own businesses to life They are integral to the success of this industry and most renew their support of the Guild year after year

Without their support of Sweeping magazine through their advertising we would not have been able to come close to bringing this publication to our members and the industry for the past 35 years (originally The Chimney Sweep Guild News) without significant taxation on the readers Without their support

BY MARK MCSWEENEY CAEEXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Perspective

Support Those Who Support YouldquoOur success has really been based on partnerships from the very beginningrdquo -Bill Gates

S

30 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

of NCSGrsquos annual convention through exhibiting and additional sponsorships registration fees for attendees would easily be double what they are today

When viewing our relationship with exhibitors sponsors advertisers and supplier members as a partnership the question needs to be asked How are we as an association mutually helping them achieve their respective goals

The answer comes back to us having infrastructure to attract and maintain these partnerships And that infrastructure is you the member NCSG cultivates and maintains the relationship with our industry partners on your behalf You are asked to back that up through your support of these partner service providers

Now Irsquom not saying you should buy everything you need at any one place or only through our partners At the end of the day you ultimately need to make your purchasing decisions based on your individual business needs However what would be great to see is our members calling our partners up and giving them a chance to compete for your business Let them know you are a part of NCSG and even if you are not in a position to do business with them this time around let them know you appreciate their continued support of the Guild and the industry Itrsquos one thing to call up to a supplier and ask about a product get a price and hang up Itrsquos another thing to make sure you let them know you saw their ad in Sweeping you read about them

online or you remember they exhibited at the convention so that they know they are getting positive exposure and that their investment in our partnership is not going unnoticed

With that said here are some simple and tangible things things you can do to help the partnership you are a part ofbull Consider our partners each and every time you need to make a

purchasing decision and give them an opportunity to earn your business when you can Look at those who are advertising in Sweeping or see a full listing of NCSG Supplier Members under the Chimney Sweep tab on ncsgorg

bull When you talk to them let them know yoursquore part of NCSG and thank them for their support of your association

bull If you like them even if you canrsquot do business with them currently spread the word and help get their name out there

bull Attend events where our partners have stepped up to sponsor Help show them we value them being there and appreciate their efforts This helps everyone when it comes to working out future programs discounts events and more

We are all in this together Just as you want to ensure you are receiving the return you need on the investments you make our supplier members advertisers exhibitors and sponsors need to justify their own ROI on the variety of support avenues they offer

to NCSG I thought Irsquod take a minute this month to say ldquothank yourdquo to all of you who support us in so many different ways and would like to encourage others to do the same

Until next time I continue to wish you every success

Double Locking CrimpRemains StrongYet Very Flexibl e

With No Memo ry

Strong Triple Locking CrimpHolds T ogether Even OnTough Jobs

Horizontal Sides Of CorrugationOffer Added Strengthamp Flexibility

Manufactured by CHIMNEY TECHNIQUE INC

Chim-Pro Interlock Flex

Chim-Pro Corrugated

Flex

Chim-Pro RigidADDED SAFETY EFFICIENCY AND VALUE

In Which ALL FITTINGS Are Attached With A Band Even The Tee Cap And Elbows Quick amp Simple No Drilling amp Riveting

Featuring

Visit wwwchim-prolinercom for more detailsbull 2000 Industrial Ave bull Sioux Falls SD 57104

1-800-582-1392

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 31

Display Ad Index

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 mheekencsgorg for publication in Sweeping Or mail it to NCSG 2155 Commercial Drive Plainfield IN 46168

Page Advertiser Phone Email or Website Address

30 Ahrens Chimney Technique 800-582-1392 ahrenschimneyqwestofficenet

21-24 Chimney Safety Institute of America 317-837-5362 wwwcsiaorg

14 Cobra Chimney Caps 888-463-0636 salescobrachimneycom

27 Communications Network Inc 800-875-8118 tkempercomnetmessagecom

5 Copperfield 800-247-3305 wwwcopperfieldcom

4 ENERVEX Inc 800-255-2923 infochimneyfanscom

13 Firesafe Industries Inc 800-545-6607 wwwfiresafeinccom

16 Gelco Lyemance Lock-Top 800-334-2154 wwwGLLchimneyproductscom

9 Hose Master 800-221-2319 bobdanielshosemastercom

10 ICP 508-695-7000 wwwchimneycapscom

BC Lifetime Chimney Supply LLC 877-234-7473 wwwlifetimechimneysupplycom

7 Lindemann Chimney Company 800-722-7230 wwwlindemannchimneycom

11 M amp G Duravent 800-835-4429 wwwduraventcom

28 Meyer Machine amp Equipment 800-728-3828 wwwmeyermachinecom

25 National Chimney Supply 800-897-8481 wwwnationalchimneysupplycom

17 Olympia Chimney Supply 800-569-1425 wwwolympiachimneycom

19 Sand Hill Wholesale 800-258-5496 wwwsandhillwholesalecom

6 SaverSystems Inc 800-860-6327 wwwchimneysavercom

3 Smoktite 866-439-0069 wwwsmoktitecom

8 Wakefield Brush 800-264-7007 wwwwakefieldbrushcom

19 Whitecaps 800-335-2534 wwwwhitecapscom

15 Z-Flex 800-654-5600 wwwz-flexcom

The pole and bucket chimney That is how they keep rain and birds out during off season Notice the class A is just an extension of a masonry chimney

Submitted by Kevon Binder of Doctor Flue Inc

September 13-15 2012Lake Murray SCSouth Carolina Chimney Sweep Guildrsquos ldquoThe GatheringrdquoFor more information please contact Blume at (864) 232-9811 or blume357bellsouthnet

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 19 2012 Taunton MAFall Protection User Training Class Including OSHArsquos 2011 ruling on alternate fall protection methods - Sponsored by the Massachusetts Chimney Sweep GuildFor more information please call Jeffrey Wright at (781) 233-2321

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-29 2012CSIA Technology CenterCSIA National Chimney Sweep Training SchoolFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

Dates amp Events

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 8-12 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg October 8-12 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

Please send notice of your events for NCSG Dates amp Events listings at mmcmahonncsgorg for inclusion here in weekly posts to the discussion list and online at wwwNCSGorgdates The event must be considered educational or informative for the industry (sales events and open houses will not be listed)

32 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

ClassifiedsGotta chimney question Sizing Codes Call Royal Edwards Make Royal your tech department CALL NOW 813-982-0219 for on-call tech support Continuing Education special bonus ndash ask how you can get the Friday morning E-Blast for FREE CALL NOW 813-982-0219

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

Chimney Sweep business for sell in the Northern Rocky Mountains of New Mexico Services a large area with three ski resorts in the service area Equipment and signed three year contracts goes with the business Business is well established For pricing and other info please email your questions to ridgeriders1gmailcom

CLASSIFIED ADS FREE FOR NCSG MEMBERSMembers can run one 35 word classified free each year Regularly classified ads are $2word or $1word for NCSG members Classified ads are non-commissionable and must be pre-paid To place a classified ad please contact Megan McMahon at mmcmahonncsgorg or (317) 837-1500

NCSG Innovation 2013 Convention and Trade Show Hotel reservations are now being accepted for NCSG Innovation 2013 at Chateau on the Lake in Branson MO April 4-7 2013 Just call 1-888-333-LAKE (5253) and mention that yoursquore with the National Chimney Sweep Guild to lock in rates starting at $129 for a mountain view and $134 for a lake view

Get ready for some RampR Yoursquore earned it

Order Your FREEAnnual Maintenance Reminder Postcards

A great way to remind homeowners to schedule their annual maintenance check up

Each card has space available for your business information

Use them as reminders for your existing clients or send them to generate new business

To order postcards and other free Burn Wise products contact

Leigh Herringtonherringtonleighepagov

ampKristen Bremer

bremerkristenepagov

wwwepagovburnwise

Follow us on

Wood-Burning Safety

Starts with You

Have you scheduled your

annual inspection

The National Fire Protection Association estimates

that 25 percent of home heating fires are caused

primarily by creosote buildup in the chimney

Make your home healthier and safer A properly

installed and maintained appliance burns more

efficiently and saves you money Contact your local

certified chimney sweep to schedule an annual

inspection today

Before You Burn

The right wayThe right way is hot and bright

In the right applianceThe right appliance is an EPA-approved appliance inspected annually by a certified chimney sweep

Burn the right woodBurn only dry well-seasoned wood that has been split and stored properly

wwwepagovburnwise

wwwcsiaorg

Printed on 100 recycledrecyclable paper with a minimum 50 post-consumer waste using vegetable-based

EPA 456-F-10-004

National Chimney Sweep Guild2155 Commercial DrivePlainfield IN 46168

1208

OR

Page 15: September 2012

14 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

erhaps the most important thing to recognize about business is that customer service is not an afterthought to everything else It IS everything else Or as Leon Gorman the CEO of LL Bean puts it ldquoCustomer Service is just a day in day out

ongoing never ending unremitting persevering compassionate type of activityrdquo

Oh thatrsquos a nice thought you say Irsquoll be certain to put a little more attention on that the next free moment I get

If this is your response yoursquove missed the point and perhaps the boat too

So what does it mean when we say service What does good customer service look like Herersquos a good hint from Peter Drucker ldquoQuality in service or product is not what you put into it Itrsquos what the customer gets out of itrdquo

In other words in the final analysis itrsquos not simply how

well you do your job that matters What matters is how your customer feels about you or your company once the job is completed What matters is what they got out of it And in that regard in any arena of competitors the battle will be won by the company who leaves the customer feeling the best the happiest the most satisfied

Jerry Gregoire CIO of Dell believes ldquoThe customer experience is the next competitive battlegroundrdquo

Now you might be thinking your customers must be pretty satisfied since most of the time they donrsquot seem to have any complaints

If you are feeling this way it would behoove you to remember most customers donrsquot complain even if there are dramatic issues with the work Why People donrsquot like confrontations And many people feel their complaints will be neither appreciated nor dealt with so why bother

The One and Only Thing

P

BY GREG POLAKOW OF COPPERFIELD

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 15

The course of action they choose rather than wasting their time and emotions complaining to someone they feel will be either hostile or unresponsive is to select one of your competitors next time they need work done As the saying goes they vote with their wallet

You might rightly be asking yourself well if my customers donrsquot tell me when theyrsquore not satisfied what can I possibly do about it

The answer is there are many things that can be done about it But the first starts with the understanding that customer service is not something that kicks in only when therersquos a problem Customer service has to be part of every contact you have with your customers It is how you treat your customers before you even show up at their door It is how you conduct yourself during your visit And it is most certainly the way in which you handle follow up

Remember it is how your customers feel after all is said and done that matters

We are always forming opinions about others It is a natural part of being human And we begin formulating those opinions with our very first encounter The initial opinions may later give way to either better or worse opinions but initial opinions are extremely influential So ask yourself what are you doing to

insure that the very first impression a customer has of you and your business is excellent What are you doing to make this very first customer service experience positive What are you doing to provide your customer at the very outset with a feel good experience

Whatever your answer is remember it is often this first impression that will determine whether or not a customer will call and complain if there is a problem later rather than simply opt to call one of your competitors next time Why Because it is in this first encounter with you that a customer begins to decide if they trust you If you trust that a company has your best interests at heart you are much more likely to call if there is a problem

So how do you establish a feeling of well being and trust with your customer from the get go Again it has to do with how you make them feel the moment you pick up your phone to answer their first call If your tone is cold indifferent or even matter of fact they are not likely to feel you care And if you donrsquot seem to care about them can you really be trusted to have their best interests at heart EVERTHING you do from the outset absolutely everything will create an opinion of you in the customerrsquos mind That means your tone of voice the patience with which you respond to their questions And the very language and even diction you use to talk to them about whatever chimney related issue they are having

USAT 18006545600F 18888893539

CANADAT 4166790045F 4166790051

salesz-flexcom wwwz-flexcom

Triple Lockreg Smoothcoretrade

All Fuels Chimney Linerbull Eliminates the turbulence thatrsquos inherent with

corrugated liners improving draft

bull Resists corrosive attack by not impeding the flow of condensate down the liner and less opportunity for soot to accumulate

Z-Max Rain Cap ampLock lsquoN Go Base Tee

bull Z-Max Rain Cap with protective ember screen shields chimney from snow driving rain and animal intrusions Quick removal for easy cleaning

bull Z-Max Lock lsquoN Go Base Tee installs in half the time of standard tees with no special installation tools required

bull All products cULus tested and listed by UL to UL1777 and ULC S635

S P E C I A L I Z E D V E N T S H O S E S D U C T S amp C O N N E C T O R S F O R A N Y U S E A N Y I N D U S T R Y

C H I M N E Y amp V E N T I N G S O L U T I O N S

TRIPLE LOCKreg

SMOOTHCOREtrade amp Z-MAX

Smoothcoretrade

All Fuels Chimney LinerEliminates the turbulence thatrsquos inherent with

bull Z-Max Rain Cap with protective ember screen

bull Z-Max Lock lsquoN Go Base Tee installs in half the Pellet GasWood Oil

Suitable For All Fuels

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

Sweeping News (Snews)_Smoothcore_Z-Max_no booth_HR_March 29 2012pdf 1 12-03-30 212 PM

16 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

Use language that is too technical and you lose them and put them on the defensive ldquoAm I supposed to understand what this guy is talking aboutrdquo they wonder Speak too fast or indistinctly and you get the same result

Seem like picky details They may be to you but they will not be to your customer

Remember when a customer comes to you he is laying his problem at your feet If he could remedy it himself he would But he canrsquot He needs you to help him So he is feeling a bit vulnerable a bit out of his league How you respond to him in this circumstance can either make him feel immediately comfortable and in safe hands or something less desirable You decide which effect you want to create

I think you can see that if this first encounter leaves your customer glowing instead of glowering you win You win his confidence his trust and even here at the very outset his gratitude If yoursquove done this well ie addressed his initial questions and concerns in a compassionate understanding thorough manner well you are off to an excellent start

But the battle has not been won because yoursquove also set some expectations and your customerrsquos expectation that this kind of treatment will continue must be met If your crew shows up to do the work and forgets they are in the customer service business first and foremost all you accomplished at the beginning can be ruined

Good customer service must build on itself from day one in order to maintain that feeling in your customer of confidence happiness and trust It cannot be hit and miss Being inconsistent might be worse than being just plain ornery from the beginning

Does good customer service trump sloppy careless or substandard work Of course not Because the quality of your product is a huge part of the customer service package Itrsquos all customer service

The bottom line is your customer will appreciate value and respect you to exactly the same degree you appreciate value and respect him No more and no less And the great thing is when you treat your customers as friends when you gladly and openly address their concerns and fix their problems your work and your life become easier and more fulfilling

Try it out Start thinking of customer service as being the be all and end all of your business and see how well things go Yoursquoll be amazed

Remember as Tony Allesandra has observed ldquoBeing on par in terms of price and quality only gets you into the game Service wins the gamerdquo

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AN INDUSTRY STANDARD FOR OVER 25 YEARS

Call your favorite Lock-Topdistributor today

Reduce Your Customerrsquos Utility Bills

bullOver140000SoldintheLast10YearsbullSuperiorDesignampQualityndashSiliconeRubberSealsTight

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ndashEasilyMountsAtopaFlueTile

bullOver25YearsintheBusiness

AnOpen Chimneyis like anOpen Window-All Year Round

11 May lock top indd 1 72612 148 PM

w w wolympiachimneycom bull Phone 1-800-569-1425

Will KozlanskyOwner amp Co-Founder

The NEW Smoothwall Chimney Liner thathas the Perfect Combination of

Weight Ruggedness amp Flexibility

n No memory amp very flexible n Smooth Interior n One liner multiple applicationsn Available ovalized amp coiled

w w wolympiachimneycom bull Phone 1-800-569-1425

Will KozlanskyOwner amp Co-Founder

The NEW Smoothwall Chimney Liner thathas the Perfect Combination of

Weight Ruggedness amp Flexibility

n No memory amp very flexible n Smooth Interior n One liner multiple applicationsn Available ovalized amp coiled

18 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

ou all have accomplishments You support your family your employees and their families your vendors and you provide comfort and safety for your customers

Some of you can enjoy your success and can focus on preserving what you have Many of you want to and have the capacity to grow and be more successful Some of you may be struggling with the seasonality and economics of your business Regardless of your level of success almost all of you have varying degrees of uncertainty

Many articles books conferences and videos have been made about the importance of having a strategic plan to help guide you to fulfill your potential

This magazine has offered numerous articles written to help you fulfill your potential The NCSG offers courses to help you gain skills to be more successful

Yet there still appears to be too many business owners

struggling to achieve their goals ndash or have yet to explicitly define their goals which could help them to get their time back and allow them (you) to enjoy their (your) lives

Maybe yoursquore stuck on tactics without a strategy Maybe yoursquore stuck on ldquonoiserdquo ndash noise that the media airs about events you cannot control and distracts you from your business Perhaps that ldquonoiserdquo has contributed to a pessimistic perspective

Perhaps all of the above is ldquonoiserdquo that covers up past or current mistakes or regret either real or perceived

Letrsquos work on facing your concerns and your past Fear fades when facts are faced Regrets can become wisdom when success lies ahead

Consider forming a team of trusted professionals emulate successful associates select friends and close family members who can create a ldquojudgment freerdquo zone to allow you to unwind the past that may be keeping you from achieving your potential

Focus on What You Can Control

Y

BY BRIAN NOE OF MW FINANCIAL GROUP

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 19

Your team can help you realize your dreams by developing a sound strategy employing objective facts without bias Your team has your back

So letrsquos throw out the rear view mirror set aside our mistakes and regrets and look forward to what you can control that can lead to success

You and your team can control your personal finances You and your team can control your business Here are some steps you can take to help seize the day sleep easy and get your time back

1 Budget ndash do you have a personal and business budget Do you adhere to your budget Does your budget include protection and savings for retirement and your legacy Do you know how much you need to save for retirement and your legacy Are you prepared in the event that you may ldquolive too longrdquo

2 Help Protect Yourself your Family and your Business ndash you can take steps to control your risk

Do you let your employees drive your personal vehicles Do your employees drive your work vehicles for personal use Are you covered for that activity These are a just a few examples of ldquohiddenrdquo liabilities that you may be exposed to but unaware of

Do you have adequate umbrella insurance protection in addition to home and auto insurance that covers you and your employees

Do you take steps to relieve stress Do you have disability insurance to provide you with income or your business with funds to pay expenses in the event of illness or injury that prevents you from working

For your business you can implement a safety program This sets up a plan of employee procedures for handling vendors customers and inter-employee communication skills to improve workmanship and other employee development For events you cannot control do you have liability EampO and similar insurance

Does your business take advantage of legal structure asset titling (multiple businesses Spouse ownership) retirement plans life insurance annuities trusts and homestead

Its Not Too Late For Fall Dating

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20 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

exemptions (if available) to help protect assets from creditors and frivolous lawsuits

3 Employ Efficient Debt ndash we may be at the bottom of the interest rate and inflation cycle If interest rates rise andor inflation heats up the general rule of thumb for most of us is debtors win creditors lose If you have the cash you have control If the banker has the cash they have control

4 Manage Taxes ndash whether or not income or estate taxes increase in the future a retirement assetincome distribution business succession and legacy strategy is a must for everyone

5 Investment Management ndash you have plenty of risk with your business Do you want to have unnecessary risk with your investments

You cannot control macroeconomics (sequence of return risk rising interest rates trade and budget deficits unemployment inflation taxes real estate values commodity markets fluctuating foreign currency etc)

You cannot control geopolitical events (elections Euro zone issues violent foreign government changes war etc) or environmental events (hurricanes earthquakes fires tsunamis etc)

How do you insulate yourself from economic events you cannot control Consider historically tried tested and true strategies Consider strategies that your grandparentrsquos generation may have used They had to protect themselves ndash government bailouts and subsidies were few and far between

Congratulations if you can assemble a team to help you define and implement a strategy using the tactics described above This can be achieved in a relatively short period of time (a few hours a week over several short weeks can do it) which can help give you your time back so you can focus on your business and family

6 Manage your Business ndash this you can completely control You can engage in any of the following business expansion activities without losing energy and enthusiasm to the issues you and your team of advisors tackled above

Perhaps you would ratherbull Recruit and develop key employees (and future buyers of

your business)bull Market expansion (are you getting on board the e-marketing

train)bull Develop operating procedures and processesbull Improve safety (reduce liability)bull Expand into new territoriesbull Enter a new industry

bull Purchase and manage real estate

Life Happens ndash Enjoy It

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 US Army Eric is ranked first in his class with a degree in Computer Science is working in his field and plans on attending graduate school in 2013 His daughter Kara recently graduated undergraduate school with distinction and is planning to attend graduate school to become a Physiciansrsquo 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_NoeMWFinancialcom

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CSIA Update wwwCSIAorg

Publication for CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepregs

ADVERTISEMENT

The Virginia Association of Chimney amp

Hearth Professionals sponsored CSIArsquos

Inspection amp Report Writing class in

Arlington VA this August 6-7 Tom Urban

served as the instructor for the two-day

session Forty one professionals were

in attendance with 19 being business

owners and 22 being employees The

session drew attendees from as far away

as Louisville KY

The event was sponsored by Wakefield

Brush The Chimney Sweep News

Ahrenrsquos Copperfield Wohler Estoban

Lindemann Chimney Supply National

Chimney Supply Olympia Chimney

Supply SaverSystems and Whitecaps

VACHP Sponsored Inspection amp Report Writing

Fred Regar served as auctioneer of the sponsor-donated items on the second day of the session

Tom Urban teaching the CSIA Inspection and Report Writing Class in Arlington

When renewing a credential earned after September 1 2009 a CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg is required to

Available downloads for CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepsreg and CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Techniciansreg include

bull CSIACertifiedChimneySweepandCSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician Trademarks

bull ButtonsforyourWebsite

bull CustomizablePowerPointpresentationfor home inspectors

bull InspectionSOPs

bull LadderSafetyTips

bull ldquoChimneyFiresCausesEffectsampEvaluationrdquo Prepared by Chimney Safety Institute of America- Chimney Fire Education and Research Task Force

bull Printversionofthiswhitepaperisalsoavailable for purchase

bull Top10WoodburningTipsfromtheChimney Safety Institute of America

Check out the CCS amp CDET area at CSIAorg

bull Submitaminimumof9CEUsearnedwithin the preceeding 3 years (in any category) before testing NOTE This requirement will not apply to CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps already holding the credential on September 1 2009untiltheirnext3-yearcertificationcycle

bull Passaone-hourexambasedonSuccessfulChimneySweeping(2009)andNFPA211(2010)

bull Passaninety-minuteopen-bookexambasedonthe2006IRCreg

bull AgreetopaytheAnnualCertificationFee

bull SignCSIACodeofEthics

OR

bull SubmitappropriatenumberofContinuing Education Units (CEUs) in the relevant categories

bull AgreetopaytheAnnualCertificationFee

bull SignCSIACodeofEthics

Upon earning the CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg credential your certification is valid for one year You will need to recertify annually by paying the annual certification fee This fee will be invoiced annually prior to your expiration date Please note that your credential will require renewal every three years by submittal of the minimum 48 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) in accordance with the CSIA Credential Renewal Policy or by passing the certification exams and either submitting a minimum of 9 CEUs or completing a CSIA Review

If your annual certification fee is not paid prior to your certification expiration date your credential will be considered lapsed and you will immediately lose all rights and privileges of the CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg credential The following terms will then apply if reinstatement of the credential is desired

If you do not pay your annual certification fee by your expiration date the following timeline will begin

bull Within90daysfromthedateofexpiration if you submit payment in full for the annual certification fee your credential will be reinstated and you will be considered a CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg in good standing maintaining your original annual expiration date and certification number

bull Ifmorethan90daysandlessthan12months beyond your expiration date you will be required to Pay the current annual certification fee and current testing fees and test again Doing so will reinstate your previous annual certification expiration date and certification number You will still be required to pay your next annual fee within the next 12 months

bull Ifmorethan12monthsbeyondyourexpiration date you will be required to either participate in a CSIA approved certification review course or submit evidence of 9 CEUs that were accumulated during the time your credential was active In addition you will be required to pass the CSIA certification exams Upon successful completion a new certification number will be assigned and you will have a new annual certification expiration date

CaliforniaMichaelGipsonbullMidtownSweepsbullLancasterOmarSaenzbullAFiddlerontheRoodDuctampChimneyServicebullVanNuys

IndianaAlexStewartbullOldSmokeyrsquosFireplaceampChimneyIncbullAshley

KansasRyanBerrybullFullServiceChimneybullOlathe

New YorkJayFellibullHearthampHomeofIthacabullIthaca

VermontJamesDonovanbullLincolnPeakPropertiesbullWaitsfield

West VirginiaMichaelAdwellbullTopHatChimneySweepbullLewisburg

WisconsinDustinMyersbullChimneySpecialistsIncbullHighland

ADVERTISEMENT

Congratulations to Our New CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps

Top 10 Woodburning Tips from the Chimney Safety Institute of America

To aid in the prevention of chimney fires and carbon monoxide intrusion and to help keep heating appliances and fireplaces functioning properly the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) offers the following safety tips

1 Get an annual chimney check Have chimneys inspected annually and cleaned as necessary by a qualified professional chimney service technician This reduces the risk of fires and carbon monoxide poisonings due to creosote buildup or obstructions in the chimneys

2 Keep it clear Keep tree branches and leaves at least 15 feet away from the top of the chimney

3 Install a chimney cap to keep debris and animals out of the chimney

4 Choose the right fuel For burning firewood in wood stoves or fireplaces choose wellseasoned wood that has been split for a minimum of six months - one year and stored in a covered and elevated location Never burn Christmas trees or treated wood in your fireplace or wood stove

5 Build it right Place firewood or firelogs at the rear of the fireplace on a supporting grate To start the fire use kindling or a commercial firelighter Never use flammable liquids

6 Keep the hearth area clear Combustible material too close to the fireplace or to a wood stove could easily catch fire Keep furniture at least 36rdquo away from the hearth

7 Use a fireplace screen Use metal mesh or a screen in front of the fireplace to catch flying sparks that could ignite or burn holes in the carpet or flooring

8 Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors Place detectors throughout the house and check batteries in the spring and fall

When you change your clocks for Daylight Savings Time remember to check your batteries

9 Never leave a fire unattended Before turning in for the evening be sure that the fire is fully

extinguished Supervise children and pets closely around wood stoves and fireplaces

10 The CSIA recommends annual inspections performed by CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps These chimney sweeps have earned the industryrsquos most respected credential by passing an intensive examination based on fire codes clearances and standards for the construction and maintenance of chimney and venting systems The National Fire Protection Association also recommends that all chimneys are inspected on an annual basis

For more chimney and fireplace safety tips visit the Chimney Safety Institute of America online at wwwCSIAorg

Solve your customersrsquo smoking sooting odor and draft problems Itrsquos easy with CSIArsquos 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 Ghostingsooting 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 doesnrsquot

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

Learn to solve these problems save time and money and keep

your clients happy with CSIArsquos Online Chimney Physics program

SolvedVenting Problems

Register today at wwwcsiaorg

CSIA 15 Tech 15 CampL 15 HampS 15 CampS NFI 5 Tech

Annual Certification Requirements

Top 10 Woodburning Tips from the Chimney Safety Institute of America

To aid in the prevention of chimney fires and carbon monoxide intrusion and to help keep heating appliances and fireplaces functioning properly the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) offers the following safety tips

1 Get an annual chimney check Have chimneys inspected annually and cleaned as necessary by a qualified professional chimney service technician This reduces the risk of fires and carbon monoxide poisonings due to creosote buildup or obstructions in the chimneys

2 Keep it clear Keep tree branches and leaves at least 15 feet away from the top of the chimney

3 Install a chimney cap to keep debris and animals out of the chimney

4 Choose the right fuel For burning firewood in wood stoves or fireplaces choose wellseasoned wood that has been split for a minimum of six months - one year and stored in a covered and elevated location Never burn Christmas trees or treated wood in your fireplace or wood stove

5 Build it right Place firewood or firelogs at the rear of the fireplace on a supporting grate To start the fire use kindling or a commercial firelighter Never use flammable liquids

6 Keep the hearth area clear Combustible material too close to the fireplace or to a wood stove could easily catch fire Keep furniture at least 36rdquo away from the hearth

7 Use a fireplace screen Use metal mesh or a screen in front of the fireplace to catch flying sparks that could ignite or burn holes in the carpet or flooring

8 Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors Place detectors throughout the house and check batteries in the spring and fall

When you change your clocks for Daylight Savings Time remember to check your batteries

9 Never leave a fire unattended Before turning in for the evening be sure that the fire is fully

extinguished Supervise children and pets closely around wood stoves and fireplaces

10 The CSIA recommends annual inspections performed by CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps These chimney sweeps have earned the industryrsquos most respected credential by passing an intensive examination based on fire codes clearances and standards for the construction and maintenance of chimney and venting systems The National Fire Protection Association also recommends that all chimneys are inspected on an annual basis

For more chimney and fireplace safety tips visit the Chimney Safety Institute of America online at wwwCSIAorg

ADVERTISEMENT

You can spend weeks trying to get a new employee up to speed In the process yoursquoll have used up your valuable time your patience and more money than you would like to admit

Instead send your employee to the most popular cost-effective chimney sweep training in North America CSIArsquos National Chimney Sweep Training School In less than a week wersquoll create an employee that yoursquoll be proud to send on a call ndash and happy to count toward your bottom line

Register today at wwwcsiaorg or call us at (317) 837-5362

At the 6-day hands-on Training School your employee will learn

How to inspect and service chimney systems serving any fuel burning appliance

How to be safe with the latest health and safety equipment and methods

How to work with residential heating appliances including wood stoves pellet stoves inserts factory-built fireplaces central heaters and furnaces

How to diagnose chimney performance problems understanding draft and flow diagnosing down drafts flow reversals inadequate flow stack effects updrafts pressure effects and gauges

How to navigate the International Residential Codes How to follow the NFPA 211 standards

Class size is limited to ensure a ratio of no more than eight students per instructor This small class size means that students have the opportunity for individual attention from the schoolrsquos experienced instructors and ample opportunities for hands-on training Because class size is limited it is important to apply early to reserve your place

The online CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience

The online Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician (CDET) review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience designed to help you pass the CDET exam

Take advantage of these other CSIA educational offerings that can build your business

Send us your greenhorn

and wersquoll send you back a pro

in 6 days Classes fill quickly so register now

2012 DATeS April 2ndash7June 4ndash9August 6ndash11September 24ndash29

April 2-7June 11-16August 6-11September 24-29

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 25

You can spend weeks trying to get a new employee up to speed In the process yoursquoll have used up your valuable time your patience and more money than you would like to admit

Instead send your employee to the most popular cost-effective chimney sweep training in North America CSIArsquos National Chimney Sweep Training School In less than a week wersquoll create an employee that yoursquoll be proud to send on a call ndash and happy to count toward your bottom line

Register today at wwwcsiaorg or call us at (317) 837-5362

At the 6-day hands-on Training School your employee will learn

How to inspect and service chimney systems serving any fuel burning appliance

How to be safe with the latest health and safety equipment and methods

How to work with residential heating appliances including wood stoves pellet stoves inserts factory-built fireplaces central heaters and furnaces

How to diagnose chimney performance problems understanding draft and flow diagnosing down drafts flow reversals inadequate flow stack effects updrafts pressure effects and gauges

How to navigate the International Residential Codes How to follow the NFPA 211 standards

Class size is limited to ensure a ratio of no more than eight students per instructor This small class size means that students have the opportunity for individual attention from the schoolrsquos experienced instructors and ample opportunities for hands-on training Because class size is limited it is important to apply early to reserve your place

The online CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience

The online Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician (CDET) review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience designed to help you pass the CDET exam

Take advantage of these other CSIA educational offerings that can build your business

Send us your greenhorn

and wersquoll send you back a pro

in 6 days Classes fill quickly so register now

2012 DATeS April 2ndash7June 4ndash9August 6ndash11September 24ndash29

April 2-7June 11-16August 6-11September 24-29

ProgressivePerksBY DEBBIE CORNELIUS

MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT COORDINATOR

Get Organized and Make the Most of Your Busy Season

Sometimes it really surprises me that more NCSG members do not take advantage of the discounted benefits available to them These will not only save you time buthellip money too

Paycor Payroll Services price reduction on payroll and tax services One specialist will be dedicated to your account with a team of tax specialists available to resolve issues in the fastest amount of time should an issue arise

Market Hardware can bring your business up to speed in the competitive market of technology where more and more customers are looking to the Web Once they have customized the design that includes a ldquoHome Pagerdquo ldquoAbout Usrdquo and ldquoOur Servicesrdquo page you will have the ability to easily update and edit your Web site yourself instead of paying someone else to do it

Technical Solutions the ldquoSurvival Kit for Small Businessesrdquo can provide on-demand remote repair 247 365 days a year For the price of $2499month with no long term contact involved you can cover up to 20 computers including multiple office locations

Commercials On Hold provides a great way to brand and promote your full range of services when callers are on hold before they talk to a member of your staff

Take a few minutes to just explore these benefits It would be well worth your time to compare the savings to save you time and help increase your profits

26 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

REGION 6

NCSG Charter Members

Paul Bourque Huntsville AL

Don Leavitt San Diego CA

David Harris Broken Arrow Oklahoma

Dan Wheeler Santa Rosa CA

John Cline Menlo Park CA

Dale Meisinger N Augusta SC

Alan Hisey St Louis MO

Eva B Horton Greenwich CT

Harry Richart Hasbrouck Heights NJ

NewNCSGMembers

REGION 3

REGION 2

REGION 5

REGION 4

NCSG REGIONS

REGION 1

Connecticut Vermont Massachusetts New York Maine Rhode Island New Hampshire

REGION 2

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

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

CONNECTICUTChristopher Gonsalves bull Millstream Construction bull HebronDavid Heissenbuttel bull DMH amp Associates Inc bull Wilton

VIRGINAJack Johnston bull Johnstonrsquos Chimney Sweep bull Yorktown

MISSOURIJason Patrick bull Shamrock Qualty Services bull St LouisBill Bonney bull Bonney Bill bull Jackson

KENTUCKYJoshua Moore bull Moore Joshua bull Mt Sterling

ILLINOISJack Lutz bull Lutz Jack bull EurekaClay Nelson bull Clean Sweep bull Collinsville

OHIOAnthony Ramsey bull Elite Chimney Solutions bull Beavercreek

INDIANATravis Beckley bull Beckley Travis bull Coal City

TEXASMatthew Milner bull Milner Matthew bull WhitesboroTony Drew bull AC Contractors dba Fireplaces bull LongviewChristopher A Hess bull Atlas Chimney bull Leander

MINNESOTARenee Gustafson bull John C Gustafson Builder LLC bull Little Falls

COLORADOKent Macintosh bull Russian River Chimney Sweeps bull Healdsburg

CALIFORNIA Errol Davis bull The Chimney Specialist bull Huntington Beach

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 27

The 2012 ndash 2013 offers are being added daily in the ldquoMembers Onlyrdquo section of the NCSG website at wwwNCSGorg So start checking for these new offers each week These coupons will be good until June 30 2013

Copperfield Chimney Supply bull Lindemann Chimney Supply bull Meyer Machine amp Equipment bull National Chimney Supply bull SNEWS - The Chimney Sweep News bull Wakefield Brush bull Wohler USA Inc

2012 ndash 2013 SWEEPS ADVANTAGE COUPON PROGRAM

Featured Coupons of the Month

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SAVE Up to $ 12650 FREE 13 x 13 Lock-Top with an order of $250

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purchase

SAVE Up to $ 46 One 13 x 13 HomeSaver Stainless Steel chimney cap with any Order of $250 or more

SAVE Up to $ 64 One EasyClean Cap with any purchase of $250

SAVE UP TO $ 75 $75 off any 25rsquo order of UltraPro Stainless Steel Liner

SAVE UP TO $ 40 $40 off any Flue Stretcher Chimney Cap

SAVE UP TO $ 20 Sign up for a Copperfield Reline Workshop and Save $20

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28 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

Meyer Machine amp Equipment

SUCKINGDUCTS

ampINSULATION

FOR OVER 20 YEARS

As most allergy sufferers will tell you allergy symptoms can always be bothersome turning any time of year into sneezing season A runny nose itchy eyes and scratchy throat can arise as the days get shorter and the leaves begin to change

The fall can be especially difficult for people who are sensitive to mold and ragweed pollen But these seasonal elements arenrsquot the only triggers that can make symptoms worse this time of year There are also a few lesser known triggers Here are four things you might not know about fall allergies courtesy of the American College of Allergy Asthma and Immunology

Hay fever - Hay fever a term from a bygone era actually has nothing to do with hay Instead itrsquos a general term used to describe the symptoms of late summer allergies Ragweed is a common cause of hay fever which is also known as allergic rhinitis The plant usually begins to pollinate in mid-August and may continue to be a problem until a hard freeze depending on where you live See an allergist for prescription medications to control symptoms or to see if allergy shots may be your best option

Lingering warm weather - While most people enjoy Indian summer unseasonably warm temperatures can make rhinitis symptoms last longer Mold spores can also be released when humidity is high or the weather is dry and windy Be sure to begin taking medications before your symptoms start Track your allergy symptoms with MyNasalAllergyJournalorg and visit with your allergist to find relief

Pesky leaves - Some folks might find it difficult to keep up with raking leaves throughout the autumn But for allergy sufferers raking presents its own problem It can stir agitating pollen and mold into the air causing allergy and asthma symptoms Those with allergies should wear an NIOSH-rated N95 mask when raking leaves mowing the lawn and gardening

School allergens - Itrsquos not only seasonal pollen and mold that triggers allergies this time of year Kids are often exposed to classroom irritants and allergy triggers These can include chalk dust and classroom pets Students with food allergies may also be exposed to allergens in the lunch roomKids with exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB) may experience attacks during recess or gym class Help your child understand what can trigger their allergies and asthma and how they can avoid symptoms Be sure to notify teachers and the school nurse of any emergency medications such as quick relief inhalers and epinephrine

No matter the season itrsquos important for those who think they may be suffering from allergies or asthma to see a board-certified allergist An allergist can help you develop a treatment plan which can include both medication and avoidance techniques

Having your allergies properly identified and treated will help you and your family enjoy the season To find an allergist and learn more about allergies and asthma visit wwwAllergyandAsthmaRelieforg

Four Things You Might Not Know About Fall Allergies

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 29

trategic partnerships Sounds fancy but what does it really mean They are called what they are called because there is a true strategy behind them the thought and planning that goes into identifying and development those relationships in a way that will

ultimately help those who are participating to achieve their mission The fact that it is indeed a ldquopartnershiprdquo indicates that everyone involved mutually stands to benefit in some wayhellipItrsquos a win-win

The strategic part of establishing partnerships is analyzing who you are your goals and your current resources and then finding organizations (partners) that will allow you to get the things that you need in order to take your organization to the next level But true partnerships are about what you can bring to each other to help achieve your goals and enhance your resources It is not solely about what you can give me but rather what we can give each other As the great John F Kennedy is well known for encouraging of a world partnership ldquoask not what America will do for you but what together we can do for the freedom of manrdquo

So where does this leave an association like NCSG The key to nonprofits establishing strategic partnerships is having the infrastructure to attract and maintain these relationships In this country there are plenty of nonprofits that are doing great work but there is no organization that will be able to survive if they try

to achieve their mission without establishing partnerships that help provide resources and relationships that allow us to achieve our mission

NCSG is very fortunate to have an impressive array of partners who have for many years some since our inception done just that Our partners have advertised in this magazine exhibited at our conventions contributed to the building and maintaining of our headquarters and the premier industry training facility in Indianapolis discounted thousands of dollars in products and services to our members and have helped us promote the Guild and recruit membership in countless ways not the least of which includes maintaining their own membership in NCSG

Our partners are committed to helping us advance our mission and in turn propel our professional field forward Their partnership supports that programs that ignite your professional and technical development and provide the products and services that have helped you bring your own businesses to life They are integral to the success of this industry and most renew their support of the Guild year after year

Without their support of Sweeping magazine through their advertising we would not have been able to come close to bringing this publication to our members and the industry for the past 35 years (originally The Chimney Sweep Guild News) without significant taxation on the readers Without their support

BY MARK MCSWEENEY CAEEXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Perspective

Support Those Who Support YouldquoOur success has really been based on partnerships from the very beginningrdquo -Bill Gates

S

30 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

of NCSGrsquos annual convention through exhibiting and additional sponsorships registration fees for attendees would easily be double what they are today

When viewing our relationship with exhibitors sponsors advertisers and supplier members as a partnership the question needs to be asked How are we as an association mutually helping them achieve their respective goals

The answer comes back to us having infrastructure to attract and maintain these partnerships And that infrastructure is you the member NCSG cultivates and maintains the relationship with our industry partners on your behalf You are asked to back that up through your support of these partner service providers

Now Irsquom not saying you should buy everything you need at any one place or only through our partners At the end of the day you ultimately need to make your purchasing decisions based on your individual business needs However what would be great to see is our members calling our partners up and giving them a chance to compete for your business Let them know you are a part of NCSG and even if you are not in a position to do business with them this time around let them know you appreciate their continued support of the Guild and the industry Itrsquos one thing to call up to a supplier and ask about a product get a price and hang up Itrsquos another thing to make sure you let them know you saw their ad in Sweeping you read about them

online or you remember they exhibited at the convention so that they know they are getting positive exposure and that their investment in our partnership is not going unnoticed

With that said here are some simple and tangible things things you can do to help the partnership you are a part ofbull Consider our partners each and every time you need to make a

purchasing decision and give them an opportunity to earn your business when you can Look at those who are advertising in Sweeping or see a full listing of NCSG Supplier Members under the Chimney Sweep tab on ncsgorg

bull When you talk to them let them know yoursquore part of NCSG and thank them for their support of your association

bull If you like them even if you canrsquot do business with them currently spread the word and help get their name out there

bull Attend events where our partners have stepped up to sponsor Help show them we value them being there and appreciate their efforts This helps everyone when it comes to working out future programs discounts events and more

We are all in this together Just as you want to ensure you are receiving the return you need on the investments you make our supplier members advertisers exhibitors and sponsors need to justify their own ROI on the variety of support avenues they offer

to NCSG I thought Irsquod take a minute this month to say ldquothank yourdquo to all of you who support us in so many different ways and would like to encourage others to do the same

Until next time I continue to wish you every success

Double Locking CrimpRemains StrongYet Very Flexibl e

With No Memo ry

Strong Triple Locking CrimpHolds T ogether Even OnTough Jobs

Horizontal Sides Of CorrugationOffer Added Strengthamp Flexibility

Manufactured by CHIMNEY TECHNIQUE INC

Chim-Pro Interlock Flex

Chim-Pro Corrugated

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Chim-Pro RigidADDED SAFETY EFFICIENCY AND VALUE

In Which ALL FITTINGS Are Attached With A Band Even The Tee Cap And Elbows Quick amp Simple No Drilling amp Riveting

Featuring

Visit wwwchim-prolinercom for more detailsbull 2000 Industrial Ave bull Sioux Falls SD 57104

1-800-582-1392

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 31

Display Ad Index

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 mheekencsgorg for publication in Sweeping Or mail it to NCSG 2155 Commercial Drive Plainfield IN 46168

Page Advertiser Phone Email or Website Address

30 Ahrens Chimney Technique 800-582-1392 ahrenschimneyqwestofficenet

21-24 Chimney Safety Institute of America 317-837-5362 wwwcsiaorg

14 Cobra Chimney Caps 888-463-0636 salescobrachimneycom

27 Communications Network Inc 800-875-8118 tkempercomnetmessagecom

5 Copperfield 800-247-3305 wwwcopperfieldcom

4 ENERVEX Inc 800-255-2923 infochimneyfanscom

13 Firesafe Industries Inc 800-545-6607 wwwfiresafeinccom

16 Gelco Lyemance Lock-Top 800-334-2154 wwwGLLchimneyproductscom

9 Hose Master 800-221-2319 bobdanielshosemastercom

10 ICP 508-695-7000 wwwchimneycapscom

BC Lifetime Chimney Supply LLC 877-234-7473 wwwlifetimechimneysupplycom

7 Lindemann Chimney Company 800-722-7230 wwwlindemannchimneycom

11 M amp G Duravent 800-835-4429 wwwduraventcom

28 Meyer Machine amp Equipment 800-728-3828 wwwmeyermachinecom

25 National Chimney Supply 800-897-8481 wwwnationalchimneysupplycom

17 Olympia Chimney Supply 800-569-1425 wwwolympiachimneycom

19 Sand Hill Wholesale 800-258-5496 wwwsandhillwholesalecom

6 SaverSystems Inc 800-860-6327 wwwchimneysavercom

3 Smoktite 866-439-0069 wwwsmoktitecom

8 Wakefield Brush 800-264-7007 wwwwakefieldbrushcom

19 Whitecaps 800-335-2534 wwwwhitecapscom

15 Z-Flex 800-654-5600 wwwz-flexcom

The pole and bucket chimney That is how they keep rain and birds out during off season Notice the class A is just an extension of a masonry chimney

Submitted by Kevon Binder of Doctor Flue Inc

September 13-15 2012Lake Murray SCSouth Carolina Chimney Sweep Guildrsquos ldquoThe GatheringrdquoFor more information please contact Blume at (864) 232-9811 or blume357bellsouthnet

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 19 2012 Taunton MAFall Protection User Training Class Including OSHArsquos 2011 ruling on alternate fall protection methods - Sponsored by the Massachusetts Chimney Sweep GuildFor more information please call Jeffrey Wright at (781) 233-2321

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-29 2012CSIA Technology CenterCSIA National Chimney Sweep Training SchoolFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

Dates amp Events

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 8-12 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg October 8-12 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

Please send notice of your events for NCSG Dates amp Events listings at mmcmahonncsgorg for inclusion here in weekly posts to the discussion list and online at wwwNCSGorgdates The event must be considered educational or informative for the industry (sales events and open houses will not be listed)

32 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

ClassifiedsGotta chimney question Sizing Codes Call Royal Edwards Make Royal your tech department CALL NOW 813-982-0219 for on-call tech support Continuing Education special bonus ndash ask how you can get the Friday morning E-Blast for FREE CALL NOW 813-982-0219

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

Chimney Sweep business for sell in the Northern Rocky Mountains of New Mexico Services a large area with three ski resorts in the service area Equipment and signed three year contracts goes with the business Business is well established For pricing and other info please email your questions to ridgeriders1gmailcom

CLASSIFIED ADS FREE FOR NCSG MEMBERSMembers can run one 35 word classified free each year Regularly classified ads are $2word or $1word for NCSG members Classified ads are non-commissionable and must be pre-paid To place a classified ad please contact Megan McMahon at mmcmahonncsgorg or (317) 837-1500

NCSG Innovation 2013 Convention and Trade Show Hotel reservations are now being accepted for NCSG Innovation 2013 at Chateau on the Lake in Branson MO April 4-7 2013 Just call 1-888-333-LAKE (5253) and mention that yoursquore with the National Chimney Sweep Guild to lock in rates starting at $129 for a mountain view and $134 for a lake view

Get ready for some RampR Yoursquore earned it

Order Your FREEAnnual Maintenance Reminder Postcards

A great way to remind homeowners to schedule their annual maintenance check up

Each card has space available for your business information

Use them as reminders for your existing clients or send them to generate new business

To order postcards and other free Burn Wise products contact

Leigh Herringtonherringtonleighepagov

ampKristen Bremer

bremerkristenepagov

wwwepagovburnwise

Follow us on

Wood-Burning Safety

Starts with You

Have you scheduled your

annual inspection

The National Fire Protection Association estimates

that 25 percent of home heating fires are caused

primarily by creosote buildup in the chimney

Make your home healthier and safer A properly

installed and maintained appliance burns more

efficiently and saves you money Contact your local

certified chimney sweep to schedule an annual

inspection today

Before You Burn

The right wayThe right way is hot and bright

In the right applianceThe right appliance is an EPA-approved appliance inspected annually by a certified chimney sweep

Burn the right woodBurn only dry well-seasoned wood that has been split and stored properly

wwwepagovburnwise

wwwcsiaorg

Printed on 100 recycledrecyclable paper with a minimum 50 post-consumer waste using vegetable-based

EPA 456-F-10-004

National Chimney Sweep Guild2155 Commercial DrivePlainfield IN 46168

1208

OR

Page 16: September 2012

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 15

The course of action they choose rather than wasting their time and emotions complaining to someone they feel will be either hostile or unresponsive is to select one of your competitors next time they need work done As the saying goes they vote with their wallet

You might rightly be asking yourself well if my customers donrsquot tell me when theyrsquore not satisfied what can I possibly do about it

The answer is there are many things that can be done about it But the first starts with the understanding that customer service is not something that kicks in only when therersquos a problem Customer service has to be part of every contact you have with your customers It is how you treat your customers before you even show up at their door It is how you conduct yourself during your visit And it is most certainly the way in which you handle follow up

Remember it is how your customers feel after all is said and done that matters

We are always forming opinions about others It is a natural part of being human And we begin formulating those opinions with our very first encounter The initial opinions may later give way to either better or worse opinions but initial opinions are extremely influential So ask yourself what are you doing to

insure that the very first impression a customer has of you and your business is excellent What are you doing to make this very first customer service experience positive What are you doing to provide your customer at the very outset with a feel good experience

Whatever your answer is remember it is often this first impression that will determine whether or not a customer will call and complain if there is a problem later rather than simply opt to call one of your competitors next time Why Because it is in this first encounter with you that a customer begins to decide if they trust you If you trust that a company has your best interests at heart you are much more likely to call if there is a problem

So how do you establish a feeling of well being and trust with your customer from the get go Again it has to do with how you make them feel the moment you pick up your phone to answer their first call If your tone is cold indifferent or even matter of fact they are not likely to feel you care And if you donrsquot seem to care about them can you really be trusted to have their best interests at heart EVERTHING you do from the outset absolutely everything will create an opinion of you in the customerrsquos mind That means your tone of voice the patience with which you respond to their questions And the very language and even diction you use to talk to them about whatever chimney related issue they are having

USAT 18006545600F 18888893539

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Triple Lockreg Smoothcoretrade

All Fuels Chimney Linerbull Eliminates the turbulence thatrsquos inherent with

corrugated liners improving draft

bull Resists corrosive attack by not impeding the flow of condensate down the liner and less opportunity for soot to accumulate

Z-Max Rain Cap ampLock lsquoN Go Base Tee

bull Z-Max Rain Cap with protective ember screen shields chimney from snow driving rain and animal intrusions Quick removal for easy cleaning

bull Z-Max Lock lsquoN Go Base Tee installs in half the time of standard tees with no special installation tools required

bull All products cULus tested and listed by UL to UL1777 and ULC S635

S P E C I A L I Z E D V E N T S H O S E S D U C T S amp C O N N E C T O R S F O R A N Y U S E A N Y I N D U S T R Y

C H I M N E Y amp V E N T I N G S O L U T I O N S

TRIPLE LOCKreg

SMOOTHCOREtrade amp Z-MAX

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All Fuels Chimney LinerEliminates the turbulence thatrsquos inherent with

bull Z-Max Rain Cap with protective ember screen

bull Z-Max Lock lsquoN Go Base Tee installs in half the Pellet GasWood Oil

Suitable For All Fuels

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

Sweeping News (Snews)_Smoothcore_Z-Max_no booth_HR_March 29 2012pdf 1 12-03-30 212 PM

16 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

Use language that is too technical and you lose them and put them on the defensive ldquoAm I supposed to understand what this guy is talking aboutrdquo they wonder Speak too fast or indistinctly and you get the same result

Seem like picky details They may be to you but they will not be to your customer

Remember when a customer comes to you he is laying his problem at your feet If he could remedy it himself he would But he canrsquot He needs you to help him So he is feeling a bit vulnerable a bit out of his league How you respond to him in this circumstance can either make him feel immediately comfortable and in safe hands or something less desirable You decide which effect you want to create

I think you can see that if this first encounter leaves your customer glowing instead of glowering you win You win his confidence his trust and even here at the very outset his gratitude If yoursquove done this well ie addressed his initial questions and concerns in a compassionate understanding thorough manner well you are off to an excellent start

But the battle has not been won because yoursquove also set some expectations and your customerrsquos expectation that this kind of treatment will continue must be met If your crew shows up to do the work and forgets they are in the customer service business first and foremost all you accomplished at the beginning can be ruined

Good customer service must build on itself from day one in order to maintain that feeling in your customer of confidence happiness and trust It cannot be hit and miss Being inconsistent might be worse than being just plain ornery from the beginning

Does good customer service trump sloppy careless or substandard work Of course not Because the quality of your product is a huge part of the customer service package Itrsquos all customer service

The bottom line is your customer will appreciate value and respect you to exactly the same degree you appreciate value and respect him No more and no less And the great thing is when you treat your customers as friends when you gladly and openly address their concerns and fix their problems your work and your life become easier and more fulfilling

Try it out Start thinking of customer service as being the be all and end all of your business and see how well things go Yoursquoll be amazed

Remember as Tony Allesandra has observed ldquoBeing on par in terms of price and quality only gets you into the game Service wins the gamerdquo

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AnOpen Chimneyis like anOpen Window-All Year Round

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The NEW Smoothwall Chimney Liner thathas the Perfect Combination of

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n No memory amp very flexible n Smooth Interior n One liner multiple applicationsn Available ovalized amp coiled

18 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

ou all have accomplishments You support your family your employees and their families your vendors and you provide comfort and safety for your customers

Some of you can enjoy your success and can focus on preserving what you have Many of you want to and have the capacity to grow and be more successful Some of you may be struggling with the seasonality and economics of your business Regardless of your level of success almost all of you have varying degrees of uncertainty

Many articles books conferences and videos have been made about the importance of having a strategic plan to help guide you to fulfill your potential

This magazine has offered numerous articles written to help you fulfill your potential The NCSG offers courses to help you gain skills to be more successful

Yet there still appears to be too many business owners

struggling to achieve their goals ndash or have yet to explicitly define their goals which could help them to get their time back and allow them (you) to enjoy their (your) lives

Maybe yoursquore stuck on tactics without a strategy Maybe yoursquore stuck on ldquonoiserdquo ndash noise that the media airs about events you cannot control and distracts you from your business Perhaps that ldquonoiserdquo has contributed to a pessimistic perspective

Perhaps all of the above is ldquonoiserdquo that covers up past or current mistakes or regret either real or perceived

Letrsquos work on facing your concerns and your past Fear fades when facts are faced Regrets can become wisdom when success lies ahead

Consider forming a team of trusted professionals emulate successful associates select friends and close family members who can create a ldquojudgment freerdquo zone to allow you to unwind the past that may be keeping you from achieving your potential

Focus on What You Can Control

Y

BY BRIAN NOE OF MW FINANCIAL GROUP

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 19

Your team can help you realize your dreams by developing a sound strategy employing objective facts without bias Your team has your back

So letrsquos throw out the rear view mirror set aside our mistakes and regrets and look forward to what you can control that can lead to success

You and your team can control your personal finances You and your team can control your business Here are some steps you can take to help seize the day sleep easy and get your time back

1 Budget ndash do you have a personal and business budget Do you adhere to your budget Does your budget include protection and savings for retirement and your legacy Do you know how much you need to save for retirement and your legacy Are you prepared in the event that you may ldquolive too longrdquo

2 Help Protect Yourself your Family and your Business ndash you can take steps to control your risk

Do you let your employees drive your personal vehicles Do your employees drive your work vehicles for personal use Are you covered for that activity These are a just a few examples of ldquohiddenrdquo liabilities that you may be exposed to but unaware of

Do you have adequate umbrella insurance protection in addition to home and auto insurance that covers you and your employees

Do you take steps to relieve stress Do you have disability insurance to provide you with income or your business with funds to pay expenses in the event of illness or injury that prevents you from working

For your business you can implement a safety program This sets up a plan of employee procedures for handling vendors customers and inter-employee communication skills to improve workmanship and other employee development For events you cannot control do you have liability EampO and similar insurance

Does your business take advantage of legal structure asset titling (multiple businesses Spouse ownership) retirement plans life insurance annuities trusts and homestead

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20 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

exemptions (if available) to help protect assets from creditors and frivolous lawsuits

3 Employ Efficient Debt ndash we may be at the bottom of the interest rate and inflation cycle If interest rates rise andor inflation heats up the general rule of thumb for most of us is debtors win creditors lose If you have the cash you have control If the banker has the cash they have control

4 Manage Taxes ndash whether or not income or estate taxes increase in the future a retirement assetincome distribution business succession and legacy strategy is a must for everyone

5 Investment Management ndash you have plenty of risk with your business Do you want to have unnecessary risk with your investments

You cannot control macroeconomics (sequence of return risk rising interest rates trade and budget deficits unemployment inflation taxes real estate values commodity markets fluctuating foreign currency etc)

You cannot control geopolitical events (elections Euro zone issues violent foreign government changes war etc) or environmental events (hurricanes earthquakes fires tsunamis etc)

How do you insulate yourself from economic events you cannot control Consider historically tried tested and true strategies Consider strategies that your grandparentrsquos generation may have used They had to protect themselves ndash government bailouts and subsidies were few and far between

Congratulations if you can assemble a team to help you define and implement a strategy using the tactics described above This can be achieved in a relatively short period of time (a few hours a week over several short weeks can do it) which can help give you your time back so you can focus on your business and family

6 Manage your Business ndash this you can completely control You can engage in any of the following business expansion activities without losing energy and enthusiasm to the issues you and your team of advisors tackled above

Perhaps you would ratherbull Recruit and develop key employees (and future buyers of

your business)bull Market expansion (are you getting on board the e-marketing

train)bull Develop operating procedures and processesbull Improve safety (reduce liability)bull Expand into new territoriesbull Enter a new industry

bull Purchase and manage real estate

Life Happens ndash Enjoy It

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 US Army Eric is ranked first in his class with a degree in Computer Science is working in his field and plans on attending graduate school in 2013 His daughter Kara recently graduated undergraduate school with distinction and is planning to attend graduate school to become a Physiciansrsquo 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_NoeMWFinancialcom

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CSIA Update wwwCSIAorg

Publication for CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepregs

ADVERTISEMENT

The Virginia Association of Chimney amp

Hearth Professionals sponsored CSIArsquos

Inspection amp Report Writing class in

Arlington VA this August 6-7 Tom Urban

served as the instructor for the two-day

session Forty one professionals were

in attendance with 19 being business

owners and 22 being employees The

session drew attendees from as far away

as Louisville KY

The event was sponsored by Wakefield

Brush The Chimney Sweep News

Ahrenrsquos Copperfield Wohler Estoban

Lindemann Chimney Supply National

Chimney Supply Olympia Chimney

Supply SaverSystems and Whitecaps

VACHP Sponsored Inspection amp Report Writing

Fred Regar served as auctioneer of the sponsor-donated items on the second day of the session

Tom Urban teaching the CSIA Inspection and Report Writing Class in Arlington

When renewing a credential earned after September 1 2009 a CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg is required to

Available downloads for CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepsreg and CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Techniciansreg include

bull CSIACertifiedChimneySweepandCSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician Trademarks

bull ButtonsforyourWebsite

bull CustomizablePowerPointpresentationfor home inspectors

bull InspectionSOPs

bull LadderSafetyTips

bull ldquoChimneyFiresCausesEffectsampEvaluationrdquo Prepared by Chimney Safety Institute of America- Chimney Fire Education and Research Task Force

bull Printversionofthiswhitepaperisalsoavailable for purchase

bull Top10WoodburningTipsfromtheChimney Safety Institute of America

Check out the CCS amp CDET area at CSIAorg

bull Submitaminimumof9CEUsearnedwithin the preceeding 3 years (in any category) before testing NOTE This requirement will not apply to CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps already holding the credential on September 1 2009untiltheirnext3-yearcertificationcycle

bull Passaone-hourexambasedonSuccessfulChimneySweeping(2009)andNFPA211(2010)

bull Passaninety-minuteopen-bookexambasedonthe2006IRCreg

bull AgreetopaytheAnnualCertificationFee

bull SignCSIACodeofEthics

OR

bull SubmitappropriatenumberofContinuing Education Units (CEUs) in the relevant categories

bull AgreetopaytheAnnualCertificationFee

bull SignCSIACodeofEthics

Upon earning the CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg credential your certification is valid for one year You will need to recertify annually by paying the annual certification fee This fee will be invoiced annually prior to your expiration date Please note that your credential will require renewal every three years by submittal of the minimum 48 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) in accordance with the CSIA Credential Renewal Policy or by passing the certification exams and either submitting a minimum of 9 CEUs or completing a CSIA Review

If your annual certification fee is not paid prior to your certification expiration date your credential will be considered lapsed and you will immediately lose all rights and privileges of the CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg credential The following terms will then apply if reinstatement of the credential is desired

If you do not pay your annual certification fee by your expiration date the following timeline will begin

bull Within90daysfromthedateofexpiration if you submit payment in full for the annual certification fee your credential will be reinstated and you will be considered a CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg in good standing maintaining your original annual expiration date and certification number

bull Ifmorethan90daysandlessthan12months beyond your expiration date you will be required to Pay the current annual certification fee and current testing fees and test again Doing so will reinstate your previous annual certification expiration date and certification number You will still be required to pay your next annual fee within the next 12 months

bull Ifmorethan12monthsbeyondyourexpiration date you will be required to either participate in a CSIA approved certification review course or submit evidence of 9 CEUs that were accumulated during the time your credential was active In addition you will be required to pass the CSIA certification exams Upon successful completion a new certification number will be assigned and you will have a new annual certification expiration date

CaliforniaMichaelGipsonbullMidtownSweepsbullLancasterOmarSaenzbullAFiddlerontheRoodDuctampChimneyServicebullVanNuys

IndianaAlexStewartbullOldSmokeyrsquosFireplaceampChimneyIncbullAshley

KansasRyanBerrybullFullServiceChimneybullOlathe

New YorkJayFellibullHearthampHomeofIthacabullIthaca

VermontJamesDonovanbullLincolnPeakPropertiesbullWaitsfield

West VirginiaMichaelAdwellbullTopHatChimneySweepbullLewisburg

WisconsinDustinMyersbullChimneySpecialistsIncbullHighland

ADVERTISEMENT

Congratulations to Our New CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps

Top 10 Woodburning Tips from the Chimney Safety Institute of America

To aid in the prevention of chimney fires and carbon monoxide intrusion and to help keep heating appliances and fireplaces functioning properly the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) offers the following safety tips

1 Get an annual chimney check Have chimneys inspected annually and cleaned as necessary by a qualified professional chimney service technician This reduces the risk of fires and carbon monoxide poisonings due to creosote buildup or obstructions in the chimneys

2 Keep it clear Keep tree branches and leaves at least 15 feet away from the top of the chimney

3 Install a chimney cap to keep debris and animals out of the chimney

4 Choose the right fuel For burning firewood in wood stoves or fireplaces choose wellseasoned wood that has been split for a minimum of six months - one year and stored in a covered and elevated location Never burn Christmas trees or treated wood in your fireplace or wood stove

5 Build it right Place firewood or firelogs at the rear of the fireplace on a supporting grate To start the fire use kindling or a commercial firelighter Never use flammable liquids

6 Keep the hearth area clear Combustible material too close to the fireplace or to a wood stove could easily catch fire Keep furniture at least 36rdquo away from the hearth

7 Use a fireplace screen Use metal mesh or a screen in front of the fireplace to catch flying sparks that could ignite or burn holes in the carpet or flooring

8 Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors Place detectors throughout the house and check batteries in the spring and fall

When you change your clocks for Daylight Savings Time remember to check your batteries

9 Never leave a fire unattended Before turning in for the evening be sure that the fire is fully

extinguished Supervise children and pets closely around wood stoves and fireplaces

10 The CSIA recommends annual inspections performed by CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps These chimney sweeps have earned the industryrsquos most respected credential by passing an intensive examination based on fire codes clearances and standards for the construction and maintenance of chimney and venting systems The National Fire Protection Association also recommends that all chimneys are inspected on an annual basis

For more chimney and fireplace safety tips visit the Chimney Safety Institute of America online at wwwCSIAorg

Solve your customersrsquo smoking sooting odor and draft problems Itrsquos easy with CSIArsquos 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 Ghostingsooting 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 doesnrsquot

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

Learn to solve these problems save time and money and keep

your clients happy with CSIArsquos Online Chimney Physics program

SolvedVenting Problems

Register today at wwwcsiaorg

CSIA 15 Tech 15 CampL 15 HampS 15 CampS NFI 5 Tech

Annual Certification Requirements

Top 10 Woodburning Tips from the Chimney Safety Institute of America

To aid in the prevention of chimney fires and carbon monoxide intrusion and to help keep heating appliances and fireplaces functioning properly the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) offers the following safety tips

1 Get an annual chimney check Have chimneys inspected annually and cleaned as necessary by a qualified professional chimney service technician This reduces the risk of fires and carbon monoxide poisonings due to creosote buildup or obstructions in the chimneys

2 Keep it clear Keep tree branches and leaves at least 15 feet away from the top of the chimney

3 Install a chimney cap to keep debris and animals out of the chimney

4 Choose the right fuel For burning firewood in wood stoves or fireplaces choose wellseasoned wood that has been split for a minimum of six months - one year and stored in a covered and elevated location Never burn Christmas trees or treated wood in your fireplace or wood stove

5 Build it right Place firewood or firelogs at the rear of the fireplace on a supporting grate To start the fire use kindling or a commercial firelighter Never use flammable liquids

6 Keep the hearth area clear Combustible material too close to the fireplace or to a wood stove could easily catch fire Keep furniture at least 36rdquo away from the hearth

7 Use a fireplace screen Use metal mesh or a screen in front of the fireplace to catch flying sparks that could ignite or burn holes in the carpet or flooring

8 Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors Place detectors throughout the house and check batteries in the spring and fall

When you change your clocks for Daylight Savings Time remember to check your batteries

9 Never leave a fire unattended Before turning in for the evening be sure that the fire is fully

extinguished Supervise children and pets closely around wood stoves and fireplaces

10 The CSIA recommends annual inspections performed by CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps These chimney sweeps have earned the industryrsquos most respected credential by passing an intensive examination based on fire codes clearances and standards for the construction and maintenance of chimney and venting systems The National Fire Protection Association also recommends that all chimneys are inspected on an annual basis

For more chimney and fireplace safety tips visit the Chimney Safety Institute of America online at wwwCSIAorg

ADVERTISEMENT

You can spend weeks trying to get a new employee up to speed In the process yoursquoll have used up your valuable time your patience and more money than you would like to admit

Instead send your employee to the most popular cost-effective chimney sweep training in North America CSIArsquos National Chimney Sweep Training School In less than a week wersquoll create an employee that yoursquoll be proud to send on a call ndash and happy to count toward your bottom line

Register today at wwwcsiaorg or call us at (317) 837-5362

At the 6-day hands-on Training School your employee will learn

How to inspect and service chimney systems serving any fuel burning appliance

How to be safe with the latest health and safety equipment and methods

How to work with residential heating appliances including wood stoves pellet stoves inserts factory-built fireplaces central heaters and furnaces

How to diagnose chimney performance problems understanding draft and flow diagnosing down drafts flow reversals inadequate flow stack effects updrafts pressure effects and gauges

How to navigate the International Residential Codes How to follow the NFPA 211 standards

Class size is limited to ensure a ratio of no more than eight students per instructor This small class size means that students have the opportunity for individual attention from the schoolrsquos experienced instructors and ample opportunities for hands-on training Because class size is limited it is important to apply early to reserve your place

The online CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience

The online Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician (CDET) review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience designed to help you pass the CDET exam

Take advantage of these other CSIA educational offerings that can build your business

Send us your greenhorn

and wersquoll send you back a pro

in 6 days Classes fill quickly so register now

2012 DATeS April 2ndash7June 4ndash9August 6ndash11September 24ndash29

April 2-7June 11-16August 6-11September 24-29

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 25

You can spend weeks trying to get a new employee up to speed In the process yoursquoll have used up your valuable time your patience and more money than you would like to admit

Instead send your employee to the most popular cost-effective chimney sweep training in North America CSIArsquos National Chimney Sweep Training School In less than a week wersquoll create an employee that yoursquoll be proud to send on a call ndash and happy to count toward your bottom line

Register today at wwwcsiaorg or call us at (317) 837-5362

At the 6-day hands-on Training School your employee will learn

How to inspect and service chimney systems serving any fuel burning appliance

How to be safe with the latest health and safety equipment and methods

How to work with residential heating appliances including wood stoves pellet stoves inserts factory-built fireplaces central heaters and furnaces

How to diagnose chimney performance problems understanding draft and flow diagnosing down drafts flow reversals inadequate flow stack effects updrafts pressure effects and gauges

How to navigate the International Residential Codes How to follow the NFPA 211 standards

Class size is limited to ensure a ratio of no more than eight students per instructor This small class size means that students have the opportunity for individual attention from the schoolrsquos experienced instructors and ample opportunities for hands-on training Because class size is limited it is important to apply early to reserve your place

The online CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience

The online Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician (CDET) review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience designed to help you pass the CDET exam

Take advantage of these other CSIA educational offerings that can build your business

Send us your greenhorn

and wersquoll send you back a pro

in 6 days Classes fill quickly so register now

2012 DATeS April 2ndash7June 4ndash9August 6ndash11September 24ndash29

April 2-7June 11-16August 6-11September 24-29

ProgressivePerksBY DEBBIE CORNELIUS

MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT COORDINATOR

Get Organized and Make the Most of Your Busy Season

Sometimes it really surprises me that more NCSG members do not take advantage of the discounted benefits available to them These will not only save you time buthellip money too

Paycor Payroll Services price reduction on payroll and tax services One specialist will be dedicated to your account with a team of tax specialists available to resolve issues in the fastest amount of time should an issue arise

Market Hardware can bring your business up to speed in the competitive market of technology where more and more customers are looking to the Web Once they have customized the design that includes a ldquoHome Pagerdquo ldquoAbout Usrdquo and ldquoOur Servicesrdquo page you will have the ability to easily update and edit your Web site yourself instead of paying someone else to do it

Technical Solutions the ldquoSurvival Kit for Small Businessesrdquo can provide on-demand remote repair 247 365 days a year For the price of $2499month with no long term contact involved you can cover up to 20 computers including multiple office locations

Commercials On Hold provides a great way to brand and promote your full range of services when callers are on hold before they talk to a member of your staff

Take a few minutes to just explore these benefits It would be well worth your time to compare the savings to save you time and help increase your profits

26 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

REGION 6

NCSG Charter Members

Paul Bourque Huntsville AL

Don Leavitt San Diego CA

David Harris Broken Arrow Oklahoma

Dan Wheeler Santa Rosa CA

John Cline Menlo Park CA

Dale Meisinger N Augusta SC

Alan Hisey St Louis MO

Eva B Horton Greenwich CT

Harry Richart Hasbrouck Heights NJ

NewNCSGMembers

REGION 3

REGION 2

REGION 5

REGION 4

NCSG REGIONS

REGION 1

Connecticut Vermont Massachusetts New York Maine Rhode Island New Hampshire

REGION 2

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

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

CONNECTICUTChristopher Gonsalves bull Millstream Construction bull HebronDavid Heissenbuttel bull DMH amp Associates Inc bull Wilton

VIRGINAJack Johnston bull Johnstonrsquos Chimney Sweep bull Yorktown

MISSOURIJason Patrick bull Shamrock Qualty Services bull St LouisBill Bonney bull Bonney Bill bull Jackson

KENTUCKYJoshua Moore bull Moore Joshua bull Mt Sterling

ILLINOISJack Lutz bull Lutz Jack bull EurekaClay Nelson bull Clean Sweep bull Collinsville

OHIOAnthony Ramsey bull Elite Chimney Solutions bull Beavercreek

INDIANATravis Beckley bull Beckley Travis bull Coal City

TEXASMatthew Milner bull Milner Matthew bull WhitesboroTony Drew bull AC Contractors dba Fireplaces bull LongviewChristopher A Hess bull Atlas Chimney bull Leander

MINNESOTARenee Gustafson bull John C Gustafson Builder LLC bull Little Falls

COLORADOKent Macintosh bull Russian River Chimney Sweeps bull Healdsburg

CALIFORNIA Errol Davis bull The Chimney Specialist bull Huntington Beach

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 27

The 2012 ndash 2013 offers are being added daily in the ldquoMembers Onlyrdquo section of the NCSG website at wwwNCSGorg So start checking for these new offers each week These coupons will be good until June 30 2013

Copperfield Chimney Supply bull Lindemann Chimney Supply bull Meyer Machine amp Equipment bull National Chimney Supply bull SNEWS - The Chimney Sweep News bull Wakefield Brush bull Wohler USA Inc

2012 ndash 2013 SWEEPS ADVANTAGE COUPON PROGRAM

Featured Coupons of the Month

COPPERFIELD CHIMNEY SUPPLY

SAVE Up to $ 12650 FREE 13 x 13 Lock-Top with an order of $250

SAVE Up to $ 123 One FREE component Kit with any purchase of 6rdquo UltraPro

SAVE Up to $ 52One 225 quart Woodfield porcelain-coated steamer with any Napoleon appliance

purchase

SAVE Up to $ 46 One 13 x 13 HomeSaver Stainless Steel chimney cap with any Order of $250 or more

SAVE Up to $ 64 One EasyClean Cap with any purchase of $250

SAVE UP TO $ 75 $75 off any 25rsquo order of UltraPro Stainless Steel Liner

SAVE UP TO $ 40 $40 off any Flue Stretcher Chimney Cap

SAVE UP TO $ 20 Sign up for a Copperfield Reline Workshop and Save $20

SAVE UP TO FRE FREE 4 foot sample of HomeSaver Ultrapro

WOHLER USA INC SAVE UP TO $ 500$500 rebate with proof of purchase of VIS2000

Pro Camera System

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wwwcomnetmessagecom

Benefits of Answering Service

Award Winning Telephone Agents

Never Miss A Call

Better Time Management

Appointment Scheduling

Affordable

28 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

Meyer Machine amp Equipment

SUCKINGDUCTS

ampINSULATION

FOR OVER 20 YEARS

As most allergy sufferers will tell you allergy symptoms can always be bothersome turning any time of year into sneezing season A runny nose itchy eyes and scratchy throat can arise as the days get shorter and the leaves begin to change

The fall can be especially difficult for people who are sensitive to mold and ragweed pollen But these seasonal elements arenrsquot the only triggers that can make symptoms worse this time of year There are also a few lesser known triggers Here are four things you might not know about fall allergies courtesy of the American College of Allergy Asthma and Immunology

Hay fever - Hay fever a term from a bygone era actually has nothing to do with hay Instead itrsquos a general term used to describe the symptoms of late summer allergies Ragweed is a common cause of hay fever which is also known as allergic rhinitis The plant usually begins to pollinate in mid-August and may continue to be a problem until a hard freeze depending on where you live See an allergist for prescription medications to control symptoms or to see if allergy shots may be your best option

Lingering warm weather - While most people enjoy Indian summer unseasonably warm temperatures can make rhinitis symptoms last longer Mold spores can also be released when humidity is high or the weather is dry and windy Be sure to begin taking medications before your symptoms start Track your allergy symptoms with MyNasalAllergyJournalorg and visit with your allergist to find relief

Pesky leaves - Some folks might find it difficult to keep up with raking leaves throughout the autumn But for allergy sufferers raking presents its own problem It can stir agitating pollen and mold into the air causing allergy and asthma symptoms Those with allergies should wear an NIOSH-rated N95 mask when raking leaves mowing the lawn and gardening

School allergens - Itrsquos not only seasonal pollen and mold that triggers allergies this time of year Kids are often exposed to classroom irritants and allergy triggers These can include chalk dust and classroom pets Students with food allergies may also be exposed to allergens in the lunch roomKids with exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB) may experience attacks during recess or gym class Help your child understand what can trigger their allergies and asthma and how they can avoid symptoms Be sure to notify teachers and the school nurse of any emergency medications such as quick relief inhalers and epinephrine

No matter the season itrsquos important for those who think they may be suffering from allergies or asthma to see a board-certified allergist An allergist can help you develop a treatment plan which can include both medication and avoidance techniques

Having your allergies properly identified and treated will help you and your family enjoy the season To find an allergist and learn more about allergies and asthma visit wwwAllergyandAsthmaRelieforg

Four Things You Might Not Know About Fall Allergies

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 29

trategic partnerships Sounds fancy but what does it really mean They are called what they are called because there is a true strategy behind them the thought and planning that goes into identifying and development those relationships in a way that will

ultimately help those who are participating to achieve their mission The fact that it is indeed a ldquopartnershiprdquo indicates that everyone involved mutually stands to benefit in some wayhellipItrsquos a win-win

The strategic part of establishing partnerships is analyzing who you are your goals and your current resources and then finding organizations (partners) that will allow you to get the things that you need in order to take your organization to the next level But true partnerships are about what you can bring to each other to help achieve your goals and enhance your resources It is not solely about what you can give me but rather what we can give each other As the great John F Kennedy is well known for encouraging of a world partnership ldquoask not what America will do for you but what together we can do for the freedom of manrdquo

So where does this leave an association like NCSG The key to nonprofits establishing strategic partnerships is having the infrastructure to attract and maintain these relationships In this country there are plenty of nonprofits that are doing great work but there is no organization that will be able to survive if they try

to achieve their mission without establishing partnerships that help provide resources and relationships that allow us to achieve our mission

NCSG is very fortunate to have an impressive array of partners who have for many years some since our inception done just that Our partners have advertised in this magazine exhibited at our conventions contributed to the building and maintaining of our headquarters and the premier industry training facility in Indianapolis discounted thousands of dollars in products and services to our members and have helped us promote the Guild and recruit membership in countless ways not the least of which includes maintaining their own membership in NCSG

Our partners are committed to helping us advance our mission and in turn propel our professional field forward Their partnership supports that programs that ignite your professional and technical development and provide the products and services that have helped you bring your own businesses to life They are integral to the success of this industry and most renew their support of the Guild year after year

Without their support of Sweeping magazine through their advertising we would not have been able to come close to bringing this publication to our members and the industry for the past 35 years (originally The Chimney Sweep Guild News) without significant taxation on the readers Without their support

BY MARK MCSWEENEY CAEEXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Perspective

Support Those Who Support YouldquoOur success has really been based on partnerships from the very beginningrdquo -Bill Gates

S

30 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

of NCSGrsquos annual convention through exhibiting and additional sponsorships registration fees for attendees would easily be double what they are today

When viewing our relationship with exhibitors sponsors advertisers and supplier members as a partnership the question needs to be asked How are we as an association mutually helping them achieve their respective goals

The answer comes back to us having infrastructure to attract and maintain these partnerships And that infrastructure is you the member NCSG cultivates and maintains the relationship with our industry partners on your behalf You are asked to back that up through your support of these partner service providers

Now Irsquom not saying you should buy everything you need at any one place or only through our partners At the end of the day you ultimately need to make your purchasing decisions based on your individual business needs However what would be great to see is our members calling our partners up and giving them a chance to compete for your business Let them know you are a part of NCSG and even if you are not in a position to do business with them this time around let them know you appreciate their continued support of the Guild and the industry Itrsquos one thing to call up to a supplier and ask about a product get a price and hang up Itrsquos another thing to make sure you let them know you saw their ad in Sweeping you read about them

online or you remember they exhibited at the convention so that they know they are getting positive exposure and that their investment in our partnership is not going unnoticed

With that said here are some simple and tangible things things you can do to help the partnership you are a part ofbull Consider our partners each and every time you need to make a

purchasing decision and give them an opportunity to earn your business when you can Look at those who are advertising in Sweeping or see a full listing of NCSG Supplier Members under the Chimney Sweep tab on ncsgorg

bull When you talk to them let them know yoursquore part of NCSG and thank them for their support of your association

bull If you like them even if you canrsquot do business with them currently spread the word and help get their name out there

bull Attend events where our partners have stepped up to sponsor Help show them we value them being there and appreciate their efforts This helps everyone when it comes to working out future programs discounts events and more

We are all in this together Just as you want to ensure you are receiving the return you need on the investments you make our supplier members advertisers exhibitors and sponsors need to justify their own ROI on the variety of support avenues they offer

to NCSG I thought Irsquod take a minute this month to say ldquothank yourdquo to all of you who support us in so many different ways and would like to encourage others to do the same

Until next time I continue to wish you every success

Double Locking CrimpRemains StrongYet Very Flexibl e

With No Memo ry

Strong Triple Locking CrimpHolds T ogether Even OnTough Jobs

Horizontal Sides Of CorrugationOffer Added Strengthamp Flexibility

Manufactured by CHIMNEY TECHNIQUE INC

Chim-Pro Interlock Flex

Chim-Pro Corrugated

Flex

Chim-Pro RigidADDED SAFETY EFFICIENCY AND VALUE

In Which ALL FITTINGS Are Attached With A Band Even The Tee Cap And Elbows Quick amp Simple No Drilling amp Riveting

Featuring

Visit wwwchim-prolinercom for more detailsbull 2000 Industrial Ave bull Sioux Falls SD 57104

1-800-582-1392

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 31

Display Ad Index

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 mheekencsgorg for publication in Sweeping Or mail it to NCSG 2155 Commercial Drive Plainfield IN 46168

Page Advertiser Phone Email or Website Address

30 Ahrens Chimney Technique 800-582-1392 ahrenschimneyqwestofficenet

21-24 Chimney Safety Institute of America 317-837-5362 wwwcsiaorg

14 Cobra Chimney Caps 888-463-0636 salescobrachimneycom

27 Communications Network Inc 800-875-8118 tkempercomnetmessagecom

5 Copperfield 800-247-3305 wwwcopperfieldcom

4 ENERVEX Inc 800-255-2923 infochimneyfanscom

13 Firesafe Industries Inc 800-545-6607 wwwfiresafeinccom

16 Gelco Lyemance Lock-Top 800-334-2154 wwwGLLchimneyproductscom

9 Hose Master 800-221-2319 bobdanielshosemastercom

10 ICP 508-695-7000 wwwchimneycapscom

BC Lifetime Chimney Supply LLC 877-234-7473 wwwlifetimechimneysupplycom

7 Lindemann Chimney Company 800-722-7230 wwwlindemannchimneycom

11 M amp G Duravent 800-835-4429 wwwduraventcom

28 Meyer Machine amp Equipment 800-728-3828 wwwmeyermachinecom

25 National Chimney Supply 800-897-8481 wwwnationalchimneysupplycom

17 Olympia Chimney Supply 800-569-1425 wwwolympiachimneycom

19 Sand Hill Wholesale 800-258-5496 wwwsandhillwholesalecom

6 SaverSystems Inc 800-860-6327 wwwchimneysavercom

3 Smoktite 866-439-0069 wwwsmoktitecom

8 Wakefield Brush 800-264-7007 wwwwakefieldbrushcom

19 Whitecaps 800-335-2534 wwwwhitecapscom

15 Z-Flex 800-654-5600 wwwz-flexcom

The pole and bucket chimney That is how they keep rain and birds out during off season Notice the class A is just an extension of a masonry chimney

Submitted by Kevon Binder of Doctor Flue Inc

September 13-15 2012Lake Murray SCSouth Carolina Chimney Sweep Guildrsquos ldquoThe GatheringrdquoFor more information please contact Blume at (864) 232-9811 or blume357bellsouthnet

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 19 2012 Taunton MAFall Protection User Training Class Including OSHArsquos 2011 ruling on alternate fall protection methods - Sponsored by the Massachusetts Chimney Sweep GuildFor more information please call Jeffrey Wright at (781) 233-2321

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-29 2012CSIA Technology CenterCSIA National Chimney Sweep Training SchoolFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

Dates amp Events

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 8-12 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg October 8-12 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

Please send notice of your events for NCSG Dates amp Events listings at mmcmahonncsgorg for inclusion here in weekly posts to the discussion list and online at wwwNCSGorgdates The event must be considered educational or informative for the industry (sales events and open houses will not be listed)

32 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

ClassifiedsGotta chimney question Sizing Codes Call Royal Edwards Make Royal your tech department CALL NOW 813-982-0219 for on-call tech support Continuing Education special bonus ndash ask how you can get the Friday morning E-Blast for FREE CALL NOW 813-982-0219

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

Chimney Sweep business for sell in the Northern Rocky Mountains of New Mexico Services a large area with three ski resorts in the service area Equipment and signed three year contracts goes with the business Business is well established For pricing and other info please email your questions to ridgeriders1gmailcom

CLASSIFIED ADS FREE FOR NCSG MEMBERSMembers can run one 35 word classified free each year Regularly classified ads are $2word or $1word for NCSG members Classified ads are non-commissionable and must be pre-paid To place a classified ad please contact Megan McMahon at mmcmahonncsgorg or (317) 837-1500

NCSG Innovation 2013 Convention and Trade Show Hotel reservations are now being accepted for NCSG Innovation 2013 at Chateau on the Lake in Branson MO April 4-7 2013 Just call 1-888-333-LAKE (5253) and mention that yoursquore with the National Chimney Sweep Guild to lock in rates starting at $129 for a mountain view and $134 for a lake view

Get ready for some RampR Yoursquore earned it

Order Your FREEAnnual Maintenance Reminder Postcards

A great way to remind homeowners to schedule their annual maintenance check up

Each card has space available for your business information

Use them as reminders for your existing clients or send them to generate new business

To order postcards and other free Burn Wise products contact

Leigh Herringtonherringtonleighepagov

ampKristen Bremer

bremerkristenepagov

wwwepagovburnwise

Follow us on

Wood-Burning Safety

Starts with You

Have you scheduled your

annual inspection

The National Fire Protection Association estimates

that 25 percent of home heating fires are caused

primarily by creosote buildup in the chimney

Make your home healthier and safer A properly

installed and maintained appliance burns more

efficiently and saves you money Contact your local

certified chimney sweep to schedule an annual

inspection today

Before You Burn

The right wayThe right way is hot and bright

In the right applianceThe right appliance is an EPA-approved appliance inspected annually by a certified chimney sweep

Burn the right woodBurn only dry well-seasoned wood that has been split and stored properly

wwwepagovburnwise

wwwcsiaorg

Printed on 100 recycledrecyclable paper with a minimum 50 post-consumer waste using vegetable-based

EPA 456-F-10-004

National Chimney Sweep Guild2155 Commercial DrivePlainfield IN 46168

1208

OR

Page 17: September 2012

16 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

Use language that is too technical and you lose them and put them on the defensive ldquoAm I supposed to understand what this guy is talking aboutrdquo they wonder Speak too fast or indistinctly and you get the same result

Seem like picky details They may be to you but they will not be to your customer

Remember when a customer comes to you he is laying his problem at your feet If he could remedy it himself he would But he canrsquot He needs you to help him So he is feeling a bit vulnerable a bit out of his league How you respond to him in this circumstance can either make him feel immediately comfortable and in safe hands or something less desirable You decide which effect you want to create

I think you can see that if this first encounter leaves your customer glowing instead of glowering you win You win his confidence his trust and even here at the very outset his gratitude If yoursquove done this well ie addressed his initial questions and concerns in a compassionate understanding thorough manner well you are off to an excellent start

But the battle has not been won because yoursquove also set some expectations and your customerrsquos expectation that this kind of treatment will continue must be met If your crew shows up to do the work and forgets they are in the customer service business first and foremost all you accomplished at the beginning can be ruined

Good customer service must build on itself from day one in order to maintain that feeling in your customer of confidence happiness and trust It cannot be hit and miss Being inconsistent might be worse than being just plain ornery from the beginning

Does good customer service trump sloppy careless or substandard work Of course not Because the quality of your product is a huge part of the customer service package Itrsquos all customer service

The bottom line is your customer will appreciate value and respect you to exactly the same degree you appreciate value and respect him No more and no less And the great thing is when you treat your customers as friends when you gladly and openly address their concerns and fix their problems your work and your life become easier and more fulfilling

Try it out Start thinking of customer service as being the be all and end all of your business and see how well things go Yoursquoll be amazed

Remember as Tony Allesandra has observed ldquoBeing on par in terms of price and quality only gets you into the game Service wins the gamerdquo

Energy-Saving Dampers

AN INDUSTRY STANDARD FOR OVER 25 YEARS

Call your favorite Lock-Topdistributor today

Reduce Your Customerrsquos Utility Bills

bullOver140000SoldintheLast10YearsbullSuperiorDesignampQualityndashSiliconeRubberSealsTight

ndashStainlessSteelampCast-AluminumConstruction

ndashEasilyMountsAtopaFlueTile

bullOver25YearsintheBusiness

AnOpen Chimneyis like anOpen Window-All Year Round

11 May lock top indd 1 72612 148 PM

w w wolympiachimneycom bull Phone 1-800-569-1425

Will KozlanskyOwner amp Co-Founder

The NEW Smoothwall Chimney Liner thathas the Perfect Combination of

Weight Ruggedness amp Flexibility

n No memory amp very flexible n Smooth Interior n One liner multiple applicationsn Available ovalized amp coiled

w w wolympiachimneycom bull Phone 1-800-569-1425

Will KozlanskyOwner amp Co-Founder

The NEW Smoothwall Chimney Liner thathas the Perfect Combination of

Weight Ruggedness amp Flexibility

n No memory amp very flexible n Smooth Interior n One liner multiple applicationsn Available ovalized amp coiled

18 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

ou all have accomplishments You support your family your employees and their families your vendors and you provide comfort and safety for your customers

Some of you can enjoy your success and can focus on preserving what you have Many of you want to and have the capacity to grow and be more successful Some of you may be struggling with the seasonality and economics of your business Regardless of your level of success almost all of you have varying degrees of uncertainty

Many articles books conferences and videos have been made about the importance of having a strategic plan to help guide you to fulfill your potential

This magazine has offered numerous articles written to help you fulfill your potential The NCSG offers courses to help you gain skills to be more successful

Yet there still appears to be too many business owners

struggling to achieve their goals ndash or have yet to explicitly define their goals which could help them to get their time back and allow them (you) to enjoy their (your) lives

Maybe yoursquore stuck on tactics without a strategy Maybe yoursquore stuck on ldquonoiserdquo ndash noise that the media airs about events you cannot control and distracts you from your business Perhaps that ldquonoiserdquo has contributed to a pessimistic perspective

Perhaps all of the above is ldquonoiserdquo that covers up past or current mistakes or regret either real or perceived

Letrsquos work on facing your concerns and your past Fear fades when facts are faced Regrets can become wisdom when success lies ahead

Consider forming a team of trusted professionals emulate successful associates select friends and close family members who can create a ldquojudgment freerdquo zone to allow you to unwind the past that may be keeping you from achieving your potential

Focus on What You Can Control

Y

BY BRIAN NOE OF MW FINANCIAL GROUP

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 19

Your team can help you realize your dreams by developing a sound strategy employing objective facts without bias Your team has your back

So letrsquos throw out the rear view mirror set aside our mistakes and regrets and look forward to what you can control that can lead to success

You and your team can control your personal finances You and your team can control your business Here are some steps you can take to help seize the day sleep easy and get your time back

1 Budget ndash do you have a personal and business budget Do you adhere to your budget Does your budget include protection and savings for retirement and your legacy Do you know how much you need to save for retirement and your legacy Are you prepared in the event that you may ldquolive too longrdquo

2 Help Protect Yourself your Family and your Business ndash you can take steps to control your risk

Do you let your employees drive your personal vehicles Do your employees drive your work vehicles for personal use Are you covered for that activity These are a just a few examples of ldquohiddenrdquo liabilities that you may be exposed to but unaware of

Do you have adequate umbrella insurance protection in addition to home and auto insurance that covers you and your employees

Do you take steps to relieve stress Do you have disability insurance to provide you with income or your business with funds to pay expenses in the event of illness or injury that prevents you from working

For your business you can implement a safety program This sets up a plan of employee procedures for handling vendors customers and inter-employee communication skills to improve workmanship and other employee development For events you cannot control do you have liability EampO and similar insurance

Does your business take advantage of legal structure asset titling (multiple businesses Spouse ownership) retirement plans life insurance annuities trusts and homestead

Its Not Too Late For Fall Dating

Dont have the NEW 2012-2013 Sand Hill Wholesale CatalogCall for your free copy

1-888-SAND-HILLor fax your request to

1-800-958-5497

Visit us on the web wwwsandhillwholesalecom

Place Your Qualified Order Of $800 or moreAnd Your Total Payment Is Not Due Until

November 1 2012Also get

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with a Fall dating order over $1500 To receive this offer mention this ad at time of order

Subject to credit approval

Same day shipping for orders placed before 200PM Eastern Time

20 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

exemptions (if available) to help protect assets from creditors and frivolous lawsuits

3 Employ Efficient Debt ndash we may be at the bottom of the interest rate and inflation cycle If interest rates rise andor inflation heats up the general rule of thumb for most of us is debtors win creditors lose If you have the cash you have control If the banker has the cash they have control

4 Manage Taxes ndash whether or not income or estate taxes increase in the future a retirement assetincome distribution business succession and legacy strategy is a must for everyone

5 Investment Management ndash you have plenty of risk with your business Do you want to have unnecessary risk with your investments

You cannot control macroeconomics (sequence of return risk rising interest rates trade and budget deficits unemployment inflation taxes real estate values commodity markets fluctuating foreign currency etc)

You cannot control geopolitical events (elections Euro zone issues violent foreign government changes war etc) or environmental events (hurricanes earthquakes fires tsunamis etc)

How do you insulate yourself from economic events you cannot control Consider historically tried tested and true strategies Consider strategies that your grandparentrsquos generation may have used They had to protect themselves ndash government bailouts and subsidies were few and far between

Congratulations if you can assemble a team to help you define and implement a strategy using the tactics described above This can be achieved in a relatively short period of time (a few hours a week over several short weeks can do it) which can help give you your time back so you can focus on your business and family

6 Manage your Business ndash this you can completely control You can engage in any of the following business expansion activities without losing energy and enthusiasm to the issues you and your team of advisors tackled above

Perhaps you would ratherbull Recruit and develop key employees (and future buyers of

your business)bull Market expansion (are you getting on board the e-marketing

train)bull Develop operating procedures and processesbull Improve safety (reduce liability)bull Expand into new territoriesbull Enter a new industry

bull Purchase and manage real estate

Life Happens ndash Enjoy It

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 US Army Eric is ranked first in his class with a degree in Computer Science is working in his field and plans on attending graduate school in 2013 His daughter Kara recently graduated undergraduate school with distinction and is planning to attend graduate school to become a Physiciansrsquo 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_NoeMWFinancialcom

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CSIA Update wwwCSIAorg

Publication for CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepregs

ADVERTISEMENT

The Virginia Association of Chimney amp

Hearth Professionals sponsored CSIArsquos

Inspection amp Report Writing class in

Arlington VA this August 6-7 Tom Urban

served as the instructor for the two-day

session Forty one professionals were

in attendance with 19 being business

owners and 22 being employees The

session drew attendees from as far away

as Louisville KY

The event was sponsored by Wakefield

Brush The Chimney Sweep News

Ahrenrsquos Copperfield Wohler Estoban

Lindemann Chimney Supply National

Chimney Supply Olympia Chimney

Supply SaverSystems and Whitecaps

VACHP Sponsored Inspection amp Report Writing

Fred Regar served as auctioneer of the sponsor-donated items on the second day of the session

Tom Urban teaching the CSIA Inspection and Report Writing Class in Arlington

When renewing a credential earned after September 1 2009 a CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg is required to

Available downloads for CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepsreg and CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Techniciansreg include

bull CSIACertifiedChimneySweepandCSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician Trademarks

bull ButtonsforyourWebsite

bull CustomizablePowerPointpresentationfor home inspectors

bull InspectionSOPs

bull LadderSafetyTips

bull ldquoChimneyFiresCausesEffectsampEvaluationrdquo Prepared by Chimney Safety Institute of America- Chimney Fire Education and Research Task Force

bull Printversionofthiswhitepaperisalsoavailable for purchase

bull Top10WoodburningTipsfromtheChimney Safety Institute of America

Check out the CCS amp CDET area at CSIAorg

bull Submitaminimumof9CEUsearnedwithin the preceeding 3 years (in any category) before testing NOTE This requirement will not apply to CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps already holding the credential on September 1 2009untiltheirnext3-yearcertificationcycle

bull Passaone-hourexambasedonSuccessfulChimneySweeping(2009)andNFPA211(2010)

bull Passaninety-minuteopen-bookexambasedonthe2006IRCreg

bull AgreetopaytheAnnualCertificationFee

bull SignCSIACodeofEthics

OR

bull SubmitappropriatenumberofContinuing Education Units (CEUs) in the relevant categories

bull AgreetopaytheAnnualCertificationFee

bull SignCSIACodeofEthics

Upon earning the CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg credential your certification is valid for one year You will need to recertify annually by paying the annual certification fee This fee will be invoiced annually prior to your expiration date Please note that your credential will require renewal every three years by submittal of the minimum 48 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) in accordance with the CSIA Credential Renewal Policy or by passing the certification exams and either submitting a minimum of 9 CEUs or completing a CSIA Review

If your annual certification fee is not paid prior to your certification expiration date your credential will be considered lapsed and you will immediately lose all rights and privileges of the CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg credential The following terms will then apply if reinstatement of the credential is desired

If you do not pay your annual certification fee by your expiration date the following timeline will begin

bull Within90daysfromthedateofexpiration if you submit payment in full for the annual certification fee your credential will be reinstated and you will be considered a CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg in good standing maintaining your original annual expiration date and certification number

bull Ifmorethan90daysandlessthan12months beyond your expiration date you will be required to Pay the current annual certification fee and current testing fees and test again Doing so will reinstate your previous annual certification expiration date and certification number You will still be required to pay your next annual fee within the next 12 months

bull Ifmorethan12monthsbeyondyourexpiration date you will be required to either participate in a CSIA approved certification review course or submit evidence of 9 CEUs that were accumulated during the time your credential was active In addition you will be required to pass the CSIA certification exams Upon successful completion a new certification number will be assigned and you will have a new annual certification expiration date

CaliforniaMichaelGipsonbullMidtownSweepsbullLancasterOmarSaenzbullAFiddlerontheRoodDuctampChimneyServicebullVanNuys

IndianaAlexStewartbullOldSmokeyrsquosFireplaceampChimneyIncbullAshley

KansasRyanBerrybullFullServiceChimneybullOlathe

New YorkJayFellibullHearthampHomeofIthacabullIthaca

VermontJamesDonovanbullLincolnPeakPropertiesbullWaitsfield

West VirginiaMichaelAdwellbullTopHatChimneySweepbullLewisburg

WisconsinDustinMyersbullChimneySpecialistsIncbullHighland

ADVERTISEMENT

Congratulations to Our New CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps

Top 10 Woodburning Tips from the Chimney Safety Institute of America

To aid in the prevention of chimney fires and carbon monoxide intrusion and to help keep heating appliances and fireplaces functioning properly the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) offers the following safety tips

1 Get an annual chimney check Have chimneys inspected annually and cleaned as necessary by a qualified professional chimney service technician This reduces the risk of fires and carbon monoxide poisonings due to creosote buildup or obstructions in the chimneys

2 Keep it clear Keep tree branches and leaves at least 15 feet away from the top of the chimney

3 Install a chimney cap to keep debris and animals out of the chimney

4 Choose the right fuel For burning firewood in wood stoves or fireplaces choose wellseasoned wood that has been split for a minimum of six months - one year and stored in a covered and elevated location Never burn Christmas trees or treated wood in your fireplace or wood stove

5 Build it right Place firewood or firelogs at the rear of the fireplace on a supporting grate To start the fire use kindling or a commercial firelighter Never use flammable liquids

6 Keep the hearth area clear Combustible material too close to the fireplace or to a wood stove could easily catch fire Keep furniture at least 36rdquo away from the hearth

7 Use a fireplace screen Use metal mesh or a screen in front of the fireplace to catch flying sparks that could ignite or burn holes in the carpet or flooring

8 Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors Place detectors throughout the house and check batteries in the spring and fall

When you change your clocks for Daylight Savings Time remember to check your batteries

9 Never leave a fire unattended Before turning in for the evening be sure that the fire is fully

extinguished Supervise children and pets closely around wood stoves and fireplaces

10 The CSIA recommends annual inspections performed by CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps These chimney sweeps have earned the industryrsquos most respected credential by passing an intensive examination based on fire codes clearances and standards for the construction and maintenance of chimney and venting systems The National Fire Protection Association also recommends that all chimneys are inspected on an annual basis

For more chimney and fireplace safety tips visit the Chimney Safety Institute of America online at wwwCSIAorg

Solve your customersrsquo smoking sooting odor and draft problems Itrsquos easy with CSIArsquos 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 Ghostingsooting 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 doesnrsquot

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

Learn to solve these problems save time and money and keep

your clients happy with CSIArsquos Online Chimney Physics program

SolvedVenting Problems

Register today at wwwcsiaorg

CSIA 15 Tech 15 CampL 15 HampS 15 CampS NFI 5 Tech

Annual Certification Requirements

Top 10 Woodburning Tips from the Chimney Safety Institute of America

To aid in the prevention of chimney fires and carbon monoxide intrusion and to help keep heating appliances and fireplaces functioning properly the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) offers the following safety tips

1 Get an annual chimney check Have chimneys inspected annually and cleaned as necessary by a qualified professional chimney service technician This reduces the risk of fires and carbon monoxide poisonings due to creosote buildup or obstructions in the chimneys

2 Keep it clear Keep tree branches and leaves at least 15 feet away from the top of the chimney

3 Install a chimney cap to keep debris and animals out of the chimney

4 Choose the right fuel For burning firewood in wood stoves or fireplaces choose wellseasoned wood that has been split for a minimum of six months - one year and stored in a covered and elevated location Never burn Christmas trees or treated wood in your fireplace or wood stove

5 Build it right Place firewood or firelogs at the rear of the fireplace on a supporting grate To start the fire use kindling or a commercial firelighter Never use flammable liquids

6 Keep the hearth area clear Combustible material too close to the fireplace or to a wood stove could easily catch fire Keep furniture at least 36rdquo away from the hearth

7 Use a fireplace screen Use metal mesh or a screen in front of the fireplace to catch flying sparks that could ignite or burn holes in the carpet or flooring

8 Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors Place detectors throughout the house and check batteries in the spring and fall

When you change your clocks for Daylight Savings Time remember to check your batteries

9 Never leave a fire unattended Before turning in for the evening be sure that the fire is fully

extinguished Supervise children and pets closely around wood stoves and fireplaces

10 The CSIA recommends annual inspections performed by CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps These chimney sweeps have earned the industryrsquos most respected credential by passing an intensive examination based on fire codes clearances and standards for the construction and maintenance of chimney and venting systems The National Fire Protection Association also recommends that all chimneys are inspected on an annual basis

For more chimney and fireplace safety tips visit the Chimney Safety Institute of America online at wwwCSIAorg

ADVERTISEMENT

You can spend weeks trying to get a new employee up to speed In the process yoursquoll have used up your valuable time your patience and more money than you would like to admit

Instead send your employee to the most popular cost-effective chimney sweep training in North America CSIArsquos National Chimney Sweep Training School In less than a week wersquoll create an employee that yoursquoll be proud to send on a call ndash and happy to count toward your bottom line

Register today at wwwcsiaorg or call us at (317) 837-5362

At the 6-day hands-on Training School your employee will learn

How to inspect and service chimney systems serving any fuel burning appliance

How to be safe with the latest health and safety equipment and methods

How to work with residential heating appliances including wood stoves pellet stoves inserts factory-built fireplaces central heaters and furnaces

How to diagnose chimney performance problems understanding draft and flow diagnosing down drafts flow reversals inadequate flow stack effects updrafts pressure effects and gauges

How to navigate the International Residential Codes How to follow the NFPA 211 standards

Class size is limited to ensure a ratio of no more than eight students per instructor This small class size means that students have the opportunity for individual attention from the schoolrsquos experienced instructors and ample opportunities for hands-on training Because class size is limited it is important to apply early to reserve your place

The online CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience

The online Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician (CDET) review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience designed to help you pass the CDET exam

Take advantage of these other CSIA educational offerings that can build your business

Send us your greenhorn

and wersquoll send you back a pro

in 6 days Classes fill quickly so register now

2012 DATeS April 2ndash7June 4ndash9August 6ndash11September 24ndash29

April 2-7June 11-16August 6-11September 24-29

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 25

You can spend weeks trying to get a new employee up to speed In the process yoursquoll have used up your valuable time your patience and more money than you would like to admit

Instead send your employee to the most popular cost-effective chimney sweep training in North America CSIArsquos National Chimney Sweep Training School In less than a week wersquoll create an employee that yoursquoll be proud to send on a call ndash and happy to count toward your bottom line

Register today at wwwcsiaorg or call us at (317) 837-5362

At the 6-day hands-on Training School your employee will learn

How to inspect and service chimney systems serving any fuel burning appliance

How to be safe with the latest health and safety equipment and methods

How to work with residential heating appliances including wood stoves pellet stoves inserts factory-built fireplaces central heaters and furnaces

How to diagnose chimney performance problems understanding draft and flow diagnosing down drafts flow reversals inadequate flow stack effects updrafts pressure effects and gauges

How to navigate the International Residential Codes How to follow the NFPA 211 standards

Class size is limited to ensure a ratio of no more than eight students per instructor This small class size means that students have the opportunity for individual attention from the schoolrsquos experienced instructors and ample opportunities for hands-on training Because class size is limited it is important to apply early to reserve your place

The online CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience

The online Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician (CDET) review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience designed to help you pass the CDET exam

Take advantage of these other CSIA educational offerings that can build your business

Send us your greenhorn

and wersquoll send you back a pro

in 6 days Classes fill quickly so register now

2012 DATeS April 2ndash7June 4ndash9August 6ndash11September 24ndash29

April 2-7June 11-16August 6-11September 24-29

ProgressivePerksBY DEBBIE CORNELIUS

MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT COORDINATOR

Get Organized and Make the Most of Your Busy Season

Sometimes it really surprises me that more NCSG members do not take advantage of the discounted benefits available to them These will not only save you time buthellip money too

Paycor Payroll Services price reduction on payroll and tax services One specialist will be dedicated to your account with a team of tax specialists available to resolve issues in the fastest amount of time should an issue arise

Market Hardware can bring your business up to speed in the competitive market of technology where more and more customers are looking to the Web Once they have customized the design that includes a ldquoHome Pagerdquo ldquoAbout Usrdquo and ldquoOur Servicesrdquo page you will have the ability to easily update and edit your Web site yourself instead of paying someone else to do it

Technical Solutions the ldquoSurvival Kit for Small Businessesrdquo can provide on-demand remote repair 247 365 days a year For the price of $2499month with no long term contact involved you can cover up to 20 computers including multiple office locations

Commercials On Hold provides a great way to brand and promote your full range of services when callers are on hold before they talk to a member of your staff

Take a few minutes to just explore these benefits It would be well worth your time to compare the savings to save you time and help increase your profits

26 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

REGION 6

NCSG Charter Members

Paul Bourque Huntsville AL

Don Leavitt San Diego CA

David Harris Broken Arrow Oklahoma

Dan Wheeler Santa Rosa CA

John Cline Menlo Park CA

Dale Meisinger N Augusta SC

Alan Hisey St Louis MO

Eva B Horton Greenwich CT

Harry Richart Hasbrouck Heights NJ

NewNCSGMembers

REGION 3

REGION 2

REGION 5

REGION 4

NCSG REGIONS

REGION 1

Connecticut Vermont Massachusetts New York Maine Rhode Island New Hampshire

REGION 2

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

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

CONNECTICUTChristopher Gonsalves bull Millstream Construction bull HebronDavid Heissenbuttel bull DMH amp Associates Inc bull Wilton

VIRGINAJack Johnston bull Johnstonrsquos Chimney Sweep bull Yorktown

MISSOURIJason Patrick bull Shamrock Qualty Services bull St LouisBill Bonney bull Bonney Bill bull Jackson

KENTUCKYJoshua Moore bull Moore Joshua bull Mt Sterling

ILLINOISJack Lutz bull Lutz Jack bull EurekaClay Nelson bull Clean Sweep bull Collinsville

OHIOAnthony Ramsey bull Elite Chimney Solutions bull Beavercreek

INDIANATravis Beckley bull Beckley Travis bull Coal City

TEXASMatthew Milner bull Milner Matthew bull WhitesboroTony Drew bull AC Contractors dba Fireplaces bull LongviewChristopher A Hess bull Atlas Chimney bull Leander

MINNESOTARenee Gustafson bull John C Gustafson Builder LLC bull Little Falls

COLORADOKent Macintosh bull Russian River Chimney Sweeps bull Healdsburg

CALIFORNIA Errol Davis bull The Chimney Specialist bull Huntington Beach

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 27

The 2012 ndash 2013 offers are being added daily in the ldquoMembers Onlyrdquo section of the NCSG website at wwwNCSGorg So start checking for these new offers each week These coupons will be good until June 30 2013

Copperfield Chimney Supply bull Lindemann Chimney Supply bull Meyer Machine amp Equipment bull National Chimney Supply bull SNEWS - The Chimney Sweep News bull Wakefield Brush bull Wohler USA Inc

2012 ndash 2013 SWEEPS ADVANTAGE COUPON PROGRAM

Featured Coupons of the Month

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SAVE Up to $ 12650 FREE 13 x 13 Lock-Top with an order of $250

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purchase

SAVE Up to $ 46 One 13 x 13 HomeSaver Stainless Steel chimney cap with any Order of $250 or more

SAVE Up to $ 64 One EasyClean Cap with any purchase of $250

SAVE UP TO $ 75 $75 off any 25rsquo order of UltraPro Stainless Steel Liner

SAVE UP TO $ 40 $40 off any Flue Stretcher Chimney Cap

SAVE UP TO $ 20 Sign up for a Copperfield Reline Workshop and Save $20

SAVE UP TO FRE FREE 4 foot sample of HomeSaver Ultrapro

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28 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

Meyer Machine amp Equipment

SUCKINGDUCTS

ampINSULATION

FOR OVER 20 YEARS

As most allergy sufferers will tell you allergy symptoms can always be bothersome turning any time of year into sneezing season A runny nose itchy eyes and scratchy throat can arise as the days get shorter and the leaves begin to change

The fall can be especially difficult for people who are sensitive to mold and ragweed pollen But these seasonal elements arenrsquot the only triggers that can make symptoms worse this time of year There are also a few lesser known triggers Here are four things you might not know about fall allergies courtesy of the American College of Allergy Asthma and Immunology

Hay fever - Hay fever a term from a bygone era actually has nothing to do with hay Instead itrsquos a general term used to describe the symptoms of late summer allergies Ragweed is a common cause of hay fever which is also known as allergic rhinitis The plant usually begins to pollinate in mid-August and may continue to be a problem until a hard freeze depending on where you live See an allergist for prescription medications to control symptoms or to see if allergy shots may be your best option

Lingering warm weather - While most people enjoy Indian summer unseasonably warm temperatures can make rhinitis symptoms last longer Mold spores can also be released when humidity is high or the weather is dry and windy Be sure to begin taking medications before your symptoms start Track your allergy symptoms with MyNasalAllergyJournalorg and visit with your allergist to find relief

Pesky leaves - Some folks might find it difficult to keep up with raking leaves throughout the autumn But for allergy sufferers raking presents its own problem It can stir agitating pollen and mold into the air causing allergy and asthma symptoms Those with allergies should wear an NIOSH-rated N95 mask when raking leaves mowing the lawn and gardening

School allergens - Itrsquos not only seasonal pollen and mold that triggers allergies this time of year Kids are often exposed to classroom irritants and allergy triggers These can include chalk dust and classroom pets Students with food allergies may also be exposed to allergens in the lunch roomKids with exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB) may experience attacks during recess or gym class Help your child understand what can trigger their allergies and asthma and how they can avoid symptoms Be sure to notify teachers and the school nurse of any emergency medications such as quick relief inhalers and epinephrine

No matter the season itrsquos important for those who think they may be suffering from allergies or asthma to see a board-certified allergist An allergist can help you develop a treatment plan which can include both medication and avoidance techniques

Having your allergies properly identified and treated will help you and your family enjoy the season To find an allergist and learn more about allergies and asthma visit wwwAllergyandAsthmaRelieforg

Four Things You Might Not Know About Fall Allergies

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 29

trategic partnerships Sounds fancy but what does it really mean They are called what they are called because there is a true strategy behind them the thought and planning that goes into identifying and development those relationships in a way that will

ultimately help those who are participating to achieve their mission The fact that it is indeed a ldquopartnershiprdquo indicates that everyone involved mutually stands to benefit in some wayhellipItrsquos a win-win

The strategic part of establishing partnerships is analyzing who you are your goals and your current resources and then finding organizations (partners) that will allow you to get the things that you need in order to take your organization to the next level But true partnerships are about what you can bring to each other to help achieve your goals and enhance your resources It is not solely about what you can give me but rather what we can give each other As the great John F Kennedy is well known for encouraging of a world partnership ldquoask not what America will do for you but what together we can do for the freedom of manrdquo

So where does this leave an association like NCSG The key to nonprofits establishing strategic partnerships is having the infrastructure to attract and maintain these relationships In this country there are plenty of nonprofits that are doing great work but there is no organization that will be able to survive if they try

to achieve their mission without establishing partnerships that help provide resources and relationships that allow us to achieve our mission

NCSG is very fortunate to have an impressive array of partners who have for many years some since our inception done just that Our partners have advertised in this magazine exhibited at our conventions contributed to the building and maintaining of our headquarters and the premier industry training facility in Indianapolis discounted thousands of dollars in products and services to our members and have helped us promote the Guild and recruit membership in countless ways not the least of which includes maintaining their own membership in NCSG

Our partners are committed to helping us advance our mission and in turn propel our professional field forward Their partnership supports that programs that ignite your professional and technical development and provide the products and services that have helped you bring your own businesses to life They are integral to the success of this industry and most renew their support of the Guild year after year

Without their support of Sweeping magazine through their advertising we would not have been able to come close to bringing this publication to our members and the industry for the past 35 years (originally The Chimney Sweep Guild News) without significant taxation on the readers Without their support

BY MARK MCSWEENEY CAEEXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Perspective

Support Those Who Support YouldquoOur success has really been based on partnerships from the very beginningrdquo -Bill Gates

S

30 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

of NCSGrsquos annual convention through exhibiting and additional sponsorships registration fees for attendees would easily be double what they are today

When viewing our relationship with exhibitors sponsors advertisers and supplier members as a partnership the question needs to be asked How are we as an association mutually helping them achieve their respective goals

The answer comes back to us having infrastructure to attract and maintain these partnerships And that infrastructure is you the member NCSG cultivates and maintains the relationship with our industry partners on your behalf You are asked to back that up through your support of these partner service providers

Now Irsquom not saying you should buy everything you need at any one place or only through our partners At the end of the day you ultimately need to make your purchasing decisions based on your individual business needs However what would be great to see is our members calling our partners up and giving them a chance to compete for your business Let them know you are a part of NCSG and even if you are not in a position to do business with them this time around let them know you appreciate their continued support of the Guild and the industry Itrsquos one thing to call up to a supplier and ask about a product get a price and hang up Itrsquos another thing to make sure you let them know you saw their ad in Sweeping you read about them

online or you remember they exhibited at the convention so that they know they are getting positive exposure and that their investment in our partnership is not going unnoticed

With that said here are some simple and tangible things things you can do to help the partnership you are a part ofbull Consider our partners each and every time you need to make a

purchasing decision and give them an opportunity to earn your business when you can Look at those who are advertising in Sweeping or see a full listing of NCSG Supplier Members under the Chimney Sweep tab on ncsgorg

bull When you talk to them let them know yoursquore part of NCSG and thank them for their support of your association

bull If you like them even if you canrsquot do business with them currently spread the word and help get their name out there

bull Attend events where our partners have stepped up to sponsor Help show them we value them being there and appreciate their efforts This helps everyone when it comes to working out future programs discounts events and more

We are all in this together Just as you want to ensure you are receiving the return you need on the investments you make our supplier members advertisers exhibitors and sponsors need to justify their own ROI on the variety of support avenues they offer

to NCSG I thought Irsquod take a minute this month to say ldquothank yourdquo to all of you who support us in so many different ways and would like to encourage others to do the same

Until next time I continue to wish you every success

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With No Memo ry

Strong Triple Locking CrimpHolds T ogether Even OnTough Jobs

Horizontal Sides Of CorrugationOffer Added Strengthamp Flexibility

Manufactured by CHIMNEY TECHNIQUE INC

Chim-Pro Interlock Flex

Chim-Pro Corrugated

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Chim-Pro RigidADDED SAFETY EFFICIENCY AND VALUE

In Which ALL FITTINGS Are Attached With A Band Even The Tee Cap And Elbows Quick amp Simple No Drilling amp Riveting

Featuring

Visit wwwchim-prolinercom for more detailsbull 2000 Industrial Ave bull Sioux Falls SD 57104

1-800-582-1392

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 31

Display Ad Index

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 mheekencsgorg for publication in Sweeping Or mail it to NCSG 2155 Commercial Drive Plainfield IN 46168

Page Advertiser Phone Email or Website Address

30 Ahrens Chimney Technique 800-582-1392 ahrenschimneyqwestofficenet

21-24 Chimney Safety Institute of America 317-837-5362 wwwcsiaorg

14 Cobra Chimney Caps 888-463-0636 salescobrachimneycom

27 Communications Network Inc 800-875-8118 tkempercomnetmessagecom

5 Copperfield 800-247-3305 wwwcopperfieldcom

4 ENERVEX Inc 800-255-2923 infochimneyfanscom

13 Firesafe Industries Inc 800-545-6607 wwwfiresafeinccom

16 Gelco Lyemance Lock-Top 800-334-2154 wwwGLLchimneyproductscom

9 Hose Master 800-221-2319 bobdanielshosemastercom

10 ICP 508-695-7000 wwwchimneycapscom

BC Lifetime Chimney Supply LLC 877-234-7473 wwwlifetimechimneysupplycom

7 Lindemann Chimney Company 800-722-7230 wwwlindemannchimneycom

11 M amp G Duravent 800-835-4429 wwwduraventcom

28 Meyer Machine amp Equipment 800-728-3828 wwwmeyermachinecom

25 National Chimney Supply 800-897-8481 wwwnationalchimneysupplycom

17 Olympia Chimney Supply 800-569-1425 wwwolympiachimneycom

19 Sand Hill Wholesale 800-258-5496 wwwsandhillwholesalecom

6 SaverSystems Inc 800-860-6327 wwwchimneysavercom

3 Smoktite 866-439-0069 wwwsmoktitecom

8 Wakefield Brush 800-264-7007 wwwwakefieldbrushcom

19 Whitecaps 800-335-2534 wwwwhitecapscom

15 Z-Flex 800-654-5600 wwwz-flexcom

The pole and bucket chimney That is how they keep rain and birds out during off season Notice the class A is just an extension of a masonry chimney

Submitted by Kevon Binder of Doctor Flue Inc

September 13-15 2012Lake Murray SCSouth Carolina Chimney Sweep Guildrsquos ldquoThe GatheringrdquoFor more information please contact Blume at (864) 232-9811 or blume357bellsouthnet

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 19 2012 Taunton MAFall Protection User Training Class Including OSHArsquos 2011 ruling on alternate fall protection methods - Sponsored by the Massachusetts Chimney Sweep GuildFor more information please call Jeffrey Wright at (781) 233-2321

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-29 2012CSIA Technology CenterCSIA National Chimney Sweep Training SchoolFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

Dates amp Events

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 8-12 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg October 8-12 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

Please send notice of your events for NCSG Dates amp Events listings at mmcmahonncsgorg for inclusion here in weekly posts to the discussion list and online at wwwNCSGorgdates The event must be considered educational or informative for the industry (sales events and open houses will not be listed)

32 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

ClassifiedsGotta chimney question Sizing Codes Call Royal Edwards Make Royal your tech department CALL NOW 813-982-0219 for on-call tech support Continuing Education special bonus ndash ask how you can get the Friday morning E-Blast for FREE CALL NOW 813-982-0219

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

Chimney Sweep business for sell in the Northern Rocky Mountains of New Mexico Services a large area with three ski resorts in the service area Equipment and signed three year contracts goes with the business Business is well established For pricing and other info please email your questions to ridgeriders1gmailcom

CLASSIFIED ADS FREE FOR NCSG MEMBERSMembers can run one 35 word classified free each year Regularly classified ads are $2word or $1word for NCSG members Classified ads are non-commissionable and must be pre-paid To place a classified ad please contact Megan McMahon at mmcmahonncsgorg or (317) 837-1500

NCSG Innovation 2013 Convention and Trade Show Hotel reservations are now being accepted for NCSG Innovation 2013 at Chateau on the Lake in Branson MO April 4-7 2013 Just call 1-888-333-LAKE (5253) and mention that yoursquore with the National Chimney Sweep Guild to lock in rates starting at $129 for a mountain view and $134 for a lake view

Get ready for some RampR Yoursquore earned it

Order Your FREEAnnual Maintenance Reminder Postcards

A great way to remind homeowners to schedule their annual maintenance check up

Each card has space available for your business information

Use them as reminders for your existing clients or send them to generate new business

To order postcards and other free Burn Wise products contact

Leigh Herringtonherringtonleighepagov

ampKristen Bremer

bremerkristenepagov

wwwepagovburnwise

Follow us on

Wood-Burning Safety

Starts with You

Have you scheduled your

annual inspection

The National Fire Protection Association estimates

that 25 percent of home heating fires are caused

primarily by creosote buildup in the chimney

Make your home healthier and safer A properly

installed and maintained appliance burns more

efficiently and saves you money Contact your local

certified chimney sweep to schedule an annual

inspection today

Before You Burn

The right wayThe right way is hot and bright

In the right applianceThe right appliance is an EPA-approved appliance inspected annually by a certified chimney sweep

Burn the right woodBurn only dry well-seasoned wood that has been split and stored properly

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wwwcsiaorg

Printed on 100 recycledrecyclable paper with a minimum 50 post-consumer waste using vegetable-based

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National Chimney Sweep Guild2155 Commercial DrivePlainfield IN 46168

1208

OR

Page 18: September 2012

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Will KozlanskyOwner amp Co-Founder

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18 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

ou all have accomplishments You support your family your employees and their families your vendors and you provide comfort and safety for your customers

Some of you can enjoy your success and can focus on preserving what you have Many of you want to and have the capacity to grow and be more successful Some of you may be struggling with the seasonality and economics of your business Regardless of your level of success almost all of you have varying degrees of uncertainty

Many articles books conferences and videos have been made about the importance of having a strategic plan to help guide you to fulfill your potential

This magazine has offered numerous articles written to help you fulfill your potential The NCSG offers courses to help you gain skills to be more successful

Yet there still appears to be too many business owners

struggling to achieve their goals ndash or have yet to explicitly define their goals which could help them to get their time back and allow them (you) to enjoy their (your) lives

Maybe yoursquore stuck on tactics without a strategy Maybe yoursquore stuck on ldquonoiserdquo ndash noise that the media airs about events you cannot control and distracts you from your business Perhaps that ldquonoiserdquo has contributed to a pessimistic perspective

Perhaps all of the above is ldquonoiserdquo that covers up past or current mistakes or regret either real or perceived

Letrsquos work on facing your concerns and your past Fear fades when facts are faced Regrets can become wisdom when success lies ahead

Consider forming a team of trusted professionals emulate successful associates select friends and close family members who can create a ldquojudgment freerdquo zone to allow you to unwind the past that may be keeping you from achieving your potential

Focus on What You Can Control

Y

BY BRIAN NOE OF MW FINANCIAL GROUP

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 19

Your team can help you realize your dreams by developing a sound strategy employing objective facts without bias Your team has your back

So letrsquos throw out the rear view mirror set aside our mistakes and regrets and look forward to what you can control that can lead to success

You and your team can control your personal finances You and your team can control your business Here are some steps you can take to help seize the day sleep easy and get your time back

1 Budget ndash do you have a personal and business budget Do you adhere to your budget Does your budget include protection and savings for retirement and your legacy Do you know how much you need to save for retirement and your legacy Are you prepared in the event that you may ldquolive too longrdquo

2 Help Protect Yourself your Family and your Business ndash you can take steps to control your risk

Do you let your employees drive your personal vehicles Do your employees drive your work vehicles for personal use Are you covered for that activity These are a just a few examples of ldquohiddenrdquo liabilities that you may be exposed to but unaware of

Do you have adequate umbrella insurance protection in addition to home and auto insurance that covers you and your employees

Do you take steps to relieve stress Do you have disability insurance to provide you with income or your business with funds to pay expenses in the event of illness or injury that prevents you from working

For your business you can implement a safety program This sets up a plan of employee procedures for handling vendors customers and inter-employee communication skills to improve workmanship and other employee development For events you cannot control do you have liability EampO and similar insurance

Does your business take advantage of legal structure asset titling (multiple businesses Spouse ownership) retirement plans life insurance annuities trusts and homestead

Its Not Too Late For Fall Dating

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20 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

exemptions (if available) to help protect assets from creditors and frivolous lawsuits

3 Employ Efficient Debt ndash we may be at the bottom of the interest rate and inflation cycle If interest rates rise andor inflation heats up the general rule of thumb for most of us is debtors win creditors lose If you have the cash you have control If the banker has the cash they have control

4 Manage Taxes ndash whether or not income or estate taxes increase in the future a retirement assetincome distribution business succession and legacy strategy is a must for everyone

5 Investment Management ndash you have plenty of risk with your business Do you want to have unnecessary risk with your investments

You cannot control macroeconomics (sequence of return risk rising interest rates trade and budget deficits unemployment inflation taxes real estate values commodity markets fluctuating foreign currency etc)

You cannot control geopolitical events (elections Euro zone issues violent foreign government changes war etc) or environmental events (hurricanes earthquakes fires tsunamis etc)

How do you insulate yourself from economic events you cannot control Consider historically tried tested and true strategies Consider strategies that your grandparentrsquos generation may have used They had to protect themselves ndash government bailouts and subsidies were few and far between

Congratulations if you can assemble a team to help you define and implement a strategy using the tactics described above This can be achieved in a relatively short period of time (a few hours a week over several short weeks can do it) which can help give you your time back so you can focus on your business and family

6 Manage your Business ndash this you can completely control You can engage in any of the following business expansion activities without losing energy and enthusiasm to the issues you and your team of advisors tackled above

Perhaps you would ratherbull Recruit and develop key employees (and future buyers of

your business)bull Market expansion (are you getting on board the e-marketing

train)bull Develop operating procedures and processesbull Improve safety (reduce liability)bull Expand into new territoriesbull Enter a new industry

bull Purchase and manage real estate

Life Happens ndash Enjoy It

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 US Army Eric is ranked first in his class with a degree in Computer Science is working in his field and plans on attending graduate school in 2013 His daughter Kara recently graduated undergraduate school with distinction and is planning to attend graduate school to become a Physiciansrsquo 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_NoeMWFinancialcom

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CSIA Update wwwCSIAorg

Publication for CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepregs

ADVERTISEMENT

The Virginia Association of Chimney amp

Hearth Professionals sponsored CSIArsquos

Inspection amp Report Writing class in

Arlington VA this August 6-7 Tom Urban

served as the instructor for the two-day

session Forty one professionals were

in attendance with 19 being business

owners and 22 being employees The

session drew attendees from as far away

as Louisville KY

The event was sponsored by Wakefield

Brush The Chimney Sweep News

Ahrenrsquos Copperfield Wohler Estoban

Lindemann Chimney Supply National

Chimney Supply Olympia Chimney

Supply SaverSystems and Whitecaps

VACHP Sponsored Inspection amp Report Writing

Fred Regar served as auctioneer of the sponsor-donated items on the second day of the session

Tom Urban teaching the CSIA Inspection and Report Writing Class in Arlington

When renewing a credential earned after September 1 2009 a CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg is required to

Available downloads for CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepsreg and CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Techniciansreg include

bull CSIACertifiedChimneySweepandCSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician Trademarks

bull ButtonsforyourWebsite

bull CustomizablePowerPointpresentationfor home inspectors

bull InspectionSOPs

bull LadderSafetyTips

bull ldquoChimneyFiresCausesEffectsampEvaluationrdquo Prepared by Chimney Safety Institute of America- Chimney Fire Education and Research Task Force

bull Printversionofthiswhitepaperisalsoavailable for purchase

bull Top10WoodburningTipsfromtheChimney Safety Institute of America

Check out the CCS amp CDET area at CSIAorg

bull Submitaminimumof9CEUsearnedwithin the preceeding 3 years (in any category) before testing NOTE This requirement will not apply to CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps already holding the credential on September 1 2009untiltheirnext3-yearcertificationcycle

bull Passaone-hourexambasedonSuccessfulChimneySweeping(2009)andNFPA211(2010)

bull Passaninety-minuteopen-bookexambasedonthe2006IRCreg

bull AgreetopaytheAnnualCertificationFee

bull SignCSIACodeofEthics

OR

bull SubmitappropriatenumberofContinuing Education Units (CEUs) in the relevant categories

bull AgreetopaytheAnnualCertificationFee

bull SignCSIACodeofEthics

Upon earning the CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg credential your certification is valid for one year You will need to recertify annually by paying the annual certification fee This fee will be invoiced annually prior to your expiration date Please note that your credential will require renewal every three years by submittal of the minimum 48 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) in accordance with the CSIA Credential Renewal Policy or by passing the certification exams and either submitting a minimum of 9 CEUs or completing a CSIA Review

If your annual certification fee is not paid prior to your certification expiration date your credential will be considered lapsed and you will immediately lose all rights and privileges of the CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg credential The following terms will then apply if reinstatement of the credential is desired

If you do not pay your annual certification fee by your expiration date the following timeline will begin

bull Within90daysfromthedateofexpiration if you submit payment in full for the annual certification fee your credential will be reinstated and you will be considered a CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg in good standing maintaining your original annual expiration date and certification number

bull Ifmorethan90daysandlessthan12months beyond your expiration date you will be required to Pay the current annual certification fee and current testing fees and test again Doing so will reinstate your previous annual certification expiration date and certification number You will still be required to pay your next annual fee within the next 12 months

bull Ifmorethan12monthsbeyondyourexpiration date you will be required to either participate in a CSIA approved certification review course or submit evidence of 9 CEUs that were accumulated during the time your credential was active In addition you will be required to pass the CSIA certification exams Upon successful completion a new certification number will be assigned and you will have a new annual certification expiration date

CaliforniaMichaelGipsonbullMidtownSweepsbullLancasterOmarSaenzbullAFiddlerontheRoodDuctampChimneyServicebullVanNuys

IndianaAlexStewartbullOldSmokeyrsquosFireplaceampChimneyIncbullAshley

KansasRyanBerrybullFullServiceChimneybullOlathe

New YorkJayFellibullHearthampHomeofIthacabullIthaca

VermontJamesDonovanbullLincolnPeakPropertiesbullWaitsfield

West VirginiaMichaelAdwellbullTopHatChimneySweepbullLewisburg

WisconsinDustinMyersbullChimneySpecialistsIncbullHighland

ADVERTISEMENT

Congratulations to Our New CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps

Top 10 Woodburning Tips from the Chimney Safety Institute of America

To aid in the prevention of chimney fires and carbon monoxide intrusion and to help keep heating appliances and fireplaces functioning properly the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) offers the following safety tips

1 Get an annual chimney check Have chimneys inspected annually and cleaned as necessary by a qualified professional chimney service technician This reduces the risk of fires and carbon monoxide poisonings due to creosote buildup or obstructions in the chimneys

2 Keep it clear Keep tree branches and leaves at least 15 feet away from the top of the chimney

3 Install a chimney cap to keep debris and animals out of the chimney

4 Choose the right fuel For burning firewood in wood stoves or fireplaces choose wellseasoned wood that has been split for a minimum of six months - one year and stored in a covered and elevated location Never burn Christmas trees or treated wood in your fireplace or wood stove

5 Build it right Place firewood or firelogs at the rear of the fireplace on a supporting grate To start the fire use kindling or a commercial firelighter Never use flammable liquids

6 Keep the hearth area clear Combustible material too close to the fireplace or to a wood stove could easily catch fire Keep furniture at least 36rdquo away from the hearth

7 Use a fireplace screen Use metal mesh or a screen in front of the fireplace to catch flying sparks that could ignite or burn holes in the carpet or flooring

8 Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors Place detectors throughout the house and check batteries in the spring and fall

When you change your clocks for Daylight Savings Time remember to check your batteries

9 Never leave a fire unattended Before turning in for the evening be sure that the fire is fully

extinguished Supervise children and pets closely around wood stoves and fireplaces

10 The CSIA recommends annual inspections performed by CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps These chimney sweeps have earned the industryrsquos most respected credential by passing an intensive examination based on fire codes clearances and standards for the construction and maintenance of chimney and venting systems The National Fire Protection Association also recommends that all chimneys are inspected on an annual basis

For more chimney and fireplace safety tips visit the Chimney Safety Institute of America online at wwwCSIAorg

Solve your customersrsquo smoking sooting odor and draft problems Itrsquos easy with CSIArsquos 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 Ghostingsooting 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 doesnrsquot

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

Learn to solve these problems save time and money and keep

your clients happy with CSIArsquos Online Chimney Physics program

SolvedVenting Problems

Register today at wwwcsiaorg

CSIA 15 Tech 15 CampL 15 HampS 15 CampS NFI 5 Tech

Annual Certification Requirements

Top 10 Woodburning Tips from the Chimney Safety Institute of America

To aid in the prevention of chimney fires and carbon monoxide intrusion and to help keep heating appliances and fireplaces functioning properly the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) offers the following safety tips

1 Get an annual chimney check Have chimneys inspected annually and cleaned as necessary by a qualified professional chimney service technician This reduces the risk of fires and carbon monoxide poisonings due to creosote buildup or obstructions in the chimneys

2 Keep it clear Keep tree branches and leaves at least 15 feet away from the top of the chimney

3 Install a chimney cap to keep debris and animals out of the chimney

4 Choose the right fuel For burning firewood in wood stoves or fireplaces choose wellseasoned wood that has been split for a minimum of six months - one year and stored in a covered and elevated location Never burn Christmas trees or treated wood in your fireplace or wood stove

5 Build it right Place firewood or firelogs at the rear of the fireplace on a supporting grate To start the fire use kindling or a commercial firelighter Never use flammable liquids

6 Keep the hearth area clear Combustible material too close to the fireplace or to a wood stove could easily catch fire Keep furniture at least 36rdquo away from the hearth

7 Use a fireplace screen Use metal mesh or a screen in front of the fireplace to catch flying sparks that could ignite or burn holes in the carpet or flooring

8 Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors Place detectors throughout the house and check batteries in the spring and fall

When you change your clocks for Daylight Savings Time remember to check your batteries

9 Never leave a fire unattended Before turning in for the evening be sure that the fire is fully

extinguished Supervise children and pets closely around wood stoves and fireplaces

10 The CSIA recommends annual inspections performed by CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps These chimney sweeps have earned the industryrsquos most respected credential by passing an intensive examination based on fire codes clearances and standards for the construction and maintenance of chimney and venting systems The National Fire Protection Association also recommends that all chimneys are inspected on an annual basis

For more chimney and fireplace safety tips visit the Chimney Safety Institute of America online at wwwCSIAorg

ADVERTISEMENT

You can spend weeks trying to get a new employee up to speed In the process yoursquoll have used up your valuable time your patience and more money than you would like to admit

Instead send your employee to the most popular cost-effective chimney sweep training in North America CSIArsquos National Chimney Sweep Training School In less than a week wersquoll create an employee that yoursquoll be proud to send on a call ndash and happy to count toward your bottom line

Register today at wwwcsiaorg or call us at (317) 837-5362

At the 6-day hands-on Training School your employee will learn

How to inspect and service chimney systems serving any fuel burning appliance

How to be safe with the latest health and safety equipment and methods

How to work with residential heating appliances including wood stoves pellet stoves inserts factory-built fireplaces central heaters and furnaces

How to diagnose chimney performance problems understanding draft and flow diagnosing down drafts flow reversals inadequate flow stack effects updrafts pressure effects and gauges

How to navigate the International Residential Codes How to follow the NFPA 211 standards

Class size is limited to ensure a ratio of no more than eight students per instructor This small class size means that students have the opportunity for individual attention from the schoolrsquos experienced instructors and ample opportunities for hands-on training Because class size is limited it is important to apply early to reserve your place

The online CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience

The online Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician (CDET) review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience designed to help you pass the CDET exam

Take advantage of these other CSIA educational offerings that can build your business

Send us your greenhorn

and wersquoll send you back a pro

in 6 days Classes fill quickly so register now

2012 DATeS April 2ndash7June 4ndash9August 6ndash11September 24ndash29

April 2-7June 11-16August 6-11September 24-29

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 25

You can spend weeks trying to get a new employee up to speed In the process yoursquoll have used up your valuable time your patience and more money than you would like to admit

Instead send your employee to the most popular cost-effective chimney sweep training in North America CSIArsquos National Chimney Sweep Training School In less than a week wersquoll create an employee that yoursquoll be proud to send on a call ndash and happy to count toward your bottom line

Register today at wwwcsiaorg or call us at (317) 837-5362

At the 6-day hands-on Training School your employee will learn

How to inspect and service chimney systems serving any fuel burning appliance

How to be safe with the latest health and safety equipment and methods

How to work with residential heating appliances including wood stoves pellet stoves inserts factory-built fireplaces central heaters and furnaces

How to diagnose chimney performance problems understanding draft and flow diagnosing down drafts flow reversals inadequate flow stack effects updrafts pressure effects and gauges

How to navigate the International Residential Codes How to follow the NFPA 211 standards

Class size is limited to ensure a ratio of no more than eight students per instructor This small class size means that students have the opportunity for individual attention from the schoolrsquos experienced instructors and ample opportunities for hands-on training Because class size is limited it is important to apply early to reserve your place

The online CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience

The online Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician (CDET) review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience designed to help you pass the CDET exam

Take advantage of these other CSIA educational offerings that can build your business

Send us your greenhorn

and wersquoll send you back a pro

in 6 days Classes fill quickly so register now

2012 DATeS April 2ndash7June 4ndash9August 6ndash11September 24ndash29

April 2-7June 11-16August 6-11September 24-29

ProgressivePerksBY DEBBIE CORNELIUS

MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT COORDINATOR

Get Organized and Make the Most of Your Busy Season

Sometimes it really surprises me that more NCSG members do not take advantage of the discounted benefits available to them These will not only save you time buthellip money too

Paycor Payroll Services price reduction on payroll and tax services One specialist will be dedicated to your account with a team of tax specialists available to resolve issues in the fastest amount of time should an issue arise

Market Hardware can bring your business up to speed in the competitive market of technology where more and more customers are looking to the Web Once they have customized the design that includes a ldquoHome Pagerdquo ldquoAbout Usrdquo and ldquoOur Servicesrdquo page you will have the ability to easily update and edit your Web site yourself instead of paying someone else to do it

Technical Solutions the ldquoSurvival Kit for Small Businessesrdquo can provide on-demand remote repair 247 365 days a year For the price of $2499month with no long term contact involved you can cover up to 20 computers including multiple office locations

Commercials On Hold provides a great way to brand and promote your full range of services when callers are on hold before they talk to a member of your staff

Take a few minutes to just explore these benefits It would be well worth your time to compare the savings to save you time and help increase your profits

26 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

REGION 6

NCSG Charter Members

Paul Bourque Huntsville AL

Don Leavitt San Diego CA

David Harris Broken Arrow Oklahoma

Dan Wheeler Santa Rosa CA

John Cline Menlo Park CA

Dale Meisinger N Augusta SC

Alan Hisey St Louis MO

Eva B Horton Greenwich CT

Harry Richart Hasbrouck Heights NJ

NewNCSGMembers

REGION 3

REGION 2

REGION 5

REGION 4

NCSG REGIONS

REGION 1

Connecticut Vermont Massachusetts New York Maine Rhode Island New Hampshire

REGION 2

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

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

CONNECTICUTChristopher Gonsalves bull Millstream Construction bull HebronDavid Heissenbuttel bull DMH amp Associates Inc bull Wilton

VIRGINAJack Johnston bull Johnstonrsquos Chimney Sweep bull Yorktown

MISSOURIJason Patrick bull Shamrock Qualty Services bull St LouisBill Bonney bull Bonney Bill bull Jackson

KENTUCKYJoshua Moore bull Moore Joshua bull Mt Sterling

ILLINOISJack Lutz bull Lutz Jack bull EurekaClay Nelson bull Clean Sweep bull Collinsville

OHIOAnthony Ramsey bull Elite Chimney Solutions bull Beavercreek

INDIANATravis Beckley bull Beckley Travis bull Coal City

TEXASMatthew Milner bull Milner Matthew bull WhitesboroTony Drew bull AC Contractors dba Fireplaces bull LongviewChristopher A Hess bull Atlas Chimney bull Leander

MINNESOTARenee Gustafson bull John C Gustafson Builder LLC bull Little Falls

COLORADOKent Macintosh bull Russian River Chimney Sweeps bull Healdsburg

CALIFORNIA Errol Davis bull The Chimney Specialist bull Huntington Beach

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 27

The 2012 ndash 2013 offers are being added daily in the ldquoMembers Onlyrdquo section of the NCSG website at wwwNCSGorg So start checking for these new offers each week These coupons will be good until June 30 2013

Copperfield Chimney Supply bull Lindemann Chimney Supply bull Meyer Machine amp Equipment bull National Chimney Supply bull SNEWS - The Chimney Sweep News bull Wakefield Brush bull Wohler USA Inc

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28 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

Meyer Machine amp Equipment

SUCKINGDUCTS

ampINSULATION

FOR OVER 20 YEARS

As most allergy sufferers will tell you allergy symptoms can always be bothersome turning any time of year into sneezing season A runny nose itchy eyes and scratchy throat can arise as the days get shorter and the leaves begin to change

The fall can be especially difficult for people who are sensitive to mold and ragweed pollen But these seasonal elements arenrsquot the only triggers that can make symptoms worse this time of year There are also a few lesser known triggers Here are four things you might not know about fall allergies courtesy of the American College of Allergy Asthma and Immunology

Hay fever - Hay fever a term from a bygone era actually has nothing to do with hay Instead itrsquos a general term used to describe the symptoms of late summer allergies Ragweed is a common cause of hay fever which is also known as allergic rhinitis The plant usually begins to pollinate in mid-August and may continue to be a problem until a hard freeze depending on where you live See an allergist for prescription medications to control symptoms or to see if allergy shots may be your best option

Lingering warm weather - While most people enjoy Indian summer unseasonably warm temperatures can make rhinitis symptoms last longer Mold spores can also be released when humidity is high or the weather is dry and windy Be sure to begin taking medications before your symptoms start Track your allergy symptoms with MyNasalAllergyJournalorg and visit with your allergist to find relief

Pesky leaves - Some folks might find it difficult to keep up with raking leaves throughout the autumn But for allergy sufferers raking presents its own problem It can stir agitating pollen and mold into the air causing allergy and asthma symptoms Those with allergies should wear an NIOSH-rated N95 mask when raking leaves mowing the lawn and gardening

School allergens - Itrsquos not only seasonal pollen and mold that triggers allergies this time of year Kids are often exposed to classroom irritants and allergy triggers These can include chalk dust and classroom pets Students with food allergies may also be exposed to allergens in the lunch roomKids with exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB) may experience attacks during recess or gym class Help your child understand what can trigger their allergies and asthma and how they can avoid symptoms Be sure to notify teachers and the school nurse of any emergency medications such as quick relief inhalers and epinephrine

No matter the season itrsquos important for those who think they may be suffering from allergies or asthma to see a board-certified allergist An allergist can help you develop a treatment plan which can include both medication and avoidance techniques

Having your allergies properly identified and treated will help you and your family enjoy the season To find an allergist and learn more about allergies and asthma visit wwwAllergyandAsthmaRelieforg

Four Things You Might Not Know About Fall Allergies

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 29

trategic partnerships Sounds fancy but what does it really mean They are called what they are called because there is a true strategy behind them the thought and planning that goes into identifying and development those relationships in a way that will

ultimately help those who are participating to achieve their mission The fact that it is indeed a ldquopartnershiprdquo indicates that everyone involved mutually stands to benefit in some wayhellipItrsquos a win-win

The strategic part of establishing partnerships is analyzing who you are your goals and your current resources and then finding organizations (partners) that will allow you to get the things that you need in order to take your organization to the next level But true partnerships are about what you can bring to each other to help achieve your goals and enhance your resources It is not solely about what you can give me but rather what we can give each other As the great John F Kennedy is well known for encouraging of a world partnership ldquoask not what America will do for you but what together we can do for the freedom of manrdquo

So where does this leave an association like NCSG The key to nonprofits establishing strategic partnerships is having the infrastructure to attract and maintain these relationships In this country there are plenty of nonprofits that are doing great work but there is no organization that will be able to survive if they try

to achieve their mission without establishing partnerships that help provide resources and relationships that allow us to achieve our mission

NCSG is very fortunate to have an impressive array of partners who have for many years some since our inception done just that Our partners have advertised in this magazine exhibited at our conventions contributed to the building and maintaining of our headquarters and the premier industry training facility in Indianapolis discounted thousands of dollars in products and services to our members and have helped us promote the Guild and recruit membership in countless ways not the least of which includes maintaining their own membership in NCSG

Our partners are committed to helping us advance our mission and in turn propel our professional field forward Their partnership supports that programs that ignite your professional and technical development and provide the products and services that have helped you bring your own businesses to life They are integral to the success of this industry and most renew their support of the Guild year after year

Without their support of Sweeping magazine through their advertising we would not have been able to come close to bringing this publication to our members and the industry for the past 35 years (originally The Chimney Sweep Guild News) without significant taxation on the readers Without their support

BY MARK MCSWEENEY CAEEXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Perspective

Support Those Who Support YouldquoOur success has really been based on partnerships from the very beginningrdquo -Bill Gates

S

30 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

of NCSGrsquos annual convention through exhibiting and additional sponsorships registration fees for attendees would easily be double what they are today

When viewing our relationship with exhibitors sponsors advertisers and supplier members as a partnership the question needs to be asked How are we as an association mutually helping them achieve their respective goals

The answer comes back to us having infrastructure to attract and maintain these partnerships And that infrastructure is you the member NCSG cultivates and maintains the relationship with our industry partners on your behalf You are asked to back that up through your support of these partner service providers

Now Irsquom not saying you should buy everything you need at any one place or only through our partners At the end of the day you ultimately need to make your purchasing decisions based on your individual business needs However what would be great to see is our members calling our partners up and giving them a chance to compete for your business Let them know you are a part of NCSG and even if you are not in a position to do business with them this time around let them know you appreciate their continued support of the Guild and the industry Itrsquos one thing to call up to a supplier and ask about a product get a price and hang up Itrsquos another thing to make sure you let them know you saw their ad in Sweeping you read about them

online or you remember they exhibited at the convention so that they know they are getting positive exposure and that their investment in our partnership is not going unnoticed

With that said here are some simple and tangible things things you can do to help the partnership you are a part ofbull Consider our partners each and every time you need to make a

purchasing decision and give them an opportunity to earn your business when you can Look at those who are advertising in Sweeping or see a full listing of NCSG Supplier Members under the Chimney Sweep tab on ncsgorg

bull When you talk to them let them know yoursquore part of NCSG and thank them for their support of your association

bull If you like them even if you canrsquot do business with them currently spread the word and help get their name out there

bull Attend events where our partners have stepped up to sponsor Help show them we value them being there and appreciate their efforts This helps everyone when it comes to working out future programs discounts events and more

We are all in this together Just as you want to ensure you are receiving the return you need on the investments you make our supplier members advertisers exhibitors and sponsors need to justify their own ROI on the variety of support avenues they offer

to NCSG I thought Irsquod take a minute this month to say ldquothank yourdquo to all of you who support us in so many different ways and would like to encourage others to do the same

Until next time I continue to wish you every success

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Visit wwwchim-prolinercom for more detailsbull 2000 Industrial Ave bull Sioux Falls SD 57104

1-800-582-1392

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 31

Display Ad Index

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 mheekencsgorg for publication in Sweeping Or mail it to NCSG 2155 Commercial Drive Plainfield IN 46168

Page Advertiser Phone Email or Website Address

30 Ahrens Chimney Technique 800-582-1392 ahrenschimneyqwestofficenet

21-24 Chimney Safety Institute of America 317-837-5362 wwwcsiaorg

14 Cobra Chimney Caps 888-463-0636 salescobrachimneycom

27 Communications Network Inc 800-875-8118 tkempercomnetmessagecom

5 Copperfield 800-247-3305 wwwcopperfieldcom

4 ENERVEX Inc 800-255-2923 infochimneyfanscom

13 Firesafe Industries Inc 800-545-6607 wwwfiresafeinccom

16 Gelco Lyemance Lock-Top 800-334-2154 wwwGLLchimneyproductscom

9 Hose Master 800-221-2319 bobdanielshosemastercom

10 ICP 508-695-7000 wwwchimneycapscom

BC Lifetime Chimney Supply LLC 877-234-7473 wwwlifetimechimneysupplycom

7 Lindemann Chimney Company 800-722-7230 wwwlindemannchimneycom

11 M amp G Duravent 800-835-4429 wwwduraventcom

28 Meyer Machine amp Equipment 800-728-3828 wwwmeyermachinecom

25 National Chimney Supply 800-897-8481 wwwnationalchimneysupplycom

17 Olympia Chimney Supply 800-569-1425 wwwolympiachimneycom

19 Sand Hill Wholesale 800-258-5496 wwwsandhillwholesalecom

6 SaverSystems Inc 800-860-6327 wwwchimneysavercom

3 Smoktite 866-439-0069 wwwsmoktitecom

8 Wakefield Brush 800-264-7007 wwwwakefieldbrushcom

19 Whitecaps 800-335-2534 wwwwhitecapscom

15 Z-Flex 800-654-5600 wwwz-flexcom

The pole and bucket chimney That is how they keep rain and birds out during off season Notice the class A is just an extension of a masonry chimney

Submitted by Kevon Binder of Doctor Flue Inc

September 13-15 2012Lake Murray SCSouth Carolina Chimney Sweep Guildrsquos ldquoThe GatheringrdquoFor more information please contact Blume at (864) 232-9811 or blume357bellsouthnet

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 19 2012 Taunton MAFall Protection User Training Class Including OSHArsquos 2011 ruling on alternate fall protection methods - Sponsored by the Massachusetts Chimney Sweep GuildFor more information please call Jeffrey Wright at (781) 233-2321

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-29 2012CSIA Technology CenterCSIA National Chimney Sweep Training SchoolFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

Dates amp Events

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 8-12 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg October 8-12 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

Please send notice of your events for NCSG Dates amp Events listings at mmcmahonncsgorg for inclusion here in weekly posts to the discussion list and online at wwwNCSGorgdates The event must be considered educational or informative for the industry (sales events and open houses will not be listed)

32 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

ClassifiedsGotta chimney question Sizing Codes Call Royal Edwards Make Royal your tech department CALL NOW 813-982-0219 for on-call tech support Continuing Education special bonus ndash ask how you can get the Friday morning E-Blast for FREE CALL NOW 813-982-0219

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

Chimney Sweep business for sell in the Northern Rocky Mountains of New Mexico Services a large area with three ski resorts in the service area Equipment and signed three year contracts goes with the business Business is well established For pricing and other info please email your questions to ridgeriders1gmailcom

CLASSIFIED ADS FREE FOR NCSG MEMBERSMembers can run one 35 word classified free each year Regularly classified ads are $2word or $1word for NCSG members Classified ads are non-commissionable and must be pre-paid To place a classified ad please contact Megan McMahon at mmcmahonncsgorg or (317) 837-1500

NCSG Innovation 2013 Convention and Trade Show Hotel reservations are now being accepted for NCSG Innovation 2013 at Chateau on the Lake in Branson MO April 4-7 2013 Just call 1-888-333-LAKE (5253) and mention that yoursquore with the National Chimney Sweep Guild to lock in rates starting at $129 for a mountain view and $134 for a lake view

Get ready for some RampR Yoursquore earned it

Order Your FREEAnnual Maintenance Reminder Postcards

A great way to remind homeowners to schedule their annual maintenance check up

Each card has space available for your business information

Use them as reminders for your existing clients or send them to generate new business

To order postcards and other free Burn Wise products contact

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Follow us on

Wood-Burning Safety

Starts with You

Have you scheduled your

annual inspection

The National Fire Protection Association estimates

that 25 percent of home heating fires are caused

primarily by creosote buildup in the chimney

Make your home healthier and safer A properly

installed and maintained appliance burns more

efficiently and saves you money Contact your local

certified chimney sweep to schedule an annual

inspection today

Before You Burn

The right wayThe right way is hot and bright

In the right applianceThe right appliance is an EPA-approved appliance inspected annually by a certified chimney sweep

Burn the right woodBurn only dry well-seasoned wood that has been split and stored properly

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Printed on 100 recycledrecyclable paper with a minimum 50 post-consumer waste using vegetable-based

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National Chimney Sweep Guild2155 Commercial DrivePlainfield IN 46168

1208

OR

Page 19: September 2012

18 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

ou all have accomplishments You support your family your employees and their families your vendors and you provide comfort and safety for your customers

Some of you can enjoy your success and can focus on preserving what you have Many of you want to and have the capacity to grow and be more successful Some of you may be struggling with the seasonality and economics of your business Regardless of your level of success almost all of you have varying degrees of uncertainty

Many articles books conferences and videos have been made about the importance of having a strategic plan to help guide you to fulfill your potential

This magazine has offered numerous articles written to help you fulfill your potential The NCSG offers courses to help you gain skills to be more successful

Yet there still appears to be too many business owners

struggling to achieve their goals ndash or have yet to explicitly define their goals which could help them to get their time back and allow them (you) to enjoy their (your) lives

Maybe yoursquore stuck on tactics without a strategy Maybe yoursquore stuck on ldquonoiserdquo ndash noise that the media airs about events you cannot control and distracts you from your business Perhaps that ldquonoiserdquo has contributed to a pessimistic perspective

Perhaps all of the above is ldquonoiserdquo that covers up past or current mistakes or regret either real or perceived

Letrsquos work on facing your concerns and your past Fear fades when facts are faced Regrets can become wisdom when success lies ahead

Consider forming a team of trusted professionals emulate successful associates select friends and close family members who can create a ldquojudgment freerdquo zone to allow you to unwind the past that may be keeping you from achieving your potential

Focus on What You Can Control

Y

BY BRIAN NOE OF MW FINANCIAL GROUP

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 19

Your team can help you realize your dreams by developing a sound strategy employing objective facts without bias Your team has your back

So letrsquos throw out the rear view mirror set aside our mistakes and regrets and look forward to what you can control that can lead to success

You and your team can control your personal finances You and your team can control your business Here are some steps you can take to help seize the day sleep easy and get your time back

1 Budget ndash do you have a personal and business budget Do you adhere to your budget Does your budget include protection and savings for retirement and your legacy Do you know how much you need to save for retirement and your legacy Are you prepared in the event that you may ldquolive too longrdquo

2 Help Protect Yourself your Family and your Business ndash you can take steps to control your risk

Do you let your employees drive your personal vehicles Do your employees drive your work vehicles for personal use Are you covered for that activity These are a just a few examples of ldquohiddenrdquo liabilities that you may be exposed to but unaware of

Do you have adequate umbrella insurance protection in addition to home and auto insurance that covers you and your employees

Do you take steps to relieve stress Do you have disability insurance to provide you with income or your business with funds to pay expenses in the event of illness or injury that prevents you from working

For your business you can implement a safety program This sets up a plan of employee procedures for handling vendors customers and inter-employee communication skills to improve workmanship and other employee development For events you cannot control do you have liability EampO and similar insurance

Does your business take advantage of legal structure asset titling (multiple businesses Spouse ownership) retirement plans life insurance annuities trusts and homestead

Its Not Too Late For Fall Dating

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20 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

exemptions (if available) to help protect assets from creditors and frivolous lawsuits

3 Employ Efficient Debt ndash we may be at the bottom of the interest rate and inflation cycle If interest rates rise andor inflation heats up the general rule of thumb for most of us is debtors win creditors lose If you have the cash you have control If the banker has the cash they have control

4 Manage Taxes ndash whether or not income or estate taxes increase in the future a retirement assetincome distribution business succession and legacy strategy is a must for everyone

5 Investment Management ndash you have plenty of risk with your business Do you want to have unnecessary risk with your investments

You cannot control macroeconomics (sequence of return risk rising interest rates trade and budget deficits unemployment inflation taxes real estate values commodity markets fluctuating foreign currency etc)

You cannot control geopolitical events (elections Euro zone issues violent foreign government changes war etc) or environmental events (hurricanes earthquakes fires tsunamis etc)

How do you insulate yourself from economic events you cannot control Consider historically tried tested and true strategies Consider strategies that your grandparentrsquos generation may have used They had to protect themselves ndash government bailouts and subsidies were few and far between

Congratulations if you can assemble a team to help you define and implement a strategy using the tactics described above This can be achieved in a relatively short period of time (a few hours a week over several short weeks can do it) which can help give you your time back so you can focus on your business and family

6 Manage your Business ndash this you can completely control You can engage in any of the following business expansion activities without losing energy and enthusiasm to the issues you and your team of advisors tackled above

Perhaps you would ratherbull Recruit and develop key employees (and future buyers of

your business)bull Market expansion (are you getting on board the e-marketing

train)bull Develop operating procedures and processesbull Improve safety (reduce liability)bull Expand into new territoriesbull Enter a new industry

bull Purchase and manage real estate

Life Happens ndash Enjoy It

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 US Army Eric is ranked first in his class with a degree in Computer Science is working in his field and plans on attending graduate school in 2013 His daughter Kara recently graduated undergraduate school with distinction and is planning to attend graduate school to become a Physiciansrsquo 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_NoeMWFinancialcom

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CSIA Update wwwCSIAorg

Publication for CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepregs

ADVERTISEMENT

The Virginia Association of Chimney amp

Hearth Professionals sponsored CSIArsquos

Inspection amp Report Writing class in

Arlington VA this August 6-7 Tom Urban

served as the instructor for the two-day

session Forty one professionals were

in attendance with 19 being business

owners and 22 being employees The

session drew attendees from as far away

as Louisville KY

The event was sponsored by Wakefield

Brush The Chimney Sweep News

Ahrenrsquos Copperfield Wohler Estoban

Lindemann Chimney Supply National

Chimney Supply Olympia Chimney

Supply SaverSystems and Whitecaps

VACHP Sponsored Inspection amp Report Writing

Fred Regar served as auctioneer of the sponsor-donated items on the second day of the session

Tom Urban teaching the CSIA Inspection and Report Writing Class in Arlington

When renewing a credential earned after September 1 2009 a CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg is required to

Available downloads for CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepsreg and CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Techniciansreg include

bull CSIACertifiedChimneySweepandCSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician Trademarks

bull ButtonsforyourWebsite

bull CustomizablePowerPointpresentationfor home inspectors

bull InspectionSOPs

bull LadderSafetyTips

bull ldquoChimneyFiresCausesEffectsampEvaluationrdquo Prepared by Chimney Safety Institute of America- Chimney Fire Education and Research Task Force

bull Printversionofthiswhitepaperisalsoavailable for purchase

bull Top10WoodburningTipsfromtheChimney Safety Institute of America

Check out the CCS amp CDET area at CSIAorg

bull Submitaminimumof9CEUsearnedwithin the preceeding 3 years (in any category) before testing NOTE This requirement will not apply to CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps already holding the credential on September 1 2009untiltheirnext3-yearcertificationcycle

bull Passaone-hourexambasedonSuccessfulChimneySweeping(2009)andNFPA211(2010)

bull Passaninety-minuteopen-bookexambasedonthe2006IRCreg

bull AgreetopaytheAnnualCertificationFee

bull SignCSIACodeofEthics

OR

bull SubmitappropriatenumberofContinuing Education Units (CEUs) in the relevant categories

bull AgreetopaytheAnnualCertificationFee

bull SignCSIACodeofEthics

Upon earning the CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg credential your certification is valid for one year You will need to recertify annually by paying the annual certification fee This fee will be invoiced annually prior to your expiration date Please note that your credential will require renewal every three years by submittal of the minimum 48 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) in accordance with the CSIA Credential Renewal Policy or by passing the certification exams and either submitting a minimum of 9 CEUs or completing a CSIA Review

If your annual certification fee is not paid prior to your certification expiration date your credential will be considered lapsed and you will immediately lose all rights and privileges of the CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg credential The following terms will then apply if reinstatement of the credential is desired

If you do not pay your annual certification fee by your expiration date the following timeline will begin

bull Within90daysfromthedateofexpiration if you submit payment in full for the annual certification fee your credential will be reinstated and you will be considered a CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg in good standing maintaining your original annual expiration date and certification number

bull Ifmorethan90daysandlessthan12months beyond your expiration date you will be required to Pay the current annual certification fee and current testing fees and test again Doing so will reinstate your previous annual certification expiration date and certification number You will still be required to pay your next annual fee within the next 12 months

bull Ifmorethan12monthsbeyondyourexpiration date you will be required to either participate in a CSIA approved certification review course or submit evidence of 9 CEUs that were accumulated during the time your credential was active In addition you will be required to pass the CSIA certification exams Upon successful completion a new certification number will be assigned and you will have a new annual certification expiration date

CaliforniaMichaelGipsonbullMidtownSweepsbullLancasterOmarSaenzbullAFiddlerontheRoodDuctampChimneyServicebullVanNuys

IndianaAlexStewartbullOldSmokeyrsquosFireplaceampChimneyIncbullAshley

KansasRyanBerrybullFullServiceChimneybullOlathe

New YorkJayFellibullHearthampHomeofIthacabullIthaca

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West VirginiaMichaelAdwellbullTopHatChimneySweepbullLewisburg

WisconsinDustinMyersbullChimneySpecialistsIncbullHighland

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Congratulations to Our New CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps

Top 10 Woodburning Tips from the Chimney Safety Institute of America

To aid in the prevention of chimney fires and carbon monoxide intrusion and to help keep heating appliances and fireplaces functioning properly the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) offers the following safety tips

1 Get an annual chimney check Have chimneys inspected annually and cleaned as necessary by a qualified professional chimney service technician This reduces the risk of fires and carbon monoxide poisonings due to creosote buildup or obstructions in the chimneys

2 Keep it clear Keep tree branches and leaves at least 15 feet away from the top of the chimney

3 Install a chimney cap to keep debris and animals out of the chimney

4 Choose the right fuel For burning firewood in wood stoves or fireplaces choose wellseasoned wood that has been split for a minimum of six months - one year and stored in a covered and elevated location Never burn Christmas trees or treated wood in your fireplace or wood stove

5 Build it right Place firewood or firelogs at the rear of the fireplace on a supporting grate To start the fire use kindling or a commercial firelighter Never use flammable liquids

6 Keep the hearth area clear Combustible material too close to the fireplace or to a wood stove could easily catch fire Keep furniture at least 36rdquo away from the hearth

7 Use a fireplace screen Use metal mesh or a screen in front of the fireplace to catch flying sparks that could ignite or burn holes in the carpet or flooring

8 Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors Place detectors throughout the house and check batteries in the spring and fall

When you change your clocks for Daylight Savings Time remember to check your batteries

9 Never leave a fire unattended Before turning in for the evening be sure that the fire is fully

extinguished Supervise children and pets closely around wood stoves and fireplaces

10 The CSIA recommends annual inspections performed by CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps These chimney sweeps have earned the industryrsquos most respected credential by passing an intensive examination based on fire codes clearances and standards for the construction and maintenance of chimney and venting systems The National Fire Protection Association also recommends that all chimneys are inspected on an annual basis

For more chimney and fireplace safety tips visit the Chimney Safety Institute of America online at wwwCSIAorg

Solve your customersrsquo smoking sooting odor and draft problems Itrsquos easy with CSIArsquos 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 Ghostingsooting 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 doesnrsquot

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

Learn to solve these problems save time and money and keep

your clients happy with CSIArsquos Online Chimney Physics program

SolvedVenting Problems

Register today at wwwcsiaorg

CSIA 15 Tech 15 CampL 15 HampS 15 CampS NFI 5 Tech

Annual Certification Requirements

Top 10 Woodburning Tips from the Chimney Safety Institute of America

To aid in the prevention of chimney fires and carbon monoxide intrusion and to help keep heating appliances and fireplaces functioning properly the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) offers the following safety tips

1 Get an annual chimney check Have chimneys inspected annually and cleaned as necessary by a qualified professional chimney service technician This reduces the risk of fires and carbon monoxide poisonings due to creosote buildup or obstructions in the chimneys

2 Keep it clear Keep tree branches and leaves at least 15 feet away from the top of the chimney

3 Install a chimney cap to keep debris and animals out of the chimney

4 Choose the right fuel For burning firewood in wood stoves or fireplaces choose wellseasoned wood that has been split for a minimum of six months - one year and stored in a covered and elevated location Never burn Christmas trees or treated wood in your fireplace or wood stove

5 Build it right Place firewood or firelogs at the rear of the fireplace on a supporting grate To start the fire use kindling or a commercial firelighter Never use flammable liquids

6 Keep the hearth area clear Combustible material too close to the fireplace or to a wood stove could easily catch fire Keep furniture at least 36rdquo away from the hearth

7 Use a fireplace screen Use metal mesh or a screen in front of the fireplace to catch flying sparks that could ignite or burn holes in the carpet or flooring

8 Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors Place detectors throughout the house and check batteries in the spring and fall

When you change your clocks for Daylight Savings Time remember to check your batteries

9 Never leave a fire unattended Before turning in for the evening be sure that the fire is fully

extinguished Supervise children and pets closely around wood stoves and fireplaces

10 The CSIA recommends annual inspections performed by CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps These chimney sweeps have earned the industryrsquos most respected credential by passing an intensive examination based on fire codes clearances and standards for the construction and maintenance of chimney and venting systems The National Fire Protection Association also recommends that all chimneys are inspected on an annual basis

For more chimney and fireplace safety tips visit the Chimney Safety Institute of America online at wwwCSIAorg

ADVERTISEMENT

You can spend weeks trying to get a new employee up to speed In the process yoursquoll have used up your valuable time your patience and more money than you would like to admit

Instead send your employee to the most popular cost-effective chimney sweep training in North America CSIArsquos National Chimney Sweep Training School In less than a week wersquoll create an employee that yoursquoll be proud to send on a call ndash and happy to count toward your bottom line

Register today at wwwcsiaorg or call us at (317) 837-5362

At the 6-day hands-on Training School your employee will learn

How to inspect and service chimney systems serving any fuel burning appliance

How to be safe with the latest health and safety equipment and methods

How to work with residential heating appliances including wood stoves pellet stoves inserts factory-built fireplaces central heaters and furnaces

How to diagnose chimney performance problems understanding draft and flow diagnosing down drafts flow reversals inadequate flow stack effects updrafts pressure effects and gauges

How to navigate the International Residential Codes How to follow the NFPA 211 standards

Class size is limited to ensure a ratio of no more than eight students per instructor This small class size means that students have the opportunity for individual attention from the schoolrsquos experienced instructors and ample opportunities for hands-on training Because class size is limited it is important to apply early to reserve your place

The online CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience

The online Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician (CDET) review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience designed to help you pass the CDET exam

Take advantage of these other CSIA educational offerings that can build your business

Send us your greenhorn

and wersquoll send you back a pro

in 6 days Classes fill quickly so register now

2012 DATeS April 2ndash7June 4ndash9August 6ndash11September 24ndash29

April 2-7June 11-16August 6-11September 24-29

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 25

You can spend weeks trying to get a new employee up to speed In the process yoursquoll have used up your valuable time your patience and more money than you would like to admit

Instead send your employee to the most popular cost-effective chimney sweep training in North America CSIArsquos National Chimney Sweep Training School In less than a week wersquoll create an employee that yoursquoll be proud to send on a call ndash and happy to count toward your bottom line

Register today at wwwcsiaorg or call us at (317) 837-5362

At the 6-day hands-on Training School your employee will learn

How to inspect and service chimney systems serving any fuel burning appliance

How to be safe with the latest health and safety equipment and methods

How to work with residential heating appliances including wood stoves pellet stoves inserts factory-built fireplaces central heaters and furnaces

How to diagnose chimney performance problems understanding draft and flow diagnosing down drafts flow reversals inadequate flow stack effects updrafts pressure effects and gauges

How to navigate the International Residential Codes How to follow the NFPA 211 standards

Class size is limited to ensure a ratio of no more than eight students per instructor This small class size means that students have the opportunity for individual attention from the schoolrsquos experienced instructors and ample opportunities for hands-on training Because class size is limited it is important to apply early to reserve your place

The online CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience

The online Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician (CDET) review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience designed to help you pass the CDET exam

Take advantage of these other CSIA educational offerings that can build your business

Send us your greenhorn

and wersquoll send you back a pro

in 6 days Classes fill quickly so register now

2012 DATeS April 2ndash7June 4ndash9August 6ndash11September 24ndash29

April 2-7June 11-16August 6-11September 24-29

ProgressivePerksBY DEBBIE CORNELIUS

MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT COORDINATOR

Get Organized and Make the Most of Your Busy Season

Sometimes it really surprises me that more NCSG members do not take advantage of the discounted benefits available to them These will not only save you time buthellip money too

Paycor Payroll Services price reduction on payroll and tax services One specialist will be dedicated to your account with a team of tax specialists available to resolve issues in the fastest amount of time should an issue arise

Market Hardware can bring your business up to speed in the competitive market of technology where more and more customers are looking to the Web Once they have customized the design that includes a ldquoHome Pagerdquo ldquoAbout Usrdquo and ldquoOur Servicesrdquo page you will have the ability to easily update and edit your Web site yourself instead of paying someone else to do it

Technical Solutions the ldquoSurvival Kit for Small Businessesrdquo can provide on-demand remote repair 247 365 days a year For the price of $2499month with no long term contact involved you can cover up to 20 computers including multiple office locations

Commercials On Hold provides a great way to brand and promote your full range of services when callers are on hold before they talk to a member of your staff

Take a few minutes to just explore these benefits It would be well worth your time to compare the savings to save you time and help increase your profits

26 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

REGION 6

NCSG Charter Members

Paul Bourque Huntsville AL

Don Leavitt San Diego CA

David Harris Broken Arrow Oklahoma

Dan Wheeler Santa Rosa CA

John Cline Menlo Park CA

Dale Meisinger N Augusta SC

Alan Hisey St Louis MO

Eva B Horton Greenwich CT

Harry Richart Hasbrouck Heights NJ

NewNCSGMembers

REGION 3

REGION 2

REGION 5

REGION 4

NCSG REGIONS

REGION 1

Connecticut Vermont Massachusetts New York Maine Rhode Island New Hampshire

REGION 2

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

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

CONNECTICUTChristopher Gonsalves bull Millstream Construction bull HebronDavid Heissenbuttel bull DMH amp Associates Inc bull Wilton

VIRGINAJack Johnston bull Johnstonrsquos Chimney Sweep bull Yorktown

MISSOURIJason Patrick bull Shamrock Qualty Services bull St LouisBill Bonney bull Bonney Bill bull Jackson

KENTUCKYJoshua Moore bull Moore Joshua bull Mt Sterling

ILLINOISJack Lutz bull Lutz Jack bull EurekaClay Nelson bull Clean Sweep bull Collinsville

OHIOAnthony Ramsey bull Elite Chimney Solutions bull Beavercreek

INDIANATravis Beckley bull Beckley Travis bull Coal City

TEXASMatthew Milner bull Milner Matthew bull WhitesboroTony Drew bull AC Contractors dba Fireplaces bull LongviewChristopher A Hess bull Atlas Chimney bull Leander

MINNESOTARenee Gustafson bull John C Gustafson Builder LLC bull Little Falls

COLORADOKent Macintosh bull Russian River Chimney Sweeps bull Healdsburg

CALIFORNIA Errol Davis bull The Chimney Specialist bull Huntington Beach

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 27

The 2012 ndash 2013 offers are being added daily in the ldquoMembers Onlyrdquo section of the NCSG website at wwwNCSGorg So start checking for these new offers each week These coupons will be good until June 30 2013

Copperfield Chimney Supply bull Lindemann Chimney Supply bull Meyer Machine amp Equipment bull National Chimney Supply bull SNEWS - The Chimney Sweep News bull Wakefield Brush bull Wohler USA Inc

2012 ndash 2013 SWEEPS ADVANTAGE COUPON PROGRAM

Featured Coupons of the Month

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purchase

SAVE Up to $ 46 One 13 x 13 HomeSaver Stainless Steel chimney cap with any Order of $250 or more

SAVE Up to $ 64 One EasyClean Cap with any purchase of $250

SAVE UP TO $ 75 $75 off any 25rsquo order of UltraPro Stainless Steel Liner

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28 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

Meyer Machine amp Equipment

SUCKINGDUCTS

ampINSULATION

FOR OVER 20 YEARS

As most allergy sufferers will tell you allergy symptoms can always be bothersome turning any time of year into sneezing season A runny nose itchy eyes and scratchy throat can arise as the days get shorter and the leaves begin to change

The fall can be especially difficult for people who are sensitive to mold and ragweed pollen But these seasonal elements arenrsquot the only triggers that can make symptoms worse this time of year There are also a few lesser known triggers Here are four things you might not know about fall allergies courtesy of the American College of Allergy Asthma and Immunology

Hay fever - Hay fever a term from a bygone era actually has nothing to do with hay Instead itrsquos a general term used to describe the symptoms of late summer allergies Ragweed is a common cause of hay fever which is also known as allergic rhinitis The plant usually begins to pollinate in mid-August and may continue to be a problem until a hard freeze depending on where you live See an allergist for prescription medications to control symptoms or to see if allergy shots may be your best option

Lingering warm weather - While most people enjoy Indian summer unseasonably warm temperatures can make rhinitis symptoms last longer Mold spores can also be released when humidity is high or the weather is dry and windy Be sure to begin taking medications before your symptoms start Track your allergy symptoms with MyNasalAllergyJournalorg and visit with your allergist to find relief

Pesky leaves - Some folks might find it difficult to keep up with raking leaves throughout the autumn But for allergy sufferers raking presents its own problem It can stir agitating pollen and mold into the air causing allergy and asthma symptoms Those with allergies should wear an NIOSH-rated N95 mask when raking leaves mowing the lawn and gardening

School allergens - Itrsquos not only seasonal pollen and mold that triggers allergies this time of year Kids are often exposed to classroom irritants and allergy triggers These can include chalk dust and classroom pets Students with food allergies may also be exposed to allergens in the lunch roomKids with exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB) may experience attacks during recess or gym class Help your child understand what can trigger their allergies and asthma and how they can avoid symptoms Be sure to notify teachers and the school nurse of any emergency medications such as quick relief inhalers and epinephrine

No matter the season itrsquos important for those who think they may be suffering from allergies or asthma to see a board-certified allergist An allergist can help you develop a treatment plan which can include both medication and avoidance techniques

Having your allergies properly identified and treated will help you and your family enjoy the season To find an allergist and learn more about allergies and asthma visit wwwAllergyandAsthmaRelieforg

Four Things You Might Not Know About Fall Allergies

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 29

trategic partnerships Sounds fancy but what does it really mean They are called what they are called because there is a true strategy behind them the thought and planning that goes into identifying and development those relationships in a way that will

ultimately help those who are participating to achieve their mission The fact that it is indeed a ldquopartnershiprdquo indicates that everyone involved mutually stands to benefit in some wayhellipItrsquos a win-win

The strategic part of establishing partnerships is analyzing who you are your goals and your current resources and then finding organizations (partners) that will allow you to get the things that you need in order to take your organization to the next level But true partnerships are about what you can bring to each other to help achieve your goals and enhance your resources It is not solely about what you can give me but rather what we can give each other As the great John F Kennedy is well known for encouraging of a world partnership ldquoask not what America will do for you but what together we can do for the freedom of manrdquo

So where does this leave an association like NCSG The key to nonprofits establishing strategic partnerships is having the infrastructure to attract and maintain these relationships In this country there are plenty of nonprofits that are doing great work but there is no organization that will be able to survive if they try

to achieve their mission without establishing partnerships that help provide resources and relationships that allow us to achieve our mission

NCSG is very fortunate to have an impressive array of partners who have for many years some since our inception done just that Our partners have advertised in this magazine exhibited at our conventions contributed to the building and maintaining of our headquarters and the premier industry training facility in Indianapolis discounted thousands of dollars in products and services to our members and have helped us promote the Guild and recruit membership in countless ways not the least of which includes maintaining their own membership in NCSG

Our partners are committed to helping us advance our mission and in turn propel our professional field forward Their partnership supports that programs that ignite your professional and technical development and provide the products and services that have helped you bring your own businesses to life They are integral to the success of this industry and most renew their support of the Guild year after year

Without their support of Sweeping magazine through their advertising we would not have been able to come close to bringing this publication to our members and the industry for the past 35 years (originally The Chimney Sweep Guild News) without significant taxation on the readers Without their support

BY MARK MCSWEENEY CAEEXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Perspective

Support Those Who Support YouldquoOur success has really been based on partnerships from the very beginningrdquo -Bill Gates

S

30 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

of NCSGrsquos annual convention through exhibiting and additional sponsorships registration fees for attendees would easily be double what they are today

When viewing our relationship with exhibitors sponsors advertisers and supplier members as a partnership the question needs to be asked How are we as an association mutually helping them achieve their respective goals

The answer comes back to us having infrastructure to attract and maintain these partnerships And that infrastructure is you the member NCSG cultivates and maintains the relationship with our industry partners on your behalf You are asked to back that up through your support of these partner service providers

Now Irsquom not saying you should buy everything you need at any one place or only through our partners At the end of the day you ultimately need to make your purchasing decisions based on your individual business needs However what would be great to see is our members calling our partners up and giving them a chance to compete for your business Let them know you are a part of NCSG and even if you are not in a position to do business with them this time around let them know you appreciate their continued support of the Guild and the industry Itrsquos one thing to call up to a supplier and ask about a product get a price and hang up Itrsquos another thing to make sure you let them know you saw their ad in Sweeping you read about them

online or you remember they exhibited at the convention so that they know they are getting positive exposure and that their investment in our partnership is not going unnoticed

With that said here are some simple and tangible things things you can do to help the partnership you are a part ofbull Consider our partners each and every time you need to make a

purchasing decision and give them an opportunity to earn your business when you can Look at those who are advertising in Sweeping or see a full listing of NCSG Supplier Members under the Chimney Sweep tab on ncsgorg

bull When you talk to them let them know yoursquore part of NCSG and thank them for their support of your association

bull If you like them even if you canrsquot do business with them currently spread the word and help get their name out there

bull Attend events where our partners have stepped up to sponsor Help show them we value them being there and appreciate their efforts This helps everyone when it comes to working out future programs discounts events and more

We are all in this together Just as you want to ensure you are receiving the return you need on the investments you make our supplier members advertisers exhibitors and sponsors need to justify their own ROI on the variety of support avenues they offer

to NCSG I thought Irsquod take a minute this month to say ldquothank yourdquo to all of you who support us in so many different ways and would like to encourage others to do the same

Until next time I continue to wish you every success

Double Locking CrimpRemains StrongYet Very Flexibl e

With No Memo ry

Strong Triple Locking CrimpHolds T ogether Even OnTough Jobs

Horizontal Sides Of CorrugationOffer Added Strengthamp Flexibility

Manufactured by CHIMNEY TECHNIQUE INC

Chim-Pro Interlock Flex

Chim-Pro Corrugated

Flex

Chim-Pro RigidADDED SAFETY EFFICIENCY AND VALUE

In Which ALL FITTINGS Are Attached With A Band Even The Tee Cap And Elbows Quick amp Simple No Drilling amp Riveting

Featuring

Visit wwwchim-prolinercom for more detailsbull 2000 Industrial Ave bull Sioux Falls SD 57104

1-800-582-1392

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 31

Display Ad Index

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 mheekencsgorg for publication in Sweeping Or mail it to NCSG 2155 Commercial Drive Plainfield IN 46168

Page Advertiser Phone Email or Website Address

30 Ahrens Chimney Technique 800-582-1392 ahrenschimneyqwestofficenet

21-24 Chimney Safety Institute of America 317-837-5362 wwwcsiaorg

14 Cobra Chimney Caps 888-463-0636 salescobrachimneycom

27 Communications Network Inc 800-875-8118 tkempercomnetmessagecom

5 Copperfield 800-247-3305 wwwcopperfieldcom

4 ENERVEX Inc 800-255-2923 infochimneyfanscom

13 Firesafe Industries Inc 800-545-6607 wwwfiresafeinccom

16 Gelco Lyemance Lock-Top 800-334-2154 wwwGLLchimneyproductscom

9 Hose Master 800-221-2319 bobdanielshosemastercom

10 ICP 508-695-7000 wwwchimneycapscom

BC Lifetime Chimney Supply LLC 877-234-7473 wwwlifetimechimneysupplycom

7 Lindemann Chimney Company 800-722-7230 wwwlindemannchimneycom

11 M amp G Duravent 800-835-4429 wwwduraventcom

28 Meyer Machine amp Equipment 800-728-3828 wwwmeyermachinecom

25 National Chimney Supply 800-897-8481 wwwnationalchimneysupplycom

17 Olympia Chimney Supply 800-569-1425 wwwolympiachimneycom

19 Sand Hill Wholesale 800-258-5496 wwwsandhillwholesalecom

6 SaverSystems Inc 800-860-6327 wwwchimneysavercom

3 Smoktite 866-439-0069 wwwsmoktitecom

8 Wakefield Brush 800-264-7007 wwwwakefieldbrushcom

19 Whitecaps 800-335-2534 wwwwhitecapscom

15 Z-Flex 800-654-5600 wwwz-flexcom

The pole and bucket chimney That is how they keep rain and birds out during off season Notice the class A is just an extension of a masonry chimney

Submitted by Kevon Binder of Doctor Flue Inc

September 13-15 2012Lake Murray SCSouth Carolina Chimney Sweep Guildrsquos ldquoThe GatheringrdquoFor more information please contact Blume at (864) 232-9811 or blume357bellsouthnet

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 19 2012 Taunton MAFall Protection User Training Class Including OSHArsquos 2011 ruling on alternate fall protection methods - Sponsored by the Massachusetts Chimney Sweep GuildFor more information please call Jeffrey Wright at (781) 233-2321

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-29 2012CSIA Technology CenterCSIA National Chimney Sweep Training SchoolFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

Dates amp Events

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 8-12 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg October 8-12 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

Please send notice of your events for NCSG Dates amp Events listings at mmcmahonncsgorg for inclusion here in weekly posts to the discussion list and online at wwwNCSGorgdates The event must be considered educational or informative for the industry (sales events and open houses will not be listed)

32 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

ClassifiedsGotta chimney question Sizing Codes Call Royal Edwards Make Royal your tech department CALL NOW 813-982-0219 for on-call tech support Continuing Education special bonus ndash ask how you can get the Friday morning E-Blast for FREE CALL NOW 813-982-0219

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

Chimney Sweep business for sell in the Northern Rocky Mountains of New Mexico Services a large area with three ski resorts in the service area Equipment and signed three year contracts goes with the business Business is well established For pricing and other info please email your questions to ridgeriders1gmailcom

CLASSIFIED ADS FREE FOR NCSG MEMBERSMembers can run one 35 word classified free each year Regularly classified ads are $2word or $1word for NCSG members Classified ads are non-commissionable and must be pre-paid To place a classified ad please contact Megan McMahon at mmcmahonncsgorg or (317) 837-1500

NCSG Innovation 2013 Convention and Trade Show Hotel reservations are now being accepted for NCSG Innovation 2013 at Chateau on the Lake in Branson MO April 4-7 2013 Just call 1-888-333-LAKE (5253) and mention that yoursquore with the National Chimney Sweep Guild to lock in rates starting at $129 for a mountain view and $134 for a lake view

Get ready for some RampR Yoursquore earned it

Order Your FREEAnnual Maintenance Reminder Postcards

A great way to remind homeowners to schedule their annual maintenance check up

Each card has space available for your business information

Use them as reminders for your existing clients or send them to generate new business

To order postcards and other free Burn Wise products contact

Leigh Herringtonherringtonleighepagov

ampKristen Bremer

bremerkristenepagov

wwwepagovburnwise

Follow us on

Wood-Burning Safety

Starts with You

Have you scheduled your

annual inspection

The National Fire Protection Association estimates

that 25 percent of home heating fires are caused

primarily by creosote buildup in the chimney

Make your home healthier and safer A properly

installed and maintained appliance burns more

efficiently and saves you money Contact your local

certified chimney sweep to schedule an annual

inspection today

Before You Burn

The right wayThe right way is hot and bright

In the right applianceThe right appliance is an EPA-approved appliance inspected annually by a certified chimney sweep

Burn the right woodBurn only dry well-seasoned wood that has been split and stored properly

wwwepagovburnwise

wwwcsiaorg

Printed on 100 recycledrecyclable paper with a minimum 50 post-consumer waste using vegetable-based

EPA 456-F-10-004

National Chimney Sweep Guild2155 Commercial DrivePlainfield IN 46168

1208

OR

Page 20: September 2012

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 19

Your team can help you realize your dreams by developing a sound strategy employing objective facts without bias Your team has your back

So letrsquos throw out the rear view mirror set aside our mistakes and regrets and look forward to what you can control that can lead to success

You and your team can control your personal finances You and your team can control your business Here are some steps you can take to help seize the day sleep easy and get your time back

1 Budget ndash do you have a personal and business budget Do you adhere to your budget Does your budget include protection and savings for retirement and your legacy Do you know how much you need to save for retirement and your legacy Are you prepared in the event that you may ldquolive too longrdquo

2 Help Protect Yourself your Family and your Business ndash you can take steps to control your risk

Do you let your employees drive your personal vehicles Do your employees drive your work vehicles for personal use Are you covered for that activity These are a just a few examples of ldquohiddenrdquo liabilities that you may be exposed to but unaware of

Do you have adequate umbrella insurance protection in addition to home and auto insurance that covers you and your employees

Do you take steps to relieve stress Do you have disability insurance to provide you with income or your business with funds to pay expenses in the event of illness or injury that prevents you from working

For your business you can implement a safety program This sets up a plan of employee procedures for handling vendors customers and inter-employee communication skills to improve workmanship and other employee development For events you cannot control do you have liability EampO and similar insurance

Does your business take advantage of legal structure asset titling (multiple businesses Spouse ownership) retirement plans life insurance annuities trusts and homestead

Its Not Too Late For Fall Dating

Dont have the NEW 2012-2013 Sand Hill Wholesale CatalogCall for your free copy

1-888-SAND-HILLor fax your request to

1-800-958-5497

Visit us on the web wwwsandhillwholesalecom

Place Your Qualified Order Of $800 or moreAnd Your Total Payment Is Not Due Until

November 1 2012Also get

FREE FREIGHTanywhere in the continental US

with a Fall dating order over $1500 To receive this offer mention this ad at time of order

Subject to credit approval

Same day shipping for orders placed before 200PM Eastern Time

20 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

exemptions (if available) to help protect assets from creditors and frivolous lawsuits

3 Employ Efficient Debt ndash we may be at the bottom of the interest rate and inflation cycle If interest rates rise andor inflation heats up the general rule of thumb for most of us is debtors win creditors lose If you have the cash you have control If the banker has the cash they have control

4 Manage Taxes ndash whether or not income or estate taxes increase in the future a retirement assetincome distribution business succession and legacy strategy is a must for everyone

5 Investment Management ndash you have plenty of risk with your business Do you want to have unnecessary risk with your investments

You cannot control macroeconomics (sequence of return risk rising interest rates trade and budget deficits unemployment inflation taxes real estate values commodity markets fluctuating foreign currency etc)

You cannot control geopolitical events (elections Euro zone issues violent foreign government changes war etc) or environmental events (hurricanes earthquakes fires tsunamis etc)

How do you insulate yourself from economic events you cannot control Consider historically tried tested and true strategies Consider strategies that your grandparentrsquos generation may have used They had to protect themselves ndash government bailouts and subsidies were few and far between

Congratulations if you can assemble a team to help you define and implement a strategy using the tactics described above This can be achieved in a relatively short period of time (a few hours a week over several short weeks can do it) which can help give you your time back so you can focus on your business and family

6 Manage your Business ndash this you can completely control You can engage in any of the following business expansion activities without losing energy and enthusiasm to the issues you and your team of advisors tackled above

Perhaps you would ratherbull Recruit and develop key employees (and future buyers of

your business)bull Market expansion (are you getting on board the e-marketing

train)bull Develop operating procedures and processesbull Improve safety (reduce liability)bull Expand into new territoriesbull Enter a new industry

bull Purchase and manage real estate

Life Happens ndash Enjoy It

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 US Army Eric is ranked first in his class with a degree in Computer Science is working in his field and plans on attending graduate school in 2013 His daughter Kara recently graduated undergraduate school with distinction and is planning to attend graduate school to become a Physiciansrsquo 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_NoeMWFinancialcom

For years Whitecaps has been offering a customer loyalty program We offer 5 75 and 10 discount programs that last all year

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CSIA Update wwwCSIAorg

Publication for CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepregs

ADVERTISEMENT

The Virginia Association of Chimney amp

Hearth Professionals sponsored CSIArsquos

Inspection amp Report Writing class in

Arlington VA this August 6-7 Tom Urban

served as the instructor for the two-day

session Forty one professionals were

in attendance with 19 being business

owners and 22 being employees The

session drew attendees from as far away

as Louisville KY

The event was sponsored by Wakefield

Brush The Chimney Sweep News

Ahrenrsquos Copperfield Wohler Estoban

Lindemann Chimney Supply National

Chimney Supply Olympia Chimney

Supply SaverSystems and Whitecaps

VACHP Sponsored Inspection amp Report Writing

Fred Regar served as auctioneer of the sponsor-donated items on the second day of the session

Tom Urban teaching the CSIA Inspection and Report Writing Class in Arlington

When renewing a credential earned after September 1 2009 a CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg is required to

Available downloads for CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepsreg and CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Techniciansreg include

bull CSIACertifiedChimneySweepandCSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician Trademarks

bull ButtonsforyourWebsite

bull CustomizablePowerPointpresentationfor home inspectors

bull InspectionSOPs

bull LadderSafetyTips

bull ldquoChimneyFiresCausesEffectsampEvaluationrdquo Prepared by Chimney Safety Institute of America- Chimney Fire Education and Research Task Force

bull Printversionofthiswhitepaperisalsoavailable for purchase

bull Top10WoodburningTipsfromtheChimney Safety Institute of America

Check out the CCS amp CDET area at CSIAorg

bull Submitaminimumof9CEUsearnedwithin the preceeding 3 years (in any category) before testing NOTE This requirement will not apply to CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps already holding the credential on September 1 2009untiltheirnext3-yearcertificationcycle

bull Passaone-hourexambasedonSuccessfulChimneySweeping(2009)andNFPA211(2010)

bull Passaninety-minuteopen-bookexambasedonthe2006IRCreg

bull AgreetopaytheAnnualCertificationFee

bull SignCSIACodeofEthics

OR

bull SubmitappropriatenumberofContinuing Education Units (CEUs) in the relevant categories

bull AgreetopaytheAnnualCertificationFee

bull SignCSIACodeofEthics

Upon earning the CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg credential your certification is valid for one year You will need to recertify annually by paying the annual certification fee This fee will be invoiced annually prior to your expiration date Please note that your credential will require renewal every three years by submittal of the minimum 48 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) in accordance with the CSIA Credential Renewal Policy or by passing the certification exams and either submitting a minimum of 9 CEUs or completing a CSIA Review

If your annual certification fee is not paid prior to your certification expiration date your credential will be considered lapsed and you will immediately lose all rights and privileges of the CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg credential The following terms will then apply if reinstatement of the credential is desired

If you do not pay your annual certification fee by your expiration date the following timeline will begin

bull Within90daysfromthedateofexpiration if you submit payment in full for the annual certification fee your credential will be reinstated and you will be considered a CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg in good standing maintaining your original annual expiration date and certification number

bull Ifmorethan90daysandlessthan12months beyond your expiration date you will be required to Pay the current annual certification fee and current testing fees and test again Doing so will reinstate your previous annual certification expiration date and certification number You will still be required to pay your next annual fee within the next 12 months

bull Ifmorethan12monthsbeyondyourexpiration date you will be required to either participate in a CSIA approved certification review course or submit evidence of 9 CEUs that were accumulated during the time your credential was active In addition you will be required to pass the CSIA certification exams Upon successful completion a new certification number will be assigned and you will have a new annual certification expiration date

CaliforniaMichaelGipsonbullMidtownSweepsbullLancasterOmarSaenzbullAFiddlerontheRoodDuctampChimneyServicebullVanNuys

IndianaAlexStewartbullOldSmokeyrsquosFireplaceampChimneyIncbullAshley

KansasRyanBerrybullFullServiceChimneybullOlathe

New YorkJayFellibullHearthampHomeofIthacabullIthaca

VermontJamesDonovanbullLincolnPeakPropertiesbullWaitsfield

West VirginiaMichaelAdwellbullTopHatChimneySweepbullLewisburg

WisconsinDustinMyersbullChimneySpecialistsIncbullHighland

ADVERTISEMENT

Congratulations to Our New CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps

Top 10 Woodburning Tips from the Chimney Safety Institute of America

To aid in the prevention of chimney fires and carbon monoxide intrusion and to help keep heating appliances and fireplaces functioning properly the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) offers the following safety tips

1 Get an annual chimney check Have chimneys inspected annually and cleaned as necessary by a qualified professional chimney service technician This reduces the risk of fires and carbon monoxide poisonings due to creosote buildup or obstructions in the chimneys

2 Keep it clear Keep tree branches and leaves at least 15 feet away from the top of the chimney

3 Install a chimney cap to keep debris and animals out of the chimney

4 Choose the right fuel For burning firewood in wood stoves or fireplaces choose wellseasoned wood that has been split for a minimum of six months - one year and stored in a covered and elevated location Never burn Christmas trees or treated wood in your fireplace or wood stove

5 Build it right Place firewood or firelogs at the rear of the fireplace on a supporting grate To start the fire use kindling or a commercial firelighter Never use flammable liquids

6 Keep the hearth area clear Combustible material too close to the fireplace or to a wood stove could easily catch fire Keep furniture at least 36rdquo away from the hearth

7 Use a fireplace screen Use metal mesh or a screen in front of the fireplace to catch flying sparks that could ignite or burn holes in the carpet or flooring

8 Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors Place detectors throughout the house and check batteries in the spring and fall

When you change your clocks for Daylight Savings Time remember to check your batteries

9 Never leave a fire unattended Before turning in for the evening be sure that the fire is fully

extinguished Supervise children and pets closely around wood stoves and fireplaces

10 The CSIA recommends annual inspections performed by CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps These chimney sweeps have earned the industryrsquos most respected credential by passing an intensive examination based on fire codes clearances and standards for the construction and maintenance of chimney and venting systems The National Fire Protection Association also recommends that all chimneys are inspected on an annual basis

For more chimney and fireplace safety tips visit the Chimney Safety Institute of America online at wwwCSIAorg

Solve your customersrsquo smoking sooting odor and draft problems Itrsquos easy with CSIArsquos 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 Ghostingsooting 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 doesnrsquot

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

Learn to solve these problems save time and money and keep

your clients happy with CSIArsquos Online Chimney Physics program

SolvedVenting Problems

Register today at wwwcsiaorg

CSIA 15 Tech 15 CampL 15 HampS 15 CampS NFI 5 Tech

Annual Certification Requirements

Top 10 Woodburning Tips from the Chimney Safety Institute of America

To aid in the prevention of chimney fires and carbon monoxide intrusion and to help keep heating appliances and fireplaces functioning properly the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) offers the following safety tips

1 Get an annual chimney check Have chimneys inspected annually and cleaned as necessary by a qualified professional chimney service technician This reduces the risk of fires and carbon monoxide poisonings due to creosote buildup or obstructions in the chimneys

2 Keep it clear Keep tree branches and leaves at least 15 feet away from the top of the chimney

3 Install a chimney cap to keep debris and animals out of the chimney

4 Choose the right fuel For burning firewood in wood stoves or fireplaces choose wellseasoned wood that has been split for a minimum of six months - one year and stored in a covered and elevated location Never burn Christmas trees or treated wood in your fireplace or wood stove

5 Build it right Place firewood or firelogs at the rear of the fireplace on a supporting grate To start the fire use kindling or a commercial firelighter Never use flammable liquids

6 Keep the hearth area clear Combustible material too close to the fireplace or to a wood stove could easily catch fire Keep furniture at least 36rdquo away from the hearth

7 Use a fireplace screen Use metal mesh or a screen in front of the fireplace to catch flying sparks that could ignite or burn holes in the carpet or flooring

8 Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors Place detectors throughout the house and check batteries in the spring and fall

When you change your clocks for Daylight Savings Time remember to check your batteries

9 Never leave a fire unattended Before turning in for the evening be sure that the fire is fully

extinguished Supervise children and pets closely around wood stoves and fireplaces

10 The CSIA recommends annual inspections performed by CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps These chimney sweeps have earned the industryrsquos most respected credential by passing an intensive examination based on fire codes clearances and standards for the construction and maintenance of chimney and venting systems The National Fire Protection Association also recommends that all chimneys are inspected on an annual basis

For more chimney and fireplace safety tips visit the Chimney Safety Institute of America online at wwwCSIAorg

ADVERTISEMENT

You can spend weeks trying to get a new employee up to speed In the process yoursquoll have used up your valuable time your patience and more money than you would like to admit

Instead send your employee to the most popular cost-effective chimney sweep training in North America CSIArsquos National Chimney Sweep Training School In less than a week wersquoll create an employee that yoursquoll be proud to send on a call ndash and happy to count toward your bottom line

Register today at wwwcsiaorg or call us at (317) 837-5362

At the 6-day hands-on Training School your employee will learn

How to inspect and service chimney systems serving any fuel burning appliance

How to be safe with the latest health and safety equipment and methods

How to work with residential heating appliances including wood stoves pellet stoves inserts factory-built fireplaces central heaters and furnaces

How to diagnose chimney performance problems understanding draft and flow diagnosing down drafts flow reversals inadequate flow stack effects updrafts pressure effects and gauges

How to navigate the International Residential Codes How to follow the NFPA 211 standards

Class size is limited to ensure a ratio of no more than eight students per instructor This small class size means that students have the opportunity for individual attention from the schoolrsquos experienced instructors and ample opportunities for hands-on training Because class size is limited it is important to apply early to reserve your place

The online CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience

The online Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician (CDET) review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience designed to help you pass the CDET exam

Take advantage of these other CSIA educational offerings that can build your business

Send us your greenhorn

and wersquoll send you back a pro

in 6 days Classes fill quickly so register now

2012 DATeS April 2ndash7June 4ndash9August 6ndash11September 24ndash29

April 2-7June 11-16August 6-11September 24-29

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 25

You can spend weeks trying to get a new employee up to speed In the process yoursquoll have used up your valuable time your patience and more money than you would like to admit

Instead send your employee to the most popular cost-effective chimney sweep training in North America CSIArsquos National Chimney Sweep Training School In less than a week wersquoll create an employee that yoursquoll be proud to send on a call ndash and happy to count toward your bottom line

Register today at wwwcsiaorg or call us at (317) 837-5362

At the 6-day hands-on Training School your employee will learn

How to inspect and service chimney systems serving any fuel burning appliance

How to be safe with the latest health and safety equipment and methods

How to work with residential heating appliances including wood stoves pellet stoves inserts factory-built fireplaces central heaters and furnaces

How to diagnose chimney performance problems understanding draft and flow diagnosing down drafts flow reversals inadequate flow stack effects updrafts pressure effects and gauges

How to navigate the International Residential Codes How to follow the NFPA 211 standards

Class size is limited to ensure a ratio of no more than eight students per instructor This small class size means that students have the opportunity for individual attention from the schoolrsquos experienced instructors and ample opportunities for hands-on training Because class size is limited it is important to apply early to reserve your place

The online CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience

The online Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician (CDET) review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience designed to help you pass the CDET exam

Take advantage of these other CSIA educational offerings that can build your business

Send us your greenhorn

and wersquoll send you back a pro

in 6 days Classes fill quickly so register now

2012 DATeS April 2ndash7June 4ndash9August 6ndash11September 24ndash29

April 2-7June 11-16August 6-11September 24-29

ProgressivePerksBY DEBBIE CORNELIUS

MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT COORDINATOR

Get Organized and Make the Most of Your Busy Season

Sometimes it really surprises me that more NCSG members do not take advantage of the discounted benefits available to them These will not only save you time buthellip money too

Paycor Payroll Services price reduction on payroll and tax services One specialist will be dedicated to your account with a team of tax specialists available to resolve issues in the fastest amount of time should an issue arise

Market Hardware can bring your business up to speed in the competitive market of technology where more and more customers are looking to the Web Once they have customized the design that includes a ldquoHome Pagerdquo ldquoAbout Usrdquo and ldquoOur Servicesrdquo page you will have the ability to easily update and edit your Web site yourself instead of paying someone else to do it

Technical Solutions the ldquoSurvival Kit for Small Businessesrdquo can provide on-demand remote repair 247 365 days a year For the price of $2499month with no long term contact involved you can cover up to 20 computers including multiple office locations

Commercials On Hold provides a great way to brand and promote your full range of services when callers are on hold before they talk to a member of your staff

Take a few minutes to just explore these benefits It would be well worth your time to compare the savings to save you time and help increase your profits

26 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

REGION 6

NCSG Charter Members

Paul Bourque Huntsville AL

Don Leavitt San Diego CA

David Harris Broken Arrow Oklahoma

Dan Wheeler Santa Rosa CA

John Cline Menlo Park CA

Dale Meisinger N Augusta SC

Alan Hisey St Louis MO

Eva B Horton Greenwich CT

Harry Richart Hasbrouck Heights NJ

NewNCSGMembers

REGION 3

REGION 2

REGION 5

REGION 4

NCSG REGIONS

REGION 1

Connecticut Vermont Massachusetts New York Maine Rhode Island New Hampshire

REGION 2

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

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

CONNECTICUTChristopher Gonsalves bull Millstream Construction bull HebronDavid Heissenbuttel bull DMH amp Associates Inc bull Wilton

VIRGINAJack Johnston bull Johnstonrsquos Chimney Sweep bull Yorktown

MISSOURIJason Patrick bull Shamrock Qualty Services bull St LouisBill Bonney bull Bonney Bill bull Jackson

KENTUCKYJoshua Moore bull Moore Joshua bull Mt Sterling

ILLINOISJack Lutz bull Lutz Jack bull EurekaClay Nelson bull Clean Sweep bull Collinsville

OHIOAnthony Ramsey bull Elite Chimney Solutions bull Beavercreek

INDIANATravis Beckley bull Beckley Travis bull Coal City

TEXASMatthew Milner bull Milner Matthew bull WhitesboroTony Drew bull AC Contractors dba Fireplaces bull LongviewChristopher A Hess bull Atlas Chimney bull Leander

MINNESOTARenee Gustafson bull John C Gustafson Builder LLC bull Little Falls

COLORADOKent Macintosh bull Russian River Chimney Sweeps bull Healdsburg

CALIFORNIA Errol Davis bull The Chimney Specialist bull Huntington Beach

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 27

The 2012 ndash 2013 offers are being added daily in the ldquoMembers Onlyrdquo section of the NCSG website at wwwNCSGorg So start checking for these new offers each week These coupons will be good until June 30 2013

Copperfield Chimney Supply bull Lindemann Chimney Supply bull Meyer Machine amp Equipment bull National Chimney Supply bull SNEWS - The Chimney Sweep News bull Wakefield Brush bull Wohler USA Inc

2012 ndash 2013 SWEEPS ADVANTAGE COUPON PROGRAM

Featured Coupons of the Month

COPPERFIELD CHIMNEY SUPPLY

SAVE Up to $ 12650 FREE 13 x 13 Lock-Top with an order of $250

SAVE Up to $ 123 One FREE component Kit with any purchase of 6rdquo UltraPro

SAVE Up to $ 52One 225 quart Woodfield porcelain-coated steamer with any Napoleon appliance

purchase

SAVE Up to $ 46 One 13 x 13 HomeSaver Stainless Steel chimney cap with any Order of $250 or more

SAVE Up to $ 64 One EasyClean Cap with any purchase of $250

SAVE UP TO $ 75 $75 off any 25rsquo order of UltraPro Stainless Steel Liner

SAVE UP TO $ 40 $40 off any Flue Stretcher Chimney Cap

SAVE UP TO $ 20 Sign up for a Copperfield Reline Workshop and Save $20

SAVE UP TO FRE FREE 4 foot sample of HomeSaver Ultrapro

WOHLER USA INC SAVE UP TO $ 500$500 rebate with proof of purchase of VIS2000

Pro Camera System

hellip when opportunity calls we answer 1-800-875-8118

wwwcomnetmessagecom

Benefits of Answering Service

Award Winning Telephone Agents

Never Miss A Call

Better Time Management

Appointment Scheduling

Affordable

28 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

Meyer Machine amp Equipment

SUCKINGDUCTS

ampINSULATION

FOR OVER 20 YEARS

As most allergy sufferers will tell you allergy symptoms can always be bothersome turning any time of year into sneezing season A runny nose itchy eyes and scratchy throat can arise as the days get shorter and the leaves begin to change

The fall can be especially difficult for people who are sensitive to mold and ragweed pollen But these seasonal elements arenrsquot the only triggers that can make symptoms worse this time of year There are also a few lesser known triggers Here are four things you might not know about fall allergies courtesy of the American College of Allergy Asthma and Immunology

Hay fever - Hay fever a term from a bygone era actually has nothing to do with hay Instead itrsquos a general term used to describe the symptoms of late summer allergies Ragweed is a common cause of hay fever which is also known as allergic rhinitis The plant usually begins to pollinate in mid-August and may continue to be a problem until a hard freeze depending on where you live See an allergist for prescription medications to control symptoms or to see if allergy shots may be your best option

Lingering warm weather - While most people enjoy Indian summer unseasonably warm temperatures can make rhinitis symptoms last longer Mold spores can also be released when humidity is high or the weather is dry and windy Be sure to begin taking medications before your symptoms start Track your allergy symptoms with MyNasalAllergyJournalorg and visit with your allergist to find relief

Pesky leaves - Some folks might find it difficult to keep up with raking leaves throughout the autumn But for allergy sufferers raking presents its own problem It can stir agitating pollen and mold into the air causing allergy and asthma symptoms Those with allergies should wear an NIOSH-rated N95 mask when raking leaves mowing the lawn and gardening

School allergens - Itrsquos not only seasonal pollen and mold that triggers allergies this time of year Kids are often exposed to classroom irritants and allergy triggers These can include chalk dust and classroom pets Students with food allergies may also be exposed to allergens in the lunch roomKids with exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB) may experience attacks during recess or gym class Help your child understand what can trigger their allergies and asthma and how they can avoid symptoms Be sure to notify teachers and the school nurse of any emergency medications such as quick relief inhalers and epinephrine

No matter the season itrsquos important for those who think they may be suffering from allergies or asthma to see a board-certified allergist An allergist can help you develop a treatment plan which can include both medication and avoidance techniques

Having your allergies properly identified and treated will help you and your family enjoy the season To find an allergist and learn more about allergies and asthma visit wwwAllergyandAsthmaRelieforg

Four Things You Might Not Know About Fall Allergies

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 29

trategic partnerships Sounds fancy but what does it really mean They are called what they are called because there is a true strategy behind them the thought and planning that goes into identifying and development those relationships in a way that will

ultimately help those who are participating to achieve their mission The fact that it is indeed a ldquopartnershiprdquo indicates that everyone involved mutually stands to benefit in some wayhellipItrsquos a win-win

The strategic part of establishing partnerships is analyzing who you are your goals and your current resources and then finding organizations (partners) that will allow you to get the things that you need in order to take your organization to the next level But true partnerships are about what you can bring to each other to help achieve your goals and enhance your resources It is not solely about what you can give me but rather what we can give each other As the great John F Kennedy is well known for encouraging of a world partnership ldquoask not what America will do for you but what together we can do for the freedom of manrdquo

So where does this leave an association like NCSG The key to nonprofits establishing strategic partnerships is having the infrastructure to attract and maintain these relationships In this country there are plenty of nonprofits that are doing great work but there is no organization that will be able to survive if they try

to achieve their mission without establishing partnerships that help provide resources and relationships that allow us to achieve our mission

NCSG is very fortunate to have an impressive array of partners who have for many years some since our inception done just that Our partners have advertised in this magazine exhibited at our conventions contributed to the building and maintaining of our headquarters and the premier industry training facility in Indianapolis discounted thousands of dollars in products and services to our members and have helped us promote the Guild and recruit membership in countless ways not the least of which includes maintaining their own membership in NCSG

Our partners are committed to helping us advance our mission and in turn propel our professional field forward Their partnership supports that programs that ignite your professional and technical development and provide the products and services that have helped you bring your own businesses to life They are integral to the success of this industry and most renew their support of the Guild year after year

Without their support of Sweeping magazine through their advertising we would not have been able to come close to bringing this publication to our members and the industry for the past 35 years (originally The Chimney Sweep Guild News) without significant taxation on the readers Without their support

BY MARK MCSWEENEY CAEEXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Perspective

Support Those Who Support YouldquoOur success has really been based on partnerships from the very beginningrdquo -Bill Gates

S

30 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

of NCSGrsquos annual convention through exhibiting and additional sponsorships registration fees for attendees would easily be double what they are today

When viewing our relationship with exhibitors sponsors advertisers and supplier members as a partnership the question needs to be asked How are we as an association mutually helping them achieve their respective goals

The answer comes back to us having infrastructure to attract and maintain these partnerships And that infrastructure is you the member NCSG cultivates and maintains the relationship with our industry partners on your behalf You are asked to back that up through your support of these partner service providers

Now Irsquom not saying you should buy everything you need at any one place or only through our partners At the end of the day you ultimately need to make your purchasing decisions based on your individual business needs However what would be great to see is our members calling our partners up and giving them a chance to compete for your business Let them know you are a part of NCSG and even if you are not in a position to do business with them this time around let them know you appreciate their continued support of the Guild and the industry Itrsquos one thing to call up to a supplier and ask about a product get a price and hang up Itrsquos another thing to make sure you let them know you saw their ad in Sweeping you read about them

online or you remember they exhibited at the convention so that they know they are getting positive exposure and that their investment in our partnership is not going unnoticed

With that said here are some simple and tangible things things you can do to help the partnership you are a part ofbull Consider our partners each and every time you need to make a

purchasing decision and give them an opportunity to earn your business when you can Look at those who are advertising in Sweeping or see a full listing of NCSG Supplier Members under the Chimney Sweep tab on ncsgorg

bull When you talk to them let them know yoursquore part of NCSG and thank them for their support of your association

bull If you like them even if you canrsquot do business with them currently spread the word and help get their name out there

bull Attend events where our partners have stepped up to sponsor Help show them we value them being there and appreciate their efforts This helps everyone when it comes to working out future programs discounts events and more

We are all in this together Just as you want to ensure you are receiving the return you need on the investments you make our supplier members advertisers exhibitors and sponsors need to justify their own ROI on the variety of support avenues they offer

to NCSG I thought Irsquod take a minute this month to say ldquothank yourdquo to all of you who support us in so many different ways and would like to encourage others to do the same

Until next time I continue to wish you every success

Double Locking CrimpRemains StrongYet Very Flexibl e

With No Memo ry

Strong Triple Locking CrimpHolds T ogether Even OnTough Jobs

Horizontal Sides Of CorrugationOffer Added Strengthamp Flexibility

Manufactured by CHIMNEY TECHNIQUE INC

Chim-Pro Interlock Flex

Chim-Pro Corrugated

Flex

Chim-Pro RigidADDED SAFETY EFFICIENCY AND VALUE

In Which ALL FITTINGS Are Attached With A Band Even The Tee Cap And Elbows Quick amp Simple No Drilling amp Riveting

Featuring

Visit wwwchim-prolinercom for more detailsbull 2000 Industrial Ave bull Sioux Falls SD 57104

1-800-582-1392

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 31

Display Ad Index

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 mheekencsgorg for publication in Sweeping Or mail it to NCSG 2155 Commercial Drive Plainfield IN 46168

Page Advertiser Phone Email or Website Address

30 Ahrens Chimney Technique 800-582-1392 ahrenschimneyqwestofficenet

21-24 Chimney Safety Institute of America 317-837-5362 wwwcsiaorg

14 Cobra Chimney Caps 888-463-0636 salescobrachimneycom

27 Communications Network Inc 800-875-8118 tkempercomnetmessagecom

5 Copperfield 800-247-3305 wwwcopperfieldcom

4 ENERVEX Inc 800-255-2923 infochimneyfanscom

13 Firesafe Industries Inc 800-545-6607 wwwfiresafeinccom

16 Gelco Lyemance Lock-Top 800-334-2154 wwwGLLchimneyproductscom

9 Hose Master 800-221-2319 bobdanielshosemastercom

10 ICP 508-695-7000 wwwchimneycapscom

BC Lifetime Chimney Supply LLC 877-234-7473 wwwlifetimechimneysupplycom

7 Lindemann Chimney Company 800-722-7230 wwwlindemannchimneycom

11 M amp G Duravent 800-835-4429 wwwduraventcom

28 Meyer Machine amp Equipment 800-728-3828 wwwmeyermachinecom

25 National Chimney Supply 800-897-8481 wwwnationalchimneysupplycom

17 Olympia Chimney Supply 800-569-1425 wwwolympiachimneycom

19 Sand Hill Wholesale 800-258-5496 wwwsandhillwholesalecom

6 SaverSystems Inc 800-860-6327 wwwchimneysavercom

3 Smoktite 866-439-0069 wwwsmoktitecom

8 Wakefield Brush 800-264-7007 wwwwakefieldbrushcom

19 Whitecaps 800-335-2534 wwwwhitecapscom

15 Z-Flex 800-654-5600 wwwz-flexcom

The pole and bucket chimney That is how they keep rain and birds out during off season Notice the class A is just an extension of a masonry chimney

Submitted by Kevon Binder of Doctor Flue Inc

September 13-15 2012Lake Murray SCSouth Carolina Chimney Sweep Guildrsquos ldquoThe GatheringrdquoFor more information please contact Blume at (864) 232-9811 or blume357bellsouthnet

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 19 2012 Taunton MAFall Protection User Training Class Including OSHArsquos 2011 ruling on alternate fall protection methods - Sponsored by the Massachusetts Chimney Sweep GuildFor more information please call Jeffrey Wright at (781) 233-2321

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-29 2012CSIA Technology CenterCSIA National Chimney Sweep Training SchoolFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

Dates amp Events

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 8-12 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg October 8-12 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

Please send notice of your events for NCSG Dates amp Events listings at mmcmahonncsgorg for inclusion here in weekly posts to the discussion list and online at wwwNCSGorgdates The event must be considered educational or informative for the industry (sales events and open houses will not be listed)

32 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

ClassifiedsGotta chimney question Sizing Codes Call Royal Edwards Make Royal your tech department CALL NOW 813-982-0219 for on-call tech support Continuing Education special bonus ndash ask how you can get the Friday morning E-Blast for FREE CALL NOW 813-982-0219

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

Chimney Sweep business for sell in the Northern Rocky Mountains of New Mexico Services a large area with three ski resorts in the service area Equipment and signed three year contracts goes with the business Business is well established For pricing and other info please email your questions to ridgeriders1gmailcom

CLASSIFIED ADS FREE FOR NCSG MEMBERSMembers can run one 35 word classified free each year Regularly classified ads are $2word or $1word for NCSG members Classified ads are non-commissionable and must be pre-paid To place a classified ad please contact Megan McMahon at mmcmahonncsgorg or (317) 837-1500

NCSG Innovation 2013 Convention and Trade Show Hotel reservations are now being accepted for NCSG Innovation 2013 at Chateau on the Lake in Branson MO April 4-7 2013 Just call 1-888-333-LAKE (5253) and mention that yoursquore with the National Chimney Sweep Guild to lock in rates starting at $129 for a mountain view and $134 for a lake view

Get ready for some RampR Yoursquore earned it

Order Your FREEAnnual Maintenance Reminder Postcards

A great way to remind homeowners to schedule their annual maintenance check up

Each card has space available for your business information

Use them as reminders for your existing clients or send them to generate new business

To order postcards and other free Burn Wise products contact

Leigh Herringtonherringtonleighepagov

ampKristen Bremer

bremerkristenepagov

wwwepagovburnwise

Follow us on

Wood-Burning Safety

Starts with You

Have you scheduled your

annual inspection

The National Fire Protection Association estimates

that 25 percent of home heating fires are caused

primarily by creosote buildup in the chimney

Make your home healthier and safer A properly

installed and maintained appliance burns more

efficiently and saves you money Contact your local

certified chimney sweep to schedule an annual

inspection today

Before You Burn

The right wayThe right way is hot and bright

In the right applianceThe right appliance is an EPA-approved appliance inspected annually by a certified chimney sweep

Burn the right woodBurn only dry well-seasoned wood that has been split and stored properly

wwwepagovburnwise

wwwcsiaorg

Printed on 100 recycledrecyclable paper with a minimum 50 post-consumer waste using vegetable-based

EPA 456-F-10-004

National Chimney Sweep Guild2155 Commercial DrivePlainfield IN 46168

1208

OR

Page 21: September 2012

20 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

exemptions (if available) to help protect assets from creditors and frivolous lawsuits

3 Employ Efficient Debt ndash we may be at the bottom of the interest rate and inflation cycle If interest rates rise andor inflation heats up the general rule of thumb for most of us is debtors win creditors lose If you have the cash you have control If the banker has the cash they have control

4 Manage Taxes ndash whether or not income or estate taxes increase in the future a retirement assetincome distribution business succession and legacy strategy is a must for everyone

5 Investment Management ndash you have plenty of risk with your business Do you want to have unnecessary risk with your investments

You cannot control macroeconomics (sequence of return risk rising interest rates trade and budget deficits unemployment inflation taxes real estate values commodity markets fluctuating foreign currency etc)

You cannot control geopolitical events (elections Euro zone issues violent foreign government changes war etc) or environmental events (hurricanes earthquakes fires tsunamis etc)

How do you insulate yourself from economic events you cannot control Consider historically tried tested and true strategies Consider strategies that your grandparentrsquos generation may have used They had to protect themselves ndash government bailouts and subsidies were few and far between

Congratulations if you can assemble a team to help you define and implement a strategy using the tactics described above This can be achieved in a relatively short period of time (a few hours a week over several short weeks can do it) which can help give you your time back so you can focus on your business and family

6 Manage your Business ndash this you can completely control You can engage in any of the following business expansion activities without losing energy and enthusiasm to the issues you and your team of advisors tackled above

Perhaps you would ratherbull Recruit and develop key employees (and future buyers of

your business)bull Market expansion (are you getting on board the e-marketing

train)bull Develop operating procedures and processesbull Improve safety (reduce liability)bull Expand into new territoriesbull Enter a new industry

bull Purchase and manage real estate

Life Happens ndash Enjoy It

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 US Army Eric is ranked first in his class with a degree in Computer Science is working in his field and plans on attending graduate school in 2013 His daughter Kara recently graduated undergraduate school with distinction and is planning to attend graduate school to become a Physiciansrsquo 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_NoeMWFinancialcom

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CSIA Update wwwCSIAorg

Publication for CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepregs

ADVERTISEMENT

The Virginia Association of Chimney amp

Hearth Professionals sponsored CSIArsquos

Inspection amp Report Writing class in

Arlington VA this August 6-7 Tom Urban

served as the instructor for the two-day

session Forty one professionals were

in attendance with 19 being business

owners and 22 being employees The

session drew attendees from as far away

as Louisville KY

The event was sponsored by Wakefield

Brush The Chimney Sweep News

Ahrenrsquos Copperfield Wohler Estoban

Lindemann Chimney Supply National

Chimney Supply Olympia Chimney

Supply SaverSystems and Whitecaps

VACHP Sponsored Inspection amp Report Writing

Fred Regar served as auctioneer of the sponsor-donated items on the second day of the session

Tom Urban teaching the CSIA Inspection and Report Writing Class in Arlington

When renewing a credential earned after September 1 2009 a CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg is required to

Available downloads for CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepsreg and CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Techniciansreg include

bull CSIACertifiedChimneySweepandCSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician Trademarks

bull ButtonsforyourWebsite

bull CustomizablePowerPointpresentationfor home inspectors

bull InspectionSOPs

bull LadderSafetyTips

bull ldquoChimneyFiresCausesEffectsampEvaluationrdquo Prepared by Chimney Safety Institute of America- Chimney Fire Education and Research Task Force

bull Printversionofthiswhitepaperisalsoavailable for purchase

bull Top10WoodburningTipsfromtheChimney Safety Institute of America

Check out the CCS amp CDET area at CSIAorg

bull Submitaminimumof9CEUsearnedwithin the preceeding 3 years (in any category) before testing NOTE This requirement will not apply to CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps already holding the credential on September 1 2009untiltheirnext3-yearcertificationcycle

bull Passaone-hourexambasedonSuccessfulChimneySweeping(2009)andNFPA211(2010)

bull Passaninety-minuteopen-bookexambasedonthe2006IRCreg

bull AgreetopaytheAnnualCertificationFee

bull SignCSIACodeofEthics

OR

bull SubmitappropriatenumberofContinuing Education Units (CEUs) in the relevant categories

bull AgreetopaytheAnnualCertificationFee

bull SignCSIACodeofEthics

Upon earning the CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg credential your certification is valid for one year You will need to recertify annually by paying the annual certification fee This fee will be invoiced annually prior to your expiration date Please note that your credential will require renewal every three years by submittal of the minimum 48 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) in accordance with the CSIA Credential Renewal Policy or by passing the certification exams and either submitting a minimum of 9 CEUs or completing a CSIA Review

If your annual certification fee is not paid prior to your certification expiration date your credential will be considered lapsed and you will immediately lose all rights and privileges of the CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg credential The following terms will then apply if reinstatement of the credential is desired

If you do not pay your annual certification fee by your expiration date the following timeline will begin

bull Within90daysfromthedateofexpiration if you submit payment in full for the annual certification fee your credential will be reinstated and you will be considered a CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg in good standing maintaining your original annual expiration date and certification number

bull Ifmorethan90daysandlessthan12months beyond your expiration date you will be required to Pay the current annual certification fee and current testing fees and test again Doing so will reinstate your previous annual certification expiration date and certification number You will still be required to pay your next annual fee within the next 12 months

bull Ifmorethan12monthsbeyondyourexpiration date you will be required to either participate in a CSIA approved certification review course or submit evidence of 9 CEUs that were accumulated during the time your credential was active In addition you will be required to pass the CSIA certification exams Upon successful completion a new certification number will be assigned and you will have a new annual certification expiration date

CaliforniaMichaelGipsonbullMidtownSweepsbullLancasterOmarSaenzbullAFiddlerontheRoodDuctampChimneyServicebullVanNuys

IndianaAlexStewartbullOldSmokeyrsquosFireplaceampChimneyIncbullAshley

KansasRyanBerrybullFullServiceChimneybullOlathe

New YorkJayFellibullHearthampHomeofIthacabullIthaca

VermontJamesDonovanbullLincolnPeakPropertiesbullWaitsfield

West VirginiaMichaelAdwellbullTopHatChimneySweepbullLewisburg

WisconsinDustinMyersbullChimneySpecialistsIncbullHighland

ADVERTISEMENT

Congratulations to Our New CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps

Top 10 Woodburning Tips from the Chimney Safety Institute of America

To aid in the prevention of chimney fires and carbon monoxide intrusion and to help keep heating appliances and fireplaces functioning properly the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) offers the following safety tips

1 Get an annual chimney check Have chimneys inspected annually and cleaned as necessary by a qualified professional chimney service technician This reduces the risk of fires and carbon monoxide poisonings due to creosote buildup or obstructions in the chimneys

2 Keep it clear Keep tree branches and leaves at least 15 feet away from the top of the chimney

3 Install a chimney cap to keep debris and animals out of the chimney

4 Choose the right fuel For burning firewood in wood stoves or fireplaces choose wellseasoned wood that has been split for a minimum of six months - one year and stored in a covered and elevated location Never burn Christmas trees or treated wood in your fireplace or wood stove

5 Build it right Place firewood or firelogs at the rear of the fireplace on a supporting grate To start the fire use kindling or a commercial firelighter Never use flammable liquids

6 Keep the hearth area clear Combustible material too close to the fireplace or to a wood stove could easily catch fire Keep furniture at least 36rdquo away from the hearth

7 Use a fireplace screen Use metal mesh or a screen in front of the fireplace to catch flying sparks that could ignite or burn holes in the carpet or flooring

8 Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors Place detectors throughout the house and check batteries in the spring and fall

When you change your clocks for Daylight Savings Time remember to check your batteries

9 Never leave a fire unattended Before turning in for the evening be sure that the fire is fully

extinguished Supervise children and pets closely around wood stoves and fireplaces

10 The CSIA recommends annual inspections performed by CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps These chimney sweeps have earned the industryrsquos most respected credential by passing an intensive examination based on fire codes clearances and standards for the construction and maintenance of chimney and venting systems The National Fire Protection Association also recommends that all chimneys are inspected on an annual basis

For more chimney and fireplace safety tips visit the Chimney Safety Institute of America online at wwwCSIAorg

Solve your customersrsquo smoking sooting odor and draft problems Itrsquos easy with CSIArsquos 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 Ghostingsooting 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 doesnrsquot

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

Learn to solve these problems save time and money and keep

your clients happy with CSIArsquos Online Chimney Physics program

SolvedVenting Problems

Register today at wwwcsiaorg

CSIA 15 Tech 15 CampL 15 HampS 15 CampS NFI 5 Tech

Annual Certification Requirements

Top 10 Woodburning Tips from the Chimney Safety Institute of America

To aid in the prevention of chimney fires and carbon monoxide intrusion and to help keep heating appliances and fireplaces functioning properly the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) offers the following safety tips

1 Get an annual chimney check Have chimneys inspected annually and cleaned as necessary by a qualified professional chimney service technician This reduces the risk of fires and carbon monoxide poisonings due to creosote buildup or obstructions in the chimneys

2 Keep it clear Keep tree branches and leaves at least 15 feet away from the top of the chimney

3 Install a chimney cap to keep debris and animals out of the chimney

4 Choose the right fuel For burning firewood in wood stoves or fireplaces choose wellseasoned wood that has been split for a minimum of six months - one year and stored in a covered and elevated location Never burn Christmas trees or treated wood in your fireplace or wood stove

5 Build it right Place firewood or firelogs at the rear of the fireplace on a supporting grate To start the fire use kindling or a commercial firelighter Never use flammable liquids

6 Keep the hearth area clear Combustible material too close to the fireplace or to a wood stove could easily catch fire Keep furniture at least 36rdquo away from the hearth

7 Use a fireplace screen Use metal mesh or a screen in front of the fireplace to catch flying sparks that could ignite or burn holes in the carpet or flooring

8 Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors Place detectors throughout the house and check batteries in the spring and fall

When you change your clocks for Daylight Savings Time remember to check your batteries

9 Never leave a fire unattended Before turning in for the evening be sure that the fire is fully

extinguished Supervise children and pets closely around wood stoves and fireplaces

10 The CSIA recommends annual inspections performed by CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps These chimney sweeps have earned the industryrsquos most respected credential by passing an intensive examination based on fire codes clearances and standards for the construction and maintenance of chimney and venting systems The National Fire Protection Association also recommends that all chimneys are inspected on an annual basis

For more chimney and fireplace safety tips visit the Chimney Safety Institute of America online at wwwCSIAorg

ADVERTISEMENT

You can spend weeks trying to get a new employee up to speed In the process yoursquoll have used up your valuable time your patience and more money than you would like to admit

Instead send your employee to the most popular cost-effective chimney sweep training in North America CSIArsquos National Chimney Sweep Training School In less than a week wersquoll create an employee that yoursquoll be proud to send on a call ndash and happy to count toward your bottom line

Register today at wwwcsiaorg or call us at (317) 837-5362

At the 6-day hands-on Training School your employee will learn

How to inspect and service chimney systems serving any fuel burning appliance

How to be safe with the latest health and safety equipment and methods

How to work with residential heating appliances including wood stoves pellet stoves inserts factory-built fireplaces central heaters and furnaces

How to diagnose chimney performance problems understanding draft and flow diagnosing down drafts flow reversals inadequate flow stack effects updrafts pressure effects and gauges

How to navigate the International Residential Codes How to follow the NFPA 211 standards

Class size is limited to ensure a ratio of no more than eight students per instructor This small class size means that students have the opportunity for individual attention from the schoolrsquos experienced instructors and ample opportunities for hands-on training Because class size is limited it is important to apply early to reserve your place

The online CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience

The online Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician (CDET) review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience designed to help you pass the CDET exam

Take advantage of these other CSIA educational offerings that can build your business

Send us your greenhorn

and wersquoll send you back a pro

in 6 days Classes fill quickly so register now

2012 DATeS April 2ndash7June 4ndash9August 6ndash11September 24ndash29

April 2-7June 11-16August 6-11September 24-29

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 25

You can spend weeks trying to get a new employee up to speed In the process yoursquoll have used up your valuable time your patience and more money than you would like to admit

Instead send your employee to the most popular cost-effective chimney sweep training in North America CSIArsquos National Chimney Sweep Training School In less than a week wersquoll create an employee that yoursquoll be proud to send on a call ndash and happy to count toward your bottom line

Register today at wwwcsiaorg or call us at (317) 837-5362

At the 6-day hands-on Training School your employee will learn

How to inspect and service chimney systems serving any fuel burning appliance

How to be safe with the latest health and safety equipment and methods

How to work with residential heating appliances including wood stoves pellet stoves inserts factory-built fireplaces central heaters and furnaces

How to diagnose chimney performance problems understanding draft and flow diagnosing down drafts flow reversals inadequate flow stack effects updrafts pressure effects and gauges

How to navigate the International Residential Codes How to follow the NFPA 211 standards

Class size is limited to ensure a ratio of no more than eight students per instructor This small class size means that students have the opportunity for individual attention from the schoolrsquos experienced instructors and ample opportunities for hands-on training Because class size is limited it is important to apply early to reserve your place

The online CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience

The online Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician (CDET) review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience designed to help you pass the CDET exam

Take advantage of these other CSIA educational offerings that can build your business

Send us your greenhorn

and wersquoll send you back a pro

in 6 days Classes fill quickly so register now

2012 DATeS April 2ndash7June 4ndash9August 6ndash11September 24ndash29

April 2-7June 11-16August 6-11September 24-29

ProgressivePerksBY DEBBIE CORNELIUS

MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT COORDINATOR

Get Organized and Make the Most of Your Busy Season

Sometimes it really surprises me that more NCSG members do not take advantage of the discounted benefits available to them These will not only save you time buthellip money too

Paycor Payroll Services price reduction on payroll and tax services One specialist will be dedicated to your account with a team of tax specialists available to resolve issues in the fastest amount of time should an issue arise

Market Hardware can bring your business up to speed in the competitive market of technology where more and more customers are looking to the Web Once they have customized the design that includes a ldquoHome Pagerdquo ldquoAbout Usrdquo and ldquoOur Servicesrdquo page you will have the ability to easily update and edit your Web site yourself instead of paying someone else to do it

Technical Solutions the ldquoSurvival Kit for Small Businessesrdquo can provide on-demand remote repair 247 365 days a year For the price of $2499month with no long term contact involved you can cover up to 20 computers including multiple office locations

Commercials On Hold provides a great way to brand and promote your full range of services when callers are on hold before they talk to a member of your staff

Take a few minutes to just explore these benefits It would be well worth your time to compare the savings to save you time and help increase your profits

26 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

REGION 6

NCSG Charter Members

Paul Bourque Huntsville AL

Don Leavitt San Diego CA

David Harris Broken Arrow Oklahoma

Dan Wheeler Santa Rosa CA

John Cline Menlo Park CA

Dale Meisinger N Augusta SC

Alan Hisey St Louis MO

Eva B Horton Greenwich CT

Harry Richart Hasbrouck Heights NJ

NewNCSGMembers

REGION 3

REGION 2

REGION 5

REGION 4

NCSG REGIONS

REGION 1

Connecticut Vermont Massachusetts New York Maine Rhode Island New Hampshire

REGION 2

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

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

CONNECTICUTChristopher Gonsalves bull Millstream Construction bull HebronDavid Heissenbuttel bull DMH amp Associates Inc bull Wilton

VIRGINAJack Johnston bull Johnstonrsquos Chimney Sweep bull Yorktown

MISSOURIJason Patrick bull Shamrock Qualty Services bull St LouisBill Bonney bull Bonney Bill bull Jackson

KENTUCKYJoshua Moore bull Moore Joshua bull Mt Sterling

ILLINOISJack Lutz bull Lutz Jack bull EurekaClay Nelson bull Clean Sweep bull Collinsville

OHIOAnthony Ramsey bull Elite Chimney Solutions bull Beavercreek

INDIANATravis Beckley bull Beckley Travis bull Coal City

TEXASMatthew Milner bull Milner Matthew bull WhitesboroTony Drew bull AC Contractors dba Fireplaces bull LongviewChristopher A Hess bull Atlas Chimney bull Leander

MINNESOTARenee Gustafson bull John C Gustafson Builder LLC bull Little Falls

COLORADOKent Macintosh bull Russian River Chimney Sweeps bull Healdsburg

CALIFORNIA Errol Davis bull The Chimney Specialist bull Huntington Beach

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 27

The 2012 ndash 2013 offers are being added daily in the ldquoMembers Onlyrdquo section of the NCSG website at wwwNCSGorg So start checking for these new offers each week These coupons will be good until June 30 2013

Copperfield Chimney Supply bull Lindemann Chimney Supply bull Meyer Machine amp Equipment bull National Chimney Supply bull SNEWS - The Chimney Sweep News bull Wakefield Brush bull Wohler USA Inc

2012 ndash 2013 SWEEPS ADVANTAGE COUPON PROGRAM

Featured Coupons of the Month

COPPERFIELD CHIMNEY SUPPLY

SAVE Up to $ 12650 FREE 13 x 13 Lock-Top with an order of $250

SAVE Up to $ 123 One FREE component Kit with any purchase of 6rdquo UltraPro

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purchase

SAVE Up to $ 46 One 13 x 13 HomeSaver Stainless Steel chimney cap with any Order of $250 or more

SAVE Up to $ 64 One EasyClean Cap with any purchase of $250

SAVE UP TO $ 75 $75 off any 25rsquo order of UltraPro Stainless Steel Liner

SAVE UP TO $ 40 $40 off any Flue Stretcher Chimney Cap

SAVE UP TO $ 20 Sign up for a Copperfield Reline Workshop and Save $20

SAVE UP TO FRE FREE 4 foot sample of HomeSaver Ultrapro

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Benefits of Answering Service

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28 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

Meyer Machine amp Equipment

SUCKINGDUCTS

ampINSULATION

FOR OVER 20 YEARS

As most allergy sufferers will tell you allergy symptoms can always be bothersome turning any time of year into sneezing season A runny nose itchy eyes and scratchy throat can arise as the days get shorter and the leaves begin to change

The fall can be especially difficult for people who are sensitive to mold and ragweed pollen But these seasonal elements arenrsquot the only triggers that can make symptoms worse this time of year There are also a few lesser known triggers Here are four things you might not know about fall allergies courtesy of the American College of Allergy Asthma and Immunology

Hay fever - Hay fever a term from a bygone era actually has nothing to do with hay Instead itrsquos a general term used to describe the symptoms of late summer allergies Ragweed is a common cause of hay fever which is also known as allergic rhinitis The plant usually begins to pollinate in mid-August and may continue to be a problem until a hard freeze depending on where you live See an allergist for prescription medications to control symptoms or to see if allergy shots may be your best option

Lingering warm weather - While most people enjoy Indian summer unseasonably warm temperatures can make rhinitis symptoms last longer Mold spores can also be released when humidity is high or the weather is dry and windy Be sure to begin taking medications before your symptoms start Track your allergy symptoms with MyNasalAllergyJournalorg and visit with your allergist to find relief

Pesky leaves - Some folks might find it difficult to keep up with raking leaves throughout the autumn But for allergy sufferers raking presents its own problem It can stir agitating pollen and mold into the air causing allergy and asthma symptoms Those with allergies should wear an NIOSH-rated N95 mask when raking leaves mowing the lawn and gardening

School allergens - Itrsquos not only seasonal pollen and mold that triggers allergies this time of year Kids are often exposed to classroom irritants and allergy triggers These can include chalk dust and classroom pets Students with food allergies may also be exposed to allergens in the lunch roomKids with exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB) may experience attacks during recess or gym class Help your child understand what can trigger their allergies and asthma and how they can avoid symptoms Be sure to notify teachers and the school nurse of any emergency medications such as quick relief inhalers and epinephrine

No matter the season itrsquos important for those who think they may be suffering from allergies or asthma to see a board-certified allergist An allergist can help you develop a treatment plan which can include both medication and avoidance techniques

Having your allergies properly identified and treated will help you and your family enjoy the season To find an allergist and learn more about allergies and asthma visit wwwAllergyandAsthmaRelieforg

Four Things You Might Not Know About Fall Allergies

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 29

trategic partnerships Sounds fancy but what does it really mean They are called what they are called because there is a true strategy behind them the thought and planning that goes into identifying and development those relationships in a way that will

ultimately help those who are participating to achieve their mission The fact that it is indeed a ldquopartnershiprdquo indicates that everyone involved mutually stands to benefit in some wayhellipItrsquos a win-win

The strategic part of establishing partnerships is analyzing who you are your goals and your current resources and then finding organizations (partners) that will allow you to get the things that you need in order to take your organization to the next level But true partnerships are about what you can bring to each other to help achieve your goals and enhance your resources It is not solely about what you can give me but rather what we can give each other As the great John F Kennedy is well known for encouraging of a world partnership ldquoask not what America will do for you but what together we can do for the freedom of manrdquo

So where does this leave an association like NCSG The key to nonprofits establishing strategic partnerships is having the infrastructure to attract and maintain these relationships In this country there are plenty of nonprofits that are doing great work but there is no organization that will be able to survive if they try

to achieve their mission without establishing partnerships that help provide resources and relationships that allow us to achieve our mission

NCSG is very fortunate to have an impressive array of partners who have for many years some since our inception done just that Our partners have advertised in this magazine exhibited at our conventions contributed to the building and maintaining of our headquarters and the premier industry training facility in Indianapolis discounted thousands of dollars in products and services to our members and have helped us promote the Guild and recruit membership in countless ways not the least of which includes maintaining their own membership in NCSG

Our partners are committed to helping us advance our mission and in turn propel our professional field forward Their partnership supports that programs that ignite your professional and technical development and provide the products and services that have helped you bring your own businesses to life They are integral to the success of this industry and most renew their support of the Guild year after year

Without their support of Sweeping magazine through their advertising we would not have been able to come close to bringing this publication to our members and the industry for the past 35 years (originally The Chimney Sweep Guild News) without significant taxation on the readers Without their support

BY MARK MCSWEENEY CAEEXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Perspective

Support Those Who Support YouldquoOur success has really been based on partnerships from the very beginningrdquo -Bill Gates

S

30 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

of NCSGrsquos annual convention through exhibiting and additional sponsorships registration fees for attendees would easily be double what they are today

When viewing our relationship with exhibitors sponsors advertisers and supplier members as a partnership the question needs to be asked How are we as an association mutually helping them achieve their respective goals

The answer comes back to us having infrastructure to attract and maintain these partnerships And that infrastructure is you the member NCSG cultivates and maintains the relationship with our industry partners on your behalf You are asked to back that up through your support of these partner service providers

Now Irsquom not saying you should buy everything you need at any one place or only through our partners At the end of the day you ultimately need to make your purchasing decisions based on your individual business needs However what would be great to see is our members calling our partners up and giving them a chance to compete for your business Let them know you are a part of NCSG and even if you are not in a position to do business with them this time around let them know you appreciate their continued support of the Guild and the industry Itrsquos one thing to call up to a supplier and ask about a product get a price and hang up Itrsquos another thing to make sure you let them know you saw their ad in Sweeping you read about them

online or you remember they exhibited at the convention so that they know they are getting positive exposure and that their investment in our partnership is not going unnoticed

With that said here are some simple and tangible things things you can do to help the partnership you are a part ofbull Consider our partners each and every time you need to make a

purchasing decision and give them an opportunity to earn your business when you can Look at those who are advertising in Sweeping or see a full listing of NCSG Supplier Members under the Chimney Sweep tab on ncsgorg

bull When you talk to them let them know yoursquore part of NCSG and thank them for their support of your association

bull If you like them even if you canrsquot do business with them currently spread the word and help get their name out there

bull Attend events where our partners have stepped up to sponsor Help show them we value them being there and appreciate their efforts This helps everyone when it comes to working out future programs discounts events and more

We are all in this together Just as you want to ensure you are receiving the return you need on the investments you make our supplier members advertisers exhibitors and sponsors need to justify their own ROI on the variety of support avenues they offer

to NCSG I thought Irsquod take a minute this month to say ldquothank yourdquo to all of you who support us in so many different ways and would like to encourage others to do the same

Until next time I continue to wish you every success

Double Locking CrimpRemains StrongYet Very Flexibl e

With No Memo ry

Strong Triple Locking CrimpHolds T ogether Even OnTough Jobs

Horizontal Sides Of CorrugationOffer Added Strengthamp Flexibility

Manufactured by CHIMNEY TECHNIQUE INC

Chim-Pro Interlock Flex

Chim-Pro Corrugated

Flex

Chim-Pro RigidADDED SAFETY EFFICIENCY AND VALUE

In Which ALL FITTINGS Are Attached With A Band Even The Tee Cap And Elbows Quick amp Simple No Drilling amp Riveting

Featuring

Visit wwwchim-prolinercom for more detailsbull 2000 Industrial Ave bull Sioux Falls SD 57104

1-800-582-1392

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 31

Display Ad Index

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 mheekencsgorg for publication in Sweeping Or mail it to NCSG 2155 Commercial Drive Plainfield IN 46168

Page Advertiser Phone Email or Website Address

30 Ahrens Chimney Technique 800-582-1392 ahrenschimneyqwestofficenet

21-24 Chimney Safety Institute of America 317-837-5362 wwwcsiaorg

14 Cobra Chimney Caps 888-463-0636 salescobrachimneycom

27 Communications Network Inc 800-875-8118 tkempercomnetmessagecom

5 Copperfield 800-247-3305 wwwcopperfieldcom

4 ENERVEX Inc 800-255-2923 infochimneyfanscom

13 Firesafe Industries Inc 800-545-6607 wwwfiresafeinccom

16 Gelco Lyemance Lock-Top 800-334-2154 wwwGLLchimneyproductscom

9 Hose Master 800-221-2319 bobdanielshosemastercom

10 ICP 508-695-7000 wwwchimneycapscom

BC Lifetime Chimney Supply LLC 877-234-7473 wwwlifetimechimneysupplycom

7 Lindemann Chimney Company 800-722-7230 wwwlindemannchimneycom

11 M amp G Duravent 800-835-4429 wwwduraventcom

28 Meyer Machine amp Equipment 800-728-3828 wwwmeyermachinecom

25 National Chimney Supply 800-897-8481 wwwnationalchimneysupplycom

17 Olympia Chimney Supply 800-569-1425 wwwolympiachimneycom

19 Sand Hill Wholesale 800-258-5496 wwwsandhillwholesalecom

6 SaverSystems Inc 800-860-6327 wwwchimneysavercom

3 Smoktite 866-439-0069 wwwsmoktitecom

8 Wakefield Brush 800-264-7007 wwwwakefieldbrushcom

19 Whitecaps 800-335-2534 wwwwhitecapscom

15 Z-Flex 800-654-5600 wwwz-flexcom

The pole and bucket chimney That is how they keep rain and birds out during off season Notice the class A is just an extension of a masonry chimney

Submitted by Kevon Binder of Doctor Flue Inc

September 13-15 2012Lake Murray SCSouth Carolina Chimney Sweep Guildrsquos ldquoThe GatheringrdquoFor more information please contact Blume at (864) 232-9811 or blume357bellsouthnet

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 19 2012 Taunton MAFall Protection User Training Class Including OSHArsquos 2011 ruling on alternate fall protection methods - Sponsored by the Massachusetts Chimney Sweep GuildFor more information please call Jeffrey Wright at (781) 233-2321

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-29 2012CSIA Technology CenterCSIA National Chimney Sweep Training SchoolFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

Dates amp Events

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 8-12 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg October 8-12 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

Please send notice of your events for NCSG Dates amp Events listings at mmcmahonncsgorg for inclusion here in weekly posts to the discussion list and online at wwwNCSGorgdates The event must be considered educational or informative for the industry (sales events and open houses will not be listed)

32 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

ClassifiedsGotta chimney question Sizing Codes Call Royal Edwards Make Royal your tech department CALL NOW 813-982-0219 for on-call tech support Continuing Education special bonus ndash ask how you can get the Friday morning E-Blast for FREE CALL NOW 813-982-0219

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

Chimney Sweep business for sell in the Northern Rocky Mountains of New Mexico Services a large area with three ski resorts in the service area Equipment and signed three year contracts goes with the business Business is well established For pricing and other info please email your questions to ridgeriders1gmailcom

CLASSIFIED ADS FREE FOR NCSG MEMBERSMembers can run one 35 word classified free each year Regularly classified ads are $2word or $1word for NCSG members Classified ads are non-commissionable and must be pre-paid To place a classified ad please contact Megan McMahon at mmcmahonncsgorg or (317) 837-1500

NCSG Innovation 2013 Convention and Trade Show Hotel reservations are now being accepted for NCSG Innovation 2013 at Chateau on the Lake in Branson MO April 4-7 2013 Just call 1-888-333-LAKE (5253) and mention that yoursquore with the National Chimney Sweep Guild to lock in rates starting at $129 for a mountain view and $134 for a lake view

Get ready for some RampR Yoursquore earned it

Order Your FREEAnnual Maintenance Reminder Postcards

A great way to remind homeowners to schedule their annual maintenance check up

Each card has space available for your business information

Use them as reminders for your existing clients or send them to generate new business

To order postcards and other free Burn Wise products contact

Leigh Herringtonherringtonleighepagov

ampKristen Bremer

bremerkristenepagov

wwwepagovburnwise

Follow us on

Wood-Burning Safety

Starts with You

Have you scheduled your

annual inspection

The National Fire Protection Association estimates

that 25 percent of home heating fires are caused

primarily by creosote buildup in the chimney

Make your home healthier and safer A properly

installed and maintained appliance burns more

efficiently and saves you money Contact your local

certified chimney sweep to schedule an annual

inspection today

Before You Burn

The right wayThe right way is hot and bright

In the right applianceThe right appliance is an EPA-approved appliance inspected annually by a certified chimney sweep

Burn the right woodBurn only dry well-seasoned wood that has been split and stored properly

wwwepagovburnwise

wwwcsiaorg

Printed on 100 recycledrecyclable paper with a minimum 50 post-consumer waste using vegetable-based

EPA 456-F-10-004

National Chimney Sweep Guild2155 Commercial DrivePlainfield IN 46168

1208

OR

Page 22: September 2012

CSIA Update wwwCSIAorg

Publication for CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepregs

ADVERTISEMENT

The Virginia Association of Chimney amp

Hearth Professionals sponsored CSIArsquos

Inspection amp Report Writing class in

Arlington VA this August 6-7 Tom Urban

served as the instructor for the two-day

session Forty one professionals were

in attendance with 19 being business

owners and 22 being employees The

session drew attendees from as far away

as Louisville KY

The event was sponsored by Wakefield

Brush The Chimney Sweep News

Ahrenrsquos Copperfield Wohler Estoban

Lindemann Chimney Supply National

Chimney Supply Olympia Chimney

Supply SaverSystems and Whitecaps

VACHP Sponsored Inspection amp Report Writing

Fred Regar served as auctioneer of the sponsor-donated items on the second day of the session

Tom Urban teaching the CSIA Inspection and Report Writing Class in Arlington

When renewing a credential earned after September 1 2009 a CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg is required to

Available downloads for CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepsreg and CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Techniciansreg include

bull CSIACertifiedChimneySweepandCSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician Trademarks

bull ButtonsforyourWebsite

bull CustomizablePowerPointpresentationfor home inspectors

bull InspectionSOPs

bull LadderSafetyTips

bull ldquoChimneyFiresCausesEffectsampEvaluationrdquo Prepared by Chimney Safety Institute of America- Chimney Fire Education and Research Task Force

bull Printversionofthiswhitepaperisalsoavailable for purchase

bull Top10WoodburningTipsfromtheChimney Safety Institute of America

Check out the CCS amp CDET area at CSIAorg

bull Submitaminimumof9CEUsearnedwithin the preceeding 3 years (in any category) before testing NOTE This requirement will not apply to CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps already holding the credential on September 1 2009untiltheirnext3-yearcertificationcycle

bull Passaone-hourexambasedonSuccessfulChimneySweeping(2009)andNFPA211(2010)

bull Passaninety-minuteopen-bookexambasedonthe2006IRCreg

bull AgreetopaytheAnnualCertificationFee

bull SignCSIACodeofEthics

OR

bull SubmitappropriatenumberofContinuing Education Units (CEUs) in the relevant categories

bull AgreetopaytheAnnualCertificationFee

bull SignCSIACodeofEthics

Upon earning the CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg credential your certification is valid for one year You will need to recertify annually by paying the annual certification fee This fee will be invoiced annually prior to your expiration date Please note that your credential will require renewal every three years by submittal of the minimum 48 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) in accordance with the CSIA Credential Renewal Policy or by passing the certification exams and either submitting a minimum of 9 CEUs or completing a CSIA Review

If your annual certification fee is not paid prior to your certification expiration date your credential will be considered lapsed and you will immediately lose all rights and privileges of the CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg credential The following terms will then apply if reinstatement of the credential is desired

If you do not pay your annual certification fee by your expiration date the following timeline will begin

bull Within90daysfromthedateofexpiration if you submit payment in full for the annual certification fee your credential will be reinstated and you will be considered a CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg in good standing maintaining your original annual expiration date and certification number

bull Ifmorethan90daysandlessthan12months beyond your expiration date you will be required to Pay the current annual certification fee and current testing fees and test again Doing so will reinstate your previous annual certification expiration date and certification number You will still be required to pay your next annual fee within the next 12 months

bull Ifmorethan12monthsbeyondyourexpiration date you will be required to either participate in a CSIA approved certification review course or submit evidence of 9 CEUs that were accumulated during the time your credential was active In addition you will be required to pass the CSIA certification exams Upon successful completion a new certification number will be assigned and you will have a new annual certification expiration date

CaliforniaMichaelGipsonbullMidtownSweepsbullLancasterOmarSaenzbullAFiddlerontheRoodDuctampChimneyServicebullVanNuys

IndianaAlexStewartbullOldSmokeyrsquosFireplaceampChimneyIncbullAshley

KansasRyanBerrybullFullServiceChimneybullOlathe

New YorkJayFellibullHearthampHomeofIthacabullIthaca

VermontJamesDonovanbullLincolnPeakPropertiesbullWaitsfield

West VirginiaMichaelAdwellbullTopHatChimneySweepbullLewisburg

WisconsinDustinMyersbullChimneySpecialistsIncbullHighland

ADVERTISEMENT

Congratulations to Our New CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps

Top 10 Woodburning Tips from the Chimney Safety Institute of America

To aid in the prevention of chimney fires and carbon monoxide intrusion and to help keep heating appliances and fireplaces functioning properly the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) offers the following safety tips

1 Get an annual chimney check Have chimneys inspected annually and cleaned as necessary by a qualified professional chimney service technician This reduces the risk of fires and carbon monoxide poisonings due to creosote buildup or obstructions in the chimneys

2 Keep it clear Keep tree branches and leaves at least 15 feet away from the top of the chimney

3 Install a chimney cap to keep debris and animals out of the chimney

4 Choose the right fuel For burning firewood in wood stoves or fireplaces choose wellseasoned wood that has been split for a minimum of six months - one year and stored in a covered and elevated location Never burn Christmas trees or treated wood in your fireplace or wood stove

5 Build it right Place firewood or firelogs at the rear of the fireplace on a supporting grate To start the fire use kindling or a commercial firelighter Never use flammable liquids

6 Keep the hearth area clear Combustible material too close to the fireplace or to a wood stove could easily catch fire Keep furniture at least 36rdquo away from the hearth

7 Use a fireplace screen Use metal mesh or a screen in front of the fireplace to catch flying sparks that could ignite or burn holes in the carpet or flooring

8 Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors Place detectors throughout the house and check batteries in the spring and fall

When you change your clocks for Daylight Savings Time remember to check your batteries

9 Never leave a fire unattended Before turning in for the evening be sure that the fire is fully

extinguished Supervise children and pets closely around wood stoves and fireplaces

10 The CSIA recommends annual inspections performed by CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps These chimney sweeps have earned the industryrsquos most respected credential by passing an intensive examination based on fire codes clearances and standards for the construction and maintenance of chimney and venting systems The National Fire Protection Association also recommends that all chimneys are inspected on an annual basis

For more chimney and fireplace safety tips visit the Chimney Safety Institute of America online at wwwCSIAorg

Solve your customersrsquo smoking sooting odor and draft problems Itrsquos easy with CSIArsquos 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 Ghostingsooting 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 doesnrsquot

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

Learn to solve these problems save time and money and keep

your clients happy with CSIArsquos Online Chimney Physics program

SolvedVenting Problems

Register today at wwwcsiaorg

CSIA 15 Tech 15 CampL 15 HampS 15 CampS NFI 5 Tech

Annual Certification Requirements

Top 10 Woodburning Tips from the Chimney Safety Institute of America

To aid in the prevention of chimney fires and carbon monoxide intrusion and to help keep heating appliances and fireplaces functioning properly the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) offers the following safety tips

1 Get an annual chimney check Have chimneys inspected annually and cleaned as necessary by a qualified professional chimney service technician This reduces the risk of fires and carbon monoxide poisonings due to creosote buildup or obstructions in the chimneys

2 Keep it clear Keep tree branches and leaves at least 15 feet away from the top of the chimney

3 Install a chimney cap to keep debris and animals out of the chimney

4 Choose the right fuel For burning firewood in wood stoves or fireplaces choose wellseasoned wood that has been split for a minimum of six months - one year and stored in a covered and elevated location Never burn Christmas trees or treated wood in your fireplace or wood stove

5 Build it right Place firewood or firelogs at the rear of the fireplace on a supporting grate To start the fire use kindling or a commercial firelighter Never use flammable liquids

6 Keep the hearth area clear Combustible material too close to the fireplace or to a wood stove could easily catch fire Keep furniture at least 36rdquo away from the hearth

7 Use a fireplace screen Use metal mesh or a screen in front of the fireplace to catch flying sparks that could ignite or burn holes in the carpet or flooring

8 Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors Place detectors throughout the house and check batteries in the spring and fall

When you change your clocks for Daylight Savings Time remember to check your batteries

9 Never leave a fire unattended Before turning in for the evening be sure that the fire is fully

extinguished Supervise children and pets closely around wood stoves and fireplaces

10 The CSIA recommends annual inspections performed by CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps These chimney sweeps have earned the industryrsquos most respected credential by passing an intensive examination based on fire codes clearances and standards for the construction and maintenance of chimney and venting systems The National Fire Protection Association also recommends that all chimneys are inspected on an annual basis

For more chimney and fireplace safety tips visit the Chimney Safety Institute of America online at wwwCSIAorg

ADVERTISEMENT

You can spend weeks trying to get a new employee up to speed In the process yoursquoll have used up your valuable time your patience and more money than you would like to admit

Instead send your employee to the most popular cost-effective chimney sweep training in North America CSIArsquos National Chimney Sweep Training School In less than a week wersquoll create an employee that yoursquoll be proud to send on a call ndash and happy to count toward your bottom line

Register today at wwwcsiaorg or call us at (317) 837-5362

At the 6-day hands-on Training School your employee will learn

How to inspect and service chimney systems serving any fuel burning appliance

How to be safe with the latest health and safety equipment and methods

How to work with residential heating appliances including wood stoves pellet stoves inserts factory-built fireplaces central heaters and furnaces

How to diagnose chimney performance problems understanding draft and flow diagnosing down drafts flow reversals inadequate flow stack effects updrafts pressure effects and gauges

How to navigate the International Residential Codes How to follow the NFPA 211 standards

Class size is limited to ensure a ratio of no more than eight students per instructor This small class size means that students have the opportunity for individual attention from the schoolrsquos experienced instructors and ample opportunities for hands-on training Because class size is limited it is important to apply early to reserve your place

The online CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience

The online Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician (CDET) review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience designed to help you pass the CDET exam

Take advantage of these other CSIA educational offerings that can build your business

Send us your greenhorn

and wersquoll send you back a pro

in 6 days Classes fill quickly so register now

2012 DATeS April 2ndash7June 4ndash9August 6ndash11September 24ndash29

April 2-7June 11-16August 6-11September 24-29

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 25

You can spend weeks trying to get a new employee up to speed In the process yoursquoll have used up your valuable time your patience and more money than you would like to admit

Instead send your employee to the most popular cost-effective chimney sweep training in North America CSIArsquos National Chimney Sweep Training School In less than a week wersquoll create an employee that yoursquoll be proud to send on a call ndash and happy to count toward your bottom line

Register today at wwwcsiaorg or call us at (317) 837-5362

At the 6-day hands-on Training School your employee will learn

How to inspect and service chimney systems serving any fuel burning appliance

How to be safe with the latest health and safety equipment and methods

How to work with residential heating appliances including wood stoves pellet stoves inserts factory-built fireplaces central heaters and furnaces

How to diagnose chimney performance problems understanding draft and flow diagnosing down drafts flow reversals inadequate flow stack effects updrafts pressure effects and gauges

How to navigate the International Residential Codes How to follow the NFPA 211 standards

Class size is limited to ensure a ratio of no more than eight students per instructor This small class size means that students have the opportunity for individual attention from the schoolrsquos experienced instructors and ample opportunities for hands-on training Because class size is limited it is important to apply early to reserve your place

The online CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience

The online Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician (CDET) review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience designed to help you pass the CDET exam

Take advantage of these other CSIA educational offerings that can build your business

Send us your greenhorn

and wersquoll send you back a pro

in 6 days Classes fill quickly so register now

2012 DATeS April 2ndash7June 4ndash9August 6ndash11September 24ndash29

April 2-7June 11-16August 6-11September 24-29

ProgressivePerksBY DEBBIE CORNELIUS

MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT COORDINATOR

Get Organized and Make the Most of Your Busy Season

Sometimes it really surprises me that more NCSG members do not take advantage of the discounted benefits available to them These will not only save you time buthellip money too

Paycor Payroll Services price reduction on payroll and tax services One specialist will be dedicated to your account with a team of tax specialists available to resolve issues in the fastest amount of time should an issue arise

Market Hardware can bring your business up to speed in the competitive market of technology where more and more customers are looking to the Web Once they have customized the design that includes a ldquoHome Pagerdquo ldquoAbout Usrdquo and ldquoOur Servicesrdquo page you will have the ability to easily update and edit your Web site yourself instead of paying someone else to do it

Technical Solutions the ldquoSurvival Kit for Small Businessesrdquo can provide on-demand remote repair 247 365 days a year For the price of $2499month with no long term contact involved you can cover up to 20 computers including multiple office locations

Commercials On Hold provides a great way to brand and promote your full range of services when callers are on hold before they talk to a member of your staff

Take a few minutes to just explore these benefits It would be well worth your time to compare the savings to save you time and help increase your profits

26 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

REGION 6

NCSG Charter Members

Paul Bourque Huntsville AL

Don Leavitt San Diego CA

David Harris Broken Arrow Oklahoma

Dan Wheeler Santa Rosa CA

John Cline Menlo Park CA

Dale Meisinger N Augusta SC

Alan Hisey St Louis MO

Eva B Horton Greenwich CT

Harry Richart Hasbrouck Heights NJ

NewNCSGMembers

REGION 3

REGION 2

REGION 5

REGION 4

NCSG REGIONS

REGION 1

Connecticut Vermont Massachusetts New York Maine Rhode Island New Hampshire

REGION 2

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

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

CONNECTICUTChristopher Gonsalves bull Millstream Construction bull HebronDavid Heissenbuttel bull DMH amp Associates Inc bull Wilton

VIRGINAJack Johnston bull Johnstonrsquos Chimney Sweep bull Yorktown

MISSOURIJason Patrick bull Shamrock Qualty Services bull St LouisBill Bonney bull Bonney Bill bull Jackson

KENTUCKYJoshua Moore bull Moore Joshua bull Mt Sterling

ILLINOISJack Lutz bull Lutz Jack bull EurekaClay Nelson bull Clean Sweep bull Collinsville

OHIOAnthony Ramsey bull Elite Chimney Solutions bull Beavercreek

INDIANATravis Beckley bull Beckley Travis bull Coal City

TEXASMatthew Milner bull Milner Matthew bull WhitesboroTony Drew bull AC Contractors dba Fireplaces bull LongviewChristopher A Hess bull Atlas Chimney bull Leander

MINNESOTARenee Gustafson bull John C Gustafson Builder LLC bull Little Falls

COLORADOKent Macintosh bull Russian River Chimney Sweeps bull Healdsburg

CALIFORNIA Errol Davis bull The Chimney Specialist bull Huntington Beach

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 27

The 2012 ndash 2013 offers are being added daily in the ldquoMembers Onlyrdquo section of the NCSG website at wwwNCSGorg So start checking for these new offers each week These coupons will be good until June 30 2013

Copperfield Chimney Supply bull Lindemann Chimney Supply bull Meyer Machine amp Equipment bull National Chimney Supply bull SNEWS - The Chimney Sweep News bull Wakefield Brush bull Wohler USA Inc

2012 ndash 2013 SWEEPS ADVANTAGE COUPON PROGRAM

Featured Coupons of the Month

COPPERFIELD CHIMNEY SUPPLY

SAVE Up to $ 12650 FREE 13 x 13 Lock-Top with an order of $250

SAVE Up to $ 123 One FREE component Kit with any purchase of 6rdquo UltraPro

SAVE Up to $ 52One 225 quart Woodfield porcelain-coated steamer with any Napoleon appliance

purchase

SAVE Up to $ 46 One 13 x 13 HomeSaver Stainless Steel chimney cap with any Order of $250 or more

SAVE Up to $ 64 One EasyClean Cap with any purchase of $250

SAVE UP TO $ 75 $75 off any 25rsquo order of UltraPro Stainless Steel Liner

SAVE UP TO $ 40 $40 off any Flue Stretcher Chimney Cap

SAVE UP TO $ 20 Sign up for a Copperfield Reline Workshop and Save $20

SAVE UP TO FRE FREE 4 foot sample of HomeSaver Ultrapro

WOHLER USA INC SAVE UP TO $ 500$500 rebate with proof of purchase of VIS2000

Pro Camera System

hellip when opportunity calls we answer 1-800-875-8118

wwwcomnetmessagecom

Benefits of Answering Service

Award Winning Telephone Agents

Never Miss A Call

Better Time Management

Appointment Scheduling

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28 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

Meyer Machine amp Equipment

SUCKINGDUCTS

ampINSULATION

FOR OVER 20 YEARS

As most allergy sufferers will tell you allergy symptoms can always be bothersome turning any time of year into sneezing season A runny nose itchy eyes and scratchy throat can arise as the days get shorter and the leaves begin to change

The fall can be especially difficult for people who are sensitive to mold and ragweed pollen But these seasonal elements arenrsquot the only triggers that can make symptoms worse this time of year There are also a few lesser known triggers Here are four things you might not know about fall allergies courtesy of the American College of Allergy Asthma and Immunology

Hay fever - Hay fever a term from a bygone era actually has nothing to do with hay Instead itrsquos a general term used to describe the symptoms of late summer allergies Ragweed is a common cause of hay fever which is also known as allergic rhinitis The plant usually begins to pollinate in mid-August and may continue to be a problem until a hard freeze depending on where you live See an allergist for prescription medications to control symptoms or to see if allergy shots may be your best option

Lingering warm weather - While most people enjoy Indian summer unseasonably warm temperatures can make rhinitis symptoms last longer Mold spores can also be released when humidity is high or the weather is dry and windy Be sure to begin taking medications before your symptoms start Track your allergy symptoms with MyNasalAllergyJournalorg and visit with your allergist to find relief

Pesky leaves - Some folks might find it difficult to keep up with raking leaves throughout the autumn But for allergy sufferers raking presents its own problem It can stir agitating pollen and mold into the air causing allergy and asthma symptoms Those with allergies should wear an NIOSH-rated N95 mask when raking leaves mowing the lawn and gardening

School allergens - Itrsquos not only seasonal pollen and mold that triggers allergies this time of year Kids are often exposed to classroom irritants and allergy triggers These can include chalk dust and classroom pets Students with food allergies may also be exposed to allergens in the lunch roomKids with exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB) may experience attacks during recess or gym class Help your child understand what can trigger their allergies and asthma and how they can avoid symptoms Be sure to notify teachers and the school nurse of any emergency medications such as quick relief inhalers and epinephrine

No matter the season itrsquos important for those who think they may be suffering from allergies or asthma to see a board-certified allergist An allergist can help you develop a treatment plan which can include both medication and avoidance techniques

Having your allergies properly identified and treated will help you and your family enjoy the season To find an allergist and learn more about allergies and asthma visit wwwAllergyandAsthmaRelieforg

Four Things You Might Not Know About Fall Allergies

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 29

trategic partnerships Sounds fancy but what does it really mean They are called what they are called because there is a true strategy behind them the thought and planning that goes into identifying and development those relationships in a way that will

ultimately help those who are participating to achieve their mission The fact that it is indeed a ldquopartnershiprdquo indicates that everyone involved mutually stands to benefit in some wayhellipItrsquos a win-win

The strategic part of establishing partnerships is analyzing who you are your goals and your current resources and then finding organizations (partners) that will allow you to get the things that you need in order to take your organization to the next level But true partnerships are about what you can bring to each other to help achieve your goals and enhance your resources It is not solely about what you can give me but rather what we can give each other As the great John F Kennedy is well known for encouraging of a world partnership ldquoask not what America will do for you but what together we can do for the freedom of manrdquo

So where does this leave an association like NCSG The key to nonprofits establishing strategic partnerships is having the infrastructure to attract and maintain these relationships In this country there are plenty of nonprofits that are doing great work but there is no organization that will be able to survive if they try

to achieve their mission without establishing partnerships that help provide resources and relationships that allow us to achieve our mission

NCSG is very fortunate to have an impressive array of partners who have for many years some since our inception done just that Our partners have advertised in this magazine exhibited at our conventions contributed to the building and maintaining of our headquarters and the premier industry training facility in Indianapolis discounted thousands of dollars in products and services to our members and have helped us promote the Guild and recruit membership in countless ways not the least of which includes maintaining their own membership in NCSG

Our partners are committed to helping us advance our mission and in turn propel our professional field forward Their partnership supports that programs that ignite your professional and technical development and provide the products and services that have helped you bring your own businesses to life They are integral to the success of this industry and most renew their support of the Guild year after year

Without their support of Sweeping magazine through their advertising we would not have been able to come close to bringing this publication to our members and the industry for the past 35 years (originally The Chimney Sweep Guild News) without significant taxation on the readers Without their support

BY MARK MCSWEENEY CAEEXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Perspective

Support Those Who Support YouldquoOur success has really been based on partnerships from the very beginningrdquo -Bill Gates

S

30 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

of NCSGrsquos annual convention through exhibiting and additional sponsorships registration fees for attendees would easily be double what they are today

When viewing our relationship with exhibitors sponsors advertisers and supplier members as a partnership the question needs to be asked How are we as an association mutually helping them achieve their respective goals

The answer comes back to us having infrastructure to attract and maintain these partnerships And that infrastructure is you the member NCSG cultivates and maintains the relationship with our industry partners on your behalf You are asked to back that up through your support of these partner service providers

Now Irsquom not saying you should buy everything you need at any one place or only through our partners At the end of the day you ultimately need to make your purchasing decisions based on your individual business needs However what would be great to see is our members calling our partners up and giving them a chance to compete for your business Let them know you are a part of NCSG and even if you are not in a position to do business with them this time around let them know you appreciate their continued support of the Guild and the industry Itrsquos one thing to call up to a supplier and ask about a product get a price and hang up Itrsquos another thing to make sure you let them know you saw their ad in Sweeping you read about them

online or you remember they exhibited at the convention so that they know they are getting positive exposure and that their investment in our partnership is not going unnoticed

With that said here are some simple and tangible things things you can do to help the partnership you are a part ofbull Consider our partners each and every time you need to make a

purchasing decision and give them an opportunity to earn your business when you can Look at those who are advertising in Sweeping or see a full listing of NCSG Supplier Members under the Chimney Sweep tab on ncsgorg

bull When you talk to them let them know yoursquore part of NCSG and thank them for their support of your association

bull If you like them even if you canrsquot do business with them currently spread the word and help get their name out there

bull Attend events where our partners have stepped up to sponsor Help show them we value them being there and appreciate their efforts This helps everyone when it comes to working out future programs discounts events and more

We are all in this together Just as you want to ensure you are receiving the return you need on the investments you make our supplier members advertisers exhibitors and sponsors need to justify their own ROI on the variety of support avenues they offer

to NCSG I thought Irsquod take a minute this month to say ldquothank yourdquo to all of you who support us in so many different ways and would like to encourage others to do the same

Until next time I continue to wish you every success

Double Locking CrimpRemains StrongYet Very Flexibl e

With No Memo ry

Strong Triple Locking CrimpHolds T ogether Even OnTough Jobs

Horizontal Sides Of CorrugationOffer Added Strengthamp Flexibility

Manufactured by CHIMNEY TECHNIQUE INC

Chim-Pro Interlock Flex

Chim-Pro Corrugated

Flex

Chim-Pro RigidADDED SAFETY EFFICIENCY AND VALUE

In Which ALL FITTINGS Are Attached With A Band Even The Tee Cap And Elbows Quick amp Simple No Drilling amp Riveting

Featuring

Visit wwwchim-prolinercom for more detailsbull 2000 Industrial Ave bull Sioux Falls SD 57104

1-800-582-1392

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 31

Display Ad Index

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 mheekencsgorg for publication in Sweeping Or mail it to NCSG 2155 Commercial Drive Plainfield IN 46168

Page Advertiser Phone Email or Website Address

30 Ahrens Chimney Technique 800-582-1392 ahrenschimneyqwestofficenet

21-24 Chimney Safety Institute of America 317-837-5362 wwwcsiaorg

14 Cobra Chimney Caps 888-463-0636 salescobrachimneycom

27 Communications Network Inc 800-875-8118 tkempercomnetmessagecom

5 Copperfield 800-247-3305 wwwcopperfieldcom

4 ENERVEX Inc 800-255-2923 infochimneyfanscom

13 Firesafe Industries Inc 800-545-6607 wwwfiresafeinccom

16 Gelco Lyemance Lock-Top 800-334-2154 wwwGLLchimneyproductscom

9 Hose Master 800-221-2319 bobdanielshosemastercom

10 ICP 508-695-7000 wwwchimneycapscom

BC Lifetime Chimney Supply LLC 877-234-7473 wwwlifetimechimneysupplycom

7 Lindemann Chimney Company 800-722-7230 wwwlindemannchimneycom

11 M amp G Duravent 800-835-4429 wwwduraventcom

28 Meyer Machine amp Equipment 800-728-3828 wwwmeyermachinecom

25 National Chimney Supply 800-897-8481 wwwnationalchimneysupplycom

17 Olympia Chimney Supply 800-569-1425 wwwolympiachimneycom

19 Sand Hill Wholesale 800-258-5496 wwwsandhillwholesalecom

6 SaverSystems Inc 800-860-6327 wwwchimneysavercom

3 Smoktite 866-439-0069 wwwsmoktitecom

8 Wakefield Brush 800-264-7007 wwwwakefieldbrushcom

19 Whitecaps 800-335-2534 wwwwhitecapscom

15 Z-Flex 800-654-5600 wwwz-flexcom

The pole and bucket chimney That is how they keep rain and birds out during off season Notice the class A is just an extension of a masonry chimney

Submitted by Kevon Binder of Doctor Flue Inc

September 13-15 2012Lake Murray SCSouth Carolina Chimney Sweep Guildrsquos ldquoThe GatheringrdquoFor more information please contact Blume at (864) 232-9811 or blume357bellsouthnet

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 19 2012 Taunton MAFall Protection User Training Class Including OSHArsquos 2011 ruling on alternate fall protection methods - Sponsored by the Massachusetts Chimney Sweep GuildFor more information please call Jeffrey Wright at (781) 233-2321

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-29 2012CSIA Technology CenterCSIA National Chimney Sweep Training SchoolFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

Dates amp Events

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 8-12 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg October 8-12 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

Please send notice of your events for NCSG Dates amp Events listings at mmcmahonncsgorg for inclusion here in weekly posts to the discussion list and online at wwwNCSGorgdates The event must be considered educational or informative for the industry (sales events and open houses will not be listed)

32 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

ClassifiedsGotta chimney question Sizing Codes Call Royal Edwards Make Royal your tech department CALL NOW 813-982-0219 for on-call tech support Continuing Education special bonus ndash ask how you can get the Friday morning E-Blast for FREE CALL NOW 813-982-0219

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

Chimney Sweep business for sell in the Northern Rocky Mountains of New Mexico Services a large area with three ski resorts in the service area Equipment and signed three year contracts goes with the business Business is well established For pricing and other info please email your questions to ridgeriders1gmailcom

CLASSIFIED ADS FREE FOR NCSG MEMBERSMembers can run one 35 word classified free each year Regularly classified ads are $2word or $1word for NCSG members Classified ads are non-commissionable and must be pre-paid To place a classified ad please contact Megan McMahon at mmcmahonncsgorg or (317) 837-1500

NCSG Innovation 2013 Convention and Trade Show Hotel reservations are now being accepted for NCSG Innovation 2013 at Chateau on the Lake in Branson MO April 4-7 2013 Just call 1-888-333-LAKE (5253) and mention that yoursquore with the National Chimney Sweep Guild to lock in rates starting at $129 for a mountain view and $134 for a lake view

Get ready for some RampR Yoursquore earned it

Order Your FREEAnnual Maintenance Reminder Postcards

A great way to remind homeowners to schedule their annual maintenance check up

Each card has space available for your business information

Use them as reminders for your existing clients or send them to generate new business

To order postcards and other free Burn Wise products contact

Leigh Herringtonherringtonleighepagov

ampKristen Bremer

bremerkristenepagov

wwwepagovburnwise

Follow us on

Wood-Burning Safety

Starts with You

Have you scheduled your

annual inspection

The National Fire Protection Association estimates

that 25 percent of home heating fires are caused

primarily by creosote buildup in the chimney

Make your home healthier and safer A properly

installed and maintained appliance burns more

efficiently and saves you money Contact your local

certified chimney sweep to schedule an annual

inspection today

Before You Burn

The right wayThe right way is hot and bright

In the right applianceThe right appliance is an EPA-approved appliance inspected annually by a certified chimney sweep

Burn the right woodBurn only dry well-seasoned wood that has been split and stored properly

wwwepagovburnwise

wwwcsiaorg

Printed on 100 recycledrecyclable paper with a minimum 50 post-consumer waste using vegetable-based

EPA 456-F-10-004

National Chimney Sweep Guild2155 Commercial DrivePlainfield IN 46168

1208

OR

Page 23: September 2012

Upon earning the CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg credential your certification is valid for one year You will need to recertify annually by paying the annual certification fee This fee will be invoiced annually prior to your expiration date Please note that your credential will require renewal every three years by submittal of the minimum 48 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) in accordance with the CSIA Credential Renewal Policy or by passing the certification exams and either submitting a minimum of 9 CEUs or completing a CSIA Review

If your annual certification fee is not paid prior to your certification expiration date your credential will be considered lapsed and you will immediately lose all rights and privileges of the CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg credential The following terms will then apply if reinstatement of the credential is desired

If you do not pay your annual certification fee by your expiration date the following timeline will begin

bull Within90daysfromthedateofexpiration if you submit payment in full for the annual certification fee your credential will be reinstated and you will be considered a CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepreg in good standing maintaining your original annual expiration date and certification number

bull Ifmorethan90daysandlessthan12months beyond your expiration date you will be required to Pay the current annual certification fee and current testing fees and test again Doing so will reinstate your previous annual certification expiration date and certification number You will still be required to pay your next annual fee within the next 12 months

bull Ifmorethan12monthsbeyondyourexpiration date you will be required to either participate in a CSIA approved certification review course or submit evidence of 9 CEUs that were accumulated during the time your credential was active In addition you will be required to pass the CSIA certification exams Upon successful completion a new certification number will be assigned and you will have a new annual certification expiration date

CaliforniaMichaelGipsonbullMidtownSweepsbullLancasterOmarSaenzbullAFiddlerontheRoodDuctampChimneyServicebullVanNuys

IndianaAlexStewartbullOldSmokeyrsquosFireplaceampChimneyIncbullAshley

KansasRyanBerrybullFullServiceChimneybullOlathe

New YorkJayFellibullHearthampHomeofIthacabullIthaca

VermontJamesDonovanbullLincolnPeakPropertiesbullWaitsfield

West VirginiaMichaelAdwellbullTopHatChimneySweepbullLewisburg

WisconsinDustinMyersbullChimneySpecialistsIncbullHighland

ADVERTISEMENT

Congratulations to Our New CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps

Top 10 Woodburning Tips from the Chimney Safety Institute of America

To aid in the prevention of chimney fires and carbon monoxide intrusion and to help keep heating appliances and fireplaces functioning properly the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) offers the following safety tips

1 Get an annual chimney check Have chimneys inspected annually and cleaned as necessary by a qualified professional chimney service technician This reduces the risk of fires and carbon monoxide poisonings due to creosote buildup or obstructions in the chimneys

2 Keep it clear Keep tree branches and leaves at least 15 feet away from the top of the chimney

3 Install a chimney cap to keep debris and animals out of the chimney

4 Choose the right fuel For burning firewood in wood stoves or fireplaces choose wellseasoned wood that has been split for a minimum of six months - one year and stored in a covered and elevated location Never burn Christmas trees or treated wood in your fireplace or wood stove

5 Build it right Place firewood or firelogs at the rear of the fireplace on a supporting grate To start the fire use kindling or a commercial firelighter Never use flammable liquids

6 Keep the hearth area clear Combustible material too close to the fireplace or to a wood stove could easily catch fire Keep furniture at least 36rdquo away from the hearth

7 Use a fireplace screen Use metal mesh or a screen in front of the fireplace to catch flying sparks that could ignite or burn holes in the carpet or flooring

8 Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors Place detectors throughout the house and check batteries in the spring and fall

When you change your clocks for Daylight Savings Time remember to check your batteries

9 Never leave a fire unattended Before turning in for the evening be sure that the fire is fully

extinguished Supervise children and pets closely around wood stoves and fireplaces

10 The CSIA recommends annual inspections performed by CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps These chimney sweeps have earned the industryrsquos most respected credential by passing an intensive examination based on fire codes clearances and standards for the construction and maintenance of chimney and venting systems The National Fire Protection Association also recommends that all chimneys are inspected on an annual basis

For more chimney and fireplace safety tips visit the Chimney Safety Institute of America online at wwwCSIAorg

Solve your customersrsquo smoking sooting odor and draft problems Itrsquos easy with CSIArsquos 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 Ghostingsooting 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 doesnrsquot

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

Learn to solve these problems save time and money and keep

your clients happy with CSIArsquos Online Chimney Physics program

SolvedVenting Problems

Register today at wwwcsiaorg

CSIA 15 Tech 15 CampL 15 HampS 15 CampS NFI 5 Tech

Annual Certification Requirements

Top 10 Woodburning Tips from the Chimney Safety Institute of America

To aid in the prevention of chimney fires and carbon monoxide intrusion and to help keep heating appliances and fireplaces functioning properly the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) offers the following safety tips

1 Get an annual chimney check Have chimneys inspected annually and cleaned as necessary by a qualified professional chimney service technician This reduces the risk of fires and carbon monoxide poisonings due to creosote buildup or obstructions in the chimneys

2 Keep it clear Keep tree branches and leaves at least 15 feet away from the top of the chimney

3 Install a chimney cap to keep debris and animals out of the chimney

4 Choose the right fuel For burning firewood in wood stoves or fireplaces choose wellseasoned wood that has been split for a minimum of six months - one year and stored in a covered and elevated location Never burn Christmas trees or treated wood in your fireplace or wood stove

5 Build it right Place firewood or firelogs at the rear of the fireplace on a supporting grate To start the fire use kindling or a commercial firelighter Never use flammable liquids

6 Keep the hearth area clear Combustible material too close to the fireplace or to a wood stove could easily catch fire Keep furniture at least 36rdquo away from the hearth

7 Use a fireplace screen Use metal mesh or a screen in front of the fireplace to catch flying sparks that could ignite or burn holes in the carpet or flooring

8 Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors Place detectors throughout the house and check batteries in the spring and fall

When you change your clocks for Daylight Savings Time remember to check your batteries

9 Never leave a fire unattended Before turning in for the evening be sure that the fire is fully

extinguished Supervise children and pets closely around wood stoves and fireplaces

10 The CSIA recommends annual inspections performed by CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps These chimney sweeps have earned the industryrsquos most respected credential by passing an intensive examination based on fire codes clearances and standards for the construction and maintenance of chimney and venting systems The National Fire Protection Association also recommends that all chimneys are inspected on an annual basis

For more chimney and fireplace safety tips visit the Chimney Safety Institute of America online at wwwCSIAorg

ADVERTISEMENT

You can spend weeks trying to get a new employee up to speed In the process yoursquoll have used up your valuable time your patience and more money than you would like to admit

Instead send your employee to the most popular cost-effective chimney sweep training in North America CSIArsquos National Chimney Sweep Training School In less than a week wersquoll create an employee that yoursquoll be proud to send on a call ndash and happy to count toward your bottom line

Register today at wwwcsiaorg or call us at (317) 837-5362

At the 6-day hands-on Training School your employee will learn

How to inspect and service chimney systems serving any fuel burning appliance

How to be safe with the latest health and safety equipment and methods

How to work with residential heating appliances including wood stoves pellet stoves inserts factory-built fireplaces central heaters and furnaces

How to diagnose chimney performance problems understanding draft and flow diagnosing down drafts flow reversals inadequate flow stack effects updrafts pressure effects and gauges

How to navigate the International Residential Codes How to follow the NFPA 211 standards

Class size is limited to ensure a ratio of no more than eight students per instructor This small class size means that students have the opportunity for individual attention from the schoolrsquos experienced instructors and ample opportunities for hands-on training Because class size is limited it is important to apply early to reserve your place

The online CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience

The online Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician (CDET) review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience designed to help you pass the CDET exam

Take advantage of these other CSIA educational offerings that can build your business

Send us your greenhorn

and wersquoll send you back a pro

in 6 days Classes fill quickly so register now

2012 DATeS April 2ndash7June 4ndash9August 6ndash11September 24ndash29

April 2-7June 11-16August 6-11September 24-29

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 25

You can spend weeks trying to get a new employee up to speed In the process yoursquoll have used up your valuable time your patience and more money than you would like to admit

Instead send your employee to the most popular cost-effective chimney sweep training in North America CSIArsquos National Chimney Sweep Training School In less than a week wersquoll create an employee that yoursquoll be proud to send on a call ndash and happy to count toward your bottom line

Register today at wwwcsiaorg or call us at (317) 837-5362

At the 6-day hands-on Training School your employee will learn

How to inspect and service chimney systems serving any fuel burning appliance

How to be safe with the latest health and safety equipment and methods

How to work with residential heating appliances including wood stoves pellet stoves inserts factory-built fireplaces central heaters and furnaces

How to diagnose chimney performance problems understanding draft and flow diagnosing down drafts flow reversals inadequate flow stack effects updrafts pressure effects and gauges

How to navigate the International Residential Codes How to follow the NFPA 211 standards

Class size is limited to ensure a ratio of no more than eight students per instructor This small class size means that students have the opportunity for individual attention from the schoolrsquos experienced instructors and ample opportunities for hands-on training Because class size is limited it is important to apply early to reserve your place

The online CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience

The online Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician (CDET) review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience designed to help you pass the CDET exam

Take advantage of these other CSIA educational offerings that can build your business

Send us your greenhorn

and wersquoll send you back a pro

in 6 days Classes fill quickly so register now

2012 DATeS April 2ndash7June 4ndash9August 6ndash11September 24ndash29

April 2-7June 11-16August 6-11September 24-29

ProgressivePerksBY DEBBIE CORNELIUS

MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT COORDINATOR

Get Organized and Make the Most of Your Busy Season

Sometimes it really surprises me that more NCSG members do not take advantage of the discounted benefits available to them These will not only save you time buthellip money too

Paycor Payroll Services price reduction on payroll and tax services One specialist will be dedicated to your account with a team of tax specialists available to resolve issues in the fastest amount of time should an issue arise

Market Hardware can bring your business up to speed in the competitive market of technology where more and more customers are looking to the Web Once they have customized the design that includes a ldquoHome Pagerdquo ldquoAbout Usrdquo and ldquoOur Servicesrdquo page you will have the ability to easily update and edit your Web site yourself instead of paying someone else to do it

Technical Solutions the ldquoSurvival Kit for Small Businessesrdquo can provide on-demand remote repair 247 365 days a year For the price of $2499month with no long term contact involved you can cover up to 20 computers including multiple office locations

Commercials On Hold provides a great way to brand and promote your full range of services when callers are on hold before they talk to a member of your staff

Take a few minutes to just explore these benefits It would be well worth your time to compare the savings to save you time and help increase your profits

26 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

REGION 6

NCSG Charter Members

Paul Bourque Huntsville AL

Don Leavitt San Diego CA

David Harris Broken Arrow Oklahoma

Dan Wheeler Santa Rosa CA

John Cline Menlo Park CA

Dale Meisinger N Augusta SC

Alan Hisey St Louis MO

Eva B Horton Greenwich CT

Harry Richart Hasbrouck Heights NJ

NewNCSGMembers

REGION 3

REGION 2

REGION 5

REGION 4

NCSG REGIONS

REGION 1

Connecticut Vermont Massachusetts New York Maine Rhode Island New Hampshire

REGION 2

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

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

CONNECTICUTChristopher Gonsalves bull Millstream Construction bull HebronDavid Heissenbuttel bull DMH amp Associates Inc bull Wilton

VIRGINAJack Johnston bull Johnstonrsquos Chimney Sweep bull Yorktown

MISSOURIJason Patrick bull Shamrock Qualty Services bull St LouisBill Bonney bull Bonney Bill bull Jackson

KENTUCKYJoshua Moore bull Moore Joshua bull Mt Sterling

ILLINOISJack Lutz bull Lutz Jack bull EurekaClay Nelson bull Clean Sweep bull Collinsville

OHIOAnthony Ramsey bull Elite Chimney Solutions bull Beavercreek

INDIANATravis Beckley bull Beckley Travis bull Coal City

TEXASMatthew Milner bull Milner Matthew bull WhitesboroTony Drew bull AC Contractors dba Fireplaces bull LongviewChristopher A Hess bull Atlas Chimney bull Leander

MINNESOTARenee Gustafson bull John C Gustafson Builder LLC bull Little Falls

COLORADOKent Macintosh bull Russian River Chimney Sweeps bull Healdsburg

CALIFORNIA Errol Davis bull The Chimney Specialist bull Huntington Beach

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 27

The 2012 ndash 2013 offers are being added daily in the ldquoMembers Onlyrdquo section of the NCSG website at wwwNCSGorg So start checking for these new offers each week These coupons will be good until June 30 2013

Copperfield Chimney Supply bull Lindemann Chimney Supply bull Meyer Machine amp Equipment bull National Chimney Supply bull SNEWS - The Chimney Sweep News bull Wakefield Brush bull Wohler USA Inc

2012 ndash 2013 SWEEPS ADVANTAGE COUPON PROGRAM

Featured Coupons of the Month

COPPERFIELD CHIMNEY SUPPLY

SAVE Up to $ 12650 FREE 13 x 13 Lock-Top with an order of $250

SAVE Up to $ 123 One FREE component Kit with any purchase of 6rdquo UltraPro

SAVE Up to $ 52One 225 quart Woodfield porcelain-coated steamer with any Napoleon appliance

purchase

SAVE Up to $ 46 One 13 x 13 HomeSaver Stainless Steel chimney cap with any Order of $250 or more

SAVE Up to $ 64 One EasyClean Cap with any purchase of $250

SAVE UP TO $ 75 $75 off any 25rsquo order of UltraPro Stainless Steel Liner

SAVE UP TO $ 40 $40 off any Flue Stretcher Chimney Cap

SAVE UP TO $ 20 Sign up for a Copperfield Reline Workshop and Save $20

SAVE UP TO FRE FREE 4 foot sample of HomeSaver Ultrapro

WOHLER USA INC SAVE UP TO $ 500$500 rebate with proof of purchase of VIS2000

Pro Camera System

hellip when opportunity calls we answer 1-800-875-8118

wwwcomnetmessagecom

Benefits of Answering Service

Award Winning Telephone Agents

Never Miss A Call

Better Time Management

Appointment Scheduling

Affordable

28 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

Meyer Machine amp Equipment

SUCKINGDUCTS

ampINSULATION

FOR OVER 20 YEARS

As most allergy sufferers will tell you allergy symptoms can always be bothersome turning any time of year into sneezing season A runny nose itchy eyes and scratchy throat can arise as the days get shorter and the leaves begin to change

The fall can be especially difficult for people who are sensitive to mold and ragweed pollen But these seasonal elements arenrsquot the only triggers that can make symptoms worse this time of year There are also a few lesser known triggers Here are four things you might not know about fall allergies courtesy of the American College of Allergy Asthma and Immunology

Hay fever - Hay fever a term from a bygone era actually has nothing to do with hay Instead itrsquos a general term used to describe the symptoms of late summer allergies Ragweed is a common cause of hay fever which is also known as allergic rhinitis The plant usually begins to pollinate in mid-August and may continue to be a problem until a hard freeze depending on where you live See an allergist for prescription medications to control symptoms or to see if allergy shots may be your best option

Lingering warm weather - While most people enjoy Indian summer unseasonably warm temperatures can make rhinitis symptoms last longer Mold spores can also be released when humidity is high or the weather is dry and windy Be sure to begin taking medications before your symptoms start Track your allergy symptoms with MyNasalAllergyJournalorg and visit with your allergist to find relief

Pesky leaves - Some folks might find it difficult to keep up with raking leaves throughout the autumn But for allergy sufferers raking presents its own problem It can stir agitating pollen and mold into the air causing allergy and asthma symptoms Those with allergies should wear an NIOSH-rated N95 mask when raking leaves mowing the lawn and gardening

School allergens - Itrsquos not only seasonal pollen and mold that triggers allergies this time of year Kids are often exposed to classroom irritants and allergy triggers These can include chalk dust and classroom pets Students with food allergies may also be exposed to allergens in the lunch roomKids with exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB) may experience attacks during recess or gym class Help your child understand what can trigger their allergies and asthma and how they can avoid symptoms Be sure to notify teachers and the school nurse of any emergency medications such as quick relief inhalers and epinephrine

No matter the season itrsquos important for those who think they may be suffering from allergies or asthma to see a board-certified allergist An allergist can help you develop a treatment plan which can include both medication and avoidance techniques

Having your allergies properly identified and treated will help you and your family enjoy the season To find an allergist and learn more about allergies and asthma visit wwwAllergyandAsthmaRelieforg

Four Things You Might Not Know About Fall Allergies

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 29

trategic partnerships Sounds fancy but what does it really mean They are called what they are called because there is a true strategy behind them the thought and planning that goes into identifying and development those relationships in a way that will

ultimately help those who are participating to achieve their mission The fact that it is indeed a ldquopartnershiprdquo indicates that everyone involved mutually stands to benefit in some wayhellipItrsquos a win-win

The strategic part of establishing partnerships is analyzing who you are your goals and your current resources and then finding organizations (partners) that will allow you to get the things that you need in order to take your organization to the next level But true partnerships are about what you can bring to each other to help achieve your goals and enhance your resources It is not solely about what you can give me but rather what we can give each other As the great John F Kennedy is well known for encouraging of a world partnership ldquoask not what America will do for you but what together we can do for the freedom of manrdquo

So where does this leave an association like NCSG The key to nonprofits establishing strategic partnerships is having the infrastructure to attract and maintain these relationships In this country there are plenty of nonprofits that are doing great work but there is no organization that will be able to survive if they try

to achieve their mission without establishing partnerships that help provide resources and relationships that allow us to achieve our mission

NCSG is very fortunate to have an impressive array of partners who have for many years some since our inception done just that Our partners have advertised in this magazine exhibited at our conventions contributed to the building and maintaining of our headquarters and the premier industry training facility in Indianapolis discounted thousands of dollars in products and services to our members and have helped us promote the Guild and recruit membership in countless ways not the least of which includes maintaining their own membership in NCSG

Our partners are committed to helping us advance our mission and in turn propel our professional field forward Their partnership supports that programs that ignite your professional and technical development and provide the products and services that have helped you bring your own businesses to life They are integral to the success of this industry and most renew their support of the Guild year after year

Without their support of Sweeping magazine through their advertising we would not have been able to come close to bringing this publication to our members and the industry for the past 35 years (originally The Chimney Sweep Guild News) without significant taxation on the readers Without their support

BY MARK MCSWEENEY CAEEXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Perspective

Support Those Who Support YouldquoOur success has really been based on partnerships from the very beginningrdquo -Bill Gates

S

30 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

of NCSGrsquos annual convention through exhibiting and additional sponsorships registration fees for attendees would easily be double what they are today

When viewing our relationship with exhibitors sponsors advertisers and supplier members as a partnership the question needs to be asked How are we as an association mutually helping them achieve their respective goals

The answer comes back to us having infrastructure to attract and maintain these partnerships And that infrastructure is you the member NCSG cultivates and maintains the relationship with our industry partners on your behalf You are asked to back that up through your support of these partner service providers

Now Irsquom not saying you should buy everything you need at any one place or only through our partners At the end of the day you ultimately need to make your purchasing decisions based on your individual business needs However what would be great to see is our members calling our partners up and giving them a chance to compete for your business Let them know you are a part of NCSG and even if you are not in a position to do business with them this time around let them know you appreciate their continued support of the Guild and the industry Itrsquos one thing to call up to a supplier and ask about a product get a price and hang up Itrsquos another thing to make sure you let them know you saw their ad in Sweeping you read about them

online or you remember they exhibited at the convention so that they know they are getting positive exposure and that their investment in our partnership is not going unnoticed

With that said here are some simple and tangible things things you can do to help the partnership you are a part ofbull Consider our partners each and every time you need to make a

purchasing decision and give them an opportunity to earn your business when you can Look at those who are advertising in Sweeping or see a full listing of NCSG Supplier Members under the Chimney Sweep tab on ncsgorg

bull When you talk to them let them know yoursquore part of NCSG and thank them for their support of your association

bull If you like them even if you canrsquot do business with them currently spread the word and help get their name out there

bull Attend events where our partners have stepped up to sponsor Help show them we value them being there and appreciate their efforts This helps everyone when it comes to working out future programs discounts events and more

We are all in this together Just as you want to ensure you are receiving the return you need on the investments you make our supplier members advertisers exhibitors and sponsors need to justify their own ROI on the variety of support avenues they offer

to NCSG I thought Irsquod take a minute this month to say ldquothank yourdquo to all of you who support us in so many different ways and would like to encourage others to do the same

Until next time I continue to wish you every success

Double Locking CrimpRemains StrongYet Very Flexibl e

With No Memo ry

Strong Triple Locking CrimpHolds T ogether Even OnTough Jobs

Horizontal Sides Of CorrugationOffer Added Strengthamp Flexibility

Manufactured by CHIMNEY TECHNIQUE INC

Chim-Pro Interlock Flex

Chim-Pro Corrugated

Flex

Chim-Pro RigidADDED SAFETY EFFICIENCY AND VALUE

In Which ALL FITTINGS Are Attached With A Band Even The Tee Cap And Elbows Quick amp Simple No Drilling amp Riveting

Featuring

Visit wwwchim-prolinercom for more detailsbull 2000 Industrial Ave bull Sioux Falls SD 57104

1-800-582-1392

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 31

Display Ad Index

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 mheekencsgorg for publication in Sweeping Or mail it to NCSG 2155 Commercial Drive Plainfield IN 46168

Page Advertiser Phone Email or Website Address

30 Ahrens Chimney Technique 800-582-1392 ahrenschimneyqwestofficenet

21-24 Chimney Safety Institute of America 317-837-5362 wwwcsiaorg

14 Cobra Chimney Caps 888-463-0636 salescobrachimneycom

27 Communications Network Inc 800-875-8118 tkempercomnetmessagecom

5 Copperfield 800-247-3305 wwwcopperfieldcom

4 ENERVEX Inc 800-255-2923 infochimneyfanscom

13 Firesafe Industries Inc 800-545-6607 wwwfiresafeinccom

16 Gelco Lyemance Lock-Top 800-334-2154 wwwGLLchimneyproductscom

9 Hose Master 800-221-2319 bobdanielshosemastercom

10 ICP 508-695-7000 wwwchimneycapscom

BC Lifetime Chimney Supply LLC 877-234-7473 wwwlifetimechimneysupplycom

7 Lindemann Chimney Company 800-722-7230 wwwlindemannchimneycom

11 M amp G Duravent 800-835-4429 wwwduraventcom

28 Meyer Machine amp Equipment 800-728-3828 wwwmeyermachinecom

25 National Chimney Supply 800-897-8481 wwwnationalchimneysupplycom

17 Olympia Chimney Supply 800-569-1425 wwwolympiachimneycom

19 Sand Hill Wholesale 800-258-5496 wwwsandhillwholesalecom

6 SaverSystems Inc 800-860-6327 wwwchimneysavercom

3 Smoktite 866-439-0069 wwwsmoktitecom

8 Wakefield Brush 800-264-7007 wwwwakefieldbrushcom

19 Whitecaps 800-335-2534 wwwwhitecapscom

15 Z-Flex 800-654-5600 wwwz-flexcom

The pole and bucket chimney That is how they keep rain and birds out during off season Notice the class A is just an extension of a masonry chimney

Submitted by Kevon Binder of Doctor Flue Inc

September 13-15 2012Lake Murray SCSouth Carolina Chimney Sweep Guildrsquos ldquoThe GatheringrdquoFor more information please contact Blume at (864) 232-9811 or blume357bellsouthnet

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 19 2012 Taunton MAFall Protection User Training Class Including OSHArsquos 2011 ruling on alternate fall protection methods - Sponsored by the Massachusetts Chimney Sweep GuildFor more information please call Jeffrey Wright at (781) 233-2321

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-29 2012CSIA Technology CenterCSIA National Chimney Sweep Training SchoolFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

Dates amp Events

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 8-12 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg October 8-12 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

Please send notice of your events for NCSG Dates amp Events listings at mmcmahonncsgorg for inclusion here in weekly posts to the discussion list and online at wwwNCSGorgdates The event must be considered educational or informative for the industry (sales events and open houses will not be listed)

32 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

ClassifiedsGotta chimney question Sizing Codes Call Royal Edwards Make Royal your tech department CALL NOW 813-982-0219 for on-call tech support Continuing Education special bonus ndash ask how you can get the Friday morning E-Blast for FREE CALL NOW 813-982-0219

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

Chimney Sweep business for sell in the Northern Rocky Mountains of New Mexico Services a large area with three ski resorts in the service area Equipment and signed three year contracts goes with the business Business is well established For pricing and other info please email your questions to ridgeriders1gmailcom

CLASSIFIED ADS FREE FOR NCSG MEMBERSMembers can run one 35 word classified free each year Regularly classified ads are $2word or $1word for NCSG members Classified ads are non-commissionable and must be pre-paid To place a classified ad please contact Megan McMahon at mmcmahonncsgorg or (317) 837-1500

NCSG Innovation 2013 Convention and Trade Show Hotel reservations are now being accepted for NCSG Innovation 2013 at Chateau on the Lake in Branson MO April 4-7 2013 Just call 1-888-333-LAKE (5253) and mention that yoursquore with the National Chimney Sweep Guild to lock in rates starting at $129 for a mountain view and $134 for a lake view

Get ready for some RampR Yoursquore earned it

Order Your FREEAnnual Maintenance Reminder Postcards

A great way to remind homeowners to schedule their annual maintenance check up

Each card has space available for your business information

Use them as reminders for your existing clients or send them to generate new business

To order postcards and other free Burn Wise products contact

Leigh Herringtonherringtonleighepagov

ampKristen Bremer

bremerkristenepagov

wwwepagovburnwise

Follow us on

Wood-Burning Safety

Starts with You

Have you scheduled your

annual inspection

The National Fire Protection Association estimates

that 25 percent of home heating fires are caused

primarily by creosote buildup in the chimney

Make your home healthier and safer A properly

installed and maintained appliance burns more

efficiently and saves you money Contact your local

certified chimney sweep to schedule an annual

inspection today

Before You Burn

The right wayThe right way is hot and bright

In the right applianceThe right appliance is an EPA-approved appliance inspected annually by a certified chimney sweep

Burn the right woodBurn only dry well-seasoned wood that has been split and stored properly

wwwepagovburnwise

wwwcsiaorg

Printed on 100 recycledrecyclable paper with a minimum 50 post-consumer waste using vegetable-based

EPA 456-F-10-004

National Chimney Sweep Guild2155 Commercial DrivePlainfield IN 46168

1208

OR

Page 24: September 2012

Top 10 Woodburning Tips from the Chimney Safety Institute of America

To aid in the prevention of chimney fires and carbon monoxide intrusion and to help keep heating appliances and fireplaces functioning properly the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) offers the following safety tips

1 Get an annual chimney check Have chimneys inspected annually and cleaned as necessary by a qualified professional chimney service technician This reduces the risk of fires and carbon monoxide poisonings due to creosote buildup or obstructions in the chimneys

2 Keep it clear Keep tree branches and leaves at least 15 feet away from the top of the chimney

3 Install a chimney cap to keep debris and animals out of the chimney

4 Choose the right fuel For burning firewood in wood stoves or fireplaces choose wellseasoned wood that has been split for a minimum of six months - one year and stored in a covered and elevated location Never burn Christmas trees or treated wood in your fireplace or wood stove

5 Build it right Place firewood or firelogs at the rear of the fireplace on a supporting grate To start the fire use kindling or a commercial firelighter Never use flammable liquids

6 Keep the hearth area clear Combustible material too close to the fireplace or to a wood stove could easily catch fire Keep furniture at least 36rdquo away from the hearth

7 Use a fireplace screen Use metal mesh or a screen in front of the fireplace to catch flying sparks that could ignite or burn holes in the carpet or flooring

8 Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors Place detectors throughout the house and check batteries in the spring and fall

When you change your clocks for Daylight Savings Time remember to check your batteries

9 Never leave a fire unattended Before turning in for the evening be sure that the fire is fully

extinguished Supervise children and pets closely around wood stoves and fireplaces

10 The CSIA recommends annual inspections performed by CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps These chimney sweeps have earned the industryrsquos most respected credential by passing an intensive examination based on fire codes clearances and standards for the construction and maintenance of chimney and venting systems The National Fire Protection Association also recommends that all chimneys are inspected on an annual basis

For more chimney and fireplace safety tips visit the Chimney Safety Institute of America online at wwwCSIAorg

ADVERTISEMENT

You can spend weeks trying to get a new employee up to speed In the process yoursquoll have used up your valuable time your patience and more money than you would like to admit

Instead send your employee to the most popular cost-effective chimney sweep training in North America CSIArsquos National Chimney Sweep Training School In less than a week wersquoll create an employee that yoursquoll be proud to send on a call ndash and happy to count toward your bottom line

Register today at wwwcsiaorg or call us at (317) 837-5362

At the 6-day hands-on Training School your employee will learn

How to inspect and service chimney systems serving any fuel burning appliance

How to be safe with the latest health and safety equipment and methods

How to work with residential heating appliances including wood stoves pellet stoves inserts factory-built fireplaces central heaters and furnaces

How to diagnose chimney performance problems understanding draft and flow diagnosing down drafts flow reversals inadequate flow stack effects updrafts pressure effects and gauges

How to navigate the International Residential Codes How to follow the NFPA 211 standards

Class size is limited to ensure a ratio of no more than eight students per instructor This small class size means that students have the opportunity for individual attention from the schoolrsquos experienced instructors and ample opportunities for hands-on training Because class size is limited it is important to apply early to reserve your place

The online CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience

The online Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician (CDET) review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience designed to help you pass the CDET exam

Take advantage of these other CSIA educational offerings that can build your business

Send us your greenhorn

and wersquoll send you back a pro

in 6 days Classes fill quickly so register now

2012 DATeS April 2ndash7June 4ndash9August 6ndash11September 24ndash29

April 2-7June 11-16August 6-11September 24-29

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 25

You can spend weeks trying to get a new employee up to speed In the process yoursquoll have used up your valuable time your patience and more money than you would like to admit

Instead send your employee to the most popular cost-effective chimney sweep training in North America CSIArsquos National Chimney Sweep Training School In less than a week wersquoll create an employee that yoursquoll be proud to send on a call ndash and happy to count toward your bottom line

Register today at wwwcsiaorg or call us at (317) 837-5362

At the 6-day hands-on Training School your employee will learn

How to inspect and service chimney systems serving any fuel burning appliance

How to be safe with the latest health and safety equipment and methods

How to work with residential heating appliances including wood stoves pellet stoves inserts factory-built fireplaces central heaters and furnaces

How to diagnose chimney performance problems understanding draft and flow diagnosing down drafts flow reversals inadequate flow stack effects updrafts pressure effects and gauges

How to navigate the International Residential Codes How to follow the NFPA 211 standards

Class size is limited to ensure a ratio of no more than eight students per instructor This small class size means that students have the opportunity for individual attention from the schoolrsquos experienced instructors and ample opportunities for hands-on training Because class size is limited it is important to apply early to reserve your place

The online CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience

The online Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician (CDET) review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience designed to help you pass the CDET exam

Take advantage of these other CSIA educational offerings that can build your business

Send us your greenhorn

and wersquoll send you back a pro

in 6 days Classes fill quickly so register now

2012 DATeS April 2ndash7June 4ndash9August 6ndash11September 24ndash29

April 2-7June 11-16August 6-11September 24-29

ProgressivePerksBY DEBBIE CORNELIUS

MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT COORDINATOR

Get Organized and Make the Most of Your Busy Season

Sometimes it really surprises me that more NCSG members do not take advantage of the discounted benefits available to them These will not only save you time buthellip money too

Paycor Payroll Services price reduction on payroll and tax services One specialist will be dedicated to your account with a team of tax specialists available to resolve issues in the fastest amount of time should an issue arise

Market Hardware can bring your business up to speed in the competitive market of technology where more and more customers are looking to the Web Once they have customized the design that includes a ldquoHome Pagerdquo ldquoAbout Usrdquo and ldquoOur Servicesrdquo page you will have the ability to easily update and edit your Web site yourself instead of paying someone else to do it

Technical Solutions the ldquoSurvival Kit for Small Businessesrdquo can provide on-demand remote repair 247 365 days a year For the price of $2499month with no long term contact involved you can cover up to 20 computers including multiple office locations

Commercials On Hold provides a great way to brand and promote your full range of services when callers are on hold before they talk to a member of your staff

Take a few minutes to just explore these benefits It would be well worth your time to compare the savings to save you time and help increase your profits

26 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

REGION 6

NCSG Charter Members

Paul Bourque Huntsville AL

Don Leavitt San Diego CA

David Harris Broken Arrow Oklahoma

Dan Wheeler Santa Rosa CA

John Cline Menlo Park CA

Dale Meisinger N Augusta SC

Alan Hisey St Louis MO

Eva B Horton Greenwich CT

Harry Richart Hasbrouck Heights NJ

NewNCSGMembers

REGION 3

REGION 2

REGION 5

REGION 4

NCSG REGIONS

REGION 1

Connecticut Vermont Massachusetts New York Maine Rhode Island New Hampshire

REGION 2

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

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

CONNECTICUTChristopher Gonsalves bull Millstream Construction bull HebronDavid Heissenbuttel bull DMH amp Associates Inc bull Wilton

VIRGINAJack Johnston bull Johnstonrsquos Chimney Sweep bull Yorktown

MISSOURIJason Patrick bull Shamrock Qualty Services bull St LouisBill Bonney bull Bonney Bill bull Jackson

KENTUCKYJoshua Moore bull Moore Joshua bull Mt Sterling

ILLINOISJack Lutz bull Lutz Jack bull EurekaClay Nelson bull Clean Sweep bull Collinsville

OHIOAnthony Ramsey bull Elite Chimney Solutions bull Beavercreek

INDIANATravis Beckley bull Beckley Travis bull Coal City

TEXASMatthew Milner bull Milner Matthew bull WhitesboroTony Drew bull AC Contractors dba Fireplaces bull LongviewChristopher A Hess bull Atlas Chimney bull Leander

MINNESOTARenee Gustafson bull John C Gustafson Builder LLC bull Little Falls

COLORADOKent Macintosh bull Russian River Chimney Sweeps bull Healdsburg

CALIFORNIA Errol Davis bull The Chimney Specialist bull Huntington Beach

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 27

The 2012 ndash 2013 offers are being added daily in the ldquoMembers Onlyrdquo section of the NCSG website at wwwNCSGorg So start checking for these new offers each week These coupons will be good until June 30 2013

Copperfield Chimney Supply bull Lindemann Chimney Supply bull Meyer Machine amp Equipment bull National Chimney Supply bull SNEWS - The Chimney Sweep News bull Wakefield Brush bull Wohler USA Inc

2012 ndash 2013 SWEEPS ADVANTAGE COUPON PROGRAM

Featured Coupons of the Month

COPPERFIELD CHIMNEY SUPPLY

SAVE Up to $ 12650 FREE 13 x 13 Lock-Top with an order of $250

SAVE Up to $ 123 One FREE component Kit with any purchase of 6rdquo UltraPro

SAVE Up to $ 52One 225 quart Woodfield porcelain-coated steamer with any Napoleon appliance

purchase

SAVE Up to $ 46 One 13 x 13 HomeSaver Stainless Steel chimney cap with any Order of $250 or more

SAVE Up to $ 64 One EasyClean Cap with any purchase of $250

SAVE UP TO $ 75 $75 off any 25rsquo order of UltraPro Stainless Steel Liner

SAVE UP TO $ 40 $40 off any Flue Stretcher Chimney Cap

SAVE UP TO $ 20 Sign up for a Copperfield Reline Workshop and Save $20

SAVE UP TO FRE FREE 4 foot sample of HomeSaver Ultrapro

WOHLER USA INC SAVE UP TO $ 500$500 rebate with proof of purchase of VIS2000

Pro Camera System

hellip when opportunity calls we answer 1-800-875-8118

wwwcomnetmessagecom

Benefits of Answering Service

Award Winning Telephone Agents

Never Miss A Call

Better Time Management

Appointment Scheduling

Affordable

28 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

Meyer Machine amp Equipment

SUCKINGDUCTS

ampINSULATION

FOR OVER 20 YEARS

As most allergy sufferers will tell you allergy symptoms can always be bothersome turning any time of year into sneezing season A runny nose itchy eyes and scratchy throat can arise as the days get shorter and the leaves begin to change

The fall can be especially difficult for people who are sensitive to mold and ragweed pollen But these seasonal elements arenrsquot the only triggers that can make symptoms worse this time of year There are also a few lesser known triggers Here are four things you might not know about fall allergies courtesy of the American College of Allergy Asthma and Immunology

Hay fever - Hay fever a term from a bygone era actually has nothing to do with hay Instead itrsquos a general term used to describe the symptoms of late summer allergies Ragweed is a common cause of hay fever which is also known as allergic rhinitis The plant usually begins to pollinate in mid-August and may continue to be a problem until a hard freeze depending on where you live See an allergist for prescription medications to control symptoms or to see if allergy shots may be your best option

Lingering warm weather - While most people enjoy Indian summer unseasonably warm temperatures can make rhinitis symptoms last longer Mold spores can also be released when humidity is high or the weather is dry and windy Be sure to begin taking medications before your symptoms start Track your allergy symptoms with MyNasalAllergyJournalorg and visit with your allergist to find relief

Pesky leaves - Some folks might find it difficult to keep up with raking leaves throughout the autumn But for allergy sufferers raking presents its own problem It can stir agitating pollen and mold into the air causing allergy and asthma symptoms Those with allergies should wear an NIOSH-rated N95 mask when raking leaves mowing the lawn and gardening

School allergens - Itrsquos not only seasonal pollen and mold that triggers allergies this time of year Kids are often exposed to classroom irritants and allergy triggers These can include chalk dust and classroom pets Students with food allergies may also be exposed to allergens in the lunch roomKids with exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB) may experience attacks during recess or gym class Help your child understand what can trigger their allergies and asthma and how they can avoid symptoms Be sure to notify teachers and the school nurse of any emergency medications such as quick relief inhalers and epinephrine

No matter the season itrsquos important for those who think they may be suffering from allergies or asthma to see a board-certified allergist An allergist can help you develop a treatment plan which can include both medication and avoidance techniques

Having your allergies properly identified and treated will help you and your family enjoy the season To find an allergist and learn more about allergies and asthma visit wwwAllergyandAsthmaRelieforg

Four Things You Might Not Know About Fall Allergies

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 29

trategic partnerships Sounds fancy but what does it really mean They are called what they are called because there is a true strategy behind them the thought and planning that goes into identifying and development those relationships in a way that will

ultimately help those who are participating to achieve their mission The fact that it is indeed a ldquopartnershiprdquo indicates that everyone involved mutually stands to benefit in some wayhellipItrsquos a win-win

The strategic part of establishing partnerships is analyzing who you are your goals and your current resources and then finding organizations (partners) that will allow you to get the things that you need in order to take your organization to the next level But true partnerships are about what you can bring to each other to help achieve your goals and enhance your resources It is not solely about what you can give me but rather what we can give each other As the great John F Kennedy is well known for encouraging of a world partnership ldquoask not what America will do for you but what together we can do for the freedom of manrdquo

So where does this leave an association like NCSG The key to nonprofits establishing strategic partnerships is having the infrastructure to attract and maintain these relationships In this country there are plenty of nonprofits that are doing great work but there is no organization that will be able to survive if they try

to achieve their mission without establishing partnerships that help provide resources and relationships that allow us to achieve our mission

NCSG is very fortunate to have an impressive array of partners who have for many years some since our inception done just that Our partners have advertised in this magazine exhibited at our conventions contributed to the building and maintaining of our headquarters and the premier industry training facility in Indianapolis discounted thousands of dollars in products and services to our members and have helped us promote the Guild and recruit membership in countless ways not the least of which includes maintaining their own membership in NCSG

Our partners are committed to helping us advance our mission and in turn propel our professional field forward Their partnership supports that programs that ignite your professional and technical development and provide the products and services that have helped you bring your own businesses to life They are integral to the success of this industry and most renew their support of the Guild year after year

Without their support of Sweeping magazine through their advertising we would not have been able to come close to bringing this publication to our members and the industry for the past 35 years (originally The Chimney Sweep Guild News) without significant taxation on the readers Without their support

BY MARK MCSWEENEY CAEEXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Perspective

Support Those Who Support YouldquoOur success has really been based on partnerships from the very beginningrdquo -Bill Gates

S

30 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

of NCSGrsquos annual convention through exhibiting and additional sponsorships registration fees for attendees would easily be double what they are today

When viewing our relationship with exhibitors sponsors advertisers and supplier members as a partnership the question needs to be asked How are we as an association mutually helping them achieve their respective goals

The answer comes back to us having infrastructure to attract and maintain these partnerships And that infrastructure is you the member NCSG cultivates and maintains the relationship with our industry partners on your behalf You are asked to back that up through your support of these partner service providers

Now Irsquom not saying you should buy everything you need at any one place or only through our partners At the end of the day you ultimately need to make your purchasing decisions based on your individual business needs However what would be great to see is our members calling our partners up and giving them a chance to compete for your business Let them know you are a part of NCSG and even if you are not in a position to do business with them this time around let them know you appreciate their continued support of the Guild and the industry Itrsquos one thing to call up to a supplier and ask about a product get a price and hang up Itrsquos another thing to make sure you let them know you saw their ad in Sweeping you read about them

online or you remember they exhibited at the convention so that they know they are getting positive exposure and that their investment in our partnership is not going unnoticed

With that said here are some simple and tangible things things you can do to help the partnership you are a part ofbull Consider our partners each and every time you need to make a

purchasing decision and give them an opportunity to earn your business when you can Look at those who are advertising in Sweeping or see a full listing of NCSG Supplier Members under the Chimney Sweep tab on ncsgorg

bull When you talk to them let them know yoursquore part of NCSG and thank them for their support of your association

bull If you like them even if you canrsquot do business with them currently spread the word and help get their name out there

bull Attend events where our partners have stepped up to sponsor Help show them we value them being there and appreciate their efforts This helps everyone when it comes to working out future programs discounts events and more

We are all in this together Just as you want to ensure you are receiving the return you need on the investments you make our supplier members advertisers exhibitors and sponsors need to justify their own ROI on the variety of support avenues they offer

to NCSG I thought Irsquod take a minute this month to say ldquothank yourdquo to all of you who support us in so many different ways and would like to encourage others to do the same

Until next time I continue to wish you every success

Double Locking CrimpRemains StrongYet Very Flexibl e

With No Memo ry

Strong Triple Locking CrimpHolds T ogether Even OnTough Jobs

Horizontal Sides Of CorrugationOffer Added Strengthamp Flexibility

Manufactured by CHIMNEY TECHNIQUE INC

Chim-Pro Interlock Flex

Chim-Pro Corrugated

Flex

Chim-Pro RigidADDED SAFETY EFFICIENCY AND VALUE

In Which ALL FITTINGS Are Attached With A Band Even The Tee Cap And Elbows Quick amp Simple No Drilling amp Riveting

Featuring

Visit wwwchim-prolinercom for more detailsbull 2000 Industrial Ave bull Sioux Falls SD 57104

1-800-582-1392

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 31

Display Ad Index

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 mheekencsgorg for publication in Sweeping Or mail it to NCSG 2155 Commercial Drive Plainfield IN 46168

Page Advertiser Phone Email or Website Address

30 Ahrens Chimney Technique 800-582-1392 ahrenschimneyqwestofficenet

21-24 Chimney Safety Institute of America 317-837-5362 wwwcsiaorg

14 Cobra Chimney Caps 888-463-0636 salescobrachimneycom

27 Communications Network Inc 800-875-8118 tkempercomnetmessagecom

5 Copperfield 800-247-3305 wwwcopperfieldcom

4 ENERVEX Inc 800-255-2923 infochimneyfanscom

13 Firesafe Industries Inc 800-545-6607 wwwfiresafeinccom

16 Gelco Lyemance Lock-Top 800-334-2154 wwwGLLchimneyproductscom

9 Hose Master 800-221-2319 bobdanielshosemastercom

10 ICP 508-695-7000 wwwchimneycapscom

BC Lifetime Chimney Supply LLC 877-234-7473 wwwlifetimechimneysupplycom

7 Lindemann Chimney Company 800-722-7230 wwwlindemannchimneycom

11 M amp G Duravent 800-835-4429 wwwduraventcom

28 Meyer Machine amp Equipment 800-728-3828 wwwmeyermachinecom

25 National Chimney Supply 800-897-8481 wwwnationalchimneysupplycom

17 Olympia Chimney Supply 800-569-1425 wwwolympiachimneycom

19 Sand Hill Wholesale 800-258-5496 wwwsandhillwholesalecom

6 SaverSystems Inc 800-860-6327 wwwchimneysavercom

3 Smoktite 866-439-0069 wwwsmoktitecom

8 Wakefield Brush 800-264-7007 wwwwakefieldbrushcom

19 Whitecaps 800-335-2534 wwwwhitecapscom

15 Z-Flex 800-654-5600 wwwz-flexcom

The pole and bucket chimney That is how they keep rain and birds out during off season Notice the class A is just an extension of a masonry chimney

Submitted by Kevon Binder of Doctor Flue Inc

September 13-15 2012Lake Murray SCSouth Carolina Chimney Sweep Guildrsquos ldquoThe GatheringrdquoFor more information please contact Blume at (864) 232-9811 or blume357bellsouthnet

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 19 2012 Taunton MAFall Protection User Training Class Including OSHArsquos 2011 ruling on alternate fall protection methods - Sponsored by the Massachusetts Chimney Sweep GuildFor more information please call Jeffrey Wright at (781) 233-2321

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-29 2012CSIA Technology CenterCSIA National Chimney Sweep Training SchoolFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

Dates amp Events

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 8-12 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg October 8-12 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

Please send notice of your events for NCSG Dates amp Events listings at mmcmahonncsgorg for inclusion here in weekly posts to the discussion list and online at wwwNCSGorgdates The event must be considered educational or informative for the industry (sales events and open houses will not be listed)

32 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

ClassifiedsGotta chimney question Sizing Codes Call Royal Edwards Make Royal your tech department CALL NOW 813-982-0219 for on-call tech support Continuing Education special bonus ndash ask how you can get the Friday morning E-Blast for FREE CALL NOW 813-982-0219

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

Chimney Sweep business for sell in the Northern Rocky Mountains of New Mexico Services a large area with three ski resorts in the service area Equipment and signed three year contracts goes with the business Business is well established For pricing and other info please email your questions to ridgeriders1gmailcom

CLASSIFIED ADS FREE FOR NCSG MEMBERSMembers can run one 35 word classified free each year Regularly classified ads are $2word or $1word for NCSG members Classified ads are non-commissionable and must be pre-paid To place a classified ad please contact Megan McMahon at mmcmahonncsgorg or (317) 837-1500

NCSG Innovation 2013 Convention and Trade Show Hotel reservations are now being accepted for NCSG Innovation 2013 at Chateau on the Lake in Branson MO April 4-7 2013 Just call 1-888-333-LAKE (5253) and mention that yoursquore with the National Chimney Sweep Guild to lock in rates starting at $129 for a mountain view and $134 for a lake view

Get ready for some RampR Yoursquore earned it

Order Your FREEAnnual Maintenance Reminder Postcards

A great way to remind homeowners to schedule their annual maintenance check up

Each card has space available for your business information

Use them as reminders for your existing clients or send them to generate new business

To order postcards and other free Burn Wise products contact

Leigh Herringtonherringtonleighepagov

ampKristen Bremer

bremerkristenepagov

wwwepagovburnwise

Follow us on

Wood-Burning Safety

Starts with You

Have you scheduled your

annual inspection

The National Fire Protection Association estimates

that 25 percent of home heating fires are caused

primarily by creosote buildup in the chimney

Make your home healthier and safer A properly

installed and maintained appliance burns more

efficiently and saves you money Contact your local

certified chimney sweep to schedule an annual

inspection today

Before You Burn

The right wayThe right way is hot and bright

In the right applianceThe right appliance is an EPA-approved appliance inspected annually by a certified chimney sweep

Burn the right woodBurn only dry well-seasoned wood that has been split and stored properly

wwwepagovburnwise

wwwcsiaorg

Printed on 100 recycledrecyclable paper with a minimum 50 post-consumer waste using vegetable-based

EPA 456-F-10-004

National Chimney Sweep Guild2155 Commercial DrivePlainfield IN 46168

1208

OR

Page 25: September 2012

ADVERTISEMENT

You can spend weeks trying to get a new employee up to speed In the process yoursquoll have used up your valuable time your patience and more money than you would like to admit

Instead send your employee to the most popular cost-effective chimney sweep training in North America CSIArsquos National Chimney Sweep Training School In less than a week wersquoll create an employee that yoursquoll be proud to send on a call ndash and happy to count toward your bottom line

Register today at wwwcsiaorg or call us at (317) 837-5362

At the 6-day hands-on Training School your employee will learn

How to inspect and service chimney systems serving any fuel burning appliance

How to be safe with the latest health and safety equipment and methods

How to work with residential heating appliances including wood stoves pellet stoves inserts factory-built fireplaces central heaters and furnaces

How to diagnose chimney performance problems understanding draft and flow diagnosing down drafts flow reversals inadequate flow stack effects updrafts pressure effects and gauges

How to navigate the International Residential Codes How to follow the NFPA 211 standards

Class size is limited to ensure a ratio of no more than eight students per instructor This small class size means that students have the opportunity for individual attention from the schoolrsquos experienced instructors and ample opportunities for hands-on training Because class size is limited it is important to apply early to reserve your place

The online CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience

The online Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician (CDET) review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience designed to help you pass the CDET exam

Take advantage of these other CSIA educational offerings that can build your business

Send us your greenhorn

and wersquoll send you back a pro

in 6 days Classes fill quickly so register now

2012 DATeS April 2ndash7June 4ndash9August 6ndash11September 24ndash29

April 2-7June 11-16August 6-11September 24-29

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 25

You can spend weeks trying to get a new employee up to speed In the process yoursquoll have used up your valuable time your patience and more money than you would like to admit

Instead send your employee to the most popular cost-effective chimney sweep training in North America CSIArsquos National Chimney Sweep Training School In less than a week wersquoll create an employee that yoursquoll be proud to send on a call ndash and happy to count toward your bottom line

Register today at wwwcsiaorg or call us at (317) 837-5362

At the 6-day hands-on Training School your employee will learn

How to inspect and service chimney systems serving any fuel burning appliance

How to be safe with the latest health and safety equipment and methods

How to work with residential heating appliances including wood stoves pellet stoves inserts factory-built fireplaces central heaters and furnaces

How to diagnose chimney performance problems understanding draft and flow diagnosing down drafts flow reversals inadequate flow stack effects updrafts pressure effects and gauges

How to navigate the International Residential Codes How to follow the NFPA 211 standards

Class size is limited to ensure a ratio of no more than eight students per instructor This small class size means that students have the opportunity for individual attention from the schoolrsquos experienced instructors and ample opportunities for hands-on training Because class size is limited it is important to apply early to reserve your place

The online CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience

The online Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician (CDET) review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience designed to help you pass the CDET exam

Take advantage of these other CSIA educational offerings that can build your business

Send us your greenhorn

and wersquoll send you back a pro

in 6 days Classes fill quickly so register now

2012 DATeS April 2ndash7June 4ndash9August 6ndash11September 24ndash29

April 2-7June 11-16August 6-11September 24-29

ProgressivePerksBY DEBBIE CORNELIUS

MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT COORDINATOR

Get Organized and Make the Most of Your Busy Season

Sometimes it really surprises me that more NCSG members do not take advantage of the discounted benefits available to them These will not only save you time buthellip money too

Paycor Payroll Services price reduction on payroll and tax services One specialist will be dedicated to your account with a team of tax specialists available to resolve issues in the fastest amount of time should an issue arise

Market Hardware can bring your business up to speed in the competitive market of technology where more and more customers are looking to the Web Once they have customized the design that includes a ldquoHome Pagerdquo ldquoAbout Usrdquo and ldquoOur Servicesrdquo page you will have the ability to easily update and edit your Web site yourself instead of paying someone else to do it

Technical Solutions the ldquoSurvival Kit for Small Businessesrdquo can provide on-demand remote repair 247 365 days a year For the price of $2499month with no long term contact involved you can cover up to 20 computers including multiple office locations

Commercials On Hold provides a great way to brand and promote your full range of services when callers are on hold before they talk to a member of your staff

Take a few minutes to just explore these benefits It would be well worth your time to compare the savings to save you time and help increase your profits

26 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

REGION 6

NCSG Charter Members

Paul Bourque Huntsville AL

Don Leavitt San Diego CA

David Harris Broken Arrow Oklahoma

Dan Wheeler Santa Rosa CA

John Cline Menlo Park CA

Dale Meisinger N Augusta SC

Alan Hisey St Louis MO

Eva B Horton Greenwich CT

Harry Richart Hasbrouck Heights NJ

NewNCSGMembers

REGION 3

REGION 2

REGION 5

REGION 4

NCSG REGIONS

REGION 1

Connecticut Vermont Massachusetts New York Maine Rhode Island New Hampshire

REGION 2

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

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

CONNECTICUTChristopher Gonsalves bull Millstream Construction bull HebronDavid Heissenbuttel bull DMH amp Associates Inc bull Wilton

VIRGINAJack Johnston bull Johnstonrsquos Chimney Sweep bull Yorktown

MISSOURIJason Patrick bull Shamrock Qualty Services bull St LouisBill Bonney bull Bonney Bill bull Jackson

KENTUCKYJoshua Moore bull Moore Joshua bull Mt Sterling

ILLINOISJack Lutz bull Lutz Jack bull EurekaClay Nelson bull Clean Sweep bull Collinsville

OHIOAnthony Ramsey bull Elite Chimney Solutions bull Beavercreek

INDIANATravis Beckley bull Beckley Travis bull Coal City

TEXASMatthew Milner bull Milner Matthew bull WhitesboroTony Drew bull AC Contractors dba Fireplaces bull LongviewChristopher A Hess bull Atlas Chimney bull Leander

MINNESOTARenee Gustafson bull John C Gustafson Builder LLC bull Little Falls

COLORADOKent Macintosh bull Russian River Chimney Sweeps bull Healdsburg

CALIFORNIA Errol Davis bull The Chimney Specialist bull Huntington Beach

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 27

The 2012 ndash 2013 offers are being added daily in the ldquoMembers Onlyrdquo section of the NCSG website at wwwNCSGorg So start checking for these new offers each week These coupons will be good until June 30 2013

Copperfield Chimney Supply bull Lindemann Chimney Supply bull Meyer Machine amp Equipment bull National Chimney Supply bull SNEWS - The Chimney Sweep News bull Wakefield Brush bull Wohler USA Inc

2012 ndash 2013 SWEEPS ADVANTAGE COUPON PROGRAM

Featured Coupons of the Month

COPPERFIELD CHIMNEY SUPPLY

SAVE Up to $ 12650 FREE 13 x 13 Lock-Top with an order of $250

SAVE Up to $ 123 One FREE component Kit with any purchase of 6rdquo UltraPro

SAVE Up to $ 52One 225 quart Woodfield porcelain-coated steamer with any Napoleon appliance

purchase

SAVE Up to $ 46 One 13 x 13 HomeSaver Stainless Steel chimney cap with any Order of $250 or more

SAVE Up to $ 64 One EasyClean Cap with any purchase of $250

SAVE UP TO $ 75 $75 off any 25rsquo order of UltraPro Stainless Steel Liner

SAVE UP TO $ 40 $40 off any Flue Stretcher Chimney Cap

SAVE UP TO $ 20 Sign up for a Copperfield Reline Workshop and Save $20

SAVE UP TO FRE FREE 4 foot sample of HomeSaver Ultrapro

WOHLER USA INC SAVE UP TO $ 500$500 rebate with proof of purchase of VIS2000

Pro Camera System

hellip when opportunity calls we answer 1-800-875-8118

wwwcomnetmessagecom

Benefits of Answering Service

Award Winning Telephone Agents

Never Miss A Call

Better Time Management

Appointment Scheduling

Affordable

28 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

Meyer Machine amp Equipment

SUCKINGDUCTS

ampINSULATION

FOR OVER 20 YEARS

As most allergy sufferers will tell you allergy symptoms can always be bothersome turning any time of year into sneezing season A runny nose itchy eyes and scratchy throat can arise as the days get shorter and the leaves begin to change

The fall can be especially difficult for people who are sensitive to mold and ragweed pollen But these seasonal elements arenrsquot the only triggers that can make symptoms worse this time of year There are also a few lesser known triggers Here are four things you might not know about fall allergies courtesy of the American College of Allergy Asthma and Immunology

Hay fever - Hay fever a term from a bygone era actually has nothing to do with hay Instead itrsquos a general term used to describe the symptoms of late summer allergies Ragweed is a common cause of hay fever which is also known as allergic rhinitis The plant usually begins to pollinate in mid-August and may continue to be a problem until a hard freeze depending on where you live See an allergist for prescription medications to control symptoms or to see if allergy shots may be your best option

Lingering warm weather - While most people enjoy Indian summer unseasonably warm temperatures can make rhinitis symptoms last longer Mold spores can also be released when humidity is high or the weather is dry and windy Be sure to begin taking medications before your symptoms start Track your allergy symptoms with MyNasalAllergyJournalorg and visit with your allergist to find relief

Pesky leaves - Some folks might find it difficult to keep up with raking leaves throughout the autumn But for allergy sufferers raking presents its own problem It can stir agitating pollen and mold into the air causing allergy and asthma symptoms Those with allergies should wear an NIOSH-rated N95 mask when raking leaves mowing the lawn and gardening

School allergens - Itrsquos not only seasonal pollen and mold that triggers allergies this time of year Kids are often exposed to classroom irritants and allergy triggers These can include chalk dust and classroom pets Students with food allergies may also be exposed to allergens in the lunch roomKids with exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB) may experience attacks during recess or gym class Help your child understand what can trigger their allergies and asthma and how they can avoid symptoms Be sure to notify teachers and the school nurse of any emergency medications such as quick relief inhalers and epinephrine

No matter the season itrsquos important for those who think they may be suffering from allergies or asthma to see a board-certified allergist An allergist can help you develop a treatment plan which can include both medication and avoidance techniques

Having your allergies properly identified and treated will help you and your family enjoy the season To find an allergist and learn more about allergies and asthma visit wwwAllergyandAsthmaRelieforg

Four Things You Might Not Know About Fall Allergies

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 29

trategic partnerships Sounds fancy but what does it really mean They are called what they are called because there is a true strategy behind them the thought and planning that goes into identifying and development those relationships in a way that will

ultimately help those who are participating to achieve their mission The fact that it is indeed a ldquopartnershiprdquo indicates that everyone involved mutually stands to benefit in some wayhellipItrsquos a win-win

The strategic part of establishing partnerships is analyzing who you are your goals and your current resources and then finding organizations (partners) that will allow you to get the things that you need in order to take your organization to the next level But true partnerships are about what you can bring to each other to help achieve your goals and enhance your resources It is not solely about what you can give me but rather what we can give each other As the great John F Kennedy is well known for encouraging of a world partnership ldquoask not what America will do for you but what together we can do for the freedom of manrdquo

So where does this leave an association like NCSG The key to nonprofits establishing strategic partnerships is having the infrastructure to attract and maintain these relationships In this country there are plenty of nonprofits that are doing great work but there is no organization that will be able to survive if they try

to achieve their mission without establishing partnerships that help provide resources and relationships that allow us to achieve our mission

NCSG is very fortunate to have an impressive array of partners who have for many years some since our inception done just that Our partners have advertised in this magazine exhibited at our conventions contributed to the building and maintaining of our headquarters and the premier industry training facility in Indianapolis discounted thousands of dollars in products and services to our members and have helped us promote the Guild and recruit membership in countless ways not the least of which includes maintaining their own membership in NCSG

Our partners are committed to helping us advance our mission and in turn propel our professional field forward Their partnership supports that programs that ignite your professional and technical development and provide the products and services that have helped you bring your own businesses to life They are integral to the success of this industry and most renew their support of the Guild year after year

Without their support of Sweeping magazine through their advertising we would not have been able to come close to bringing this publication to our members and the industry for the past 35 years (originally The Chimney Sweep Guild News) without significant taxation on the readers Without their support

BY MARK MCSWEENEY CAEEXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Perspective

Support Those Who Support YouldquoOur success has really been based on partnerships from the very beginningrdquo -Bill Gates

S

30 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

of NCSGrsquos annual convention through exhibiting and additional sponsorships registration fees for attendees would easily be double what they are today

When viewing our relationship with exhibitors sponsors advertisers and supplier members as a partnership the question needs to be asked How are we as an association mutually helping them achieve their respective goals

The answer comes back to us having infrastructure to attract and maintain these partnerships And that infrastructure is you the member NCSG cultivates and maintains the relationship with our industry partners on your behalf You are asked to back that up through your support of these partner service providers

Now Irsquom not saying you should buy everything you need at any one place or only through our partners At the end of the day you ultimately need to make your purchasing decisions based on your individual business needs However what would be great to see is our members calling our partners up and giving them a chance to compete for your business Let them know you are a part of NCSG and even if you are not in a position to do business with them this time around let them know you appreciate their continued support of the Guild and the industry Itrsquos one thing to call up to a supplier and ask about a product get a price and hang up Itrsquos another thing to make sure you let them know you saw their ad in Sweeping you read about them

online or you remember they exhibited at the convention so that they know they are getting positive exposure and that their investment in our partnership is not going unnoticed

With that said here are some simple and tangible things things you can do to help the partnership you are a part ofbull Consider our partners each and every time you need to make a

purchasing decision and give them an opportunity to earn your business when you can Look at those who are advertising in Sweeping or see a full listing of NCSG Supplier Members under the Chimney Sweep tab on ncsgorg

bull When you talk to them let them know yoursquore part of NCSG and thank them for their support of your association

bull If you like them even if you canrsquot do business with them currently spread the word and help get their name out there

bull Attend events where our partners have stepped up to sponsor Help show them we value them being there and appreciate their efforts This helps everyone when it comes to working out future programs discounts events and more

We are all in this together Just as you want to ensure you are receiving the return you need on the investments you make our supplier members advertisers exhibitors and sponsors need to justify their own ROI on the variety of support avenues they offer

to NCSG I thought Irsquod take a minute this month to say ldquothank yourdquo to all of you who support us in so many different ways and would like to encourage others to do the same

Until next time I continue to wish you every success

Double Locking CrimpRemains StrongYet Very Flexibl e

With No Memo ry

Strong Triple Locking CrimpHolds T ogether Even OnTough Jobs

Horizontal Sides Of CorrugationOffer Added Strengthamp Flexibility

Manufactured by CHIMNEY TECHNIQUE INC

Chim-Pro Interlock Flex

Chim-Pro Corrugated

Flex

Chim-Pro RigidADDED SAFETY EFFICIENCY AND VALUE

In Which ALL FITTINGS Are Attached With A Band Even The Tee Cap And Elbows Quick amp Simple No Drilling amp Riveting

Featuring

Visit wwwchim-prolinercom for more detailsbull 2000 Industrial Ave bull Sioux Falls SD 57104

1-800-582-1392

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 31

Display Ad Index

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 mheekencsgorg for publication in Sweeping Or mail it to NCSG 2155 Commercial Drive Plainfield IN 46168

Page Advertiser Phone Email or Website Address

30 Ahrens Chimney Technique 800-582-1392 ahrenschimneyqwestofficenet

21-24 Chimney Safety Institute of America 317-837-5362 wwwcsiaorg

14 Cobra Chimney Caps 888-463-0636 salescobrachimneycom

27 Communications Network Inc 800-875-8118 tkempercomnetmessagecom

5 Copperfield 800-247-3305 wwwcopperfieldcom

4 ENERVEX Inc 800-255-2923 infochimneyfanscom

13 Firesafe Industries Inc 800-545-6607 wwwfiresafeinccom

16 Gelco Lyemance Lock-Top 800-334-2154 wwwGLLchimneyproductscom

9 Hose Master 800-221-2319 bobdanielshosemastercom

10 ICP 508-695-7000 wwwchimneycapscom

BC Lifetime Chimney Supply LLC 877-234-7473 wwwlifetimechimneysupplycom

7 Lindemann Chimney Company 800-722-7230 wwwlindemannchimneycom

11 M amp G Duravent 800-835-4429 wwwduraventcom

28 Meyer Machine amp Equipment 800-728-3828 wwwmeyermachinecom

25 National Chimney Supply 800-897-8481 wwwnationalchimneysupplycom

17 Olympia Chimney Supply 800-569-1425 wwwolympiachimneycom

19 Sand Hill Wholesale 800-258-5496 wwwsandhillwholesalecom

6 SaverSystems Inc 800-860-6327 wwwchimneysavercom

3 Smoktite 866-439-0069 wwwsmoktitecom

8 Wakefield Brush 800-264-7007 wwwwakefieldbrushcom

19 Whitecaps 800-335-2534 wwwwhitecapscom

15 Z-Flex 800-654-5600 wwwz-flexcom

The pole and bucket chimney That is how they keep rain and birds out during off season Notice the class A is just an extension of a masonry chimney

Submitted by Kevon Binder of Doctor Flue Inc

September 13-15 2012Lake Murray SCSouth Carolina Chimney Sweep Guildrsquos ldquoThe GatheringrdquoFor more information please contact Blume at (864) 232-9811 or blume357bellsouthnet

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 19 2012 Taunton MAFall Protection User Training Class Including OSHArsquos 2011 ruling on alternate fall protection methods - Sponsored by the Massachusetts Chimney Sweep GuildFor more information please call Jeffrey Wright at (781) 233-2321

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-29 2012CSIA Technology CenterCSIA National Chimney Sweep Training SchoolFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

Dates amp Events

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 8-12 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg October 8-12 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

Please send notice of your events for NCSG Dates amp Events listings at mmcmahonncsgorg for inclusion here in weekly posts to the discussion list and online at wwwNCSGorgdates The event must be considered educational or informative for the industry (sales events and open houses will not be listed)

32 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

ClassifiedsGotta chimney question Sizing Codes Call Royal Edwards Make Royal your tech department CALL NOW 813-982-0219 for on-call tech support Continuing Education special bonus ndash ask how you can get the Friday morning E-Blast for FREE CALL NOW 813-982-0219

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

Chimney Sweep business for sell in the Northern Rocky Mountains of New Mexico Services a large area with three ski resorts in the service area Equipment and signed three year contracts goes with the business Business is well established For pricing and other info please email your questions to ridgeriders1gmailcom

CLASSIFIED ADS FREE FOR NCSG MEMBERSMembers can run one 35 word classified free each year Regularly classified ads are $2word or $1word for NCSG members Classified ads are non-commissionable and must be pre-paid To place a classified ad please contact Megan McMahon at mmcmahonncsgorg or (317) 837-1500

NCSG Innovation 2013 Convention and Trade Show Hotel reservations are now being accepted for NCSG Innovation 2013 at Chateau on the Lake in Branson MO April 4-7 2013 Just call 1-888-333-LAKE (5253) and mention that yoursquore with the National Chimney Sweep Guild to lock in rates starting at $129 for a mountain view and $134 for a lake view

Get ready for some RampR Yoursquore earned it

Order Your FREEAnnual Maintenance Reminder Postcards

A great way to remind homeowners to schedule their annual maintenance check up

Each card has space available for your business information

Use them as reminders for your existing clients or send them to generate new business

To order postcards and other free Burn Wise products contact

Leigh Herringtonherringtonleighepagov

ampKristen Bremer

bremerkristenepagov

wwwepagovburnwise

Follow us on

Wood-Burning Safety

Starts with You

Have you scheduled your

annual inspection

The National Fire Protection Association estimates

that 25 percent of home heating fires are caused

primarily by creosote buildup in the chimney

Make your home healthier and safer A properly

installed and maintained appliance burns more

efficiently and saves you money Contact your local

certified chimney sweep to schedule an annual

inspection today

Before You Burn

The right wayThe right way is hot and bright

In the right applianceThe right appliance is an EPA-approved appliance inspected annually by a certified chimney sweep

Burn the right woodBurn only dry well-seasoned wood that has been split and stored properly

wwwepagovburnwise

wwwcsiaorg

Printed on 100 recycledrecyclable paper with a minimum 50 post-consumer waste using vegetable-based

EPA 456-F-10-004

National Chimney Sweep Guild2155 Commercial DrivePlainfield IN 46168

1208

OR

Page 26: September 2012

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 25

You can spend weeks trying to get a new employee up to speed In the process yoursquoll have used up your valuable time your patience and more money than you would like to admit

Instead send your employee to the most popular cost-effective chimney sweep training in North America CSIArsquos National Chimney Sweep Training School In less than a week wersquoll create an employee that yoursquoll be proud to send on a call ndash and happy to count toward your bottom line

Register today at wwwcsiaorg or call us at (317) 837-5362

At the 6-day hands-on Training School your employee will learn

How to inspect and service chimney systems serving any fuel burning appliance

How to be safe with the latest health and safety equipment and methods

How to work with residential heating appliances including wood stoves pellet stoves inserts factory-built fireplaces central heaters and furnaces

How to diagnose chimney performance problems understanding draft and flow diagnosing down drafts flow reversals inadequate flow stack effects updrafts pressure effects and gauges

How to navigate the International Residential Codes How to follow the NFPA 211 standards

Class size is limited to ensure a ratio of no more than eight students per instructor This small class size means that students have the opportunity for individual attention from the schoolrsquos experienced instructors and ample opportunities for hands-on training Because class size is limited it is important to apply early to reserve your place

The online CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience

The online Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician (CDET) review provides exam candidates with a convenient and affordable guided learning experience designed to help you pass the CDET exam

Take advantage of these other CSIA educational offerings that can build your business

Send us your greenhorn

and wersquoll send you back a pro

in 6 days Classes fill quickly so register now

2012 DATeS April 2ndash7June 4ndash9August 6ndash11September 24ndash29

April 2-7June 11-16August 6-11September 24-29

ProgressivePerksBY DEBBIE CORNELIUS

MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT COORDINATOR

Get Organized and Make the Most of Your Busy Season

Sometimes it really surprises me that more NCSG members do not take advantage of the discounted benefits available to them These will not only save you time buthellip money too

Paycor Payroll Services price reduction on payroll and tax services One specialist will be dedicated to your account with a team of tax specialists available to resolve issues in the fastest amount of time should an issue arise

Market Hardware can bring your business up to speed in the competitive market of technology where more and more customers are looking to the Web Once they have customized the design that includes a ldquoHome Pagerdquo ldquoAbout Usrdquo and ldquoOur Servicesrdquo page you will have the ability to easily update and edit your Web site yourself instead of paying someone else to do it

Technical Solutions the ldquoSurvival Kit for Small Businessesrdquo can provide on-demand remote repair 247 365 days a year For the price of $2499month with no long term contact involved you can cover up to 20 computers including multiple office locations

Commercials On Hold provides a great way to brand and promote your full range of services when callers are on hold before they talk to a member of your staff

Take a few minutes to just explore these benefits It would be well worth your time to compare the savings to save you time and help increase your profits

26 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

REGION 6

NCSG Charter Members

Paul Bourque Huntsville AL

Don Leavitt San Diego CA

David Harris Broken Arrow Oklahoma

Dan Wheeler Santa Rosa CA

John Cline Menlo Park CA

Dale Meisinger N Augusta SC

Alan Hisey St Louis MO

Eva B Horton Greenwich CT

Harry Richart Hasbrouck Heights NJ

NewNCSGMembers

REGION 3

REGION 2

REGION 5

REGION 4

NCSG REGIONS

REGION 1

Connecticut Vermont Massachusetts New York Maine Rhode Island New Hampshire

REGION 2

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

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

CONNECTICUTChristopher Gonsalves bull Millstream Construction bull HebronDavid Heissenbuttel bull DMH amp Associates Inc bull Wilton

VIRGINAJack Johnston bull Johnstonrsquos Chimney Sweep bull Yorktown

MISSOURIJason Patrick bull Shamrock Qualty Services bull St LouisBill Bonney bull Bonney Bill bull Jackson

KENTUCKYJoshua Moore bull Moore Joshua bull Mt Sterling

ILLINOISJack Lutz bull Lutz Jack bull EurekaClay Nelson bull Clean Sweep bull Collinsville

OHIOAnthony Ramsey bull Elite Chimney Solutions bull Beavercreek

INDIANATravis Beckley bull Beckley Travis bull Coal City

TEXASMatthew Milner bull Milner Matthew bull WhitesboroTony Drew bull AC Contractors dba Fireplaces bull LongviewChristopher A Hess bull Atlas Chimney bull Leander

MINNESOTARenee Gustafson bull John C Gustafson Builder LLC bull Little Falls

COLORADOKent Macintosh bull Russian River Chimney Sweeps bull Healdsburg

CALIFORNIA Errol Davis bull The Chimney Specialist bull Huntington Beach

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 27

The 2012 ndash 2013 offers are being added daily in the ldquoMembers Onlyrdquo section of the NCSG website at wwwNCSGorg So start checking for these new offers each week These coupons will be good until June 30 2013

Copperfield Chimney Supply bull Lindemann Chimney Supply bull Meyer Machine amp Equipment bull National Chimney Supply bull SNEWS - The Chimney Sweep News bull Wakefield Brush bull Wohler USA Inc

2012 ndash 2013 SWEEPS ADVANTAGE COUPON PROGRAM

Featured Coupons of the Month

COPPERFIELD CHIMNEY SUPPLY

SAVE Up to $ 12650 FREE 13 x 13 Lock-Top with an order of $250

SAVE Up to $ 123 One FREE component Kit with any purchase of 6rdquo UltraPro

SAVE Up to $ 52One 225 quart Woodfield porcelain-coated steamer with any Napoleon appliance

purchase

SAVE Up to $ 46 One 13 x 13 HomeSaver Stainless Steel chimney cap with any Order of $250 or more

SAVE Up to $ 64 One EasyClean Cap with any purchase of $250

SAVE UP TO $ 75 $75 off any 25rsquo order of UltraPro Stainless Steel Liner

SAVE UP TO $ 40 $40 off any Flue Stretcher Chimney Cap

SAVE UP TO $ 20 Sign up for a Copperfield Reline Workshop and Save $20

SAVE UP TO FRE FREE 4 foot sample of HomeSaver Ultrapro

WOHLER USA INC SAVE UP TO $ 500$500 rebate with proof of purchase of VIS2000

Pro Camera System

hellip when opportunity calls we answer 1-800-875-8118

wwwcomnetmessagecom

Benefits of Answering Service

Award Winning Telephone Agents

Never Miss A Call

Better Time Management

Appointment Scheduling

Affordable

28 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

Meyer Machine amp Equipment

SUCKINGDUCTS

ampINSULATION

FOR OVER 20 YEARS

As most allergy sufferers will tell you allergy symptoms can always be bothersome turning any time of year into sneezing season A runny nose itchy eyes and scratchy throat can arise as the days get shorter and the leaves begin to change

The fall can be especially difficult for people who are sensitive to mold and ragweed pollen But these seasonal elements arenrsquot the only triggers that can make symptoms worse this time of year There are also a few lesser known triggers Here are four things you might not know about fall allergies courtesy of the American College of Allergy Asthma and Immunology

Hay fever - Hay fever a term from a bygone era actually has nothing to do with hay Instead itrsquos a general term used to describe the symptoms of late summer allergies Ragweed is a common cause of hay fever which is also known as allergic rhinitis The plant usually begins to pollinate in mid-August and may continue to be a problem until a hard freeze depending on where you live See an allergist for prescription medications to control symptoms or to see if allergy shots may be your best option

Lingering warm weather - While most people enjoy Indian summer unseasonably warm temperatures can make rhinitis symptoms last longer Mold spores can also be released when humidity is high or the weather is dry and windy Be sure to begin taking medications before your symptoms start Track your allergy symptoms with MyNasalAllergyJournalorg and visit with your allergist to find relief

Pesky leaves - Some folks might find it difficult to keep up with raking leaves throughout the autumn But for allergy sufferers raking presents its own problem It can stir agitating pollen and mold into the air causing allergy and asthma symptoms Those with allergies should wear an NIOSH-rated N95 mask when raking leaves mowing the lawn and gardening

School allergens - Itrsquos not only seasonal pollen and mold that triggers allergies this time of year Kids are often exposed to classroom irritants and allergy triggers These can include chalk dust and classroom pets Students with food allergies may also be exposed to allergens in the lunch roomKids with exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB) may experience attacks during recess or gym class Help your child understand what can trigger their allergies and asthma and how they can avoid symptoms Be sure to notify teachers and the school nurse of any emergency medications such as quick relief inhalers and epinephrine

No matter the season itrsquos important for those who think they may be suffering from allergies or asthma to see a board-certified allergist An allergist can help you develop a treatment plan which can include both medication and avoidance techniques

Having your allergies properly identified and treated will help you and your family enjoy the season To find an allergist and learn more about allergies and asthma visit wwwAllergyandAsthmaRelieforg

Four Things You Might Not Know About Fall Allergies

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 29

trategic partnerships Sounds fancy but what does it really mean They are called what they are called because there is a true strategy behind them the thought and planning that goes into identifying and development those relationships in a way that will

ultimately help those who are participating to achieve their mission The fact that it is indeed a ldquopartnershiprdquo indicates that everyone involved mutually stands to benefit in some wayhellipItrsquos a win-win

The strategic part of establishing partnerships is analyzing who you are your goals and your current resources and then finding organizations (partners) that will allow you to get the things that you need in order to take your organization to the next level But true partnerships are about what you can bring to each other to help achieve your goals and enhance your resources It is not solely about what you can give me but rather what we can give each other As the great John F Kennedy is well known for encouraging of a world partnership ldquoask not what America will do for you but what together we can do for the freedom of manrdquo

So where does this leave an association like NCSG The key to nonprofits establishing strategic partnerships is having the infrastructure to attract and maintain these relationships In this country there are plenty of nonprofits that are doing great work but there is no organization that will be able to survive if they try

to achieve their mission without establishing partnerships that help provide resources and relationships that allow us to achieve our mission

NCSG is very fortunate to have an impressive array of partners who have for many years some since our inception done just that Our partners have advertised in this magazine exhibited at our conventions contributed to the building and maintaining of our headquarters and the premier industry training facility in Indianapolis discounted thousands of dollars in products and services to our members and have helped us promote the Guild and recruit membership in countless ways not the least of which includes maintaining their own membership in NCSG

Our partners are committed to helping us advance our mission and in turn propel our professional field forward Their partnership supports that programs that ignite your professional and technical development and provide the products and services that have helped you bring your own businesses to life They are integral to the success of this industry and most renew their support of the Guild year after year

Without their support of Sweeping magazine through their advertising we would not have been able to come close to bringing this publication to our members and the industry for the past 35 years (originally The Chimney Sweep Guild News) without significant taxation on the readers Without their support

BY MARK MCSWEENEY CAEEXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Perspective

Support Those Who Support YouldquoOur success has really been based on partnerships from the very beginningrdquo -Bill Gates

S

30 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

of NCSGrsquos annual convention through exhibiting and additional sponsorships registration fees for attendees would easily be double what they are today

When viewing our relationship with exhibitors sponsors advertisers and supplier members as a partnership the question needs to be asked How are we as an association mutually helping them achieve their respective goals

The answer comes back to us having infrastructure to attract and maintain these partnerships And that infrastructure is you the member NCSG cultivates and maintains the relationship with our industry partners on your behalf You are asked to back that up through your support of these partner service providers

Now Irsquom not saying you should buy everything you need at any one place or only through our partners At the end of the day you ultimately need to make your purchasing decisions based on your individual business needs However what would be great to see is our members calling our partners up and giving them a chance to compete for your business Let them know you are a part of NCSG and even if you are not in a position to do business with them this time around let them know you appreciate their continued support of the Guild and the industry Itrsquos one thing to call up to a supplier and ask about a product get a price and hang up Itrsquos another thing to make sure you let them know you saw their ad in Sweeping you read about them

online or you remember they exhibited at the convention so that they know they are getting positive exposure and that their investment in our partnership is not going unnoticed

With that said here are some simple and tangible things things you can do to help the partnership you are a part ofbull Consider our partners each and every time you need to make a

purchasing decision and give them an opportunity to earn your business when you can Look at those who are advertising in Sweeping or see a full listing of NCSG Supplier Members under the Chimney Sweep tab on ncsgorg

bull When you talk to them let them know yoursquore part of NCSG and thank them for their support of your association

bull If you like them even if you canrsquot do business with them currently spread the word and help get their name out there

bull Attend events where our partners have stepped up to sponsor Help show them we value them being there and appreciate their efforts This helps everyone when it comes to working out future programs discounts events and more

We are all in this together Just as you want to ensure you are receiving the return you need on the investments you make our supplier members advertisers exhibitors and sponsors need to justify their own ROI on the variety of support avenues they offer

to NCSG I thought Irsquod take a minute this month to say ldquothank yourdquo to all of you who support us in so many different ways and would like to encourage others to do the same

Until next time I continue to wish you every success

Double Locking CrimpRemains StrongYet Very Flexibl e

With No Memo ry

Strong Triple Locking CrimpHolds T ogether Even OnTough Jobs

Horizontal Sides Of CorrugationOffer Added Strengthamp Flexibility

Manufactured by CHIMNEY TECHNIQUE INC

Chim-Pro Interlock Flex

Chim-Pro Corrugated

Flex

Chim-Pro RigidADDED SAFETY EFFICIENCY AND VALUE

In Which ALL FITTINGS Are Attached With A Band Even The Tee Cap And Elbows Quick amp Simple No Drilling amp Riveting

Featuring

Visit wwwchim-prolinercom for more detailsbull 2000 Industrial Ave bull Sioux Falls SD 57104

1-800-582-1392

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 31

Display Ad Index

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 mheekencsgorg for publication in Sweeping Or mail it to NCSG 2155 Commercial Drive Plainfield IN 46168

Page Advertiser Phone Email or Website Address

30 Ahrens Chimney Technique 800-582-1392 ahrenschimneyqwestofficenet

21-24 Chimney Safety Institute of America 317-837-5362 wwwcsiaorg

14 Cobra Chimney Caps 888-463-0636 salescobrachimneycom

27 Communications Network Inc 800-875-8118 tkempercomnetmessagecom

5 Copperfield 800-247-3305 wwwcopperfieldcom

4 ENERVEX Inc 800-255-2923 infochimneyfanscom

13 Firesafe Industries Inc 800-545-6607 wwwfiresafeinccom

16 Gelco Lyemance Lock-Top 800-334-2154 wwwGLLchimneyproductscom

9 Hose Master 800-221-2319 bobdanielshosemastercom

10 ICP 508-695-7000 wwwchimneycapscom

BC Lifetime Chimney Supply LLC 877-234-7473 wwwlifetimechimneysupplycom

7 Lindemann Chimney Company 800-722-7230 wwwlindemannchimneycom

11 M amp G Duravent 800-835-4429 wwwduraventcom

28 Meyer Machine amp Equipment 800-728-3828 wwwmeyermachinecom

25 National Chimney Supply 800-897-8481 wwwnationalchimneysupplycom

17 Olympia Chimney Supply 800-569-1425 wwwolympiachimneycom

19 Sand Hill Wholesale 800-258-5496 wwwsandhillwholesalecom

6 SaverSystems Inc 800-860-6327 wwwchimneysavercom

3 Smoktite 866-439-0069 wwwsmoktitecom

8 Wakefield Brush 800-264-7007 wwwwakefieldbrushcom

19 Whitecaps 800-335-2534 wwwwhitecapscom

15 Z-Flex 800-654-5600 wwwz-flexcom

The pole and bucket chimney That is how they keep rain and birds out during off season Notice the class A is just an extension of a masonry chimney

Submitted by Kevon Binder of Doctor Flue Inc

September 13-15 2012Lake Murray SCSouth Carolina Chimney Sweep Guildrsquos ldquoThe GatheringrdquoFor more information please contact Blume at (864) 232-9811 or blume357bellsouthnet

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 19 2012 Taunton MAFall Protection User Training Class Including OSHArsquos 2011 ruling on alternate fall protection methods - Sponsored by the Massachusetts Chimney Sweep GuildFor more information please call Jeffrey Wright at (781) 233-2321

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-29 2012CSIA Technology CenterCSIA National Chimney Sweep Training SchoolFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

Dates amp Events

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 8-12 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg October 8-12 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

Please send notice of your events for NCSG Dates amp Events listings at mmcmahonncsgorg for inclusion here in weekly posts to the discussion list and online at wwwNCSGorgdates The event must be considered educational or informative for the industry (sales events and open houses will not be listed)

32 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

ClassifiedsGotta chimney question Sizing Codes Call Royal Edwards Make Royal your tech department CALL NOW 813-982-0219 for on-call tech support Continuing Education special bonus ndash ask how you can get the Friday morning E-Blast for FREE CALL NOW 813-982-0219

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

Chimney Sweep business for sell in the Northern Rocky Mountains of New Mexico Services a large area with three ski resorts in the service area Equipment and signed three year contracts goes with the business Business is well established For pricing and other info please email your questions to ridgeriders1gmailcom

CLASSIFIED ADS FREE FOR NCSG MEMBERSMembers can run one 35 word classified free each year Regularly classified ads are $2word or $1word for NCSG members Classified ads are non-commissionable and must be pre-paid To place a classified ad please contact Megan McMahon at mmcmahonncsgorg or (317) 837-1500

NCSG Innovation 2013 Convention and Trade Show Hotel reservations are now being accepted for NCSG Innovation 2013 at Chateau on the Lake in Branson MO April 4-7 2013 Just call 1-888-333-LAKE (5253) and mention that yoursquore with the National Chimney Sweep Guild to lock in rates starting at $129 for a mountain view and $134 for a lake view

Get ready for some RampR Yoursquore earned it

Order Your FREEAnnual Maintenance Reminder Postcards

A great way to remind homeowners to schedule their annual maintenance check up

Each card has space available for your business information

Use them as reminders for your existing clients or send them to generate new business

To order postcards and other free Burn Wise products contact

Leigh Herringtonherringtonleighepagov

ampKristen Bremer

bremerkristenepagov

wwwepagovburnwise

Follow us on

Wood-Burning Safety

Starts with You

Have you scheduled your

annual inspection

The National Fire Protection Association estimates

that 25 percent of home heating fires are caused

primarily by creosote buildup in the chimney

Make your home healthier and safer A properly

installed and maintained appliance burns more

efficiently and saves you money Contact your local

certified chimney sweep to schedule an annual

inspection today

Before You Burn

The right wayThe right way is hot and bright

In the right applianceThe right appliance is an EPA-approved appliance inspected annually by a certified chimney sweep

Burn the right woodBurn only dry well-seasoned wood that has been split and stored properly

wwwepagovburnwise

wwwcsiaorg

Printed on 100 recycledrecyclable paper with a minimum 50 post-consumer waste using vegetable-based

EPA 456-F-10-004

National Chimney Sweep Guild2155 Commercial DrivePlainfield IN 46168

1208

OR

Page 27: September 2012

26 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

REGION 6

NCSG Charter Members

Paul Bourque Huntsville AL

Don Leavitt San Diego CA

David Harris Broken Arrow Oklahoma

Dan Wheeler Santa Rosa CA

John Cline Menlo Park CA

Dale Meisinger N Augusta SC

Alan Hisey St Louis MO

Eva B Horton Greenwich CT

Harry Richart Hasbrouck Heights NJ

NewNCSGMembers

REGION 3

REGION 2

REGION 5

REGION 4

NCSG REGIONS

REGION 1

Connecticut Vermont Massachusetts New York Maine Rhode Island New Hampshire

REGION 2

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

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

CONNECTICUTChristopher Gonsalves bull Millstream Construction bull HebronDavid Heissenbuttel bull DMH amp Associates Inc bull Wilton

VIRGINAJack Johnston bull Johnstonrsquos Chimney Sweep bull Yorktown

MISSOURIJason Patrick bull Shamrock Qualty Services bull St LouisBill Bonney bull Bonney Bill bull Jackson

KENTUCKYJoshua Moore bull Moore Joshua bull Mt Sterling

ILLINOISJack Lutz bull Lutz Jack bull EurekaClay Nelson bull Clean Sweep bull Collinsville

OHIOAnthony Ramsey bull Elite Chimney Solutions bull Beavercreek

INDIANATravis Beckley bull Beckley Travis bull Coal City

TEXASMatthew Milner bull Milner Matthew bull WhitesboroTony Drew bull AC Contractors dba Fireplaces bull LongviewChristopher A Hess bull Atlas Chimney bull Leander

MINNESOTARenee Gustafson bull John C Gustafson Builder LLC bull Little Falls

COLORADOKent Macintosh bull Russian River Chimney Sweeps bull Healdsburg

CALIFORNIA Errol Davis bull The Chimney Specialist bull Huntington Beach

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 27

The 2012 ndash 2013 offers are being added daily in the ldquoMembers Onlyrdquo section of the NCSG website at wwwNCSGorg So start checking for these new offers each week These coupons will be good until June 30 2013

Copperfield Chimney Supply bull Lindemann Chimney Supply bull Meyer Machine amp Equipment bull National Chimney Supply bull SNEWS - The Chimney Sweep News bull Wakefield Brush bull Wohler USA Inc

2012 ndash 2013 SWEEPS ADVANTAGE COUPON PROGRAM

Featured Coupons of the Month

COPPERFIELD CHIMNEY SUPPLY

SAVE Up to $ 12650 FREE 13 x 13 Lock-Top with an order of $250

SAVE Up to $ 123 One FREE component Kit with any purchase of 6rdquo UltraPro

SAVE Up to $ 52One 225 quart Woodfield porcelain-coated steamer with any Napoleon appliance

purchase

SAVE Up to $ 46 One 13 x 13 HomeSaver Stainless Steel chimney cap with any Order of $250 or more

SAVE Up to $ 64 One EasyClean Cap with any purchase of $250

SAVE UP TO $ 75 $75 off any 25rsquo order of UltraPro Stainless Steel Liner

SAVE UP TO $ 40 $40 off any Flue Stretcher Chimney Cap

SAVE UP TO $ 20 Sign up for a Copperfield Reline Workshop and Save $20

SAVE UP TO FRE FREE 4 foot sample of HomeSaver Ultrapro

WOHLER USA INC SAVE UP TO $ 500$500 rebate with proof of purchase of VIS2000

Pro Camera System

hellip when opportunity calls we answer 1-800-875-8118

wwwcomnetmessagecom

Benefits of Answering Service

Award Winning Telephone Agents

Never Miss A Call

Better Time Management

Appointment Scheduling

Affordable

28 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

Meyer Machine amp Equipment

SUCKINGDUCTS

ampINSULATION

FOR OVER 20 YEARS

As most allergy sufferers will tell you allergy symptoms can always be bothersome turning any time of year into sneezing season A runny nose itchy eyes and scratchy throat can arise as the days get shorter and the leaves begin to change

The fall can be especially difficult for people who are sensitive to mold and ragweed pollen But these seasonal elements arenrsquot the only triggers that can make symptoms worse this time of year There are also a few lesser known triggers Here are four things you might not know about fall allergies courtesy of the American College of Allergy Asthma and Immunology

Hay fever - Hay fever a term from a bygone era actually has nothing to do with hay Instead itrsquos a general term used to describe the symptoms of late summer allergies Ragweed is a common cause of hay fever which is also known as allergic rhinitis The plant usually begins to pollinate in mid-August and may continue to be a problem until a hard freeze depending on where you live See an allergist for prescription medications to control symptoms or to see if allergy shots may be your best option

Lingering warm weather - While most people enjoy Indian summer unseasonably warm temperatures can make rhinitis symptoms last longer Mold spores can also be released when humidity is high or the weather is dry and windy Be sure to begin taking medications before your symptoms start Track your allergy symptoms with MyNasalAllergyJournalorg and visit with your allergist to find relief

Pesky leaves - Some folks might find it difficult to keep up with raking leaves throughout the autumn But for allergy sufferers raking presents its own problem It can stir agitating pollen and mold into the air causing allergy and asthma symptoms Those with allergies should wear an NIOSH-rated N95 mask when raking leaves mowing the lawn and gardening

School allergens - Itrsquos not only seasonal pollen and mold that triggers allergies this time of year Kids are often exposed to classroom irritants and allergy triggers These can include chalk dust and classroom pets Students with food allergies may also be exposed to allergens in the lunch roomKids with exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB) may experience attacks during recess or gym class Help your child understand what can trigger their allergies and asthma and how they can avoid symptoms Be sure to notify teachers and the school nurse of any emergency medications such as quick relief inhalers and epinephrine

No matter the season itrsquos important for those who think they may be suffering from allergies or asthma to see a board-certified allergist An allergist can help you develop a treatment plan which can include both medication and avoidance techniques

Having your allergies properly identified and treated will help you and your family enjoy the season To find an allergist and learn more about allergies and asthma visit wwwAllergyandAsthmaRelieforg

Four Things You Might Not Know About Fall Allergies

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 29

trategic partnerships Sounds fancy but what does it really mean They are called what they are called because there is a true strategy behind them the thought and planning that goes into identifying and development those relationships in a way that will

ultimately help those who are participating to achieve their mission The fact that it is indeed a ldquopartnershiprdquo indicates that everyone involved mutually stands to benefit in some wayhellipItrsquos a win-win

The strategic part of establishing partnerships is analyzing who you are your goals and your current resources and then finding organizations (partners) that will allow you to get the things that you need in order to take your organization to the next level But true partnerships are about what you can bring to each other to help achieve your goals and enhance your resources It is not solely about what you can give me but rather what we can give each other As the great John F Kennedy is well known for encouraging of a world partnership ldquoask not what America will do for you but what together we can do for the freedom of manrdquo

So where does this leave an association like NCSG The key to nonprofits establishing strategic partnerships is having the infrastructure to attract and maintain these relationships In this country there are plenty of nonprofits that are doing great work but there is no organization that will be able to survive if they try

to achieve their mission without establishing partnerships that help provide resources and relationships that allow us to achieve our mission

NCSG is very fortunate to have an impressive array of partners who have for many years some since our inception done just that Our partners have advertised in this magazine exhibited at our conventions contributed to the building and maintaining of our headquarters and the premier industry training facility in Indianapolis discounted thousands of dollars in products and services to our members and have helped us promote the Guild and recruit membership in countless ways not the least of which includes maintaining their own membership in NCSG

Our partners are committed to helping us advance our mission and in turn propel our professional field forward Their partnership supports that programs that ignite your professional and technical development and provide the products and services that have helped you bring your own businesses to life They are integral to the success of this industry and most renew their support of the Guild year after year

Without their support of Sweeping magazine through their advertising we would not have been able to come close to bringing this publication to our members and the industry for the past 35 years (originally The Chimney Sweep Guild News) without significant taxation on the readers Without their support

BY MARK MCSWEENEY CAEEXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Perspective

Support Those Who Support YouldquoOur success has really been based on partnerships from the very beginningrdquo -Bill Gates

S

30 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

of NCSGrsquos annual convention through exhibiting and additional sponsorships registration fees for attendees would easily be double what they are today

When viewing our relationship with exhibitors sponsors advertisers and supplier members as a partnership the question needs to be asked How are we as an association mutually helping them achieve their respective goals

The answer comes back to us having infrastructure to attract and maintain these partnerships And that infrastructure is you the member NCSG cultivates and maintains the relationship with our industry partners on your behalf You are asked to back that up through your support of these partner service providers

Now Irsquom not saying you should buy everything you need at any one place or only through our partners At the end of the day you ultimately need to make your purchasing decisions based on your individual business needs However what would be great to see is our members calling our partners up and giving them a chance to compete for your business Let them know you are a part of NCSG and even if you are not in a position to do business with them this time around let them know you appreciate their continued support of the Guild and the industry Itrsquos one thing to call up to a supplier and ask about a product get a price and hang up Itrsquos another thing to make sure you let them know you saw their ad in Sweeping you read about them

online or you remember they exhibited at the convention so that they know they are getting positive exposure and that their investment in our partnership is not going unnoticed

With that said here are some simple and tangible things things you can do to help the partnership you are a part ofbull Consider our partners each and every time you need to make a

purchasing decision and give them an opportunity to earn your business when you can Look at those who are advertising in Sweeping or see a full listing of NCSG Supplier Members under the Chimney Sweep tab on ncsgorg

bull When you talk to them let them know yoursquore part of NCSG and thank them for their support of your association

bull If you like them even if you canrsquot do business with them currently spread the word and help get their name out there

bull Attend events where our partners have stepped up to sponsor Help show them we value them being there and appreciate their efforts This helps everyone when it comes to working out future programs discounts events and more

We are all in this together Just as you want to ensure you are receiving the return you need on the investments you make our supplier members advertisers exhibitors and sponsors need to justify their own ROI on the variety of support avenues they offer

to NCSG I thought Irsquod take a minute this month to say ldquothank yourdquo to all of you who support us in so many different ways and would like to encourage others to do the same

Until next time I continue to wish you every success

Double Locking CrimpRemains StrongYet Very Flexibl e

With No Memo ry

Strong Triple Locking CrimpHolds T ogether Even OnTough Jobs

Horizontal Sides Of CorrugationOffer Added Strengthamp Flexibility

Manufactured by CHIMNEY TECHNIQUE INC

Chim-Pro Interlock Flex

Chim-Pro Corrugated

Flex

Chim-Pro RigidADDED SAFETY EFFICIENCY AND VALUE

In Which ALL FITTINGS Are Attached With A Band Even The Tee Cap And Elbows Quick amp Simple No Drilling amp Riveting

Featuring

Visit wwwchim-prolinercom for more detailsbull 2000 Industrial Ave bull Sioux Falls SD 57104

1-800-582-1392

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 31

Display Ad Index

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 mheekencsgorg for publication in Sweeping Or mail it to NCSG 2155 Commercial Drive Plainfield IN 46168

Page Advertiser Phone Email or Website Address

30 Ahrens Chimney Technique 800-582-1392 ahrenschimneyqwestofficenet

21-24 Chimney Safety Institute of America 317-837-5362 wwwcsiaorg

14 Cobra Chimney Caps 888-463-0636 salescobrachimneycom

27 Communications Network Inc 800-875-8118 tkempercomnetmessagecom

5 Copperfield 800-247-3305 wwwcopperfieldcom

4 ENERVEX Inc 800-255-2923 infochimneyfanscom

13 Firesafe Industries Inc 800-545-6607 wwwfiresafeinccom

16 Gelco Lyemance Lock-Top 800-334-2154 wwwGLLchimneyproductscom

9 Hose Master 800-221-2319 bobdanielshosemastercom

10 ICP 508-695-7000 wwwchimneycapscom

BC Lifetime Chimney Supply LLC 877-234-7473 wwwlifetimechimneysupplycom

7 Lindemann Chimney Company 800-722-7230 wwwlindemannchimneycom

11 M amp G Duravent 800-835-4429 wwwduraventcom

28 Meyer Machine amp Equipment 800-728-3828 wwwmeyermachinecom

25 National Chimney Supply 800-897-8481 wwwnationalchimneysupplycom

17 Olympia Chimney Supply 800-569-1425 wwwolympiachimneycom

19 Sand Hill Wholesale 800-258-5496 wwwsandhillwholesalecom

6 SaverSystems Inc 800-860-6327 wwwchimneysavercom

3 Smoktite 866-439-0069 wwwsmoktitecom

8 Wakefield Brush 800-264-7007 wwwwakefieldbrushcom

19 Whitecaps 800-335-2534 wwwwhitecapscom

15 Z-Flex 800-654-5600 wwwz-flexcom

The pole and bucket chimney That is how they keep rain and birds out during off season Notice the class A is just an extension of a masonry chimney

Submitted by Kevon Binder of Doctor Flue Inc

September 13-15 2012Lake Murray SCSouth Carolina Chimney Sweep Guildrsquos ldquoThe GatheringrdquoFor more information please contact Blume at (864) 232-9811 or blume357bellsouthnet

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 19 2012 Taunton MAFall Protection User Training Class Including OSHArsquos 2011 ruling on alternate fall protection methods - Sponsored by the Massachusetts Chimney Sweep GuildFor more information please call Jeffrey Wright at (781) 233-2321

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-29 2012CSIA Technology CenterCSIA National Chimney Sweep Training SchoolFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

Dates amp Events

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 8-12 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg October 8-12 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

Please send notice of your events for NCSG Dates amp Events listings at mmcmahonncsgorg for inclusion here in weekly posts to the discussion list and online at wwwNCSGorgdates The event must be considered educational or informative for the industry (sales events and open houses will not be listed)

32 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

ClassifiedsGotta chimney question Sizing Codes Call Royal Edwards Make Royal your tech department CALL NOW 813-982-0219 for on-call tech support Continuing Education special bonus ndash ask how you can get the Friday morning E-Blast for FREE CALL NOW 813-982-0219

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

Chimney Sweep business for sell in the Northern Rocky Mountains of New Mexico Services a large area with three ski resorts in the service area Equipment and signed three year contracts goes with the business Business is well established For pricing and other info please email your questions to ridgeriders1gmailcom

CLASSIFIED ADS FREE FOR NCSG MEMBERSMembers can run one 35 word classified free each year Regularly classified ads are $2word or $1word for NCSG members Classified ads are non-commissionable and must be pre-paid To place a classified ad please contact Megan McMahon at mmcmahonncsgorg or (317) 837-1500

NCSG Innovation 2013 Convention and Trade Show Hotel reservations are now being accepted for NCSG Innovation 2013 at Chateau on the Lake in Branson MO April 4-7 2013 Just call 1-888-333-LAKE (5253) and mention that yoursquore with the National Chimney Sweep Guild to lock in rates starting at $129 for a mountain view and $134 for a lake view

Get ready for some RampR Yoursquore earned it

Order Your FREEAnnual Maintenance Reminder Postcards

A great way to remind homeowners to schedule their annual maintenance check up

Each card has space available for your business information

Use them as reminders for your existing clients or send them to generate new business

To order postcards and other free Burn Wise products contact

Leigh Herringtonherringtonleighepagov

ampKristen Bremer

bremerkristenepagov

wwwepagovburnwise

Follow us on

Wood-Burning Safety

Starts with You

Have you scheduled your

annual inspection

The National Fire Protection Association estimates

that 25 percent of home heating fires are caused

primarily by creosote buildup in the chimney

Make your home healthier and safer A properly

installed and maintained appliance burns more

efficiently and saves you money Contact your local

certified chimney sweep to schedule an annual

inspection today

Before You Burn

The right wayThe right way is hot and bright

In the right applianceThe right appliance is an EPA-approved appliance inspected annually by a certified chimney sweep

Burn the right woodBurn only dry well-seasoned wood that has been split and stored properly

wwwepagovburnwise

wwwcsiaorg

Printed on 100 recycledrecyclable paper with a minimum 50 post-consumer waste using vegetable-based

EPA 456-F-10-004

National Chimney Sweep Guild2155 Commercial DrivePlainfield IN 46168

1208

OR

Page 28: September 2012

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 27

The 2012 ndash 2013 offers are being added daily in the ldquoMembers Onlyrdquo section of the NCSG website at wwwNCSGorg So start checking for these new offers each week These coupons will be good until June 30 2013

Copperfield Chimney Supply bull Lindemann Chimney Supply bull Meyer Machine amp Equipment bull National Chimney Supply bull SNEWS - The Chimney Sweep News bull Wakefield Brush bull Wohler USA Inc

2012 ndash 2013 SWEEPS ADVANTAGE COUPON PROGRAM

Featured Coupons of the Month

COPPERFIELD CHIMNEY SUPPLY

SAVE Up to $ 12650 FREE 13 x 13 Lock-Top with an order of $250

SAVE Up to $ 123 One FREE component Kit with any purchase of 6rdquo UltraPro

SAVE Up to $ 52One 225 quart Woodfield porcelain-coated steamer with any Napoleon appliance

purchase

SAVE Up to $ 46 One 13 x 13 HomeSaver Stainless Steel chimney cap with any Order of $250 or more

SAVE Up to $ 64 One EasyClean Cap with any purchase of $250

SAVE UP TO $ 75 $75 off any 25rsquo order of UltraPro Stainless Steel Liner

SAVE UP TO $ 40 $40 off any Flue Stretcher Chimney Cap

SAVE UP TO $ 20 Sign up for a Copperfield Reline Workshop and Save $20

SAVE UP TO FRE FREE 4 foot sample of HomeSaver Ultrapro

WOHLER USA INC SAVE UP TO $ 500$500 rebate with proof of purchase of VIS2000

Pro Camera System

hellip when opportunity calls we answer 1-800-875-8118

wwwcomnetmessagecom

Benefits of Answering Service

Award Winning Telephone Agents

Never Miss A Call

Better Time Management

Appointment Scheduling

Affordable

28 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

Meyer Machine amp Equipment

SUCKINGDUCTS

ampINSULATION

FOR OVER 20 YEARS

As most allergy sufferers will tell you allergy symptoms can always be bothersome turning any time of year into sneezing season A runny nose itchy eyes and scratchy throat can arise as the days get shorter and the leaves begin to change

The fall can be especially difficult for people who are sensitive to mold and ragweed pollen But these seasonal elements arenrsquot the only triggers that can make symptoms worse this time of year There are also a few lesser known triggers Here are four things you might not know about fall allergies courtesy of the American College of Allergy Asthma and Immunology

Hay fever - Hay fever a term from a bygone era actually has nothing to do with hay Instead itrsquos a general term used to describe the symptoms of late summer allergies Ragweed is a common cause of hay fever which is also known as allergic rhinitis The plant usually begins to pollinate in mid-August and may continue to be a problem until a hard freeze depending on where you live See an allergist for prescription medications to control symptoms or to see if allergy shots may be your best option

Lingering warm weather - While most people enjoy Indian summer unseasonably warm temperatures can make rhinitis symptoms last longer Mold spores can also be released when humidity is high or the weather is dry and windy Be sure to begin taking medications before your symptoms start Track your allergy symptoms with MyNasalAllergyJournalorg and visit with your allergist to find relief

Pesky leaves - Some folks might find it difficult to keep up with raking leaves throughout the autumn But for allergy sufferers raking presents its own problem It can stir agitating pollen and mold into the air causing allergy and asthma symptoms Those with allergies should wear an NIOSH-rated N95 mask when raking leaves mowing the lawn and gardening

School allergens - Itrsquos not only seasonal pollen and mold that triggers allergies this time of year Kids are often exposed to classroom irritants and allergy triggers These can include chalk dust and classroom pets Students with food allergies may also be exposed to allergens in the lunch roomKids with exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB) may experience attacks during recess or gym class Help your child understand what can trigger their allergies and asthma and how they can avoid symptoms Be sure to notify teachers and the school nurse of any emergency medications such as quick relief inhalers and epinephrine

No matter the season itrsquos important for those who think they may be suffering from allergies or asthma to see a board-certified allergist An allergist can help you develop a treatment plan which can include both medication and avoidance techniques

Having your allergies properly identified and treated will help you and your family enjoy the season To find an allergist and learn more about allergies and asthma visit wwwAllergyandAsthmaRelieforg

Four Things You Might Not Know About Fall Allergies

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 29

trategic partnerships Sounds fancy but what does it really mean They are called what they are called because there is a true strategy behind them the thought and planning that goes into identifying and development those relationships in a way that will

ultimately help those who are participating to achieve their mission The fact that it is indeed a ldquopartnershiprdquo indicates that everyone involved mutually stands to benefit in some wayhellipItrsquos a win-win

The strategic part of establishing partnerships is analyzing who you are your goals and your current resources and then finding organizations (partners) that will allow you to get the things that you need in order to take your organization to the next level But true partnerships are about what you can bring to each other to help achieve your goals and enhance your resources It is not solely about what you can give me but rather what we can give each other As the great John F Kennedy is well known for encouraging of a world partnership ldquoask not what America will do for you but what together we can do for the freedom of manrdquo

So where does this leave an association like NCSG The key to nonprofits establishing strategic partnerships is having the infrastructure to attract and maintain these relationships In this country there are plenty of nonprofits that are doing great work but there is no organization that will be able to survive if they try

to achieve their mission without establishing partnerships that help provide resources and relationships that allow us to achieve our mission

NCSG is very fortunate to have an impressive array of partners who have for many years some since our inception done just that Our partners have advertised in this magazine exhibited at our conventions contributed to the building and maintaining of our headquarters and the premier industry training facility in Indianapolis discounted thousands of dollars in products and services to our members and have helped us promote the Guild and recruit membership in countless ways not the least of which includes maintaining their own membership in NCSG

Our partners are committed to helping us advance our mission and in turn propel our professional field forward Their partnership supports that programs that ignite your professional and technical development and provide the products and services that have helped you bring your own businesses to life They are integral to the success of this industry and most renew their support of the Guild year after year

Without their support of Sweeping magazine through their advertising we would not have been able to come close to bringing this publication to our members and the industry for the past 35 years (originally The Chimney Sweep Guild News) without significant taxation on the readers Without their support

BY MARK MCSWEENEY CAEEXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Perspective

Support Those Who Support YouldquoOur success has really been based on partnerships from the very beginningrdquo -Bill Gates

S

30 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

of NCSGrsquos annual convention through exhibiting and additional sponsorships registration fees for attendees would easily be double what they are today

When viewing our relationship with exhibitors sponsors advertisers and supplier members as a partnership the question needs to be asked How are we as an association mutually helping them achieve their respective goals

The answer comes back to us having infrastructure to attract and maintain these partnerships And that infrastructure is you the member NCSG cultivates and maintains the relationship with our industry partners on your behalf You are asked to back that up through your support of these partner service providers

Now Irsquom not saying you should buy everything you need at any one place or only through our partners At the end of the day you ultimately need to make your purchasing decisions based on your individual business needs However what would be great to see is our members calling our partners up and giving them a chance to compete for your business Let them know you are a part of NCSG and even if you are not in a position to do business with them this time around let them know you appreciate their continued support of the Guild and the industry Itrsquos one thing to call up to a supplier and ask about a product get a price and hang up Itrsquos another thing to make sure you let them know you saw their ad in Sweeping you read about them

online or you remember they exhibited at the convention so that they know they are getting positive exposure and that their investment in our partnership is not going unnoticed

With that said here are some simple and tangible things things you can do to help the partnership you are a part ofbull Consider our partners each and every time you need to make a

purchasing decision and give them an opportunity to earn your business when you can Look at those who are advertising in Sweeping or see a full listing of NCSG Supplier Members under the Chimney Sweep tab on ncsgorg

bull When you talk to them let them know yoursquore part of NCSG and thank them for their support of your association

bull If you like them even if you canrsquot do business with them currently spread the word and help get their name out there

bull Attend events where our partners have stepped up to sponsor Help show them we value them being there and appreciate their efforts This helps everyone when it comes to working out future programs discounts events and more

We are all in this together Just as you want to ensure you are receiving the return you need on the investments you make our supplier members advertisers exhibitors and sponsors need to justify their own ROI on the variety of support avenues they offer

to NCSG I thought Irsquod take a minute this month to say ldquothank yourdquo to all of you who support us in so many different ways and would like to encourage others to do the same

Until next time I continue to wish you every success

Double Locking CrimpRemains StrongYet Very Flexibl e

With No Memo ry

Strong Triple Locking CrimpHolds T ogether Even OnTough Jobs

Horizontal Sides Of CorrugationOffer Added Strengthamp Flexibility

Manufactured by CHIMNEY TECHNIQUE INC

Chim-Pro Interlock Flex

Chim-Pro Corrugated

Flex

Chim-Pro RigidADDED SAFETY EFFICIENCY AND VALUE

In Which ALL FITTINGS Are Attached With A Band Even The Tee Cap And Elbows Quick amp Simple No Drilling amp Riveting

Featuring

Visit wwwchim-prolinercom for more detailsbull 2000 Industrial Ave bull Sioux Falls SD 57104

1-800-582-1392

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 31

Display Ad Index

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 mheekencsgorg for publication in Sweeping Or mail it to NCSG 2155 Commercial Drive Plainfield IN 46168

Page Advertiser Phone Email or Website Address

30 Ahrens Chimney Technique 800-582-1392 ahrenschimneyqwestofficenet

21-24 Chimney Safety Institute of America 317-837-5362 wwwcsiaorg

14 Cobra Chimney Caps 888-463-0636 salescobrachimneycom

27 Communications Network Inc 800-875-8118 tkempercomnetmessagecom

5 Copperfield 800-247-3305 wwwcopperfieldcom

4 ENERVEX Inc 800-255-2923 infochimneyfanscom

13 Firesafe Industries Inc 800-545-6607 wwwfiresafeinccom

16 Gelco Lyemance Lock-Top 800-334-2154 wwwGLLchimneyproductscom

9 Hose Master 800-221-2319 bobdanielshosemastercom

10 ICP 508-695-7000 wwwchimneycapscom

BC Lifetime Chimney Supply LLC 877-234-7473 wwwlifetimechimneysupplycom

7 Lindemann Chimney Company 800-722-7230 wwwlindemannchimneycom

11 M amp G Duravent 800-835-4429 wwwduraventcom

28 Meyer Machine amp Equipment 800-728-3828 wwwmeyermachinecom

25 National Chimney Supply 800-897-8481 wwwnationalchimneysupplycom

17 Olympia Chimney Supply 800-569-1425 wwwolympiachimneycom

19 Sand Hill Wholesale 800-258-5496 wwwsandhillwholesalecom

6 SaverSystems Inc 800-860-6327 wwwchimneysavercom

3 Smoktite 866-439-0069 wwwsmoktitecom

8 Wakefield Brush 800-264-7007 wwwwakefieldbrushcom

19 Whitecaps 800-335-2534 wwwwhitecapscom

15 Z-Flex 800-654-5600 wwwz-flexcom

The pole and bucket chimney That is how they keep rain and birds out during off season Notice the class A is just an extension of a masonry chimney

Submitted by Kevon Binder of Doctor Flue Inc

September 13-15 2012Lake Murray SCSouth Carolina Chimney Sweep Guildrsquos ldquoThe GatheringrdquoFor more information please contact Blume at (864) 232-9811 or blume357bellsouthnet

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 19 2012 Taunton MAFall Protection User Training Class Including OSHArsquos 2011 ruling on alternate fall protection methods - Sponsored by the Massachusetts Chimney Sweep GuildFor more information please call Jeffrey Wright at (781) 233-2321

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-29 2012CSIA Technology CenterCSIA National Chimney Sweep Training SchoolFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

Dates amp Events

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 8-12 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg October 8-12 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

Please send notice of your events for NCSG Dates amp Events listings at mmcmahonncsgorg for inclusion here in weekly posts to the discussion list and online at wwwNCSGorgdates The event must be considered educational or informative for the industry (sales events and open houses will not be listed)

32 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

ClassifiedsGotta chimney question Sizing Codes Call Royal Edwards Make Royal your tech department CALL NOW 813-982-0219 for on-call tech support Continuing Education special bonus ndash ask how you can get the Friday morning E-Blast for FREE CALL NOW 813-982-0219

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

Chimney Sweep business for sell in the Northern Rocky Mountains of New Mexico Services a large area with three ski resorts in the service area Equipment and signed three year contracts goes with the business Business is well established For pricing and other info please email your questions to ridgeriders1gmailcom

CLASSIFIED ADS FREE FOR NCSG MEMBERSMembers can run one 35 word classified free each year Regularly classified ads are $2word or $1word for NCSG members Classified ads are non-commissionable and must be pre-paid To place a classified ad please contact Megan McMahon at mmcmahonncsgorg or (317) 837-1500

NCSG Innovation 2013 Convention and Trade Show Hotel reservations are now being accepted for NCSG Innovation 2013 at Chateau on the Lake in Branson MO April 4-7 2013 Just call 1-888-333-LAKE (5253) and mention that yoursquore with the National Chimney Sweep Guild to lock in rates starting at $129 for a mountain view and $134 for a lake view

Get ready for some RampR Yoursquore earned it

Order Your FREEAnnual Maintenance Reminder Postcards

A great way to remind homeowners to schedule their annual maintenance check up

Each card has space available for your business information

Use them as reminders for your existing clients or send them to generate new business

To order postcards and other free Burn Wise products contact

Leigh Herringtonherringtonleighepagov

ampKristen Bremer

bremerkristenepagov

wwwepagovburnwise

Follow us on

Wood-Burning Safety

Starts with You

Have you scheduled your

annual inspection

The National Fire Protection Association estimates

that 25 percent of home heating fires are caused

primarily by creosote buildup in the chimney

Make your home healthier and safer A properly

installed and maintained appliance burns more

efficiently and saves you money Contact your local

certified chimney sweep to schedule an annual

inspection today

Before You Burn

The right wayThe right way is hot and bright

In the right applianceThe right appliance is an EPA-approved appliance inspected annually by a certified chimney sweep

Burn the right woodBurn only dry well-seasoned wood that has been split and stored properly

wwwepagovburnwise

wwwcsiaorg

Printed on 100 recycledrecyclable paper with a minimum 50 post-consumer waste using vegetable-based

EPA 456-F-10-004

National Chimney Sweep Guild2155 Commercial DrivePlainfield IN 46168

1208

OR

Page 29: September 2012

28 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

Meyer Machine amp Equipment

SUCKINGDUCTS

ampINSULATION

FOR OVER 20 YEARS

As most allergy sufferers will tell you allergy symptoms can always be bothersome turning any time of year into sneezing season A runny nose itchy eyes and scratchy throat can arise as the days get shorter and the leaves begin to change

The fall can be especially difficult for people who are sensitive to mold and ragweed pollen But these seasonal elements arenrsquot the only triggers that can make symptoms worse this time of year There are also a few lesser known triggers Here are four things you might not know about fall allergies courtesy of the American College of Allergy Asthma and Immunology

Hay fever - Hay fever a term from a bygone era actually has nothing to do with hay Instead itrsquos a general term used to describe the symptoms of late summer allergies Ragweed is a common cause of hay fever which is also known as allergic rhinitis The plant usually begins to pollinate in mid-August and may continue to be a problem until a hard freeze depending on where you live See an allergist for prescription medications to control symptoms or to see if allergy shots may be your best option

Lingering warm weather - While most people enjoy Indian summer unseasonably warm temperatures can make rhinitis symptoms last longer Mold spores can also be released when humidity is high or the weather is dry and windy Be sure to begin taking medications before your symptoms start Track your allergy symptoms with MyNasalAllergyJournalorg and visit with your allergist to find relief

Pesky leaves - Some folks might find it difficult to keep up with raking leaves throughout the autumn But for allergy sufferers raking presents its own problem It can stir agitating pollen and mold into the air causing allergy and asthma symptoms Those with allergies should wear an NIOSH-rated N95 mask when raking leaves mowing the lawn and gardening

School allergens - Itrsquos not only seasonal pollen and mold that triggers allergies this time of year Kids are often exposed to classroom irritants and allergy triggers These can include chalk dust and classroom pets Students with food allergies may also be exposed to allergens in the lunch roomKids with exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB) may experience attacks during recess or gym class Help your child understand what can trigger their allergies and asthma and how they can avoid symptoms Be sure to notify teachers and the school nurse of any emergency medications such as quick relief inhalers and epinephrine

No matter the season itrsquos important for those who think they may be suffering from allergies or asthma to see a board-certified allergist An allergist can help you develop a treatment plan which can include both medication and avoidance techniques

Having your allergies properly identified and treated will help you and your family enjoy the season To find an allergist and learn more about allergies and asthma visit wwwAllergyandAsthmaRelieforg

Four Things You Might Not Know About Fall Allergies

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 29

trategic partnerships Sounds fancy but what does it really mean They are called what they are called because there is a true strategy behind them the thought and planning that goes into identifying and development those relationships in a way that will

ultimately help those who are participating to achieve their mission The fact that it is indeed a ldquopartnershiprdquo indicates that everyone involved mutually stands to benefit in some wayhellipItrsquos a win-win

The strategic part of establishing partnerships is analyzing who you are your goals and your current resources and then finding organizations (partners) that will allow you to get the things that you need in order to take your organization to the next level But true partnerships are about what you can bring to each other to help achieve your goals and enhance your resources It is not solely about what you can give me but rather what we can give each other As the great John F Kennedy is well known for encouraging of a world partnership ldquoask not what America will do for you but what together we can do for the freedom of manrdquo

So where does this leave an association like NCSG The key to nonprofits establishing strategic partnerships is having the infrastructure to attract and maintain these relationships In this country there are plenty of nonprofits that are doing great work but there is no organization that will be able to survive if they try

to achieve their mission without establishing partnerships that help provide resources and relationships that allow us to achieve our mission

NCSG is very fortunate to have an impressive array of partners who have for many years some since our inception done just that Our partners have advertised in this magazine exhibited at our conventions contributed to the building and maintaining of our headquarters and the premier industry training facility in Indianapolis discounted thousands of dollars in products and services to our members and have helped us promote the Guild and recruit membership in countless ways not the least of which includes maintaining their own membership in NCSG

Our partners are committed to helping us advance our mission and in turn propel our professional field forward Their partnership supports that programs that ignite your professional and technical development and provide the products and services that have helped you bring your own businesses to life They are integral to the success of this industry and most renew their support of the Guild year after year

Without their support of Sweeping magazine through their advertising we would not have been able to come close to bringing this publication to our members and the industry for the past 35 years (originally The Chimney Sweep Guild News) without significant taxation on the readers Without their support

BY MARK MCSWEENEY CAEEXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Perspective

Support Those Who Support YouldquoOur success has really been based on partnerships from the very beginningrdquo -Bill Gates

S

30 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

of NCSGrsquos annual convention through exhibiting and additional sponsorships registration fees for attendees would easily be double what they are today

When viewing our relationship with exhibitors sponsors advertisers and supplier members as a partnership the question needs to be asked How are we as an association mutually helping them achieve their respective goals

The answer comes back to us having infrastructure to attract and maintain these partnerships And that infrastructure is you the member NCSG cultivates and maintains the relationship with our industry partners on your behalf You are asked to back that up through your support of these partner service providers

Now Irsquom not saying you should buy everything you need at any one place or only through our partners At the end of the day you ultimately need to make your purchasing decisions based on your individual business needs However what would be great to see is our members calling our partners up and giving them a chance to compete for your business Let them know you are a part of NCSG and even if you are not in a position to do business with them this time around let them know you appreciate their continued support of the Guild and the industry Itrsquos one thing to call up to a supplier and ask about a product get a price and hang up Itrsquos another thing to make sure you let them know you saw their ad in Sweeping you read about them

online or you remember they exhibited at the convention so that they know they are getting positive exposure and that their investment in our partnership is not going unnoticed

With that said here are some simple and tangible things things you can do to help the partnership you are a part ofbull Consider our partners each and every time you need to make a

purchasing decision and give them an opportunity to earn your business when you can Look at those who are advertising in Sweeping or see a full listing of NCSG Supplier Members under the Chimney Sweep tab on ncsgorg

bull When you talk to them let them know yoursquore part of NCSG and thank them for their support of your association

bull If you like them even if you canrsquot do business with them currently spread the word and help get their name out there

bull Attend events where our partners have stepped up to sponsor Help show them we value them being there and appreciate their efforts This helps everyone when it comes to working out future programs discounts events and more

We are all in this together Just as you want to ensure you are receiving the return you need on the investments you make our supplier members advertisers exhibitors and sponsors need to justify their own ROI on the variety of support avenues they offer

to NCSG I thought Irsquod take a minute this month to say ldquothank yourdquo to all of you who support us in so many different ways and would like to encourage others to do the same

Until next time I continue to wish you every success

Double Locking CrimpRemains StrongYet Very Flexibl e

With No Memo ry

Strong Triple Locking CrimpHolds T ogether Even OnTough Jobs

Horizontal Sides Of CorrugationOffer Added Strengthamp Flexibility

Manufactured by CHIMNEY TECHNIQUE INC

Chim-Pro Interlock Flex

Chim-Pro Corrugated

Flex

Chim-Pro RigidADDED SAFETY EFFICIENCY AND VALUE

In Which ALL FITTINGS Are Attached With A Band Even The Tee Cap And Elbows Quick amp Simple No Drilling amp Riveting

Featuring

Visit wwwchim-prolinercom for more detailsbull 2000 Industrial Ave bull Sioux Falls SD 57104

1-800-582-1392

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 31

Display Ad Index

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 mheekencsgorg for publication in Sweeping Or mail it to NCSG 2155 Commercial Drive Plainfield IN 46168

Page Advertiser Phone Email or Website Address

30 Ahrens Chimney Technique 800-582-1392 ahrenschimneyqwestofficenet

21-24 Chimney Safety Institute of America 317-837-5362 wwwcsiaorg

14 Cobra Chimney Caps 888-463-0636 salescobrachimneycom

27 Communications Network Inc 800-875-8118 tkempercomnetmessagecom

5 Copperfield 800-247-3305 wwwcopperfieldcom

4 ENERVEX Inc 800-255-2923 infochimneyfanscom

13 Firesafe Industries Inc 800-545-6607 wwwfiresafeinccom

16 Gelco Lyemance Lock-Top 800-334-2154 wwwGLLchimneyproductscom

9 Hose Master 800-221-2319 bobdanielshosemastercom

10 ICP 508-695-7000 wwwchimneycapscom

BC Lifetime Chimney Supply LLC 877-234-7473 wwwlifetimechimneysupplycom

7 Lindemann Chimney Company 800-722-7230 wwwlindemannchimneycom

11 M amp G Duravent 800-835-4429 wwwduraventcom

28 Meyer Machine amp Equipment 800-728-3828 wwwmeyermachinecom

25 National Chimney Supply 800-897-8481 wwwnationalchimneysupplycom

17 Olympia Chimney Supply 800-569-1425 wwwolympiachimneycom

19 Sand Hill Wholesale 800-258-5496 wwwsandhillwholesalecom

6 SaverSystems Inc 800-860-6327 wwwchimneysavercom

3 Smoktite 866-439-0069 wwwsmoktitecom

8 Wakefield Brush 800-264-7007 wwwwakefieldbrushcom

19 Whitecaps 800-335-2534 wwwwhitecapscom

15 Z-Flex 800-654-5600 wwwz-flexcom

The pole and bucket chimney That is how they keep rain and birds out during off season Notice the class A is just an extension of a masonry chimney

Submitted by Kevon Binder of Doctor Flue Inc

September 13-15 2012Lake Murray SCSouth Carolina Chimney Sweep Guildrsquos ldquoThe GatheringrdquoFor more information please contact Blume at (864) 232-9811 or blume357bellsouthnet

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 19 2012 Taunton MAFall Protection User Training Class Including OSHArsquos 2011 ruling on alternate fall protection methods - Sponsored by the Massachusetts Chimney Sweep GuildFor more information please call Jeffrey Wright at (781) 233-2321

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-29 2012CSIA Technology CenterCSIA National Chimney Sweep Training SchoolFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

Dates amp Events

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 8-12 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg October 8-12 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

Please send notice of your events for NCSG Dates amp Events listings at mmcmahonncsgorg for inclusion here in weekly posts to the discussion list and online at wwwNCSGorgdates The event must be considered educational or informative for the industry (sales events and open houses will not be listed)

32 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

ClassifiedsGotta chimney question Sizing Codes Call Royal Edwards Make Royal your tech department CALL NOW 813-982-0219 for on-call tech support Continuing Education special bonus ndash ask how you can get the Friday morning E-Blast for FREE CALL NOW 813-982-0219

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

Chimney Sweep business for sell in the Northern Rocky Mountains of New Mexico Services a large area with three ski resorts in the service area Equipment and signed three year contracts goes with the business Business is well established For pricing and other info please email your questions to ridgeriders1gmailcom

CLASSIFIED ADS FREE FOR NCSG MEMBERSMembers can run one 35 word classified free each year Regularly classified ads are $2word or $1word for NCSG members Classified ads are non-commissionable and must be pre-paid To place a classified ad please contact Megan McMahon at mmcmahonncsgorg or (317) 837-1500

NCSG Innovation 2013 Convention and Trade Show Hotel reservations are now being accepted for NCSG Innovation 2013 at Chateau on the Lake in Branson MO April 4-7 2013 Just call 1-888-333-LAKE (5253) and mention that yoursquore with the National Chimney Sweep Guild to lock in rates starting at $129 for a mountain view and $134 for a lake view

Get ready for some RampR Yoursquore earned it

Order Your FREEAnnual Maintenance Reminder Postcards

A great way to remind homeowners to schedule their annual maintenance check up

Each card has space available for your business information

Use them as reminders for your existing clients or send them to generate new business

To order postcards and other free Burn Wise products contact

Leigh Herringtonherringtonleighepagov

ampKristen Bremer

bremerkristenepagov

wwwepagovburnwise

Follow us on

Wood-Burning Safety

Starts with You

Have you scheduled your

annual inspection

The National Fire Protection Association estimates

that 25 percent of home heating fires are caused

primarily by creosote buildup in the chimney

Make your home healthier and safer A properly

installed and maintained appliance burns more

efficiently and saves you money Contact your local

certified chimney sweep to schedule an annual

inspection today

Before You Burn

The right wayThe right way is hot and bright

In the right applianceThe right appliance is an EPA-approved appliance inspected annually by a certified chimney sweep

Burn the right woodBurn only dry well-seasoned wood that has been split and stored properly

wwwepagovburnwise

wwwcsiaorg

Printed on 100 recycledrecyclable paper with a minimum 50 post-consumer waste using vegetable-based

EPA 456-F-10-004

National Chimney Sweep Guild2155 Commercial DrivePlainfield IN 46168

1208

OR

Page 30: September 2012

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 29

trategic partnerships Sounds fancy but what does it really mean They are called what they are called because there is a true strategy behind them the thought and planning that goes into identifying and development those relationships in a way that will

ultimately help those who are participating to achieve their mission The fact that it is indeed a ldquopartnershiprdquo indicates that everyone involved mutually stands to benefit in some wayhellipItrsquos a win-win

The strategic part of establishing partnerships is analyzing who you are your goals and your current resources and then finding organizations (partners) that will allow you to get the things that you need in order to take your organization to the next level But true partnerships are about what you can bring to each other to help achieve your goals and enhance your resources It is not solely about what you can give me but rather what we can give each other As the great John F Kennedy is well known for encouraging of a world partnership ldquoask not what America will do for you but what together we can do for the freedom of manrdquo

So where does this leave an association like NCSG The key to nonprofits establishing strategic partnerships is having the infrastructure to attract and maintain these relationships In this country there are plenty of nonprofits that are doing great work but there is no organization that will be able to survive if they try

to achieve their mission without establishing partnerships that help provide resources and relationships that allow us to achieve our mission

NCSG is very fortunate to have an impressive array of partners who have for many years some since our inception done just that Our partners have advertised in this magazine exhibited at our conventions contributed to the building and maintaining of our headquarters and the premier industry training facility in Indianapolis discounted thousands of dollars in products and services to our members and have helped us promote the Guild and recruit membership in countless ways not the least of which includes maintaining their own membership in NCSG

Our partners are committed to helping us advance our mission and in turn propel our professional field forward Their partnership supports that programs that ignite your professional and technical development and provide the products and services that have helped you bring your own businesses to life They are integral to the success of this industry and most renew their support of the Guild year after year

Without their support of Sweeping magazine through their advertising we would not have been able to come close to bringing this publication to our members and the industry for the past 35 years (originally The Chimney Sweep Guild News) without significant taxation on the readers Without their support

BY MARK MCSWEENEY CAEEXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Perspective

Support Those Who Support YouldquoOur success has really been based on partnerships from the very beginningrdquo -Bill Gates

S

30 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

of NCSGrsquos annual convention through exhibiting and additional sponsorships registration fees for attendees would easily be double what they are today

When viewing our relationship with exhibitors sponsors advertisers and supplier members as a partnership the question needs to be asked How are we as an association mutually helping them achieve their respective goals

The answer comes back to us having infrastructure to attract and maintain these partnerships And that infrastructure is you the member NCSG cultivates and maintains the relationship with our industry partners on your behalf You are asked to back that up through your support of these partner service providers

Now Irsquom not saying you should buy everything you need at any one place or only through our partners At the end of the day you ultimately need to make your purchasing decisions based on your individual business needs However what would be great to see is our members calling our partners up and giving them a chance to compete for your business Let them know you are a part of NCSG and even if you are not in a position to do business with them this time around let them know you appreciate their continued support of the Guild and the industry Itrsquos one thing to call up to a supplier and ask about a product get a price and hang up Itrsquos another thing to make sure you let them know you saw their ad in Sweeping you read about them

online or you remember they exhibited at the convention so that they know they are getting positive exposure and that their investment in our partnership is not going unnoticed

With that said here are some simple and tangible things things you can do to help the partnership you are a part ofbull Consider our partners each and every time you need to make a

purchasing decision and give them an opportunity to earn your business when you can Look at those who are advertising in Sweeping or see a full listing of NCSG Supplier Members under the Chimney Sweep tab on ncsgorg

bull When you talk to them let them know yoursquore part of NCSG and thank them for their support of your association

bull If you like them even if you canrsquot do business with them currently spread the word and help get their name out there

bull Attend events where our partners have stepped up to sponsor Help show them we value them being there and appreciate their efforts This helps everyone when it comes to working out future programs discounts events and more

We are all in this together Just as you want to ensure you are receiving the return you need on the investments you make our supplier members advertisers exhibitors and sponsors need to justify their own ROI on the variety of support avenues they offer

to NCSG I thought Irsquod take a minute this month to say ldquothank yourdquo to all of you who support us in so many different ways and would like to encourage others to do the same

Until next time I continue to wish you every success

Double Locking CrimpRemains StrongYet Very Flexibl e

With No Memo ry

Strong Triple Locking CrimpHolds T ogether Even OnTough Jobs

Horizontal Sides Of CorrugationOffer Added Strengthamp Flexibility

Manufactured by CHIMNEY TECHNIQUE INC

Chim-Pro Interlock Flex

Chim-Pro Corrugated

Flex

Chim-Pro RigidADDED SAFETY EFFICIENCY AND VALUE

In Which ALL FITTINGS Are Attached With A Band Even The Tee Cap And Elbows Quick amp Simple No Drilling amp Riveting

Featuring

Visit wwwchim-prolinercom for more detailsbull 2000 Industrial Ave bull Sioux Falls SD 57104

1-800-582-1392

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 31

Display Ad Index

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 mheekencsgorg for publication in Sweeping Or mail it to NCSG 2155 Commercial Drive Plainfield IN 46168

Page Advertiser Phone Email or Website Address

30 Ahrens Chimney Technique 800-582-1392 ahrenschimneyqwestofficenet

21-24 Chimney Safety Institute of America 317-837-5362 wwwcsiaorg

14 Cobra Chimney Caps 888-463-0636 salescobrachimneycom

27 Communications Network Inc 800-875-8118 tkempercomnetmessagecom

5 Copperfield 800-247-3305 wwwcopperfieldcom

4 ENERVEX Inc 800-255-2923 infochimneyfanscom

13 Firesafe Industries Inc 800-545-6607 wwwfiresafeinccom

16 Gelco Lyemance Lock-Top 800-334-2154 wwwGLLchimneyproductscom

9 Hose Master 800-221-2319 bobdanielshosemastercom

10 ICP 508-695-7000 wwwchimneycapscom

BC Lifetime Chimney Supply LLC 877-234-7473 wwwlifetimechimneysupplycom

7 Lindemann Chimney Company 800-722-7230 wwwlindemannchimneycom

11 M amp G Duravent 800-835-4429 wwwduraventcom

28 Meyer Machine amp Equipment 800-728-3828 wwwmeyermachinecom

25 National Chimney Supply 800-897-8481 wwwnationalchimneysupplycom

17 Olympia Chimney Supply 800-569-1425 wwwolympiachimneycom

19 Sand Hill Wholesale 800-258-5496 wwwsandhillwholesalecom

6 SaverSystems Inc 800-860-6327 wwwchimneysavercom

3 Smoktite 866-439-0069 wwwsmoktitecom

8 Wakefield Brush 800-264-7007 wwwwakefieldbrushcom

19 Whitecaps 800-335-2534 wwwwhitecapscom

15 Z-Flex 800-654-5600 wwwz-flexcom

The pole and bucket chimney That is how they keep rain and birds out during off season Notice the class A is just an extension of a masonry chimney

Submitted by Kevon Binder of Doctor Flue Inc

September 13-15 2012Lake Murray SCSouth Carolina Chimney Sweep Guildrsquos ldquoThe GatheringrdquoFor more information please contact Blume at (864) 232-9811 or blume357bellsouthnet

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 19 2012 Taunton MAFall Protection User Training Class Including OSHArsquos 2011 ruling on alternate fall protection methods - Sponsored by the Massachusetts Chimney Sweep GuildFor more information please call Jeffrey Wright at (781) 233-2321

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-29 2012CSIA Technology CenterCSIA National Chimney Sweep Training SchoolFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

Dates amp Events

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 8-12 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg October 8-12 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

Please send notice of your events for NCSG Dates amp Events listings at mmcmahonncsgorg for inclusion here in weekly posts to the discussion list and online at wwwNCSGorgdates The event must be considered educational or informative for the industry (sales events and open houses will not be listed)

32 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

ClassifiedsGotta chimney question Sizing Codes Call Royal Edwards Make Royal your tech department CALL NOW 813-982-0219 for on-call tech support Continuing Education special bonus ndash ask how you can get the Friday morning E-Blast for FREE CALL NOW 813-982-0219

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

Chimney Sweep business for sell in the Northern Rocky Mountains of New Mexico Services a large area with three ski resorts in the service area Equipment and signed three year contracts goes with the business Business is well established For pricing and other info please email your questions to ridgeriders1gmailcom

CLASSIFIED ADS FREE FOR NCSG MEMBERSMembers can run one 35 word classified free each year Regularly classified ads are $2word or $1word for NCSG members Classified ads are non-commissionable and must be pre-paid To place a classified ad please contact Megan McMahon at mmcmahonncsgorg or (317) 837-1500

NCSG Innovation 2013 Convention and Trade Show Hotel reservations are now being accepted for NCSG Innovation 2013 at Chateau on the Lake in Branson MO April 4-7 2013 Just call 1-888-333-LAKE (5253) and mention that yoursquore with the National Chimney Sweep Guild to lock in rates starting at $129 for a mountain view and $134 for a lake view

Get ready for some RampR Yoursquore earned it

Order Your FREEAnnual Maintenance Reminder Postcards

A great way to remind homeowners to schedule their annual maintenance check up

Each card has space available for your business information

Use them as reminders for your existing clients or send them to generate new business

To order postcards and other free Burn Wise products contact

Leigh Herringtonherringtonleighepagov

ampKristen Bremer

bremerkristenepagov

wwwepagovburnwise

Follow us on

Wood-Burning Safety

Starts with You

Have you scheduled your

annual inspection

The National Fire Protection Association estimates

that 25 percent of home heating fires are caused

primarily by creosote buildup in the chimney

Make your home healthier and safer A properly

installed and maintained appliance burns more

efficiently and saves you money Contact your local

certified chimney sweep to schedule an annual

inspection today

Before You Burn

The right wayThe right way is hot and bright

In the right applianceThe right appliance is an EPA-approved appliance inspected annually by a certified chimney sweep

Burn the right woodBurn only dry well-seasoned wood that has been split and stored properly

wwwepagovburnwise

wwwcsiaorg

Printed on 100 recycledrecyclable paper with a minimum 50 post-consumer waste using vegetable-based

EPA 456-F-10-004

National Chimney Sweep Guild2155 Commercial DrivePlainfield IN 46168

1208

OR

Page 31: September 2012

30 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

of NCSGrsquos annual convention through exhibiting and additional sponsorships registration fees for attendees would easily be double what they are today

When viewing our relationship with exhibitors sponsors advertisers and supplier members as a partnership the question needs to be asked How are we as an association mutually helping them achieve their respective goals

The answer comes back to us having infrastructure to attract and maintain these partnerships And that infrastructure is you the member NCSG cultivates and maintains the relationship with our industry partners on your behalf You are asked to back that up through your support of these partner service providers

Now Irsquom not saying you should buy everything you need at any one place or only through our partners At the end of the day you ultimately need to make your purchasing decisions based on your individual business needs However what would be great to see is our members calling our partners up and giving them a chance to compete for your business Let them know you are a part of NCSG and even if you are not in a position to do business with them this time around let them know you appreciate their continued support of the Guild and the industry Itrsquos one thing to call up to a supplier and ask about a product get a price and hang up Itrsquos another thing to make sure you let them know you saw their ad in Sweeping you read about them

online or you remember they exhibited at the convention so that they know they are getting positive exposure and that their investment in our partnership is not going unnoticed

With that said here are some simple and tangible things things you can do to help the partnership you are a part ofbull Consider our partners each and every time you need to make a

purchasing decision and give them an opportunity to earn your business when you can Look at those who are advertising in Sweeping or see a full listing of NCSG Supplier Members under the Chimney Sweep tab on ncsgorg

bull When you talk to them let them know yoursquore part of NCSG and thank them for their support of your association

bull If you like them even if you canrsquot do business with them currently spread the word and help get their name out there

bull Attend events where our partners have stepped up to sponsor Help show them we value them being there and appreciate their efforts This helps everyone when it comes to working out future programs discounts events and more

We are all in this together Just as you want to ensure you are receiving the return you need on the investments you make our supplier members advertisers exhibitors and sponsors need to justify their own ROI on the variety of support avenues they offer

to NCSG I thought Irsquod take a minute this month to say ldquothank yourdquo to all of you who support us in so many different ways and would like to encourage others to do the same

Until next time I continue to wish you every success

Double Locking CrimpRemains StrongYet Very Flexibl e

With No Memo ry

Strong Triple Locking CrimpHolds T ogether Even OnTough Jobs

Horizontal Sides Of CorrugationOffer Added Strengthamp Flexibility

Manufactured by CHIMNEY TECHNIQUE INC

Chim-Pro Interlock Flex

Chim-Pro Corrugated

Flex

Chim-Pro RigidADDED SAFETY EFFICIENCY AND VALUE

In Which ALL FITTINGS Are Attached With A Band Even The Tee Cap And Elbows Quick amp Simple No Drilling amp Riveting

Featuring

Visit wwwchim-prolinercom for more detailsbull 2000 Industrial Ave bull Sioux Falls SD 57104

1-800-582-1392

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 31

Display Ad Index

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 mheekencsgorg for publication in Sweeping Or mail it to NCSG 2155 Commercial Drive Plainfield IN 46168

Page Advertiser Phone Email or Website Address

30 Ahrens Chimney Technique 800-582-1392 ahrenschimneyqwestofficenet

21-24 Chimney Safety Institute of America 317-837-5362 wwwcsiaorg

14 Cobra Chimney Caps 888-463-0636 salescobrachimneycom

27 Communications Network Inc 800-875-8118 tkempercomnetmessagecom

5 Copperfield 800-247-3305 wwwcopperfieldcom

4 ENERVEX Inc 800-255-2923 infochimneyfanscom

13 Firesafe Industries Inc 800-545-6607 wwwfiresafeinccom

16 Gelco Lyemance Lock-Top 800-334-2154 wwwGLLchimneyproductscom

9 Hose Master 800-221-2319 bobdanielshosemastercom

10 ICP 508-695-7000 wwwchimneycapscom

BC Lifetime Chimney Supply LLC 877-234-7473 wwwlifetimechimneysupplycom

7 Lindemann Chimney Company 800-722-7230 wwwlindemannchimneycom

11 M amp G Duravent 800-835-4429 wwwduraventcom

28 Meyer Machine amp Equipment 800-728-3828 wwwmeyermachinecom

25 National Chimney Supply 800-897-8481 wwwnationalchimneysupplycom

17 Olympia Chimney Supply 800-569-1425 wwwolympiachimneycom

19 Sand Hill Wholesale 800-258-5496 wwwsandhillwholesalecom

6 SaverSystems Inc 800-860-6327 wwwchimneysavercom

3 Smoktite 866-439-0069 wwwsmoktitecom

8 Wakefield Brush 800-264-7007 wwwwakefieldbrushcom

19 Whitecaps 800-335-2534 wwwwhitecapscom

15 Z-Flex 800-654-5600 wwwz-flexcom

The pole and bucket chimney That is how they keep rain and birds out during off season Notice the class A is just an extension of a masonry chimney

Submitted by Kevon Binder of Doctor Flue Inc

September 13-15 2012Lake Murray SCSouth Carolina Chimney Sweep Guildrsquos ldquoThe GatheringrdquoFor more information please contact Blume at (864) 232-9811 or blume357bellsouthnet

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 19 2012 Taunton MAFall Protection User Training Class Including OSHArsquos 2011 ruling on alternate fall protection methods - Sponsored by the Massachusetts Chimney Sweep GuildFor more information please call Jeffrey Wright at (781) 233-2321

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-29 2012CSIA Technology CenterCSIA National Chimney Sweep Training SchoolFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

Dates amp Events

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 8-12 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg October 8-12 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

Please send notice of your events for NCSG Dates amp Events listings at mmcmahonncsgorg for inclusion here in weekly posts to the discussion list and online at wwwNCSGorgdates The event must be considered educational or informative for the industry (sales events and open houses will not be listed)

32 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

ClassifiedsGotta chimney question Sizing Codes Call Royal Edwards Make Royal your tech department CALL NOW 813-982-0219 for on-call tech support Continuing Education special bonus ndash ask how you can get the Friday morning E-Blast for FREE CALL NOW 813-982-0219

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

Chimney Sweep business for sell in the Northern Rocky Mountains of New Mexico Services a large area with three ski resorts in the service area Equipment and signed three year contracts goes with the business Business is well established For pricing and other info please email your questions to ridgeriders1gmailcom

CLASSIFIED ADS FREE FOR NCSG MEMBERSMembers can run one 35 word classified free each year Regularly classified ads are $2word or $1word for NCSG members Classified ads are non-commissionable and must be pre-paid To place a classified ad please contact Megan McMahon at mmcmahonncsgorg or (317) 837-1500

NCSG Innovation 2013 Convention and Trade Show Hotel reservations are now being accepted for NCSG Innovation 2013 at Chateau on the Lake in Branson MO April 4-7 2013 Just call 1-888-333-LAKE (5253) and mention that yoursquore with the National Chimney Sweep Guild to lock in rates starting at $129 for a mountain view and $134 for a lake view

Get ready for some RampR Yoursquore earned it

Order Your FREEAnnual Maintenance Reminder Postcards

A great way to remind homeowners to schedule their annual maintenance check up

Each card has space available for your business information

Use them as reminders for your existing clients or send them to generate new business

To order postcards and other free Burn Wise products contact

Leigh Herringtonherringtonleighepagov

ampKristen Bremer

bremerkristenepagov

wwwepagovburnwise

Follow us on

Wood-Burning Safety

Starts with You

Have you scheduled your

annual inspection

The National Fire Protection Association estimates

that 25 percent of home heating fires are caused

primarily by creosote buildup in the chimney

Make your home healthier and safer A properly

installed and maintained appliance burns more

efficiently and saves you money Contact your local

certified chimney sweep to schedule an annual

inspection today

Before You Burn

The right wayThe right way is hot and bright

In the right applianceThe right appliance is an EPA-approved appliance inspected annually by a certified chimney sweep

Burn the right woodBurn only dry well-seasoned wood that has been split and stored properly

wwwepagovburnwise

wwwcsiaorg

Printed on 100 recycledrecyclable paper with a minimum 50 post-consumer waste using vegetable-based

EPA 456-F-10-004

National Chimney Sweep Guild2155 Commercial DrivePlainfield IN 46168

1208

OR

Page 32: September 2012

SEPTEMBER 12 SWEEPING 31

Display Ad Index

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 mheekencsgorg for publication in Sweeping Or mail it to NCSG 2155 Commercial Drive Plainfield IN 46168

Page Advertiser Phone Email or Website Address

30 Ahrens Chimney Technique 800-582-1392 ahrenschimneyqwestofficenet

21-24 Chimney Safety Institute of America 317-837-5362 wwwcsiaorg

14 Cobra Chimney Caps 888-463-0636 salescobrachimneycom

27 Communications Network Inc 800-875-8118 tkempercomnetmessagecom

5 Copperfield 800-247-3305 wwwcopperfieldcom

4 ENERVEX Inc 800-255-2923 infochimneyfanscom

13 Firesafe Industries Inc 800-545-6607 wwwfiresafeinccom

16 Gelco Lyemance Lock-Top 800-334-2154 wwwGLLchimneyproductscom

9 Hose Master 800-221-2319 bobdanielshosemastercom

10 ICP 508-695-7000 wwwchimneycapscom

BC Lifetime Chimney Supply LLC 877-234-7473 wwwlifetimechimneysupplycom

7 Lindemann Chimney Company 800-722-7230 wwwlindemannchimneycom

11 M amp G Duravent 800-835-4429 wwwduraventcom

28 Meyer Machine amp Equipment 800-728-3828 wwwmeyermachinecom

25 National Chimney Supply 800-897-8481 wwwnationalchimneysupplycom

17 Olympia Chimney Supply 800-569-1425 wwwolympiachimneycom

19 Sand Hill Wholesale 800-258-5496 wwwsandhillwholesalecom

6 SaverSystems Inc 800-860-6327 wwwchimneysavercom

3 Smoktite 866-439-0069 wwwsmoktitecom

8 Wakefield Brush 800-264-7007 wwwwakefieldbrushcom

19 Whitecaps 800-335-2534 wwwwhitecapscom

15 Z-Flex 800-654-5600 wwwz-flexcom

The pole and bucket chimney That is how they keep rain and birds out during off season Notice the class A is just an extension of a masonry chimney

Submitted by Kevon Binder of Doctor Flue Inc

September 13-15 2012Lake Murray SCSouth Carolina Chimney Sweep Guildrsquos ldquoThe GatheringrdquoFor more information please contact Blume at (864) 232-9811 or blume357bellsouthnet

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 19 2012 Taunton MAFall Protection User Training Class Including OSHArsquos 2011 ruling on alternate fall protection methods - Sponsored by the Massachusetts Chimney Sweep GuildFor more information please call Jeffrey Wright at (781) 233-2321

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-29 2012CSIA Technology CenterCSIA National Chimney Sweep Training SchoolFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

Dates amp Events

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 8-12 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg October 8-12 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

Please send notice of your events for NCSG Dates amp Events listings at mmcmahonncsgorg for inclusion here in weekly posts to the discussion list and online at wwwNCSGorgdates The event must be considered educational or informative for the industry (sales events and open houses will not be listed)

32 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

ClassifiedsGotta chimney question Sizing Codes Call Royal Edwards Make Royal your tech department CALL NOW 813-982-0219 for on-call tech support Continuing Education special bonus ndash ask how you can get the Friday morning E-Blast for FREE CALL NOW 813-982-0219

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

Chimney Sweep business for sell in the Northern Rocky Mountains of New Mexico Services a large area with three ski resorts in the service area Equipment and signed three year contracts goes with the business Business is well established For pricing and other info please email your questions to ridgeriders1gmailcom

CLASSIFIED ADS FREE FOR NCSG MEMBERSMembers can run one 35 word classified free each year Regularly classified ads are $2word or $1word for NCSG members Classified ads are non-commissionable and must be pre-paid To place a classified ad please contact Megan McMahon at mmcmahonncsgorg or (317) 837-1500

NCSG Innovation 2013 Convention and Trade Show Hotel reservations are now being accepted for NCSG Innovation 2013 at Chateau on the Lake in Branson MO April 4-7 2013 Just call 1-888-333-LAKE (5253) and mention that yoursquore with the National Chimney Sweep Guild to lock in rates starting at $129 for a mountain view and $134 for a lake view

Get ready for some RampR Yoursquore earned it

Order Your FREEAnnual Maintenance Reminder Postcards

A great way to remind homeowners to schedule their annual maintenance check up

Each card has space available for your business information

Use them as reminders for your existing clients or send them to generate new business

To order postcards and other free Burn Wise products contact

Leigh Herringtonherringtonleighepagov

ampKristen Bremer

bremerkristenepagov

wwwepagovburnwise

Follow us on

Wood-Burning Safety

Starts with You

Have you scheduled your

annual inspection

The National Fire Protection Association estimates

that 25 percent of home heating fires are caused

primarily by creosote buildup in the chimney

Make your home healthier and safer A properly

installed and maintained appliance burns more

efficiently and saves you money Contact your local

certified chimney sweep to schedule an annual

inspection today

Before You Burn

The right wayThe right way is hot and bright

In the right applianceThe right appliance is an EPA-approved appliance inspected annually by a certified chimney sweep

Burn the right woodBurn only dry well-seasoned wood that has been split and stored properly

wwwepagovburnwise

wwwcsiaorg

Printed on 100 recycledrecyclable paper with a minimum 50 post-consumer waste using vegetable-based

EPA 456-F-10-004

National Chimney Sweep Guild2155 Commercial DrivePlainfield IN 46168

1208

OR

Page 33: September 2012

September 13-15 2012Lake Murray SCSouth Carolina Chimney Sweep Guildrsquos ldquoThe GatheringrdquoFor more information please contact Blume at (864) 232-9811 or blume357bellsouthnet

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 17-21 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 19 2012 Taunton MAFall Protection User Training Class Including OSHArsquos 2011 ruling on alternate fall protection methods - Sponsored by the Massachusetts Chimney Sweep GuildFor more information please call Jeffrey Wright at (781) 233-2321

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-28 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

September 24-29 2012CSIA Technology CenterCSIA National Chimney Sweep Training SchoolFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

Dates amp Events

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) Chimney Physics For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) CSIA eLearning For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 1-5 2012CSIA (online) Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

October 8-12 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review For more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg October 8-12 2012CSIA (online) CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician ReviewFor more information please call (317) 837-5362 or visit wwwCSIAorg

Please send notice of your events for NCSG Dates amp Events listings at mmcmahonncsgorg for inclusion here in weekly posts to the discussion list and online at wwwNCSGorgdates The event must be considered educational or informative for the industry (sales events and open houses will not be listed)

32 SWEEPING SEPTEMBER 12

ClassifiedsGotta chimney question Sizing Codes Call Royal Edwards Make Royal your tech department CALL NOW 813-982-0219 for on-call tech support Continuing Education special bonus ndash ask how you can get the Friday morning E-Blast for FREE CALL NOW 813-982-0219

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

Chimney Sweep business for sell in the Northern Rocky Mountains of New Mexico Services a large area with three ski resorts in the service area Equipment and signed three year contracts goes with the business Business is well established For pricing and other info please email your questions to ridgeriders1gmailcom

CLASSIFIED ADS FREE FOR NCSG MEMBERSMembers can run one 35 word classified free each year Regularly classified ads are $2word or $1word for NCSG members Classified ads are non-commissionable and must be pre-paid To place a classified ad please contact Megan McMahon at mmcmahonncsgorg or (317) 837-1500

NCSG Innovation 2013 Convention and Trade Show Hotel reservations are now being accepted for NCSG Innovation 2013 at Chateau on the Lake in Branson MO April 4-7 2013 Just call 1-888-333-LAKE (5253) and mention that yoursquore with the National Chimney Sweep Guild to lock in rates starting at $129 for a mountain view and $134 for a lake view

Get ready for some RampR Yoursquore earned it

Order Your FREEAnnual Maintenance Reminder Postcards

A great way to remind homeowners to schedule their annual maintenance check up

Each card has space available for your business information

Use them as reminders for your existing clients or send them to generate new business

To order postcards and other free Burn Wise products contact

Leigh Herringtonherringtonleighepagov

ampKristen Bremer

bremerkristenepagov

wwwepagovburnwise

Follow us on

Wood-Burning Safety

Starts with You

Have you scheduled your

annual inspection

The National Fire Protection Association estimates

that 25 percent of home heating fires are caused

primarily by creosote buildup in the chimney

Make your home healthier and safer A properly

installed and maintained appliance burns more

efficiently and saves you money Contact your local

certified chimney sweep to schedule an annual

inspection today

Before You Burn

The right wayThe right way is hot and bright

In the right applianceThe right appliance is an EPA-approved appliance inspected annually by a certified chimney sweep

Burn the right woodBurn only dry well-seasoned wood that has been split and stored properly

wwwepagovburnwise

wwwcsiaorg

Printed on 100 recycledrecyclable paper with a minimum 50 post-consumer waste using vegetable-based

EPA 456-F-10-004

National Chimney Sweep Guild2155 Commercial DrivePlainfield IN 46168

1208

OR

Page 34: September 2012

NCSG Innovation 2013 Convention and Trade Show Hotel reservations are now being accepted for NCSG Innovation 2013 at Chateau on the Lake in Branson MO April 4-7 2013 Just call 1-888-333-LAKE (5253) and mention that yoursquore with the National Chimney Sweep Guild to lock in rates starting at $129 for a mountain view and $134 for a lake view

Get ready for some RampR Yoursquore earned it

Order Your FREEAnnual Maintenance Reminder Postcards

A great way to remind homeowners to schedule their annual maintenance check up

Each card has space available for your business information

Use them as reminders for your existing clients or send them to generate new business

To order postcards and other free Burn Wise products contact

Leigh Herringtonherringtonleighepagov

ampKristen Bremer

bremerkristenepagov

wwwepagovburnwise

Follow us on

Wood-Burning Safety

Starts with You

Have you scheduled your

annual inspection

The National Fire Protection Association estimates

that 25 percent of home heating fires are caused

primarily by creosote buildup in the chimney

Make your home healthier and safer A properly

installed and maintained appliance burns more

efficiently and saves you money Contact your local

certified chimney sweep to schedule an annual

inspection today

Before You Burn

The right wayThe right way is hot and bright

In the right applianceThe right appliance is an EPA-approved appliance inspected annually by a certified chimney sweep

Burn the right woodBurn only dry well-seasoned wood that has been split and stored properly

wwwepagovburnwise

wwwcsiaorg

Printed on 100 recycledrecyclable paper with a minimum 50 post-consumer waste using vegetable-based

EPA 456-F-10-004

National Chimney Sweep Guild2155 Commercial DrivePlainfield IN 46168

1208

OR

Page 35: September 2012

National Chimney Sweep Guild2155 Commercial DrivePlainfield IN 46168

1208

OR