Sweeping Magazine - May 2021

Sweeping May 2021 VOLUME 45 #4

The Journal of Chimney and Venting Technology

Virtual Convention Exhibitor Profiles How (+Why) to Use Email Marketing

Meet a Member — Richard Tattershall Coach’s Corner: Don Leavitt

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Virtual Convention Exhibitor Profiles

How (+Why) to Use Email Marketing

Coach's Corner: Don Leavitt

Meet a Member — Richard Tattershall

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Sweeping May 2021 Volume 45 Issue 4

Table of Contents President’s Letter 4 Editor’s Letter 6 Tech Q&A 8 Membership Memo 10 New Members 11 In Case You Missed It 12 New Certifications 13 Date and Events 28 Classifieds 28

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Smoke Chambers and Cast in Place Liner Installation (866) 283-8667 Ext. 706

Factory Built Fireplace Installation and Replacement (866) 283-8667 Ext. 701

Dryer Vents (866) 283-8667 Ext. 707

Gas Appliance Venting, Gas Logs and NFPA 54 (866) 283-8667 Ext. 702 Oil Appliance Venting and NFPA 31 (866) 283-8667 Ext. 703 Chimney Inspection, Documentation and NFPA 211 (Levels of Inspection) (866) 283-8667 Ext. 704

Installation and Venting of Pellet Stoves (866) 283-8667 Ext. 708 IRC and NFPA 211 (Code Questions) (866) 283-8667 Ext. 709 Customer Service and Customer Communication (866) 283-8667 Ext. 710 General Sweeping and Repair (866) 283-8667 Ext. 711

NATIONAL CHIMNEY SWEEP GUILD BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2021-2022

TECHNICAL ADVISORY COUNCIL

Masonry Fireplace Construction and Restoration (866) 283-8667 Ext. 700

Stainless Steel Liner Installation (866) 283-8667 Ext. 705

Be advised that advice given by NCSG’s Technical Advisory Council (TAC) reflects best practices of the chimney sweeping industry. However, we are unable to account for any particular type of situation since regional variations in construction practices and additional environmental, physical and geographical factors necessarily vary the level of service appropriate for a particular fireplace and/or chimney.

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

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STAFF

Resources Easton Kuboushek, MPA Executive Director director@ncsg.org Marshall Peters Education Coordinator contact@rtifiedchimneyprofessional.com Brittney Burton Membership & Outreach Coordinator bburton@ncsg.org

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Vice President, Region 1 Matt Mair matt@blackmoosechimney. com Region 4 Jeff Keefer jeff@chimneycareco.com

Region 6 Jesse Peralta chimcare@hotmail.com At-Large Joe Sauter joe@yourchimneysweep.com Secretary, At-Large Director Steve Scally firesidesweeps@comcast.net

Treasurer, Region 2 Bill Thornton wissahickonvalleysweep@ yahoo.com

At-Large Director (Appointed) Tim Smith certifiedchimneycare@ gmail.com

Region 3 Ron Rust tophatswp@aol.com

Supplier Representative Stuart Karanovich stuartk@saversystems.com

Region 5 Dave Steward copperridgechimney@ gmail.com

COMMITTEE CHAIRS and TASK FORCES 2021 – 2022

To contact any member of the Technical Advisory Council, please call (866) 283-8667 and select the extension for the person who is best qualified to answer your question:

President, At-Large Director (Appointed) Thomas Hunkele topnotchchimney@gmail.com

Bylaws Matt Mair (603) 525-7905 matt@blackmoosechimney.com Convention & Expo: Stuart Karanovich (765) 966-5084 stuartk@saversystems.com Ethics Joe Sauter (317) 243-9687 joe@yourchimneysweep.com Governance Ron Rust (803) 730-5858 tophatswp@aol.com Government Affairs Jeff Keefer 513-248-9600 info@chimneycareco.com

chimcare@hotmail.com NFPA 211 Representative Jim Brewer (757) 523-2400 jbrewer@magic-sweep.com NFPA 31 Representative John Pilger (631) 863-2460 chimneyman@aol.com NFPA 54 Jim Brewer (757) 523-2400 jbrewer@magic-sweep.com Technical Advisory Council Steve Scally (603) 895-8746 firesidesweeps@comcast.net

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

Membership Jesse Peralta (503) 655-2446 DISCLAIMER The views expressed in Sweeping do not necessarily reflect the views of the National Chimney Sweep Guild or its employees.

ADVERTISING RATES for Sweeping: The Journal of Chimney & Venting Technology may be obtained by contacting Malisa Minetree at (317) 815-4688 or sweepingads@me.com Layout and design by David Bruce, Red2 Design Bureau NCSG encourages industry partners to submit press releases and articles to editor David Bruce at red2designbureau@gmail.com. Submissions should contain items of interest or importance to the chimney and venting industry. Submissions should not contain direct solicitations, prices, or a call to action on the part of our readers. Submissions may contain images or artwork attached in a .jpg format.

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

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

Acceptance of advertising by Sweeping magazine does not necessarily constitute endorsement of products or services advertised. NCSG does not make any effort to review or substantiate claims made by advertisers. © 2021 National Chimney Sweep Guild

A New England company serving the nation.

www.NewEnglandChimneySupply.com | 888-900-8106

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Tom Hunkle President

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President’s Letter

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verybody’s journey is different.

I’ve been reading Sweeping for many years and in that time I never imagined that one day I would be leading this great organization let alone writing my first article as president. Back in 2002 I began the process of transitioning out of the Army after serving our country for almost 25 years. As an Army Recruiter for 15 years, making mission and the numbers that were needed to keep our country strong was something I became accustomed to and generally, pretty good at.

Leading other soldiers to that same success was where I found myself as I looked to what my future would hold from my office in the federal building in Des Moines, Iowa.

The answer was easy — I’d become a chimney sweep!

I won’t bore you with all the details. But as you can imagine, after 19 years in business and being my own boss, it was the right choice for me and my family.

Let me first say thank you to our outgoing President for his leadership over the past years and throughout this transition. His leadership and the ability to make hard decisions that came with his position were always made with the best interest of our members and the Guild's long-term sustainability.

So what’s ahead? As we develop new and improved benefits for our members, we also begin the process of redefining what it means to be a certified sweep in today’s marketplace. Education comes in many forms in today’s world from prerecorded online modules, live

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Internet-based training forums and local in-person events. The ability of our members to connect with these training options and through our support of supplier members who are constantly upgrading the educational programs they bring to the chimney sweep industry are key components to the modern sweep's expanding knowledge base. The final results being satisfied customers.

So the future is bright, and the guild is strong and the changes and benefits that your board of directors continue to work on will be forthcoming so watch your email and NCSG discussion board for more details. And we hope to see everybody at both this year’s NCSG Chimney Expo and NCSG Virtual Convention Tom Hunkele NCSG President

ALL FOR YOUR SUCCESS! We’re excited to make your online experience even better!

Many changes are coming to your online experience in 2021 to make ordering with Lindemann online faster, easier and better than ever!

!

N O O S G N I M O C

WHAT TO LOOK FOR • Enjoy the Same Great Support & Special Offers • Improved Navigation & Customer Portal • Real Time Tracking & Product Availability • Tools, Time Savers, & Easy Check Out • Improved Search, Layouts, & Much More!

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ORDER ANYTIME, ANYWHERE, ANY PLACE

LOOK FOR US AT THE NCSG 2021 VIRTUAL CONVENTION JUNE 14-17, 2021 lindemannchimneysupply.com | 866.240.9955

David Bruce

Interim Editor

Editor’s Letter

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in this year’s virtual exhibitors?

Check out the exhibitor profiles are also included in this issue.

If you're reading this, then you've already read Tom's first letter as NCSG President. A column debuting this issue is a listing of sweeps gaining their Certified Chimney Professional, Reliner and Master Chimney Professional credentials.

Also in this month's issue Taylor and Carter of Spark Marketer have advise on how, and importantly why to use email marketing. Steve in Tech Q&A talks about the upcoming Virtual Convention. Interested

Maya Angelou once said, “If you don't know where you've come from, you don't know where you're going.” In this vein, Jerry Isenhour hands over his column to Terri Pocock who pens an article about Don Leavitt and Guild history.

ola, Sweeps!

Summer is around the corner and so is the NCSG Virtual Convention and Chimney Expo.

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Speaking of the Virtual Convention, we are looking for a contributor for the convention recap issue! If you are interested, please reach out at red2designbureau@gmail.com.

ROTARY SWEEP SYSTEMS The Latest Innovations For: Rotary & Manual Chimney Cleaning Dryer Vent Cleaning Air Duct Cleaning

SnapScan Pro Motorized Pan & Tilt Video System

Harness for Hands Free Operation

Footage Counter w/Cable Winder

Item #: SnapScan-P

Fold Down Foot Pad for Easier Cable Winding

• Replaceable Chain w/Hex Weight • Heavier Duty Chain

The new Flynn Grip Rod Guide keeps your hand off the spinning rods to help prevent injuries. Designed & manufactured by long time sweep, Flynn Oconnor.

Item #: FG-RG

The SootBlocker Fireplace Cover measures 5"W x 4'H with removable vinyl window. Also includes a center snout w/cinch straps for rod access and a large 6" snout at the bottom left for your vac hose.

Secure with adjustable props or strong handle magnets to the lintel.

Item #: SBFPC

• New Chisel Point for Clearing Blockages and Dam Ups

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Double breakers combined with the increased impact from the hatchet shape makes these new breakers extremely effective.

Double breakers combined with the increased impact from the hatchet shape makes these new breakers extremely effective.

Item #: TB4x4-DBL

Item #: TB6x4-DBL

New Design, Heavier Duty Construction now with replaceable chain and heavier duty chain links. Chisel at bottom for clearing blockages.

SnapLok® Hex weights proven more effective.

Item #: TB-HH-Pro

“The Next Generation of Sweeping Equipment” Call Today for a Catalog & Price List • (888) 570-5407 • www.snaploksystems.com

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Steven Scally

Technical Q and A

NCSG Convention

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he time for the NCSG convention is almost here, and like you, I will miss seeing everyone in person to catch up and talk shop.

I will miss hearing your stories about this job or that job or the tools you’ve found to save you time and effort, etc. Convention, to me, is a time to learn, re-boot my system, and get started anew. I always leave feeling encouraged and supported by my “brothers and sisters in soot” to make my business even better and stronger.

The convention offers a fantastic opportunity to learn new ideas from some truly great speakers. It is also a time to meet with our suppliers and see and learn about what new products they have come up with to make doing our jobs better, easier, and safer.

The last in person convention the NCSG held was in Virginia Beach. It was very well attended, and many of you said it was a great convention. Last year’s

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convention, which was supposed to be held in Orlando, was canceled about one month or so prior to it happening as COVID-19 took a hold of the country.

The staff and all the speakers involved did a tremendous amount of work to put out an online convention for us. I was so impressed by what they put together in such a short amount of time. This year’s convention will be virtual as well, since we are still dealing with COVID. The staff has had much more time to work on this and pull things together, so I am eagerly looking forward to seeing what they offer at this convention.

The online platform will be a new learning experience for me as well. I am scheduled to teach two classes this year for convention, which I am very excited about. I am looking forward to sharing some things with you that you can use to improve and strengthen your business.

Next year’s convention (2022) is planned

to be in Las Vegas.

Hopefully, COVID will be well behind us, and we can all attend in person to shake hands, hug maybe, have a beer or two together, and simply enjoy the friendships we’ve made in the past…and maybe make some new ones.

I’m look forward to seeing you all soon at this year’s virtual convention!

Brittney Burton Membership and Events Coordinator

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t’s finally here!

It’s time to enjoy all the NCSG Convention & Chimney Expo have to offer.

Not only do you have two NCSG events to enjoy this year with the addition of the Chimney Expo but you also have two ways to enjoy them.

Whether you want to stay close to home to avoid travel expenses or get out there and see everyone’s faces again we have a solution for you.

NCSG Virtual Convention: The NCSG National Convention is being held on a state of the art virtual event platform June 14-17 th , 2021. As an attendee you will receive access

Membership Memo to the platform for the entirety of the event plus an additional 2 weeks to catch up on anything you missed.

Each live session will be recorded and posted for later viewing within 48 hours of the live session. This means that you don’t need to pick and choose your sessions or even drop everything to attend them all live. If you have a conflict on an event day, just watch those sessions later and still receive the CEUs! Speaking of CEUs there are over 28 total CEUs available for CSIA credit and over 23 for NFI credit.

Exhibitors will be available in their booths to answer your questions during Trade Show hours and we will have networking opportunities to catch up with your fellow sweeps between and following the day’s sessions. But the best part? All of this is available without travel

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costs, hotel fees, and you don’t have to clear your entire schedule in order to attend.

get the whole event included for free!

Register at NCSGConvention.org!

You don’t want to miss either of these great opportunities to connect with your fellow sweeps and gain the knowledge to help take your business to the next level! I look forward to seeing you in June!

NCSG Chimney Expo: The NCSG Chimney Expo will be held in King of Prussia, PA June 3-5 th , 2021. If you can’t wait for some in-person learning and connecting with your favorite exhibitors; the wait is over. With over 70 booths, all your favorite suppliers, business service providers, and educators will be under one roof ready to share their best new products and services. Of course there’s also plenty of opportunities to earn CEUs and connect and network with all the great minds in the industry. Plus, if you’re ready to get certified, you can take advantage of the CCP or CCR Certification Classes and Testing and then

Register at ChimneyExpo.com!

New Members

REGION REGION

NEW JERSEY Kick-Ash Chimney Sweeps | Korey Bronson | East Brunswick Ryan & Son Chimney Contractors | William Ryan | Landing

REGION REGION

MASSACHUSETTS Done Right Chimney | Cory McGill | Williamsburg

REGION REGION REGION REGION

REGION REGION

REGION REGION

REGION REGION

1 12 2 2 3 3 3 TENNESSEE Chimney Sweeps | James Alexander | Church Hill

COLORADO Goodrich Chimney | Mathew Goodrich | Golden

IDAHO Boise Chimney Company | Brandon Peterson | Boise

KANSAS Head Chimney Service | Murray Head | Wakarusa

OREGON Crown Chimney Sweep & Repair | Paul Whittle | Seaside

WISCONSIN Fox River Home Improvements | Mark Legawiec | Waukesha Legends Fireplace & Chimney Services | Mike Schikowski | Waukesha

REGION REGION

REGION REGION

REGION REGION

REGION REGION

ILLINOIS Lake County Chimney Sweeps | Peter Phagan | Libertyville

REGION REGION

REGION REGION

REGION REGION

4 4 5 5 56 6 6 WASHINGTON Old Time Chimney Sweeps | Mike Sparks | Selah

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In Case You

Don’t miss out on #NCSG2021!

The Virtual Convention and Trade Show scheduled for June 14 – 17!

With all of the uncertainties surrounding in-person events in 2021, you can be certain that attending the NCSG Virtual Convention and Trade Show will provide you the education and networking you’ve come to expect from NCSG. We’ve designed this year's convention to fit within your schedule — no need to take off a week of work or pay to fly out your entire staff in order to reap all of the rewards of attending a live event. Unlike conventions in the past, you will be able to attend and get CEUs for every session offered at convention... that's nearly double the usual amount!

And with over 70% new speakers and plenty of your favorite vendors, we're sure this convention will be one for the history books!

Bonus: the convention platform will be open for one whole month! Get your CEUs and gain valuable knowledge on your own schedule.

Register today to secure your spot at www.ncsgconvention.org.

Missed

it…

One more thing…NCSG Chimney Expo!

The NCSG Chimney Expo will be held in King of Prussia, PA June 3-5 th , 2021. This, in-person event will have over 70 booths of suppliers, business service providers and educators is free. Also available are classes and testing for CCP and CCR certifications.

Register at www.chimneyexpo.com

HEATSHIELD & MFLEX LINER TRAINING 6 CEU'S

Speakers: Ghayas Salem

Jake Cromwell

Tom Meredith

UPCOMING DATES & LOCATIONS: Monday, May 3rd Anderson's Chimney Sweeps 207 Walnut Alley New Cumberland, PA 17070

Wednesday, May 5th Wissahickon Valley Sweeps 300 Brookside Ave | BLDG 31 Unit B Ambler, PA 19002

more dates coming soon...

TO REGISTER PLEASE CONTACT: CARRIE WILCOX (802) 658-8915 | CWILCOX@NATIONALCHIMNEY.COM

Stuart Karanovich

CLASS TOPICS Learn how to identify if a chimney is a candidate for a HeatShield repair and the evolution and testing of the HeatShield product.

Hands-on mixing/proofing, joint repair and resurfacing Get the latest on the PriorFire Retrofit FIreplace System National Chimney MFlex Liner training

Maine Simon Sandstrom, Gorham

Pennsylvania

®

Connecticut

James Creegan, Milford, PA Jonathan Irwin, Carlisle, PA Robert Smith, III, Collegeville, PA

New Certifications

February – March 2021

Massachusetts

Texas

Ralph Junior Whyte, Danbury, CT

Indiana Tim Anderson, Indianapolis, IN Kirt Daenes, Fort Wayne, IN Dave Leavitt, Methuen, MA

Roland Perez, San Antonio TX Pete Pohlman, Mansfield, TX

®

Colorado Ande Sieker, Littleton

Pennsylvania

®

Colorado Matthew Wilson, Littleton

Florida Joey Collier, Ocala Tyler Aguiar, Ocala Aaron Arters, Jacksonville Laura Wood, Jacksonville Michael Wood, Jacksonville John Palmer, Jacksonville

Joshua Wharton, East Norriton Geoff Tierney, East Norriton Robert MacGregor, East Norriton Jonathan Reigel, East Norriton Francesco Calderone, East Norriton

Florida William Huggins, Middleburg Valerie Hill, Ocala, Emily Brosius, Ocala Joey Collier, Ocala Elizabeth Brosius, Ocala Tyler Aguiar, Ocala Emmit Chadwick, Madbury, NH Aaron Arters, Jacksonville Laura Wood, Jacksonville Michael Wood, Jacksonville John Palmer, Jacksonville

Georgia Benjamin Seabury, Dublin

James Walling, Ware Sean Flynn, Ware Josh Walling, Ware Cassandra Walling, Ware Dan Kummer, Foxboro Jacob Fallow, Foxboro Ken Martin, Foxboro Jace Burger, Foxboro Kevin Conley, West Tisbury Steven Conley, West Tisbury Scott Stidsen, Oakham Brandon Pease, Oakham

Michigan Ross Brown, Marshall

New York Javier Cruz, White Plains Luis Cruz, White Plains Anthony Brownell, Tupper Lake

Texas Nolan Rowley, Amarillo Felipe Perez, San Antonio

Vermont Dana Duquette, Milton Dale Kennison, Milton Justin McKinstry, Milton Scott Gregory, Milton

Georgia

Virginia

Benjamin Seabury, Dublin

Andrew Hodge, Bealeton

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How (+Why) to Use Email Marketing

14 Carter Harkins and Taylor Hill

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t’s no secret: our inboxes are full of junk and many of us mindlessly delete emails to pass time on the throne. But not all business-to-consumer email is unwanted. Not all of it is junk.

Truth is, email marketing is still one of the smartest and most effective marketing tools chimney sweeps and hearth stores can make use of. It’s a great way to build and maintain client relationships, even during the off season, when they aren’t thinking much about you or the products and services you offer.

But that’s only true if you’re getting the content and frequency right.

Let’s see what that looks like…

Getting Content & Frequency Right You know those people in your life who only

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reach out to you when they want something?

The moment you get that ‘Hey, how are you doing?” call, text, or email from them, you know they don’t really care how you’re doing.

They’re just buttering you up before the ask.

Well, a lot of businesses are guilty of doing the same thing with their clients. They email when they have something to sell or push — when they have a need — and then they go silent for months on end.

That’s not the right way to use email marketing.

Email marketing is for building relationships — and as you know, relationships are a two-way street. The good ones aren’t one-sided or all about taking.

So think about how you can involve and engage your clients in your emails. Think about how you can make the relationship feel like a two-way street, a give and take.

Ask them questions.

Make sure email responses go to an email address that’s routinely monitored.

And don’t just send an email when you want them to buy something.

Here are some content ideas to get you started: Newsletters that include company updates, like new team members, work anniversaries, new company pets (people LOVE furry friends), and new blog posts that clients may find interesting or informational Seasonal promotions and special offers VIP programs/forward scheduling perks New service announcements Follow ups on service Updates on local codes and standards that may affect or be of interest to clients New product offerings and updates Events and community involvement Holiday greetings and well-wishes

Feedback and review requests

But that’s not the only benefit…

Surveys

Another perk to communicating with your clients via email throughout the year is that you stay on their minds, even when they’re not thinking of your service. Which means you’re more likely to get clients to forward schedule routine maintenance prior to the busy season. And that, of course, opens up your busy season for new customers.

But it’s not just about what you send in your emails. It’s also about how often you’re reaching out. You don’t want to overwhelm your clients with multiple emails a day, but you don’t want to ghost them either.

Every business needs to find a good balance.

For some businesses, a weekly email makes sense. For others, monthly or quarterly emails makes sense.

Give it some thought and choose a frequency you can maintain.

Then stick with it.

Create a cadence so customers know when they can expect an email from you.

And always, always deliver value. If you find yourself sending emails just because it’s ‘that time,’ rethink your frequency. You’re better off sending less frequently if it means delivering more valuable emails to clients.

Two Bonus Benefits to Email Marketing Yes, the main point of email marketing is to build and maintain relationships with existing clients.

Another benefit to yearround communication is that it overcomes our tendency to forget.

We tend to forget not just that we need to schedule a service every year — but also who we need to schedule it with.

You may try your best to be memorable, but everybody has a million things on their minds.

If they can’t remember who they scheduled their chimney sweep with last year because you haven’t been in touch since, they’re going to go to Google.

And the moment they hit ‘search’, a world of other options opens up to them.

exactly who to reach out to and when and how to do it. Email marketing can help.

So rethink how, when, and why you’re sending emails. If you do email marketing right, you can engage customers, showcase your brand, build trust, learn how to improve your business, increase repeat customers, and fill out your schedule.

And that’s what winning looks like.

Carter Harkins and Taylor Hill are the co-founders of Spark Marketer, a Nashville, Tennessee-based digital marketing company that works primarily with home services businesses. They're also co-authors of the book, Blue Collar Proud: 10 Principles for Building a Kickass Business You Love. Both regularly speak at service industry trade shows and conferences across the nation. Visit www. sparkmarker.com or www. facebook.com/sparkmarketer.

You don’t want them to go to Google. You want them to know

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Exhibitor Profiles Sponsors highlighted in red

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Blaze King Industries, Inc.

146 A Street Walla Walla, WA 99362 800-456-8818 www.blazeking.com cneufeld@blazeking.com Blaze King has manufactured the cleanest burning, most efficient wood stoves and inserts since 1984. In fact, Blaze King is the only manufacturer with 100% of wood stoves and inserts that qualify for the 25D Tax Credit.

With a line of wood and gas stoves and inserts, Blaze King has the perfect hater for your next project. With manufacturing facilities in both the USA and Canada, we are prepared to address your product needs. We have special program and pricing just for sweeps. Contact us for more details.

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ChimSpect Software

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4734 Middlebranch Ave, Canton, OH 44705 888-468-1156 www.ChimSpect.com Jim@chimspect.com ChimSpect is dedicated to saving you time, increasing your profits and reducing liability with detailed chimney inspections and report writing. The ChimSpect app and software are designed to create detailed chimney inspection reports in record time using all the information required by NFPA 211 and record any other information your company wants included. Print or email your report with all your pictures, findings, conclusions and your customers’ signature from Apple or Android devices. ChimSpect is co-owned by a veteran software developer, Bill Ferguson, with over 40 years’

experience. Bill is a Certified Chimney Inspector, F.I.R.E. The company’s other co-owners are Jim and Becky Ferguson, owners of Ferguson’s Fireside Chimney Cleaning Inc started 1982. F.I.R.E, CSIA, CCP Master Chimney Technician

CVC Success Group

1715 Colfax Dr. SE Concord NC 28025 704-425-0217 www.cvcsuccessgroup.com info@cvcsucessgroup.com CVC Success Group provides business coaching, training, and consulting for chimney and venting industry. In addition to our consulting and coaching, the CVC Virtual Academy has the distinction of being the preferred provider of online training and education for the NCSG. We have been providing a full range of industry support services since 2010. The CVC Success Group consist of a team of coaches and industry expert trainers who can help you with any industry or business specific need that you may have.

Check out our monthly articles in Sweeping Magazine, our weekly podcast The Fireplace Success Network and our regularly posted live Facebook posts. We offer educational presentations; technical support services and our network of experts brings you access to the leading support staff that works to maintain our mission of ‘Turning Your Business Dreams Into Your Business Realities’. If you are ready to move to the level you have been dreaming of, let’s talk! We look forward to the opportunity to help you live your business dreams.

ENERVEX, Inc

1685 Bluegrass Lakes Parkway 770-587-3238 www.enervex.com johna@enervex.com ENERVEX is a world-leading supplier of mechanical draft systems and integrated venting design solutions.

Products include ENERVEX Controls, ENERVEX Dampers, RS Chimney Fan, RSHT Chimney Fan, and IntelliDraft. The ENERVEX Chimney Fan System is the Guaranteed Solution To Smoking Fireplaces.

Imperial Mfg. Group

1450 Discovery Parkway, Alton, IL 62002 618-465-3133 ext. 23027 www.imperialgroup.ca rick.larkin@imperialgroup.ca Manufacturer of Black Stove Pipe & Fittings, Galvanized Furnace Pipe & Fittings, UL Stove Boards, Chimney Brushes, Chimney Caps, Stove & Fireplace Maintenance / Cleaning Products, Bath & Dryer Venting Products and Insulated Flex Duct. We have a 270,000 sq. ft. manufacturing and distribution facility located in Alton, IL (St. Louis Area) and 6 other manufacturing facilities throughout Canada.

Insurance Canopy (a division of Veracity

Insurance Solutions) 260 S. 2500 W. Suite 303 Pleasant Grove, UT 84062 888-600-0894 www.insurancecanopy.com chris@insurancecanopy.com Insurance Canopy is a division of Veracity Insurance that provides coverage direct to consumer. We have been working with the NSCG for over 20 years providing coverage options to their members. Canopy insures thousands of small to large businesses across the country. By curating insurance programs tailored to the needs of your industries, we’re dedicated to the success of entrepreneurs and businesses.

Lindemann Chimney Supply

86 Albretch Drive, Lake Bluff IL 60044 800-722-7230 LindemannChimneySupply.com Erin@Lindemannchimney.com "We measure our success by the impact we have on the world.” That’s our mission. The vehicle is a wholesale distribution company that delivers supplies and tools to the chimney service industry. We are nowhere close to success if all we do is get you what you need, when you need it, and make a few bucks. We're about building relationships with our customers forged out of trust and mutual respect. We partner with businesses, learn how they operate, and listen to how we can help. We've help launch hundreds of sweep companies and work with the industry's top professionals. We are on a mission to help sweep companies around the country reach their full potential. If you are serious about your profession and share similar values as us, we'd love to partner with you.

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Market Hardware, Inc.

4800 Montgomery Lane Suite 750, Bethesda, MD 20814 888-381-6925 www.markethardware.com NCSG@markethardware.com For nearly 17 years, we've been the leading provider of custom Websites and Internet marketing services in the chimney cleaning industry. By focusing on chimney sweeps, we've gained unique and invaluable 'insider' intelligence. Expertise we've sharpened through our partnership with NCSG and various major industry suppliers. So, when it comes to Websites, SEO, Social Media and more, we know what works, what doesn't and why. Which is also why we're recommended to advise members just like you. You've probably seen us speak at conferences, read our articles or attended one of our quarterly Webinars. We're set up to help you rule your local market and keep you a dominant player yearin, year-out.

My Fireplace Products

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2818 Laurier Boulevard, T4, #1805, Québec, QC, Canada 855-294-0714 www.myfireplaceproducts.com info@myfireplaceproducts.com More than an online store, MyFireplaceProducts.com is the perfect reference when it comes to purchasing a replacement part or accessory for your customer’s heating appliance. Our web platform offers several models of wood and pellet stoves of major brands, all made in North America. Finding the right accessory or replacement part can be a challenging task, however, the simplicity and support behind our web platform allows it to be done quickly and easily. Find the right part for you from our most complete inventory in the industry, with world-class brands at the best price. Enjoy up to 27.5% discount off our web prices, year-round, and get fast and free delivery to most areas in Canada and the United States, only on MyFireplaceProducts.com

National Chimney

2147C Fletcher Avenue, Indianapolis, IN 46203 800-897-8481 www.nationalchimney.com gsalem@nationalchimney.com National Chimney was founded in 1992. The goal of National Chimney is to provide the highest level of support to chimney professionals. They focus on building a large selection of high-quality, U.S. made products, while providing reliable tech support and creating a

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superior customer support team. National Chimney remains the premier manufacturer of stainless steel liner and components. It continues to develop efficient manufacturing processes, innovative products, and locally-based distribution centers across the country.

National Fireplace Institute

1901 N. Moore St. Suite 600 Arlington, VA 22209 703-524-8030 www.nficertified.org info@nficertified.org The National Fireplace Institute is the certification organization for hearth appliance sales, installation and service personnel. The Hearth Design Specialist is specifically directed to the sales/support staff.

There are certifications for installers and service personnel in Woodburning, Gas and Pellet appliances.

NFI Certification is recommended by over 120 hearth industry manufacturers. Reference manuals are available for each certification. NFI exams are offered at many industry events.

New England Chimney Supply

34 Commerce Street, Williston, VT 05495 866-513-2378 www.NewEnglandChimneySupply.com ps@nesbestflex.com New England Chimney Supply is a manufacturer and distributor of chimney venting systems and supplies.

We service from Maine to Virginia on our own fleet of delivery trucks. We service the rest of the country via FedEx Ground and LTL. We’re driven day to day by our core values, Honesty & Integrity, Pride in our Company and Products, Self-improvement and Growth Orientated, Committed and Hard Working, and Excellence in Service.

Long story short, "We Do What We Say We Will" and always strive to make sure you have the supplies you need, when you need them.

Regency Fireplace Products

1710 Afton Road Sycamore, IL 60178 | (815) 756-3110 fax: (815) 756-3130 krutherford@regency-fire.com www.regency-fire.com Proudly made in North America, Regency Fireplace Products has proven to be a world leader in the design, manufacture and marketing of hearth products. We use

only the finest materials in our manufacturing facilities; taking pride in building a reliable and quality line of Wood, Gas and Pellet products. Regency Wood Stoves and Inserts have been certified by the Environmental Protection Agency. Our engineers have carefully designed the firebox to create airflow around the wood so that it burns completely, resulting in very little ash and next to no polluting smoke into our environment.

Our state of the art facility spans over 240,000 square feet and is constantly being upgraded with the latest in manufacturing technology. Regency Fireplace Products line is sold through a carefully selected network of over 2000 professionally trained specialty fireplace retailers.

SaverSystems

800 S. 7th St. Richmond, IN 47374 800-860-6327 www.saversystems.com customerservice@saversystems.com New Products for 2021- PriorFire Fireplace Retrofit System, PriorFire Formula 51 for Smoke Chamber Repair (both UL Listed Zero Clearance), and HeatShield Fireplace Mortar. SaverSystems has manufactured chimney repair and maintenance products since 1987.

Their ChimneySaver Water Repellent is the industry standard for eliminating water penetration in chimneys.

CrownCoat, CrownSeal, and FlashSeal offer long-term, cost-effective solutions for repairing damaged crowns and flashings. ACS and Cre-Away, the industry’s leading creosote modifiers, assist in the removal of glazed creosote. SaverSystems also manufactures the HeatShield family of products, Cerfractory Foam (smoke chamber repair); Cerfractory Flue Sealant (flue liner repair); and Poultice Creosote Remover (PCR), the most effective and non-destructive solution for removing 3rd degree glazed creosote. Check out their free videos and support materials on the websites to learn how to correctly apply these problem-solving products and to help you increase your sales.

ServiceTitan

801 N. Brand Blvd. Suite # 700 Glendale, CA 91203 855-899-0970 www.servicetitan.com hello@servicetitan.com ServiceTitan is the world’s leading and fastestgrowing software technology platform for the trades, a trillion-dollar global industry. We help small business entrepreneurs run and grow their businesses. The trades industry approaches $800B in North America alone and was significantly underserved by traditional

software industry leaders prior to ServiceTitan’s entrance to the market. Today, ServiceTitan powers the businesses of more than 100K tradespeople, is backed by the world’s leading venture capitalists, and continues to target triple-digit growth annually. ServiceTitan unlocks for small business, the tools and support that big business has enjoyed for decades; helping everyday entrepreneurs run and grow their businesses so they can build better lives for themselves and their families.

Skytech Control Systems

9230 Conservation Way, Fort Wayne, IN. 46809 260-459-1703 www.skytechpg.com kparker@skytechpg.com Skytech has been a recognized leader in fireplace remote systems for more than 20 years and is synonymous with bold innovations, rock solid reliability and unrivaled customer support. That's why, when the hearth industry needs something done right the first time, they look no further than the experts at Skytech.

SnapLok Systems, LLC

24 Tobey Rd. 888-570-5407 www.snaploksystems.com dave@snaplocksystems.com SnapLok® is the next generation of power sweeping technology with several patents pending. Our mission is to provide state-of-the-art technology at an affordable price. The SnapLok® Power Sweep System uses our patented Dual Button - Push Lock connection. This design makes the connection extremely strong and allows the rods to be connected faster and easier than any other rod system on the market with a slight twist of the rod to lock the buttons into place. We offer Free Shipping on all orders placed direct and all our equipment comes with a one year, hassle free warranty.

Join the thousands of sweeps worldwide that have switched to SnapLok, now the world’s No. 1 choice for sweeping equipment.

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Spark Marketer

604 Gallatin Ave, Suite 113, Nashville, TN 37206 855-646-3538 www.sparkmarketer.com sales@sparkmarketer.com Spark Marketer is the full-service, “no bull” marketing partner for chimney pros. Web design, SEO, Google & Facebook Ads, social media management, review management, email marketing, content creation, blogs, you know, all the stuff every marketing agency does?

We do all that, too. And we’ve done it all for 100+ chimney companies across the nation. It’s not what we do that makes us different — it’s how we do it and the results we get for our clients. We bring focused digital marketing and balls-to-the-wall dedication that gets businesses seen. So our clients have more recordbreaking years and the predictability and peace of mind they deserve from their marketing.

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SureFire Training Academy

3302 Reed Road Clarklake, MI 49234 833-444-4787 www.surefire.academy info@surefire.online The SureFire Training Academy is the first and most comprehensive online chimney training platform on the market. This on demand style of training allows you and your technicians to train 24/7 at the time(s) most convenient for them on a variety of topics from technical, safety, customer service, marketing, business and sales.

Whether it’s from a computer or your favorite mobile device, you will be plugged into hundreds of hours of content from the brains of over 20 industry leaders.

SureFire is also the official online training partner of the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) so you can earn your Continuing Education Units (CEUs) as well as take the official CSIA review required to get certified.

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Jerry Isenhour

Coach’s Corner Don Leavitt: Industry Pioneer and Icon

by Jerry Isenhour with Terri Pocock

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This month I have turned over the writing of my monthly column to National Chimney Sweep Guild (NCSG) Member Terri Pocock of Swede Chimney Sweep in San Diego, California. In an effort to share more about the formative years of the NCSG Terri interviewed industry legend and icon Don Leavitt at his home in San Diego for this article. Hopefully, this will help illuminate for you how the volunteer efforts of Don, and others like him, were instrumental in the formative years of the NCSG and the CSIA. According to Spanish American philosopher George Santayana, “To know your future, you must know your past.”

There have been many forward-thinking men and women in the history of the chimney trade who came

together and created our industry into what we know today. One of the most prominent legends is Don Leavitt, a chimney sweep from San Diego, California.

Don did not start out as a chimney sweep, far from it, instead starting out his career in the military. Don’s military service spanned more than 25 years, serving in both the Vietnam and the Korean Wars as a medical corpsman.

His nickname in the military was “Doc.” Through his military career, he received the Silver Star, the Navy and Marine Corps Medal (the highest non-combat medal awarded), as well as the Purple Heart.

After retiring from the military at age 42, Don, like many before him, spotted an August West chimney sweep ad in a firefighter’s magazine while waiting for a job interview for a hospital administrative desk

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job. He contacted Tom Risch at August West who convinced him to spend $1300 for the entire chimney sweep kit. The package of equipment arrived on his doorstep in several boxes and included a 55-gallon drum for the vacuum. The only training material consisted of a thin 36-page booklet of mimeographed pages with the advice to clean a few chimneys for free to gain experience.

After assembling all the equipment, he swept a few of his neighbors’ chimneys, taking 3-4 hours per chimney to figure it all out. After those

free jobs, he launched his chimney sweeping business in 1979, charging customers just $35 for a service.

In 1980, Don attended an NCSG gathering in Seattle where there were about 75-80 people in attendance.

At that time, Don represented one of the few West Coast chimney sweeping companies. The focus of this gathering was on chimney safety and the dangers of glazed creosote. At this convention, it was decided to have annual meetings. To generate income for the newly created Guild, charter members kicked in

money. Don was one of those charter members.

Prior to this Seattle gathering, there was an NCSG certification program created which consisted of just a few basic questions and was good for five years. They quickly recognized that the test needed to be much more comprehensive.

The new certification manual and test were developed by the members of the NCSG Technical Committee which included Don as well as Mary Anne Beaufait (chair of the committee), Dave

Johnston, Ashley Eldridge, Pete Luter, Jim Brewer, Terry Dearborn, Jack Pixley and Royal Edwards.

Each person on the technical committee was responsible for writing a chapter in the first edition of the “Successful Chimney Sweeping” manual, published in 1986. At that point, a 100-question test was created with an 80% pass rate. This was a closed-book test, designed to test the knowledge of the manual as well as the NFPA-211 Standard.

Don initiated the program for Continuing Education Units (CEUs) based on his earlier medical experience he had from the military where doctors and nurses had to continue their education to maintain their medical licenses. He felt that taking the same certification test every three years was not necessarily the best method to maintain the certification. With CEU’s, it meant that chimney sweeps would benefit by learning new information instead of relearning the same information

over and over.

In the early 1980s, Dave Lamb started a magazine called “Chimney Sweep News.” In that magazine, there was a notice about a gathering of chimney sweeps at the University of San Francisco to do training on fire safety.

At about the same time, Don joined efforts with other California chimney sweeps to gather at the Chimney Sweep Inn in Solvang, California, a quaint Danish town near Santa Barbara. At the end of this gathering, about a hundred chimney

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sweeps participated in a parade through the town in their chimney sweep uniforms. This was the beginning of the Golden State Chimney Sweep Guild in California.

The Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) was created in 1983 for tax reasons to establish a taxexempt organization but was not fully put into effect until 1992

by NCSG President Jim Brewer. At that point, the certification program and other programs were moved from NCSG to CSIA. The headquarters of

the NCSG went through several moves going from Merrimack, New Hampshire to Olney, Maryland, then to Gaithersburg Maryland and eventually relocated to Indianapolis. This city was chosen to make it centrally located to many of the chimney sweeps in America.

In the late 1990's, the property and building were purchased and NCSG and CSIA shared the office space. NCSG rented office space from CSIA and split the cost of the salaries for the personnel.

Not everyone in these

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early days agreed on the direction of our industry. The oftentold joke was that they needed to have only plastic cups at the board meetings because of some of the heated discussions, and water glasses were at times thrown across the board table.

Don stated that new chimney sweeps to our industry may be trained in the state-ofthe-art technology and equipment but may not be aware of the old traditions. He admitted that new equipment is superior to what he started with in his early

days. “Unfortunately, the reality is that they have taken away the history and mystique of what the chimney sweep was all about.”

What Don Leavitt is most widely known for is his willingness to train anybody and everybody who came to him, even including his own local competition.

He spent his own time and money to travel all over the country to train chimney sweeps.

Don did this because of what he was taught during his earlier military career– to train his replacement.

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sweep industry, he felt it was critical to do the same. He always made himself available to whoever approached him.

In 1984, the President of the National Chimney Sweep Guild, Harry Richart awarded Don with the first NCSG President’s award. The award was a one-ofa-kind, hand-carved chimney sweep from Obberammergau, Germany. Don was humbled and proud and to this day, it is a treasured award.

When Jerry Isenhour was president of the NCSG and CSIA, he

established the Don Leavitt Education Award that is awarded every year at each NCSG convention and awarded Don as the first recipient of the award.

the efforts of these exceptional men and women from the past who started out with a vision as we continue to move our industry into the future.

The chimney industry has had many outstanding people who devoted their tireless energy to promoting the trade to what it is today.

Not everyone agreed in the direction of our industry and sometimes the discussion would become heated, but for the most part, there was great respect granted to those who had a passion for our trade. We now are all benefitting from

We all should recognize, and never forget, the pioneers to the industry like Don who have made today's chimney service industry a truly thriving and important service to the consumers of America.

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  

 

 

        

 

   

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Richard Meet Tattershall

a Member

Meet Richard Tattershall of C&C Chimney/Air Services in Skiatook, Oklahoma What is a question you get asked most about being a chimney sweep/chimney sweeping/the industry? What is your answer?

How much does it cost to sweep my chimney?

Really, they always ask this.

How did you get started in the industry?

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I started with a company out of Tulsa in 2002 and worked there for approx. 5 years and prayed about starting my own business and pulled the trigger in 2006. I've been sweeping ever since and love every minute of it.

What advice do you wish you had received when you were getting started?

I would say to hire slow and fire fast and as always what Jerry Isenhour continually says is you should listen to your wife more; she's one smart cookie. Also to read more great leadership books and put them to use. A great Zig Ziglar quote "If you continue to aim at nothing you will hit it every time.”

What is the biggest challenge you face on the job? What are your best strategies for overcoming it?

I would say communication. It tends to develop a lot of waste on the job that in the end creates a loss in revenue. The best strategies is developing SOPs and having amazing Mentors and Coaches from CVC to keep me on track.

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Who was your most famous customer?

I would say Howard Twilley he was an All American Wide Receiver at Tulsa University. He also played in the NFL for the Miami Dolphins on the only undefeated team in 1972 that was a perfect 14-0 and won the Super Bowl. I didn't know who he was until they showed us he's upstairs memorabilia room with the football from the game with everyone's signature that played on it.

Have you ever attended NCSG Annual Convention & Trade Show? If so, what was your favorite takeaway?

I've attended almost every year since my first one in 2006 in Louisville, Kentucky. I love attending them and catching up with everyone. My favorite takeaway? I have a few, one was when our keynote speaker Story Musgrave, the astronaut, spoke he was such a inspiration to me. The other would be Larry Winget as they say he's the pitbull of personal development and since he went to the same high school I did and grew up not far from me.

What is your proudest accomplishment?

What do you like to do outside of work?

I would say my girls I love them so much wouldn't be here without them. Most people don't know but C&C stands for my wife and daughters first name Chass and Cherish. Also I have my other daughter Cassidy we put her on the vans, such a sweetheart.

"Don't delay call Daddy today" her tag line.

Have you ever had to make your own tool to solve a particular problem?

I'm still active in football. I play every weekend and travel with my team out of state tournaments.

Yes I remember in my early years of sweeping with a scout brush in the smoke chamber making all different types of attachments to prevent from bringing 5 different shirts throughout the day.

Whoever developed the smoke chamber brush is a genius.

Weirdest thing you have ever found in a chimney?

I also help coach my daughter's basketball team and love helping and seeing her develop in something she's passionate about.

What is, in your opinion, the most valuable part of being a member of the National Chimney Sweep Guild?

The opportunities and development the Guild continues to bring to each business owner and employee year after year with strategic planning of our ever growing industry.

I would say a cat. The customer just came home from a two week vacation and I was there to sweep the chimney and when cleaning the smoke chamber pulled out the cat. It was not good, had to throw those gloves away quick and put a cap on that one.

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Dates and Events Classifieds Educational Dates & Events listings from NCSG Members. Please check with the host organization listed below prior to making travel commitments.

Blue Collar Chimney Expo For more information or to register visit www.

BlueCollarChimneyExpo.com ‡ Spring Show April 1stJune 30th 2021 ‡ Fall Show Labor Day through the end of 2021 ‡ Chimney Expo 2021 – June 3 – 5, 2021 King of Prussia, PA Valley Forge Casino June 3-5, 2021

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For more information or to register visit www. chimneyexpo.com

Copperfield Chimney Academy For more information call or text (570) 340-0482

‡ Professional Chimney Inspection June/July 2021 Loomis, CA Springfield, MO Lancaster, PA Sturbridge, MA Asheville, NC ‡ Professional Inspection Delivery August 2021 Portland, OR Bensalem, PA Lancaster, PA Worcester, MA Canton, OH San Clemente, CA

HPBExpo For more information or to register visit hpbexpo.com/ Louisville, KY Exhibition June 24-26, 2021 Education June 23-25 2021

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GasVent Software for Sizing Chimneys only $195 Call 1-800-648-9523 for more info and visit www.elitesoft.com to download a free trial version Former Connecticut chimney cleaning business selling inventory of equipment and large selection of caps, dampers, and ChimScan video inspection system.

Available for inspection and purchase at residence only. Call 860-575-5053.

Experienced CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep position open at The Village Chimney Sweeps, Inc. a division of The Village Fireplace and Stove Center in York, PA. Send resume to joann@ villagechimneysweeps.com CLASSIFIED ADS FREE FOR NCSG MEMBERS Members can run one 35-word classified free each year!

Regular classified ads are $2/ word or $1/word for NCSG members. Classified ads are non-commissionable and must be pre-paid. To place a classified ad, please email office@ncsg.org or call 317-837-1500.

Approved Industries 866-439-0069 info@approvedindustries.com Inside front cover Copperfield 800-247-3305 www.copperfield.com 21 CVC 704-425-0217 jerry@cvccoaching.com 6 ENERVEX 770-587-3238 www.enervex.com 23 F&C Distributors 630-241-0506 sales@fandcdistributors.com 9 ICP 508-695-7000 www.chimneycaps.com 24 Lindemann Chimney Company 866-629-8006 www.lindemannsupply.com 5 National Chimney 800-897-8481 www.nationalchimney.com 12, 27 New England Chimney Supply 866-513-2378 www.newenglandchimneysupply.com 3 Sand Hill Wholesale & Mfg., Inc 800-258-5496 www.sandhillwholesale.com 25 SaverSystems 800-860-6327 www.chimneysaver.com 20 SnapLok Rotary Sweep Systems 888-570-5407 www.snaploksystems.com 7

S weeping | May | 2021

NOW VIRTUAL!

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YOUR OPPORTUNITIES

The hearth, patio and barbecue industry is now at a critical juncture. As demand accelerates, businesses must be prepared to offer customers the precise products and solutions they are seeking, have the business acumen to successfully navigate our new landscape and possess the marketing savvy to communicate your brand’s values and ensure customers turn to you to realize their visions for their homes and businesses. From June 23-26, 2021, HPBExpo Connect is where you’ll network with peers and top suppliers, explore a comprehensive indoor-outdoor showcase and immerse yourself in expert-led training. Without travel costs and safety concerns, you’ll enjoy authentic connections and the exclusive resources you need to ignite profitability and claim your share of our rapidly growing market.

SPARK NEW OPPORTUNITIES and Register Today!

REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN Visit www.HPBExpo.com for details.

Introducing our Keynote Speakers

Morgan Luttrell & Johnny “Joey” Jones 2021

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Join us June 14-17, 2021 for an event like no other. www.ncsgconvention.org