Sunday, December 7, 2008
Silent Auction
The silent auction put together by Jeannie Jacobson had many great items donated by vendors and members. Watch for a complete report on the auction in the next few days.
The Sootprints
This years entertainment at the Holiday Party was exceptional. A performance from the Sootprints was a great after dinner treat. The all chimney sweep band played all the favorites including the Decemberists "Chimbley Sweep". Thanks guys. We know you'll rock them down in Winston-Salem at the National Convention!
Chimney Sweeps Decked out for the Holiday Party
Mike and Michelle Elliot
Mike's Chimney Sweep B
ling!
Mike's Chimney Sweep B
ling!Mike Elliott, Charles Koubek, and Anthony Glew dressed and ready to party.
Saturday, September 20, 2008
Member on TV News
If you missed it you can still watch online. WBZ4 aired a short interview with Loreen Koubek of Eurosweep. Loreen did a great job of hitting on important points. She even got the MCSG a plug. Check out the links on the page below and you'll notice that MCSG is there 3 times throughout the story. Nice job Loreen!
http://wbztv.com/curious/chimney.dangers.heating.2.820860.html
Thursday, September 11, 2008
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
Mike Elliot in the News - again
Read the story in the Webster Times
Keep them coming. There's bound to be a lot of stories out there about the local chimney sweep who went and swept the Whitehouse Chimneys with the team picked by the NCSG.
Keep them coming. There's bound to be a lot of stories out there about the local chimney sweep who went and swept the Whitehouse Chimneys with the team picked by the NCSG.
Friday, August 29, 2008
NCSG Launches a New Contest
I love being a chimney sweep because...
VIDEO CONTEST
Watch the contest intro from Mark McSweeney, NCSG's Executive Director.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o3DJ4zTaP68
Stereotypes about chimney sweeps abound and videos found on YouTube aren't helping. Sure it's cute to think of sweeps as guys who sing and dance on rooftops, but we know that there's so much more to being a chimney sweep than clever choreography.
OUR CHALLENGE
Break the stereotype of the Disney-esque chimney sweep.
THE FIRST STEP
Create a video completing the statement: "I love being a chimney sweep because..."
THE GENERAL GUIDELINES
1. Entrants must own or be employed by an NCSG member company.
2. Videos should be no longer than 1 minute in length.
3. Entries must close with the NCSG trademark and URL(www.NCSG.org).
THE OFFICIAL RULES
By submitting video, you acknowledge that you have read and agree to the official contest rules found here.
HOW TO PARTICIPATE
Send your video (.wmv, .avi, .mov or .mpg only) with title, your name and company name via email to mheeke@ncsg.org by the end of day September 30, 2008 with "NCSG Video Contest" in the subject line.
WHAT'S ON THE LINE
Winners will have their videos posted on the NCSG website and will be announced in the October issue of eNewslink. Of course, the winners also receive bragging rights and the knowledge that they're making a difference in the way chimney sweeps are viewed today.
Grand prize
One year NCSG membership, NCSG Innovation 2009 convention registration (Winston-Salem 2009), "Best Picture 2008" trophy and accolades online at www.NCSG.org
1st Runner Up
NCSG Innovation 2009 convention registration (Winston-Salem 2009), mention in Sweeping and accolades online at www.NCSG.org
Honorable Mention
Mention in Sweeping and accolades online at www.NCSG.org
QUESTIONS?
Please contact Melissa Heeke, NCSG Director of Communications & Marketing at mheeke@ncsg.org
YouTube is a registered trademark in the U.S. and other countries.
VIDEO CONTEST
Watch the contest intro from Mark McSweeney, NCSG's Executive Director.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o3DJ4zTaP68
Stereotypes about chimney sweeps abound and videos found on YouTube aren't helping. Sure it's cute to think of sweeps as guys who sing and dance on rooftops, but we know that there's so much more to being a chimney sweep than clever choreography.
OUR CHALLENGE
Break the stereotype of the Disney-esque chimney sweep.
THE FIRST STEP
Create a video completing the statement: "I love being a chimney sweep because..."
THE GENERAL GUIDELINES
1. Entrants must own or be employed by an NCSG member company.
2. Videos should be no longer than 1 minute in length.
3. Entries must close with the NCSG trademark and URL(www.NCSG.org).
THE OFFICIAL RULES
By submitting video, you acknowledge that you have read and agree to the official contest rules found here.
HOW TO PARTICIPATE
Send your video (.wmv, .avi, .mov or .mpg only) with title, your name and company name via email to mheeke@ncsg.org by the end of day September 30, 2008 with "NCSG Video Contest" in the subject line.
WHAT'S ON THE LINE
Winners will have their videos posted on the NCSG website and will be announced in the October issue of eNewslink. Of course, the winners also receive bragging rights and the knowledge that they're making a difference in the way chimney sweeps are viewed today.
Grand prize
One year NCSG membership, NCSG Innovation 2009 convention registration (Winston-Salem 2009), "Best Picture 2008" trophy and accolades online at www.NCSG.org
1st Runner Up
NCSG Innovation 2009 convention registration (Winston-Salem 2009), mention in Sweeping and accolades online at www.NCSG.org
Honorable Mention
Mention in Sweeping and accolades online at www.NCSG.org
QUESTIONS?
Please contact Melissa Heeke, NCSG Director of Communications & Marketing at mheeke@ncsg.org
YouTube is a registered trademark in the U.S. and other countries.
Thursday, August 28, 2008
Saturday, August 23, 2008
MA State Position on Chimney Inspection?
http://www.mass.gov/Eeops/docs/dfs/osfm/pubed/flyers/hhs_oct07_trifold.pdf
The above flyer put out by the state talks about having an annual inspection of the chimney flue by a "qualified mason" and having the chimney cleaned. It never mentions chimney sweeps or CSIA or any other certification.
I researched this after reading this article in the Metrowest Daily News. Which although mentions chimney sweeps as workers who can be found through word of mouth and should be associated with a national trade association, never mentions certification. Also it says that the state plans to make a list of masons available online so homeowners can contact them for chimney inspections.
I think it might be important in the near future to revisit the guilds Power Point presentation and start taking it out to Fire Departments, Home Inspectors, Realtors, and Town Building Inspectors.
CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps are educated and tested on different levels of chimney inspection. They see, daily, the condition of chimney flues after use. This makes them uniquely qualified to perform chimney inspections.
I'd like the BOD to consider appointing an Outreach Committee to contact, visit and educate the above mentioned professionals. Perhaps even a brochure mailing to Fire Cheifs and Building Inspectors with an invitation to meet with a Guild representative could be an immediate step to start the process.
Just like with advertising in our businesses, if we stop our outreach education people will forget who we are and what we do.
Stacie Shippey
Newsletter Editor
Cherry Valley Chimney Sweep - Leicester
The above flyer put out by the state talks about having an annual inspection of the chimney flue by a "qualified mason" and having the chimney cleaned. It never mentions chimney sweeps or CSIA or any other certification.
I researched this after reading this article in the Metrowest Daily News. Which although mentions chimney sweeps as workers who can be found through word of mouth and should be associated with a national trade association, never mentions certification. Also it says that the state plans to make a list of masons available online so homeowners can contact them for chimney inspections.
I think it might be important in the near future to revisit the guilds Power Point presentation and start taking it out to Fire Departments, Home Inspectors, Realtors, and Town Building Inspectors.
CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps are educated and tested on different levels of chimney inspection. They see, daily, the condition of chimney flues after use. This makes them uniquely qualified to perform chimney inspections.
I'd like the BOD to consider appointing an Outreach Committee to contact, visit and educate the above mentioned professionals. Perhaps even a brochure mailing to Fire Cheifs and Building Inspectors with an invitation to meet with a Guild representative could be an immediate step to start the process.
Just like with advertising in our businesses, if we stop our outreach education people will forget who we are and what we do.
Stacie Shippey
Newsletter Editor
Cherry Valley Chimney Sweep - Leicester
Thursday, August 21, 2008
Friday, August 15, 2008
Regarding the Future of the MCSG
To all MCSG members:
Below you will find an email sent through the Chimney Forum a few days ago, indicating the disbanding of the Southern Chimney Sweep Assoc. The reasons noted where due to economic conditions as well as the lack of participation from sweeps at conventions and workshops.
The reason I am bringing this to your attention is that although we have a substantial amount of money in our treasury and at our disposal to provide many benefits to our membership, due to the lack of participation of members to be on the Board, an Officer, or even to help out with the Holiday Party or the Summer Picnic, I'm afraid that one day we will be sending out the same email to our fellow sweeps on the east coast.
It was just on Wednesday that the Guild sponsored a Thermocrete and Smoktite seminar of which there were only 5 persons in paid attendance and one of them was my husband Dan and another Board member.
Prior to that, we had a fair, but not a very good showing of members to the NH Sweep Fest (mainly due to the fact the the SootPrints played and they are all MA sweeps), where I incorporated our annual membership meeting.
We've hosted seminars on disability and accidental insurance, an OSHA safety course, a web site seminar and one on drafting issues as well. The people who give these seminars give of their time as well, for the Guild, in order to provide us with information and education.
Attendance at other general membership meetings (other that the Holiday Party) are again fair at best. I continually hear "what does the Guild do for me?" when we asked you to renewal your dues each year. Well, as far as I'm concerned the old saying "you get what you give" applies to this organization just like any other. We have two openings on the Board of Directors despite recent elections. Will no one in our Guild give of their time to see that I don't have to send out the email below??
I know that we all have our own businesses to run and lives to lead, but so do I and the others who have in the past served as your Officers and Board members. We have all taken our positions very seriously in order for our Guild to be a successful and respected organization.
Starting at the next general membership meeting scheduled for September 15th, nominations will be opened for President, Treasurer, and 3 or 4 Board seats. Nominations will be taken again at the Holiday Party meeting and then only once more at the March 2009 meeting. I have served two terms and was appointed to a one year interim term which means I've served as President for 5 years. This is not the only time that has happened as well and I would like to see that it doesn't happen again. I will not lie, this has not been an easy job at times, but I take great pride in what we accomplish as a Board and sincerely appreciate all the hard work done with all of them.
That being said, I would again at this time like to ask that you ask yourself if you could possibly give a few hours of your time every 60 or 90 days to help this Guild stay strong. We are in the process of developing some really intense seminars, however I am afraid that the Guild will be wasting its time and resources if no one attends what we have to offer. If you haven't seen us offer anything you'd like to see, then as we've said in previous newsletters, let us know. We are here for you, but if you don't communicate with the Board then we can't help you.
We'd also like to see our membership increase. Dan has sent out renewals for 2008/2009. Take the time to fill it out in full and return it as soon as possible. Also, look in your local phone book. Find a sweep in your area that you know is not a member and see if you can't get them to join. The Guild is going to sponsor a membership drive where for every member you get to join you get a credit towards your next membership. (The amount has yet to be determined).
This would benefit the Guild with "new blood", and you as well.
Again, the next General Membership meeting will be held on September 17th, and as usual we are currently trying to incorporate some type of seminar to the meeting to make it worth the trip. So please, look at your calendars before you get too busy, cross out the 17th and please plan on attending. A notice of where the meeting will be help will be out soon. Please open all mail sent from the Guild in a timely fashion so you don't miss out on what we have to offer.
Sincerely,
Jeanmarie Jacobson, President
Duxbury Chimney Sweep and
Mass. Chimney Sweep Guild
Below you will find an email sent through the Chimney Forum a few days ago, indicating the disbanding of the Southern Chimney Sweep Assoc. The reasons noted where due to economic conditions as well as the lack of participation from sweeps at conventions and workshops.
The reason I am bringing this to your attention is that although we have a substantial amount of money in our treasury and at our disposal to provide many benefits to our membership, due to the lack of participation of members to be on the Board, an Officer, or even to help out with the Holiday Party or the Summer Picnic, I'm afraid that one day we will be sending out the same email to our fellow sweeps on the east coast.
It was just on Wednesday that the Guild sponsored a Thermocrete and Smoktite seminar of which there were only 5 persons in paid attendance and one of them was my husband Dan and another Board member.
Prior to that, we had a fair, but not a very good showing of members to the NH Sweep Fest (mainly due to the fact the the SootPrints played and they are all MA sweeps), where I incorporated our annual membership meeting.
We've hosted seminars on disability and accidental insurance, an OSHA safety course, a web site seminar and one on drafting issues as well. The people who give these seminars give of their time as well, for the Guild, in order to provide us with information and education.
Attendance at other general membership meetings (other that the Holiday Party) are again fair at best. I continually hear "what does the Guild do for me?" when we asked you to renewal your dues each year. Well, as far as I'm concerned the old saying "you get what you give" applies to this organization just like any other. We have two openings on the Board of Directors despite recent elections. Will no one in our Guild give of their time to see that I don't have to send out the email below??
I know that we all have our own businesses to run and lives to lead, but so do I and the others who have in the past served as your Officers and Board members. We have all taken our positions very seriously in order for our Guild to be a successful and respected organization.
Starting at the next general membership meeting scheduled for September 15th, nominations will be opened for President, Treasurer, and 3 or 4 Board seats. Nominations will be taken again at the Holiday Party meeting and then only once more at the March 2009 meeting. I have served two terms and was appointed to a one year interim term which means I've served as President for 5 years. This is not the only time that has happened as well and I would like to see that it doesn't happen again. I will not lie, this has not been an easy job at times, but I take great pride in what we accomplish as a Board and sincerely appreciate all the hard work done with all of them.
That being said, I would again at this time like to ask that you ask yourself if you could possibly give a few hours of your time every 60 or 90 days to help this Guild stay strong. We are in the process of developing some really intense seminars, however I am afraid that the Guild will be wasting its time and resources if no one attends what we have to offer. If you haven't seen us offer anything you'd like to see, then as we've said in previous newsletters, let us know. We are here for you, but if you don't communicate with the Board then we can't help you.
We'd also like to see our membership increase. Dan has sent out renewals for 2008/2009. Take the time to fill it out in full and return it as soon as possible. Also, look in your local phone book. Find a sweep in your area that you know is not a member and see if you can't get them to join. The Guild is going to sponsor a membership drive where for every member you get to join you get a credit towards your next membership. (The amount has yet to be determined).
This would benefit the Guild with "new blood", and you as well.
Again, the next General Membership meeting will be held on September 17th, and as usual we are currently trying to incorporate some type of seminar to the meeting to make it worth the trip. So please, look at your calendars before you get too busy, cross out the 17th and please plan on attending. A notice of where the meeting will be help will be out soon. Please open all mail sent from the Guild in a timely fashion so you don't miss out on what we have to offer.
Sincerely,
Jeanmarie Jacobson, President
Duxbury Chimney Sweep and
Mass. Chimney Sweep Guild
Southern Chimney Sweep Assoc. Disbands
The Southern Chimney Sweep Association wants to say thank you and goodbye to all the volunteers, instructors and suppliers that have helped us to educate sweeps and supported us over the last 15 years. We are calling it quits due to the ever changing economic conditions of our country and region, along with the lack of participation from sweeps at our last three conventions and our recent workshop.
We want to thank all of our founding members who saw the need to from a group to educate the sweeps of the Southeastern United States. This group started out as the Southeast Chimney Convention & Trade Show, with committee members from North & South Carolina, Florida and Georgia. Then the group saw the need to have a more formal group with structure and changed its name to the Southeastern Chimney Sweep Association and adding the Southern Association of Chimney Professionals (SACP) and Virginia to it's group.Then finally becoming a legal corporation under the name of the Southern Chimney Sweep Association with its member states being Florida, Georgia, Virginia and the SACP.
We would like to thank the past Committee Chairman of this fine organization for their years in serving as its chairman, Jerry Isenhour (1) NC, Mark Hudson (5) FL, Kevin Cowan (1) SC, Blume (1) SC, Jay Walker (1) FL, Ken Craig (1) SCAP, George Anderson (2) VA.We would also like to thank all of the past committee members who also served on this committee during it existence , Tom Stave(GA), Tom Doty (FL), Mike Wilcox (GA), Chris Holland (GA), Rob Meehan (FL), Wayne Van Houdt (VA), Jim Bostaph (VA), Roger Westerman (SACP),Mark Stoner (SACP),Cleveland Pope (SACP), Jim Robinson (SACP), Mike & Karren Duke (VA), Donny Rogan (VA), Roy & Gay Murry (NC), Bob Priesing (NC), Ron and Renne Brigman (SC), Paul & Connie Anderson (SC), Ron Rust (SC), Jay Walker (FL), Jeff Curry (FL), Phillip Martin (GA), John Su Song (GA), Dave Gallici (FL), Herb Fulmer (SC), Lucky Dale Meisinger (SC), Joe Honea (SC), Larry & Meola Snyder (SC), Steve Actman (GA), Benny Thompson (NC), Tom Albert (NC), Jeff Barger (NC),Curtis Daniel (GA), John Storch (VA), Barry Belyeu (GA), Matt Coggins (NC), Dennis Dobbs (SACP), Jim Johnson (FL), Craig Nelson (GA), Roger Whitman (NC), Jeff Jones (NC), John Handler (NC), Len Boucher (GA), Peggy Florentz (VA), we apologize if we have missed anyone.
We would also like to thank the following Supplier members that served on the committee, Bob McQuary, Cathy Rocque, Jeff Wiles, Gary Chambers and Robert Hutta.
The committee wants to encourage all sweeps to become members of NCSG and their state guilds or associations and to attend their educational opportunities. Remember education isn't cheap and can't be justified without the participation of the sweeps.
Thanks to everyone whoever attended a SCSA Convention or workshop.
Sweeps Luck to All,
Mark Hudson
We want to thank all of our founding members who saw the need to from a group to educate the sweeps of the Southeastern United States. This group started out as the Southeast Chimney Convention & Trade Show, with committee members from North & South Carolina, Florida and Georgia. Then the group saw the need to have a more formal group with structure and changed its name to the Southeastern Chimney Sweep Association and adding the Southern Association of Chimney Professionals (SACP) and Virginia to it's group.Then finally becoming a legal corporation under the name of the Southern Chimney Sweep Association with its member states being Florida, Georgia, Virginia and the SACP.
We would like to thank the past Committee Chairman of this fine organization for their years in serving as its chairman, Jerry Isenhour (1) NC, Mark Hudson (5) FL, Kevin Cowan (1) SC, Blume (1) SC, Jay Walker (1) FL, Ken Craig (1) SCAP, George Anderson (2) VA.We would also like to thank all of the past committee members who also served on this committee during it existence , Tom Stave(GA), Tom Doty (FL), Mike Wilcox (GA), Chris Holland (GA), Rob Meehan (FL), Wayne Van Houdt (VA), Jim Bostaph (VA), Roger Westerman (SACP),Mark Stoner (SACP),Cleveland Pope (SACP), Jim Robinson (SACP), Mike & Karren Duke (VA), Donny Rogan (VA), Roy & Gay Murry (NC), Bob Priesing (NC), Ron and Renne Brigman (SC), Paul & Connie Anderson (SC), Ron Rust (SC), Jay Walker (FL), Jeff Curry (FL), Phillip Martin (GA), John Su Song (GA), Dave Gallici (FL), Herb Fulmer (SC), Lucky Dale Meisinger (SC), Joe Honea (SC), Larry & Meola Snyder (SC), Steve Actman (GA), Benny Thompson (NC), Tom Albert (NC), Jeff Barger (NC),Curtis Daniel (GA), John Storch (VA), Barry Belyeu (GA), Matt Coggins (NC), Dennis Dobbs (SACP), Jim Johnson (FL), Craig Nelson (GA), Roger Whitman (NC), Jeff Jones (NC), John Handler (NC), Len Boucher (GA), Peggy Florentz (VA), we apologize if we have missed anyone.
We would also like to thank the following Supplier members that served on the committee, Bob McQuary, Cathy Rocque, Jeff Wiles, Gary Chambers and Robert Hutta.
The committee wants to encourage all sweeps to become members of NCSG and their state guilds or associations and to attend their educational opportunities. Remember education isn't cheap and can't be justified without the participation of the sweeps.
Thanks to everyone whoever attended a SCSA Convention or workshop.
Sweeps Luck to All,
Mark Hudson
Tuesday, August 5, 2008
Saturday, July 19, 2008
Friday, July 18, 2008
Successful Review and Exam in June
On June 7, 2008 the Massachusetts Chimney Sweep Guild sponsored the annual review and exam for certification. We had a small group and the success rate was very high. Out of eight candidates, seven passed the exam. Congratulations to all of you! Please remember that if anyone needs to take the exam, I am available. We don’t have to wait for a large group to take the exam – one on one is fine, too! You can reach me on my cell phone at 401-255-0964 to schedule a time.
Rich Rua
A Traditoinal Chimney Sweep
Monday, July 14, 2008
President's Report
Well, its summer time and we all know what that means. Hot, hot, & more hot. Everyone knows that during this time of the year it is very important to stay hydrated and to wear sunscreen, but there are a few other things that you should look out for and protect yourself against. One of those things are bees and wasps. Contrary to popular belief, you are technically not "allergic" to bee stings. The venom of bees and wasps contain toxins and our body quickly overreacts with histamine production. This histamine remains in our bodies and is never released, so when your body can no longer retain the extra histamines, you have a reaction. Histamine is found in higher concentrations in the skin, lungs and stomach. It's a potent arterial dilator, and therefore some victims experience dizziness and pass out. On the skin you may experience welts or hives, if in the lungs you'll experience bronchial constriction and therefore difficulty breathing, wheezing and in severe cases respiratory collapse or anaphylactic shock.
Here are the steps to take when stung in the outdoors by a bee or wasp:
Pull stinger out.
Cool compresses or ice.
Diphenhydramine (Benadryl) should be given to decrease minimal allergic reactions.
If a severe allergic reaction occurs, you must transport immediately and resort to basic life support.
In addition to Benadryl, it has been shown that Cimetidine (Tagamet) and H2 blocker can also help decrease the allergic response.
The other item to look out for is Lyme Disease. Lyme disease is a bacterial illness. Certain ticks found on deer harbor the bacterium in their stomachs. It is spread by these ticks when they bite the skin, which permits the bacterium to infect the body. Lyme disease is not contagious from an affected person to someone else. It can cause abnormalities in the skin, joints, heart, and nervous system and it affects different areas of the body in varying degrees as it progresses. The site where the tick bites the body is where the bacteria enter through the skin. Initially, the disease affects the skin, causing an expanding reddish rash often associated with "flu-like" symptoms. Later, it can produce the abnormalities in the joints, heart, and nervous system.
Because Lyme disease is transmitted by ticks attaching to the body, it is important to use tick-bite avoidance techniques when visiting known tick areas. Spraying insect repellant containing DEET onto exposed skin can help. Wearing long clothing can protect the skin. Clothing, children, and pets should be examined for ticks. Ticks can be removed gently with tweezers and saved in a jar for later identification. Bathing the skin and scalp, and washing clothing upon returning home might prevent the bite and transmission of the disease.
Well, there you have my "summer" lookout report. Other things to look for in this issue are "Sweep One for Mike Elliott," and my report on Sweep Fest held by the New Hampshire Assoc. of Chimney Professionals a few weeks ago and our election results. Things to look forward to are the 17th Annual New York State Guild Summer Workshop. This year they have a motorcycle ride scheduled for Wednesday, July 23rd, a golf tournament dedicated to Shawn Simboli on Thursday, and then the rest of the festivities including another performance by "The Sootprints". A registration form is in this issue but please do not delay sending in your registration if you plan on attending. Also, the NHACP is sponsoring and NFI Woodburning & NFI Pellet Review and Exam on August 6th & 7th. And don't forget to apply for your Solid Fuel Construction Supervisors License in order to be able to properly pull permits and install all those stove we are getting phone calls for all of a sudden. For more information and an application, go to www.mass.gov
Take care, stay cool and I hope to see you in New York!
Jean Jacobson, President
Here are the steps to take when stung in the outdoors by a bee or wasp:
Pull stinger out.
Cool compresses or ice.
Diphenhydramine (Benadryl) should be given to decrease minimal allergic reactions.
If a severe allergic reaction occurs, you must transport immediately and resort to basic life support.
In addition to Benadryl, it has been shown that Cimetidine (Tagamet) and H2 blocker can also help decrease the allergic response.
The other item to look out for is Lyme Disease. Lyme disease is a bacterial illness. Certain ticks found on deer harbor the bacterium in their stomachs. It is spread by these ticks when they bite the skin, which permits the bacterium to infect the body. Lyme disease is not contagious from an affected person to someone else. It can cause abnormalities in the skin, joints, heart, and nervous system and it affects different areas of the body in varying degrees as it progresses. The site where the tick bites the body is where the bacteria enter through the skin. Initially, the disease affects the skin, causing an expanding reddish rash often associated with "flu-like" symptoms. Later, it can produce the abnormalities in the joints, heart, and nervous system.
Because Lyme disease is transmitted by ticks attaching to the body, it is important to use tick-bite avoidance techniques when visiting known tick areas. Spraying insect repellant containing DEET onto exposed skin can help. Wearing long clothing can protect the skin. Clothing, children, and pets should be examined for ticks. Ticks can be removed gently with tweezers and saved in a jar for later identification. Bathing the skin and scalp, and washing clothing upon returning home might prevent the bite and transmission of the disease.
Well, there you have my "summer" lookout report. Other things to look for in this issue are "Sweep One for Mike Elliott," and my report on Sweep Fest held by the New Hampshire Assoc. of Chimney Professionals a few weeks ago and our election results. Things to look forward to are the 17th Annual New York State Guild Summer Workshop. This year they have a motorcycle ride scheduled for Wednesday, July 23rd, a golf tournament dedicated to Shawn Simboli on Thursday, and then the rest of the festivities including another performance by "The Sootprints". A registration form is in this issue but please do not delay sending in your registration if you plan on attending. Also, the NHACP is sponsoring and NFI Woodburning & NFI Pellet Review and Exam on August 6th & 7th. And don't forget to apply for your Solid Fuel Construction Supervisors License in order to be able to properly pull permits and install all those stove we are getting phone calls for all of a sudden. For more information and an application, go to www.mass.gov
Take care, stay cool and I hope to see you in New York!
Jean Jacobson, President
Sweep Fest
Dan and I arrived at the homestead of Phil & Sharon Mitchell on Friday afternoon in order to help set up for the NHACP sponsored SweepFest.
We did a quick inspection of our "Presidential Suite" which was a pop- up camper graciously donated to us by the Mitchell's, and unpacked. We then attended a brief meeting in Phil's office as to the activities for the next couple of days and that was followed by dinner on Phil & Sharon's new back porch, in the rain, even though the roof had not been shingled yet. Fun was had by all.
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The next morning I went down to the wood working shop where breakfast,sponsored by Olympia Chimney Supply, had been set up and was able to meet some new and some "old" faces. That day was filled with seminars and vendor showcases, but we took a break at lunch time to consume a wonderful feast of steamers, BBQ chicken, steak, salads, and corn on the cob. This feast was prepared by Donna MacDonald and was sponsored
by Regional Chimney Supply and Saver Systems. The presentations included one on Carbon Monoxide presented by Chuck Phillips of Lindemann Chimney Supply, Temperature Studies with Heat Conduction presented by Royal Edwards, and Defensive Driving presented by Mark Putnam, and on Sunday Marketing for Small Business by Greg Polakow.
It was during our presentations that Judd Berg read a letter from Mike Elliott to all his fellow sweeps in regard to all the love and support he and Michelle have received the past month.
Dinner was pizza in the barn, sponsored by Whitecaps, which was
followed by the performance of The Sootprints.
Sunday morning, due to a problem with his flight, Greg Polakow arrived late, but that allowed us to spend more time on the Silent Auction. There was an abundance of merchandise to be had and a couple of items were donated and the proceeds were to go directly to Mike and Michelle Elliott.
When the auction had concluded and the State Guilds held there meetings, the NHACP
announced that 1/2 of their proceeds of the auction would go to Mike and Michelle as well. This came to a total of $1,467.00. THANK YOU TO THE NHACP!!
It during our meeting where the results of our elections were announced. Congratulations to Billy Sweet (Vice President), Tim Martinson (Secretary), and my newest Board members Tom Biscoe, David O'Shea (re-elected), and Joe Gilmore (if he'll have us).
Although it rained on and off most of the weekend, after our meeting adjourned the sun made a short appearance and a few were able to take a motorcycle ride down to Hampton Beach and back, returning just in time before the rain began again.
The Stroups, the Mitchell's, Dan and myself were treated to dinner that evening by Greg Polakow which ended on of the most enjoyable weekends I've had in a long time. Thanks to all of you who took part, attended, donated your time, or sponsored any portion of this weekend!!!
Jeannie & Dan Jacobson
Duxbury Chimney Sweep
We did a quick inspection of our "Presidential Suite" which was a pop- up camper graciously donated to us by the Mitchell's, and unpacked. We then attended a brief meeting in Phil's office as to the activities for the next couple of days and that was followed by dinner on Phil & Sharon's new back porch, in the rain, even though the roof had not been shingled yet. Fun was had by all.
<The next morning I went down to the wood working shop where breakfast,sponsored by Olympia Chimney Supply, had been set up and was able to meet some new and some "old" faces. That day was filled with seminars and vendor showcases, but we took a break at lunch time to consume a wonderful feast of steamers, BBQ chicken, steak, salads, and corn on the cob. This feast was prepared by Donna MacDonald and was sponsored
by Regional Chimney Supply and Saver Systems. The presentations included one on Carbon Monoxide presented by Chuck Phillips of Lindemann Chimney Supply, Temperature Studies with Heat Conduction presented by Royal Edwards, and Defensive Driving presented by Mark Putnam, and on Sunday Marketing for Small Business by Greg Polakow.
It was during our presentations that Judd Berg read a letter from Mike Elliott to all his fellow sweeps in regard to all the love and support he and Michelle have received the past month.
Dinner was pizza in the barn, sponsored by Whitecaps, which was
followed by the performance of The Sootprints.
Sunday morning, due to a problem with his flight, Greg Polakow arrived late, but that allowed us to spend more time on the Silent Auction. There was an abundance of merchandise to be had and a couple of items were donated and the proceeds were to go directly to Mike and Michelle Elliott.
When the auction had concluded and the State Guilds held there meetings, the NHACP
announced that 1/2 of their proceeds of the auction would go to Mike and Michelle as well. This came to a total of $1,467.00. THANK YOU TO THE NHACP!!
It during our meeting where the results of our elections were announced. Congratulations to Billy Sweet (Vice President), Tim Martinson (Secretary), and my newest Board members Tom Biscoe, David O'Shea (re-elected), and Joe Gilmore (if he'll have us).
Although it rained on and off most of the weekend, after our meeting adjourned the sun made a short appearance and a few were able to take a motorcycle ride down to Hampton Beach and back, returning just in time before the rain began again.
The Stroups, the Mitchell's, Dan and myself were treated to dinner that evening by Greg Polakow which ended on of the most enjoyable weekends I've had in a long time. Thanks to all of you who took part, attended, donated your time, or sponsored any portion of this weekend!!!
Jeannie & Dan Jacobson
Duxbury Chimney Sweep
Olymia Chimney Supply - Newsletter Sponsor
Please click on the Olympia Chimney Supply ad below to see it in full size.Visit their website at www.olymiachimney.com
Record Sales on Stoves
Both Sweeps USA and BAC Sales have had record sales in pellet appliances in June. The feeding frenzy is similar to that of 2005. The differences this year is that the heating season started in May rather than September.
In 2005 we had a banner year of pellet and wood stove sales. Most of the Pellet stove manufacturing companies were not prepared for the onslaught of stove sales. By early November there was not a pellet stove to be had. Any truck loads of stoves that we received were sold before they were unloaded off the truck. Actually all of the stoves that we were scheduled to received were sold.
The demands for Pellet Appliances were estimated to be between seven to ten times the demands for an average heating season. Manufactures had an impossible task to meet the demand. Their assembly lines just could not keep up. They couldn’t hire experienced personnel even if they ran a second shift, and the most important deterrent to production was the lack of components for the stoves. Most require at least two or more motors to operate and they also need a control board, snap switches and other sensors. All of these components take months to fill and deliver these orders. Steel was on a roller coaster on pricing and availability.
Over the late winter of 2005 and the spring of 2006 many manufactures expanded their production facilities, and they started to build massive inventories. This was all done so when the 2006 heating season arrived, they would be ready.
Another player in this scenario was the fuel supply. Because the demand was so overwhelming supplies were limited. Pricing started off the season $125 a ton finishing at nearly $300 a ton or more there for supplies were rationed.
Now here we go into the 2006 heating season. In the Northeast we had our first substantial snow storm on January 15th 2007. Oil was in low demand so prices were relaxed because of such a warm winter.
Now here comes Murphy’s Law, remember stove inventories were at record. Many manufacturers borrowed money to improve manufacturing facilities and more important purchased steel, glass and electrical components.
The 2006 Heating season turned into a disaster for many dealers. Pellet stove sales were rare. Customers were afraid that if they bought a stove, they wouldn’t have a steady supply of pellets or the pricing wouldn’t be competitive with oil or other fuels.
This non season caused both heart ache in both manufacturing and distribution alike.
One of the largest pellet stove manufacturing companies had to sell out. Some others claimed bankruptcy.
Now for the 2007 Heating season.
As a result of poor financial situation many dealers could not survive the financial burden of carrying large inventories. This most affected the hearth shops; Most of the Sweeps do not carry an inventory of appliances.
We experience many dealers closing their doors. They just could not pay their suppliers. This added the stress to the industry. Many manufacturers were giving large discounts to lesson there inventory and even with that incentive did not relieve the stressful situation.
The weather did cooperate and we had a more normal winter. Sales did pick up moderately, but not in time for all.
Spring of 2008
Oil Speculators to the rescue. Pellet manufactures increased in numbers. Pellet prices were retailed from $175 to $225 a ton and oil prices went to $4.60 + a gallon.
People had there first oil delivery in the spring and were shocked to see that it cost them a Thousand Dollars!!!!!!
The rush is on!!!!!
Now remember many manufactures are financially stressed. So there inventories are low. There materials inventories are low and they are gun shy, afraid or unable to borrow more money to build inventories and meet sales demand.
Human nature, being what it is, people usually wait until it gets cold to think about heat. Not this year! Being that the media is painting such a bleak picture as far as oil pricing, many people started looking for alternative fuels. Electric and Gas are both predicted to have large pricing increases.
Other alternatives looked great at first, bio fuels corn wheat and other grains. The competition for alcohol for auto fuel and of course the increased demand for food has driven the price of these alternatives to record costs.
Pellet manufactures for seen an increase in demand and increased their production capabilities. New pellet manufacturer have come on line, they should be better prepared to meet this year’s demand.
New products and manufactures also have come on line. St Croix is now offering two sizes of Pellet Warm Air Furnaces. Napoleon has increase there pellet line to offer a fireplace insert. The Hudson River Stove Company is offering five new models.
Of coarse the supply currently is limited, but at least the manufactures have time to react
and build units for this heating system.
Sweeps USA and BAC Sales are offering two pellet educational programs for both sales and service. The first is on August 12th for St Croix Pellet Appliances and on August 21st
Napoleon Hearth Products will give a sales and service presentation for their complete line pre registration is a must. Seminars are limited so register early so you can get the latest information. Both Seminars will be held at BAC Sales in Hudson, NY. Feel free to call me at (800) 873 1330 Ext 235.
Sweeps Luck and a Prosperous Year
Russ Moore
Sweeps USA
In 2005 we had a banner year of pellet and wood stove sales. Most of the Pellet stove manufacturing companies were not prepared for the onslaught of stove sales. By early November there was not a pellet stove to be had. Any truck loads of stoves that we received were sold before they were unloaded off the truck. Actually all of the stoves that we were scheduled to received were sold.
The demands for Pellet Appliances were estimated to be between seven to ten times the demands for an average heating season. Manufactures had an impossible task to meet the demand. Their assembly lines just could not keep up. They couldn’t hire experienced personnel even if they ran a second shift, and the most important deterrent to production was the lack of components for the stoves. Most require at least two or more motors to operate and they also need a control board, snap switches and other sensors. All of these components take months to fill and deliver these orders. Steel was on a roller coaster on pricing and availability.
Over the late winter of 2005 and the spring of 2006 many manufactures expanded their production facilities, and they started to build massive inventories. This was all done so when the 2006 heating season arrived, they would be ready.
Another player in this scenario was the fuel supply. Because the demand was so overwhelming supplies were limited. Pricing started off the season $125 a ton finishing at nearly $300 a ton or more there for supplies were rationed.
Now here we go into the 2006 heating season. In the Northeast we had our first substantial snow storm on January 15th 2007. Oil was in low demand so prices were relaxed because of such a warm winter.
Now here comes Murphy’s Law, remember stove inventories were at record. Many manufacturers borrowed money to improve manufacturing facilities and more important purchased steel, glass and electrical components.
The 2006 Heating season turned into a disaster for many dealers. Pellet stove sales were rare. Customers were afraid that if they bought a stove, they wouldn’t have a steady supply of pellets or the pricing wouldn’t be competitive with oil or other fuels.
This non season caused both heart ache in both manufacturing and distribution alike.
One of the largest pellet stove manufacturing companies had to sell out. Some others claimed bankruptcy.
Now for the 2007 Heating season.
As a result of poor financial situation many dealers could not survive the financial burden of carrying large inventories. This most affected the hearth shops; Most of the Sweeps do not carry an inventory of appliances.
We experience many dealers closing their doors. They just could not pay their suppliers. This added the stress to the industry. Many manufacturers were giving large discounts to lesson there inventory and even with that incentive did not relieve the stressful situation.
The weather did cooperate and we had a more normal winter. Sales did pick up moderately, but not in time for all.
Spring of 2008
Oil Speculators to the rescue. Pellet manufactures increased in numbers. Pellet prices were retailed from $175 to $225 a ton and oil prices went to $4.60 + a gallon.
People had there first oil delivery in the spring and were shocked to see that it cost them a Thousand Dollars!!!!!!
The rush is on!!!!!
Now remember many manufactures are financially stressed. So there inventories are low. There materials inventories are low and they are gun shy, afraid or unable to borrow more money to build inventories and meet sales demand.
Human nature, being what it is, people usually wait until it gets cold to think about heat. Not this year! Being that the media is painting such a bleak picture as far as oil pricing, many people started looking for alternative fuels. Electric and Gas are both predicted to have large pricing increases.
Other alternatives looked great at first, bio fuels corn wheat and other grains. The competition for alcohol for auto fuel and of course the increased demand for food has driven the price of these alternatives to record costs.
Pellet manufactures for seen an increase in demand and increased their production capabilities. New pellet manufacturer have come on line, they should be better prepared to meet this year’s demand.
New products and manufactures also have come on line. St Croix is now offering two sizes of Pellet Warm Air Furnaces. Napoleon has increase there pellet line to offer a fireplace insert. The Hudson River Stove Company is offering five new models.
Of coarse the supply currently is limited, but at least the manufactures have time to react
and build units for this heating system.
Sweeps USA and BAC Sales are offering two pellet educational programs for both sales and service. The first is on August 12th for St Croix Pellet Appliances and on August 21st
Napoleon Hearth Products will give a sales and service presentation for their complete line pre registration is a must. Seminars are limited so register early so you can get the latest information. Both Seminars will be held at BAC Sales in Hudson, NY. Feel free to call me at (800) 873 1330 Ext 235.
Sweeps Luck and a Prosperous Year
Russ Moore
Sweeps USA
Sweep One For Mike
(continued)
As you may not already know, Mike Elliott suffered a serious shoulder injury a few weeks ago and has recently had surgery for this injury. This will keep Mike out of work for at least the summer and maybe longer depending on how his rehabilitation goes.
Mike and Michelle have been an intricate part of this Guild for many years; as a Board Member, Vice President, editor of the Newsletter, and delegates for the Northeast Regional Conventions, and just as Guild Members alone need our support.
If you haven’t already, you can send well wishes to their home at:
25 Merriam District, No. Oxford, MA 01537.
You may also contact them at sootguy@aol.com or sootgirl@aol.com.
What I’d like to do is to be able to help them out financially in this time of need. We have set up a fund for them through the Treasurer and beginning immediately if anyone would like to contribute a sweeping (or more if you’d like) to the Elliotts we will see that they receive all monies contributed to this fund.
Mike has also been accepted to “Sweep the White House” and the Guild hopes to offset some of these costs as well, so I’d like to continue to take donations through to the end of August.
Please make out your checks to the MCSG and mail them to Dan Jacobson, c/o MCSG, 115 Grove Street, Kingston, MA. 02364.
If anyone has any questions, they can contact Dan at 781-585-5990.
Any I thank you all for your support!!
Jean Jacobson, President
Mass. Chimney Sweep Guild
As you may not already know, Mike Elliott suffered a serious shoulder injury a few weeks ago and has recently had surgery for this injury. This will keep Mike out of work for at least the summer and maybe longer depending on how his rehabilitation goes.
Mike and Michelle have been an intricate part of this Guild for many years; as a Board Member, Vice President, editor of the Newsletter, and delegates for the Northeast Regional Conventions, and just as Guild Members alone need our support.
If you haven’t already, you can send well wishes to their home at:
25 Merriam District, No. Oxford, MA 01537.
You may also contact them at sootguy@aol.com or sootgirl@aol.com.
What I’d like to do is to be able to help them out financially in this time of need. We have set up a fund for them through the Treasurer and beginning immediately if anyone would like to contribute a sweeping (or more if you’d like) to the Elliotts we will see that they receive all monies contributed to this fund.
Mike has also been accepted to “Sweep the White House” and the Guild hopes to offset some of these costs as well, so I’d like to continue to take donations through to the end of August.
Please make out your checks to the MCSG and mail them to Dan Jacobson, c/o MCSG, 115 Grove Street, Kingston, MA. 02364.
If anyone has any questions, they can contact Dan at 781-585-5990.
Any I thank you all for your support!!
Jean Jacobson, President
Mass. Chimney Sweep Guild
Thank You to Sweepfest Sponsors
As chairperson for the Sweep Fest Auction, I'd like to thank the following vendors and persons who made generous donations.
AW Perkins
Copperfield Chimney Supply
Lindemann Chimney Supply
Mass. Chimney Sweep Guild
National Chimney Supply
National Chimney Sweep Guild
Olympia Chimney Supply
Regional Chimney Supply
Saver Systems
Ventech Industries
Whitecaps
Wholer Technologies
Carl & Stacie Shippey
Stephen Bushway
and
The Sootprints
THANK YOU VERY MUCH!
And a great big thank you to Phil and Sharon Mitchell for opening up their homestead to all of us and for the “Presidential Suite” for Dan and I. Your generosity was greatly appreciated!!!
Jean & Dan Jacobson
Duxbury Chimney Sweep
AW Perkins
Copperfield Chimney Supply
Lindemann Chimney Supply
Mass. Chimney Sweep Guild
National Chimney Supply
National Chimney Sweep Guild
Olympia Chimney Supply
Regional Chimney Supply
Saver Systems
Ventech Industries
Whitecaps
Wholer Technologies
Carl & Stacie Shippey
Stephen Bushway
and
The Sootprints
THANK YOU VERY MUCH!
And a great big thank you to Phil and Sharon Mitchell for opening up their homestead to all of us and for the “Presidential Suite” for Dan and I. Your generosity was greatly appreciated!!!
Jean & Dan Jacobson
Duxbury Chimney Sweep
MOC Realtor's Breakfast
On May 7th, Dan and I attended the Mass. Oil Heat Councils Realtors breakfast at the Quincy Marriott.After a presentation done by David Heiser of Prime Media (pictured above), I was allowed to address the group in regard to the NFPA 211 code for a Level II inspection to be performed when a property is sold or transferred.
We also got a chance to weigh in on a few other subjects during the presentation. David O'Shea was able to attend this same meeting in Danvers a few days later and we plan to do as many as possible.
Jeannie Jacobson
Duxbury Chimney Sweep
Solving Draft Problems with ICP
On May 14th, Bill & Rich Paynton, along with Sam MacLanahan took the Board of Directors to lunch at the East Bay Grill in Plymouth. There they discussed and used us as a sounding board in a discussion in regard to diagnosing and solving draft problems. Thank you again, Rich, Bill & Sam.
Jeannie Jacobson
Duxbury Chimney Sweep
NFI Review and Exam
Many expressed an interest during SweepFest in attaining national certification to prepare themselves and/or their employees for this season’s onslaught of increased demands for installations, and services, of woodburning hearth systems.
In response, New Hampshire Association of Chimney Professionals (NHACP) is sponsoring an NFI Woodburning Hearth Systems review & exam next month in Manchester, NH. (At the Conference Center located on the perimeter of Manchester Airport)
NFI Woodburning Review & Exam will be on Wednesday, August 6th, 8:00am -6:00pm, instructed by Bob Fish. Fee $319.00. To register, please contact Kim Stroup at (603)823-7000, or email stroupco@verizon.net
Overnight accommodations available onsite, Group Rate $99 (plus tax); contact Kim Stroup for group code and more information, (603) 823-7000, or stroupco@verizon.net.
Sorry for the short notice but we got this together as quickly as possible and sort of need your reply also as quickly as possible too - thanks in advance & look forward to hearing from you!
NHACP will also be sponsoring an NFI Pellet Review & Exam the following day.
In response, New Hampshire Association of Chimney Professionals (NHACP) is sponsoring an NFI Woodburning Hearth Systems review & exam next month in Manchester, NH. (At the Conference Center located on the perimeter of Manchester Airport)
NFI Woodburning Review & Exam will be on Wednesday, August 6th, 8:00am -6:00pm, instructed by Bob Fish. Fee $319.00. To register, please contact Kim Stroup at (603)823-7000, or email stroupco@verizon.net
Overnight accommodations available onsite, Group Rate $99 (plus tax); contact Kim Stroup for group code and more information, (603) 823-7000, or stroupco@verizon.net.
Sorry for the short notice but we got this together as quickly as possible and sort of need your reply also as quickly as possible too - thanks in advance & look forward to hearing from you!
NHACP will also be sponsoring an NFI Pellet Review & Exam the following day.
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