TURN UP THE HEAT IN KANSAS CITY
SWEEPING
THE JOURNAL OF CHIMNEY AND VENTING TECHNOLOGY
TABLE OF CONTENTS
8
Turn Up the Heat in Kansas City
Your official guide to the 2026 NCSG Convention and Trade Show on February 24-28 in Kansas City, MO. There is still time to register at ncsgconvention.org!
7
The Cost of Cancer
Sweep Away Cancer provides critical support to outgoing board member Steve Scally and his wife, Lisa, in their recent battle with cancer.
22
A Legacy Built at NCSG Convention
As Doctor Flue celebrates 40 years, a father-toson transition highlights how NCSG Convention helped shape a family legacy.
25
The Myth of the "Pain-in-the-Neck" Regular
Why repeat customers and membership programs drive steadier, more profitable growth.
27
Expanding in New York
Four Winds Chimney acquires Chimney Heroes.
30
Hazard Communication Plans for Chimney Companies
A real-world accident shows why OSHA hazard communication matters on every chimney job.
32
Workers Compensation Audits Made Easier Organized payroll records help NCSG members manage workers compensation audits and control insurance costs.
34
5 Marketing Reasons To Attend NCSG in 2026
Five reasons the NCSG Convention matters for marketing, AI, leads, and credibility in 2026.
38
Strong Leaders Forgive
A powerful reflection on forgiveness, leadership, and freedom.
Darwin Award
Have you ever seen some interesting things on the job?
Submit a photo with your name and location to marketing@ncsg.org.
Policy ACTION CENTER
Let us know what’s going on!
Submit industry concerns to NCSG’s Policy Action Center. We post live on the website and look into how we can take action. While you’re there, you can also check out the blog for past issues we’ve addressed. Check your email and Facebook to stay up to date!
On the Cover: Twilight view of a historic fountain and skyline of Kansas City, MO. Kansas City is the location of the 2026 NCSG Convention & Trade Show on February 24-28.
Photo by MattGush (iStock)
SWEEPI NG
February/March 2026, Volume 50 #2
Staff
Kailah Schmitz, CAE, Executive Director director@ncsg.org
Jessica Thornton, Associate Director and Certifications Coordinator jessica@ncsg.org
Jonathan Erdman, Director of Education education@ncsg.org
Sydney Kaizer, Director of Marketing and Communications; Sweeping Editor marketing@ncsg.org
Brittney Burton, Membership and Events Coordinator bburton@ncsg.org
Libby Almendarez, Membership and Certifications Coordinator office@ncsg.org
DISCLAIMER
The views expressed in Sweeping do not necessarily reflect the views of the National Chimney Sweep Guild (NCSG) or its staff.
ADVERTISING
To advertise, email Malisa Minetree at sweepingads@me.com or call (317) 603-7854.
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 does not necessarily constitute endorsement of products or services advertised. NCSG does not make any effort to review or substantiate claims made by advertisers.
PHOTOGRAPHY
Stock images by iStock, Adobe.
ARTICLE SUBMISSION
NCSG encourages industry partners to submit press releases and articles to the editor at marketing@ncsg.org. Submissions should contain items of interest or importance to the chimney and venting industry. Submissions should not contain direct solicitations, prices, or other forms of advertising verbiage. Submissions may contain images or artwork attached in a JPG format.
In all cases, NCSG reserves the right to edit submissions for 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. © 2026 National Chimney Sweep Guild
LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT
II’m honored to have you join us at our 2026 National Chimney Sweep Guild (NCSG) Convention and Trade Show, taking place February 24-28 in Kansas City, MO!
The Sheraton Kansas City Hotel at Crown Center connects to Crown Center, which is a shopping and entertainment district that includes a mall overlooking a plaza with an ice rink.
Be sure to attend the NCSG Annual Membership Meeting on Wednesday, February 25 at 9:00 am to review the past year's accomplishments and discuss the goals and outlook for the Guild moving forward. You'll also have a chance to meet our new education director, Jonathan Erdman.
At convention this year, our education lineup features some of the most respected voices in the chimney and hearth industry. Don’t miss this year’s keynote speaker, Dr. Kevin Elko and his message: To Do the Impossible, You Have To See the Invisible.
We will also focus on business-building sessions, safety and health sessions, and our customer service representative (CSR) track. We’ve designed a program that supports every aspect of your professional journey. You’ll have the chance to explore the latest tools, technologies, and innovations at our expanded trade show. Make plans to visit every booth. If you see a first-time attendee, share your knowledge and a meal with them.
We will also be holding our certification testing for the Certified Chimney Professional (CCP), Certified Chimney Reliner (CCR), and Certified Chimney Journeyman (CCJ). Be sure to register for these exams by applying at certifiedchimneyprofessionals.com.
While at the trade show, visit the From the Future booth to see how our virtual reality (VR) program is coming along. This is the best and safest way to onboard new technicians. Don't learn in your customer's house—practice in VR.
The 2026 NCSG Convention & Trade Show will be my last days on the NCSG Board of Directors as my term comes to an end. It has been my pleasure to serve all of you as a regional director and president. I won't be going too far, as I will still be out in the field every day servicing America's chimneys and staying engaged through NCSG committees.
See you in the convention halls or a training event in the future. Training is essential and keeps you engaged in our amazing trade. I look forward to seeing you in Kansas City. ■
By Bill Thornton, President, National Chimney Sweep Guild
Cancer the cost of
By Steve Scally, At-Large Director, National Chimney Sweep Guild
IIn early September, my wife of 39 years, Lisa, was diagnosed with stage three breast cancer and kidney cancer. She went in for a mammogram on a Monday, followed up with a biopsy on the following Monday, and on that Thursday, I came home and she told me she was diagnosed with cancer.
I cannot begin to tell you the feelings we went through on that day and days moving forward. I was gut wrenched. I lost my mom, my Aunt Lesley, my Aunt Janet, my other Aunt Janet, and my Uncle Bobby to this dreaded disease.
The following week, we had a meeting with the surgeon, now under the impression they were just going to go in and remove it. Nope, now we had to meet with the oncologist and the radiation doctor, with all kinds of other tests along the way. We were literally in the hospital every day that week for one thing or another.
They were moving fast, and we came to find out my wife has triple negative breast cancer. The one that is the most aggressive and the one that also returns. You do not have time to think, it is moving so fast.
I decided to apply to Sweep Away Cancer, and the response from them was immediate. What a blessing to have this organization be part of the sweeping community. Thank you to all of you who are involved with it. We had a check within a week to help with the mounting bills coming in.
Thank God we have health insurance or those bills would have bankrupted us in no time. We are currently $11,000 out of pocket for her treatment, and that is nothing compared to the actual cost.
Lisa goes in for chemotherapy once a week for 12 weeks. The cost for chemotherapy is between $40,000-50,000 per week. This is only the first round. We have another 12-week regimen to go. Then radiation and a couple surgeries. As you can see, this would be over a million dollars by the time we are done without insurance.
To Tommy Nelms, Mark Stoner, and his wife Terry—thank you from the bottom of my heart. And that does not seem like enough. ■
Sweep Away Cancer is a 501(c)(3) non-profit founded in 2015 by Tommy Nelms, Mark Stoner, and Darin Bibeau. These three came together to raise awareness and funds for individuals affected by all types of cancer by asking those within their industry to get involved.
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 23
8:00 AM – 5:00 PM CSIA® Chimney Science
Learn the science behind how and why flue gases exit chimneys. Topics will include system design, common house-related factors that negatively impact venting, external influences, and solutions to venting challenges.
Please note: Registration is not included with your convention registration and is handled directly through CSIA.
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 24
8:00 AM – 5:00 PM CSIA® Certified Chimney Sweep Review & Exam
Please note: Registration for this event is required prior to arrival in Kansas City. Registration is not included with your convention registration and is handled directly through CSIA.
9:00 AM – 4:00 PM CSIA® Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician® Review & Exam
Please note: Registration for this event is required prior to arrival in Kansas City. Registration is not included with your convention registration and is handled directly through CSIA.
1:00 PM – 5:00 PM Attendee and Exhibitor Registration
2:00 PM – 5:00 PM NCSG Certifications Exam
In-person proctored exam session for the Certified Chimney Professional (CCP), Certified Chimney Reliner (CCR), and Certified Chimney Journeyman (CCJ). Registration for this event is required prior to arrival in Kansas City. Apply separately at certifiedchimneyprofessionals.com
4:00 PM – 5:00 PM Chimney Sweeping Around the World
International guests share their global perspectives and industry updates.
4:00 PM – 5:00 PM State and Regional Guild Presidents’ Reception
Join NCSG President Bill Thornton for a discussion on the relationship between the NCSG and various state/regional guilds and associations.
6:00 PM – 8:30 PM First-Time Attendee Meeting and Happy Hour Sponsored by FutureNow Marketing
Wondering what to expect at your first convention? Find out how to make the most of your experience and meet your fellow first-time attendees!
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 25
8:00 AM – 5:00 PM Attendee and Exhibitor Registration
9:00 AM – 10:30 AM NCSG Annual Membership Meeting
Review the past year’s accomplishments and challenges and discuss the goals and outlook for the Guild moving forward.
11:00 AM – 12:30 PM Opening Keynote: To Do the Impossible, You Have to See the Invisible Sponsored by New England Chimney Supply
Dr. Kevin Elko
Kick off the 2026 NCSG National Convention & Trade Show with a high-energy message from renowned performance coach Dr. Kevin Elko. Known for his work with the Philadelphia Eagles, Dallas Cowboys, Pittsburgh Steelers, and companies like FedEx, Coca-Cola, and State Farm, Dr. Elko helps teams and leaders perform their best when the pressure is on.
KEYNOTE SPEAKER
Dr. Kevin Elko
Wednesday, February 25 at 11:00 am
12:30 PM – 12:45 PM Group Photo
12:45 PM – 2:00 PM Lunch Break
2:00 PM – 3:30 PM Concrete Basics for Chimney Sweeps
Phillip Stoller, President and CEO, SaverSystems
Jeremy Biswell, Business Development Manager, SaverSystems
Dig down into the structure and proper uses of concrete, aggregate, air entrainment, proper selection of material, mixing, and use.
2:00 PM – 3:30 PM How Your Profits Are Slipping Through Your Fingers
Jerry Isenhour, President, CVC Success Group
If you make great sales, but your profit isn't quite where you want it, this session is for you.
2:00 PM – 3:30 PM Navigating Critical Conversations with Confidence
Andy Smith, Owner, Smith Chimney
This session will unpack why having difficult conversations is so vital, why we as leaders often avoid them, and how we can approach them confidently in the future.
2:00 PM – 3:30 PM The CSR Playbook: Scripts, Systems, and Success Stories
Lauren Turnock, Head of Business Operations, Rooftop Chimney Sweeps
3:30 PM – 3:45 PM Soda Break – Sponsored by Rush Profits
3:45 PM – 5:15 PM "Fire and Water" Infrared Cameras for Chimney Investigators
Peter Hopkins, Vice President, United Infrared Inc.
Have you considered the use of an infrared cameras for the investigation of water entry or have ever wondered if there was a way to see the combustible framing clearances to chimneys without destructive testing?
3:45 PM – 5:15 PM Inside the Industry
Take a step back and get a broader view of the chimney and venting industry. This session is designed to give attendees timely insights, ongoing points of focus, and a sense of where the industry conversation is heading.
3:45 PM – 5:15 PM Navigating Local Search in the Age of AI
Taylor Hill, Partner, FutureNow Marketing
AI is rewriting the rules of local search, and businesses that fail to adapt risk disappearing from customer view.
3:45 PM – 5:15 PM CSR vs. Technician: The Royal Rumble
Jasper Drengler, Owner, Chimney Mechanix
CSRs and techs don’t always communicate the same way, but the job goes better when they do. This session breaks down the gaps, the pain points, and how to build a smoother workflow for everyone.
6:00 PM – 10:00 PM Opening Night and Social Hour Hosted by CSIA
Come join CSIA for a night filled with updates, fun, networking and heavy appetizers. No ticket required to attend.
Pete Luter, April 25, 1941 –March 19, 2010
PETE LUTER INNOVATION AWARD
Convention attendees will have the opportunity to vote for the 2026 Pete Luter Innovation Award winner during the 2026 NCSG Convention & Trade Show in Kansas City. Voting is only open during trade show hours (Thursday, February 26 from 1:00 pm to 6:00 pm and Friday, February 27 from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm).
The Pete Luter Innovation Award was established to celebrate groundbreaking, innovative products in the chimney and venting industry. Pete Luter served as the NCSG president from 1989 to 1991. He was a leader in the industry before his life was tragically cut short in 2010 in a skydiving accident. Pete's adventurous spirit and innovative mind continues to inspire the industry he loved.
Attendees will vote through the convention app. Just search for "National Chimney Sweep Guild" in the Google Play (Android) or App Store (iPhone) and log in with your confirmation number from your registration email. We'll send out a notification when voting is open.
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 26
7:30 AM – 5:00 PM Attendee and Exhibitor Registration
8:00 AM – 9:30 AM NFPA Codes Update for 2026
Jim Brewer, Partner, SureFire Training Academy
This seminar will focus on current updates to the NFPA 211 (Chimneys, Fireplaces, Vents, and Solid Fuel-Burning Appliances) and NFPA 54 (National fuel Gas Code). Both the 54 & 211 committees will publish new editions in 2026 so this seminar will be timely and informative.
8:00 AM – 9:30 AM What’s Their Superpower? Unlocking the True Potential of Your Team
Kathy Nielsen, Owner, Chicken Lady Speaks/Operations Excellence
Are your team members in the right roles—or even on the right bus? This session helps you identify and align each person’s unique superpower with the role they’re built to thrive in.
8:00 AM – 9:30 AM Buckets of Dollars
Jeremy Biswell, Business Development Manager, Saversystems
James Phillips, SaverSystems
Josh Lovitt, Business Development Manager, SaverSystems
This session will equip service technicians, team leads, and business owners with strategies to significantly increase revenue per truck—without the need for new products or major capital investment—by improving sales techniques, leveraging current inventory, and enhancing customer service practices.
8:00 AM – 9:30 AM Adapting to the Virtual Office
Lee Roff, Owner, Lords Chimney
Milly Marrero, Office Manager, Lords Chimney
Real examples of how to use a virtual office to add flexibility and efficiency.
9:30 AM – 10:00 AM Coffee Break – Sponsored by Chimney Monkey
10:00 AM – 11:30 AM Understanding Gas: Concepts & Considerations
This session will introduce key ideas and thinking points related to gas systems in the field.
10:00 AM – 11:30 AM Sustainable Leadership: Principles for the Modern Business Owner
Felicity Monsees, Owner/Founder, Hearthside Hustle LLC
In today’s ever-changing business landscape, sustainable leadership is the key to long-term growth and thriving teams.
10:00 AM – 11:30 AM Knock Knock, It's OSHA
Jonathan Erdman, Owner, Rooftop Safety USA
Overview of what you can expect from an OSHA inspection. Dispelling fears and giving you the tools to always be ready for an OSHA visit.
10:00 AM – 11:30 AM The Inspection Edge: Unlocking Higher Close Rates, Boosting Revenue, and Maximizing Marketing ROI through Inspection Driven Sales
Katie Poole, CEO, The Chimney Guys
Imagine consistently achieving higher close rates, generating more revenue per customer, and squeezing far more value out of every marketing dollar you spend. This class shows you exactly how to accomplish that through an inspection-driven sales model.
10:00 AM – 11:30 AM NFI Gas Technical Training
Amie Ryan, Director of Sales and Marketing, National Fireplace Institute
Covered in this session will be: properties of different fuels, storage/delivery combustion air requirements, gas line sizing, venting, and different control systems.
11:30 AM – 1:00 PM Lunch Break
11:30 AM – 1:30 PM CSIA Master Sweeps Luncheon
This luncheon honoring CSIA Master Sweeps will be by invitation only. Please be on the lookout for your invite via email and/or mail.
1:00 PM – 6:00 PM Trade Show Opening Session
Time to hit the trade show floor and meet your industry suppliers.
3:30 PM – 3:45 PM Soda Break
FRIDAY,
FEBRUARY 27
8:00 AM – 12:00 PM Attendee and Exhibitor Registration
9:00 AM – 12:00 PM Trade Show Closing Session
Time to hit the trade show floor and meet your industry suppliers.
9:00 AM – 12:00 PM NCSG Certifications Exam
In-person proctored exam session for the Certified Chimney Professional (CCP), Certified Chimney Reliner (CCR), and Certified Chimney Journeyman (CCJ). Registration for this event is required prior to arrival in Kansas City. Apply separately at certifiedchimneyprofessionals.com.
10:30 AM – 11:00 AM Coffee Break
12:00 PM – 1:30 PM Lunch Break
1:30 PM – 3:00 PM Makeup Air 2.0
Brian Barclay, Vice President of Sales - Hearth, KW Draft/RM Manifold
All fireplaces require makeup air, but most homes today are too tight or have too much negative pressure. What, why, and how do we compensate for the inadequate air required for our appliance to operate correctly?
1:30 PM – 3:00 PM AI for Sweeps Made Simple (Part 1)
1:30 PM – 3:00 PM
John Meredith, Managing Partner, Wokkah & Meredith, LLC
Dr. Iyano Odebode, PhD., Founder and CEO, Wokkah
Jason Wright, COO, Wokkah
Imagine you’re finishing a job and before you drive away, AI has already written a follow up email, created a Facebook post with your photo, and scheduled a reminder for the customer’s next sweep. That’s what this session is all about.
Office Manager Essentials: Preview Session
Lauren Turnock, Head of Business Operations, Rooftop Chimney Sweeps
This course gives a preview of the upcoming Office Manager Essentials class. This course will give office managers a practical look at the leadership, HR, and financial skills they need to confidently run an efficient office.
3:00 PM – 3:30 PM Soda Break
3:30 PM – 5:00 PM Lessons Learned From Fire Investigations
Marge Padgitt, President, HearthMasters, Inc.
Find out what happens when things go very wrong with installations, and see photos of structural fires along with the analysis of the cause and origin of these fires.
3:30 PM – 5:00 PM Why Don't You Have a YouTube Channel?
Clay Lamb, Facilitator, MIX Groups Online
How chimney professionals can harness YouTube as one of the most powerful (and affordable) marketing tools in the industry.
3:30 PM – 5:00 PM AI for Sweeps Made Simple (Part 2)
John Meredith, Managing Partner, Wokkah & Meredith, LLC (Moderator)
This Q&A panel discussion with leadoff presentation by Lee Roff to show how he has implemented AI into his company will give attendees ample time to ask their burning questions about AI. This panel will be facilitated by John Meredith with special guests Taylor Hill, Lee Roff, Dr. Iyanu, and Jason Wright.
3:30 PM – 5:00 PM
Managing Difficult Customer Conversations
Bre Nichols, Office Manager, Ohio Chimney Co
Learn how to transform potential conflicts into opportunities for gaining trust with your customers.
6:00 PM – 10:00 PM Honors and Auction Event
Sponsored by Lindemann Chimney Supply
A celebration of NCSG members, certification holders, and suppliers. Following the awards ceremony, items will be up for bid during a live auction.
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 28
8:00 AM – 9:30 AM Everything Is Relevant
Dennis Dobbs, Owner, CHAR Training
Critical factors that impact successful installations and repairs, from overloooked details to common pitfalls.
8:00 AM – 9:30 AM How EOS® Helps Chimney Professionals Lead Better and Scale Easier
Bill Brennan, Professional EOS Implementer® and Growth Strategist, Founder, Arc Leadership LLC
Discover how chimney and hearth companies are using EOS® (the Entrepreneurial Operating System) to streamline operations, improve team accountability, and unlock growth.
8:00 AM – 9:30 AM Mental Health and Business
Thomas Rhine, President and CEO, Chim Cheroo Chimney Service
This session is for anyone balancing business demands, family responsibilities, and personal well-being and looking for realistic, sustainable ways to protect their health while leading with purpose.
8:00 AM – 9:30 AM The Lost Art of Communication: Strengthening Small Business Teams in an AI-Driven World
Bill Brennan, Professional EOS Implementer® and Growth Strategist, Founder, Arc Leadership LLC
Attendees will uncover how AI-generated convenience can create disconnection, and how to restore clarity and trust through intentional, emotionally intelligent communication.
9:45 AM – 11:15 AM Factory-Built Fireplaces: What To Look For, Common Errors, and Aftermarket Parts
Matthew Reedy, Technical Director, The Mad Hatter
This session will cover key inspection points for factory-built fireplaces, including common installation errors, code and listing violations, and the risks associated with improper use of aftermarket components.
9:45 AM – 11:15 AM
11:30 AM – 1:00 PM
Building Resilience (and Avoiding Burnout) in Customer Service Representatives
Bre Nichols, Office Manager, Ohio Chimney Co
An introduction to key concepts of resilience, including stress management techniques, the importance of work-life balance, and methods for fostering a more supportive workplace culture.
Closing General Session: The 5 Stages of Business Growth Sponsored by FutureNow Marketing
Mark Stoner, Owner, Ashbusters Chimney Service
If you’re serious about growing your business, you don’t want to miss this. In this powerful session, industry leader and bestselling author Mark Stoner breaks down the five critical stages every company moves through.
A Legacy Built at NCSG Convention
By Deidre Gilbert, Administrative Assistant, Doctor Flue, Inc.®
AAs we await this year’s National Chimney Sweep Guild (NCSG) Convention & Trade Show, Doctor Flue, heading into its 40th year, prepares for another significant event. This year Kevon H. Binder (Doc), founder of Doctor Flue, Inc.® in Michigan in 1986, prepares to take a step back as he retires and passes his family-owned business along to his son, Kevon R. Binder.
Through the last 40 years, the NCSG Convention & Trade Show has been one place that has allowed the company to grow into its potential and prosper. By learning new techniques, protocols, and appliance mechanics, Doctor Flue has been able to become more knowledgable, skilled, and able to perfect their trade.
“We’ve implemented a multitude of ideas from the convention into our business— management styles, insurances, tools, vendor selection, etc.,” Doc said. “It has taught us so much about how technology has exponentially increased communication, education, and the sharing of information.” Doc attended his first convention in New Orleans in 1987, just a year after he started the business. Kevon attended his first convention in 1991 at only 9 years old, and his most recent last year in Cincinnati. Kevon was CSIA certified at just 15 years old. As Kevon started to implement his own practices into the company, he too
took ideas from Doc and the convention, integrating them into policies and procedures for himself and his technicians.
"We have begun practicing a consultative approach with customers compared to a sales approach," Kevon said. “We also place emphasis on continuing education not only for owners, but for employees. This allows us to keep up with the latest technologies and best tools for the work we do.”
While Doctor Flue continues to expand their business and techniques, both Doc and Kevon iterate that the company has a motto they follow that enhances their business spiritually, financially, and personably:
“Own what you DO personally. Own what you HAVE personally. SERVITUDE trumps.”
As Doc heads into retirement, Kevon will continue learning, growing, and implementing his own knowledge into the company and to the public. At the heart of these learnings and ideas is what started the prospering process: the NCSG Convention. ■
s [ 6 ] H
Unique in its continuous convex shape, the new s6-H wood stove provides a wide view of the fire that highlights the flame spectacle. Compact yet powerful, it fits seamlessly into any interior with ease of installation.
Meet us at the NCSG tradeshow in Kansas City.
FEATURE ARTICLE
IThe Myth of the "Pain-inthe-Neck" Regular
By Trent Simmons, Owner, Top Hat Chimney Sweeps
In the chimney industry, there is a lingering sentiment that repeat customers are a burden. You’ve heard the complaints: they expect "legacy" pricing, they take up space on the schedule during the busy season, and they supposedly don’t provide the revenue growth that a fresh, high-ticket construction lead offers.
After 40 years of building Top Hat Chimney Sweeps into a successful sweep, fireplace, and construction firm, I am here to tell you: that mindset is the biggest barrier to your company’s growth.
The Data Doesn't Lie
We decided to look past the anecdotes and dive into our data. What we found was a revelation. When we ran the numbers on lifetime value, our regular customers didn’t just keep the lights on—they outpaced new, one-time customers by a significant margin.
A new customer is great, but a regular customer is a guarantee. Our company was built on the pillars of relationships, caring for people, and pure integrity. As it turns out, those "old-fashioned" values are also the most profitable.
The Power of the Membership Model
For decades, we relied on our reputation alone. Recently, however, we decided to formalize those relationships by developing a structured membership program. The goal was simple: offer more value to the client while streamlining our internal operations.
The results were immediate:
• Increased Revenue: By shifting to a membership mindset, our average repeat customer service ticket jumped from $299 to nearly $400. Not to mention our customer lifetime value is significantly higher for members, and our sales per opportunity is higher.
• Team Satisfaction: Our technicians prefer visiting homes where they are known and trusted. It reduces stress and builds a sense of community.
• Stable Growth: Membership revenue provides a "floor" for the business, allowing us to plan for construction projects without the feast-or-famine anxiety of the shoulder seasons.
The cost to acquire a new customer is astronomical nowadays. What if you could turn your regular customers into raving fans that gave you one to three leads at every visit!?
Excellence Is a Two-Way Street
Excellent customer service isn’t a "favor" we do for the client; it is a strategic investment in our team and our future. When you care for the person behind the chimney, they stop shopping for price and start investing in your expertise.
After four decades in the soot and the bricks, I can confidently say that if you treat your regulars like your lifeblood, they will ensure your business lives forever.
To learn more about how we structured our membership programs to provide maximum value, visit us at calltophat.com/fire-membership. ■
Expanding in New York
Chimney Heroes joins forces with Four Winds Chimney
By Joe Schwartz, Marketing Coordinator, Four Winds Chimney
TTwo longtime National Chimney Sweep Guild (NCSG) member companies are coming together to strengthen service in New York’s Capital District.
On December 31, 2025, Four Winds Chimney completed the acquisition of Chimney Heroes, a well-established chimney service provider based in Ballston Spa, New York.
"We are excited to welcome our great friends at Chimney Heroes into our rapidly growing family," said Dave Christen, CEO of Four Winds Chimney. "This team instantly makes us better, and we cannot wait to continue service in the Capital area."
Founded in 2007 by Jamie Wallace, Chimney Heroes has grown over nearly two decades to become one of the largest and most respected chimney companies in the Capital District. By joining forces, Four Winds Chimney will now offer its full suite of services, including inspections, sweeps, relining, masonry repairs, and fireplace installations, in the Albany region.
"Chimney Heroes has always been about serving families with excellence, safety, and integrity," Jamie said. "Joining the Four Winds Chimney family allows us to
strengthen that mission while continuing to care for the customers and communities we’ve built relationships with over the past 18 years."
All 16 members of the Chimney Heroes team will join Four Winds Chimney. Jamie will join the Four Winds Chimney leadership team as the Director of Business Development and Process, where he will help scale operations across the state.
Founded in February 2018 by fourthgeneration mason Anthony Valerio, Four Winds Chimney provides best-in-class chimney, fireplace, and hearth services. Under Valerio’s leadership, the company has grown to 74 employees and 45 vehicles, now with regional offices serving Buffalo, Rochester, Syracuse, and Albany. ■
Robby Murphy
Secretary, Region 1 Director, and Governance Committee Chair
What makes your company unique?
Longevity in the community. Hudson Valley Chimney officially hit its 50th anniversary this year. From a one-man band with some brushes back in 1976, to our highly trained team and over 10 trucks, we have always delivered the best service and responsiveness in our area. We actually pick up the phone and show up on time. Pretty crazy, but we hear it weekly from our customers that we respond and show up when we say we will.
What does success mean to you as a business owner?
Seeing my team have the tools and knowledge to take on whatever is thrown at them. Being in charge, it is hard to let go of the things we do best and let others take the reins. But when everyone steps up to take care of the customer and each other, that is what makes me feel successful as a business owner.
How do you envision the chimney industry 50 years from now?
I hope our industry will be completely regulated, and increased liability for unqualified individuals performing chimney work will likely become more pronounced. Legal consequences will be enforced for those without proper certification, ensuring that only trained individuals can service chimneys and vents.
What’s something people usually don’t know about you?
I have been snowmobiling since I was four. Being slow at work in the winter is a blessing in disguise as I can head north and play in the snow! ■
Robby Murphy owns Hudson Valley Chimney, which has been serving the Hudson Valley, NY area for over 50 years.
Hazard Communication Plans for Chimney Companies I
By Jonathan Erdman, Director of Education, National Chimney Sweep Guild
In 2014, in the small town of South Jordan, Utah, an employee at Dickey’s Barbecue Pit noticed it was time to refill the sweet tea at the self-service beverage dispensing station. The employee was having a difficult time finding the sugar and went to the back of the restaurant to search for it. When she finally found it, she put the appropriate amount into the tea carafe and went about her other duties.
The tea hadn’t been replenished too long before 67-year-old customer Jan Harding filled her cup with sweet tea. She put her straw in the cup and began walking away as she took her first sip. As soon as the tea hit her mouth and throat, she was in agonizing pain and shock. This wasn’t sweet tea. It was way worse.
The employee who refilled the tea thought she was putting sugar in the tea mix, but instead actually added lye. Lye is sodium hydroxide, a caustic cleaner, and is commonly used as a degreaser in commercial kitchens. The texture and make-up of the cleaner looked very similar to sugar but was definitely not the same thing.
What went wrong? When the Dickey’s employee grabbed what she thought was sugar, she picked up an unlabeled container. Apparently, the restaurant ordered their cleaning supplies in bulk and kept only what was needed readily available in secondary containers. But without a label or anything indicating what it was, who would know any different?
Every company is required by OSHA to have a written Hazard Communication Program (cf. 29 CFR 1910.1200). This is a program that identifies the chemicals in your work environment that might be harmful to personal health or the environment. It requires
every employer to maintain a list of chemicals as well as the corresponding Safety Data Sheets (SDS), which describe the chemicals and how to proceed with storage, handling, and emergency response.
Your Hazardous Communication Program also requires you to use proper labeling when chemicals are stored in secondary containers. When you purchase a chemical, the container it comes in has all the necessary information to identify what it is. If you need to put some of that chemical in a different container, however, you are now using a secondary container and need to communicate to everyone in your work environment what it is.
For example, at Dickey’s Barbecue Pit, they should have labeled the secondary container with a label that indicated the product was lye.
Let’s apply this to the chimney world. It is very common for suppliers to ship weatherproofing products in bulk. If you get a large bucket of water-proofer, for example, do you take the bucket on the roof? Or do you put it in a pump sprayer? If you said pump
sprayer, then you are now using a secondary container, and it must be labeled.
There’s a catch to this. OSHA 1910.1200(f)(8) does permit you to use an unlabeled secondary container under certain conditions. You are allowed to use an unlabeled secondary container if, and only if, the chemical is going to be used immediately. In other words, if I have a bucket of crown sealer on my truck and don’t want to carry the entire bucket, I can transfer what I need from the original container into a smaller one and carry that up to the chimney for application. It’s temporary, and it’s immediate. If, however, I want to store that little bit in the secondary container for the next time I need it, then I must label it with identifying information.
Take a moment and do a mental inventory of chemicals you have in your warehouse, janitor closets, and work vehicles. Do you have an SDS on file for each of those? Do you have them stored in unlabeled secondary containers? Designate someone in your company to maintain your
Hazard Communication Program and educate them on the proper procedures. Don’t wait until someone gets hurt.
We may not serve sweet tea in the chimney industry, but our service professionals are interacting with chemicals on a daily basis. These chemicals can be ingested through other means: the eyes, the nose, the skin, etc. The requirement to have a Hazard Communication Program is not industry-specific, and it is also not optional.
Jan Harding survived the sweet tea incident, but suffered severe chemical burns to her mouth, throat, and esophagus. She was hospitalized in critical condition and eventually recovered. It was a close call, and everyone was very lucky it didn’t end any worse. The incident severely damaged the reputation of Dickey’s Barbecue Pit, though, and they didn’t recover. They eventually closed their doors and sold to a different company later that year. While they were fortunate this incident didn’t take the life of the customer, it certainly killed the small business. ■
Darwin Award
This was discovered during a Level II inspection. Pictured is not an elephant trunk; it is actually the fresh air intake for a pellet stove. Dangling freely on the side of the chimney, with a bit of mesh clamped around the end to prevent anything from entering the pipe. The exhaust for this pellet stove is sharing the same clay tile flue as the intake pipe but is several feet short of the sealer plate.
SUBMITTED BY: Kristen W. in New Hampshire
Have you ever seen some interesting things on the job? Submit a photo with your name and location to marketing@ncsg.org.
darwin award
INSURED & INFORMED
FWorkers Compensation Audits Made Easier: Payroll Tips
By Gordon Sheucraft, Risk Advisor, SouthPoint Risk
For National Chimney Sweep Guild (NCSG) members who operate chimney sweep companies, maintaining accurate payroll records is a crucial part of managing workers compensation insurance audits and ultimately controlling insurance costs.
Why Payroll Record Keeping Matters for Work Comp Audits
Workers compensation auditors rely heavily on payroll records because premiums are primarily calculated on the wages paid to employees. Auditors review these records to ensure the insurer has been paid the correct premium for the level of risk in the business based on actual payroll. Payroll figures include hourly wages, salaries, overtime, bonuses, and other benefits provided.
For chimney sweep companies, employee roles vary widely, from field technicians doing hazardous work on rooftops and in confined spaces to office staff. Each job classification has a different risk factor and premium rate. Accurate payroll records categorized correctly by job help auditors apply the right workers compensation classification codes. Misclassification or incomplete payroll reporting can lead to inaccurate premiums and possible costly audit adjustments later.
Common Payroll Documentation Required
Typical documents requested during work comp audits include:
• Detailed payroll registers showing all employees paid during the audit period, including terminated employees
• Payroll tax records such as federal 941 quarterly returns, state unemployment (SUTA) filings, and
W-2 forms
• Payroll journals or ledgers that tie wages to departmental or job classifications
• Certificates of insurance for any subcontractors or 1099 workers to avoid premium charges for uninsured labor
Keeping these records organized and readily accessible can ensure the audit proceeds smoothly and efficiently.
Best Practices for NCSG Members
1. Maintain Organized and Up-to-Date Payroll Records
Separate payroll by job classification or department to match work roles. This is essential for the auditor to assign the proper classification codes.
2. Document All Payroll Details
Include overtime, bonuses, commissions, and any additional compensation, as these count toward premiums. Mark overtime clearly, as many states allow adjustments or discounts on overtime wages during premium calculations.
3. Track Subcontractor Insurance Certificates
Always collect and organize proof of insurance for subcontractors or independent contractors. Lack of COIs can result in your company being charged for their labor during audits.
4. Review Records Before Audits
Perform a detailed review of payroll and classifications well in advance of your audit to catch and correct errors. Keeping job descriptions current also supports proper classification.
5. Assign a Knowledgeable Contact
Designate someone familiar with payroll and company operations to be the auditor’s point of contact. This helps answer questions quickly and keeps the audit moving forward.
The Benefits of Good Payroll Record Keeping
Accurate payroll record keeping means fewer surprises at audit time, fewer premium adjustments, and better control over business insurance costs. It also demonstrates professionalism and compliance to insurers and clients alike, supporting the company’s reputation and growth potential. In short, maintaining detailed, organized, and accurate payroll records is one of the most effective ways for chimney companies to ensure fair workers compensation premiums and a smoother audit process every year. ■
MARKETING UPDATE
A5 Marketing Reasons To Attend 2026 NCSG Convention
By Taylor Hill and Carter Harkins, FutureNow Marketing
A lot of folks in our industry think marketing is basically “done.” Website? Check. Google Business Profile? Check. A few ads when things get slow? Check.
But marketing isn’t a checklist, it’s a moving target. And right now, the target is sprinting. AI is reshaping how homeowners search, how they choose, and how fast your competitors can copy what works. If you want to stay in the game (and not get blindsided by the next big shift), you don’t just need “something new.” You need the right things, the stuff that keeps the phone ringing while everyone else wonders why the usual tricks suddenly feel… well, like you’ve been ghosted.
That’s why the 2026 National Chimney Sweep Guild (NCSG) Convention & Trade Show matters. It runs February 24-28, 2026 at the Sheraton Kansas City Hotel at Crown Center in Kansas City, MO, and it’s built around a theme that fits the moment: “Turn Up the Heat.”
Here are five marketing reasons you should be iin attendance.
1. AI Is Changing the Marketing Terrain… and the Roadmap
AI isn’t a shiny object. It’s a foundational shift, like when smartphones showed up and everyone suddenly expected a business to respond instantly, not "within 48 business hours."
What changes first is discovery. Homeowners are asking questions differently, getting answers faster, and comparing companies with less patience for friction. That means the winners aren’t just “best at SEO” or “running ads.” The winners are the companies that:
• Respond faster (calls, forms, texts, direct messages—pick your poison)
• Follow up consistently (without relying on someone remembering)
• Convert more of the leads they already pay for
• Prove trust quickly (reviews, photos, certifications, clarity, professionalism)
And here’s the uncomfortable part: AI also speeds up your competitors. A company that used to be “too small to market well” can suddenly crank out content, ads, and follow-up systems at a pace that used to require a full-time marketing department.
The 2026 NCSG Convention & Trade Show gives you the chance to hear what’s working from real operators and real suppliers and to build a roadmap that fits chimney companies (not generic “small business marketing” advice written by someone who has never stared into the labyrinth of scheduling a packed calendar in October through December).
2. The Need for More Leads Will Grow
If your pipeline feels “fine,” that’s great. But “fine” is not a strategy. The lead environment keeps getting tighter for three reasons:
1. Competition increases. More companies, more franchises, more private equity roll-ups, more paid ads, more noise.
2. The “one-channel lifestyle” is getting riskier. If you rely on one platform (Google, LSAs, one referral partner), you’re one update away from a bad week turning into a bad quarter.
3. Easy leads trend expensive over time. Mature markets get crowded. Monetizing platforms is
getting harder. Your cost per lead rises unless your conversion improves.
So the future isn’t just “get more leads.” It’s to know where the best lead sources are, get more of those and convert better. However, many companies have no idea where their best leads are coming from or if they’re, in fact, good leads.
This is where NCSG shines, because you’re not brainstorming in a vacuum. You’re surrounded by businesses that sell the same kinds of jobs, face the same seasonality, and fight the same scheduling battles. The best “lead growth” playbooks usually include:
• Lead diversification (partners, reputation engines, content, paid, email/SMS, local presence)
• Service mix that feeds the calendar (inspections, sweeps, repairs, liners, caps, waterproofing, dryer vents, etc.)
• Offers that stabilize shoulder seasons (instead of praying to the weather gods)
You attend to walk away with ideas you can actually implement—not just a notebook full of “interesting,” because interesting doesn’t pay payroll.
3. Using AI for Good… and Spotting AI Used for Bad in Local Marketing
AI is a power tool. In the right hands, it builds. In the wrong hands, it scales scams.
AI used for good looks like this:
• Faster quoting and follow-up workflows
• Better customer communication (less phone tag, fewer dropped leads)
• Smarter insight from calls and forms (why people book, why they don’t)
• Content support that helps educate homeowners without sounding like a robot reading a warranty card
AI used for bad is already showing up—and it will get worse:
• Fake reviews at scale
• Cloned listings and lookalike brands
• Spam sites built to siphon calls
• Manufactured “trust signals” that make a scam feel legitimate
One reason to attend the 2026 NCSG Convention & Trade Show is defense: bad actors scale faster than lone operators. A connected industry spots patterns earlier and responds smarter. And the “response” isn’t just reporting or complaining—it’s tightening your brand signals so homeowners can tell the difference between a real professional and a welldressed fraud.
In 2026, marketing isn’t only offense. It’s also protection.
Join us at the convention to hear the latest in Navigating Local Search in the Age of AI (Strategies To Stay Findable When AI Rewrites the Rules of Discovery) on Wednesday, February 25 at 3:45 pm to dig deeper into this subject.
4. Trust and Credibility Are Becoming the Real Differentiator
When everyone’s website starts to look the same, and when AI makes it easy to produce “pretty” marketing, credibility becomes the divider between the companies that command premium pricing and the companies that get treated like a commodity.
Homeowners aren’t just paying for a sweep. They’re buying:
• Safety
• Competence
• Professionalism
• Peace of mind
And they’re buying it in a world where they don’t know who to trust. That’s why trust signals matter more than ever:
• Real photos (your team, your trucks, real jobs)
• Clear explanations (what’s included, what’s not, why it matters)
• Consistent review strategy (ethical, repeatable, not “please review us if you have time”)
• Professional presentation (quotes, communication, scheduling, follow-through)
The NCSG is an advantage here because education and standards aren’t just operational—they’re brand assets. They give you legitimate authority. And in a market where people get nervous about scams and shortcuts, authority sells.
If you want to stand out without racing to the bottom on price, this is the lane.
5. Networking as a Lead Source (and a Protection Plan)
Networking isn’t just awkward hallway conversations and name tags. In this industry, networking is a revenue strategy and a safety net.
At the NCSG Convention & Trade Show, networking turns into:
• Referral partnerships or who to target in your area (roofers, hearth shops, inspectors, builders, property managers)
• Vendor relationships that save money and prevent “expensive learning moments”
• Mentorship that cuts years off your trial-and-error
• Early warnings about trends, spam tactics, platform shifts, and what’s changing next
And here’s the piece most people miss: networking is also protection. When something hits your market—fake listings, review attacks, lead-gen networks, sudden ranking chaos—the businesses that do best aren’t the ones who panic first. They’re the ones who already have a circle and a playbook.
The NCSG Convention is literally built for that: gather the industry, share what’s working, push the craft forward—turn up the heat together.
Remember, the 2026 NCSG Convention & Trade Show isn’t about “keeping up with marketing trends.” It’s about staying ahead of the changes that affect revenue, lead flow, conversion, credibility, and the defenses you need in a much messier local-search world than we’ve ever had before.
If you’re serious about growth, attend with one goal: leave Kansas City with a marketing roadmap you can implement in 2026. You don’t have to go into survival mode, waiting for the busy season to bring you back from the dead. There are real actionable things you can do to bring in new and repeat business right now.
And if you’re still thinking, “I already know marketing”… perfect. Come prove it. In 2026, the scoreboard doesn’t care what we know. It only cares what we execute. ■
Build Real Skills For
From The Comfort Of Your Own Home.
From the Future’s seven VR training modules cover the core skills chimney professionals need: masonry repair, prefab fireplace systems, house pressure testing, and more.
Practice hands-on procedures in a realistic 3D environment. No travel required. No equipment costs. Just focused training that helps you learn faster, retain better, and show up to jobs with confidence.
• Masonry inspection and basic repair steps.
• Prefabricated fireplace inspection and fault checks.
• House pressure testing and draft diagnostics.
Whether you’re entering the trade or sharpening your skills, this training breaks down complex procedures into clear, repeatable steps you can practice until they stick.
Step into VR training developed by From the Future and the National Chimney Sweep Guild.
Start learning at www.ftfvr.com/ncsg-support
COACH'S CORNER
II was a young guard when I first met the prisoner newly sent to the island most of us refused to name, Robben Island. A place of gray concrete, barbed wire, and wind that tasted like salt. The air itself seemed to whisper defeat. My uniform was tidy, but the job was not. I wasn’t there just to lock doors. I was there to remind men every day that they were locked, forgotten, and finished. My duty was to smother the ember of hope until it cooled into ash.
But prisoner 466/64 was different. We called him the lawyer. Even in his gray uniform, something about him stood taller than the rest. While others shouted, he greeted us by name.
He cleaned the stone floors the way he carried himself: steady, measured, never hurried. And he listened. That was what unnerved me most. Outside, he was forced to break stone in a quarry so bright that men’s eyes burned for weeks. His eyesight suffered. I watched it. Then came the day of his release. I expected him to leave without a glance back. Instead, he turned to us, the guards, and said quietly: “You must not be bound by anger. It will make you a prisoner long after the bars are gone.”
Strong Leaders Forgive
By Phillip Stoller, President and CEO, SaverSystems
And then he walked away as we all watched in silence.
And in that moment, he showed us how powerless the bars of a prison can be in crushing the spirit of a man. He showed us that forgiveness will always offer, to those who embrace it, the power to set a captive free.
The Paradox of Forgiveness
We tend to think of strength as control, as power, as the ability to overcome. But forgiveness holds a different kind of strength, the power to release, to redirect, and to rebuild. It isn’t passive or naïve. It’s deliberate and fiercely disciplined.
Many leaders confuse forgiveness with excusing failure or avoiding accountability. But that’s not forgiveness. Real forgiveness says, “I will not let your offense become my master.”
Resentment doesn’t stay contained. It seeps into your tone, your decisions, and your culture. It narrows your focus until everything becomes about proving a point instead of advancing a mission.
The Science and Practicality of Letting Go
Modern research is catching up to what Nelson Mandela lived out. Stanford’s Forgiveness Project found that people who intentionally practice forgiveness see major drops in stress, lower blood pressure, and better sleep. Releasing resentment rewires the brain’s threat response, freeing energy for creativity and focus.
A Harvard Business Review study showed that teams led by forgiving leaders report higher trust and collaboration. When a leader forgives, it signals that growth, not perfection, is the culture.
Forgiveness is a trust, collaboration, and productivity driver in disguise.
In the real world on a sweeping crew, a shop floor, or in an office, people will fail each other. Promises will be broken. Words will wound. If you lead long enough, someone will hurt you. The question isn’t whether it happens; it’s what you do when it does.
The easy path is to harden. The more powerful path is to forgive.
What Forgiveness Builds
Forgiveness creates tangible results. Here’s what it builds:
• Focus: You stop spending energy reliving old injuries.
• Trust: You rebuild connection instead of deepening divides.
• Humanity: You remind your people that strength doesn’t mean coldness.
• Integrity: You model what accountability looks like without vengeance.
• Courage: You refuse to let bitterness write your story.
How To Practice Forgiveness
Forgiveness is a continuous cycle.
Here are the steps:
• Acknowledge the wound. You can’t heal what you refuse to name.
• Separate the person from the offense. Accountability restores; contempt destroys.
• Initiate repair. A quiet word or a small gesture can reopen a closed door.
• Release the debt. Decide to stop collecting interest on old pain.
• Model it publicly. Let your people see you practice what you preach.
Hope and Challenge
The Hope: You don’t have to carry every offense that’s ever been
The
done to you. You can lead with a clean heart.
The Challenge: Think of one relationship, one wound, or one moment that still echoes in your mind. Consider laying it down today, not because the person who hurt you deserves it, but because the purpose and the people in your life do.
Despite the fact that when Mandela walked out of prison, he carried scars that could have fueled a lifetime of vengeance, he choose grace. He showed us that some chains are made of iron, and others of memory.
By overcoming both, he showed us how to be truly free. ■
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UPCOMING EVENTS
Under Pressure: How Air Moves Through a Home
February 7, 2026 | Asheville, NC
This course breaks down how air movement and pressure affect combustion appliances and what you should be measuring during inspections. CEUs available for attending!
2026 NCSG Convention & Trade Show
February 24-28, 2026 | Kansas City, MO
Let's turn up the heat together—whether it's pushing the limits of your business, embracing new techniques, or fueling your professional fire.
Sweeps Week at Warrior Horse
March 9-13, 2026 | Frierson, LA
Warrior Horse does incredible work with our military and first responders suffering through PTSD, started and operated by fellow chimney sweep Kevin Russell.
REGIONAL UPDATES
REGION 4
Debbie Wiedwald Region 4 Director
YAT-LARGE
You and your team are registered for the 2026 convention. Now it’s time to prioritize education sessions for you and your crew from all the many presentations offered.
Have you thought about doing a trade show scavenger hunt? Our team at Blackburn's Chimney Sweeps had a lot of fun completing a scavenger hunt during the 2025 NCSG Convention & Trade Show in Covington, Kentucky!
Staff were divided into teams led by a team member who previously attended convention. A creative team name was developed by the team members, and off they went to take pictures at the various trade show booths as directed by the scavenger hunt list. Points were given as the list was completed, and pictures received of the various booths and convention attendees. Of course, some teams did not take the time to thoroughly read the instructions and therefore, they did not receive all available points.
Credit to Hope Stevenson, Dave Pomeroy Signature Training, and Paul Bianco, Chimney Savers, for the trade show scavenger hunt inspiration.
See you soon in Kansas City! Let me know if you want additional information about our trade show scavenger hunt! ■
Lee Roff At-Large Director
WWhile many recognize the National Chimney Sweep Guild (NCSG) for its annual conventions, much of its most vital work happens behind the scenes—efforts I didn’t fully realize until being elected to the board. I have heard people say it is not worth what it costs, but I now know that is far from the truth. The true value of membership far exceeds the dues when you consider the advocacy and protection provided to every member.
One of the Guild’s most significant recent victories is a landmark legal settlement with OSHA. For years, the NCSG fought to prove that standard fall protection rules were often infeasible for residential chimney work. This win officially authorizes the use of alternative ground-based anchors—like trees or vehicles—protecting members from unrealistic federal mandates while ensuring on-the-job safety.
The Guild also battles the surge of online spammers who undercut honest professionals. By exposing these deceptive tactics, the NCSG helps protect your reputation and local market share.
However, the most underutilized benefit remains the Technical Advisory Council (TAC) Line. This resource puts expert consultants just a phone call away to help navigate confusing codes or complex installations. These high-level resources ensure you aren’t just a member, you are an expert in a protected, professional trade. ■
NEW CERTIFICATIONS
Matthew Nameth Hudson Valley Chimney Service, Inc.
2025-2026 Board of Directors
President; Region 2 Director
Bill Thornton Wissahickon Chimney & Fireplace wissahickonvalleysweep@yahoo.com
Region 6 Director
Michaele Dempsey Professional Chimney Sweep prochimneymichaele@gmail.com
Vice President; Region 4 Director
Debbie Wiedwald Blackburn’s Chimney Sweeps debbie@blackburnschimney.com
At-Large Director
Gary Smalling Smalling Masonry gary.smalling@smallingmasonry.com
Treasurer; At-Large Director
Steve Scally Fireside Sweeps firesidesweeps@comcast.net
Secretary; Region 1 Director
Robby Murphy
Hudson Valley Chimney Service rmurphy@hudsonvalleychimney.com
Region 3 Director
Drew Stein Chimspector drew@chimspector.com
Region 5 Director
Roland Perez
AAA Home Services and Aaron's Chimney Services roland@myaaahomeservices.com
Advocacy
Debbie Wiedwald
Blackburn’s Chimney Sweeps
Bylaws
Brett Conklin
Chimney Monkey
Certification
Steve Sobczak
Total Chimney Care
Education
Gary Smalling
Smalling Masonry
At-Large Director
Brett Conklin Chimney Monkey brett@chimneymonkey.com
At-Large Director
Lee Roff
Lords Chimney leeroff@lordschimney.com
At-Large Supplier Representative
Brian Barclay KW DRAFT brianb@rmmanifold.com
2025-2026 Committee Chairs
Ethics
Roland Perez AAA Home Services
Events
Brian Barclay KW DRAFT
Governance
Robby Murphy
Hudson Valley Chimney Service
Marketing
Lee Roff
Lords Chimney
Brett Conklin
Chimney Monkey
Membership
Michaele Dempsey Professional Chimney Sweep
NFPA 211; NFPA 54
Jim Brewer
SureFire Training Academy
NFPA 31; Tech. Advisory Council
Steve Scally Fireside Sweeps
UL 1390; UL 1391
Dan Freeman
Freeman Fire
National Chimney Sweep Guild
1255 SW Prairie Trail Parkway
Ankeny, Iowa 50023-7068
