Kitchen Table to the Conference Table:  Family Business Communications – 1.5 CEUs Business

8:30am – 10:00am – Room 205

Speaker: Laura Michaud, The Michaud Group

A smoothly run family-owned business requires top-notch relations between both family and non-family employees. Unfortunately, many family members in business together have difficulty transcending childhood roles and getting along in a business-like manner. Other issues arise when non-family employees are unsure how to interact with new family members coming into the business. In this thought-provoking and engaging program, Laura Michaud teaches attendees profound ways to improve any business and/or personal relationship in order to lay the foundation for high performance and business growth.  

You’ll learn:

• How to identify core challenges in family-business relationships and overcome them
• How to interact with different personality types, thus fostering a greater sense of teamwork
• How to identify employees’ strengths and manage people more effectively

Professional Service is Profitable: Developing & Managing a Profitable Service & Installation Department WORKSHOP – 6 CEUs Business

8:30am – 4:30pm – Room 204

(Separate Member Registration Fee: $109) – No Education Passport Required

Speaker: George LeBlanc, Maritime Fireplaces, Ltd.

Reap the benefits of operating your own installation and service department.  This highly interactive workshop will provide clear objectives and discuss how to manage scarce resources to start a service department or make an existing service department a profit center.  Anyone involved in managing installation and service or thinking about offering service will benefit from this session.  As a workshop, this session will include roundtable discussions and exercises, requiring active participation from all.

You’ll learn:

• Planning for service – the five types of service and what they mean for your store
• Managing service department finances
• Moments of truth in installation and service
• How to enhance staff productivity through communications, workspace and company policies

Fifty Sensational Ideas to Revolutionize Your Business – 1.5 CEUs Business

10:30am – 12:00 Noon – Room 205

Speaker:  Laura Michaud, The Michaud Group

People today want information fast. This high-energy, high-content session is a guaranteed pleaser. Attendees will leave with at least fifty (50) ideas on how to run their businesses more efficiently and at a higher profit level. Insightful and profound ideas will flow on marketing, management, customer loyalty, family business management and more.

You’ll learn:

• How to gain multiple ideas to grow a business
• How to conduct marketing and sales efforts more productively
• How to manage a business with ease

The Mystery of the Budgeting Process – 1.5 CEUs Business

10:30am – 12 Noon – Rooms 202/203

Speaker:  Joe Milevsky, JRM Sales & Management

Professionally run, successful companies produce annual budgets and use their budgets to facilitate outcomes rather than simply accept mediocre results.  Unfortunately, most independent retailers do not produce an annual budget, which may make it more difficult to earn positive results.  This session teaches how to create and utilize a budget, how to set reasonable, achievable and detailed financial goals and how to make profit more predictable.

You’ll learn:

• How to develop the processes that will keep a business safe
• How to set reasonable, achievable and detailed financial goals
• How to benchmark a company’s performance

How to Delegate Unto Others Before They Delegate Unto You – 1.5 CEUs Business

1:00pm – 2:30pm – Room 205

Speaker: Joe Milevsky, JRM Sales & Management, Inc.

Small business owners hire employees because they do not have time to do everything themselves and simultaneously grow the business.  Once the employees are hired, the owner needs to delegate to and work with the employees to ensure that they understand their responsibilities and are “on the same page.”   In this session, learn how to excel in working with and managing employees to be able to do the job of growing the business.

You’ll learn:

• How to develop and respect lines of communication
• The effectiveness of multi-directional accountability
• How to improve your employee’s abilities to resolve problems

Computers for Specialty Retailers:  Taking Advantage of This Management Tool – 1.5 CEUs Business

3:00pm – 4:30pm – Room 205

Speaker:  Bob Borella, Friends of the Sun

Computers, once considered a management tool for only the most progressive businesses, are now considered a “must have” tool for all small businesses.  With the hardware and software technology available today, specialty retailers can rely on computers for a wide variety of purposes to save time and money.  If your company is not yet taking advantage of this business tool to assist in management of the business, or not maximizing an existing computer system, come to this session to learn more.  

You’ll learn:

• What functions computers can perform to help manage a business
• The decision-making process required before purchasing a computer system
• The range of choices available for hardware, software and their respective costs

The Art of Making More Money From Your Business – 1.5 CEUs Sales & Marketing

8:30am – 10:00am – Rooms 202/203

Speaker:  Rick Segel, Rick Segel & Associates

Economies ebb and flow and never stay constant.  Businesses can thrive during economic downturns (such as the current housing market) and recessions if owners and managers know the right strategies to use. Economic slowdowns create opportunities when competitors cut back their marketing efforts, suppliers become more willing to negotiate and lower interest rates prevail. Doom and gloom can be a self-fulfilling prophecy.  

You’ll learn:

• How to restructure marketing tactics to acknowledge but not succumb to negative sentiment
• How to focus on retention and awareness strategies
• How to reinvent a business to become a true value driven organization

How to Market When the Target Is Changing – 1.5 CEUs Sales & Marketing

1:00pm – 2:30pm – Rooms 202/203

Speaker: Rick Segel, Rick Segel & Associates

Marketing is all about finding a target market and then selling to it. But today those decision makers are constantly changing and their preferences are changing as well.  This program will teach the differences in generations, gender and merchandise preferences and how to market and sell to these markets.

You’ll learn:

• How various groups want to be treated and sold
• Which elements have not changed
• How merchandise categories are affected by these trends and what to do about it

Fireplace Design:  Making the Fireplace the Focal Point of a Room – 1.5 CEUs Sales & Marketing

3:00pm – 4:30pm – Rooms 202/203

Speaker:  Dietrich Logan, Harrison Design Associates, Inc.

In addition to the warm and fuzzy feelings they provide, fireplaces enhance the atmospheric quality of a room and provide a focal point in a room’s design.  For retailers interested in fireplace design inspiration, this session will cover the aspects of good design the makes a fireplace the focal point of a room.  Learn how the “pieces” of a fireplace should complement one another – the mantel, glass door and the area surrounding and in front of the fireplace, why fireplace accessories are important to complete the design and how to include the huge screen TVs that are so popular.

You’ll learn:

• How to plan a fireplace to be the focal point in room design
• Decorating ideas to better assist customers
• How a fireplace can become a fashion statement

Carbon Monoxide and Fire Dangers – 1.5 CEUs SHL

8:30am – 10:00am – Room 206

Speaker: Dale Feb, Fireplace Investigation Research and Education Service

This presentation provides insight into the potentially unsafe application of hearth products. Whether hearth professionals are installing, servicing or inspecting these systems, they need to identify the indications of a potential fire hazard and/or personal injury.  It is the hearth professional’s responsibility to provide a professional level of surety to clients as well as employees.

You’ll learn:

• The dangers of carbon monoxide exposure
• How hearth products can create a potential health hazard
• How to prevent potentially unsafe conditions

The Use of Blower Door Testing In Understanding Negative Pressure – 1.5 CEUs Technical

10:30am – 12 Noon – Room 206

Speaker:  Roch Magerl, Lennox Hearth Products

A blower door is a tool designed to help determine leakage in a building or area within a building by creating a pressure differential. Once the pressure differential is known, the hearth professional can determine whether leaks are present, and if so, where, thereby providing information to help the professional fix the cause of a smoking fireplace.  In this session, the use of blower door test results are used to determine causes of unsafe and uncomfortable cold air infiltration through wood burning fireplaces.

You’ll learn:

• What blower door testing is and does
• How blower door testing can lead to resolution of improper draft and smoking
• How negative pressure and leaking affect draft

What Did I Miss? – 1.5 CEUs SHL

1:00pm – 2:30pm – Room 206

Speaker: Dale Feb, Fireplace Investigation Research and Education Service

This presentation walks through a series of site conditions, all of which may vary in importance but still have value. Which ones are important? Which conditions are considered life threatening? How are potential hazards preventable?  These are just a few of the questions that Mr. Feb will address.  Hearth professionals need to have a full understanding of the true risks within the industry and the knowledge on how to prevent them.

You’ll learn:

• Common defects and their real value
• Fire loss and how it may affect the business
• How to reduce potential risks to the company

FITS Works: The New Way to Train Installers – No CEUs (No Education Passport Required)

3:00pm – 4:00pm – Room 206

Speakers: Industry Panel of FITS Users

Looking to improve your fireplace installer training?

The Fireplace Installer Training System (FITS) is being used by fireplace installing companies across the country. Find out more in this informational session about the implementation and results of a systematic approach to installer training. Our panel of companies using the first module, Gas Fireplaces-Level 1, will discuss how FITS is working in their shops. Janie Moseley and Ben Weathersby, FITS development staff, will be on hand to review how the program works, the training tools provided, and to answer your questions about FITS.  

You’ll learn:

• How the program works for shops like yours
• How to adapt it to your installers’ level of ability and your timeframe
• How the FITS Training Partner Program may reduce your purchase costs.

How to Start an Outdoor Living Space Business – 3 CEUs Business

9:00am – 12 Noon – Room 201

Speaker: Jerry Isenhour, Sr., The Fire Place Patio & Grill Center

Within weeks of completing an outdoor room showroom, Jerry’s company generated double its investment in outdoor room product and service sales.  According to Jerry, this success can be attributed to the fact that his customers, even those who drive by his store, can see what a real outdoor room looks like, not just what they see on TV.  Join Jerry as he shares what he has learned by expanding his business into outdoor rooms.  He’ll cover how to get started, how much space is needed for a display, estimated costs and how to partner with other professionals, as well as his amazing results.

You’ll learn:

• The steps needed to take to dive into the Outdoor Room business
• What to know every step along the way
• The potential return on investment

Outdoor Kitchens:  Planning, Designing, Constructing and Installing – 2.5 CEUs Sales & Marketing

1:00pm – 3:30pm – Room 201

Speakers:  Ross Johnson, Fire Stone Home Products LLC, Michael Cartwright, Outdoor Polymer Systems  

With the surge in popularity of outdoor kitchens, dealers are in an ideal situation to transform their business from one that sells outdoor products to one that can offer both product and installation packages.  If your company is not quite sure how to add an outdoor specialty to the business come to this session to learn what is needed to plan, design, construct and install outdoor kitchens.  

An extended Q & A session follows with these additional industry leaders:  

Jeff Reynolds, FyrePro, Inc.

Tom Wenke, Weber Stephen Products Company

Larry Cagle, Lynx Professional Grills

Jerry Isenhour, The Fire Place, Patio & Grill

Tom Cheatam,  Manchester Tank & Equipment Company

You’ll learn:

• What is involved in planning, designing, constructing and installing outdoor kitchens
• What needs to be considered to package services using your own staff
• The specialists or contractors to work with if when partnering with other specialists

NFI Gas Certification Review Course (Lunch on your own)

8:30am – 3:30pm – Rooms 208/209

Instructor: Bob Wise, C & R Hearth and Closet

This is the official review course for the NFI Gas Certification exam.  The course is based on the official study manual for the exam, the HEARTH Gas Hearth Systems Reference Manual , Third Edition, published in Fall 2007. This is a review course only to help people planning to take the exam get their last minute questions answered.  Candidates who attend a review course have a higher probability of passing the exam.  

The course covers core knowledge on combustion, heat transfer, construction and safety principles and installation knowledge specific to gas appliances and venting, including regulations and instructions, fuel characteristics and delivery, appliance requirements, venting and ventilation and troubleshooting.  All major gas hearth appliances – fireplaces, gas log sets, inserts, and freestanding stoves – and venting methods – conventional Type B vent, direct vent, liner systems, and vent-free – are covered.  

See Thursday, February 28 and Friday, February 29 – 8:30am – 4:30pm for repeat program.  NFI Certification Exams: 4:00pm – 7:30pm Rooms 208/209 (You must be present before 4:00pm in order to sign in for the exam.)  

NFI Woodburning Certification Review Course (Lunch on your own)

8:30am – 3:30pm – Room 207

Instructor: Jason Wilkerson, Graco Distributors

This is the official review course for the NFI Woodburning Certification exam.  The course is based on the official study manual for the exam, HEARTH Woodburning Hearth Systems Reference Manual, Third Edition, published Fall 2007.  This is a review course only to help people planning to take the exam get their last minute questions answered. Candidates who attend a review course have a higher probability of passing the exam.  

This course covers both solid fuel factory-built fireplaces and all types of wood stoves, including freestanding, inserts and manufactured high-efficiency fireplaces. Core knowledge on combustion, heat transfer, construction, and safety principles and installation knowledge specific to woodburning appliances, including installation and planning, solid fuel appliance regulations and instructions, appliances, venting and ventilation and troubleshooting are also included.

See Thursday, February 28 and Friday, February 29 – 8:30am – 4:30pm for repeat program.  NFI Certification Exams: 4:00pm – 7:30pm Rooms 208/209 (You must be present before 4:00pm in order to sign in for an exam.)

NFI Pellet Certification Review Course (Lunch on your own)

8:30am – 3:30pm – Room 210

Instructor: Roy Mjelde, Top Hat Heating, Fireplace & Chimney Specialists

This is the official review course for the NFI Pellet Certification exam.  The course is based on the official study manual for the exam, HEARTH Pellet Hearth Systems Reference Manual, Second Edition, published 2006.  This is a review course to help people planning to take the exam get their last minute questions answered. Candidates who attend a review course have a higher probability of passing the exam.  

The course covers the different approaches to pellet appliance fuel delivery, heat transfer and venting systems. Planning, installation and troubleshooting knowledge covered includes such subjects as appliance components, electrical requirements, vent configurations and assembly and common causes and solutions for pellet system problems.  

See Thursday, February 28 and Friday, February 29 – 8:30am – 4:30pm for repeat program.  NFI Certification Exams: 4:00pm – 7:30pm Rooms 208/209 (You must be present before 4:00pm in order to sign in for an exam.)

National Fireplace Institute ® (NFI) Exams

4:00pm – 7:30pm – Rooms 208/209

You must be present by 4:00pm in order to sign in for an exam.

Increase Productivity by Practicing Self-Management – 1.5 CEUs Business

1:00pm – 2:30pm – Room 205

Speaker: Dave Pomeroy, Dave Pomeroy Signature Training

Time – there is never enough of it, especially when trying to juggle work and family along with other relationships and responsibilities.  However, it may not be time that needs to be managed, but the priorities and decisions owners and managers make.  In this session, discover the differences between self management and time management.  In this session, experience tools that can increase efficiency by 30% and understand the four time quadrants of life and the consequences of spending too much time in the “wrong” quadrants.

You’ll learn:

• Tools to become more productive
• Information management techniques to avoid becoming buried
• The importance of balancing the four major areas of life

Identifying and Communicating Competitive Advantages – 1.5 CEUs Business

3:00pm – 4:30pm – Room 205

Speaker:  Dave Pomeroy, Dave Pomeroy Signature Training

When describing your business do you use the terms “best value, quality and service”?  What do these really mean?  A competitive advantage is defined as a specific quantifiable reason for customers to do business with you. These advantages quickly separate your company from your price based competition and create increased market share.  Have you identified your business’s competitive advantage and is your company communicating this message to current and potential customers?  In this session, Mr. Pomeroy will guide owners and managers to understand what a company’s competitive advantages might be and how to use them.

You’ll learn:

• How to uncover a business’s competitive advantage
• How your competitive advantage separates your company from its price-based competition
• How to communicate your company’s competitive advantage

Store Design:   Appealing to Customers – 1.5 CEUs Sales & Marketing

1:00pm – 2:30pm – Rooms 202/203

Speaker:   Jody Seivert, One X One Companies

Home furnishings store designer Jody Seivert brings her interior design experience, Ethan Allen sales experience and teaching abilities to outline “why they buy – what an appealing store should look like.”  

Ms. Seivert focuses on the aspects of the psychological and emotional appeal of a store’s atmosphere and appearance that attracts customers.

You’ll learn:

• Store image and perception that attract customers
• Colors and designs that appeal to customers
• How design and cleanliness create a professional store atmosphere

Merchandising: Getting the Most Out of A Showroom Floor – 1.5 CEUs Sales & Marketing

3:00pm – 4:30pm – Rooms 202/203

Speaker: Jody Seivert, One X One Companies

Successful retailing has always focused on selling lots of merchandise.  The best merchandisers are constantly experimenting and fine-tuning their store layout and merchandise positioning to keep customers interested and coming back. This session will focus on how to create the right environment so that merchandise is well presented and attractive to customers in order to increase sales and profitability.

You’ll learn:

• How to improve margins through merchandising
• How innovative displays can increase revenues
• How to build a business with accessories and add-ons

Installing and Troubleshooting Vent-Free Appliances – 1.5 CEUs Technical

1:00pm – 2:30pm – Room 206

Speaker:  Kevin Yowler, Monessen Hearth Systems

More and more consumers are opting for vent-free appliances, including logs, fireplaces, inserts and free- standing appliances for their supplemental heat needs, particularly since there is no need for a chimney or hole in the structure. The installer or technician for vent-free appliances has to be aware of issues such as the size of the room in relation to the size of the appliance, clearances, floor protection and the operation of the oxygen depletion sensor. In this session, learn tips for the proper installation of vent-free appliances and techniques for troubleshooting.

You’ll learn:

• What knowledge is needed to properly install vent-free appliances
• How vent-free appliances differ from installing other gas hearth products
• Troubleshooting millivolt pilot, main burner and ODS sensors

Troubleshooting Pellet/Biomass Appliances – 1.5 CEUs Technical

3:00pm – 4:30pm – Room 206

Speaker:  Michael Haefner, American Energy Systems, Inc.

The increasing demand for pellet and biomass appliances means that hearth retailers must have the knowledge to properly diagnose and solve operational problems. Installers and technicians must keep up with continuous technology changes such as burner systems, multi-fuel stoves and automatic features.  They must also be aware of changes in pellet and biomass fuel composition and blended fuels in order to properly troubleshoot and service the appliance, its venting system and components.

You’ll learn:

• How to troubleshoot combustion air problems
• How to troubleshoot fuel delivery problems
• How to troubleshoot component problems

Working With Hearth Product Installation Subcontractors – 1.5 CEUs Technical

3:00pm – 4:30pm – Room 201

Speaker:  Jesse Morado, Renovation Coach

Many specialty retailers turn to subcontractors to install hearth products rather than hiring their own installation staff or in addition to their own staff.  In some cases, staff may not hold the necessary license, additional labor is needed during the busy season, or the retailer doesn’t want the responsibility of hiring and maintaining installation and technician crews.  In any event, working with subcontractors requires special management skills to ensure the contractors are performing quality work and on a timely basis.  This session covers how to develop a win-win relationship for both businesses.

You’ll learn:

• How to find and select a subcontractor
• Tips on working with subcontractors
• How to arrange a win-win partnership to benefit both parties

Working with Contractors to Offer Complete Outdoor Living Packages – 1.5 CEUs Business

1:00pm – 2:30pm – Room 201

Speaker:  Jesse Morado, CR, Renovation Coach, Inc.

Hearth, patio and barbecue retailers are in a prime position to take advantage of the trend in outdoor living thanks to their product knowledge and selections.  However, a key to taking this product knowledge and selection to the next step and being able to offer a complete package of product and service, is to partner with a contractor or contractors who can “pull all the pieces together.”  This session is about locating, selecting and working with contractors to be able to offer customers a complete outdoor product and service package.

You’ll learn:

• How to find and select a contractor with whom to partner
• How to arrange a partnership to benefit both parties
• What to expect when working with general contractors

NFI Gas Certification Review Course (Lunch on your own)

8:30am – 3:30pm – Rooms 208/209

Instructor: Gene Schutte, Hearth & Home Technologies

This is the official review course for the NFI Gas Certification exam.  The course is based on the official study manual for the exam, the HEARTH Gas Hearth Systems Reference Manual, Third Edition, published Fall 2007. This is a review course only to help people planning to take the exam get their last minute questions answered.  Candidates who attend a review course have a higher probability of passing the exam.  

The course covers core knowledge on combustion, heat transfer, construction and safety principles and installation knowledge specific to gas appliances and venting, including regulations and instructions, fuel characteristics and delivery, appliance requirements, venting and ventilation and troubleshooting.  All major gas hearth appliances – fireplaces, gas log sets, inserts, and freestanding stoves – and venting methods – conventional Type B-vent, direct-vent, liner systems, and vent-free – are covered.  

See Friday, February 29 – 8:30am – 4:30pm for repeat program.  NFI Certification Exams: 4:00pm – 7:30pm Rooms 208/209 (You must be present before 4:00pm in order to sign in for an exam.)

NFI Woodburning Certification Review Course (Lunch on your own)

8:30am – 3:30pm – Room 207

Instructor: Ashley Eldridge, Chimney Safety Institute of America

This is the official review course for the NFI Woodburning Certification exam.  The course is based on the official study manual for the exam, HEARTH Woodburning Hearth Systems Reference Manual, Third Edition, published Fall 2007. This is a review course only to help people planning to take the exam get their last minute questions answered. Candidates who attend a review course have a higher probability of passing the exam.  

This course covers both solid fuel factory-built fireplaces and all types of wood stoves, including freestanding, inserts and manufactured high efficiency fireplaces. Core knowledge on combustion, heat transfer, construction and safety principles and installation knowledge specific to woodburning appliances, including installation and planning, solid fuel appliance regulations and instructions, appliances, venting and ventilation and troubleshooting are also included.

See Friday, February 29 – 8:30am – 4:30pm for repeat program.  NFI Certification Exams: 4:00pm – 7:30pm Rooms 208/209 (You must be present before 4:00pm in order sign in for an exam.)

NFI Pellet Certification Review Course (Lunch on your own)

8:30am – 3:30pm – Room 210

Instructor: TBD

This is the official review course for the NFI Pellet Certification exam.  The course is based on the official study manual for the exam, HEARTH Pellet Hearth Systems Reference Manual, Second Edition, published 2006.  This is a review course only to help people planning to take the exam get their last minute questions answered. Candidates who attend a review course have a higher probability of passing the exam.  

The course covers the different approaches to pellet appliance fuel delivery, heat transfer and venting systems. Planning, installation and troubleshooting knowledge covered includes such subjects as appliance components, electrical requirements, vent configurations and assembly, and common causes and solutions for pellet system problems.  

See Friday, February 29 – 8:30am – 4:30pm for repeat program.  NFI Certification Exams: 4:00pm – 7:30pm Rooms 208/209 (You must be present before 4:00pm in order to sign in for an exam.)

National Fireplace Institute ®  (NFI) Exams

4:00pm – 7:30pm – Rooms 208/209

You must be present before 4:00pm in order to sign in for an exam.

Marketing Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Products to Generation Y - 1.5 CEUs Sales & Marketing

8:30am – 10:00am – Room 205

Speaker: Rick Dungey, Drake Company

Generation Y will have a tremendous impact on our industries.  Why should our industries and all others be concerned about how to market to them? Because there are 72 million of them and the Generation Y population is expected to increase at twice the rate of the overall population until 2010 due to immigration. In the next 5-10 years, almost all of them are going to be in the housing market. That's the good news....the bad news is that traditional marketing strategies won't work with them. Almost all consumer products industries will need to re-think the way they promote their products in general.  Individual retailers can employ new strategies to entice and retain new customers. Will hearth products, grills and outdoor living accessories be a part of the Gen Y home lifestyle?

You’ll learn:

• Effective avenues to promote products to Gen Y
• Marketing messages to capture the attention of Gen Y
• How the Gen Y population differs from other generations

Going Green:  Who Defines Green & How Will Green Affect the Hearth Industry – 1.5 CEUs Business

10:30am – 12 Noon – Room 205

Speakers:  David Price, U. S. Environmental Protection Agency, TBD US Green Building Council, TBD, National Association of Home Builders

With the importance and prevalence of the green movement, a number of organizations are moving forward and collaborating with each other to define green practices for the development, design and construction of green buildings.  The purpose of this session is to hear from the three organizations instrumental in defining green and how their green definitions and programs relate to the hearth products industry.

You’ll learn:

• The organizations involved in developing green standards
• The different goals of the organizations
• How residential fireplace products can be considered “green”

Lean Thinking:  Continuous Improvement for Specialty Retailers – 1.5 CEUs Business

1:00pm – 2:30pm – Room 205

Speaker: Patricia Wardwell, GBMP

Continuous improvement connects employees to customers by finding and eliminating non-value-added activities and those things the customer doesn’t want to pay for. The key to success is understanding that continuous improvement is all about the employees who are in the best position to identify and solve problems that are evident throughout a business process. In this session, learn the concepts of lean thinking and continuous improvement; concepts that manufacturers already may have in place that can be applied to your business.  This is the first of a two-part “Lean Thinking” session.

You’ll learn:

• The basics of lean principles and continuous improvement
• How manufacturer/retailer inventory relationships can be affected by lean thinking
• Common forms of waste that can be eliminated with lean thinking

Leaning Your Retail Business with Business Management Software – 1.5 CEUs Business

3:00pm – 4:30pm – Room 205

Speaker:  Stephanie Allemann, Stephanie Allemann Consulting

This is the second part of the “Lean Thinking” session. The idea behind a “lean” enterprise is delivering better value to customers.  Delivering better value to customers requires that the appropriate tools be in place.  Learn how business management software can help reduce waste (for example: reducing ordering errors and inventory levels), shorten lead times and dramatically increase the level of service provided to customers.  Tools such as inventory planning, estimate and order tracking, easy access to key information and opportunities for tight integration between your system and your manufacturers’ systems will be demonstrated using the “QuickBooks Enterprise Solutions” accounting software.

You’ll learn:

• How computer technology can be applied to “lean” a business.  
• The benefits of integrating with manufacturer computer systems
• How a widely available software program can enable computer integration

Website Secrets – Learn Everything You Need to Know to Make Your Website Sizzle – 1.5 CEUs Sales & Marketing

8:30am – 10:00am – Rooms 202/203

Speaker:  Bob Negen, WhizBang! Training

A website should be one of the most powerful tools in a company’s marketing mix.  But a company has to know what to do and how to do it.  In this dynamic session, small business expert Bob Negen will demonstrate how to turn technology into a terrific business building tool.  

You’ll learn:

• How to become a trusted resource for all customers
• How to use e-mail marketing to dramatically increase customer loyalty
• How to catch customer attention bring them directly to your store

Explode Your Sales – Marketing Ideas that are So Simple and Effective They Will Blow Your Mind – 1.5 CEUs Sales & Marketing

10:30am – 12 Noon – Rooms 202/203

Speaker:  Bob Negen, WhizBang! Training

Does 15%, 20%, even 30% sales growth next year sound good?  If it does, don’t miss this fun, dynamic workshop guaranteed to dramatically increase customer loyalty, foot traffic and turbo charge sales. This program teaches the secrets of an organized, consistent system to generate significant sales increases. And it’s not about spending a fortune, finding the next “Beanie Baby”, or creating a killer newspaper ad.  It’s about creating exponential growth by doing lots of little things well; it’s about planting many seeds and watching them grow.  

You’ll learn:

• EIGHT ways to get customers to shop more often
• FIVE ways to get a flood of new customers for almost no money
• How to jump start sales – no matter what time of year.

 “Green” Doesn’t Affect My Hearth Business, Does It? – 1.5 CEUs Sales & Marketing

1:00pm – 2:30pm – Rooms 202/203

Speaker: Roger Sanders, Fireside

The “green movement” is rapidly overtaking the building industry.  Homeowners are being told, “Home is where going ‘green’ begins – where we as individuals have the power to set a new course for a more sustainable future.” Although you may think, “I don't believe in global warming so why should I care about "green," more and more consumers are making “green" purchase decisions.  But, what exactly is “being green”?  In this interactive session, learn why "green" can increase hearth sales, the additional business opportunities being missed by not promoting "green" hearth products  and how to properly promote "green" products.

You’ll learn:

• Which hearth products can be considered “green” and why
• How to properly promote “green” hearth products
• How to respond to questions about hearth products and the “green” movement

WhizBang! Customer Service:  Give Your Staff the Skills They Need to Give Your Customers the Service They Deserve – 1.5 CEUs Sales & Marketing

3:00pm – 4:30pm – Rooms 202/203

Speaker:  Bob Negen, WhizBang! Training

This fun, interactive program focuses on practical, proven customer service strategies that can be brought back to a business and used immediately.  The focus is not on theory, but on easy to understand strategies, tips and tricks that will turn customer service performance from run-of-the-mill to extraordinary.  Great customer service is not an accident.  This program provides tools to deliver the service customers deserve.

You’ll learn:

• The single best way to turn a complaint into a powerful, positive customer experience
• The basics of consistently fantastic customer service as well as three ways to deliver extraordinary service
• How to turn everyone in the organization into a salesperson, and why customers will LOVE you for it

Building Buzz: Transforming Your Store Into a Customer Destination – 1.5 CEUs  Sales & Marketing

3:00pm – 4:30pm – Room 201

Speakers: Jim Kessler, XSCEND Performance Services, John Bassemier, Bassemier’s Fireplace, Patio, and Spas, Inc .

What reasons are consumers visiting your store? Great selection? Low prices? Good service? YAWN! Join the crowd. Consumers hear that so often from so many, your message may be getting lost in the bombardment. In today's market, the goal of EVERY retailer should be to rise above the crowd and create the buzz on the street that your store is a must-see for every consumer. It takes more than differentiation. It takes a little "showmanship." In this workshop, the concepts behind “destination retailing” will be explored providing a suite of innovative ideas, and examine real-life case studies of successful “destination retailers.” Not only will more traffic be driven to your store, you'll have fun in the process!

You’ll learn:

• Concepts behind “destination retailing”
• Innovative ideas for getting customers into the store
• Examples from case studies of successful “destination retailers”

Understanding Fuel Gas Code Requirements for Appliance Installation – 2 CEUs SHL

8:30am – 10:30am – Room 206

Speaker: Jim Brewer, Magic Sweep Corporation

This presentation will discuss specific requirements of the National and International Fuel Gas Codes as they relate to gas-fired hearth appliance installations.  Common code violations and code misinterpretations will be discussed as well as updates to the 2006 codes.

You’ll learn:

• Common code violations found by inspectors
• What to watch for in the codes
• Code sections that apply to fireplaces and why

Diagnosing Gas Hearth Products – 1.5 CEUs Technical

10:30am – 12 Noon – Room 206

Speaker: Terry Brumbaugh, CFM Corporation

This session focuses on the most effective process to properly diagnose gas hearth malfunctions.  The session covers everything from the best questions to ask the consumer, the parts or tools necessary to have on hand for a service call, to deciding on the appropriate tests to perform.  

You’ll learn:

• The step-by-step process to become a true diagnostician and not a parts changer
• What to ask and what to do to successfully fix the problem
• Ways you might prevent making a service call at all

Installing and Troubleshooting Woodstoves – 1.5 CEUs Technical

1:00pm – 2:30pm – Room  206

Speaker:  Wayne Dooley, Travis Industries

Woodstoves are a great way for a customer to bring in warmth and ambiance into their home. However, woodstoves must be properly sized and installed to provide safe, efficient heat. In this session, learn the step-by step procedures to properly install woodstoves, tips on time saving techniques and performing difficult installations. Information on stove sizing, venting, clearances, wall or ceiling penetration, floor protection, conditions and codes as well as troubleshooting tips to determine smoke spillage will be provided.

You’ll learn:

• Tips for locating woodstoves
• Proper installation techniques
• Tips of the trade for those challenging installs

Electronic Ignition Systems Made Simple – 1.5 CEUs Technical

3:00pm – 4:30pm – Room 206

Speaker:  Dave Pomeroy, Dave Pomeroy Signature Training

Current and anticipated energy demands are driving the design of gas products to utilize more electronic ignition controls.  In this session, Mr. Pomeroy covers the basic components that make up each of the three types of ignition systems, unmasks the mystery behind the operation of safety systems and offers master troubleshooting procedures.

You’ll learn:

• Where the hearth industry has been and where it is going with electronic ignition controls
• The various types of electronic ignition controls used today
• What you need to know to install and work with these systems

Starting and Managing a Grill Service Business – 1.5 CEUs Business

8:30am – 10:00am – Room 201

Speaker:  Steve Baker, L. E. Klein Co., Inc., Matt Wood, The Grill Doctor

A grill service business can be lucrative, especially by offering a full range of service - from parts to repair and installation.  This session will cover what is needed to start up a grill service business, how to attract new business and maintain business through annual maintenance appointments and how the business can turn into a selling advantage for new products, as well as grill service techniques.

You’ll learn:

• The steps needed to set up a repair and service business
• Tips from a grill service business pro to make the business work
• Resources to help get started

Installing Outdoor Fireplaces – 1.5 CEUs Technical

10:30am – 12 Noon – Room 201

Speaker:  Paul Baump, Lennox Hearth Products

Installers of outdoor fireplaces need to follow the same procedures and rules as installing indoor fireplaces: compliance with local codes, proper fireplace placement, floor protection, surround materials and the type and availability of fuel.  In addition, installers need to keep in mind the location of the fireplace relative to the house, the need for outdoor-rated materials, the effects of weather and user safety.  In this session, learn about outdoor-rated fireplaces and proper installation and use guidelines.

You’ll learn:

• About outdoor fireplaces available
• Considerations when placing and installing outdoor fireplaces
• Installation and user tips

Outdoor Room and Kitchen Design:  Identifying the Experts

1:00pm – 2:30pm – Room 201

Speaker:  J’Nell Bryson, J’Nell Bryson Landscape Architecture

The proper design of an outdoor room or outdoor kitchen is the most important aspect to the creation of the customer’s dream for his outdoor living space.  However, since there does not seem to be one recognized occupation or credential for outdoor living design, who are considered the experts?  In this session, Ms. Bryson, a noted landscape architect, discusses the landscape architect’s role in designing outdoor living spaces and the emerging field of outdoor kitchen design.

You’ll learn:

• How outdoor room and outdoor kitchen design complement each other
• Who the experts are in outdoor room design
• Who the experts are in outdoor kitchen design

NFI Gas Certification Review Course (Lunch on your own)

8:30am – 3:30pm – Rooms 208/209

Instructor:  Jim Davidson, FPI Fireplace Products International Ltd.

This is the official review course for the NFI Gas Certification exam.  The course is based on the official study manual for the exam, the HEARTH Gas Hearth Systems Reference Manual , Third Edition, published Fall 2007. This is a review course only, to help people planning to take the exam get their last minute questions answered.  Candidates who attend a review course have a higher probability of passing the exam.  

The course covers core knowledge on combustion, heat transfer, construction and safety principles and installation knowledge specific to gas appliances and venting, including regulations and instructions, fuel characteristics and delivery, appliance requirements, venting and ventilation and troubleshooting.  All major gas hearth appliances – fireplaces, gas log sets, inserts, and freestanding stoves – and ventng methods – conventional Type B-vent, direct-vent, liner systems, and vent-free – are covered.  

NFI Certification Exams:
4:00pm – 7:30pm Rooms 208/209 (You must be present before 4:00pm in order to sign in for an exam.)

NFI Woodburning Certification Review Course (Lunch on your own)

8:30am – 3:30pm – Room 207

Instructor: John Solanik, Mountain Fireplace Specialists

This is the official review course for the NFI Woodburning Certification exam.  The course is based on the official study manual for the exam, HEARTH Woodburning Hearth Systems Reference Manual , Third Edition, published Fall 2007. This is a review course only to help people who are planning to take the exam get their last minute questions answered. Candidates who attend a review course have a higher probability of passing the exam.  

This course covers both solid fuel factory-built fireplaces and all types of wood stoves, including freestanding, inserts, and manufactured high efficiency fireplaces. Core knowledge on combustion, heat transfer, construction and safety principles and installation knowledge specific to woodburning appliances, including installation and planning, solid fuel appliance regulations and instructions, appliances, venting and ventilation, and troubleshooting are also included.

NFI Certification Exams:
4:00pm – 7:30pm Rooms 208/209 (You must be present before 4:00pm in order to sign in for an exam.)

NFI Pellet Certification Review Course (Lunch on your own)

8:30am – 3:30pm – Room 210

Instructor: Rob Lewis, Canyon Fireplace Design Center

This is the official review course for the NFI Pellet Certification exam.  The course is based on the official study manual for the exam, HEARTH Pellet Hearth Systems Reference Manual , Second Edition, 2006.  This is a review course only to help people who are planning to take the exam get their last minute questions answered. Candidates who attend a review course have a higher probability of passing the exam.  

The course covers the different approaches to pellet appliance fuel delivery, heat transfer, and venting systems. Planning, installation, and troubleshooting knowledge covered includes such subjects as appliance components, electrical requirements, vent configurations and assembly, and common causes and solutions for pellet system problems.

NFI Certification Exams:
4:00pm – 7:30pm Rooms 208/209 (You must be present before 4:00pm in order to sign in for an exam.)

  Chimney Safety Institute of America Certification (CSIA) Course Review and Exam – 4 CEUs

8:30am – 5:00pm – Room 204

Instructor: Ashley Eldridge, Chimney Safety Institute of America

Chimney professionals earn the “CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep” credential by passing a 100-question exam based on standard chimney service practices and applicable fire safety codes.  The exam is based on the reference manual, Successful Chimney Sweeping, and NFPA 211.  You must have registered directly with CSIA to attend.

CSIA Exam:
5:00pm – 7:00pm Room 204 (You must be present by 5:00pm in order to sign in for the exam).  

National Fireplace Institute ® (NFI) Exams

5:30pm – 9:00pm – Rooms 208/209

You must be present by 5:30pm in order to sign in for an exam.