2/1/97 - Back to List archives
- Back to Club House
1. HPA's Qualified Hearth Dealers ?
2. Additional Insured ?
3. Parts for Horizon Stove
2/1/97
1. Keynote Speaker at Reno
2. True -Heat Fireplaces ?
3. HPA Hearth Retailer Certification
2/5/97
Java Explaination
1. Hearth Retailer - Qualified - What's the Standard ?
2. HEARTH Education receives support of leading industry manufacturers.
2/7/97
1. Who Owns the Sun ?
2. Concerns over Vermont Castings Move
2/8/97
1. undying loyalty of VC Dealers
2. HPA Computer Committee
2/10/97
The PERFECT Company !
1. Weathersby Appointed NFPA 211 Chairman
2/11/97
1. Buying Domestic
2. Reply to above
3. AustroFlamm Committment to US Market
2/16/97
1. Multi-Sided Fireplaces
2.Home Depot Expo - and training
3. VC- Majestic Customer Service
4. HEARTH - FREE Pellets with Seminar
2/21/97
Net Heads reception
1. HPA Education Planner
From: HPA Headquarters...
2/24/97
1. ICC Acquires RSF Energy
2. Webmasters Reno Seminar
3. HEARTH announces HEARTHPRO Web Site
2/28/97
1. Reno News (from HPA)
2. More Reno (From HEARTH)
3/12/97
Thoughts on Reno
3/16/97
1. On Reno Pictures
2. Fireplaces in Bedrooms
3. One opinion on above
3/16/97
1. Gas Logs, etc in Bedroom - Reply
2. Another Reply on above..from canada
3/19/97
Quiet on the list...
Java Calculators
3/28/97
Net News:
1. Serious Wind Noise
2. Lack of excitement at Reno
3/31/97
1. Heat Tech Stoves
2.Thoughts on Reno and the Industry
From ???@??? Fri Jan 31 20:35:20 1997
To: comp
From: Craig Issod
Subject: Hearth Digest 2/1/97
Cc:
Bcc: main
X-Attachments:
Message-Id:
February's Hearth Digest is sponsored by HearthStone, who wishes to express
our thanks to all of the specialty hearth retailers who helped make 1996
a record year. We couldn't have done it without you ! Stop by Booth 309
at the HPA show in Reno for our dealer reception and see what's in store
for unique products in 1997. If you have any questions, please call us at
1-800-827-8683 or email at [email protected]
_____________________________________________________________________________
1. HPA's Qualified Hearth Dealers ?
2. Additional Insured ?
1. HPA's Qualified Hearth Dealers ?
Mime-Version: 1.0
Date: Thu, 30 Jan 1997 15:38:15 -0500
To: [email protected]
From: [email protected] (Noel Gilmore)
Subject: Qualified Hearth Dealer
Found the following on the HPA web site...their idea for having a "QHD"
designation for its members. Dealer must have the below criteria plus a
specified number of education "credits" which you get, of course,
from the
seminars at the Expo (and perhaps from elsewhere? I read too quickly). What
does everyone think?
>Qualified Hearth Dealer Designation Criteria
>
>Business Management
>
> Sells minimum of five lines of hearth products.
> In business a minimum of one year.
> Financially stable.
> (current ratio=current assets/current liabilities)
> Proper insurance coverage.
> People development training.
> Automate wherever possible
> (fax machine, voice mail, scanners, email)
> Acceptable Better Business Bureau Report.
>
>Sales & Marketing
>
> Operate a clean, user-friendly store.
> Merchandise is displayed in logical and attractive manner.
> The competition is shopped.
> Strong customer service orientation.
> Customer files developed and maintained.
> Marketing objectives outlined, customers identified, advertising
>modes identified.
>
>Technical
>
>Basic Requirements
>
> Installers trained for each area of product installed.
> Person knowledgeable in local regulatory codes.
> Have an installation crew, whether staff or subcontractors.
>
>To get Gold QHD Designation add criteria below to basic requirements:
>
> More lines of hearth products sold-5 lines.
> In business 5+ years.
> Automated/personal computer-minimum one function.
> Community involvement.
>
>To get Diamond QHD Designation add criteria below to basic requirements:
>
> More lines of hearth products sold-7 lines.
> In business 10+ years.
> Automated/multifunctional, networked-computer.
> Retailer/honor award received.
Noel Gilmore
Autumn Moon Fireplaces
Port St Lucie, FL
2.Additional Insured
Mime-Version: 1.0
Date: Fri, 31 Jan 1997 10:52:33 -0500
To: [email protected]
From: [email protected] (Noel Gilmore)
Subject: Clients as "additional insured"
Our primary business is installation in new construction. AS we have begun
to snag bigger clients, we find that national builders insist on being named
as additional insured on our liability policy, and in one case on our auto
policy as well (the insurer has refused and we are now awaiting word from
the client as to whether we can continue supplying them).My insurance agent
always groans when I make these requests, but I figure it's just the price
of doing business with the big boys who, at least, pay their bills on time.
Today, however, I received a similar demand from a small local builder (in
the form of a subcontractor agreement), and I wonder how long it will be
before ALL builders start insisting on this. Will my insurer start putting
its foot down as the list gets longer? Or is this common practice and have
I led a sheltered business life till now?
The client who wanted additional insured on my commercial auto also insisted
on a waiver of subrogation (no sue clause) on our worker comp policy. Where
does it all end? Guess I don't mind so much for a big builder who gives
me lots of business and pays, but this local guy is always long overdue
on his bills, and frankly I find it a bit cheeky!
Noel Gilmore Autumn Moon Fireplaces Port St Lucie, FL
3. Parts for Horizon Pellet Stove
From: Craig Issod, [email protected]
Someone mentioned parts for Horizons...I need a convection blower...already
tried graingers, fasco, etc..... I used to get this stuff from a company
called AutoCon ...but their phone was busy for two days ! Any leads, anyone..This
is for the small Horizon freestanding stove.
Craig Issod
From: Craig Issod
Subject: Hearth Digest 2/3/97
IN this Digest:
1. Keynote Speaker at Reno
2. True -Heat Fireplaces ?
3. HPA Hearth Retailer Certification
Priority: Normal
To: [email protected]
Mime-Version: 1.0
From: CARTER KEITHLEY
Date: Sat, 01 Feb 97 13:44:23 PST
HPA Members Keynote Speaker
The Keynote Speakerat HPA - RENO will be Walter Mossberg, Wall Street Journal
reporter who writes the Personal Technology Column that appears on the front
page of the second section of the WSJ every Thursday. Walter is a GREAT
speaker on the subject of computers in homes and small businesses. He cuts
through all the hype and B.S. and gives a clear picture of where things
are headed.
He is a fascinating guy, and said that things continue to move so fast in
the PC world that what he says in March will be different from what he would
have said in January. He's constantly solicited by vendors of new pc products,
cause his column has the reputation of making or breaking a new offering.
(He is credited with helping to create the AOL phenomenon for Steve Case.)
You may have seen his column two weeks ago in which he panned the new Apple
offerings, which he said he was doing reluctantly, but he suspected they
couldn't deliver.
The session is free for all HPA members, and immediately precedes the opening
of the show at 9am...we will also have the presentation of the Dealer of
the Year Awards in the Wood, Pellet and Gas categories. See you there...Regards,
Carter
2. True -Heat Fireplaces ?
Date: Mon, 03 Feb 1997 16:39:47 -0700
From: Earl Lloyd
X-Sender: Earl Lloyd
Mime-Version: 1.0
To: [email protected]
Subject: True Heat Fireplaces
X-Priority: Normal
I have a customer who has a True Heat Zero Clearance Fireplace. Probably
about 10-12 years old. He needs to replace glass doors on same. ID Plate
on unit lists company in Austin, Texas as Manufacturer. No Listing in Austin
Directory for Company. Anyone out there know anything about this unit or
manufacturer,. (Howard Systems Corporation) or where we may obtain replacement
glass doors for same. Model is TH36. Doors are part Number- GD36 or GB36.
Please respond to: [email protected]
Pecos Pool Supply
1095 N. Canal Street
Carlsbad, NM 88220
(505) 885-9338
Fax: 505-887-9188
< Webmasters note> You can get tempered glass, mica and ceramic glass
for most stoves at Woodman Associates - http://hearth.com/woodman
3.From: [email protected]
Date: Mon, 3 Feb 1997 17:47:01 -0500 (EST)
To: [email protected]
Subject: Re: Hearth Digest 2/1/97
In a message dated 97-01-31 20:36:09 EST, you write:
<< Found the following on the HPA web site...their idea for having
a "QHD" designation for its members. Dealer must have the below
criteria plus a specified number of education "credits" which
you get, of course, from the seminars at the Expo (and perhaps from elsewhere?
I read too quickly). What does everyone think? >>
I agree with some sort of criteria for established Hearth dealers. All too
often we receive calls from people who are not in the fireplace business;
but want to add our accessories to their store. We often look at the area
these people are in, and if no other dealers are close, we will sell the
new store. However; 99% of the time we never hear from them regarding re-orders,
or anything else. When we contact them and ask if they need anything from
us, all we hear is......".....oh, your stuff looks nice, but it doesn't
sell." With the right training anyone can sell a $350.00 toolset!!
I have seen it done time and time again!! If there was some sort of criteria
which had training as a requirement, I feel that it would be one more thing
that dealers can use to sell more hearth products. Does anyone have any
other opinions about this?
Steve Pulone
Sunset Fireplace Fixtures
end of Digest
send posts to [email protected]
Hearth Digest 2/5/97
Cc:
Bcc: main
X-Attachments:
Message-Id:
February's Hearth Digest is sponsored by HearthStone, who wishes to express
our thanks to all of the specialty hearth retailers who helped make 1996
a record year. We couldn't have done it without you ! Stop by Booth 309
at the HPA show in Reno for our dealer reception and see what's in store
for unique products in 1997. If you have any questions, please call us at
1-800-827-8683 or email at [email protected]
_____________________________________________________________________________
Short take on JAVA (From Craig Issod, [email protected])
You see it everywhere - JAVA, JAVA, JAVA -- the programming language that's
going to take over the world...throw Microsoft for a loop, and slice, dice,
animate, control - giving instant gratification !
What's this JAVA ? and what's the big stink about ?
Simply speaking, Java is a programming language, like C, C+, Basic and other
computer coding programs. The BIG difference is that's it's designed and
implemented to work across ALL computing platforms (Windows, Mac, Unix)
and also cares very little about what hardware you have.... It's also MUCH
more modern than most computer languages, being as it was developed fairly
recently. The newer versions of Netscape and Microsoft Expolorer have the
JAVA language built into them... and therefore can run JAVA programs over
the Net (or even on your local hard disk).
This is a trmendous advantage over the current state of affairs...at least
for the customer. Whether monopolies like Intel and MicroSoft are happy
is another story. JAVA proponets argue that it will eventually make Windows
or any other operating systems completely useless.
In order to prepare for this coming revolution, I've bought some books,
studied hard and dug around the Net for more info and demonstrations of
applications written in JAVA - My conclusion after this foray - It'll be
quite a long time until JAVA meets it's promise.
Turns out that even simple JAVA programs take a long time to download from
the net, and more often than not can crash your computer when running. I
don't know about you, but it's not worth it to me to see some silly animation
- if I have to restart my computer again afterwards.
There is a need for this new language, and I do believe it will meet many
of the expectations expected of it. But don't worry about it for now - when
and if it does take over, it'll be there - behind the scenes - running our
daily applications. Won't be something you have to think about or program
in any more than you have to program in C++ to use Excel or Word.
In a year or two, you'll be able to create a spreadsheet, database or other
template on your computer, copy it and paste into your web page. It'll then
be available for anyone on the Net to do calculations (like how many BTU's
your house needs, etc.) This sort of interaction can be done now, but requires
a lot of time and hacking. This is just a small example of the promise of
JAVA.
1. Hearth Retailer - Qualified - What's the Standard ?
2. HEARTH Education receives support of leading industry manufacturers.
1. Hearth Retailer - Qualified - What's the Standard ?
From: [email protected]
Date: Wed, 5 Feb 1997 00:49:08 -0500 (EST)
To: [email protected]
Subject: Additional Insured and Selling to Hearth experts
Regarding Noel Gilmore's question re additional insureds, we have a blanket
additional insured endorsement on our policy and can make anyone an additional
insured without additional cost. We have no problem adding anyone. We probably
have 50 such certificates out. We have not been asked to waive on workers
comp as yet. We have been asked to make our insurance primary. My experience
says this is normal business practice.
I was interested to read Steve Pulone's comments on the Qualified Hearth
Dealer question. He seems to say he thinks this is a good idea and I would
not disagree with him, at least in theory. If such a designation would help
manufacturers, I am curious to know what training Expo Design Center gives
its employees. I recently saw Sunset products being sold at Expo in San
Diego. The employees I talked to knew nothing about any of the hearth products
they had in stock. What then is the standard?
2. HEARTH Education receives support of leading industry manufacturers.
From:Ben Weathersby
Contact: Ben Weathersby February 5, 1997 (404) 728-0227
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
HEARTH Partnership Program Underway with Five Partners
The HEARTH Education Foundation announced the first manufacturers to become
1997 HEARTH Partners, all joining at the Premier Level:
Heatilator, Jotul USA, Travis Industries, Heat-n-Glo, and Aladdin.
Through Partnership, hearth manufacturers contribute financially to HEARTH
to support professional training and certification programs. HEARTH, in
turn, provides its Partners with coupons that give their dealers discounts
of up to $100 on HEARTH training manuals and certification exams. Dealers
of HEARTH Partners can use the coupon for as many manual and exam purchases
as desired throughout 1997. With a special additional discount of $50 available
from HEARTH through the Reno show, Partner dealers can purchase a manual
and exam combination package for $100.
HEARTH Executive Director Ben Weathersby noted that the Partnership Program
is a win/win/win situation. Leading manufacturers are stepping up to support
continuation of HEARTH programs that augment and complement dealer training.
Dealers can better afford to improve and verify their technical knowledge
and, in the process, gain customer confidence that leads to increased sales
and satisfaction. As the mark of an industry committed to safety and excellence,
professional certification rewards manufacturers, dealers, and homeowners.
Peter Kalshoven, President of HEARTH, commented, The Board of Directors
is gratified by the positive response to Partnership. We greatly appreciate
the leadership and commitment to strengthening professional standards made
by our first Partners. We anticipate in the near future additional industry
leaders joining this cooperative effort to increase professional certification
and its rewards.
Manufacturers interested in more information about the Partnership Program
should call Ben Weathersby at (404) 728-0227; retailers can check the Partner
list and get information about the discount coupon benefits by calling Bev
Marois at (802) 728-3569.
end of list..send posts to [email protected]
Hearth Digest 2/7/97
February's Hearth Digest is sponsored by HearthStone, who wishes to express
our thanks to all of the specialty hearth retailers who helped make 1996
a record year. We couldn't have done it without you ! Stop by Booth 309
at the HPA show in Reno for our dealer reception and see what's in store
for unique products in 1997. If you have any questions, please call us at
1-800-827-8683 or email at [email protected]
_____________________________________________________________________________
1. Who Owns the Sun ?
2. Concerns over Vermont Castings Move
1. Who Owns the Sun ?
(webmasters note: Stephen Morris is one of the original Vermont Castings
Employees, and preceeded over many Vermont Castings Events, including Owners
Picnics. Many of these early Vermont Castings innovations have become part
of international corporate folklore, and large companies like GM (Saturn)
are attempting to emulate these efforts. Stephens last job at Vermont Castings
was National Sales Manager. He's a co-author of the "Book of Heat"
and has many other book credits to his name. He also puts me up once in
a while when I go to Vermont :-)
Date: Fri, 7 Feb 1997 14:15:32 -0500 (EST)
X-Sender: [email protected]
Mime-Version: 1.0
To: [email protected]
From: Stephen Morris
Subject: Who Owns the Sun?
Chelsea Green has made its first foray into electronic publishing with Who
Owns the Sun? Although our site may be primitive in cyberspace terms, it
contains some helpful information for anyone who wants to know why the solar
energy industry has never developed in the country even though the appropriate
technology exists. Check it out at the address below, and communicate the
address to anyone who might be interested in this important issue:
http://www2.solarnet.org/1/mpotts/WOTShome.htm
Your help is appreciated!
Stephen Morris, Publisher
Chelsea Green Publishing Co. Books for Sustainable Living
P.O. Box 428/205 Gates Building
White River Junction, VT 05001
802-295-6300 fax 802-295-6444
2. Concerns over Vermont Castings Move
From: Hearth and Home, Virginia
Karen Duke ([email protected])
TO: [email protected]
Subject: VC Move
MAJESTIC TAKEOVER OF VERMONT CASTINGS
Most VC dealers have by now heard about the 33 administrative people at
the factory who have been displaced by the Majestic takeover. According
to a faxed letter we received from Glenn Thompson of Majestic, "in
order to provide you with strongly focused customer service now and in the
future, we are transferring the Order Service, Technical Service, Marketing
and Sales functions of Vermont Castings to our customer service center in
Huntington, Indiana. This will provide you with enhanced service, across
more time zones. The manufacturing and engineering function will remain
in Vermont." The letter goes on to say "every employee of Vermont
Castings who is affected by this move has been offered a position and a
comprehensive relocation package to become part of the Indiana operation.
We anticipate the transition of these services will be complete by June
1, 1997."
I am greatly disturbed by this turn of events. I have been in contact with
several people regarding this drastic change. A few points to ponder:
1. How many of the key people that you and I are accustomed to dealing with
will be willing to pull up their families and move to Indiana? You can probably
count them on one hand.
2. What will happen when we call Indiana, and end up speaking to Majestic
technicians about VC stoves? These are not simple products to learn and
master; selling, installing and repairing them is a tough job to learn.
I am sure Majestic employs very competent people, and I don't want to take
anything away from them. However, right now, the 7 people in the VC Tech
Department can barely manage the volume of calls they receive. VC's Technical
Department has a virtual museum of parts at their disposal and a vast knowledge
between them with their decades of combined experience. What are we going
to do without their expertise? I'm already having technical nightmares.
3. Most of the Account Managers have been with VC for many years. They know
the products inside, out and backwards. They are our lifeline to production
schedules, shipping dates, inventory status and marketing programs. They
have one hell of a tough job, catering to our very demanding needs. Our
Account Manager, Julie Smith has achieved the impossible for us on any number
of occasions. Being right there at the factory, Julie and the other account
managers have direct access to the shipping, billing, and technical departments.
She can go count stoves or pull a part off the shelf for me, and has more
times than I care to admit, because I got myself in a jam. How will that
work when the Account Managers are in Indiana, and the factory is in Vermont?
I am devastated at the thought of losing any of the Account Managers. They
take all the heat from us, and for us. They are the unsung heroes of Vermont
Castings, and I am grieving their loss already.
4. It was just about a year ago that the merger of CFM/Majestic/Vermont
Castings was announced. Did YOU believe it when they promised us our lives
wouldn't change over this merger? I tried to. After all, we would still
be dealing with VERMONT CASTINGS, located in VERMONT, with all the same
PEOPLE. (I bet those 33 people at the factory believed too). It feels like
I am living the book "Animal Farm". Every time I read the writing
on the wall, they have changed my rules a little bit more.
5. This announcement has shaken our world, and I'm feeling very uneasy about
the future of our relationship. Rumors are starting to fly, and I hate to
add to them, but I have great concerns based on what I deem as reliable
information about future distribution methods for the product. As I understand
it, the product will no longer be handled as a factory-direct product but
through distributors, and will be available to anyone-I repeat anyone-the
way Wonder Fire has been. How are we going to like seeing VC stoves at the
plumbing stores, gas companies, feed stores and the like, the way I have
seen Wonder Fires marketed in our area?
We currently have 15 VC stoves on display, and 5 of them are burning. We
don't want to show a vast display of a stove line that 15 other places in
town may be carrying, and undercutting us on. I predict we will all soon
be asked to participate in the annual Advance Book purchase. Our store,
for one, will not participate in this program without further and detailed,
information about future distribution channels. We see this as our only
means of protesting this unsettling move planned for Vermont Castings.
For those of you who have taken the time to get through this long essay,
I thank you for your patience. I gave this announcement a couple of days
to see what would appear on the Internet and elsewhere. I faxed a letter
yesterday directly to Majestic voicing my concerns, giving them the courtesy
of telling them first. As I mentioned in that letter, a stove is merely
a pretty piece of fabricated metal; Vermont Castings is actually the people
in that factory. Losing those people will be a personal loss to me and will
further have devastating consequences on the product, I fear. If you feel
unsettled by these changes, I urge you to make your feelings known to Glenn
Thompson, Division President of U.S. Operations at Majestic.
Maybe there's still time for us little guys to make a difference.
End of Post - send posts to [email protected]
From ???@??? Sat Feb 08 22:58:20 1997
To: comp
From: Craig Issod
Subject: Hearth Digest 2/8/97
Cc:
Bcc: main
X-Attachments:
Message-Id:
February's Hearth Digest is sponsored by HearthStone, who wishes to express
our thanks to all of the specialty hearth retailers who helped make 1996
a record year. We couldn't have done it without you ! Stop by Booth 309
at the HPA show in Reno for our dealer reception and see what's in store
for unique products in 1997. If you have any questions, please call us at
1-800-827-8683 or email at [email protected]
_____________________________________________________________________________
1. undying loyalty of VC Dealers
2. HPA Computer Committee
1. undying loyalty of VC Dealers
From: [email protected]
Date: Fri, 7 Feb 1997 23:46:40 -0500 (EST)
To: [email protected]
Subject: vermont castings
I guess its been about ten years since VC terminated my dealer agreement.
It never ceases to amaze me to see the hanging-on undying loyalty of the
VC dealer family. The handwriting is not on the wall. Its in your face and
manifesting itself on your bottom line. Isn't it time to move on? There
are still several manufacturers and distributors that believe loyalty is
a two-way street. Why not leave a few models on the floor, tie the line
up as best you can and sell against VC with a line that is not "mass-marketed"?
Some of you still take pride in being "hearth specalist". Why
be so self limiting? You and your staff could also be specialists in barbecues,
spas, bicycles, pools, casual furniture, swing sets, central vacuums, yard
ponds, custom fireplace installations, outdoor lighting, irrigation, ect.
Even the mighty HPA sees the light. I think the biggest growth area of the
HPA show is the counter-seasonal/related products area . VC forced my store
into other areas ten years ago. Is it your turn, or are you just going to
KEEP ON keeping on....?
2. HPA Computer Committee
As many of the readers of this list are aware, the HPA, is in the process
of creating much greater visibility for computers, MIS, and related subjects,
in our industry. We are a voluntary association, which by definition means
we will always be behind some of our members (like many of the readers,
and the founder of this digest), while leading many of our other members,
including some fairly large retailers who still do everything on paper.
The challenge, in my opinion, is to lead as many as possible of our members
into computerizing their business, and do that as soon as is possible. To
this end, the HPA board appointed an Ad-hoc computerization committee that
met for a year and then recommended that the HPA charter a standing committee
on Computerization. The board agreed with the Ad-hoc committees suggestion
that this be a separate committee from other HPA committees, such as Education.
The board further agreed with the recommendation that the focus of the committee
not be limited to retailers but that the committee should address all segments
of our industry as they wrestled with computerization.
Everyone agrees, I think, that the worst case scenario for our industry,
10 years in the future is NOT under utilization of computers. Rather, the
worst case is 30 different systems, each from a different manufacturer,
that require specialty retailers to be familiar with a wide variety of proprietary
software IF they want to carry products from more than one or two manufactures
or distributors. This kind of future might be more detrimental than the
competition from the big box retailers.
The point of all this is that the committee has been established, and a
draft charter prepared for this years board meeting. The charter specifies
that a Distributor will be the chairperson, since distributors sit between
the other two segments of the industry and must be able to communicate with
both. The charter also calls for 10 members, 4 retailers, 3 manufacturers,
and 3 distributors. Terms are for two years, with one half rotating each
year.
Gene Butler of the The Firebird in Santa Fe, New Mexico has been appointed
the chairperson by Kirk Newby, the new incoming HPA Chairman. On behalf
of Gene I would like to invite members of this list to nominate themselves
if they wish to be considered for this committee.
Persons interested should be members of the HPA in good standing, and prepared
to contribute to the committee on a regular basis. There would probably
be one face to face meeting each year other than the tradeshow, along with
five to 10 conference calls each year. As will all HPA committees, members
travel costs are their own responsibility (although some members might consider
asking their local affiliate to sponsor them). The committee will strive
to conduct as much of it's business via the internet as is possible, but
you just can't beat face to face meetings when it come to hearing presentations
and making good decisions.
The Chairman will strive to obtain geographical balance as well as a variety
of backgrounds and level of computer literacy.
If you are interested in being considered for this committee, please reply
directly to me, John Crouch, at [email protected].
____________
end of digest - send posts to [email protected]
Hearth Digest 2/10/97
February's Hearth Digest is sponsored by HearthStone, who wishes to express
our thanks to all of the specialty hearth retailers who helped make 1996
a record year. We couldn't have done it without you ! Stop by Booth 309
at the HPA show in Reno for our dealer reception and see what's in store
for unique products in 1997. If you have any questions, please call us at
1-800-827-8683 or email at [email protected]
_____________________________________________________________________________
The Perfect Company ? by Craig Issod, [email protected]
The Perfect Company to work for...an elusive goal. But the following story,
quoted from Visions Magazine (a local Phila Mag), definitely can make you
see that it's all not corporate doublespeak at the top:
The story concerned a Northern California Software company which is quite
large ( over a Billion in Revenue). Seems they made a LOT of money as a
result of a certain merger. The two owners responded by giving a bonus of
$75,000 apiece to EVERY employee.
Another part of the story mentions an employee that joked to the boss about
her dream of owning a jaguar - He handed her the keys to his (to keep).
The owners often walk through the offices and plant, and when they see a
worker that looks depressed...they send them home -- nicely ! Just tell
them to take it easy- - they must be working too hard !
Alas, all of us in this nuts and bolts business don't have billions pouring
into our coffers from the bits and bytes we write....we have to Weld, Cast,
Sell and deliver hard goods for each dollar. But it's still nice to see
folks that don't change as they rise to the top...
Ahh, in a perfect world...
1. Weathersby Appointed NFPA 211 Chairman
1. Weathersby Appointed NFPA 211 Chairman
Weathersby Appointed NFPA 211 Chairman, HEARTH Executive Director
Ben Weathersby, Executive Director of the HEARTH Education Foundation, was
named Chairman of the NFPA 211 Technical Committee on Chimneys, Fireplaces,
and Venting Systems for Heat-Producing Appliances by the National Fire Protection
Association (NFPA), headquartered in Quincy, Massachusetts. NFPA produces
many nationally recognized fire safety standards, including 211, the Standard
for Chimneys, Fireplaces, Vents, and Solid Fuel-Burning Appliances.
Weathersby is a twenty two year veteran of the hearth industry, having served
as a retailer, manufacturers rep, distributor, and consultant. Weathersby
served on the HPA Trade Show Committee and was President of HEARTH. As a
consultant, he wrote the HEARTH Woodstove, Gas, and Pellet manuals, study
guides, and certification exams and the Consumer Guide to Heating with Pellets.
Weathersby was named Executive Director of HEARTH in December, 1996.
Weathersby commented, NFPA 211 provides the opportunity for common ground
between hearth industry professionals and code/safety officials. I hope
to encourage more input from the hearth industry and find new ways for safety
officials and hearth practitioners to work more closely to assure public
safety.
End of list..send posts to [email protected]
Subject: Hearth Digest 2/11/97
Cc:
Bcc: main
X-Attachments:
Message-Id:
February's Hearth Digest is sponsored by HearthStone, who wishes to express
our thanks to all of the specialty hearth retailers who helped make 1996
a record year. We couldn't have done it without you ! Stop by Booth 309
at the HPA show in Reno for our dealer reception and see what's in store
for unique products in 1997. If you have any questions, please call us at
1-800-827-8683 or email at [email protected]
_____________________________________________________________________________
1. Buying Domestic
2. Reply to above
3. AustroFlamm Committment to US Market
1. Buying Domestic
From: Russell R Savard
Subject: Re: Hearth Digest 2/7/97 (VC Shake Up!)
I am not a Vermont Casting dealer but I am very concerned about what has
and is taking place. Our industry as a whole is unfocused. We as U.S. Hearth
Retailers are so concerned about how and when OUR next sale is going to
happen, we are not watching what is happening right in our own back yard.
I am concerned about our DOMESTIC Hearth Products Manufactures. They are
taking the same beating as we are in dwindling sales with a shrinking dealer
base to boot. We have all complained about one manufacture or another in
regards to selling to a "Mass Merchant" or a "National Propane
Supplier" when we supposedly had the "Unspoken" protected
territory. Why do you think these things have happened. Its simple. Our
"Domestic Hearth Product Manufactures" are not only competing
for a fair share of a smaller dealer base, but also now are competing with
Manufactures outside the U.S. that don't play by the same rules sometimes.
This is not a new problem by any means, (just look at our Automobile & Electronics
industry) but in order for our bottom lines to stay healthy, so must theirs.
I am not talking about "Isolationism", but what I am saying is
OUR Domestic suppliers must be given the opportunity to compete first. I
myself sell a smattering of product that is imported. The majority of this
product is of fine quality and carries a decent margin, but I won't lie
about it. I give my attention first and foremost to my DOMESTIC hearth products.
All our families depend on our ability to sell these products no matter
where they come from. But please think about this. The families that were
replaced my MAJESTIC employees at Vermont Casting, (or told to relocate
to Indiana) that is now owned by a Majestic, thought and probably knew that
the abilities they possessed and the good job that they were doing was what
kept them employed. But that was not enough apparently. They were in the
wrong place at the right time for acquisition by Majestic.
We as U.S. Hearth Retailers need to bare in mind this could and might happen
again very soon to a favorite line or manufacture that is trying to make
ends meet or is having trouble competing in our DOMESTIC market place because
there is just so much product that is being manufactured for a somewhat
shrinking market.
"Survival of the fittest." This is a rule of life and business,
and our industry follows this with a vengeance it seems. Its time we stood
up as a united group of American Hearth Product Dealers and say enough is
enough. We will support DOMESTIC manufactures that support us. Our American
Hearth Products are some of the finest made anywhere in the world. Its time
we started treating them as such. Our dollars need to stay at home where
they belong.
SUPPORT OUR AMERICAN HEARTH PRODUCTS MANUFACTURES!!!!!!!
Russell R Savard Owner-Rainbow Pellet Hearth & Home
http://www.rainbowstoves.com
2. Reply to above
By Craig Issod, [email protected]
Russell Savard said:
>Our dollars need to stay at home where they belong.
It is my opinion that the "buy American" attitude is not in keeping
with the modern realities of the world. Let's think about some key points
for a minute:
1. A large % of Americans are recent immigrants. Should I buy their products
just cause they moved here? and not when they were "back there"?
2. American Manufacturers rely on Exporting products to other countries,
so let's hope other countries don't buy domestic or we'll lose the business.
3. The world has become smaller...and countries are very reliant on each
other. My Chrysler has a Japanese engine in it. Most "Domestic"
manufacturers are building many of their products overseas.
4. Where do we draw the line ? - CFM-MAJESTIC-VC Canadian, so is Osburn,
Regency, RSF and others.
I imported boilers from Denmark for 5 years. In that time, I became friends
with some of the guys from the Factory. I visited them twice in Denmark,
and they visited me here a few times. We hung out with each other's families
and had many good times. I even brought my teenage daughters over to Denmark
- They got drunk and celebrated the World Cup Soccer Victory with their
new found Danish friends!
Many of the European Factories are ahead of US counterparts when it comes
to pollution control, worker benefits and other quality of life issues.
I support such initiatives.
IN the end, I don't think I have any more in common with a factory worker
from Indiana, California or Norway.... They are all living human beings
who strive for the same things I do...peace, happiness, prosperity,family
etc.
Now, if I thought they were using slave and child labor....that'd be a different
story.
Anyway, just one mans opinion.
3. AustroFlamm Committment to US Market
Date: Tue, 11 Feb 1997 17:14:44 -0800
From: Richard Munson
Reply-To: [email protected]
Organization: Munson & Associates
Mime-Version: 1.0
To: [email protected]
Subject: Austroflamm Industries
I am sending this is in behalf of the President of Austroflamm.
To: Hearth Products Industry
An old proverb says, "rumor brings anger just as surely as the north
wind brings rain."
As long as there are people there will be rumors. Some rumors turn into
outright slander, which has been defined as "the utterance of false
charges or misrepresentations which defame and damage another's reputation."
In view of its potential for damage, there is never an excuse for hurtful,
slanderous rumors.
Why do I write the above. Because our company, Austroflamm, has been the
victim of rumors. The rumors being we are going out of business and pulling
out of the U.S. We know the source of these rumors.
I would like to set the record straight. Austroflamm is not going out of
business nor are we going to pull out of the country. We have made a commitment
to do business in the United States, and a commitment to our dealers that
we will remain doing business in the United States. This is fact, not rumor!
Companies go through change and we have certainly had our share of changes.
But let's not have change get mixed up with the demise of a business. We
are a healthy company and intend to remain so. We have very strong backing
by our Austrian partners and it strengthens as the year marches on. Austroflamm
is also proud to have the very best representatives in the industry and
a tremendous hard working office team. A team of individuals that dates
back to 1992.
I sincerely hope this answers any questions to our commitment to the industry,
to our dealers, to Austroflamm stove owners, and to the Austroflamm team.
We are moving forward. Let the rumor mongers grovel in the mud. To us it
is perfectly clear the direction we are headed.
Stop by our booth in Reno.
Horst Sitter
President
Board of Directors of Austroflamm Industries Inc. Utah
end of digest - send posts to [email protected]
2/16/97
Cc:
Bcc: main
X-Attachments:
Message-Id:
February's Hearth Digest is sponsored by HearthStone, who wishes to express
our thanks to all of the specialty hearth retailers who helped make 1996
a record year. We couldn't have done it without you ! Stop by Booth 309
at the HPA show in Reno for our dealer reception and see what's in store
for unique products in 1997. If you have any questions, please call us at
1-800-827-8683 or email at [email protected]
_____________________________________________________________________________
Short Message from the Webmaster ( Craig Issod [email protected])
Internet Marketing Works ! A short blanket statement.... but I've seen some
really good evidence in the last couple of weeks. First, a customer walked
into my retail store holding a dealer list they printed from the web pages
of a Hearth Manufacturer - they had our store and one other dealer circled.
We were closer, and hasd a better price - He left with the Stove.
Today I received the following email:
Date: Sun, 16 Feb 1997 15:33:14 -0800
From: "Harold G. Tucker"
Mime-Version: 1.0
To: [email protected]
Subject: Gas Stove
This was the first time that I went shopping for a specific item via the
internet.
They came and installed my Avanti B vent gas stove yesterday and it has
been working like a champ!
So far it has exceeded my expectations!
Harold G. Tucker
This gentleman saw our store on the net, came in, bought a $2500. installation
and is pleased as punch. What could be better ?
I've done a lot of other advertising in my time - over a million dollars
worth with my store and other operations over 20 years...but I've NEVER
seen results like these.
Case in point - We just spent $3,000 advertising on TV for the VC Winter
Sale - A few people MENTIONED they saw the ad - no direct sales from it
that were obvious. Should I have just put that 3 grand toward enhancing
and advertising my stores web site? Probably !
I picked up the Phila Sunday Inquirer today - WOW - It's hundreds of pages
of advertising. Out of all those ads, I maybe read 5 or 6. The newspaper
is selling those ads for big bucks...telling the clients that "one
million people read the paper". They don't tell the REAL facts - that
when you really whittle down how many of your prospects might see YOUR ad,
it's slim pickings.
Short Commercial: HearthNet, the Industrys largest commercial web site,
is always interested in new "tenants" to expand and diversify
our product offerings. We can definitely use many more retailer listings
and links - so our customers from anywhere in the US or Canada can find
delaers near them. If you are interested in HearthNet's commercial services,
please email [email protected] or call CHI Associates at 609-654-7140.
More expaination of our offerings can be found at http://hearth.com/eight.html
Our New "Net Year" contracts start on March 1, 1997 - so you'll
get more for your $$ by signing on soon.
______________________________________________________________________
In this Digest:
1. Multi-Sided Fireplaces
2.Home Depot Expo - and training
3. VC- Majestic Customer Service
4. HEARTH - FREE Pellets with Seminar
1. Multi-Sided Fireplaces
Date: Tue, 11 Feb 97 20:15:07 -0800
From: Robert Koby
Organization: Vancouver Gas Fireplaces
Mime-Version: 1.0
To: [email protected]
Subject: multi sided fireplaces
I have a client that wishes to use the fixed side of a multi sided wood
or gas fireplace as an outside window. Initialy I just said no, but in the
name of service I promised to check it out. Any info or thoughts on the
matter would be appreaciated.
Thank You
Robert Koby
[email protected]
2.Home Depot Expo - and training
From: [email protected]
Date: Thu, 13 Feb 1997 11:31:58 -0500 (EST)
To: [email protected]
Subject: Re: Hearth Digest 2/5/97
In a message dated 97-02-05 17:45:18 EST, you write:
<< I am curious to know what training Expo Design Center gives its
employees. I recently saw Sunset products being sold at Expo in San Diego.
The employees I talked to knew nothing about any of the hearth products
they had in stock. What then is the standard? >>
We at Sunset spent two days training their people on how to measure and
install our products.......only to find that Expo moved employees from dept.
to dept. on a daily basis. This, along with some other factors, lead to
our ending bussiness with the Expo. Any items that are on the Expo floor
are most likely left-overs from the previous year, as we did not have any
sales with them in 1996. I also believe that specialty retailers can compete
against thses "big" guys. If retailers had trained, knowledgable
service/sales people to install products and promote the store, then retailers
will have far more going for them than against them. Training and product
knowledge are like chicken soup.......they can never hurt.
Steve Pulone
Sunset Fireplace
3. VC- Majestic Customer Service
Date: Tue, 11 Feb 1997 21:36:40 -0800
From: dave hall
Mime-Version: 1.0
To: [email protected]
Subject: Majestic letter to VC dealers
X-Url: http://hearth.com/news/charter.html
I received a letter from "Majestic" today and I would like to
take a moment to give my condolences to the Order Service, Technical Service,
Marketing and Sales staff of Vermont Castings Castings. In the 12 years
I've been in this business I have dealt with most of the major manufacturers
in our industry, but none give the dealer support that Vermont Castings
has. We are a small account for Vermont Castings and that is one of the
reasons I have always been impressed with their level of service and support.
We were a wholetailer for CFM after their acquisition of Majestic and dealt
with their Huntington location. All I can say is that they're not even in
the same league as Vermont Castings. If this year was any indication of
Majestic's commitment to service I don't know what to look down to for 1997.
For purely selfish reasons I hope that all the current staff will go to
Indiana, but doubt very much it will happen. I would like to offer special
thanks to Mike and Janet for all of their help the last couple of years
and to all those affected by this change, good luck in your future endeavors.
Sincerely,
Dave and the staff at Barron Heating
4. HEARTH - FREE Pellets with Seminar
HEARTH Reno Seminar Free Pellets Offer
Pellet fuel dealers of participating manufacturers can receive credit for
a free ton of pellets if they attend the HEARTH Education Foundation Pellet
Exam Prep Seminar Thursday, March 6 from 9-5 at the Reno Hilton. The seminar,
conducted by pellet veteran Chuck Brewster, reviews the HEARTH Pellet Manual
in preparation for the Certification Exam (which can be taken at any of
ten offerings during the show dates or up to 6 months later at a local library)
. The registration fee of $149 includes the manual and the exam, a value
of up to $250 by themselves. And if you're a dealer for one of the participating
fuel manufacturers, it includes credit for a free ton of pellets.
To date, the following manufacturers are supporting dealer training and
certification with an offer of free pellets to their dealers:
Advanced Wood Resources Brownsville, OR
Catamount Pellet Fuel Corp. Adams, MA
Dry Creek Products Arcade, NY
Energex Lac-Meganic, Quebec
Forest Energy Corporation Show Low, AZ
Lignetics of Missouri Doniphan, MO
Lignetics of Idaho Sand Point, ID
Manke Lumber Company Tacoma, WA
West Oregon Wood Products Columbia City, OR
To register for the seminar and to get more information about the free pellet
offer, call the HEARTH office at (802) 728-3569 or send e-mail to [email protected].
Payment by Visa/MasterCard accepted; manuals shipped on order.
---- end of digest - send posts to [email protected]
2/21/97
February's Hearth Digest is sponsored by HearthStone, who wishes to express
our thanks to all of the specialty hearth retailers who helped make 1996
a record year. We couldn't have done it without you ! Stop by Booth 309
at the HPA show in Reno for our dealer reception and see what's in store
for unique products in 1997. If you have any questions, please call us at
1-800-827-8683 or email at [email protected]
_____________________________________________________________________________
Netheads Reception - By Craig Issod, [email protected]
It's that time of year again ! Reno is just around the corner, and all of
us "netheads" will be seeing each other in the hotels. convention
center and around town.
Yes, we'll have lots of those "suit and tie" functions, meetings
with the "powers that be" and other important affairs. There is
, however, one reception where no ties are required, where nothing is expected
of you (except your presence) and where the food and drink are FREE - with
no commercial expectations ---- This is the Netheads Reception !
Mark your calendars now - for Thursday Evening, March 6, 1997 8:30 to 10:30
PM - at the Shasta 1 Room in the Reno Hilton.
EVERYONE on the list and their friends are invited to stop by. We are planning
food, drink and room for 50-70 people - and I'm certain we'll probably overflow
into the hall.
Most Important: This is not a commercial function, it is for fun and general
networking. You do not need to be a member of the HearthNet Web Site or
customer of CHI Associates to attend...Every Net Head is invited. I just
hope the room can expand if we get a large attendance. Please RSVP by email
if you think you can attend so I can get SOME idea if the food and drink
are OK.
About the Bill: What the heck ! I just gave them my CC# and said "Charge
it".....But I'm sure I'll have to pay that bill someday. Considering
this, I am soliciting donations from any Netheads and Netheads companies
that made big $$ during this record season. If you wish to contribute to
the party fund, just send your check for $25-$50 (or more if you are really
well-off) to:
CHI Associates
#1 Branch Street
Medford, NJ 08055
Or fax /email cc# and amount you'd like to contribute Fax: 609-654-2114
Email: [email protected]
All contributors to the party fund will be listed and thanked on this list...and
on the clubhouse (unless they don't wish to be)
Please wear your HPA badge or nametag (available at the door) so your fellow
Netheads can see the face behind the email presences.
Remember: Thursday Evening, March 6, 1997 8:30 to 10:30 PM - at the Shasta
1 Room in the Reno Hilton.
Send your email RSVP now...
In this Digest:
1. HPA Education Planner
From: HPA Headquarters...
1. HPA Education Planner
FOCUS ON EXPO EDUCATION
The $49 HPA EXPO '97 Education Badge offers the greatest value ever for
EXPO education.
For $49, you obtain access to all 98.5 hours of education programming offered
through 39 different education sessions, conducted by 42 different instructors.
This amounts to 67 % more education hours, 56% more sessions and 27% more
instructors than EXPO '96. The 1997 program was developed by the HPA Education
Committee and staff based on the results of the education needs assessments
conducted at EXPO '96 in Charlotte and the expertise of those in the industry.
But just don't look at quantity - the quality of the programming is what
should attract your attention! Here are a few examples of the high-quality
sessions scheduled for you:
1. Harry J. Friedman, founder of the Friedman Group, Retail Training and
Development - What a wonderful opportunity for HPA members to hear the internationally
known leader in professional retail selling. Harry will "wow"
the audience with his insight and expertise on retail selling, then talk
about plans to customize retail's #1 video sales training program for the
hearth products industry. Registration to a Friedman retail sales camp conducted
by one of Harry's staff members costs $795; you can hear Harry Friedman
himself just by purchasing the badge.
2. Gas Research Institute/Hearth Products Association Market Study Results
- Where else can you get the latest information about opportunities, barriers
and stimulants for the sale of hearth products. The results of this study,
being tabulated now, will provide a road map for the future of gas hearth
product sales, identify trends, identify factors that will stimulate sales
growth, and examine barriers to the expansion of sales. Come to learn about
the recommended specific actions and opportunities to stimulate gas hearth
appliance sales.
3. Computer Lab - EXPO '97 is offering a dedicated Computer Lab where HPA
members can sit down at a computer, either MAC or IBM compatible, and take
time to test different software packages applicable for hearth dealers.
Internet connections will also be available to "surf the net."
Computer Lab hosts (hearth products dealers) will answer your questions
or put you in contact with people who can.
4. Establishing An Annual Gas Servicing Program - Dave Pomeroy, well-known
in the industry, will be presenting a session on avoiding lost profits through
annual gas servicing. Dave will look at the equipment and tools necessary
to begin a successful servicing program, and the parts inventory necessary,
in addition to offering sales techniques and marketing strategies.
5. Bringing Your Business to the Next Level: Time to Grow? - Pat McGraw,
a highly recommended instructor, provides his insight and recommendations
about the challenges of business life cycles, strategic planning and profitable
growth for hearth dealers. Pat interviewed a number of hearth dealers for
their viewpoint and specific challenges to prepare for this session.
How do you purchase an HPA EXPO '97 education badge? Stop by the Education
Badge counter in the HPA registration area at the Reno/Sparks Convention
Center in Reno. All HPA sessions will be held in the convention center,
Wednesday, March 5 through Sunday, March 9, 1997. The education badge, for
$49, entitles you to participate in all of the HPA EXPO '97 education programs.
If you have any questions, please contact Sue Kalish, HPA Education Director
at [email protected].
From ???@??? Tue Feb 25 09:44:03 1997
To: comp
From: Craig Issod
Subject: Hearth Digest 2/24/97
Cc:
Bcc: main
X-Attachments:
Message-Id:
February's Hearth Digest is sponsored by HearthStone, who wishes to express
our thanks to all of the specialty hearth retailers who helped make 1996
a record year. We couldn't have done it without you ! Stop by Booth 309
at the HPA show in Reno for our dealer reception and see what's in store
for unique products in 1997. If you have any questions, please call us at
1-800-827-8683 or email at [email protected]
_____________________________________________________________________________
1. ICC Acquires RSF Energy
2. Webmasters Reno Seminar
3. HEARTH announces HEARTHPRO Web Site
1. ICC Acquires RSF Energy
For Immediate Release
St. Jerome, Quebec - Industrial Chimney Company (ICC) has acquired the exclusive
rights to all wood burning built-in appliances and furnaces from RSF Energy
Systems of British Columbia, as well as the company name. According to ICC
vice-president Ray Bonar, "RSF has a well deserved reputation as the
most technically advanced line of certified wood burning fireplaces in the
world. We intend to capitalize on the niche for high end, high efficiency,
environmentally friendly hearth products." Bonar emphasized that "Two
things will not change: RSF's policy of dealer exclusivity and Hans Duerichen
having a continuing key
role in R&D."
2. Webmasters Reno Seminar
As many of you know, I'll be doing a seminar at the HPA show on Thursday
Afternoon. The title will be "Weaving the Web", and we'll cover
the basic of the Internet, how to create Web Pages, whether they are worth
creating, etc.
Many on this list are already ahead of the curve and may know a lot of the
information I'll present. However, I'm certain you all have employees, associates
and spouses that may need to bone up on all things internet. I hope to see
the interested parties Thursday Afternoon.
And don't forget the Netheads Reception - Thur Eve- Hilton, 8 30 to 10 30
- Shasta Room - RSVP , if possible, so I know how much food we'll consume...but
stop buy in any case.
3. HEARTH announces HEARTHPRO Web Site
Date: Tue, 25 Feb 1997 07:31:49 -0500
From: Ben Weathersby
Reply-To: [email protected]
Mime-Version: 1.0
To: Craig Issod
Subject: HEARTH PRO
Craig,
I'd like to inform the industry that the HEARTH Education Foundation now
has a web site located at http://hearth.com/hearthpro.We invite the industry
to join the public in checking out this list of certified professionals.
HEARTH-PRO is a major reason to become certified and to keep HEARTH certifications
current. Our new Annual Maintenance process does not require re-testing
if tested on current manuals and is available for a limited time for expired
certifications. It costs only $60, and provides other benefits such as press
releases, notification of insurance and safety officials, and technical
updates.
On behalf of HEARTH and Certified Specialists across the country, I want
to thank Craig Issod for his assistance in getting the HEARTH-PRO page up
and in providing a place on HearthNet for it. Craigs efforts to provide
a rapid exchange of information for hearth professionals and to assist homeowners
in buying, installing, and using hearth products deserve a lot of credit
from the hearth industry. His site is a cyberspace version of the old country
store, complete with a back room for the pros, and a little bit of everything--including
good information and advice--for shoppers and browsers.Thanks to Craig for
making a valuable link between certified professionals and homeowners.
end of digest - send posts to [email protected]
Subject: Hearth Digest 2/28/97
Cc:
Bcc: main
X-Attachments:
Message-Id:
Reno Bound..... OK, We're all getting ready for Reno....
I'm sure we'll all forget something..By the time I'm done packing all my
computer gear, they'll need North American Van Lines to move me there !
If they could only learn how to digitize suits, underwear and other essentials..then
we'd have it made...Email these boxers to my Hilton Room please...
Anyway, don't forget to stop by the Netheads party... Shasta Room, Reno
Hilton 8-30 to 10-30...Stop by and say "HI". Richard Brown (Hearth
Shoppe) will be bringing his harmonica, but will refuse to play unless one
or two bring guitars....It's too far for me to haul mine, so if anyone is
crazy enough to pack such an item, bring it along... I'll play "All
along the Watchtower" for all...
1. Reno News (from HPA)
2. More Reno (From HEARTH)
1. Reno News (from HPA)
HPA LATEST EXPO ANNOUNCEMENTS: Countdown to EXPO '97
1. HPA proudly announces that FOR THE FIRST TIME, HPA's EXPO will have more
than 900 booths on the show floor. With the additional 218 outdoor booths,
this means that there are over 1000 booths for you to meet with current
and potential vendors.
2. EXPO '97 has attracted 53 NEW EXHIBITORS who want to show you their products.
3. HPA also proudly announces that trade show pre-registration numbers are
UP 6% FROM EXPO '96.
Remember, each and every exhibitor wants to see you, the hearth dealer,
at EXPO '97. The trade show floor officially opens on Friday, March 7 at
9:00 am.
4. TWO FULL EDUCATION DAYS PRIOR TO THE TRADE SHOW OPENING: Don't forget
that HPA offers two full days of education sessions, Wednesday, March 5
and Thursday, March 6, prior to the opening of the show. The purpose of
providing these two pre-show days of education is to provide more opportunity
for you to balance the time you need on the show floor with HPA's exceptional
education offerings.
The days and times for EXPO '97 education are:
Wednesday, March 5, 9:00 am to Noon, 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm Thursday, March
6, 9:00 am to Noon, 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm Friday, March 7, 1:00 pm to 5:00
pm Saturday, March 8, 8:00 am to 10:00 am, 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm Sunday, March
9, 10:00 am to Noon, 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm
The education sessions are offered in three tracks, Business Management,
Sales & Marketing and Technical.
5. FIVE DAYS OF EDUCATION COST ONLY $49! The cost to attend the entire HPA
EXPO '97 education program is just $49! For $49, you can attend all sessions
scheduled from 9:00 am Wednesday, March 5 through 4:00 pm Sunday, March
9.
If you haven't already purchased an education badge, you may purchase one
on-site in Reno at the Education Badge Counter in the HPA Registration area,
Reno/Sparks Convention Center.
Your education badge will enable you to see and hear, Harry J. Friedman,
of the Friedman Group, the #1 retail expert, on professional retail selling
skills. Harry will be speaking on Saturday, March 8 from 3:00 pm to 5:00
pm.
EXPO '97 begins Wednesday, March 5 with the first education sessions. See
you there!
Questions? Please call HPA at 703-522-0086.
2. More Reno (From HEARTH)
Reno News from HEARTH Education Foundation:
1. HEARTH welcomes two new Premier Level Partners, Majestic and Vermont
Castings. The dealer networks of these companies now qualify for Partner
coupons good for up to $100 off HEARTH manuals and certification exams.
Coupons will be available at the show. With HEARTHs additional show discount,
Partner retailers can purchase a manual and exam together for only $100
during the show. Majestic and Vermont Castings join HEARTHs other Premier
Partners, Aladdin, Heatilator, Heat-n-Glo, Jotul, and Travis Industries
in supporting professional training and certification.
2. HEARTH also welcomes Pinnacle Pellets, Inc. as a sponsor of the Pellet
Exam Prep Seminar. Pinnacle joins other pellet fuel manufacturers in offering
its dealers credit for one ton of free pellets if they attend the seminar.
The seminar, led by Chuck Brewster, reviews pellet fundamentals in preparation
for the certification exam. The package cost of the full day training, Pellet
Training manual, and exam is $149. Registration is still available by calling
(802) 728-3569 and on site at the Reno Hilton Ruby foyer Wednesday, March
5 from 9-5 and Thursday from 7-9am. Pinnacle joins Advanced Wood Resources,
Catamount Pellet Fuel Corporation, Dry Creek Products, Energex, Forest Energy
Corporation, Lignetics of Missouri, Lignetics of Idaho, Manke Lumber Company,
and West Oregon Wood Products in offering free fuel to promote professional
training and certification.
3. Expired HEARTH certifications can be renewed at the HEARTH Booth (751)
during the show through the Annual Maintenance Program. No re-testing is
required if tested originally on current HEARTH manuals. Simply update professional
and media release information and pay a maintenance fee to be listed on
the HEARTH-PRO web page (http://hearth.com/hearthpro), have local media
and safety/insurance officials notified of your certification, and receive
technical updates. The $60 annual fee is reduced to $50 as a special show
introductory price.
4. Thanks to all who informed me of problems with the HEARTH-PRO address.
A typo highlighted some of the text along with the address. The correct
address is: http://hearth.com/hearthpro. Check it out. Its just the beginning.
For more information, call (802) 728-3569, fax (802) 728-9657, or e-mail
from the website.
End of Digest...
send posts to [email protected]
From ???@??? Wed Mar 12 19:58:11 1997
To: comp
From: Craig Issod
Subject: Hearth Digest 3/12/97
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This month's digest is sponsored by Heat-N-Glo Fireplace Products, the innovators
of gas and direct vent fireplaces. Visit our web site at http://www.heatnglo.com
to find out more about our full line of gas and woodburning fireplaces,
including our new CampFyre fireplace. ------------------------------------------------------------------
Homeward Bound
Cruising along at 37,000 feet, reflecting on the last week...impressions
of the HPA Show, the Reno/Tahoe area and life in general.
First, let me thank Condar Company (with that neat new fresh-air kit), Atlantic
Sales (Travis, HearthStone), Nordic Stove Shop (Ct.), Hickory Stove (NC)
and anonymous others for chipping in for the Netheads get together. It was
great to see the old Net regulars again....
For some GREAT views of the Lake Tahoe area, see the pictures I took with
my trusty digital camera at http://hearth.com/reno - This area was quite
beautiful.
The HPA Show seemed to be well attended. The educational programs given
by HPA and Hearth were very well attended, showing the need for continued
and expanded efforts in the future. This education process should be ongoing
throughout the year, not just at the trade show. Mailings, newsletters and
the Web could be used for continuing education at low cost. Here's some
specific Ideas:
1. The HPA Newsletter could have specific educational areas, one in each
issue focusing on a different topic. The compilation of these could be archived
on the HPA Web Site.
2. Educational Areas could be established on HPA's Site and/or HearthNet
which could consist of discussion bulletin board forums (for interactivity),
mailing lists and in the future - live hosted forums - each with a different
industry expert.
These actions would help to alleviate the problem of trying to stuff too
much education into a short period. Think about it - fly HPA members to
Reno (Jet and Travel lag), stuff them into hotel rooms (unfamiliar surroundings),
fill them with lots of beer and fatty foods...then try to educate them.
Sure, it works, but it's not always the best environment for soaking up
knowledge. Some of the Regional HPA Affiliates already do a lot of continuing
education at their meetings...and hopefully this trend will continue.
My Kudos to the HPA Staff for pulling off the extensive educational effort
with few, if any, problems. It takes a year of behind the scenes work to
pull this all together.
One thing for sure " Knowledge has become our most important natural
resource" (a quote I stole from a recent hi-tech quarterly report I
read)
Oh ! before I forget, some suggestions for future educational programs:
1. Managing Stress in business and daily life (An important one for Hearth
Retailers)
2. How to sell your Hearth Business and Retire in style (Some of us ARE
getting older)
Product Points: I would classify this years' products as "Evolutionary,
not Revolutionary". I did not see anything that completely knocked
my socks off. The Retrofit Pellet Burner for wood stoves - designed and
built by Energex Pellet Fuels, was one high point. Some of those I talked
to who are "in the know" have doubts as to whether this device
can prove trouble-free in the field. I'll be more than glad to beta-test
one when the time comes ! If they do pull it off, this is a really neat
concept and a great example of thinking "outside the box".
As a long time Vermont Castings dealer, I was more than a little interested
in the CFM/VC/MAJESTIC side of things. The first surprise was seeing Bill
Mathewson, Vermonts General Manager, with a name badge devoid of the company
name. Seems he is joining me in the self-employed consulting business. The
strange part is that, as a VC dealer, we were never informed of this change
of administration. Who is running the PR and Dealer Relations at CFM ? Who
is running any department there?
Nether less, I found my way over to the Majestic/CFM booth to look at the
products from the organization that is shaking up the industry. After touring
the inside display and outdoor burn booths, I failed to see anything innovative.
Maybe I'm missing something - I'd love some feedback from dealers and distributors
as to the strengths of this line.
It was interesting to see the Resolute Acclaim missing from the VC booth...only
to pop up in the Timberline (gas logs) booth. Seems like strange bedfellows
- can't see Sears Hardware or other Timberline log retailers as the market
for a 450 pound cast iron woodstove - but I've been wrong MANY times before.
Evolution and Energy Are we in the romance business, the safety business
or the energy business ? Seems like all three have a place in our products
and installations.
The good news is that Hearth products are becoming safer. Design flaws of
first generation gas units are being addressed and standards are being improved
and rewritten. The results will benefit us all.
On the energy front, many companies are improving the efficiencies of their
gas fireplaces and stoves. Of course, the other end of this spectrum are
the vented gas logs - energy gluttons that are wasting billions of BTU's.
Yes, we could assume that many of the purchasers of these logs would be
creating smoky and inefficient wood fires if not for the gas logs...so the
overall effect may not be so bad. Still, it's nice to see companies like
Monesson, Peterson and others designing gas logs with an eye toward conservation
of energy. With the sharp increases in gas and LP prices, these designs
could save customers a substantial amount of hard-earned cash.
The romance factor that has long driven the fireplace business is continuing.
ALL the hearth products are improving in "eye appeal" , and decorator
options are blossoming.
Computers and the Hearth Business - There was great interest surrounding
HearthPro, a software package designed for retailers. Two demo computers
set up at the Travis booth were always busy with folks eying the package.
As a host in the HPA computer room, I talked to many retailers who were
interested in expanding their computer knowledge and use. This expansion
is much easier said than done. Despite claims to the contrary, computers
are harder to use than ever. Yes, they are much more powerful than ever,
but still hard to grasp and difficult to master.
This was the first year the HPA decided to do a computer lab at the show.
For those of you who didn't know about it, a room was set up with 10 computers
- three Macs and 7 Windows machines...all loaded with the latest software
application. A few of the computers were hooked directly into the Internet.
Volunteers staffed the room during certain hours.
The room was very busy when it opened on Thursday afternoon, but attendance
dropped to near zero after that. Why ? I think a lot of attendees had no
idea that it was there. In addition, since entry was only open to purchasers
of educational badges, the audience was limited to only a small percentage
of show attendees. The attendance at the HearthPro computers proved that
retailers, distributors and manufacturers are interested in the benefits
of information technology. My original suggestion to HPA was to place these
computers out on the show floor - in the HPA booth or other free area. Perhaps
this idea can be reviewed with an eye toward the 1998 show.
The Internet: Some manufacturers were displaying their web sites on the
show floor. I noticed that few retailers seemed excited by these displays
...and why should they be ? Retailers are interested in results - if they
get a bunch of qualified leads from a manufacturers web site - then they'll
be happy. Successful web sites must be promoted and advertised, just as
a good color brochure has zero effectiveness without wide distribution and
readership.
Still, the internet brings fascinating opportunities for communication with
dealers, customers and vendors. Sorting out and deciding on which options
to use can be quite a job.
All in all, a good show and good year for most of the players in the hearth
business. I'm glad to see that a number of smaller companies are staying
in the business and a number of new faces are showing up at the show. This
business is one that is sure to continue throughout future generations.
We are blessed to have such a body of knowledge that is being passed on
by the "older and wiser" men and women of our trade.
End of Digest - Send posts to [email protected]
3/16/97
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This month's digest is sponsored by Heat-N-Glo Fireplace Products, the innovators
of gas and direct vent fireplaces. Visit our web site at http://www.heatnglo.com
to find out more about our full line of gas and woodburning fireplaces,
including our new CampFyre fireplace. ------------------------------------------------------------------
1. On Reno Pictures
2. Fireplaces in Bedrooms
3. One opinion on above
1. On Reno Pictures
From: [email protected]
Date: Wed, 12 Mar 1997 22:21:57 -0500 (EST)
To: [email protected]
Subject: Re: Hearth Digest 3/12/97
In a message dated 97-03-12 20:42:05 EST, you write:
>For some GREAT views of the Lake Tahoe area, see the pictures I took
with
>my trusty digital camera at http://hearth.com/reno - This area was quite
>beautiful.
>
>
As those of us who live here know! Thank you.
Phil
The Lucky Sweeps
So. Lake Tahoe, CA
2. Fireplaces in Bedrooms
Subject: gas logs
Date: Sat, 15 Mar 97 11:38:59 -0800
From: ccs
To:
Mime-Version: 1.0
A man came into my store a few months ago and asked me if he could put a
gas log in his bedroom fireplace I told him no because the county will only
allow direct vent/outside air appliances in a sleeping area. yesterday he
came in and told me he got the OK from the county after asking a thousand
questions and calling manufactures, Majestic told him it was Ok. I been
told for the past seven as an retailer and an HVAC contractor selling/installing
stoves that I couldn't even put a gas log lighter in a bedroom.
What do you know about this? Can we put cas logs in an bedroom?
The county doesn't know what's up or down they usualy call me and ask what
is leagal in the hearth industry.
Thank you for you time
Rod Poplarchick
Climate Control Systems
Oakhurst,Ca
Madera County
http://www.surfus.com
[email protected]
3. One opinion on above (Craig Issod - [email protected])
My interpretation of NFPA 211 (when I read it a few years ago) was that
no open fire could be installed in bedrooms and/or garages. The garage thing
was due to gasoline vapors, the bedroom thing due to lack of combustion
air and sleeping quarters. Yet, we have the same situation as Rod where
certain (yes, even tough guys) inspectors have OKed it - open wood and gas
fireplaces in the bedroom.
I'm certain that Ben Weathersby, who is one of the 211 guys - and on this
list, can give us some kind of interpretation. We welcome responses from
others who have experience.
End of Digest - Send posts to [email protected]
Hearth Digest 3/16/97
Cc:
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This month's digest is sponsored by Heat-N-Glo Fireplace Products, the innovators
of gas and direct vent fireplaces. Visit our web site at http://www.heatnglo.com
to find out more about our full line of gas and woodburning fireplaces,
including our new CampFyre fireplace. ------------------------------------------------------------------
1. Gas Logs, etc in Bedroom - Reply
2. Another Reply on above..from canada
From: [email protected] Date: Sun, 16 Mar 1997 15:34:31 -0500 (EST)
To: [email protected]
Subject: Re: Hearth Digest 3/16/97
In a message dated 97-03-16 11:20:45 EST,Rod P wrote:
<< A man came into my store a few months ago and asked me if he could
put a gas log in his bedroom fireplace I told him no because the county
will only allow direct vent/outside air appliances in a sleeping area. yesterday
he came in and told me he got the OK from the county after asking a thousand
questions and calling manufactures, Majestic told him it was Ok. I been
told for the past seven as an retailer and an HVAC contractor selling/installing
stoves that I couldn't even put a gas log lighter in a bedroom. >>
Craig and Fellow list members:
Local codes always "trump" model codes and standards, so what
I have to say may or may not be pertinent to Rod's situation in Madera County,
California.
NFPA 211 does prohibit the location of solid fuel burning appliances in
garages, but I am not aware of any such prohibition regarding bedrooms.
NFPA 54, the National Fuel Gas Code, permits room heaters, decorative appliances,
and gas logs in bedrooms or bathrooms so long as the room is an "unconfined
space", as defined in the Code. That is, it would need to contain 50
cubic feet for each 1,000 Btus of appliance input.
The Uniform Building Code does not appear to restrict the location of fireplaces
in bedrooms. The Uniform Mechancal Code does prohibit "warm air furnaces"
from being located in a bedroom, unless they are direct vent or fully enclosed
and separated from the living space. However, the UMC does NOT apply this
prohibition to room heaters and decorative appliances, even though there
is a specific list of "prohibited locations". Finally, the section
on gas logs in fireplaces also does not contain any restriction on the room
in which it is located. In short, it does not appear that these existing
codes prohibit the location of fireplaces or gas-burning hearth products
in bedrooms.
The situation was almost different in the International Mechanical Code
(IMC). The first draft of the IMC contained a paradoxical provision that
permitted fireplaces and gas logs in bedrooms, but specifically prohibited
vented gas room heaters and decorative appliances. The HPA and National
Chimney Sweep Guild jointly fought this illogical provision, and were successful
and having it modified to a reasonable, performance-based requirement. The
1996 IMC allows fireplaces, gas logs and vented gas appliances in bedrooms
so long as the room is not a confined space and the building is not of unusually
tight construction. Direct vent appliances are permitted without restriction.
This is essentially the same treatment as the National Fuel Gas Code.
So, in summary, there does not currently appear to be any absolute restriction
on the location of hearth products in bedrooms. However, common sense restrictions
on clearances, proper construction, sizing, and availability of combustion
and ventilation air have always applied to such installations, and they
still do. Before selling a fireplace, room heater, gas logs or whatever
for use in a bedroom, the hearth dealer should determine that it can be
properly installed and operated. This includes surveying the availability
of combustion air, and making sure that it meets the combustion air requirements
of whatever code is in force.
Dave Johnston [email protected]
2. Another Reply on above..from canada
From: [email protected] (Mike Scarland)
Subject: Re: Hearth Digest 3/16/97
To: Craig Issod
In response to Rod Poplarchick, Climate Control Systems.
I realize that this may not directly apply to his situation as installations
in Canada are must meet the B149.1, but it may help as to intent. The B149.1
does allow non-direct vent Room Heaters if they have a thermostat, a pressure
regulator, a 100% safety shut-off, and are vented. Vented Gas Fireplaces
can be installed in bedrooms, but if they are not of the direct vent type
they must be identified by marking which is on or adjacent to the rating
place as being certified for this type of installation.
Log sets are not allowed in this type of application under any circumstances.
The rationale is basically as Craig noted, the spillage susceptibility,
combined with the room usage as sleeping quarters.
3/19/97
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This month's digest is sponsored by Heat-N-Glo Fireplace Products, the innovators
of gas and direct vent fireplaces. Visit our web site at http://www.heatnglo.com
to find out more about our full line of gas and woodburning fireplaces,
including our new CampFyre fireplace. ------------------------------------------------------------------
Quiet on the list... (Craig Issod, [email protected])
Must have not been too exciting in Reno cause there are few posts talking
about the hot new products...or what folks learned in the seminars....or
maybe folks are hung over...
Anyway, we'd all appreciate it if more people would share their thoughts
and experiences with the list. I'l be posting more on this subject soon.
meanwhile....
Java and cgi calculators
As part of this years expansion of HearthNet, we have posted two simple
heat load calulators at http://hearth.com/calc/btucalc.html - One is in
Java (if you have Netscape or IE 3.0) and the other is a program that should
work with any browser. Over the next few months, we'll be posting other
interactive programs that do much more than these simple calculators. We're
open for suggestions...what do the customers need ?
________________________
In an article from last Sundays' Philadelphia Inquirer - Titled "Surfing
the Internet grows more popular".
"Nearly 1/4 of all people over age 16 in the United States and Canada
have surfed the internet in the past month".
"That's 50.6 Million people wired to the Net"
"39 percent (of these) have researched product information on the Net
prior to making a purchase"
The study was taken by Nielsen based on random telephone surveys of people
16 or older.
What does this mean ? It means the hype is over...it's real - 50 million
people doing anything is a major movement or "shift". And think
about it, all 50 million of these folks, plus the new folks getting on every
day, can easily surf to HearthNet for their Fireplace and Stove info !
Speaking of HearthNet, our traffic is staying high, even in the off season.
We are still seeing over 18,000 seperate visitors per month, each reading
5 or 6 pages of the web site. Our current goals are for as many as 50,000
visitors/month (300,000 pages) in the coming fall/winter.
For more information about partnering YOUR retail or manufacturing business
with HearthNet, go to http://hearth.com/eight.html or email [email protected]
_______________________
Big Time...
The world's tallest chimney ?
Ekibastuz,Kazakhstan
1377 feet tall..144 feet in diameter at base...46 feet at top...Weighs 53,600
tons - try relining that baby !
The most massive chimney?
at Puentes de Garcia Rodriguez, NW Spain
1148 feet tall with an interior valume of 6.7 million cubic feet...takes
a bit to warm this monster !
Thanks to Guinness Book of Records 1997
End of Digest - Send posts to [email protected]
3/28/97
Cc:
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This month's digest is sponsored by Heat-N-Glo Fireplace Products, the innovators
of gas and direct vent fireplaces. Visit our web site at http://www.heatnglo.com
to find out more about our full line of gas and woodburning fireplaces,
including our new CampFyre fireplace. ------------------------------------------------------------------
Net News:
This weeks issue of WEBWEEK (one of the dozens of mags I get and try to
read ) has a eye-opening article concerning the value of "eyeballs"
and visits on the web. Try and digest these numbers:
Yahoo and other search engines are paying Netscape 70 MILLION DOLLARS in
1997 ---JUST FOR INCLUSION OF BUTTONS LEADING TO THE SEARCH ENGINES FROM
THE NETSCAPE SITE ! Additionally, the search engines will pay for EACH DELIVERED
user that is sent to their sites from the Netscape home page. When one considers
that the WEB is still in it's infancy....this is truly amazing ! My take
on this: Conventional Media has become too expensive..Cable TV, Local Papers
and others have raised their prices to a level which is often out-of-line
with the returns. The net, because it is fairly new, still offers a low
cost per delivered lead...and the big guns know this. Therefore, they are
going to buy up every impression and lead they can at bargain rates.
What do you think of chat?
Feedback please.... HearthNet could easily host a "chat" area
that would be open to Hearth Industry members. This woul be a "real
time" discussion group. I am not convinced, however, that we'd have
the critical mass of people to make chat a possibility.
Here's how I envision it.... We would schedule sessions two to four times
per month, each one hosted by a person or group of people. Example: I could
host one on SOFTWARE FOR WEB PAGE CREATION or TECH ASPECTS OF THE NET, etc.
Others could host special events also. Because it is "real time",
we'd have to meet at an exact time--say 10PM eastern time in the chat room.
There could be different rooms in the chat area...some for all members,
some for just manufacturers, some for retailers, etc....
There are currently 250 people on this email list..and perhaps another 100-200
wired industry members that might be signing up in the next 6 months....
My questions to the group:
1. Would folks be interested in such a forum?
2. Are there enough hosts and topics of discussion to make this an ongoing
project?
Of course, the basic chat services would be available at no charge !
Please send your thoughts to [email protected] (Craig Issod)
IN this Digest
1. Serious Wind Noise
This gentlemen has written me twice from England about a REAL SERIOUS chimney
wind noise problem. I was unable to help him, and promised that I would
post his message to all you industry experts. Please email him directly
if you have any good ideas.
From: "magpie"
To:
Subject: serious wind noise in chimney!
Date: Mon, 24 Mar 1997 23:02:08 -0000
X-MSMail-Priority: Normal
X-Priority: 3
MIME-Version: 1.0
Original and second message:
>Dear Craig, >I am sorry to trouble you with this problem but I have
not been able to >come up with a practical solution despite a great deal
of thought. >I tried a semi-circular cowl insert which had no effect
at all and also a >cowl designed for extra suction - still no joy. >The
chimney is approx. 40 feet above the hearth and is approx. 10 inches in
>diameter as well as being exposed to prevailing winds coming in off
the >sea. >The noise is so bad at times that you can not hold a conversation
without >seriously raising your voice ! >Is there any cowl on the
market that will strap to the chimney and perhaps >disturb the airflow
and the harmonics - if that is the right approach/word?
Dear Craig,
Ref my E-mail of 4th March 1997. I may soon be forced to try making a lid
with a steel rope passed down the chimney to open and close it. All this
goes against my logic as I feel sure that there is a solution related to
a cowl of some design or another added to the top of the chimney. Any response
from the notice board? It's my birthday tomorrow - nothing could make a
better present than a glimmer of hope or an actual solution!
Look forward to your reply,
Regards,
Doug Brown.
The Buddha's teachings advocate belief through experience.
2. Lack of excitement at Reno
From: [email protected]
Date: Wed, 19 Mar 1997 22:49:42 -0500 (EST)
To: [email protected]
Subject: Re: Hearth Digest 3/19/97
In a message dated 97-03-19 20:45:43 EST, you write:
>Must have not been too exciting in Reno cause there are few posts talking
>about the hot new products...or what folks learned in the seminars....or
>maybe folks are hung over...
Craig,
I enjoyed the show...my first. However, there seemed to be a lot of the
same old thing as other trade shows I have attended. Manufacturer reps at
the booths talk to you with maybe half their attention....they are always
looking for someone more important to talk to...have always found that to
be rude...when they found I did not own a store they gave me even less attention.
It seemed like there were more gas units than anything else...for heat and
food. I particulary liked the Harman top loading wood stove...but when I
inquired about them through our local source it appears that no one is interested..at
least locally. Our group really enjoyed the humongous HPA food fest...haven't
seen anything that big in a long time. Again, all in all I really enjoyed
the festivities and learning experiences. If possible I will definitely
attend the next one (St. Louis?).
Phil Mace
The Lucky Sweeps
So. Lake Tahoe, CA
3/31/97
Cc:
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Message-Id:
This month's digest is sponsored by Heat-N-Glo Fireplace Products, the innovators
of gas and direct vent fireplaces. Visit our web site at http://www.heatnglo.com
to find out more about our full line of gas and woodburning fireplaces,
including our new CampFyre fireplace. ------------------------------------------------------------------
6 Inches of snow outside my door on March 31 ! Think I'll head up to VT
tommorrow for some spring skiing (no kidding)....
__________________________________________
IN case any of you are going to be in Romania next week, you might want
to check out this old stove !
------------------------------------------
From: [email protected]
Date: Sat, 29 Mar 1997 16:06:19 +0200
MIME-Version: 1.0
To: [email protected]
Subject: Meissen Stove
My name is Victor Patriciu and I leave in Bucharest, Romania. I have a
Meissen faience stove, from 1920-1930 and I wish to sale it.
1. Heat Tech Stoves
2.Thoughts on Reno and the Industry
1. Heat Tech Stoves
Date: Sat, 29 Mar 1997 10:39:21 -0800 (PST)
From: Rod Poplarchick
X-Sender: [email protected]
To: [email protected]
Subject: Heat Tech Pellet
MIME-Version: 1.0
Can any one tell me what the limit switch temp is on the hopper over heat?
I have never sold any heat Tech stoves but there are a few in my area that
I have to service. I have one stove that keeps shutting of after an hour
because of the limit switch for the hopper I put an 210 deg switch on and
the auger shut off sooner the hopper is hotter that I am used to. All the
fans seem to be working fine. Any help out there?
About Bed Room heaters.... I am still working on getting answers from the
county. They told me the State changed a code on bedroom heat. I am waiting
for something in writting. They told me 10 day ago that were going to fax
it to me ?????
Thanks
Rod Poplarchick
Climate Control Systems
Oakhurst Ca.
[email protected]
http://www.surfus.com
2.Thoughts on Reno and the Industry
From: Christie Martindale
Subject: Our industry
Just a few thoughts on Reno and the hearth industry. I have been in this
industry actively for over ten years and exposed to the industry via my
spouse who is been around the industry for 14 years. Our industry has really
changed. We have all seen a lot of dealers, reps, distributors and manufacturers
come and go. I see a general trend toward consolidation and not only by
Manufacturers. Sure mass merchants are getting in the game. Doesn't any
one else remember Sears and J.C. Pennney selling stoves? This really has
not changes, just the name of who is selling it!
I have less competition now then I did 10 years ago. Weak dealers and part
time dealers cannot make it any more. There is not enough demand for the
product to allow ever Joe-blow to sell stoves out of his garage. Consumers
want more. They want service, value and accountability. They also want to
enjoy the shipping experience. The dealers that have survived are good at
marketing. They know who their customer is. They are aware that women make
most of the major purchases and these dealers know how to market to this
group.
I look back on the evolution of our showroom as a great example. When I
first started working with my husband the showroom had a lot of Class A
flue and black stove pipe on display. Stoves were sitting on the floor in
a row. Toolsets were basic and cheap! I could not stand it! I slowly started
to create displays. The guys resisted! I noticed that women started to come
in more and they spent money on all kinds of things! Not just stoves, but
accessories. I recently moved to a new location and over 20% of my business
is in gifts and decorative accessories. In fact, the two growth areas in
my business are hearth appliances and gifts!
Wake up people! Manufactures have to sell products just like we do. They
are going to seek markets that produce, just as you stock products that
sell. It's how we make our living. You have to do a better job than ever
before. You showroom, your service, everything about your business has to
be better than it has ever been. I can empathize with manufactures(at least
to some extent). They have to feed their families just like you do. If you
are not producing for them, they have to look at other outlets for their
products. I know dealers who tie up lines to keep their competition from
having them. Yet these same dealers really do not want to sell the line,
they just do not want some else to have it. How dumb! Why would a sane person
tie up their assets this way? They have to buy just enough of the line to
keep it from being pulled, but that product just sits on the showroom floor,
not producing income. Would you take money out of a Mutual Fund to stuff
it in a mattress? Of course not! You want that money to produce a return
on investment. You better look at your inventory the same way! If it's not
selling, your losing money every day it takes up valuable showroom space.
Concentrate on manufactures that you like and have confidence in. These
products will sell because you believe in them! You concentrate your buying
power and can get better deals on those products you like. Let those tied
up line go!
Reno had some great seminars on how to be better. I sure hope you attended
all of them. If you do not educate and keep current in marketing, financial,
computer and business trends, your business is going to die! Sure manufactures
are looking for that magic dealer that will sell a 1000 units a month, but
remember 50% of our industry are little guys like you and me! We sell under
a million dollars under a year and we work hard! Be persistent if you want
something. They will listen(at least most of them will) and respond. It
may take a while, but it will happen because it's in their best interest
that you succeed.
Thanks for listening(reading) my ramblings here. Any comments?
Christie Martindale Bishop Woodstove
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