MidStates Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association

Retailers: attend PFI Annual Conference at a discounted rate

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren Mangnall) — Wed, 16 May 2012 15:48:00 +0000

Here is an opportunity for retailers to attend the PFI Annual Conference at a discounted rate. The conference will be held July 29-31 at Foxwoods Resort & Casino in Mashantucket, CT (about 40 miles from Providence, RI). For the first time, PFI has created a one-day pass for industry retailers. Their goal is simple: increase opportunities for interaction between various sectors of the industry.

For only $125 for HPBA members, the pass includes access to all activities on Monday, July 30th: supplier exhibits, educational sessions (including a special afternoon breakout session for retailers on the PFI Standards Program), and all breaks and meals, including Monday evening's reception, dinner and entertainment.

View the retailer registration form
View a preliminary agenda

The PFI Annual Conference draws a wide range of attendees from across the industry and generates ample opportunity for networking. PFI's Conference Committee is putting together a very strong educational agenda that will be finalized in the upcoming weeks.

HPBA Retailer Alert: Credit Card Processing Protection

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren Mangnall) — Fri, 11 May 2012 14:47:00 +0000

HPBA member retailers are warned to be on the alert for possible credit card fraud that could potentially cost a retailer thousands of dollars. One key to a scam is in the credit card processing.

Recently, an HPBA member reported that a customer came into his store and wanted to purchase a number of high-end products, totaling almost $10,000. The customer had a truck in the parking lot to pick up the purchases. The sales person ran the credit card, however, had to manually enter the credit card number because the magnetic strip did not process.

ALERT! The authorization code received when you manually enter the card number, does not always indicate the credit card is good. And, a customer prepared to drive off with a large purchase could be a “red flag.”

When the magnetic strip does not process the card, it could indicate the card has been fraudulently manufactured.

Visa has five basic steps to follow for manually-entered transactions:

Check the terminal to make sure it is working properly.
Check the card’s “valid thru” date to be sure the card has not expired. If the transaction date is after the valid date, the card has expired.
Get a manual imprint of the card (see “Note” below)
Ask the customer to sign the imprinted sales draft.
Compare the signature on the card with the sales draft. Do not accept an unsigned card.

Note: Effective October 15, 2011, U.S. merchants may include the CVV2 in the authorization request in lieu of taking a manual card imprint.

For more information on how to prevent credit card fraud, click on this site, http://www.globalpaymentsinc.com/usa/customerSupport/fraud.html

If you are looking to change your credit card processing provider, HPBA members receive discounted rates with Solveras. Go to: http://www.solveras.com/hpba for additional information and a free analysis.

Calling all the Gen Y and newbies!

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren Mangnall) — Wed, 21 Mar 2012 14:46:00 +0000

If you’ve been in the industry for a long time, you may belong to an organization called HearthMasters. HearthMasters is a social organization formed to recognize the long and productive careers of those involved in the hearth, patio and barbecue industries. Friends and associates, especially those who have changed companies or retired, are able to stay in touch through the HearthMasters newsletter, annual HearthMasters Membership Directory, and social function held at each year's HPBExpo.

And now, in addition to that, HPBA and the affiliates are emphasizing a networking, mentoring and professional development effort in the industry called “Young Guns.” This is a group founded for the purpose of increasing awareness of, and involvement in, association matters by MidStates HPBA members under the age of 40 or in the industry fewer than 5 years.

Our affiliate has already made its presence felt through the involvement of Young Guns Committee Co-Chair Linsey Flutey, Ray Murray Inc., and Committee member Kayce Smith, Fire Gear LLC. So if you are under 40 or new to the industry, join Linsey and Kayce in getting this new program even more momentum. They got off to a great start in Atlanta with their own private networking party, and identifying badge ribbons.

Get involved.

The group is extremely motivated about initiating many activities throughout the year. For 2012, they plan to:

Start a monthly newsletter (first issue will be May)
Host education programs geared toward the Young Guns community
Start a mentoring program on a regional level

Get the most out of your membership! For more information, email youngguns@hpba.org.

New benefit to MidStates members

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren Mangnall) — Thu, 15 Mar 2012 18:47:00 +0000

ServiceMagic is a network of service professionals that connects prospective customers with qualified businesses. They are the nation’s leading property improvement website connecting nearly four million unique visitors each month with pre-screened, customer-rated service professionals.

MidStates HPBA members receive a waived enrollment fee - $99 value. Each quarter, ServiceMagic will credit participating member businesses a 7% rebate, on total quarter spend, in job lead credits.

“I’ve been using them for a while and they’ve been good for my business. I have the alerts sent to my smart phone so I can respond to any I choose right away. It’s for sure gotten me business I might not have otherwise received.”

Eric Haldeman, Rhino Chimney Service in Mount Vernon, OH
MSHPBA Board Member

To enroll, call 303-963-8837 or visit hpba.servicemagic.com

Click here to view the ServiceMagic flyer.

Why Ceritify With NFI

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren Mangnall) — Wed, 14 Mar 2012 19:06:00 +0000

"No one ever comes in to the store and asks if we are certified."

Every time I hear that comment I wonder what more can we do? The most successful certified specialists market their certification to every customer that comes in the door. They create their own demand by showing their strengths. Maybe it is time to add some statistics to the list of reasons. In the last 30 days, 1,726 people have used the search function on the NFI website to find a certified specialist in their area. Of those, 1,179 have never used the site before! That means about 40 new customers every day are looking for the NFI Specialist that is closest to them. It seems to me that is a significant number. I know if I was in the retail business I wouldn't want to miss them.

http://nficertified.org

2012 HPBExpo goes to Atlanta

noreply@blogger.com (Kristen) — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 22:13:00 +0000

Join us for the 2012 Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Expo in Atlanta, Georgia with educational courses on February 29- March 3 and the expo March 1-3. Each year more than 350 leading HBP manufactures and suppliers exhibit their latest home heating solutions at the expo. Take part in the largest indoor- outdoor living showcase to learn valuable takeaways like:

· The latest products
· Gain knowledge from your peers
· Network with the pros
· Educational courses

The Expo will also include special events like the annual Vesta Awards, where attendees vote to honor innovation and design.

Then, stay in your seats for a finger-licking southern barbecue buffet dinner. Featuring a main dish of barbecue pulled pork and roasted chicken ranch house style. Fill your plate with fresh cornbread, southern style baked beans and country potato salad. And save room for banana pudding and of course Georgia peach cobbler. Tickets should be purchased in advance for $40 per person. The deadline to order your ticket is February 22.

Due to great success of last year's Disco Party, the night will be topped off by a Honky Tonkin' Industry Party. The party will include live music from the LoCash Cowboys, celebrity look-a-likes, interactive gaming area and plenty of line dancers to keep the night going.

Click here to register so you won't miss out on the 2012 HPBExpo.

NSPS Webinar on Dec. 8

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren Mangnall) — Mon, 21 Nov 2011 16:16:00 +0000

All manufacturers who support the HPBA’s NSPS efforts are invited to attend a Webinar on December 8, 2011, to discuss these efforts, and review our best understanding of the future NSPS timeline. The webinar will begin with a short briefing by EPA staff, including Gregory Green, Director of the Outreach and Information Division (OID), and Gil Wood, who is the project lead for the NSPS review. Following their briefing, and after they have left the webinar, manufacturers will hear from our special Legal Counsel, David Menotti, our NSPS technical consultant, Bob Ferguson, and HPBA staff. The group will discuss all the issues under consideration in this review, and offer an opportunity for members to raise questions about any aspect of this process, or the webinar.

Member Manufactures will need to register for the webinar, and must be current in their NSPS support assessment. Please contact Rachel Feinstein, Feinstein@hpba.org in order to receive instructions for the webinar. Companies may register as many unique locations as they wish. If anyone has questions about this list of issues, or issues they hope the EPA covers, prior to the webinar, they are welcome to contact John Crouch, crouch@hpba.org

HPBA is considering another face to face meeting, similar to the January 2011 meeting in Dallas, but will not schedule it until the EPA’s proposal has been released.

HPBA NEEDS YOUR HELP – NOW!

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren Mangnall) — Fri, 30 Sep 2011 18:04:00 +0000

Last week, Jack Goldman and Allan Cagnoli sent a memo to Affiliates about contacting members of Congress and soliciting industry comments on the Department of Energy’s Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NOPR) on Direct Heating Equipment.

The memo stated that HPBA needs your help now in the fight against the anti-industry rulemakings by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). The attached memo will give you the background and directions on how you and your colleagues can help HPBA and the industry fight the DOE rulemakings.

They are asking every member to do one simple thing:

BY OCTOBER 14 – Send comments to DOE in opposition to this proposed rule on Direct Heating Equipment Rulemaking.

Click here to view the Memo, background information, and instructions on how to submit comments to the DOE.

2012 HPB EXPO Party Sponsorship Opportunities

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren Mangnall) — Fri, 09 Sep 2011 16:55:00 +0000

HPBA is busy planning the 2012 Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Expo scheduled for Feb. 29-March 3, 2012 in Atlanta, GA.

Many of you may be wondering what is being planned for next year's industry party in Atlanta. Given the smashing success of this year's disco party, HPBA has decided to make next year's event bigger and better with a Honky Tonkin Nashville party on Friday, March 1st from 8:00 - 11:30 pm in hall C1 at the Georgia World Congress Center. Party plans include great entertainment by the LoCash Cowboys, celebrity look-a-likes, an interactive gaming area with pool tables and dart boards, and plenty of line dancers on hand to bring everyone up to speed on their two step.

When developing the sponsorship program, the committee felt it would be beneficial to build on the manufacturer/exhibitor sponsor opportunities by adding lower priced options and additional manufacturer opportunities. This was deemed necessary after several exhibitors expressed interest in getting involved and felt the sponsorship opportunities this year were limited and/or out of their price range. In doing so, the committee agreed that it was extremely important to focus on building the program for manufacturers and exhibitors, but to be careful to not dilute the overall event by having to acknowledge too many supporters.

Attached is the overall sponsorship program that has been sent to our manufacturers for your information. It was decided that due to the unsuccessful affiliate bars, the challenges in having to focus the recognition to the major sponsors, and the need to increase other opportunities for manufacturers, to eliminate the affiliate sponsorships this year. I know all of you are struggling as we are for revenue these days, so I hope this is good news for all of you.

New Government Affairs Issus

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren Mangnall) — Mon, 29 Aug 2011 15:19:00 +0000

While the summer is usually considered a quiet, sleepy time, it has been anything but that for the hearth industry and HPBA this year. This update covers recent developments on three issues of critical importance for the future of the hearth industry:

the U.S. Department of Energy’s regulations on efficiency of gas fireplaces and log sets,
the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission’s request for comments on barriers for glass fronts in gas fireplaces, and
the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s developing air pollution regulations for new wood-burning appliances.

Please take the time to read it so you are informed of all the latest developments on HPBA's Government Affairs issues with DOE, NSPS and CPSC.

Click here to read the full document.

New CEU Process

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren Mangnall) — Thu, 28 Jul 2011 15:09:00 +0000

Beginning August 1, 2011 the National Fireplace Institute will change the way CEUs are entered into the database. The new system will dramatically speed up the process and CEUs will now show up on the website much quicker.

The new system is very dependent on two things: the Course Number and the Individual's NFI ID Number. Many attendance sheets we have received in the past have not had complete information. We will now need both items before we can process the CEUs.

Once the new system is up and running we will create new attendance sheets and probably a spreadsheet template for you to use. In the mean time, please be sure you have the course title and that every person that signs in has their NFI ID number.

This also means that any CEU requests for courses that are not in the system cannot be processed. You must either submit a course or send an additional date for existing courses every time you want to offer CEUs.

NFI Certified Professionals should always log in at http://nficertified.org/pages_industry/industry-1.cfm to check most current CEU status.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Rick Vlahos, Executive Director, Hearth Patio & Barbecue Education Foundation, at Vlahos@hpba.org.

Net Zero Homes

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren Mangnall) — Thu, 21 Jul 2011 15:02:00 +0000

Every two years, the California Energy Commission (CEC) releases an Integrated Energy Policy Report in which it makes recommendations for energy policy in the state. In its 2007 report, CEC recommended adjusting these policies to require net-zero-energy performance in residential buildings by 2020 and in commercial buildings by 2030. A "net zero energy" building is one that consumes only as much energy on an annual basis as can be generated with an on-site renewable energy system.

The challenge? While the net zero concept does not ban any energy-using product, it does require "compensating offsets." For example, a new home could still have a decorative gas fireplace but will need to show additional solar panels to offset that energy use. In addition, the Code does not recognize or address zone heating (as with gas appliances) or solid fuel, wood or pellet appliances.

This is not just a "California problem." Code writers in Boulder, Colo., have also attempted to incorporate the net zero concept, and others are likely to follow. HPBA staff and leaders are following the issue closely and working with allies to determine the appropriate response plan.

Please look for similar standards to appear in your state. This is an issue that will impact our association and we need to be aware of any other happenings. If you are currently aware of any comparable standards for buildings, please notify us right away.

HPBA Unveils The BBQ Source

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren Mangnall) — Mon, 11 Apr 2011 21:35:00 +0000

Just in time to celebrate and promote May as National Barbecue Month, HPBA is unveiling "The BBQ Source," the all new Facebook fan page and Twitter destination designed specifically with barbecue enthusiasts in mind. We are pleased to announce the official launch today, Monday, April 11, and we want you to join in on the conversation!

The BBQ Source connects those interested in outdoor cooking – bringing them straight to the source – to build a community of supporters for HPBA and outdoor living and entertaining.

What's more, The BBQ Source is a forum for HPBA members, partners and manufacturers to be seen and heard, and interact directly with the consumer audience.

Content for the page will include, but is not limited to:

Video submissions
Photos from consumers, HPBA and manufacturers
Tips for consumers (e.g. grill cleaning, grill safety, etc.)
Seasonal outdoor cooking recipes (from members and partners)
Information on HPBA consumer resources
Consumer usage statistics and consumer facing poll questions

Our new platform answers a call from the growing group of barbecue-hungry social media consumers, as well as industry influencers to build a linked in, cook-out-community online.

We would love our members and partners to be as involved as they want to be.

If you have photos, videos or recipes you would like to share on The BBQ Source, please feel free to send content directly to Leslie Wheeler (wheeler@hpba.org) and they will review and publish your resources. Moving forward, interaction with Facebook fans and Twitter followers is welcomed and encouraged, so please feel free to post your own comments, recipes and stories as you see fit.

To get started, please "like" us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.

And please feel free to share and post the direct links to The BBQ Source on your own Web pages, Twitter feeds, Facebook pages and more:

(Facebook): www.facebook.com/TheBBQSource

(Twitter): www.twitter.com/TheBBQSource

Welcome to the Q-mmunity!

Midstates Members "Get Down" at Disco-Themed Party

noreply@blogger.com (Laura Sienaski) — Wed, 06 Apr 2011 15:35:00 +0000

Midstates members socialized and danced the night away at the disco-themed Industry Party held on Friday, March 4. The party was held during the 2011 HPB Expo in Salt Lake City. Each of the HPBA affiliates hosted one of the bars during the party.

The party was a great opportunity for members to network and discuss the industry in the midstates region.

Unfortunately, members of the Board had to call it an early night due to a 7:30 a.m. Board meeting the following morning. Well, some of them did anyway.

Members that visited our bar included:
Brian Barclay - DuraVent
Ron Johnson - MONSMA Marketing
Robert Huta - RLH Industries
Eric Haldeman - Rhino Chimney Service
Steve Wilbar - Results Unlimited
Chip Johnson - MONSMA Marketing
G. Brightrall - MONSMA Marketing
Larry Kett - Kett's Hearth & Home
Dean & Karen Barill - Heat N Sweep
Dale Remmelts - Remmelts Marketing, Inc.
Jess Kettle - MONSMA Marketing
Roger Evans - Evans Marketing
Gerard Hemmes - W. MI Fireplace
Mike Behr - Behr Necessities

One decision the Board made that members should be aware of is that in 2011 Midstates will be offering webinars. Look for those opportunities coming soon.

Background on 2011 Biomass Stove tax Credit

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren Mangnall) — Wed, 02 Feb 2011 20:59:00 +0000

From Public Law No: 111-312

The Tax Relief, Unemployment Insurance Reauthorization, and Job Creation Act of 2010 (TRUIRJCA)

SUMMARY OF 2011 BIOMASS STOVE TAX CREDIT LANGUAGE

President Obama signed into law on December 17, 2010, the Tax Relief, Unemployment Insurance Reauthorization, and Job Creation Act of 2010 (TRUIRJCA).

TRUIRJCA, which focused mainly on extending Bush-era tax rates, reinstates for 2011 the tax credit for energy-efficient improvements (such as biomass stoves) to existing homes to the lower levels that existed prior to passage in early 2009 of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA).

The new tax credit in TRUIRJCA provides:

10% credit for the purchase of a 75% efficient biomass heating appliance in 2011, to a maximum of $300
Removal of LHV (lower heating value level) efficiency measurement
Credit applies to purchase price only and is not extended to installation
A life-time limit for all tax credits in this section

RECENT HISTORY OF THE BIOMASS TAX CREDIT

2010 (2011) – The latest tax measure, TRUIRJCA, passed at the end of 2010, took the numbers of the biomass-burning stove tax credit back to its pre-2009 levels:

Tax credit of 10% of purchase price (not to include installation), up to a maximum credit of $300
Applicable for purchases in 2011 only
Kept the 75% efficiency level because it referenced the prior credit and did not explicitly (or implicitly) remove the 75% number
Explicitly removed the Low Heating Value (LHV) testing methodology from TRUIRJCA at Sec. 710(b)(2)(B) but did not mention any substitute method.

In the weeks leading up to Congress' vote on the tax package, HPBA reached out to congressional leaders to remind them of the importance of this tax credit not only to the hearth industry but to consumers interested in purchasing biomass heating systems. HPBA had been working closely with Senator Susan Collins (R-ME) to ensure that biomass tax credit language was contained in the bill, and we are appreciative of the efforts she put forth in achieving its inclusion. Of particular note is Sen. Collins’ inclusion of language in the Congressional Record (the official transcript of the United States Congress) that directs the IRS to continue to use the lower heating value as the operative efficiency methodology in determining which appliance qualifies for the tax credit.

Click Here to view the full article.

Register for the 2011 HP Expo in Salt Lake City

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren Mangnall) — Mon, 10 Jan 2011 21:09:00 +0000

Happy New Year! Now that the holidays are behind us its time to start thinking about the 2011 Hearth, Patio and Barbeque Expo. Join us in Salt Lake City, March 3-5, 2011.

Registration for Expo is easy and hotel accommodations are available at all price points. There are even free ski passes to the first comers who book at the Little America.

FAST FACTS:

The Expo returns to Salt Lake City – HPBExpo’s most popular western location.

Expo registration and housing are completed easily online at www.hpbexpo.com. Member ID numbers are required. For ID numbers, members can contact Ian (iglowacki@hpba.org or Rachel (pratt@hpba.org). Pre-registered exhibitors and attendees can pick up badges on site at the Express Registration Counters (badges are no longer mailed).

As of January 1, there are 218 exhibiting companies – including 20 first-time exhibitors.

Registration brochure was mailed 12-27-10. A digital version is posted on the HPBA website.
HPBExpo Hotel Selections – Expo hotel block includes all price points and shuttle service. The Little America, HPBA Headquarters Hotel, is the site for the Outdoor Burn Area.

Free Ski Passes – The Salt Lake Convention & Visitors Bureau is giving away free ski passes to anyone who is registered at the Little America Hotel (headquarters hotel) for a minimum of three nights. Passes include complimentary transportation on UTA ski buses. Information is posted on hpbexpo.com.

11th Annual Vesta Awards – The best of the year will be selected on Friday, March 4 in Salt Lake City. Don’t miss this annual event.

HPBExpo Education 2011 – Earn CEUs, get NFI Certified and learn how to run your business better at Expo. Over 40 sessions to choose from, and a 1-day Education Passport is offered. All education sessions are detailed on the Expo website, www.hpbexpo.com. New Expo Education contact: Rick Vlahos, ext 220.

Discount Activity Passes are available for Salt Lake skiing, golf and more. Passes can be purchased by going to www.hpbexpo.com and clicking on the “About The Show” link and selecting Discount Activity Passes from the menu.

Salt Lake City Information – Check out area attractions, restaurants and events all online at www.hpbexpo.com

New for the 2011 Expo:

Hundreds of New Products – the newest technology and styles consumers will want in their homes.

Biomass Central Heating Symposium – all-day symposium on Wednesday March 2 will include sessions and table top exhibits. This is a hot new topic and potentially new revenue stream for retailers. Symposium is co-sponsored by the Pellet Fuels Institute (PFI), HPBA and HPB Foundation. The program and registration information is posted on the Expo website. Registration for the symposium is separate from Expo Education.

Friday Night Fever Disco Party on Friday, March 4 – the industry-wide party is revived after 15 years! Put on your 70s clothes and join the fun at the Salt Palace Convention Center for music and dancing by the Aphrodisiacs (8:00pm – 11:00pm). Everyone is invited, no fee charged, and shuttle buses will run.

Young Guns Lounge – If you’re under 40 years of age and/or been in the industry less than 10 years, we have a “hang-out” lounge for you – no old fogies allowed! Meet your generation industry peers in the show floor lounge and make new acquaintances.

New Registration Dashboard – When you register for your Expo badges, take advantage of the new registration dashboard features. You can set up booth appointments prior to the show, find specific products you’re looking for, or match your needs with exhibitors and their products.

We hope to see you at the 2011 Hearth, Patio and Barbeque Expo in Salt Lake City, March 3-5, 2011. Make sure to check out the HPBExpo video.

Tax Credit Extended for Biomass Heating Appliances

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren Mangnall) — Wed, 22 Dec 2010 22:58:00 +0000

On Friday, December 17, President Obama signed into law the $858 billion tax package that keeps current tax rates in place and extends a series of tax credits geared toward boosting the sluggish economy. Included in this package was the extension of a tax credit for biomass heating appliances that was set to expire on December 31st.

The extension of the tax credit – which was never certain – is good news for the hearth industry. However, Congress did decrease the benefit to consumers that was in place from 2009-2010 under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act and added further restrictions.

The new tax credit as outlined provides:

10% credit for the purchase of biomass heating appliance in 2011, capped at $300
Removal of the lower heating value level (LHV) efficiency measurement
Credit applies to purchase price only and is not extended to installation

In the weeks leading up to Congress’ vote on the tax package, HPBA reached out to congressional leaders to remind them of the importance of this tax credit not only to the hearth industry but to consumers interested in purchasing biomass heating systems. HPBA has been working closely with Senator Susan Collins (R-ME) to ensure that a tax credit was contained in the bill, and we are appreciative of the efforts she put forth in achieving its inclusion. Of particular note, Sen. Collins has included language in the Congressional Record (the official transcript of the United States Congress) that directs the IRS to continue to use the lower heating value as the operative efficiency methodology in determining which appliance qualifies for the tax credit. A portion of her remarks stated:

“The IRS has issued guidance directing that the ‘lower heating value’ methodology should be used, which is consistent with industry practices and with our intent to ensure that the credit is available for efficient and clean-burning wood and wood-pellet stoves. Removing the reference to the ‘lower heating value’ from the Code serves little purpose. Certainly, however, it does not mean that this common-sense methodology is precluded, nor does it require the IRS to revisit its methodology. I hope that my comments today will help avoid confusion about the use of the ‘lower heating value’ methodology with respect to this tax credit.” (Congressional Record, December 15, 2010; Statement by Senator Susan M. Collins; H.R. 4853, Middle Class Tax Relief Act of 2010)

By extending this tax credit, Congress signals its support of the renewable fuel industry. We will continue to work with Congress to achieve recognition for the hearth industry and benefits for Americans who seek to heat with biomass fuel.

Finally, we would like to thank you for responding to our call to contact to your Representatives and Senators in Congress emphasizing the importance and need of a tax credit for the hearth industry.

Changes in the EPA Lead Rule

noreply@blogger.com (Rick Dungey) — Mon, 13 Dec 2010 17:25:00 +0000

EPA’s
Lead Renovation, Repair & Painting (RRP) Certification
Program Update
April 22, 2010 marked the effective starting date for the EPA’s RRP Program. This program has been brewing in
the background for many years. Well, it is here and likely here to stay. Over the past 8 months there have been
many announcements regarding this program. We thought it was time to give you an update on a few of them.
Delayed Enforcement
In July the EPA announced that enforcement for the RRP program had been delayed until October 1, 2010. To
qualify for that delay you must have applied for a recognized certification course and complete that course by
December 31, 2010. The delay of enforcement is over and there does not seem to be any others on the horizon.
Opt Out provision
The original text of the RRP program included an opt-out provision for homeowners that could verify their
residence met certain qualifications. That opt-out provision has been removed. The EPA has stated several times
that they have no intention of including an opt-out provision. There is a lawsuit trying to get the provision re-
instated still pending in the background. However, until such time that the courts over-turn their decision, the opt-
out provision is out!
Authorized States
While the EPA has developed a nationwide program, individual states may enact their own program that would
supersede the EPA’s. So far there are 10 states with their own program. If you work in any of these states, you
must contact the appropriate agency in that state for details. Each program is different.
• Wisconsin
• Iowa
• North Carolina
• Mississippi
• Oregon
• Utah
• Rhode Island
• Kansas
• Massachusetts
• Alabama
New Test Kits
The current test kits have been known to deliver a fairly high percentage of false-positives. New more accurate
test kits were to be ready by September 1, 2010. To date, they are not available.
For More Information
For more information, an up to date list of authorized states, or to find an accredited certification program in your
area, go to http://www.epa.gov/lead

Last Month for Tax Credit

noreply@blogger.com (Rick Dungey) — Tue, 30 Nov 2010 20:57:00 +0000

As we near the end of 2010, HPBA has been receiving many questions regarding the 30% tax credit (capped at $1,500) for 75% efficient stoves. Most of these questions are regarding when the stove has to be installed in order to get the tax credit.

The appliance must be installed in 2010. The following details from the IRS Guidance for Nonbusiness Energy Property (page 6-7) shows that the appliance needs to be INSTALLED in 2010 in order to claim the credit which expires on December 31, 2010. http://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-drop/n-09-53.pdf

General Provisions. Under all three of the acts, EPACT, EIEA, and ARRTA, the following provisions apply:

(1) Requirements to Claim the Credit. A taxpayer may claim a credit under
§ 25C with respect to amounts paid or incurred for an item of property only if each of the following requirements is satisfied:

(a) The item is installed in or on a dwelling unit located in the United States and, at the time of installation, the dwelling unit is owned and used by the taxpayer as the taxpayer's principal residence (within the meaning of § 121). Thus, the credit is only available for existing homes. See § 45L for the credit applicable to new homes.

(b) The original use of the item commences with the taxpayer.

(c) In the case of a building envelope component described in section 2.03(1) or 4.01 of this notice, the component reasonably can be expected to remain in use for at least five years. For this purpose, a component will be treated as reasonably expected to remain in use for at least five years if the manufacturer offers, at no extra charge, at least a two-year warranty providing for repair or replacement of the component in the event of a defect in materials or workmanship. If the manufacturer does not offer such a warranty, all relevant facts and circumstances are taken into account in determining whether the component reasonably can be expected to remain in use for at least five years.

(2) Time of Expenditure. The credit is allowed for amounts paid or incurred by the taxpayer during the taxable year. Section 25C(e)(1) incorporates § 25D(e)(8), relating to the time expenditures are treated as made. Accordingly, except as provided in section 2.03(1)(e) and (f) of this notice, expenditures will be treated as made for purposes of § 25C when the original installation of the property is complete or, in the case of reconstruction, when the original use of the reconstructed property begins.

Disturbing news from California

noreply@blogger.com (Rick Dungey) — Wed, 24 Nov 2010 00:23:00 +0000

California New Homes in 2020-

No Gas fireplaces, No Wood Fireplaces

We have seen the future, and it's not good.

If you make your living in the California hearth business, this is not good news about the new 2013 Building Energy Efficiency Standards, and the NetZero House concept that this code is leading up too. These standards have the potential to outlaw everything but electric fireplaces by 2020! While electric fireplaces are desired by some consumers and would be an alternative for them should this restriction go into effect, our association must continue to support a wide variety of hearth and zone heating options for the public. This code will take many options away.

HBP Expo Fast Facts

noreply@blogger.com (Brian Reuwee) — Wed, 10 Nov 2010 20:03:00 +0000

The Expo returns to Salt Lake City – HPBExpo’s most popular western location.
Expo registration and housing are completed easily online at www.hpbexpo.com. Member ID numbers are required. For ID numbers, members can contact Ian (iglowacki@hpba.org) or Rachel (pratt@hpba.org). Pre-registered exhibitors and attendees can pick up badges on site at the Express Registration Counters (badges are no longer mailed).
As of November 1, there are 187 exhibiting companies – including 9 first-time exhibitors.
Note: contact Leslie Wheeler for up-to-date exhibitor tally (wheeler@hpba.org).
HPBExpo video link for affiliate websites and newsletters: http://www.hpbexpo.com/FlashMovie/Movie.htm.
New for Expo 2011 are:

Hundreds of New Products – the newest technology and styles consumers will want in their homes.
Biomass Central Heating Symposium – all-day symposium on Wednesday March 2 will include sessions and table top exhibits. This is a hot new topic and potentially new revenue stream for retailers. Symposium is co-sponsored by the Pellet Fuels Institute (PFI). More details will be coming, registration will be online at www.hpbexpo.com.
Friday Night Fever Disco Party on Friday, March 4 – the industry-wide party is revived after 15 years! Put on your 70s clothes and join the fun at the Salt Palace Convention Center for music and dancing by the Aphrodisiacs (8:00pm – 11:00pm). Everyone is invited, no fee charged, and shuttle buses will run.
Young Guns Lounge – If you’re under 40 years of age and/or been in the industry less than 10 years, we have a “hang-out” lounge for you – no old fogies allowed! Meet your generation industry peers in the show floor lounge and make new acquaintances.
New Registration Dashboard – When you register for your Expo badges, take advantage of the new registration dashboard features. You can set up booth appointments prior to the show, find specific products you’re looking for, or match your needs with exhibitors and their products.

HPBExpo Hotel Selections – Expo hotel block includes all price points and shuttle service. The Little America, HPBA Headquarters Hotel, is the site for the Outdoor Burn Area.
11th Annual Vesta Awards – The best of the year will be selected on Friday, March 4 in Salt Lake City. Don’t miss this annual event.
HPBExpo Education 2011 – Earn CEUs, get NFI Certified and learn how to run your business better at Expo. Over 40 sessions to choose from, and a 1-day Education Passport is offered. All education sessions are detailed on the Expo website, www.hpbexpo.com.
Discount Activity Passes are available for Salt Lake skiing, golf and more. Passes can be purchased by going to www.hpbexpo.com and clicking on the “About The Show” link and selecting Discount Activity Passes from the menu.
Salt Lake City Information – Check out area attractions, restaurants and events all online at www.hpbexpo.com.
Staff Contacts:
Kelly Vandermark, ext. 113: Disco Party, Expo managemen
Rachel Pratt, ext. 114: Registration
Amy Jackson, ext. 125: Exhibits
Naomi Friedman, ext. 143: Housing, suites, affiliate receptions, Expo schedule
Betteanne Leahy, 800-404-5461: Promotion opportunities, booth and advertising sales
Leslie Wheeler, ext. 116: Marketing campaign
Kristi Long, ext. 118: Education program
Ian Glowacki, ext. 135: Membership and member ID information