Ohio PHC Contractor Volume 2019 Issue 2

VOLUME 

2019 

ISSUE 2 

2019-2020 PHCC Ohio Officers 

(L to R) Joe Shank, Vice President; Jason Norris, President-Elect; 

Paul Episcopo, President; Rodger Sweitzer, Treasurer. 

2019-2020 ACCO Officers 

(L to R) Bobby Thompson, Treasurer; Scott Mueller, Vice President; 

Chris Tucker, President-Elect; Mike Aerni, President. 

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HVAC 

PLUMBING 

KITCHEN 

& BATH 

HVAC Equipment 

HVAC Parts 

HVAC Accessories 

HVAC Installaon 

Indoor Air Quality 

Thermostats & Controls 

Registers & Grilles 

Water Heaters & Boilers 

Pumps & Circulators 

Pipe, Valves & Fings 

Tools & Chemicals 

Hangers & Support 

Cabinets 

Countertops 

Toilets & Seats 

Tubs & Showers 

Sinks & Faucets 

Water Dispensers 

Waste Disposers 

AKRON 

(330) 633-0990 

CINCINNATI 

(513) 563-2000 

E. LIVERPOOL 

(330) 386-6542 

NEW PHILLY 

(330) 343-3011 

WOOSTER 

(330) 262-3300 

ALLIANCE 

(330) 821-9180 

CLEVELAND 

(216) 328-2979 

LANCASTER 

(740) 653-8292 

SANDUSKY 

(419) 626-0335 

YOUNGSTOWN 

(330) 743-1143 

ATHENS 

(740) 592-3818 

COLUMBUS (N) 

(614) 888-1332 

LIMA 

(419) 228-2261 

STEUBENVILLE 

(740) 283-3368 

ZANESVILLE 

(740) 452-9417 

CANTON 

(330) 456-4304 

COLUMBUS (W) 

(614) 486-0975 

MANSFIELD 

(419) 524-3012 

TOLEDO 

(419) 531-3862

VOLUME 

2019 

ISSUE 2 

8226 Stoney Brook Drive 

Chagrin Falls, OH 44023 

800-686-PHCC/ 800-353-ACCO 

Fax: 216-393-0095 

www.phccohio.org / www.accohio.org 

CONTENTS 

5 ACCO President, Bobby Thompson 

6 PHCC OHIO New President, Paul Episcopo 

8 Legally Speaking: Affordable Care Act 

9 Memorials 

10 2019 ACCO/PHCC Partners 

11 ACCO/PHCC Ohio PAC 

12 PHCC Featured Member Kevin Zilke 

14 Call 811 – Before Clearing a Blocked Sewer Line 

18 IRS Warns of New Phone Scam 

19 June 4 – Legislative Day 

20 2019 Convention Coverage 

26 ACCO 2018-2019 Annual Report 

28 PHCC Ohio 2018-2019 Annual Report 

20 ACCO/PHCC OHIO 2018-2019 Officers and 

Directors 

8 

Ohio PHC Contractor is the official publication of 

the Air Conditioning Contractors of Ohio 

and the Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors of Ohio 

20 

ACCO MISSION 

To provide advocacy, education, professional 

development and valuable benefits to our members and 

the HVACR industry. 

PHCC MISSION 

PHCC Ohio is committed to the continuous 

improvement of our industry and society’s quality of life 

through ongoing education, training and political action. 

ADVERTISERS INDEX 

Bradford White (bradfordwhite.com/infinitiseries) 31 

Champion Pump Co. (championpump.com) 6 

FastEst, Inc. (fastest-inc.com) 29 

Federated Insurance (federatedinsurance.com) 19 

Home Serve Heating & Cooling (homeservetransition.com) 27 

Kolbi Pipe Marker Co. (kolbipipemarkers.com) 6 

Liberty Pumps (libertypumps.com) 32 

ion Technologies (ionproducts.net) 13 

Rheem (rheem.com/combi) 15 

Robertson Heating Supply Company (rhs1.com) 2-3 

Saniflo (saniflo.com) 17 

T&S Brass (tsbrass.com) 9 

Taco Comfort Solutions (TacoComfort.com) 7 

Welker McKee (welkermckee.com) 5 

INDUSTRY PARTNERS 

Ohio PHC Contractor is a news magazine produced by ACCO and PHCC Ohio. 

Articles published in this magazine are the views and opinions of the writers 

and do not necessarily reflect those of the Air Conditioning Contractors of 

Ohio, the Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors of Ohio or the publisher, and 

should not be construed as an endorsement. ACCO and PHCC reserve the right 

in its sole discretion to reject advertising that does not meet its qualifications or 

which may detract from its business, professional or ethical standards. 

News items or articles from ACCO and PHCC members will be considered for 

publication. 

For information on advertising, contact: Eric Johnson, 

Blue Water Publishers, LLC 

phone: 414.708.2059 • fax: 414.354.5317 

eric@bluewaterpublishers.com 

The publisher cannot assume responsibility for claims made by advertisers, content provided by the 

editor, or for the opinions expressed by contributing authors. 

The exclusive benefits from the Industry Partner Program provide 

recognition to contractors, as well as the public, as a leader in the PHC 

and HVACR Industry. Income from the Partnership Program makes 

it possible to improve the overall financial stability of PHCC and 

ACCO while supporting companies receive unique advertising and 

promotional opportunities. 

Pioneer 

Buckeye Body & 

Equipment 

CareWorks 

Famous Supply 

Habegger Corp 

Milwaukee Tool 

Robertson Heating 

Supply 

Welker McKee 

SafetyPro 

Patron 

Arzel Zoning 

Technology 

Champion Pump 

Contractors Choice 

Jackson Systems 

NIBCO 

Rheem Water Heaters 

Winsupply of 

Cleveland 

4 OHIO PHC CONTRACTOR • VOLUME 2019, ISSUE 2

ACCO PRESIDENT, MIKE AERNI 

What a great convention this year! I want 

to thank my co-chair, Paul Episcopo, and 

everyone on the Convention Committee 

that worked so hard to make it happen. 

Also, thanks to all the ACCO and PHCC 

contractors that attended. I would also like to thank all the 

vendors, sponsors, our chapters and our industry partners. Your 

continued commitment to ACCO and PHCC help make the 

convention a great success year after year. A call to all new and 

current members - If you haven’t attended a state convention, 

please make a point of coming next year. 

As we move our association and industry forward, we need 

to keep promoting it and make contact with new contractors 

entering the industry. Our associate members do a great job of 

promoting and contacting and recruiting contractors and I would 

like to thank all of them who help us year after year. 

I can’t say it enough this year. Please get involved with our 

association – at the local, state or national level. There are 

numerous benefits and opportunities available to everyone. One 

benefit I want to mention is the online eLearning apprenticeship 

program. Our program has been in place about 8 months now 

and we continue to see it grow as more and more contractors 

become aware of it. We currently have 11 apprentices enrolled 

in the program! Please go to www.accohio.org/apprenticeshiptraining, 

for more information about the program. 

Work continues behind 

the scenes on our residential 

licensing bill. Last year, we 

finally came to an agreement 

on language for independent 

subcontractors. In the last 

couple of months, we have been 

answering various questions 

and clarifying specific points of 

the bill. Our sponsor, Rep. Tim 

Schaffer, is currently soliciting cosponsors 

and the bill (I hope by 

the time you read this) should be 

introduced. 

Once our bill is introduced, we will need your help. Tuesday, 

June 4, is Ohio Legislative Day in Columbus. Please take the 

time to attend this one day event. Our elected officials need to 

hear your story and why this issue is important to you. 

Finally, I would like to thank Debbie and Rocco again for 

all they do for our association. They are the glue that keeps us 

together and they help us move our agenda forward for the future. 

Thank you again for the opportunity to serve as ACCO 

president this year. I am looking forward to the coming year. 

Sincerely, Mike Aerni 

VOLUME 2019, ISSUE 2 • OHIO PHC CONTRACTOR 5

PHCC OHIO PRESIDENT, PAUL EPISCOPO 

Fellow PHCC Members, 

I’m Paul Episcopo and I’m currently proudly serving 

as your President of PHCC Ohio. I’ve been a member 

of PHCC since 2000. I started my business in 1995, 

serving the Northeast Ohio area, with commercial 

and residential plumbing. I was exposed to this organization, 

at the time by my competitors that are now my closest friends. 

I encourage everyone to get involved in an association like 

PHCC. I am, of course, partial to this association and group of 

business people and friends involved. This group gives its time, 

money and knowledge to help better the plumbing, heating 

and cooling industry. The education and relationships you 

gain by participating in local meetings, the state and national 

conventions, will not only better you as business leader, but also 

as a person. 

One of the things that makes our association unique, is that we 

get involved in political advocacy at the state and national levels. 

May 7-8, I will be attending the PHCC National Legislative Day 

in Washington, D.C. Shortly after that, ACCO and PHCC Ohio 

will be holding our Legislative Day on June 4, in Columbus. 

Both events give you a chance to meet with your elected officials 

from your local area and express your concerns regarding your 

business needs. Everything is setup for you by our state and 

national associations. All you 

need to do is show up and 

they point you in the right 

direction. On the state side, 

we are really starting to see 

some momentum with our 

residential licensing bill, but we 

need your support to cross the 

finish line. Please plan now and 

take a day of your time to attend 

Legislative Day on June 4. I know 

you are busy, as we all are, but we 

are stronger in numbers. Take 

some time to be involved in the industry that has provided a great 

living for you and your family to help make it a better future. 

Finally, I want to encourage everyone to find time to work, 

volunteer in our wonderful association and enjoy life a little. 

Spend time with family and friends in doing whatever makes life 

enjoyable. I’ll be traveling around the state, visiting each of our 

local chapters. Hope to see all of you very soon. 

Thanks for allowing me to serve as your President. 

Sincerely, 

Paul J Episcopo 

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LEGALLY SPEAKING 

AFFORDABLE CARE ACT 

UNDER ATTACK – YET AGAIN! 

The Trump Administration has just gone on the record 

stating that the entire Affordable Care Act should 

be struck down in a pending court case destined for 

appeal – Texas v. United States. On December 14, 

2018, a Federal District Judge ruled that because 

Congress eliminated the penalty on individuals not having ACA 

compliant healthcare coverage (the “individual mandate”), the 

ACA “can no longer be sustained as a constitutional exercise 

of Congress’ tax powers.” In 2012, the Supreme Court ruled that 

the individual mandate was constitutional because of Congress’ 

power to tax. But, when the fine for not having insurance was 

eliminated, there was no taxing basis to uphold the law. 

BECAUSE HEALTHCARE IS 

SUCH A VOLATILE ISSUE AND 

CONGRESS IS SO DIVIDED ON 

THE TOPIC, IT IS DOUBTFUL 

THAT A LEGISLATIVE SOLUTION 

WILL BE FOUND BEFORE THE 

2020 ELECTIONS. 

healthcare coverage to at 

least 95 percent of full-time 

employees and properly report 

offers of coverage as elements 

Bob Dunlevey - Taft Law 

of compliance. For the 10 

million individuals with expanded ACA Medicaid and the 11 

plus million utilizing the ACA exchanges, coverage will go on 

for now. 

Those most familiar with the legal arguments advanced in 

court by the coalition of 20 states believe that the decision will 

be struck down by the Court of Appeals even though it is a very 

conservative court. If this be true, the Trump Administration’s 

appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court may not be accepted. But, if 

the Court of Appeals somehow upholds the trial judge’s position 

that the ACA is unconstitutional, the case will surely be heard 

by the Supreme Court. 

Because healthcare is such a volatile issue and Congress is so 

divided on the topic, it is doubtful that a legislative solution 

will be found before the 2020 elections. Watch for more 

developments in the months to come, but don’t count on the 

ACA being cast aside for now. 

For further information, contact Bob Dunlevey, Board Certified 

Specialist in Labor and Employment Law, at Taft/Law (937) 641- 

1743 or email rdunlevey@taftlaw.com. 

The Department of Justice 

has just formally announced 

that it supports the position of 

the District Judge finding the 

entire ACA unconstitutional 

because if part of the ACA fails 

then the rest of it should be 

ruled invalid as well. 

iStockphoto.com/designer491 

The case is destined for the 

Federal Fifth Circuit Court of 

Appeals in New Orleans and 

may see as a final destination 

the U.S. Supreme Court. These 

proceedings may take more 

time than is left in President 

Trump’s current term. In the 

meantime, ObamaCare remains 

in effect and both individuals 

and employers need to comply. 

Employers still have to offer 


MEMORIALS 

ACCO AND PHCC OHIO SEND OUR CONDOLENCES TO THE FAMILIES, 

FRIENDS AND CO-WORKERS OF THESE INDIVIDUALS. 

THEY WILL BE MISSED BUT NOT FORGOTTEN. 

Mary R. Williams, executive assistant, 

ACCO / PHCC Ohio 

Dave Corner, Airtron, ACCCO 

Howard “Tom” Yost, The Favret Co., 

ACCCO 

Ben Ison, Refrigeration Sales, ACCCO 

Lindy L. Hopkins, mother-in-law 

of Stu Bennett, ACCA Cleveland/ 

NEOMPHCC 

James E. “Jim” McNeal, father of 

Palmer McNeal 

Bob Bender, Oatey Corp Rep & Friend 

of PHCC 

Beth Neiman, sister-in-law of Brian 

Nieman, CMPA 

Mary B. Holtmeir, mother of Andy 

Holtmeir, CMPA 

Todd M. Petkac, Winsupply of 

Cleveland, NEOMPHCC 

Beverly Faustina, mother of Dave and 

Greg Faustina, NEOMPHCC 

Nicholas A. Ferretti, brother of Tony 

Ferretti Jr., NEOMPHCC 

Sandra Sawchik, mother-in-law of Paul 

Episcopo, NEOMPHCC 

James F. Haberek, father of Jim 

Haberek, NEOMPHCC 

Mark Arlia, brother of Sam Arlia, 

NEOMPHCC 

Ronald S. Schulz, former chapter 

executive, Eastern Ohio PHCC 

Henry Hofmeyer, Hofmeyer Plbg, 

CMPA 

Helen M. Tucker, Mother of Ken 

Tucker, ACCO Past President 

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THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT 

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ACCO/PHCC OHIO PAC 

AIR CONDITIONING CONTRACTORS OF OHIO 

PLUMBING-HEATING-COOLING CONTRACTORS OF OHIO 

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT… 

Mike Aerni 

Roger Gundlach 

Frank Alexander 

Kris Guzik 

Steve Alexander 

Jim Haberek 

Bruce Beckwith 

Josh Hauser 

Paul Broerman 

Jeff Heger 

George Brockman 

Steve Jerome, Jr. 

Barb Burg 

Mike Kiminas 

PHCC Akron/Canton 

Jeremy Mantel 

PHCC Dayton 

Brian Nieman 

PHCC Central Ohio 

Jason Norris 

Doug Dressman 

Northeast Ohio Master PHCC 

Greg Eisenhart 

Deborah Ratcliff 

Paul Episcopo 

Keith Raymond 

Rocco Fana, Jr. 

Jeff Reed 

Greg Faustina 

Ed Reid 

Ciro Grandini 

Joe Schmitt 

Ron Schmitt 

Joe Shank 

Rick Seifert 

Brian Stack 

Bruce Stebbins 

Mark Swepston 

Rodger Sweitzer 

Dave Tanner 

Tom Tanner 

Bobby Thompson 

Chris Tucker 

Dave Wolfe 

Al Zernechel 

Ohio PAC 892 is your 

Political Action Committee. 

ACCO and PHCC Ohio 

members unite to support 

the best qualified, probusiness 

candidates at the 

state level. 

Changes in state law 

or regulations could be 

detrimental to your business 

and bottom line. Your 

contribution to the PAC is 

an investment in the future 

of our industry and one of 

the most affordable options 

for political involvement. 

MAKE YOUR VOICE HEARD. 

YES, I will support the Contractors Coalition Ohio PAC… 

Name:__________________________________ Amount:___________________________ 

Company:________________________________ Phone:___________________________ 

Address:_________________________________ City/State/Zip: ____________________ 

_________________________________ 

____________________ 

Occupation:_________________________________________________________________ 

Payment Method: PERSONAL check enclosed / Charge my PERSONAL credit card 

CC Type: Visa / MasterCard / Discover 

Card #:_______________________________________________ Exp. Date:_____________ 

Security code:_______________________________________________________________ 

Name on Card:______________________________________________________________ 

Signature: 

___________________________________________________________________________ 

Please make checks payable to Contractors Coalition Ohio PAC 892 and mail to 8226 Stoney 

Brook Dr, Chagrin Falls, OH 44023 


PHCC FEATURED MEMBER 

KEVIN ZILKE 

Kevin Zilke came into the plumbing industry in an 

unusual way – as an English major at Allegheny 

College. “It’s not the normal way to start a plumbing 

career,” he acknowledged. “I was going to be an 

English teacher but after three years, I decided it 

wasn’t for me.” 

Zilke wasn’t sure what his career path would be, so he continued 

to work his college side job as a bouncer at a local pub. One of 

the regulars was an office manager for a plumbing company. 

“We always had a good rapport and when he heard I wasn’t 

interested in my career pursuit any longer, he suggested I explore 

opportunities at his company.” 

Zilke pursued the tip and was hired 

as a laborer, spending his first 

weeks swinging a sledgehammer 

breaking cast iron out of a building 

being rehabbed. “I think they were 

testing me to see if I would keep 

coming to work every day,” he said. 

If that was a test, Zilke passed it, 

despite a piece of cast iron hitting 

him on the forehead. “I had to get 

stitches but I still came back the 

next day and never missed a day 

after.” 

Zilke credits the owner of that 

company for sticking with him despite his lack of experience 

or training. “The owner took me in. It’s not everybody who has 

patience to work with someone who doesn’t know what they are 

doing. But he was a good influence on me and taught me basics 

that I needed.” 

After a couple of years, Zilke moved from Pennsylvania back to 

his home state of Ohio and started working with Roto-Rooter and 

then with WF Hann & Sons for 18 years, becoming manager of 

his division. But after so many years in the office, Zilke missed his 

passion of hands-on work. 

“I was more of a business person and less of a plumber and I 

really missed plumbing,” he said. “I had gained a lot of knowledge 

about running a business, so I decided it was time to start my 

own and get back in the field again.” 

In August 2018, Zilke opened up shop as Plumbers Ink in 

Madison, a decision he has not regretted. “It’s been great,” he 

said. It’s been very busy and very fruitful. I’ve been fortunate to 

have a lot of referrals and word of mouth business. I have my 

niche and I take my time to keep customers fully satisfied.” 

He is a one-man shop for now, but acknowledges his next 

challenge is to grow. “I want to hire guys that are ambitious, 

want to work hard, come to work every day, and want to learn 

something new. I want to be able to be a teacher/mentor and 

build them into something they can be proud of versus just 

trying to poach a good plumber from somebody else.” 

The PHCC Way 

Zilke noted that cooperation 

with other plumbing 

companies is more the norm 

than competition. “There is so 

much work out there and such 

Kevin Zilke 

a shortage of trade people that 

instead of being fierce competitors, we are cooperative allies, 

which is really what PHCC is all about. We are resources for each 

other,” he said. 

“For me as a new and small business owner, the PHCC has 

brought me much insight and assistance and how to start, 

organize, and efficiently run a new business. Furthermore, one of 

the most valuable things that have come from the organization is 

the camaraderie, fellowship and willingness to help by my fellow 

members and colleagues. I’ve been befriended and mentored 

by so many veterans in my industry in this organization, both 

locally and statewide. 

My fellow members have gone even a step further in referring 

me to customers that are in my service area and outside of their 

own, helping me to grow my business and gain new clientele. I 

am extremely proud to be a part of the association and always 

plan to be. 

Back to Teaching – other Tradesmen 

Zilke also has found a niche teaching others. He ran several 

classes for a large construction firm in Cleveland on how to shut 

off water in an emergency using different tools. They liked my 

presentation so they hired me to go to Cincinnati and Columbus 

to do the same thing. It looks like it will lead to more opportunity 

to share my knowledge and passion for plumbing and to help 

other people so they can be better and safer in their jobs too. 

That’s pretty exciting for me as well,” he said. “I did find some 

avenue for education in my field after all.” 

Off-hours 

Zilke acknowledges that days off are few and far between, but 

when he gets a chance, he loves to golf and occasionally ride his 

motorcycle. To spend more time with his wife and their blended 

family of six children, Zilke joined a marina close to Madison. 

“Having a boat is something we can do as a family,” he said. “It’s 

a mini-vacation close to home, but away from home.” 

Zilke also finds time to serve the local PHCC Association. He 

is the former president of Northeast Ohio PHCC and currently 

serves as secretary. 

“I got into this career by accident but I have never been sorry,” he 

said. “I love my job and I love being a plumber.” 

Plumbers Ink, serving all of Lake County, Central and Eastern 

Cuyahoga County, specializes in residential and commercial 

plumbing service, installation, drain work and backflow 

prevention. To contact Kevin Zilke, phone (440) 251-8713 or email 

kzilke@plumbers-ink.com. 


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CALL 811 

BEFORE CLEARING A 

BLOCKED SEWER LINE 

One call can help identify cross 

bores and prevent dangerous 

gas line punctures 

By Scott Tustin, Pipeline Safety & Compliance,Columbia Gas 

plunger was insufficient to clear the 

clog in a homeowner’s toilet. When she 

noticed the sewage that had backed up 

into a rarely used shower, she decided it was 

time to call a professional plumber. 

This cross bore includes a 3-inch main line 

running through a 15-inch storm sewer. 

The plumber explained the problem was 

likely caused by a tree root or broken 

pipe. He removed the toilet and used a 

motorized auger to clear the line. He then 

snaked a pipe inspection camera about 40 

feet until he discovered that a natural gas 

pipe had penetrated the sewer line. 

If the plumber had continued with the 

auger, he could have cut the pipe, which 

was a natural gas line. Puncturing the line 

would have caused a gas leak that could 

have led to an explosion. 

In this situation, the blockage resulted 

from a gas pipe that was bored through 

the sewer line, a condition known as a 

cross bore. 

CROSS BORES ARE MORE 

COMMON THAN EVER 

For many years, the use of trenchless 

technology to install underground 

utilities has increased as the technology 

reduces unsightly construction and 

causes the least amount of disturbance to 

lawns, sidewalks and streets. The process, 

however, increases the likelihood of a 

cross bore, which results when one utility 

line comes in contact with another. 

Sewer lines are often non-metallic 

and therefore difficult to locate using 

traditional methods. They are, 

however, more frequently affected by 

cross boring. 

Cross bores on their own do not create 

a safety risk. Over time, however, the 

sewer line can become blocked with 

sediment and waste, causing a sewer 

backup that usually results in the 

homeowner hiring a plumber. 

A cross bore can create a 

dangerous situation if the 

plumber uses an auger or 

other device to clear the sewer 

and accidentally damages the 

utility line, allowing natural 

gas to migrate into the house. 

Damage to the utility line can 

occur whether the job is large 

or small, a private home or a 

commercial facility, which is 

why it is important for you, as 

a plumber, to understand how 

to avoid utility line damage. 

TAKING THE RIGHT 

STEPS TO LOCATE 

CROSS BORES 

Once you establish that the clog is outside 

the structure’s foundation, your first step 

should be to call 811, which is operated by 

Ohio 811. 

A 1-inch plastic service line running 

than a 15-inch storm sewer caused 

this cross bore. 

The cross bore shown here was created when a 

1-inch steel service line ran through a 6-inch 

clay sanitary lateral. 

Your call will prompt Ohio 811 to issue an 

emergency ticket so all facility owners in 

the area will be notified that a blocked sewer 

needs addressed immediately. Ohio 811 is 

a not-for-profit public safety organization 

that serves as a communication link 


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etween utility companies and individuals planning any type of 

digging project. 

Once an emergency ticket is issued, a locator will arrive at the site 

within an hour or two, in most cases, to mark the lines. Calling 811 

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can inspect the line for you. Please keep in mind, however, that 

you cannot see everything even if you use a camera, which makes 

the call to 811 especially important. 

WHAT TO DO IN CASE OF AN EMERGENCY 

Always be alert to any unusual conditions that may indicate a 

natural gas line has ruptured while sewer lines are being cleared. 

These indications include hissing sounds, a natural gas odor 

(smells like rotten eggs), blowing dirt and bubbling water in 

locations with standing water, such as a puddle or toilet. 

If you suspect a gas leak or that you or someone else has ruptured 

a natural gas line, take these steps: 

• Evacuate the area immediately and instruct others to do the 

same. 

• Once you reach a safe location, call 911 first and then call 

Columbia Gas at 1-800-344-4077. 

• Keep others at a safe distance from the site and wait for 

emergency response crews to arrive. 

• Do not operate any electrical devices that may cause a spark, 

including a cell phone. 

• Do not operate below ground valves or turn equipment 

on or off. 

Columbia Gas has implemented a sewer line safety program to 

identify and remediate cross bore situations. In addition to our 

contractor, we are also partnering with local municipalities to 

inspect sewer lines (sanitary and storm) and isolate and correct 

cross bore situations. 

YOU CAN HELP – CALL BEFORE YOU CLEAR 

Cross bores may go for months or even years without creating 

a problem. Always use caution any time you work with blocked 

sewer lines as the blockage may be caused by a cross bore. Always 

call 811 before you begin to clear any sewer line to help mitigate 

safety risks for you, the homeowner and nearby residents – and to 

reduce your liability. 

Columbia Gas remains focused on safety every day, and we invite 

you to help us spread the message about cross bores and the 

importance of calling 811 before you use any mechanical device 

to clear a sewer line outside a home or other structure. It is a 

simple step that can help ensure greater safety for all. 

A 1-inch plastic service line penetrated a 15-inch concrete 

storm sewer, resulting in a cross bore. 

IDENTIFY A CROSS BORE, EARN $100! 

As part of our commitment to safety, Columbia Gas is 

offering a reward to plumbers who accurately discover 

and report a natural gas cross bore to Columbia Gas. 

Here’s how the program works: 

• Identify the approximate location of the blockage in 

the Columbia Gas service area 

• Use a camera or other means to determine the 

location 

• Call Columbia Gas at 1-800-344-4077 if you suspect a 

cross bore and, if it is in an area we serve, we’ll send 

someone immediately 

• Columbia Gas personnel will try to locate our gas 

facilities 

• If we verify it is natural gas cross bore compromising 

our facilities, you will receive a $100 Visa Gift Card 

This program is available to Ohio-licensed plumbers 

only. Reward eligibility is contingent upon Columbia Gas 

verifying the reported natural gas cross bore is in the 

Columbia Gas service area. 

Reward program dates are May 1, 2019, through October 

31, 2019. Program funds are limited and are rewarded on 

a first-come, first-served basis. Columbia Gas reserves the 

right to discontinue this program at any time, without 

notice. 

Scott Tustin has worked at Columbia Gas of Ohio for 

over 25 years and with the construction industry for 

over 30 years. He presently oversees the legacy Cross 

Bore Program within the state of Ohio as part of his 

responsibilities with Columbia Gas of Ohio Pipeline 

Safety & Compliance. 


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A PUMP COMPANY SINCE 1958 


IRS WARNS OF NEW PHONE SCAM 

USING TAXPAYER ADVOCATE 

SERVICE NUMBERS 

The Internal Revenue Service warned the public about 

a new twist on the IRS impersonation phone scam 

whereby criminals fake calls from the Taxpayer 

Advocate Service (TAS), an independent organization 

within the IRS. 

Similar to other IRS impersonation scams, thieves make unsolicited 

phone calls to their intended victims fraudulently claiming to be 

from the IRS. In this most recent scam variation, callers “spoof” 

the telephone number of the IRS Taxpayer Advocate Service office 

in Houston or Brooklyn. Calls may be ‘robo-calls’ that request a 

call back. Once the taxpayer returns the call, the con artist requests 

personal information, including Social Security number or 

individual taxpayer identification number (ITIN). 

Taxpayer Advocate Service can help protect your taxpayer rights. 

TAS can help if you need assistance resolving an IRS problem, if 

your problem is causing financial difficulty, or if you believe an 

IRS system or procedure isn’t working as it should. TAS does not 

initiate calls to taxpayers “out of the blue.” Typically, a taxpayer 

would contact TAS for help first, and only then would TAS reach 

out to the taxpayer. 

In other variations of the IRS impersonation phone scam, 

fraudsters demand immediate payment of taxes by a prepaid debit 

card or wire transfer. The callers are often hostile and abusive. 

Alternately, scammers may tell would-be victims that they 

are entitled to a large refund but must first provide personal 

information. Other characteristics of these scams include: 

• Scammers use fake names and IRS badge numbers to identify 

themselves. 

• Scammers may know the last four digits of the taxpayer’s 

Social Security number. 

• Scammers spoof caller ID to make the phone number appear 

as if the IRS or another local law enforcement agency is calling. 

• Scammers may send bogus IRS emails to victims to support 

their bogus calls. 

• Victims hear background noise of other calls to mimic a call 

site. 

• After threatening victims with jail time or with, driver’s 

license or other professional license revocation, scammers 

hang up. Others soon call back pretending to be from local 

law enforcement agencies or the Department of Motor 

Vehicles, and caller ID again supports their claim. 

Here are some things the scammers often do, but the IRS will 

not do. Taxpayers should remember that any one of these is a 

tell-tale sign of a scam. 

THE IRS WILL NEVER: 

• Call to demand immediate payment using a specific 

payment method such as a prepaid debit card, gift card or 

wire transfer. Generally, the IRS will first mail a bill to any 

taxpayer who owes taxes. 

• Threaten to immediately bring in local police or other lawenforcement 

groups to have the taxpayer arrested for not 

paying. 

• Demand that taxes be paid without giving taxpayers the 

opportunity to question or appeal the amount owed. 

• Ask for credit or debit card numbers over the phone. 

• Call about an unexpected refund. 

FOR TAXPAYERS WHO DON’T OWE TAXES OR DON’T 

THINK THEY DO: 

• Please report IRS or Treasury-related fraudulent calls to 

phishing@irs.gov (Subject: IRS Phone Scam). 

• Do not give out any information. Hang up immediately. The 

longer the con artist is engaged; the more opportunity he/ 

she believes exists, potentially prompting more calls. 

• Contact TIGTA at 800-366-4484 to report the call. 

• Report it to the Federal Trade Commission. Use the 

“FTC Complaint Assistant” on FTC.gov. Please add “IRS 

Telephone Scam” in the notes. 

FOR THOSE WHO OWE TAXES OR THINK THEY DO: 

• Call the IRS at 800-829-1040. IRS workers can help. 

iStockphoto.com/LPETTET 

• View www.irs.gov/payments. Taxpayers can see their past 24 

months of payment history, payoff amount and balance of 

each tax year owed. 

Stay alert to scams that use the IRS or other legitimate companies 

and agencies as a lure. Tax scams can happen any time of year, not 

just at tax time. For more information visit www.irs.gov/newsroom/ 

tax-scams-consumer-alerts on IRS.gov. 


PLEASE JOIN US! 

Frank Alexander Legislative Day 

Tuesday, June 4, 2019 

AGENDA 

1:00 pm 

Athletic Club of Columbus 

(136 E. Broad St, Columbus, 43215) 

Issues Briefing 

(2 Hours of CE Credit Available) 

2:30 pm 

Ohio State House for Group Photo 

3:00 pm 

Ohio State House for Appointments 

5:00 pm 

Reception in the State House Museum 

7:00 pm 

Adjourn 

COUNT ME IN! 

YES, I will attend Legislative Day on May 15th... 

Name:_________________________________________________________ 

Home Address:__________________________________________________ 

_______________________________________________________________ 

City/State/Zip: _________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________ 

Email:_________________________________________________________ 

Cell Phone:____________________________________________________ 

RSVP 

Fax: 216-393-0095 • Email: debbie@phccohio.org 

Call: 877-553-3976 

Reception sponsored by Safety Pro in the State House Museum 

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business and those who 

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representative today. 

Protecting your life’s work. 

Federated Mutual Insurance Company 

and its subsidiaries* 

federatedinsurance.com | *Not licensed in all states. 

18.03 Ed. 11/18 | © 2017 Federated Mutual Insurance Company 


2019 ACCO / PHCC OHIO 

CONVENTION 


2018 ACCO 

CONTRACTOR OF THE YEAR 

BRUCE BECKWITH 

BECKWITH HEATING & 

COOLING 

The ACCO Contractor of the Year Award recognizes 

the ACCO contractor member who has a proven track 

record of supporting, promoting and advocating for the 

association, our membership and the HVACR Industry. 

Contractors of the Year are honored and recognized as 

the best in the HVACR industry. 

Bruce Beckwith is the president and owner of 

Beckwith Heating & Cooling Inc. Charles Beckwith, 

Bruce’s father, started Comfort Home in 1970 and Bruce 

joined him in the business in 1978. Bruce and his father 

worked together under the Comfort Home name until 

1990 when he renamed it Beckwith Heating & Cooling. 

Bruce loves camping, traveling, and spending time 

with his family. He has been married for over 27 years 

to his wife, Janette. They have five children and one 

grandchild. Bruce would like to be remembered as 

a fair, compassionate and honest person who enjoys 

helping people. 

Bruce is constantly furthering his education to 

provide customers with the best service possible. 

He has received many awards and achievements 

during his years of service. In 2017, he received the 

Super S.T.A.R. Award for “Safety, Teamwork, Action, 

and Responsibility,” a joint award from ACCA and 

Federated Insurance. 

He is also involved in a number of service 

projects including Heat the Town Akron and a Skills 

Competition for HVAC students in area high schools 

and career centers. 

Beckwith Heating & Cooling has been a member 

since 2008. 

2018 ACCO 

SUPPLIER OF THE YEAR 

JOHN MARSHALL 

FERGUSON 

ACCO’s Supplier of the Year Award is given to a 

Supplier or Wholesaler who has been supportive 

of the association, the membership and the 

HVACR industry. 

John has been an instrumental board member 

at the Cleveland chapter helping to promote the 

association and recruit new members. 

He helped the chapter to initiate and implement 

free tech training programs at Ferguson. 

John is a relationship builder who helps to 

promote the HVAC career path with local trade 

schools and various veterans’ organizations. 

John has been a member with ACCA since 2010. 


2018 PHCC 

CONTRACTOR OF THE YEAR 

BRUCE STEBBINS 

STEBBINS PLUMBING & 

HEATING 

The PHCC Contractor of the Year recognizes the 

PHCC contractor member who has a proven track 

record of supporting, promoting and advocating 

for the association, our membership and the 

plumbing industry. Contractors of the Year 

are honored and recognized as the best in the 

plumbing industry. 

Bruce has served PHCC at the local and state level 

and even had an enjoyable year on the national 

board. He has been in the plumbing industry 

for just over 40 years. He began working for his 

father and uncles as a summer employee in 1976, 

and continues as the third generation owner of 

Stebbins Plumbing & Heating. 

Bruce achieved his first Master Plumber 

certification in 1984. Stebbins Plumbing & Heating 

has been a PHCC member since 1965. Stebbins 

Plumbing & Heating has nine full time employees 

including administration staff. 

On any given evening you will find Bruce heading 

to a local bike night on his Harley, and weekends 

are spent enjoying time with family and friends at 

Grand Lake St. Mary’s. 

2018 PHCC CONTRACTOR 

SERVICE AWARD 

DENNIS SCHLEKIE 

APPROVED PLUMBING 

The PHCC Contractor Service Award is given to 

the PHCC member or company in recognition of 

long-term service to the association, outstanding 

contributions in helping to further the programs, 

events and image of PHCC and the plumbing 

industry. 

Dennis is the president/owner of Approved 

Plumbing Co. He is second generation, taking 

over the business from his father William in 

1977. Dennis has been a PHCC member since 

1997. Since that time he has served as a local and 

state board member and president of each. He’s 

attended several national and state conventions, 

QSC meetings and state and national legislative 

days … you name a meeting and he has attended it. 

He promotes PHCC membership, the industry and 

the plumbing trade as well as helping to recruit 

members not only for PHCC, but ACCO as well. 

He helped to develop the first apprenticeship 

program for the NEOMPHCC and served as an 

instructor. 

And even though he is now semi-retired, Dennis 

still helps and advises other PHCC contractors 

whenever he can. 


2018 PHCC 

SUPPLIER OF THE YEAR 

FEDERATED INSURANCE 

The PHCC Supplier of the Year Award is 

given to a Supplier or Wholesaler (Company 

or Individual), who has been supportive of the 

association, the membership and plumbing 

industry. Federated Insurance has been a 

member and partner with PHCC for over 30 years. 

Since the beginning, the partnership has focused 

on providing PHCC Ohio members with quality 

insurance, programs and risk management 

solutions. 

They have been an Industry Partner since the 

program was implemented in 2013 and they 

have been a sponsor and exhibitor in our annual 

convention for over 10 years. 

Federated representatives have given numerous 

presentations and facilitated education offerings, 

sponsored numerous meetings and events and 

they offer advice and information that is important 

to our members and industry. 

2018 PHCC MANUFACTURER’S 

REP OF THE YEAR 

NIBCO 

The PHCC Manufacturers’ Rep Award is given to 

a rep or company who has supported PHCC, the 

plumbing industry and our members. 

NIBCO is a local, state and national associate 

member. They are a recognized manufacturer and 

brand leader of valves, fittings and flow-control 

products, operating 11 manufacturing facilities 

throughout the United States, Mexico and Poland. 

In the last two years, NIBCO has expanded its 

footprint with the acquisitions of Sure Seal and 

Webstone, further expanding its reach in the 

industrial and hydronics markets. 

NIBCO was founded in 1904 and its world 

headquarters is in Elkhart, Indiana. 

They have been an Industry Partner over the last 

several years and have participated and sponsored 

our annual convention for at least 10 years. 




ACCO 

2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT 

Mission: To provide advocacy, education, professional 

development and valuable services to our members and the 

HVACR industry. 

The benefit of being an ACCO member is not just utilizing the 

valuable services we offer. You are also underwriting the crucial 

work we do in Columbus and around the state to ensure favorable 

laws and regulations for your business and the HVACR industry. 

Your membership also supports professional development for 

emerging contractors, consumer outreach, promotion and more. 

2019 Ohio Convention & Expo / Gaining Independence 

Together/ March 27-29 

This is the place to recharge, network and collect information 

with your business in mind. Enjoy the EXPO, on Thursday (3- 

7pm) that includes 94 exhibits to help you solve your toughest 

business challenges. This year’s convention will exceed your 

educational and networking needs. Make sure to share ideas and 

most important – HAVE FUN! 

ADVOCACY 

This is most important benefit you never even know is taking 

place. ACCO, along with our lobbyists, are constantly reviewing, 

submitting requests, making recommendations and legal 

opinions to ensure the best business climate and policies for 

our members. We work for you by interacting with state elected 

officials and government agencies on a daily basis. 

2018 Legislative Day More than 40 contractors from ACCO 

and PHCC participated in the event last year. Legislative Day 

is a one-day event in Columbus with an issues briefing, visits at 

the capitol and an evening reception. Our members talked about 

the importance of residential licensing, workforce development 

and other issues affecting their businesses. ACCO is grateful to 

those members who took time away from their busy schedules to 

advance the interests of our industry. 

SAVE THE DATE: 2019 LEGISLATIVE DAY / TUESDAY JUNE 4 

Residential Licensing The residential licensing bill, HB 339, was 

introduced in 2017 by co-sponsors, Reps. Schaffer and Hagan. It 

was referred to the House Economic Development, Commerce 

and Labor Committee. 

In 2018 we held two interested parties meetings (Feb & Sept). 

At the September meeting, we met with Direct Energy, Ohio 

Home Builders and a staff attorney from the Legislative Service 

Commission. We finally came to an agreement on the language 

for independent subcontractors. 

In mid-November, Rep. Schaffer gave sponsor testimony before 

the Committee. There were two questions from Committee 

members Reps. Arndt and Stein. There was no further movement 

on HB 339 and Rep. Schaffer will re-introduce the bill in the next 

General Assembly (started Jan 7, 2019) and the process will start 

over again. 

Specialty Contractors Coalition PAC is your Political Action 

Committee. ACCO and PHCC members unite to support the best 

qualified, pro-business candidates at the state level. Changes in 

state law or regulations could be detrimental to your business 

and bottom line. Your contribution to the PAC is an investment in 

our industry and one of the most affordable options for political 

involvement. ACCO and PHCC members raise another $7,362! 

The Specialty Contractors Coalition would like to thank all ACCO 

and PHCC members who gave generously to the PAC in 2018. 

Monitored Legislation Other than HB 339, we tracked and 

monitored several bills from the legislature. Some of these 

included SB 255 Occupational Licensing, HB 166 Workforce 

Development and licensure bills HB 164 Roofers, HB 236 Elevator 

Contractors, HB 504 Interior Designers and SB 115 Roofers, 

Gutter and Downspout Contractors. 

REGULATORY 

ACCO attended the regular meetings of the Residential 

Construction Advisory, the Ohio Board of Building Standards 

and OCILB. 

EDUCATION 

Special thanks to Greater Cincinnati for their $290 contribution 

to the ACCO Scholarship Fund. 

MEMBERSHIP 

Current membership stands at 132 Contractors and 14 Associates. 

Since the disaffiliation (2015), membership continues to be a work 

in progress. Local associations and the state have been working 

directly with contractors to explain the changes. A Membership 

Task Force was created to discuss the possibility of a local and 

state membership. 

Benefit of the Month ACCO continued to promote member 

only benefits that included: Business Services, Workers Comp, 

Ohio Convention & Expo, Advocacy, Ohio PAC 892, ACCO 

Scholarships, Safety Lessons, Speedway, ACCO Forum Network, 

License Bond Program, NEW Apprenticeship Program and 

Social Media. 

Membership/Image committee continues working each month 

to ensure our growth and retention of members and better ways to 

promote their professionalism. Thanks to members Gary Jacob, 

Barb Burg, Kris Guzik, Ed Reid, Brian Stack, Bobby Thompson, 

Cynthia Hutson, Tim Wolfe and Gary Jackson for serving on the 

committee. 

COMMUNICATIONS 

ACCO Website Continue to visit accohio.org as more content is 

added and updated. 

Ohio PHC Magazine The magazine was published 4-times with a 

distribution of just over 6,000. 


Social Media Social media continues to be a valuable resource 

to provide updates and information, as well as have members 

interact with one another. 

Social networking links to remember… 

Facebook: /ACCAOHIO 

LinkedIn: /FRIENDS-ACCA-4528554 

Twitter: @ACCOhio 

INDUSTRY PARTNER PROGRAM 

The Industry Partner Program continues its success by giving 

a specific number of companies the opportunity to build name 

recognition and brand loyalty, reach new customers and sell 

their products, by providing a comprehensive, year-long period 

of advertising and marketing to ACCO contractor members. 

To date, Federated Insurance, CareWorks, Habegger Corp., 

Robertson Heating Supply, Arzel Zoning Technology and 

Jackson Systems are ACCO Industry Partners. 

WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT 

Online Apprenticeship Program ACCO and PHCC Ohio are 

offering HVACR apprentice eLearning courses for apprentices 

who need a non-traditional method of receiving their 

apprenticeship-related instruction. This program is recognized 

by the U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Apprenticeship, and is 

approved by the Ohio State Apprenticeship Council. 

Each course is the equivalent of one year of classroom instruction. 

On-the-job training must be coordinated with a participating 

employer. Courses offer enhanced course quality and give 

students fast feedback on their performance. 

We currently have 8 apprentices enrolled in the program (6 

plumbing / 2 HVAC) 

STRATEGIC PLAN 

Goals 

Education / Convention 

Provide relevant educational opportunities to members 

including serving as a “clearing house” for existing local, state, 

and national resources and work with local schools to get more 

youth interested in careers in HVAC. 

Legislative / Advocacy 

Implement Residential licensing state-wide. 

Membership / Image 

Promote ACCO as the leader in the HVAC industry among 

consumers, suppliers, manufacturers, HVAC companies. Recruit 

new, younger members to the organization. 

Organizational Structure / Relationships 

Investigate ways to make ACCO stronger and more relevant to 

the industry through different relationships and/or restructuring 

the organization’s membership and finances. 

Executive Committee 

Revise the ACCO Mission Statement and Objectives. 

FINANCE 

2018 2017 

Total Income $112,952 $131,790 

Total Expense $130,021 $134,216 

Income (loss) ($17,069) ($2,426) 

Fund Balance 

Beginning of Year $112,780 $115,206 

End of Year $95,711 $112,780 

Investments 

As of December 31, 2018, current CD holdings stand at $69,211. 

The Executive Committee reviewed our investments on a regular 

basis and made necessary adjustments, with the approval of the 

Board of Directors. 

ACCO Calendar of Events 

ACCO Board of Director Meetings 

May 22, 2019 - Columbus 

August 14, 2019 - Columbus 

November 13, 2019 - Columbus 

February 19, 2020 - Columbus 

2019 Ohio Legislative Day 

June 4, 2019 - Columbus 

2020 Ohio Convention & Expo 

March - Location TBD 

HomeServe 

Wants to Buy Your 

HVAC Company 

Customer Satisfaction 

Four and five-star 

reviews. 

Residential Focus 

Large homeowner 

client base. 

Profitable Business 

A strong-performing 

company. 

MECHANICAL CORP 

Qualities we look for: 

Recent Acquisitions: 

Diverse Trades 

Plumbing or electrical 

capabilities. 

Clean Image 

Smart looking technicians 

and trucks. 

Culture 

Customer-focused, 

passionate people. 

For more information call 617-957-4923 

or go to homeservetransition.com 

VOLUME 2019, ISSUE 2 • OHIO PHC CONTRACTOR 27 

Size: 3.5” w x 5” h

PHCC OHIO 

2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT 

Mission: PHCC Ohio is a membership organization of active 

plumbing-heating-cooling contractors committed to the 

continuous improvement of our industry and society’s quality of 

life through ongoing education, training, and political action. 

The benefit of being a PHCC member is not just utilizing the 

valuable services we offer. You are also underwriting the crucial 

work we do in Columbus and around the state to ensure favorable 

laws and regulations for your business and the plumbing industry. 

Your membership also supports professional development for 

emerging contractors, consumer outreach, promotion, and more. 

Gaining Independence Together / Ohio Convention & Expo / 

March 27-29 

This is the place to recharge, network and collect information 

with your business in mind. Enjoy the EXPO on Thursday (3- 

7pm) that includes 94 exhibits to help you solve your toughest 

business challenges. This year’s convention will exceed your 

educational and networking needs. Make sure to share ideas and 

most important – HAVE FUN! 

ADVOCACY 

This is one of the most important benefits you never know is 

taking place. PHCC, along with our lobbyists, are constantly 

reviewing, submitting requests, making recommendations and 

giving legal opinions to ensure the best business climate for our 

members. We work for you by interacting with elected officials 

and government agencies on a daily basis to keep ahead of issues 

that will affect you and your business. 

2018 Ohio Legislative Day More than 40 contractors from PHCC 

and ACCO attended this past year. Legislative Day is a one-day 

event in Columbus with an issues briefing, visits to the capitol 

and an evening reception. Our members talked about residential 

licensing, workforce development and other issues affecting their 

small businesses. PHCC is grateful to those members who took 

time away from their busy schedules to advance the interests of 

our industry. 

SAVE THE DATE: 2019 LEGISLATIVE DAY / TUESDAY JUNE 4 

Residential Licensing The residential licensing bill, HB 339, was 

introduced in 2017 by co-sponsors, Reps. Schaffer and Hagan. It 

was referred to the House Economic Development, Commerce 

and Labor committee. 

In 2018 we held two interested parties meetings (Feb / Sept). 

At the September meeting, we met with Direct Energy, Ohio 

Home Builders and a staff attorney from the Legislative Service 

Commission. We finally came to an agreement on the language 

for independent subcontractors. 

In mid-November, Rep. Schaffer gave sponsor testimony before 

the Committee (There were two questions from Committee 

members Reps. Arndt and Stein). There was no further movement 

on HB 339 and Rep. Schaffer will re-introduce the bill in the next 

General Assembly (started Jan 7, 2019) and the process will start 

over again. 

Specialty Contractors Coalition PAC is your Political Action 

Committee. ACCO and PHCC members’ unite to support the 

best qualified, pro-business candidates at the state level. Changes 

in state law or regulations could be detrimental to your business 

and bottom line. Your contribution to the PAC is an investment in 

your industry and one of the most affordable options for political 

involvement. PHCC and ACCO Members raised $7,362! The 

Specialty Contractors Coalition would like to thank all PHCC 

and ACCO members who gave generously to the Ohio PAC in 

2018. 

Monitored Legislation Throughout the year we monitored 

several bills from the legislature. Some of these included SB 255 

Occupational Licensing, HB 166 Workforce Development and 

licensure bills HB 164 Roofers, HB 236 Elevator Contractors, HB 

504 Interior Designers and SB 115 Roofers, Gutter and Downspout 

Contractors. 

REGULATORY 

Residential Code of Ohio PHCC, with the help of our contractor 

members, continued to provide input at the regular meetings 

of the Residential Construction Advisory Committee, Board of 

Building Standards and OCILB. 

Backflow Advisory Committee Along with Committee member 

Rodger Sweitzer, Baumann Plumbing, PHCC continued to work 

closely with the Advisory Committee. Executive director Rocco 

Fana Jr. has been appointed to the Committee for 2019 serving 

as an at-large member. 

MEMBERSHIP 

PHCC Membership Committee continued working to ensure 

our growth and retention of members. Thanks to Brian Nieman, 

Dave Wolfe, Steve Jerome Jr., Nicole Hollenbeck, Joyce Frank 

and Ron Schmitt for serving on the committee. With the help of 

our members and chapters, PHCC recruited six new members 

in 2018. 

Benefit of the Month PHCC continued to promote member 

only benefits that included: Business Services, Workers 

Comp Program, Ohio Convention & Expo, Advocacy, Ohio 

PAC, Scholarships, Safety Lessons, Speedway, Legal Services 

Plan, License Bond Program, NEW Apprenticeship Program, 

Contractor Locator and Social Media. 

COMMUNICATION 

Ohio PHC Magazine The magazine was published four-times 

with a distribution of just over 6,000. 

PHCC Website Continue to visit phccohio.org as more content 

is added and updated. 

Social Media PHCC Ohio continues to increase its presence on 


social media. Social media continues to be a valuable resource 

to provide updates and information as well as have members 

interact with one another. 

Social Media links to remember… 

Facebook: /PHCCOHIO 

Twitter: @PHCCOhio 

LinkedIn: /FRIENDS-PHCC-4528476 

STRATEGIC PLAN 

Goals 

Workforce Development Decrease the shortage of apprentices 

in the p-h-c industry. 

Membership Make PHCC Ohio the essential association for 

p-h-c contractors’ success. 

Consumer Awareness PHCC Ohio members are recognized as 

contractors of choice. 

INDUSTRY PARTNERSHIP PROGRAM 

The Industry Partner Program gives a specific number of 

companies the opportunity to build name recognition and brand 

loyalty, reach new customers and sell their products, with a yearlong 

period of advertising and marketing to PHCC contractors. 

To date, Federated Insurance, Buckeye Body & Equipment, 

Famous Supply, Milwaukee Tool, SafetyPro, Welker McKee, 

Champion Pump, Contractors Choice, NIBCO, Rheem Water 

Heating and Winsupply of Cleveland are PHCC Industry 

Partners. 

FINANCE 

2018 2017 

Total Income $234,760 $253,111 

Total Expense $234,226 $231,953 

Income (loss) $534 $21,158 

Fund Balance 

Beginning of Year $323,469 $302,311 

End of Year $324,003 $323,469 

Investments and CDs 

As of December 31, 2018, holdings stand at $207,955. The 

Executive and Investment Committees regularly monitored our 

holdings and made adjustments, with the approval of the Board 

of Directors. 

Calendar of Events 

PHCC Ohio Board Meetings 

May 17, 2019 / Columbus 

August 9, 2019 / Columbus 

November 15, 2019 / Columbus 

February 14, 2020 / Columbus 

2019 Ohio Legislative Day 

June 4, 2019 / Columbus 

2020 Ohio Convention & Expo 

March / Location TBD 

WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT 

To help meet the PHC industry’s crucial challenge to attract, 

train, and retain qualified workers, PHCC is sharing resources 

from the PHCC national online Workforce Development Center. 

Look to the site for ideas and tools you can use to guide efforts 

within your company and community. 

Visit the site at phccareers.com. 

Online Apprenticeship Program ACCO and PHCC are offering 

the PHCC Educational Foundation plumbing and HVACR 

apprentice eLearning courses for apprentices who need a nontraditional 

method of receiving their apprenticeship-related 

instruction. Our program is recognized by the U.S. Department 

of Labor, Office of Apprenticeship, and is approved by the Ohio 

State Apprenticeship Council. 

Each course is the equivalent of one year of classroom instruction. 

On-the-job training must be coordinated with a participating 

employer. 

Courses offer enhanced course quality and give students fast 

feedback on their performance. 

We currently have eight apprentices enrolled in the program (6 

plumbing / 2 HVAC). 


ACCO/PHCC OF OHIO 

8226 Stoney Brook Drive, Chagrin Falls, OH 44023 

800-686-PHCC/ 800-353-ACCO • Fax: 216-393-0095 • www.phccohio.org / www.accohio.org 

2018-2019 ACCO Leadership 

PRESIDENT 

Mike Aerni 

Conserv-Air 

216-889-8800 / mike.aerni@gmail.com 

PRESIDENT-ELECT 

Chris Tucker 

Zimmer Heating & Cooling 

513-646-9269 / ctucker@gozimmer.com 

VICE PRESIDENT 

Scott Mueller 

Fairfield Heating & Cooling 

740-808-1117 / scottm@fairfieldheating.com 

TREASURER 

Bobby Thompson 

Kish Heating & Cooling 

440-392-0900 / bobbyt@kishheating.com 

DIRECTORS 

Frank Alexander 

Aire-Flo Corp 

614-267-5401 / weescot@aire-flo.com 

Jeff Reed 

Custom Air 

614-552-4822 / JReed@customairco.com 

Mark Swepston 

Atlas Butler 

614-294-8600 / MSwepston@AtlasButler.com 

Deborah Ratcliff 

Ratcliff’s Heat & Air 

614-207-4212 / dratcliff@columbus.rr.com 

Nate Alwood 

Arrow Heating & Cooling 

614-464-7869 / nalwood@arrowhc.com 

Brian Stack 

Stack Heating & Cooling 

440-937-9134 / brian@stackheating.com 

Tyler Wadsworth 

PK Wadsworth 

216-695-7053 / tyler@pkwadsworth.com 

ACCO/PHCC OHIO MANAGEMENT TEAM 

Rocco Fana Jr., Executive Director 

Debbie Tittl, Executive Assistant 

Tracy Fana, Executive Assistant 

2018-2019 PHCC Ohio Leadership 

PRESIDENT 

Paul Episcopo 

VIP Plumbing 

216-581-5730 / paul@vipplumbing.com 

PRESIDENT- ELECT 

Jason Norris 

ARS Rescue Rooter 

614-475-7071 / jnorris@ars.com 

VICE PRESIDENT 

Joe Shank 

Mechanical Systems of Dayton 

937-254-3235 / jshank@msdinc.net 

TREASURER 

Rodger Sweitzer 

Baumann Plumbing 

614-888-2411 / baumannplumbing@ameritech.ne 

DIRECTORS 

Bruce Stebbins 

Stebbins Plumbing & Heating 

937-313-6545 / stebplumb@gmail.com 

Jeff Heger 

NIXCO Plumbing, Inc. 

513-398-5907 / jeff@nixcoplumbing.com 

Mike Kiminas 

The Waterworks 

614-253-7246 / MKiminas@TheWaterworks.com 

Steve Jerome, Jr. 

Jerome Plumbing 

440-821-9199 / steve@jeromeplumbing.com 

Rick Seifert 

D & A Plumbing & Heating 

330-499-8733 / ricks@crowngrouphio.com 

Past Presidents Advisory Committee 

Ron Schmitt 

Joe Schmitt & Sons Plumbing & Heating 

937-510-1645 / schmitt.ronald@gmail.com 

Brian Nieman 

Nieman Plumbing 

513-851-5588 / brian@niemanplumbing.com 

Dave Wolfe 

Wat-Kem Mechanical 

937-573-3072 / dwolfe@watkem.com 

PHCC National Zone 1 Director 

Ron Schmitt 

Joe Schmitt & Sons Plumbing & Heating 

937-510-1645 / schmitt.ronald@gmail.com 

Represents: Ohio, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia 


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© 2019 Bradford White Corporation. 

All rights reserved. 

BWPHOH0519

Locally Represented By: 

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Copyright © Liberty Pumps, Inc. 2019 All rights reserved.

Ohio PHC Contractor Volume 2019 Issue 2

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