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In This Issue
NBFAA News
Honeywell is a Diamond!
In keeping with their long history of being at the forefront of NBFAA support, Honeywell Security has signed up as the first-ever Executive Strategic Partner of the NBFAA.
The Executive Strategic Partnership program was designed to provide unique opportunities for organizations to align with NBFAA through customized marketing platforms, while maintaining valuable year-round industry exposure through highly customized sponsorships and direct access to our members.
The Diamond Executive Partnership is exclusive to one industry partner. Through this partnership, Honeywell will receive the ultimate, most comprehensive level of exposure throughout the year in every aspect of our recognition opportunities including print and electronic media, cyber opportunities and events.
These executive partners understand the significance of NBFAA’s ability to represent and protect their customers and their customers’ business environment as well as to oversee the welfare of the consumers who use our products to protect life and property.
They understand that without a national trade association to guide and represent the industry as one, we would wane in the face of a national adversity (Like unfavorable federal legislation and/or court rulings.) For this, and many other reasons, they have stepped up to ensure that NBFAA remains strong.
Their exceptional integrity leads them to do the right thing for the industry and for the consumers and communities we protect.
(In other words, their financial support allows NBFAA to support you with new programs, tools, training and information and to promote and enhance the industry through government and public relations efforts - without raising your dues in concert with the cost of living.)
Please remember them, thank them and do what you can to support them in return!
Introducing New Business Training Webinars from NBFAA
NBFAA has teamed with The Summit Group to offer unique security industry-specific business training through interactive webinars.
NBFAA’s National Training School, (NTS) will deliver the business training though a series of 12, 90-minute webinars in which an instructor will provide expert information on a specific topic followed by questions, answers and interactive exercises with participants. Participants will receive additional mentorship in a conference call two weeks from the initial webinar to reinforce the real-life experience of the business concepts.
“The purpose of this interactive and consultative format is to ensure that the attendees actually implement the information derived from the sessions and are accountable to provide feedback and receive consultation based on their real life experiences two weeks later. The sessions are short, convenient and chock-full of realistically executable instruction,” said Paul Baran, chairman of the NBFAA Education and Training Committee.
Marty Stuart and His Fabulous Superlatives to Entertain Guests at 60th Anniversary Party
We have secured Marty Stuart and His Fabulous Superlatives as the main entertainment for NBFAA’s 60th Anniversary Party!
For those of you who may not remember, Marty Stuart has scored six top-ten hits including Tempted, The Whiskey Ain’t Workin’ and Burn Me Down. His long-lived success as a country music artist has also earned him one platinum and five gold albums, and four Grammy Awards.
Marty Stuart and his band are the epitome of great country music and will be the icing on the cake of an over the top anniversary celebration!
The party will take place on June 26 in Nashville, during the inaugural Electronic Security Expo and will feature, in addition to the live entertainment, hors d’oeuvres, cocktails and a multimedia tribute to the association’s leaders and accomplishments across the decades.
Here’s Your Chance to Be a Part of NBFAA History
NBFAA is turning 60 years old and 2008 will be a year of celebrating accomplishments and reflecting on the people and events that have brought us to where we are today.
We are in the process of putting together a four-color, glossy, 150+ page, tribute book to commemorate the past, memorialize the present and anticipate the future.
YOU and your company can be a part of that history. Here are several ways that you can participate:
- Send us your company’s story and photos to include in the Legacy of Leadership tribute book. You may mail to NBFAA or e-mail to communications@alarm.org.
- Order a sponsorship page. There are quarter-page spaces available for a member discount price of only $350. You provide the information; NBFAA will use a standard template to create your personalized message. Other sizes, including full pages are available.
- Order an ad. This allows you to support the tribute book while reaching customers with product-specific information.
Proceeds from this book will support the NBFAA programs and initiatives that are developed for the sole purpose of enhancing the future of the industry and the future of our members.
Don’t miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be a part of history. Place an order today.
For additional information, contact NBFAA Communications at communications@alarm.org or call (888) 447-1689
Don’t Miss the 5th Annual AIREF Golf Classic
The 5th Annual AIREF Golf Classic at ISC West will be held on April 1 at the Revere Country Club in Las Vegas. The event raises funds to support the important work of the NBFAA’s foundation, the Alarm Industry Research and Educational Foundation (AIREF).
There will be cash prizes for the top three foursomes and prizes for the following:
- Closest to the line
- Longest drive
- $25,000 hole-in-one
- Closest to the pin on all four par three holes
After the tournament, there will be an AIREF reception and awards presentation.
For more information call (310) 821-7309.
Members! Take Advantage of The Business Library!
As a member of NBFAA, you have free access to 16 reports containing information to help you in your business and personal life. The Business Library reports have recently been updated and are available online at www.alarm.org.
The Business Library Reports provide clear, comprehensive, practical, relevant, easy-to-apply and timely information. These reports answer questions to your most important concerns and questions like:
- What is my business worth?
- How do I increase my retirement money and income?
- When do I sell out and how do I negotiate the best deal?
- How do I prepare a financing proposal to get that needed capital?
- How do I design a compensation package that will give me the most after-tax income?
- How do I assure business continuity?
- How do I increase and manage my cash flow and build more wealth?
The Business Library answers these questions and much more, with case studies to lead you to the right decisions for you, your family and your company today and for many years to come.
To download the FREE reports, visit www.alarm.org and go to Member Resources under the Members section. Remember, The Business Library is a member benefit and you must be a current member to access the reports. You will need the member user ID and password. If you aren’t sure of the access codes, send a note to membership@alarm.org. New codes will be issued with your 2008 Membership Renewal Kit; 2007 codes will continue to be active in the meantime.
If you are not a member, or are not sure, contact NBFAA today at (888) 447-1689.
North Carolina Habitat for Humanity Looking for Alarm Dealers
NBFAA was recently contacted by Habitat for Humanity of Greater Greensboro in North Carolina. The group is committed to the security of its homeowners and has asked for our help in reaching dealers in that area.
Habitat for Humanity of Greater Greensboro is seeking a burglar alarm provider (or an alliance of providers) to offer free security services to its homeowners. Since 1987, Habitat has partnered with hard-working families to build more than 300 homes, restoring in their lives the hope and dignity that home ownership provides.
If this opportunity interests you, or you can provide services at a substantial discount, contact Crystal Lee at Habitat of Humanity of Greater Greensboro at (336) 275-4663.
NBFAA Welcomes The Summit Group as a New Associate Member
The Summit Group is focused on supporting forward-thinking organizations attain their next level of business success. Programs span from business and sales training to executive coaching to hands-on implementation of marketing services.
One of the key services, pioneered by Summit, is an innovative marketing program known as Direct to Consumer Marketing (DTCM). This is an education piece that provides relevant information to the target markets that are most likely to have the greatest interest in dealer/integrator products and services. Over the seven year period that this program has been in the marketplace, the average response rates from end-users has been in the double-digits!
For additional information please contact The Summit Group at (858) 509-9144, info@summitsg.com or www.summitsg.com.
Time to Make Sure Your Employees are Meeting their CEU Requirements
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There’s no better time than the new year to start checking on your employees’ continuing education unit (CEU) requirements. Don’t leave them in the cold, give them the training they deserve with NTS courses, developed with the technician in mind. |
Please use the following to contact NTS:
Send any hard copy correspondence to NTS at the following address:
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Here’s a list of the training classes available this month from NTS:
Advanced Burglar Alarm Technician
Feb. 8 – 9 – Gulfport, Miss.
Feb. 9 – 10 – Mobile, Ala.
Feb. 23 – 24 – Nashville, Tenn.
Certified Alarm Technician (Level I)
Feb. 6 – 8 – Brookfield, Wisc.
Feb. 8 – 10 – Lafayette, La.
Feb. 8 – 10 – Knoxville, Tenn.
Feb. 15 – 17 – Memphis, Tenn.
Feb. 12 – 14 – Miami, Fla.
Feb. 12 – 14 – Atlanta, Ga.
Feb. 13 – 15 – Elmsford, N.Y.
Feb. 19 – 21 – Fort Smith, Ark.
Feb. 26 – 28 – Las Vegas, Nev.
Electronic Access Control
Feb. 21 – 22 – Harrisburg, Pa.
Feb. 28 – 29 – Buffalo, N.Y.
Fire Alarm Installation Methods
Feb. 6 – 7 – Indianapolis, Ind.
Feb. 12 – 13 – Pittsburgh, Pa.
Life Safety Code Course & Workshop
Feb. 16 – Nashville, Tenn.
Video System Technology
Feb. 8 – 9 – Columbia, S.C.
Feb. 19 – 20 – Harrisburg, Pa.
Feb. 23 – 24 – Montgomery, Ala.
Feb. 26 – 27 – Buffalo, N.Y.
NBFAA & Chapter Calendar Highlights
NBFAA Day on Capitol Hill
St. Gregory Luxury Hotel & Suites Offers World-Class Accommodations
Attendees at this year’s NBFAA Day on Capitol Hill will be treated to the convenience and luxury of a world-class hotel. Here’s what you can expect:
The St. Gregory Luxury Hotel & Suites has played frequent host to many world renowned performers, artists, international delegations and innumerable heads of state since its opening. The St. Gregory’s cosmopolitan ambience is supported by exceptional service standards and amenities that have made it a truly successful hotel due mainly to its loyal clientele, who become accustomed to the gracious and welcoming hospitality offered each and every guest.
The hotels convenient and central location in the central downtown business district of "K Street" and Connecticut Avenue, NW allows easy access for a stroll in the lovely neighborhoods of the West End and Dupont Circle or take in one of the many restaurants that surround this lively location. Within minutes walk to historic Georgetown with all the world class shopping or gaze at any of the famed mansions of Embassy Row. The hotels location is ideal for business or leisurely pursuits.
We have arranged a block of rooms for a rate of $249.00 per night. Call reservations directly at (202) 530-3600 or (800) 829-5034 and mention you are attending an NBFAA event. The deadline to reserve your hotel room is April 4, 2008.
There is a 72-hour cancellation policy on all reservations. “No Shows” will be charged one night’s room and tax. All reservations must be guaranteed by either valid credit card or one night’s deposit. The hotel cannot accept “6 p.m. hold” reservations for group blocks.
And don’t forget to check out NBFAA’s official airline for this event. Enter the promotion code A4448AP for the NBFAA discount.
For a current listing of events for 2008, visit NBFAA’s Event Calendar online.
Chapter News
A Message from NCBFAA Regarding Fire Alarm System Designs
The North Caroline Burglar & Fire Alarm Association (NCBFAA) would like to make their members aware of a new interpretation regarding fire alarm systems designs. The association has researched the issue and has found that the North Carolina Board of Examiners for Engineers and Surveyors has recently determined that fire alarm systems designs are considered the practice of engineering as defined in North Carolina statutes.
The interpretation went on to provide that the preparation of fire alarm system shop drawings from sealed engineering designs do not constitute the practice of engineering as defined by law. Based upon this opinion by the Board of Examiners, the State Fire Marshall’s Office has determined that all fire alarm system designs must be sealed by a licensed engineer. NCBFAA understands that this interpretation will also include any changes in designs of previously designed systems or any non-required fire alarm system designs.
The association has developed a plan of action to respond to this change in interpretation and will be working diligently to make the process for alarm system design contractors as simple as possible. First, NCBFAA will meet with the State Fire Marshall’s Office regarding the reach of this policy and their interpretation. NCBFAA hopes to discuss with them the need to encourage fire alarm systems and the increased costs of these systems if a seal is required.
The association will then have an opportunity to request that the Board of Examiners for Engineers and Surveyors reexamine their policy, which could include a letter to the Board or a request for an evidentiary hearing before the Board. If those steps are not successful, then NCBFAA may need to go to the Legislature to seek an exemption, similar to the sprinkler exemption that was enacted several years ago.
All of these options will require time and effort to represent the burglar and fire alarm community and to make sure the members’ voices are heard. NCBFAA will look for allies in this cause. All members are urged to become active in helping with this important issue. If you have any questions or wish to help with this issue, please contact NCBFAA Executive Director Carole McLester at (800) 762-0866.
Member Benefit Spotlight
Smoky Mountain |
Smoky Mountain Can Get Your Business Online and on Customers’ BrowsersPromote your company with a Web site or Internet marketing campaign through Smokey Mountain Internet Services, Inc., a full-service Internet company dedicated to the electronic life safety, security, and systems industry. Services include world-class Web site development, award-winning Web site design, Web site hosting, Internet marketing, graphic design for all types of media, and much more. Call Smoky Mountain or e-mail web@smnet.net for NBFAA member-exclusive special discounts. |
Industry News You Can Use
FCC Issues AMPs Consumer Notification
The Federal Communications Commission has issued another consumer notification concerning the Advanced Mobile Phone System (AMPS) sunset date of Feb. 18, 2008. The alert advises alarm owners to contact their alarm company if they believe they have a system installed that utilizes the AMPS system.
For a complete copy of the notification, visit NBFAA’s Web site at www.alarm.org in the Members section.
Cobb County, Ga., Drops Fee from Alarm Registration
The Atlanta-Journal Constitution
Cobb County will drop a proposed $10 fee from a security alarm registration requirement it expects to approve next month.
Full Story
Member News
IQ Certification Program Announces 2008 Board of Directors
The Installation Quality (IQ) Certification Program has announced the election of its 2008 Board of Directors.
The December vote added Deborah Sokol of Monitor Controls as the newest member of the IQ Certification Board. Dave Currie of Security Response Center and Gail Schreiner of AlarmWATCH were re-elected to the board.
These three join current board members Timothy Creenan of Amherst Alarm, Inc., Jaqueline Currier of Rapid Response Monitoring Services, Inc. and Dave Simon of Brinks Home Security, Inc.
“The 2008 IQ Certification Board’s combined knowledge of the industry and extensive experience will help us continue to serve IQ Certified companies as the leading installation quality certification program for security alarm systems,” said Dale Eller, executive director of the IQ Certification Program.
Following are the 2008 IQ Certification Program Board of Directors with their terms in parentheses:
- Timothy Creenan, Treasurer (2007-08)
- Dave Currie, Secretary (2008-09)
- Jacqueline Currier, Director (2007-08)
- Gail Schreiner, Director (2008-09)
- Dave Simon, Director (2007-08)
- Deborah Sokol, Director (2008-09)
Each elected IQ Board member serves a two-year term. At its January meeting, the board members will elect a chair, secretary and treasurer to serve for one year, as well as appoint at least two, but no more than four, public safety directors. One appointed director may be chosen from each of the law enforcement, fire, state regulator or insurance communities.
North American Video to Supply Surveillance Systems to Venezuelan Jails
North American Video was recently awarded the Venezuelan correctional facilities prison contract to supply video surveillance to Venezuelan jails. The project, which is under the auspices of a United Nations program to improve correctional facilities in developing countries, initially involves 36 prisons in Venezuela with additional sites under review for similar system deployments.
Launched in Venezuela, the project supports a United Nations initiative to modernize correctional facilities in developing countries and is financed through the Inter-American Development Bank. North American Video will supply complete video surveillance systems, including cameras and lenses, monitors, video recorders, management software and various installation accessories to Setronix, a systems integrator based in Venezuela working in cooperation with North American Video to implement the installations. The initial scope of the project includes 36 correctional facilities that will be equipped with a four-camera video surveillance system and an X-Ray system. It is expected that the systems will be expanded to additional prison systems after the initial installations are completed.
The Hallifax Group Purchases North American Video
The Halifax Group recently announced the acquisition of North American Video (NAV), a worldwide leader in the implementation of integrated video surveillance and security systems.
Cynthia Freschi, NAV founder and chief executive officer, will retain a significant stake in the company and continue to serve with the existing senior management team. Terms of the buyout were not disclosed.
NBFAA and Members in the News
NBFAA in the News
Volunteerism: Find the Right Balance for Your Career
CEPro
There is probably nothing more commendable than giving your time, money and energy to a worthy cause, whether it takes the form of being a Scoutmaster, coaching a Little League team or giving to the Salvation Army at Christmas time.
Full Story
Burglaries Here Spiked in ‘07
Sheboygan Press
Home security systems are also effective in preventing burglaries, with monitored homes three times less likely to be burglarized, according to the National Burglar and Fire Alarm Association.
Full Story
Jewelers Mutual: Some Alarm Systems will be Ineffective After Feb. 18
Rapaport News
At the stroke of midnight on February 18, 2008, some alarm systems will be rendered useless due to a Federal Communications Commission (FCC) ruling that allows cellular phone companies to discontinue providing analog service. Be certain that yours is not one of them and call your alarm service provider.
Full Story
Recent Press Releases
NBFAA and The Summit Group Announce New Business Training Webinars
The NBFAA today announced that the association has teamed with The Summit Group to offer unique security industry-specific business training through interactive webinars.
Full Story
Virginia Chapter Receives Warm Welcome from NBFAA
The NBFAA Board of Directors unanimously welcomed the Virginia Burglar & Fire Alarm Association (VBFAA) back as a chartered chapter during last week’s Leadership Summit. The VBFAA Board of Directors voted at the end of 2007 to rejoin the chapter alliance, and NBFAA made it official at the board meeting.
Full Story
For Member Update
Sponsorship information, contact
NBFAA Senior Director of Business Development Tonja
Jenkins.
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