Discover the benefits and value our associate members have to offer you and your business.

We asked two of our associate members, Larrabee Ventures Inc. and Smoky Mountain Internet Services Inc., some questions about how their services could benefit ESA members.  Here’s what they had to say.

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Larrabee Ventures Inc.

Question: What are some of the benefits that our members will gain from purchasing your products and/or using your services?

Answer: Benefits gained from LVI’s services encompass mentoring and success-building from highly-experienced security alarm industry entrepreneurs with operating, financial, acquisition and consulting skills. Business-value growth results, first, from improving the businesses internal organization, financial systems, and its sales and marketing results; and, second, by arranging new financing to add additional customers and markets.

Question: What do you want our members to know about your employees?

Answer: LVI’s principals have the highest integrity with established records of success. They are former founders, owners and executives of substantial security alarm businesses, among them, American Home Security, Protection One and ASG.

Question: What does your best target prospect look like?

Answer: LVI’s best target prospect is an owner/operator of a $1million to $10 million-revenue company who wants to increase the value of the company and is looking for proven ideas, programs and financial resources to grow to a new, higher level.

Members may contact Larrabee Ventures at (818) 789-6020 or by visiting www.larrabeeventures.com.

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Smoky Mountain Internet Services Inc.

Question: What are some of the benefits that our members will gain from purchasing your products and/or using your services?

Answer: Smoky Mountain Internet Services, Inc. (SMnet) has a highly diversified customer base throughout the United States. The parent company of SMnet (Smoky Mountain Systems, Inc.) has been in the security business for more than 25 years. This association gives SMnet a unique perspective on the security industry. SMnet has a product line that can fit the needs of the small security dealer with a great Web site at an affordable price and also meets the needs of the middle-sized and larger security dealer with even larger and more sophisticated sites. SMnet has worked with many state associations in developing Web sites. The integration of graphics and features in a Web site is a specialty of SMnet. Affordability and results are the goals with every project SMnet is involved with. Customer satisfaction is paramount at all times.

Question: What do you want our members to know about your employees?

Answer: The staff at SMnet is some of the most talented and dedicated people you will find in the Internet and Web site design business anywhere. The understanding the staff of SMnet has of the advertising need in the security industry is unsurpassed by any other Web site design company.  Collectively they have many years of experience in the industry working with security dealers and state associations of all sizes. The dedication to the customer’s satisfaction is their #1 goal. The staff at SMnet listens to the customer’s needs and desires and then delivers.

Question: What does your best target prospect look like?

Answer: SMnet knows the advertising needs of the security dealer regardless of size. SMnet works well with the state association in delivering their message to members and non-members alike.  Customers who need Web site upgrades, changes or a completely new design is the types of customers SMnet looks to work with every day.  SMnet stands ready to meet the needs and the budget of the security dealer and state associations.

Members may contact Smoky Mountain Internet Services at (828) 349-9541 or by visiting www.smnet.net.

Secura Key, of Chatsworth, California is pleased to announce the launch of its new Web site, www.securakey.com.  The new site provides improved navigation, more logical organization of content, and quicker access to documentation, literature and support functions.  It also meets the new Secura Key graphic standard and contains the new marketing message: Smart. Reliable.Secure.The dramatically redesigned site, created by Secura Key’s in-house marketing team, embodies the company’s forward–thinking vision and commitment to the growing needs of its customers.

The site’s homepage welcomes visitors with a graphical slide show with images of its major product categories, and a clean uncluttered design.  Drop down menus or buttons and text with hyperlinks can be used to access any page on the Web site.  Products are organized into logical groups, and each product page has a full description, photos, plus links to manuals and datasheets. A separate tab for RFID products has also been included.

Our support pages include a new product training page with links to upcoming training webinars.  It will also include archived webinars and videos of troubleshooting and installation procedures for most Secura Key products.
“With changing information needs, it was time for a comprehensive restructuring of the online window to our services,” said Marketing Communications Manager Pam Elkins. “The new www.securakey.com is easier to use, and provides increased flexibility for future growth.”

Campaign to help increase public awareness of missing children

Vector Security announced that it has made a corporate pledge to support Project Home Again. Project Home is a national effort undertaken jointly by the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) and the Mechanical Service Contractors of America (MSCA).

The program seeks to return missing and kidnapped children to their parents through the use of a public awareness campaign. The campaign involves the displaying of posters, depicting the likeness and personal information of missing and kidnapped children, on service vehicles used by participating companies.

Vector Security’s involvement will include a fleet of nearly 200 service vans and uniformed guard and patrol vehicles, which travel through the Mid Atlantic states, Florida and California. According to Ms. Sally Cox, Vector Security’s Director of Purchasing and Fleet Manager, the idea came about after hearing about the program from television coverage in the Philadelphia, PA market. “Vector Security has supported the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children through several programs connected with our National Accounts Division. Our new participation in Project Home Again will help drive our commitment to the NCMEC throughout our branch office service network.”

John A. Murphy, Vector Security’s President and CEO, stresses that his company’s support of Project Home again ties directly into Vector’s core corporate values. “We’re in the business of protecting the things our customers cherish the most and that certainly begins with children. Given our continuing dedication to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, this opportunity allows us to root this valuable organization further within our large and expanding branch office network. If we can help only one child make it back home, or bring his or her plight directly to the attention of the general public, it will all be worth it.”

Great Expectations, the security industry’s leading customer loyalty program, in its fifth year, is back and better than ever.

Thousands of customers have received millions of dollars in rewards for their Tri-Ed purchases. The new program has expanded to award Tri-Ed/Northern Video customers one point for every dollar spent & double points for featured supplier purchases! Points can be redeemed for brand-name merchandise rewards such as electronics, sporting & recreational items, jewelry, travel & leisure, etc.

Participating suppliers for 2010-2011 include: Aiphone, Altronix, Bosch, Clinton, Coleman Cable, Computar Ganz, Digimerge, Digital Watchdog, DSC, FireLite, GE, Hikvision, Kantech, Linear, OpenEye, Panasonic, Pelco, Samsung, Sony, and Speco Technologies.

“The Great Expectations program was designed to reward our loyal customers,” notes James Rothstein, Senior Vice President of Tri-Ed/Northern Video Distribution. “In the process, it’s also benefitted our suppliers and helped build their brands. It’s been an extremely successful program all around and we’re pleased to renew it for the fifth consecutive year.”

Any customers that wish to enroll can register through the Tri-Ed or Northern Video homepages.

Tri-Ed/Northern Video Distribution recently hosted an IP Technology Road Show for its DC Metro customers. Over 80 dealers and integrators came through the doors at the Hamilton Crowne Plaza in Washington, DC to attend the IP expo and comprehensive training programs.

Many of the industry’s leading manufacturers, such as ACTi, Aiphone, Altronix, AVerMedia, Basler, Brickcom, Dedicated Micros, Geovision, GE Security, NUUO, Nuvico, Panasonic, Pelco, Raytec, Samsung Security, SONY, and Toshiba, participated in the supplier expo and gave technical presentations to the attendees.

Bob Farquhar, Manager of the DC Metro branch, notes that “We had a tremendous turnout at the IP Technology Roadshow. Our customers turn to us for technical training and we’re very pleased to be able to facilitate that for them and keep them competitive amidst all the changing technologies.”

Upcoming Roadshows at Tri-Ed/Northern Video Distribution include:

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07/22/2010 – North Hollywood, CA Technology Roadshow

Holiday Inn

4222 Vineland Ave. North Hollywood, CA 91602

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10/07/2010 – Atlanta, GA Technology Roadshow

Holiday Inn Select, 450 Capitol Avenue, Atlanta, GA 30312

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11/11/2010 – San Antonio, TX Technology Roadshow

Crowne Plaza Hotel, 111 Pecan Street East

San Antonio TX, 78205

Micro Key Solutions is celebrating its 25th anniversary by giving gym memberships to all employees willing to make a commitment to go to the gym at least twelve times a month. In addition, a “Biggest Loser” contest will see who can lose the most body fat over a six-month period. Wayne Torrens, company president, in announcing the contest pointed out “that healthier employees use fewer sick days, are generally happier and are more productive. This contest has created an enthusiasm in the office that is electric!”

Nearly 70 percent of Micro Key’s employees signed up to determine who could get in shape and lose the most body fat. Micro Key Solutions 2010 “Biggest Loser Winner” Competition began on June 1. The final weigh-in to determine the winner will be held on November 30, 2010.

“This is not a quick fix,” stated business development manager Victoria Ferro. “We are encouraging our employees to be healthy for life and hope that this contest will be a great start.” In an effort to ensure that this program isn’t a quick fix, each contestant is being given full access to Gold’s gym, three free orientations with a personal trainer, fitness classes, as well as access to a cardio cinema, saunas and a basketball court. Contestants are required to take full advantage of the gym and its facilities, or lose their privileges. Also, after the six-month long competition, all contestants must go to the gym at least eight days a month to maintain the remainder of their one-year company paid gym membership. As an added incentive to losing the highest percentage of body fat, the winner will receive a prize of their choice, valued at $500. “The way we see it, everyone participating will be a winner! There is a lot of excitement surrounding this contest, and it has done a lot to motivate our employees to think and become healthier,” added Victoria. This program is just another example of Micro Key’s innovative efforts and dedication to their employees as well as their customers.

Visonic Inc. is pleased to announce the addition of two Sales Managers for the U.S. Western and Central regions.

Mark Merkley has joined the Visonic sales team in the Western U.S. supporting Visonic’s sales efforts in the thirteen western states. Fresh from a very long and successful security and access career, Mark’s last position as a Regional Account Specialist for ADI provides him with a solid background with customers across a huge geographic and population area.  Mark can be reached at: mmerkley@visonic.com and 408-504-3212.

Rob Alfrey joined the Visonic sales team June 1st after multiple years with ADI, the last four years as a National Account Manager. Rob brings a tremendous security background and career having worked for several prominent companies including Smith Alarm and Chubb Security. Rob will use his expertise in creating sales in the Central U.S. from Chicago to New Mexico. Rob’s contact info is: RAlfrey@visonic.com and cell is 214-232-4579.

“I am very pleased to welcome Mark and Rob to the Visonic family,” says Mark Ingram, President. “Their experience and expertise will well serve our Central and Western regions.”

Digital Monitoring Products (DMP) has named Diane McFarlin as its Regional Sales Manager for Texas.  McFarlin will be responsible for developing new sales and providing on-going service to DMP authorized dealers throughout Texas.

“Diane will be able to quickly step into her new role as a DMP Regional Sales Manager,” said Vice President of Sales, Mark NeSmith. “With her experience in a similar role for an international security systems provider, and hands-on knowledge gathered selling both residential and commercial security systems, she has the background needed to support the network of authorized DMP dealers in our important Texas sales area. We’re excited to have Diane join the DMP organization.”

Prior to joining DMP, Diane worked in the fashion industry before beginning her security career, selling residential alarm systems for a Texas regional security firm. She went on to spend six years at the world’s largest privately held security company, focusing primarily on sales in the educational market. She then spent 12 years in sales at a global electronic protection and communication systems manufacturer.

Diane is a Texas native, born in Dallas and currently residing in Arlington.

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Keep up with the fast pace of sub-system integration and convergence with CEDIA’s new comprehensive IP & Networking curriculum path .  Six new or updated classes will provide you with the knowledge you must know about this technology and also provide you with hands-on learning in the CU Learning Lab developed for IP & Networking. Most of the courses in the new IP & Networking path can be taken under the $299 CEDIA University Members’ Only Education Pass. Take new education and save! Not a CEDIA Member but want to join and save? Click here. To learn more about CEDIA EXPO visit www.cedia.org/expo .

Hands on Training with Learning Labs Sponsored by ADI

Work with products and master new techniques in the CEDIA University Learning Labs. Work with new products and get the hands on experience that is vital in this industry. Participate in a hands-on learning lab course or walk-in during the open hours. To check out the available learning labs where you can sharpen your various EST skills click here.

The recent combination of Tri-Ed Distribution and Northern Video Systems created North America’s premier independent security distributor. With increased locations, extensive inventory and an even more comprehensive offering of products, our experienced team continues to expand with the addition of Martin’s Security Depot to the Tri-Ed/Northern Video Distribution family.

Martin’s Security Depot, a leading distributor based in Fremont, California, will be consolidated into Tri-Ed/Northern Video’s Union City location. Martin’s sales staff will join the Union City sales team, managed by Jason Johnson, and its customer base can utilize the same phone numbers: 510-651-9950 or 800-321-5046. Committed to exceeding expectations, one customer at a time, Tri-Ed/Northern Video is offering customers a free welcome gift with their first purchase at the newly consolidated Union City branch.

“We firmly believe that Tri-Ed/Northern Video Distribution will provide a more significant distribution solution for the security industry,” notes Pat Comunale, Chief Operating Officer. “This newly expanded Union City branch is indicative of our commitment and the first of many more value-added offerings for our customers to come.”

Photo Caption: (L-R) Bart Maltby-DSC Pacific NW Regional Sales Mgr., Amanda Hoskins-Tri-Ed Branch Manager/ Seattle, Kevin Gaylord, Gaylord Security Systems, and Ray Smick, Tri-Ed’s Pacific NW Business Development Manager.

Tri-Ed Seattle kicked off the summer season with a sizzlin’ BBQ special. This two week promotion rewarded all customers who purchased DSC products with an entry into a drawing for a Char-Broil BBQ Grill and Omaha Steak package. Kevin Gaylord of Gaylord Security took home the grill and the beef!

“The Omaha Steaks promotion is just one more way Tri-Ed reaches out to reward its customers and exceed their expectations,” says Amanda Hoskins, Branch Manager for Tri-Ed Seattle. “The promotion was a great success.”

Discover the benefits and value our associate members have to offer you and your business.

We asked one of our associate members, Arch Promotion, some questions about how their services could benefit ESA members.  Here’s what they had to say.

Question: What are some of the benefits that our members will gain from purchasing your products and/or using your services?

Answer: The biggest benefit is the service that we provide.  We treat each customer as if they are our only customer.  We also provide the highest quality brands but at the lowest prices.  We control costs, buy at the best prices and pass those savings along to our customers.  We also like to think outside the box to create unique promotion programs.

Question: What do you want our members to know about your employees?

Answer: Our employees have years of industry experience.  Each one looks for new and innovative products to promote our customers brands in a unique way for their specific budget.

Question: What does your best target prospect look like?

Answer: Our target prospect is someone looking to promote and grow their business or event.  We create programs from corporate stores, single event promotions, corporate employee apparel to magnets and door hangers to promote new business campaigns with end customers.

Tri-Ed Distribution is pleased to announce its three scholarship winners for the 2010 – 2011 academic year. Based on academic merit, the scholarship program was open to any graduating high school senior who is a child of a current ESA (formerly NBFAA) member.

Tri-Ed extends its congratulations and best wishes to all three winners: Rachel Barry, daughter of Mark Barry of GE Security ($1500 scholarship); Alex Sikora, son of Marion Sikora of Sonitrol Security in Buffalo, NY ($1000 scholarship), and Craig Harlow, son of Robert Harlow of Broadview Security in Richmond, VA ($500 scholarship). Rachel will be attending Duke University in the fall; Alex will be enrolled at Denison University and Craig will be studying at the University of Virginia.

“Tri-Ed applauds the accomplishments of these three young scholars,” says Pat Comunale, COO. “We wish them continued success and are pleased we can help ease some of the financial burdens of higher education for these deserving winners and their families.”

Tri-Ed’s scholarship program is indicative of its commitment to supporting the industry’s largest association – the ESA – and its members. Customers turn to Tri-Ed for superior customer service, same day shipping, flexible credit terms, online ordering, customer appreciation events, purchasing rewards, technical systems support, and ongoing product training. Tri-Ed is North America’s largest independent wholesale distributor of security and low voltage products. For more information, visit www.tri-ed.com.

Tri-Ed‘s new DC Metro branch celebrated its official Grand Opening in May. Customers were treated to an outstanding day of product specials, more than 25 vendor displays, food, entertainment, and a special visit from former Redskins quarterback Joe Theismann!

The DC Metro branch serves security dealers in the Northern Virginia/Washington DC market. Industry vets Bob Farquhar, Branch Manager, and Tonya Robinson-Hartline, Business Development Manager, bring extensive industry experience to the branch. “Customers in the Mid-Atlantic can now take advantage of Tri-Ed’s increased presence in this area, and the expertise that Tonya and Bob bring to our team,” says Jay Heffernan, Regional VP of Sales for the Eastern U.S.

The Grand Opening Celebration attracted a big turnout from area dealers. Representatives from Tri-Ed/Northern Video Distribution also took part in the event, including COO Pat Comunale. Joe Theismann autographed commemorative Tri-Ed footballs for the guests and shared many stories from his NFL days. “It was a great day for everyone,” Bob Farquhar adds. “We are here to serve our customers and wanted to officially welcome them to our new branch in style.”

The DC Metro branch is located at 8245 Backlick Road, Suite E in Lorton, VA. (703) 339-2149.

As the largest independent security distributor in North America, Tri-Ed / Northern Video Distribution carries the industry’s leading manufacturers of IP, CCTV, access control, fire, intrusion, sound, communications, structured cable, and home automation products. With 41 locations throughout the U.S., Canada and Puerto Rico, Tri-Ed continues to expand its branch locations, staff of trained professionals, product offerings, vendor partners, value-added services, and comprehensive training programs. For more information, visit www.tri-ed.com.

Former Redskins Quarterback Joe Theismann engaged the crowd with tales of his NFL days.

Former Redskins Quarterback Joe Theismann autographed commemorative Tri-Ed footballs for the guests.