Have you provided your staff with their share of industry training lately? If not, then head on over to NTS and order up some world-class training for your technicians and improve the quality of your staff today. NTS can even help you out with meeting the certification needs of your employees.

Complete course descriptions (and schedules) are available at www.ESAWeb.org in the Education & Training section. Individuals in states where classes are not currently offered, and who are interested in receiving training, should contact NTS.

KEY COURSES

CERTIFIED ALARM TECHNICIAN – LEVEL I (CAT – LEVEL I)

Available Online

• Feb. 26 – 28 – Bossier City, LA
• March 2 – 4 – Atlanta, GA
• March 4 – 6 – Cullman, AL
• March 9 – 11 – Pittsburgh, PA
• March 10 – 12 – Rochester, NY
• March 16 – 18 – Orlando, FL
• March 18 – 20 – Gulfport, MS
• March 18 – 20 – Utah
• March 19 – 21 – Milford, CT
• March 19 – 21 – Chattanooga, TN
• March 23 – 25 – Bettendorf, IA
• March 26 – 28 – Kenner, LA
• March 30 – April 1 – Charlotte, NC

TROUBLE SHOOTING, SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE (TSM)

• March 3 – 5 – Long Island, NY
• March 6 – 7 – Johnson City, TN
• March 10 – 11 – Des Moines, IA
• March 19 – 20 – Memphis, TN
• March 19 – 21 – Nashville, TN
• March 26 – 27 – Jackson, MS

ELECTRONIC ACCESS CONTROL (EAC)

• Feb. 26 – 27 – Jackson, MS
• March 25 – 26 – Montgomery, AL

VIDEO SYSTEM TECHNOLOGIES (VST)

• Feb. 23 – 24 – Indianapolis, IN
• Feb. 24 – 25 – Erie, PA
• Feb. 24 – 25 – Seattle, WA
• March 2 – 3 – Denver, CO
• March 2 – 3 – Chicago, IL
• March 10 – 11 – Detroit, MI
• March 10 – 11 – Philadelphia, PA
• March 16 – 17 – Milwaukee, WI
• March 17 – 18 – Boston, MA
• March 20 – 21 – Lafayette, LA

ADVANCED INTRUSION SYSTEMS (AIS)

Also known as Advanced Burglar Alarm Technician

Available Online

• March 6 – 7 – Lafayette, LA
• March 9 – 10 – Allentown, PA
• March 18 – 19 – Montgomery, AL
• March 27 – 28 – Nashville, TN

FIRE ALARM INSTALLATION METHODS (FAIM)

Available Online

• Feb. 20 – 21 – Monroe, LA
• Feb. 26 – 27 – Memphis, TN
• March 13 – 14 – Kenner, LA
• March 23 – 24 – Ft. Walton, FL

NEW COURSES

LIFE SAFETY CODE COURSE & WORKSHOP

• Feb. 20 – Mobile, AL
• March 24 – Birmingham, AL

NON-TECHNICAL COURSES

UNDERSTANDING ALARM SYSTEMS

• March 17 – Birmingham, AL

WDT’s NOTUS Emergency and Weather Alerting Service offers the opportunity for security companies to enhance recurring monthly revenue (RMR) opportunities by connecting their customers to timely emergency weather and other safety alerts, when they need them the most. NOTUS is a white-label, brandable product, requiring no hardware or software to be installed by the security company.

The WDT system provides the following key benefits for security companies:

• A system that boosts customer retention and brand awareness
• A marketing platform that creates daily positive interactions with your customers
• A method to improve customer risk assessments with daily weather conditions and alerts
• A value-added service to increase loyalty and RMR with no hardware costs

As an approved Member Value Program Provider and Associate Member of ESA, WDT’s NOTUS alerting system offers security industry customers access to the widest array of weather, federal emergency watches, warnings and statements available in the market. With the NOTUS system, ESA members’ customers can be assured of maximum security and safety for themselves, their loved ones, and their most precious assets, the moment severe weather strikes or when other threats approach their immediate environment.

Members who sign up a minimum of 100 accounts for the NOTUS Emergency and Weather Alerting Forecast Service are eligible to offer the full NOTUS Premium package for a three-month period FREE OF CHARGE as an incentive for rapid new user adoption. This member discount applies to any new customers signing up for a period of three months.

In addition, members are offered a $250 discount on the setup of a special interactive weather map called iMap, which provides high quality weather data, including nationwide watches and warnings and interactive radar. With iMap you can see severe weather patterns real time, and track weather phenomena, right down to the street level.

For details on the NOTUS Premium Package and instructions on how to manage new member sign-ups for this discount system, please contact Frank Ryan at:

fryan@wdtinc.com
Office: 919-372-9130
Mobile: 919-619-4656

Are you taking advantage of these cost savings?  ESA provides you with money-saving opportunities as part of your membership. Go to the Web site often and check out the coupon savings and our member discount programs. If you’re not using these companies, you might be leaving money on the table.

Members, get your discount codes here.

During the recent and successful New Jersey Burglar & Fire Alarm Association (NJBFAA) Annual Symposium, several statewide awards were bestowed on deserving individuals to recognize leadership and dedication to the industry.

The awards were given during a special membership luncheon held Friday, January 29.

Alarm Dealer of the Year

The first award, Alarm Dealer of the Year, was presented to Ira Hosid, of Paramus-based IRA Security Systems. Hosid, who is celebrating his 40^th anniversary in the business, was chosen for putting family first, a decision he made at the inception of his alarm career. The basis for his business plan was not to be the largest alarm company in New Jersey, but to make sure there was time to go to family affairs. The ‘mom and pop’ business flourished, and now maintains around 1,000 monitored accounts.

During Hosid’s ‘free time’, he is an active member of BARA, Bergen County Amateur Radio Association, which provides communications during disasters, and helps organizations such as the Red Cross both in N.J. and the country.

Hosid always tries to help anyone in the business with service/installation problems. He has never missed an NJBFAA meeting or trade show since joining many years ago,” commented NJBFAA president and emcee Chris Mack.

Associate Member of the Year

The Associate Member of the Year Award went to Joe Camarata of Mid-Atlantic Representatives.     Born and raised in Woodbridge, Camarata received a Bachelor of Science degree in electronic engineering technology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mid-Atlantic Representatives, owned by David Lund, has been a well respected industry supporter for over thirty years.  Joe joined Mid-Atlantic in September 2006, and is a proud member of the NJ chapter of InfraGARD, a partnership between the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the private sector, including businesses, academic institutions, state and local law enforcement agencies, and other participants dedicated to sharing information and intelligence to prevent hostile acts against the United States.  He is also a member of CERT – the Community emergency response team, which serve as first responders to any manmade and natural

NJBFAA Frank Smith Memorial Award

The recipient of the NJBFAA Frank Smith Memorial Award for Public Safety was Chief John Lightbody, who currently serves as Toms River Township Fire Prevention & Protection Officer, as well as Toms River Township’s Fire Subcode Official.

Lightbody received the award for serving tirelessly on numerous committees at the state level, most recently supporting the inclusion of sprinklers in residential housing. He has received numerous state and local accommodations and awards and is an adjunct instructor at Ocean County College, teaching fire and building courses. Lightbody is the proud second generation of firefighters, and the father of the third generation – his son, John F.

NJBFAA Distinguished Public Service Award

The Honorable Vincent Prieto was the recipient of the NJBFAA Distinguished Public Service Award.  Since 2004, Assemblyman Prieto has proudly represented the 32^nd district, which encompasses Hudson County, serving as the deputy majority whip of the General Assembly, and chairman of the Assembly Regulated Professions Committee. He is a construction code official, and served on the Secaucus Planning Board.

“Prieto is in a unique position to fully understand and support the work of the members of NJBFAA and has agreed to champion new legislation that addresses several flaws from the original licensing law,” said Mack, who thanked Prieto for coming to Atlantic City to participate in the convention. “We look forward to working with him this session towards passage of this important measure.”

President’s Award

The final presentation honored Chris Mosley of Complete Security Systems with the President’s Award.  Chosen by the NJBFAA President, Chris Mack, he selected Mosley for going above and beyond the call of duty, and serving the NJBFAA and the industry by providing advice and assistance. Mosley recently served as NJBFAA president for two years and is currently the representative to the Electronic Security Association.

Paramount to Chris’s success has been the importance of family and community.  Chris gives tirelessly to the Marlboro community, having served as fire chief, past chairman of the Monmouth County Ducks Unlimited, service to the Marlboro Township Office of Emergency Management, and currently chairman of the board of the Community YMCA.

“Chris is a leader in the community, trusted advisor and friends, father, wife and son — and a staunch industry supporter – both at the state and national levels,” said Mack.

The NJBFAA Symposium was held January 27-29 at the Tropicana Hotel in Atlantic City.

Mission 500, a strictly non-profit organization partnering with World Vision and dedicated to serving the needs of children and communities in crisis, responded to Haiti’s needs by raising almost $26,000 for relief efforts.

The fundraising effort took place as part of the ING half marathon held in Miami on January 31 where more than 20 people along with friends and family from the South Florida’s security industry participated.

“It was a beautiful day with a 70 degree temperature at the start, and some sprinklings of rain half way through to cool things off,” reported Ian McCluskey of Kroll. Ian was one of Team Mission 500’s top fundraisers and had run before in the ING.

The race started at the American Airlines arena and runners ran toward Miami Beach over the causeway with cruise ships lining the port, up the famed Ocean Drive with its art Deco hotels, and then back across to the mainland over the Venetian causeway with its picturesque sights of the bay. Over 18,000 runners registered to take part, making this one of the fasted growing running events of its type in the United States.

The goal was to raise US $25,000 to help with relief efforts for Haiti. The 23 runners of the Mission 500 team were part of a larger World Vision Team of almost 200 that combined, raised over $100,000 through this effort.

A third of the Mission 500 team ran a half marathon for the very first time. Luz Garcia and Lorena Stapff of Latin Press both said “This was a great experience; call us anytime to do it again!” Diego Lozano of Quaddrix also did his first half-marathon and despite the short-term pain promised to sign up for 2011. Frank Green from Silmar was disappointed with his 1:24 time as others who took 3 hours stood stunned at his speed. Silmar was also instrumental in getting staff and some customers involved and contributed $3,000 toward team Mission 500.

Anyone wishing to support relief for Haiti and the Mission 500 running team can still donate by visiting http://twv.convio.net/goto/mission500team. You can also help with the immediate relief efforts for Haiti by making a cash donation at: www.worldvision.org/mission500haiti

Mission 500’s next industry initiative is a 5K charity run at ISC West in Las Vegas on March 25, 2010. This first of a kind event at an ISC Expo was conceived to engage new corporate sponsors as well as individuals within the industry. Altronix Corporation, Axis, HID, LRG Marketing Communications, Morse Watchmans and Safety Technology International Inc. are charter sponsors. The Security 5K / Mission 500 Race is a joint collaboration between United Publications, publishers of Security Systems News and Security Director News; Reed Exhibitions, proprietors of ISC Expos; and Mission 500. More details at www.mission500.org or you can register to walk or run at www.firstgiving.com/mission500

Following more than two years of determined effort, and overcoming steep opposition, the Electronic Security Association (ESA) is pleased to announce that the New York State Apprenticeship Council has approved the New York Burglar & Fire Alarm Associations application for a Unilateral Apprenticeship and Training program for the occupation of Protective Signal Installer (Fire Life Safety and Electronic Security Installer).

The approval of the apprenticeship program will guarantee New Yorkers working in the electronic security industry an opportunity to submit bids on construction work in New York. A series of new local ordinances requires companies to have an apprenticeship program, whether prevailing wage or not. Because of these ordinances large security and fire alarm jobs were previously beyond the industry’s reach.

ESA’s apprenticeship standards were federally approved in September 2006. Following federal approval, interested ESA Chartered Chapters are required to locally adopt these standards and file with the state agency for approval. The acceptance of the application gives NYBFAA member and non-member companies the ability to fill the void for qualified security and fire alarm technicians in New York and to provide structured, quality training to the industry at a reasonable cost.

“It took 28 months from application to approval but the ESA apprenticeship program was finally accepted,” said Ron Petrarca, former chair of ESA’s Apprenticeship Committee. “During our lengthy application process we watched and applauded the ESA Chartered Chapters Louisiana, Missouri and Nevada as they obtained their registered apprenticeship programs. Their success also reinforced our conviction that this was an important effort to the future of our industry and gave us the incentive to continue on with the job of securing a registered program in the state of New York.”

Michael A. Miller, president of the Electronic Security Association, said, “This is exciting news for NYBFAA. We want to commend Ron Petrarca who has worked so diligently on this apprenticeship program, along with members of the NYBFAA. We know, at the New York state level, that Ron has been the main driver of this effort and we truly appreciate all he has done.”

Recently, the Alarm Industry Communications Committee (AICC) – whose membership is comprised of representatives from ESA, the Central Station Alarm Association, the Security Industry Association and several national companies – submitted comments to the Federal Communications Commission in response to AT&T’s recent filing concerning the transition from the circuit-switched network to broadband and IP-based communications.

As part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, Congress directed the FCC to create a national broadband plan by March 17, 2010 that seeks to ensure that all Americans have access to broadband capability.  As part of their plan development, the commission, in December, sought comments on the transition from a circuit-switched network to an all-IP network. The FCC is trying to determine whether or not new policy should be considered and what relevant questions should be raised on how best to monitor and plan for such a transition.
Read the FCC public notice.

On December 21, AT&T filed a comment with the FCC that, among other things, explicitly called for the phasing out of the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN).  In their filing AT&T states (emphasis added), “Due to technological advances, changes in consumer preference, and market forces, the question is when, not if, POTS service and the PSTN over which it is provided will become obsolete. In the meantime, however, the high costs associated with the maintenance and operation of the legacy network are diverting valuable resources, both public and private, that could be used to expand broadband access and to improve the quality of broadband service. It is for that reason that one of the most important steps the Commission can take to facilitate an orderly transition to an all-broadband communications infrastructure is to eliminate the regulatory requirements that prolong the life of POTS and the PSTN.”
Read AT&T’s comments.

Today, approximately one-third of Americans live in, work in and go to premises where security systems are utilized. Accordingly, many Americans would be impacted if the PSTN is retired before there is a thorough understanding of how it is relied upon everyday in security applications to protect them from harm. Therefore, the AICC in its filing has called on the FCC to consider a plan of orderly transition to broadband and IP-based communications – one that ensures communications services to all Americans will operate with a high degree of reliability and compatibility with existing life safety services and equipment.
Read the comments from AICC.

ESA supports broadband development and IP-based communications. These developments carry great potential in connection with alarm services such as the ability to transmit more data at faster speeds from a protected premise to the monitoring station.

However, the ability of the alarm industry to rely on broadband and IP-based communications will be hindered if all aspects of the communications path are not reliable. Further, ESA and other industry groups support a gradual transition to broadband and IP-based communications to ensure compatibility with existing services and equipment. ESA realizes that their membership is composed of different types and sizes of companies and that the transition to broadband can be complicated and resource intensive. A gradual transition will provide smaller companies the opportunity to make the changeover in a more economically feasible manner.

As the FCC works on its National Broadband Plan, ESA, through its active involvement in the AICC, will continue to monitor, participate in and report back on the development and impact of the plan.

Training – it’s the key to luring new customers and retaining existing ones. Make sure your technicians are fully trained by offering them the opportunity to learn from the best instructors in the industry. NTS offers many training opportunities that your customers will be glad you took advantage of.

Complete course descriptions (and schedules) are available at www.alarm.org in the Education & Training section. Individuals in states where classes are not currently offered, and who are interested in receiving training, should contact NTS.

ADVANCED BURGLAR ALARM TECHNICIAN

• Feb. 11 – 12 – Brookfield, WI

CERTIFIED ALARM TECHNICIAN

• Feb. 11 – 13 – Jackson, MS
• Feb. 17 – 19 – Long Island, NY
• Feb. 26 – 28 – Bossier City, LA

ELECTRONIC ACCESS CONTROL

• Feb. 26 – 27 – Jackson, MS

FIRE ALARM INSTALLATION METHODS

• Feb. 18 – 19 – Birmingham, AL
• Feb. 20 – 21 – Monroe, LA
• Feb. 26 – 27 – Memphis, TN

LIFE SAFETY CODE COURSE & WORKSHOP

• Feb. 20 – Mobile, AL

TROUBLE SHOOTING, SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE

• Feb. 13 – 14 – Kenner, LA

VIDEO SYSTEM TECHNOLOGIES

• Feb. 9 – 10 – Phoenix, AZ
• Feb. 10 – 11 – Charlotte, NC
• Feb. 13 – 14 – Knoxville, TN
• Feb. 16 – 17 – Baltimore, MD
• Feb. 17 – 18 – Atlanta, GA
• Feb. 17 – 18 – Dallas, TX
• Feb. 23 – 24 – Indianapolis, IN
• Feb. 24 – 25 – Erie, PA
• Feb. 24 – 25 – Seattle, WA

The Wisconsin Electronic Security Association (WIESA) is the latest state to take part in ESA’s Youth Scholarship Program. Since its inception in 1996, the association and its affiliated Chartered Chapters have awarded more than $300,000 in scholarships to students whose parents are police and fire officials.

“Pursuing a degree in today’s colleges is stressful enough.  College is becoming more and more difficult to afford – add to that the worry of tuition, books, housing and related expenses.  Scholarships are not merely financial aids; they also serve as opportunities for students to reach more than they aspire for.  It is the goal of WIESA to help offset some of that stress for two of Wisconsin’s hard working high school seniors,” said Maureen Mecham, WIESA scholarship coordinator.

According to Mecham, WIESA is participating in the Youth Scholarship Program simply because the chapter believes it important to give back to the men and women who put themselves in harm’s way on a daily basis in service to the community.

“We would like to say ‘Thank You’ by recognizing the academic and community achievements of two of their children through the WIESA Youth Scholarship program,” she said.

WEISA will award a $750 scholarship to a deserving son or daughter of both a police office and firefighter. One will be chosen to compete at the national level for an opportunity to win a $7,500 or $2,500 scholarship.

If your state is interested in taking part in this program, visit www.alarm.org/pubsafety/ysp or contact Jason Smith, ESA communications specialist, at (888) 447-1689 ext. 231.

In an increasingly competitive market, consumers have many options when it comes to choosing a security and life safety provider. Making your company standout amongst the rest is a necessity for success, and one national award will give you the tools. The Police Dispatch Quality (PDQ) Award highlights one company that demonstrates excellence in customer protection and it’s easy to apply. “Atronic Alarms was very excited to be recognized by the PDQ Award for our dedication to reducing false alarms,” said Perry Atha, President and Developer of Atronic Alarms, last year’s winner. “We have always made false alarm prevention a priority and we were able to implement the PDQ Award into our marketing initiatives to further validate this commitment to our current and potential clients, as well our team members.” “We were extremely pleased that the efforts at ADS to work closely with our customers and local law enforcement officials was nationally acknowledged and rewarded through the PDQ Award,” said Robert A. Bonifas, ADS President and CEO. ADS won the PDQ the year before last. “Through this recognition, our clients and local officials were able to clearly see the pledge to safety that we pride ourselves on.” Created by the Security Industry Alarm Coalition (SIAC) and the False Alarm Reduction Association (FARA), and co-sponsored by Security Sales & Integration Magazine and Honeywell Security, the 5th Annual PDQ Award will recognize one North American security company that best demonstrates a dedicated and cooperative effort to reduce unnecessary alarm dispatches. In conjunction with national and local marketing campaigns to promote the winning company, award organizers will also provide the winner with hotel and airfare accommodations to attend the award ceremony at the 2010 Electronic Security Expo where the presentation will be made in front of hundreds of industry professionals. “The PDQ Award is a great way to highlight your company from many different standpoints,” said Stan Martin, Executive Director of SIAC. ”We are firmly devoted to the principles behind the PDQ Award and will do all that we can to assist the winning company with getting the message out about their extraordinary efforts. We have simplified the nomination application and look forward to finding out who will be the next PDQ Award winner.” To participate in the 5th Annual PDQ Award, monitoring and/or installing alarm dealers in the U.S. and Canada may download an official application at www.siacinc.org. Once completed, simply return the application to SIAC by mail, postmarked by Feb. 28, 2010. Previous winners of the PDQ Award include Atronic Alarms, Alarm Detection Systems Inc., Broadview Security, and Vector Security.

The Installation Quality (IQ) Certification Program has announced the election of its 2010 Board of Directors and the election of officers.

The December vote added Michael Allen of Southern Utah Alarm as the newest member of the IQ Certification Board as well as Jackie Currier of Rapid Response Monitoring who served as a board member from 2007-2008. Deborah Sokol was elected to another two-year term.

Following are the 2010 IQ Certification Program Board of Directors with their terms in parentheses. Each elected IQ Board member will serve a two-year term.

• Timothy Creenan, (2009-10) Amherst Alarm
• Jacqueline Currier, (2010-11) Rapid Response Monitoring
• Ronald Galippo,  (2009-10) Total Watch Security, Inc.
• Dave Simon, (2009-10) Broadview Home Security
• Deborah Sokol. (2010-2011) Monitor Controls
• Michael Allen, (2010-2011) Southern Utah Alarm

The IQ Certification Board also re-appointed its three Public Safety Directors – Joseph  Benoit of the Greenwich Fire Department, Steven Heggemann of the Baltimore County Alarm Reduction Team and Matt Schue of the Oklahoma State Department of Health Alarm Division – to one-year terms.

The IQ Certification Board administers the IQ Certification Program and reviews each application for company certification and approves or denies certification based solely on the IQ Certification Guidelines. Board members prioritize initiatives for the year and determine the projects, activities and events to be undertaken.

Long-time board members, Dave Currie of Security Response Center and Gail Schreiner of Alarm Watch are retiring from the IQ Board this year. However, they will continue in new non-voting positions as committee chairs for Grievance and Membership respectively.

During the meeting, the board also elected officers from the board roster. Tim Creenan will again serve as chairman, Dave Simon will serve as vice chairman, Jackie Currier will serve as secretary and Deborah Sokol will serve as treasurer.

“We’ve made considerable progress these last few years in spreading the word of IQ as the leading installation quality certification program for security alarm systems, developing new marketing materials and adding new members,” said Dale Eller, executive director of the program. “The 2010 IQ Certification Board will continue the work in realizing our goals.”

Some of the goals for 2010 include working more closely with the industry associations and developing closer ties with the public safety community.

The much-anticipated ESA logo was unveiled during the ESA Update meeting on Wednesday, January 13.  Dave Simon, chairman of the Public Relations Committee, presented the logo with these remarks:   “This is an exciting time in our history – we’re moving forward, incorporating the technology of the future into our association.  With that came our name change in 2009 and now, ladies and gentlemen, let me present… the new logo.”

After a dramatic video presentation, Dave gave the rationale behind the logo:  “This logo was designed to represent our evolving security industry.  The shape evokes two light shields radiating protection and energy.  They represent ESA’s duty and mission to proactively protect its members and the environment in which they conduct business with the ultimate mission of enhancing public safety. The shields also create a unified formation just as the ESA is a force of unified companies who are the collective voice of the industry. The forward nature of our letterforms, symbolize our dedication to reaching beyond our present and looking always to the future. The colors represent authority, security and faithfulness which reflect the character of ESA.”

The new logo is available to members and chapters to use on company/chapter material and Web sites. To download the new logo, visit www.alarm.org and click on the link below the new logo announcement.

A record 200 plus industry leaders, chapter leaders, business owners and managers descended upon Fort Worth, Texas last week to take part in the annual ESA Leadership Summit.

It was a productive event that was packed with high-level association meetings, training seminars and social and networking events that left no one out of the fun. A full recap of all the exciting developments at this year’s event is provided below. Photos, presentations and documents from the event can also be downloaded by visiting the event recap pages online.

Many thanks to the Executive Strategic Partners who stepped up to sponsor individual events.  GE Security was the corporate sponsor, Honeywell sponsored the Leadership Awards dinner, ADI sponsored the networking lunch, Altronix sponsored the Chapter Appreciation Reception, and Security America Risk Retention Group and Diebold sponsored the Leadership Breakfast.

Board approves an ex-officio seat for Young Security Professionals

Recognizing the importance of Young Security Professionals (YSP) in the future of ESA, the board approved a motion to include the chairman of the YSPs as an ex-officio member.  Currently, Trevor McEnany serves as the YSP chair and will represent YSP in this position.

New format for next year’s Leadership Summit announced

At the State Leadership Breakfast on Wednesday morning, John Galante of AE Ventures presented the new format of the 2011 Leadership Summit.  The summit will be comprised of two parts:  a two-day hosted event followed by two days of the traditional Leadership Summit format.

The hosted event will be headed by AE Ventures. Integrator members of the ESA board of directors, executive committee, committee chairs and senior executives from the top-dollar volume members of ESA will be eligible for hosting benefits which include air fare, ground transportation in the host city, food and beverage and lodging. In recognition of these benefits, guests agree to attend all general sessions, boardroom presentations and one-on-one meetings with vendor sponsors. Vendors choosing boardroom sponsorships will have appointment times with senior decision makers from industry-leading companies. Sponsorship opportunities for social functions and general sessions are also available.

The second half of the event will feature two days of the valuable association meetings, social functions and topical seminars that all ESA members have come to appreciate and enjoy.

Leadership awards

ESA honored several outstanding individuals and states for their dedication to the electronic security industry during the 2010 Leadership Summit.

Instructor of the Year

Don Childers won this year’s Instructor of the Year award because of his tireless work on behalf of NTS.  He developed courses, got them approved by the necessary regulatory agencies, scheduled and promoted a statewide and year-long training program, all while never accepting any compensation for the hours of planning and instructing he personally conducted on behalf of his state and NTS. All of these accomplishments were done in a spirit of honest and humble service to the association and its members. Dom D’Ascoli, ESA Vice President/President-Elect, accepted the award on Don’s behalf.

State Training Coordinator of the Year

Because of his commitment to the training activities of his Chartered Chapter, John Yusza from Connecticut was awarded State Training Coordinator of the Year. His work developing the training program and coordination the state certified instructors, as well as taking on the responsibility of submitting NTS course materials to Connecticut for approval as an alternative to the State’s Apprenticeship Training Curriculum to submit earned him the honor. Accepting the award on John’s behalf were state Education Committee Chairman Joel Kent and Connecticut 1st Vice President Jason Sokol.

Chapter Newsletter of the Year

InSecurity, published by the Arizona Alarm Association won the Chapter Newsletter of the Year award for its effectiveness as a member communications service, well-written articles that convey helpful information and strong support of ESA activities, consistent distribution, and quality layout and design.

Maria Malice, president of the Arizona Alarm Association, accepted the award.

Executive Director of the Year

Gwen Clavelle from the Louisiana Life Safety and Security Association exhibited the characteristics necessary to win:  she clarifies the vision of the chapter and puts that vision into action, she solidifies the relationship between their chapter and the national association and is a leader within the security industry, her community and her personal spheres of influence. LLSSA President Mary Ferguson accepted the award on her behalf.

President of the Year

Because of her hard work and the ability to lead people from different backgrounds and the initiative she takes to get things done, Maria Malice was honored with the President of the Year award.  She was a driving force in doubling the chapter membership, hiring a lobbyist to work on state-wide licensing issues and making the chapter newsletter a leading newsletter among chapter newsletters.

Chapter of the Year

The chapter of the year award was bestowed on the Arizona Alarm Association because of its dedication to the betterment of, and unwavering loyalty to, the industry. Other criteria were effectiveness of meetings, engagement in industry issues at local, state and national levels, vision and results demonstrated by volunteer leadership and/or paid staff, effectiveness and quality of products and services provided to members, its communications, public relations, and government relations, its training and the networking opportunities it presents.

Cernium Corporation’s CheckVideo intelligent video solution for remote video monitoring is revolutionizing the way central stations monitor and verify alarms. Incorporating advanced video analytics at an affordable price, CheckVideo is a hosted solution with video management functionality that takes only minutes to configure, deploy and maintain. For over a decade, Cernium has brought advanced video technology to customers worldwide, from residential and small-medium business consumers to Fortune 100 manufacturers, government, healthcare, education, and major cultural institutions. For more information, visit www.cernium.com.

Madico’s SafetyShield Window Films stop intruders in their tracks. When struck, the glass will break, but not shatter, preventing the intruder from entering quickly, and leaving him wondering what to do next. In most cases, the answer is simple: move on. SafetyShield® 1500 is among the first films in the world to pass the UL972 standard for Anti-Intrusion – making it the easy choice to help secure your home or business from theft and intrusion. For more information, visit www.madico.com.

The Leads Network delivers home owner prospects who want to speak to you now about a home security system. These hot prospects are checked, filtered, guaranteed exclusive and delivered in real-time. They have agreed to speak to you and are waiting for your call right now. For more information, visit www.theleadsnetwork.com.

The road to certification, training and professionalism begins with NTS. Courses are offered nationwide in the classroom and online. Get your career path started in the right direction. Sign up for classes today!

Complete course descriptions (and schedules) are available at www.alarm.org in the Education & Training section. Individuals in states where classes are not currently offered, and who are interested in receiving training, should contact NTS.

ADVANCED BURGLAR ALARM TECHNICIAN

• Feb. 11 – 12 – Brookfield, WI

CENTRAL STATION TRAINING

• Jan. 30 – Monroe, LA

CERTIFIED ALARM TECHNICIAN

• Jan. 29 – 31 – Nashville, TN
• Feb. 11 – 13 – Jackson, MS
• Feb. 17 – 19 – Long Island, NY
• Feb. 26 – 28 – Bossier City, LA

ELECTRONIC ACCESS CONTROL

• Jan. 28 – 29 – Birmingham, AL
• Feb. 26 – 27 – Jackson, MS

FIRE ALARM INSTALLATION METHODS

• Feb. 3 – 5 – Long Island, NY
• Feb. 18 – 19 – Birmingham, AL
• Feb. 20 – 21 – Monroe, LA
• Feb. 26 – 27 – Memphis, TN

LIFE SAFETY CODE COURSE & WORKSHOP

• Feb. 20 – Mobile, AL

TROUBLE SHOOTING, SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE

• Jan. 30 – 31 – Lafayette, LA
• Feb. 13 – 14 – Kenner, LA

VIDEO SYSTEM TECHNOLOGIES

• Feb. 2 – 3 – Los Angeles, CA
• Feb. 2 – 3 – New Orleans, LA
• Feb. 4 – 5 – Birmingham, AL
• Feb. 9 – 10 – Phoenix, AZ
• Feb. 10 – 11 – Charlotte, NC
• Feb. 13 – 14 – Knoxville, TN
• Feb. 16 – 17 – Baltimore, MD
• Feb. 17 – 18 – Atlanta, GA
• Feb. 17 – 18 – Dallas, TX
• Feb. 23 – 24 – Indianapolis, IN
• Feb. 24 – 25 – Erie, PA
• Feb. 24 – 25 – Seattle, WA

Tri-Ed COO Pat Comunale welcomes the Tri-Ed team to its Annual Sales Meeting.

Team Tri-Ed convened on Marco Island, Florida December 4th through 7th for its Annual North American Sales Meeting. With over 150 Tri-Ed staff and supplier partners participating, the weekend was a highly successful gathering for team-building and 2010 planning.

“Tri-Ed has an outstanding staff and tremendous partnerships with our suppliers,” says COO Pat Comunale. “I am so proud of their efforts and accomplishments. Our annual Sales Meeting is always a great opportunity for us all to come together as a team. As we look ahead to 2010 our cohesiveness and focus will give us tremendous momentum to execute again in the New Year.”

Tri-Ed President Steve Roth and COO Pat Comunale kicked off the meeting which included presentations by motivational speaker Gregg Baron and Olympic Gold Medalist Jeff Blatnick. Emmy-winner and Grammy-nominated drummer Tom McWilliams also inspired the crowd with an incredible guest performance.

The meeting featured regional breakout sessions, Olympic team-building activities with Tri-Ed employees and suppliers, and a Karaoke party complete with a Tri-Ed panel of judges. Many of Tri-Ed’s valued vendor partners supported the meeting with game show- themed training sessions, a tabletop expo, as well as event and entertainment sponsorships.

The weekend wrapped up with the annual Awards Dinner. Tri-Ed’s Boston branch took home the President’s Cup, and over 30 employees were honored with awards for their achievement.

Tri-Ed has served customers and the life safety security sector longer than any other distributor in the industry. As North America’s largest independent wholesale distributor of security and low voltage products, Tri-Ed offers superior customer service, same day shipping, flexible credit terms, online ordering, customer appreciation events and programs, technical systems support, and ongoing product training. For more information, visit www.tri-ed.com.

Tri-Ed is pleased to announce the expansion of its Northeast footprint with the opening of two more branch locations in the Washington, DC area and Long Island.

The new Metro-DC branch is set to open in January and will serve customers in the surrounding areas of Northern Virginia, Maryland and Washington, D.C. Industry veterans Bob Farquhar will serve as Branch Manager, and Tonya Robinson-Hartline as Business Development Manager. The branch is located at 8245-E Backlick Road in Lorton, VA and can be reached at 703-339-2149.

The Plainview, New York branch is set to open in February and will be managed by Stratos Mitsopoulos. This branch will serve customers on Long Island and in the metropolitan New York area. It is located at 303 Sunnyside Blvd. Suite 50 in Plainview, NY and can be reached at 516-330-5575.

“Tri-Ed continues to grow and expand its U.S. footprint. We look forward to serving our new customers in both the Metro-D.C. and Long Island areas, and exceeding their expectations every day,” says Pat Comunale, COO.

Tri-Ed offers superior customer service, same day shipping, flexible credit terms, online ordering, customer appreciation events and programs, technical systems support, and ongoing product training. Tri-Ed has served customers and the life safety security sector longer than any other distributor in the industry. For more information, visit www.tri-ed.com