13th Annual Sammy Awards 2008

View the 2008 SAMMY Winners and Finalist Entries

Security Sales & Integration Magazine — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 16:35:38 GMT

Click on the thumbnails to view entries by the 2008 SAMMY Awards winners and finalists!

Integrated Installation of the Year sponsored by

WINNER! Benson Systems — Gilbert, Ariz.

Convergint Technologies — Schaumburg, Ill.

Overall Marketing Campaign sponsored by

WINNER! HSM - A Stanley Works Company — Lisle, Ill.

ADS Security — Nashville, Tenn.

Benson Systems — Gilbert, Ariz.

Commercial/ Industrial Sales Brochure sponsored by

WINNER! HSM - A Stanley Works Company — Lisle, Ill.

ASG Security — Beltsville, Md.

Diebold Inc. — Canton, Ohio

FMSystems Inc. — Medina, Ohio

Residential Sales Brochure sponsored by

WINNER! ASG Security — Beltsville, Md.

AAA Alarms Systems Ltd. — Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada

Security One & Associates — Woodstock, Ga.

Newspaper/ Yellow-Page Advertisement sponsored by

WINNER! Guardian Protection Services Inc. — Warrendale, Pa.

ASG Security — Beltsville, Md.

Benson Systems — Gilbert, Ariz.

HSM - A Stanley Works Company — Lisle, Ill.

Web Site Design sponsored by

WINNER! Provident Security & Event Management Corp. — Vancouver, B.C. Canada

Alarm Detection Services — Aurora, Ill.

HSM - A Stanley Works Company — Lisle, Ill.

Vehicle Graphics Design sponsored by

WINNER! Hatton Security Services — Greeley, Colo.

Amherst Alarm Inc. — Amherst, N.Y.

Priority 1 — Fort Wayne, Ind.

Promotional Giveaway Item sponsored by

WINNER! ASG Security — Beltsville, Md.

Benson Systems — Gilbert, Ariz.

HSM - A Stanley Works Company — Lisle, Ill.

Company Newsletter sponsored by

WINNER! SecurTek Monitoring Solutions — Yorkton, S.K., Canada

Interface Security Systems — Earth City, Mo.

Safeguard Security — Scottsdale, Ariz.

Vector Security Inc. — Warrendale, Pa.

Community Service Program sponsored by

WINNER! ASG Security — Beltsville, Md.

HSM - A Stanley Works Company — Lisle, Ill.

Per Mar Security Services — Davenport, Iowa

Company Logo Design sponsored by

WINNER! ASG Security — Beltsville, Md.

SAFE Security — San Ramon, Calif.

Shepherd Security Systems Inc. — New Providence, N.J.

Television/ Radio Advertisement sponsored by

WINNER! Guardian Protection Services Inc. - Warrendale, Pa.

AAA Alarms Systems Inc. - Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada

Benson Systems - Gilbert, Ariz.

2008 SAMMY Awards Gallery

Security Sales & Integration Magazine — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 16:19:22 GMT

This gallery contains photos from the 2008 SAMMY Awards ceremony, held at the Venetian Resort Hotel Casino in Las Vegas on the eve of ISC West (April 1). Click to view.

2008 SAMMY Winners Announced

Security Sales & Integration Magazine — Mon, 07 Apr 2008 17:59:47 GMT

Security Sales & Integration announces the esteemed winners of its 13th Annual SAMMY Awards. The event was held on the eve of ISC West in Las Vegas (April 1) to recognize security dealers and systems integrators who exemplify professionalism in their sales, marketing and installation endeavors.

SSI would like to thank program sponsors Altronix, Honeywell Security, ADI, Fire-Lite, TRI-ED and ISC Expo for helping make the 2008 SAMMY Awards possible.

To view the 2008 SAMMY winners, click here.

Come Visit SSI at the SAMMYs, ISC West

Security Sales & Integration Magazine — Fri, 28 Mar 2008 22:39:35 GMT

Security Sales & Integration invites you to join the many security professionals in attendance at the 13th SAMMY Awards. The free event will be held at the Venetian Resort Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas on April 1 — the eve of opening day at ISC West. Don’t forget to bring your business card for a chance to win a $100 VISA gift card!

The annual program honors security dealers and systems integrators who exemplify professionalism in their sales, marketing and installation endeavors.

The ceremony will open at 4:30 p.m. with hors d’oeuvres and beverages, and will offer a chance to meet and greet security professionals from across United States.

SSI would like to thank program sponsors Altronix, Honeywell Security, ADI, Fire-Lite and TRI-ED for helping make the 2008 SAMMY Awards possible.

Be sure to stop by booth No. 17145 to visit the SSI team attending ISC West.

To view the 2008 SAMMY Awards Finalists, click here.

Kick Off ISC West With the SAMMY Awards!

Security Sales & Integration Magazine — Fri, 29 Feb 2008 17:36:40 GMT

Security Sales & Integration invites you to attend its 13th SAMMY Awards held at the Venetian Resort Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas on April 1 — the eve of opening day at ISC West.

The annual program honors security dealers and systems integrators who exemplify professionalism in their sales, marketing and installation endeavors.

All are welcome to attend the free event. The ceremony will open at 4:30 p.m. with hors d’oeuvres and beverages, and will offer a chance to meet and greet security professionals from across United States.

SSI would like to thank program sponsors Altronix, Honeywell Security, ADI, Fire-Lite and TRI-ED for helping make the 2008 SAMMY Awards possible.

To view the 2008 SAMMY Awards Finalists, click here.

Alarm Detection Systems Wins 2008 PDQ Award

Security Sales & Integration Magazine — Tue, 19 Feb 2008 15:49:22 GMT

FRISCO, Texas -- Alarm Detection Systems Inc. (ADS), of Aurora, Ill., has been presented with the 2008 Police Dispatch Quality (PDQ) Award, announced the Security Industry Alarm Coalition (SIAC) and the False Alarm Reduction Association (FARA). Co-sponsored by Honeywell Security and Security Sales & Integration magazine, the PDQ Award recognizes the security company that best demonstrates a proactive and cooperative effort to reduce unnecessary alarm dispatches.

“We are extremely pleased that the ADS team effort to work closely with our customers has been rewarded through the 2008 PDQ Award,” says Robert Bonifas, ADS president and CEO. “The award also recognizes our collaboration with local government and law enforcement officials.”

“More and more alarm companies are adopting practices that significantly reduce false alarm dispatches,” says Norma C. Beaubien, president of FARA. “All the PDQ entries reflected this positive trend, yet ADS stood out for its focus on working directly with customers to reduce false dispatches.”

ADS was chosen as the winner due to their voluntary implementation of such alarm reduction strategies as the installation of CP-01 compliant control panels, use of Enhanced Call Verification, making contact with customers after every false alarm, the creation of a dedicated alarm reduction team that compiles statistics on alarm usage, individual review of accounts with alarm issues, and site visits to customers with a high number of unnecessary alarm dispatches.

“During these visits, ADS determines the cause of the problem and provides a solution," Beaubien added. "In addition, ADS has created a customer education program which focuses on preventive measures to reduce false dispatches.”

“As alarm reduction strategies are being debated by local governments across the nation, ADS demonstrates that new and cooperative approaches between security companies, law enforcement officials and customers can deliver powerful results,” says Stan Martin, executive director of SIAC.

The official award ceremony for the 2008 PDQ Award will take place on the eve of the International Security Conference and Exposition (ISC West) in Las Vegas, Nev. on April 1. Previous winners include Brinks Home Security and Vector Security.

2007 SAMMY Slideshow Presentation

Security Sales & Integration Magazine — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 19:26:02 GMT

2007 SAMMY Awards Gallery

Security Sales & Integration Magazine — Tue, 12 Feb 2008 23:26:29 GMT

This gallery contains photos from the 2007 SAMMY Awards ceremony, held at the Venetian Resort Hotel Casino in Las Vegas on the eve of ISC West 2007. Click to view.

2006 SAMMY Awards Gallery

Security Sales & Integration Magazine — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 21:38:46 GMT

This gallery contains photos from the 2006 SAMMY Awards ceremony, held at the Venetian Resort Hotel Casino in Las Vegas on the eve of ISC West 2006. Click to view.

2008 SAMMY Finalists Announced!

Security Sales & Integration Magazine — Fri, 08 Feb 2008 23:23:32 GMT

Security Sales & Integration is proud to announce the finalists for the 2008 SAMMY Awards. The program honors security dealers and systems integrators who exemplify professionalism in their sales, marketing and installation endeavors.

SSI will announce the winners at free awards ceremony in Las Vegas on April 1 — the eve of opening day at ISC West. The event will be held in the Casanova Conference Room 601 at the Venetian Resort Hotel Casino and will begin at 4:30 p.m. with hors d’ oeuvres and refreshments.

The celebration will also feature the induction of the newest SSI Hall of Fame members, along with the presentation of the annual Police Dispatch Quality (PDQ) Award.

SSI would like to thank program sponsors Altronix, Honeywell Security, NAPCO Security, ADI, Fire-Lite, TRI-ED and the NBFAA for helping make the 2008 SAMMY Awards possible.

To view the 2008 finalists, click here.

2008 SAMMY - Call For Entries

Security Sales & Integration Magazine — Mon, 27 Aug 2007 20:13:34 GMT

Be Recognized for What You Do Best!

The entry form for the 13th Annual Security Sales & Integration's SAMMY Awards is now available.

Click here to download the form today.

2007 SAMMY Finalists & Winners

Security Sales & Integration Magazine — Mon, 27 Aug 2007 20:01:57 GMT

View the complete 2007 SAMMY Finalists

View the complete 2007 SAMMY Winners

View the 2007 Residential Installation of the Year

View the 2007 Commercial Installation of the Year

HSM Secures Top SAMMY Award for Second Straight Year

Security Sales & Integration Magazine — Wed, 22 Aug 2007 22:08:28 GMT

Mar 27, 2007, LAS VEGAS -- For the second year in a row, HSM left SSI’s SAMMY (Sales and Marketing) Awards banquet with the most hardware, including the top prize of “Overall Integrated Marketing Program.”

The 12th annual awards ceremony was held at the Venetian Casino Resort conference March 27, the evening before ISC West kicked off. While esteemed alarm industry professionals in attendance witnessed HSM also take home the “Integrated Commercial/Industrial Installation of the Year,” there was plenty of love to spread around as no other company won multiple trophies.

Guardian Protection Systems and The Protection Bureau won a trophy each, for “Commercial/Industrial Sales Brochure” and “Company Logo Design” respectively, repeating as honorees for the second consecutive year. Guardian’s victory kept its consecutive winning streak alive at four.

Winners hail from eight different states spread across the nation and even included an international winner, AAA Alarm Systems of Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, for “Company Newsletter.”

Stay tuned for the June issue of SSI for a more in-depth look at all the pomp and pageantry that was the 2007 SAMMY Awards.

SSI’s 2007 SAMMY Awards in Motion, Entries Welcome

Security Sales & Integration Magazine — Sat, 02 Sep 2006 19:56:25 GMT

TORRANCE, Calif. - Security Sales & Integration magazine is putting out the call for entries to the 12th Annual SAMMY Awards. As the security industry’s original sales, marketing and installation awards program, dealers and integrators are urged to tout their successes and accomplishments.

A panel of judges will select the top nominees in each of 12 categories among dealers and integrators who exemplify professionalism in their sales, marketing and installation efforts. The winners will be named in a gala awards ceremony in Las Vegas on March 27, 2007 — the eve of opening day at ISC West.

Grand prizes will be given for Integrated Residential Installation of the Year, Integrated Commercial/Industrial Installation of the Year and Integrated Marketing Program of the Year. Check out SSI’s June 2006 issue for a close-up look at the winners of the 11th annual SAMMYs spectacular.

Entries for the 2007 awards program are due Dec. 31. Entering the SAMMYs is free and open to North American professional installing dealers and integrators only.

For more information, including rules and entry forms, see page 23 in the print version or visit www.thesammyawards.com, contact SSI at (310) 533-2400 or E-mail secsales@bobit.com.

2006 SAMMY Finalists & Winners

Security Sales & Integration Magazine — Sun, 27 Aug 2006 20:01:57 GMT

View the complete 2006 SAMMY Finalists

View the complete 2006 SAMMY Winners

View the 2006 Residential Installation of the Year

View the 2006 Commercial Installation of the Year

Special Report: Sultans of Sammys Strive to Build Their Brands

Security Sales & Integration Magazine — Thu, 08 Jun 2006 19:54:52 GMT

SAMMY (Sales and Marketing) Award winners say the competition is getting fierce, as more and more companies step up to the plate and take a swing at creating a brand image, boosting name recognition and increasing sales with consistency in their marketing campaigns. Some thank the SAMMYs program for helping to raise the bar.

While product and service sales have been a main focus with past SAMMY entries, this year’s participants appear to be more image-focused. For example, Security Solutions’ winning yellow-page entry was a branding ad. It was not designed to necessarily have people pick up the phone and call. It was created so people would recognize the name and have the image of the company’s sign “branded” in their minds when they decide to purchase a security system.

Also, this year’s winner for best Promotional Giveaway Item, The Protection Bureau of Exton, Pa., intends to focus on an across-the-board marketing plan in 2006 by giving its marketing materials the same look and feel. “We market for name recognition more than individual sale,” says J. Matthew Ladd, president of The Protection Bureau. While branding or image building is not specific criteria for every SAMMY entry, it is part of the requirements for one award: Overall Integrated Marketing Program. The criteria for this category included an overall central marketing theme that’s used company-wide and builds name recognition. Originality and innovation were other requirements .

By entering several SAMMYs categories, HSM Electronic Protection Services of Jupiter, Fla., was able to demonstrate its unique, yet consistent themes and appeal. HSM earned two SAMMYs this year, including the overall marketing program and commercial sales brochure, and was a finalist in five other categories.

“While certain design elements — such as logo representation, color schemes, fonts and other components — remain consistent across our marketing, as is apparent from the spread of work produced, at HSM, marketing integration does not mean everything has to appear exactly the same,” says Rebecca Covert, HSM’s director of marketing. “Although every item of our work is different in some respect, it all comes together to project a strong and cohesive brand image for HSM.”

Branding is an especially important marketing element for security and integration companies because these firms need to impart trust, peace of mind, staying power and professionalism. Plus, many sales leads come from word of mouth. Thus, branding is certainly about a solid campaign, but it’s also about having the right people out there promoting the company and building the image.

According to Mary Lynn Moriarity, marketing director for Guardian Protection Services of Pittsburgh, “Guardian’s overall strategy is to bring to market cutting-edge products and technology supported not only by outstanding advertising and selling tools, but by knowledgeable sales representatives, a highly skilled installation force and a well-trained customer care team. A great marketing strategy cannot operate or be successful if it’s flying without support from every other area in the company.”

While word of mouth is a key to increased sales, it’s important to have a balance of direct sales. This means a direct sales team needs materials to help support its efforts. Bob Ryan, vice president of sales and marketing for ASG Security in Beltsville, Md., says, “Our overall marketing strategy is to utilize marketing collateral and resource material to increase the effectiveness of our direct sales force. This grass roots level approach is highly targeted, direct and cost effective. Our Web site then serves as reinforcer to our field marketing material and vice versa.”

Whatever sales and marketing is done, SAMMY winners agree it’s important for company marketers to know their market(s), have a marketing strategy, and track what is done so they know what’s working and where to continue spending marketing dollars. According to Dave Merrick, marketing director for Vector Security of Pittsburgh, you should give a campaign at least three months, though six months is better.

“You improve your reach and recognition factors immensely after three months. Chart your progress, lead generation and sales dollars. That begins with the taking of the lead, and continues to the completion of the sale,” says Merrick. Vector earned this year’s SAMMY for best Company Newsletter. In total, the company has earned this award four out of the five years it has entered the competition.

Most SAMMY winners also reported they’ve seen noticeable improvements in the quality and content of security and integration marketing. “I’d like to think the SAMMYs have had something to do with marketing improvements,” says Moriarity. “They’ve given us a stage on which to showcase our best work and, thus, have become a motivator.”

Ryan agrees, “The SAMMYs have become the hallmark for recognition of our industry’s best marketing achievements. It is becoming increasingly competitive each year.” Ryan also believes industry consolidation has played a big role in increasing the industry’s overall marketing approach. “The aggressive consolidation within our industry the past few years has resulted in the emergence of a lot of new and original marketing work,” says Ryan. “There have been several significant re-branding campaigns with some of the larger companies, including our own. As a result, I think we are seeing a peak in marketing creativity that is very healthy for the business.”

Ryan makes a good point. When one company boosts its credibility, it boosts credibility for the whole industry. The 2006 SAMMYs are over. Now it’s time to plan for 2007.

How will you raise the bar? For SAMMYs information and entry requirements, including categories, judging criteria, past event coverage, etc., visit www.thesammyawards.com.

HSM Leads Trophy Winners at 2006 SAMMYs

Security Sales & Integration Magazine — Thu, 04 May 2006 19:53:31 GMT

LAS VEGAS — As the 11th group of SAMMY winners was named, three initials were heard more than any other: HSM.

Jupiter, Fla.-based HSM Electronic Protection Services Inc. took home two awards at the 11th Annual SAMMY (Sales and Marketing) Awards on April 4, including the top marketing prize of Overall “Integrated Marketing Program.”

Now an ISC West-eve tradition, a standing-room capacity crowd of alarm industry professionals filled the conference room at the Venetian Casino Resort for the SAMMYs to honor the best installation and marketing efforts of their peers.

In addition to the top marketing award, HSM was honored for having the top commercial/industrial sales brochure.

While HSM had a big night, there were still plenty of awards to go around as HSM was the only multiple-award winner for the evening.

Pittsburgh’s Guardian Protection Systems continued its SAMMYs streak by winning the award for Sales Brochure: Residential. It was the third-straight year that Guardian has won a SAMMY, which is the longest current streak of any company.

An extensive integrated system installed at the Hyundai Motor Manufacturing plant in Montgomery, Ala., won hometown integrator Vision Southeast the SAMMY for Integrated Commercial/Industrial Installation of the Year.

On the other side of the country, the SAMMY for Integrated Residential Installation of the Year will receive an honored place in the Norco, Calif., offices of Ultrasafe Security. The contractor installed a massive integrated security system for the 350-estate Morningside Community in Rancho Mirage, Calif.

Pick up the June of SSI for full coverage of the SAMMYs and the July issue for exclusive looks at the installations of the year.

PDQ Award Verifies Vector’s False Alarm Initiative

Security Sales & Integration Magazine — Tue, 21 Mar 2006 19:57:30 GMT

Vector Security Inc. of Pittsburgh has captured the inaugural Police Dispatch Quality Award (PDQ) for its demonstrated commitment to and excellence in minimizing false police dispatches. The award was announced jointly by organizers the Security Industry Alarm Coalition (SIAC), False Alarm Reduction Association (FARA) and Security Sales & Integration.

Vector was cited for implementing a comprehensive 12-step plan that resulted in a reduction of annual dispatches per account from 1.37 to .8. The program includes internal and external training; counseling offenders; inspecting system designs; enhanced call verification (ECV); user introductory training periods; and new technology involving control panels compliant with the Security Industry Association (SIA) CP-01 standard.

Vector President John Murphy was thrilled about winning the honor, and lauded his dedicated personnel for the achievement.

“I’m delighted! It’s really a credit to the staff we have here. Vector is a true team. Pat Killian (false alarm program manager) has already won an award as the FARA alarm person of the year and she has some people, such as Derrick Jackson and Afornia Hawthorne, who do a great, great job,” says Murphy. “Pam Petrow runs our central stations and this success is also a result of how well she trains her people.”

SIAC, FARA and SSI launched the PDQ program in 2005 to stem the false alarm problem by recognizing those installing and monitoring companies that follow established industry practices and partner with law enforcement to achieve the highest quality in police dispatch requests. The goal is to raise industry-wide awareness, motivate alarm companies to be proactive and provide models that work for others to follow.

“SIAC and FARA are very pleased with all of the applicants for the inaugural PDQ Award. The submissions clearly show that there are many alarm companies that take false alarms seriously and make false alarm reduction a part of their integral business plans,” says FARA President Norma Beaubien of the Montgomery County (Md.) Police Department. “It is our hope that others can and will learn from the PDQ Award winners how they, too, can become part of the solution.”

Vector has developed an integrated approach to alarm management, which involves every facet of the company. Sales, installation, service, monitoring and management all bear responsibility for seeking and implementing solutions. It all trickles down from the top, as Murphy has made the false alarm issue a personal crusade.

“We track the 10 highest false alarm abusers each month and also the 10 highest year to date. That makes 400 alarm situations each month that I personally review with my managers,” says Murphy. “It is an enormous investment we make; we spend a lot of time doing it. I encourage other companies to do the same thing.”

As PDQ winner, Vector — which has in excess of 150,000 residential and commercial customers throughout the Mid- Atlantic states and also services 50 of North America’s most well-known retailers — will be formally recognized with a special plaque at the SAMMY Awards gala April 4 at 4:30 p.m. at the Venetian Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas to kick off ISC West. A representative from the company will receive a $1,000 check from PDQ sponsor Honeywell to make the journey.

Custom Alarm of Rochester, Minn., was the PDQ runner-up after notching a 17.6-percent decrease in false alarms and a 42.3 percent cut in false dispatches. Overland, Kansas- based Atronic Alarms was the other finalist, receiving attention for creating a Quality Assurance Department whose primary purpose is to address false alarms following each installation.

“We are grateful to all those alarm companies that submitted applications for the PDQ Award. Public safety personnel across the United States are grateful for their dedication and commitment to reducing false alarms, which in turn increases officer safety and allows us to focus our efforts on other crime prevention initiatives,” adds Beaubien.

Be sure to see the May issue of SSI for a detailed profile of Vector’s false dispatch program as well as highlights of the other finalists’ schemes.

Join the Celebration at Sammys

Security Sales & Integration Magazine — Tue, 21 Mar 2006 19:51:57 GMT

There are many spoils that go with winning a SAMMY Award. For last year’s winner of the Commercial/Industrial Brochure category Life Safety Engineered Systems President Robert Vezina, that included clearing his good name on Google.

Vezina and his Buffalo, N.Y., alarm firm rose to the top of the Google search engine on the Web after their win. You can join the winners in their excitement at this year’s free Security Sales & Integration SAMMY (Sales and Marketing) Awards at Las Vegas’ Venetian Hotel and Resort on the eve of this year’s International Security Conference (ISC) West.

Until now, Vezina had topped Google for the false accusations made by his former employer that he competed unfairly against them — a charge that was rejected in court. Winning the SAMMY proved to have an unexpected benefit for Vezina. Google his name now and leading the way is a mention that his company won a SAMMY.

“Since it seems everyone does a Google search on someone that they are anticipating doing business with, the award is a very positive benefit,” Vezina says. “The SAMMYs award program is very worthwhile because it encourages our industry to strive for marketing excellence.”

That SAMMY award, sitting atop the receptionist’s desk, is the first thing anyone sees when they walk into Life Safety Engineered Systems’ office. However, the value of winning a SAMMY is much more than just a trophy. The annual SAMMY Awards ceremony has become a favorite event during ISC West and a must for attendees.

This year’s awards saw a multitude of entries that exceeded that seen before. At the same time, there are many multiple-category finalists this year, including one electronic security company that racked up six nominations.

To jump ahead and see a complete list of this year’s finalists, go to page 82 of the print version of Security Sales & Integration magazine.

SAMMY Victors Are Recognized as Being Leading-Edge Companies
What does a company receive for winning a SAMMY? For starters, they receive a loud, boisterous ovation from their peers in what is always a standing-room crowd at the awards ceremony. There’s also that beautiful crystal trophy or plaque.

But any alarm professional that has seen their company win a SAMMY in its 11 years of existence will be quick to say that winning or even just being a finalist for the award has a long-term impact on their success. They’re part of an exclusive club of SAMMY honorees.

Winners and finalists end up being profiled in the pages of Security Sales & Integration magazine. Vezina says that also becomes a selling point, as he still hands out copies of his SAMMYs wrap-up coverage appearance in SSI.

Tom Brigham knows quite a bit about what it takes to be one of the top companies in the electronic security industry. Brigham has represented several of them as co-founder of Woodland Hills, Calif.-based public relations firm Brigham Scully. He also knows what it takes to win a SAMMY, as for the fourth-straight year he served on the judges’ panel that determined this year’s winners (see box on page 80 of the print version of Security Sales & Integration magzine). Brigham says those named SAMMY finalists and winners can never have that taken away from them, and it could prove to be a strong selling point to draw in customers and revenue.

Free Awards Ceremony a Must for Any ISC West Attendee
Coming a little less than a month after Hollywood gathers among the glitz and glamour of the Oscars, alarm dealers and integrators, and those who make their products, have their own date with destiny at the annual SAMMY Awards ceremony. Those attending need not worry about wearing a tux — the mode of dress has always ranged from casual to dressy.

While there may not be a red carpet, it’s also much cheaper to attend the SAMMYs as long as one has a way of getting to Las Vegas for ISC West. Even after 11 years, some still ask at the door how much it costs to go inside and attend the SAMMY Awards ceremony. The answer is nothing. The SAMMY Awards are free!

The annual ceremony not only features the revealing of this year’s SAMMY winners, but also the formal induction of this year’s additions to the SSI Hall of Fame (see the January issue). For the first time, this year’s event will also include the award ceremony for the inaugural Police Dispatch Quality Award (PDQ).

Not only does the free admission include the excitement of the ceremony itself, but also a free selection of drinks and hors d’oeuvres. Probably more valuable than the free food, however, are some of the best networking opportunities one will find at ISC West.

Those who attend the SAMMYs will bump shoulders with some of the top names and figures in the electronic security industry — not only among dealers and integrators, but also among the manufacturers, distributors and other security professionals.

It all adds up to building the SAMMYs reputation as a must go-to event at ISC West.

HSM, Guardian Protection, ADT Among Top Finalists in 2006
A year ago, HSM Electronic Protection Services was still known as Honeywell Security Monitoring and still getting its feet wet as an independent entity after Honeywell sold off its monitoring unit in 2004.

This year, those representing HSM at the SAMMY Awards will have a hard time keeping their seats warm with the number of chances they have of winning. HSM has made SAMMY history as one of the most-honored finalists in the awards program’s history. The company is a finalist in six of the 12 categories, including for Overall “Integrated Marketing Program” and the grand prize of Commercial/Industrial Integrated Installation of the Year. Perennial SAMMYs contender Guardian Protection Services of Pittsburgh has made another strong showing in this year’s awards program with three nominations, equaling that of alarm-systems powerhouse ADT.

Also receiving multiple nominations are Exton, Pa.-based The Protection Bureau, fellow Pennsylvanians Vector Security of Pittsburgh, and Green Brook, N.J.’s Haig Security Systems. All three companies were finalists in two categories.

Join the winners, finalists and the rest of your peers at the 11th Annual SAMMY Awards in Casanova Conference Room 601 of the Venetian at 4:30 p.m. on April 4. For more information on the SAMMYs, or to start contemplating your entry for the 2007 awards, go to www.thesammyawards.com.

Vector to Be Honored for Stopping False Alarms
Vector Security Inc. will be honored as the first-ever winner of the Police Dispatch Quality Award (PDQ) at this year’s SAMMY Award ceremonies!
PDQ sponsor Honeywell Security will pay for a representative from Vector to travel to Las Vegas for the ceremony.
For more on what set Vector apart and more on the PDQ program, go to page 15 of the print version of Security Sales & Integration magazine and see the May issue of SSI.

Here Come the Judges A collection of judges consisting of some of the top security industry marketing/PR representatives plowed through the stacks of nominees for this year’s SAMMYs to determine the entries that stood out as winners.
Here’s a little bit of info about each member of this year’s SAMMYs jury. The publisher, editors and rest of Security Sales & Integration’s staff give their heartfelt thanks for their time and effort.

Tom Brigham, principal of Brigham Scully Communications
Tom Brigham started Brigham Scully Advertising and Public Relations in 1974. The agency was named HID Corp.’s Vendor of the Year in 1998.
Today, among other clients, the agency provides communications services to security industry leaders GE Security, Ingersoll Rand Security Technologies’ Schlage electronic locking systems and biometric groups, Delta Scientific and Zebra Card Printer Solutions.

Jon Daum, co-founder of Daum Weigle
Jon Daum is a partner and co-founder of Daum Weigle Inc., a San Diego-based public relations agency. Founded in 1986, the agency specializes in security industry clients, having worked for numerous manufacturers and system integrators since 1990.
Daum also works with clients in the areas of law enforcement and computer software. He began his career as a reporter covering government for newspapers in San Diego County. Daum graduated from San Diego State University with a bachelor’s degree in Journalism.

Richard Hahn, president of Richard Hahn & Associates
Richard Hahn has been involved in the security industry for more than 15 years, working in both editorial and marketing areas.
He is president of Richard Hahn & Associates, a marketing communication company specializing in the alarm industry and offering a full line of strategic and creative services, including marketing, public relations, advertising and design.

Beverly Steinberg, president of GBL Public Relations
Beverly Steinberg founded GBL Public Relations in 1980. She is responsible for corporate communications as well as marketing for firms in the security, personal care, automotive, financial, HVAC and home building industries.
Steinberg lives in Southern California with husband Gary. They have two daughters, one living in New York City, and the other in Boulder, Colo.

Honoring the Legends of the Industry
The following security industry greats will be honored at the 11th Annual SAMMY Awards as this year’s inductees into Security Sales & Integration’s Hall of Fame:

Ken Boyda, prime builder of Interlogix and GE Security
Digital Monitoring Products (DMP) President/CEO Rick Britton
CCTV industry guru Bob Wimmer

11th Annual SAMMY Awards Finalists
Security Sales & Integration is proud to present the final nominees for the 2006 SAMMYs! Winners will be announced during a free ceremony at 4:30 p.m. on April 4 at Las Vegas’ Venetian Hotel and Resort.
Look for a complete round-up of the winners in the June issue.

Installation Awards

Integrated Commercial/Industrial Installation of the Year
Sponsored by NAPCO Security

HSM Electronic Protection Services — Jupiter, Fla.
Tech Systems — Duluth, Ga.
Vision Southeast — Birmingham, Ala.

Integrated Residential Installation of the Year
Sponsored by NAPCO Security

A-1 Security — Las Vegas
Kourt Security Partners — Lancaster, Pa.
Ultrasafe Security — Norco, Calif.

Marketing Awards

Overall “Integrated Marketing Program”
Sponsored by Honeywell Security

ADT — Boca Raton, Fla.
HSM Electronic Protection Services
Vector Security — Pittsburgh

Sales Brochure: Commercial/Industrial
Sponsored by Bosch Security

HSM Electronic Protection Services.
The Protection Bureau — Exton, Pa.
Unisource Document/Secure Identity — Lenexa, Kansas

Sales Brochure: Residential
Sponsored by ADI

ADT
Connective Home — Brookhaven, Pa.
Guardian Protection Services — Pittsburgh

Newspaper/Yellow-Page Advertisement
Sponsored by Alarm Capital Alliance

Allstate Security Industries — Amarillo, Texas
Custom Alarm — Rochester, Minn.
Security Solutions Inc. — Norwalk, Conn.

Company Newsletter
Sponsored by Altronix

Dillard Door & Security — Memphis, Tenn.
SecureTek — Yorkton, Saskatchewan, Canada
Vector Security

Television/Radio Advertisement
Sponsored by Dedicated Micros

ADT
Advanced Security — Janesville, Wis.
Guardian Protection Services
HSM Electronic Protection Services

Web Site Design
Sponsored by Fire-Lite Alarms

Company Logo (Yard Sign — Business Card)
Sponsored by Tane Alarm Products

Dehart Alarm Systems — Sarasota, Fla.
Haig Security Systems — Green Brook, N.J.
Provident Security — Vancouver, B.C., Canada.

Vehicle Graphics Design
Sponsored by i3DVR

24/7 Vision — Pittsburgh
Alarm Team — Garner, N.C.
Haig Security Systems
Supreme Security Systems — Union, N.J.

Promotional Giveaway Item
Sponsored by Tri-Ed

Guardian Protection Services
HSM Electronic Protection Services
The Protection Bureau

Industry News In Depth:Exclusive! Dealers and Integrators Can Gain a Boost at ISC West 2006

Security Sales & Integration Magazine — Fri, 17 Mar 2006 19:50:49 GMT

LAS VEGAS — This year’s 38th edition of the International Security Conference (ISC) West will likely set another record for size and number of attendees. More than 850 exhibitors are expected to put out their latest and best wares from April 5 to 7 for the 21,000-plus attendees expected to converge on the Sands Expo and Convention Center. The conference portion of the event begins April 4.

ISC West is once again the home for Security Sales & Integration’s SAMMYs (Sales and Marketing) Awards presentation, which takes place on the eve of the opening of the exhibits hall — April 4. For a complete preview of this year’s SAMMYs and a list of the finalists, go to page 76.

Attendees at this year’s show will gain direct insight from the first-ever director of the Department of Homeland Security, Tom Ridge, who will be this year’s keynote speaker on the morning of April 5. For an exclusive, in-depth interview of Ridge, see the September 2005 issue of SSI.

Dealers and integrators can expect unveilings from such industry players like Honeywell, GE, Bosch and Panasonic. CCTV manufacturer Pelco’s booth is always popular, and installers should also make a point to take a look at NAPCO Security’s booth, which will this year feature the company’s new code-free control panels.

ISC West is also the place to gain the latest knowledge from the industry’s experts. Several contributors to SSI will be among those conducting educational sessions during ISC West.

“By the Numbers” (see page 22) columnist Joe Freeman will moderate two sessions during the conference on the explosion of intelligent video and growing an alarm company in an IT world. Also conducting two sessions will be CCTV guru Charlie Pierce, who has authored several articles for SSI. GSA Schedules Inc. President Lynn de Seve, a member of SSI’s Editorial Advisory Board, will be part of a panel. The educational opportunities will also include a special lecture by Bosch Security President Shamus Hurley on how to integrate alarm systems with IP technology at a minimal cost. Security consultant Bob Harris of The Attrition Busters, will hold a workshop to improve customer service.

For more information on all events associated with ISC West, go to www.iscwest.com.

HSM Grabs 6 Nominations for SAMMY Awards

Security Sales & Integration Magazine — Thu, 16 Mar 2006 19:49:29 GMT

TORRANCE, Calif. — Electronic security provider HSM of Jupiter, Fla., stands to have a big night in Las Vegas after being named as a finalist in six of the 12 categories in the 11th Annual SAMMYs (Sales and Marketing) Awards, hosted by Security Sales & Integration.

The awards will be given out on April 4 on the eve of the International Security Conference (ISC) West at Las Vegas’ Venetian Hotel and Resort. The ceremony is free and open to all security professionals.

Also gaining multiple nominations were Guardian Protection Services of Pittsburgh (finalist in three categories), Boca Raton, Fla.’s ADT (three), and Exton, Pa.-based The Protection Bureau, Vector Security of Pittsburgh and Green Brook, N.J.’s Haig Security Systems with two nominations apiece.

For a complete list of this year’s finalists for the SAMMY Awards, check out the SAMMYs preview on page 76 of the print magazine.

Make Plans to Attend the Free SAMMY Awards Ceremony

Security Sales & Integration Magazine — Thu, 09 Feb 2006 20:48:37 GMT

TORRANCE, Calif. — The best sales, marketing and installation efforts in the electronic security industry are about to get their day in the spotlight, and you could be there to see it.

Security Sales & Integration will announce the winners of its 11th Annual SAMMY Awards during a free awards ceremony in Las Vegas on the eve of the 2005 International Security Conference and Exposition (ISC) West. The April 4 Sales and Marketing Awards ceremony in the Casanova Conference Room 601 at the Venetian Resort Hotel Casino will begin at 4:30 p.m. and feature hors d’ oeuvres, refreshments and plenty of chances to network with new faces or renew acquaintances with others.

SSI thanks the following companies for helping to support the SAMMYs: NAPCO Security Systems, Bosch Security, Honeywell Security, ADI, Alarm Capital Alliance, Altronix, Dedicated Micros, Fire•Lite Alarms, i3DVR Int’l, Tane Alarm Products and Tri-Ed Distribution.

Look for the final list of SAMMY nominees in the March issue. For more on the awards, check the SAMMYs Web site at www.thesammyawards.com. Also plan to visit SSI’s editors, writers and sales managers during ISC West at Booth No. 22138.

Don’t Miss Your Chance to Enter 11th Annual SAMMY Awards

Security Sales & Integration Magazine — Tue, 08 Nov 2005 20:47:36 GMT

TORRANCE, Calif. — Ever wondered when the time would come for your installation or sales and marketing efforts to be honored with a SAMMY Award? That time could be now, as it’s time to send in entries for Security Sales & Integration’s 11th annual Sales and Marketing (SAMMY) Awards.

A panel of judges will select the top nominees in each of 12 categories among dealers and integrators who exemplify professionalism in their sales, marketing and installation efforts. The winners will be named in a gala awards ceremony in Las Vegas on Tuesday, April 4 — the eve of ISC West in Las Vegas.

There will be grand prizes for Integrated Residential Installation of the Year, Integrated Commercial/Industrial Installation of the Year and Integrated Marketing Program of the Year.

The deadline for entries is Dec. 31.

For more information on the SAMMYs, including rules and entry form, go to www.thesammyawards.com, contact Security Sales & Integration at (310) 533-2400, fax: (310) 533-2502, or E-mail secsales@bobit.com.

Strut Your Stuff at the SAMMYs!

Security Sales & Integration Magazine — Tue, 04 Oct 2005 19:46:15 GMT

Attention installing electronic security contractors! Here are a few questions I would like you to ask yourself:

When you complete an installation, does your company feel a sense of pride in the quality of your work?
Do you go out of your way to make sure your customer is not just satisfied, but elated that he/she decided to do business with you?
Does your company creatively "think out of the box" in relation to sales, marketing and promotional materials?
Do you believe genuine recognition of a job well done is a powerful human motivator?

If you answered "Yes" to any of these questions, I would like to personally invite you to participate in our 2006 SAMMY Awards. Our awards program takes place on the eve of opening day at the International Security Conference & Exposition (ISC) West in Las Vegas and is an officially recognized ISC-sponsored event.

Before you say, "Ah, I don't have a chance to win!" Fuggetiboutit! I want you to know installing companies of all sizes can win awards in the following 12 "best" categories:

Integrated Residential Installation of the Year
Integrated Commercial/Industrial Installation of the Year
Overall Integrated Marketing Program of the Year
Sales Brochure: Residential
Sales Brochure: Commercial/Industrial
Newspaper/Yellow-Page Advertisement
Company Newsletter
Television/Radio Advertisement
Web Site Design
Company Logo Design (yard sign and/or business card)
Vehicle Graphics Design
Promotional Giveaway Item

Do the winning or runner-up companies have the largest budget or the greatest resources? Not necessarily. Throughout its 10-year history, the SAMMYs have featured winners from all strata of the alarm industry. In fact, the categories have been devised to promote equal opportunity for installing electronic security contactors big and small.

Just imagine this: A majestic SAMMY trophy prominently exhibited in your office, serving as a powerful testimonial to potential customers of your company's commitment to quality. In addition, the exposure you receive in the pages of a prominent national trade magazine (SSI, of course) can be shown to prospects.

In the case of the grand prizes, what better way to impress clients of your prowess than by showing them your trophy and magazine coverage as the 2005 Integrated Residential or Commercial/Industrial Installation of the Year, or Overall Integrated Marketing Program Award winner?

Featuring hors d'oeuvres, beverages and a multimedia presentation, the SAMMYs have been likened to the security industry's version of the Oscars - without the fancy tuxedoes! In addition, the awards presentation and ceremony has become a great place to meet and network with contemporaries, and the subsequent in-depth coverage in SSI has spread the message far and wide. It's simple, and FREE to enter!

For complete SAMMYs rules, judging criteria, entry form and other information, visit SSI's SAMMYs Web site at www.thesammyawards.com. If people are always complimenting your company about your installations and marketing materials, trust me you have what it takes! Please take some time to submit your entry. So what are you waiting for? The deadline for entries is Nov. 30, but beware - procrastination is the enemy!

2005 SAMMY Finalists & Winners

Security Sales & Integration Magazine — Sat, 27 Aug 2005 20:01:57 GMT

View the complete 2005 SAMMY Finalists

View the complete 2005 SAMMY Winners

View the 2005 Residential Installation of the Year

View the 2005 Commercial Installation of the Year