TMA President Honors Retiring TMA CEO with Mel Mahler Award

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On Thurs., June 19th, in front of a crowd attending the closing luncheon of ESX 2025 in Atlanta, TMA President Steve Butkovich honored TMA CEO Celia T. Besore for her “leadership, advocacy and unwavering dedication to her field” by presenting her TMA’s most prestigious Mel Mahler Award. Formerly known as the President’s Award, this award is bestowed at the discretion of the TMA president in recognition of outstanding contributions within his/her tenure. This award represents extraordinary commitment to the values of the advancement of the professional monitoring industry.

In his remarks, Steve stated, “Celia has shaped policy, elevated standards, and built bridges across the alarm and monitoring landscape. Her name is synonymous with leadership, advocacy and unwavering dedication to her field. Across decades of service, her influence has been felt not just in her work at The Monitoring Association (TMA), but by the countless professionals she’s worked with and inspired along the way. She’s not only devoted her career to supporting this industry, but she’s helped to define it.  Her passion, integrity, and tireless efforts embody the spirit of the Mel Mahler Award and its enduring legacy.”

ESA Chairman Kevin Stone also honored Celia for her many contributions to the industry.

Celia announced her retirement just weeks ago after 19 years at TMA. In receiving the award, she shared, “It’s going to be very hard to walk away. Mel Mahler was someone I knew well. He was a mentor. This award means so much to me.”

Scott R. Elkins of Zeus Fire and Security Named Entrepreneur Of The Year® 2025 Greater Philadelphia Award winner by EY US

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Ernst & Young LLP (EY US) today announced that Scott R. Elkins, CEO of Zeus Fire and Security was named an Entrepreneur Of The Year 2025 Greater Philadelphia Award winner. Entrepreneur Of The Year is the preeminent competitive awards program for entrepreneurs and leaders of high-growth companies. For 40 years, EY US has celebrated ambitious entrepreneurs who are transforming industries, impacting communities and creating long-term value.

Scott was chosen by an independent panel of past winners, top CEOs and business leaders. Judges assessed candidates on long-term value creation, entrepreneurial spirit, purpose-driven commitment and significant growth and impact.

A second-generation fire and security entrepreneur, Scott built Universal Atlantic Systems into a thriving business before leading its acquisition and becoming the founding CEO of Zeus in 2022. Since then, he has transformed Zeus into one of the fastest-growing, tech-enabled life safety companies in the nation, completing 17 acquisitions, doubling profits, and expanding to nearly 800 employees across seven hubs.

“I am deeply honored to receive the EY Entrepreneur Of The Year® award, but this recognition truly belongs to the extraordinary team at Zeus Fire & Security. Their dedication, expertise, and shared commitment to our mission of protecting People, Property, and Profits have made this achievement possible. I am also grateful to Access Holdings, our Private Equity Sponsor, for their continued partnership and support in helping us scale with purpose and build a modern and enduring tech enabled business that’s redefining excellence in our industry.” stated Elkins.

As a Greater Philadelphia award winner, Scott is now eligible for consideration for the Entrepreneur Of The Year 2025 National Awards. The National Award winners, including the Entrepreneur Of The Year National Overall Award winner, will be announced in November at the Strategic Growth Forum®, one of the nation’s most prestigious gatherings of high-growth, market-leading companies. The Entrepreneur Of The Year National Overall Award winner will then move on to compete for the EY World Entrepreneur Of The Year™ Award in June 2026.

About Entrepreneur Of The Year                                                                                                                       

Founded in 1986, Entrepreneur Of The Year has celebrated more than 11,000 ambitious visionaries who are leading successful, dynamic businesses in the US, and it has since expanded to nearly 60 countries globally.

 

The US program consists of 17 regional programs whose panels of independent judges select the regional award winners every June. Those winners compete for national recognition at the Strategic Growth Forum® in November where National finalists and award winners are announced. The overall National winner represents the US at the EY World Entrepreneur Of The Year™ competition. Visit ey.com/us/eoy.

About EY

EY is building a better working world by creating new value for clients, people, society and the planet, while building trust in capital markets.

Enabled by data, AI and advanced technology, EY teams help clients shape the future with confidence and develop answers for the most pressing issues of today and tomorrow.

EY teams work across a full spectrum of services in assurance, consulting, tax, strategy and transactions. Fueled by sector insights, a globally connected, multi-disciplinary network and diverse ecosystem partners, EY teams can provide services in more than 150 countries and territories.

All in to shape the future with confidence.

EY refers to the global organization, and may refer to one or more, of the member firms of Ernst & Young Global Limited, each of which is a separate legal entity. Ernst & Young Global Limited, a UK company limited by guarantee, does not provide services to clients. Information about how EY collects and uses personal data and a description of the rights individuals have under data protection legislation are available via ey.com/privacy. EY member firms do not practice law where prohibited by local laws. For more information about our organization, please visit ey.com.

Shannon Woodman to Receive Prestigious Moody Award for Leadership In Fighting Verified Response in Seattle

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Shannon Woodman, Chief Executive Officer of Washington Alarm, will be honored with the prestigious William N. Moody Award on June 17th at ESX 2025 in Atlanta.  Created in 2004 by the Security Industry Alarm Coalition (SIAC), the Moody award is presented annually to an individual who demonstrates a passion for advancing positive alarm management and best industry practices.

“Shannon has a long history of involvement and leadership as a member of the Board of Directors of The Monitoring Association, NetOne International, and as Chairman of the Western Chapter and Board Member of the Security Integration and Life Safety Association of the Northwest,” said SIAC Board Chairman Tim Creenan. “When our industry was challenged by the Seattle Police Department’s sudden implementation of verified response, Shannon stepped up to lead an industry coalition to support the model ordinance and retain police response for the citizens our industry and the police serve and protect.”

“Her commitment and organizational skills have been instrumental in putting the issue in front of elected officials and Seattle’s new chief of police.”

“My family has been in the security and life safety field for 82 years now,” said Woodman. “I learned from an early age the value of the service we provide the community and the importance of giving back to our community and our industry,” said Woodman. “It has been a privilege to work with SIAC on the verified response update in Seattle. We value their expertise and guidance as we collaborate with our colleagues, law enforcement, and elected officials to make our community as safe as possible.”

About the William N. Moody Award   

The William N. Moody Award was established in 2004 by the SIAC Board of Directors to recognize those who embody Bill’s dedication to alarm management issues. The award honors individuals who reflect attributes that include integrity, fairness and perseverance in the face of adversity. 

About Washington Alarm Company

Founded by Jack Woodman and now under the leadership of Shannon Woodman, Washington Alarm has served Washington State for over 82 years. The company’s in-house UL-listed Five Diamond Certified Central Station in Seattle monitors over 10,000 customers, ensuring the highest standards of safety and security.

About SIAC

SIAC represents one voice for the electronic security industry on alarm management issues –communicating solutions and enhancing relationships with law enforcement.  SIAC is comprised of four major North American security associations–Canadian Security Association (CANASA), Security Industry Association (SIA), Central Station Alarm Association (CSAA), and the Electronic Security Association (ESA). For more information, go to www.SIACinc.org,  www.siacinc.wordpress.com, or follow us on www.twitter.com/siacinc.

New Cellular Jamming Detector from DMP

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Digital Monitoring Products (DMP) introduced a revolutionary new device that detects when cellular frequencies are being jammed. JamAlert™ instantly notifies the control panel when cellular communication is being compromised, empowering security professionals to stay ahead of the threat.

JamAlert solves a growing industry-wide problem, particularly for high-end retail businesses and financial institutions. Production and distribution of cellular jammers is on the rise in the U.S. These illegal devices are being used to defeat alarm system communications, allowing thieves to enter compromised facilities undetected. When jammed, cellular alarm signals never make it to the monitoring center and no authorities are dispatched. By detecting cellular jamming on multiple frequencies, JamAlert offers a way to mitigate potential losses.

“JamAlert is a groundbreaking device in this industry,” said Warren Hill, executive director of product management at DMP. “DMP dealers can offer this solution to their entire customer base. It’s backward and forward compatible with DMP panels, as well as universally compatible with other panels.”

Add JamAlert to security systems in retail stores, financial institutions, businesses and homes for an extra layer of protection against the growing threat of jamming devices that interrupt cellular alarm transmission.

Learn more at DMP.com/JamAlert.

Membership Elects 2025-2027 Board of Directors

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On April 24th, TMA members approved the proposed slate of Board of Directors candidates for the 2025-2027 term. Please join in congratulating our returning and new TMA Board of Directors.

Executive Committee

  • Steve Butkovich, CPI Security (Immediate Past President)
  • Alan Gillmore, IV, Gillmore Security (President)
  • Wes Usie, Guardian Alarm Systems (Vice President)
  • Daniel Oppenheim, Affiliated Monitoring (Vice President)
  • Shannon Woodman, Washington Alarm (Treasurer)

Board Reappointments by Member Category Representation

  • Mark Miller, Johnson Controls (National Representative)
  • Scott R. Elkins, Zeus Fire & Security (National Representative)
  • Chester Donati, DMC Security Services, Inc. (Regional Representative)
  • Jack Doyle, Doyle Security (Regional Representative)
  • Tim Westphal, Bay Alarm (Regional Representative)
  • Caroline Brown, Security Central (Contract Monitoring Representative)
  • Mark Hillenburg, DMP (Associate Representative)
  • Stanley Oppenheim, DGA Security Systems, Inc. (Member at Large)

TMA Dispatch – Spring issue now available!

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The spring issue of TMA Dispatch is now available.

Our Cover Story…The genesis of The Monitoring Association (TMA) traces back to a pivotal meeting in 1949 at Chicago’s Merchandise Mart, where eight industry pioneers convened to advocate for independent central stations. Their collaboration culminated in the formal incorporation of CSEPA in Illinois in 1950. Today, 75 years later, we join together to celebrate and reflect on a rich history of collaboration, innovation, and leadership. Learn more about where and how we began our journey and get a glimpse into some of our greatest achievements. Yesterday, today, and tomorrow – Together. Moving. Ahead.

In our Guest Column…Has your company given thought to pursing UL Solutions’ AVS-01 certification, but hesitated for a reason? Get a glimpse into the process from ADT – one of the first certificants. Learn more about the certification itself and how their team went about getting certified.

In Technology…In today’s world, surveillance devices like cameras, speakers, and more are essential. However, the effectiveness of these devices hinges on one crucial factor: they must be operational. Learn how monitoring centers ensure device functionality and reliable operation.

In Research…Small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) are actively investing in energy management solutions. Parks Associations President and CMO Elizabeth Parks identifies four key trends shaping the adoption of energy management tools among SMBs. Gain new insights into key market drivers.

In Standards…Learn how standards like TMA-AVS-01, ASAP, and NENA’s EPRC are enhancing emergency response. In this month’s column, John Chiaramonte, Mission Critical Partner and PPVAR Board of Director, explores how the two industry organizations are impacting effectiveness and efficiency.

In Training…Today’s monitoring center training is integrating multiple security functions, leveraging cloud-based monitoring tools, and incorporating AI for enhanced security and operational efficiency. Discover how training programs are transforming to keep pace advancements in technology and evolving threats.

Exec Q&A…Meet Steve Reinharz, founder and president of Robotic Assistance Devices (RAD). Find out what keeps him up at night and what advice he’d give to young professionals pursuing a career in the industry today.

Login to the TMA member InfoHub to read.

 

 

DMP Hires New Regional Sales

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Ethan Hickox and Jacob Thomas have joined DMP as the regional sales managers. Hickox will provide ongoing service and support to DMP dealers throughout the Northern Texas territory, including the Dallas–Fort Worth metropolitan area. Hickox has nearly 30 years of experience in the Telecommunications and Technology industry. Jacob Thomas will provide ongoing service and support to DMP dealers throughout Louisiana and Mississippi. Thomas brings over 20 years of experience in the technology and wireless industry, having held several leadership roles in sales operations, retail sale management and product strategy.

“I chose DMP because of the industry-leading products and technologies offered, along with the amazing culture that was apparent from the outset,” Hickox said. “I’m extremely excited to be representing a company with an elite product set and culture that focuses on the customer first.”

Hickox had spent most of his career with AT&T, where he served in Operational, Network and Sales and Service roles both in the consumer and business space. Most recently, at AVA Technologies, he led a sales team responsible for growing a platform in the multi-family housing industry that helped consumers set up essential home services during the moving process. Hickox is skilled in strategic planning, relationship building and executing innovative solutions.

“The strong sense of purpose and commitment to innovation and service really stood out to me, and I knew DMP was where I wanted to be,” said Thomas. “The more I explored, the more excited I became to represent a company that was clearly leading the way in this industry.”

Most recently, Thomas served as senior manager of home product management, overseeing the performance of fiber and TV solutions. This role included collaborating with cross-functional teams to enhance product offerings, streamline go-to-market strategies and improve customer experience and satisfaction. He is experienced in leading high-performing teams, driving sales growth, and ensuring operational consistency.

Contact Information:

Ethan Hickox | Regional Sales Manager, Northern Texas
Direct Cell: 417-340-5038
Email: EHickox@DMP.com


Jacob Thomas | Regional Sales Manager, Louisiana/Mississippi
Direct Cell: 417-839-0224
Email: JThomas@DMP.com

TMA CEO Announces Retirement

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The Board of Directors of The Monitoring Association (TMA) announces the retirement of its Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Celia T. Besore, MBA, FASAE, CAE. Celia has served in successive positions during her tenure with the organization, which spans over 19 years of service. Her final day at TMA is Friday, July 18th.

“With Celia’s guidance, TMA has experienced consistent growth in membership and influence in our industry. We’ve celebrated marked advancements in TMA programs (ASAP, Five Diamond, and FirstNet), standards, and advocacy,” stated TMA President Steve Butkovich. “Her dedication to the monitoring industry has left a lasting impact on our members and partners in the security industry, public safety, and law enforcement. As a result of her competent leadership, TMA is positioned for continued success. The TMA Board deeply thanks Celia for her service to TMA and our industry.”

Celia first joined the then-CSAA staff in April of 1999 as director of marketing & communications, later becoming VP of Marketing and Programs. In the ensuing 11 years, she also guided TMA’s membership and education initiatives—all the while achieving consistent growth of the organization. In August of 2010, she left TMA to become the executive director and CEO of the National Association of Hispanic Nurses (NAHN). She returned to TMA in January 2017, assuming the position of vice president of membership and programs. In November 2018, Celia was appointed executive director of TMA, later promoted to CEO.

“I am overwhelmed with both gratitude and pride as I reflect on my time at TMA where I have been afforded many opportunities to grow and advance in my career,” shared Celia. “Above all, my greatest rewards and inspiration have been appreciated in the moments of collaboration with the many dedicated and passionate professionals who are dedicated to the protection of life and property. I will always treasure the relationships I have made over the course of my tenure at TMA.”

Most notable among her accomplishments and contributions to the association during her tenure are: assisting with the development of the original Operator Level 1 and 2 Online courses; the introduction of social media; the creation of the Five Diamond program; the development of the Excellence Awards; the development of an marketing campaign for NAMTSE, which included a virtual expo and was recognized with an award by the American Society of Association Executives; the establishment of the first Compliance Community, which created an online resource of state licensing requirements; and the writing of the history of the first 50 years of the Association. She is also especially proud of TMA’s response to the pandemic, an unprecedented challenge for the industry and association. TMA supported its members during this period by offering highly attended weekly town halls covering the most critical issues of that week and providing them with many other resources and assistance.

Those wishing to express wishes to Celia before July 18th may reach her by email at ceo@tma.us or by phone at (703) 660-4913. Thereafter, she may be emailed at celia@strategia.cc.

Vivint Refreshes Brand Identity

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Vivint has renewed its brand identity, unveiling a new visual identity that represents both an evolution and expansion of its focus: redefining a truly smarter home experience to include smarter energy management.

“We are entering a rapid phase of innovation, where energy management concerns are beginning to rival security concerns,” said David Porter, Managing Director of Vivint. “As part of NRG and under new leadership, Vivint is poised to lead this phase and redefine the smart home experience like no one else can. By integrating security and energy management, and making it accessible to millions more homes, we’re at the start of an exciting new chapter for our customers and for Vivint.”

Vivint was acquired by NRG, a Fortune 500 energy and home services company, in March of 2023. NRG brings smart energy solutions to millions of homes and businesses in the U.S. and Canada. The company’s recent consumer research found that nearly 70 percent of people want an “all-in-one’ unified smart home management system inclusive of energy management.

Recently, Reliant, also an NRG company, announced the Smarter Home Bundle, a joint offer from Vivint and Reliant that enables customers to start their smarter home journey. Qualifying current and new Reliant customers receive a free Vivint Doorbell Camera Pro and Vivint Smart Thermostat paired with complimentary installation to ensure everything is properly set up from day one.

Vivint said its brand updates include a new logo crafted to emphasize the focus on the home and what it means to live intelligently. The company said its wordmark carries the familiarity of the prior identity but with a more approachable and human touch, and the new home icon conveys the idea of intelligence coming into the home and represents the brand’s unique approach that has brought peace of mind for millions of families.

This announcement appeared May 5, 2025 on SDMmag.com.

FTC Delays Enforcement of its Negative Option Rule

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In March of 2023 the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) requested comments from industry on their Notice of Proposed Rulemaking to change how the agency enforces the 1973 Negative Option Rule. This rule has allowed the agency to combat unfair or deceptive practices related to subscriptions, memberships and other recurring-payment programs. As online retail has become ubiquitous in recent decades, the agency is reviewing all automatic renewal programs continuity offers in which customers are continually billed for products or services unless they expressly signal their wish to exit their agreement for said products or services.

The new rule would require companies to provide specific express disclosures, obtain the consumer’s unambiguous affirmative consent to the negative option rule separately from the rest of the transaction as well as offering one-click cancellation mechanisms. All the proposed changes would be applicable to all forms of negative option marketing in all media (i.e. telephone, internet, traditional print media, and in-person transactions).

The Federal Trade Commission’s decision to expand their role in monitoring renewal continuity agreements by new rulemaking will require companies offering subscription services to revisit their legal agreements. The new rulemaking will broaden to apply to: automatic renewals, continuity plans, free-to-pay conversions and pre-notification negative option plans. The FTC will be increasing disclosure requirements, imposing specific consent requirements, mandating acceptable cancellation options and limiting the ability of a company to attempt to “save” a deal.

Significant Rulemaking Ramifications:

Clear Disclosures: The FTC will not be altering what companies need to disclose rather how companies disclose information. If an advertisement is made both visibly and audibly a disclosure for a continual subscription and negative options must be detailed visibly and audibly. A hidden hyperlink to the disclosure will not be acceptable.

Consent: The new rulemaking would be expanding the expressed informed consent to “unambiguous affirmative consent”. The negative option offer must be separately and clearly defined in the transaction. A check box or simple click may be used to signal a consumer’s unambiguous affirmative consent.

Simple Cancellation: Companies must provide an easy cancellation method of the negative option method and the FTC offers a “click-to-cancel” option.

Annual Reminders for Non-Physical Goods: Companies offering non-physical goods must offer at least annual reminders of the service and terms along with a means to cancel. The definition of “annual” is under review at FTC and has not been fully determined.

Penalties:

A key change to the FTC’s enforcement are new financial penalties for companies in violation of the new rulemaking.

Any violation of the FTC’s negative option rule will come at a penalty of $50,120.

 Additional Information & Dates:

In October of 2024 the FTC published its final Negative Option Rule, which applies to any negative option program, including those using online, telephone, print, or in-person mediums. The ruling will apply to all business to business and business to customer transactions. The final Rule requires businesses to obtain a consumer’s “express informed consent” to the negative option feature before charging the consumer.

Companies must be in compliance with obtaining informed consent and providing a simple cancellation mechanism by May 14th.

 The FTC provided an extended compliance deadline for the remaining provisions of the ruling for July 14th.

Alarm monitoring companies should use this additional time to ensure full compliance with the rule’s requirements, which include clear disclosures, obtaining express consent, and providing straightforward cancellation methods for all negative option features, including auto-renewing subscriptions and sales.  The rule is currently facing legal challenges before the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals and a decision there could impact the rule’s future enforcement.