Elite Interactive Receives Strategic Investment From CIVC Partners

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Elite Interactive Solutions, the industry pioneer in remote video guarding and real-time crime prevention, is excited to announce an investment from Chicago-based private equity firm CIVC Partners. The transaction, coordinated by security-sector investment bank Barnes Associates, marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of both Elite and the broader remote guarding industry.

“This is a defining moment not just for Elite, but for the entire category of proactive security,” said Aria Kozak, founder of Elite and a 2024 inductee into the Security Industry Hall of Fame. “After an exhaustive process, CIVC emerged as the ideal partner to help us scale our vision. This strategic investment enables us to fully capitalize on our unmatched ability to prevent crime, drive apprehensions, and deliver industry-leading customer retention.”

Founded in 2007, Elite is widely recognized as the category leader in remote guarding, delivering a proven solution that consistently outperforms traditional guard services at a fraction of the cost. With a nationwide footprint across retail, multifamily, automotive, industrial, and campus markets — and an enterprise-focused client base — Elite is the first security firm to eliminate false alarms at scale and maintains a Law Enforcement Advisory Board made up of former police chiefs.

CIVC Partners, which has deployed more than $2.9 billion of capital across 88 platform investments since 1989, will provide both capital and strategic guidance to further accelerate Elite’s growth trajectory. Houlihan Lokey advised CIVC on the transaction.

“This is a milestone deal for the industry and a transformational opportunity for Elite,” said Michael Zatulov, who has been promoted to CEO as part of the growth initiative. “Private businesses and public agencies are increasingly overwhelmed by crime and ineffective security measures. Elite has already proven it can deliver exceptional results at scale. With CIVC’s backing, we are poised to expand our reach, deepen our impact, and build a truly next-generation security platform.”

Zatulov, who joined Elite in 2017 and most recently served as president and COO, succeeds Kozak as CEO. Kozak will remain actively involved as chairman of the board.

“It’s been a tremendous honor to learn from and work alongside Aria,” added Zatulov. “His legacy as a pioneer in this space is unmatched, and I’m humbled to continue the mission he started — to reimagine security as a proactive, intelligence-driven service.”

About CIVC Partners

CIVC Partners is a Chicago-based private equity firm investing in high growth business services companies. Since 1989, the firm has invested more than $2.9 billion in 88 platforms and manages capital from CIVC Partners Fund VII. Learn more at civc.com.

About Elite Interactive Solutions

Elite Interactive Solutions is the leading provider of remote guarding and crime prevention services. In 2024 alone, Elite directly prevented nearly 80,000 crimes and assisted in more than 1,000 arrests and detainments. Its four-pillar model — technology, people, practices, and partnerships — delivers unmatched results and value. Elite was honored with The Monitoring Association’s 2024 Monitoring Technology Marvel Award and ranks No. 25 on the SDM 100. Visit eliteisi.com to learn more.

JamAlert Awarded Best in Show at ESX 2025 Innovation Awards

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Digital Monitoring Products (DMP) is honored to announce that JamAlert™, the revolutionary new cellular jamming detection device, has been awarded Best in Show at ESX’s 2025 Innovation Awards. According to ESX.com, the Innovation Awards “identify the next-gen products and services that will offer significant growth opportunities for dealers, integrators and monitoring centers.”

Security industry manufacturers and service providers could enter new products that had been released since January 1, 2024. Judges selected the top ten overall to compete in the TechVision Challenge, held live at ESX to determine the Best in Show award winner.

JamAlert instantly notifies the control panel when cellular communication is being compromised, empowering security professionals to stay ahead of the threat of cellular jammers, a growing industry-wide problem. 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.

“Competing in the TechVision Challenge was thrilling,” said Aaron McGhee, product manager of control panels at DMP. “We developed this device based on requests and feedback from our customers. This type of innovation is what makes DMP products exceptional.”

“JamAlert is positioned to make a huge impact in the industry,” added Jon Adams, vice president of sales at DMP. “The fact that it works with DMP and non-DMP panels offers a wide variety of applications. It’s a security system for your security system.”

JamAlert can be added to intrusion 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.

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

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.

Donna Soloway Joins Industry Hall of Fame

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NAPCO Security Technologies proudly congratulates Donna Soloway on her induction into the 2025 Security Sales & Integration (SSI) Hall of Fame. She joins her husband, Dick Soloway—NAPCO’s Founder and CEO and an inaugural Hall of Fame inductee—making the Soloways one of the security industry’s few celebrated husband-and-wife duos. Together, they’ve built a thriving business and played a pivotal role in driving innovation across the modern security landscape.

Dynamic partnerships are rare but impactful. Hollywood has Tom Hanks and Rita Wilson, music has Beyoncé and Jay-Z, and the tech world, Mark Zuckerberg and Priscilla Chan. These power couples combine drive, talent, and complementary strengths to achieve remarkable things, both personally and professionally. The Soloways are no exception, having shared decades of marriage and collaboration, growing NAPCO, and helping secure a safer world, 24/7

Donna Soloway’s long-standing contributions span publishing, philanthropy, and industry advocacy. She has been a tireless supporter and organizer for national associations, including the Security Industry Association, Electronic Security Association, and The Monitoring Association. She was instrumental in founding the Metropolitan Burglar & Fire Alarm Association Scholarship Program for children of first responders—a model now replicated across many states. She also played a key role in relocating ISC West to Las Vegas, cementing it as the security industry’s premier trade show.

NAPCO and its Board proudly join Security Sales & Integration in honoring Donna’s many years of service, leadership, and lasting influence—not only as a board member and partner to Dick, but as a trailblazer in her own right. Her Hall of Fame recognition is a fitting tribute to her legacy of innovation, advocacy, and industry advancement.