Editor's note: Due to the fact that the October and November editions are being condensed into one issue, President Mims' first column will run in the December issue. Following is the final column by 1996 President Fred Aaron.
By the time you read this you will have a new President in David Mims. However, before I relinquish this space to David, I want to comment on the past year in which I was given the distinct honor of serving as your president. I'm filled with mixed emotions at this time of change and will rely on previous words and a composite of the year's activities to provide this report.
Standing at the helm of our association's ship of state this year, I can tell you that an extraordinary amount of effort by an energetic and dedicated membership and staff has
yielded a variety of new programs and initiatives, not imagined possible just a few years ago. Among these are: ***The first state level False Alarm Symposium ever held in the U.S., which affirmed the AAF's commitment to combat false alarms and will go a long way in our evaluation as one of the Model States in the International Chiefs of Police program;
***AAF's new web site to provide easy access to information about our industry and our association. In just the first three months of operation, we've already had over 12,000 "hits" on our home page;
***An ambitious legislative agenda that yielded a new law that will provide the first step on the professional standards ladder for the security industry; and,
***Our outreach to our Caribbean neighbors in Puerto Rico to help them set up an association of their own and receive training for their growth and advancement.
Our training program went super nova this year, due in part to the diversified training curricula of the AAF that has been sanctioned for continuing education credit by the Electrical Contractors Licensing Board. In fact, as I write this column, Bob Webb, Director, Education & Training, and Roy Pollack, Training Committee Chair, have already returned from San Juan where they conducted a Level I class for over 60 students. And, with the tremendous support of the U.S. Department of Labor grant we acquired last year, the AAF trained more people in our classes this year than all of the other states combined!
The year was not without some losses, however. The largest one being the passing of my dear friend Howard Fay in the spring. As a small token of our affection for Howard, we dedicated this year's convention to his memory. I think he would have been thrilled with the perfect mix of fun and business in Orlando!
There is so much I want to say, but time and space are limited. So, I'll suffice to say a very heartfelt thank you to my outstanding Board of Directors, the finest staff that any organization could have, and to Jude Burk, who has done so much and given so much for this association that I can find no words to adequately express my gratitude.
As I said at the Awards Banquet at the close of the convention, I have passed only the gavel of the presidency to David Mims. My commitment to this association is stronger than ever. I thank you all for allowing me the honor to serve as your president this past year.
Our challenge this year, as a follow up to last year's incredible changes, has been momentum. As new programs and services were brought on line this year, our efforts were aimed at maintaining the integrity and quality of products that our members have come to rely upon.
Past-President Aaron highlights many of our 1996 accomplishments in his column on page 2. However, in addition to all the programs we conducted this past year, your AAF office has been working behind the scenes investigating new products and services that will not only help you in your daily business life, but will save time and money in your personal life as well.
The 1996 Strategic Plan for the AAF directs a movement away from a strict "membership dues supported" organization, and toward a service for fee corporation. Think of it as AAF's version of Sam's Club, whereby you invest in a membership in order to receive services at special discounts. You pay for what you want and don't pay for what you may not want or use. The base of membership investments supports the administration of the services.
One area that is already being impacted by this new structure is our training program. Part of the corporate strategy that resulted in the Steering Committee's and Board's decision to separate as a Charter State of NBFAA at the end of this year, was the desire to create demand-driven training classes to respond to new laws and ordinances, specific to Florida. Our Alarm System Agent (ASA) course is the first of many classes that we are designing to cost less and provide one-stop-shopping for our customers. Our training package includes the instruction, fingerprint card, identification badge, data base record keeping for use at contractor license renewal time, and an embroidered patch for uniforms.
We've also put together an Orientation to F.S. 489, Part II that Mark Neuberger and I will present four times this year throughout the state. This course was also designed by industry demand to bring local enforcement authorities together with license holders to hear the same message: unlicensed activity and false alarms will end only when both sides of the issues are reading from the same "prayer book." Once again, reduced costs, customized training, and delivered at the local level.
And, our formidable presence on the Internet has resulted in our ability to negotiate with Sprint to bring the World Wide Web into your offices and homes for less than all major competitors.
More for less, that's our goal for 1997. Now, more than ever, it pays to belong to the AAF. Watch this space for regular updates on money-saving opportunities for you, your employees, and your family!
AAF members reject a new Alarm Agent individual membership, but approve new mission statement and reduced number of directors...
The Alarm Association of Florida, Inc. has a smaller Board of Directors and a new mission statement as a result of a membership vote at the Annual General Assembly during the AAF Convention in Orlando on September 21. All the changes, except the separation as a Charter State from NBFAA (which will take effect on December 31), took effect at the time of the votes.
The members rejected only one of six amendments presented on the ballot. That amendment would have allowed individual technicians working in both member and non-member companies to join under a new individual membership category. The new category was proposed as the result of new legislation requiring training and background checks for "alarm agents." Currently, only companies can join the association.
However, members resoundingly rejected the idea due to concerns over compared work climates and salaries if brought together at local meetings. An additional concern expressed by several South Florida members was the ability for technicians to form a union and make increased demands on employers.
A major vote of confidence was given to the Bylaws Committee and AAF legal counsel Mark Neuberger when the reformatted and reconstituted text of the entire Bylaws was approved without objection. The work of the committee and AAF legal counsel cleaned up typographical errors and brought the Bylaws into compliance with new laws and regulations for non-profit organizations. Every AAF member-in-good-standing received a copy of the text in June for review. A complete copy of the new Bylaws will be included in the 1997 AAF Membership Directory to be distributed in January.
The AAF's mission statement was dramatically changed from the one that had been on record for twenty-five years. Brought to the Board and membership by the Steering Committee as a result of their proposed strategic plan for the association, the pledge focuses on a commitment to professional standards and prevention of false alarms.
One of the more controversial amendments met with relatively little challenge, despite predictions of heated debate and a divided assembly. AAF Members sanctioned a proposal from the Steering Committee and Board of Directors to discontinue the AAF's Charter State status with the National Burglar & Fire Alarm Association.
The 1996-97 Board of Directors will have four fewer chairs around the table thanks to two successful amendments to the Bylaws.
Directors At-Large will now be limited to three, down from seven, and the Immediate Past-President will now serve on the Board as a member of the Executive Committee, rather than as a Director At-Large.
"These changes will allow the association to continue to go forward unimpeded by restrictive quorum counts at Board meetings or tie votes at the Executive Committee level," said newly-elected President David Mims.
David Mims, Georgia/Florida Alarms, Tallahassee, is the 1996-97 President of the Alarm Association of Florida. Mims had held the office of Vice President/President-Elect for the previous year and automatically assumed the office of President at the AAF General Assembly in September.
"I've got very large shoes to fill by following Fred Aaron's term," Mims said. "But with the support of the membership and expert assistance of AAF staff, I'm excited about plans for increased membership and expanded services in the new year," he continued.
Mims vowed to continue efforts to safeguard alarm contractor licenses and work on 1997 legislation increase efforts to prosecute unlicensed con-tractors.
At his first Board meeting as President in October, Mims revealed his goals for the year and charged the committees to work toward attainment of them:
1) Enforcement of alarm contractor license law; and
2) Increase the association's market share of licensed contractors through provision of demand services.
One key element to provide timely counsel to the Executive Director and lobbying team, is the decision by Mims to hold monthly Executive Committee meetings. He has combined the Executive and Legislative Committees to represent the AAF's speaker's bureau for providing testimony and input to legislative presentations. The committee, comprised of Mims, Vice President/President-Elect Roy Pollack, Treasurer Clyde Thodey, Jr., Secretary Harvey Hudgins, and Immediate Past-President Fred Aaron, will meet on November 8 in Gainesville and December 19 in Fort Myers. The sites were selected to provide an opportunity for members in those regions to work with the Executive Committee to increase membership activity in the North Central and Southwest Regions of the AAF.
New AAF mission statement
The AAF membership approved the following mission statement for the association at their September General Assembly to guide the policies and program design of the organization:
"The mission of the Alarm Association of Florida, Inc. members and staff is to continually strive to effect professional standards for the alarm and low voltage industries through education and training programs, and to advocate a code of ethics to protect the public's safety and encourage the prevention of false alarms."
Join the "AAF on-line" and save time and money!!
What's the AAF On-Line and what's in it for me?
The AAF On-Line is an exclusive Internet access for use by anyone wanting to "cruise the Internet" and obtain information, advertise products, send instantaneous messages through electronic mail, and access up-to-the-minute details on issues affecting your business.
What kind of information can I get from Internet access?
Everything you can imagine... from membership information and training registration on the AAF's Home Page, to the latest Wall Street stock quotes from The Wall Street Journal; from schedules and bill copies from the Florida Legislature, to shopping for products on alarm distributor pages or shopping for jewelry on Microsoft's Shopnet; and on, and on, and on! Virtually anything you want or need is a click of the computer mouse away!
So, why should I sign up with the AAF On-Line?
Are you interested in saving money? If you are, then you need to be with the AAF On-Line to get access to the Internet. As you can see from the comparison chart attached, other major Internet providers may charge for hourly use, or they may charge more after a certain length of time is used up. Not the AAF On-Line! Your annual fee of $227.40 (AAF members) breaks down to just $18.95 per month for unlimited use! Stay on-line for 10 hours a month and pay $18.95...stay on line for 100 hours a month and pay $18.95...stay on line for 200 hours per month and pay $18.95...stay on line - well, you get the point! In fact, the more you use the more you save with AAF On-Line!
Save even more! Sign up before December 31, 1996 and save the $10 activation fee! As a special introductory offer, AAF will pay the $10 activation charge for you. After December 31, a one-time activation fee of $10 will be charged new subscribers.
Can I buy more than one subscription?
Buy as many as you like! The AAF On-Line makes a very special gift for high school and college students who need to research information for term papers and get answers to homework assignments. Through the Internet, they can access the Smithsonian Institute, the Library of Congress, National Geographic, and much more!
Sounds great! How do I sign up?
Call AAF at 1-800-899-2099 and ask for a subscription form. Send it back with your annual payment of $227.40/AAF member or $300/non-member. We'll activate your line right away and call you personally to let you know you're on-line and ready to start "cruising" the AAF Home Page and other great Internet services!
Sign up today and start receiving AAF information at www.fla-alarms.org!
Jude Ann Burk, AAF Executive Director, recently announced the following staff promotions at the association's headquarters office in Tallahassee:
Bob Webb has been promoted to Director of Education & Training. In addition to his duties coordinating the training programs of the association as well as for the federal "SMART" job training grant, Webb will assist in development of new curricula for the organization to replace the former NTS curricula utilized by AAF through the NBFAA. Webb will also act as staff liaison to the AAF Regional Vice Presidents and will attend local meetings.
Andy Witzleben has been promoted to Director of Credentialing and Certification. He will work closely with Webb on all AAF training to maintain control of the awarding of credentials and continuing education credits for course graduates. Witzleben will also assist with the development of industry standards and certifications for future implementation in state legislation.
Edie Crum has been promoted to AAF Office Manager. She will continue her duties as Financial Specialist. Her new role will include responsibility for the daily management of the association office in the absence of the Executive Director.
Julie Voich has become a full-time, salaried employee of the AAF. Formerly, she worked as a contracted assistant through an employment agency. With the growing administrative burden required for maintaining accurate records of registrants in AAF training programs, Voich will now work full-time for the AAF as Information Systems Specialist. She will have primary responsibility for maintaining all data bases and production of Alarm System Agent badging.
"I'm overwhelmed at the talent and expertise represented in our management team,"Burk commented. "The diversified backgrounds and professional insights of these individuals combine to give the AAF one of the brightest and most creative staffs available in the association community. Through their good work, the AAF will continue to reach higher standards," Burk noted.
After many months of dialogue between the Alarm Association of Florida and members of the Puerto Rico security community, the AAF held its first training class in Puerto Rico on September 26-27. The groundwork for this special relationship between the AAF and our Caribbean colleagues was laid by Immediate Past-President Fred Aaron, David Mims, Harvey Hudgins, and Executive Director Jude Burk on two previous visits to the island. Members of the Puerto Rico alarm industry, in turn, attended the AAF Convention in Orlando to learn first-hand about becoming an association.
Bob Webb, Director of Education & Training, assisted me in coordinating the two day training session in San Juan. In addition, we were fortunate that ADI sponsored the training and provided two of their personnel, Orlando Mercado and Alfredo Luciano, to assist in course instruction for non-English speakers.
Before the class started, Fernando Esposito, who led a contingent desiring to form an association, addressed the group. Each person was asked to indicate their desire to join such an association by signing a sheet that was circulated. Not one single person present failed to sign the paper! Simply because of the vision of a handful of individuals who wanted to better themselves and bring some professionalism to their industry through education and training, a solidarity of purpose was created. A Steering Committee was organized to begin work in earnest to get the Puerto Rico Alarm Association underway.
Due to the fact that this was the first class the AAF conducted outside of the continental U. S., some last minute technical decisions had to be made.The facility that was secured by ADI and used for the training was the Collegio de Abogados, or College of Lawyers. While technically not a college, the facility would equate to a local Bar association headquarters.
A problem that was apparent immediately was the language barrier. Even in Florida, which has a large population of Spanish-speaking residents, most technicians are bi-lingual. Twelve of the attendees in Puerto Rico spoke and read only Spanish, but were able to comprehend most of the information provided on the slides because of the quality of the translators. Rather than highlighting the text, the students were instructed to make handwritten notes in the margins and note important pictorial information.
Because the need to translate the test to Spanish meant that the rest of the class would be disrupted while trying to take theirs, the Spanish-only students were moved to another room to have the examination administered. The translators read each question and a series of answers in Spanish. If the student knew the answer immediately, he could so mark his test paper. If not, he was instructed to write the question down in Spanish and then come back after all questions had been read. During our free evening hours, Bob and I conferred with representatives of the Steering Committee. A handshake sealed our pledge to continue working with our Caribbean friends to provide counsel and continued training opportunities as the AAF Board of Directors sees fit.
The first graduates have returned to all corners of Puerto Rico and are spreading the word about the training program and benefits of joining an association. The desire to obtain more training and continue to have local dealers certified as trainers was a message heard over and over. Three of the first class's attendees have gone on to become certified and will now take the lead on continued training for the time being.
The AAF has left the Puerto Rico Alarm Association in the hands of a young group of energetic and dedicated individuals to plan their future. We stand ready to return on request and pledge that we will always be within reach to lend a helping hand.
"Unless we get with the program, alarm business in Dade County, as well as all areas of Florida which are affected by this new law, will suffer similar consequences as we already have dealing with local code compliance and license laws."
Have you ever had the opportunity to watch a jet plane take off or a high speed locomotive roll away from the station and think to yourself, "Boy, I wish I was on that trip!" Recently, the launching of the AAF's new Alarm System Agent (ASA) course to certify your technicians as required in state law occurred in Miami. This new law takes effect on January 1, 1997. Right now, the AAF is the only approved sponsor with a complete curricula that satisfies all requirements of this new law. Here's my point: Folks, don't miss the boat!
Sure, there will be other classes offered by the AAF ongoing and we will schedule the classes as the demand requires. But, why wait until the inspectors start tagging your technicians and your company with fines before you register your people? Avoid the hassle and get them enrolled now. We're going to have to do this. It's the law as of this January 1.
Essentially, you will be operating as an illegal contractor without this certification for your team. Incidentally, I have seen the course material and it's not just a formality, at a cost. Regardless of the experience your technicians may already have, this course provides an excellent forum for basic instruction for new technicians, as well as a dynamic review of old things revisited for more experienced technicians. As an instructor, I have already learned some things from the course material which will assist my own company in reducing field errors that contribute to costly false alarms.
The bottom line: Get your people in school now! There are hundreds of alarm companies operating in Dade County who will require technician training. There are presently only 4 instructors for the Dade County area to conduct these classes. When the Spam hits the fan, you may have to wait in line to enroll and graduate your technicians to certification. You will be subject to citation during that time by local inspectors who have already been alerted by the state to begin enforcement of this requirement.
I know this sounds like an advertisement for selling training...it is! It comes from a fellow AAF member who is committed to the ideals of professionalism and compliance with the laws that govern our industry.
Remember that this is your organization that is sponsoring and organizing these classes for you! The classes will be scheduled based on demand from the local regions. Unless we get with the program, alarm business in Dade County, as well as all areas of Florida which are affected by this new law, will suffer similar consequences as we already have dealing with local code compliance and license laws.
Get with the program! Enroll your people now! If you have questions or need enrollment applications, call AAF at 1-888-AgentCE.
The AAF is working diligently to provide you with current information to assist in complying with the standards of CS/HB 793. Of particular interest and importance to employers is the requirement to obtain Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) criminal history and fingerprint background checks. The AAF is committed to assist you in understanding and carrying forth your obligations under this statute. A sample card with directions for completion is shown on the following page. Questions regarding criminal history records checks can be addressed directly with FDLE or with Andy Witzleben at AAF headquarters.
All current and new employee of an alarm or electrical contractor who alters, installs, maintains, moves, monitors, repairs, replaces, sells or services alarm systems are required to have fingerprint cards submitted to FDLE. All current employees, other than the certified or registered alarm or electrical contractor and administrative staff, must obtain a criminal history record check by March 1, 1997. New employees must comply with this requirement within 60 days of employment.
Employers may utilize special fingerprint cards, available through the AAF, for companies enrolling their employees in AAF training classes or obtaining employee identification cards from the AAF. These cards are specially designed for the Alarm Systems Agent background check and will assist FDLE in the faster processing of your request. These cards have been color coded, have the correct pre-printed OCA code, and the reason for fingerprinting. Fingerprint cards may be obtained from your local law enforcement office, but these may contain an ORI (origination number) which will prevent the criminal history record from being returned to you. Photo copies of fingerprint cards are not acceptable for submission to FDLE.
Employees may get fingerprinted at their local police or sheriff's office. Your local law enforcement jurisdiction my charge for this service. You should not attempt to fingerprint your employees yourself, unless you are a skilled fingerprint technician, as errors in the recording of the prints may increase the likelihood that FDLE will reject the card. If a card is rejected you will have to begin the background and fingerprint process again. Completed cards are sent to:
Criminal History Public Records Section
User Services Bureau
Florida Department of Law Enforcement
P.O. Box 1489
Tallahassee, Florida 32302
904-488-4931
Employers should exercise care in ensuring that they accurately and completely fill out all of the information required on the FDLE fingerprint card. Incomplete and/or inaccurate information (known as identifiers) may result in the non-processing of a submitted card. By omitting or inaccurately submitting information you may have the card returned (delaying the investigation process), or causing a mis-matched information report to be generated. As the employer you are responsible for insuring the accuracy and completeness of the information required to process the criminal history review. Numerical information such as Social Security Number and date of birth are critically important as they are give the greatest weight in securing an accurate match in the criminal history records check process.
FDLE records do not currently contain juvenile arrest records (unless the offender was treated as an adult). After the first of the year juvenile arrest records will be available for those who committed crimes after October 1, 1995. Since the law requires three years of no criminal convictions this lack of juvenile information becomes particularly critical to employers who have employees or potential employees that are under 21 years of age.
CS/HB 793 modified Section 489.518, Florida Statues, to include information regarding eligibility requirements. The statute places the burden upon the employer to determine if the employee or potential employee "Has not been convicted of a crime that directly relates to the business for which employment is being sought." When reviewing criminal history records keep in mind that convictions not arrests are the controlling factor in determining employment retention. FDLE criminal background checks extend only to the State of Florida. It is the employer's responsibility to determine that the individuals for whom background checks are required have not been committed or found guilty of a crime involving controlled substances in any other state. It may be desirable for you to consult with your personal legal counsel to develop an internal policy to obtain this information so you can accurately determine someone's compliance or lack of compliance with this section of the statute.
PLEASE NOTE:
Provided as a service by the Alarm Association of Florida. Do not endeavor to use this copy for submission. Photo copies are not accepted by the Florida Dept. Of Law Enforcement.
Editor's note: Following is a condensed version of the association's 1995-96 program year report to the membership. Any AAF member may request a complete publication of the report by contacting AAF headquarters, or by accessing a copy through the AAF's Home Page under the Membership directory: www.fla-alarms.org.
INCOME & EXPENSES. The 1995 certified financial audit of the AAF's annual budget revealed the following breakdown of income and expense:
Income: Member dues (15%); Meetings & Training (43%); Publications/Promotions (10%); Grants/Awards (30%); Donations (2%)
Expense: Board & administration (27%); Training & Education (29%); Member Services (40%); Lobbying (4%)
MEMBERSHIP. All categories of membership realized a nine percent (9%) growth rate over attrition.
Regular Members (278); Associate Members (95); Public Safety Members (137).
EDUCATION & TRAINING. 599 students were trained through 53 classes from Miami to Dothan, Alabama. In addition, 197 dislocated workers were trained to become alarm technicians under the AAF's "SMART" federal grant program.
PUBLICATIONS. All publication costs decreased this year. Following are circulations and per/copy costs of all publications:
Handshake (900 circulation), $3.25/issue; The Signal (600 circulation), $.28/issue; Membership Directory (800 circulation), $2.50/each.
LEGISLATION. The AAF monitored 73 pieces of legislation in the 1996 session. Two bills dominated the association's legislative efforts (HB 793 and HB 711). The first ultimately became a committee substitute and passed in the waning minutes of the session. Included in that bill is the Alarm System Agent training and background check mandate for all alarm and electrical contractors. HB 711 was presented early in the session as a "must pass" bill by its sponsor since it included the restriction on local governments to not use local building codes to mandate journeyman requirements on construction jobs. The bill failed after vigorous lobbying on both sides of the issue. Unlicensed activity received more attention this year as HB 315, that would have increased unlicensed activity to a third degree felony, met with association and construction trades support. It ultimately died on the calendar, but is sure to be back in 1997 with stronger support.
All current AAF members will receive their first notice of 1997 dues payments shortly. This year, two changes will be noted on each invoice:
The first will be a reduction in the dues amount. As a result of the September 21 vote of the AAF membership to separate as a Charter State of the National Burglar & Fire Alarm Association (NBFAA), AAF members will no longer be required to pay national dues along with their state dues. Membership in the NBFAA will now be on a voluntary basis.
The second change will be an additional line offering members the opportunity to contribute to the AAF Legal Defense Fund. Each invoice will have a suggested contribution amount of $25 listed as a separate item. Members wishing to contribute more may certainly do so, and members not wanting to contribute may simply ignore the suggestion. Currently, the AAF owes almost $19,000. in legal fees for the defense of the five AAF Health & Welfare Plan Benefit Trust trustees who were sued by the federal bankruptcy court as a result of the plan's dissolution in bankruptcy in 1989. Contributions are greatly needed in order to satisfy this billing as promptly as possible to avoid additional interest charges.
All membership assessments are due on January 1, 1997 and will become delinquent on January 31, 1997. Please make your membership dues payment as soon as you receive your invoice to avoid disruption of all the services provided by your association.
In an effort to effect responsible management of the association's finances, the AAF program year will now coincide with the organization's financial year, beginning on January 1 and concluding on December 31. The change becomes effective January 1, 1997.
E-mail, URL's, http://, Home Page, Internet!!! Yes, I want to learn it all but how do I get started? Well, that's a question many people are asking these days. When most people refer to the Internet today they are really talking about the World Wide Web (WWW) or "web". The WWW is the graphic intensive segment of the Internet that is pleasing to the eye because it utilizes pictures, colors and all types of graphics. The World Wide Web is one of the road maps that lets you visit sites on the Internet. The basic unit in the web is the page. A page can be displayed as one or many screens on your monitor. Within the page are links to related pages and other web sites. This system of embedding links in the text on a page is called hypertext. Most pages include several phrases in contrasting colors or type. These are hypertext links to other pages, and you can switch to the linked page by clicking on or selecting the colored text.
You will also see buttons and pictures used for links. Usually, the text with it will clarify what it is, but if you see a colored border around the picture, usually blue or magenta, you can probably click on it to link to another site. Or you can simply click on the name instead.
The Web was invented by Tim Berners-Lee and others at the European Laboratory for Particle Physics in Cern, Switzerland. It was originally for text links only, but as it was further developed, multimedia links were added, too. Now, you can see pictures, listen to audio links, and see video links, if your computer and software are set up for them. With the addition of sound and graphics and fast modems to carry the large sound and graphics files, the Web soon became the most popular way of linking to resources on the Internet. Because the Web is the most popular segment of the Internet, we will focus our discussion on what it takes to use the Web most effectively. So, let's not waste any time and show you just how easy it is to take full advantage of this new thing called the Internet.
First of all you will need a computer. However, not just any computer will do. You need a relatively new model with enough hard drive space, memory and a fast enough modem that will allow you to move around the Web quickly. Older models may be upgraded to meet the requirements or you may want to purchase a new one. With the advancements in technology and manufacturing, you can buy a new model relatively inexpensively. For maximum web performance I suggest the following requirements be kept in mind when you shop for your new computer.
For best results, speed and graphic quality you need a:
If you are upgrading an older model, go ahead and make the most of the upgrade with the following equipment:
Remember, these are minimum requirements. Lesser systems will work, but may be unsatisfactory for efficient use and quality.
Now, another decision you will have to make is about Internet browser software. A browser is software that allows you to view the Internet or, as some say, "Surf the Web." Currently, the choice is between Netscape Navigator and Microsoft Internet Explorer. There are others but these two are the best. Currently, Netscape has about 75% market share, but Microsoft is determined to cut into that percentage. As they do, the end result will be better and cheaper browsers for the consumer so let's hope they keep fighting for a long time.
My personal preference is Netscape Navigator because I find it a little easier to use and it comes with great technical support. If you experience a problem with installation or have any general questions they are just an 800 number away. Microsoft Internet Explorer is also a good browser. Not having been in the browser market as long as Netscape, they have a little catching up to do. Netscape comes with built in E-mail which prompts you when you have mail. This means you never have to leave the browser to read your mail. Microsoft takes a little configuring to get to the mail functions, but once you have it configured correctly it is just as easy as Netscape.
Netscape Navigator can be purchased through the AAF or through your local retail store. Microsoft's browser is usually found in Microsoft's Internet Start-Up Kit.
Once you purchase the right equipment you will need two additional items. The first is a phone line. A standard phone line will work just fine and plugs into the modem in your computer. If you really get into surfing the web you may want to have a phone line installed just for the purpose of accessing the Internet. This way you are not interrupted by incoming phone calls.
Secondly, you need an Internet Service Provider (ISP). This is a person or business that supplies you with access to the Internet. There are many ISP's offering service today but relatively few that provide quality access. What you want to find is an ISP that offers unlimited Internet access for a flat fee. AAF On-Line offers this type of service. They have statewide dial-up access and provide unlimited use of the Internet and E-mail for a low fee using local telephone numbers for your area.
The Internet, and particularly the World Wide Web, is a wonderful work tool and entertainment source. Once you have the necessary equipment it is very easy to access and you will find a world of information right at your fingertips. So, take the plunge and get connected. You won't regret it!
A recent issue of Your Company, published by American Express, provided an overview of Congressional vote records that revealed some legislators are more friendly to private business than others. Florida has representation on both the good guy list and the bad guy list. Taken into account were the voting records of individuals on key issues such as taxes, unemployment compensation, mandated family leave, and self-employment rules and regulations.
Following is the list of "good guys" as developed by the U. S. Chamber, National Federation of Independent Business, and the National Association for Self-Employed:
GOOD GUYS: Senator Connie Mack (FL); Senator Hank Brown (CO); Senator Sam Nunn (GA); Senator Kit Bond (MO); Rep. John Shadegg (AZ); Rep. Newt Gingrich (GA); Rep. Sam Brownback (KA); Rep. Albert Wynn (MD); Rep. Earl Pomeroy (ND); and Rep. Dick Armey (TX).
BAD GUYS: Rep. Harry Johnston (FL); Rep. Don Dellums (CA); Rep. Patricia Schroeder (CO); Rep. Cardiss Collins (IL); Rep. Barney Frank (MA); Rep. David Bonior (MI); Senator Barbara Boxer (CA); Senator Daniel Akaka (HI); Senator Edward Kennedy (MA); and Senator Paul Wellstone (MN).
Since the AAF has increased our focus on marketing of products and services to our members and others, this is probably a good time to review with everyone the law governing such marketing through facsimile (fax) transmission. While the Telephone Consumer Protection Act of 1991 prohibits unsolicited fax advertising, the act does contain an important exemption for nonprofit organizations. Here is what the code provides:
"The term telephone solicitation means the initiation of a telephone call or message for the purpose of encouraging the purchase or rental of, or investment in, goods or services, which is transmitted to any person, but such term does not include a call or message:
--to any person with that person's prior express invitation or permission;
--to any person with whom the caller has an established business relationship; or
--by a tax-exempt nonprofit organization."
In spite of warnings from the AAF throughout the 1996 legislative session, Florida legislators passed an exemption to Florida alarm contractor law for companies manufacturing and selling personal emergency response systems (PERS). The exemption was presented by company lobbyists as nothing more than a direct dialer from a subscriber into a medical facility's switchboard. The AAF obtained case records from California where five counties collectively sued a PERS for unfair and excessive pressure tactics on the elderly, in addition to bait and switch tactics that cost the life savings of several disabled individuals.
Despite the sharing of this information with legislators and warning that what happened in California could easily happen in Florida where a large portion of the state's population is elderly, an exemption for PERS was included in CS/HB 793.
Now comes the news that one such company in South Florida is under state attorney investigation for exactly the same unethical and excessive tactics as that described in the California suit. The issue came to the AAF's attention through Vice President/President-Elect Roy Pollack, who copied the AAF on the news article and his letter to the editor of the Palm Beach Post in response to the item. We reprint it on this page for your information and in the hope that those legislators who receive a courtesy copy of this magazine will recognize the serious mistake made in the exemption they gave the PERS last year.
"Dear Editor:
The residents of Palm Beach County deserve to be protected from overbearing and unyielding salespeople, regardless of the product or the market the product is geared to. Your article (State probes medical alert company's sales tactics) confirms this fact entirely. It is unfortunate that the very nature of the product dictates that these medical alert companies prey on the elderly.
As a state licensed security contractor, I am required to follow certain rules and regulations set forth by the Florida legislature and the Department of Business and Professional Regulation. Florida Statute 489.505 defines an alarm contractor as anyone whose business includes monitoring of alarm systems for compensation, 'including all types of alarms for all purposes.'
These companies are en masse trying to have the Florida legislature deregulate monitoring of alarm systems for their own selfish gain. If that happens, more people like Mrs. Wilson may be irreparably harmed from salespeople that just refuse to leave. These companies are trying to evade proper licensing, training, and insurance requirements that every other security contractor must comply with. As explained in your article, all in home contracts are subject to rescission within three business days. Another little known fact is that if a company is required to have a license, and is not licensed, the contract is unenforceable (F.S. 489.532).
As a security professional, my company, along with over 400 other security companies from across the state, comprise the Alarm Association of Florida. We support licensing laws and look to strengthen them even further in the future. I would urge every resident of Palm Beach County to do the same. In this election year, contact those running for office and demand that people like Mrs. Wilson be protected. For more information on licensing, and/or licensed security professionals, readers may contact the AAF at 800-899-2099 or the Department of Business and Professional Regulation at 904-488-3109.
Sincerely,
Roy Pollack, President
RSP Security, Florida License #EFA000279."
Chiefs Association to prevent false alarms
The Alarm Association of Florida will present a four hour session during the annual conference of the Florida Fire Chiefs Association to educate local fire chiefs on the effectiveness of local alarm ordinances in preventing false alarms, and to garner their support in enforcing the Alarm System Agent law.
The session will take place on Friday, January 3, 1997 at the Tampa Convention Center from 1:00 - 5:00 p.m. The workshop will be presented in two tracks of two hours each.
The first will be presented by Deputy Chief Julius Halas, Sarasota County Fire Department,and member of the AAF's False Alarm Reduction Effort (FARE) Committee. Halas will share the experiences of counties like his that have implemented alarm ordinances, and provide insight on how local fire officials can work in partnership with alarm companies to reduce false alarms.
The second track will be conducted by Jude Ann Burk, Executive Director & Chief Lobbyist for the association. Burk will provide an orientation to Florida Statutes Chapter 489, Part II, focusing on new legislation that becomes effective January 1, 1997. That legislation will now require all alarm and electrical contractors to conduct criminal background checks on their technical employees and satisfy a 12-hour educational requirement. Local fire officials will hear how they will share in the enforcement of this new law to weed out unlicensed contractors.
The AAF Board of Directors will meet the next day at the Convention Center in their regular session, immediately following an address from Jeb Bush, President of the Foundation for Florida's Future, to a joint audience of fire chiefs and AAF representatives.
The U. S. Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit has ruled that an association is not required to pay tax on payments it received through sponsoring of group insurance plans. In American Academy of Family Physicians v. United States, payments made by an insurance company to Kansas City, MO-based AAFP, a 50l(c)(6) organization (the same tax-exempt status held by the AAF) were at issue. The payments to AAFP were for the company's use of reserved funds. The Internal Revenue Service claimed these payments constituted unrelated business income.
AAFP argued that the payments constituted interest income, excluded from the Internal Revenue Code definition of unrelated business income. The Court of Appeals affirmed the U.S. District Court's granting of summary judgment in favor of AAFP, saying that AAFP "did not have the profit motive required" for an activity to be considered a trade or business and that AAFP's involvement in the insurance plans was "not extensive and did not possess the general characteristics of a trade or business."
Capital Region
Bill Neal, Region Vice President
Andy Rozar, Secretary
(The region meets quarterly. This report represents actions taken at the July meeting.)
The meeting featured a continuing education course on Codes & Standards for Fire Alarm Systems presented by Jim Williams, System Sensor. Bill Neal and Andy Rozar were re-elected as Vice President and Secretary, respectively.
Dade Region
Jim Wilhelm, Vice President
Robert Boudreaux, Secretary
The October meeting of the Dade Region was sponsored by Merle Stepp of Security Screens, who donated a pair of Panther's tickets for a door prize drawing. Jim Wilhelm reviewed actions taken at the annual convention. P.C. Mills and Bill Goodrich will form a committee to organize the December Dade Trade Show and/or buffet. Items from the chair and floor:
1) CS/HB 793: Jim Wilhelm disseminated fingerprint cards from AAF that will satisfy the background check portion of the law.
2) The new UL Modular Burglar Alarm certificate was discussed.
3) Greg Gracer asked for volunteers for assistance in replacing the alarm system at Farm Share, a charitable organization that distributes food to the indigent.
4) Jim Wilhelm reported on ongoing communication and cooperation with BPR and the State's Attorney's Office in enforcing action against unlicensed activity.
5) Angela Lima of Metro Dade's False Alarm Unit discussed the problems of non-registration of alarms and plans for enforcement. She also advised that 5,800 alarm systems were on the Dade County no-response list.
Goldcoast Region
Joe Holfelner, Vice President
Jack Tare, Secretary
The October meeting opened with the sad news of the deaths of Jerry McDaniel, National Security Services, and Walt Kelly, Nutone.
Dave Block, Security Lock Co. gave a brief presentation on his products. Joe Holfelner spoke on CS/HB 793, of which the regional membership does not approve. The question of a representative of the Palm Beach County Sheriff's Department installing alarms was discussed. A motion was passed to bring this matter to the attention of President David Mims and Executive Director Jude Burk to formally investigate with the Sheriff's Office.
Spacecoast Region
Chris Spidle, Vice President
Dave Eddins, Secretary
The October meeting opened with an advisory from Chris Spidle that all meetings would begin a noon sharp in order to take care of business in a timely manner. Discussion then followed regarding the AAF convention and lack of attendance due to the confusion over the $15 trade show fee. It was also felt that the golf tournament details and promotion of the Harley Davidson contest were not handled well.
Chris Spidle reported on the changes in the Bylaws that the membership had sanction and noted that the amended Bylaws were being put in final order by the AAF legal counsel. Gary Kelly with Scott Alarms,who is a trainer for the AAF's Alarm System Agent course, reviewed the registration requirements. Discussion was heard on how the AAF's move away from the NBFAA would affect future training in the state. Clyde Thodey, Jr. gave an overview on the finances of the region as well as AAF overall. The fact that AAF now has an audited financial statement was well received. Table of Contents
At a recent AAF Board meeting, a question was posed from several regions concerning residentially-listed burglar alarm panels in commercial applications. Local inspectors had been providing their own interpretations, culminating in one Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) writing an article that stated residentially-listed burglar alarm panels could not be used in commercial applications
I was able to assist the locals because Underwriter's Laboratories (UL) had written a letter of explanation in November 1993, addressed to a building official in Broward County, providing UL's position that there is no reason to believe that any additional safety hazard is created by installing a residentially-listed burglar alarm panel in a commercial application.
Most of us are aware that UL issues "listings" to a company that has met certain requirements concerning its installation practices, ability to respond to alarms, stocking of materials, and proper compliance with paperwork rules. Once a company is "listed", it is able to install UL-grade A, B, or C systems with different "extent" numbers. UL also lists equipment for certain types of usage. An example of this would be fire alarm systems that are listed for use in commercial applications. Such equipment appears in the UL publication entitled, Fire Protection Equipment Directory. Another such listing would be burglar alarm panels, or combination burglar and fire alarm panels that are listed for use in residential or commercial applications.
The primary difference between the two is that one listing is to ensure safety standards, just as toasters, irons, and other household appliances receive similar UL listings. The other listing, that for commercial installations, is a performance standard. UL ensures that the control panel of a burglar alarm system is able to withstand certain attack tests under adverse operating situations. In the event of a burglary, it is assumed that the control panel will be attacked by either hand tools, power tools, and/or torches. The equipment is then listed based on the ability to withstand such attacks for a certain period of time.
If you look at a standard burglar alarm panel for household use, and then examine that which is listed for commercial use, you will see that the control panel is basically, if not in all ways, the same board. The only difference is the housing and how it is secured. There are additional holes for screws to secure the cover to the housing, some will include a tamper plate, and others may include a lock and key on the cover.
However, since there are other codes, specifically the National Fire Alarm Code, NFPA 72, and state codes, Florida Statutes 633 and 489, Part II, that govern the installation of equipment for the purposes for which they were intended, only UL-listed commercial fire alarm panels are permitted in anything other than a single or two family residential application.
For more information, contact AAF headquarters.
The following actions items were sanctioned at the September 21, September 23, and October 26 meetings of the AAF Board of Directors:
***To secure Directors & Officers liability insurance of $1 million through Frontier Insurance, Keenan Insurance Company, agents.
***To sign an installment payment contract with legal counsel for AAF Health & Welfare Plan Benefit Trust trustees for satisfaction of legal bill of $19,639.22.
***To authorize AAF lobbying efforts to investigate a new regulatory agency for alarm licenses.
***To empower the Executive Committee to approve Sprint contract terms for provision of Internet access if they meet with Executive Director and legal counsel approval.
***Clarify the fact that the AAF had not gone on record with the ECLB in support of a rule requiring 51% of qualifying agent's business be in commercial fire work in order to sit for state exam.
***Pursue clarification with UL/Northwood on use of residential alarm panels in commercial installation and develop a plan of action for working with local officials and UL to remedy the matter.
***Withdraw $20,000. from Disaster Fund and Money Market Reserve Account to pay court settlement on AAF Health & Welfare Plan Benefit Plan trustees' suit.
***Send letter of clarification to NBFAA stating the formal date of withdraw from Charter State status is December 31, 1996.
***Waive the conflict of interest for Mark Neuberger, Buchanan Ingersoll, P.A., in representing AAF while Buchanan Ingersoll is representing NBFAA.
***Write off $17,493.46 bad debt carried over from past years.
***Create a non-compete policy for training committee members, trainers, and Board members to sign in an effort to not have them vote on AAF training policies and be direct competitors of AAF.
***Develop a trade secrets policy for trainers, all committees, and current Board members to sign in an effort to keep AAF business matters confidential.
***Approve advertising rates for AAF home page advertising.
***Re-institute some form of per diem for board service.
***Nominate Ron Walters and Chuck Bellissimo for Life Membership.
***Have Bylaws Committee develop language for amendment to the Bylaws clarifying that committee meetings shall be open to all members.
***Approve memberships of:
Regular:
C.T.E. Security Systems, C.T. Earle, 7001 Gibsonton Dr., Gibsonton, FL 33534.
Home Security & Audio, Inc., John H. Christmas, 6820 Millhopper Rd., Gainesville, FL 32653.
CFS Security, Howell V. Wright, 6005 N. Wickham Rd., Unit D-12, Melbourne, FL 32941.
ATECH Fire Alarm System, Inc., Robert J. Sikorski, 1188 N.W. 47 St., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33308.
Harbour Island Security, Inc., Khaled El Jamal, 424 Knight's Run, Tampa, FL 33602.
Superior Systems of Brevard, James K. White, 560 Collings St., SE, Palm Bay, FL 32909.
24-7 Security, K.David Byars, 1801 Lee Road, #100, Winter Park, FL 33486.
Advanced Fire Systems, Mike Couts,5896 Enterprise Pkwy., Ft. Myers, FL 33905.
ADAEC Systems, Inc., Laurin A. Dunn, 102 Graham Rd., Fern Park, FL 32730.
Network Miltifamily Corp., Sheldon Wittlin, 14275 Midway Rd., Suite 450, Dallas, TX 75287.
Associates:
Nutone, Inc., Frank Kinsley, 1008 Silcox Br. Circle, Oviedo, FL 32765.
DMAC, 1300 E. Ninth St., Suite 1610, Cleveland, OH 44114.
Echostar Communications Corp., Mark Gilpin, 90 Inverness Cir., East, Englewood, CO 80112.
American NetLink, Robert Kuenzler, 7040 W. Palmetto Park Rd., Suite 2-30, Boca Raton, FL 33433.
Executive Tactics, Mark Lejeune, 4260 Tuller Rd., Suite 200, Dublin, OH 43017.
Lindsay Manufacturing, Jay Napier, P. O. Box 1708, Ponca City, OK 74602.
Fountain Motor Co., Peter Popiel, 8701 S. Orange Blossom Trail, Orlando, FL 32809.
Southeast Access Control, Barry P. Kinney, 8419 Sunstate St., Tampa, FL 33634.
Public Safety:
City of Seminole Fire Rescue Dept., Paul A. Hill, Deputy Fire Chief, 11195 70th Avenue, North, Seminole, FL 33642.
Seminole County Sheriff's Office, Raymond D. Stacey, CSO, 1345 28th St., Sanford, FL 32773.
Zephyrhills Police Dept., Kenneth L. Gray, CSO, 5334 9th St., Zephyrhills, FL 33540.
Gainesville Police Dept., Sterling Keys, Officer, P. O. Box 1250, Gainesville, FL 32602.
City of St. Petersburg Police Dept., Earl E. Cooley, Police Officer, Sherman W. Smith, Legal Advisor, 1300 1st Avenue, North, St. Petersburg, FL 33705.
Metro-Dade Code Compliance, Roy Van Wyk, Supervisor, 140 W. Flagler Street, Miami, FL 33130.
Orange County Fire Rescue Div., Mitchel C. Floyd, District Chief, 6590 Amory G., Winter Park, FL 32792.
Bradford County Sheriff's Office, Robert W. Foster, Comm. Super., P. O. Box 400, Starke, FL 32091.
St. Johns County Sheriff's Office, W.A. Ouzts, Alarm Code Enforcement Officer, 4015 Lewis Speedway, St. Augustine, FL 32095.
Orlando Police Dept., Lisa Strano, Comm. Supervisor, 100 S. Hughey Ave., Orlando, FL 32833.
Mac Dill Airforce Base, Anthony Boodram, Fire Dept., 761 Hillsborough Loop Dr., Tampa, FL 33621.
Escambia Co. Sheriff's Office,George Brown, Lt., P. O. Box 18770, Pensacola, FL 32523-8770.
Emergency24 now offers security professionals and their subscribers the opportunity to view their alarm activities via the Internet from anywhere in the world at any time, day or night. Details: Contact EM24 Sales Dept., (800) 800-3624.
The Fire-Command 25/50 is Fire Lite Alarms' self-contained, field expandable Voice Evacuation Control System. Though pre-engineered, this system offers modularity for job customization, maximum system flexibility and is compatible with all Fire Lite Alarm Control Panels as well as many other manufacturers' systems.
Guardian International has announced that an agreement has been reached with Simplex Time Recorder to begin a long-term proprietary monitoring contract. The contract represents the first time a central station has signed a financial agreement asking a competing central station to act as a back-up. Details: Richard Hahn, (716) 372-2443.
King Central has announced the purchase of the central station operated by Sprint Communications. Subscribers, through their dealers, will have access to a broad range of new services, such as two-way voice and long-range radio, previously unavailable to them. Details: (800) 883-2368.
A recent lawsuit underscores the importance of companies issuing e-mail guidelines to employees. In Smyth v. Pillsbury Company, 1996, a terminated employee claimed his privacy was violated by an employer that intercepted his e-mail message to a supervisor, a message that contained inappropriate and unprofessional comments, resulting in his termination. The employee claimed that the company has assured employees that their e-mail would remain confidential. The court ruled that the employee's firing was not unlawful and ruled in favor of the employer since the employee wrote the message voluntarily with no reasonable expectation of privacy. However, employers should take note of this potential for liability and issue guidelines as suggested by the court's ruling: E-mail is the property of the employer, and, as such, is subject to access. E-mail is not private or confidential. Inappropriate messages are prohibited and are grounds for discipline. E-mail messages are subject to discovery in lawsuits and may be used against the employee (and the company.) Table of Contents