YourAlarmGuy

FIT FAIR

2010-03-06T05:31:00.003-05:00

Today we'll be back on tour working the Fit Fair at the YMCA. Several of my bet associates shall also be there including Brian Grout from Met Life Home Loans.

BRIDAL SHOW TODAY

2010-01-24T10:15:00.001-05:00

From 11:00 to 1:30 at the Knights of Columbus in Chicopee!

WELCOME TO 2010!

2010-01-05T07:49:00.004-05:00

Back and ready to get going. This month our feature business is Graphic Designer Kara Budd!

She is the Class Valedictorian at Becker College. Check out some of what she has created at http://www.karabudd.com.

Western Mass. Alarms: Black Friday Security Tip

2009-11-27T12:23:00.004-05:00

Today, I am offering a HUGE security tip because many of us tend to make the same mistakes around the holidays.

So today there are advertised LCD HDTV's for around $260! Great deal, right? YES it is! I would like to get one myself.

One important thing that you should NOT do is advertise what you may be putting into your home. What do I mean when I say "advertise?"

Too many people open the boxes and put them on the curb for the next trash pick up. The BAD GUYS are out also and viewing what "toys" prospective victims have added to their collection.

The easiest way is to look at your trash. If you have just purchased a new home computer or some other large item, your curb side can offer an invitation to disaster.

Cut up those larger boxes thoroughly, tie them together and don't let the ends show any print. Put the trash out as close to the time they normally come so that no one has "lead time" to view your belongings.

Have a Happy Holiday, but more importantly, have a SAFE Holiday!

Western Mass Alarms: NAME CHANGES

2009-11-24T12:27:00.003-05:00

A few weeks ago, I received an e-mail from Smith and Wesson Security.

It indicated that GE Security was now United Technologies and that Brinks was now Broadview. The e-mail seemed to insinuate that companies are changing their names quite frequently, and what the heck is going on?

I found this a little humorous and a bit hypocritical. This coming from a company that JUST got into the home security business. After all, one of their main dealers is a company from Cromwell, Connecticut called Safe Home Security.

Isn't this the SAME Safe Home Security that has an "F" rating with the Better Business Bureau? Is this the same SHS that Richard Blumenthal (the AG of Connecticut) had sued several years ago?

I can see Brinks wanting to get out of the business and concentrate on what they do best...armored cars. People do not understand that GE Security is not an alarm company, they simply MAKE alarm products. You even see their equipment at the airports.

But to accept as a dealer a company with a proven "record"? Hey, don't believe me, you can link to the BBB yourself and look it up: www.bbb.com

I am in no way saying Smith & Wesson shouldn't be in the home security business, but having a familiar name that is linked with something else, COULD work, or as in Brinks case, might NOT (for whatever reasons).

I will say it will work better if you surround yourself with quality operators and people and if you treat the customer properly.

Western Mass Alarms:SPRINGFIELD HALL OF FAME

2009-11-22T10:07:00.004-05:00

Yesterday I attended the Springfield Sports Hall of Fame induction at Central High School. The reason is simple: The person I fashioned as my second father was being inducted - Mr. Thaddeus Dutkiewicz.

While I was there I saw some of my old classmates that were stellar athletes. Sadly, not many of them look the same. But for a few, they look exactly or better than they did when they were in school. One specifically is perhaps the best pound for pound wrestler in Tech High history - Willie Jiles.

He looks ready to go three rounds with anyone.

I was lucky enough to sit next to Cross Country Coach Josh Rice of Central who took me into the swimming pool area for a few moments so I could get my first ever glance of my nephew Alain's mural that had been created by the National Honor Society and dedicated to the school.

Alain passed away tragically during his senior year in 2006. He was an accomplished swimmer specializing in the breast stroke. It was incredible the outpouring of love Central High gave towards him.

On the other side of me was long time friend Ken Caouette. Ken is what sports SHOULD be all about. He was the Olympic Official that started the 1984 Women's Marathon in Los Angeles and basically RAN the Track & Field portion of the Olympic trials and games from 1984 to 2000. He is in the USA Track & Field Hall of Fame.

I guess I was in good company. Ken is the most humble person I have ever met, yet he has accomplished so much in life. He now lives in Greenfield after being born in tiny Turners Falls.

But guess what? Ken was broken into and his wife's jewelry was stolen. Ironic that where he lives one would NEVER think home security is needed. I'll be meeting with him after Thanksgiving so that type of thing will never happen to him again.

Crime has no color. It cares less about your status, and is not concerned about what you have done in life.

Perhaps one day more people will realize this.

Western Mass Alarms:First Time Homebuyers Seminar

2009-11-19T07:26:00.003-05:00

Tonight at the Springfield YMCA on 275 Chestnut Street (Room 209), there shall be a first time homebuyers Seminar hosted by Brian Grout of MetLife Home Loans.

This is the first in a series of such seminars Your Alarm Guy shall be involved in this year.

Western Mass. Alarms: WHAT'S IN A NAME?

2009-11-17T08:14:00.005-05:00

Yesterday I had an interesting discussion with a customer.

Seems as though someone else had visited her and indicated that he was "The District Manager" and that what he could do was better than anything I could even come up with.

I should have been offended, but instead I was intrigued.

First of all, why would a District Manager take business away from his or her supposed subordinates? Doesn't this breed ill will amongst the troops?

Truth is, any GOOD leader would not attempt to undermine the folks that report to them. It's dumb and it's also petty.

The REAL truth is, some people actually give themselves titles to make them feel better about themself. I am surprised I have not come across anyone who uses a religious leader's monniker yet.

In this business you shall see "Promotions Coordinator", "Sales Manager", "District Manager", "Vice President of Marketing" and a host of other simply meaningless titles.

The bottom line is the person is either a Salesman or a Consultant. How do you tell the difference because there is a gray area?

Simple. A consultant consults, a salesperson tries to sell. The easiest way to determine either is simply say "no" and watch the expression on their face, or look for a change in attitude. At that point you can decide if you want to proceed further or throw that person out on their keester.

Now back to the name game: Let's cut through the fog of lies.

Each person is in competition with one another, EVEN IF THEY REPRESENT THE SAME COMPANY. Over 85% of the people in the alarm sales business are paid by commissions only.

The only salaried people generally are office personnel, but even some of them have commission incentives.

One example of this is easy; there are tons of ADT dealers out there. Many of them do not even live anywhere near your community. You can be bombarded with literature from all of them. Curious, huh?

So don't buy into the "we're with the same company talk". The difference is whom do you feel will service you AFTER the sale and whom do you think won't.

I assure you the Salesman WON'T, and I don't care what titles, or letters they use after their name. Unless they are the Owner, the higher up they "think" they are, the less they will likely do for you.

Some people are stuck on "status" while still others are stuck on service. Which is most important to you?

Western Mass Alarms:UTC to add GE Security to its Portfolio

2009-11-13T21:17:00.004-05:00

United Technologies Corporation, Hartford, Conn., today announced it has reached an agreement to purchase the GE Security business from GE for $1.82 billion. The closing is pending regulatory approvals.

"This acquisition enhances UTC Fire & Security's status as a leading franchise in the $100 billion global fire safety and electronic security industry," said Louis Chênevert UTC president and CEO. "It strengthens our North American footprint, extends our capabilities and complements our existing fire and security businesses."

Headquartered in Farmington, Conn., UTC Fire & Security was established in 2003 with the acquisition of fire safety and electronic security supplier Chubb. It since has grown with the additions of fire suppression supplier Kidde, electronic security supplier Onity, and Lenel, a provider of software and integrated systems for the corporate and government security markets.

Its other brands include Red Hawk, which was ranked eighth on the 2009 SDM Top Systems Integrators list and specializes in the deployment of physical security equipment; Guardall Secure Solutions, a provider of control panels and detection equipment; and security monitoring services provider Counterforce.

Western Mass Alarms: FIRE

2009-11-11T17:21:00.007-05:00

Today a Fire truck went zooming by my home in East Springfield, lights flashing and siren on.

The first reaction anyone has to seeing a fire truck is the curiousity of "What's going on?"

I realized that I see Fire trucks a lot in the course of a year running towards emergencies. We ALL do. The problem is we take it for granted and we also take it for granted it's not US they're servicing. But it has to be someone...DOESN'T IT?

You are 10 times more likely to have a fire than a burglary, yet people generally only concern themselves with being robbed when considering a home security system.

Home security by itself means just that - HOME SECURITY. Fire is a very big part of that solution.

So many of the people I know that sell alarm systems barely touch upon fire (if at all). Your Security professional should ALWAYS introduce fire and medical emergencies in their consultation. If they are not...there are three reasons:

1) They are just trying to get a quick commission and leave

2) They don't really care about you and your family's safety

3) They are lazy

Either way...you should show them the door.

The person that first impressed me about fire protection was a former mentor of mine Mr. Mark Tosoni. Mark and I have since parted companies and ways, but I always considered him family. His Dad (Bob) was an active athlete in the Massachusetts Senior Games until his unfortunate death last year. His uncle was an outstanding Police Officer that actually served my neighborhood. I even coached his niece at East Longmeadow High School - she was a pretty good high jumper.

Bob and I would have great conversations over the years and Mark was a Security Alarm genius.

Mark would talk about the deaths his system COULD have averted. In short, a nurse (Mom) working from 11pm to 7 am came home after her shift to learn of an electrically based fire in her home in which her husband was resuscitated. Unfortunately it claimed the lives of their two children.

Their little lungs had been too consumed with smoke and soot and unable to be revived.

One photoelectronic smoke detector could have prevented this. ONE!

I'll never forget the story and I'll always be thankful for our brave Firefighters. Just remember, it could be YOU one day. Don't ever take your fire safety for granted!

Western Mass Alarms: FAMILY FEUD

2009-11-10T12:33:00.001-05:00

As I am home recovering today, I had an opportunity to view the TV show "Family Feud".

The number one answer to the poll question: "What should NO home be without?"

AN ALARM SYSTEM.

So everybody knows it to be true, even in TV land!

Western Mass Alarms: THE FLU

2009-11-10T05:52:00.003-05:00

I have just recently struggled this past weekend with a severe bout of the flu. High Knee, or Pig...whatever it was, it was disabling.

I have to tell folks that you had better get your proper rest and dress appropriately: Just as Mama and Grandmama have always told you.

The best remedy I could find came from my Track & Field team: Vitamin Water (Defense). I usually keep one for every meet and I happen to have had some left over, so on Sunday I started to imbibe and within a few hours I was actually up and about.

I am taking one more day off to insure that everything is out of my system, but I must encourage everyone to practice good habits now. This winter might be menacing.

Having a medical alert for the elderly is also a pretty good item in your Home Security bundle.

Western Mass. ALarms: EL UPDATE

2009-11-05T08:59:00.001-05:00

Since I am involved in the East Longmeadow community as a coach, I have heard more information to support yesterday's home invasion.

Apparently the homeowner left 3 garage doors open, came out of the shower only to find two guys in his place.

Western Mass. Alarms: BNI OPEN HOUSE

2009-11-05T07:11:00.006-05:00

Tomorrow at the Moose Lodge in Chicopee is my BNI Open House. We have invited over 450 business owner/operators to attend.

For those of you that do not know BNI is the largest business referral source in this planet! We are always looking for new members that want to exchange ideas and referrals with like minded people.

The Moose Lodge is located at 244 Fuller Road in Chicopee. It is easily accessed from Route 291 (Fuller Road exit) or Route 33 in Chicopee (street is across from Mass Mutual building).

Western Mass. Alarms: EAST LONGMEADOW

2009-11-04T12:17:00.002-05:00

East Longmeadow police probe reported burglary or home invasion on Stonehill Road
By George W. Graham

November 04, 2009, 9:46AM

EAST LONGMEADOW – Police are probing a reported home invasion or burglary on Stonehill Road Wednesday morning.The incident was reported shortly after 8:30 a.m. Additional information was not immediately available.

This was extracted from MassLive only moments ago.

I can wait...you can wait...but the BAD GUYS simply WON'T wait!

Western Mass Alarms: FIRE

2009-11-04T10:03:00.002-05:00

Did you all remember when you turned the clocks back to check your smoke detectors???

Did you also check your CO detectors?

Fire is the number one mass murderer on the planet. It only takes a few seconds for fire to double in size and get out of control.

If you have NOT done so... THIS IS YOUR FIRST WARNING!

FIRST TIME HOMEBUYERS PROGRAM EXTENDED

2009-10-29T07:57:00.004-04:00

For details, here are some professionals you can contact to get you thoroughly up to speed:

Brian Grout: Met Life Home Loans

Karen Miron: Citizen's Bank (Chicopee Main Branch)

Tim and Liz Frangioso: Keller Williams Realty

Erin Morris: Park Square Realty

Maher Khatib: MBC Realtors

Albert Beaumier: Law Offices of Al Beaumier

Betsy Vega: Law Offices of Betzaida Sanabria-Vega

Marie Jablonski: Law Offices of Marie Jablonski

As always, these professionals shall give you the type of service you deserve. They go above and beyond the scope of customer satisfaction.

Western Mass. Alarms: MARIO HORNSBY

2009-10-26T18:27:00.003-04:00

Last week I attended the Springfield Safe Neighborhood Night at Western New England College. What they introduced there were some interesting ways of battling crime in our neighborhoods, particularly when it comes to gang violence.

They also said everyone should be a "snitch". I'll discuss that subject in a future blog.

What was most impressive was when Mario Hornsby Sr. spoke.

It was riveting. What he suffered with the loss of his son due to a senseless drive by shooting and how he has managed to pull together such immense strength and courage has to be commended.

Mario ( Jr.) was headed to Brandeis University with a 3.75 GPA at Central High School where he was Captain of the basketball team. His future seemed amazingly bright.

One senseless act of violence. Everything changed.

Yet this man; this father has compassion for those that hurt him so deeply. Mario Hornsby Sr. is a bigger and better man than I or anyone I probably know. I would hope never to feel his particular pain as I have my own children. Yet if I ever did, I hope I would have the ability to forgive and move forward.

SEMINAR TONIGHT

2009-10-06T06:57:00.001-04:00

30 Steps to a Better WebsiteChicopee Public Library6 Oct 2009 - 7:00 PM to 8:30 PM 449 Front Street - Chicopee, MA
If you own a business in the Greater Springfield area, take this quick quiz:
How Would You Rate Your Website?
A) Non-existent
B) Looks like it might have been put together by a preschooler
C) Created by a “professional” but you have no idea if it’s actually effective or how to edit it
D) Adding $30,000/month directly into your bank account
If your answer was A-C, then you need to get your butt to the Chicopee Public Library on Tuesday, October 6, at 7:00 pm for the FREE SEMINAR – 30 Steps To A Better Website!Presented by Rachael Letendre – Owner of RWhite Web Design and OMC – Online Marketing Consultants
You’ll learn:
How to analyze your website’s effectiveness through free, easy to understand tools. Find out who’s visiting, where they’re coming from and what they are doing
Which words need to be added to your web pages to come up top in Google
The #1 step 99% of websites overlook that costs them thousands of dollars every month
How to turn you local service into a product that can be sold globally
How to integrate Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and blogging into your website
Why so many visitors look at your site for 5 seconds and then click away
Maybe you already have a website and think it’s great, maybe you don’t, either way – I can almost guarantee you’re leaving money on the table.
If you don’t have a website – you are missing a huge group of potential customers.
If you have a website – but it gives the wrong message – you are missing a huge group of potential customers.
What is your website saying (or not saying) about your business?
It doesn’t matter if you are grossing half a million a year or are running your business in your pajama’s in your parent’s basement – there are simple things that 99% of all websites miss when it comes to making money. In less than 90 minutes, you’ll uncover the secrets to business success through the internet.
Come to the Chicopee Public Library, Tuesday, October 6th and learn the 30 steps you need to take to have a better, more profitable website.

Visit www.WesternMassSmallBusinessMarketing.com to RSVP.

Also check out our upcoming workshop:
Build Your Own Website Series
The series will have two parts:
Session 1: Website-In-A-Day
Session 2: I’ve Built It, Now Let Them Come – Deliver Traffic to you Website

SEMINAR TONIGHT

2009-09-29T09:14:00.003-04:00

Paul Stallman of Alias Solutions shall be giving a presentation tonight at the Chicopee Library. This is free to the public. The topic of discussion shall be about branding your product or service.
The seminar starts at 7PM.

LEARN HOW TO
1. Make your “BRAND” a part of everything you do.
2. Get business from your business cards.
3. Get full color professional sales flyers for the price of B&W copies.
4. Create signs and messaging that draw people into your store to buy.
5. Judge if newspaper advertising is just a waste of money.
6. Determine if your logo works.
7. Leverage your website to increase sales.
8. Make a good old fashioned newsletter that can be better than Twitter or Facebook.
9. Sell more with benefits not features.
10. Learn how a little work in your office or store can translate into big $$.
11. GET NOTICED!
FREE SEMINAR - RSVP TODAY!

GLENN KEEDY

2009-09-17T12:22:00.003-04:00

I was listening to the news this morning and heard that Glenn Keedy was involved in an auto accident early today and was rushed to Baystate Medical Center. The report seems to indicate that someone was "texting" and ran into him in East Longmeadow.

Glenn is a former member of the Partners In Prosperity BNI Group out of Chicopee, and is the owner of FINE LINE PAINTING. I know our thoughts and prayers are with him and his wife Debra.

http://www.masslive.com/news/index.ssf/2009/09/glenn_keedy_of_east_longmeadow.html?category=East%20Longmeadow&category=Granby&category=Traffic

2009-09-01T18:07:00.002-04:00

This month our Western Mass Alarm System company is honoring Marco Dermith and his business: Home Inspections by Marco. I have an idea who came up with the impressive logo as well...maybe NEXT Month! Marco also tests home for Radon, which is a trigger that causes cancers from the home. Well, ask Marco to explain how it works, HE's the professional!

Dentists' Office Are Also Targets

2009-08-24T05:11:00.003-04:00

I work closely with Police Officers. Today I spoke with one and he was telling me that in a certain community, the DENTIST'S offices were broken into. What? Why?

Apparently your Dentist as well as your Doctor keep your social security number on file. This is not an uncommon practice, just a way to confirm patient's sensitive information.

With all the fraud going on, evidently some criminals feel compelled to get your information since it is in your medical professional's files. I guess Chiropractors and others are also possible targets.

So if you are in Western Mass or Connecticut, send me your medical professional as I will be able to outfit him or he with a Western Mass Alarm System (or a Connecticut Alarm System)

SECURITY TIPS

2009-08-15T16:25:00.003-04:00

74 percent of reported home-fire deaths result from fires in homes without working smoke alarms. These statistics are even more alarming when determining Western Mass or Connecticut alarm systems studies, particularly in the Winter months.

This one is pretty simple: Get a smoke alarm and make sure it works. Nothing is more important than your family. You can replace your home, but this is a very small price to pay to keep your family safe.

The above photograph is a photo-electronic fire communicator. Independent studies show this to be the most efficient and effective type of smoke detector available.

Test your fire communicators and smoke detectors frequently, particularly when you change the clocks in the Fall and in the Spring.

School is right around the corner!

2009-08-11T18:09:00.006-04:00

The Republican/DAVE ROBACK Lynn E. Budd, a first grade teacher at the Balliet School, gets her classroom ready at the former Our Lady of Sacred Heart School in Springfield.

http://www.masslive.com/news/index.ssf/2009/08/2_former_springfield_catholic.html?category=Education&category=Springfield

SEEK AND YE SHALL FIND

2009-08-07T17:14:00.003-04:00

Two days ago I thought, wouldn't it be nice if I knew more about this upstart company that has signs popping up everywhere: APX. I have never really seen their products (Honeywell), nor their agreements. I was curious to know how they were serving the community.

Today I had a discussion with two ladies that are having difficulty with their alarm companies. That's right COMPANIES!

Well, it turns out that these two ladies had Safe Home and were somewhat dissatisfied with the service they were getting and lo and behold, APX stopped at their door and sold them a bill of goods. Since it appeared as if their agreement with SHS was about to expire, they went ahead and changed over. Apparently they were told that they (as in APX) would "take care of everything".

The ink was not dry on the contract and several folks came running to their door, literally flying out of a van with equipment and tools in hand. The transition was going to be done THEN (not in a few days)! APX dismantled the SHS system and once everything was done, the "gang" left Dodge City!

Fast forward to today, there have been some problems with the APX system that no one seems to care much about...phone calls result in advice ranging from "jiggle the door" to "it'll be okay."

Perhaps now I know more than I want to. Perhaps you'll read this and be cautious before signing any agreement AND find out what the service plan is really all about. Do this BEFORE the ink dries.

SECURITY TIPS

2009-08-06T12:53:00.011-04:00

In 84 percent of burglaries, the offender gained entry into the victim's residence or other property. Most criminals are not sneaking into back yards and stealing the lawn furniture. They first get on the property, and then try to get inside.

If you have trees or other landscaping that provides too much cover for prowlers, consider trimming them back.

If you don't have a fence, consider putting one up. A fence is a great deterrent.
Pull shades both at night and while you're not home. This makes it difficult for prowlers to determine if you, or your dog are home, or if you have anything worth stealing. Then they are likely to choose an easier option.

Even if you have a home security system, these tips can be followed. Ask for the free report if considering the purchase of a home alarm system.

Your Alarm Guy on Radio

2009-08-05T14:21:00.003-04:00

YourAlarmGuy has been in discussion with the Habitat for Humanity to offer them our services and shall be making an announcement of the new alliance (as well as some other surprises) this Saturday on WTCC-FM!

The show shall air from 11 AM to 1PM August 8.

Congratulations John Gibbons!

2009-07-29T11:08:00.004-04:00

This is a former teammate of mine. I have known John since he was a running back at AIC back in the 70's. We ran track & field together in the Summertime.

John Gibbons, detective assigned to the Northwestern district attorney's office, nominated for U.S. marshal
by The Republican Newsroom
Tuesday July 28, 2009, 4:53 PM
John Gibbons
By DAN RING dring@repub.com BOSTON - John Gibbons, a detective lieutenant assigned to the Hampshire and Franklin district attorney, has been recommended to become the next U.S. marshal from Massachusetts. U.S. Sens. Edward M. Kennedy and John F. Kerry made the recommendation. Gibbons still needs to be formally nominated by President Barack Obama. For about seven years, Gibbons, a 30-year veteran of the Massachusetts State Police, has been commander of the state police unit under Northwestern District Attorney Elizabeth D. Scheibel.
Scheibel said she has known Gibbons for about 30 years. "He's just an incredible human being, both personally and professionally," she said. "I just think the world of him." The marshal is in charge of security at federal courts in Boston, Springfield and Worcester. The marshal also provides protection for judges and witnesses and helps manage and transport inmates.

Can you Imagine?

2009-07-22T06:10:00.004-04:00

Click on the title or here:

http://www.masslive.com/news/index.ssf/2009/07/thieves_steal_ashes_of_valerie.html?category=Crime&category=Springfield.

This is an excerpt from MassLive. Are you aware that MassLive has their own "section" devoted solely to crime?

Please read: The Value of Relationships

2009-07-11T07:39:00.004-04:00

I had an interesting "encounter" yesterday while running an appointment.

As I was arriving (early for a change), a competitor was leaving the house I was about to visit. I had no knowledge who it was, I presumed he lived there. I introduced myself as "The Alarm Guy" (I'll admit, not the most creative tag line). He quickly replied, "She's all set". I said, "Okay, I'll let her tell me that."

What ensued was a very one sided shouting match, while I just spoke politely to the customer. Apparently the person that referred me to her had said so many nice things about me, she just simply accepted the first guy that came to her door and THOUGHT it was me (the salesperson from the other company never actually identified his name). Obviously the customer was confused...the shouting from the other guy did not help matters.

I calmly told her that if she was satisfied with the other fella, then by all means go with him. She turned around and said. " My Realtor said I should go with Michael Budd. I thought this was him, I don't know who this is and I don't want his service and I want my check back!"

I just looked at the other guy. He refused to give her the check back, muttered something about he'll have to mail it back (keep in mind, he hadn't even left the premisis). This infuriated the customer. She went to get her boyfriend. Meantime the other rep is making what is called a "phone drop" (calling his "boss" to reduce the price). After his call, he states that he can give her SIX MONTHS service for free. She refused. I looked at her and calmy stated that I cannot do that. At this point I could see she was upset and I did not want to add to that, but I also knew that I was not the source of her frustrations.

To make a long story shorter, he countered again with ONE FULL YEAR of service for FREE. I advised her to think about it. He also added that if she did not like the service within that year, he would amend the contract to let her cancel. I just smiled ( I knew he could not do that).

Then he decided to attack me, telling me I did not know how to sell and that I was unprofessional. I politely agreed "I know...I'll never be the salesperson YOU are."

So how does this come down to relationships?

I try very hard to surround myself with professionals with integrity. The people on my web site are persons of character that I would not hesitate to point in the direction of my friends or family members. One of you actually referred me to this customer and because YOU are such a consumate professional, they accepted YOUR words as gospel, and never waivered in accepting my services, despite the "unbelievable" offer they were getting from my competitor. In short THANK YOU...ALL of you, for being the type of people of character that I can always rely upon and feel comfortable you'll get the job done effectively and efficiently. I truly hope you feel the same towards me.

Oh, by the way...the other guy NEVER even walked around the house to see if there were any weak points within. He even sold the WRONG system to the customer and told her of options that the system had that simply did not exist within that system the way he sold it.

In a way this is sort of a "confession letter". I have to make certain that I visit or contact all of you this month (and ongoing) and personally let you know of the appreciation I have for all of you as people and as professionals. Thank you again.

INTRODUCING: GE SIMON XT

2009-07-08T11:06:00.004-04:00

The New GE SIMON XT is here! Click on title above to view how this works!

SECURITY TIPS

2009-07-06T09:31:00.003-04:00

The average monetary loss per burglary in 2005 was $1,725.

Who has $1,700 lying around that they could do without? Not many.

Make sure to keep your belongings in a safe place, or have them appraised by your insurance company. Obviously, you can't replace the sentimental attachment to your wedding ring, but at least you wouldn't have to pay to replace it.

IMPORTANCE OF FIRE COMMUNICATORS

2009-06-29T07:58:00.002-04:00

Cause of deadly fire revealed
by The Republican Newsroom
Sunday June 28, 2009, 1:12 PM
SPRINGFIELD - A fire that killed two young brothers on Saturday morning was caused by an electrical box, said Fire Department spokesman Dennis G. Leger.

Leger said the Arson and Bomb Squad along with troopers from the state Fire Marshal's Office are focusing their attention on an electrical junction box mounted on the ceiling at the bottom of the cellar stairs.

Brothers Marshal Wood Jr., 17, and Malik Bell, 4, were found dead inside the home at 671 Bay St., by emergency personnel. Their Mother Melissa Bell Wood and her daughter Kiara Wood, 19, were taken to Baystate Medical Center for treatment due to smoke inhalation. Wood's 13-year-old and 9-year-old daughters were transferred to a Boston hospital for burn treatment, where they are in stable condition. The other four children living in the house remain with family.
Leger said investigators believe there were no smoke detectors in the home.

" They can't find any smoke detectors even ones that were not working," Leger said.

Officials are still investigating the fire.

SECURITY TIPS

2009-06-24T14:41:00.005-04:00

More than 62 percent of home burglaries in 2005 took place between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. (in which the time of the crime was known). Six out of 10 people are being robbed while they're at work.

However, there are steps you can take to ensure your home is protected when you're not there.

1)A security system is a great place to start.
2)If your neighborhood is prone to crime, form a neighborhood watch.
3)Getting a dog can help you feel safe when you're home and an alarm when you aren't.
4)Locked windows, bolted doors, and motion sensitive lights are mainstays if you don't already have them.

Next week we'll explore additional items that can further fortify your defense.

WHY HOME SECURITY?

2009-06-19T12:31:00.004-04:00

Some people might ask - why home security? Why not just leave our home in the care of our watchful neighbors or on the reputation of the great neighborhood we live in where crime is virtually non-existent?

Ask yourself this...why Health Insurance? Why not take a chance that your healthy living will prevent you and your family from ever needing medical care? Why service your car? It's running fine right now, it will always be that way, right?

The question is not why Home Security, it's why NOT? The peace of mind you have in knowing that your home is safe and secure is worth it's weight in gold. While it is true that a quality home security system won't prevent a break-in, automobile insurance won't prevent an accident either.