the Q 1 2 017
Smar t City Provides Wireless Capabilities to the NFL Honors and the Fan E xperience
Smart City Networks recently facilitated the wireless and IT support for both the NFL Honors and the fan experience surrounding the Big Game. Smart City did so to provide fans with the best wireless experience possible while in Houston attending the fan experience events that took place January 28 to February 5, 2017. Smart City ensured that robust wireless was available to the fans as they participated in the various activities around the George R. Brown Convention Center (GRB). The consistent internet access was important as everyone was taking pictures and uploading them to social media platforms. Smart City also installed high-density access points for visitors to use along the Wharf—a new outdoor promenade in front of the convention center. The wireless and IT installations that were provided for the fan experience at the George R. Brown Convention Center included support for:
• • • • •
35,000 unique wireless users 2.5 TB of data downloaded wirelessly 3.2 TB of data uploaded wirelessly 14 miles of fiber and 33 miles of Cat 6 cable were installed Over 700 temporary fiber fusion splices were implemented to support media data and video
Smart City also supported the data network for attendees that took part in the NFL Honors event that was held at the Wortham Theater in downtown Houston. The NFL Honors event is an annual awards presentation that is held the night before the Big Game. The awards show took place at the Brown Theater in the Wortham Theater complex that seats up to 2,405 people. Smart City installed phone and data lines for the production company that supported the event along with other media outlets that include Sirius XM and FOX.
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CONTENTS
PRESIDENT’S CORNER
02 P R E S I D E N T ’ S CORNER
Quarterly overview from Smart City’s president, Mark Haley.
At Smart City, each of our locations start off their day with “Lineup” where each team talks about the major tasks of the day, any “boulders” interfering with our ability to get the job done, any “boosts” to team members who went above and beyond, and finally, a review of one of our daily basics or principles. It ensures that we have a vehicle available to all team members for communication and feedback that occurs on a daily basis.
06 C E N T E R U P D A T E S What's new in our buildings? Special updates from the field.
12 W E CARE & GIVE BACK Highlighting the community service efforts of our Smart City teams across the country.
14 E M P L O Y E E O F THE MONTH
Recognizing this quarter’s outstanding employees.
15 T E A M U P D A T E S Team member milestones and new arrival announcements.
16 A N N I V E R S A R Y LIST
Anniversaries of team members throughout the company.
(person you admire most).
In recognition of International Women’s Day earlier in March, we established a theme this month to talk about an inspirational woman that you either personally know or from history. (I think anyone who has a mother understands the powerful impact of a woman!) We have covered the gamut from Julia Child to groundbreaking women scientists and mathematicians, such as those from the recent movie “Hidden Figures.” Many of these pioneers succeeded DESPITE the obstacles placed in front of them, which makes them all the more inspiring. At Smart City, we believe in casting wide nets to ensure workplace diversity. There is not one group or sector of people that has all the answers. Diversity is a business necessity that demonstrates our commitment to embracing opportunity and change. It contributes to a vibrant organization constantly striving to succeed and improve. So, I want to thank all of our team members for embracing Business Principle #4 in which “We Seek the Best” by casting wide nets in our recruiting efforts. And specifically I want to thank all of the women of Smart City who contribute so much to our company. Thank you Karen, Julia, Jennifer, Jacki, JP, Laureen, Kelli, Debbie, Janae, Naomi, Vicki, Robbie, Ashley, Rani, Donnita, Rina, Vanessa, Kyoko, Tammy, Janaya, Peggy, Ebony, Miriam, Cecori, Dona, Jasmine, Michelle, Ann Marie, Alexus, Jessica, Sandra, Maria, Andrea, Samantha, Melinda, Christy, Deborah, Natasha, Patricia, Marina, Laila, Donna, Adriann, Christabelle, Mariah, Yandi, Melissa, Claudia, LeBrea, Alexis, Cara, Orianna, Lisa, Bea, Paula, Tina, Stephanie, Nycole, Amy, Alice, Heidi, Alexandria, Kasandra, Jamila, Megan, Courtney, Michele, Lia, Athena, and Genesis. To the Top!
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In our corporate office, we have added a twist to our daily Lineup with a monthly theme usually tied into the daily basic of the day. The themes range from fun (corny jokes) to practical (best/worst service experience) to inspirational
the PINNACLE • Issue 1, 2017
BOOSTS TA MPA
“I wanted to drop a quick note to let you know how impressed we were with the service and knowledge level of Mitch Hughes (General Manager) who handled our data needs at the National College Football Championships this past weekend. I have been in this business a long time and while I have decent network guys in the past, Mitch was by far the most responsive I have ever had in a convention center or stadium event. As an old IT guy myself, I appreciated his knowledge of our needs and how quickly he took action to make our clients happy, and most of all gave them the confidences our activation would be a success.” Trevor Shickman, VP Events & Ticketing, Wide Angle Group
ANAHEIM
“Thank you to the entire team of technicians, office support, and management for making this go so smooth. Everyone was very responsive and attentive to our needs. Their creative thinking during our pre-planning meetings and their setup speed put us ahead of schedule which helped relieve the stress onsite. Thank you!” Christina Coy, NAMM
ORLANDO
“Jamila Brooks (Event Coordinator), words cannot express my gratitude for all your help and assistance with AAEP’s IT / telecommunication needs! It was such a pleasure working with you. I wish you could travel with the show because it would make my life easier. But thanks for making the IT / telecommunication process over the past few months a very simple, effortless process. Thanks for explaining things to me I did not understand and working with me to find ways to save. We made numerous changes, constantly going back and forth with you for weeks. In all our craziness, you were patient. You kept up with everything. You never got frustrated. You were always pleasant over email, over the phone, and in person. I truly appreciate the phone calls. Picking up the phone and calling someone is dying thing. I am glad you called because it helped tremendously. So, thanks for bringing back the phone call! Smart City and OCCC is lucky to have someone like you on their staff. It makes planners lives easier working with someone like yourself. I really enjoyed working with you and sharing laughs with you throughout the week. Laughter always make long days bearable.” Kimberly “Kim” Demek, Meeting and Event Manager, CMP
MINNEAPOLIS
“Customer service was outstanding. Working with George Cagle (General Manager) and Brian Clear (CSSR) was a pleasure. They exceeded all my expectations. George knows how to make his customer happy. Amazing experience.” Leasah Brown, Show Manager, Minneapolis Motorcycle Show 2017
HOUSTON - NRG
“I wanted to reach out and thank you and your team for your support during Super Bowl 51 at the NRG campus in Houston, Texas. The Super Bowl and its surrounding cast of characters, contractors, and events strain the resources of a venue to a far greater extent than most other events and your team did a fantastic job rising to the occasion. Your team was professional, courteous, and worked extremely hard to help us get to the finish line – and for that, we thank you.” Nikos Mouat, WBL Services
INDIANAPOLIS
“Ben Behnkendorf (General Manager), thank you for Smart City Networks’ donation to Project Home Indy in support of our efforts to provide alternative housing and educational opportunities for pregnant teenage girls in Indianapolis. With your gift, you are making a tremendous impact in breaking the devastating cycles of abuse and neglect that plague the young families we serve. Because of your support, we can offer young mothers and their children a brighter future. Thanks so much for your support of our program. We are grateful for you and the other generous employees of Smart City Networks!”
KENTUCKY
“Smart City did a great job, again, for us at the National Farm Machinery Show last week! Kudos to All.” Greg Dillon, SAM, National Farm Machinery Show
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BOOSTS SAN ANTONIO
“Peggy Moreth (Event Coordinator), thank you again for helping us make New Year Kick Off a successful event! Really appreciated your time and patience with us while onsite. I want to call out Patrick Nelson (Operations Manager) for his customer service throughout the entire event. He was readily accessible, friendly, and willing to go above and beyond to assist us in our internet and IT needs.” Josh Hopkins, Events Operations Coordinator, Isagenix International
CORPOR ATE
“Lester Michael (CSSR), we would like to thank you for your help in ensuring our client Dymps’s Internet at the Imaging USA event was what our client needed and that in ran smoothly.” Jacqui, Jamie and Rich with Gilbert Displays
DALLAS
“Hey, Chris Pendleton (General Manager), I wanted to take a minute to thank you and your team for the great experience you were able to provide for our event. At Chick-Fil-A, we talk a lot about going the second mile for our customers and I feel like you and your team did that for us this week. I know you put in long hours both before and during our event and we appreciate the sacrifices you made with your time. This is the third time we have worked with Smart City for our event and each time you all have delivered. It is fun to work with smart people and I really enjoyed working with you and your team. Thanks again!” Josh Brimer, Chick-Fil-A
HOUSTON - GEORGE R. BROWN
“The overall flexibility and professional attitude of the staff was EXCELLENT! Thank you to Mariah Lee (Event Coordinator) for being so proactive, detailed, and helpful during the whole process. I could not have done it without her! Please let Mariah Lee know that I appreciate all she did for us while we were there. THANK YOU!” Emily Whitzel, American Heart Association
ST LOUIS
“Daryl Olson (General Manager) and Corey Anderson (Technician) were available 24/7 during our time on site and met our everchanging needs and were quick to respond to those changes at all hours.” Phillip Rubio, Untied Rentals
DENVER
“I wanted to write to let you know how pleased I was with the Smart City team at the Denver Convention Center during the SME trade show last Feb 19-22. I worked with 2 individuals – Tommie Beltz (Customer Sales & Service Manager) and Mo Nouwass (Technician II) and they were fantastic. They got my system up and running very quickly. They were pleasant and Tommie checked in several times to make sure things were running smoothly. As a company, we’ve always had good luck with Smart City. I thought it was important that you know that two of your employees really represented your company well. Thanks!” Colleen Hines, Marketing Manager, Steinert US
ANAHEIM
“Great team in Anaheim! Special thanks to Kevin Patch (General Manager), Dean Johnson (Operations Manager), Tammy Espinosa (Customer Sales and Service Manager), Julia Slocome (West Regional Vice President) and all of their support team!!” Scott Craighead, CEM, Vice President of Exhibitions & Events, IAEE
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GM INSIGHT 2.4GHz vs. 5GHz: Where to Connect?
K EI T H MCNEELY — SENIOR DIREC T OR OF T ECHNOL O G Y SERV ICE S
If you are looking at purchasing a new computer, a router, or just upgrading your internet service provider’s router, you will come across the term “dual band,” which refers to a router that uses both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz WiFi. What is the Difference Between 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz? These numbers refer to two different frequency bands that your WiFi can use for its signal. The biggest difference between the two is speed. Under ideal conditions, 2.4 GHz WiFi will support up to 450 Mbps or 600 Mbps, depending on the class of the router while 5 GHz WiFi will support up to 1300 Mbps. The 2.4 GHz band is a very crowded frequency, especially in a convention center environment where hundreds, if not thousands of people, are using the network. Older technology like wireless microphones, cordless phones, Bluetooth devices, remote controls, baby monitors, etc., also use the frequency and interfere with the WiFi signal. The longer waves of the 2.4 GHz band are better suited for longer ranges and transmission through walls and solid objects. Arguably, it is better if you need better range for your devices or you have a lot of obstruction in the areas where you need coverage. However, because so many devices use the 2.4 GHz band, the resulting congestion can cause dropped connections and slower-than-expected speeds. The 5 GHz band is less congested than the 2.4GHz, which means you will likely get more stable connections. You will also experience higher speeds. On the other hand, the shorter waves used by the 5 GHz band makes it less able to penetrate walls and solid objects. It also has a shorter effective range than the 2.4 GHz band. Which is better to use? If you have a device that supports a wired Ethernet connection and it is not inconvenient nor awkward to connect a cable to it, using a wired connection over a wireless one is preferred. Wired connections offer lower latency, i.e., reduced delays in transmitting data, no dropped connections due to interference, and are faster than wireless connections. If you currently use 2.4 GHz WiFi and are wondering whether you need to upgrade to 5 GHz, it is all about your internet requirements. If you’re experiencing dropped connections or if you require more speed for watching videos or playing games, then you will need to move to 5 GHz. If you live in a crowded apartment complex with dozens of wireless routers, baby monitors, and other 2.4 GHz band devices, then you should consider switching to the 5 GHz band. If you are using a dual- or tri-band router and have both the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands available and can’t decide on which one to connect to, here are a few things to consider: Does the device need the higher speed or are you mostly checking email and browsing the web? Is the device experiencing dropped connections on the 2.4 GHz network and do you need it to be more reliable? Are you okay with the device having the shorter effective range? In the end, it is your needs that will dictate which band will work best for you.
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CE N T E R U PDAT E S PRESIDENTI A L IN AUGUR A L BA LL AT THE WA LT ER E . WA SHIN G T O N C O N V EN T I O N C EN T ER
The Smart City Networks staff in our nation’s capital was very involved in two of the 2016 Presidential Balls—the Liberty Ball and the Freedom Ball—held on January 20 at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center. The Liberty Ball was held in Halls D and E. The Freedom Ball was held in Halls A, B and C. The Inaugural Committee was organized not long after the Presidential Election. Site tours to the convention center began mid-December. However, the real work ramped up in January. Since this event had such a tight turn around, the Smart City team participated in all pre-event meetings, site tours, and individual meetings with each organization daily. Smart City also provided the services for the event production team, Hargrove (the decorator), the Secret Service, the White House team, and five major networks. The Smart City team also altered time schedules to be onsite during the long hours the setup required. Due to the high security, all participating departments were required to have Secret Service background checks. Once background checks were approved, everyone was required to wear the appropriate credentials, and go through baggage searches and metal detectors to enter the building. The event required a lot of staffing. The Washington, DC team reached out to Christy Hogan (Customer Sales and Service Manager) at corporate for assistance and she was able to send three additional staff members to help. Also, a special thanks to Dennis O’Gara (Eastern Regional Vice President) and Carlos Palenzuela (Technology Services Vice President, Smart City Telecom) for assisting Jim Erickson (General Manager) and his team.
P I C T U R E D L E F T T O R I G H T : Carlos Palenzuela, Dennis O'Gara, Jim Erickson
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CE N T E R U PDAT E S PHOENIX:
2017 F I N A L F O U R FA N F E S T Smart City Networks is proud to provide the telecommunication services to the 2017 Final Four Fan Fest at the Phoenix Convention Center on March 31-April 3. The Final Four is the last three games between the four teams remaining in the annual spring basketball tournament that determines the NCAA National Champion. The Fan Fest was jam-packed with youth clinics, giveaways, concerts, interactive games, special appearances, autograph signings and much more.
SAN ANTONIO:
CUSTOMER SERV ICE TE A M BUILDING AT THE RODEO
After a hectic event schedule, the San Antonio customer service team was able to take a much needed break from the office. They went to The San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo and joined in opening day activities for team building. Together they enjoyed the petting zoo, piglet races, carnival rides, delicious turkey legs and funnel cakes and even did a little shopping at the bargain barn.
PICTURED LEFT TO RIGHT: Stephanie Silva, CSSR; Guillermo Huerta, Customer Sales and Service Manager; and Peggy Moreth, Event Coordinator.
CORPORATE - LAS VEGAS: MANAGER'S TR AINING
The Manager’s Training at the Las Vegas corporate office March 13 to 17 had the most number of trainees to date with 11 managers in attendance. The quarterly and week-long training sessions are for newly-hired or newly-promoted managers to orient them of the duties and responsibilities of the position. The affair was attended by the following Smart City employees from all over the country. PICTURED LEFT TO RIGHT, BACK: Henry De La Rosa, GM at Los Angeles Convention Center; Chris Pendleton, GM at Kay Bailey Hutchinson Convention Center; Jason Arnold, Operations Manager at Colorado Convention Center; Duane Law, Regional Director of East Operations; Arnold Chavez, GM at Duke Energy Convention Center; Tammy Clark, Customer Sales and Service Supervisor at Walter E. Washington Convention Center; Michael Hall, Customer Sales and Service Manager at Kay Bailey Hutchinson Convention Center; David Bachler, GM at Hawai'i Convention Center; FRONT: James Zarharchuck, Data Operations Professional at Walter E. Washington Convention Center; Jacki Miller, VP of Finance & Administration at corporate office; and Whitey Rodriguez, Operations Manager at Orange County Convention Center. The sessions included presentations on the topics of accounting, customer support, digital signage, finance, human resources, marketing, technology, systems development, and quality assurance.
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CE N T E R U PDAT E S ORLANDO:
SM A RT CIT Y SHINES BEHIND THE SCENES AT A NNUA L HIMSS CONFERENCE
Just weeks after providing flawless WiFi networking for the presidential inauguration in Washington, D.C., and the Big Game festivities in Houston, Smart City Networks provided the infrastructure and networking solutions for the HIMSS Annual Conference and Exhibition at the Orange County Convention Center. Smart City has a longstanding relationship with the Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society, whose annual meeting draws upwards of 40,000 healthcare IT professionals, clinicians, executives and vendors from around the world and ranks as the 23rd largest industry show in the nation. This year marks the eighth time that Smart City Networks has provided digital services for HIMSS. “Smart City has the privilege of providing services for hundreds of high-profile events and conventions throughout the year at facilities across the country, and HIMSS is one that’s certainly meaningful to us as a partner in innovation,” said Martin Rubin, Smart City CEO. “We welcome the challenge and opportunity of working with the world’s leaders in healthcare IT, especially here in Orlando.” As the digital communications provider of record for the Orange County Convention Center, Smart City provides services for over 175 events and conventions annually at the facility each year—and HIMSS is one of the largest. According to Rubin, the scope of the HIMSS conference required support from Smart City’s Miami and Tampa teams to install over 18 miles of Cat 5 cable in providing service to over 350 exhibiting companies. In addition, Smart City provided a customized wireless network for 10,000 HIMSS attendees and another 40 individual wireless hotspots for exhibitors. The HIMSS Annual Conference and Exhibition was held February 19-23 at the convention center.
LAS VEGAS - CORPORATE:
PE AK PERFORMER TROPHY AWARDED
Miriam Cowell was presented with the Peak Performer Trophy for achieving the top sales in AES for 2016. She had over a million dollars in sales with a 27.6% close ratio. PICTURED LEFT TO RIGHT: Christy Hogan, Customer Sales and Service Manager; Miriam Cowell, Inside Sales Representative; Laureen Boykin, Senior Director Product & Services
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CE N T E R U PDAT E S SAN DIEGO:
CON V ENTION CENTER E XPA NSION MOV ES A HE A D IN SA N DIEGO San Diego Convention Center's planned expansion moves forward with the Superior Court ruling upholding California Coastal Commission’s approval of the waterfront facility’s project. Judge Joel Wohlfeil found the proposed harborside development to be legally sound and compliant with the California Coastal Act and the California Environmental Quality Act.
San Diego Convention Center Corporation President & CEO Clifford "Rip" Rippetoe, CFE, and San Diego Tourism Authority President & CEO Joe Terzi issued this joint statement related to the ruling: "On behalf of the San Diego Convention Center Corporation and the San Diego Tourism Authority, we are thrilled to hear that the City of San Diego’s plans for expansion of the waterfront convention center has been found legally sound. This decision is a victory for our city and its tourism economy. It brings us one step closer to realizing the much-needed, long-awaited expansion of our convention center, which will create thousands of jobs and generate millions of dollars in tax revenue for the city. We look forward to working with the City, the Mayor, the Port of San Diego and the San Diego community to move this project forward." Smart City Networks is excited with the city’s new undertaking and eager to provide telecommunication technologies and digital solutions for bigger shows and more events at the San Diego Convention Center.
MIAMI BEACH:
SUS TA IN A BILIT Y AT THE MI A MI BE ACH CON V ENTION CENTER
Miami Beach’s building code requires a Silver LEED certification for all new public projects. The convention center will soon achieve this standard. Elements of the new design include: rain harvesting for storing and utilizing for cooling towers; installation of reduced flow water fixtures; sun shading the exterior perimeter of the building; daylighting the public spaces; using high efficiency LED lighting; using occupancy light sensors throughout the building; saving 200 existing trees and planting new canopy trees; and reducing energy consumption by 20 percent. In addition, city officials are addressing the sealevel rise in several ways: • Collins Canal – The city is making improvements to the existing canal edge to account for flood projection requirements based upon new sea-level rise projections. Mangrove habitats and native vegetation will be restored along the canal.
• Storm Events – The project is being designed to a 25-year, 3-day storm event as the maximum stage for site drainage retention. The design also increases the overall previous area of the campus by 245%, thereby reducing heat island effect by replacing 6.2 acres of asphalt with landscaping.
• Critical Building Systems – All critical building systems such as emergency generators, communication
systems, electrical switchgear, electrical panels and emergency responder radio enforcement systems are being raised above the proposed new flood-level requirements. Also, the first-floor level of the building is being raised by four inches to meet the current requirements of City, State, and Federal building codes.
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CE N T E R U PDAT E S LOS ANGELES:
L ACC BRE A KS RECORD FOR WASTE DI V ERSION R ATE FOR GREENBUILD INTERN ATION A L CONFERENCE AND EXPO
The Los Angeles Convention Center (LACC), managed by AEG Facilities, is proud to have partnered with the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) and Informa Exhibitions for a record-breaking 90.3 percent waste diversion rate at the 2016 Greenbuild International Conference and Expo. Creative strategies implemented by both teams resulted in a significant increase in the diversion of recyclables and composting from the waste stream. “Los Angeles is leading the way in sustainability. It was ranked as the fourth major city in the United States for LEEDcertified projects in 2016 and is part of the 100 million square feet club, which made it an ideal location to host the 15th annual Greenbuild,” said Kate Hurst, Vice President of Community Advancement, Conference & Events. “By working closely with the Los Angeles Convention Center, we were able to set a record high for Greenbuild and achieve a 90.3 percent diversion rate. This historical rate demonstrates our commitment to the cause of green building and we hope it will inspire others to acknowledge that even small changes in behavior can have a significant and meaningful impact when undertaken collaboratively.” The three-day Greenbuild conference and expo attracted over 18,000 attendees, including trailblazers and professionals within the industry. As leaders in sustainable building, the Greenbuild Waste Team set an initial goal of an 85 percent waste diversion rate for the overall event and aligned with the LACC to achieve this assertive goal. LACC went into the event with an outstanding average diversion rate of 72 percent. Striving to hit the goals set for the event, the LACC team worked with USGBC Informa Exhibitions, Greenview and partners to fine-tune existing sustainable practices employed at the convention center. Strategies included the conversion of 200 waste bins to compost bins, signage on paper towel dispensers in all restrooms encouraging compost only, and a collaboration with LACC partners; ABM, Freeman, Levy Restaurants, United, Waste Management, and LA Job Corps to efficiently divert all waste and recyclable materials. All items donated after the conference via the Greenbuild Exhibitor Donation Program were distributed to local non-profits such as Trash 4 Teaching (T4T), Habitat for Humanity and Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math (S.T.E.A.M). Furthermore, the LACC established a custom process converting the back of house dock area into a hand-sorting station to ensure a clean stream of recyclables. The end result was an industry-leading 90.3 percent waste diversion rate, a record-breaking number for both the LACC and the USGBC. “It was amazing to see the LACC and all of our partners come together as one cohesive team with one common goal around waste diversion at Greenbuild,” said Lindsay Roberts, Group Director, Informa Exhibitions. “I watched as each partner and each individual became more motivated and more committed to the cause and it was truly inspiring, everyone walked away with a sense of pride and purpose.” "As the first large convention center in the U.S. to receive LEED EB Gold recertification in 2015, the LACC is incredibly proud of what our teams were able to accomplish for the 2016 Greenbuild Convention. Diverting 90.3 percent from the waste stream is a new record— we are honored to be a part of the Greenbuild International history," said Brad Gessner, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Los Angeles Convention Center. View original article: www.lacclink.com Watch the 2016 Greenbuild recap: https://youtu.be/EbHLFHAX8I0
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CONTRACT ANNOUNCEMENTS SMART CITY NETWORKS:
ANNOUNCES RECORD NUMBER OF CONTRACT CLOSINGS
With a strong start to the new year, Smart City Networks has announced a record number of contracts achieved at the close of 2016. Since early 2014, the company has been awarded 17 new contracts nationally, which are expected to generate a combined revenue of over $285 million. According to Martin A. Rubin, CEO of Smart City Holdings, the scope of the new venue contracts the company has added over the past three years encompasses 135 years of agreements, between initial terms and extension options. “These contracts exemplify the sophistication and industry knowledge that Smart City brings is second to none,” said Rubin. “These numbers are a testament to the hard work and dedication the Smart City staff puts in every day to serve our local partners and community.”
Smart City is proud to announce the signing of three contracts with our convention center partners across the country:
K AY BA ILE Y HUTCHISON CON V ENTION CENTER DA LL AS
The Dallas City Council approved the new 10-year contract on February 22, 2017. Smart City has been the technology services provider for the convention center since 1997. Along with the contract extension, approval was also provided for the installation of a distributed antenna system (DAS). For the DAS buildout, Smart City has partnered with AT&T who will design and build the DAS and ensure connectivity for the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center Dallas (KBHCCD) to other AT&T Dallas-based projects, such as the Dallas Innovative Initiative.
HAWAI'I CONVENTION CENTER
Smart City Networks is now the exclusive internet and data services provider for the Hawai'i Convention Center (HCC) and will remain as such through December of 2018. Since November 2016, when Smart City had completed an entire overhaul of the HCC’s data and wireless capabilities in a record-setting 27 days, the tech company had been operating under an interim agreement.
LONG BEACH CONVENTION CENTER
Smart City Networks has signed a five-year contract extension with SMG at the Long Beach Convention and Entertainment Center (LBCEC). The contract extension, signed on March 10, 2017, allows Smart City to continue operations by providing network cabling, high-speed internet access, and data networking and telephone services to the LBCEC. Smart City has been the telecommunications provider for the facility for 10 years.
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WE CARE AND GIVE BACK SAN ANTONIO:
VOLUNTEERING AT THE FA JITA CORR A L
It's the Fajita Corral’s 31st Anniversary! It all began with an invitation from then Executive Chairwoman Mary Nan West to Van De Walle Farms to open a Fajita Corral. Elaine Van De Walle Thompson opened the Corral in 1986 in a 12' by 12' tent and, unlike any other food venue on the grounds, donated all the proceeds to the San Antonio Livestock Exposition (S.A.L.E.) Scholarship Fund. The Corral operated as the only private contributor to the scholarship fund until they joined the S.A.L.E. Family in 2004. The Fajita Corral Committee added another venue, the Rib Corral, to the show in 2006. With the creation of the food court in 2012, the Fajita Corral and Rib Corral combined locations under one 60' by 120' tent called the "The Van De Walle Fajita Corral" to become the anchor attraction. As of 2015, the Corral is now located in the heart of the food court. The Fajita Corral is operated by 110+ committee members and over 700 corporate and public volunteers each year but are always looking for more help. Peggy Moreth (Event Coordinator) has been a volunteer since 2003 and is a life member of the Fajita Corral since 2009. Guillermo Huerta (Customer Sales & Service Manager) has volunteered for the past 8 years. Next year we hope to have the entire staff participate.
MINNEAPOLIS:
CONTRIBUTES TO THE N ATION A L V E TER A NS SM A LL BUSINESS ENGAGEMENT
George Cagle, General Manager Smart City Minneapolis, was presented with a Certificate of Appreciation from the Department of Veterans Affairs for his contribution to the National Veterans Small Business Engagement. The certificate reads: “Your efforts directly supported Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Businesses and Veteran-Owned Small Businesses and contributed to the success of this event. You helped small business owners to connect to procurement decision makers and aided the Department in its mission to serve Veterans. It is with both pride and gratitude that we recognize your service and contributions to the National Veterans Small Business Engagement and to Veteran-Owned Small Businesses.” George is a vital asset to the Smart City team consistently exemplifying our business principles “It’s The People” and “We Care And Give Back”.
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C O MPA N Y
ANNOUNCEMENT
SMART CITY HOLDINGS: ACQUIRES APPBURST
Smart City Holdings, the nation’s leading telecommunications and technology services provider for the convention industry, has announced the acquisition of AppBurst, a mobile app company headquartered in Palm Beach County, Florida that specializes in developing mobile applications for the event and conference industry. The acquisition including both the AppBurst development team and the AppBurst Mobile Application as a Service platform, will allow Smart City to build high quality and highly scalable mobile applications for a variety of business needs, particularly in the meetings and event space. “As the premier provider of technology services in the convention industry, this acquisition was the logical next step for us,” said Martin Rubin, CEO of Smart City. “This move allows us to provide a higher level of support to our clients. By providing these customized and integrated mobile solutions in conjunction with our technology services, we can help our industry partners enhance the convention experience for their attendees in our venues throughout the country.” AppBurst has received praise for several of its mobile applications, which range from companion apps to popular game titles by the Daybreak Game Company, to mobile event applications that provided key features such as program agendas, speaker and exhibitor information, interactive venue maps and instant messaging for many different business segments. Rob Cartagine, one of the original founders of AppBurst, will continue to lead development efforts. “I’m really excited to join the Smart City team,” Cartagine said. “I’m looking forward to expanding our mobile app solution offerings and the opportunities this collaboration brings for convention goers and customers.”
BOOSTS GRE ATER COLUMBUS
“Bill Duke (General Manager), thank you for providing the WiFi service to our staff, speakers, and attendees at the 2017 National Reading Recovery & K-6 Literacy Conference. I appreciated you working with us from the contract phase through our onsite needs. You and your staff met our WiFi challenges with professionalism and a friendly, reassuring mannerism. We thank you for this awesome customer service. It means a great deal to our speakers and attendees. I personally want to say thank you for guiding me through my first year in my new role. I felt confident going into the conference knowing "you had my back" and you would look after the best interest of our attendees and staff. Thank you for this reassurance! Overall, it was a successful event thanks to you and the Smart City staff. Many thanks.” Valerie Shaw, Conference Manager, National Reading Recovery & K-6 Literacy Conference
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THE MONTH
EMPLOYEE OF FRANK LOYKE
December
Senior Event Coordinator - Smart City Orlando Our Smart City Orlando team would not be complete without Frank Loyke. Frank joined the Smart City team as soon as Smart City took over at the Orange County Convention Center in 2002. Since the very beginning he has been an integral component of our team and our overall success. Frank epitomizes all of our business principles in all of the work and the interactions with what he does on a daily basis. Frank handles some of the largest events that come through the OCCC such as the PGA Merchandising Show, Sapphire NOW, Microsoft events, HIMSS and many more. This past November and December were an especially busy two months for our team and Frank managed and oversaw three of our largest events—IAAPA, NBAA and I/ITSEC. All of these events were challenging and complex and Frank handled them with poise to ensure our team great success.
MELISSA LUCKEY
Customer Sales and Service Representative I - Smart City San Diego
January
Melissa exemplifies many of our 10 Business Principles and Daily Basics every day. Her commitment to customer satisfaction is one of her many outstanding attributes. While manning the service desk during one of our busy events about to open, as with most events, there were several last minute requests. This can make for a stressful time. However, Melissa was able to handle every situation with poise, a smile, and “Do Right by All our Customers” attitude. “Customers Define Quality” and that has been expressed by our clients many times over via client critiques, emails, or phone calls. Melissa goes above and beyond to ensure that the clients receive the correct service for their needs and doesn’t hesitate to suggest “other” services if she feels the client may be ordering the incorrect item.
JESSE GALLEGOS
February
Technician II - Smart City Houston GRB
14
I am nominating Jesse Gallegos for employee of the month for all his hard work and dedication during the Big Game. Even though the event was just a week long the planning and installation was well in effect months prior. Jesse played a huge part in the preparation for the events. In a month’s time Jesse spliced over 700 fiber connections for news media outlets. Many days were spent in dark and dingy basements and corridors where he obtained the nickname “Splicer”. In addition Jesse completed a complex outdoor wireless installation for fans to use as they walked around the new GRB promenade. This was a huge project which required Jesse to overcome a number of internal and external obstacles in order to get it off the ground. This install would go on to be permanent for future attendees of events and restaurants on campus.
the PINNACLE • Issue 1, 2017
TEAM MEMBER MILESTONES
10 Y E A RS Smart City Corporate’s Billing/AR Specialist, Adriann Kamakahukilani, celebrated her ten-year anniversary with the company in February. We want to thank her for all of her hard work with Smart City for the past 10 years!
5 YEARS Smart City Orlando's Technician, Luis Rojas, pictured with Michael Hampton (Operations Supervisor). We want to thank him for all of his hard work with Smart City for the past 5 years!
T E A M M E M BE R U PDAT E S
Dennis O’Gara (East Region VP) and Romny Marte (Operations Supervisor, Orlando) - 2001 vs. 2017 - 16 years apart. Romny used to work at Smart City a while ago and now he’s returned home as one of Orlando’s newest Operations Supervisors.
the PINNACLE • Issue 1, 2017
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ANNIVERSARIES
EMPLOYEE JANUARY 2017 Adrian Miller Peggy Moreth Guillermo Huerta Mark Graham William Heyer Harvey Rivera
15 years 15 years 12 years 10 years 6 years 5 years
Andrew Gutierrez Kyoko Clark Dewayne Martin Gregory Roy Curtis Graham David Madigan
4 years 3 years 3 years 2 years 1 year 1 year
22 years 12 years 12 years 11 years 11 years 10 years 10 years 9 years 8 years 5 years 4 years 4 years 4 years
Neftali Mendoza Gerald D'Angelo Gabriel Gutierrez Denise Piña Charlton Pitman Scott William Karen Argent Mariah Lee Joseph Prescott Mark Kotal Ryan McCart Genesis Tirado-Santiago
4 years 3 years 3 years 3 years 3 years 3 years 2 years 2 years 2 years 1 years 1 years 1 years
Naomi Bonami Michael Ferreri James Lagomitzis Raymond Nicolas Alexander Graham Elard Flores Joshua Hagan Dion Doucet Donnita Butler Lester Michael Khayyam Pettway Jacob Palacios Joshua Wood Eugene Smith Alice Taylor
4 years 3 years 3 years 3 years 2 years 2 years 2 years 2 years 2 years 1 years 1 years 1 years 1 years 1 years 1 years
FEBRUARY 2017 Adrian Juarez Daniel Dobson Daryl Olson Michelle Dolph-Gualtieri Gabriel Wood Rey Crespo Adriann Kamakahukilani Derrick James Debbie Olivas Luis Rojas Arnold Chavez Miriam Cowell Quintin Dailey
MARCH 2017 Vanessa Cauthen Frank Lopez JP Windle Donna Kacmarcik Emiliano Fernandez Mitchell Hughes Dean Johnson Debra Green Louis Hoffman II Larry Doty Kevin Walker Jose Vasquez Ann Marie Fuller Christy Hogan Bill Duke
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22 years 18 years 17 years 13 years 12 years 12 years 10 years 7 years 7 years 6 years 6 years 6 years 6 years 6 years 4 years
the PINNACLE • Issue 1, 2017