NACO, Ariz. — Telecommunications providers demonstrated different types of technology during a border communications summit on Friday in Naco, in an effort to promote the safety of people in rural Arizona.
Information gathered from the event will be published in an online report detailing the telecommunications opportunities available to local people, according to a letter dated Friday that was written by Gov. Jan Brewer.
This event, along with several others, is part of my effort to improve border security and communications. Information gleaned from these activities is extremely important to me in addressing the challenges we face on our southern border because of illegal immigration and drug trafficking. I am determined to find solutions to these challenges, she states.
Matt Morales, director of communications and intergovernmental affairs for the states Government Information Technology Agency, said the first step in this effort focuses on helping people on the consumer level.
People have hard lines in their homes. So they can always pick up a phone when they are in their house, he said. But we know that the majority of the work done here in southeast Arizona is outside the home. Its out on a ranch, or its out on a farm. They are out in the middle of the landscape and they need to get things done and contact people, whether it is for personal reasons or to make a public safety call.
Morales said officials realize there is a need to make sure this technology is available. So, it asked the private sector to attend the summit and share what they can offer in the region.
The event, held at the Turquoise Valley Golf and RV Park, featured a collection of vendors of various communications, such as wireless, satellite, cell and IP wireless.
For example, Iveda Solutions, a technology service company, can manage secure video surveillance programs for all kinds of scenarios, including safety, security, operational efficiency, or operation management, said David Ly, president and CEO.
Also, the worlds first integrated satellite and cellular phone was unveiled on Friday at the event, said Sam Hamood, mobility applications consultant for AT&T.
County supervisor Pat Call said he is aware of the increasing danger and violence that is coming this way.
He thinks that the more people know, the more they realize how complex the entire issue is.
There is no easy answer. There is no simple solution. The fact is, I believe that if we continue to chip away at it at every place we can, we will start to figure out a solution. Today, I think, is a good step in the area of communications, he said.
Wendy Glenn, a rancher east of Douglas, said that better ways to communicate are needed in certain areas in the region.
She said she thinks Fridays summit was worthwhile because it gave people a chance to learn about the available technology.
Author:
Jonathon Shacat