2013 Annual Conference

Letter From The President

A special invitation from the NATOA President

View Invitation


Who Should Attend?

  • City and County Telecommunications Administrators
  • Elected and Appointed Officials
  • City and County Managers
  • City and County Attorneys
  • Planning and Public Works Directors
  • Budget and Finance Directors
  • Cable and Communications Industry Representatives
  • Government Programmers
  • Government CIOs and Web site Managers
  • IT & Network Managers




Orlando Coupons Graphic.jpg


Looking for things to do in Orlando? NATOA was partnered with Orlando Convention Aid to bring you special
of
fers and discounts. 



Register today for NATOA’s 2013 Annual Conference for a chance to win passes to the theme parks at Universal Orlando! 

When you register for the full conference, you will automatically be entered into a drawing for complimentary passes to Universal’s Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios Florida! 

Drawings will be held on May 23rd, June 12th and July 16th so the earlier you register, the more chances you have of winning. Each winner will receive two one-day, one-park tickets for Universal Orlando that can be used anytime before April 1, 2014! 

Winners will be notified by email and also listed on the website.



NATOA Announces Two Pre-Conference Seminars 
on Monday, September 16th! 

Pre-Conference Seminar #1 
 
Keeping the Public Sector in 21st Century Communications: Navigating the IP Transition 

Welcome to the 21st Century, a world in which old communications networks (cable and phone) are migrating to “Internet Protocol” or IP. This interactive seminar will explore the IP transition-from the perspectives of technology, regulation and policy, public interest obligations, and opportunities to protect the community and improve government services. In our new IP world, what are the issues for the industry, regulators, and consumers? And how can public sector entities ensure that our communities benefit in this new environment? 

We’ll be covering a wide-range of topics including: 
  • Introduction to 21st Century Technology: Internet Protocol (IP) 
  • Implications of the IP Transition for Legal and Regulatory Policy 
  • Building a New Social Compact in an IP World 
  • Protecting Consumers in the IP World 
  • How IP Enables Local Government Services: mobile and other applications for your community 
Cost for this full-day of interactive sessions is $100 when you register for the full conference or $150 to attend this day only. 

Pre-Conference Seminar #2 
 
All-Day Storytelling Workshop 

In this full day of training, you will learn how to present government programming in an innovative, compelling way. Get tips and tricks on story planning and development that will save time and increase quality. Learn how to use video to get people to listen, remember and take action, and to look at your programming with a fresh eye. 

More information on the all-day storytelling agenda will be available soon. Whether you’re working as a team member or solo - you won’t want to miss this opportunity to fine tune your storytelling skills and make your stories more memorable. 

Cost for this full-day of interactive sessions is $100 when you register for the full conference or $150 to attend this day only.

Letter From The President

A special invitation from the NATOA President

View Invitation


Who Should Attend?

  • City and County Telecommunications Administrators
  • Elected and Appointed Officials
  • City and County Managers
  • City and County Attorneys
  • Planning and Public Works Directors
  • Budget and Finance Directors
  • Cable and Communications Industry Representatives
  • Government Programmers
  • Government CIOs and Web site Managers
  • IT & Network Managers

CONFERENCE ATTIRE 
Casual business attire is suggested for the conference sessions and the reception. 

HOTEL INFORMATION 
NATOA has reserved a block of rooms for conference attendees at the Loews Portofino Bay Hotel at Orlando, FL at the special conference rate of $135 single/double per night plus tax. The hotel is an exquisite, five-star resort on the Universal Orlando property with water-taxi service through Universal’s lagoons to the two Universal parks (Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure) and to City Life (Universal’s restaurant, club, and music area). This special rate also includes complimentary high speed Internet in guestrooms. To reserve a room, call 866-360-7395. 

You must mention that you are with the NATOA Annual Conference to be assured of receiving NATOA’s discounted rate. To guarantee your reservations, please contact the Loews before Monday, August 12, 2013. We encourage you to make your room reservation ASAP to guarantee availability. NATOA cannot guarantee availability or rate once the block has sold out. Rack rates at the Loews for these dates range from $251-363 per night, so it is important to make your reservations early and take advantage of the discounted rate. The Loews Portofino Bay is located at Universal Orlando, 5601 Universal Boulevard, Orlando, FL 32819, (888) 430-4999. 

TRANSPORTATION 
The Loews Portofino Bay Hotel is located approximately 15 minutes from the Orlando International Airport. Taxi service to the hotel from the airport is approximately $45 each way. An airport Shuttle Service through Destination MCO is also available for hotel guests with rates starting at $90 for a sedan seating four with luggage. You can make a reservation by calling 866-271-6176. 

Cancellation Policy 
Full registration fee minus a 25% service charge will be refunded if cancellation is received in writing at NATOA Headquarters no later than Friday, August 16, 2013. No refunds will be made for cancellations received after August 16, 2013. Substitutions are permitted and encouraged in lieu of cancellation. You may fax your cancellation or substitution request to (703) 997-7080. 

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES 
NATOA has numerous sponsorship opportunities available at this year’s Annual Conference. Whether you plan to unveil new products and services, network with established clients or contact new prospects, NATOA’s Annual Conference must be an essential part of your marketing plan. Don’t miss this opportunity to interact with the most influential and knowledgeable people working on broadband, communications and programming issues in local government. Visit the “Be a Sponsor” tab for more information and to sign-up today!


Registration Pricing

Actual payment must be received by the date indicated in order to receive the registration rate. If your registration and payment are not received by the date indicated, the correct (higher) fee will be applied. A purchase order does not constitute payment.

                                                                                                                                                            

One or Two Day Registration
NATOA Member $275
NLC Primary Member/Elected Official $275
Government Non-Member/Non-Profit $375
Non-Member Private Sector $425

Until 6/03/2013
NATOA Member $575
NLC Primary Member/Elected Official $575
Government Non-Member/Non-Profit $845
Non-Member Private Sector $945

6/04/2013 - 7/15/2013
NATOA Member $650
NLC Primary Member/Elected Official $650
Government Non-Member/Non-Profit $945
Non-Member Private Sector $1,045

After 7/15/2013
NATOA Member $725
NLC Primary Member/Elected Official $725
Government Non-Member/Non-Profit $995
Non-Member Private Sector $1,095
Print this Agenda

The Following Conference Program Details Are Subject To Change

09/16/2013 - Monday, September 16, 2013
9:00 am - 5:00 pm - Registration Open
9:30 am - 4:00 pm - Pre-Conference Seminar: Keeping the Public Sector in 21st Century Communications: Navigating the IP Transition
Pre-Conference Overview
Welcome to the 21st Century, a world in which old communications networks (cable and phone) are migrating to "Internet Protocol" or IP. This interactive seminar will explore the IP transition - from the perspectives of technology, regulation and policy, public interest obligations, and opportunities to protect the community and improve government services. In our new IP world, what are the issues for industry, regulators, and consumers? And how can public sector entities ensure that our communities benefit in this new environment?
Moderators: [tba]
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9:30 - 10:30 Introduction to Internet Protocol (IP) Technology
In plain speak, our experts will describe how IP technology differs from older technologies and how IP represents a transition not only for voice and data services, but also for traditional cable and broadcast services. And we'll evaluate to what extent consumers are abandoning older networks for IP-based mobile broadband and multi-screen alternatives. As this transition accelerates, what will happen to the legacy networks such as phone and cable?
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10:45 - 11:45 Implications of the IP Transition for Legal and Regulatory Policy
In 2013, we are already in the midst of a transition from legacy platforms to IP-based services. What does this transition mean for regulation at the state, local, and federal levels? Is our current regulatory framework up to the job of regulating converged IP networks? Should the FCC oversee the IP transition and does it have the authority to do so? And what role will state and local authorities play in the emerging regulatory framework?
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12:15 - 1:15 Building a New Social Compact in an IP World
In the pre-IP world, we all understood provider obligations to serve the public interest through PEG, I-Nets, fees, and other means. In the new IP world, how will the social compact change? What are the implications of the IP transition for local franchising, fees, universal service, consumer protection, and related areas?
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1:30 - 2:30 Protecting Consumers in the IP World
Technological change does not change the need to serve the interests of consumers. Particularly, as state and federal consumer protection diminishes, localities are faced with issues like billing, network throttling, rates, and service interruptions. What is the role of local government for ensuring consumer protection in an all IP world?
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3:00 - 4:00 How IP Enables Local Government Services
The IP revolution presents enormous opportunities for the delivery of innovative and effective local government services to residents. Mobile apps in particular are enabling new ways of communicating with and serving the community. Hear from some of the leading practitioners in this area and learn about exciting new mobile applications, their benefits, costs, and viability in your community.
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9:30 am - 4:00 pm - Pre-Conference Seminar: All-Day Storytelling Workshop
Storytelling Workshop
In this full day of training, you will learn how to present government programming in an innovative, compelling way. Get tips and tricks on story planning and development that will save time and increase quality. Learn how to use video to get people to listen, remember and take action, and to look at your programming with a fresh eye.

More information on the all-day storytelling agenda will be available soon. Whether you're working as a team member or solo - you won't want to miss this opportunity to fine tune your storytelling skills and make your stories more memorable. Cost for this full-day of interactive sessions is $100 when you register for the full conference or $150 to attend this day only.
Moderators: [tba]
Speakers: [tba]
4:30 pm - 5:45 pm - First-Time Attendees Meeting
6:30 pm - 8:30 pm - Off-Site Affinity Dinners
09/17/2013 - Tuesday, September 17, 2013
8:00 am - 4:30 pm - Registration Open
9:15 am - 10:30 am - Concurrent Sessions: Lights, Camera, Action!
LIGHTS! Broadband Basics
Kilobits; megabits; gigabits; terabits? Huh? What's with the bits? This session is for you if you need some light shone on broadband jargon and tech-speak. Come learn why there's a difference between these things and a difference between wireless, satellite, fiber, and cable - and how you can use that information in your community.
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CAMERA! Unique Programming Ideas
Reality TV is all the rage, but you have to produce content that highlights programs and services that make your community a better place to live, work, and raise a family. Join our discussion on innovative, interactive and scintillating programming ideas for government access.
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ACTION! Primer on Cable Regulation in an Evolving IP World
State franchising and franchise renewals present issues and opportunities regarding franchise fees, PEG funding, PEG channel capacity and technology upgrades, customer service standards, and many other matters. This session will provide an update on challenges and progress being made in states that have passed state franchising legislation. You'll also hear about successes and latest hot issues in local franchising and franchise renewals.
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11:00 am - 12:00 pm - Concurrent Sessions
Rights of Way Management: Best practices for infrastructure siting
How do you protect your community's ROW as industry need for access grows, sometimes dramatically? Many communities are revising processes and ordinances to simplify and standardize permitting and management and thus enable both protection of public property and facilitation of broadband deployment. This panel will consider strategies that address competing uses and technology pressures, intergovernmental and interagency cooperation, and collaboration between public and private interests.
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Music Copyright Concerns for PEG Stations
Long gone are the days of avoiding liability by simply paying the piper - these days we must insulate ourselves from Chilling Effects. The wild sound at a community event can freeze your YouTube channel. Pre-show music will silence the Mayor's livestream just minutes before her annual address... and automatically opt you into Google Ads as an encore! In this session we'll look at the problems, the dispute procedures, and we'll sample free music sources from the Creative Commons.
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12:45 pm - 2:00 pm - General Session/Keynote
2:30 pm - 3:45 pm - Concurrent Sessions
Community Networks: Models and Strategies
We want cheaper, faster and better broadband, but what role should our communities take to get it? Negotiate with your cable operator? Build your own? Make a private provider an offer they can't refuse? This is the session for you if you're balancing risks and rewards and want to understand what your community can bring to the table and which emerging public private partnerships might best suit your locality?
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PEG Operations and Collaboration: Regional Partnerships
Partnerships help us leverage resources and achieve results. From sharing specialized equipment, a graphic designer, translation services, or collaborating by using joint staffing, to considering shared master control functions -- when you partner there are endless possibilities! Learn about partnerships that are working to increase program offerings.
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4:15 pm - 5:30 pm - Concurrent Sessions
Cybersecurity: How to avoid hacking and the protection of personal data
What do you need to think about to keep your community's communications network secure? Our fiber, wireless, and institutional networks increasingly carry crucial public services and vital financial and public safety data. But threats against our networks are on the rise. Find out what you need to know about the important emerging field of cyber security.
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Hosted Broadcast: What's in that Cloud?
Get educated on how to maximize the use of today's cloud technology to deliver your video content. Learn how use of the cloud not only increases your delivery methods to customers but also provides measurable details on what viewers' interests are so that you can maximize your production time and effort.
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6:00 pm - 7:30 pm - Welcome Reception
09/18/2013 - Wednesday, September 18, 2013
8:00 am - 4:30 pm - Registration Open
8:00 am - 8:45 am - Board/Chapter President Breakfast
9:00 am - 10:15 am - Concurrent Sessions
The View from the Hill and the States
Local governments must pay attention to a variety of legislative and regulatory actions at both the federal and state levels. Issues such as the IP transition, public safety communications, rights of way management, taxing authority, franchise fees, and PEG funding are on the front burner in Washington, DC and in state capitals across the nation. Hear from the experts advocating the local government positions on these issues and become better equipped to address them in your jurisdiction.
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Social Video: Free Love and Love For Sale
Will you get 11 million views if you "Auto-Tune The Mayor"? Probably not... unless you've set up the tools to make it possible. We'll look at how much free love you can expect from your Facebook friends, and when it's the right time to pony up $20 for a Facebook Ad. Our experienced panelists will teach you how to pick epic content, frame the pitch, distribute with Outbrain, and feel the McLovin.
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10:45 am - 12:00 pm - Concurrent Sessions
Customer Service Today and Tomorrow
In a triple/quadruple play, bundled services, IP-transitioning networks world, customers are increasingly being served by a single provider, yet their customer service rights remain dependent on the definition of whether they have a cable, broadband, wireline telephone, or wireless telephone issue. This panel will discuss consumer rights issues and explore how today's core customer service and public interest obligations associated with traditional services can be met in an IP world.
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PEG Center Momentum and Resources
Budgets are decreasing but the expectations from elected officials and clients continue to increase. Learn about production elements that can help all PEG centers - from one-man bands to larger stations.
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12:30 pm - 2:00 pm - Keynote and Awards Luncheon
2:30 pm - 3:45 pm - Concurrent Sessions
Keeping the Spotlight on Broadband Adoption: Which Programs Work and Why
With broadband, it's not enough to build it -- we need them to come! Many Americans don't adopt broadband because they don't see its value or because they don't know how to use computers or the Internet. Localities (and community media centers) have long worked to expand broadband use to the poor, seniors, and others who have not benefited from digital opportunity. In this session, learn from a panel of digital visionaries what you can do to enhance internet knowledge and use.
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Aesthetics of Public Safety Video Communications
With a wide range of styles of Public Safety programming on our PEG channels, a common challenge programmers face is producing an attention-grabbing piece that will keep viewers watching, while trying to relay a message about Public Safety. Hear creative approaches and learn how to overcome challenges in a session packed with video examples. Add to your toolbox of creative approaches to shooting, editing, or producing Public Safety programming for various media.
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4:15 pm - 5:30 pm - Concurrent Sessions
FirstNet and Public Safety Wireless Broadband
The FirstNet planning process is underway and the challenges are evident -- but so are the opportunities for localities to use their expertise and infrastructure to make sure FirstNet serves their communities. We'll examine challenges and opportunities the new network poses - and provide guidance for you to promote local interests, protect local assets, and advocate for your community in this complex process.
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Innovative Use of Video
The role of the video production department has extended beyond the Government Access channel and Council meetings. In this session we will explore the innovative and creative uses of video as a relationship building, presentation, grant application, and interactive communications tool.
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6:00 pm - 7:00 pm - Chapter Meetings
09/19/2013 - Thursday, September 19, 2013
8:30 am - 12:30 pm - Registration Open
9:00 am - 12:00 pm - Roundtables
12:30 pm - 1:45 pm - General Session/Keynote
2:00 pm - 2:30 pm - Annual Business Meeting Voting Credentials Issued
2:30 pm - 4:00 pm - Annual Business Meeting
6:30 pm - 7:00 pm - GPA Ticket Table Open
7:00 pm - 9:00 pm - Annual GPA Gala

Who Should Attend?

  • City and County Telecommunications Administrators
  • Elected and Appointed Officials
  • City and County Managers
  • City and County Attorneys
  • Planning and Public Works Directors
  • Budget and Finance Directors
  • Cable and Communications Industry Representatives
  • Government Programmers
  • Government CIOs and Web site Managers
  • IT & Network Managers

Offline Registration Form

To register offline for the 2013 Annual Conference, please select the link below. It is in Adobe Acrobat format.




To register for this conference, you must be logged in.

Please use the login fields at the top right of this page to log in.



Letter From The President

A special invitation from the NATOA President

View Invitation


Who Should Attend?

  • City and County Telecommunications Administrators
  • Elected and Appointed Officials
  • City and County Managers
  • City and County Attorneys
  • Planning and Public Works Directors
  • Budget and Finance Directors
  • Cable and Communications Industry Representatives
  • Government Programmers
  • Government CIOs and Web site Managers
  • IT & Network Managers

NATOA 33rd Annual Conference 
Universal Communications – Lights, Camera, Action! 
 The Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, Orlando, FL 
September 16 – 19, 2013 

Sponsorship Opportunities 

Take advantage of a vast array of high-visibility sponsorship opportunities at NATOA’s 33rd Annual Conference. Interact with the most influential and knowledgeable people working on broadband, communications and programming issues in local government. For each listed opportunity, you will be given exclusivity at the selected event. 

Establish brand recognition! Enhance your corporate image! Increase Sales… and your bottom line 

All Sponsorships include the following benefits: 
  • Recognition as a conference sponsor on special signage throughout the conference
  • Recognition at General Sessions
  • Sponsor ribbons for badges for all registered staff from sponsoring company
  • Recognition in the onsite program and on the NATOA website
  • Opportunity to provide marketing materials at conference registration
Sponsorship Profiles: 

Government Programming Awards Dinner & Gala – $20,000 
The NATOA Government Programming Awards (GPAs) recognize excellence in programming developed by municipal agencies. This event is the culmination of the conference and is attended by both registrants and award finalists. Includes five (5) full conference registrations, premium booth space in the exhibit area with two (2) exhibit only passes, a full page ad in the onsite program, VIP table at the Gala and opportunity to make remarks during event. 

Welcome Reception – $15,000 
This premier event welcomes all attendees to the conference. It is also your opportunity to make a first impression with the conference attendees. Includes four (4) full conference registrations, premium booth space in the exhibit area with two (2) exhibit only passes, a full page ad in the onsite program and recognition during the reception. 

Keynote Luncheon – $10,000 
A terrific opportunity for your company to gain exposure at the Annual Conference. Luncheons are included with the full conference package guaranteeing participants will be at this event. Includes three (3) full conference registrations, premium booth space in the exhibit area with two (2) exhibit only passes, a half page ad in the onsite program and recognition during the luncheon. 

WiFi Hotspot – $7,500
As the sole WiFi Hotspot sponsor, you will be providing complimentary wireless internet access for meeting attendees in all meeting rooms throughout the conference. Includes three (3) full conference registrations, premium booth space in the exhibit area with two (2) exhibit only passes, a half page ad in the onsite program and recognition in all meeting rooms throughout the conference. 

Continental Breakfast – $6,000
Continental Breakfasts provide a great opportunity for companies to gain exposure among attendees. These sponsorships go quickly, so don’t delay in taking advantage of this opportunity before they are gone! Includes two (2) full conference registrations and a quarter page ad in the onsite program. 

First Time Attendee Orientation – $5,000 
Early in the conference program, first time attendees and NATOA leadership gather for a conference orientation. Capture the attention of our new attendees, new members and leadership from across the country. Includes one (1) full conference registration and literature distribution at orientation. 

Refreshment Break – $3,500
There are a limited number of Breaks available, so don’t delay in taking advantage of this opportunity before they are gone! Includes one (1) full conference registration. 

Tote Bags – $4,000 
This is a great opportunity to give conference attendees something they will continue to use long after the meeting. Each registered attendee will receive a tote bag with your company name and logo. 

Lanyards – $3,000
Your company name on the official NATOA conference badge lanyard! This sponsorship provides high visibility as attendees must wear a badge to enter all conference functions. 

Hotel Key Card Sleeve – $3,000
Target registered attendees at the Loews Portofino Bay and put your company name/logo in each attendee’s hand by sponsoring hotel key card sleeve (distributed to attendees staying at the Loews upon check-in). 

Exhibit Space
Members: Before June 14 $1,500/After June 14 $2,500 
Non-Members: Before June 14 $2,500/After June 14 $3,500 

Exhibitors receive excellent ROI when they attend our conference. Breakfasts and refreshment breaks are held exclusively in the exhibit area, bringing the decision-makers to you. Booth reservations must be received by July 5, 2013 in order to receive the Earlybird Exhibit rates. All reservations must be submitted by July 31, 2013. Payment is due at the time of purchase. Booths will be assigned by NATOA on a first-come, first-served basis. All booth personnel must be registered and wear name tags throughout the conference. Includes One (1) full conference registration with meals Two (2) exhibit-only passes with meals, and booth with identification sign. Recognition on the NATOA website and in the onsite program. 

On-Site Program Advertising 
Complete your marketing campaign with a tangible presence at a minimal cost. Distributed to every attendee, the program contains the official schedule of the educational program, special event details, as well as exhibit hall information. See opportunities contract for size and rate information. 

Sponsorship by Design 
Other opportunities are available! NATOA will work with you to find the right fit for your message and your budget. Call NATOA Headquarters at (703) 519-8035 to discuss ways we can assist you in creating an integrated marketing effort to help your company achieve its sales objectives.

Click here for the 2013 Sponsor Contract.