SmarttNet powers Variety telethon with hearts of gold

For immediate release Feb. 16, 2009 To view and print a PDF version of this story, click here: smarttnet-powers-variety-telethon At this year's Variety telethon, meant to raise funds for special needs children, SmarttNet was privileged to do more than power Internet services - the company got to show its heart of gold. SmarttNet's yearly contribution to Variety - the Children's Charity includes complimentary Internet DSL connections to all their locations, e-mail management and, most importantly for the telethon, a reliable Web site that is able to take donations online. "We had a Web programmer on stand-by for the whole weekend in case Variety needed any last minute changes," explained Chief Executive Marketing Manager Martin Wong. "We actively took all the precautionary measures to make sure their Web site and online donation system would remain up and running during the whole event." The 43rd Show of Hearts Telethon was held at Red Robinson Theatre in Coquitlam and lasted 23 hours, from Feb. 14 to 15.?? It aired on Global Television. The goal was to raise 8 million for the charity and sponsors exceeded that with a total of 8.3 million.?? Wong alone was at the Gold Panel seat for just one hour and raised $1,000 receiving and making phone calls to personal contacts. "The fact that SmarttNet and its staff can play even a small part is very rewarding," he remarked. Chief Executive Officer Saleh Tousi was also at the event presenting a live cheque worth almost $10,000, giving a speech and experiencing a few heart-felt moments. When asked what his favourite part of the day was, Tousi described a young girl who nervously gave a speech after raising $10,000 with her classmates. "She was very nervous and blushed several times but despite being on live television and visibly shaken she finished her mini-speech to resounding applause from the crowd," recalls Tousi. This was SmarttNet's second year attending the show and Tousi plans to go again in future years, as well as continue to provide Variety with SmarttNet services. "Variety now can use the large footprint of the Internet to keep in touch with donors, partners and supporters. SmarttNet is proud to help them spread their important message," he said. For more information, or to arrange an interview with Joyce, call 604 630 7579 or e-mail joyce@smartt.com