Industry Mourns Bob Boroday At Memorial April 19

HOLLYWOOD, Fla. — Bob Boroday knew how to live the limousine business. Devoted to the industry and his company, he would often comp rides for affiliates and sometimes wash cars and do chores late into the night at his South Florida operation.

Along with such dedication, he and his late wife and owning partner of Associated Car & Limousine Carla found time to join industry associations and work to improve the business climate for their fellow Florida operators.

Inspiration, mentor, helpful, and reliable are just a few of the words colleagues and longtime friends were using this week to describe Boroday, who died Sunday, April 9 at his South Florida home after battling Parkinson’s disease for a few years. He was 70 years old. A visitation and memorial service was held April 19 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Fred Hunter’s funeral home, 6301 Taft St., Hollywood, Fla.

OFFICIAL OBITUARY HERE

Bob Boroday’s death comes almost exactly five years since the passing of his wife who died April 3, 2012 and whose memorial service was held April 12 that year. ARTICLE HERE

“Bob and Carla were always mentioned as ‘Bob and Carla’ like it was always one name,” said Bito Pimenta, the owner of Enova Transportation Network in Plantation. “One of the things you have to admire is they were dedicated to the industry in ways I didn’t even understand at times. It was their life. Even though Carla passed away in 2012, it was still ‘Bob and Carla.’”

Pimento credits the Borodays for encouraging and mentoring him while conveying the importance of participating in industry groups, such as the National Limousine Association, Taxi Limousine & Paratransit Association, and the Florida Limousine Association, which under the Borodays’ leadership won the 2011 LCT Association Award of Excellence.

“Bob was that support system for Carla running the business,” Pimento recalled. “He was a go-to guy for many things. So many times I’d go by their business at midnight or 2 a.m., and Bob would have his galoshes on while squeegeeing down the cars. Bob still drove up until not too long ago. They made many sacrifices and were the champions of limousine industry. They did what had to be done to move the industry and business forward. They’ll both be missed.”

Pimento remembered how Bob Boroday once gave him two used Lincolns when he needed more fleet vehicles right away. “They sent two cars they were going to sell and gave them to me, and Bob said ‘Pay me when you can.’” It was literally just about helping me. They didn’t want anything from me. That’s the attitude the Borodays had.”

Florida operator Renee Patt Ferraro, who now works out of her South Florida home as the affiliate manager of ZBest Transportation in Baltimore, Md., was close to Bob Boroday, often joining him for holiday meals. “I always hung out with Carla and Bob at shows,” Ferraro said. “When Carla passed away, I was there to have fun with and dance with Bob. I knew Carla wouldn’t mind.”

“Bob was always reliable and a friendly person who was there for everybody,” she said. “He was a kind-hearted soul. Carla and Bob were one of the finest couples I met. Carla taught me many things, and helped me grow in the industry. Bob was a mentor who was there for me when I needed help. He suffered a big loss when Carla died. He has been lost without her, and a different man. Everyone just loved him.”

At the memorial service for Carla Boroday five years ago, Bob spoke about their company and life’s work during their 46 years together. He recalled how Carla supported him while he was working on his Master’s degree. He laughed about how she told him on a Friday she would get a job and came back with one on Monday.

Bob Boroday started out moonlighting as a chauffeur. He said the job was alright, but you didn’t make much money. Soon, the entrepreneurial spirit sparked in Carla which led her to convince Bob to sell his brand new 1973 Chevrolet Monte Carlo to buy a stretch limousine. She told him they were going to be the number one company. Bob said to her they couldn’t make any money in the industry.

“This industry is dead,” Bob recalled. Carla prevailed and Bob went along. They bought what Bob called “a big boat of a Cadillac” and started their company in 1975, entering the funeral industry. The pair went from making $300 a month from Bob’s teaching job to $3,000 per month working on funerals. This led to Bob quitting his teaching position so he could forever work full time beside Carla.

Bob explained Carla wanted to have a family. “I don’t want to have kids,” Bob recalled, making the audience and his sons laugh. Carla again prevailed giving the couple two sons — Derrick and Adrian, who now work and help out with the family business. Derrick, his wife Shelly, and Bob have run Associated Limousine, which operates 55 vehicles serving the South Florida market, since Carla’s death.

During the eulogy, Bob laughed that Carla would never stop talking. He would walk by her at 2 a.m. and she would be on the phone talking to industry friends. She always told him she was working on getting a new client. He questioned who does business at this time of night, but sure enough, more business always came in as a result of those calls. He said Carla spoke non-stop. “We drove back from California with our first stretch limousine,” he remembered. “She spoke the whole way home.”

Among the many tributes from industry colleagues:

“I am very sorry to hear we lost an industry leader and friend. To know Bob and his wife Carla was to instantly love them. They were always kind, and helped answer questions day or night. I was lucky to speak with Bob a few weeks ago. They are wonderful mentors and friends. Our sincere condolences to Shelly and the family at this time. Bob and Carla may you dance again in heaven RIP Brevard Executive Limousine.” —Wendy Kleefisch, Brevard Executive Limousine

“I had the pleasure to be Bob’s good friend here in Florida. He was always an inspiration and loved the industry. He was emphatic on the independent contract issue for the state of Florida. I was privileged to work beside him in Florida and in Washington D.C. His encouragement helped my decision to be an NLA board member and represent our region. He was the life of the party and loved his gin and tonic. He was a wonderful family man and loved Carla. He stood by her side during many health issues. He loved his cars and his car collection. Bob would help you in any way he could. He will be greatly missed but never forgotten.” — Dave Shaw, Olympus Limousine

“Bob Boroday was loved and admired by everyone he came in contact with. He was a kind and generous person who always gave more than he got. He was one of the founders of the Florida Limousine Association and served as president and just about every other position. Bob and his wife Carla who predeceased him built Associated Limo into one of South Florida’s biggest and most respected companies. He always had a smile on his face and a song in his heart. He will be sorely missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Boroday family. Our grief is real. A limo legend is laid to his rest. “Grief is the price we pay for love” (Queen Elizabeth II) — Rick Versace, A1A Airport & Limousine Service

“Bob and Carla Boroday were pioneers in the industry who served in leadership positions for more than three decades. Bob’s passing is truly the loss of the second half of a dynamic duo. I find peace that he and Carla are reunited forever and thankful for the guidance they provided me with” — Jim Luff, former CEO, Limousine Scene, Bakersfield, Calif.

Keywords

Bob Boroday   Carla Boroday   deaths   Florida operators   memorial   obituary   

 

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New York Operators Dismayed Over New TNC Law

ALBANY, N.Y. — TNCs can now legally operator throughout New York thanks to a law that was included in the 2018 state budget signed by Gov. Andrew Cuomo Monday, April 10. The new law gives the green light for TNCs to operate especially in upstate New York cities such as Syracuse, Buffalo, Albany and Rochester. TNCs operate legally in New York City under the licensing authority of the city’s taxi commission. Although the new law allows TNCs to expand throughout the state, municipalities still retain an “opt-out” provision that allows them to outlaw TNCs within their boundaries.

The new TNC law requires higher insurance as well as background checks, but not fingerprinting.

“We’re not happy that they didn’t address fingerprinting or ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) issues,” said Kevin Barwell (Giorgio’s Limousine Service, Park Place Transportation, and Chautauqua Limousine Service, serving upstate New York), president of the Limousine, Bus & Taxi Operators of Upstate New York (LBTOUNY). “New York State fails at being proactive and protecting its citizens …always a double standard in this state that make it very difficult to operate successfully,” he added

Barwell said the association will continue to work with upstate cities and towns to strengthen TNC regulations as well as stricter background checks that include fingerprinting.

Added Bill Goerl, (Clique Limousine Service, Oakdale, Long Island), president of the Long Island Limousine Association), “As expected Albany addressed the concerns of Nassau, Suffolk and Westchester Counties which already have a Taxi and Limousine Commission in place to opt out of  Governor Cuomo’s new TNC law. The unexpected turn is that it’s not quite that easy to ‘opt out’ because each county of more than 100,000 residents decides to “kick out” TNC’s must pass a local law to do so.”

Goerl noted that the law “clearly gives TNC’s the upper hand” because TNC drivers will only need one state license which covers them through every county except New York City.

“Even in New York City, they can still drop off, just not pick-up. We need to pay $250 per vehicle for a TLC (Taxi Limousine Commission) license for each county we do business in; TNC’s will be exempt from these TLC fees,” Goerl said. “They will also have a pricing advantage as they only collect 4% state sales tax, and we collect 8.65% sales tax. The TNC drivers will also not need to be fingerprinted as our chauffeurs do,” he added.

Goerl expects many new TNC operators to get the state license and “flood our counties,” adding, “Our local legislators and the TLC are working on passing the law to opt out, but how quickly they can accomplish this, and if they can get the public backing to accomplish this, is the next unanswered question.”

LILA Board of Director and National Limousine Association Board of Director Doug Schwartz (Executive Limousine, Bellmore, Long Island) said, “We are disappointed that New York State does not see the value of thorough and complete background checks. There is nothing more important than safety of our passengers.”

Keywords

Bill Goerl   doug Schwartz   Kevin Barwell   LBTOUNY   LILA   long island limousine association   NEW YORK   New York City   New York operators   regulatory enforcement   state regulations   TNCs   

 

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New Jersey Operators Are Perfect Mix Of Old And New

PRINCETON, N.J. — Edward Santiago and Al Cohen, co-owners of First Choice Limousine, work together without a snag, despite an age difference and different backgrounds. Cohen, 68, had experience working in luxury transportation, while Santiago, 40, was a mobile X-ray technician, but they have the same desire to run a company respected by clients and fellow operators.

Different Perspectives, Same Goal

Santiago believes clients get the best of both worlds with him and Cohen. He acknowledges their strengths are polar opposites: “It’s like a black and tan — you get the old with the new.” Cohen builds business the old fashioned way by shaking hands, knocking on doors, and taking phone calls, and Santiago respects the results this has produced.

Being available at all times and making it easy for customers to get a hold of you is a large part of their customer service strategy. “Life is already as complex as it can get, and new tech has arguably made things busier. We try and think ahead by saying, ‘What are the roadblocks the client will hit with other companies, and how can we make that experience less painful?’” Santiago says.

If customers request either him or Cohen as a chauffeur, they gladly take the opportunity to show clients they aren’t above any job. Santiago shines in ensuring Millennials feel comfortable booking the way they want to. “If they want to make a reservation online and not really have a personal connection with us and are a little distant, that’s OK, too. We try to appeal to every possible type of client,” Santiago says.

Always Room For Improvement

Running a chauffeured car operation is far from easy, and 90% of your approach should be customer service focused, Cohen says. “You have to be there when the client wants you. As long as you can take that extra step to make you better than the other guy, you’ll excel,” he says.

The company provides car seats at no charge, for example. They also try to make sure they are the first people a new customer sees. “Clients like to know the company owner took the time to pick them up and treat them special,” Cohen says.

Another tactic to ensure lasting relationships is to stay in contact with your regulars if you haven’t heard from them in a while; this keeps your core customer base in tact while you explore new avenues.

While networking is also important for large operations, small companies can’t survive without some help. It helps you establish yourself as a legitimate company. “There’s enough business for everyone, and you can’t do it alone. Building your network and resources will only help,” Santiago says.

Something he’s tried to live by is the fact you’re not in charge of anything, so you have to be prepared for anything. In other words, you’re at the mercy of the airlines, baggage claim, and customers who oversleep or forget to bring something, so you have to be able to adapt. “You can’t get stuck on structure, because you have to be quick on your feet to respond to events you weren’t expecting.”

What’s Next?

To prepare for new business gained at the International LCT Show, the company has eliminated older vehicles, keeping only those model years 2015 and newer. They’ve also invested in new office space. Santiago and Cohen look forward to getting their name further out there as a reputable company every operator can rely on. As members of the National Limousine Association and the Limousine Association of New Jersey (LANJ), they aim to be involved in all aspects of the industry.

Santiago hopes to continue to identify with the younger audience by staying on top of social media and industry trends in terms of apps and other technology. “I identify with young families since I have two daughters myself, so from a customer perspective, I understand the complexities of traveling with small children. I try to be more compassionate and connect with them on that level.”

Keywords

customer service   LCTFast40   Millennials   networking   New Jersey operators   online reservations   

 

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Start Early To Get More Prom And Coming-of-Age Event Bookings

Prom is the epitome of all young coming-of-age events. If you wait until prom season to market to teens preparing for prom, you may be leaving money on the table. Between the ages of 13 and 19, a pre-adult is likely to participate in two or more coming-of-age events per year, either as an invited guest or guest of honor.

Opportunities to connect with teens and their parents begin with bat/bar mitzvah, Quinceañera, Sweet 16, homecoming, junior prom, cotillions, debutantes, and senior prom. Simply put, to get them in your prom sales funnel, you must expand your efforts to reach them as soon as they enter their teen years. You should make numerous impressions year-round until their final milestone events or shortly before their high school graduations.

Start With A Campaign
The goal of your year-round campaign is to touch potential customers at each point of preparation regardless of what coming-of-age event they are planning for. The outcome you seek is to increase the number of impressions — ideally it takes eight — your company makes with them so their first coming-of-age event livery experience is with your fleet.

This gives you the best chance of making teens and their parents repeat customers. Christopher Duff’s daughter Cristen, a senior at Prince George High School in Prince George, Va., says he plans to book her the same white Bentley Rolls Royce from the same limousine operator he did several years ago when his oldest daughter went to prom.

“I told her if she and her date go alone, I’ll pay for that same Bentley,” Christopher said. Not only does he remember the fleet owners because he had such a great experience, but his top-of-mind awareness comes from the postcards he sometimes receives in the mail since his original booking.

Campaigns Educate
While the tastes of teens attending coming-of-age events vary by regions, Northeast, South, Midwest, West Coast, parents in certain regions may not know that party buses, popular in the Northeast, might bode well for teens looking to have a different experience in the South, for example, where a party bus may not be the norm.

A slick campaign slogan, an enticing image, and the focus on one vehicle, such as the party bus, in one part of a multi-part campaign may help you get more bookings for a specific vehicle.

Word of Mouth Campaign Champion
One of the best champions for reaching teens is your local dress store owner. Usually, the first step in planning for prom or any coming-of-age event for a young lady is dress shopping. She may browse and compare prices online but eventually she makes her way into a brick-and-mortar store. She may even travel up to 200 miles to find the perfect dress.

If she’s lucky, she’ll run into the owner of two prominent dress stores, one in Staten Island, N.Y., and the other in Woodbridge, N.J., who prides herself on being a one stop shop for teens’ formal needs. I had the opportunity to be in her Woodbridge store to witness a very witty exchange. After a young lady has inquired about a dress, she follows up with, “Do you have your limo yet?” and promptly hands out the card to her go-to limo company. When the young lady returns to buy the dress the owner follows-up with, “Did you contact my limo guy?”

Cooperative Marketing Outreach
Consider mirroring one of the largest dress stores in Massachusetts which bears a similar name to a New Hampshire-based limousine company that frequently splits costs on advertising campaigns and makes a play on their names. They target the same teens prepping for coming-of-age events. A dress store owner can be your best ally and a teen’s gateway to your fleet. Do this and spend less money only to make more.

Don’t leave any money on the table by waiting until prom season to market to teens preparing for prom. Planning for Prom 2018 and beyond starts now. Begin marketing to 13-year-olds now to build awareness that could lead to immediate and repeat bookings as 13-19 year olds head to multiple coming-of-age events. Starting early enables you to connect with teens and their parents beginning with all types of special occasions mentioned above. Getting a head start and marketing in the context of an overall campaign year-round gives you the best chance to building a sustainable pipeline of young customers.

The Takeaways
Think of your marketing efforts collectively as a campaign. Incorporate a variety of media types to reach the perfect marketing mix: Online (paid and organic), social media, and print, to name a few. Ensure your campaign message is clear and consistent across all media.

Reach teens and their parents as soon as they enter the prime age for coming-of-age events, possibly years before they attend their first prom or as they attend the increasingly popular middle school prom.

Network with owners of dress and tuxedo shops to generate a constant source of mutual referrals and shared marketing opportunities.

Keshia Richmond is the publisher and editor-in-chief of Prom Guide Magazine (www.promguide.com) based in Pompano Beach, Fla. For a complimentary, basic, SEO friendly page and listing for your limousine company on PromGuide.com, the resource for teens attending prom and all teen coming-of-age events, send an email to keshia.richmond@promguide.com.

Keywords

building your clientele   client markets   Keshia Richmond   proms   student transportation   youth marketing   

 

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What Do Trump’s First 100 Days Mean For Travel Industry?

When Donald Trump was elected U.S. President in November, there was quite a bit of optimism in the travel industry that having a luxury hotelier in the Oval Office would help advance the goals of the U.S. as an international destination and U.S. travel companies.

Trump’s first few months in office, however, seem to have dispelled the notion his administration would be tourism and tourist friendly. 

Skift.com article here

Keywords

business travel   business trends   corporate travel   Donald Trump   economic outlook   industry trends   leisure travel   

 

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Chicago Mayor Seeks To Ban Guns From Rowdy Party Buses

CALUMET HEIGHTS, IL — Mayor Rahm Emanuel says he has ordered city staff to find a way to ban guns from party buses as part of a crackdown on the rowdy parties on wheels set to be considered by the City Council.

DNAInfo.com article here

Related article: Party Buses Will Pay For Bad Behavior

Keywords

Chicago operators   criminal incidents   Illinois operators   law enforcement   party buses   regulatory enforcement   

 

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Mercedes-Benz Plans Self-Driving Ride Service By 2020

Luxury car manufacturer Mercedes-Benz is teaming up with Bosch to begin a self-driving car service in as little as three years. Autonomous cars have the potential of making personal transportation safer and cleaner.

Futurism article here

Keywords

autonomous vehicles   driverless cars   Mercedes-Benz   self-driving vehicles   TNCs   

 

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Pot Party Bus Company Sees Revenues Surge 66% In Past Year

Denver has become the go-to destination for marijuana aficionados since Colorado legalized recreational pot in November 2012.

One marijuana enthusiast, Michael Eymer, saw an early opportunity to cash in on the $1.3 billion legal marijuana industry. He founded Colorado Cannabis Tours in January 2014, the year it became legal to sell recreational weed in the state.

Yahoo Finance article here

Keywords

Colorado operators   drugs   party buses   tour buses   tourism   

 

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How To Get Through Prom Checkpoints Quickly

The type of enforcement officer working a school event will determine the type and scope of the inspection. Various agencies can be assigned, including school police, limousine regulatory agencies, local police, and state highway police. Here is what you might expect:

School Police

School police officers are sworn police officers and carry all the powers of a regular police officer, including the ability to issue citations, seize your vehicle, and arrest individuals. Do not assume they are security guards without authority. Do not ask whether they are a sworn officer or a security guard as it will only antagonize the officer and prolong the inspection. School police will concentrate solely on whether alcohol or drugs are in the vehicle. It is their job to ensure students attending a school event are not under the influence of drugs or alcohol, and prevent the presence of either one at the event.

More On Proms

To read Keshia Richmond’s article on how to handle police prom interactions, click here.

Regulatory Agencies

While the scope of a regulatory agent is limited to enforcement within the scope of permitted operations, they have the ability to issue citations, suspend or revoke operating authorities, and terminate rides. The vehicle- and chauffeur-related inspections will focus on vehicle safety, proper licensing of the chauffeur and vehicle based on passenger capacity, and any special state requirements for driving students to a school sanctioned event. They generally will not concern themselves with student itineraries, but may out of a courtesy to the school check the vehicle for alcohol and drugs as well. 

Local Police

Local police inspections can include all of the above and are likely to be conducted by officers from the traffic division who are specially trained in commercial vehicle operations. They may inspect the trip ticket, pre-trip inspection form, vehicle safety, state vehicle inspection report (if required to be present in the vehicle), insurance and registration documents as well as interrogating students on their plans for the evening.

State Highway Police

Inspections by state police will be the most rigorous of all inspections. State police generally work hand-in-hand with state regulatory agencies and act as an extension of the agency to insure adherence to licensing regulations, vehicle condition, chauffeur licensing, contraband in the vehicle or on the persons in the vehicle, and all of the above.

If You Are Stopped On Arrival

If you are stopped at the unloading area, ask the officer if you are being detained or if it would be permissible to allow your passengers to enjoy their grand arrival moment. State you would be happy to allow a vehicle and document inspection upon unloading passengers. Do not be antagonistic but rather professional in delivering the service your clients paid for. Their money is no different than any adult client. If the officer states you are being detained, cooperate fully without further comment.

• Do not volunteer any information or paperwork unless asked for it.
• Produce only the requested documents and nothing else except for a prom contract. (See below)
• Open all doors to the vehicle, the trunk, glove compartment and console for inspection upon being asked for an interior inspection.
• Do not interfere with officers interrogating your passengers. They have an obligation to the school and the passengers are not your responsibility once they have been delivered to the school function. Legally, they are in the custody of school officials, and your responsibility ends until they return to the vehicle after the event.

Take Initiative With A Prom Contract

By using a “prom promise” (readily available at http://ift.tt/1Ti9bqo), you can demonstrate you are truly concerned for the well-being of your young passengers. It should contain signatures from all parents and students agreeing to terms such as no alcohol, the privacy panel remains down, only pre-arranged passengers in the vehicle, and inspection of all bags brought into the vehicle

Keywords

alcoholic beverages   drugs   how to   law enforcement   prom   proms   underage drinking   

 

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How To Properly Handle Prom Law Enforcement Stops

[Note to Readers: This article is a reprint from Prom Guide Magazine about law enforcement questioning of chauffeurs and prom passengers. LCT contributing editor Jim Luff follows with an article advising operators facing those situations]

Prom night is all about firsts. The first time he sees her special sense of glam, the first time she sees him all ‘tuxed’ up, and ultimately, the first time classmates see chauffeurs open the doors of limousines and usher young adults and their dates out to the prom red carpet.

One group of teens arriving at Crest Hollow Country Club in Woodbury, N.Y. last year may have missed out on their white glove chauffeur service. The entrance to their prom was stationed by law enforcement. Here is what you might expect if the entrance to your prom also doubles as a police checkpoint.

When your limo drives down the picturesque, tree-lined driveway of the Crest Hollow Country Club, you will not mistake police presence. Your chauffeur is likely to be stopped by a police officer with Consumer Affairs, now the Nassau County Taxi and Limousine Commission, and directed to a gaggle of officers underneath the portico.

More On Proms

To read Jim Luff’s article on chauffeur cooperation during prom, click here.

Operators may be on guard for and aware of the dangers and consequences of underage drinking on prom night, but you may not have been warned that your chauffeurs could be questioned by officers. Students also could be subject to questioning in the investigation of the chauffeur.

Questioning

Who booked the limo? Where did the students get picked up? Where are they going after prom? These are some questions students are likely to be asked. It is puzzling that asking these questions of parents, chauffeurs, and the limo companies would not be simpler and less disruptive than asking the students, the customers.

“Children have to be questioned to find out who booked the ride,” says Commissioner Gregory May of Nassau County Taxi & Limousine Commission. Is that their only motive? “Typically, when dealing with students, an officer is more than anything checking for illegal activity such as drug or alcohol usage,” says Joe Guinn, owner of the Texas-based company, Limo & Bus Compliance.

This type of pre-prom policing can affect the prom. “It comes off as a form of harassment to passengers and drivers,” says Jim Luff, LCT contributing editor and limousine industry consultant who ran the Limousine Scene in Bakersfield, Calif., for 25 years. He reasons promgoers who drive themselves or arrive by other means are not subject to being stopped or their grand entrance being delayed.

Commissioner May says police presence at prom entrances is for the “safety of students to ensure they are being transported in properly licensed vehicles.” While his commission is sensitive to how policing of chauffeurs can disrupt prom arrivals, “they are only at a prom on the request of the venue or the school,” May says.

Calls and emails to the director of sales and banquets at Crest Hollow went unreturned. Other proms we observed at Jericho Terrace, Mineola, N.Y. and North Ritz Club, Syosset, N.Y., did not have police presence. Police questioning as soon as you step out of the limousine in the course of licensing enforcement with chauffeurs may taint prom memories, cause worry about getting home, and distract from the fun of it all, Luff says.

Solutions

It does not have to be that way. Imagine the officers dressed for the occasion. They could trade in their police blues for an Ike Behar Evening Navy 2-button Notch Tuxedo Slim Fit or a Colors Dress evening gown in the same hue. Perhaps the chauffeur could get out of the limo, open the door, and allow promgoers to get unobstructed pictures in front of the stretch or party bus before officers swoop down.

Then, the chauffeur pulls off to be questioned in another area away from the main entrance. That would preserve the grand entrances. Students would only be questioned if the police could not get information from parents, the chauffeurs, limousine companies, or the signed service contracts.

For the school’s part, they could be supportive by allowing the prom coordinator or other school official to be present during questioning, in the absence of parents, until all classmates have made their first grand entrance to the prom.

Keshia Richmond is the publisher of Prom Guide Magazine based in Pompano Beach, Fla. She can be reached at Keshia.Richmond@PromGuide.com

Keywords

drugs   how to   law enforcement   operations   prom   proms   safety inspections   underage drinking   

 

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Lincoln Announces Pricing for Continental

Dearborn, Mich.—The Lincoln Continental continues to garner press months before the vehicle even hits showrooms—which will be late summer/early fall 2016. Last week, the automaker released it pricing for the 2017 model, which, as we reported in January, will be available with a Livery Package 500A.

According to Lincoln Limo/Livery Manager Craig Hall, pricing will be very palatable for operators of all sizes: The FWD Livery 500A clocks in under $50,000 at $48,640, while the AWD Livery 500A will be $50,640. Both prices include destination and delivery charges, as well as the Livery Tech Package.

More information about the Continental can be found in the January issue of Chauffeur Driven by clicking here.

Car and Driver also published a nice write-up about the Continental, which can be seen here.

The Continental will be on hand at our Executive Retreat this May 1-3 in New Orleans so operators can experience the preproduction vehicle in person. The vehicle is being provided courtesy of Gold Sponsor Complete Fleet Livery Sales.

Visit fleet.ford.com/limo for more information.

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VLA Meeting Sees Packed House Full Agenda

L to R: Kevin Polite of Cul de Sac Chauffeured, Zulfi Abbasi of American Executive, Barry Gross of Reston Limousine, Afzal Iqbal of American Executive, and George Rains of ZBest Worldwide

Ashburn, Va. — The Virginia Limousine Association’s (VLA’s) April 4 meeting at the Topgolf sports entertainment complex had more than 50 people in attendance. The meeting, hosted by Reston Limousine, included members, operators, and supporters from the greater Virginia and Maryland areas as well as CD’s Publisher Chris Weiss and Industry & Brand Ambassador Philip Jagiela.

VLA President Paul Walsh of Superior Executive Transportation opened the meeting by welcoming the attendees and thanking Reston. Before giving the floor to Barry Gross, Reston’s director of business relations, Walsh expressed his desire to work closely with neighboring associations like the Virginia Motorcoach Association (VMA) and United Motorcoach Association (UMA), and then took some time to thank the VLA board for their hard work. Gross, who shared a brief history of Reston and the company’s services, invited attendees to tour their new motorcoach after the meeting.

Weiss was next to address the attendees with a “Sign of the Times” presentation that offered a detailed look on industry news and trends. First on his agenda was an update on the TNC situation: Based on recent developments, Weiss believes that there is a shift occurring that will require ride-sharing companies to conform to regulations around the country. The amount a bad press that TNCs are facing will likely level the playing field, forcing all drivers to undergo fingerprinting and background checks. Weiss also focused on the improving economy, evidenced by the sales stability and growth seen in recent months, as well as the rise of mergers and acquisitions in the industry. He also recognized the trend towards larger vehicles—including shuttles, minicoaches, and motorcoaches—noting that fleets with these vehicles are essentially “Uber-proof” the TNCs cannot compete with this type of work. He also provided details about CD’s upcoming events, with Art Miesemer of RMA Worldwide winning a pass to the October 9-12 Chauffeur Driven Show in Washington, D.C.

Members of the VLA board include (L to R): Executive Director and CD Industry & Brand Ambassador Philip Jagiela, President Paul Walsh of Superior Executive Transportation, Vice Presidents Barry Shapiro of James River Transportation and Andrea Saathoff of Albermarle Limousine, and Legislative Liaison/Immediate Past President Glenn Stafford of Love Limousine Next, William Lanham, who manages the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority (MWAA) landside contracts, discussed issues faced by operators at the regional airports. In addition to thanking attendees for their patience while a new AVI system was installed, Lanham informed the group that geofencing has been placed around the holding lot, which limits TNC service unless vehicles are within the region; however, he mentioned that 30-40 thousand vehicles are registered in the area. Lanham then offered information regarding the fines issued at the airport, and concluded by sharing that his agency has a strong interest in maintaining a close relationship with the VLA.

Lanham was followed by Ralph Buona of the Loudon County Commission and Barbara Arkwright, a special agent from the law enforcement division of the Virginia DMV. Buona provided a presentation about the benefits of living and working in Loudon County. Arkwright introduced two new field members, and discussed penalties for “off-app” activity by TNCs. She also expressed the DMV’s commitment to attend VLA meetings and work with the chauffeured ground transportation industry.

As many operators are expanding their fleets to include motorcoaches, Director of Regulatory Affairs for the American Bus Association Brandon Buchanan offered a comprehensive overview about what limousine operators need to know when entering the bus business. Among the topics he covered were the FAST Act (i.e., Highway Reauthorization Bill) and the importance of compliance, especially in regard to hours of service, equipment, and the Bus Lease and Interchange Rule.

Brian O’Neill of Wolfington Body Company brought one of Turtle Top’s new VT3s for a sneak peek preview after the meeting, and James Brown of the VMA reiterated his association’s desire to work closely with the VLA.

The meeting closed with a formal installation of Jagiela as the VLA’s new executive director. He discussed his plans for the association, which will begin with a redesigned website and increased social media presence.

The next VLA meeting is scheduled for June 6.

Visit virginialimousineassociation.org for more information.

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ADMEI Survey: Business for DMCs Stronger Than Expected

Dayton, Ohio — The latest Association of Destination Management Executives International (ADMEI) business survey reveals that DMCs are enjoying stable and growing business.

According to the survey: 79 percent of DMCs say 1Q16 was better or the same compared to 1Q15, while 84 percent of DMCs say that their projections are stronger or the same for 2Q16 compared to 2Q15.  Looking ahead, 56 percent of DMCs anticipate that, based on advanced bookings, business in 2017 will increase and 34 percent anticipate business will remain the same.

Other key findings include:

• Lead times increasing: The second quarter 2016 business survey reflects a continuing strong trend for DMC business throughout the world. The other side of the business survey is the time interval between when the DMC received the RFP and the actual event. There are 50 percent fewer DMCs reporting decreasing lead time between 4Q14 and 2Q16 while 30 percent DMCs are reporting no change in lead times. While this trend is encouraging, there are still times when this interval is too short for the DMC to effectively manage their time; 10 percent of the DMCs still ask, What interval? We are lucky to get an RFP two weeks before the event. One DMC notes: “We are seeing the trend continue that it is all within a year for the most part, however world events are shifting to also create some very last minute bookings as well.”
• Ethical clients: DMCs report that 81 percent of their clients are ethical all or most of the time.  One DMC commented, “Client told us they were going with another DMC because of the venue they presented even though they liked us better overall. Not good for us, but figured if the tables were turned, I would be happy.” 
• Healthy meeting industry: 54 percent of DMCs project 2016 to be more profitable than 2015, and 21 percent project as much profit in 2016 as they had in 2015. With 85 percent of the DMCs reporting project as good as or better profit over the previous year, the clear trend is that DMCs are reflecting the health of the meetings industry.

Respondents to this survey were ADMEI member DMCs located in four continents, with members in Africa, Europe, North America, and South America. Almost a quarter of all member DMCs are located outside of the United States.  Survey participants represent 40 percent of ADMEI’s global membership.

ADMEI is the premier international association for DMCs.  Its mission is to define the DMC industry, uphold the highest level of professionalism, establish standard business and ethical practices, and promote the value of local destination management. 

Visit admei.org for more information about ADMEI.

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CFLA to Hold First Meeting in May

The CFLA executive board (L to R): Board member Ash Elmahdi of Noble Transportation & Limousines, Vice President Gregg Moulton of Orlando Select Transportation, Secretary Brandy Ollie of Go Platinum Transportation, President Wendy Kleefisch of Brevard Executive Limousine, and board members Sheri Boesch of Network Limousines and Mechelle Wowas-Cappel of Elite Limousine Services (Not pictured: Treasurer Barbara White of VIP Transportation Group and board member Greg Pallie of GNS Transportation Group)

Central Florida — The newly formed Central Florida Livery Association (CFLA) board of directors met for the first time April 14 and are gearing up for the association’s first membership meeting, scheduled for May 10 from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. at VIP Transportation Group’s facility in Orlando.

The board comprises:
President: Wendy Kleefisch of Brevard Executive Limousine
Vice President: Gregg Moulton of Orlando Select Transportation
Secretary: Brandy Ollie of Go Platinum Transportation
Treasurer: Barbara White of VIP Transportation Group
Board members: Sheri Boesch of Network Limousines, Ash Elmahdi of Noble Transportation & Limousines, Greg Pallie of GNS Transportation Group, and Mechelle Wowas-Cappel of Elite Limousine Services

“I’m so excited and determined and ready to make this happen,” Kleefisch said. “Key players in our market and the industry have been reaching out and supporting us.” She added that AJ Thurber of Grech Motors offered to sponsor the association, with Jeff Brodsly of Chosen Payments, Matthew Clements of PIC, Philip Jagiela of Chauffeur Driven and PALM, and Jennifer Wong of Solutions Marketing as all volunteering their services and assistance to help get the new association up and running. Arthur Messina of Create-A-Card has also donated a logo design and branding efforts to the association.

Kleefisch said that the association premiered at a trade show in Las Vegas this past March, with the NLA also accepting CFLA’s bylaws at that time.

Unlike the rest of Florida’s industry associations, CFLA does not operate under the auspices of Florida Limousine Association, though it certainly has received other members’ support; Kleefisch wanted CFLA to remain open to transportation operations beyond the luxury market so medical transportation, members of the TLPA, and other similar services could benefit from membership—“it’s not just about limos.”

“We invite anyone who is interested in making our industry even better,” Kleefisch said—and has already bolstered association growth by getting Orlando-region transportation giant Mears Global to join.

CFLA was born of a frustration with deregulation in Brevard County, as well as the continued threat of TNCs impeding upon legitimate transportation services.

“We put out a survey that shows 98 percent of Central Florida thinks Uber is a transportation company—even though they keep saying they aren’t—it’s time they’re regulated like we are,” Kleefisch said. “We don’t want deregulation. We are standing untied and will continue banging on legislators’ doors to make our voices heard.”

CFLA will meet the second Tuesday of each month, rotating meeting locales among members’ facilities. For more information about the association, email cfla@gmail.com or call 321.360.6090.

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McSweeney Designs Announces Preferred Dealer Agreement with Hoekstra Transportation

Hoekstra Commercial Products Manager Steve Bolin

Trussville, Ala. — McSweeney Designs, a fully approved MasterUpfitter for Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, recently announced the expansion of its preferred dealer network to include Hoekstra Transportation of Grand Rapids, Michigan. Under the terms of this agreement, Hoekstra will now represent the entire McSweeney Designs lineup of upscale, Sprinter-based Exec Lounge and Luxury Shuttle Bus products through its various sales channels in the Michigan and Ohio territories.  

“I am blown away by the fit and finish and shear luxury that McSweeney Designs brought to the table,” said Steve Bolin, commercial products manager for Hoekstra Transportation at the signing of the official dealer agreement. “Our customers are having the same reaction. These high-end shuttles fit perfectly into our growing corporate and luxury market segments and compliment our wide range of products we represent. Team Hoekstra is excited to have this line and to be a strategic partner with McSweeney Designs.”

Kevin Kropf, eastern region sales manager for McSweeney Designs echoed that sentiment from the manufacturer’s perspective: “With our two companies’ shared commitments to delivering the highest possible quality and value to our customers; and with Hoekstra’s stellar reputation in the industry for providing top notch customer service before, during, and after the sale; we look forward to a long a mutually prosperous relationship with Mark Hoekstra, Steve Bolin, and the entire Hoekstra Transportation team.”

Building upon the positive momentum established by its first wave of deliveries to satisfied clients, Hoekstra will stock a range of McSweeney Designs Sprinter-based products for quick delivery. As a preferred dealer, Hoekstra will also be able to leverage the strengths of McSweeney Designs’ world class, in-house design, engineering, and build teams to assist their clients in the development of custom tailored upfit solutions to uniquely suit their own upscale transportation needs, according to Kropf.

Visit mcsweeneydesigns.com or hoekstratransportation.com for more information.

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