Trade Groups Hold Court at LCT-NLA Show East

ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. — The first industry association East Coast Forum coupled with various local and regional group breakfast meetings brought members together to discuss mutual issues and strategies to work together. The forum was held during the annual LCT-NLA Show East, Nov. 13-15, at Harrah’s Resort Atlantic City.

Boards of directors and members from the Limousine Association of New Jersey (LANJ), Philadelphia Regional Limousine Association (PRLA), and Florida Limousine Association (FLA) held breakfast meetings during the annual show.

Topics at the respective meetings centered on updates on TNC legislation in their respective states, as well as fighting other regulators’ fees and taxes that target the private transportation industry.

LANJ President Jason Sharenow (Broadway Elite Chauffeured Worldwide, East Hanover, N.J.) told more than 75 members and guests he expects a pending bill to regulate TNCs to pass when the legislature meets again. “We didn’t get everything we wanted, but we’re OK with what we got,” Sharenow said. Although the bill will provide stricter oversight and regulations for TNCs, mandatory fingerprinting background checks were not included.

On a winning note, Sharenow told members a bill to eliminate the 7% sales tax levied against limousine companies is gaining momentum after passing a legislative committee. Sharenow called out LANJ members Jon Epstein (Royal Coachman Worldwide, Denville, N.J.) and Pete Corelli (Lakeview Custom Coach) for “working tirelessly” to lobby and testify before legislators to get the bill going.

Fighting Philadelphia Parking Authority
More than 35 PRLA members and guests, including members of the Virginia Limousine Association, attended the group’s breakfast meeting held Nov. 15. PRLA President Steve Rhoads (Rhoads Limousine Service, Douglassville, Pa.) told members the association is fighting hard to stop a new Philadelphia Parking Authority (PPA) vehicle assessment that more than doubles the registration fee per vehicle from $404 to $868.

Rhoads said the association has petitioned a federal court to stop the assessment. The judge ruled in early November the hike will not be enforced until the PPA and PRLA meet to iron out the matter. The PRLA is waiting for the PPA to respond.

FLA Meeting
The Florida Limousine Association held its breakfast meeting Nov. 14 touching on a variety of issues and topics. FLA President Rick Versace told members the association is formulating its strategy for the upcoming legislative session to propose a measure that would require all ground transportation drivers for taxi, limo, and TNC to have fingerprint background checks.

Versace added the FLA may put together a chauffeur certification program, while members of the Long Island Limousine Association shared how their program works.

On a national note, Versace said the FLA is proposing to create a “Limousine Operator Appreciation Week,” culminating in National Limo Day. The idea will be discussed further to see if it can gain traction with the NLA and Congress.

Eastern Regional Forum
The first-ever Eastern Regional Forum drew a large crowd of East Coast association members to discuss issues of common concern and how both regional associations and the NLA can cooperate on issues effecting East Coast operators.

The forum panel included Mike Callahan, president of the New England Livery Association; Bill Goerl, president of the Long Island Limousine Association; Rhoads from the PRLA; and Sharenow of LANJ. NLA board of directors Jeff Greene (Greene Worldwide Transportation, Atlanta), and Andy Thompson (Rose Chauffeured Transportation, Charlotte, N.C.) moderated the panel.

The event also featured a legislative and election update from Louie Perry, Cornerstone Government Affairs, the NLA’s legislative consultant, and a presentation on how to deal with the media — as well combat TNCs through the media — by the NLA’s public relations firm, Evins.

Tom Halligan is LCT East Coast editor, based in Marlton, N.J. He travels regularly to industry association meetings in the eastern U.S. Tom can be reached at tom@lctmag.com.

Keywords

Florida Limousine Association   Jason Sharenow   Jeff Greene   LCT-NLA Show East   limo associations   Limousine Association of New Jersey   Louie Perry   Mike Callahan   New England Livery Association   Philadelphia Regional Limousine Association   Rick Versace   Steve Rhoads   Virginia Limousine Association   

 

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How To Prepare Your RFPs To Lower Expenses

Controlling expenses is clearly one of the most important actions a business must examine.

Limousine operations rarely look at expenses thoroughly enough where they should be getting to the point of sending out RFPs to vendors for most line items on their income statements.

We are constantly faced with filling out RFPs to secure business, yet when we get to the expense side, companies never seem to try to find out if other vendors can reduce their expenses through an RFP process.

The first step is to research the names and addresses in your area that offer the services and products you need to run your business. Once done, you are ready to prepare the RFP to help you choose the best vendor at the best value for your company.

The five goals you are attempting to accomplish with your RFP include:

1. Get detailed proposals to evaluate each vendor’s response so the best interests of your company are met on all fronts.
2. Leverage the competitive nature of the vendor selection process to negotiate the best possible deal.
3. Ensure the interests of all management team members will be met and a consensus reached.
4. Put your company in control of the entire vendor selection process and set the selection rules up front.
5. Start building the partnership between you and the vendor from the start.

The RFP should contain the following sections, each tailored for your individual needs:

• Submission details: Should include deadlines, mailing address of your company, contact person for questions, and clarifications.
• Introduction and executive summary: Write this section last after the entire document is finished. This is used to provide prospective vendors with a brief overview of your company and the requirements for the product or service you may need.
• Business overview and background: Give a brief overview of your business and the market sector you service. This will help your prospective vendors understand what business needs you are trying to fill with the vendor selection process. You should also provide important background information that will benefit the vendor when responding.
• Detailed specifications: This should be the longest section of the document. For an RFP, it will contain the qualitative measures and requirements that will drive the vendor selection decision.

Specifications of what you may need from vendors may include:
1. Service levels
2. Milestones (benchmarks
for discounts)
3. Deliverables and timelines
4. Technical or business requirements
5. Software functionality
6. Hardware requirements
(if applicable)

• Assumption and constraints: Any assumptions and/or constraints the prospective vendors need to be made aware of must be listed here. Failure to be forthright and upfront with the vendor will open the door to renegotiation of the agreement at a later date and runs the possibility of straining your relationship with your vendor.

• Terms and conditions: Expectations must be listed for the vendor to give a fair and honest response. These may include financing options, discounts, warranties, service levels, etc.

• Selection criteria: The final section should be an overview of the selection criteria you will be using to make your decision. Some companies prefer to keep this information confidential, while other companies believe this will help prospective vendors focus on what is important to your company.

Finally, compose a cover letter and send two copies of your RFP to each of the vendors you selected. Include appropriate contact information to help any vendor who may need it. This process will boost your bottom line.

Ron Sorci is the founder and CEO of Miami-based Professional Consulting Resources Inc. (www.pcrforyou.com). A former senior executive at public and private companies, Sorci most recently worked as CFO of Aventura Worldwide Transportation in Miami. He also served as President of the National Limousine Association from 2009-2010. He can be reached at Ron@pcrforyou.com or (786) 229-3662.

Keywords

Corporate RFPs   finance   maintaining profitability   operating expenses   operator finance   Profit Driven   profits   revenue growth   revenues   Ron Sorci   

 

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Best Chauffeured Worldwide Acquires VIP Limousines & Coaches

 

Orange County’s top two services unite as Best-VIP Chauffeured Worldwide, providing the ultimate in luxury transportation.

[Orange County, CA.] – Best Chauffeured Worldwide, an acclaimed luxury transportation service, is pleased to announce the acquisition of their highly respected competitors, VIP Limousines & Coaches. Both award-winning companies have earned multiple industry accolades, and independently earned reputations for being customer-driven and employee oriented. Their similar business philosophies made the acquisition a natural step, with official integration beginning in early 2016. With over 50 years of combined expertise, Best-VIP Chauffeured Worldwide offers decades of experience while moving into the future of luxury transportation.

“This is extremely exciting,” Robert Vaughan, Best Chauffeured Worldwide founder and CEO, said. “VIP has a great team coming over with the company and the owner, Roger Webb, is staying on for two years to ensure a seamless transition before he retires. We’re taking the best of both companies and implementing fresh processes and procedures, and we’re looking forward to combining into one location next year. We’re very energized about it.”

Once integrated, Best-VIP Chauffeured Worldwide will offer a united staff and an extraordinary fleet of over 140 vehicles. Top-of-the-line limousines, sedans, vans, SUV’s, minicoaches and motorcoaches will be available, functioning with cutting edge technology to ensure luxurious travel with hassle-free reservations. Both companies hold a rapport with the leading DMC’s and Meeting Planners in Southern California, and the new Best-VIP brand will maintain the highest level of service and deliver innovative options for travelers booking transportation locally and globally.

Best Chauffeured Worldwide started as a one-vehicle, weekend limousine service, and grew into a company that offers a stunning of fleet of vehicles and services across the globe. They take pride in every facet of their business, from their back office and mechanical crew to their charismatic drivers. After 20 years, Best Chauffeured accumulated a client roster that includes Fortune 500 companies and VIP celebrities.

VIP Limousines & Coaches is a leading force in ground transportation, offering a top quality fleet designed to give clients the finest services and support available. During their 30 years of business, they’ve worked with high profile clients including Broadcom, the Anaheim Ducks, and Montage Resort. Now a part of the Best Chauffeured Worldwide family, VIP will offer the same level of service to their loyal clients on a global level.

“What’s made us both very successful is our commitment to service,” comments Vaughan. “We provide high-end vehicles with professional chauffeurs, and strong backbone support within our office structure. Best and VIP have been able to compete in the market with one another, and now that we’re moving forward as one we’ll continue to provide elevated service and premium transportation on a larger scale.”

Both companies are pillars in Orange County transportation, and the new Best-VIP Chauffeured Worldwide brand is a unified point of strength and reliability in the industry. For more information, visit www.best-vip.com.

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Best Chauffeured Worldwide Acquires VIP Limousines & Coaches

 

Orange County’s top two services unite as Best-VIP Chauffeured Worldwide, providing the ultimate in luxury transportation.

[Orange County, CA.] – Best Chauffeured Worldwide, an acclaimed luxury transportation service, is pleased to announce the acquisition of their highly respected competitors, VIP Limousines & Coaches. Both award-winning companies have earned multiple industry accolades, and independently earned reputations for being customer-driven and employee oriented. Their similar business philosophies made the acquisition a natural step, with official integration beginning in early 2016. With over 50 years of combined expertise, Best-VIP Chauffeured Worldwide offers decades of experience while moving into the future of luxury transportation.

“This is extremely exciting,” Robert Vaughan, Best Chauffeured Worldwide founder and CEO, said. “VIP has a great team coming over with the company and the owner, Roger Webb, is staying on for two years to ensure a seamless transition before he retires. We’re taking the best of both companies and implementing fresh processes and procedures, and we’re looking forward to combining into one location next year. We’re very energized about it.”

Once integrated, Best-VIP Chauffeured Worldwide will offer a united staff and an extraordinary fleet of over 140 vehicles. Top-of-the-line limousines, sedans, vans, SUV’s, minicoaches and motorcoaches will be available, functioning with cutting edge technology to ensure luxurious travel with hassle-free reservations. Both companies hold a rapport with the leading DMC’s and Meeting Planners in Southern California, and the new Best-VIP brand will maintain the highest level of service and deliver innovative options for travelers booking transportation locally and globally.

Best Chauffeured Worldwide started as a one-vehicle, weekend limousine service, and grew into a company that offers a stunning of fleet of vehicles and services across the globe. They take pride in every facet of their business, from their back office and mechanical crew to their charismatic drivers. After 20 years, Best Chauffeured accumulated a client roster that includes Fortune 500 companies and VIP celebrities.

VIP Limousines & Coaches is a leading force in ground transportation, offering a top quality fleet designed to give clients the finest services and support available. During their 30 years of business, they’ve worked with high profile clients including Broadcom, the Anaheim Ducks, and Montage Resort. Now a part of the Best Chauffeured Worldwide family, VIP will offer the same level of service to their loyal clients on a global level.

“What’s made us both very successful is our commitment to service,” comments Vaughan. “We provide high-end vehicles with professional chauffeurs, and strong backbone support within our office structure. Best and VIP have been able to compete in the market with one another, and now that we’re moving forward as one we’ll continue to provide elevated service and premium transportation on a larger scale.”

Both companies are pillars in Orange County transportation, and the new Best-VIP Chauffeured Worldwide brand is a unified point of strength and reliability in the industry. For more information, visit www.best-vip.com.

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Lincoln Introduces Continental Flagship, Previews Livery Edition

DETROIT — Lincoln Motor Company heralds the return of its flagship — the all-new Lincoln Continental — an “elegant, powerful, serene full-size sedan that delivers quiet luxury,” the company said in a press release announcing the vehicle Jan. 12 at the Detroit Auto Show.

The 2017 Lincoln Continental, which goes on sale at dealerships this fall, will be produced at the Flat Rock Assembly Plant in Michigan.

The new luxury model, longer and more advanced than the Lincoln MKS sedan, will formally debut to the global chauffeured transportation industry Feb. 29-March 2 at the International LCT Show in Las Vegas, Nev., and in the February issue of LCT Magazine.

The full-size sedan is designed to appeal to culturally progressive clients who define luxury on their own terms — craving superior quality, craftsmanship and safety, Lincoln said in its release.

2017 Model Year Lincoln Continental (500A Livery Package)

• 3.7L Ti-VCT V6 Engine
• Six-Speed SelectShift Automatic Transmission
• Advance Trac Electronic Stability Control
• Adaptive Steering
• Adaptive HID Headlamps
• Active Noise Cancellation
• Continuously Controlled Suspension Damping (CCD)
• SecuriCode Invisible Keypad
• Hands Free Foot Activated Trunk Lid
• Passenger Seat Chauffeur Up/Back Adjust Control Switch
• Rear-Door and Rear- Window Sunshades
• Heated & Cooled Rear Seats
• Navigation System
• Smart Charging USB Ports and 110V Outlet
• Power Rear Seat Recliner
• Rear Seat Armrest with Climate and Audio controls
• Heavy Duty Alternator
• Transmission Oil Cooler
• Tri Zone Electronic Automatic Temperature Control

“The Continental name has long been associated with the ultimate in Lincoln beauty and luxury,” said Kumar Galhotra, president of Lincoln. “With the all-new model, we are focusing on creating more human, personally tailored experiences for our clients — providing what we call quiet luxury.”

All-new Continental design is thoroughly modern, with Lincoln’s new signature grille and an athletic profile that is dynamic and progressive.

Among general highlights and amenities:

• The all-new Lincoln-exclusive 3.0-liter V6 engine with twin turbochargers that produces a projected 400 horsepower and 400 lb.-ft. of torque1 is designed for smooth, responsive, yet quiet power. The livery edition will be a 3.7-liter with 305 horsepower and 280 lb.-ft. torque.
• Lincoln’s new flagship welcomes drivers with a brand-exclusive lighting sequence. As the driver approaches the car with the key, LED signature lighting in the lower front fascia and tail lamps subtly engages, while signature lighting in the headlamps awakens in a fluid motion. Lincoln mat lights then brighten the pavement around the front doors, helping show any hazards, while select interior lights warmly illuminate the cabin.
• Continental’s available all-wheel-drive system is paired with Dynamic Torque Vectoring that transfers torque on demand to the appropriate rear wheel when driving through corners, providing confident handling and stability.
• Lincoln Drive Control provides the driver a choice of three settings — comfort, normal and sport — adapting steering and suspension settings to tailor ride and handling. Available adaptive steering helps optimize steering response, enabling the vehicle to react more smoothly and precisely to driver input.
• Rear passengers can enjoy first-class travel amenities, too, with such available features as audio and climate controls, sunshades, and reclining, heated, cooled and massaging seats. The streamlined interior provides generous rear legroom.
• Innovations in managing vehicle noise and vibration, including Active Noise Control and acoustic laminated glass create a quiet, comfortable environment conducive to conversation or contemplation.
• For those seeking the highest expression of Lincoln luxury, three Lincoln Black Label designer themes are available — Chalet, Thoroughbred and Continental-exclusive Rhapsody. 
• Inside, opulent materials include leather seating, leather-wrapped console and instrument panel, unique stitching, genuine wood or aluminum appliqués.
• All models feature new design details. Stitching on the seats is specified at six to seven stitches per inch for a couture-like appearance, and the slats of the center console door are laser-cut to maximize consistency of the grain pattern.

LCT Magazine will have more details on the Lincoln-Continental in the February issue.

Keywords

ILCT 2016   LCT exhibitors   limo tradeshows   lincoln   Lincoln Motor Company   Lincoln-Continental   new sedans   new vehicles   sedans   vehicle debut   

 

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Black Car Fund Hosts Holiday Dinner Party

Ira Goldstein, Executive Director of the New York Black Car Fund (left) and Berj Haroutunian, Fund President (right), present a special award to James Conigliaro in appreciation of his many years of dedication and service to The Fund.
New York — The Black Car Fund (NYBCF) recently held their monthly meeting on December 21, which was followed by a holiday dinner party. Thirty people were in attendance to celebrate, including members of the NYBCF board, former board members, industry leaders, and vendors.

Following on the heels of the group’s successful charity work with the New York Cares Coat Drive and Food Drive for City Harvest, the dinner gave attendees the opportunity to celebrate the past year and relax with industry peers. The meeting presented the perfect opportunity to give thanks to board member, James Conigliaro, General Vice President of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers, for his years of dedication and service to the Fund. His son, James Conigliaro Jr., is taking his position on the board, after being appointed by Governor Andrew Cuomo, at the recommendation of Speaker of the NYS Assembly Carl Hastie.

Visit nybcf.org for more information.

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REV Group Names New President of Bus Division

Miami — REV Group (REV), a leading manufacturer of motor vehicles for commercial, fire and emergency, and recreation markets, recently announced that John Walsh has been named president of REV Bus Division (REV Bus). REV Bus provides several of the industry’s most popular brands, including Champion Bus, Collins Bus, ElDorado National-California, ElDorado National-Kansas, Federal Coach, Goshen Coach, and Krystal.

“I am thrilled that John is taking this leadership role within REV Bus,” said Marcus Berto, executive vice president of REV. “John has done a tremendous job in a short period of time as the division’s vice president. John’s extensive background in the bus industry positions him well to lead the division.”

Walsh recently served as vice president of sales for REV Bus. Prior to joining REV, he worked for Mobility Ventures (producers of the MV-1) and for ARBOC Specialty Vehicles, holding the position of vice president of sales and marketing for both organizations.

“I am extremely excited to accept this position,” said Walsh. “Having an association with the REV Bus brands for almost 30 years has given me the foundation to lead the division. I’m looking forward to working together with our employees and dealers to continue to bring market-leading products and services to our customers.”

Visit revgroup.com for more information.

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Reston Limousine Has Banner Year, CEO Honored for Philanthropy Work

President and CEO Kristina Bouweiri Dulles, Va. — Reston Limousine is pleased to announce that it closed its 25th anniversary year with $24.2 million in revenue, a 13 percent year-over-year increase from 2014.

“We’ve continued to experience growth steadily since 1990, and the last several years have been no exception,” President and CEO Kristina Bouweiri said. She says that in 2014, the company posted $21.4 million in revenue, and $18.4 million in 2013.

In addition to the fiscal success, the company also saw growth in its fleet size, which expanded to 240 with the purchase of new vehicles including sedans, SUVs, minibuses, and motorcoaches. The company also recently took delivery of three new Prevost motorcoaches, expanding its fleet to 240 total vehicles to start 2016.

The X3-45 units represent the first half of the company’s 2016 model-year motorcoach purchases. The new buses are equipped with Wi-Fi, 110v and USB outlets, seat belts, ADA lifts, lavatory, and premium PA/AV system. The X3-45 is billed by Prevost as the world’s premier inter-city coach and features shorter entry steps, a wider entry door and aisle, and more interior height than other commuter coaches.

“These purchases represent the next step in Reston Limousine’s increasing commitment to the motorcoach segment of our markets,” Director of Business Relations Barry Gross said.  “We’re thrilled to be offering the region’s newest motorcoach fleet for our corporate and charter clients this year.”

Also in 2015, Reston, which grew its staff to 400 across all departments, added a new service for outside companies in need of industry-specific DOT audit training. RLS Management Services, led by nationally certified Safety and Training Manager Keith Johnson, held four multi-day seminars throughout the year, and classes are expected to be offered quarterly in 2016. Furthermore, the explosion of the craft spirits industry throughout the D.C. area opened up the opportunity for the firm to add new distillery and cidery tours, which were met with success.

Other notable recognitions in 2015 include the highest safety rating from the Department of Defense for the third consecutive audit, the listing of Reston as the Top Executive Transportation Service in Washington Business Journal’s annual Book of Lists and in the Top Women-Owned Businesses in D.C., and the election of Gross to the Virginia Motorcoach Association’s Board of Directors. 

Additionally, Bouweiri was recognized with an Outstanding Leadership award from George Mason University’s School of Business, a Heroines of Washington award from the March of Dimes for her philanthropy, and inclusion on the Washington Business Journal’s annual Power 100 list of the most influential executives in the D.C. metro area.

 “We’re excited for what 2016 will bring, and we’re poised for even more growth in the next year,” Bouweiri said.

Visit restonlimo.com for more information.

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ILA Open Board Meeting Held at Midwest Transit Equipment

More than 25 members attended ILA’s open board meeting, which was hosted by Midwest Transit Equipment Kankakee, Ill. — The Illinois Limousine Association (ILA) held its monthly open board meeting January 6 to close the door on 2015 and discuss issues affecting the organization in the coming year. Midwest Transit Equipment hosted the event, which was attended by 25 members, and provided a facility tour and lunch.

ILA President Tracy Raimer of Your Private Limousine discussed 2015’s major accomplishments, which included improving member communications, increasing state and local officials’ awareness of ILA, and streamlining ILA’s office. In 2016, the association will work toward holding continued legislative meetings and making a more aggressive effort to increase membership.

Remaining a hot issue for ILA is the federal lawsuit against Chicago over the city’s unfair treatment of taxis and livery compared to TNCs. The deadline for the city to respond to the complaint was extended to Friday, January 8. The association promises to keep members updated as the lawsuit progresses. To support ILA’s legal fight, throughout the month of January, Arthur Messina of Create-A-Card will donate $100 for every order totaling more than $200 to the association.

Other TNC-related topics discussed at the meeting included licensing, fees, airport traffic, and the potential long-term impact to the qualified professional chauffeur pool.

ILA President Tracy Raimer of Your Private Limousine oversaw the first ILA meeting of 2016 The group also examined new procedures for airport departure. As the paper airport departure tax stamps are being phased out by Chicago’s Metropolitan Pier and Exposition Authority, attendees shared late-breaking issues experienced at O’Hare and Midway airports. It was also confirmed that the city will continue to accept the peel-and-stick stamps until kiosk and application problems are resolved.  

Everyone was reminded that the open board meetings are held monthly, and all members and vendors are invited to participate. In-person meetings are scheduled to be held at least once per quarter.

ILA’s next open board meeting will be February 3 and its annual meeting will be held May 11 at Comfort Suites O’Hare Airport Hotel in Schiller Park, Ill.

Visit illinoislimousineassociation.com for more information.

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HALCA Hosts Annual Holiday Bash

HALCA President Wes Hart and Kim Garcia of America Corporate Transportation
Houston — The Houston Area Livery & Charter Association (HALCA) hosted its annual holiday event at the Marriott Westchase on December 13, which was attended by more than 150 members, suporters, and their families—including Chauffeur Driven’s Industry & Brand Ambassador Phillip Jagiela.

The festive evening offered attendees a buffet dinner as well as entertainment provided by a mariachi band and belly dancers. More seasonal fun was offered by a photo booth, sponsored by Past President Erich Rendl of Avanti Limousine, which allowed everyone to bring home a holiday photo. Additionally, various prizes were raffled off, including a case of wine, gift baskets, hotel accommodations, and local brewery tour packages.

The party gave the association an opportunity to present outgoing board members with a token of the association’s appreciation. Outgoing secretary Linda Pomerleau of Gulf Coast Limousine in Houston was thanked for her eight years of service while Frank Bergeron of Franklin Transportation was recognized for his four years as a board member.

HALACA President Wes Hart and Kim Garcia of America Corporate Transportation
Jagiela then addressed attendees and spoke about the successful 2015 Chauffeur Driven Show and Executive Retreat. Additionally, he emphasized the importance of operators joining their local and national associations and encouraged everyone in attendance not part of an association to get involved. Prior to hosting a trivia contest to give away two passes to Chauffeur Driven’s 2016 events, Jagiela acknowledged those who have been instrumental in HALCA’s success. The pass to the New Orleans Executive Retreat was won by Rachid Ben of Aviation Limousine & Transportation, and Lauren Barrash of The Wave took home the pass to the October CD Show in Washington, D.C.

To close the night, HALCA President Wes Hart of American Corporate Transportation offered his thanks to those who made the evening a success, including Jagiela and HALCA Vice President Ismail Abe of LaBrees Limousine. He then announced the association’s new board members: Matt Assolin of Nikko’s Worldwide Transportation, who will act as treasurer, and Jon Ouazdi of Transgate Limousine, who will serve on the board. Hart will remain president in 2016 alongside vice president Abe, and secretary Barrash.

Visit houstonlimos.info for more information.

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Cooper Global Reveals New Leadership Team

Atlanta — Cooper Global Chauffeured Transportation recently announced Paul Cooper as its new chief executive officer. The company has also named Michael Dunne as its new president, John Pearman as its chief operating officer, and Marvin Fisher as its chief administrative officer.  

In a statement, Chairman Dennis Cooper said that implementing this new leadership structure would not only strengthen the company’s ability to better serve clients but will also build a stronger foundation for future growth in the U.S. and globally. “Cooper Global is building a strong, creative, and strategic leadership team,” he said. “This new leadership model reflects our core belief in delivering elite and quality services to our clients.”

The new management brings more than 65 years of industry experience combined. “Today’s leadership announcement further builds on Cooper’s strong foundation for future growth, and I am delighted to have this incredibly talented team spearheading our operation,” said CEO Paul Cooper.

The company also announced the departure of Larry Cooper, who previously served in the role of president of Cooper Global.

Visit cooperglobal.com for more information.

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CLA Party Forges Ahead Despite Snowstorm

L to R: John Hafer of A Custom Coach Transportation, Mary Norby of Carey Denver, Shane Stickel of Presidential Worldwide Transportation, Adam Paul of Colorado Corporate Car, and Nikko Ouzounis of A White Dove Limousine
Denver — More than 30 members and friends braved a snow storm to attend the annual holiday event of the Colorado Limousine Association (CLA). Held at Mickey’s Top Sirloin restaurant, the dinner party gave CLA members the opportunity to socialize and celebrate the accomplishments of the past year.

President Shane Stickel of Presidential Worldwide Transportation welcomed the attendees with a short speech, and expressed his gratitude to the current CLA board members. He also took a moment to recognize Franci Ouzounis of A White Dove Limo for her role in obtaining the venue for the holiday event. Before giving the floor to Phillip Jagiela, CLA Executive Director and Chauffeur Driven Industry & Brand Ambassador, Stickel closed by announcing that elections for the 2016 board members will be held at the next general membership meeting.

CD Industry & Brand Ambassador Philip Jagiela (right) with Doug Pooley of Colorado Limousine
After Jagiela greeted the crowd, he shared some of CLA’s 2015 successes and provided highlights regarding the association’s social media activity and new website. Unfortunately, Jagiela was met by disappointed groans when he announced that, this year, there would be no “standard raffle” of the highly sought-after passes to upcoming Chauffeur Driven events; however, this was a bit of misdirection, as two passes were given to winners of a trivia contest. Douglas Pooley of Colorado Limousine in Denver took home a pass to the Chauffeur Driven Executive Retreat in New Orleans, and Mary Friesema of Red Boots Limousine in Denver won the pass to the Washington, D.C. show.

Next, Barb Curtis of Two Step Limousine took the floor to announce her candidacy for NLA’s At Large seat. She shared her experience, which includes six years as an NLA director and five years as the association’s secretary. After Curtis spoke, Stickel made a few closing comments to close out the evening event.

CLA’s next general membership meeting will be January 19.

Visit cololimo.org for more information.

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