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The UMA Expo gives motorcoach operators a chance to learn more about the industry and network
Atlanta — The United Motorcoach Association (UMA) Expo took to Georgia’s capital city from January 31 to February 4 for a few days packed with information about the newest in motorcoach trends and equipment, education catering to industry veterans and newcomers alike, and plenty of networking opportunities among conference-goers. Chauffeur Driven was among the hundreds of exhibiting vendors, with Publisher Chris Weiss and Director of Events Jess Pavlow representing the CD team.
The theme of the 2016 Expo was “Where great businesses are built,” and much of the event’s offerings catered to that message by helping attendees learn how to diversify and grow their companies while expanding their professional networks. Many of the classroom-style educational offerings focused on marketing, finance, operations, and even smaller businesses, while the bigger sessions tackled topics such as embracing technology, purchasing pre-owned vehicles, and passenger safety. For an bird’s-eye view of the motorcoach industry, the 12th UMA Annual State Association Summit, held on the Expo’s first day, where industry leaders discussed the Highway Bill, CDL testing, and a range of legislative and operational concerns on a state-by-state basis.
Networking was a significant component of the conference, and attendees had nonstop opportunities to get to know one another, starting with the first day’s Welcome Reception and including the UMA Expo Sneak Preview After Party, held at the World of Coca-Cola, as well as the music-filled UMA Leadership Awards Celebration that honored UMA members who have proven to be dedicated industry representatives. The 2nd Annual Go Motorcoach Fundraiser and Party was another successful event benefiting the Go Motorcoach Campaign, which helps increase public awareness of the advantages of motorcoach travel.
We’ll be offering an extensive look at the UMA Expo in the March issue of Chauffeur Driven.
The 2017 UMA Expo will be held February 26-March 2 in St. Louis, Mo.
Visit motorcoachexpo.com for more information.
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Michael Earl, COO of Streetwise
Miami — Blackstone Coachworks of South Florida recently announced that Michael Earl of Streetwise Transportation in Middletown, N.Y., has joined its sales force, spearheading the company’s efforts in the Northeast. Earl will continue in his role of COO for Streetwise.
Al Tortora, president of Blackstone, said he is pleased to work with Earl again. The two have a professional relationship dating back 30 years when Earl worked for Empire Coach Builders in Brooklyn. “I am anxious to work with Michael again,” said Tortora. “He knows the industry and knows the needs of the clients. I’m certain that he will be an asset to the company.”
Earl is similarly enthusiastic about the opportunity. “Al gave me my start as a young man, and we’re a great fit. I look forward to offering the fine vehicles produced by Blackstone.”
Contact Blackstone Coachworks at 347.728.5416 for more information.
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Detroit — Lincoln Motor Company heralds the return of its flagship—the all-new Lincoln Continental—an elegant, effortlessly powerful, serene full-size sedan that delivers quiet luxury to the industry’s most discerning customers, according to Lincoln. Long rumored to be a complement to the Lincoln Livery lineup, the vehicle will be produced with an available Livery package for the industry. There are no plans at this time to produce the sedan as a QVM stretch. Chauffeur Driven will have more details about the Continental in the March issue.
The Continental concept was unveiled at last year’s auto shows and immediately sparked conversation within and outside the industry thanks to its bold styling. Due to become available this fall in the U.S. and China, Lincoln says that 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.
The new design takes the vintage nameplate into the 21st century, with Lincoln’s new signature grille and an athletic profile that is dynamic and progressive.
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 taillamps 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.
Ford-Lincoln Limousine & Livery team with the 2017 Continental
Continental door handles are designed to offer elegant and effortless entry with new E-latch door release. The release is discreetly integrated within the beltline, leaving the body side clean. With the gentle touch of a button, the vehicle’s doors pop open.
An elegant available panoramic sunroof covers nearly the entire roof area; the front half slides up and over the rear—creating a large open-air driving experience and an even greater feeling of spaciousness for up to five Continental occupants.
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 were also considered with such available features as audio and climate controls, sunshades, and reclining, heated, cooled and massaging seats. The streamlined interior provides generous rear leg room.
Innovations in managing vehicle noise and vibration, including Active Noise Control and acoustic laminated glass create a quiet, comfortable environment.
“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.”
The all-new Lincoln Continental will be produced at Flat Rock Assembly Plant in Michigan.
Visit lincoln.com for more information.
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