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Leading bus organization, the American Bus Association (ABA), recently participated in the deliberations made this month before the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP). A recommendation has been made to prioritize transportation workers, including motorcoach operators, in the second wave following distribution to front-line healthcare workers and long-term care facility employees.
This recommendation follows the March 28 classification of motorcoach drivers on the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency’s (CISA) guidance list of critical and essential workers. The motorcoach industry has been on the forefront continually moving essential workers who do not have the luxury of working from home during the pandemic or helping those in crises such as wildfires and hurricanes.
ABA President Peter Pantuso
In his letter to the CDC, ABA President & CEO Peter Pantuso wrote:
“The passenger-carrying commercial motor carrier workforce has been on the front lines during the COVID-19 pandemic, moving health care workers, both civilian and military, along with supplies around the country. These essential workers have put their lives at risk, and taken criticism from the communities in which they live and operate, in order to bring much needed help to COVID-19 hot spots, and relieve quarantined cruise ship passengers. Further, this industry carried out these duties despite the loss of nearly 90 percent of the passenger-carrying commercial motor carrier industry’s revenue due to COVID-19 shutting down the economy.
“As you well know, the nation is far from recovering from this pandemic and the months ahead may see an unprecedented increase in cases, due to the winter season and rise of infections. Therefore, the passenger-carrying commercial motor carrier industry will remain in high demand to assist with not only moving healthcare personnel and supplies where needed, but also to assist with the vaccine allocation as well. In other words, our professional drivers and support staff will remain essential and highly exposed workers, who merit priority in terms of COVID-19 vaccinations.”
Visit buses.org for more information.
[12.07.20]
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Hello, Aviator! The three-row SUV is the newest player to join the Ford-Lincoln Limousine & Livery lineup with a dedicated livery package and warranty specific to the needs of our industry. The announcement was made during a reveal event that was broadcast online on December 1.
2021 Lincoln Aviator
Lincoln has an enduring commitment to and partnership with the industry—and through the National Limousine Association—that dates back decades, but also one that has shifted from groundbreaking and standard-defining sedans to larger vehicles like SUVs, according to Livery Marketing Manager Kim Johnston. Feedback between operators and the Livery team has been integral in helping to shape vehicles that have exceeded the expectations of our clients for generations, and the relationship is stronger than ever moving into 2021. The Aviator joins the Navigator L and the Ford Expedition MAX as its SUV offerings.
The livery package for the ’21MY Aviator definitely took the passenger experience into mind, with plenty of head-, leg- and shoulder-room in its adjustable, reclining, and heated seats, as well as attention to ensure a quiet cabin and an available sunshade for additional privacy, according to Jim Murray of the Lincoln Aviator Program Management.
2021 Ford Transit
The Ford Transit is also getting a livery package for ’21MY, crafted with direct input from the industry to meet aesthetic and functional needs of transportation operators, according to Ford Transit Assistant Brand manager Jennifer Mitchell. The package features include leather seating, ports in every row, privacy glass, a power sliding door, an upscale exterior with chrome accents, and dual AGM batteries for increased power needs such as screens or lighting.
Finally, Ford Modified Vehicle Specialist Matt Messina shared the measures the company has taken to ensure a safe and efficient experience when it comes to maintaining those fleet vehicles—including pickup and drop-off services and extensive cleaning/sanitizing procedures. Messina also shared that Ford is giving operators with onsite maintenance facilities the ability to service and repair vehicles under warranty at your fleet’s shop instead of dragging the vehicle to the dealership. More information about the program is available on the Parts & Service tab at fleet.ford.com.
The video reveal can be accessed at https://bit.ly/37FYDj5. Vehicle specs are available here.
Visit fleet.ford.com for more information.
[12.02.20]
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Robert Strauser, better known as Limo Bob, passed away after a fall in his adopted and beloved state of Florida on November 19. He was 62.
Known for his exuberant personality, his trademark flashy gold chains, larger-than-life persona, and genuine heart of gold, Limo Bob encapsulated the heyday of the limousine industry from the ’80s and ’90s, complete with over-the-top exotic and record-breaking stretched vehicles, numerous high-roller and VIP clients, and plenty of bling in a career that spanned nearly five decades. Even when the industry shifted its focus from mostly retail to mostly corporate—and swapped pink Hummers for black SUVs—Limo Bob never strayed from providing glamourous and once-in-a-lifetime limousine experiences.
Limo Bob, wife Christi and daughter Jennifer
“Limo Bob encapsulated the heyday of the limousine industry from the ’80s and ’90s, complete with over-the-top exotic and record-breaking stretched vehicles, numerous high-roller and VIP clients, and plenty of bling in a career that spanned nearly five decades.”
Limo Bob with his grandchildren
Limo Bob got his first taste of the industry in the ’70s. Then, just an everyday teenager in the Chicago suburbs, his love affair with limousines began after his father purchased a stretch from the owner of a major Midwest department store chain and rented it out on weekends. Barely able to drive, he was thrust into the role of chauffeur after his father’s drivers failed to show—and he later went on to run the company when his father relocated to Florida. He was at various times a chauffeur, owner of several limousine companies, founder of a unique and rare vehicle conversion company, serial entrepreneur, motivational speaker, actor, TV personality, and reality show star. His entrepreneurial spirit took him from his Midwest roots in Chicago to Florida and California while he pursued his American dreams and catered to his rich and powerful clients and friends. Through the ups and downs—from sabotaged limousines to his longtime court battle to regain control of his company after being swindled by a Hollywood business partner—he never let the misfortunes defeat his willing spirit and always took the time to show acts of kindness to those around him.
Limo Bob and family
He was the recsord holder in the Guinness Book of World Records for the world’s longest limousine: a 100-foot Cadillac limousine, which featured a helicopter pad, swimming pool, and seating for 50. Always one to push the limits, he converted a 727 jet into a massive airplane limousine, also with seating for 50. The vehicles were featured on countless television programs and news features.
Behind the character and the gold chains, Limo Bob was a husband, father, grandfather, and brother; a consummate storyteller; and a friend to many. He is survived by his wife Christi; daughter Jennifer; son Robert Jr.; grandson Vincent Soto-Strauser; stepdaughter Jennifer Addis; stepson Derrick Addis; stepgrandson Emerson Addis; former wife Maureen Strauser; brothers Lawrence and Jack; and sisters Deborah Poche and Sam Strauser. He was laid to rest on November 28 at the Calvary Catholic Cemetery in St. Petersburg, Florida. All are wecome to attend an additional mass that will be held in his honor at St. Daniel the Prophet Catholic Church in Chicago, Ill., on January 16 at 11:30 a.m. The family has asked that you RSVP if planning to attend the Chicago mass (COVID restrictions) by calling Tim Pendrys at 727.484.0500.
[12.02.20]