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Clemente has been a long-time active BCAC member, as well as having previously served as BCAC president. Her industry experiences and new approach to management make her perfectly poised to bring the BCAC to new heights during such tumultuous times.
Set on bringing in new members, Clemente has made it clear that she understands the complex tasks which lie ahead of us, and the value in recruiting new voices with unique experiences, and therefore, unique and valuable insight.
Outgoing BCAC President Berj Haroutunian issued the following statement:
“It’s been one of the greatest pleasures of my career to have served as president of the BCAC. During my tenure as president, I’m proud to have taken part in efforts that have greatly benefited our industry, and the thousands and thousands of drivers who keep clients moving, day and night, and deserve the fairest of treatment.
As I pass the gavel to the BCAC’s next president and a long-time personal friend of mine, Diana Clemente, I do so with a profound sense of not just confidence, but excitement to see the revolutionary new heights she will bring this association to. Her vast experience within the industry, as well as her true and overwhelming desire to better the lives of the drivers of this industry are just two reasons she is a phenomenal choice.
As the industry landscape continues to change rapidly, and the challenges we face grow increasingly complex and frequent, it is of the utmost importance that the Industry come together and actively participate in protective efforts; with a refreshed approach to management of the BCAC, Diana Clemente may very well be the right person to accomplish this task.”
In a letter to members, Clemente expressed her feelings on the industry and discussed the values she brings with her into the new term:
“I could not possibly feel more honored to be returning as president of the Black Car Assistance Corporation, and especially at such a crucial time. I also cannot express how grateful I am to Berj Haroutunian for his leadership over the past few years; it was a difficult road, and I know how hard he worked, as well as how much of himself he sacrificed in order to serve. As I take on the title of BCAC president once again, I assure everyone that I will tirelessly and diligently continue on with the mission of the BCAC—ensuring the fair treatment of our industry.
We all know just too well how vastly our industry has changed, just in the past few years. We also all know that moving forward, the issues we are set to face will prove to be far more complex and will carry even higher stakes than ever before. Now more than ever, it is imperative we not forget what sets our industry apart from the rest of the sector offerings back in the very beginning—and I’m talking back in the old days; quality and customer service. As we deal with the societal shift towards instant gratification and convenience as a necessity, it is the traits unique to our industry that will prove to set us apart once again.
I know at times, it can be difficult to hold on to hope with the current state of our industry. While that may be, I implore you all to make a serious effort to approach each coming day and each coming issue we face with optimism and positivity. I feel there is no need to remind anyone reading this just how many drivers—members of our communities, mothers, fathers, sons, and daughters, depend on the direction we provide and course that we set, for their very paycheck—for there to be food on their table. I enter into this responsibility fully aware of this awesome responsibility, and as such, I commit to executing my position with the utmost professionalism, honesty and pride, as any less would be a disgrace.”
Visit nybcac.org for more information.
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The CLA has been holding its general membership meetings at a local college, but President Jason Ramsey of Prestige Worldwide Transportation has been planning to try something new by putting on more of a show.
“We just wanted to do something different than a standard meeting: We wanted to pull out the stops and encourage more participation,” said Ramsey.
The three-hour meeting began with a 30-minute networking session that allowed local operators to connect and form new affiliate partnerships.
A catered lunch immediately followed, during which Stu Williams of Denver International Airport (DIA) made his presentation. With the airport going through major construction, there are many changes happening to the way operators handle airport services; as Williams included diagrams, plans, and timelines in his conversation with meeting attendees, local operators got deeper insights into and more specific details about the multi-year Great Hall Project at DIA. His willingness to answer questions provided an even greater understanding of the changes operators will have to make in training their chauffeurs and educating their clients.
Representing meeting sponsors South Point Risk Advisors and Research Underwriters were Nathan Spears and Robin Friedberg, respectively, who both gave short presentations about what their companies are doing for not only the CLA but also the industry.
The meeting’s highlight was its keynote presentation from National Limousine Association (NLA) President Gary Buffo of Pure Luxury Transportation. Buffo provided a wealth of knowledge for operators, and was willing to speak on the tough issues and answer the hard questions. Additionally, he updated attendees on the current NLA projects and the benefits of NLA membership. His attendance brought out less-active CLA members and non-member attendees alike.
Because of this event, not only did the CLA gain a few new members for the state organization, but also several attendees opted to join the NLA. Colorado operators were introduced to new local affiliates while the CLA hosted its largest meeting in more than a year.
The next CLA event will be its general membership meeting November 20.
Visit cololimo.org
for more information.
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A full ground transportation provider, Dean Trailways and its sister company Dean Black Car operates 34 vehicles ranging from black car service to 56-passenger motorcoaches. Its services include line runs, charters, casino trips as well as travel for educational institutions, sporting event, church groups, and tour groups. It is a family-owned and -operated company led by Kellie Dean and his two sons Patrick and Christopher.
Dean Trailways has worked with ABC Companies since the introduction of the Van Hool CX model in 2014. Today, the company operates eight CX45s as well as one CX35 and adds Van Hools to its fleet as replacement coaches, maintaining its late-model fleet.
When asked what he liked most about the CX models, Patrick Dean, vice president for Dean Trailways explained, “the CX models have come to offer some standard amenities that are a premium option on others. We take great pride in offering our riders the most amenities and best riding experience possible and these coaches offer exactly what we need."
Dean further explained his experience working with ABC Companies, the exclusive distributor of Van Hool coaches, as another reason for their fleet change. “We have been very happy with the reliability and support provided from everyone at ABC. They excel beyond the product purchase in follow-up and support and truly understand the value of building solid relationships.”
Pete Bachrach, senior account manager with ABC Companies, described the Dean family as a true class act. “The family is always flexible and willing to look at options, which provide a better end-product for their riders. They are such a pleasure to work with and we are honored that they have chosen to work with ABC over the past few years.”
The company is an active member of Trailways, United Motorcoach Association, American Bus Association, National School Transportation Association, Lansing Economic Area Partnership, and Michigan Small Business Association.
Visit deantrailways.com for more information.
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