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The American Bus Association (ABA) has selected Fred Ferguson as its new president and CEO. Ferguson succeeds Peter Pantuso, who announced his intention to retire in 2024 late last year. A committee was convened earlier this year to search for a candidate to fill his ample shoes. Ferguson's tenure is effective July 29, 2024.
ABA President & CEO Fred Ferguson
According to a press release from ABA, Ferguson has more than 15 years of extensive experience in public policy, strategic communications, and leadership within the government, nonprofit, and private sectors. Fred Ferguson joins ABA following his notable tenure at Vista Outdoor Inc., where he was VP of Public Affairs and Communications. At Vista Outdoor, Ferguson led state and federal lobbying, industry relations, and corporate communications and chaired the Vista Outdoor Foundation. He has been recognized multiple times as a Top Lobbyist and CSR Professional and has successfully navigated complex communications strategies for significant M&A transactions totaling over $3 billion. His experience includes testifying before Congress and executive branch committees on seven occasions and leading a successful lobbying campaign resulting in a multi-year, $42 million business opportunity.
"ABA sits at the crossroads of so many dynamic businesses and industries," says Ferguson in the press release. "I'm most excited about bringing together this diverse coalition to connect more people with more places. My top priority is getting to know the ABA staff and our membership. I plan to listen and learn so that we can seamlessly execute during the transition while beginning the process of building our long-term strategic plan and expanding our Association’s value proposition for current and new members alike."
ABA says that Ferguson will focus on uniting diverse stakeholders to drive shared causes and improved outcomes in the organization’s new era. He is committed to advocating for the mobility industry, connecting the industry, and supporting the community through the ABA Foundation, workforce development, and industry councils. He will also serve as president of the National Bus Traffic Association as well as president of the ABA Foundation, the organization’s scholar and research arm.
"I am thrilled to hand over the reins to Fred Ferguson. His vast experience and proven track record in public policy and strategic communications ensure that ABA is in skillful hands,” says Outgoing President & CEO Peter Pantuso.
Ferguson also has the full support of ABA’s Board: “As we move forward and into this new era for travel and transportation, it’s imperative that our members' voices be heard at all levels of government. Fred’s years of experience in advocacy and communications make him the perfect leader to navigate these new roads ahead,” says Board Chair Terry Fischer.
Visit buses.org for more information.
[07.23.24]
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CD Earbud winner Josi Roessner of Sterling Limousine
For their Wednesday, July 17, meeting the Philadelphia Regional Limousine Association (PRLA) returned to Peppers By Amedeo's in King of Prussia. More than 30 members and guests from the tri-state region were in attendance, including CD Editor Rob Smentek. The evening was sponsored by Fred Beans Ford of Doylestown.
L to R: PRLA Vice President Bob Euler, Jr. of King Limousine, Vendor Director John Arone of Transportation Insurance Brokers, Board Member Claribel Ortiz of Trophy Limousine, President Tony Viscusi of Global Limousine Service, Secretary Tracy Salinger of Unique Limousine, Board Member Ryan Shaer of Ace Limousine, and CD Editor Rob Smentek
PRLA President Tony Viscusi of Global Limousine Service began the proceedings by welcoming members and introducing Chris Burns from Fred Beans. Burns and his associates brought five new vehicles with him, ranging from a Ford Transit executive van to the latest Cadillac offerings.
Prior to dinner, Ron Robinson of Sterling Limousine provided a brief update on what’s happening at Philadelphia International Airport. He was happy to report that airport officials are cracking down on illegal operators, with two drivers recently taken away in handcuffs. Robinson said that officers are checking manifests to weed out the bad actors, so he advised PRLA members to have any necessary “paperwork” handy.
L to R: Josi Roessner of Sterling Limousine; Briana Candeub, Quin Morgan, Aimee-lea Gebauer, and Chelsea Candeub of Park Avenue Limousine; Claribel Ortiz of Trophy Limousine; and Tracy Salinger of Unique Limousine
PRLA Board Member Clarabel Ortiz of Trophy Limousine then shared the news that the Delaware River Port Authority has approved increasing tolls for four Philly-bound bridges (Ben Franklin, Walt Whitman, Betsy Ross, and Commodore Barry) to $6 per trip for sedans and SUVs. This will go into effect on September 1, 2024.
Chris Burns of Fred Beans Ford of Doylestown (left) and PRLA President Tony Viscusi of Global Limousine Service
Next, Mike Baretto of Metropolis Passenger Logistic spoke to the attendees about the events coming into Philadelphia in the summer of 2026. While still two years away, travel inquiries are starting to be made for the MLB All-Star Game, FIFA World Cup, and the 250th anniversary of our country, not to mention the fact that Norwegian Cruise Lines will soon be operating out of the city’s Navy Yard. Baretto encouraged PRLA members to begin planning and working together for what will be an exciting 90 days for Philadelphia, particularly since the area seems to be experiencing a dearth of conventions and major events.
Anthony Onorata of Anthony Limousine checking out the new Cadillac LYRIQ
Lastly, new affiliate member Japneet Suri from Executive CLS in Maryland addressed the group about getting special permits to operate in D.C. during the upcoming Presidential Inauguration in 2025. He provided a brief overview of the complicated red tape involved with moving passengers within the nation’s capital. He invited PRLA members to attend the Maryland Livery Association’s next meeting on August 20 at Jimmy’s Famous Seafood in Baltimore, as representatives from D.C. will be on hand to answer questions about the permits, licensing, and more.
July’s PRLA meeting welcomed more than 30 members and guests
Before concluding for the evening, two sets of Chauffeur Driven earbuds were raffled off, and were won by Josi Roessner of Sterling Limousine and Chris Burns from Fred Beans. The next PRLA meeting is scheduled for September 18 and will feature a guest lecturer from the insurance industry.
Visit prlainc.org for more information.
[07.22.24]
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My Limousine Service VP Jay Gogel
My Limousine Service is proud to announce that Vice President Jay Gogel is celebrating 20 years with the company. Starting as a reservationist with the business based in Mount Olive, N.J., Gogel has played a key role in building the My Limo’s worldwide service and affiliate program, forging relationships with partners globally. This has allowed the company to offer high-quality transportation in over 700 cities.
Currently, Gogel oversees My Limo’s accounting department and chauffeur payroll. He is also deeply passionate about customer service, he says, handling client services and feedback with dedication.
“I’m both thrilled and humbled to carry on the legacy my family started decades ago. I couldn’t do what I do without the support of our amazing team, who I have been fortunate to work with for many years,” says Gogel.
In his free time, Gogel enjoys long walks with his wife Karen, and dog Bowie, listening to podcasts, and occasionally playing in active bands.
Visit mylimo.com for more information.
[07.16.24]