L to R: Quentin Bassey of RSTQ Transportation, Len Joseph of On The Town Limousines, Jodie Lethgo of Career Driver, Holly McCulloh of Hilb Group Insurance, Joanna Fridinger of The Limo Lady, and Japneet Singh of Executive CLS
The Maryland Limousine Association (MLA) held their bimonthly membership meeting on Tuesday, April 16. Hosted at Jimmy’s Famous Seafood in Baltimore, the event welcomed 25 members and guests. Representatives of the Philadelphia Regional Limousine Association (PRLA) were welcomed to the meeting, including PRLA Secretary/NLA Board Member Tracy Salinger of Unique Limousine and Ace Shaer of Ace Limousine & Airport Service.
The lunchtime meeting kicked off at noon with MLA President Len Joseph of On The Town Limousines thanking everyone for making the time to attend. Everyone was given the opportunity to introduce themselves and give a brief elevator pitch of their company or service. Joseph then introduced guest speaker Dr. Jermaine Hunter of H3 Safety Consulting, who provided an overview of the importance of CAB Reports and the SAFER System.
Dr. Jermaine Hunter of H3 Safety Consulting addressed the attendees
Produced by the Central Analysis Bureau, the CAB Report compiles data points into a database for all federally filed transportation companies. Hunter pointed out that the information contained within the report (unsafe driving, crash indicators, maintenance, clearinghouse, driver fitness, to name a few) is valuable for negotiating insurance rates. Similarly, the SAFER System (the FMCSA Safety and Fitness Electronic Records) compiles a concise electronic record of an operator’s identification, size, commodity information, and safety information. According to Hunter, this system is also used by insurance companies to underwrite and price insurance, so having a “satisfactory” rating is especially valuable.
CD Swag Winners: Carlo D’Addario of American Limousines, Joanna Fridinger of The Limo Lady, Tracy Salinger of Unique Limousines, and Peter Kaindi of Boutique Black Car
Following Hunter’s presentation, which included a lively Q&A segment, CD Editor Rob Smentek was invited to discuss the upcoming CD/NLA Executive Retreat in Miami on June 2-5. Smentek encouraged everyone to take advantage of early registration and revealed that Forbes Travel Guide will be providing anchor content at the event. He also shared a bit about the nightlife events, including the beachfront reception dinner party at the Fontainebleau and a private yacht trip on Biscayne Bay. Smentek also raffled off CD branded prizes, including T-shirts and ear buds.
Next, Joseph shared that the MLA Board held a recent productive meeting that led to the formation of three new committees: Legislative, Fundraising, and Membership. Board members Japneet Singh of Executive CLS and Ray Gavino of Translogic Executive gave a brief update on the D.C. For Hire issues surrounding “D.C. to D.C. travel.” While, fortunately, not many members have reported problems, they advised everyone to have their decals ready and manifests accurate. Singh informed the attendees that operating permits for the upcoming Presidential Inauguration will start to be distributed in August. Additionally, Joseph mentioned that the association is in the process of revamping their website.
The meeting concluded with guest speaker Jodie Lethgo from Career Driver, who spoke about the company’s recruiting services. An alternative to sites like Indeed.com, Career Driver looks to source candidates based on strict criteria. Lethgo also pointed out that the company handles digital marketing solutions, and they are offering a discount to active MLA members for lead generation.
The next MLA meeting is scheduled for June 18 at a location to be determined.
Visit mdlimoassoc.org for more information.
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