July 15, 2014

Houston operator seeks to build Texas powerhouse HOUSTON — A Houston- ground-passenger-transportation Roadrunner Charters of Irving, ca (Greyhound), Coach USA, the Transportation Surface Board based bus holding company is provider in Texas, and the domi- Texas, the nation’s 45th largest ­Horizon Coach Lines, Academy application as the president and seeking U.S. Surface Transporta- nate player in fast-growing central coach operator; Star Shuttle Inc., a Bus, and Pacific Western Group of CEO of Texas Bus and Limo. He is tion Board approval of its acquisi- and east Texas. market leader based in San Anto- Calgary, Alberta. a Houston restaurateur and has tion of five Texas and Louisiana Newly-formed Texas Bus and nio, and Tri-City Charter, which The driving force behind Texas supported his son since he formed motorcoach companies in what Limo Acquisition Corp. seeks to has bases near Shreveport, La., Bus and Limo Acquisition is AFC AFC Transportation as a one-­ amounts to the most significant in- consolidate GBJ Inc., which is the and in Longview, Texas. Transportation and its principals, vehicle limousine company 22 dustry consolidation move of the corporate parent of AFC Transpor- Completion of the acquisitions, John Ferrari, founder of AFC, and years ago. decade. tation of Houston, the nation’s along with regulatory approval, his step-father, H. Sonny “Placing the carrier applicants The combined company would 20th largest motorcoach operator; would create North America’s 6th El-Lahham. under one corporate umbrella will initially operate with 650 vehicles, Echo Tours and Charters, a fast- largest motorcoach operation, El-Lahham, who also is known enable the applicants to take making it the largest private growing Dallas-based operator; eclipsed only by FirstGroup Ameri- as Hassam El-Lahham, is listed on CONTINUED ON PAGE 20 c Environment for borrowing stays positive for operators Since the late 1990s, U.S. mon- is good,” reports Matt Hotchkiss of etary policy has been aimed at Wells Fargo Equipment Finance in maintaining interest-rate targets Minneapolis. that are relatively low to stimulate “There are a lot of coach oper- investment and consumption and ators out there who are doing well, to combat the lingering economic so they are buying.” stagnation resulting from the fi- Others echo Hotchkiss’ assess- nancial meltdown of the last ment of today’s borrowing decade. environment. For motorcoach operators that “There is an abundance of ac- has meant reduced interest rates cess to capital at this point,” says Spring Fling when it came time for borrowing Greg Berg of SunTrust Equipment The Museum of Bus Transportation and, more recently, an expanding Finance & Leasing Corp. in in Hershey, Pa., held its annual universe of banks and other finan- Southlake, Texas. spring open house last month, cial organizations ready to serve “Since the downturn in 2008 or drawing a record crowd and many operators seeking to finance 2009, when no one had capital to more attendee-owned buses than growth and new equipment. lend, the banks have really worked usual. At right is the museum’s “It is a liquid market and the hard on their balance sheets and 1959 GM Coach suburban bus that banks are actively lending. There have been very careful about their had a bit role in the movie Forrest is plenty of credit availability now, capital. Our deposits are up over-

Gump. See story on Page 8. Photos by Chris Schmidt so that is a non-issue if your credit CONTINUED ON PAGE 16 c Operating in the Big Apple: The hassles keep growing NEW YORK CITY — The with tourists and school groups to cops who are quick to ticket buses time high driving into the city,” bling about taking a coach into motorcoach industry has a love- the Big Apple daily during the for being in the wrong place at the said Godfrey LeBron of Paradise New York is nothing new. The hate relationship with this burg. peak travel season. wrong time, and fewer parking Travel, a Long Island, N.Y., com- city’s streets have always been too Because New York is one of the Traveling into the Big City has spots. pany that runs as many as 30 char- crowded, pedestrians have always most popular tourist destinations in long been a hassle, but an increas- It has gotten to the point that ter buses a day into Manhattan. ignored “don’t walk” signs, deliv- the country, charter bus operators ing number of companies say it’s some drivers are refusing to take “Drivers with any seniority ery trucks have always double love the revenue it generates. getting markedly worse, with driv- trips to the city, operators in the will refuse trips to the city because parked, and cabbies have always Even operators from the hin- ers encountering more clogged East and Midwest report. they don’t want to deal with the been impatient and aggressive, terlands — Minnesota, Wisconsin, streets, more distracted pedestri- “I’ve got experienced drivers stress.” driving with one hand on the

Iowa – often send coaches filled ans, more confusing signs, more whose stress levels are at an all- Operators say drivers grum- CONTINUED ON PAGE 16 c

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All Used vehicles sold “As-is.” Actual coach may vary from photo. Conditions may vary by location. No warranties expressed or implied. Financing and special lease rates available to qualified customers. 2005 MCI J4500 VIN #63170 Repowered by ABC with a new Detroit  Photos and info for pre-owned units available at www.abc-companies.com/inventory.asp Series 60 Engine & Allison B500 Transmission  View ABC’s pre-owned inventory at $219,900 www.abc-companies.com & www.busbuys.com Contact your ABC Account Manager for more info. WESTERN REGION Costa Mesa, California 800.322.2877 MIDWEST REGION Faribault, Minnesota 800.222.2875 SOUTHWEST REGION Grand Prairie, Texas 800.222.2877 NORTHEAST REGION Camden, New Jersey 800.222.2873 www.abc-companies.com SOUTHEAST REGION Winter Garden, Florida 800.222.2871 6/20/14 Bus & Motorcoach News INDUSTRY NEWS July 15, 2014 3 Vamoose Bus charts an intercity path less travelled NEW YORK CITY — In the One industry sage describes erations skills. travelers at convenient locations. of the business and felt we knew passenger transportation business, the arrangement as a hybrid opera- It was 10 years ago that the two They felt that, while a bare how to take care of travelers. Vamoose Bus has few — if any tion, combining the best attributes experienced New York bus execu- bones curbside approach served “Once we decided to go ahead, — parallels. of each. tives, Sam Bluzenstein and Sol the public well, there was a signif- it seemed smart to partner with That’s because Vamoose offers Both levels of service offered Wollner, came up with the idea of icant number of customers who someone who was an expert in the two levels of curbside service be- by Vamoose Bus combine curb- marrying the best of two worlds. wanted convenience combined operations part of the business. We tween New York and metropolitan side convenience with first-class, Bluzenstein and Wollner had with the amenities normally asso- wanted the best possible motor- Washington, D.C., and it does it airline-style amenities for watched the advent of the fledg- ciated with luxury transportation. coach operator and we found that through an unusual partnership be- passengers. ling curbside express services that “We decided there was no rea- in DC Trails (dctrails.com), a tween a pair of veteran New York In addition, the hybrid opera- had popped up in major Eastern son we couldn’t provide both,” major charter-and-tour operator bus guys and a family-owned coach tion melds first-rate customer ser- cities, and understood the impor- says Bluzenstein. “Sol and I spent headquartered in Lorton.” company based in Lorton, Va. vice expertise with excellent op- tance of picking up and dropping years in the customer service part CONTINUED ON PAGE 14 c Luxury service in Texas relishes airline competition DALLAS, Texas — Vonlane, a Dallas-to-Austin trips ranged from luxury motorcoach start-up now $12 to $25 this spring. Greyhound linking Dallas and Austin with was charging $24 to $45. daily service, appears to be confi- A Houston television station dent in going up against airlines interviewed a potential passenger for short-haul business travel. who said he would consider a lux- “We created, in Vonlane, a ury bus trip as an alternative to a more dignified way to travel that flight that includes the hassles of helps business people reclaim the parking, shuttle buses, check-ins productive hours that are typically and security checkpoints. lost when flying or driving be- “One of our competitors is tween Texas cities,” says company Southwest Airlines,” Danza told President Alex Danza. KHOU-TV. “With air travel you The company has four depar- have mechanical delays, you have ing time.” distractions of the office. In com- travel time.” tures from Dallas and Austin each crew delays and you have weather According to the company, “A parison, a business traveler might, Vonlane’s coaches went into weekday. The one-way fare is $100 delays. We certainly will have trip aboard a Vonlane coach pro- at most, realize 30 minutes of pro- service in May. for the 200-mile trip, taking about challenges with delays, but the vides business travelers with three ductive work time during his nor- The carrier employs five drivers three hours. beautiful thing about this is if hours of uninterrupted, productive mal three-hour door, to aircraft- and five attendants. It equipped its Fares on megabus.com for you’re in traffic, you’re not wast- work time, in comfort, without the seat, to ground transportation CONTINUED ON PAGE 14 c 4 July 15, 2014 Bus & Motorcoach News

House OKs bill that would block higher insurance levels WASHINGTON — The U.S. amendment that would force the cal 2014 enacted level but about $8 ation applauded Rep. Steven Daines, of financial responsibility for com- House passed a fiscal 2015 transpor- FMCSA to issue its final electronic billion less than the Obama adminis- R-Mont.; his colleague, Rep. Sam mercial motor vehicle carriers. (See tation funding bill last month, which logging mandate by Jan. 30. The tration’s fiscal 2015 budget request. Graves, R-Mo., and their staffs for May 15 Bus & Motorcoach News.) included an amendment that would Senate is pushing for such a dead- Before voting to advance the bill introducing and gaining passage of UMA contends the study fails to prohibit the Federal Motor Carrier line for the devices. to the Senate, the House adopted an the amendment that would block properly evaluate passenger carrier Safety Administration from raising The House’s proposed $52 bil- amendment, by a very close vote of regulations that would increase the insurance data. minimum liability insurance require- lion Transportation and Housing and 214-212, to prevent the FMCSA minimum insurance requirement. “Passenger carrier insurance ments for bus and truck companies. Urban Development legislation, from lifting the minimum amount of In April, the FMCSA released a companies have decades of actual Left out of the measure, which which would fund the country’s insurance that bus and truck fleets study mandated by federal law that claims; yet, the FMCSA failed to was sponsored and shepherded by transportation system for one year, is must carry. made recommendations for massive consult with them,” said UMA in a Rep. Tom Latham, R-Iowa, was an about $1.2 billion more than the fis- The United Motorcoach Associ- increases to current minimum levels statement. “Additionally, the FMCSA fails to make any substantive connection Indiana Toll Road fee rises, Pennsylvania Turnpike to follow with higher minimum insurance HARRISBURG, Pa. — The ­E-ZPass rates have gone up by the fect eight years ago. unlocking the potential of the re- limits and improving safety,” said Pennsylvania Turnpike Commis- same percent as cash rates. E-ZPass gion’s businesses,” Cuomo said. Ken Presley, UMA vice president of sion has approved a 5 percent toll tolls have increased by 7 percent Relief on Verrazano Bridge “We believe this will have a industry relations and chief operat- increase for both E-ZPass and since lower rates for E-ZPass were FORT WADSWORTH, N.Y. — significant impact on companies ing officer. cash customers that will take ef- first introduced in 2011, according Operators of commercial vehicles that use the bridge for business FMCSA announced plans to pur- fect Jan. 4. to the commission. can expect to start seeing ­rebates for and we hope it will attract new sue a high-priority rulemaking to in- While the new increase affects Meanwhile, the cost of driving tolls paid on the ­Verrazano-Narrows businesses and opportunities to crease insurance limits shortly after cash and E-ZPass rates similarly, the Indiana Toll road increased an Bridge here under a relief plan first Staten Island as well.” the release of the study. (See June 15 E-ZPass customers will continue average of 2.67 percent for all announced by Gov. Andrew Cuomo In February, Cuomo announced Bus & Motorcoach News.) to save at least 35 percent on turn- drivers not having an E-ZPass, in February. his plan to reduce the cost of cross- “UMA thanks Congressmen pike tolls next year, according to starting July 1. Cuomo said last month the ing the bridge for Staten Island Daines and Graves for their leader- the commission. The toll for a typical three-ax- toll-relief plan had become effec- residents and commercial vehicles. ship on this issue of great impor- “Yearly turnpike toll increases le motorcoach going the 157-mile tive for commercial vehicles. The plan for commercial vehicles tance to the bus and motorcoach in- are necessary for the commission length of the highway is now They can expect to see a 20 per- cuts 20 percent off tolls if they dustry,” said UMA President and to satisfy the financial plan out- $14.73, up from $14.21. cent rebate on E-ZPass­ charges make more than 10 trips per month CEO Victor Parra. lined under a transportation-fund- Rates for drivers with tran- going back to April, the governor over the bridge. “When enacted into law, the ing law enacted seven years ago,” sponders will remain unchanged said in a statement. Commercial vehicle operators amendment introduced by Con- said Pennsylvania Turnpike CEO through 2016. “The Verrazano-Narrows do not have to sign up for the dis- gressmen Daines and Graves will Mark Compton. The hikes on the Indiana route Bridge is tremendously important counts; the rebate would be ap- stop FMCSA from pursuing mas- The 2015 toll increase marks are allowed annually under a lease to Staten Island’s economy and, by plied to their account automati- sive increases that would harm new- the first time since 2011 that of the toll road that went into ef- delivering this toll relief, we are cally, Cuomo said. entrant and small-fleet passenger carriers and most assuredly reduce safety by pushing people towards less safe modes of transportation,” added Parra. GOOD TIMES ARE Separately, a bid by Rep. Paul Broun, R-Ga., to cut Amtrak fund- A SURE BET ing by $340 million failed after Latham, chairman of the House ap- propriations subcommittee, warned the reduction, if enacted, could dis- rupt service throughout the passen- ger railroad’s network.

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Key Equipment Finance 6 July 15, 2014 THE DOCKET Bus & Motorcoach News Warning: Florida law change places CDL holders at risk Higher biodiesel JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — A and is found guilty, the Florida attending traffic school…a traffic dismissal is the only acceptable Florida attorney is warning that Department of Highway Safety citation could result in a commer- outcome for most CDL holders, mandate adopted commercial driver’s license hold- and Motor Vehicles will no longer cial license being suspended or re- said Carson. ers have been placed at greater allow judges to withhold the voked, insurance costs rising sig- “This law will take many com- for Minnesota risk as a result of a change in Flor- points from the driver’s license. nificantly, and even the loss of a mercial drivers off the streets per- ST. PAUL, Minn. — Diesel ida law. “This means points will al- job,” he said in a news release. manently if they are found guilty fuel sold in Minnesota between Chris Carson of Dale Carson ways be assessed if a CDL holder Prior to the law change, drivers in the state of Florida,” Carson now and the end of September Law in Jacksonville, said that is found guilty of a moving of commercial vehicles could ap- said. must contain 10 percent biodiesel. since early January, if a person violation. pear in court and, oftentimes, con- “Under the new law, all mov- The requirement took effect holding a commercial driver’s li- “Since (commercial vehicle vince the judge to withhold points. ing violations now have dramatic July 1. cense receives a moving violation drivers) are also prohibited from Under the new law, a complete consequences for CDL holders.” Starting next year, the 10 per- cent biodiesel requirement will extend from April through Sep- Court dismisses CSA lawsuit alleging regulators broke rules tember. Ten percent biodiesel is WASHINGTON — A federal The Alliance for Safe, Effi- agency failed to subject to notice- tions do nothing more than explain commonly known as B10. appeals court dismissed a lawsuit cient and Competitive Truck and-comment rulemaking. the agency’s Safety Measurement During the rest of the year, alleging that federal regulators did Transportation had contended that “We are not astonished,” the System.” diesel fuel sold in Minnesota must not follow the law when they im- PowerPoint presentations the Fed- U.S. Court of Appeals for the Dis- The court also said the chal- be 5 percent biodiesel, or B5. plemented the Compliance, Safety, eral Motor Carrier Safety Admin- trict of Columbia Circuit said in its lenge lacked standing because it The Minnesota Department Accountability ratings program. istration posted on its website in ruling. came too late after the agency im- of Agriculture has issued guid- (See Sept. 15, 2012 Bus & Motor- 2012 represented an “astonishing” “In our view — and the agen- plemented the Safety Measure- ance to the effect that carriers coach News.) change in agency policy, which the cy’s — the PowerPoint presenta- ment System in 2010. may buy fuel during the winter, when the requirement is for B5, N.C. repeals local taxing authority Ga. governor suspends fuel tax hike and take delivery and use the fuel in the summer and still be in RALEIGH, N.C. — North municipalities have for decades ATLANTA — Gov. Nathan enough in recent months to have Carolina Gov. Pat McCrory been able to levy. compliance with the law. Deal of Georgia has suspended a raised the rate some 15 percent as This year, such a contract had signed unusual legislation last The state House would have pending fuel tax increase for both of July 1, had the governor not month that repeals the authority replaced the tax with a fee of $100 to be entered into before July 1. diesel fuel and gasoline, freezing acted. During its 2014 session, the of local governments to impose a per business location, but the state state tax rates that have been in Now, the rates will remain un- business tax. Senate didn’t agree, leaving the Minnesota legislature passed a force since the beginning of this changed through the remainder of bill that postpones until 2018 the The state legislature adopted cities with nothing. year. the year. the measure that becomes effec- The loss in local revenue is es- effective date of the mandate that A portion of Georgia’s fuel tax The governor’s action, howev- diesel fuel sold in Minnesota in tive next year. timated at $62 million a year. rates are recalculated every six er, does not affect local sales taxes The tax targeted in the legisla- It seems likely the issue will be the warmer months must contain months according to the price of on fuel levied at the pump by 20 percent or more of biodiesel. tion is the business privilege tax revisited. fuel, and that price had risen Georgia counties and cities.

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Call us today at 1-800-448-7001 or visit www.rbs2000.com to request an evaluation of g o Chart or g o Tour www.rbs2000.com Bus & Motorcoach News INDUSTRY NEWS July 15, 2014 7 UMA announces fall board election, six seats contested WASHINGTON — The United nominate themselves. Candidates bers can nominate themselves. Can- The nominating subcommittees UMA members with questions Motorcoach Association is seeking nominated for the board must repre- didates nominated for the board must will produce a list of candidates for about nominations should contact the nominations from its U.S. operator sent an active UMA-member com- represent a UMA-member company each region, plus the non-­ association at (800) 424-8262. Mail members for five, three-year seats pany in good standing with the in good standing. coachbuilder associate representa- nomination letters to: UMA Nomina- on its board. association. Written letters of nomination tive, no later than Oct. 1. tions, 113 S. West St., 4th Floor, Al- Additionally, the association is Similarly, nominations for the must state the candidate’s name, Ballots will be mailed to UMA exandria, VA 22314-2824. soliciting nominations for the single coachbuilder associate-board repre- company affiliation and home-base members by Oct. 15, and must be re- Nominations also may be faxed coachbuilder associate-representa- sentative must come from active location. Nomination letters also turned no later than Nov. 15. Win- to (703) 838-2950, or emailed to tive seat on the board. coachbuilder members of the associ- must be postmarked, emailed or ners will be announced in Bus & UMA President and CEO Victor All of the director seats being ation. Associate coachbuilder mem- faxed between July 15 and Aug. 29. Motorcoach News. Parra at [email protected]. contested, including the coachbuilder associate representative, are the result of expiring terms of incumbent direc- tors, who may seek re-election. Two active directors will be elected from two of UMA’s three U.S. membership regions (I and III), and one from Region II. The Region II anomaly occurs because, according to association by- laws, the association chairman and vice chairman continue to serve as director for the regions from which they were elected during the term they serve as chairman or vice chair- man. The board seat held by UMA’s current chairman, Brian Annett of Annett Bus Lines in Sebring, Fla., would ordinarily be up for election this year but for the fact Annett is serving as chairman. Aug. 29 is the deadline for let- ters of nomination for the director positions. The directors whose seats expire at the end of this year are: Region I (the West): Callen Hotard of the Cal- co-Hotard Group in New Orleans, and Tom Ready of Ready Bus Lines in La Crescent, Minn.; Region II (the Midwest): Ralph Young of Young Transportation in Asheville, N.C., and Region III (the Northeast): Godfrey LeBron of Paradise Travel of Franklin Square, N.Y., and Joan Libby of Cav- alier Coach Trailways in Boston. The coachbuilder associate-­ director seat currently held by Tim Wayland of ABC Companies in Winter Garden, Fla., also is being contested. Last year, UMA members voted — nearly unanimously — to revise the bylaws to provide for the election of both the coachbuilder and non- coachbuilder associate-board repre- sentatives using the same process as active regional directors. Maps showing the UMA regions are available in UMA Membership Directories and on the association website, www.uma.org. Click on About UMA and then the UMA Board of Directors link. A list of the states composing each region also is available in the directory and on the website. Go to About UMA and click on Bylaws of the Association. Qualification standards for UMA directors can be found in Article VI of the bylaws. Among the qualifica- tions is a requirement that nominees must have been a UMA member for at least one year. Nominations for the regional board directorships must come from active UMA members who are mo- torcoach operators. Members can

SET_11894_Ad_Final_OL_BCNews.indd 1 12/30/13 4:08 PM 8 July 15, 2014 INDUSTRY NEWS Bus & Motorcoach News ‘Fling’ draws record crowd HERSHEY, Pa. — The Museum day, to experience modern and an- of Bus Transportation held its annu- tique buses and motorcoaches. al Spring Fling last month on the Many industry veterans used campus it shares with the Antique the event to reconnect with old Automobile Club of America here. friends and colleagues, and the re- The gathering has evolved into cord attendance included many a virtual Northeastern bus industry bus and antique car enthusiasts family reunion. and their families.

Photo by Chris Schmidt This year, more than 400 peo- A highlight came when the Five buses from the historic fleet of New Jersey Transit were driven to Hershey for this year’s Spring Fling. ple showed up, on a near perfect Braunsworth family, owner of Pas- saic Valley Coaches in Chatham, N.J., donated a pristine 1990 Pre- vost LeMirage to the museum. Purchased new by the Braun- sworths, the coach spent its entire I am working life in the Passaic Valley fleet, and was delivered to the mu- I am seum complete with manuals and I am the original sales order. I am Museum President Tom Col- UMA lins pointed out that “the coach UMA had just returned from its last char- UMA ter and was in perfect condition… literally ready for display. That’s UMA typical of how Passaic Valley takes care of its fleet.” Collins reported that in addi- tion to the museum fleet of coach- es that was on display for the fling, Join the Club. 37 attendees brought buses, up dramatically from last year’s 23. Join the Club. And, there was a nearly 25 per- Join the Club. cent increase in the number of ven- UMA membership provides programs and benefits to help your business succeed, but it Join the Club. dor booths where attendees could UMAalso provides membership so much more.provides UMA programsmembers andare benefitsacommunity to help your of businessmotorcoach succeed, operators but it purchase bus memorabilia and provides programs and benefits to help your business succeed, but it UMAwhoalso provides can membership learn so frommuch eachmore. other, UMA share members experiences are acommunitywith each other of motorcoach and help each operators other souvenirs. alsoUMA provides membership so much more.provides UMA programsmembers andare benefitsacommunity to help your of business motorcoach succeed, operators but it Four coach manufacturers inwho alsotimes can provides oflearn need. sofrom much each more. other, UMA share members experiences are a with each otherof motorcoach and help operatorseach other showcased new models, including who can learn from each other, share experiencescommunitywith each other and help each other ABC Companies’ double-deck Van in whotimes can of learnneed. from each other, share experiences with each other and help each other Hool T925; a Caio G3600; a Temsa Ifin you’retimes notof need. already a UMA member, don’t miss out on these valuable relationships— in times of need. TS35, and a Prevost H3-45. joinIf you’re the not club alreadytoday. a UMA member, don’t miss out on these valuable relationships— Delaware Express Tours of If you’re not already a UMA member, don’t miss out on these valuable relationships— Newark, Del., displayed a new joinIf you’re the not club alreadytoday. a UMA member, don’t miss out on these valuable relationships— MCI J4500, and a number of tran- today. joinjoin the the club club today. sit agencies showed off their latest “Our company wanted to thank UMA and all of its resources. When it came time for us to buses. Greyhound Lines brought a “increaseOur company our fleet, wanted and toadd thank insurance UMA and and benefits, all of its our resources UMA membership. When it came really time paid for usoff to Prevost X3-45, sporting the latest and“increaseOur“Our we company company were our fleet, able wanted wanted to and reach toadd to thank thank outinsurance to UMAUMA our UMAand andand benefits, partnersall of its our toresourcesresources help UMA us membership.with .When When our it it cameneeds. came really time” time forpaid for us usoffto to livery, three-point seatbelts, Wi-Fi increase our fleet, and add insurance and benefits, our UMA membership really paid off and 110-volt outlets. andincrease we were our able fleet, to and reach add out insurance to our UMAand benefits, partners our to helpUMA us membership with our needs. really” paid off Ranging from a 1908 Martz andand we we were were able able— to toRay reach reach Sargoni, out out to to President ourour UMAUMA partners toto helphelp usus with with our our needs. needs.”” Lines’ White, to the four modern —Gray Ray Line Sargoni, of San President Francisco, San Jose & Monterey demonstrator coaches, 106 years UMA— Ray member Sargoni, since President 2007 of bus evolution was on display, Gray— Ray Line Sargoni, of San PresidentFrancisco, San Jose & Monterey with virtually every bus in its orig- UMAGrayGray Linemember Line of of San San since Francisco,Francisco, 2007 San Jose && MontereyMonterey inal seated configuration. UMAUMA member member since since 20072007 Coaches were displayed inside the facility, as well as in the muse- um parking lot and at the George M. Sage Memorial Annex. Wolf’s Bus Lines of York Springs, Pa., provided shuttle service between the museum and the annex, as it has for a number of years. Collins said that “this was the best Spring Fling we’ve had, both in terms of quality and quantity. I’m really grateful to the museum staff for pulling it all together, and the 12 Visit www.uma.org to learn more about UMA or to join, sponsors who made it possible.” Visitor contact www.uma.org us at 800.424.8262! to learn more about UMA or to join, For more information, go to Visit www.uma.org to learn more about UMA or to join, www.busmuseum.org. orVisit contact www.uma.org us at 800.424.8262! to learn more about UMA or to join, oror contact contact us us at at 800.424.8262! 800.424.8262! Heavy-duty reliability

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9283-2_FCCC_XB-S_BusMotoNews.indd 1 6/5/14 12:22 PM 10 July 15, 2014 INDUSTRY NEWS Bus & Motorcoach News N.J. Transit appeals $10,000 fine in charter rule case WASHINGTON — New Jer- New Jersey Transit because the larger systems. The statewide tran- the shuttle contract. ed the number of FTA-funded ve- sey Transit has appealed the transit agency also breached the sit authority operates 2,027 buses, UMA contended that under the hicles used by Academy in its $10,000 fine levied against it by charter service rule earlier in 2013. according to its website. federal charter regulation, New charter service. As stated in NJ the Federal Transit Administration In addition to the fine, the FTA Academy is the nation’s fourth- Jersey Transit was responsible for Transit’s answer, Academy used for violating the government’s ordered New Jersey Transit to sub- largest private motorcoach opera- Academy’s actions. two FTA buses on Aug. 23, 13 on charter service rule during a golf mit within 90 days an oversight tor and the largest family-owned Aug. 24 and 16 on Aug. 25. How- tournament last summer, question- plan that would ensure that all of coach company. Basis of N.J. Transit appeal ever, the actual number of discrete ing the size of the penalty and its third-party contractors comply The New Jersey Transit appeal New Jersey appealed the fine vehicles used by Academy is only “whether such an assessment is with the federal charter service reveals that Academy was paid in a letter to FTA Deputy Adminis- 23 — not 31. Several buses were appropriate.” rule. (See July 1 Bus & Motor- $165,512.50 to provide the shut- trator Therese McMillan. used on more than one occasion… The transit agency’s appeal coach News). tles at the golf tournament. “NJ Transit does not appeal the if the correct number of vehicles “does not dispute” that “NJ Transit The FTA finding and fine determination that it violated the used in the calculation of the frac- failed to ensure…compliance” Basis of case/fine against New Jersey Transit was charter service regulation,” its ap- tion of FTA-funded buses in the with the federal charter service Last September, the United hailed by many motorcoach opera- peal states. “NJ Transit does not Academy charter fleet, a percent- regulation. Motorcoach Association filed a tors in the Northeast. These opera- dispute that Academy failed to age of 13.1 percent…would result, Instead, the appeal argues the complaint against New Jersey tors say Academy has used New comply with the regulations and not 17.6 percent. FTA overstated the number of fed- Transit on behalf of Service Bus Jersey Transit buses for years to that NJ Transit failed to ensure “Second, NJ Transit contends erally-funded buses used by Acad- Co. of Yonkers, N.Y. provide illegal charter service and such compliance (when) Academy that the overall economic benefit emy Bus, New Jersey Transit’s The complaint alleged that nu- undercut competitors. used FTA-funded buses to provide to Academy…has not been prop- largest private contractor, to shut- merous buses owned by New Jer- Some operators, however, criti- a private charter for the Barclays erly calculated…NJ Transit ad- tle spectators during the tourna- sey Transit and operated by Acad- cized the $10,000 fine as being too Golf Tournament in August 2013.” vised that the total value of the ment, maintaining the total was 23 emy Bus were observed providing small in light of their belief that New Jersey Transit, with a contract between Academy and buses and not 31 as alleged. continuous shuttle service — for the economic damages suffered by $1.9-billion budget for fiscal 2013, Barclays was $165,512.50…How- New Jersey Transit also argues three days — from designated private operators have been much contends the $10,000 fine is too ever, it is appropriate that this it was improperly punished as a re- parking areas to the Barclays Golf larger. large. Its appeal states: “The eco- amount be reduced by the costs in- peat offender of the charter service Tournament. The PGA Tour event The UMA complaint asserted nomic benefit gained by Academy curred by Academy in providing regulation, which prohibits public was played at Liberty National that Academy was subject to the in using the FTA-funded buses the service — such as the costs of transit agencies and their contrac- Golf Club in Jersey City. charter service regulation as a sub- should be recalculated to a lesser its drivers, fuel, and other operat- tors from gaining an unfair advan- Academy, based in Hoboken, recipient of FTA funds and was re- amount, thereby reducing the pen- ing expenses… tage over private-sector operators N.J., operates scores of commuter quired to notify registered charter alty on NJ Transit.” “Utilizing the lower percentage by using taxpayer-paid-for buses coaches for New Jersey Transit, companies upon receiving a re- The transit agency gave two of 13.1 percent and an amount less to provide charters. the fourth-largest transit bus sys- quest to provide charter service at reasons for arguing the fine should than $165,512.50 would produce The FTA issued the fine after tem in the U.S. Only New York, the golf tournament, thereby al- be bumped lower: an economic benefit to Academy finding a “pattern of violations” by Los Angeles and Chicago have lowing other companies to bid on “First, the FTA has over-count- CONTINUED ON PAGE 18 c

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BITZER U.S., Inc. To learn more, visit www.bitzerus.com Phone: 770-503-9226 Email: [email protected] / [email protected] Bus & Motorcoach News INDUSTRY NEWS July 15, 2014 11 Transit-takeover dispute gains new life in Minnesota ROCHESTER, Minn. — After grants to help subsidize the City transit franchise as it had for years. its price, but other business ele- He also claims there was a con- two years of fighting unsuccess- Lines operation under a “pass The city bid out the service in ments such as operating capital, flict of interest during the interview fully in the courts and before a fed- through” procedure the FTA ap- early 2012 and four companies re- the City Council awarded a five- process because two of his own eral agency, a private bus operator parently had previously approved. sponded, including City Lines, year franchise to First Transit. managers who represented his com- who lost his nearly 50-year transit However, in 2011 the FTA said which bid $21.6 million, and First Holter maintains that the bid- pany at the meeting — unbeknownst business here has received his first the payment procedure actually was Transit, which offered the low bid ding process was unfair because to him — had applied for jobs with favorable legal ruling. a “fee for service” and that the city of $19.7 million. the specifications were written to First Transit. He said the city was The Minnesota Supreme Court would have to seek competitive Following an extensive inter- favor a large company, including aware of the job offers but did not agreed late last month to review a bids for the service rather than sim- view procedure in which each certain capital requirements that disclose the information to him. case involving Dan Holter of Roch- ply allowing City Lines to hold the company was scored not only for small companies could not meet. CONTINUED ON PAGE 18 c ester City Lines, who claims the city of Rochester failed to follow proper procurement procedures when it awarded the local transit service contract to a competitor. Holter, whose family-owned company had provided local bus service in Rochester since 1966, filed suit in 2012, challenging the Get Lancer behind city’s award of the bus contract to Before you national giant First Transit. The suit claimed the bidding your fleet! process for the contract was unfair take a turn Since 1985, motor coach companies and the city ignored a conflict of interest. The city argued that “best- have known that, when disaster strikes, value” procurement procedures al- for the worst... lowed it to avoid review of its dis- no insurer has their back like Lancer. cretionary evaluation of contract proposals. Today, more than 1,250 industry clients Holter also filed an action with the Federal Transit Administration, rely on lightning on-site support from maintaining the city violated fed- eral regulations requiring a gov- our exclusive Catastrophic Response ernment entity, using federal tran- sit funds to compete with a private (CAT) Team...and over 100 nationwide carrier, to pay just compensation to the affected business. bus claims specialists whose only job A county district court rejected Holter’s challenge to the contract is to get them back on the road to award, and the Minnesota Court of profi ts fast! Appeals upheld the lower-court ruling. The FTA also sided with the city For a premium quote, call your on the federal funds issue, a ruling that Holter’s lawyer, Steven A. Diaz, agent or 800-782-8902 x3264. a former chief counsel for the FTA, called “a threat to the entire private Email: [email protected] bus industry.” (See June 15, 2013, Bus & Motorcoach News.) Learn more: lancerinsurance.com Despite the earlier setbacks, Holter has continued to pursue his legal battle, and the Minnesota Su- preme Court decision to review the appeals court ruling gives new life to his effort to have the First Tran- sit contract rescinded and to force the city to pay him compensation for his business losses. “The decision by the Supreme Court to review this case gives (Rochester City Lines) great hope that the courts will not allow other- wise prohibited misconduct under the mask of administrative discre- tion,” Holter said in a statement. “This case is really all about fair and open competition.” The reason the city of Roches- ter put the community’s bus ser- vice up for public bid after using the Holter family-owned City Lines for so long was that the FTA 370 W. Park Avenue, P.O. Box 9004, Long Beach, NY 11561 I lancerinsurance.com I rejected the city’s procedure for paying the transit company. That involved using federal transit

5440_Lancer_Rockslide_BusMotorCchNws_050514.indd 1 5/5/14 3:30 PM 12 July 15, 2014 NEWS ANALYSIS / OPINION Bus & Motorcoach News USDOT marks 100 years of intercity bus travel Note: The U.S. Department of this great nation in ways they’d Transportation marked the 100th never experienced. anniversary of intercity bus travel Making this happen was last month at an outdoor ceremony UMA’s dream when we were es- in Washington, D.C. Following the tablished back in 1971, long be- event, Anne Ferro, administrator fore those doors of opportunity of the Federal Motor Carrier Safe- were opened. You see, our found- ty Administration, a regulatory di- ers knew there was potential for a vision of the USDOT, posted com- larger and more diverse industry ments on the department blog, Fast out there. One that could help peo- Lane. They are excerpted here. ple travel to all parts of our nation without cumbersome regulations By Anne Ferro and barriers that prevent buses from moving freely between states Today, we commemorate mo- and Canadian jurisdictions. torcoach travel’s prominent place But, the real winners of in- in our nation’s transportation net- creased motorcoach travel are the work for the past century. cities and towns across America One hundred years ago, Carl where we take visitors who spend Eric Wickman, a Swedish immi- not only dollars in the places they grant and drill operator laid-off visit, but yen, euros, pounds, and from Minnesota’s iron ore mines, every other currency in the world. began a modest bus service to take Lack of Respect or Just Sloppy? But I would be remiss if I miners from Hibbing to nearby This photo appeared on the Fast Lane blog of most important executives in the motorcoach didn’t address one more important Alice, a town known for its sa- the USDOT last month. Here’s the caption that industry, but apparently the USDOT could care element, safety. loons. He charged 15 cents a ride ran under the photo: “FMCSA Administrator less. For the record, the three, from left, are Grey- Since UMA was established 43 in a Hupmobile. Ferro and others in front of Eric Wickman’s 1914 hound President and CEO David Leach; American years ago, we’ve fought tirelessly A year later, Wickman joined Hupmobile at 100th anniversary celebration.” The Bus Association Senior Vice President Clyde Hart, to build a strong and safe industry. forces with a similar service run- “others” in photo just happen to be three of the and UMA President and CEO Vic Parra. I put emphasis on the word “safe” ning between Hibbing and Duluth. because safety isn’t just a function In its first year, the Mesaba Trans- to Point B; they give Americans ac- with our SaferBus app. SaferBus Industry view within our business; it IS our portation Company earned an cess to jobs and economic opportu- is a free tool that allows you to Note: Also speaking at the business. $8,000 profit, and American inter- nity. They connect families. And in “Look Before You Book” by put- USDOT event was Victor Parra, You see, people have options. city bus travel was born. towns without air or rail service, ting carrier safety information in president and CEO of the United They can fly to where they’re During the 1920s, Wickman’s they connect entire communities the palm of your hand. Motorcoach Association. Here are going. They can take the train. Or, buses — with their sleek lines and with the rest of the nation. A century after an enterprising excerpts from his remarks: they can simply hop in their car grey paint — become known as At the Federal Motor Carrier young immigrant gave folks a 15- The story of the bus and mo- and drive to their destination. We “greyhounds,” and in 1929 the Safety Administration, we work to cent ride to Alice, Minnesota, in- torcoach industry is a uniquely think, however, that we offer the company officially became Grey- ensure that every motorcoach trip tercity bus transportation is firmly American story. In many respects, best option, go by motorcoach! hound Lines. is a safe one. embedded in our nation’s transpor- it represents the very basic mani- Today, more than 3,500 com- The American passenger carrier With a team of trained inspec- tation system. festation of the American Dream. panies in the United States provide industry has grown considerably tors and investigators nationwide, Over the past three years, the It is a story that’s not been told interstate bus and motorcoach since then. Today, motorcoach trav- the FMCSA has significantly number of passenger trips has in- much, but definitely experienced transportation. Most are small el provides mobility and connectiv- stepped-up its safety enforcement creased by nearly 6 percent, and in thousands of times since our in- businesses. ity for millions of Americans and of buses and other commercial 2012 carriers provided nearly 640 dustry was economically de-regu- This is a great industry, and helps us meet our enormous energy passenger carriers. million passenger trips totaling more lated in 1984. That one single one that I’m proud to say that I’ve and environmental challenges. In 2012, we conducted 33,684 than 75 billion passenger miles. event cleared the way for men and been part of it for more than 16 The drivers operating these ve- inspections and put 880 drivers That’s a long way from what women to pursue the American years. hicles help ensure that motorcoach and 1,831 vehicles out of service Carl Eric Wickman had in mind Dream of owning and operating I’d like to thank Acting Deputy travel is a safe way for Americans due to safety violations. when he fired up his Hupmobile in their own business. Transportation Secretary (Victor) to get where they need to go. We’ve also given consumers 1914, and I know the industry will It also created opportunities Mendez and Administrator (Anne) These buses and drivers do the ability to make good safety de- continue to play a vital role in keep- for Americans in every walk of life Ferro for…giving our industry the more than take people from Point A cisions when planning their travel ing Americans moving forward. and at every income level to see attention it deserves.

ISSUE NO. 265 David Moody How to contact us Holiday Tours Randleman, N.C. To submit or report news, Letters to To advertise: Interested in placing an ad, Michael Neustadt the Editor, articles, news releases or to and new to Bus & Motorcoach News? Coach Tours Brookfield, Conn. report corrections: Call: Jamie Williams at (352) 333-3393 A PUBLICATION OF THE UNITED MOTORCOACH ASSOCIATION E-mail: E-mail: [email protected] Jeff Polzien Red Carpet Charters [email protected] Staff Advisory Board Oklahoma City Fax: (405) 942-6201 Existing advertisers, or to submit William Allen Callen Hotard Tom Ready Mail: 3108 NW 54th Street Editor & Publisher: Victor Parra Amador Trailways Calco Travel Ready Bus Lines advertising materials: Sacramento, Calif. Geismar, La. Oklahoma City, OK 73112 Senior Editor: Bruce Sankey LaCrescent, Minn. Call: (866) 930-8421 Call: Johnny Steger at (866) 930-8426 Brian Annett Larry Hundt Brian Scott E-mail: Sales Director: Johnny Steger Annett Bus Lines Great Canadian Trailways Escot Bus Lines Sebring, Fla. Kitchner, Ontario Largo, Fla. To subscribe or inquire about your [email protected] Mail: 2200 N. Yarbrough, Suite B Industry Editor: Ken Presley James Brown Sr. Dale Krapf Dennis Strief subscription: Magic Carpet Tours Krapf Coaches Vandalia Bus Lines Box No. 336, El Paso, TX 79925 Associate Editor: Ellen Balm Richmond, Va. West Chester, Pa. E-mail: Caseyville, Ill. [email protected] Art Director: Mary E. McCarty Dave Dickson Godfrey Lebron Alan Thrasher To contact the Elite Coach Paradise Travel Thrasher Brothers Trailways Fax: (405) 942-6201 United Motorcoach Association: Ephrata, Pa. Hicksville, N.Y. Birmingham, Ala. Mail: 3108 NW 54th Street Editorial Assistant: Michele Nosko Call: (800) 424-8262 Gladys Gillis Joan Libby Tim Wayland Oklahoma City, OK 73112 Starline Luxury Coaches Cavalier Coach Trailways Online: www.uma.org Editorial Assistant: Maggie Vander Eems ABC Companies Call: (866) 930-8421 Seattle Boston, Mass. Faribault, Minn. Editorial Assistant: Greg Lange Bob Greene Marcia Milton T. Ralph Young ©2014 by the United Motorcoach Association. Reproduction in whole or in part without Amaya-Astron Seating First Priority Trailways Young Transportation written permission is prohibited. Accountant: Ted Williford Omaha, Neb. District Heights, Md. Asheville, N.C. 13Bus & JulyMotorcoach 15, 2014 News OPINION Bus July& Motorcoach 15, 2014 News13 Feds’ consideration of ticket challenges is good first step By Dave Millhouser that writing a ticket would establish point that we need to comply, there also appears that your driver could hicle, is sure that we’d BOTH been speeding. may be better ways, but the issue be ticketed, and then work for an- they “know We were cruising west on a While he was actually a nice here is that they didn’t seem to other bus line. Does the offense what’s best,” or nearly deserted Interstate 80 in a guy, don’t you hate it when the folks honor the law themselves. remain on your SMS score, while that a ticket writ- Flxible VL100 on a perfect sum- who enforce laws don’t abide ’em? An FMCSA official in Ken- the presumed dangerous driver is ten in error by a mer day. While the Federal Motor Car- tucky reportedly said, in relation to cranking out miles for another rookie officer Flx’s were great buses…but rier Safety Administration is adept the impact of traffic tickets on carrier? could effectively quirky. at gathering statistics for its Safety SMS scores “you’ve got to have Where is the Constitutional put an operator’s Dave Millhouser They were not equipped with a Measurement System, the agency some other evidence right now presumption of innocence? business at risk. speedometer. You sorta translated seems more concerned with quan- other than just the court’s throwing Doesn’t it make more sense to only According to a news release is- the tachometer RPMs and gear se- tity than quality. it out.” post violations that have been ad- sued by the FMCSA, the agency lection into a speed approxima- What I’m referring to here is Regulators seem frustrated judicated or have not been chal- “received 111 comments on (its tion. In this coach’s case, the ta- its historic resistance to purging when citations are dismissed on lenged? When an offense is dis- rule change), and 70 of them sup- chometer was broken. traffic citations and similar viola- technicalities (or because the driv- missed…it no longer exists except ported the proposed changes.” The speed limit was 55, but tions when courts dismiss or ac- er was actually innocent). in a bureaucratic fantasy. This is a good first step, and this was Nebraska, and the only quit them. That may be about to Well, gee whiz, if it’s thrown Recently, in a nod to logic (and hopefully the industry and regula- car going our way was a state change. (See July 1 Bus & Motor- out on a technicality, isn’t that be- pressure from the transportation tors are inching towards working trooper. We fell in about a quarter coach News.) cause someone in enforcement industry), FMCSA has announced together at enforcement that actu- mile behind and paced him for It would seem that they’ve goofed? How different is that than changes to the system that allows ally impacts safety. about 30 miles, when he suddenly been a bit like the trooper’s origi- napping in the wrong bus? Is it a it to account, in the future, for In real life we, as an industry, eased onto the shoulder, then nal…“don’t do as I do…do as I technicality if a well-intentioned changes in the status of reported gain a great deal when regulation whipped in behind me as I passed say.” police officer makes a mistake violations. has a genuine impact on safety. and flipped on the dreaded flash- Fines (and worse) are enforced that’s eventually corrected by a A good start, and hopefully And we should be grateful to the ing lights of doom. on bus operators for clerical, often judge? signaling that sanity may be com- 111 folks who commented and “Do you know how fast you insignificant, errors in all sorts pa- If the accused actually invests ing to the system. FMCSA for listening. We, and were going?” he asked. perwork required by federal the time and money to appear in The perception is that there they, should keep it up. In this case, the honest answer regulations. court, and a judge accepts their ex- were no checks and balances. That All this thinking is exhausting, was “no.” Clearly serious violations war- planation, why is a distant regula- a police officer or inspector could I’d take a nap…but I don’t know When I pointed out the coach rant action, but I’ve heard regula- tor presumed to know more than never make a mistake. That their which bus is legal… had no speedometer, and it had tors publicly brag about bagging a the court? interpretation of rules didn’t war- Dave Millhouser is a bus ­industry seemed logical that following a driver for logging violations be- “Due process” is in the Consti- rant a bit of extra scrutiny. marketing consultant and freelance cruising police car would result in a cause he napped on the wrong bus. tution for a reason. It’s scary when a regulator, who writer. Contact him by email at: safe speed... he cleverly figured out If they’re trying to make the Under the current system, it has never driven a commercial ve- [email protected].

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Vamoose tan on the other. down customers who’ve left items In 2009, five years of steady on the coaches. CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3 growth fueled by loyal customers Many curbside services are The operator: DC Trails convinced the partners the next notorious for their almost com- DC Trails owners, Bill and Lili- logical step was a next-level ser- plete absence of customer and pas- ana Torres, had built a fleet of 65 vice, Vamoose Gold. senger considerations. coaches over 10 years. In addition to It provides the same amenities Vamoose representatives are a passionate commitment to service, as the regular service, including empowered, in fact they are en- Bill Torres attributed their growth to Wi-Fi, and power outlets at every couraged, to help customers take the fact that between them, he and seat, as well as Vamoose unique advantage of company policy re- Liliana have nearly 60 years’ experi- luggage-assistance staff (attired in garding changes in itineraries. ence in the coach business. bright yellow shirts) that serves There’s never a charge for changes As they grew their company, every departure and arrival. more than two hours prior to a de- the Torres were careful to diversify In addition, the 36-passenger parture, and Vamoose goes to ex- the operation. In addition to offer- Gold coaches offer extra-wide, ceptional lengths to accommodate ing sightseeing tours and airport two-plus-one leather seats with their clientele’s changing needs. transfers, they also provided char- extra leg room. Each has a tray ters traveling throughout the East- table and cup holder. Demanding partner ern Seaboard and Canada. The luggage assistance pro- According DC Trails’ Bill Tor- The company’s charter divi- gram also is one of Vamoose ser- res: “Vamoose is very demanding sion handles groups from 36 to 61 vices that fits the hybrid defini- and we love them for it. They want passengers, in addition to operat- tion. Regardless of the time of day, the best equipment and service for ing Vamoose’s 50 weekly sched- every coach is met by staff mem- their customers, and that makes us uled runs. bers who handle baggage and pro- a better company. Every coach we Settling on a name for the new vide customers with any help they operate for them is ADA compli- service was a smaller, but impor- may need. ant and GPS equipped. tant, challenge. Bluzenstein and “We have the technology to Wollner hired an advertising com- Loads of service extras monitor in real time the drivers Virtually all other curbside ser- and interior. None of the coaches Bill Torres, left, of DC Trails, and Sam Bluzenstein of Vamoose Bus pose pany to make a list of suggestions, next to a new ‘Vamoose Gold’ Van Hool coach. and then the families got together vices simply drop passengers off; operating this service are over and voted. They ended up picking while Vamoose makes sure they’re three years old, all have seat belts moose worked hard to find the “We’d like to think that our a low-brow — but distinctive, taken care of, offering the safety and we limit speeds at 65 mph.” best possible coach operator and friendly service encourages pas- hard-to-forget — name. and services of a bus station but at DC Trails recently took deliv- we put the same effort into hiring sengers to get to know each other. “Vamoose,” as it turned out, a convenient curb location. Drivers ery of four new Van Hool TX45 our workers. We look for character Often, customers that board as was the unanimous choice; a com- aren’t asked to unload bags, freeing coaches configured specifically and work ethic, but that’s not strangers get off the bus as friends. bination of whimsy and Spanish them to greet and assist customers. for the Gold Service. enough. A key to Vamoose success We’ve actually had engagements for “Let’s Go!” Another hybrid trait of Va- In addition to the Wi-Fi system is our relationship with customers, announced on the coach; I guess moose is their handling of ticket- and 110-volt outlets, they all have so we hire staff based on their abil- that takes it to the ultimate level,” Bumps in the road ing and service. three-point seatbelts, rear windows, ity to work well with people.” he smiles. There were glitches in the be- Many curbside carriers favor REI Elite entertainment systems, “Vamoose thrives on repeat ginning, mostly associated with online ticketing and Vamoose also and ASA backup cameras. Who needs eHarmony? business and word-of-mouth ad- finding ideal pickup points for the does the bulk of its business via the So far this year, DC Trails has Sam Bluzenstein says that, de- vertising, we work hard at earning express routes. Internet. What makes Vamoose dif- acquired 11 new Van Hool TX45s spite having won awards for out- our customer’s loyalty.” After months of listening to ferent is that their staff is available and 3 CX45s. While most Va- standing service, one of the most The mix of quality and conve- customers, Vamoose settled on 24-hours a day to answer questions, moose runs are served by 56-pas- satisfying aspects of the business nience, word-of-mouth advertising originating the coach service in sell tickets and help with problems senger coaches, the new TX45s, has been the number of engage- and an active social media presence the Washington suburbs of Lorton; — on the telephone. They even operating the Gold Service, have ments and marriages that have has resulted in expanding sales, Arlington, Va., and Bethesda, Md., take pride in their “lost and found” the two-plus-one leather seating. taken place between couples who with the Gold Service adding a on one end, and Midtown Manhat- — often taking the trouble to track Sol Wollner pointed out, “Va- met while riding a Vamoose coach. measure of glitter to the growth. Vonlane the Dallas Morning News. News to discuss his service, but his Danza told the Morning News business model seems to fit the CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3 he is a “million-plus-mile business mold suggested by Mark Richard- two Prevost coaches with 16 pre- traveler who is really tired of son, who recently became presi- mium leather seats that recline up flying.” dent of LimoLiner, a luxury bus to 150 degrees. A private confer- The Austin Business Journal service that links Boston and New ence room for six also is available. identified Danza as the former pres- York City with plush, 28-passen- Danza told local reporters that ident of Savoya LLC, a high-end ger motor coaches. (See June 1 each coach cost $700,000. The provider of global chauffeur servic- Bus & Motorcoach News.) company intends to purchase two es. That company’s website says Sa- LimoLiner’s fare is about four more coaches in September and voya was started in 2000 and pro- times as high as consumer bus ser- open new routes from Dallas to vides service throughout North vice but about half the cost of the Houston and San Antonio. America, Europe, Asia and Oceania region’s high-speed Amtrak ser- Amenities include a restroom; (Australia & New Zealand) and in vice. The carrier handles about desk-like work stations with elec- select markets in Africa, South 25,000 passengers annually at an trical outlets at each seat; free wi- America, and the Middle East. occupancy rate of 50 percent. fi; a galley and steward; seven XM Vonlane’s website describes Richardson said corridors such could have a nicer experience rid- The magazine continued: “As radio stations and two DirecTV the hassles of air travel in stronger as Boston-New York are “just right” ing on a pleasant bus for three travel between the ever-growing channels; noise-cancelling head- terms: “Our on-board service for luxury coach service. “The hours, rather than bouncing around cities that make up Texas’ big four sets; newspapers; a coat closet; makes you feel like you’re on a pri- model is having two metropolitan airports and crammed onto an air- (cities) becomes increasingly es- free baggage carriage, up to three vate jet, and lets you make the areas that are three to four hours plane, holds some validity. The sential, addressing the dearth of bags of 50 pounds or less, and one most of your valuable time com- apart. If the cities are much closer $100 price point means Vonlane… good options for different kinds of carry-on bag. Complimentary re- pared to your peers traveling with people drive. If they are too far won’t be the transportation provid- travel becomes more important. freshments include coffee, bever- one of those cattle-call airlines.” apart it becomes an airplane trip.” er for students on a budget visiting “Transportation is a serious ages, sandwiches and snacks. Texas Monthly Magazine pre- home, but there are a variety of challenge in our expanding state, “For half the cost of air fare we The market model dicted an appreciative audience for travelers in Texas, and serving and 16 seats on a pricey luxury bus will give people first-class ser- Danza declined to be inter- Vonlane’s brand of service. some of their needs relieves some is still 16 cars that won’t be packed vice,” the 40-year-old Danza told viewed by Bus and Motorcoach “The notion that a traveler demand for everyone.” onto an already-crowded I-35.” 855-546-6060 • www.DonBrownBus.com

Carl Restivo Chris Swatt Terry McCart Ned Johnson 862-266-2923 202-660-2797 518-774-5450 518-774-8193 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] 16 July 15, 2014 INDUSTRY NEWS Bus & Motorcoach News

Big Apple hassles wanting to cross,” said Michael operator that runs charter buses to Neustadt, president of Coach New York, which he said is a hot CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 Tours of Brookfield, Conn. destination for groups in Minne- wheel and the other on the horn. Neustadt, whose company op- sota and Wisconsin. “It’s a waste erates 5 to 10 buses into Manhattan of fuel driving around like that.” The curse of texting daily, agrees there are plenty of The lack of parking in New However, all of these factors problems facing bus drivers in the York City also is the biggest com- have gotten worse, and some new city. But he is still a big fan of New plaint of Cam Morris, who man- aggravations have surfaced. These York as a charter bus destination. ages Oneonta (N.Y.) Bus Lines include pedestrians who are too “It’s the best city in the world,” and who is president of the Bus busy texting on their smart phones he said. “It attracts more visitors Association of New York. She also to heed traffic, and the addition of than any other city, and many of said maps to legal bus parking bike lanes, which have made nar- them come by motorcoach. I find areas are often inaccurate. row streets even more difficult for that to be a good thing. Bus com- “Our drivers say that the new buses to navigate. panies can make a lot of money parking maps they got from the And many of the bikes in those driving people to New York.” city show parking that isn’t even new lanes are “city bikes” that are there,” said Morris. “There is no place to park and because the driver had left the bus. available for rent to tourists with The parking hassle they push you along when you try “Well, his arms aren’t long enough no experience riding the crowded What Neustadt doesn’t like Signs: Confusion City to drop off. They just don’t accom- to swipe the credit card from in- streets of the city. about operating buses in New York Signage also can be confusing. modate motorcoaches on Manhat- side the bus,” said Ready, who “We’ve even seen people on is the lack of parking, the hassles “Sometimes there will be five tan Island,” Ready said. “We bring successfully fought the ticket. bikes texting,” said LeBron. “With of dropping off and picking up different signs on the same pole,” in tourists who spend money. They The increase in ticketing has the infrastructure as tight as it is, passengers, and the liberal issu- Ready said. “One sign says ‘park don’t appreciate what we offer to forced some companies to add sur- everybody has to pay attention. If ance of tickets to bus drivers. here’ and another says ‘don’t park the city.” charges to their charter prices to someone isn’t paying attention, “There is just not enough space here.’” cover the fines, but Morris said you’ve got a big problem.” to park in New York City,” he said. Another challenge facing bus Revenue source she doesn’t think it has become a Distracted pedestrians aren’t “There are maybe a few dozen operators is finding the correct Operators say they’ve noticed widespread practice. just an annoyance to charter bus legal bus parking spaces in the spot to drop off and pick up pas- an increase in the number of cita- “Companies add surcharges to operators. There has been a rash of city, and on any given day there sengers. There are designated tions issued to buses, and hint it is offset high fuel costs, but I don’t city transit bus-pedestrian acci- are easily more than 1,000 buses areas near some attractions, such part of a push by the city to in- think surcharges to cover parking dents in New York, resulting in an looking for parking. That means as the 9/11 Memorial Museum in crease revenue. tickets are very common,” she said. initiative by Mayor Bill de Blasio buses have to leave Manhattan to lower Manhattan and the art mu- “It’s tax the rich and fine the Even though bus companies to curb such accidents. (See June find legal parking.” seum district near Central Park. hell out of everyone else,” said complain about the hassles of 15 Bus & Motorcoach News.) Drivers who drop off passen- However, sometimes drivers LeBron. driving motorcoaches in Manhat- According to the Village Voice, gers and don’t have to pick them have to just find a spot to quickly Operators say their drivers are tan, they are unlikely to stop serv- pedestrians are killed at a higher up for several hours typically drive drop off or pick up their passen- sometimes issued tickets even ing the city. For many companies rate in New York City — account- to New Jersey and the Bronx to gers. If they are caught stopping in when they are parked or stopped located fairly close to New York, ing for 52 percent of all traffic fa- find free or legal parking. But, if the wrong place by police, they are legally, forcing them to fight City it’s their top destination and a talities — than the national aver- they have to pick up their passen- issued a ticket. Hall. Ready said that happened to major part of their business. age of 13 percent, partly because gers in a couple of hours, there “Loading and unloading pas- one of his drivers who had stopped “It’s an exciting place. Every- there are so many people walking isn’t time to head for suburban sengers can be a cat-and-mouse his bus at a parking meter and got one wants to go there,” Neustadt in the city. parking, so they just drive around game,” LeBron said. out to swipe his credit card to pay. said. “We go in, drop off passen- “Because it is so dense in New until pick-up time. Even if a bus is stopped at the “While he is paying a cop gers and go away. It isn’t necessar- York, it is difficult to turn a corner “They’re like moving parking proper loading and unloading walks up and slaps a ticket on the ily easy, but it is something we do with a bus because there are going lots,” said Tom Ready of Ready spot, police often hassle drivers to windshield,” he said, adding that well and we charge for it to be 75 people on the corner Bus Lines, a La Crescent, Minn., move along. the officer said he issued the ticket appropriately.” Borrowing/lending since January 2009. The prime yet, so that has kept rates down. Capital access and interest older coach to their fleets may loan rate is what commercial banks “We do expect rates to start in- rates can be problematic for new have tougher going because of a CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 charge their most credit-worthy creasing by the end of the summer companies or those with weak fi- lack of financing, regardless of all, and that puts us in a great posi- customers. and to go up about a point and a nancial records. Financing also how lovingly that vehicle was tion to lend.” The bank prime rate hit its last half next year.” can be difficult to obtain for older maintained. The continuing slow improve- peak of 8.25 percent in 2007. The coaches. “A lot of lenders will do equip- ment in the economy this year has rate stood at 8.5 percent at the be- The new normal? Generally, however, qualifying ment up to 10 years old. The ’04s modestly influenced capital avail- ginning of 2000 and 10 percent at “Interest rates are very fair,” for financing is no tougher today and ’05s can be very nice coaches, ability and the willingness of mo- the beginning of 1990. observed Gregg Goedde, vice than in past years, said Berg. but lenders are looking at a 10- torcoach operators to spend, notes Interest rates facing motor- president of ABC Bus Leasing Inc. Still, he adds that “there is less year window,” Goedde said. “That Berg. coach operators generally range of Faribault, Minn. “The rates have capital for start-ups and less capi- can be a real challenge for custom- “I think there are more lenders from 4 to 10 percent, depending on been this low for so long that this tal if you have had some major ers looking at strong equipment within our space than ever before. the age of the coach being financed is what we expect as the new problems in the past. Start-ups are that is older than that. There are a Most of our customers appear to and the buyer’s credit history. normal.” paying a very high interest rate. lot of older buses that could make have had a better year in 2013 than “We anticipated rates would be If interest rates do rise in the Nobody (no finance company) is really good money for customers what they had in 2012. With dis- a lot higher right now than they are” coming months as some analysts really in that space. But, if you but can be difficult to finance.” cretionary income going up a little Hotchkiss said. “I think everybody expect, the boost probably will not have paid your bills and done well, Wells Fargo economists expect bit, there is a bit more room for expected rates would start increas- be severe, he said. “I don’t see in- there is still capital for you.” the U.S. economy to grow 2 per- people to spend money and that ing late last year, but that never ma- flation getting out of control. It is cent this year, Hotchkiss said. helps anybody who is in a travel- terialized. The economy is still hard to get upset if the rates go up a Older coach conundrum “That’s slow but steady growth. It related business.” stagnant. There is not any inflation quarter of a point in this market.” Operators seeking to add an is not taking off like everybody There have been frequent pre- hopes it would.” dictions in recent years that inter- This could be a good time for est rates would move higher, but Calendar South Carolina Motorcoach 23 Florida Motorcoach Associa- healthy carriers to buy a motor- rates have remained at a low level. Associations, Richmond Mariott, tion Education and Compliance coach, he said. The Federal Reserve lists the bank JULY 2014 Richmond, Va. Info: www.scmotor­- Meeting, Sheraton Lake Buena “From a financing perspective, prime loan interest rate at 3.25 per- 13-16 Joint Annual Meeting of coach.org, www.ncmotorcoach. Vista Resort, Orlando. Info: yes. Beyond that it is dependent on cent — where it has been parked Virginia, North Carolina and org, www.ncmotorcoach.com. [email protected]. an operator’s needs.” Bus & Motorcoach News INDUSTRY FOCUS: FINANCING July 15, 2014 17 Getting it right: Tips for financing coach fleet upgrades By Scott Baer Selecting a partner you can ask to ensure you’re get- equipment be used? costs that will be incurred before Like any business decision, it ting the information necessary to 2. Does the financing partner terms end? Bus and motorcoach compa- is important to do your research make a sound decision before understand the specialty vehicle 4. What happens if the operator nies of all types and sizes share a before deciding to finance and se- signing on the bottom line. Con- market and how the transaction wants to change the terms and end common goal of growing the busi- lecting a finance company. Choos- sider these questions from the will help the company operate the financing early? ness while keeping costs under ing a qualified, reputable financ- Equipment Leasing & Finance better? 5. What are the obligations for control. ing partner is perhaps the most Association: 3. What is the total recurring the equipment (such as insurance, For some this may mean updat- important decision made during 1. How will the transportation payment and are there any other CONTINUED ON PAGE 22 c ing their fleets with the newest the equipment financing process, technology and safety equipment, yet it is often where motorcoach for others it may mean replacing or owners and managers spend the refurbishing coaches that are least amount of time. showing signs of aging, or perhaps In some cases a bus or motor- adding some diversity to the fleet coach manufacturer might offer with smaller or larger coaches. financing as part of the sales pro- In any case, cost is a big part of cess; your bank or an independent the equation, as is the financing re- finance company with experience quired to obtain the vehicles need- in specialty vehicle financing is ed to operate a successful business also a good place to start. without a large outlay of cash. Look for a partner that under- Pre-owned Transit Buses for Sale & Lease Smart fleet financing can pro- stands your objectives, is experi- vide the flexibility bus and motor- enced with the equipment needed, • Nation’s Largest CNG Transit Inventory coach companies need as they and is committed to the relation- grow, as well as helping with cash ship over the long term. When • EPA/CARB Compliant Transit Buses forecasting and tax treatment. searching for a finance partner, In addition, with the right look for a company that: equipment finance operators can • Is flexible and willing to avoid requirements like compen- work with you to develop a pro- sating balances, large down pay- gram that will meet your financial ments, and client list reviews, objectives which makes the process faster • Considers the relationship a and easier than a traditional loan. partnership and is readily available For companies making the to answer questions and provide switch to more energy efficient support throughout the life of the buses, the reduction in fleet oper- agreement ating expenses through fuel- and • Is experienced in the com- maintenance-cost savings can be mercial vehicle finance market used to pay bus financing costs • Offers fast credit approvals over time. and quick, easy processing In this case, financing essen- • Is a financially stable, long- tially converts the capital outlay to term business partner. a monthly expense that is offset by fuel savings. Questions to ask There are specific questions Decisions: When to buy, finance? Why lease a fleet of motor- portation industry, you can apply coaches or finance even a single to qualify for 100 percent financ- midsize today? ing, with no down payment. Why not buy new equipment You can also take advantage of outright if your company has the technology upgrades by changing cash, or hold onto your money and out equipment every few years run those old coaches just a few through a provision in your lease thousand miles more? or finance contract. Reasonable questions, certain- There are other advantages to ly, for transportation company equipment leasing or financing as Variety of Different Models & owners to ask, but the answers well. might surprise you. Motorcoach operators can free Configurations Available Immediately According to the Equipment themselves from the hassles of Leasing & Finance Association, equipment remarketing and seven of 10 businesses in the U.S. disposal. lease or finance their equipment, Simplified billing and bundling • A Customer Service driven philosophy and you should consider these op- costs into a single invoice so you tions, too. can make one payment every month • We offer Quality delivered on time Leasing or financing can pro- are other advantages as well. vide your operation with access to Whether you need to refresh • World’s most diverse inventory high-quality equipment that helps your coach fleet or replace an old your company grow. shuttle bus, you owe it to your op- Working with an equipment eration to consider equipment leasing and finance firm that spe- leasing or financing. transitsales.com | sblbus.com • (800) BUS-SALE cializes in the commercial trans- Source: Advantage Funding 18 July 15, 2014 INDUSTRY NEWS Bus & Motorcoach News New Jersey Transit of violations.” Transit had yet to file that over- oversight plan.” the penalty on NJ Transit.” On March 25, 2013, the FTA sight plan, saying that its “repeated In requesting the FTA recon- The appeal was signed by John CONTINUED FROM PAGE 10 issued a cease-and-desist order to failure” to enforce the charter ser- sider the penalty, New Jersey Tran- J. Hoffman, acting attorney gener- of FTA buses of an amount less New Jersey Transit and the Atlan- vice regulation demonstrates “a sit summarizes: al of New Jersey. than $29,130.20. It is likely that tic City Jitney Association in re- pattern of violations.” “First, there is no basis to con- this amount would be sufficiently sponse to a complaint that the as- “This statement is not correct,” clude that NJ Transit has commit- ‘More…not less’ lower enough to allow the adminis- sociation was impermissibly using states the New Jersey Transit ap- ted more than one violation consti- The New Jersey fine should trator to conclude that the level of FTA-funded buses to provide char- peal. It points to an attached e-mail, tuting a pattern of violations. have been larger, not smaller, said economic benefit to Academy was ter service. New Jersey Transit was dated Aug. 1, 2012, that was sent to Second, even if the administrator Sal Dipaolo, president of Service only ‘minor,’ not ‘moderate.’” ordered to develop an oversight two FTA consultants as proof of an were to conclude that the decision Bus Company, which instigated plan to ensure that its contractors oversight plan. The transit system was correct, as to this issue, the the New Jersey Transit complaint. What pattern? complied with the charter service says this plan was also attached to a economic benefit gained by Acad- Last month, he told Bus & Motor- New Jersey Transit also argues regulation. letter sent to FTA on April 10, 2013. emy in using the FTA-funded coach News, “It is nowhere near that the federal government incor- However, the FTA noted in its “This, in two instances, NJ Transit buses should be recalculated to a what it should have been.” rectly based the fine on a “pattern Academy ruling that New Jersey provided the FTA with the required lesser amount, thereby reducing Dipaolo also noted that the use of federally-funded buses by major private bus operators is not un- common in the East, and that smaller charter companies “are se- riously handicapped by the prac- tice.” He said he has tried to file complaints in the past but didn’t Drivers Wanted. have the resources to pursue them. “I appreciate all the efforts of UMA in helping me with this com- plaint,” he said. “It never would have gotten this far without them.” Transit dispute

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 11 Diaz, Holter’s lawyer, said that two of the core issues in the case, establishing the proper standard for reviewing the city’s “best-val- ue” competitive bid process and determining whether Holter’s bid protest claim was correctly dis- missed, weren’t considered by the lower courts, but are the basis of the state Supreme Court decision to review the case. The court also granted permis- sion to the Associated General Contractors of Minnesota to file a friend-of-the-court brief in support of City Lines’ challenge to the pro- curement process. “The Supreme Court went di- rectly to the core issues,” Diaz said in an interview. “This isn’t just about City Lines. This is about the integ- rity of the procurement process.” Meanwhile, Diaz, who served as chief counsel of the FTA from 1989 to 1993, continues to pursue Introducing the Bus & Motorcoach Academy’s action before the federal agency. He has filed a petition for rule- Prevost Preparatory School for Professional making with the FTA, arguing that Motorcoach Drivers. the agency reversed its long-stand- ing policy of not allowing govern- Developed to help new drivers prepare for ment entities to use federal funds to subsidize a competitor of a pri- their CDL, Prevost Prep also gives vate company without compensat- ing that company. experienced drivers an opportunity to keep “That reversal of policy re- current on the unique skills and responsibilities quires public comment,” Diaz said. “It cannot be made arbitrarily or by of a professional motorcoach driver. fiat. The FTA is abandoning the private bus industry. Charter and Summer semester begins July 30! school bus companies should be looking over their shoulders. This is a very serious matter.” Diaz said the Minnesota Su- preme Court is expected to hear oral www.uma.org/academy argument in the case late this year. refund onallunmailedcopies. You time, any maycancelat reason. forany Our promise: withBus&MotorcoachNews,wewillsendyoua Ifyouarenotsatisfied Visa l Credit CardNo. l E-mail Phone______Fax City Address Company Title Name **Photo copythisad,completeit,andfaxormailtoBus&MotorcoachNews. **Rate outsideU.S.is$71(U.S.)peryear l l l l l

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20 July 15, 2014 INDUSTRY NEWS Bus & Motorcoach News Consolidation rates. reduce costs. into the carriers, enabling them to Quick action asked “The savings associated with a “The applicants hope to use the purchase newer, more energy-effi- The application asks the Sur- CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 more streamlined business opera- opportunity for increased coordi- cient and lower-emission vehicles face Transportation Board to pro- ­advantage of economies of scale to tion and debt restructuring will nation to bolster the business of over time and providing safer, vide expedited, tentative approval strengthen their individual opera- allow the companies to be stronger each carrier by engaging in vehi- more efficient transportation op- of the acquisitions. Texas Bus and tions,” says the Texas Bus and and more secure. Without the cle-sharing arrangements on fa- tions to the travelling public.” Limo stated that the companies Limo filing with the Surface transaction, the companies will not vorable terms. This will allow the Texas Bus and Limo plans to and their banks have agreed to a Transportation Board. be able to make planned upgrades carriers to reduce their overall consolidate $75 million in debt timeline “to receive debt restruc- “Additionally, the transaction to their carrier fleets and will con- fleets by retiring older vehicles held by the companies, the appli- ture approval” in the middle of involves a debt consolidation and tinue to operate less efficiently and and focusing on utilizing vehicles cation states. Savings realized in August. restructuring that will make the… effectively.” and manpower more efficiently. “interest, insurance and other The Surface Transportation carriers more financially secure A key aspect of the consolida- “The savings realized from the fixed costs” will be reinvested in Board oversees larger mergers and and allow them to obtain financing tion, according to the filing, is to streamlined operations and debt the new company. acquisitions in the ground trans- and insurance at more attractive achieve greater efficiencies and restructuring will be invested back portation industries — railroads, trucking and buses — to prevent deals that would significantly re- duce competition or create monop- olistic conditions. According to documents filed last month with the Surface Trans- portation Board, Texas Bus and Limo will not be a carrier, but will strictly function as a holding com- pany to enable the existing carriers to operate more efficiently. The five operating companies Bus are being acquired in a cash and stock deal. The owners of the car- Equipment of the riers “will receive cash and an equal percentage of (Texas Bus and Limo) stock…The applicants anticipate that other interests, in- cluding sponsors and employees, might own approximately 15 per- future… cent of (Texas Bus and Limo) stock in the future.”

The companies The 52-page filing describes a today maze of parent companies, limited partnerships and subsidiaries. The first company described is Echo Tours and Charters, which was formed when Echo’s owners purchased the former Gotta Go BusCon Trailways of Fort Worth three SEPTEMBER 15-17, 2014 years ago. EXHIBIT HALL OPEN SEPTEMBER 16-17, 2014 Echo has continued to make INDIANA CONVENTION CENTER, HALLS F&G INDIANAPOLIS, IN acquisitions and now operates 100 vehicles, ranging from sedans to motorcoaches. Moving to Indianapolis Echo is owned by a limited general partnership whose princi- for 2014! pals are Chris Jarrard, Tanner West Now in its 19th year, consider BusCon and Thom Fox. The parent company of AFC to be your “Bus Equipment HQ.” Transportation is an outfit called GBJ Inc., which has a number of Whether you are looking to purchase a vehicle companies operating under such or technology that will help increase vehicle or names as AFC Corporate Trans- operational effi ciencies, looking to enrich your BROUGHT TO YOU BY METRO & LCT MAGAZINES portation, AFC Transit, First Class career through education, or just getting out to Charters, A First Class Limousine network with your peers who are also doing Service and AFC School Charters. what they can to help their operations thrive AFC Transportation/GBJ oper- in today’s economy, BusCon will give you ates 134 vehicles, including mo- the tools you need to professionally torcoaches, midsize buses, sport refresh and revitalize the way you utility vehicles and limousines. tackle your business. Ferrari and El-Lahham are the principals of AFC/GBJ. Roadrunner Charters Inc. of Ir- SILVER SPONSORS ving, Texas, has been in business Register Now! since 2004 and primarily services BusConExpo.com • (800) 576-8788 Dallas/Fort Worth. It operates 54 motorcoaches and midsize buses. CONTINUED ON PAGE 22 c

BCS05-53BMCN_jul_fpa_FNL.indd 1 5/27/14 10:28 AM Bus & Motorcoach News INDUSTRY NEWS July 15, 2014 21

for the Northeast. east, as well as sales strategy and People Furo will be responsible for sales customer development,” said Duane in Maine, New Hampshire, Massa- Geiger, executive vice president at NORTHFIELD, Minn. — John chusetts, Connecticut, Vermont, CH Bus Sales, which distributes Benjamin of Benjamin Bus, a Rhode Island, and Upstate New Temsa coaches in the U.S. ­family-owned school bus company, York. ELKHART, Ind. — Troy Snyder and Northfield Lines, a motorcoach Furo joins CH Bus Sales with has been named general manager operation, was presented with the more than 10 years of experience in of Ameritrans, the midsize bus Jim DeVeau Award at the 2014 Min- the motorcoach industry. Most re- manufacturer owned by ABC nesota School Bus Operators Asso- cently he headed sales for MCI in Com­panies. John Benjamin Bob Greene Darril King Roy Furo Sr. ciation Summer Conference. the northeastern U.S. Most recently, Snyder served as specialized in product development versity and Indiana University and The award annually honors an “He brings knowledge of tour- both president and vice president of and high-output production. holds both bachelor- and master-of- individual who has worked diligent- and-charter operators in the North- sales at Goshen Coach, where he Snyder attended Ball State Uni- science degrees. ly to promote high standards of school bus safety, efficiency and en- vironmental responsibility. “I am so honored to receive this award,” said Benjamin. “Jim De- Veau was someone in the bussing industry whom I admired very much.” Benjamin Bus was founded 25 years ago by Benjamin and his late brother, Larry. It and Northfield Lines are owned by Benjamin and his wife, Wanda. Take YOUR MEXICO CITY — Bob Greene has joined Amaya-Astron Seating as sales representative serving the U.S and Canadian motorcoach Business markets. Greene has spent 25+ years in sales, with the past 13 years working to the at REI as senior account executive in the motorcoach aftermarket sales division. He brings to Amaya a wealth of Next Level knowledge regarding the overall mo- torcoach industry and most impor- tantly the relationships he has devel- oped over the years with coach owners/operators and their key maintenance and safety personnel. Late last year, Greene was elect- ed to the United Motorcoach Asso- ciation board as the non-coachbuild- er vendor representative. He is a graduate of the Universi- ty of Nebraska-Lincoln and is based in Omaha. Reach him at bgreene45@ cox.net. DES PLAINES, Ill. — Darril King has been named vice president new coach sales by Motor Coach Industries. He will handle the company’s Northeast region, responsible for New York state and New England. The Bus & Motorcoach Academy’s King was formerly vice presi- dent Setra sales specialist and be- Clarence Cornell School of Business fore that vice president regional sales. He joined MCI when the com- will help increase your business and pany gained Setra North American distribution rights two years ago. operational knowledge...helping you Prior to Setra, King had a 37-year career at Detroit Diesel. take YOUR business to the next level. King will continue to report to Patricia Ziska, MCI vice president Summer semester begins July 30! of sales. “Operators in the Northeast will benefit from his experience and knowledge and can count on him for exceptional service related to their MCI J4500, MCI D-Series and Setra coach needs,” said Ziska. Contact King at Darril.King@ mcicoach.com. FARIBAULT, Minn. — CH Bus www.uma.org/academy Sales announced the appointment of Roy A. Furo Sr. as account executive 22 July 15, 2014 INDUSTRY NEWS Bus & Motorcoach News Consolidation “Following the transaction, tion providers, offering charter and COACHES FOR SALE each of the applicant carriers, in- tour service,” and competing for $ 1999 Prevost H3 45, 700K miles, WCL. Asking 99K CONTINUED FROM PAGE 20 cluding Tri-City, will continue to roughly $150 million in annual 2001 Prevost H3 45, 700K Miles. Asking $90K Ron Wills is president and CEO. operate as separate entities, with revenue. 2001 Prevost XLII, 600K Miles. Asking $85K Star Shuttle Inc. of San Anto- their own brands, and will not sig- “After the transaction, the com- nio has been in business for 22 nificantly alter their transportation bined revenues of Echo and Road- 1999 Prevost H3-45, 12 Bunk Entertainer, Florida $ years, providing charter, conven- operations,” the filing states. runner will be less than one-third of Coach, 700K miles. Asking 139K tion and tour operations, paratran- “The carriers plan to focus their that amount,” says the filing. (2) 2009 Setra 417’s, 300K Miles, Black Exterior sit and transit services in the San efforts on the maximum utilization Texas Bus and Limo estimates no graphics. Asking $265K Antonio and Austin markets. of equipment and resources to serve the combined share of its carriers Please contact Ted at 573-219-2215 Its 60-vehicle fleet includes their respective customer bases, in- in the East Texas market will be motorcoaches, trolleys, limousines cluding favorable vehicle sharing less than 7.5 percent and its share Director of Maintenance/ and school buses. John P. Walker is arrangements that will allow the in other markets will not exceed 14 president and CEO. carriers to bid on more and bigger percent. Working Forman Wanted Tri-City Charter of Bossier Inc. charter transportation contracts. “Because the carriers’ opera- Motorcoach operator located in is based in Bossier, La., and has a “With maximum utilization of tions will not significantly change Central Missouri seeking qualified second base in Longview, Texas. In equipment, the carriers will be after the transaction, the parties do applicant to head our service operation for 15 years, it offers in- able to provide their current level not anticipate these percentages to department. We operate late model terstate service primarily in Louisi- of transportation with fewer vehi- change significantly, either. Fur- ana and Texas. James E. Pitstick is cles, allowing them to retire older, ther, the areas served by the carri- Prevost and Van Hool coaches. Salary president and CEO of the carrier, less energy efficient vehicles. In ers are largely separate and dis- based on experience, $50-75K per year. which operates 23 motorcoaches, addition, with more combined ve- tinct, with a small amount of Interested parties, please send your resume to according to the filing. hicles at their disposal, the appli- overlap in the larger markets. The [email protected] The acquisition of Tri-City “is cants will be able to bid on the companies also will maintain their essentially the first step in the charter service contracts for larger separate identities and be respon- overall (Texas Bus and Limo) ac- events requiring additional vehicle sible for their own operations Excellent Condition–none nicer! quisition,” the application states. capacity.” within the larger corporate family. Cummins • B500 • 58 pax w/lav Thus, the transaction will not re- 170K TCM Michelin Tires Key to the deal Few changes? sult in any consolidation of market Alcoa Rims • Cordless Mics NEW “Immediately prior to the ac- The Texas Bus and Limo appli- power in any relevant market,” CD/DVD • Lots more options LOWER quisition of GBJ, Echo, Roadrun- cation asserts that the consolida- says the filing. Partial Financing O.A.C. PRICE! ner, and Star by (Texas Bus and tion would not bring significant Bus & Motorcoach News was $325,000/OBO Limo), Echo will acquire Tri-City, changes to the operations of the af- unable to speak with executives in- Trade for MCI D or DL3 Considered • More available a federally registered passenger fected carriers and any cost-sav- volved in the consolidation before Call / Email today for photos and more info! motor carrier providing charter ings would be reinvested. deadline. [email protected] / 808.832.6261 and tour service in the southeast “The carriers will be able to John Ferrari was profiled by United States, with the intent that serve their existing geographic the Houston Business Journal in Tri-City be operated as a subdivi- areas and customer bases more ef- 2001, for his success in developing REPOS FOR SALE sion of Echo. Echo’s acquisition of ficiently and effectively, and do what then was known as A First •“Bank Repos” across the US • Priced to Sell Tri-City is crucial to the success of not anticipate any reduction in cur- Class Limousine and Charter Ser- • Variety of Makes & Models the TBL venture.” rent service levels. In fact, the vice (now AFC Transportation). 1-877-737-2221 x30716 If approval is granted by the transaction will enable to carriers “Ferrari himself spent years Surface Transportation Board, to leverage the combination of learning the ropes of entrepreneur- — View “Repo Inventory” www.Bus-Buys.com Echo will purchase the stock, companies to grow the businesses ship through his stepfather, local equipment and operating authority of each individual carrier, and will restaurateur Sonny Lahham, owner of Tri-City, which will continue to result in the same or a greater level of La Tour D’Argent French Res- operate as a subsidiary. of transportation to the public.” taurant and Cavatore Italian “In essence, the Tri-City acqui- Texas Bus and Limo adds that Restaurant. sition is a necessary first step to there will be some consolidation “‘I worked with him since completing the larger transaction,” of headquarters and administrative childhood in the restaurant busi- Texas Bus and Limo states. “With- jobs to the holding company, but ness and wanted to follow in his Be sure and out this acquisition, the overall these “will be offset by additions footsteps,’ John Ferrari says of his transaction would no longer be in higher-paying sales and field stepfather. ‘He has taught me the update economically viable.” operations personnel in numerous business of the business.’” The application provides no cities across Texas.” The Business Journal credited your mailing elaboration on the need to consoli- Ferrari’s six-day-a-week restaurant date Tri-City into Echo before the The competitive factors work experience for his success in latter joins Texas Bus and Limo. The filing contains a lengthy transportation. “Ferrari applied information With the acquisition of Echo, analysis of the competitive factors what he learned from the restau- Texas Bus and Limo also will own in the markets where the companies rant industry to his own business, with us so 50 percent of Gotta Go Tours by operate and claims the consolida- offering customers courteous ser- Patti LLC, a group travel and tour tion should not “have a material ad- vice, being on time and charging you don’t service based in Fort Worth. The verse effect on competition.” affordable rates. One referral led filing says this company is not a It notes, for example, that the to another, multiplying AFC from carrier and holds no operating Dallas/Fort Worth market “has a single corporate customer to miss a authority. more than 15 interstate transporta- more than 800 today.” single issue! Tips for financing plore financing options before Equipment Finance (www.kefon- making a decision. Doing so will line.com). He has been associated CONTINUED FROM PAGE 17 have you on the road with additions with the bus and motorcoach in- taxes and maintenance) during the to your fleet quickly and easily, dustry for more than 25 years in financing term? with more cash in the bank to invest various sales and management po- Whether adding new coaches to in other parts of the business. sitions with motorcoach manufac- Call 866-930-8421 or email changes to: increase fleet size or to replace Scott Baer is regional sales turers and finance companies. [email protected] older vehicles, operators should ex- manager of bus financing at Key Reach him at [email protected]. CARRYING THE INDUSTRY FORWARD FOR 90 YEARS AND COUNTING.

In 1924, Eugene Prevost, a carpenter by trade, built the fi rst wooden motorcoach body. Today, the Prevost name is synonymous with dependability, performance, and craftsmanship. Though much has changed in regard to the materials, designs, and manufacturing processes used to create Prevost motorcoaches, our long-standing commitment to building and servicing quality vehicles remains the same. We are looking forward to many more decades of leading the industry with innovation and providing safe, comfortable, and memorable journeys for all of your passengers.

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