ILLBA’s post-holiday dinner party & meeting welcomed 30 members and guests
On January 13, the Illinois Limousine and Bus Association (ILLBA) returned to Carlucci Rosemont for their annual post-holiday dinner and meeting. Thirty members and guests were in attendance for the event, sponsored by Nationwide Bus Sales and Forest River Bus & Van.
ILLBA Executive Director Paula DeBiasi of Chicago Coachworks is enthusiastic about this year’s dinner party, which marks the third year the event has been held after the busy holiday season.
“We enjoy holding the party in January, as it’s a quiet time of year with little to no obligations. We’re able to make this a purely social event,” she says.
ILLBA President Kaya Armagan of Flash Limousine and Buses (left) with Past President Art Rento of Pontarelli Worldwide
Despite networking being the main focus, there was some business at hand. First of all, Forest River offered a presentation of their new equipment for 2026, then DeBiasi shared that the association will be holding the Great Lakes Transportation Show in May, offering education for the members. Finally, ILLBA announced that, with their 40th anniversary on the horizon in 2027, they will be forming a membership committee in the new year, spearheaded by Vice President Chris Smith of Transportation Consultants.
ILLBA Vice President (and CD/NLA Show pass winner) Chris Smith of Transportation Consultants with Executive Director Paula DeBiasi of Chicago Coachworks
Other event sponsors included Cocktail Reception Sponsors Pontarelli Worldwide and Flash Transportation; Supporting Sponsor Epic Limo; and Raffle Sponsors Chicago Coachworks, Galaxy Limousine Service, Lux Tux Transportation, and Chauffeur Driven. CD, along with the NLA, donated a Vegas Show pass, which was won by Smith.
“This was a great event,” says DeBiasi. “Carlucci provides a nice environment with great food. Our members had the opportunity to relax, and the evening provided a lot of laughter, which is the sign of a successful party. We’re looking forward to good stuff in 2026.”
Visit illba.org for more information.
[01.20.26]
