Association Updates

MLA Hosts Luncheon Membership Meeting

Maryland Livery Association (MLA)
Maryland Livery AssociationL to R: Len Joseph, Ace Shaer of Ace Limousine & Airport Service, and CD Editor Rob Smentek

On February 17, the Maryland Livery Association (MLA) returned to Jimmy’s Famous Seafood in Baltimore for their bimonthly membership meeting. More than 20 members and guests were in attendance for the event, including CD Editor Rob Smentek.

MLA President Len Joseph of On The Town Limousines kicked off the afternoon’s programming at noon by passing a microphone and allowing each of the attendees to introduce themselves. Then, he and Secretary General Japneet Suri of Executive CLS welcomed marketing expert Adam Tregaskis of LivTek Solutions via Zoom. Tregaskis provided a presentation called Digital Marketing Break Down, which provided an overview for operators to become more knowledgeable prior to dealing with agencies and creatives.

Maryland Livery AssociationMLA President Len Joseph of On The Town Limousines

After sharing that the ROI on digital marketing is huge, Tregaskis introduced the six main pillars of digital marketing, namely SEO, pay per click, content marketing, email marketing, social media marketing, and analytics and data driven marketing. He then offered the three core marketing goals, which include getting traffic, building trust, and generating bookings. Ultimately however, Tregaskis placed a heavy importance on having a good, mobile-friendly website, as it serves as a storefront for your business. Furthermore, a booking widget at the top of every page on your website is vital for generating bookings. Tregaskis provided in-depth looks at SEO, social media, and email marketing, which he said is an “underrated goldmine.” He concluded with a look at red flags in digital marketing and then fielded questions from the MLA members.

Maryland Livery AssociationPaul Pasternak of Legends Limousine (left) and Sam Ajaz of Executive CLS

After the presentation, Joseph welcomed his fellow board members, including Vice President Ray Gavino of Translogic Executive, Treasurer Quentin Bassey of RSTQ Transportation, as well as Suri, to speak on the current state of MLA affairs.

After providing a brief Treasurer’s Report, Bassey said that the “MLA is financially stronger than 2025” and with renewals due in a few weeks, the association should be particularly sound.  Gavino shared that the 2026 golf tournament fundraiser is scheduled for July 21 at Norbeck Country Club in Rockville, Md., with 100 percent of the sponsors from 2025 expected to return this year. Hole and cart sponsorships are available, and Gavino encouraged members to step up and support the event.

Maryland Livery Association Maryland Livery Association20 members and guests were in attendance at Jimmy’s Famous Seafood

Joseph also discussed some new business, including working with BWI airport officials regarding the enforcement and compliance of permits. He shared that while the association has no qualms with the airport checking for permits, the practice of pulling over legal operators with passengers is unfair and unnecessary.  However, Joseph said that investigators are ramping up efforts to crack down on illegal operators.

The meeting continued with a discussion about the National Limousine Association’s Day on the Hill in April. MLA members are planning to partner with each other to provide local transportation for the attendees of the event.

Finally, before lunch was served, Joseph encouraged all members to attend the CD/NLA Show in Vegas on March 1-3. Smentek offered to field any questions about the show from the group.

The next MLA meeting is scheduled for April 7.

Visit marylandliveryassociation.org for more information.

[02.24.26]

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