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- Category: Industry News
CD and the NLA are thrilled to bring 200 of the brightest and best of the industry to Savannah from June 8-11 for our annual Executive Retreat. This one-of-a-kind southern city will be our host for a few days of unmatched education, networking, and local immersion in the unique flavor of the aptly nicknamed Hostess City of the South.
While the CD/NLA Executive Retreat is recognized for its cutting-edge and top-level education, we’re more than aware that our attendees are just as excited about the tight-knit networking that occurs at our after-hours events. With that in mind, we’re pleased to kick things off Sunday night with our Opening Dinner & Party on the Harbor Lawn.
Join us on the Westin’s picturesque Harbor Lawn, located right on the Savannah River, for a night of drinks, live music, and some authentic Lowcountry Southern cuisine. Stuff yourself silly with a multi-course meal of seafood gumbo; a delicious steampot and all the fixin’s; a spread of chicken, BBQ pork loin, and blackened grouper; as well as an array of decadent desserts. We get down to business on Monday, but on Sunday night, we eat, y’all.
“My wife and I had an unforgettable experience at the CD/NLA Executive Retreat thanks to the warm hospitality of everyone involved. From the moment we arrived, we felt welcomed and included. And let's talk about the food—every meal was a culinary delight, surpassing even my highest expectations. Without a doubt, I'll be recommending these retreats to my friends and colleagues. It's an opportunity not to be missed for anyone seeking both personal and professional growth in a luxurious and supportive environment,” says Morley Boyer of VP Neumann LTD.
Then, after our first day of inspiring education, get ready to hit the water for scenic riverboat dinner cruise on the beautiful Savannah River. Past attendees will certainly recall the fun we had on the Mississippi River and Biscayne Bay—and we’re looking forward to bringing that vibe to the Georgia waters. Our three-hour riverboat excursion picks you up dockside at the Westin property and will offer a buffet-style dinner, a DJ, and, of course, an open bar. Bask in the spectacular views of the setting sun over the Savannah River as you enjoy the company of your peers new and old. And, if you’re not ready for the evening to end, depart the boat at the iconic hotspot River Street where you can bar crawl the night away.
“This was my first CD/NLA Executive Retreat and I see why so many are excited to go. I was able to connect on a better level with people I previously met in passing, not to mention people I met for the first time. Thank you to all that organized and participated!” says Deanna Joseph of On The Town Limousines.
For more information about the CD/NLA Executive Retreat—including a full schedule of sessions and activities—head on over to cdnlaexecutiveretreat.com. There, you can register for the event and secure your accommodations at the Westin Savannah. For operators looking to make their trip a short vacation, we’re currently offering a $599 non-industry spouse pass that will let your significant other join us for our after-hours events and tours.
[05.13.25]
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- Category: Industry News
California Ground Transportation Regulatory Group (CGTRG) has announced that they are organizing an exclusive education & networking mixer on Wednesday, June 25. Held at Proud Bird in Los Angeles, the CGTRG calls this an essential event for ground transportation operators across Orange and Los Angeles Counties.
The event promises to be a unique opportunity to:
CGTRG Co-Founder Mo Garkani of The COTS Group (left) and Harry Dhillon of Ecko Worldwide at the NLA Day on the Hill
- Learn how CGTRG is actively representing the interests of California operators in meetings with major airports and the CPUC
- Get insights on upcoming seminars and workshops planned for the remainder of 2025
- Network with fellow operators and industry leaders committed to advocacy and advancement
Registration for the mixer is $50 and includes a hosted beer and wine bar and appetizers. To register, click here.
“Let’s connect, collaborate, and drive progress—together!” says CGTRG Co-Founder Mark Stewart.
CGTRG Co-Founder Mark Stewart
In other CGTRG news, the organization reports that effective July 1, 2025, there will be an increase in the fees associated with accessing ground transportation facilities at San Diego International Airport. This updated fee structure is intended to promote consistency and equity across transportation modes while aligning access fees with current market rates. In response, CGTRG encouraged operators to submit any questions or comments to the airport officials via email. A follow-up meeting will also be scheduled to share a summary of the feedback received and to provide any necessary clarifications.
On the legislative front, the CGTRG reports that California Assembly Bill 1340 (AB 1340), was introduced in the 2025-2026 legislative session by Assemblymembers Buffy Wicks and Marc Berman. Titled the Transportation Network Company Drivers Labor Relations Act, this bill aims to establish collective bargaining rights for drivers working with TNCs such as Uber and Lyft.
Per the Bill, “while AB 1340 aims to enhance drivers' rights and working conditions, it also poses financial implications for ride-hailing companies, which may, in turn, impact consumers through higher ride fares.”
Lastly, CGTRG Co-Founder Mo Garkani of The COTS Group was one of the participants in this year’s NLA Day on the Hill. This annual event brings together leaders from state associations, NLA Board Members, and operators from across the country to meet directly with members of Congress, addressing key legislative issues impacting both small and large ground transportation operators.
Key topics discussed during the event included support for the NLA through the Tax and Reconciliation Process, restoration of bonus vehicle depreciation, no federal tax on tips, enhancing IRS Section 179 deductions, and an opposition to congestion taxes that could impact operators in urban markets.
As active members of the NLA, CGTRG and its co-founders have stated that they are closely reviewing how these national advocacy efforts may align with or influence California-specific challenges, including taxation, regulatory policy, and small business protections. These takeaways will help guide CGTRG’s mission as we continue addressing the evolving needs of licensed operators throughout the state.
Visit cgtrg.org for more information and to become a member.
[05.13.25]
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- Category: Industry News
Motor Coach Industries (MCI) has expanded its ability to provide high-quality, factory-level service for motorcoach operators across Southern California. Local businesses and drivers now have access to a state-of-the-art MCI service center conveniently located near Los Angeles in Torrance, California.
Ribbon cutting at the new MCI Southern California facility
To celebrate, MCI hosted an open house and ribbon cutting ceremony for customers, partners, and local officials on May 1.
“This new location expands our reach and enhances support for customers in one of the nation’s most active transportation corridors,” said MCI Service Centers Director Michael Donner. “With advanced capabilities and a strong local team, we’re delivering the expert service our customers rely on.”
Led by Service Center Manager Tony Molina, the 35,000-square-foot Torrance facility features:
- 12 service bays and an outdoor wash station
- A dedicated high-voltage repair station and 60kW charging infrastructure
- OEM diagnostic tools and factory-trained technicians
- Body and paint services, refurbishment, fire restoration, and general repairs
- A relaxing drivers lounge with Wi-Fi, refreshments, and comfortable seating
The MCI Torrence team
The new facility supports all makes and models of NFI Group motorcoaches and buses, including MCI, New Flyer, ARBOC, and Alexander Dennis vehicles. Located at 20700 Denker Ave, Unit A, the Torrance service center is open Monday to Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. PT, or call 909.240.7211.
The Torrance site joins a network of seven full-service MCI and New Flyer service centers across North America, each offering diagnostics, accurate estimates, and a 6-month parts and labor warranty under MCI’s Reliadrive quality commitment. With in-field support, 24/7 roadside assistance, and parts from NFI Parts, MCI delivers greater uptime and peace of mind for fleet operators.
From routine maintenance and electric vehicle support to major collision repairs and complete refurbishments, MCI service centers are built to meet the evolving needs of today’s motorcoach fleets.
Visit mcicoach.com for more information.
[05.13.25]