The Taxicab, Limousine & Paratransit Association (TLPA) held its 93rd Annual Convention & Trade Show in late October at the San Francisco Hilton Union Square. More than 850 attendees from 10 countries gathered for what was among the highest rated and best attended event in the nearly 100 years of the organization’s history. According to a TLPA survey, the event was rated “excellent” by 56 percent of participants and “good” by 43 percent. The trade show also had 12 vehicle exhibit spaces and 89 booth display spaces, including 20 new exhibitors.

The high levels of organization participation correlate to the growing TLPA membership. In the past year, the TLPA has recruited 233 new members from around the world, driving membership to its highest levels ever, and crossing the 1,100-member mark for the first time in its history, according to a press release from the TLPA.

Attendees were able to enjoy numerous networking events, including two grand opening and member appreciation cocktail receptions, a Leaders In Transportation Dinner, and a host operator tour of Gateway Limousine Worldwide of San Francisco.

Newly elected President Mary Smarelli of Transit Express in Milwaukee took over the reins from immediate Past President Robert McBride. Smarelli immediately asked TLPA members to increase their involvement in legislative and regulatory issues expected to arise within the industry over the next year. She will also update the TLPA’s strategic plan, promote involvement in the Transportation On Patrol program, and support the industry’s public relations program efforts. She encouraged members to further strengthen the TLPA through new member recruitment and retention efforts.

Awards were also presented at the TLPA convention. Robert Alexander of RMA Worldwide Chauffeured Transportation in Rockville, Md., was recognized as Limousine Operator of the Year. The award for Limousine Chauffeur of the Year went to Kebba Ndow of ExecuCar Maryland. It was given posthumously.

The TLPA’s 94th Annual Convention & Trade Show will be held October 26-30 at Caesar’s Palace in Las Vegas.

For more information, visit www.tlpa.org. LD01/12