January - February 2013 Volume 17 Issue 1

January - February 2013
Volume 17 Issue 1
EMPLOYEE NEWS
Santa’s Helpers:
Adalisa Jackson-King
Balloon Connections
Barbara Murdock
Ben Eld
Bill Bigelow
Bob Brehove
Bobby Karim
Brian Langdon
Brian Roy
Cari Rubin
Carlos Collazo
Caroll’s Catering
Chip Springer
Chris Earl
Cindy Turner
Cyndi Maners
Cynthia Morris
Darland Bakery
Denny Robles
Donna Fein
Frank Mallonee
Fritzner Montanban
Fun Planners
Gordon King
Harry Brickey
Hugh Dowling
Jean Worthington
Jeff Goelz
Jennifer Campbell
Jerry Darkey
Jim Ungvary
Joan Helton
Joe Drogo
Joe Tuero
Jon Lee
Judy Haley
Julie Mezzina
Justin Moore
Kerri Ludwig Kriner
Kirby Rentals
Larry Duniho
Le Minh Quan
Lee Bradley
Lenny LaGrange
Linda Kauffman
Lisa Hayley Lundquist
Lisa Langdon
Lori Babb
Mandy Ilene Schiff
Marcus Reyes
Mark Willis
Mary Swift
Max King
Michelle Ingram
Mike Lalikos
Mike McGrath
Murray Collins
Paola Santigati
Party Guys
Pat Wahl
Patty Soto
Rene Mayo
Rick Boyd
Robert Phelps
Rosemary Gates
Shannon Gravitte
Sheiva Jolly
Sony Isaac
Steve Babb
T. Skorman Productions
Texas Cattle Company
Tonya Dease
Wayne Nassis
Many thanks to those of you who helped sell, buy and donate prizes for our Christmas party raffle and helped raise nearly $9,000 for the Russell Home for Atypical Children.
More than 100 prizes donated by:
180 Medspa
ABC Companies
Arnold Palmer Golf Management
Atlantic Automotive
Battery USA
Ben’s Paint Supply
Big Fin
BJ’s Wholesale
Bridgestone/Firestone
Cantina Laredo
Caribe Royale
Cintas
Corporate Caterers
Crave
Crowne Plaza
Disney Cruise Lines
Don Reid Ford
Fleetwing Corporation
Gas Products & Service, Inc.
Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek
J&L Hardware
JW Marriott
JW Outfitters
Massey
Michael Murray Ent.
Mid State Fire Equipment
Napa Auto Parts
Norman’s
Orlando Freight Liner
Orlando Hose & Fittings
Palmer Golf
Prater Radiator Inc. &
Warehouse
Ritz Carlton
Royal Plaza
Roys
Rush Truck Center
Sea World/Aquatica
Seasons 52
Sheraton Vistana Villages
Snacktime
Southern Truck Equipment
Services, Inc.
Standard Coffee
Streeters Weld-Fab, Inc.
Taverna Opa Orlando
Transit Sales International
TRS, Inc.
Unisource
Universal Studios
Waldorf Astoria
Walt Disney World
Water Solutions
Westgate Resorts
And the raffle winners are:
Adolfo Lopez
Amanda Trosset
Barbara Stadig
Beatriz Martinez
Belouche Jean
Cathy Larson
Cesar Paz
Chris Recicar
Cindy Mackey
Craig Cooper
Dan Ford
David Dease
David Weichert
Donnie Dieterle
Drew Kovarik
Eddie Bodden
Elwood McHaffie
Emad Kloub
Erin Leonhardt
Frank Lawrence
Frank Mallonee
George Castaldo
Gil Nieves
Grace Villines
Greg Kaul
Hamer Diglel
Harold Siler
Hugh Dowling
Ian Kaufman
Jack Bumgardner
James Geon
James Ramsaroop
Jennifer Campbell
Jennifer Janette
John McCammack
John Wolfe
Joseph Higgins
Julian Silva
Julie James
Julie Mezzina
Kim Somers
Kimene Cajuste
Kraige Jean
Linda Chalfant
Linda Kauffman
Marcia Giampoli
Marcy Lapetina
Maria Silva
Mike Mompierre
Mirlande Augustin
Mohammed Hassan
Pam Ward
Pat Wahl
Paul Taglione
Pedro Gomez
Peggy Nance
Pooya Behbood
Raul Colon
Ray Ramtahall
Congratulations to all!
2
MEARS IN M OTION NEWSLETTER • January - February 2013
Renee Mayo
Robert Moore
Rodney Posey
Ron Fulton
Ron Grazzini
Ron Jones
Rosemary Gates
Roy Richardson
Ruben Grant
Ruben Jean Louis
Sasha Sincic
Sheldon Watson
Sherri Ventresca
Stacey Baytes
Stephanie Campbell
Stephanie Green
Sybil Smith
Vic Laxson
Virginia Velez
Wayne Nassis
Wilber Penafiel
Younes Ben Abdelouahab
EMPLOYEE NEWS
WELCOME ABOARD
Please join in welcoming Cortney Patrick to Hello! Florida as a
Sales Coordinator. Cortney comes to us from the Florida Panthers,
where she worked in building operations, assisted during events
and conducted research on sustainable building initiatives. And
she can proudly say she is a Florida Gator!
Hello! Washington, D.C. welcomes Lydia Reichner to the role
of Sales Coordinator. Lydia has a BS in Hospitality Management
and Tourism from the University of Kentucky, and while pursuing
her degree she also gained relevant experience working at the
Crowne Plaza Hotel in Lexington. With a strong work ethic and
an outgoing personality, Lydia is already contributing to our
successes in the D.C. market.
Hello! Florida welcomes new Sales Coordinator Lauren Riffel.
Lauren worked in Admissions at Full Sail University, where she
effectively pre-qualified prospective students for the University,
while concurrently working as a Guest Service Representative
for the Orlando Magic, responsible for all aspects of the guest
experience within the premium level seating area.
rittaney Sasser has joined Hello! Florida as a Sales Coordinator.
B
Brittaney is a graduate of UCF’s Rosen College of Hospitality with
a Bachelor’s degree in Event Management. She held numerous
internships while in school, including stints with Windermere
Flowers and Gifts, Best Buddies International and Rosen Shingle
Creek. Through these internships, she gained valuable experience
in event operations and hotel food and beverage.
We welcome Lynette Teope to Hello! Florida as the new Sales
Coordinator on Erin Considine’s team. Lynette is a recent
graduate of The Rosen School of Hospitality Management, and
she gained valuable industry experience through her internship
with the sales team at Universal Orlando. She has also worked for
the Orlando Magic in their VIP Mercedes Benz Superstar lounge.
We are excited to add Lynette’s talents to our Orlando team.
Super Star Shines Brightly
Jose Ulmos, Travel Industry Coordinator
recently was presented with the Super Star
award by Bret Voisin, Vice President of Sales
and Marketing.
Jose joined Mears in 2005 as a Customer
Service Representative and has been a Sales
Coordinator in the Travel Industry department
since 2007. His clients often remark on his
enthusiasm and professionalism. You can
always count on Jose to follow through with
any project and offer valuable input on how
to improve existing procedures.
ON THE MOVE
Please join in congratulating Kate Connin on her promotion from Sales Coordinator to Product Development
Manager for Hello! Florida. Kate joined us as a Sales
Coordinator in February, 2012. Her dedication, attention
to detail and enthusiasm make her the perfect fit for the
Product Development role. Kate will be working directly
with the Sales Coordinators and vendors to keep our
relationships and product knowledge going strong.
e’re pleased to announce the promotion of Cendy Knight
W
to the position of Director of Creative Services for Hello!
Arizona. Cendy has been with our organization for more
than 8 years as an Account Manager, Account Executive
and Creative Manager. She has been instrumental in securing and managing long term relationships with Brown
and Brown, Goodyear and Lotusphere, to name a few.
We look forward to great things from Cendy as she joins
our talented group of professionals in Arizona.
WEDDING ANNOUNCEMENT
Congratulations to Hello! Florida
Meeting Services Manager
Stephanie Goode. She married
Frankie Green on September 15.
Hello! Florida Account Executive
Elizabeth Garcia and Felix Llibre
exchanged wedding vows on
November 24. Best wishes,
Elizabeth and Felix!
BIRTH ANNOUNCEMENT
Hello! Florida Account
Executive Chad Daun and
his wife, Nicole, welcomed
a baby girl on November 4.
Siena Rae Daun weighed 6
lbs., 14 oz. and measured 19
1/2 inches. Congratulations
to the Daun family.
Bret presenting Jose (on right) with his award.
His dedication, attention to detail and
reliability earned Jose the title of “SUPER STAR” for the Mears Sales Department.
M EA RS IN M OTIO N N EW SLETTER • January - Fe brua ry 2013
3
EMPLOYEE NEWS
20 YEARS
25 YEARS
Lorna Allen
OIA Customer Service Agent
Norman Elam
Motor Coach Operator
Loni Natale
Mary Johnson
Hello! Florida
Program Manager
MDS Starter
15 YEARS
Carolyn DeFreitas
Motor Coach Operations
Shop Administrative
Assistant
10 YEARS
Rose Fernandez
Hello! Florida Field Staffer
Anne-Marie Kleisler
Hello! Florida Field Staffer
Donnie Dieterle
Hello! Florida
Program Manager
Leticia Reyes
CCC Customer Service
Agent
Michael Bloom
Motor Coach Operator
Daniel Buzzello
Motor Coach Operator
Ruth Counts
CCC Cashier
Maria Ferraris
Shuttle Van Driver
Alberto Gonzalez
Motor Coach Operator
Besi De Guzman
Hello! Las Vegas
Accounting Manager
Julio Guerra
Shuttle Van Driver
Gery Horn
Motor Coach Operator
John Minchilli
Motor Coach Operator
Freddie Walker
Motor Coach Operator/
Field Trainer
5 YEARS
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MEARS IN M OTION NEWSLETTER • January - February 2013
EMPLOYEE NEWS
1 YEAR
Michael Allcock, CCC
Jacqueline Aviles, HLV
George Belcher, MDS
Katrina Bennett, HF
Tiffany Beuzelin, HF
Joshua Bowden, CCC
Glen Caven, MDS
Chalomchit Chalothorn, MDS
Ronnie Collins, MDS
Miriam Colon, CCC
Kate Connin, HF
Eric Despiav, CCC
Brian Duquaine, MDS
Sean George, MDS
Louis Gonzalez, CCC
Stephen Harris, MDS
Thomas Harris, HF
Eddie Hayes, MDS
Nashida Johnson, CCC
William Korniotes, MDS
Paul Kutcher, MDS
Bradley Lopes, MDS
Jarris McCall, CCC
Michael McDonald, MDS
Shanna Maye, CCC
Anthony Meadows, MDS
Brenda Noren, CCC
Melanie Patalano, HF
Patrick Peel, HLV
Leslie Phelps, CCC
Eric Pollack, MDS
Elias Ramos, MDS
Denny Robles, CCC
Bryan Sanford, MDS
Kerry Sauber, HF
William Schrum, MDS
Jose Soto, MDS
Eric Thompson, Jr., CCC
Robert Upton, Jr., CCC
Jacqueline Wade, CCC
Sean White, CCC
Curtis Windham, MDS
EXAMPLE OF EXCELLENCE
Motor Coach Operator Dave Sullivan has served thousands of customers during his tenure with Mears. Recently, our “Mystery
Shopper” observed him aboard Disney’s Magical Express (DME). Congratulations to Dave for earning a Perfect Shopper Report
and courtesy award! Here’s what the shopper had to say about his great service:
“When Dave came on board, he said, ‘Good morning, everyone. Welcome to Orlando and welcome aboard Disney’s Magical
Express. Is everyone ready to get to Disney World? That’s good because that’s where we are headed.’ He announced the travel
time to the resorts and named the stops, explained the video, and said, ‘My name is Dave; enjoy the ride and thank you for
using Disney’s Magical Express.’ A guest in the front seat asked Dave a lot of questions. He was very cordial and answered all of
the guest’s questions. Dave pointed out a gator as we passed it on the 417. As we entered Disney he announced, ‘This is where
you cheer.’ As we entered the first resort Dave explained the luggage process and then he announced, ‘Watch your heads and the steps. Don’t forget
your personal belongings. On behalf of Disney’s Magical Express, I hope everyone has a great time, lots of fun and I would like to thank you for
riding along with me on Disney’s Magical Express’. Dave did an excellent job communicating the necessary information and thanking everyone at
each stop.”
KUDOS
A co-worker recently sent these KUDOS to
Motor Coach Managers on Duty Jay Del-Gado
and Michelle Rodriguez:
Hello! Florida Director of Operations Kathy Turns
sends KUDOS to Client Service Manager
Karren Umstead:
“Recently I was asked if we could provide motor
coaches to assist with the employee shuttle from
ESPN to the Dolphin. The Dolphin had an extra
2,500 unexpected convention attendees arrive
by personal vehicles, which created various
transportation challenges.
“Thank you for going above and beyond and
assisting us with all the changes and for dispatching into LMA. That was a HUGE help and we
could not have done that without you.”
“I want to thank Jay and Michelle; at a moment’s
notice they leaped in to assist. There were 400+
passengers stranded at Wide World of Sports who
needed to be transported to the Dolphin Resort.
Everyone was very much appreciative of our
prompt response.”
“Karren, thank you for once again going above
and beyond to insure our success.”
Director of Client Services Lee Bradley adds:
Core Values: Enthusiasm & Efficiency
Motor Coach Operator Charlie Kauffman (on
behalf of the entire group of motor coach
operators who handled 2012 Dreamflight) sent
KUDOS to Hello! Florida Field Staffer Nysha
Lucky:
“Thanks to Nysha from the 2012 Dreamflight
drivers. She started each morning with a bright
smile and all the information we needed for the
day. No detail was missed, and she was an
important contributor to the excellent service
that was provided to these special passengers.
We look forward to working with Nysha and
Dreamflight again in 2013.”
Core Values: Enthusiasm & Efficiency
Core Values: Efficiency & Enthusiasm
M EA RS IN M OTIO N N EW SLETTER • January - Fe brua ry 2013
5
COMPANY NEWS
Congratulations, Safety
The following skilled Motor Coach Operators qualified for our Fall 2012 Safety Awards banquet by
achieving 2000 hours of accident-free driving. More than 20 drivers qualified for the first time this
year, 18 drivers earned their second safety award, 21 drivers are three-time recipients, 62 drivers are
four-time recipients, 33 drivers are five-time recipients and two outstanding individuals received this
safe-driving recognition for the sixth time!
6-Time Recipients
GARCIA, CARMELO
SMITH, DAN
5-Time Recipients
BARAN, DANIEL
BLANCO, CLARENCE
BRINES, BILL
BUZZELLO, DANIEL
CABRERA, JOAN
CASTRO, LUIS
CENATIEMPO, RICHARD
CRAWFORD, DAVID
CZAYA, RICHARD
DASMY, JOSEPH
DUCOS, JOSE
GALLARDO, ALBERTO
JADIN, RICHARD
JAFFAR, SYED
JEAN-GILLES, ANSON
JOACHIM, JONES
KANACK, WILLIAM
KAUFFMAN, CHARLES
LAKHAL, ABDELHADI
LOVE, BOBBY
MATOS, HENRY
PALACIO, JAVIER
PETERSON, RANDOLPH
PHILLIPS, JAMES
PIERRE, JEAN “MARIO”
PRIMICIERO, LUIS
REARDON, WILLIAM
RIBEIRO, HENDERSON
ROCHA, ERNESTO
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MEARS IN M OTION NEWSLETTER • January - February 2013
SCHROEDER, PATRICK
SHAW, TAMMY
VALLEJO, GUSTAVO A.
WALTON, CREETON
4-Time Recipients
ADAMS, JAMES
ALESI, BARBARANN
ALEXANDER, DOMINIQUE
ALMODOVAR, ISMAEL
ARD, MICHAEL
ATKINS, THERESA
CALDERON, SOCRATES
CALIXTE, RICHARD
CLEMENTS, MARK
COMMEAN, DANA
CUEVAS, CHRISTOPHER
DE POFE, DOMINIC
DEMARQUEZ, MARCELA
DIALLO, KISMET
DOBLE, RAFAEL
FELIZ, JOSUE
GAMEZ, MANUEL
GARCIA, FRANCISCO
GATLIN, JOSEPH
GEON, JAMES
GOSS, NEIL
GOZALES, JOSE
GRANBERG, RICHARD
GREENE, DENNIS
GUZMAN, WALDEMAR
HASSAN, MOHAMMED
LABRANCHE, MARC
LASANTA, CARLOS
LUCKIE, CHRISTOPHER
MANSOUR, MARK
MAURY, RAMON
MAXIME, MOISE
MELENDEZ, ROBERTO
MENA, MARCIO
MEYER, MERRY
MONSANTO, NELSON
MURPHY, WILLIAM
MYLES, DARRELL
NAPOLI, JOHN
NEWMAN, MICHAEL
NICOLAAS, EDSEL
NUEZ, FELIX
OLSEN, RAYMOND
ORTIZ, USBERTO
PAWLIK, GREGORY
PIMENTEL, DAVID
QUIJIJE, ANGELA
QUINONES, JULIO
RETTGER, MARITZA
REYNOLDS, WILBUR
RICHARDSON, ROY
ROBERTS, DARRYL
RODRIGUEZ, ANTOINETTE
RODRIGUEZ, EDWIN
RUDINGER, ALVARO
SPEIGLE, WILLIAM
SULLIVAN, DAVID
TINOCO, HUGO
VALLE, JOSE
VARNEY, LARRY
VILLEGAS, LUIS
WILSON, DERRICK
COMPANY NEWS
Award Winners!
3-Time Recipients
ALANIZ, GERARDO
ARAUJO, ERIL
BACHOO, SAMLAL
BOWMAN, ROBERT
CALVO, GEORGE
CONKLIN, LARRY
CORBITT, JAMES
EDWARDS, CARL
GAINEY, GEORGE
HART, COLIN
KARAGINIS, NICHOLAS
MAIN, CLIFFORD
MALLOZZI, ANTHONY
MARTIN, ERIC
MOLLAY, JOEL
PERSAD, BHUWANDIAL
SANCHEZ, ARNALDO
SILVA, MARIA
SOSA, CARLOS
SURUJBALLI, MAHADEO
WALTON, CECIL
2-Time Recipients
ALLEN, RONNIE
ANDERSON, DAVID
AUBOURG, MARC
BENTCLIFF, THOMAS
BRUCE, JAMES
COOPER, CRAIG
GARCIA, PABLO B.
GIRALDO, JOSE
GONZALEZ, CESAR
GULAMHUSSEIN,
MOHAMED
JACKSON, JESSICA
MACK, DAVID
MERRICK, DONALD
RAGBEER, RAMDATH
SMITH, RICHARD
STURNIOLO, JOHN
TAGLIONE, PAUL
VILCHES, DAVID
First-Time Recipients
BARRETT, MICHAEL
BURTON, CLINTON
DELVALLE, OSCAR
FERNANDEZ, JUAN
GUZMAN, ARMANDO
HAHN, FRANK
HECTOR, JEAN
HICKSON, RUSSELL
HUMMEL, ERIK
HUNTER, JOHN
KORNIOTES, WILLIAM
LOPES, BRADLEY
LUKAT, GARY
MORRISEY, GARY
PARKER, CINDY
PARKER, ROBERT
PERRY, ATWOOD
RAYMONVIL, JUNIOR
REIGLE, GERALD
ROACH, LAUREL
SHIFLETT, JAMES
THOMPSON, WAYNE
Drivers received awards based on the number of times they’ve achieved the
safety program goals.
Award 1, for 1st-Time Recipients
Snap-Shut Log Book Cover
Expandable Saddle Bag
Imprinted Stainless Steel Tumbler
Streamlight Key-Mate
Award 4, for 4th-Time Recipients
Tool Kit
Key Strap w/ Carabiner Hook
Pen
Shopping Tote
Award 2, for 2nd-Time Recipients
Tire Tread Depth Gauge
Milano Jr. Writing Pad w/Drake Twist
Calculator
Re-Usable Tote Bags
Houdini Automotive Escape Tool
Houdini Key Chain Rescue Hook Tool
Award 5, for 5th-Time Recipients
Life in Motion Primary Computer
Backpack
Digital People Counter
Award 3, for 3rd-Time Recipients
Telescopic Folding Automatic Umbrella
Expedition Water Bottle
Cooler Bag
Award 6, for 6th-Time Recipients
Wrist-Ease Mouse Pad
Windshield Sun Screen
Tumbler Sets
Accent Sports Pack
M EA RS IN M OTIO N N EW SLETTER • January - Fe brua ry 2013
7
LOCAL NEWS
The Inn Nova (computer code
#1298) is now
Sunsol Resort
9330 W. Hwy. 192
Kissimmee FL 34714
863-424-8420
Shuttle Zone 4
Luxury Vehicle Zone 511
Taxi Zone 351
The Celebration World Resort
(computer code #3061) is now
Festiva Orlando Resort
7503 Atlantis Way
Kissimmee FL 34747
407-396-4005
Shuttle Zone 4
Luxury Vehicle Zone 163
Taxi Zone 354
Disney Prepares to Launch “My Magic+” Tool
Walt Disney World is always pushing the boundaries of creativity and innovation. Here’s a sneak
peek at what’s in the works for 2013.
Starting this spring, Disney will be rolling out a collection of tools at the Walt Disney World
Resort called MyMagic+ that will give guests more opportunities to customize their entire visit.
For example, rather than dashing around the park to gather those coveted FastPasses, guests will
be able to book guaranteed ride times for favorite attractions before even setting foot in the park!
A key component of MyMagic+ is the new My Disney Experience website and mobile app,
which offers the latest information on all that the Walt Disney World Resort has to offer. While
planning their trip, guests can book dining and other experiences, reserve times for favorite
attractions, shows and more through an enhanced system called FastPass+. Once they arrive,
visitors can even use smart phones to change their plans on the spur of the moment. Already,
Disney has installed free Wi-Fi throughout the Disney World Resort’s 40 square miles, so smartphone users can access the My Disney Experience app easily.
Linking the entire MyMagic+ system together is a unique piece of technology called the MagicBand. Worn on the wrist, this bracelet will serve as a guest’s
room key, theme park ticket, access to FastPass+ selections, PhotoPass card and optional payment account all rolled into one. Eventually, park guests will no
longer have to pass through entrance turnstiles. Instead, they’ll simply tap their MagicBand on a post to enter. This new initiative is yet another example of
Disney’s ongoing commitment to creating magical experiences for more than 30 million people each year.
Committed
to Our
Community
At the Visit Orlando luncheon
in December, Hyatt Regency
Grand Cypress Manager Director
Paul Tang passed the Chairman’s
gavel to Paul Mears III. Mr. Mears
will serve as the Chairman of Visit
Orlando for the next two years.
8
MEARS IN M OTION NEWSLETTER • January - February 2013
Paul Mears III welcomes, from left, Duane Winjum,
General Manager of the Crowne Plaza Orlando
Downtown and newly elected Orange County
Commissioner Pete Clarke to the Hello! Florida offices
for the CFHLA Governmental Affairs meeting.
COMPANY NEWS
Spotlight on Safety
Boarding and Exiting the Van
Safety Steps Can Help Reduce the Risk
One of the most commonly overlooked risks
shuttle and taxi van drivers face are passenger
injuries that can occur while boarding or exiting
the vehicle. Step stools play an important role in
the safety process, so it’s important that drivers
properly use and position these critical pieces of
equipment.
Brie
Hannah
Snowball
Be sure to use only the approved stepstool
provided by the company. What might appear to
be a stable and functional step stool may in fact
be a very costly, inappropriate alternative to a
professionally designed and manufactured
product. So, don’t take any chances; use only
the stool issued to you.
It is also important to inspect step stools closely
before and after use. When in doubt, remove
the stool from service and use an approved
replacement. You’ll also want to be sure to include
the step stool as part of your usual pre-trip
inspection. As in any safety-related situation,
consistency is key.
Rosie
Heidi
‘‘
Source: November 2012 Lancer Insurance Company Risk Alert
‘‘
“It’s not hard to
make decisions when
you know what your
values are.”
Michele Caruvana
Hello! Florida
Account Manager
Darlene Plisko
Hello! Florida VP Sales
Michelle Zwieg
Hello! Florida Field Staffer
Roy Disney
Former Disney executive,
nephew of Walt Disney
Paul Taglione
Motor Coach Operator
Rosemary Gates
Business Manager
M EA RS IN M OTIO N N EW SLETTER • January - Fe brua ry 2013
9
CUSTOMER COMMENTS
Hello! Las Vegas General Manager Melissa Zorko
and Account Manager Jacqueline Aviles were
thanked by Aaron Rowe with Disney Event Group:
“Thanks VERY much for your excellent support of
our events during IMEX. At Disney, as you know,
we pride ourselves on our attention to detail and
excellent guest service. The best compliment I can
say to you is that I felt right at home working with
you. Your team, your vendors - all had excellent
attention to detail, were pleasant, and delivered
excellent guest service. The products and services
were delivered as specified, and your communication with us never left me in doubt that things would
happen as expected. Thank you for all you did to
make our events as successful as they were.”
Core Values: Respect, Efficiency & Enthusiasm
Hello! Florida Account Executive Kelly Kruszewski
and Account Manager Melissa Klein were
commended by Angela Carter, Meetings Manager
with Hogan Lovells US:
“Wanted to send a huge thanks your way for the
smooth handling of our transportation at last week’s
Conference. You and your on-site staff were
wonderful and were invaluable in helping us with
the many changes for our partner’s travel. I’m very
appreciative!”
Account Executive Kelly Kruszewski adds:
“800 people with 5,000 changes (I know the
number because I was copied on them all) and you
kept up with every single one! GREAT JOB MELISSA!
Thank you for being a rock star.”
Core Values: Efficiency & Enthusiasm
Chairman Paul Mears, Jr. received this note of
appreciation from a grateful dad:
“I wanted to take a moment and thank you and
your company for supporting ‘Give Kids The World’
in Kissimmee. My family recently stayed there on
my 5-year-old son’s ‘Make A Wish’ trip. We had an
absolute blast the entire time and arrived back home
blissfully exhausted. Our son was born with bad
kidneys and some other issues, and he received my
wife’s kidney approximately 1 year ago. It’s been
taxing on all of us, to say the least. Your support gave
our family a vacation we would not have been able
to afford otherwise. With medical bills ever-present,
an escape from all of that was a Godsend. I wanted
you to know that your support to this resort is going
to provide relief from troubled lives, high stress, and
hopelessness. You can’t put a price on this. I am
very grateful for the blessings we have received
because of your generosity. My family and I offer
heartfelt thanks.”
Hello! Florida Account Manager Talya Adesnik was
thanked by a happy customer:
“Thank you so much for coordinating our event
at Hughes. The team had a great time! Such a fun
experience; I heard nothing but positive things. I
appreciate your efforts, and will definitely use Hello!
Florida again next time we are in need.”
Core Value: Enthusiasm
Shuttle Van Driver Luis Martinez received these
words of gratitude from Mary E. Allen and Mary
Alice Moon from Indianapolis:
“Luis picked us up at The Holiday Inn Resort, Lake
Buena Vista to take us to the Orlando airport. I
would like to commend your company for having
such an exceptional gentleman on your staff.
Without being asked, he made a call for us and
facilitated a problem resolution concerning a lost
receipt. Luis is a smart, kind, helpful driver and is a
marvelous representative. We thanked Mr. Martinez
ourselves, and I hope you will share this letter
with him.”
Core Values: Respect, Integrity & Enthusiasm
Debbie Stuber with Hawker Beechcraft Corporation
sends her thanks to Senior Sales Coordinator Rachel
Bustamante and Program Manager / Lead Staff Mary
Johnson:
“A HUGE thank you for everything during our NBAA
show. It was truly a pleasure working with your
team. I had very nice comments from the VIPs and
absolutely no complaints. Mears really delivered on
everything we had planned, and accommodated our
people with everything that was asked of them.
I would be happy to provide a referral for you
any time.”
Core Values: Efficiency & Enthusiasm
This customer from the Central Florida Gymnastics
Association complimented Sales Coordinator Erin
Leonhardt and Motor Coach Operator Diego Deleón:
“Thank you for your help. I will be using Mears in
the future. Please pass on a good word for our driver
Diego. He did a great job.”
Core Value: Enthusiasm
Angela Meyers- Serrano with Southwood Elementary
Kindergarten had this to say about Sales Coordinator
Erin Leonhardt and Motor Coach Operators David
Crawford and Charlie Kauffman:
“Our trip was fantastic. Both drivers were on-time,
friendly and safe. Thanks again and we will keep you
in mind for our next trip.”
Core Values: Respect, Safety & Enthusiasm
10
MEARS IN M OTION NEWSLETTER • January - February 2013
Hello! Arizona Director of Business Development
Kathleen Glenn and Account Managers Rachel
Schaefer and Jeanine Ollarek received the
appreciation of Troy Barber, Account Manager
with Key Events:
“Thank you to those at Hello! Arizona who made
our conference at the Phoenician truly a success. We
are pleased we chose to partner with Hello! Arizona
this year, and that you delivered on every aspect of
our program.
“I want to send a special ‘thank you’ to both Rachel
and Jeanine for going above and beyond to
accommodate whatever requests were needed,
regardless of the situation. We hope that this
partnership will continue to develop and that we
can work together on next year’s program, which
will be larger, longer, and even more challenging.
Partnership is key, and I unquestionably felt a sense
of partnership while teaming up with Rachel and
Jeanine, which is a must for this type of program.”
Core Values: Efficiency & Enthusiasm
Sales Manager Linda Schwarz and Sales Coordinator
Peggy Nance received this note of thanks from Leon
A. DaCosta, President of EZ Time Transportation:
“We would like to take this opportunity to express
our appreciation for the exemplary customer service
extended to us by two of your sales force. Linda
and, Peggy have been efficient and expeditious in
responding to our requests, going the extra mile
when we needed a coach quickly. They have always
made us feel that our relationship with Mears was
important to them.
“We have worked with Linda since we came to
Orlando in 2004 and found that she is a true asset to
your company. When people stand out in business,
we feel they should be recognized and we are very
happy to recognize Linda and Peggy for their
contribution to the transportation industry.”
Core Values: Respect, Efficiency & Enthusiasm
Michelle Richards, Business Meeting and Event
Manager with Snell & Wilmer, expressed her
gratitude to Hello! Arizona Account Executive
Rachel Bell and Account Manager Alleson Liebling:
“Thank you for helping us execute a successful
program. I really enjoyed working with you and your
team, and appreciate all of your hard work. I know
the onsite management can be time-consuming and
not always fun! I hope we have the chance to work
together again soon.”
Core Values: Enthusiasm & Efficiency
CUSTOMER COMMENTS
A happy customer complimented Sales Coordinator
Erin Leonhardt and Luxury Vehicle Chauffeur
Abidally “Bo” Azeez:
“Just wanted to be sure you all knew that ‘Bo’ was
the BEST driver we ever could have gotten. I am
hoping that he got an ‘Atta-Boy’ upon his return from
taking care of Jetcraft Corporation. We all loved him.”
Erin Leonhardt adds:
“I also want to give Bo my gratitude for making
these transfers happen smoothly for me as well as
the client.”
Core Values: Efficiency & Enthusiasm
Alex Perna, Athletics & Traditions Coordinator with
University of Central Florida, commended the service provided by Disney Sales Coordinator Megan
McFatter and Motor Coach Operator Randy Colon:
“Thank you for all of your assistance and support.
You were a tremendous help with everything and the
event would not have been so successful without
you! The driver was great. He did a great job. I will
gladly put the word out that Mears is the top-of-theline transportation company and to ask for Megan!”
Core Values: Enthusiasm & Respect
Client Service Manager Nelson Pimentel received
these words of thanks from Paul Smiley, Group Services Manager with Disney’s Magical Express (DME):
“Can’t say enough how much I appreciated your
partnership at Coronado Springs. Feedback from the
client and resort so far has been very positive. Please
pass along a big thanks to the dispatch team who
got us the equipment when it was needed.”
Lee Bradley, Director of Client Services, adds:
“I really appreciate the extra effort given to the DME
departures. This kind of attention to detail is what
continues to make our company the best in the
business. Thanks again for a job well done.”
Core Values: Efficiency & Enthusiasm
Sales Coordinator Lisa Wilson and Motor Coach
Operator Bill Reardon were thanked by a satisfied
customer:
“Our experience with Mears was very good. You
were very efficient in accommodating all our needs
and arrangements for the tour and our charter
vehicle driver, Bill was an excellent host during our
travel. We look forward to touring with Mears again
in the future.”
Core Values: Respect, Efficiency & Enthusiasm
Krista Minnice, National Dream Fulfillment Manager
with The Sunshine Foundation of Canada, praised
Sales Coordinator Jose Ulmos, Hello! Florida Field
Staffers Wally Morales and Amy Gibson and Motor
Coach Operators Rob Bowman, Charlie Kauffman,
Roberto Lahens, Christopher Luckie and Max Mena:
“I wanted to send you a note to you and all of your
team that helped us with our DreamLift. All of you
were incredible to work with, and at the end when
we had a glitch with the plane, the drivers who
had to stay late and the new drivers that came in to
replace them were fantastic with our group.
“Thank you so much to everyone for all of their hard
work, flexibility and their dedication to ensuring that
we were well looked after. We appreciate this so
much and would love to work with you and your
team in the future.”
Amanda J. Schaumburger with Pricewaterhouse
Coopers sent her thanks to Program Manager Trish
Kanner:
“We wanted to recognize Trish for her organization
of our transportation and attention to detail,
especially with our VIPs. Please pass along our
sincere thanks.
Core Values: Enthusiasm & Efficiency
Bret Voisin, Vice President of Sales and Marketing,
Karen Pitcherello, Director of Business Development, Rachel Bustamante, Senior Sales Coordinator
and Hemwattie Singh, Luxury Vehicle Chauffeur
were complimented by Susan Ogden with Lib/Go
Travel:
Core Values: Enthusiasm & Respect
“Just wanted to say a huge THANK YOU for
arranging our car service on such short notice! As
usual, the service was flawless and our driver was
both professional and an absolute doll!”
Luxury Vehicle Chauffeur Jonel Edmond received the
appreciation of this customer:
Core Values: Respect, Efficiency & Enthusiasm
“Jonel Edmond was my driver from the Crowne
Plaza to the Orlando Airport. His service was
excellent for me and a co-worker. He is an excellent
driver and we were very satisfied with the Mears
service.”
Core Values: Respect & Enthusiasm
Sales Coordinator Jose Ulmos and Motor Coach
Operators Jeanne Pagliocca and Gustavo Vallejo
received this note of appreciation:
“Your drivers did a terrific job on both transfers! New
coach, too! Thank you very much. Good working
with you.”
Sales Coordinator Nancy Provenzano and Motor
Coach Operator Carl Edwards received the gratitude
of Bill Bucher, Executive Vice President and CFO for
Axium Health Pharmacy:
Core Value: Enthusiasm
“I wanted to write you commending your driver,
Carl Edwards. We used your services for a trip to
Jacksonville. Mr. Edwards was courteous and very
professional. He was accommodating in every way
possible, and our trip was safe and pleasant.
“Thank you for helping us ‘roll out the red carpet’ in
Orlando during US-China Investment Week.
“We have used your services in the past for many
functions, but [this time] we believe a ‘thank you’
note is in order as Mr. Edwards’ professional
demeanor should be duly noted. We look forward
to working with you again.”
Core Values: Respect, Safety & Enthusiasm
Sales Coordinator Jose Ulmos and Motor Coach
Operators Jeams Appolon and Aiman Gil earned this
compliment:
Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer commended Sales
Manager Ortancis Gaines:
“Although their time visiting Orlando was brief,
our guests were able to experience first-hand an
assortment of the wonderful things happening in
our vibrant community. Accomplishing this in such
a short period of time was only possible with your
strong support.
“As a result of your gracious hospitality, I am confident that our guests returned home with a newfound
appreciation for our great City. Again, thank you
for being a part of the US-China Investment Week
Orlando Summit.”
Core Values: Enthusiasm & Respect
“Thank you for the excellent service provided by
Mears Transportation. We were treated with courtesy
and punctuality.”
Core Values: Respect & Efficiency
M EA RS IN M OTIO N N EW SLETTER • January - Fe brua ry 2013
11
CUSTOMER COMMENTS
Vice President, Sales and Marketing Bret Voisin
passed along this letter of thanks written by the Roos
family from the Netherlands:
“Thanks a lot for all the transportation you did for us
during our wonderful stay at Give Kids The World in
Kissimmee. Very friendly people with Mears! Thanks
a lot for all you have done for our family. We will
never forget this really wonderful stay as a dream
week. It was a week not visiting hospitals, but the
sun was shining above us and we were doing only
nice things, so illness and sickness were forgotten
that week. And also thanks for the driver who told
about Disney things during our stay in your bus!”
Core Value: Enthusiasm
This letter came from Jenn Punch, Account Supervisor with OgilvyAction, in praise of Transportation
Sales and Operations Manager Kerri Ludwig-Kriner:
“I wanted to drop you a note about Kerri’s outstanding support especially during Hurricane Sandy
that devastated my hometown of NYC. For the last
couple of months, I was working with Kerri to contract transportation for my client, UBS, for the recent
NBAA conference in Orlando. During this time, Kerri
went above and beyond for us. As the client continued to make updates to the schedule, Kerri patiently
and promptly made all changes. She even persisted
with the conference venue when they were shy of
providing the details she needed in order for us to
have a smooth pick up and drop off.
“As the hurricane hit, we knew our NY team (myself
included) would not be able to travel down. Kerri
worked day and night to accommodate our smaller
team. Although my emails stopped working (phone
service was scarce), Kerri worked directly with the
client to ensure all of our needs were met. She also
followed up with me to ask if I was safe and sound
during the storm.
Yellow Cab Driver Jonas Belidor earned this note of
appreciation from a grateful customer:
“Thank you to taxi number 232! I left my purse at
my hotel and was in a major time crunch to get
it and get back to the airport. Jonas knew exactly
where to go and did not hesitate in getting me there
and back in time. Thank you, great work and please
let him know I made my flight!”
Core Values: Enthusiasm & Efficiency
Sales Coordinator Erin Leonhardt provided great
service to Jerilyn Crain, Customer Service Manager
with MK Diamond Products, Inc.:
“I am a customer service manager and have been
for 30 - 35 years. I always encourage my department
to make sure they are providing ‘excellent customer
service.’ That is indeed what you provided in your
informational email. Excellent Customer Service is
hard to find in this day and time. Thanks again!”
Darlene & Heidi
Core Values: Respect & Enthusiasm
NEWSLETTER CREDITS
Michele C. & Hannah
Published bimonthly through the
teamwork of:
Cher Brutus, MDS Operations
Chris Earl, Safety
Joy Fleming, Employment
Rosemary Gates, Sales
Paul & Snowball
Shannon Gravitte, Gov’t & Community Relations
“As my emails returned, I didn’t panic as I knew
Kerri had it all under control.
Heather Husom, Hello! Arizona
Julie James, Training & Development
“She was nothing short of a miracle for us! Kudos for
having such an awesome person on your team!”
Kraige Jean, Motor Coach Operations
Bill Langbein, Print & Graphic Services
Bret Voisin, VP of Sales and Marketing, adds:
“This is wonderful! Thanks for the dedication and
loyalty you have to your job and Mears on a daily
basis.”
(From page 9)
Julie Mezzina, Hello! Florida Orlando
Emily Nicolas, Hello! Florida Ft. Lauderdale
Core Values: Respect, Efficiency & Enthusiasm
Lynn Pool, Training & Development
Rosemary & Brie
Jose Pujals, Print & Graphic Services
Cari Rubin, Human Resources
David Taitano, Taxi Training
Jim Ungvary, Human Resources
Heidi Ziegler, MDS Operations
Melissa Zorko, Hello! Las Vegas
12
MEARS IN M OTION NEWSLETTER • January - February 2013
Michelle Z. & Rosie