MMA holds Annual Operator Meeting in Ocean City

Maryland Motorcoach Association (MMA) held its Annual Operator Meeting in Ocean City, Maryland, to perfect weather and blue skies.

MMA Members met March 19-21 at the DoubleTree Ocean City Oceanfront with several educational sessions, networking events and a FAM tour of nearby Berlin, Maryland, and Assateague Island.

The event opened with a team-building exercise, Sip & Paint, highlighting participants’ talents and setting the stage for a fantastic event, said Mary Presley, the organization’s Executive Director. 

Ken Presley, Vice President, Legislative & Regulatory Affairs & Industry Relations/COO for United Motorcoach Association, updated the group on industry legislative issues as well as the upcoming UMA Legislative Fly-In on April 18-19 in Washington.

Additionally, the event included these events:

• “Social Media: Love It or Hate It, It’s Here to Stay,” with John Dove, KRR Photography.
• “SMART Goals: Reaching Them, and Other Hot Topics,” with Tracy Fickett, CPA. 
• “Rules and Regulations for Maryland Roads,” with Robert King, Division Administrator, FMCSA, Maryland Division.
• “Real Talk about Driver Recruiting,” with Chris Riddell, CEO, TBN.

Mixing pleasure and productivity

The FAM Tour to Berlin was a big hit, and the ponies on Assateague Island were out in full force for the group to view while riding on the Irizar bus driven by Randy Wilcox.  

Another highlight was a dinner at Harrison’s Harbor Watch. In addition, the group had time to visit with the Ocean City Tour & Travel Partners during the mix-and-mingle event and watch the sunset over the ocean. 

“We truly appreciate all the support of those that attended, as well as our sponsors, MCI, TIB Insurance, Ocean City, and their partners, Irizar & Lancer Insurance,” Presley said. 

MMA President Al Spence, of A.S. Midway Trailways, said the meeting was productive as well as enjoyable.

“While this all sounds like a relaxing few days, the MMA Board did find time to hold its Annual Board Meeting and decided that in 2024, we will have the Annual Operators Meeting in conjunction with our Annual Group Leader Travel Showcase,” Spence said. 

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