The Greater Northeast Motorcoach Association (GNEMA) brought members, industry partners, and guests together in Atlantic City September 29–October 1 for its 2026 Fall Meeting, a three-day gathering featuring eight events and celebrating the Association’s 45th anniversary. From the golf course and driver competition to marketplaces, education, awards and an unforgettable 80s celebration, the Fall Meeting highlighted what GNEMA does best: bring the motorcoach, travel, and tourism communities together.
Scholarship Fundraiser Kicks Off Three Days
The Fall Meeting got underway Tuesday at Blue Heron Pines Golf Club with GNEMA’s annual Golf Outing supporting the Association’s Scholarship Program.
Following the outing, GNEMA continued a special annual tradition with its “Toast to Tommy,” honoring the memory of former longtime GNEMA President and association founder Tom Dugan of Safety Bus. Thank you to Tony Mongiovi and TEMSA for sponsoring the Toast.
Driver Safety Competition Showcases the Best Behind the Wheel
Wednesday began with GNEMA’s 2nd Annual Driver Safety Competition, giving professional motorcoach drivers an opportunity to demonstrate the skill, knowledge, and professionalism they bring to their jobs every day.
Thirteen professional drivers representing motorcoach companies throughout the region stepped up to compete:
Peter Newsome, Bailey Coach; Manuel Costa, Coach USA/Suburban Transit; Clive Wallace, DATTCO; Crawford Lassiter, Greyhound Lines; Jenny Dacierno, Hampton Jitney; Bryan Maxwell, Krapf Coaches; Angelo Concert, Martz Bus; Levi Newton, Panorama Tours; Josue Garcia, Peter Pan Bus Lines; James Jackson, Silver Star Transportation; Sean Hatch, Starr Tours; Ricky Goldsmith, Stouts; and Kendal Rohan, Trans-Bridge Lines.
When the competition concluded, Josue Garcia of Peter Pan Bus Lines captured first place, followed by Angelo Concert of Martz Bus in second and Jenny Dacierno of Hampton Jitney in third. Sean Hatch of Starr Tours finished fourth, and Clive Wallace of DATTCO rounded out the top five.
Trophies and cash prizes were presented at the Association Luncheon. Josue will go on to compete in the National Driver Safety Competition during the 2027 UMA Expo in San Antonio. Go, Josue!
While five drivers took home the top honors, the competition was an opportunity to recognize all 13 professional drivers who represented their companies and demonstrated the skill and commitment to safety that motorcoach drivers bring to the road every day.
The event would not have been possible without the participating operators and the many sponsors, judges and volunteers who contributed their time, equipment, and expertise.
Vendor Mini-Marketplace Creates Connections
The day continued with GNEMA’s Vendor Mini-Marketplace, giving operator members an opportunity to connect face-to-face with vendors and industry partners.
The marketplace provided dedicated time to learn about products and services, strengthen existing partnerships, and build new business relationships.
Association Meeting and Luncheon Features Ron “Jaws” Jaworski
The Association Meeting and Luncheon combined Association business, leadership, recognition, and inspiration. Special guest speaker Ron “Jaws” Jaworski shared lessons drawn from his career in professional football and business, speaking about leadership, teamwork, and the importance of people in building successful organizations.
Award Presentations GNEMA also celebrated its 2026 scholarship recipients, Cade Baker of Wolf’s Bus Lines and Arleigh Ashew of Wind Creek. After learning more about GNEMA’s Scholarship Program, Jaworski pledged a substantial donation in support of the program. The luncheon also provided the stage to formally recognize and present awards to the top finishers in the Driver Safety Competition.
New Leadership Announced Board members previously elected a new slate of officers to help lead GNEMA into its next chapter. Michelle Petelicki was elected Chair, Heath Ochroch Vice Chair, John Henry of Martz Bus Secretary, and Pete Borowsky Treasurer. The leadership transition takes on additional significance as GNEMA celebrates 45 years of serving and representing the motorcoach industry.
A Special Surprise for Tim Stout
One of the most memorable moments of the gathering came with the surprise presentation of the Tim Stout Leadership Award.
The award recognized Tim’s extraordinary leadership, dedication, and years of service to GNEMA. After 15 years of serving as President, his impact can be seen throughout the Association, its growth, its industry relationships and, most importantly, the community that has developed among its members.
The surprise presentation gave GNEMA members and industry friends an opportunity to recognize Tim and celebrate the lasting mark his leadership has made on the Association. Thank you, Tim, and congratulations!
GNEMA Goes Back to the 80s at Boogie Nights
After a full day of competition, business and recognition, Wednesday evening was all about celebrating.
GNEMA's Meet & Mingle at Boogie Nights brought the Association’s 45th anniversary full circle with an 80s-themed costume party. Members and guests enjoyed a DJ, light bites, bar, dancing, and plenty of time to network and reconnect in the retro setting.
The evening was a fitting celebration of GNEMA’s history and, just as importantly, the friendships and relationships that have been built through the Association over the past 45 years.
Board of Directors Meeting Opens Thursday
Board members gathered in the morning to address the business of the Association. Along with a robust agenda, representatives from GNEMA’s platinum sponsors shared company updates and insights on current industry developments.
Group Leader Marketplace Connects Operators and Destinations
GNEMA’s Group Leader Marketplace brings together group leaders, motorcoach operators, destinations, attractions, and travel suppliers. Set up in an exhibition-style format, the marketplace provided dedicated opportunities for one-on-one conversations, relationship building and the development of future group travel business.
BISC East Focuses on Safety and Education
Thursday also featured the BISC East Safety Workshop, providing motorcoach professionals with an opportunity to focus on safety, education and operational issues affecting the industry. The workshop complemented a three-day program that put a strong emphasis on safety while providing opportunities for education and professional development.
The fall meeting touched nearly every aspect of GNEMA’s mission: safety, education, scholarships, business development, leadership, networking, and member engagement.
“Three days, eight events and countless opportunities to learn, connect, compete, and celebrate. It was a fitting way to mark GNEMA’s 45th anniversary,” said Executive Director Patricia Cowley. “None of it happens without our members, sponsors, volunteers, committee members, speakers, hosts, and industry partners. I am incredibly grateful to everyone who helped make this year’s Fall Meeting such a success.”
As GNEMA closes out its 45th anniversary Fall Meeting, the Association looks ahead with new leadership, strong industry relationships, and continued momentum for the future.