Latest news with #DaveJohnson
Yahoo
02-06-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
June is Automotive Service Professionals Month
A Perfect Time to Thank the Pros that Keep Vehicles on the Road LEESBURG, Va., June 2, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- With the summer driving season underway, the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) has designated June as Automotive Service Professionals Month (ASPM) to honor the vehicle service professionals from coast to coast who keep vehicles running smoothly and motorists on the road. Automotive service professionals play a critical role in communities nationwide, working in general repair shops, dealerships and service stations. They help ensure that vehicles remain safe and reliable for everyday use. With modern vehicles becoming increasingly complex and equipped with cutting-edge technology, today's technicians must continually expand their knowledge and skills to keep pace with the latest advancements in automotive systems. ASE makes it easy for car owners to identify technicians who meet high standards of skill and expertise. Those who earn ASE Certification and display the Blue Seal of Excellence have demonstrated both hands-on experience and success taking rigorous exams. To maintain their credentials, ASE Certified professionals must renew their certifications every five years, taking challenging exams to ensure they stay current with changing technologies and industry best practices. "Automotive Service Professionals Month offers an opportunity to highlight the expertise and dedication of technicians and other vehicle service specialists," said Dave Johnson, ASE president and CEO. "ASE encourages everyone to take this opportunity to recognize and thank these skilled individuals for the vital services they provide each and every day." To learn more about ASE and the benefits to motorists, visit About the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE)Established in 1972 as a non-profit organization, the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) is a driving force in the transportation industry. As an independent third party, ASE upholds and promotes high standards of service and repair through the assessment, certification and credentialing of current and future industry professionals, and the prestigious ASE Blue Seal logo identifies professionals who possess the essential knowledge and skills to perform with excellence. Today, there are approximately 220,000 ASE Certified professionals at work in dealerships, independent shops, collision repair shops, auto parts stores, fleets, schools and colleges throughout the country. For more information about ASE, visit View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE)
Zawya
14-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
The First Group Hospitality and Hoque Global unveil Hotel Local
Located in JVT, the new neighbourhood hotel offers 579 rooms, original dining concepts, and vibrant social spaces to connect and experience the city like a resident Dubai, UAE: The First Group Hospitality and Hoque Global proudly announce the opening of Hotel Local, a groundbreaking community-oriented hotel in the heart of Jumeirah Village Triangle (JVT). Hotel Local, a lifestyle brand launched by US-based Hoque Global, redefines modern hospitality by seamlessly integrating local culture, social engagement, and innovative experiences into every aspect of the guest journey. Rob Burns, CEO of The First Group, stated: "We are honoured to partner with Hoque Global to bring the first of many Hotel Local properties to life. At The First Group Hospitality, we are committed to shaping the future of hospitality, and Hotel Local is a testament to that vision. This hotel is more than just a place to stay; it's a vibrant social hub where guests and locals come together to connect, create, and experience Dubai in an authentic and immersive way." Mike Hoque, Founder and CEO of Hoque Global, shared: "Hotel Local was born out of a deep passion for people, community, and education. It's been an incredible journey developing this brand alongside hospitality pioneer Dave Johnson and Rob Burns and his team at The First Group Hospitality, with a vision to create spaces that truly become extensions of the neighbourhoods they serve and create opportunities for the local community through education programming interwoven into our operations. Community, inclusivity, excellence, and innovation are the foundations of everything we do. Our mission is to train and educate future talents in a world-class facility, cultivating empathetic leaders who will redefine hospitality service for generations to come. I couldn't be prouder to launch Hotel Local here in Dubai, a city that represents the future of the world." Dave Johnson, Longtime Hospitality Leader and Partner on Hotel Loca l, expressed: "It's an exciting moment to see Hotel Local launch in Dubai under the expert management of The First Group Hospitality. The JVT location and property are spectacular—a perfect embodiment of our vision for a community-centric lifestyle hotel. This marks just the beginning, and we look forward to expanding the brand worldwide and take Hotel Local's unique blend of connection, culture, and innovation to New York, San Francisco, Miami, more dynamic neighbourhoods across the region and the globe." A New Way to Stay Hotel Local is more than a destination, it's an invitation. A sanctuary for the curious, a celebration of culture, and a vibrant hub for community, the hotel transforms outsiders into instant insiders. Designed as an urban retreat for travellers and locals alike, Hotel Local offers 579 thoughtfully designed rooms that seamlessly merge comfort, modernity, and community-inspired aesthetics. Whether visiting for business or leisure, guests are welcomed into an inviting, dynamic atmosphere that feels like home. Beyond its stylish accommodations, the hotel features a rooftop pool, a fully equipped gym, and a serene spa, ensuring every guest can unwind in style. Catering to city residents, visitors, and business travellers, Hotel Local redefines luxury by fostering a deep sense of community. With a diverse array of original dining experiences, top-tier entertainment, and premium wellness facilities, the vibrant hotel is poised to become the neighbourhood's go-to social hub. For those seeking a blend of city energy and coastal tranquillity, complimentary shuttle services to Soluna Restaurants & Beach Club on Palm Jumeirah provide access to a pristine beach, world-class dining, and exhilarating water activities. A space where creatives, explorers, and families alike can gather, connect, and feel at home, Hotel Local is where curiosity is nurtured, culture thrives, and community flourishes. Culinary & Social Experiences Rooted in Community Hotel Local is set to become a neighbourhood hotspot with its unique dining concepts and vibrant social spaces: Farmers Commons: A farm-to-table dining experience that celebrates locally sourced ingredients, sustainability, and the art of simple, delicious cooking. Featuring hydroponic herbs, farm-fresh produce, and artisanal cheese, every dish is a nod to authenticity and quality. – Neighbourhood Brew: A welcoming café that transitions from morning coffee and artisanal pastries to an evening lounge with craft beers and signature cocktails. This dynamic space is designed to connect, whether it's a casual coffee catch-up or a laid-back night out. Beyond dining, Hotel Local's social calendar is packed with community events, themed brunches, and pop-up collaborations, ensuring there is always something new to discover and experience. With six distinct room types catering to both short- and long-term stays, Hotel Local balances comfort with a warm, inviting, and eclectic aesthetic. The hotel also features a top-end gym, spa, and rooftop pool with panoramic views of the JVT skyline, creating a laid-back environment where guests can relax and rejuvenate. About Hotel Local Hotel Local, a new hotel brand from Dallas, Texas, is developed and owned by Hoque Global. Rooted in community engagement, it is dedicated to cultivating the next generation of empathetic leaders in hospitality. Our team is empowered through education and care, ensuring service that embodies commitment and excellence. Welcoming business travellers, digital nomads, families, and city residents, Hotel Local is designed to redefine neighbourhood living, becoming a vibrant lifestyle hub in every community it serves. Launching in Dubai, Hotel Local is poised for expansion across the U.S. and the GCC, with The First Group Hospitality managing its properties. For media queries, please contact hotellocal@ About The First Group Hospitality The First Group Hospitality is a leading hospitality management company pioneering a new era of excellence. With a rapidly expanding portfolio of award-winning upscale hotels, signature restaurants, and distinctive leisure destinations, we are committed to creating unforgettable experiences at every touchpoint. Our team of seasoned professionals brings decades of experience from renowned hotel brands, combined with a deep understanding of the Dubai and GCC markets. With a comprehensive infrastructure spanning all key areas of hotel management, we offer tailored solutions to maximize efficiency, drive revenue growth, and enhance guest satisfaction. At The First Group Hospitality, we are dedicated to building long-term partnerships with our clients. By leveraging our global insights, regional expertise, and strong operational foundation, we ensure that every aspect of your hotel is managed with precision and care. Our goal is to optimize performance, boost profitability, and deliver sustainable growth for your property. About Hoque Global Hoque Global is a diversified company with a primary focus on transformative, catalytic enterprises in real estate. Hoque Global is a recognised leader in revitalisation, redevelopment and re-energisation of property, with a strategic, discerning view to understand opportunities for precise positive economic impact. Hoque Global's companies in the hospitality, event planning, technology, logistics and transportation sectors are also continually innovating with success. Our business is founded on the principals established in three generations of the Hoque family's commitment to improving the world through leadership, innovation and a relentless pursuit of solutions that bring new ideas to life in the global marketplace.
Yahoo
10-04-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Commissioners continue push for sales tax renewal
(WKBN) — Voters in Columbiana County shot down the renewal of a sales tax levy back in November, but county leaders are taking a second crack at it this May, hoping to clear up some confusion that may have led to its defeat in the fall. Words matter — whether they're included or excluded — and last November, when voters in Columbiana County stepped into the voting booth, it was what they didn't see that caused a fuss. 'This was submitted to the board of elections. The BOE doesn't write the language,' said Dave Johnson, Columbiana County Republican Chairman. 'It was submitted and it didn't say renewal last time, for whatever reason.' Voters shot down the permissive sales tax levy renewal — not an additional tax. In fact, it's a levy that has been on the books for decades in Columbiana County. 'When I went to vote and I read that on the ballot, it wasn't what we had spoken of,' said Roy Paparodis, Columbiana County Commissioner. 'We believed it was to say renewal.' But how did it miss that key piece of language on the ballot? County officials say there was miscommunication — something lost in translation — to not include it, which they ultimately attribute to its defeat. 'When they look at a ballot and they're going down through making decisions and they see any wording that might indicate this is an additional tax, it's understandable that they would vote no,' said Tim Ginter, Columbiana County Commissioner. But the levy itself, or more so the money it brings in, is critical. One penny of every dollar spent in the county helps fund a $26 million budget, making the sales tax responsible for 54%, orroughly $14 million, of that $26 million total. 'This is the funding stream that funds all of the needed, necessary items for the citizens of Columbiana County. This is for essential services,' Ginter said. Should it fail again in May, county officials say they'll be faced with some difficult decisions. 'Those steps are going to be cuts that would be very difficult for us. They'd be agonizing to us, quite frankly,' Ginter said. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
19-03-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
After all this time: Holland Avenue work officially underway
Mar. 18—WESTOVER — It was February 2021 when former Westover Mayor Dave Johnson said he and City Attorney Tim Stranko approached The Thrasher Group about the underlying repairs needed before the condition of Holland Avenue could be addressed in any significant way. Just over four years later, that much-discussed project is off and running. "It's actually finally happening after all this time, " Westover Public Works Director Jason Stinespring said in and update to Westover City Council on Monday. While Stinespring said he believed the firm was still on schedule to begin early next week, Blue Gold Development showed up Tuesday ready to get started. The opening phase of work will focus on the Holland Avenue retaining wall before attention is turned to replacement of the busted stormwater and sewer lines running beneath the road. The construction is expected to take at least 90 days. It will take place around the clock with one lane kept open for personal vehicles. Large commercial vehicles will be detoured using Long Street, Monongahela Avenue and Dunkard Avenue. On the back end of the project, Stranko said Thrasher and the West Virginia Division of Highways have reached an agreement on a resurfacing plan. "The DOH wants to put a two-inch finish layer of what they call Type 4 asphalt, Marshall HMA Type 4. They want to do that. What they want us to do is put a good base down ; put four inches of Type 1 and two inches of Type 2 and leave that for them to come down and put that final layer in, " he said. When the contractor is finished, he continued, the quality of asphalt on the road will be comparable to what is there now. What won't be there are the busted lines underground causing the earth to shift beneath the road's surface. "So, we'll put transitions in, and then the DOH will come in behind us, either at the end of this paving season or the beginning of next, to put that final two inches in, " Stranko said. "Anecdotally, what they're telling us is they have a much larger paving project in mind ... That project would include Dunkard and Holland for [fiscal year ] '26." Blue Gold Development was awarded the Holland Avenue contract for $2, 958, 025 in September 2024. Included in the funding package for Holland Avenue and a connected project to replace the city's main pump station is the entirety of Westover's $1, 843, 157 American Rescue Plan Act allocation.
Yahoo
19-03-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
After all this time: Holland Avenue work officially underway
Mar. 18—WESTOVER — It was February 2021 when former Westover Mayor Dave Johnson said he and City Attorney Tim Stranko approached The Thrasher Group about the underlying repairs needed before the condition of Holland Avenue could be addressed in any significant way. Just over four years later, that much-discussed project is off and running. "It's actually finally happening after all this time, " Westover Public Works Director Jason Stinespring said in and update to Westover City Council on Monday. While Stinespring said he believed the firm was still on schedule to begin early next week, Blue Gold Development showed up Tuesday ready to get started. The opening phase of work will focus on the Holland Avenue retaining wall before attention is turned to replacement of the busted stormwater and sewer lines running beneath the road. The construction is expected to take at least 90 days. It will take place around the clock with one lane kept open for personal vehicles. Large commercial vehicles will be detoured using Long Street, Monongahela Avenue and Dunkard Avenue. On the back end of the project, Stranko said Thrasher and the West Virginia Division of Highways have reached an agreement on a resurfacing plan. "The DOH wants to put a two-inch finish layer of what they call Type 4 asphalt, Marshall HMA Type 4. They want to do that. What they want us to do is put a good base down ; put four inches of Type 1 and two inches of Type 2 and leave that for them to come down and put that final layer in, " he said. When the contractor is finished, he continued, the quality of asphalt on the road will be comparable to what is there now. What won't be there are the busted lines underground causing the earth to shift beneath the road's surface. "So, we'll put transitions in, and then the DOH will come in behind us, either at the end of this paving season or the beginning of next, to put that final two inches in, " Stranko said. "Anecdotally, what they're telling us is they have a much larger paving project in mind ... That project would include Dunkard and Holland for [fiscal year ] '26." Blue Gold Development was awarded the Holland Avenue contract for $2, 958, 025 in September 2024. Included in the funding package for Holland Avenue and a connected project to replace the city's main pump station is the entirety of Westover's $1, 843, 157 American Rescue Plan Act allocation.
