Have you seen our new Equipment Loan ads online featuring Atlantic Limo? Here's a look at the man behind the business:
John Veit started Atlantic Limousine in 2006 with Chris Eisenhart with a vision to do things differently—putting people first and giving back to the community. From meeting U.S. Presidents to launching the “Hugs for Rides” program for kids in need, their business seeks to build connections locally and contribute to the community in meaningful ways.
“Before co-founding this business, I worked part-time for other limo companies in the area, but I didn’t particularly care for the way they did things. I had my own ideas of how business should operate. That drive to do things differently eventually led me to go my own way and start my own Maine limousine company.
What I love most about this business is the people I get to meet. It's incredible to cross paths with so many high-profile individuals: Country music stars, entertainers from all walks of life and Presidents of the United States? That’s hard to top.
One of my fondest memories is the privilege I had of meeting George Bush, Sr. I can still remember how surreal it felt driving to Walker's Point to pick him up; how Barbara Bush walked right outside in her apron just to offer me a cookie. And let me tell you, when Barbara offers you a cookie, you take the cookie. If you didn’t know any better, you wouldn’t know he was president. They made me feel like I belonged there.
Giving back and helping others has always been important to me, which is why we started “Hugs for Rides” in 2006. The program provides limousine rides to severely ill children and their families, and the only payment we ask for is a non-negotiable hug. It's our way of providing moments of joy and relief from the stress of hospital treatments.
As a business, we really want people to know that we care. We’re here for anyone in need and always ready to lend a helping hand. I truly believe that the success of a business, and a person, comes from caring for others. You give back like you’re supposed to. Robert Perry, the person who’s inspired me most in life, taught me that—along with many other lessons that have stuck with me through the years.
I first met Bob in the late 80’s at my daughters’ Youth Group. He was the one in charge of a race car competition for the kids, and after my daughters won 1st and 2nd place, he invited me to church. At first I didn’t take up on it, but I kept seeing him everywhere—I just couldn’t shake the guy no matter how much I tried. So I finally gave in and made an appearance. From there, he kept inviting me to his house, and we eventually ended up spending quite a lot of time together and he became part of the family.
We had a lot of great memories together, but there’s one in particular that sticks out to me. I remember he came by to visit, and my daughters greeted him by “Mr. Perry” like they always did. Looking at me, Bob asked, “Why don’t they call me grandpa?” and I remember laughing and saying to him, ‘Well, if they call you grandpa, then you must be my dad.” Without a second of hesitation he looked at me and said, “Well, I always thought I was.”
When someone chooses to be your father, it’s a really special experience. My parents both died when I was young, so Bob being there for me was an incredible gift. He was the greatest man I’ve ever known in my life. There isn’t a word strong enough to describe the kind of man he was. He gave me the land I built my house on, he was there for me and my family, and he loved me unconditionally.
He passed away almost 9 years ago, but I still find myself asking, “Ok Dad, what do I do now?” when I’m facing challenges and seek to channel him through every action I take in this life. His guidance is something I carry with me every day.”
— John Veit, Co-Owner of Atlantic Limousine in Scarborough, Maine
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For more information about Atlantic Limousine, visit their website
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