2024 WACO Convention Speaker Bios

Adam Malsack – Lake Arrowhead Campground

Adam has been in the camping industry all his life, starting with weekend garbage collection at the age of 9 and advancing to full time Manager at 17. In 2009 he became co-owner of the Lake Arrowhead and Lakeside Campgrounds in Montello, marking the third generation of family ownership. Adam has undergraduate degrees from Ripon College in Computer Science and Mathematics, and received a Master of Science in Electrical engineering from the University of Wisconsin in Madison. In his free time Adam enjoys being involved in theater, photography and most of all, he loves to camp.

Allyson Hurley – Owner of Allyson Nicole Nutrition LLC

With a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice and Sociology, Allyson has held a career in Corrections as a Probation Officer for over twelve years. In 2022, she became a Certified Nutrition Coach through the National Academy of Sports Medicine and formed her own Nutrition Coaching Business, Allyson Nicole Nutrition LLC. What do these two career fields have in common? Behavior change. Allyson has over a decade worth of experience in Motivational Interviewing, group facilitation of curricula rooted in how our thoughts impact our behaviors, and working one-on-one with individuals to facilitate change.

Anders Helquist – Attorney, Weld Riley, S.C.

Anders is a Shareholder in the firm’s Environmental/Administrative, Government Relations, Municipal Law, and Frac Sand, Mining and Minerals sections. Anders provides practical, results-driven counsel to businesses and other industrial entities operating in Wisconsin, guiding them through environmental permitting and licensing, land use and zoning, government relations, and compliance matters. He utilizes his experience in regulatory matters, municipal law, and government affairs to represent a diverse group of clients, including campgrounds, agricultural uses, frac sand companies, and other businesses and industries in all aspects of federal, state, and local permitting, due diligence, land use/zoning, site investigations, and environmental enforcement/compliance. He works with clients in front of the WDNR, EPA, DOT, OSHA, MSHA, DATCP, local zoning boards, and other government agencies.

Andrew Amacher – DSPS

Andrew has been with the State of Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services since February 2020. Conducting safety inspections and audits, aiming to gain compliance with amusement rides, ski lifts, and public sector employers in southwestern Wisconsin. He has many years of private sector experience in the ski industry including risk management and daily operations of more than 200 employees. His knowledge of risk management, leadership skills, and ski industry knowledge are an asset to the department.

Angie Servi – JAMPS Strategic Development

Dr. Angie Servi graduated from Edgewood College with her Doctorate in Higher Education Leadership in 2017. She also holds a Master of Arts in Teaching from Austin Peay State University in Clarksville, Tennessee and a Bachelor of Business Administration from the University of Wisconsin – Green Bay. Angie has worked in the fields of Education and Leadership for over 17 years. She has led trainings for businesses across the state of Wisconsin focused on improving communication, understanding personality types and strengths, conflict management, team building and more. Additionally, she serves as an adjunct professor of Business for the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point and Concordia University-Wisconsin. She is also a member of the Board of Education in the School District of Athens. Angie has been married for 18 years to her husband, Jim, and they have three children (Joe – 13 years old, Marty – 10 years old, Justin – 8 years old). They live in rural northcentral Wisconsin, near the dairy farm where she grew up.

Ben Stefan – Grand Valley Campground

I am Ben Stefan and my family has owned and operated Grand Valley Campground since 2005. I grew up working in the campground from a young age. As a second generation owner I now work full time at the campground with my parents, brother, wife and sister-in-law. I have also worked as a Systems Engineer in the IT department at Moraine Park Technical College for 10 years while working at the campground every weekend.

Ben Quiggle – Woodalls Campground Magazine

Ben Quiggle is the editor of Woodall’s Campground Magazine and the Midwest editor of RVBusiness, both trade publications owned by G&G Media and serving the RV and outdoor hospitality industries. He is co-host of WCM’s Park Update, a weekly podcast/video show focused on the outdoor hospitality industry and is a regular attendee/speaker at industry conferences. He is a graduate of Grace College with degrees in communications and journalism. Before working with WCM, he was an award-winning journalist with The Elkhart Truth and The Chronicle-Tribune, earning awards from the Associated Press for coverage of city financial issues. As a college student, he worked at a local NBC affiliate, WNDU, in South Bend, Ind., doing video work for breaking news stories and local sports. His wife of 20 years, Ferron, and his six children all live in Hillsdale, Mich., where they enjoy soccer, beekeeping, hunting, chickens and a variety of other activities. 

Bruce Meiners – DHS

I am the Legionella Industrial Hygienist for the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS). Since 2017 I have been conducting Legionella environmental assessments and sampling along with educating local health departments, plumbers, and facilities about Legionella. This past year I have been working with our Health Care Acquired Infection (HAI) Team conducting on-site risk assessments throughout the state. I have been with DHS for almost 2 years and, prior to that, on loan to DHS from the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS). I spent 15 years with DSPS as a Plumbing and Public Swimming Pools Consultant, Plan Reviewer, and code committee. I’ve been in the plumbing industry since 1985 as a Master Plumber, Cross Connection Control Tester, and a Designer of Engineered Plumbing Systems. I was on the ASHRAE 514 committee as a nonvoting member.  I am currently on the IAPMO committee; Construction Practice for Potable Water Systems, IAPMO International Plumbing Designs Group, IAPMO Water Demand Calculator Task Group for Health Care Facilities, ASPE Thermal Disinfection WG as a nonvoting member, ASPE Task Group One revisiting/updating the ASPE “Engineering Methodologies to Reduce the Risk of Legionella in Premise Plumbing Systems”, and NSF 12 Ice Machines as a nonvoting member.

Carla Brown – Severson & Associates

Born and raised in Detroit, MI to Leroy and Ann Brown. Carla is the fourth of five siblings. Leroy, Gilbert, Carlos and Joann. Studied at West Virginia University, She majored in Sports Management, and minored in Recreation. She also ran her own business called C Mac Productions, emphasizing on photography and video editing out of Michigan.

Chris Mehring – Pineland Camping Park

After 26 years in the contracting industry, Chris and family decided to sell the business, sell their dream home in Waukesha, pull the kids out of school, and move North to own a campground. The Mehrings took over Pineland Camping Park in May of 2022. The last two years have been a bit stressful with adjusting the pricing and expectations for seasonals and overnight campers, as well as completely remodeling the majority of the buildings on site. They are looking forward to the 2024 season now that most of their hard work is in place.

Chris Metcalf – CSAW Associates

Chris Metcalf is a native of Viroqua, WI who graduated from Viterbo University and Western Technical College in La Crosse. She has over thirty-five years of experience working in the accounting field. Prior to starting CSAW Associates, LLC – Coulee Bookkeeping and Tax she was employed in various positions such as Bank Controller, Office and Accounting Manager, and Staff Accountant. CSAW Associates works with a variety of businesses including restaurants, campgrounds, marinas, construction companies, rental properties, hair and nail salons, online businesses, exercise facilities and more. She has been married to Bill Metcalf since 1981. They have four children and nine grandchildren.

Craig R. Mulder – Master Electrician, Commercial Electrical Inspector, Electrical Designer – Electrical Inspector and Consultant, DSPS

Craig R. Mulder. Master Electrician, Commercial Electrical Inspector, Electrical Designer. Electrical Inspector and Consultant for the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services.  Craig Provides administrative and technical leadership for the Electrical Program.  Craig provides technical assistance to electricians, contractors, and engineers on a variety of code questions. Craig has worked for DSPS for 10 years and prior to that he worked as an electrician on residential, commercial, industrial and agricultural projects.

Danielle Todd – Severson & Associates

Born and raised in Wisconsin, Danielle began developing her entrepreneurial skills at a young age. She’s always done her best learning with the hands-on approach and has developed her skills in many different areas; including the music, sports, fitness, and campground industries. Owning a few small businesses herself, her skills and passion lie with graphic design, website/business management, and social media marketing. She currently serves on the Chamber of Commerce Board and Downtown Business Alliance Board in her hometown and was recently co-chair of the Promotion & Tourism Committee for the Chamber as well. Danielle has previously called both Tennessee and Texas home, but now resides back in her hometown with her husband Dave, of nearly six years, and their (almost) four year old daughter, Harper. Outside of work life, she enjoys traveling, reading, being outdoors, working out, and spending time with family and friends.

Emma Hanson – Pineland Camping Park

Emma Hanson started at Pineland Camping Park in housekeeping, shifted to the store, and discovered a passion for marketing. An internship at Pineland Camping Park solidified this interest, leading to a career in marketing and social media. Now, Emma manages the campground’s social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok, and creates
graphics for advertisements.

Heidi Doyle – Utility Supply Group

Heidi has a long history in the outdoor hospitality business, growing up on a resort that her grandparents built in Northern Wisconsin.
At the Utility Supply Group, Heidi works as an Education and Strategic Relationship Coordinator. Within this role, she works on
product education for all company employees, and also as USG’s spokesperson for company events, partnerships and industry associations. Heidi keeps current on the NEC and NFPA 1194 to keep customers properly educated. Throughout the year, you can find Heidi at many national and state industry conventions, often presenting important information to attendees and interacting with park owners. Heidi lives with her husband, west of Madison, Wisconsin.

Holly Hoffman – Sales Tax Advisory Network

Holly Hoffman is the owner of Sales Tax Advisory Network where she provides sales tax compliance support and training. Prior to starting her business, she was and is a former WI Dept. of Revenue auditor and head of the Dept. of Revenue’s Speaker’s Bureau. She has presented at WACO conventions for almost 10 years.

Jack Wotruba – HUD/UDC Consultant, DSPS

Jack Wotruba, is currently HUD/UDC Consultant  for the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS) where he provides administrative and technical leadership for Manufactured Housing, Uniform Dwelling Code, and Camping Unit Structures.  Jack provides enforcement guidance, and code interpretation for each of the aforementioned programs.  Jack has worked for DSPS for 34 years, 18 years in his current position, and 16 years as a Commercial Plan examiner prior to that.  

James Kaplanek – Chief of Food Safety and Recreational Licensing Section with the State of Wisconsin–Department of Health and Family Services

Currently the Chief of Food Safety and Recreational Licensing Section with the State of Wisconsin–Department of Health and Family Services. In the process of a merger with the Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection – Will be the Chief of Technical Services for Retail Food and Recreational Businesses – Has been with the State for 15 years. •Before State employment spent 6 years with the Public Health Madison/Dane county – BS Environmental Public Health—University Wisconsin-Eau-Claire – Wisconsin Delegate to the National Conference for Food Protection – Registered Sanitarian

Jason Culotta –  Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce

Jason Culotta is the Sr. Director of Government Relations at Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce. His policy focus areas include tax and transportation issues. In 2011, Jason served as a policy advisor to Governor Scott Walker and as administrator of the Division of Intergovernmental Relations in the Department of Administration. Prior to that, he worked in the Legislature for ten years, including as a policy advisor to Assembly Speaker John Gard. In his current capacity, Jason serves as a board member of the Wisconsin Transportation Development Association, Wisconsin DOT Freight Advisory Committee, and with the Wisconsin Central Group, an industry group promoting access to freight rail. In addition, Jason serves as a member of the Wisconsin Civil Justice Council, a broad coalition of trade groups working for a sound legal system. A native of Racine, Jason holds a bachelor’s degree from UW-Oshkosh.

Jeff Crider – Camping Info Source

Jeff Crider is a longtime freelance writer and media relations consultant for campground and RV industry associations across the country. He has written for Woodall’s Campground Management for more than 20 years and secured positive camping story placements in media outlets across the country, from AAA to National Public Radio and The New York Times. He worked as a daily newspaper reporter for nearly 12 years before becoming a public relations consultant.

Jeff Kersten – Outreach Specialist, Bureau of Consumer Protection / Division of Trade & Consumer Protection, Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection

As an Outreach Specialist with the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection, Jeff educates the public, businesses, and law enforcement on topics like privacy protection, data security, fraud awareness and identity theft. He spent 12+ years as a police officer and was a Consumer Protection Investigator for the Bureau of Consumer Protection.

Jeff McCaskill – AccessParks

Jeff is a sales manager for AccessParks.  He has over a decade of experience in all aspects of telecommunications solutions, from fiber to wireless.  He is currently responsible for AccessParks Broadband solutions in the Midwest.

Jennifer Ring – AU, AU-M, AINS, Manager – Specialty Lines Underwriting, SECURA Insurance

Jennifer Ring has been in the insurance industry for 13 years, and 11 of those years have been in Specialty Lines.  She is currently a Specialty Lines Underwriting Manager at SECURA Insurance Company, and her underwriting team handles the states of Iowa, Minnesota, North Dakota, and Wisconsin.  She likes to think of Specialty Lines as the “fun” underwriting division at SECURA since Specialty Lines provides customized insurance for commercial businesses in niche classes, such as special events, campgrounds, and sports and recreation risks. No two days are the same in Specialty Lines, and she enjoys the variety that she sees each day

Jerry Anderson – Building Inspector for State of WI

I’ve been a life long resident in southeast WI. I am a Building Inspector fully credentialed for the past 12 years and have been employed by a local community for the past 8 years. I’ve been in construction for over 36 years. I served for 6 years in the U.S. Air Force and 2 years as Alderman in my hometown. Construction and home improvements have been my passion for most of my life. I’ve built conventional stick framed homes, log homes and some commercial building. I’m married with two awesome daughters.

Jerry Derr – Wisconsin Towns Association Board President

Lifelong Resident of Dane County – Married, Elaine, 4 Children, 4 Grandchildren – Construction Industry 51 years – US Army Reserve 8 Years ( Engineers)Town of Bristol Board 45 years, 38 years Chairman – Dane County Towns Assoc. President – Wisconsin Towns Assoc. President – Town Advocacy Council Director – Northeast Dane Community Court Commissioner – Northeast Dane Fire Unit President – Wisconsin County Mutual/Community Insurance Corp. Director/Operations Chair – Dane County Area Agency on Aging Access Committee – Transportation Development Assoc. Board of Directors, Past President – Farm Bureau Member – Dane County Conservation League, Wings over Wisconsin, Duck Unlimited, Pheasants Forever, Safari Club Member

Jim Brandt – Jim’s Golf Cars

Jim is the owner/founder of Jim’s Golf Cars along with his wife and 2 sons (Brenda, Lance and Jordan). In Jim’s free time he enjoys pheasant hunting along with deer hunting. Jim also enjoys spending time with his sons running Brandt brothers beef show cattle.

Jim Button – Evergreen Campsites & Resort

Jim Button has fulfilled his childhood dream of operating and owning Evergreen Campsites & Resort. Jim has been in the industry for 40+ years and has owned Evergreen Campsites & Resort for 22 years. Jim is very passionate about the industry and is an advocate for his state association (WACO) where he currently serves on the BOD. He attends and teaches at conferences, and participates in fall tours and workshops. Jim is also an advocate for his national association (OHI – formerly known as ARVC) where he has participated in advocacy day on the hill, attends and teaches at national conferences, graduate from the OHEP program, OHE certifications, 2017-2018 Arvc Large/Mega Park of the Year, and 2017-2018 Arvc Campground Partner Award. He is also active on the National Group 20 #4 for the past 10 years. This group is devised of campgrounds throughout the USA striving to be the best they can be. Jim does not do this alone he is married to Dawn Button and has four children: Emily, Joey, Ricky, and Rebecca who have started to join the family business. Jim also is an active volunteer firefighter for Saxeville.

Joe Ledger – Lakeside Fire Campground

Joe Ledger and his wife Kristen own and operate Lakeside Fire Campground in Nekoosa, WI, which they purchased in 2020. In three years, they’ve made significant improvements, including a 1.5-acre recreational pond and 35 new full hook-up sites. They’ve also upgraded over 180 existing sites and addressing deferred maintenance throughout the campground promptly. This proactive approach has allowed them to focus on further enhancing the campground experience for their guests. When Joe isn’t tending to the campground, he serves as an Army Chaplain, a role he’s dedicated himself to for 22 years. His commitment to both hospitality and military service underscores his passion for serving others and creating memorable experiences.

John Jaszewski – Campgrounds4Sale.com

Twenty years in corporate management focused on Information Technology and Manufacturing automation. Then left Corporate American to become a real estate investor. For the past 20 years he has owned and operated a real estate company, selling more than $400 million dollars in real estate, including $38 Million in 2021 alone. He has been involved in 48 campground closings in just the past three years. His focus now is helping people become wealthy and independent. He has created almost 100 millionaires in his lifetime – His goal is to make you his next millionaire!

Katie Petzel – POWTS Plan Reviewer, DSPS

Katie has been a POWTS Plan Reviewer with the Department since 2021. She reviews sanitary plans, conducts inspections for state-owned POWTS, and provides guidance to county POWTS inspectors, industry professionals, and homeowners on sanitary code compliance. Prior to working with the Department, Katie was a POWTS inspector for Douglas County, where she currently resides. Providing and expanding the range of education opportunities available to credential holders and the public is a passion for her.

Kiley Smith – Champions Riverside Resort Activities Director

Hello, my name is Kiley Smith. I’m 23 years old and I live out of my RV full-time while working and traveling. I fell in love with travel at a young age and worked hard to create a nomadic lifestyle for myself. I was a camp counselor in college, which turned into a passion for camping and activity planning. I now work with Lori Severson at Champions Riverside Resort doing administrative work, social media, and will be the summer 2024 Activity Director.

Lori Severson – Severson & Associates and WACO Executive Director

Lori has owned Severson & Associates for 20+ years, a training, consulting and marketing company. Her energetic presentations are filled with forward thinking ideas you can immediately put to use in your business. Her interactive training style allows you to gather ideas from your peers as well. Her passion for success and management excellence will inspire, challenge and encourage you to take action toward continuous improvement in yourself and your organization. Lori has presented to companies like Walt Disney World, Camp Snoopy, Six Flags, IBM, Global Access, TRW, WinCraft, Behrens, Crenlo, GKN, Artsway, Wells Fargo, Merchants Bank, Farmers Bank, Ho-Chunk Nation, ARVC, Jellystone Parks, McDonalds, St. Mary’s University, TACO, CONY, KOA, PCOA, Iowa Campground Association, along with a wide variety of other companies that help her bring a strong knowledge of today’s business to you. She owns Champions Riverside Resort along with her husband Rick. She is the Executive Director for WACO, the Wisconsin Association of Campground Owners, and volunteers for the Gilbert Brown Foundation.

Mark Hazelbaker – Kasieta Legal Group, WACO Attorney

Mark Hazelbaker brings 40 years of experience as a lawyer in government service and private practice, a lobbyist and local government administrator. He has represented hundreds of communities, businesses and thousands of individuals and tried thousands of cases in court ranging from small claims to filing a brief with the US Supreme Court. Mark is the Legal Counsel for the Wisconsin Association of Campground owners, and represents dozens of campgrounds in Wisconsin. He also has worked with ARVC and state associations around the US on legislation and other issues. Mark led efforts by WACO in 2016 to win enactment of legislation giving private campgrounds immunity for inherent risks of camping. He has written and annually updated a model seasonal camping agreement for Wisconsin campgrounds. He speaks at campground meetings regularly. Mark’s broader practice includes municipal, zoning, land use, employment and small business law. Although he has also handled many criminal and family law cases, he is happy to have given those up.

Mark Koep – CampgroundViews

Mark Koep is the President and CEO of Campground Views, Inc. He has an MBA from Pepperdine and has devoted the last decade to making the Outdoor Hospitality Industry bigger and better. He is the host of the wildly popular Facebook Group for RV Park Owners, a regular speaker at industry events, sought after consultant, father of two, and fulltime RVer for 12 years. No one knows more about the Outdoor Hospitality Industry than Mark Koep who has personally visited over 5,000 campgrounds and RV parks. Client parks have measured tens of millions of dollars in increased revenue implementing the tools, strategies and processes laid out by Mark. Campground Views is the developer and operator of the proprietary Campground Virtual Tour technology. The only true virtual tour software designed specifically for the Outdoor Hospitality Industry. Campers can easily see the park, see the roads and see the sites. Park operators have measured over 244% increases in online bookings, drops of 40% for inbound calls and doubling of the length of their stays thanks to this tool. The technology has been implemented for almost one thousand RV parks and campgrounds across the US. The company’s focus is to help campers find the right campground, at the perfect time, using the best equipment. For park operators the company provides a highly valuable tool to improve marketing, guest acquisition, guest experience and operational efficiencies. See what the fuss is about by clicking here https://www.campgroundviews.com/easier-bookings/

Mark Othmer – Neuman Pools

Mark works with the smaller commercial accounts as a technical sales and support specialist. He started with NPI as a service technician and progressed thru the ranks as the Service Manager, warranty supervisor and technician, Service sales and support technician and now does rehabs of pools and equipment rooms. He is a Certified Pool Operator Instructor and will do private classes at your own facilities. With over twenty years in the pool business and over twenty years in electrical and maintenance of manufacturing facilities, coupled with his love of the aquatic industry, he can make your pool “pains” disappear. See Mark to help you with the strategic planning of your repair/ rehabilitation/resurfacing of your facility.

Mark Stefan – Grand Valley Campground

I have owned and operated Grand Valley Campground for the past 20 seasons with my family. Grand Valley Campground has 221 sites and is located in Dalton, WI. Mark has a passion for the camping industry and helping people.

Mary Ellen Bruesch – WI Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection

Mary Ellen Bruesch is a Recreational Technical Specialist, responsible for the Public Pools and Water Attractions Program. She has been in this position for about a year, having transitioned from Campgrounds and Recreational and Educational Camps. She has a BS in Biology and a MS in Microbiology, and is a Registered Environmental Health Specialist and Certified Pool Operator. When she’s not working, she can be found hanging out with her cats or on a paddle board or skis, or hiking.

Matt Pargman – Indian Trails Campground

Presenter bio coming soon!

Matt was born and raised in Beloit, Wi and grew up camping at Indian Trails Campground. His family had a seasonal site for 35 years where he earned many merit badges towards his Eagle Scout honor in his early years. Matt graduated from UW Platteville with a degree in Industrial Engineering. He worked the majority of his 25-year engineer career in the Engine Division as a senior quality engineer at the Kohler Company and at Rayovac (now Energizer) as a senior quality engineer and senior quality manager. In 1997, Matt married Tiffany (whose family owned the campground) and has helped out on weekends since then. Matt is the proud father of two sons, Jackson who is married and a land surveyor and Jayce who just graduated Air Force basic last month. In March of 2021, Matt concluded his engineer career to take on his new role as full time campground owner when he & Tiffany bought Indian Trails from Myrna & Dave. Tiffany’s grandparents started Indian Trails in 1965 and they are proud to be 3rd generation campground owners. While working alongside a spouse can be rewarding and challenging at the same time, Matt takes solace knowing that the campground has a 15-acre fishing lake that he can drop a line and his worries away, even if it is just for a few minutes.

Megan Vruwink – Director of Marketing, Stevens Point Area Convention & Visitors Bureau.

As one of the driving forces behind tourism promotion in the Stevens Point Area, Megan spearheads marketing campaign strategy and public relations initiatives to spotlight the region. She uses traditional and cutting-edge tactics to navigate an evolving marketing landscape to guide both organic and paid advertising methods. Megan enjoys walking the Green Circle Trail with her dogs, spending time on the pontoon, and visiting the Farmer’s Market!

Paul Croteau – Utility Supply Group

Paul has over 35 years combined experience in design, manufacturing, product development and sales of electrical products specifically for RV parks, resorts, campgrounds, and manufactured housing communities. Paul joined Utility Supply Group in 2013. He has participated in many national, regional, and state association trade shows. As well as speaking at many seminars and workshops. As USG’s Sales Manager & Project Engineer, he uses his product knowledge and industry expertise to provide significant
technical and customer service support. Working closely with campground & RV park owners, developers, engineers, and contractors. He manages the unique electrical layout design assistance the company offers. Paul works in the Kansas City sales office and resides in Lee’s Summit, MO. As a fellow RV owner & enthusiast, he understands the needs for a well-designed facility

Russel Reeves – Instructor/Proctor for ServSafe

Russell Reeves began his culinary career in 1982 after graduating from the culinary program at Des Moines Tech. Reeves worked in the culinary field while attending the University of Northern Iowa . He joined the US Navy in 1989 as a Culinary Specialist. Stationed around the world from Antarctica, California, and Wisconsin, with deployments to Iraq, Kuwait, Germany, and Alaska. As a reservist with the Navy, he completed his B.A. in Family and Consumer Education at the University of Wisconsin Stevens Point and began teaching culinary arts and human development in the Waukesha and Appleton School districts. In 2009 Reeves left secondary education and began working as the Food Services Manager at UWSP. Reeves retired from the US Navy Reserves in 2015 and in 2017 he was appointed to the National Association of College and University Food Service (NACUFS) National Education committee and was the chair of that committee from 2019-2020. He  implemented the NACUFS education strategy and training plans for volunteer presenters at the Regional and National conferences. Russell Reeves presented on the subject of education for collegiate food service at the Midwest NACUFS Regional Conference at UW-Madison in March 2018. After retiring from UWSP in 2020 he began a new career as the General Manager of Par 4 Resort and Foxfire Golf Club in Waupaca, WI where he oversees the Golf, Banquet and Bistro operations. Russell has been a dual role Instructor/Proctor for ServSafe classes and examinations for more than two decades.

Sarah Krause – CCO at C&D Hospitality

Sarah Krause currently holds the position of CCO at C & D Hospitality. Onsite manager of Rivers Edge Campground as well as oversees operations at all of their other locations. A long history in business ownership, and customer service she brings a new lively view to all things hospitality.

Scott Kollock – Vista Royalle Campground

Scott is a second generation owner of Vista Royalle Campground in Bancroft, WI. The park was built by his family 45 years ago and has been ran by them since day one. Scott has valuable long term experience with all aspects of the camping business.  Scott loves camping and looks forward to promoting it and WACO into the future. Scott is now serving as President of the WACO Board of Directors.

Taylor Greenheck – Director of Partnerships for the Stevens Point Area Convention & Visitors Bureau

With a passion for fostering connections and promoting tourism, Taylor plays a pivotal role in building collaborative relationships with businesses and organizations to enhance the visitor experience. Taylor also manages the Stevens Point Area’s social media accounts, leveraging digital platforms to engage with visitors, and highlighting local attractions. Taylor loves exploring the Green Circle Trail and grabbing a bite to eat at Point After Pub & Grill!

Taylor Ward – Holiday Shores Campground & Resort

Hey everyone, my name is Taylor Ward from Holiday Shores Campground & Resort located in Wisconsin Dells, WI!  I was born and raised in Green Bay and attended college at Lakeland University before moving to Wisconsin Dells.  This will be my 13th summer here!  I am married to my husband Justin Ward and we have two beautiful boys, Jaxson and Jordan.  I recently stepped away from my teaching career to work full time at the family business and I’m absolutely loving it.  My education career gave me great experience building my skills with organization, working with others, and I absolutely love to be crafty and create really great looking advertising!  I’m so excited to work with all of you at this WACO Convention! 

Ted Tuchalski – WI Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection

Ted Tuchalski, R.S. is an Environmental Health Technical Specialist with the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade, and Consumer Protection (DATCP).  His primary focus at DATCP is lodging, which includes: hotels, motels, tourist rooming houses, and bed & breakfast establishments.  Ted’s environmental health career began as a food inspector in Salt Lake City, Utah and has spanned multiple program areas at the city, county, and state levels here in Wisconsin.

Tessa Nieberle – Content & Visitor Experience Manager, Stevens Point Area Convention & Visitors Bureau

Her journey in the tourism industry began as an intern for SPACVB, where she learned the ropes of digital marketing through hands-on practice. Tessa plays a key role in enhancing the Stevens Point Area brand by managing and curating engaging content. Additionally, Tessa leads efforts for visitor experience at the Visitors Center. Tessa enjoys hammocking along the Wisconsin River and drinking a latte at Ruby Cafe!

Tia Anderson – Stoney Creek RV Resort

Tia Anderson is the General Manager at Stoney Creek RV Resort in Osseo, Wi. Tia was raised in the campground industry and has over 15 years of experience working in campgrounds. At Stoney Creek, she manages the day-to-day operations of the park including all reservation/pos systems, front desk, gift shop, activities program, employee relations, and more. She also handles all online marketing, social media, web design/maintenance and promotional material. Tia has been actively involved in WACO since a young age, leading seminars and classes over the years and recently organizing the WACO Young Professionals group.

Tim Condon – DSPS

Tim has been a Safety Inspector with the Department since 1996, inspecting Public Sector Employers, Amusement Rides, and Ski Lifts and Tows.  For the past 13 years, Tim has been stationed in the NE territory of the state.  Tim earned his BSE in Occupational Safety from the University of Wisconsin, Whitewater, and has attended multiple classes with OSHA, NEC, ANSI, NAARSO, and AIMS while with the Department.

Tina Severson – Severson & Associates

Tina Severson was born and raised in the tri-state area, where her Midwest mentality has always served her well in developing successful relationships.  In the past 20 years, she has worked for non profit organizations and B2B companies in the construction, festival, education, and employment industries.  The variety has given her insight to a common thread across all organizations – success in sales through stellar customer service and building solid relationships.  Severson has worked with boards in the past and uses that experience to gain perspective as she sits as the VP on the Tornado Youth Hockey Association, as well as the President for the Onalaska Area Business Association.