SPEAKERS as Group Sales & Admission Coordinator and was responsible for all group sales, consignment...

KELLI ALLENKelli Allen is the Operations Coordinator for NRH2O Family Water Park, located in North Richland Hills, Texas. Allen’s career at NRH2O started in 2002 when she was hired as lifeguard and she immediately fell in love with the waterpark industry. In 2009, she began her full time career as Group Sales & Admission Coordinator and

was responsible for all group sales, consignment accounts, birthday parties and admissions. In 2014, she moved to Operations Coordinator and now oversees all park operations including aquatics and park maintenance. Allen serves as Secretary on WWA’s Education Committee.

DAVID ANDREWS JR.David Andrews Jr. is the General Manager of Wet ‘n’ Wild Palm Springs in Palm Springs, Calif. He has worked in the amusement/waterpark Industry for almost 20 years. Andrews began his career as a lifeguard at Ocean Breeze Waterpark in Virginia Beach. Having spent most of his career in Virginia Beach, Andrews

worked his way up through the ranks to Director of Operations. He accepted his position of General Manager at Wet ‘n’ Wild Palm Springs after Premier Parks took over the park in late 2013. He has been a lifeguard instructor with Ellis & Associates for over ten years and is CPO certified. Andrews gradu-ated with a B.S. in mathematics from Hampden-Sydney College.

RUDIE D. BALDWIN, ESQUIRERudie D. Baldwin is a trial attorney at Prindle, Amaro, Goetz, Hillyard, Barnes & Reinholtz LLP. Baldwin is a sincere and effective advocate that primarily repre-sents clients in the amusement, entertainment and action-sport industries. During his career, Baldwin has represented a wide range of clients in matters ranging

from product defect and personal injury to breach of contract and construc-tion defect. Baldwin has represented clients ranging from Six Flags Magic Mountain, Raging Waters, Boomers, SpeedZone, The Observatory, LSI Road Striping, Harbor Distributing and Flow Snowboards. Prior to attending law school, Baldwin received his undergraduate degree from California State University, Fullerton in 2004, where he graduated magna cum laude with a bachelor’s of arts degree in philosophy and political science. He graduated first in his class from the Department of Philosophy. Baldwin received his Juris Doctorate degree from Southwestern University School of Law in 2006, completing his degree in two years by participating in the rigorous SCALE program. Thereafter, he became a member of the California State Bar and was also admitted to practice in the Central District of the United States District Courts. In his spare time, Baldwin is an avid surfer and a singer/song-writer. He has played notable venues such as the House of Blues, the Viper Room and the Key Club. His band was named one of the “Hot 100 Unsigned Live Bands of 2014” in “Music Connection Magazine.”

JASON BAYSJason Bays started in the watepark industry as a lifeguard with Camelback Resort at age 16 and worked through the summers while attending college. He joined Jay Peak Resort in Vermont to work with Chris Stuart and Bill Stenger starting up a ski-in, ski-out indoor waterpark and moved into the waterpark director posi-

tion after the first year of operations. During his time at Jay Peak in addition to oversight of the waterpark, Bays worked on the resort’s EB5 foreign invest-ment projects traveling to China and Vietman to promote and sell expansion

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projects for the company, created and implemented a resort wide manage-ment leadership training program called, “Raised Jay University” and earned an MBA from Southern New Hampshire University. In November 2014, Bays returned to Camelback Resort as the Director of Aquatics for Aquatopia, the largest indoor waterpark in the northeast, which opened in May 2015. In this role, he is responsible for the start-up and operation of multiple operating departments along with hotel wide safety and risk management. Bays serves on the WWA Waterpark Resort Committee and holds a Jeff Ellis & Associates instructor license and a CPO certification.

MICHAEL BEATTYMichael Beatty is currently the Engineering Manager of Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach Water Parks and Miniature Golf. Beatty is a licensed swim-ming pool and spa contractor and has been with the Walt Disney World Company for 40 years in a variety of engineering roles. These roles include areas such

as: attractions maintenance, facility maintenance and engineering, trans-portation maintenance, resort facility maintenance and engineering and waterparks and miniature golf facility maintenance and engineering. Beatty was most recently the Engineering Liaison for the construction and opening of Disney’s Art of Animation Resort. Beatty is a voting member of numer-ous consensus standards committees surrounding the engineering aspect of facilities and water maintenance. These include ASTM F24 (focuses on amusement rides including aquatic attractions), ASTM F15, which focuses on Aquatic Facility Standards, the ICC (International Code Council) International Swimming Pool and Spa Committee and ANSI/APSP. He also the chair-man of the Facility Maintenance and Operation Technical Committee and a member of the Recirculation Systems and Filtration Technical Committee for the Center for Disease Control’s Model Aquatic Health Code. Due to Beatty’s passion for innovation and new technology advancements in the water treatment processes, he was recognized by “Aquatics International” as one of the Power 25 in the aquatics field. Beatty continues to strive to ensure the best experience is had by all guests who come to any of the Walt Disney Company’s resorts, parks and entertainment venues and enjoys knowing that he has had a part in keeping them safe.

TOM BERGMANTom Bergman is president of the Midwest Marketing Organization Inc., based in Lake Geneva, Wis. Along with Bergman Communications, MMO specializes in the recreation, leisure, sports and tourism industries. Established in 1973, MMO has been working with waterpark industry clients since 1983. For a decade,

Bergman coordinated marketing seminars for the World Waterpark Association and wrote “Marketing Q&A” for “Splash” magazine. The scope of MMO’s work in the waterpark industry ranges from marketing, consulting and research to advertising, public relations, sponsorships, group sales, web sites and e-commerce. In 2010, Bergman was a recipient of the WWA Board of Director’s Al Turner Memorial Commitment to Excellence Award. Bergman serves on the WWA’s Marketing & Communications Committee.

ADAM BLACKMOREAdam Blackmore is a Recreation Manager with the City of Henderson Department of Parks & Recreation. He serves as the President-Elect for the Nevada Recreation and Park Society and is on the Board of Directors for the Southern Nevada Children¹s Drowning Prevention Coalition. Blackmore has been in the aquatics industry

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for 10 years working in both the public and private sectors, respectively. He has held certifications as a lifeguard-training instructor, CPR & First Aid instructor, CPO, AFO and is a Certified Parks and Recreation Professional. He currently oversees aquatics, outdoor recreation and recreation center opera-tions for the City of Henderson, Nevada including: 13 pools, 153 linear miles of trails, a bird viewing preserve and the downtown recreation center. The position manages 18 full-time managers and over 300 year-round part-time staff. Previously he held the position of Director of Water Resort Operations with CoCo Key Water Resorts. Blackmore received his master’s of arts de-gree in sports management from Indiana State University and a bachelor’s of science in recreation administration from Missouri Western State University. Blackmore currently serves on WWA’s Public Sector Committee.

CONNIE BLOWEConnie Blowe has been a Cast Member with the Walt Disney World Company for more than 30 years. After graduating from the University of Florida, she began her Walt Disney World career as a Sales Hostess in the Magic Kingdom. Since then, she has held various roles throughout WDW Parks, Resorts and Downtown Disney,

specializing in retail management. She is currently the Operations Manager for Merchandise at Disney’s Blizzard Beach, Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon and the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex.

SHAWN BOWMANShawn Bowman is President of IdeaSeat Marketing and Advertising and founder of Waterpark-Marketing.com. Bowman and his team create innovative designs, websites and marketing strategies for waterparks, hotels and entertainment properties. He specializes in targeted marketing, heightening waterpark/resort

awareness and focused marketing strategies and tactics. Actively involved with the industry for 16 years, Bowman and his team have received numer-ous awards for online and print design and he currently serves on the WWA’s Marketing Committee, for which he also served as chair in 2013.

BOB BRADLEYBob Bradley is the owner of Aquatic Consulting & Educational Services (ACES), based in Raleigh, N.C. With more than three decades of experience as an advisor on aquatic facility operation, recreation risk management and safety training, Bradley was instrumental in the development of what is now the

National Recreation & Park Association’s Aquatic Facility Operator certifica-tion program. Bradley was the founding president, treasurer and served for over a decade as a board member of the Drowning Prevention Coalition of Central Arizona. Bradley was also the founding officer and board member of the National Drowning Prevention Alliance and the founding president of the NRPA’s National Aquatic Branch and was the chairman of the national board of directors for the Aquatic Facility Operator program. He has worked with resident camps, YMCAs, municipalities, universities, public and private aquatic leisure facilities and resorts. Bradley was the executive director of the Arizona chapter and the southwestern region of the Association of Pool & Spa Professionals (formerly the National Spa & Pool Association), where he conducted the certified pool and spa technician training program. He is also a member of Total Aquatic Management’s aquatic consulting team. Bradley has written numerous professional articles and contributed to train-ing manuals on lifeguarding, water safety and aquatic operation. Bradley holds degrees in liberal arts and recreation administration. He has been one


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of the most active water safety awareness advocates in the country, reaching hundreds of thousands of adults and children through public and private programs.

KATHY BRENNANKathy Brennan is the CIO for the Whale’s Tale Waterpark and Alpine Adventures Zipline and Off-Road tour companies. Her year-round responsibilities include retail, food & beverage, ticketing, scheduling, reserva-tions and all supporting business systems. Also during the winter, she is the Technical Director for Waterville

Valley’s Ski and Snowboard School and an Examiner and Education Committee member for the Professional Ski Instructor Association’s Eastern Division. In addition, Brennan provides consulting and coaching services for ARC2ARC, LLC, a resort consulting and alpine training center. Brennan serves on the WWA’s Education Committee. She has nearly 30 years of ex-periencing in designing and implementing software systems that streamline processes and improve performance. Brennan is inspired by finding creative ways to solve problems.

MIKE BROWNMike Brown serves as General Manager for Dollywood’s Splash Country. He began his career with HFE in 1992 as a lifeguard at White Water in Branson, Mo., serving in various leadership roles in the Aquatics program and working his way up while attending college, ultimately reaching Assistant Lifeguard Supervisor in 1999. In

2001, Brown relocated to Tennessee to help open Dollywood’s Splash Country as Aquatic Supervisor. In 2003, he became Operations Manager, responsible for aquatics, safety and maintenance. Brown was promoted to Operations Director in 2008. Brown graduated from Missouri State University with a bachelor’s of science in psychology and a minor in sociology. He is a graduate of the 2002 opening class of Leadership Tomorrow in Tennessee. Brown has been involved with training and developing guards since 1996 and is CPO and AFO certified. He resides in Sevierville, Tennessee with his wife Jennifer and his two sons.

CODY BUTCHERCody Butcher, CPRP, CPOI, is the Corporate Director of Waterparks for Great Wolf Resorts. His responsibilities in-clude planning, organizing and directing activities asso-ciated with the year-round operation and maintenance of 12 indoor waterparks. Butcher held positions as Parks and Recreation Director for City of Prosser, Wash.;

Aquatics Director at Highlands Ranch Community Association; and worked in waterpark maintenance for Hyland Hills Water World. He is a Certified Pool Operator (CPO) Instructor and Certified Parks and Recreation Professional. Butcher is retired from over 21 years of service in the United States Army and Army National Guard where he served in the maintenance field.

JIM CAMPBELLJim Campbell has been a Cast Member with the Walt Disney World Company for 20 years. After graduating from Florida State University with a degree in leisure services and recreation, he began his Walt Disney World career as a Food and Beverage Host at the Magic Kingdom. He has held various roles throughout WDW


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Parks, Resorts and Downtown Disney. He is currently the Manager of Food and Beverage Operations at Disney’s Blizzard Beach, Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon and the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex.

COLETTE CARLSONColette Carlson, founder of Speak Your Truth, Inc., is a human behavior expert, author and humorous keynote speaker who shares the tools, terminology and techniques that encourage people to excel. Clients include Boeing, Microsoft, Procter & Gamble and the United States Government. With a master’s

degree in human behavior and a fascination with communication trends, Carlson delivers the latest research letting the facts support the fun. She writes a monthly column for “Business Management Daily” and has been featured in “Success and Working Mother“ magazines. Carlson is a Certified Speaking Professional (CSP), a designation held by fewer than 10 percent of the members belonging to the International Federation for Professional Speakers. Carlson learned her message the hard way. She started out a big liar. Literally! Only by telling the truth on herself and admitting her fears did she break through her complacency, lose 50 pounds and step into a bold, commission-only sales livelihood. Working for sales legend Tom Hopkins, she quickly ascended to become the #1 producer. Carlson’s immediate suc-cess led to an opportunity to join sales guru Brian Tracy’s team, and shortly thereafter she became a National Sales Trainer for US West. Laugh and learn with Carlson as you step in the “truth booth” and receive the tools to create positive, long-lasting change.

JESSICA CARPENTERJessica Carpenter is the Aquatics Manager for the City of Coppell, Texas. She began her aquatics career in 2000 and has worked in a large-scale private waterpark, a waterpark resort and now a municipality. Carpentar is an Ellis & Associates Lifeguard Instructor Trainer, a Jeff Ellis Swimming Program Coordinator, a Certified Parks

and Recreation Professional (CPRP) and a certified Aquatic Facility Operator (AFO). She holds a bachelor’s degree from Texas Christian University and is currently pursuing her master’s degree in recreation, event and sport management at The University of North Texas. Under her leadership, the City of Coppell Parks & Recreation Department has received multiple Gold and Platinum International Aquatic Safety Awards from Ellis & Associates. Carpenter also serves on the WWA’s Public Sector Committee.

LOU CIRIGLIANO, JR.Lou Cirigliano, Jr., has over 28 years experience work-ing in the Guest Services field. He began his career with General Mills, running several of their high volume stores after graduating from Rutgers University. In 1989, he became part of the management team at Tan Tara Country Club in North Tonawanda, N.Y., before moving

back home to the Jersey shore in 1993 in order to take over as the General Manager of the legendary Tradewinds nightclub in Sea Bright, N.J., for the Storino Family. Tradewinds was one of the largest entertainment venues on the Jersey shore and was host to many national touring acts such as Bon Jovi, Counting Crows, Jewel, Squeeze, Pat Benatar and even their local neighbor, Bruce Springsteen! In 2003, after the Tradewinds was closed, he was moved to Seaside Heights to begin his involvement in the amusement and waterpark industry and today is the Director of Operations for Casino Pier and Breakwater Beach. In 2009, Breakwater Beach was the winner of the WWA’s Kelly Ogle Memorial Safety Award for significant contribution


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to guest and employee safety. For 2010, Breakwater Beach was chosen as one of the best family attractions in Ocean County, N.J., by readers of the local paper Asbury Park Press, and 2011 was voted favorite family attraction by the NJ.com online poll and beat out their competitor by over 130 votes! Cirigliano served on the WWA’s Board of Directors from 2011 until 2013. When not at work, he loves to be with his daughters, Taylor and Allie.

DALE COOPERDale Cooper is the owner and operator of Safe Slide Restoration. He has 20 years of experience in the fiberglass and waterpark industries. This experience has given him an edge in building one of the most suc-cessful waterslide restoration companies in the world. Cooper is a certified composite technician according

to the American Composite Manufacturer Association and has received certifications in both gelcoat field matching and epoxy application through the Michigan-based Gougeon Brothers inc. Through his experience and networking abilities, Cooper is passionate about bringing time-tested, com-prehensive solutions that have set the standards for quality and professional-ism within the waterpark community. Connecting competent technicians with advanced formal training is what Cooper believes will keep the industry strong and safe.

JOANN CORTÉZJoann Cortéz is the communications director and spokesperson for Hyland Hills Water World in Denver Colorado where she has worked since 1998.The park represents the nation’s largest publically owned waterpark and is the largest revenue generator in the repertoire of facilities owned and operated by Hyland

Hills Park and Recreation District. As a special district, Hyland Hills also owns and operates dozens of parks and ball fields, community centers, an indoor sports arena, golf courses, miniature golf venue, a gymnastics center and an ice arena that are owned in partnership with an adjacent city. Cortéz cur-rently serves as Chair for WWA’s Marketing & Communications Committee.

DAVID J. DALY, ESQUIREDavid J. Daly is the managing partner of the law firm of Daly Cavanaugh LLP, a defense firm in Wellesley, Mass. Daly did his undergraduate work at the College of the Holy Cross in Worcester, Mass., and the Institute of European Studies in Paris, France. He received his Juris Doctor from Suffolk University in Boston. His

international experiences are many having served in the U.S. Peace Corps in Afghanistan and as counsel to Triad, a group of international companies based in the Middle East. Besides the defense, corporate and legislative work which Daly and his firm do for many members of the amusement indus-try, Daly is Past President and a member of the Board of Directors of the New England Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions, Inc. (NEAPPA); Past President and a member of the Board of Directors of the International Amusement and Leisure Defense Association (IALDA); he is also chair of the IALDA Membership Committee; Charter Board member of the National Retail and Restaurant Defense Association; and President of the Alliance of Massachusetts Amusement Businesses Association, Inc. He often participates as a speaker and presenter in seminars, conferences and meetings related to the industry.


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JOSH DAVIESJosh Davies is passionate about helping others make a difference in their lives, jobs and community. Through his work as an executive, speaker and trainer, he has delivered results around the country. He has given keynotes and training workshops to a wide variety of organizations across all 50 states, includ-

ing the American Society of Training and Development and the National Association of Workforce Development Professionals. In preparation for the 2008 Democratic National Convention, he led the training for all 10,000 volunteers and more than 4,000 local service professionals for the event. “Training Magazine“ named him as one of the top 10 trainers under 40 in America and the “Denver Business Journal“ tapped him as one of Denver’s 40 Under 40. Davies is currently the CEO of the Center for Work Ethic Development, an organization committed to developing foundational work behaviors in everyone from high school students to returning veterans transitioning into the civilian workforce. He is also a published author and is frequently cited in national publications, including the “New York Times.” An avid runner, Davies has been awarded the Mile High Energy Award by Visit Denver, and an honorary doctorate of foodservice by the North American Food Equipment Manufacturers Association for his contributions to the industry. He is the past President of the Council of Hotel and Restaurant Trainers (CHART), and has been appointed by the Governor to serve on the Colorado Workforce Development Council and Chair of the State Education and Training Steering Committee. He previously was a Vice President with Sage Hospitality, and assisted in the opening of all North American CoCo Key Water Resort properties.

GEORGE DEINESGeorge Deines is a Project Manager for Counsilman-Hunsaker in Garland, Texas specializing in aquatic master planning, business planning, feasibility studies and operational training and development. Before joining the CH team in 2014, he worked as the Aquatics Manager for the City of Garland, Texas, overseeing the

operation of Surf and Swim, the city’s 4-acre waterpark and three commu-nity pools. He holds degrees from the University of North Texas and Dallas Theological Seminary and is an Ellis & Associates Lifeguard Instructor Trainer. He is president of the North Texas Aquatics Association and was the recipi-ent of the WWA Board of Director’s Kelly Ogle Memorial Safety Award in 2012. Deines currently serves as Chair of WWA’s Safety Committee.

PETE DEQUINCYPete DeQuincy oversees 170+ lifeguards and WSI’s at 11 aquatic facilities, which includes pools, artificial lagoons and lakes. With an annual attendance of over 500,000 park visitors, his mission is to provide a positive and safe water experience for the families and patrons within Alameda and Contra Costa counties. He served

on the national American Red Cross Sounding Board for Lifeguarding and is currently an American Red Cross Instructor Trainer Educator in Lifeguarding and Water Safety Instruction. His articles on lifeguard training and in-service development can be found in “Aquatics International’s” lifesaver column. He was selected by “Aquatics International” as one of the top innovators for their February 2014 Power Issue.


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STELLA DEVINE-KNIGHTStella Devine-Knight is the Sponsorship & Marketing Specialist for the City of Palmdale. She specializes in generating revenue through recruiting sponsors and sponsorship fulfillment for City events and venues. She has worked in marketing and graphic design for 35 years, and has seen enormous change in the way

we communicate with current and potential customers. She has a solid background in traditional media, and has learned digital marketing channels on the fly, including web, email and social media marketing. Her work over the years has received many awards from organizations such as WWA, IFEA and CalFest.

MIKE DONNELLYMike Donnelly is a recognized expert, keynote speaker, facilitator and consultant in the principle of building successful corporate cultures; focusing on selection, new hire orientation, training and customer experience. For over 15 years, Donnelly gained practical customer facing and leadership experience at The Walt Disney

Company and Papa John’s International. He began his Disney career as a skipper on the world-famous Jungle Cruise in the Magic Kingdom at the Walt Disney World Resort before embarking on the Disney Management Development Program. There, he learned and put into practice the Disney approach to people management and quality service. Donnelly served in a variety of leadership roles at Walt Disney World, including food and bever-age operations management, the WDW Casting Center (hired thousands of cast members for various roles throughout the resort), guest relations and facilitating company orientation for newly hired cast members. During his tenure with Papa John’s, Donnelly worked with Founder and CEO John Schnatter to design and implement programs that communicated the culture of a company growing at the rate of 40 percent per year. As the Director of Culture, he designed the cultural standards, redesigned the selection and hiring process and developed new employee orientation while the company experienced their initial public offering and international expansion. Mike’s success in affecting both corporate and franchise stores and his ground-breaking work in supporting and leading the organization through its growth earned him the prestigious President’s Award, presented by John Schnatter. Through his experience creating and presenting behavior-based content, as well as facilitating business development programs, his expertise is highly sought after. He now uses this extensive experience to help organizations build high performing service cultures. His number one client for several years remains Disney Institute where he is a contracted facilitator of Disney development for organizations throughout North America.

NATALIE DUNLAPNatalie Dunlap is the Founder and President of Media Mix, a full service advertising agency in Jacksonville, Florida. She is also Vice President of Marketing for Adventure Holdings and The Beach. Dunlap is a sea-soned leader, directing an organization whose driving force is for clients to have a consistent message and

brand in all forms of media including traditional, digital and social. She is skilled in marketing, specifically lead generation, with attributes in commu-nication, public relations, team building and mentoring. She leads her team with vision of a marketing strategy, development of an economic business case and execution of an aggressive campaign for each client. Dunlap has been a marketing professional for 16 years. Her leadership, management style, business growth initiatives and community contributions are factors that have made Media Mix so successful.


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JAMES F. DUNN As vice president of design and construction for Aquatic Development Group, James F. Dunn’s responsibili-ties include conceptual design development, contract administration and project management of waterpark, aquatic center and specialty feature projects. He is in-volved in the design/build services from the initial phas-

es of project development through final construction. Dunn is a registered architect in the state of New York and has more than 20 years of waterpark development and construction experience with responsibilities that range from specific system design to overall project planning and management. For the past decade, Dunn has been involved with the extensive research and development program of ADG’s Whitten Filtration Division. He has helped pioneer some of the most progressive water filtration systems used in today’s waterparks and aquatic venues. He has spearheaded the imple-mentation of safe, effective water treatment systems used in every waterpark or commercial pool project that ADG designs and builds. He has managed the development of the design of such projects as Camelbeach Waterpark; Six Flags Fiesta Texas, San Antonio; Wet ‘n Wild (Orlando, Florida and Brazil); Six Flags Hurricane Harbor, St. Louis, Mo.; Six Flags Great America, Gurnee, Ill.; Massanutten Resort, McGaheysville, Va.; and Geauga Lake, Aurora, Ohio. Dunn holds a bachelor’s degree of professional studies in architecture from the University of Buffalo.

PETER A. FINGERHUTPeter A. Fingerhut is Vice President of Marketing and Sales for Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, Zoombezi Bay, Safari Golf Club and the Wilds. Fingerhut’s passion for business management and marketing has guided his 28 year career. In the six years that he has been with the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, the zoo’s attendance has grown over 25 percent and memberships have grown

over 40 percent. In 2009, the zoo was rated the #1 zoo in the nation by USA travel guide. Fingerhut has completely redesigned the Website, restructured the Group Sales Department and completely restructured the advertising department, including bringing on a world class advertising agency. While doing all this, he has increased sponsorships by over 20 percent and cut expenses with memberships by over 20 percent. Prior to his time at Zoo, Fingerhut worked for the Six Flags Corporation where he spent over 20 years growing from a seasonal coordinator of promotions to General Manager. Outside of his work, Fingerhut currently serves on the board of directors for the Dublin Convention and Visitor’s Department. He is an active member of AZA and a member of the American Marketing Association, in which he was voted the “Marketer of the Year” in 2008. Fingerhut serves as the Secretary for WWA’s Marketing & Communications Committee. Fingerhut attended the University of Missouri in Columbia, Missouri and received his bachelor’s of science degree in recreation and park management. He is married with three children and enjoys a good round of golf.

BLAKE FORDBlake Ford is currently the Waterpark General Manager for the Water Park of America in Bloomington, Minn. Prior to this, Ford was the Director of Aquatics and Safety Coordinator for Blue Harbor Resort in Sheboygan, Wis. He worked there since the property changed ownership in 2011. He has been in Aquatics

since 2005 and has worked around the country. He is an Ellis & Associates Instructor and previously held Instructor certification through American Red


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Cross. He is the Chair of the WWA’s Waterpark Resort Committee. He enjoys playing most sports and never misses a chance to play volleyball. If he has a chance to relax, you can find him on the couch watching a movie.

RON FOTH, JR.Ron Foth, Jr. is the Creative Director for Ron Foth Advertising. Joining RFA in 1988, Foth has brought an incredible amount of innovation and energy to the work done at the agency. He also directs the agency’s television and film shoots and oversees the produc-tion division, resulting in many nationally recognized,

award-winning campaigns.

BOB FRADETTEBob Fradette has been with RFA since 1992, earn-ing five different titles through his storied career. He is responsible for the day-to-day activities including research, strategic planning and client nurturing. He always looks for innovative ways to impact clients’ brand and messaging.

RICK FULLERSince 1992, Rick Fuller has served as the Administrative Counsel for Hyland Hills Park and Recreation District, owners and operators of Water World. During that period, and in addition to his legal duties, he has hands-on involvement with Water World’s risk management, operations, training, personnel matters, public relations

and marketing. Fuller has been a frequent speaker at WWA events and will present lessons learned by staff from 34 years of Water World operations. Fuller has served on WWA’s Public Sector Committee and Safety Committee and currently serves as Vice Chair for the Government Relations Committee.

GAYLEE W. GILLIM, ESQUIREGaylee W. Gillim is general counsel and an owner of Kentucky Kingdom, LLLP, which reopened Kentucky Kingdom and Hurricane Bay in 2014. Gillim was also general counsel and an owner of Kentucky Kingdom – The Thrill Park from 1990 until its sale to Premier Parks Inc in 1997. Prior to her involvement with Kentucky

Kingdom, LLLP, Gillim was general counsel and an owner of Magic Springs Development Co., L.L.C., which opened Magic Springs & Crystal Falls in Hot Springs, Arkansas in 2000. After eight seasons, Magic Springs was sold to PARC Management in July, 2008. Gillim graduated from Duke University in 1975 (B.A. summa cum laude) and earned a J.D. from St. John’s University in 1978. She is admitted to practice in both New York and Kentucky. Gillim has been a member of International Amusement and Leisure Defense Association’s (IALDA) Board of Directors since 1995 and currently serves as Secretary of the organization. Gillim served two terms on the WWA’s Board of Directors.


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FRANCEEN GONZALESFranceen Gonzales was previously Vice President, Risk Management and Waterparks, for Great Wolf Resorts where she held responsibility for safety, risk manage-ment, waterpark operations and maintenance for the company’s 12 waterpark resorts in North America. Prior to joining Great Wolf Resorts, Gonzales was Park

Director for Hurricane Harbor at Six Flags Great Adventure. She has also held top management positions at Golfland Entertainment Centers Inc., Waterworld Safari in Phoenix, Arizona and Wet ’N Wild Waterworld in Texas. Gonzales served as the Chair of the WWA’s Board of Directors and on the IAAPA Board of Directors. She sits on the ASTM International (American Society for Testing and Materials) Board of Directors and has served on numerous ASTM International committees. Gonzales currently serves on the Board of Directors of AIMS (Amusement Industry Manufacturers and Suppliers) and the National Swimming Pool Foundation (NSPF). A regular speaker at industry events, Gonzales has also written several industry articles, was named to the “Power 25” in 2011 and 2012 by “Aquatics International Magazine” and has received many industry honors and awards including WWA’s Kelly Ogle Memorial Safety Award and WWA’s Executive Board Award twice.

BILLY HAMILTONBilly Hamilton has more than 39 years of experience in the swimming pool industry with 35 of those years spent as Water Quality Manager at Wet ‘n Wild in Orlando, Fla. As Pools & Water Quality Manager, he is responsible for all pools and water, including a lake and has played a major role in the development and

design of new rides. Hamilton has been called upon frequently during his years at Wet ‘n Wild to share his knowledge. Hamilton is a CPO instructor and enthusiastically teaches and shares his knowledge with others. He is an accomplished and respected leader in the water quality field. Hamilton lives his passion for water quality, safety and excellence in the industry on a daily basis. He is a true water lover at work and away. Hamilton is an avid offshore fisherman and enjoys scuba diving. Hamilton has been married for 33 years to Cerinda, has one grown daughter and resides in central Florida.

KENNY HANDLERKenny Handler has operated and managed many of California’s finest waterparks including Raging Waters, Six Flags Hurricane Harbor and the Wave Waterpark, and has consulted with more than 70 facilities throughout the United States. He has been in the waterpark industry for the past 4 decades. As a

nationally recognized waterpark professional, Handler continues to men-tor and provide assistance to a number of well-known facilities offering memorable and safe adventures to hundreds of thousands of guests each year. He has maximized his client’s bottom lines by increasing their revenue and reducing their expenses. Handler has received national recognition for his marketing and success as an operator and General Manager. Handler’s achievements include: best in marketing commercials, radio ads, print media and promotional events from the WWA; winner of the first ever National Title for Lifeguard Competition, as well as numerous safety awards from Ellis & Associates. For the past decade, Handler has spoken at both national and regional conferences including: NRPA, WWA, CPRS, IPRA, FPRA and MPRA.


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Handler was instrumental in organizing the WWA’s inaugural full day food & beverage school in 2012 and has continued his role as organizer, adviser and presenter for the school for the past three years.

DAVID HARMONDavid Harmon has been with DEL Ozone since 2001 as Field Service Engineer and for the last year as Director of Sales for Commercial Aquatics. Harmon’s background of 13 years in the field commissioning and servicing DEL’s extensive product line, as well as lead-ing his team of factory direct technicians and contract

service companies around the world, gives him a great skill set for finding ozone solutions for a wide variety of customers and applications. He and his team have commissioned and serviced DEL systems, many being multiple million gallon and multiple ozone generator projects, in North America, South America, the Middle East, Far East, Europe, Africa and Australia . Harmon has a B.S. in industrial technology from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, Calif.

KEVIN HARRINGTONKevin Harrington is currently Division Manager of the Ramuc Pool Paint Company, located in Rockaway, New Jersey. Harrington is a graduate of Rutgers University where he earned a bachelor’s of science degree in 1977. After graduation, Harrington launched his career at Wm. Zinsser & Co., Inc., Somerset N.J., where he be-

gan his specialization in the coatings industry. This position led to a 31 year career in the capacity of sales & marketing and customer service. During his tenure, Zinsser was acquired by RPM International, one of the largest coatings companies in the world. Later, his expanding expertise in specialty coatings led Harrington to assume the leadership role for Ramuc Pool Paint, a division of RPM International. Harrington has become a trusted source for guiding and leading facility managers and service technicians in the appro-priate choice of coatings, and in techniques for proper surface preparation and application. Harrington is exceptionally well respected for his profes-sionalism and high standards, and is known to do all in his power to ensure his clients have a positive and successful experience with his company and product line. His outgoing and friendly demeanor lends itself to his ability as an effective trainer and communicator. Harrington also specializes in ap-plying his expertise and coatings knowledge to lead the organization in the development of products that will serve the industry’s high demand. With his vast product knowledge and extensive industry experience, Harrington has led Ramuc to become an industry leader and has become a go-to person for those seeking expertise in aquatic coatings.

TINA HATCHERTina Hatcher is the CEO and President of 3i Advertising/PR. In her 26 year marketing and public relations career, she has spent 24 of them working with waterparks and attraction venues. She specializes in developing brand/image campaigns, traditional media, digital and social media platforms, public relations, promotions, special

events and creating revenue generating programs for parks. Her work over the years has received WWA Wave Review awards and Addy awards for cre-ative, campaign conception and Best of Show. Hatcher serves on the WWA’s Marketing & Communications Committee. She also served on the Board of Directors and donated her time with Girl Scouts of Southeast Florida and


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Autism Speaks. Hatcher has been married for 19 years to her better half, Tom, has an 11-year old daughter and resides in South Florida. She can be reached at [email protected].

STEPHANIE HEE-JOHNSTONStephanie Hee-Johnston started working for NRH2O Family Water Park at the age of 19 as the Marketing Intern. She began her full time career at NRH2O as the Group Sales Representative. In 2009, she was promoted to the Marketing Specialist and is now the Admissions & Promotions Coordinator where she oversees the sale

of tickets and passes, special events and social media. Hee-Johnston also serves as the Vice Chair for the Marketing & Communications Committee for the World Waterpark Association. Prior to joining NRH2O Family Water Park full time, Hee-Johnston worked in Group Sales at SEGA GameWorks in Grapevine, Texas. She has a bachelor’s of business administration degree in marketing from the University of Texas at Austin.

MELISSA HEROLDMelissa “Missy” Herold serves as General Manager of Grand Lodge Waterpark Resort in Rothschild, Wis. She began her career with the property in 2004 as a lifeguard while attending college and quickly worked her way up to Aquatics Supervisor and then Aquatics Manager in 2005. In 2010, Herold was promoted

to Assistant General Manager of the resort and, in 2012, was promoted to Director of Operations. She currently sits on the Board of Directors for the Mosinee Area Chamber of Commerce, is President of the South Area Business Association and is the President of the Central Wisconsin Innkeepers Association. She graduated from University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point with a B.A. In English in 2006. Herold currently serves as Vice Chair for WWA’s Waterpark Resort Committee.

CLINT HILLClint Hill is currently the President of Hawaiian Falls. Hawaiian Falls currently owns and operates 7 water-parks, two adventure parks and two event centers in Texas. Hill has been in the waterpark industry for 12 years. He currently oversees 2,000+ employees annually and over 1 million guests. Hill currently holds

several certifications within the waterpark industry and has had experience with NASCO and Ellis & Associates. Prior to joining the waterpark industry, Hill was a firefighter in North Texas. He also served in New Orleans during Hurricane Katrina as part of the rescue effort with FEMA.

JIMMY HOLMESJimmy Holmes is the President of H Two Marketing, a firm providing marketing management and consulting services to waterparks. Holmes is a marketing strategist with over two decades of experience in brand develop-ment, campaign execution, season pass programs, group sales, promotions, partnerships and special

events. He began his career at Wild Adventures Theme Park, where he led marketing efforts that transformed the regional animal park into the 32nd largest amusement park in North America. As Vice President of Marketing & Sales for Adventure Parks Group, Holmes spearheaded the rebranding of historic Cypress Gardens, and launched two Splash Island Waterparks.


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His marketing efforts have been recognized with WWA Wave Review & IAAPA Brass Ring awards. He resides in Valdosta, Ga., with his wife Tori and daughter Ansley.

LEE HOVISLee Hovis is the Director of Recreation and Operation for the Tolomato Community Development District and is responsible for the operation of all Nocatee ameni-ties and programs. He has served as a member of the WWA’s Board of Directors and served as the chair from 2002-2005. Hovis has been working in the waterpark

industry since 1984 and has served on the WWA Safety Committee and teaches the National Swimming Pool Foundation’s Certified Pool Operator Courses for the association. He serves on the APSP-9 committee for waterpark safety standards, works with the International Code Council on Swimming Pool Codes and is an Instructor Trainer for the American Red Cross. Prior to joining the district, Hovis has held top management positions with Adventure Landing, Roaring Springs Waterpark, Water Country USA, Emerald Pointe Waterpark and Summer Waves Waterpark. WWA inducted Hovis into the Hall of Fame in 2011. When not working on waterpark issues, Hovis enjoys watching football and spending time with his family.

RICK IAFRATERick Iafrate has been with Wet ‘n’ Wild Phoenix, Arizona’s largest waterpark, for over 6 years now, as the Food and Beverage Director. Iafrate attended Arizona State University and also is retired from the military serving through both regular and reserve components in the Army. Iafrate started in the hotel

industry with Marriott, working his way up to position of Food and Beverage Director through commitment and dedication to his job. He also worked for InterContinental Hotels, Hilton and Crowne Plaza chains. In addition to ho-tels, Iafrate also worked for the Arizona Diamondbacks in their first season as the Catering Manager. This was a dream job for him, but gave it up to coach his boys in Little League, which was a much bigger dream! He returned to a hotel position as the Food and Beverage Director, until he was called upon to serve in Iraq, in Operation Iraqi Freedom. A couple years later he accepted his current position at Wet ‘n’ Wild Phoenix. Iafrate has increased his annual sales and per cap each and every year for 6 consecutive years. He is responsible for two bar outlets, an indoor air conditioned restaurant facility and multiple outlets throughout the park. He is well respected by his fellow associates and has a high retention rate every year. He has tried many things through the years to include serving: rattlesnake, bison burger and ostrich at his park. He has spearheaded many ideas and concepts currently in place and Wet ‘n’ Wild Phoenix. Iafrate attributes his success to the many people he has worked with through the years.

JEFFREY W. JOHNSON, ESQUIREJeffrey W. Johnson is the founder of the Johnson Law Group. Johnson is rated AV by Martindale and has ex-tensive litigation and jury trial experience in the areas of general tort liability and commercial litigation matters. He has been defending wrongful death, personal injury, premises liability and product liability for the retail and

amusement industry since 1987. Johnson is admitted to practice before the Florida Bar. He is the Secretary Treasurer for the Florida Defense Lawyers Association (FDLA), a member of the Defense Research Institute (DRI), Council for Litigation Management (CLM) and International Amusement & Leisure Defense Association (IALDA). He has spoken at meetings and


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conferences throughout the United States. He received his bachelor’s of arts degree from Tulane University and his Juris Doctorate degree from the University of Miami School of Law. He is admitted to practice in all trial and appellate courts in the State of Florida, as well as the U.S. District Court (Southern and Middle Districts of Florida).

TOM JOHNSTONTom Johnston is President of Ascedia, a digital market-ing and web development agency in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. With over a decade of digital marketing, management, business development and leadership experience, he combines data-driven insights and cre-ative, personalized strategy to drive business results. His

tactical experience spans multiple online channels, including organic search, paid search, social, email, video, display and mobile marketing. Prior to joining Ascedia in 2007, Johnston worked in the e-commerce department at Kohl’s corporate, as the online traffic and sales analyst at JSOnline.com and drove the implementation of email marketing strategy for SignOnSanDiego.com. Johnston graduated cum laude from UW-Milwaukee, where he earned a double bachelor’s in linguistics with a focus in Japanese and Philosophy, as well as a certificate of Asian studies.

MATT KEILMatt Keil is currently the General Manager at Big Air Trampoline Park in Buena Park, Calif. He is an integral part of a progressive development group named H2O Partners, which manages properties throughout Southern California. This group currently manages Splash Kingdom Waterpark in Redlands, Calif., and

three Big Air Trampoline Parks in Laguna Hills, Buena Park and Redlands. Keil has worked for more than 20 years operating waterparks and 3 years devel-oping and operating trampoline parks. He began working as a lifeguard at Wild Rivers Waterpark in Irvine, Calif., in 1991 and later became an American Red Cross Lifeguard Instructor. Keil served as the Director of Operations for Raging Waters Waterpark in Salt Lake City, Utah from 1998 to 2000. From 2000 to 2011, he held various positions at Wild Rivers including Operations and Admissions Manager. From 2012 to 2014, he was the Assistant General Manager for Splash Kingdom Waterpark and Big Air Trampoline Park in Redlands, Calif. From 2012 to 2015, he developed and now operates Big Air Trampoline Park in Buena Park, Calif. During his tenure as a manager, he was integral part of a team responsible for overseeing all elements of park safety, loss prevention and operational efficiency. Keil’s expertise is using educational ideology when creating and implementing management and front line training programs.

JESSICA KINGAs the Director of Operations at Raging Waters, San Jose, Jessica King’s current occupation allows her to be part of an incredibly dynamic and innovative industry. Her career began much like it has for many others; it was a fun summer job that evolved into something more significant. Graduating from USC in 2005, King

earned degrees in both biochemistry and neuroscience and planned to become a physician, all the while maintaining employment as a lifeguard at Raging Waters, San Dimas. Several career paths and 14 years later, King finds that her ambition is looking for new ways to streamline safety, training and the guest experience for all the properties she is lucky enough to be involved in. King feels that properly educating and demonstrating passion to her employees will not only empower them to do their jobs more efficiently


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and effectively, but can also inspire her team members to be even better, uncovering potential innovation that will continue to elevate our incredible industry. King’s favorite part about the waterpark industry is that going to work rarely feels like “work;” no two days are identical and she cannot think of anything better than being in the business of fun. King feels like she has found her niche and hopes to inspire passion and creativity to those she is fortunate enough to encounter along the way. King currently serves on WWA’s Education Committee.

KAROL KOMARKarol Komar is the Facilities Manager for the Tinley Park-Park District. She has been active in the pool industry for 19 years. Komar’s career began with the district as the fitness center manager, managing their center, which includes the indoor pool. In 2001, Komar was placed in the position of Facilities Manager, responsible for the

new 70,000-square-foot Bettenhausen Recreation Center and White Water Canyon, the new 5-acre waterpark. Including these two facilities, she is also in charge of overseeing the fitness center. Komar is involved in all aspects of these properties including marketing, sales, maintenance, lifeguard and staff training and also their in-house concessions. Under Komar’s direction, the lifeguard team at White Water Canyon has earned numerous 4 and 5 star awards from Starfish Aquatics Institute and last year the staff was presented with the Executive Director’s Award from the National Drowning Prevention Alliance. In 2013, the Tinley Park-Park District achieved the prestigious title of Distinguished Accredited Agency awarded by The Illinois Association of Park Districts & the Illinois Park and Recreation Associations. The two-year process recognizes recreation agencies that provide exceptional park and recreation services to their community. The Tinley Park-Park District is one of only 45 agencies in the state of Illinois who have earned this award. Komar currently serves as the Secretary for WWA’s Public Sector Committee.

KEVIN KOPENYKevin Kopeny served as the VP/General Manager of Wild Rivers until its closure in 2011. He began working at Wild Rivers in 1988 and possesses more than 25 years of experience in the waterpark industry. Since the closure of Wild Rivers Waterpark, Kopeny has worked to develop his own consulting business. Kopeny’s consult-

ing company focuses on operational and design/build expertise. Kopeny’s clients have retained his services over the past few years in many opera-tional roles across the U.S., as well as internationally. Kopeny has either led or been involved in the development of multiple water related recreation venues. In 2014, Kopeny joined the team at Water Ventures leisure design, as their company’s Vice President. Since February of 2014, Kopeny has worked diligently to help Water Ventures provide project management services on multiple contracts, in both the municipal and the private sector. Kopeny has completed multiple design service and construction contracts for the firm and its clients. Kopeny has consulted on a number of projects, in both the public and private sectors and has always accepted requests to lend his experience to the industry.

CHRIS LANDGRAVEChris Landgrave has been the Superintendent of Business Development for the Lake County Parks and Recreation department in Lake Co. Indiana since February. Prior to assuming his current position, Landgrave was General Manager of Deep River Waterpark for 12 years and waterfront supervisor


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at Whihala Beach County Park on Lake Michigan for 4 years. Landgrave graduated from Indiana State University in Terre Haute, Ind., with a degree in sports management. He currently lives with his wife and daughter in Crown Point, Ind. Landgrave serves as the Chair of the WWA Education Committee. Landgrave was awarded a Special Recognition Award by the WWA’s Board of Directors for significant accomplishment with their volunteer committees in 2010/2011.

JUDITH LEBLEIN JOSEPHSJudith Leblein Josephs, CPRA, RA, has been a featured speaker at conferences and training seminars across the United States for many years. After twenty years in the public sector, Leblein Josephs was with the firm of Water Technology, Inc. for 12 years as a Marketing and Operations Consultant. She has served as an

Operations Coach for facilities of all sizes. She is now the President of Judith Leblein Josephs Enterprises LLC and has clients across the country, includ-ing the City of Providence, Rhode Island and all of the aquatic venues for the Salvation Army Eastern Territory. Leblein Josephs always knew that she would someday return to the public sector. She was recruited by the City of Summit, N.J. in 2007 to serve as their Director of Community Programs. No stranger to Summit, she had a role on the design team for their renovated community pool, now known as the Summit Family Aquatic Center. She has worked her magic on this 40+-year-old facility that now boasts that it is “The City’s Hottest Place to Cool Off!” Known internationally as a speaker and author, Leblein Josephs’s specialty in marketing, promotions, television and radio production has proven quite valuable to all of her clients. Her novel approach to marketing has won her numerous state, national and inter-national awards. Leblein Josephs has repeatedly won the “Speaker of the Year” distinction from the World Waterpark Association and was inducted into the WWA Hall of Fame in 2003. She has served as Toastmaster for the WWA’s Opening General Session for numerous years. Leblein Josephs had a career both in front of and behind the television camera. Her work was seen throughout her home state of New Jersey over the past 20+ years. She has also had a career on the radio and was a talk jock on Central Jersey 1450 WCTC for over ten years. She has hosted numerous award and professional events as well. Leblein Josephs has a knack for making learning a memo-rable and enjoyable event. She also serves on WWA’s Education Committee.

BILL LENTZBill Lentz is the Vice President of Water Parks for Palace Entertainment. Lentz is responsible for nine waterparks across the country, including parks in California, Wisconsin, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, New Hampshire and New York. He spent his early career in retail at sports facilities, concerts and tour merchandis-

ing. This included merchandising for the Harlem Globetrotters domestically and worldwide. Lentz started in the amusement business in 1989 in retail at Knott’s Berry Farm, CA. Lentz was promoted several times at Knott’s, and in 1998 became the Director of Merchandise. In this role he was responsible for $35 million in revenue and managed 1,000 employees in retail, games, Ghost Town operations and the retail warehouse. This role also included multiple trips overseas to Taiwan and China for product development and procurement. In 2005, Lentz was promoted to serve as the General Manager of Knott’s Soak City, Palm Springs, CA, setting revenue and profitability re-cords during his time there. Lentz also served as the GM of California’s Great America in Santa Clara, CA, before moving to Palace in 2013. In his roles as GM and his current role with Palace, he has managed or helped oversee nu-merous new attraction or facility projects, including three new rides in 2015.


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Lentz graduated from California State University, Fullerton, with a bachelor’s degree in business administration. Lentz is CPO certified, and serves on the Advisory Board for Ellis & Associates. Lentz has been married over 33 years to his wife, Karen. They have three children, and had their first two grandchil-dren earlier this year.

RON LAUSMANRon Lausman has worked in the management role for a number of design and consulting firms across western Canada for 25 years. Within that time, he has over 19 years’ experience in the design of global aquatic recreational attractions and waterparks. Lausman is a Landscape Architect and the head of proposals, slide

path design and all architectural services at WhiteWater West Industries in the Vancouver head office. Lausman holds a bachelor of science degree from the University of Winnipeg and a master’s of landscape architecture degree from the University of Manitoba. He has been involved in the design of many indoor and outdoor waterparks, resort aquatic facilities, hotel waterparks and other recreation amenities around the world, with significant projects in Asia, Eastern Europe, Russia, South and Central America and the Middle East. Projects include, Evergreen Waterpark, Yas Waterworld, Moscow Free Style, Palm Coast Krasnodar, Can Tho Waterpark, Lotte World and Legoland. Lausman has a proven track record of design delivery and master planning of large and complicated waterparks throughout the industry.

MICKEY LEWISMickey Lewis is currently the Corporate Director of Sales and Marketing for Splash Kingdom Family Waterparks. Splash Kingdom Family Waterparks have experienced tremendous growth to 4 waterparks cur-rently in operation with several more waterparks slated to open in in 2016. Lewis has served in a marketing ca-

pacity in 4 different industries (beverage, restoration, holiday and waterpark) and uses this broad experience to create a unique marketing approach to the waterpark industry. Potential sponsors are attracted to Splash Kingdom Family Waterparks through a comprehensive marketing plan including in-park radio, social media, texting platform and bundled sales events at sponsor outlet.

NATALIE LIVINGSTONNatalie Livingston is currently the General Manager of The Wave Waterpark in Vista, Calif. As an 18 year veteran in the aquatics industry, she has worked at both private and public aquatic facilities including Six Flags Hurricane Harbor Los Angeles, Knott’s Soak City Buena Park and Palm Springs and The Wave Waterpark

(owned and operated by the City of Vista). Livingston studied education at Biola University and is currently an Instructor Trainer for the IAM Elite Guard program. She is an AFO and CPO and is currently serving on the WWA’s Education Committee.

BOB MARTINBob Martin has been the General Manager of Wild Water Adventure Park in Clovis, Calif., since 2004. Martin spent the first half of his career coaching, scouting and managing professional football & hockey teams, as well as scouting college football for the NFL, the CFL and arena football leagues. In 2004, a close


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friend introduced Martin to Greg & Kathy Siggers. Martin has been with Wild Water Adventure Park for 12 years focusing on group sales, revenue, in-park spending and taking on challenges that come with a facility that has been operating for more than 4 decades. Martin has developed a nationally rec-ognized cabana program that never stops growing in quantity and revenue. Martin enjoys spending time with his wife of 32 years, Blanche, and their two daughters and 11 grandchildren.

SASHA MATEERSasha Mateer is the General Manager of Deep River Waterpark, a Lake County Parks and Recreation facility, in Crown Point, Indiana. Mateer began her career in 2000 when she joined Deep River as a lifeguard. She was later promoted to a lifeguard lead and eventually became the Water Safety Supervisor. In 2007, Mateer

took over as the Operations Manager for Deep River Waterpark and her responsibilities were widened to include the admissions, guest services and merchandise teams of Deep River. Mateer has held certifications as an Ellis & Associates instructor, American Red Cross lifeguard instructor, AFO and ServSafe. She graduated from DePaul University in 2003 with a degree in bi-ology. Mateer was the recipient of the 2010 Lake County Parks Department Employee of the Year award, as well as the 2013 Executive Board Award from the World Waterpark Association’s Board of Directors. Mateer currently serves as the Vice Chair for the WWA’s Education Committee.

JASON MCCOLLIMJason McCollim has worked as an on-air radio personal-ity since 2001 and has been a fixture on local radio for over a decade. In 2003, McCollim began his own public relations and advertising agency, serving as a consul-tant, publicist, graphic designer, audio designer and videographer for several multi-million dollar businesses

throughout Washington, Idaho and Montana. In 2012, Triple Play Family Fun Park & Raptor Reef enlisted McCollim to their advertising and marketing team as a Social Media Consultant and Creative Services Producer.

CHRIS MCCREARYChris McCreary has been in the aquatic industry for nearly 12 years. The past 10 were spent at Raptor Reef Indoor Waterpark, where he has been acting as the Aquatics Director. McCreary has a passion for all things water. Whether he is teaching life saving techniques to beginning swimmers or training adults for triathlons,

he loves being in and around the water and sharing his passion with others. He also has become the face of Triple Play Family Fun Park, acting in short informational videos for the park. McCreary lives in Hayden, Idaho, where he loves being outdoors, working out and sharing his friendly, positive attitude with those around him!

DALE MCFARLANDDale McFarland has been responsible for the success-ful operation of the 414-room KeyLime Cove Indoor Waterpark Resort, located in Gurnee, Illinois, since October 2008. Prior to his current position, he served as General Manager of Great Wolf Lodge in the Pocono Mountains, Pennsylvania, where he managed the pre-

opening plans as well as the day to day operations for one of the highest grossing indoor waterpark resorts in the industry. Prior to that, he was the


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district manager of ARAMARK Corporation’s (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania) largest account, Lake Powell Resorts & Marinas in Page, Arizona, and is also the former vice president of ARAMARK Parks West. In addition, McFarland has held various management level positions at DoubleTree Hotels in Denver, Colorado; Austin, Texas; Yakima and Seattle, Washington. In 2009, McFarland was honored by the Illinois Lodging Associations esteemed “Hotelier of the Year” award as well as the “Corporate Award” from the Illinois Fire Department for his involvement in community outreach and fire safety education. His passion for community service has allowed KeyLime Cove to contribute over $173,000 to United Way of Lake County and the Gurnee police and fire departments since he started this partnership program. McFarland continually gives back to the hospitality industry and serves on the Illinois Hotel & Lodging Association’s Executive Committee and Board of Directors, the Lake County Visitors Bureau Board of Directors, as well as the Chair for WWA’s Government Relations Committee. He earned a bachelor’s of arts degree in criminal justice and certification in hospitality management & professional development from Washington State University.

COLLIN MCGEECollin McGee currently works as the Assistant Aquatics Coordinator in Parks and Recreation for the City of Henderson. He began as a lifeguard in 2010 working in various positions within the Aquatics Division. McGee found his passion in working with the public and training and developing staff members. He eventually

chose to pursue a bachelor’s degree in public administration. Training is McGee’s core focus, and he often develops trainings in various areas such as teamwork, communication and leadership. McGee seeks to develop sincere relationships with his team, as he feels that is the key to a success.

ZACK MCINTYREZack McIntyre is the Director of Magic Waters Waterpark and the aquatics department for the Rockford Park District. He graduated from Western Illinois University with a degree in biology and education and holds a current teaching certificate in Illinois. McIntyre is a former EMT in Illinois and currently works with Jeff Ellis

& Associates as an Instructor Trainer & Associate. McIntyre is a graduate of the Illinois Park & Recreation Association’s Leadership Academy, and has completed his Lean Specialist training through the Business Innovation Services at the University of Illinois. McIntyre has been involved with the aquatics field for over 10 years. Prior to his current position, McIntyre worked as an Operations Manager, where he oversaw all lifeguards for the Rockford Park District as well as all aquatic risk management, the EMT department at Magic Waters and all aquatic programming for the Rockford Park District, which includes four facilities. Under McIntyre’s leadership, Magic Waters and the aquatics department have received multiple gold and platinum awards from Ellis & Associates for their excellence in aquatic safety, as well as several marketing and safety awards from the WWA. McIntyre currently serves as the Vice Chair for WWA’s Public Sector Committee.

STEVE MILLERSteve Miller is a Regional Client Manager for Jeff Ellis & Associates, Inc. (E&A). He has over 20 years of experi-ence in the aquatics industry with extensive aquatics re-lated training, aquatic risk management experience and thousands of hours of contact time with various facilities across the United States and internationally. He began

working as a lifeguard at Schlitterbahn Waterpark in 1994 and has worked at


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various waterparks throughout the country, including both seasonal outdoor facilities and indoor waterpark resorts. Miller became an Instructor Trainer with E&A in 2003, and continued his involvement with the organization, including being a faculty member for the annual Ron Rhinehart International Safety School, until he began working for the firm in 2011. Since then, he has been assisting with operational safety audits of aquatic facilities, teaching courses across country and internationally, as well as supporting the Ellis Education Services division of the company. Miller supports E&A Clients in the southeast region of the United States and regularly conducts courses and presentations on the subjects of lifeguarding, risk management and safety. Miller is an active member of CMAHC.

JASON MONTILLAJason Montilla has been an innovator and leader in the information technology field since 1996. His creative, professional and educational experience has been an invaluable asset to various organizations throughout his career. As part of the instructional team, Montilla helped build what became the digital media program

at the University of Central Florida. Through this experience, Montilla moved into digital research for the Institute for Simulation and Training, early con-ceptual digital development for Universal’s Islands of Adventure and creative work for Walt Disney World. Montilla is a customer experience expert with a strong background in enterprise development for organizations such as Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, Amertron, NCR and Innovative Attraction Management. He brings his agile leadership, ability to adapt to technologi-cal trends and drive for quality to the waterpark industry.

KIM MOOREKim Moore joined RFA in 1988 as an Account Executive and has moved through the ranks to her current posi-tion as one of the leaders of the company. As Senior Vice President, she is responsible for strategic planning for all clients, new business development and the daily operations of the Client Services department. Her ability

to nurture long-term relationships with clients makes her expert in building a mutual trust and commitment to everyone’s success.

MARK MOORE Mark Moore is the Chief Operating Officer of the LSAR Group and the General Manager of Gulf Islands Waterpark. Moore is heavily involved with the World Waterpark Association. He is the current Vice Chair of the Board of Directors, and former Chair of the Technology Committee and the Waterpark Resort

Committee. In the past he has also served as the General Manager/Vice President of Splash Universe Resorts and the General Manager of Splash Lagoon Waterpark Resort. With his broad range of experience from building and opening new parks to reenergizing existing parks, he often presents at the WWA Annual Symposium and has published several articles in leading industry publications. Moore began his career in aquatics as a lifeguard in 1987 and has worked in the waterpark industry since 1996. Having worked in collegiate swimming, indoor and outdoor waterpark business, he has gained a unique perspective of the industry. Utilizing a consultative management style and selling method, Moore has been successful in developing talent through the decision-making process by presenting innovative ideas and recommendations. By motivating his sales teams to generate business and growing product demand, Moore has been successful at generating long term profitable business relationships and partnerships. His experience has


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enabled him to develop growth strategies for maximizing the revenue of resorts, waterparks and various other businesses. By developing the correct mix of special events, marketing and pricing, Moore has consistently dem-onstrated an understanding of what it takes to maximize the yield of resorts, waterparks and consumer-based businesses.

NICHOLAS NEUMAN Nicholas Neuman, Principal and Project Development, is responsible for Project Development at WTI and his primary role is to develop and expand the commer-cial, entertainment and design/build sectors of the business. His experience working internationally with developers, architects and design teams for large water-

entertainment projects gives WTI a solid understanding of cultural influences on concept development, design/engineering, project management, on-site construction and operations of waterpark facilities. Neuman has spoken at various industry events, including WWA’s North American conferences; and in 2012 he was named one of “Aquatics International’s” Power 25 as one of the industry’s most influential people in the waterpark and aquatics industry.

GLENN A. O’CONNORGlenn A. O’Connor is an award winning Landscape Architect, with 32 years professional experience, who provides the firm with strong leadership in landscape architecture practice; large scale projects; master plans; built works; institutional campus projects; recreation and community projects; specialty studies and master

plans. He is very active in presentations for municipal councils, public meet-ings, municipal negotiations and special interest groups. O’Connor has been involved in and has led numerous multi-disciplinary teams, directing or assisting a variety of projects ranging from specialty studies, environment is-sues, institutional, college, university, healthcare work and detailed site plan-ning work. Project work includes restoration ecology and habitat creation, with a particular emphasis on upland and riparian habitats for storm water quality facilities. O’Connor applies low maintenance principles to counteract the rapidly escalating costs of recurring landscape maintenance in open space systems. He has provided testimony as an expert witness in O.M.B., N.E.C. consolidated board hearings, divisional court hearings for a variety of issues such as visual assessment, and resource analysis. Recent project involvement includes the implementation of numerous institutional projects, pedestrian/cycling studies and sports facilities. O’Connor is a special advisor to Niagara College Canada and is a member of the Grounds Committee.

TIM O’DONNELLTim O’Donnell is the program manager for the WWA Insurance Program by Haas & Wilkerson Insurance. A graduate of the University of Kansas, O’Donnell joined Haas & Wilkerson in 2008 and in 2012 was tasked with leading the sales efforts of the WWA Insurance Program. Launched by the WWA in 2009, this program

has brought industry leading coverage forms, loss prevention efforts and state of the art claims handling to the industry and will continue to push the envelope to better serve WWA members.


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MICHAEL OOSTMANMichael Oostman has been involved in aquatic safety consulting since the early ‘90s. Throughout his tenure, he has investigated over six hundred drowning events and has been retained in hundreds of law suits to act as an expert witness. These experiences have helped to provide a framework of understanding of the liabilities,

exposures and mitigative steps all operators need to understand to run a safe operation. Oostman is a managing partner with Innovative Attraction Management, LLC.

BOB OSIPBob Osip has over 25 years experience in risk man-agement and is currently the Risk Manager for the City of Henderson, Nevada. Osip is a Michigan native and has a B.S. and a master’s degree of public administra-tion (MPA) from Michigan State University. He has worked for five local governments in various capaci-

ties, and is the Past President of the Oregon Chapter of the Public Risk and Insurance Management Association (PRIMA) and is the Past Vice-President of the Nevada Chapter of the Public Risk and Insurance Management Association (PRIMA).

BOB OWENSBob Owens is Water World Manager at Hyland Hills Water World and has been with the park since 1984. Water World is the largest publically owned waterpark in the United States and is located in Denver, Colorado. Owens has overseen guest services, revenue and IT programs for the park since 1993.

CHRISTOPHER OZIMEKAs Corporate Director of Marketing & Sales, Christopher Ozimek is responsible for the market-ing, advertising and sales efforts for Schlitterbahn Waterparks & Resorts. After 12 seasons with Cedar Fair Entertainment Company at Cedar Point, Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom and Worlds of Fun, Ozimek joined

the Schlitterbahn team in 2008 and directed the marketing and sales plan for the opening of Schlitterbahn Kansas City Waterpark. After four seasons at the Kansas City park, Ozimek lead the marketing and sales endeavors at Schlitterbahn Waterpark Galveston Island for two seasons, then assumed the role of corporate director of marketing and sales for Schlitterbahn Waterparks and Resorts in August 2013. Ozimek serves on the WWA’s Marketing & Communications Committee.

CHRISTINE PALMAChristine Palma is the General Manager of Breakwater Beach Waterpark in Seaside Heights, N.J., and has worked in the theme park/waterpark industry for over 20 years. She started her career as a front line employee with Six Flags Great Adventure in N.J. In over ten years with SFGA, she worked in numerous

management roles including Security Supervisor, Waterpark Manager and Park Services Manager. She was also part of the team who opened the new Hurricane Harbor-New Jersey in 2000. In 2005, she accepted a job at Breakwater Beach Waterpark. During her tenure as Operations Manager, Breakwater Beach was the winner of the Kelly Ogle Memorial Safety Award


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for significant contribution to guest and employee safety. Palma has been an instructor with Jeff Ellis & Associates, an instructor trainer with NASCO, a N.J. Emergency Medical Technician and holds a B.S. in business management from Rowan University.

GEORGE PANTONGeorge Panton is currently Marketing and Product Development Manager for Water Safety Products, Inc., a Florida corporation and international supplier of lifeguard uniforms and lifeguard safety equipment since 1989. Panton’s introduction to the aquatic industry began with a position as Beach Lifeguard for Brevard

County Ocean Rescue in 2003 which continued for five summers. This expe-rience included the First Responder course and USLA open water lifeguard training. During his college years, Panton enjoyed in-store retail and regional sales for such brands as Oakley eyewear. He graduated in 2010 from the University of Denver with a degree in marketing and art. Shortly after gradu-ation, Panton took a position leading the pre-opening Souvenir Photography program at the world’s largest indoor theme park, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, UAE. In 2012, he was promoted to be the first official merchandise manager for the pre-opening team at Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi. There, he concentrated on interactive retail experiences, including the world’s first Splashquest game and waterpark pearl dive experience. Since moving back to the USA, Panton has continued his personal development in the aquatics industry. He attended and graduated from a week-long Disney Institute Program. He has also participated in aquatic safety schools and workshops for both Ellis & Associates and NASCO. Panton and the team at Water Safety Products, Inc. routinely provide support and consultation to first-year facili-ties to help ensure that their initial lifeguard uniform needs, training supplies and safety equipment requirements are met.

ANTHONY “TJ” POLLACKAnthony “TJ” Pollack is the Director of Aquatics for KeyLime Cove Water Resort’s Lost Paradise Waterpark. He has worked for over 12 years in the aquatics industry for both the public and private sectors. He gradated with a bachelor’s degree in business administration and holds certifications as an Aquatic Facility Operator, SAI

Lifeguard Instructor and SAI Swim Instructor. He has worked with three major aquatics risk management companies and has been in hotel waterparks since 2007. He contributes to organizations in aquatics and hospitality and is the Secretary for the WWA’s Waterpark Resort Committee.

KEVIN POSTKevin Post is a project manager for Counsilman-Hunsaker, focusing on feasibility studies and opera-tional assistance. Post’s aquatic experience includes pool management, feasibility study analyst, facility audit coordinator, launch operations training and CPO train-ing. This broad base of experience has allowed Post

to offer his knowledge to communities interested in planning new aquatic facilities across the U.S.


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TIFFANY QUILICITiffany Quilici is Marketing Director for Roaring Springs Waterpark, Wahooz Family Fun Zone and Pinz Bowling Center near Boise, Idaho. In the past eleven years, she has taken the parks’ marketing strategies beyond the traditional media, to include social media, guest satis-faction research and word of mouth marketing. Quilici

has been recognized for her contributions to the waterpark industry with the WWA Board of Directors’ Al Turner Memorial Commitment to Excellence Award, as well as multiple Best Speaker Awards. Quilici currently serves on WWA’s Board of Directors. Quilici balances her career with a husband and three children, ages 7, 9 & 22.

MARISOL RAMIREZAs the Sales & Marketing Manager, Marisol Ramirez is responsible for the social media campaign for Hurricane Alley, while assisting in brand development, public relations and promotions, as well as organizing all catering, groups and specials events. During her short tenure at the park, Hurricane Alley Waterpark

has received the 2014 WWA Wave Review award for Best Social Media Campaign for her engaging use of Snapchat in the teen demographic. Ramirez’s concept of social media is for each platform to be tailored to its unique demographic and have a specific voice for the platform. Ramirez began her work in the marketing industry volunteering as a spokesperson and campaign developer for non-profits focused on environmental issues and animal rights. She continues to dedicate her time as a Critical Care Team volunteer with the Texas Marine Mammal Stranding Network and to her community by serving as the Marketing Chair for the Young Business Professionals of the Coastal Bend.

COURTNEY RAYBURNCourtney Rayburn began her career in the amusement industry in 1999 at Six Flags Astroworld & Waterworld in Houston, Texas. It didn’t take long for her to fall in love with the idea of “selling fun.” In the last 10 years, Rayburn has expanded that idea through the use of new media; initially with MySpace, and now Facebook,

Twitter, Instagram and review sites. In recent years, Rayburn was responsible for the overall online presence of up to 41 theme parks, waterparks and FECs in geographically and demographically diverse markets. Her focus was to help the park teams create a voice for themselves in the social space, train them on best practices and guide the media agency toward effective social strategies in each market. Rayburn joined Apex Parks Group in April 2015 as the Marketing Communications Manager. In addition to traditional media, she leads the digital and social media advertising for all of the company’s parks. A lot has changed in social media over the years, but Rayburn’s focus remains on enhancing the guest experience before, during and after they visit.

SCHUYLER ROBERSONSchuyler Roberson currently works as the Assistant Aquatics Coordinator in Public Works, Parks and Recreation for the City of Henderson. Having started in 2007 as a lifeguard, Roberson has grown profes-sionally within the organization. Roberson possesses a bachelor’s of philosophy degree from the University

of Nevada, Las Vegas, and is currently pursuing a master’s degree in


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public administration. Roberson passionately believes in progressive employee development strategies where good employees come from being great leaders.

WENDY ROSALESWendy Rosales is currently the Aquatics Coordinator of DropZone Waterpark, part of the Riverside County Park and Open-Space District. With over 14 years in the aquatics industry, she has worked at both private and public aquatic facilities including Knott’s Soak City Buena Park, Splash Island Waterpark and DropZone

Waterpark. Rosales has a master’s of business administration (MBA) degree from Azusa Pacific University. She has held certifications as an Instructor Trainer with Ellis & Associates, Lifeguard Instructor with the American Red Cross, WSI, AFO, CPO and ServSafe.

JENNIFER ROSSJennifer Ross has worked in Marketing and Public Relations for over 30 years, the past 10 years as the Marketing and Sales Director for Triple Play Family Fun Park, Raptor Reef Indoor Waterpark & the Triple Play Resort Hotel & Suites. During her time at Triple Play, the facility has been awarded the Top Family

Entertainment Center in the World from IAAPA, as well as receiving the Marketing Excellence awards for their TV and Radio commercials and a World Waterpark Association Wave Review award for best radio commercial, as well as many local awards. Ross lives in Hayden, Idaho with her husband Scott. Together they have 4 grown children and 4 grandchildren; she enjoys traveling, camping, gardening and crafting.

DOUGLAS SACKETTDouglas Sackett began serving as the Conference for the Model Aquatic Health Code’s (CMAHC’s) first Executive Director in October 2014. He built a strong record of aquatics leadership working for the New York State Department of Health for 38 years and retired as Assistant Director, Bureau of Community Environmental

Health and Food Protection in April 2013. Sackett worked in the swimming pool and bathing beach programs in addition to numerous other environ-mental health regulatory programs, throughout his 38 years with the New York State Department of Health. Beginning in 1987, he was involved in the management of the statewide swimming pool and bathing beach regulatory program including the coordination of investigations of illnesses associ-ated with recreational water and drowning at regulated swimming pools and beaches throughout the state and for the analysis of the data from the these epidemiological investigations. Sackett was the Director and Steering Committee member for CDC’s project to develop the national Model Aquatic Health Code (MAHC) from its inception in 2007 until the MAHC 1st Edition was launched in August 2014. Sackett was instrumental in setting up the CMAHC as the Vice President and Treasurer of the Interim CMAHC Board of Directors. He currently resides in New York State.


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CHERYL SALAZARCheryl Salazar is a Pool Supervisor at The Cove Waterpark in Riverside, California. Salazar has worked in the aquatics industry for over 10 years. In those 10 years she has had many different focuses includ-ing operations, training, marketing, finance, aquatics programming and even some maintenance. Salazar is

a Lifeguard Training and Water Safety Instructor and Instructor Training for both through the American Red Cross. Salazar serves as the Secretary for WWA’s Technology & Innovations Committee.

BRIAN SANDSBrian Sands has worked on assignments in the real estate and development industries for 22 years, with particular expertise in the areas of leisure/culture and mixed-use development. He has led hundreds of as-signments located throughout the U.S., Latin America and the Caribbean, Europe and the Middle East. His

work has focused broadly on real estate and business economics and plan-ning (e.g., existing operations analysis, concept and site evaluation, market research, demand potential, preliminary physical planning, earned revenue and financial feasibility analysis, land/lease valuations, economic/fiscal im-pact), with uses including a wide-range of commercial attractions (e.g., water parks, theme parks, observation wheels and decks, specialty attractions), cultural attractions (e.g., museums, visitor centers, performance venues), hospitality properties (hotels, resorts, amenities), retail-dining-entertainment, and related uses. Sands coordinates global production of the TEA/AECOM Theme Index and Museum Index, the definitive annual report on attendance trends at the 175 largest theme parks, waterparks and museums worldwide. He is responsible in AECOM’s south region for business development in the leisure and cultural sector, as well as supporting growth in the Latin American and Caribbean markets. Recent or ongoing assignments include the following: a proposed $500 million resort/attraction in Mexico; the Zoo Miami Entertainment Area (20th Century Fox’s proposed $1 billion destina-tion theme park, waterpark, hotel and related); identifying and evaluating potential new attractions at major resort properties operated by a leading global hotel/resort operator; ongoing support for the Observation Deck at One World Trade Center, NYC; a proposed $225 million resort near Montreal; and the potential $485 million expansion of a major resort/attrac-tion in Brazil.

DAVID J. SANGREEDavid J. Sangree, MAI, CPA, ISHC is the President of Hotel & Leisure Advisors based in Cleveland Ohio. He is a hospitality consultant and appraiser specializing in hotels, resorts, waterparks, golf courses, conference centers, casinos, ski resorts and other leisure proper-ties. He is a graduate of Cornell University School of

Hotel Administration and a member of the Appraisal Institute, a Certified Public Accountant and a member of the International Society of Hospitality Consultants. He has performed studies on more than 2,000 existing and proposed hotels, waterparks and other leisure properties in more than 46 states and internationally. He has extensive experience in performing market feasibility studies, impact analysis, appraisals, financial analysis, performance projections, site selection and financial reviews for hospitality properties. He has been an active appraiser/consultant since 1987 and also has 10 years of work experience in the hotel/restaurant industry including management positions with four Westin Hotels properties. Sangree has appeared on Good Morning America and CNBC on special reports concerning resorts


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and waterparks. He has written numerous articles and been quoted in a wide range of publications including “Aquatics International,” “Columbus Dispatch,” “Cleveland Plain Dealer,” “Cincinnati Business Courier,” “Cornell Hotel and Restaurant Quarterly,” “New York Times,” “Wall Street Journal” and “World Waterpark Magazine.” Sangree was named in 2008 one of “Aquatics International Magazine’s” “Power 25.”

JOE SCHMITZJoe Schmitz has more than 20 years of experience in the waterpark industry. After graduating from the University of Iowa with a degree in economics, Schmitz decided to continue a career in the aquatics industry. He got his start in a summer job working construction and lifeguarding at Noah’s Ark Waterpark. After two

years working full time in operations at Noah’s Ark, he spent the next nine years with Great Wolf Resorts as the Corporate Director of Aquatics. His duties focused on working with the development and construction teams, as well as managing the start-up and continuing operations for more than eight indoor waterparks. After joining Wilderness Development in 2006, Schmitz was intimately involved in refurbishing and developing several attractions at the Wilderness Resort property in Wisconsin Dells, Wis. Schmitz also helped develop, design, build and start-up two outdoor waterparks and a 45,000 square-foot indoor waterpark for Wilderness at the Smokies Resort in Sevierville, Tenn.

JUSTIN SEMPSROTT, MDJustin Sempsrott, MD, is a graduate of the University of South Florida College of Medicine and did his residen-cy in emergency medicine at the University of Nevada, School of Medicine. In 2006, he founded Lifeguards Without Borders and serves as their Executive Director. Dr. Sempsrott is Medical Director For Starfish Aquatics

Institute and several EMS agencies in North Carolina and an Emergency Medicine Physician and the EMS Faculty at Wake Forest University. He speaks around the globe on the topic of drowning. He has been an ocean lifeguard in Jacksonville Beach, Florida since 1996.

STEPHEN SIMSStephen Sims has been the General Manager of SomerSplash Waterpark for 8 years. He holds certifica-tions in Athletic Training from the National Athletic Trainer’s Association Board of Certification and Kentucky Board of Medical Licensure. He holds multiple certifications from the American Red Cross, which in-

cludes Lifeguard Instructor Trainer, Lifeguarding and Water Safety Instructor. He was selected to be on the 2010 American Red Cross Lifeguarding Sounding Board and Workgroup Member, which worked on instructor train-ing, implementation, marketing and sales. Also, he is a CPO. Sims currently oversees the City of Somerset’s waterpark, SomerSplash Waterpark, and public pool. At SomerSplash Waterpark, he oversees all daily operations and procedures which include all aspects of administration, marketing, admis-sions, concessions, aquatics and maintenance. Sims also oversees special events which includes the City of Somerset’s Fourth of July celebration. During the season, he manages approximately 120-140 seasonal employ-ees. In the off season, while working full time at the waterpark, he works part-time as an Athletic Trainer for a local high school providing medical coverage during games and practices. Sims holds dual master’s degrees in physical education with emphasis in sports administration and in recreation and park administration, and his bachelor’s degree is in physical education


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with emphasis in athletic training from Eastern Kentucky University. While at EKU, he was the graduate assistant in aquatics. Currently, he is in the process of completing his doctorate in education with an emphasis in leadership and policy studies.

ERIC SOLISEric Solis has been with Raging Waters San Dimas, California’s largest waterpark, for 8 successful years. Solis first joined Raging Waters in 2005 while simultane-ously earning his bachelor’s degree at California State Polytechnic University, Pomona. Through hard work and dedication, Solis was promoted to Section Manager of

Food & Beverage by the time he graduated from college. Since then, Solis has pursued his passion in the food & beverage industry, becoming the full-time Manager of Food & Beverage in 2011. As manager, Solis has suc-cessfully opened the first Carl’s Jr. established within a waterpark, as well as another franchise in San Antonio, Texas. In addition to Carl’s Jr., Solis has also aided in the opening of Pink’s Hollywood Hot Dogs and Jamba Juice. Solis is loved by all his employees and owes much of his success as manager to the relationships he has built with each team member and to his family.

SCOTT STEFANCScott Stefanc, ASLA, is the Commercial Business Development Manager for Vortex Aquatic Structures International. Stefanc has over 17 years of experience in the design and development of aquatic facilities from Splashpads® to full scale waterparks including work for Great Wolf Resorts, Cedar Fair, Universal Studios, Busch

Entertainment and Center Parcs UK. Stefanc works with Vortex’s commercial clients to develop comprehensive aquatic attractions and amenities for their properties.

JOE STEFANYAKJoe Stefanyak is a Director with Jeff Ellis & Associates, Inc. Stefanyak began his career in the theme park/waterpark industry more than 30 years ago holding various positions for the Kennywood Entertainment Company in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He has done a variety of tasks throughout his career including: train-

ing and supervision of the operation’s staff, loss prevention, public safety, guest services, sales, park entertainment and has been heavily involved with facility development, construction and maintenance. Stefanyak’s current responsibilities with E&A include working closely with over 600 Clients including municipalities, corporate and private waterparks, and water resorts throughout the U.S. and in various countries abroad in the evaluation and implementation of standard operating procedures. He also serves as Director of the Ron Rhinehart International Aquatic Safety School, oversee-ing curriculum for the school, and contributing to ILTP™ course curriculum. He has thousands of hours of contact time with E&A Clients, which includes inspections, unannounced operational aquatic safety audits, evaluation of facility Emergency Action Plans and SOPs. He has contributed to textbooks published by Jeff Ellis & Associates, Inc. and is leading the development of Ellis Education Services, created to increase the industry’s leadership bench-strength and provide client’s with resources for continuing development of their staff. Stefanyak is also an active participant in WWA, CDPC and various state and regional committees, and is an participating member of ASTM and MAHC Technical Committees. Stefanyak was recognized by WWA’s Board of Directors with the Kelly Ogle Memorial Safety Award Recipient in 2014. He


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also serves on WWA’s Safety Committee. Stefanyak has been married to his wife Robyn for 21 years and is the very proud father of his 17-year-old twins, Joey and Becky.

BRETT STEINBRUECKBrett Steinbrueck is President of BECS Technology, Inc. in St. Louis, Missouri. He received his B.S. and M.S. de-grees in computer science from Washington University in St. Louis. Since 1985, Steinbrueck has been designing and implementing embedded software for digital water chemistry controllers. In 1991, he was one of four

founders of BECS Technology. BECS employs a multi-discipline engineer-ing and product development team, dedicated to developing reliable and innovative automated water chemistry and filtration controls. All products are manufactured in the U.S. at BECS’ plant in St. Louis, which includes full surface-mount and through-hole circuit board assembly facilities.

RON SUTULARon Sutula has more than 38 years of management experience in the waterpark and theme park entertain-ment industry. He has directed the opening of six successful parks, including two Wet ‘n Wild waterparks and Schlitterbahn Galveston Island. Sutula began his career at Marriott’s Great America Theme Park in Illinois.

He rose through the ranks to become Director of Park Operation at Marriott’s Playland Park in New York State. He joined the Funtime Inc. organization in the early 1980s, working at Darien Lake and Wyandot Lake theme parks as Operations Director. In 1985, he embarked on a 12-year stint as Vice President of Operations at Wet ‘n Wild, Orlando, Fla. When Wet ‘n Wild expanded to Brazil, Sutula opened the park and served as Vice President and General Manager for the first two years in Sao Paulo. He returned to the United States to manage the construction and operation of Wet ‘n Wild in Broward County, Fla. As part of the Ogden Entertainment Parks Group, he also formulated standards, policies and procedures for 13 Ogden properties located in the United States, Brazil and Mexico. Sutula served as Director of Resort Operations for Universal Studios in Orlando for five years, where he was responsible for the overall operation of the 840-acre facility and the supervision of more than 1,200 employees. He joined the Schlitterbahn fam-ily in 2005 as General Manager to oversee all operations of the Schlitterbahn Galveston Island Waterpark, which has received the Golden Ticket award as the world’s best indoor waterpark for the past seven years. He is responsible for development, direction and management of the waterpark. Sutula served on the Board of Directors for the World Waterpark Association for eight years, and received the Executive Board Award in 2008 and is a WWA Hall of Fame member.

CHRIS THOMASChris Thomas has been involved in waterparks for over 25 years. Like many, he started his career as a seasonal employee and worked his way through the ranks. Over the years, he has been involved in several park expansions such as Blastenhoff in New Braunfels, Adventure Landing in Daytona and Six Flags Fiesta Texas in San Antonio. Thomas has been part of numer-ous installations with some of his favorites being “Dragon Blaster” in New Braunfels, “Verrückt” in Kansas City, “Bootlegger’s Run” in Long Island and “Aqua Rocket” in San Dimas. He started his career in 1991 at Schlitterbahn Waterparks in New Braunfels, Texas. During his time at Schlitterbahn, he graduated from Southwest Texas State University with a bachelor’s degree in recreation administration. After graduation, he was offered his first full-time job in Jacksonville, Fla., at Adventure Landing where he took the position


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of Aquatics Manager. Over the years, Thomas has worked at Adventure Landing Daytona, Splashtown San Antonio, Six Flags Fiesta Texas, Splish Splash Long Island, Schlitterbahn Kansas City and currently at Raging Waters San Dimas, home of California’s largest waterpark.

RANDY THOMASRandy Thomas is an attraction industry group sales spe-cialist in building traditional local and regional group business, as well as travel industry sales for amusement parks, theme parks, family entertainment centers, wa-terparks, zoos, aquariums and tourism destinations. As Principal of Randy Thomas & Associates, he has worked

successfully with a client list including: Nashville Shores Waterpark, Ocean Breeze Waterpark, Detroit Zoo, Houston Zoo, San Diego Zoo and Wild Animal Park, Space Center Houston, Knott’s Camp Snoopy, Santa Anita Race Track, Los Angeles County Fair, Morey’s Pier, Glendale Galleria, Kennedy Space Center, Schlitterbahn Waterpark, Bronx Zoo and New York Aquarium, Columbus Zoo, Cincinnati Zoo, Riverbanks Zoo, Louisville Zoo, Houston Zoo, Miami Zoo, The Beach Waterpark, Water World and Six Flags. He was responsible for overseeing group sales and tourism development at all Six Flags parks in the U.S and international park group sales.

LORI THOMPSONWith over 30 years of experience in the aquatics, recreation and the waterpark field, Lori Thompson has had the opportunity to be involved in many aspects of the industry. In her current position as the Community Services Director for the City of La Mirada, Thompson oversees the La Mirada Regional Aquatics Center,

“Splash!” She was a member of the project development team for Splash!, a state-of-the-art 18-acre aquatic facility that includes a 50-meter competitive pool, a 25-yard instructional pool, spa and the Buccaneer Bay family water-park. Buccaneer Bay includes a leisure river, three forty-foot tall waterslides, a children’s play structure and spray pads. The facility has received a number of awards including recognition for design and financial efficiency. With annual revenue reaching over $3 million, the facility has seen outstanding financial success for a municipal aquatic center covering more than its oper-ating expenses. Each summer the Buccaneer Bay waterpark sells an average of 10,000 season passes and welcomes some 350,000 guests. The waterpark programs offered at Splash! support the competitive programs as a benefit to the entire community. While working in aquatics, Thompson earned her bachelor’s and master’s in organizational leadership from Biola University. During her time in aquatics, Thompson has received several awards from the Southern California Municipal Athletic Federation and the Citation Award from the Southern California Public Pool Operators Association. She has served as the President of the California Parks and Recreation Aquatics Section and the Southern California Public Pool Operators Section. She has worked as an instructor trainer with the American Red Cross, Ellis & Associates, Australian Swim School and has recently become a site admin-istrator for the Starfish Swim Program developing the largest Starfish Swim Program in California. Thompson specializes in aquatic financial operations and business strategies, creating financially efficient operations that maxi-mize community usage while maintaining a financially profitable facility.


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NICOLE VAN WINKLENicole Van Winkle is an account executive with Counsilman-Hunsaker, focusing on feasibility studies and facility training and management for aquatic facilities throughout the nation. Van Winkle assists new aquatic facility operators and owners with pre-opening management services, including staff training, facility

specific business plans and marketing plans for new aquatic facilities. Van Winkle also provides clients with ongoing full-time management services and Model Aquatic Health Code operational audits to assist with sustainable operating practices for the life of the facility. With experience as both a pool and waterpark operator, she has a unique understanding of the opportuni-ties and challenges of operating a successful aquatic program in the public sector. Focusing on developing strong leaders and creating sustainable programming, Van Winkle assists operators in developing a business and operating approach that will satisfy both the bottom line and community members. Van Winkle has served on WWA’s Public Sector Committee and currently serves as the Secretary for the WWA’s Government Relations Committee.

FRANCIS VIDALFrancis Vidal works as the Director of Aquatics for Great Wolf Lodge-New England, located in Fitchburg, Massachusetts. Her aquatics career spans over 11 years where her field of experience lies in large waterparks operations. She has worked in both indoor year round and outdoor seasonal operations all over the United

States including Knott’s Soak City Orange County and several locations with Great Wolf Lodge. She holds certifications as a Jeff Ellis & Associates Lifeguard Instructor and is a Certified Pool Operator.

RALPH VILARDO, JR.Ralph Vilardo, Jr. is an experienced executive sales di-rector. He has over fifteen years of experience in imple-menting group sales in the waterpark industry. He has developed and initiated on-line sales for E-commerce, by establishing new revenue streams, organized and sold corporate sell-outs and consistently generated

the highest revenue days by creating and managing events. As a director in the waterpark industry, he has overseen and managed group sales, aquat-ics, loss prevention and first aid departments. In 2010, Vilardo started RA Enterprise and partnered with Randy Thomas and Associates to create new group sales initiatives in an effort to promote the entertainment business by increasing attendance and revenue in the amusement industry. In 2014, he formed R & R Enterprise to coordinate additional online sales opportunities with a nationwide sales program to enhance waterparks and amusement park ability to sell tickets. Previously, he worked as General Manager for The Beach Waterpark and was in charge of a re-branding and renovation of this 35 acre waterpark with a grand re-opening in the summer of 2013.

RON VINERon Vine is currently serving as a Vice-President of ETC Institute. Under his leadership, the firm has completed more than 450 surveys for public, non-profit and private sector clients in 46 states across the country. The firm is recognized as a national leader in the strategic use of public input for performance measurements, funding

decisions, benchmarking and decision making. Prior to starting work as a private consultant in 1989, Vine worked for 15 years in a series of high


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level governmental administrative positions, including serving as the Chief Administrative Officer for the City of Topeka, Kansas where he managed a work force of over 1,200 municipal employees as well as an operations and capital budget in excess of $200 million. In this position, he was one of the first municipal officials in the country to embrace the development of public/private and non-profit partnerships, and the establishment of creative fund-ing strategies such as public foundations as a tool for addressing community needs. Vine’s unique experience in the public, non-profit and private sectors have proven to be of tremendous benefits to his clients.

HOPE WALKERHope Walker is the Operations Manager for Magic Waters Waterpark and the Aquatics Facilities for the Rockford Park District in Rockford, Ill. In this capac-ity, she oversees all departmental operations at the waterpark including lifeguards, EMTs, customer service and guest relations departments, as well as three

aquatics facilities. She manages the sales at the waterpark which includes the Coconut Club Corporate Incentive Program, Hotel Play N’ Stay Program and group sales. She began her career as the Operations Manager of Guest Relations, Revenue Control and Customer Service, but was promoted six months later and gained the responsibilities of lifeguards, EMTs, aquatic programming and four aquatics facilities including Magic Waters Waterpark. Walker graduated from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville with a degree in corporate organization communications and has worked for the park district for 9 years. She currently holds her Ellis & Associates Instructor License. She is a graduate of the Illinois Parks and Recreation Association Leadership Academy, and has over 50 hours of training on Lean and Six Sigma concepts.

KEENAN WEISSKeenan Weiss is the Director of Aquatics at Great Wolf Lodge, Grapevine, Texas. He began his aquatics career in 2006 and has worked in a large-scale city waterpark and now a waterpark resort. Weiss is an Ellis & Associates Lifeguard Instructor and a Certified Pool Operator (CPO). He holds a bachelor’s degree from

Texas Tech University. Under his leadership, Great Wolf Lodge Grapevine has received multiple Platinum International Aquatic Safety Awards from Ellis & Associates and Swim! Awards from WWA. Weiss is also an active member of the North Texas Aquatics Association.

LEWIS WEMPLEFor almost the past two decades, ADG has been lucky to call Lew Wemple their own. Focusing on business development and project management, he has spent much of that time bringing ADG’s wave generation business to the forefront, both in the U.S. and world-wide markets. With a background in manufacturing

and engineering, Wemple’s technical expertise and in depth understanding of ADG’s advanced wave equipment systems have enhanced many pivotal projects for our clients in leisure recreation, high performance and specialty waves. Some of the more unique projects that Wemple has worked on over the years include the seal and sea lion exhibits at the National Zoo in Washington D.C., the waterpark development project at Pampanga in the Philippines and the largest wave pool ever built for the motion picture indus-try that featured custom ocean effects for the file, “Life of Pi.”


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LAKE WHITELake White has extensive experience in all aspects of the aquatics industry. He is a SAI Faculty member for the Starfish Aquatics Institute, serving as director of quality assurance. He travels around the world educating instructors on how to teach lifeguard training, providing emergency care instructor training and providing on-

site risk management and safety evaluation audits for waterparks, swimming pools and beachfronts. He has served on industry leadership committees including the Lifeguard Standards Coalition and the Children’s Drowning Prevention Council. Under his leadership, his aquatic facilities have earned a “best in aquatics” award numerous times from “Aquatics International.” In 2013, White received a “Best Speaker” Award from the WWA. He holds a bachelor’s degree in liberal arts.

TIFFANY WOODWARDTiffany Woodward is the Director of Marketing and Water Park Sales at Country Springs Hotel in Waukesha, WI. Prior to her position at Country Springs Hotel, Woodward worked for Wave Renovations and Jackson Street Hospitality as the Director of Sales and Marketing. She has been involved with the development, opening

and operations of twelve water resort properties in nine states. Woodward is a member of the WWA’s Marketing and Communications Committee, and in 2011, was awarded a Special Recognition Award by the WWA’s Board of Directors for significant accomplishment with their volunteer committees in 2010/2011.

RICH YOUNGRich Young has over 30 years of municipal, public pool and waterpark experience, including operating and maintaining many public and commercial pools in ad-dition to several waterpark facilities with maintenance, operations and programming responsibilities. In addi-tion, he has been a sales and service representative for

several major manufacturers of commercial pool equipment and distribu-tors. For the past 20 years he has worked as a licensed contractor and con-sultant having worked on many public/commercial facilities and waterparks throughout the western United States and abroad. Young has taught CPO for the National Swimming Pool Foundation for over 14 years and has been an AFO instructor for the National Recreation and Park Association since its con-ception and recently was the managing editor for the 6th Edition of the AFO manual. He is the technical advisor and a board member for the Professional Pool Operators of America. Young has been published dozens of times in industry periodicals, often speaks at national and regional conferences and is the general manager of Aquatic Commercial Consulting.


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