Who We Are

Five Star Parks & Attractions is a platform at the forefront of the amusement and hospitality industry that partners with and invests in leading family entertainment centers (FECs). We are more than just a rating. We assist in developing and maintaining safe and friendly amusement park locations that celebrate fun and personify the joy of play. We provide essential financial backing that aids property partners in developing superior entertainment experiences and lasting success. Five Star Parks & Attractions showcases an unparalleled collection of FEC brands, creating unforgettable moments at each location.

Our corporate team is a dynamic group of industry leaders, each bringing a wealth of experience and passion for the family entertainment sector. Together, they guide our mission of Safe, Clean, Fun across 27 locations in 13 states.

What we do

SAFE - Practicing safe behaviors in everything we do, see something say something. Safety is our highest priority, ensuring that every guest feels secure and protected in any situation.

CLEAN - Cleanliness is a cornerstone of our commitment to providing a Five Star experience. Take pride and ownership within all areas of each park and attraction. Greet guests with friendly smile and create a comfortable atmosphere for everyone.

FUN - Fun is at the heart of what we do; we believe in curating unforgettable moments for all guests. Create an atmosphere of excitement and play, packing the parks with smiles and laughter.

what we value

Integrity: Integrity is at the heart of everything we do. It's more than just a value; it's a commitment to unwavering honesty, transparency, and ethical conduct. Our team takes pride in upholding the highest standards, ensuring that every interaction, decision, and endeavor reflects our core principles. Integrity is not just a word – it's a promise we live by, every day.

Accountability: We believe in owning our actions, decisions, and responsibilities. Our team thrives on a culture of transparency, where each member takes pride in their role and its impact on the bigger picture. We are dedicated to delivering excellence and ensuring that every commitment is met, fostering an environment of trust and reliability.

Teamwork: We understand that the strength of our collective efforts far exceeds the sum of individual contributions. In every endeavor, our diverse and dedicated team collaborates seamlessly, valuing each member's unique skills and perspectives.

Safety: We prioritize the well-being of every guest and team member, ensuring that our facilities are secure and adhere to the highest industry standards. From meticulously maintained equipment to comprehensive training protocols, we leave no stone unturned in creating a secure environment where fun and excitement thrive hand in hand with peace of mind.

Service: With a dedicated commitment to exceeding expectations, we take pride in providing unparalleled guest experiences. Our passionate team goes above and beyond to ensure every visitor is greeted with warmth, assisted with care, and treated like family. From personalized interactions to attentive team members, service is the heart of our operation. We don't just deliver entertainment – we deliver moments of joy, comfort, and lasting memories through exceptional service that truly sets us apart.

Inclusiveness: We embrace diversity and strive to create an environment where everyone feels welcome and valued. Our commitment to inclusivity extends to every guest and team member alike. With open hearts and minds, we foster a sense of belonging, ensuring that every individual can enjoy our offerings and engage in the magic of our attractions.

Performance: We hold ourselves to the highest standards, continually pushing the boundaries to deliver Five Star experiences for our guests. Our dedicated team is driven by a shared passion for creating moments of pure joy and excitement. From flawless operations to innovative attractions, every aspect of our park is carefully designed to elevate performance and exceed expectations.

John Dunlap
Chief Executive Officer
jdunlap@fivestarparks.com
John Dunlap
Chief Executive Officer

Introducing John Dunlap, the forward-thinking leader guiding Five Star Parks & Attractions. Since stepping into the role of the company's inaugural CEO in January 2022, John has overseen its impressive expansion from 3 to 27 locations across 13 states, solidifying its standing as one of the most innovative and fastest growing family entertainment companies in the US.

John's career reflects his steadfast dedication to the amusement and hospitality sectors. Prior to joining Five Star Parks, he held notable positions including President of SeaWorld & Sesame Place in California, founder and CEO of Iconic Attractions Group, and Executive Director of the renowned San Diego Zoo.

Educated at the University of Virginia, where he earned his Bachelor's degree with distinction, and Northwestern University's Kellogg School of Management, where he attained his MBA, John further honed his expertise with certifications in executive leadership, financial management, and food service management from Cornell University.

John currently resides in Charlotte, NC with his wife Jenny and their children John, Evelyn, and William, where they enjoy spending quality time together and engaging in community activities. Known for his down-to-earth nature, John values the simple joys of family life and cherishes the connections he makes within his local community.

Eric Hayes
Chief Financial Officer
ehayes@fivestarparks.com
Eric Hayes
Chief Financial Officer

Eric Hayes, CFO, is a proven financial executive with more than 20 years of experience in finance and private equity. He joined Five Star in April 2022. Previously, he served as CFO of two healthcare services companies. Mr. Hayes has also spent time at several financial sponsors, including Backline Partners, KRG Capital Partners and Norwest Mezzanine Partners. He received a BA from St. John’s University.

Wes Marks
Chief Operations Officer
wmarks@fivestarparks.com
Wes Marks
Chief Operations Officer

As the Chief Operating Officer at Five Star Parks and Attractions, Wes Marks leads operations for 27 family entertainment centers in 13 states. He is an Oz Principles certified leader who inspires people of all ages to escape and play through immersive and interactive experiences. With over 25 years of experience in the amusement, restaurant, and entertainment industry, Wes has a proven track record of growing top-line sales, creating world-class guest satisfaction, and developing operational excellence.

Before joining Five Star in June 2022, Wes was the COO at the Department of Wonder, a mixed-reality immersive venue that dissolves the boundaries between physical and digital entertainment. He was instrumental in launching and scaling this innovative concept. Wes also served for over a decade in various leadership roles as the Senior Regional Director of Operations and Head of Field Operations at Main Event Entertainment, where he oversaw more than 45 locations and supported multiple new center openings during Main Event’s national expansion.  Wes is a humble servant leader who stands up for his team, supports them through complex challenges, and expresses his appreciation for their hard work. He is passionate about delivering boundless storytelling experiences and fun for every guest.

Troy Sacco
Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing
tsacco@fivestarparks.com
Troy Sacco
Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing

Troy has more than two decades of executive leadership experience in the worlds of sales and marketing.

He has led and help build the sales and marketing organizations for such notable entertainment, hospitality and resort brands as Dave & Buster’s, Main Event, American Golf and Fogo de Chao.

Troy has extensive knowledge of the sales and revenue generation process, but he’s also a dedicated student of behavioral analytics, technology trends and marketing tools that shape the sales process in today’s world.  He combines his passions for teaching and coaching with helping people across departments to work together to build a winning corporate and culture.  

His leadership style is anchored in the belief that, “You cannot motivate anyone. You can only inspire a motivated person.”

Troy grew up in Syracuse, New York, and graduated from Emporia State University with a degree in education.  Today he lives in Frisco, Texas, where he spends time with his wife, five children, and four grandchildren; coaches youth athletics; focuses on his on passion for sports and fitness; and tackles DIY projects around his home.

Craig Wescott
Senior Vice President
cwescott@fivestarparks.com
Craig Wescott
Senior Vice President

Craig Wescott moved to Branson, MO in 1980, when his father Lee Wescott founded The Track Family Fun Parks, the legacy company for the growing Five Star Parks & Attractions brand. Craig graduated with Bachelor and Master of Business Administration degrees from Baylor University. After a two-year stint in public accounting in Texas, Craig returned to Branson in 2000 to continue the legacy his father started. Growing up, Craig had a front row seat to how his father and business partners treated and engaged with staff members, guests, and the community, all while balancing working hard and having fun doing it. Craig and his partners continually strived to do the same for the next 20 years. Since 2021, that legacy has continued with Five Star Parks & Attractions.

Craig has enjoyed serving the community in many ways through the years, including with the chamber/CVB, school district, city, and non-profit organizations. Beyond connecting with people, Craig’s true passion is music. He enjoys playing music at church, and his band Mile Zero has played around the Branson area and beyond since 2006. Craig and wife Amy have two daughters.

Jeff Gebhart
VP of Entertainment and Games Strategy
jgebhart@fivestarparks.com
Jeff Gebhart
VP of Entertainment and Games Strategy

As the VP of Entertainment, Jeff oversees Five Star Parks attraction mix, games, redemption and all things that make Five Star Parks fun!   From design layouts of new builds to current location refreshes, Jeff is able to use his 25 years of Family Entertainment industry experience in developing the best guest experience.  Starting with Craig's Cruisers out of Michigan, Jeff has designed, built and operated FECs.   Always keeping an eye out for "what's next" for Five Star Park locations, Jeff stays in front of industry trends while perfecting operations with a concentration on guest experience and throughput.  

Family comes first.  Married to Tammie for 30 years.  Has one daughter and a niece (unofficially daughter #2) and now 2 son-in-laws!  A huge Michigan State Spartan and Buffalo Bills fan.  Claim to fame, Jeff is the bass player for the #2 rated Cover Band in Michigan, The Rocket Fuel Haulers!

Anne Hyde
VP of Accounting
ahyde@fivestarparks.com
Anne Hyde
VP of Accounting

Anne Hyde, a licensed CPA, serves as the Vice President of Accounting at Five Star Parks & Attractions, bringing over 25 years of extensive experience in financial and accounting leadership roles across numerous industries. Anne has extensive experience in integrating financial systems, establishing robust internal controls, identifying cost-saving opportunities, and demonstrating strong financial acumen to ensure organizational efficiency and compliance. She has led companies through mergers, acquisitions, and company-wide ERP implementation, adeptly managing significant change with a team approach. Beyond her professional endeavors, Anne finds joy in hiking across the picturesque landscapes of her home state, Colorado.

Thomas York
VP IT & Security
tyork@fivestarparks.com
Thomas York
VP IT & Security

As the Vice President of Technology at Five Star Parks, Thomas is at the forefront of integrating cutting-edge technology to enhance guest experiences and streamline operations. With a robust background in IT management and a passion for innovation, Thomas has been instrumental in developing interactive, tech-driven attractions and optimizing operational efficiencies. Under Thomas's leadership, the center has seen significant advancements in digital ticketing systems, virtual reality experiences, and mobile app functionalities, making visits more engaging and convenient for guests. Thomas's focus on cybersecurity ensures that customer data is protected, while also leveraging technology to foster a safe and enjoyable environment for all visitors. Committed to pushing the boundaries of technology in entertainment, Thomas continues to spearhead initiatives that set Five Star Parks apart as a leader in family entertainment

Ted Marek
Regional Vice President of Operations
tmarek@fivestarparks.com
Ted Marek
Regional Vice President of Operations

Boasting a remarkable 30-year career in the entertainment industry, Ted has held diverse leadership roles including general manager, director of training, owner/operator, and currently serves as vice president of operations.  

In these roles, he has played a pivotal role in overseeing facility construction, systems development, comprehensive training programs, and new location openings. Ted has continuously demonstrated strong leadership through strategic planning, employee development, and ensuring top-of-the-line operations. His contributions have been integral to the foundation and success of multiple brands.

With a passion for engaging teams, Ted is committed to delivering world-class facilities and ensuring unforgettable guest experiences. He currently spearheads the success of Celebration Station, Fun Land, and Craigs Cruisers brands.

Originally from San Antonio, Texas, Ted now resides in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, where he enjoys quality time with his family, and finds joy in restoring classic cars and undertaking DIY projects.

Steven Swift
Regional Vice President of Operations
sswift@fivestarparks.com
Steven Swift
Regional Vice President of Operations

Steve serves as the Regional Vice President for Five Star Parks and Attractions, he leads the Scene 75 and Malibu Jack's Brands.  Steve has spent the last 10 years in the family entertainment space with increasing levels of leadership.  Prior to family entertainment Steve was a multi-unit leader in casual dining.  His passion for hospitality has been a consistent in his career.  Steve prides himself on teaching and coaching leaders and driving long-term results.

When not working Steve enjoys time with his family including his wife, 4 kids, 3 dogs and 2 cats.  Music has been a constant companion in Steve's life, he continues to play piano, guitar and a few other instruments he has picked up along the way.

Bill Stark
Regional Vice President
bstark@fivestarparks.com
Bill Stark
Regional Vice President

Bill is a Regional Vice President of Operations for Five Star Parks and Attractions serving the guests, teams and locations in both the Branson Missouri and Pigeon Forge markets. Working in the family entertainment industry for the last 14 years, he loves that fact that at the core of everything we do is helping friends and family spend time together having fun. A firm believer in servant leadership, Bill enjoys supporting the team he works with, challenging them to improve everyday, and assisting them to grow and develop in both life and within the organization. Bill loves spending time with his family, is very active in his local community, and is an avid Ohio State Football fan.

Go Bucks!

Maggie Cope
Corporate Director of Marketing
mcope@fivestarparks.com
Maggie Cope
Corporate Director of Marketing
Alec Hicks
EHS Manager
ahicks@fivestarparks.com
Alec Hicks
EHS Manager

Alec Hicks is a dedicated Environmental Health & Safety professional with a passion for improving safety culture and safety programs via data driven safety systems and employee engagement. Alec has a bachelor's degree from Eastern Kentucky University in Occupational Safety with a minor in Fire Safety Engineering. Alec has been in safety for 7 years with companies such as Amazon & AppHarvest. Starting with Five Star in October of 2023, Alec has focused on becoming an expert in safety in the amusement industry while building a Five Star foundation for safety across the network.

Bill Hamby
Director of Arcades and Amusements
bhamby@fivestarparks.com
Bill Hamby
Director of Arcades and Amusements

Bill Hamby first got his Electronic repair experience serving in the Marine Corps working on Deceptive Electronic Countermeasures for the F18 Fighter Jet.  Bill also served in the first gulf war (Operation Desert Storm).

Bill has over 30 years experience in working in all aspects of FEC operations...the passion of course is game purchase, placement, repair and data!

Bill started working in the Arcade business working an Arcade route for 7 years, then worked for Chuck E Cheese for 2 years, then spent 21 years with Celebration Station. Now 2 years and counting working for Five Star Parks and Attractions as Director of Arcades and Amusements.

Jeremy Wu
Financial Analyst
jwu@fivestarparks.com
Jeremy Wu
Financial Analyst

Jeremy is a proven analyst and finance professional, experienced in helping small and medium-sized businesses grow and scale. He joined Five Star in December 2022.

Jeremy received a BA in Finance and Economics from Mercyhurst University, and was a captain of the Division I Men’s Ice Hockey Team. Born and raised in Toronto, ON, he now resides in San Diego, CA with his girlfriend and golden retriever, Bruce. He remains an avid sports fan and has become passionate about surfing.

Mark Thomas
Corporate Director of Tech Services
mthomas@fivestarparks.com
Mark Thomas
Corporate Director of Tech Services

Mark Thomas is a seasoned professional with 29 years of experience in the amusement industry. Currently serving as the overseer of technical staff at Five Star Parks and Attractions, Mark leads the maintenance efforts for games, attractions, and facilities across 27 locations encompassing seven renowned brands.

Mark's journey in the industry began with renowned establishments such as Greatimes Family Fun Park, Incredible Pizza Company, Chuck E Cheese, Dave and Busters, Main Event, and Jillian's Entertainment. He has also contributed his expertise to support companies like Happ Controls and Shaffer Distributing, gaining invaluable insights from various roles spanning from hourly positions to corporate levels.

Driven by a passion for family, work, and perpetual learning, Mark finds steadiness in supporting his loving wife, Tracey, and their six children. Their shared enthusiasm for the amusement industry not only strengthens familial bonds but also serves as a constant source of feedback and inspiration for Mark’s professional endeavors.

An advocate for efficiency, Mark's approach to problem-solving revolves around understanding the intricacies of technology and processes. Through meticulous planning, organization, and execution, he strives to optimize technical services, ensuring maximum effectiveness for his team and himself. For Mark, being the most effective person in the room entails being the most efficient—a philosophy he embodies in his daily pursuits.

Victoria Voisin
Social Media and Communication Director
vvoisin@fivestarparks.com
Victoria Voisin
Social Media and Communication Director

Victoria is a dynamic and results-oriented professional with a proven track record in communication strategies and social media management. Currently serving as the Social Media and Communication Director at Five Star Parks and Attractions, Victoria has contributed to the organizations online presence and brand image.

Victoria’s previously held roles in the public relations and media sector gained her valuable experience in content creation, media relations, crisis communication, and strategic planning; consistently delivering measurable results and enhancing the overall communication efforts of organizations worked with. Victoria’s unwavering passion for storytelling and creating experiences is what motivates her each day.

Outside of work, Victoria enjoys traveling, the outdoors, and spending time with her friends and family.

Keely Brooks
Senior Regional Director of Sales
kbrooks@fivestarparks.com
Keely Brooks
Senior Regional Director of Sales
Stephanie Dessecker
Senior Regional Director of Sales
sdessecker@fivestarparks.com
Stephanie Dessecker
Senior Regional Director of Sales
Regina Hambrick
Marketing Project Manager
rhambrick@fivestarparks.com
Regina Hambrick
Marketing Project Manager
Brian Overall
Regional Controller
boverall@fivestarparks.com
Brian Overall
Regional Controller
Holly Carter
Regional Controller
hcarter@fivestarparks.com
Holly Carter
Regional Controller
Troy Miley
Senior Regional Controller
tmiley@fivestarparks.com
Troy Miley
Senior Regional Controller
Zac Williams
HRIS Manager
zwilliams@fivestarparks.com
Zac Williams
HRIS Manager
Angi Duncan
Corporate Director of Human Resources
aduncan@fivestarparks.com
Angi Duncan
Corporate Director of Human Resources
Dan Kopp
Regional Director of Operations
dkopp@fivestarparks.com
Dan Kopp
Regional Director of Operations
Austin Krupp
akrupp@fivestarparks.com
Joe Gegan
Regional Tech Service Manager
jgegan@fivestarparks.com
Joe Gegan
Regional Tech Service Manager
Mary Porr
Regional Controller
mpoor@fivestarparks.com
Mary Porr
Regional Controller
Jeep Osborn
Director of Operations
josborn@fivestarparks.com
Jeep Osborn
Director of Operations
Keylee Young
General Manager
kyoung@fivestarparks.com
Keylee Young
General Manager
Rudy Pagud
General Manager - Mesquite, TX
rpagud@fivestarparks.com
Rudy Pagud
General Manager - Mesquite, TX
John Lannon
General Manager - Clearwater, FL
jlannon@fivestarparks.com
John Lannon
General Manager - Clearwater, FL
Meghan Foxworth
General Manager - Baton Rouge, LA
mfoxworth@fivestarparks.com
Meghan Foxworth
General Manager - Baton Rouge, LA
Shaun Menedez
General Manager - Oklahoma City, OK
smenedez@fivestarparks.com
Shaun Menedez
General Manager - Oklahoma City, OK
Phill Marlow
General Manager - Greensboro, NC
pmarlow@fivestarparks.com
Phill Marlow
General Manager - Greensboro, NC
Marcel Walters
General Manager - Holland
mwalters@fivestarparks.com
Marcel Walters
General Manager - Holland
Mike Beatty
General Manager - Grand Rapids
mbeatty@fivestarparks.com
Mike Beatty
General Manager - Grand Rapids
Josh Corgan
General Manager - Muskegon
jcorgan@fivestarparks.com
Josh Corgan
General Manager - Muskegon
Danny Glover
General Manager - Fredericksburg
dglover@fivestarparks.com
Danny Glover
General Manager - Fredericksburg
Mike Miller
General Manager - Lafayette
mmiller@fivestarparks.com
Mike Miller
General Manager - Lafayette
Charles Napier
General Manager - Ashland
cnapier@fivestarparks.com
Charles Napier
General Manager - Ashland
Ken McQueen
General Manager - Lexington
kmcqueen@fivestarparks.com
Ken McQueen
General Manager - Lexington
Matt Cord
General Manager - Louisville
mcord@fivestarparks.com
Matt Cord
General Manager - Louisville
Michael Dugal
General Manager - Chicagoland
mdugal@fivestarparks.com
Michael Dugal
General Manager - Chicagoland
Michael McNutt
General Manager - Cincinatti
mmcnutt@fivestarparks.com
Michael McNutt
General Manager - Cincinatti
Luke Kelley
General Manager - Cleveland
lkelley@fivestarparks.com
Luke Kelley
General Manager - Cleveland
Kim Martin
General Manager - Columbus
kmartin@fivestarparks.com
Kim Martin
General Manager - Columbus
Brian Flenner
General Manager - Dayton
bflenner@fivestarparks.com
Brian Flenner
General Manager - Dayton
James Dodds
General Manager
jdodds@fivestarparks.com
James Dodds
General Manager
Brock Taylor
General Manager
btaylor@fivestarparks.com
Brock Taylor
General Manager
Keylee Young
General Manager - Branson, MO
kyoung@fivestarparks.com
Keylee Young
General Manager - Branson, MO
Sterlyn Breeden
General Manager
sbreeden@fivestarparks.com
Sterlyn Breeden
General Manager

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