Charlie has over 25 years of experience in international hospitality, leisure, and entertainment, specializing in casual dining and location-based entertainment.

Currently, Charlie offers concept development, consulting, and advisory services to various restaurantanchored entertainment and leisure companies through his firm, District Play LLC.

Previously, he served as the CEO of THE GAMEROOM, Powered by Hasbro, a destination entertainment brand.

Previously, Charlie served as the President & CEO of Main Event Entertainment for over a decade, leading the brand's national expansion. During his tenure, revenue soared from $30 million to $300 million. Main Event transformed from a locally known bowling alley in Texas to a nationally recognized entertainment brand with global appeal. Under his leadership, Main Event became the fastest-growing bowling-anchored entertainment concept in the world, achieving a compound annual growth rate of over 30% during his last five years. Main Event has since been acquired by Dave & Buster's, Inc (NASDAQ: PLAY).

Earlier in his career, Charlie held multiple executive roles at Applebee's International, as the company grew from a regional restaurant chain to the world's largest full-service restaurant concept, with systemwide sales exceeding $4.5 billion. He also led restaurant development efforts for The Chock full o’Nuts coffee Company in New York City, was a franchisee of Ground Round Restaurants, and founded several restaurant concepts in New England.

Charlie serves on the Board of Directors for the private equity-backed Five Star Parks & Attractions and acts as an advisor to WIVU, a booking platform for out-of-home digital entertainment. He is well-versed in startup, high-growth, advisory, and restructuring scenarios.

Raised in Yarmouth, Maine, Charlie holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from Florida State University. He currently resides in Celina, Texas, with his wife Allison. An avid runner and triathlete, Charlie is also a former Hawaii Ironman competitor.

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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, 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.

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

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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.

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 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!

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 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 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.

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