Author Archives: Quinn Pochekailo

Property Spotlight: Dr. Von D. Mizell–Eula Johnson State Park

A Coastal Retreat Rooted in Resilience

Located in Dania Beach, just south of Fort Lauderdale, Dr. Von D. Mizell–Eula Johnson State Park is more than a coastal escape; it’s a living tribute to cultural resilience and natural preservation. Spanning over 300 acres, the park offers one of South Florida’s last undeveloped coastal ecosystems, making it a haven for wildlife, water recreation, and reflection.

Originally founded as a segregated beach, the park was renamed in honor of civil rights leaders Dr. Von Mizell and Eula Johnson, who led the fight for public beach access for Black residents in the 1950s and 60s. Today, the park stands as a symbol of progress, inclusion, and community pride.

New Event Coordinator Tiamara Hong is feeling optimistic about what’s ahead. “Excited is an understatement—overjoyed and optimistic is more like it,” she shared. With plans for new rewards programs, expanded community events, full-service weddings, and online restaurant ordering, she sees a future full of momentum and possibility at Mizell. “We want to be the place people think of first when they’re planning something special or just looking for a relaxing day by the water.”

Why Mizell Stands Out

Two and a half miles of uncrowded coastline: complete with beach chairs, shells to hunt for, and even seasonal Jacquemontia flowers along the shore
Whiskey Creek’s hidden sanctuary: this calm, mangrove‑lined waterway supports manatee sightings and paddle adventures away from the busy Intracoastal
Snorkel-ready reef access: drift into one of three offshore “Erojacks” reefs straight from the beach—no boat needed—and spot colorful marine life
Whiskey Creek Hideout perks: rent kayaks, paddleboards, beach chairs, and even beach wheelchairs; grab a bite with online ordering from the concessionaire
Event-ready infrastructure: seven covered pavilions, a boat ramp, picnic grills, and an environmental education center make it ideal for weddings, gatherings, or outdoor classes

The park also has excellent birdwatching along the Great Florida Birding Trail, paved biking on the 2.5-mile scenic drive, and beachside nighttime turtle walks.

With Guest Services, Inc. at the helm, a wave of purposeful enhancements and community-driven programming are on the horizon. Planned initiatives include:

Affordable, full-service wedding packages that make Mizell a go-to venue for couples seeking a scenic and stress-free celebration by the water
Expanded cultural and recreational programming, including new community events, family-friendly beach days, and guided night tours through Whiskey Creek
Local loyalty perks, such as discounted equipment rentals and special offers for Broward and Miami-Dade residents
Pop-up food and wellness events at the pavilions and Hideout Restaurant to highlight local vendors and engage returning guests
Digital upgrades, including online ordering at The Hideout and improved access to rental bookings and event info via mobile
Environmental education experiences, from reef-focused snorkel tours to nature walks celebrating the park’s biodiversity and history

These efforts are designed to deepen Mizell’s ties with the surrounding community while inviting more visitors to experience the park’s unique blend of relaxation, recreation, and cultural significance.

“This park has so much potential, and we’re already making great progress,” says Area Manager Matt Smith. “Our focus is on building strong connections with the community, improving the guest experience, and making sure our team has the tools and support they need to deliver something special here every day.”

“Integrating Dr. Von D. Mizell–Eula Johnson State Park into the Guest Services portfolio is a significant step,” says Laura Sherman, Vice President of Hospitality. “It reflects our commitment to honoring cultural heritage while elevating guest experiences. We’re focused on delivering thoughtful programming, community-driven events, and enhanced amenities that both celebrate the park’s legacy and create memorable moments for every visitor.”

Where Legacy and Leisure Meet

With its rich civil rights history, oceanfront access, and renewed commitment to community-centered recreation, Mizell is poised to become a standout destination in the Guest Services, Inc. portfolio. Whether you’re watching a sunset, launching a kayak, or attending your dream wedding, a visit to Mizell offers exceptional connections.

Celebrating the Retirement of Rick Wayland, Vice President of Contract Food Services And Operations

Nico Foris, CEO:

“After 17 years of dedicated service, Rick Wayland, our Vice President of Contract Food Services and Operations, is embarking on a well-earned retirement. Since joining the company in September 2008, Rick has been a driving force in building and leading exceptional operations within his portfolio. His commitment to putting people first, mentoring team members, and cultivating strong, lasting relationships with our partners has left a lasting legacy.

Rick’s leadership has not only shaped the success of our contract food services division but also laid a strong foundation for its future. We are excited for Rick and his wife, Cindy, as they look forward to spending more time traveling, gardening, and enjoying their children and grandchildren. We extend our heartfelt gratitude for all he has contributed and wish him nothing but the best in this next chapter.”

Paulette Lassiter, Director of Food and Beverage Operations

“Retirement is the beginning of a new adventure. May your days ahead be filled with happiness and contentment. Your leadership has left a lasting mark on Guest Services Inc. and my career. It has been an honor working under your leadership. Enjoy your new chapter—you deserve all the happiness in the world. – Paulette (aka ‘young lady’)”

Redouane Benkamsal, Area Manager, Food Service

“I’ve had the honor of working with Mr. Rick Wayland on and off for over 25 years across different companies, and I can truly say he’s been one of the most influential people in my professional life. His kindness, professionalism, and genuine desire to help others grow have left a lasting impact on everyone fortunate enough to work with him. He’s always been the kind of leader who encourages and supports those looking to climb the career ladder, never hesitating to offer guidance or lend a hand.

As he steps into retirement, I want to wish him all the happiness and fulfillment this next chapter can bring. Thankfully, since we both live in the same city, I know this isn’t goodbye and I’m looking forward to many more conversations and laughs in the years to come.

Congratulations on a well-earned retirement.”

Addis Worku, Director of Retail Operations

“Rick Wayland—a leader of our division. He has been an exceptional leader and a mentor to me, and I am going to miss working with him tremendously! His genuine kindness, his down-to-earth caring nature, and willingness to listen attentively made him a beloved figure in our division. He had a unique ability to balance empathy with high expectations, and his guidance helped me grow both professionally and personally. I will always be grateful for the opportunity to have worked under his leadership.

I am grateful for the fond memories and wish him all the best in the next phase of his journey… we call life.”

Oscar Rodriguez, Director of Purchasing

“I’ve had the honor of working alongside Rick for over 30 years, and I can honestly say he’s been one of the most influential people in my professional life. He has not only been my boss but also my mentor and friend. His kindness, professionalism, and genuine desire to help others grow have left a lasting impact on everyone fortunate enough to work with him.

Rick has always been the kind of leader who encourages and supports those striving to advance in their careers, never hesitating to offer guidance, lend a hand, or simply listen. He led by example every step of the way, demonstrating what it means to lead with integrity, humility, and heart. I don’t think he fully realizes the impact he’s had on my career, but I can say without hesitation that I wouldn’t be where I am today without his support and example.

As he steps into retirement, I want to wish him all the happiness and fulfillment this next chapter has to offer. Thankfully, since we both live in the same state, I know this isn’t goodbye. I’m looking forward to many more conversations, laughs, and, without a doubt, getting together for meals and cookouts as often as possible.

Congratulations, Rick!”

On behalf of all of us at Guest Services, thank you, Rick, for your years of extraordinary leadership, unwavering dedication, and the lasting impact you’ve made on our company and culture.

De Leon Springs and Giants Ridge Drive Environmental Impact Through Local Cleanups

Protecting Florida’s Waterways

On April 5, De Leon Springs State Park participated in the annual St. Johns River Cleanup, an initiative organized by Volusia County’s Environmental Management Division. The event mobilized eight sites across the region, with De Leon Springs serving as one of the central hubs for volunteer activity.

Park staff joined forces with community groups, social organizations, and boaters to tackle pollution along the river’s banks and within the water itself. Volunteers collected tires, plastics, and other debris that had built up over time, reinforcing the park’s role as a steward of the surrounding ecosystem.

The impact of this collective effort was significant:

440 volunteers across all locations
1,320 collective volunteer hours
4,365 pounds of trash removed
Native trees or shrubs provided to volunteers for at-home planting

Efforts like this help preserve the ecological health of the St. Johns River while encouraging lasting community participation. For De Leon Springs, already known for its natural spring and rich biodiversity, this event underscored a continued commitment to conservation and education.

Roadside Responsibility and Slope-Wide Stewardship

In Minnesota, Giants Ridge has taken a focused, local approach to sustainability through a roadside adoption initiative and annual resort cleanup traditions. In summer 2024, the property officially adopted a 2.6-mile stretch of Giants Ridge Road, committing to biannual cleanups planned and led by the site’s Sustainability Committee.

Since the adoption, the team has completed cleanups in July and September 2024, and again in April 2025. These events brought together volunteers from departments across the resort and members of the ski patrol. The team also organizes an annual Hill Cleanup, clearing debris from ski slopes and base areas to prepare for summer activities.

The initiative has already made a clear impact, with outcomes such as:

Three road cleanups completed since adoption
Cross-departmental volunteer teams, including ski patrol
Plans to adopt an additional 2-mile section of roadway
Annual Hill Cleanup focused on slope care and grounds readiness

From Florida’s rivers to Minnesota’s ridgelines, Guest Services properties are proving that sustainability is more than a philosophy; it’s a lived value, demonstrated through real work, meaningful partnerships, and a collective effort to protect what matters most.