Meet The Team Archives - Page 3 of 6

Category Archive: Meet The Team

January 24, 2020
Meet The Team: Heather Miller

Name: Heather Miller

Title: Lead Wellness Coordinator

Hometown: Dubuque, IA

1. How long have you been with Potosa Spa/Hotel Julien Dubuque?

I have been with Potosa Spa for the past three years.

2. What path brought you to Potosa Spa/Hotel Julien Dubuque? Please share a little bit about your professional background and what led you to this industry?

I always wanted to work in the spa industry and when a position opened up for a part-time Wellness Coordinator, I applied and got the job. Recently, I was promoted to Lead Wellness Coordinator.

3. What are you most passionate about professionally?

Professionally, I am passionate about the hospitality industry. I enjoy making guests feel comfortable and welcomed when they are here.

4. What are you passionate about personally?

Personally, I am passionate about dancing.

5. What is your favorite way to spend a free weekend?

My favorite way to spend a free weekend is with my husband and daughter Evelyn.

6. What are some of your favorite things to do in the Dubuque area?

My favorite thing to do in the Dubuque area is shop.

7. What do you love most about Potosa Spa/Hotel Julien Dubuque?

What I love most about Posotsa Spa/Hotel Julien Dubuque are the relaxing atmosphere and my co-workers.

8. What is your personal motto?

“You only live once.”

9. Describe your typical workday.

My typical day includes giving guests the best experience while they are here and making sure things run smoothly for them and our associates.

10. What is your favorite service at Potosa Spa and why you like it?

My favorite service at Potosa Spa is the 60-minute Potosa Massage. It’s like hitting the reset button on your mind and body.

11. Please share a go-to fun-fact about yourself.

I can do the splits!
January 6, 2020
Meet The Team: Chris Donofrio

Name: Chris Donofrio

Title: Licensed Massage Therapist

Hometown: Ventura, CA

1. How long have you been with Potosa Spa/Hotel Julien Dubuque?

I joined the Potosa Spa team this past December.

2. What path brought you to Potosa Spa/Hotel Julien Dubuque? Please share a little bit about your professional background and what led you to this industry?

My family and I recently moved to Dubuque for my wife to attend seminary school. What brought me to Potosa Spa was the opportunity I have to help others using my background in sports, as well as corrective and neuromuscular therapy. This allows me to help people from all walks of life.

3. What are you most passionate about professionally?

Professionally I am passionate about working with athletes and pain management.

4. What are you passionate about personally?

I am passionate about being a positive role model in the community.

5. What is your favorite way to spend a free weekend?

Some of my favorite ways to spend a free weekend are traveling or hanging out with friends and family.

6. What are some of your favorite things to do in the Dubuque area?

I’m still pretty new to the Dubuque area, though I look forward to finding out.

7. What do you love most about Potosa Spa/Hotel Julien Dubuque?

I enjoy the people and work I do here.

8. What is your personal motto?

God’s work. Our hands.

9. Describe your typical workday.

My typical workday includes helping others and massages.

10. What is your favorite service at Potosa Spa and why you like it?

My favorite service at Potosa Spa is our deep tissue massage. It’s my favorite because it’s something I often need myself.

11. Please share a go-to fun-fact about yourself.

I moved here from Ventura, California on December 2nd, 2019. I am a Navy veteran as well as I played semi-pro soccer.
October 23, 2019
Meet The Team: Rebecca Rauen

Name: Rebecca Rauen

Title: Massage Therapist

Hometown: Epworth, IA

1. How long have you been with Potosa Spa/Hotel Julien Dubuque?

It will be a year in January that I joined the Potosa Spa team.

2. What path brought you to Potosa Spa/Hotel Julien Dubuque? Please share a little bit about your professional background and what led you to this industry?

I have always felt a calling to help others feel better. Being visually impaired drew me to the massage field since I could rely on my other senses to be a great therapist. What led me to Potosa Spa was I loved the atmosphere and feeling of relaxation as soon as you walk through the doors. It felt like the right fit for me.

3. What are you most passionate about professionally?

What I am passionate about professionally is helping others feel better. I love it when a spa guest leaves feeling better than they did when they came in.

4. What are you passionate about personally? What is your favorite way to spend a free weekend?

Personally I am passionate about spending time with my family, especially my fiance and our baby. My favorite way to spend my free time is snuggling with my three-month-old baby and guide dog, Tippet.

5. What are some of your favorite things to do in the Dubuque area?

One of my favorite things to do in the Dubuque area is fishing.

6. What do you love most about Potosa Spa/Hotel Julien Dubuque?

What I love most about Potosa Spa/Hotel Julien Dubuque is the welcoming atmosphere.

7. What is your personal motto?

“Believing is seeing – not seeing is believing.”

8. Describe your typical workday.

My typical workday includes bringing my guide dog Tippet. She gets to be part of the fun. I typically see guests starting early in the day and stay busy until the end of my shift.

9. What is your favorite service at Potosa Spa and why you like it?

My favorite service at Potosa Spa is the Organic Shea Butter Massage. It’s not only relaxing and moisturizing, but fun to do.

10. Please share a go-to fun-fact about yourself.

I am getting married next year!
July 31, 2019
Meet The Team: Jenn Halter

Name: Jenn Halter

Title: Lead Server at Caroline’s Restaurant

Hometown: San Bernardino, CA

1. How long have you been with Hotel Julien Dubuque?

I have been with Hotel Julien Dubuque/Caroline’s Restaurant for almost two years.

2. What path brought you to Hotel Julien Dubuque? Please share a little bit about your professional background and what led you to this industry?

I started in the restaurant industry when I was 15 years old. I fell in love with the industry from the beginning.

3. What are you most passionate about professionally?

I’m most passionate professionally about food and people. I love seeing the look on a guest’s face when they taste our local and farm-fresh menu items.

4. What are you passionate about personally? What is your favorite way to spend a free weekend?

Personally, I am passionate about my family. I love spending my free time with my five-year-old son, CJ.

5. What are some of your favorite things to do in the Dubuque area?

A couple of my favorite things to do in Dubuque are walking along the riverwalk and in the Mines of Spain.

6. What do you love most about Hotel Julien Dubuque?

What I love most about Hotel Julien Dubuque is it feels like home with the family-like atmosphere. I also should add both my brother and sister do work at Caroline’s as well.

7. What is your personal motto?

“Love, peace and chicken grease.”

8. Describe your typical workday.

I typically work evenings. When I come in I check what our nightly feature is, make sure the computers are up and running, we are all set to go on dinner service and fully staffed.

9. What is your favorite entree we serve at Caroline’s and why you like it?

My favorite entree at Caroline’s is the Local Iowa Chop. I love the Hot Pepper Bacon Jam that is smothered on top!

10. Please share a go-to fun-fact about yourself.

I was born and raised in San Bernadino, California. I moved here in 2005 and still am not a fan of the snow.
Meet The Team: Taylor McElmeel

Name: Taylor McElmeel

Title: Shift Supervisor at Caroline’s Restaurant

Hometown: Dubuque, IA

1. How long have you been with Hotel Julien Dubuque?

I have been with Hotel Julien Dubuque/Caroline’s Restaurant for the past year.

2. What path brought you to Hotel Julien Dubuque? Please share a little bit about your professional background and what led you to this industry?

I have always worked in the restaurant industry and chose Caroline’s for their reputation of having a great work environment. I was also in the retail industry where I gained experience as a manager. With my experiences in both the retail and restaurant industries, I knew I would enjoy supervising a restaurant.

3. What are you most passionate about professionally?

I try very hard to make sure things are fair between employees so everyone not just works together, but gets along. I also enjoy making sure our guests enjoy their time at Caroline’s Restaurant.

4. What are you passionate about personally? What is your favorite way to spend a free weekend?

I try to spend as much time with my family and friends as I can. I also enjoy relaxing with my dog or painting when I get the chance.

5. What are some of your favorite things to do in the Dubuque area?

I like to hike in the Mines of Spain or take a ride on the 4th Street Elevator.

6. What do you love most about Hotel Julien Dubuque?

I love all the history Hotel Julien Dubuque has to offer.

7. What is your personal motto?

Good things take time.

8. Describe your typical workday.

My typical workday starts out with greeting everyone. I then make sure we are set-up for the day, work on things that need to be done and help other employees with whatever they may need.

9. What is your favorite entree we serve at Caroline’s and why you like it?

I love the Lemon Tart because of the caramelized sugar and macerated berries.

10. Please share a go-to fun-fact about yourself.

I play volleyball for fun with some friends and family members every week.
July 8, 2019
Meet The Team: Tori Curoe

Name: Tori Curoe

Title: Riverboat Lounge Bartender

Hometown: Fairfield, Iowa

1. How long have you been with Hotel Julien Dubuque?

I’ve been at Riverboat Lounge for five years.

2. What path brought you to Hotel Julien Dubuque? Please share a little bit about your professional background and what led you to this industry?

My husband Cale grew up in Cascade, Iowa and we moved to the Dubuque area to be closer to his family. I had bartended previously in my hometown and while I lived in England. I was intrigued by the history and character that Hotel Julien Dubuque possessed, so I applied for a position in Riverboat Lounge.

3. What are you most passionate about professionally?

I’m very passionate professionally about supporting local brews. Our drafts feature mostly Iowa beers and we have a wide selection of bottled beers available to people who may be new to the area. When people think of Iowa, craft beers don’t generally come to mind. It’s always fun to change peoples’ minds and open their eyes to what a great job local Iowans are doing in regards to the beer and cider market.

4. What are you passionate about personally? What is your favorite way to spend a free weekend?

I love gardening and cooking. There’s nothing better than making an entire meal that you’ve grown. I start seeds inside in January under growing lights. My husband loves the electricity bill during those months.

5. What are some of your favorite things to do in the Dubuque area?

I enjoy playing trivia with my friends, boating in the summer, farmer’s market on Saturday, and playing volleyball.

6. What do you love most about Hotel Julien Dubuque?

What I love most about Hotel Julien Dubuque is the interesting people I meet and the ability to be creative.

7. What is your personal motto?

Enjoy the sunshine.

8. Describe your typical workday.

My typical workday includes prepping for the day, making fresh juices and simple syrups, and interacting with customers.

9. What is your favorite cocktail we serve at Riverboat Lounge and why you like it?

I love making martinis and garnishing them with our hand-stuffed bleu cheese olives. Not many places put that much effort into your drinks. I think it adds a little bit of a personal touch.

10. Please share a go-to fun-fact about yourself.

I have been a vegetarian for over 18 years.
May 28, 2019
Meet The Team: Kelley Wolter

Name: Kelley Wolter

Title: Front Desk Supervisor

Hometown: Omaha Nebraska

LinkedIn Profile: http://www.linkedin.com/pub/kelley-wolter/55/681/98b

1. How long have you been with Hotel Julien Dubuque?

I have been working at Hotel Julien Dubuque for the past three years.

2. What path brought you to Hotel Julien Dubuque? Please share a little bit about your professional background and what led you to this industry?

My career in the hospitality industry began back home in Omaha where I was working for a hotel reservation center. I had been there for many years when an opportunity opened up at Hotel Julien Dubuque. I applied and got the job! Soon after I made the move from Omaha to Dubuque!

3. What are you most passionate about professionally?

I love working with people and being able to offer the best customer service to each guest.

4. What are you passionate about personally? What is your favorite way to spend a free weekend?

I love music. I like to spend my free time driving around and while listening to music.

5. What are some of your favorite things to do in the Dubuque area?

My favorite thing to do in the Dubuque area is going to my favorite place, the Mines of Spain. I love walking the trails and seeing the river.

6. What do you love most about Hotel Julien Dubuque?

What I love most about Hotel Julien Dubuque are the ambiance and history. It takes you back to a different time.

7. What is your personal motto?

“Don’t downgrade your dream just to fit your reality. Upgrade your conviction to match your destiny.”

8. Describe your typical workday.

I usually work first shift so I am up bright and early. I help ensure we are running a smooth front desk throughout the day by assisting guests or training the new hires on our team.

9. Please share a go-to fun-fact about yourself.

My mom and I went to the Royal Gorge in Colorado last year and zip lined across it.

10. Is there anything else that you’d like to share?

Be sure to say “Hi” on your next visit!
May 13, 2019
Meet The Team: Maggie Young

Name: Maggie Young

Title: Licensed Massage Therapist/Wellness Coordinator Trainer

Hometown: Monona, Iowa

1. How long have you been with Hotel Julien Dubuque?

I started at Potosa Spa three years ago this September.

2. What path brought you to Hotel Julien Dubuque? Please share a little bit about your professional background and what led you to this industry?

At the time I was studying massage therapy at Capri. I was also renting my apartment through our sister company, Fischer Companies. The HR department told me about the open position Wellness Coordinator position. My only other previous job was serving at a pizza joint in my hometown. I figured this would be a great way to get my foot in the door professionally!

3. What are you most passionate about professionally?

My passion professionally lies in helping my clients feel their best and making sure they enjoy their experience here at Potosa Spa.

4. What are you passionate about personally? What is your favorite way to spend a free weekend?

Personally, I am passionate about life and nature. In my free time, I love to explore Dubuque and spend time with my friends and family.

5. What are some of your favorite things to do in the Dubuque area?

I love hiking the Mines of Spain, being by the river, and attending the fun events and festivals throughout the summer here in Dubuque.

6. What do you love most about Hotel Julien Dubuque?

The Hotel Julien Dubuque is like my second home and all of the people here are like my second family. There is so much to offer for not only the guests but employees too!

7. What is your personal motto?

“Life is short, smile while you still have teeth.”

8. Describe your typical workday.

My typical workday at Potosa Spa is spent performing massages and assisting in training new therapists. The rest of my time is spent training new wellness coordinators. I enjoy staying busy!

9. What is your favorite service at Potosa Spa and why?

My current favorite service is the Four Elements massage, it reflects the surroundings of this beautiful city!

10. Please share a go-to fun-fact about yourself.

In high school, I climbed a mountain to take my senior pictures!
April 26, 2019
Meet The Team: Alexis Cabrera

Name: Alexis Cabrera

Title: Spa Manager at Potosa Spa

Hometown: Miami, FL

1. How long have you been with Hotel Julien Dubuque?

I have only been here a couple of months. I started on February 20th of this year.

2. What path brought you to Hotel Julien Dubuque? Please share a little bit about your professional background and what led you to this industry?

I have been in the spa industry since 2001. I became a licensed nail technician while I was still in high school and did that as my after school job. I fell in love with the industry and never left. I’ve been a spa manager since 2006 with Red Door Spas and Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa.

My husband and I have wanted to move to Iowa to be closer to his family for years, but we knew we had to wait for the right opportunity. Hotel Julien was the perfect fit. It felt like home the moment I walked through the door.

3. What are you most passionate about professionally?

Guest Service. I absolutely love to make our guests happy! A spa visit is usually the best part of someone’s day and I feel so lucky to be a part of that.

4. What are you passionate about personally? What is your favorite way to spend a free weekend?

My family. I spend every free moment I get with my family. My husband and I have an 11-month-old daughter and a big extended family. We are having so much fun going on adventures and exploring Dubuque.

5. What are some of your favorite things to do in the Dubuque area?

Now that the weather has gotten warmer, we love to go for walks around our neighborhood. We live in Downtown Dubuque and we love seeing the historic houses, old buildings, and the fun locally owned business in the area.

6. What do you love most about Hotel Julien Dubuque?

What I love most about Hotel Julien Dubuque is the amazing team of people that I get to work with every day.

7. What is your personal motto?

My favorite quote is “The key to success is to play the hand you are dealt like it is the hand you wanted”.

8. Describe your typical workday.

I like to spend most of my time at the front desk of the spa. I like to interact with our guests and be a part of the action!

9. What is your favorite service at Potosa Spa and why?

The new Gratitude Ritual and Massage is my favorite service. The service is based on the concept of gratitude. It reminds you to slow down and take a moment to be thankful.

10. Please share a go-to fun-fact about yourself.

My favorite number is 464- it has been as long as I can remember. There is no reason for it at all…I just like the number.
April 22, 2019
Meet The Team: Becky Stolk

Name: Becky Stolk

Title: Catering Manager

Hometown: Preston, IA

1. How long have you been with Hotel Julien Dubuque?

I have been with Hotel Julien Dubuque for the past six years.

2. What path brought you to Hotel Julien Dubuque? Please share a little bit about your professional background and what led you to this industry?

I have worked in various positions within the hospitality industry since the age of 16. When I moved to the Dubuque area a few years ago, I knew I wanted to continue my career in the industry. Hotel Julien Dubuque had gone through a renovation a few years prior and I envisioned myself continuing my career there when a position opened up as a Catering Coordinator. Not long after, I was promoted to the Catering Manager.

3. What are you most passionate about professionally?

I’m a people person by nature and I’m passionate about helping others, so it’s a natural fit for me professionally to be in this industry.

4. What are you passionate about personally? What is your favorite way to spend a free weekend?

I love spending time with my family and friends in my free time.

5. What are some of your favorite things to do in the Dubuque area?

There are so many things to do in Dubuque, it’s tough to name just a few. Some things I enjoy the most are dining with friends, listening to live music and being on the river during the summer months.

6. What do you love most about Hotel Julien Dubuque?

I love walking in every morning to a place that holds so much history and beauty.

7. What is your personal motto?

Skip the salad, send me the dessert.

8. Describe your typical workday.

My typical day varies from day to day. Somedays I am behind the computer all day detailing upcoming events and others I am spent in our banquet spaces giving tours or having planning sessions with group leaders.

9. Please share a go-to fun-fact about yourself.

I love to travel! I hope to make it to Hawaii one day.