Berkstresser takes the helm of the NATSO board at a time when a number of state legislatures are pressuring Congress to overturn the federal prohibition on commercial services at rest areas. [image-nocss] Allowing states to sell food, fuel and other retail services at interstate rest areas would devastate the thousands of businesses nationwide that operate near the interstate and the small-town communities they support, the organization said.
The truckstop and travel plaza industry also is tackling such critically important issues as the future of highway funding and rising interchange fees, added the group.
Berkstresser is committed to helping the truckstop and travel plaza industry face the challenges of today while building better businesses for tomorrow, he said.
"The new year brings new opportunities, and I couldn't be more excited about the prospect of serving as NATSO's chairman," Berkstresser said. "I look forward to tackling the challenges facing the truckstop and travel plaza industry and helping my fellow business owners and operators to succeed."
He began his career in the truckstop business in 1981, when he purchased Lee Hi Travel Plaza. Previously, Berkstresser owned a towing and road-service business. In 2010, Berkstresser purchased White's Travel Center, which he recently updated and re-opened.
Paulson, owner of Silco Oil, now serves as chairman of NATSO's Steering Council Committee.
Alexandria, Va.-based NATSO, originally known as the National Association of Truck Stop Operators, was founded in 1960 and represents the industry on legislative and regulatory matters; serves as the official source of information on the diverse travel plaza and truckstop industry; provides education to its members; conducts an annual convention and trade show; and supports efforts to generally improve the business climate in which its members operate.
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