Meet the DW Team!
We’re members that love the club so much we volunteer!
A core group of Desert Wranglers from the original club pulled together and decided to revive the Club into what is today! The new Desert Wranglers Jeep Club. We have a common interest in riding the trails and seeing the sights near Vegas.
We’d love it if you’d join the team!
Meet Your Executive Board
PRESIDENT
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President
I have been a member of the Desert Wranglers for the last 4 years. I mostly do scenic trails to some intermediate rock crawling. I have a 2018 Red JL Rubicon.
Outside of off-reading I kayak on Lake Mead as well as playing video games. I have lived in the Las Vegas area for the last 7 years and I am originally from Chicago.
VICE - PRESIDENT
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Vice-President
“We moved to Vegas in 2018, originally from just south of Nashville, TN. I’ve been a stay-at-home mom since 2008 raising a stepson and son.
I have volunteered all my life, the American Red Cross and American Field Service (AFS) Student Exchange being two I spent the most time with.
My husband, son, our puppy Indiana Jones and I like to go on Scenic trail rides together. I drive, they enjoy the scenery. I enjoy the more technical rides by myself.”
SECRETARY
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Secretary
Bio coming soon!
TREASURER
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Treasurer
am a Vegas born native that grew up on the East side of town when there was much more desert to explore and Lake Mead wasn't so low. I learned how to drive stick on a 1982 CJ7 when I got my license (a number of years ago) and always wanted a Jeep of my own.
Fast forward a bit of years and my wife and I are the proud owners of a 2022 JT named Bettie White. We have enjoyed every moment of owning a Jeep. You can catch me playing in mud puddles any time I can. I also enjoy a bit of rock and sand as well!
When I'm not giving Bettie a mud bath, I work for a meeting planning company where I take care of booking sleeping rooms for conventions all over the world. I'm excited to get some fun gatherings on the books for our amazing club! See you on the trails!
Board Member
Meet Your Board of Directors
The Boss of the Trails
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Trail Master
I’ve wanted a Jeep ever since my single digit days riding in my grandfathers Jeep. Fast forward though life, a Jeep never fit into my family life. Got close and got a 4-runner in the 90’s that I could fit the family in and go off road (a bumpy dirt road).
Fast forward to 2017 and got my first Jeep, 2012 Rubicon. I knew nothing about Jeeps but I knew what I wanted to do with it! Hooked up with Desert Wranglers and on my 2nd run ever, I did Cooper Cache, rated at 6, and I was hooked. My love for rock crawling was born.
Being a leader with DW allows me to share my excitement of being off road with others.
I look forward to seeing you on the trails!
Board Member
Recovery & Driver Training
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Recovery & Driver Training
Trail Leader
Bio coming soon
The Dude of Overlanding
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Trail Leader and Swag Store Manager
I am new to the Nevada jeep and off-road scene, I was a resident of Florida for the past 30 years, and I recently got the opportunity to move here, and I am loving it. I am working towards being able to lead runs and one day be a trail boss. Desert Wranglers was the first Jeep Club I joined once I got to Vegas, and I genuinely enjoy the time I get to spend with the club members. I am looking forward to seeing how the club grows and the fun we will have over the next several years.
Board Member
Sponsorship Management & Outreach
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Board Member
I enjoy the desert scenes and not so challenging runs, being outdoors and enjoying the company of other Jeep lovers. Overlanding is my jam!
“We moved. to Vegas in May 2021 so we could enjoy the Jeep we bought a few years earlier. It’s been the best decision we’ve ever made!”
Past Web Master 2022-2024
Past President 2024-2026
Your Title Here
Meet Your Committee Chairs
Events
Mohave Guy
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I am a student of the Mojave Desert, and my trail name is Mojaveguy. I’ve been studying the Mojave Desert for the past twenty-five years.
I am involved in desert conservation efforts with the BLM, Mojave National Preserve and the Mojave Desert Heritage and Cultural Association.
Through those organizations I function as the Trail Manager for the East Mojave Heritage Trail, and the Assistant Trail Manager for the Mojave Road.
Drawing on my study and experience I lead interpretive, guided tours of the area.
The Badge Maker
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I moved with my family in 2022 to the Las Vegas area. We started in MN, then to CA and now to NV! We love it here and hope to spend a very long time here.
I joined Desert Wranglers as soon as I moved here as I love the Jeep culture and off-roading whenever able. I currently have a 2012 JK Sahara and love it. All stock and does just fine.
Christmas Light Drive
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My love for Jeeps started in 1971 on my very first ride to the Dutchman Mine in Utah—where I also experienced my first time getting “high centered.” I was hooked from that experience. One of my favorite college memories was attending the Moab Jeep Safari in 1983, an adventure that only deepened my appreciation for the Jeep community and the trails that bring us together.
Today, I’m a recreational Jeep enthusiast alongside my husband, Bill. While we may not get out as often as we’d like, we enjoy every opportunity—whether it’s exploring mountain trails, desert landscapes, or even cruising the blacktop. The Christmas Eve Light Drive remains one of our favorite traditions, combining our love of Jeeps with a little holiday magic.
Social Media Coordinator
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I bring over 25 years of experience in healthcare and public service, with a career focused on helping others and serving my community. I’m a proud mom of three sons, including my oldest who is currently serving as a United States Marine stationed in Hawaii.
I’ve always loved adventure and the outdoors. From riding quads as a kid to motorcycles in my early adult years, the off-road lifestyle has always been part of my story. After getting my Jeep and joining Desert Wranglers, I quickly fell in love with the trails, the learning, and especially the incredible community.
I’m excited to support the club by helping grow engagement and connection through our social media.
BLM Peacemaker
Want to contribute? Join or start a Committee!
Contact us or join the next Leadership Meeting on the 2nd Monday of each Month. Details and registration link will be posted on Meetup.
Meet Your Trail Leaders
THE BOSS OF THE TRAILS
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THE BOSS OF THE TRAILS
I’ve wanted a Jeep ever since my single digit days riding in my grandfathers Jeep. Fast forward though life, a Jeep never fit into my family life. Got close and got a 4-runner in the 90’s that I could fit the family in and go off road (a bumpy dirt road).
Fast forward to 2017 and got my first Jeep, 2012 Rubicon. I knew nothing about Jeeps but I knew what I wanted to do with it! Hooked up with Desert Wranglers and on my 2nd run ever, I did Cooper Cache, rated at 6, and I was hooked. My love for rock crawling was born.
Being a leader with DW allows me to share my excitement of being off road with others.
I look forward to seeing you on the trails!
Board Member
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PRESIDENT (PATTI)
Patti is the CEO of 4Lyfe Business Management Service LLC, and the Fractional Communications and Operations Director for the CFO Leadership Council.
She and her husband Steve enjoy the desert scenes and challenging runs, being outdoors and enjoying the company of other Jeep lovers. We love to do the 101 Beginner Runs!
We moved to Vegas in May 2021 so we could enjoy the Jeep we bought a few years earlier. It’s been the best decision we’ve ever made!
Executive Board Member (Patti
Board Member (Steve)
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We came to Vegas in 2018, originally from just south of Nashville, TN. We have been married since 2003 and were married right here in Las Vegas at the Little White Wedding Chapel on the day before Valentines.
We like to go on Scenic trail rides and slightly more challenging ones together. Jackie started out in Predator, a 2015 Manual JKU Sport that has been built up over time. Tony now drives Predator and Jackie has gotten behind the wheel of Wolverine, a 2014 JKU Rubicon that is an automatic and been built from the experience with Predator. We have about 5 years in experience off-roading Jeeps.
Jackie
Vice President and Executive Board Member
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WIZARD OF MEETUP
PAST VICE-PRESIDENT
2022-2024I have been a member of the Desert Wranglers for the last 4 years. I mostly do scenic trails to some intermediate rock crawling. I have a 2018 Red JL Rubicon.
Outside of off-reading I kayak on Lake Mead as well as playing video games. I have lived in the Las Vegas area for the last 7 years and I am originally from Chicago.
Board Member
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PAST PRESIDENT
2022-2024
Fred, currently retired, was a professor, consultant, and Hollywood sound mixer for motion pictures & television.
He and his wife Ligaya enjoy scenic runs, exploring interesting places, and making new friends along the trail.
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THE OVERLANDING DUDE
I was new to the Nevada jeep and off-road scene, I was a resident of Florida for the past 30 years, and I got the opportunity to move here, and I am loving it.
Desert Wranglers was the first Jeep Club I joined once I got to Vegas, and I genuinely enjoy the time I get to spend with the club members. I am looking forward to seeing how the club grows and the fun we will have over the next several years.
Board Member
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MOHAVE GUY
I am a student of the Mojave Desert, and my trail name is Mojaveguy. I’ve been studying the Mojave Desert for the past twenty-five years.
I am involved in desert conservation efforts with the BLM, Mojave National Preserve and the Mojave Desert Heritage and Cultural Association.
Through those organizations I function as the Trail Manager for the East Mojave Heritage Trail, and the Assistant Trail Manager for the Mojave Road.
Drawing on my study and experience I lead interpretive, guided tours of the area.
COMMITTEE CHAIR
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THE BADGE MAKER
CO-WEB MASTERI moved with my family in 2022 to the Las Vegas area. We started in MN, then to CA and now to NV! We love it here and hope to spend a very long time here.
I joined Desert Wranglers as soon as I moved here as I love the Jeep culture and off-roading whenever able. I currently have a 2012 JK Sahara and love it. All stock and does just fine.
COMMITTEE CHAIR
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Bio coming soon!
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Trail Leader
Bio coming soon!
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I am a Vegas born native that grew up on the East side of town when there was much more desert to explore and Lake Mead wasn't so low. I learned how to drive stick on a 1982 CJ7 when I got my license (a number of years ago) and always wanted a Jeep of my own.
Fast forward a bit of years and my wife and I are the proud owners of a 2022 JT named Bettie White. We have enjoyed every moment of owning a Jeep. You can catch me playing in mud puddles any time I can. I also enjoy a bit of rock and sand as well!
When I'm not giving Bettie a mud bath, I work for a meeting planning company where I take care of booking sleeping rooms for conventions all over the world. I'm excited to get some fun gatherings on the books for our amazing club! See you on the trails!
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I'm just a dude playing a dude disguised as another.
Born and raised in Biloxi, Mississippi, I moved to Vegas in ‘ 03. Married to my wonderful wife, Angela, who allows me to go play with my Jeep friends.
Super appreciative of my Desert Wrangler family and all the doors this group has opened for me.
I am also a proud member of SNORR, Southern Nevada Off-road Recovery.
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When we got our first jeep, my love tells me that I have to take her out wheeling at least once. We went out, and then again, and again. She now says she has created monster.
I always had an admiration for the jeep and the experiences it can bring. Once I was able to get myself one, I was hooked. The trails and people that ride them bring together a special bond that grows with every ride. I love to share what I’ve learned and learn from others willing to share their passion as well.
Trail Leader
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I have been a fan of Jeep Wranglers for as long as I can remember. Even though the first vehicle I ever took mudding was a 1995 Ford Bronco, I always admired the freedom and adventure that came with owning a Wrangler. After moving to the Midwest, I finally bought my first Jeep - a 1993 YJ with an inline-six. It was far from perfect, but it was mine. I added a small lift, bigger tires, and spent every chance I could wheeling it.
As a new college graduate, I eventually traded the Wrangler life for something more practical, but after riding. ina JLU at the 2019 Chicago Auto Show, the Jeep bug came right back. Six years later, after a lot of saving and dreaming, I finally got back into a Wrangler and have loved every moment of it.
What I enjoy most is not just wheeling, but the friendships, community, and endless opportunity to wrench and learn. Emmanuel jokes that I read the owner’s and repair manuals like storybooks - and honestly, he is not wrong. As a new transplant to Las Vegas and a new trail leader, I look forward to exploring our local trails with you!
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I began my journey in the Jeep world in 1998, when we were awarded our Jeep dealership in Bedford, Texas. Over time, we grew it into one of the highest-volume Jeep dealerships in the world. Alongside the dealership, I founded Screamin’ Lizard, a custom shop focused on extreme off-road builds, including early HEMI conversions and heavy-duty drivetrain upgrades at a time when those modifications were far from mainstream.
My personal passion for building started with my first custom Jeep—a 2006 LJ “Lizard 1” built with a 6-inch lift, 40-inch tires, one-ton Dodge drivetrain components, HEMI, Dana 60 axles, and a full roll cage setup designed purely for capability.
My wheeling experience spans Texas, Arkansas, Colorado, Montana, and Utah, with Moab remaining a favorite destination where I spend several months each year. One of my most memorable experiences was completing the Rubicon Trail in a stock Rubicon.
Today, my current rig is a 2024 Jeep Rubicon 392, “Blue Warrior”. I’m also proud to share the passion with my daughter, Caroline, who now drives my former 2013 JK Rubicon, “Bluebell,” with our Colorado Jeep club.
Now retired from the automotive business, I spend most of the year on the trail, fulfilling a long-standing goal of becoming a trail leader in retirement. I’m proud to be part of the Desert Wranglers, and I look forward to continuing to explore and share the trail experience with others.
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Trail Leader
Contact us about becoming a Tail or Mid Gunner and contribute your skills to the group!
Trail Support - Want to Lead or offer trail support?
Contact us about becoming a Trail Leader, Tail or Mid Gunner and contribute your skills to the group!
Our Founders Emeritus and Life Time Members
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Former Vice-President, Trail Leader and Trainer
Retired Defense Trade Compliance Officer. Judi has been part of the off-road Jeep world since 2014.
Along with her husband, Jim, and their Jeep Dog, a golden retriever named Riley, they enjoy exploring the trails of Southern Nevada and Arizona.
Former Executive Board Member
“I am so very proud of what we have all accomplished. The club is like a Phoenix rising from the ashes. You are in good hands, the club has great plans and a very bright future. Thank you for the honor of allowing us to be part of this great adventure.”
~ Judi Taylor
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Former Trail Master, Leader, Trainer
Jim is a retired Navy Pilot and Program Manager from the Unmanned Aerial Vehicle world (think Predator or Global Hawk).
He is married to Judi and has been a member, and trail leader for Desert Wranglers beginning 2014.
Former Board Member
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Past President, Active Trail Leader and Trainer
Fred, currently retired, was a professor, consultant, and Hollywood sound mixer for motion pictures & television.
He and his wife Ligaya enjoy scenic runs, exploring interesting places, and making new friends along the trail.
Former Executive Board Member
