| September 24, 1998 - The Dow Hotel Company and its partners
announced plans for a major renovation of The Ramada Madison Hotel in Norfolk,
Virginia. The Dow Hotel company, based in Gig Harbor, Washington
recent purchaser of the property, will also manage it. Originally
The Southland Hotel, this traditionally elegant southern property will
be remodeled under the direction of Sherrill-Lynne Design Associates of
Maryland. Over one million dollars will be invested to bring the
hotel back to its former grandeur. The renovation will include custom
furniture, fabrics, and finishes and will impart a traditional style with
contemporary overtones. Guest rooms, lobby, restaurant, lobby bar,
and meeting and banquet facilities will undergo complete renovation.
According to Mark Rosinsky, Senior Vice President of the group, "We
are delighted to become involved in this historic hotel and intend to recreate
the facility to offer a distinctive surrounding where personalized service
and outstanding cuisine are available. The warmth and culture of this historic
property built in 1906 will be recreated."
Harvey Moore, formerly General Manager of the Omni Norfolk, was named
Vice President of Operations for The Dow Hotel Company. He stated,
"We are hopeful that the hotel will meet the growing needs of the New McArthur
Shopping Center and a resurgent convention market." Moore who will
also oversee operations of the hotel, continued, "We are committed to the
community of Norfolk and are proud to be a part of the resurgence of the
Grandby Street District."
The James Madison is the first of several planned hotel acquisitions
of The Dow Hotel Company. The Dow Hotel Company, formed in 1997,
is an independent ownership and management company focused on unique, full
service properties. DHC was founded by industry veteran Murray Dow,
who has a 25 year hospitality background; including Chief Operations Officer
of HEI Hotels and executive positions with Interstate Hotels, Four Seasons,
and Westin. The company provides its expertise in marketing, renovations,
and systems to hotels, resorts, conference centers, and time-share properties.
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