April 05, 2013--TownePlace Suites, a new 56-unit hotel at 402 S. Norwood St., is nearly complete and should open sometime in May. Many residents have watched the progress of the three-story hotel as it was being built north of Lafayette Mall and west of Karl's TV and Appliance.

The hotel has a nice location, close to Sanford Aberdeen Medical Center and Lakewood Mall.

I talked to Bryana Darling, the manager, about the hotel's progress.

"We are about one month out from opening," she said. "We have been working really hard. Huff Construction has done a great job."

TownePlace Suites by Marriott is an extended stay hotel with several types of units -- one-bedroom, two-bedroom and studio. All of them have full kitchens. Each has a sink, stove, microwave, larger refrigerator and cabinets stocked with dishes, plates, silverware and glasses.

While guests can stay for just one day, the units have all the conveniences for an extended stay.

Darling said that they have a core group of employees working now to get the rooms ready. She is hiring for all positions including front desk help, housekeeping, maintenance and the breakfast bar.

I remember one year ago when I talked to Paul Darling, Bryana Darling's father, about the hotel. The Darling family owns Americal, a hotel management company in Aberdeen that will manage TownePlace Suites.

Paul Darling told me that it would take about one year to build the hotel. I asked, somewhat skeptically, if he could get the entire structure built and furnished in that time and he said yes. As a business reporter, I have watched many large projects get delayed. In fact, it is rare to hit a projected opening date.

He said Americal had developed hotels in the past and he was confident the TownePlace Suites would open on schedule. Ground was broken in mid-to-late May 2012 and now one year later, it looks like the Darlings are going to hit their mark.

The exact opening day has not been set, Bryana Darling said.

Those wanting to book reservations can do so through Marriott.com. It looks like the hotel will be open in time for June weddings, summer family reunions and the busy vacation months.

Flying Club

Many people would like to fly an airplane, but the cost of a plane, maintenance and insurance is just too high. Enter the Brown County Flying Club. The organization has purchased a Cessna 172 which members can use.

The club is for licensed pilots, but also for individuals who want to learn to fly.

There is an upfront cost plus $100 monthly dues.

I talked to Darryl Shook, manager of Hanger 9 at the Aberdeen Regional Airport, a member of the club. He said that the club approach is an affordable way to fly. He has been involved in several clubs in the past and speaks highly of them. Members reserve times for the use of the plane.

Those wanting to learn to fly can take lessons from Shook, a pilot instructor. There are many former pilots who have let their license lapse and Shook can also help them to get relicensed.

Those interested in joining the flying club can call Shawn Mielke at 605-725-4774.

Follow @Business_AAN on Twitter or email [email protected].

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