"The opening of the Microtel Inn in Krebs/McAlester is evidence of Microtel's growing presence in Oklahoma," said Mike Leven, president and CEO of Atlanta-based USFS.  "We are proud to join with Bernhardt Construction on additional projects throughout the state."  Microtel Inn & Suites is the fastest growing chain of all newly-constructed, interior corridor, budget/economy hotels in the U.S. 

The Microtel Inn in Krebs/McAlester is a two-story, 44-room property. Single and double accommodations offer queen beds, CNN, ESPN, and Showtime, as well as complimentary coffee.  The hotel is less than three miles from the McAlester Municipal Airport, and close by to numerous restaurants and such yearly events as the Italian Festival and Sanders Bluegrass Festival. 

"The Microtel product is right for the needs of today's traveling public," said Kathy Bernhardt, general manager of the property. Bernhardt Construction is owned and operated by Larry and Todd Bernhardt. 

As of December 15, there were 549 Microtels open or under development. 

Based in Atlanta, Ga., U.S. Franchise Systems, Inc. was formed in August 1995 by Mike Leven, a 38-year veteran of the lodging industry, and Neal Aronson, former principal of a New York investment firm, when the company purchased the franchise system rights to Microtel Inn, Microtel Inn & Suites and Microtel Suites.  USFS acquired the franchise rights to Hawthorn Suites, an extended-stay product, in 1996, and full ownership in 1998.  USFS also acquired the franchise rights to Best Inns & Suites, a mid-level economy brand, in April 1998. JP/M259