Business, Military, Government Travelers Can Get New Temporary Quarters At Candlewood Suites in Oklahoma City At Fair Price

Business Wire, June 17, 1999

OKLAHOMA CITY--(BUSINESS WIRE)--June 17, 1999--

Offering value without sacrificing amenities, Candlewood Suites opened its first hotel here today.

Operated by Candlewood Hotel Co. (Nasdaq: CNDL), headquartered in Wichita, Kan., there are now 73 Candlewood Suites open nationwide and more under construction.

Business travelers to Oklahoma City can work and relax in comfortable rooms designed specifically for extended stay travel. Tinker Air Force Base personnel and FAA staff on temporary duty are offered per diem rates for studio suites.

The hotel is located at 4400 River Park Drive near Will Rogers Airport. Special introductory rates through August 17 are $49 for studios, $69 for one-bedrooms. Regular room rates range from $69 to $89 per night, depending on room type and length of stay. The 122-room property features 98 studio suites and 24 one-bedrooms.

"We have already signed up our first customers, who have reserved 20 rooms for the next year," said General Manager Mike Bethel, "and we're looking forward to serving up Candlewood service and hospitality here in Oklahoma City."

At Candlewood, value, service, free local phone calls, two separate phone lines, data ports and many other amenities make it easy to work in comfort away from home. There are 25-cent soft drinks; free local and toll-free access calls; a well-equipped exercise room; free laundry facilities, free video and CD checkouts and more.

The unique "Candlewood Cupboard" is especially popular with guests, featuring inexpensive food and sundry items 24-hours-a-day, paid for on the honor system. Because Candlewood provides amenities as a service, not as revenue-generators, there are no surprises on the final bill.

Each large studio suite features a fully equipped kitchen, large business desk, recliner, 25-inch television, and CD and videotape players. One-bedroom suites include a separate sleeping area with a separate television and telephone.

Candlewood was co-founded in 1995 by veteran hotel entrepreneur Jack DeBoer. DeBoer invented the extended-stay concept with the founding of Residence Inn, later sold to Marriott, and co-founded Summerfield Suites.

For reservations: 405-680-8770 or 888-226-3539 (888-CANDLEWOOD)