For Immediate Release
May 18, 2007

Sheryl O'Brien Named Director of Spa Operations of Old Edwards Inn and Spa

Highlands, NC -- Old Edwards Inn and Spa in Highlands, North Carolina is pleased to announce the appointment of Sheryl O’Brien as Director of Spa Operations. O’Brien, who assumed her role on the 30th of April, brings 15 years experience in fitness, wellness and spa operations to her new position.  She will be responsible for all operations at Old Edwards’ 25,000 square-foot spa, including treatment development and managing a world-class, 25-person staff.

Swathed in European-style luxury and an alluring décor, the Spa at Old Edwards Inn is an indulgent retreat in the southern Appalachians offering exclusive products, skincare and spa body therapies from around the world. Dedicated to nourishing the mind, body and spirit, the Spa uses native herbs and botanicals from its own garden for signature treatments like the Sweet Mountain Meadow Cocoon. It also offers complete salon and nail services, personal fitness and a brimming schedule of recreational activities in a range of styles and intensities.

“Sheryl brings an impressive range of experience garnered across the wellness and spa industries, and we look forward to seeing her take the Spa at Old Edwards Inn to the next level,” said Mario Gomez, CEO of the Old Edwards Hospitality Group.

O’Brien joined the Old Edwards Inn from The Ranch Fitness Center & Spa in Ocala, Florida, as Director of the Spa, Salon and Fitness Center. Previously, she was Fitness Team Leader at the Players Club & Spa at Lely Resorts in Naples, Florida and Director of Spa & Fitness at the Naples Bath & Tennis Club, a 4-Star/4-Diamond property also in Naples. O’Brien got her start in 1992 as Fitness Director of the Jewish Community Center in Cherry Hill, New Jersey, whose active membership numbered 2,000.

A native of New Jersey, O’Brien earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Corporate Fitness/Exercise Physiology from the College of New Jersey.  She currently resides in Highlands, NC.

The Old Edwards Inn and Spa is located at 445 Main Street, Highlands, NC 28741, 828-526-8008 or 1-866-526-8008. The Old Edwards Hospitality Group, LLC, founded in 2003, includes the Old Edwards Inn and Spa, Madison’s Restaurant and Wine Garden, The Farm special events facility, Acorns retail shop; The Lodge at Old Edwards Inn, Rib Shack, The Laundry and Dry Cleaners at Old Edwards Inn and Miss Priss-Charlotte at Stonecrest.

The Old Edwards Inn and Spa is a AAA-Four Diamond award winner; a member of the National Trust Historic Hotels of America and a member of Boutique-the newest brand within Preferred Hotel Group. The property is a Recommended Hotel in Condé Nast Johansens Recommended Hotels, Inns and Resorts Guide for2005, 2006 and 2007 and was nominated for Most Excellent Inn 2006 and 2007. Madison’s Restaurant and Wine Garden received Wine Spectator magazine’s Award of Excellence in 2005 and 2006.
      
For more information, contact:                  
Anna Stancioff
Hawkins International PR
(212) 25-6541