Ridgewood Hotels, Inc., announced the hiring of Ruth Hunt as Director of Sales for the Foundry Park Inn & Spa, located in downtown Athens, Georgia

In addition, Ms. Hunt will serve on the property's Executive Management Committee. Ridgewood has been hired by McChesney Capital partners, LLC to manage the 119 room upscale hotel and meeting facility. The property is scheduled to open in September 2001.

Prior to her appointment, Ms. Hunt served as Director of Sales & Marketing for the Holiday Inn and Holiday Inn Express in Athens. During her 20-year career in the hospitality industry, Ms. Hunt has held numerous management positions that have focused on sales and marketing. Her experience includes similar responsibilities at properties under the Sheraton and Radisson flags located in the Southeast.

``Ruth Hunt is a multi-talented professional who brings a depth of local knowledge to the management team at the Foundry Park Inn,'' said Wayne McAteer, Vice President of Operations for Ridgewood Hotels.

At the Foundry Park Inn, Ms. Hunt will develop marketing programs targeting convention planners, corporate clients, sports and community groups, leisure travelers, wedding parties and other special events. She will take a special interest in addressing the needs of the Classic Center, the Athens Convention and Visitors Bureau and the University community.