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Wednesday, 02 July 2008 |
By MIKE BURKHOLDER
Managing Editor
ST. MARYS — Two brothers recently acquired a pair of local hotels, including one in St. Marys.
Ali Khokhar began his first day as owner of the Americas Best Value Inn in St. Marys Tuesday.
Khokhar and his brother Muhammad, who purchased the Celina location, bought the facilities from Ron and Kathy Gorby. The Gorbys were unavailable for comment as of press time.
“Today is the first day we are taking charge, Ron and Kathy are on vacation,” Khokhar told The Evening Leader. “This area is just fantastic. We like it here and the lake is awesome.”
The brothers Khokhar are no stranger to the hospitality industry in Auglaize and Mercer counties. Along with their father Noor, the trio also own the Holiday Inn Express in Celina.
“We really like the area and wanted to make it our home,” Khokhar said. “It is very quiet and peaceful here.”
A native of Pakistan, Khokhar moved to South Dakota and then to Chicago before settling near Grand Lake St. Marys. When the opportunity surfaced to purchase the hotel, Khokhar said he jumped at the chance.
“I am a small town kind of guy,” Khokhar said. “I lived in Chicago but I just didn’t like it. I love it here.”
Khokhar said all employees would remain on staff at the hotel. The owner also revealed minor plans to upgrade technology at the facility.
“We will be bringing in some computers,” Khokhar said. “We also plan to be as involved in the community as Ron and Kathy were. I just want to make sure we are available to the community.”
Khokhar lives in Celina but said he plans to purchase a home in St. Marys.
“I am just excited to get started,” Khokhar said.
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Last Updated ( Monday, 07 July 2008 )
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