The Original 42-Year Old John Gardiner's Tennis Ranch in Carmel Valley Sold

Houston based partnership purchases the original John Gardiner's Tennis Ranch, Carmel Valley, Calif.
The Ascona Group assists with due diligence and subsequent acquisition.

Scottsdale, Ariz. - August 15, 2000 - The Ascona Group, an International full service consulting firm, has completed the due
diligence and assistance with the acquisition of the original
John Gardiner's Tennis Ranch in Carmel Valley, California.
The Ascona Group's clients, Pristine Development, L.L.C. has
acquired this 42-year old charming hide-away resort from the
John C. Gardiner Trust. The Ranch, which encompasses 24
lush acres right adjacent to the Carmel Valley river, currently
has 14 accommodations, a clubhouse and 16 tennis courts.

"Our clients are very excited about this acquisition, particularly
since there are very limited opportunities to develop resort
property in Monterey County," said Eric Bettelheim, principal.
"During the past 42 years, John Gardiner's Tennis Ranch had
been privately owned and operated. In 1999 John C. Gardiner
decided it was time to sell the last (and original) Tennis Ranch,
after many years of successfully running tennis programs across
the nation, and providing quality tennis instruction and offering
comfortable accommodations to tennis enthusiasts."

Pristine Development L.L.C. acquires destination resorts in
unique locations, which require further development to reach
their full potential.

The Ascona Group provides a full array of consulting services to
the hospitality industry. Ascona has proudly served such companies
as ANA Hotels International, Colony/Radisson Hotels, and many
independent hotel and resort owners. To review The Ascona
Group's credentials and services, visit their website at:
http://www.asconagroup.com .

`   Contact:
   Eric Bettelheim
   The Ascona Group
   bettelheim@juno.com
   Phone: (480) 451-6222
   Fax: (480) 451-6999

   http://www.asconagroup.com