"We are dedicated to promoting growth from within at HEI, and from day one we highlighted Pradeep as a candidate for our fast track development program," said Michael Miner, HEI's regional senior vice president of operations. "This was a well-deserved promotion and we are confident that Pradeep will bring fresh energy and vision to the Sheraton."

Known for its comfortable environment and outstanding service, the Sheraton Crystal City is a central location for Washington, D.C. and Northern Virginia travelers. Bobba will be responsible for maintaining a culture of friendly service and a warm atmosphere, in line with Sheraton's distinct brand positioning.

"I came to HEI to get the final tools I needed to become a general manager," Bobba said. "The hotel has a great culture of service and with the recent completion of $3.5 million dollars in guest room renovations, the Sheraton Crystal City is positioned as premier destination in Arlington"

Before joining HEI as the director of operations of the Embassy Suites Orlando Downtown, Bobba was executive director of hotel operations at the 3933-room Bellagio in Las Vegas, responsible for more than 1,400 associates. Prior to joining the Bellagio, Bobba served in various operations roles for Starwood Hotels & Resorts for over nine years, including director of rooms at The Phoenician in Scottsdale, Arizona and The Westin Chicago River North.

About Sheraton Crystal City Hotel

The Sheraton Crystal City Hotel is set in the heart of Arlington, Virginia, a short metro ride from Washington, D.C. and the entire metropolitan area. With 210 guestrooms and more than 16,000 square feet of flexible meeting space the hotel is the ideal venue to experience the National's Capital for business or pleasure. The hotel currently is undergoing a total renovation to enhance the guest experience, and is expected to be complete June 2008. Learn more about the hotel at www.Sheraton.com/CrystalCity.

About HEI Hotels & Resorts

HEI Hotels & Resorts, headquartered in Norwalk, Conn., is a leading hospitality investment firm that acquires, develops, owns and operates full-service, upper upscale and luxury hotels and resorts throughout the United States under such well-known brand names as Marriott, Sheraton, Westin, Le Meridien, Embassy Suites, and Hilton. For more information about HEI, visit the company's website, www.heihotels.com .

Chris Daly/ Vice President/ Daly Gray Public Relations/ ph: 703-435-6293