Double JJ suspends operations to ready for impending sale

Sept. 3, 2008, Rothbury, MI – The Double JJ Resort and Ranch suspended its daily operations today in anticipation of a sale of the resort this fall.

Double JJ recently secured a limited financing commitment that will allow the resort to prepare for an expected sale in October. The level of available financing, together with the traditional off-peak seasonal downturn in the resort’s business, however, made continued full-scale operations impossible.

The resort has been on the market since some time prior to filing for Chapter 11 reorganization earlier this summer. A court-appointed trustee has entertained numerous discussions with prospective investors, including some who toured the property in July and August. The primary goal of the sale is to pay the resort’s creditors.

Double JJ arranged for Michigan Works! to assist the 150 non-seasonal employees find new employment. The resort will host a wedding scheduled in September and is working with all other scheduled groups to relocate their events. After the wedding, log home and condo owners will continue to have access to personal residences, but the resort will no longer accept rental reservations. A small staff will remain to care for and feed the horses and maintain the property.

General Manager Tony Laughlin stated, "It was with a heavy heart that we had to suspend operations at the resort today. While we had little choice, given the limited financing available, that does not make the decision any easier. Resort employees and the community are really like family so it was tough for everyone. We all hope that the sale happens quickly and the resort will soon open once again."

The Double JJ Ranch and Resort is a 1,500+ acre property with an indoor water park, 18-hole golf course, horseback riding, and hotel and conference center all among a Wild West theme. The ranch opened in 1937 and has hosted individual travelers, weddings, conventions, family vacations and the highly successful 2008 Rothbury Music Festival.

Questions may be addressed to the resort at info@doublejj.com, and will be answered as soon as is feasible.