Howard Johnson took over the Colonial Motel here Tuesday.

Only this Howard Johnson, a former Minnesotan, intends to manage the business in person.

The 24-unit motel at 1315 N. Broadway was purchased by Mr. and Mrs. Howard Johnson, former Ortonville residents who recently returned to Minnesota from California.

The Johnsons had owned nursing homes in California at Escondido and San Marcos and now decided to go into the motel business. Johnson and his wife, Maxine, will be assisted by their son, Scott, 18, who will be a senior next year at New Ulm High School.

Johnson said Thursday he intends “to continue the good operation of the Colonial.” The family will live in the owners’ unit of the motel which also has meeting room space in the lower level for small meetings and conferences.

Former motel owner, Lavern Ebel, will move with his family to Glencoe where he operates the Pla-Mor Ballroom. He had purchased the ballroom last July.

Dances at present are held every Friday and Saturday at the ballroom but he intends to add Wednesday night dances also this summer.

New Ulm Daily Journal, May 3, 1973