Best Western International has announced that Raymond Johnston, owner of the
Best Western Las Brisas in Palm Springs, has been named Chairman of the Best
Western board of directors.“As a Best Western hotelier and a member of our board, Ray has
demonstrated time and again his dedication to this organization,” said Larry
McRae, board member and outgoing Chairman of Best Western International.
“With Ray at the helm, I know this board is in good hands.  Best Western is
celebrating 60 years in business next year and I’m confident that he will lead
us successfully into the next 60.”
  Johnston was elected to the Best Western board of directors in 2003 to
represent Best Western hoteliers in California, Nevada and Hawaii, and was
named Vice Chairman of the board in January 2005.
  “It is a tremendous honor to serve as Chairman of this organization,” said
Johnston.  “Together with the other board directors, I am determined to keep
the Best Western brand moving forward.”
  Prior to joining the Best Western family in 1993, Johnston enjoyed a
distinguished international hotel career with several major hotel chains.  For
Westin Hotels, he was part of the opening team for the landmark Century Plaza
Hotel in Los Angeles and later the Camino Reals of Mexico.  At Princess
International Hotels, he helped oversee the opening of the Acapulco Princess
Hotel and Golf Resort.  Additionally, Johnston has opened properties for
Americana Hotels International in Aruba and Holiday Inns of Mexico.
  In addition to his hospitality industry experience, Johnston has held key
executive positions at Fortune 500 companies including President of Campbell
Soup Company’s restaurant division and President of Yellowstone Park Company.
  Johnston is a graduate of Michigan State University with a B.A. degree in
hotel, restaurant and institutional management and holds a B.S. degree in
business administration from Oregon State University.
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