Marshalltown, IA., Jan.12, 1998 - Patricia Schade, owner of the Best Western Regency Inn of Marshalltown, has been named 1997 Iowa Hotelier of the Year. The prestigious award, deemed "a truly valued honor and a highlight of my career," by Schade, was bestowed by the Iowa Innkeepers Association in recognition of her many professional and personal accomplishments.

An 18-year veteran of the lodging industry, Schade has played an instrumental role in the state's travel and tourism development. Among her contributions are leadership of the Iowa Lodging Association as the organization's 1990/91 president, a founding role as charter member of the Marshalltown Convention and Visitors Bureau Board and a Best Western representative for the Educational Institute in East Lansing, Michigan. Schade has served as a Best Western governor since 1987. In this valuable role for the hotel giant, Schade is liaison to 12 brand hotels influencing policy decisions and coordinating educational opportunities for her peers. She also served on the company's Education and Training Advisory Committee.

While Schade has frequently been the "first" woman to assume the presidency of business groups, she characterizes herself as "simply a dedicated and conscientious hotelier." A "hands-on" operator, Schade is well regarded by her employees and is known for her abilities to resolve problems in a manner that heightens guest service. Schade is married to Leon Schade and has three grown daughters.

Best Western International, Inc., is a membership-driven organization that has supported hotel iers with a variety of services to ensure competitive pricing, quality accommodations and consistent dedication to guest satisfaction for 51 years. Best Western International is the world's largest lodging brand with more than 3,700 hotels in 76 countries and territories throughout North America, South America, Europe, Asia, Africa, the Middle East and the South Pacific.