Sedona AZ (February 23, 2015) – The Arizona Lodging & Tourism Association (AzLTA) recognized leaders in the industry during its annual Phoenix dinner. Each year the tourism industry comes together to celebrate the many positive impacts it has on the state and to recognize individuals and organizations that contribute to furthering the successes of Arizona Tourism.

Lonnie Lillie receives AzLTA top honor

This year’s Hotelier of the Year Award was given to Sedona Arizona hotelier, Lonnie Lillie, General Manager at the Best Western plus the Arroyo Roble Hotel and Creekside Villas. Mr. Lillie is a 30 year veteran in Northern Arizona’s lodging and tourism industry.

Lillie started in the industry as a bus boy and quickly climbed into a management role thanks to his positive attitude and strong work ethic. He was offered the general manager’s position at the Best Western plus Arroyo Roble Hotel when his father-in-law retired from that position in 2001, and he remains an active and vocal member of Sedona’s tourism community.

Lillie also serves on the AzLTA Board of Directors.

“I’m humbled and honored to receive this award from my industry peers. The job I have isn’t done alone. I have a team that makes our location one of the best in Sedona, and not just for the views. We treat all of our guests like family, want them to remember their vacation for years to come and tell everyone about the experience they had. This award is something I will never forget, will display with pride, and am happy to share with my Best Western family in Sedona, Arizona,” said Lillie when accepting the award.

The AzLTA also recognized the Arizona Super Bowl Host Committee as Tourism Honoree of the Year; Andee Oleno, Director of Marketing, PSAV, as the Allied Member of the Year; and, the Tourism Legacy award was given to Steve Moore, President and CEO, Visit Phoenix.

Winners were selected by an AxLTA committee of industry experts and based on a set criteria for each category. Representing more than 38,000 rooms statewide and more than 500 members, including hotels, resorts, attractions, destination marketing organizations, B&B’s and related industry partners, AzLTA’s mission is to unify, protect, educate and promote the interests of the Arizona Lodging and Tourism industries.

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