The newly named Lake Lanier Convention & Visitors Bureau, formerly the Gainesville-Hall County Convention and Visitors Bureau, held its annual meeting this week at Royal Lakes Golf & Country Club.

"As we look back over the year, the bureau has laid claim to this area and is even more committed than ever to bring in tourism dollars and promote everything great about Northeast Georgia," said Kay Parks, outgoing chairwoman.

At the meeting, the bureau recognized several organizations and individuals for their contributions to tourism and economic development through the annual "Shining Star Awards."

Jaemor Farms Market was given "The Sky's the Limit" award for continued development of its agritourism products, including the corn maze and event barn for holding group outings.

Scott's on the Square and owner Scott Dixon were given the "Shining Star" for leadership and vision.
The city of Oakwood was given the Horizon Award for a new town center that will be a focal point for Hall County.

Lake Lanier Islands Management was given the "Out of the Box" award for green development on the islands.

Carol Moore and the staff of Georgia Mountains Center were presented with the "Beyond the Call" for assisting the CVB with the seamless transition of monthly board meetings to the center.

New executives and board members were also installed at the meeting, including 2008 co-chairs Betsy Adams with AdMark Strategies and Rick Burnette with Holiday Inn Lanier Centre Hotel. Parks, who is with Jackson EMC, will be past chairwoman.