The Alabama Mountain Lakes Association (AMLA) recently honored Wild South’s Janice Barrett with its 2009 Northern Star Award. The award is among 11 that comprise the PEAK Awards that were presented on September 24 during the AMLA annual meeting in Hartselle, Alabama.

The PEAK Awards, the highest achievement in North Alabama tourism, honor individuals and organizations that have had a major impact on tourism in North Alabama. History tells us that tourism really began with navigation by the stars. The Northern Star Award is presented to an individual, such as a ranger or guide who is a front-line employee, who has gone “above and beyond” expectations.

Janice was nominated for the Northern Star Award by Lawrence County Chamber of Commerce president, Kim Hood. In her role as Outreach Coordinator for Wild South, Janice’s promotion of hikes, educational and volunteer opportunities for adults and children in the Bankhead National Forest and Sipsey Wilderness bring many people from all over Alabama and from surrounding states into North Alabama.