The Alabama Mountain Lakes Tourist Association has honored LawLers Barbecue employee Clara Kirby with the 2017 Northern Star Award.

The award is among 11 that comprise the PEAK Awards, presented Thursday during the AMLA Annual Meeting at the Huntsville Botanical Garden.

“Kirby is the smiling and friendly face on the frontline at LawLers Barbecue in Athens. Her hospitality peers refer to her as the epitome of southern hospitality, greeting each patron with an enthusiastic attitude,” said a press release from AMLA. “She is known for thoroughly explaining the menu to newcomers, remembering the orders of regular customers and serving as a tourism voice by promoting area attractions, answering tourism-related questions and providing directions.”

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

“The PEAK Awards are designed to recognize the best in the North Alabama tourism industry and each of our winners are inspirational examples of those who are focused on making a memorable place for our visitors,” said Tami Reist, president and CEO of the Alabama Mountain Lakes Tourist Association.

The 2017 awards and winners are:

• Organization of the Year: Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce;

• Event of the Year: Mule Day, Winfield;

• Attraction of the Year: Huntsville Botanical Garden;

• Good Neighbor Award: Marty Abroms and Bill Lyons, Shoals Gold Record Room, Florence;

• Northern Star Award: Clara Kirby, LawLers Barbecue, Athens;

• Young Professional of the Year Award: Marley Schmid, Decatur-Morgan County CVB;

• Tourism Professional of the Year: Cassie Medley, Franklin County Chamber of Commerce;

• Lasting Impression Award: Judy Hood, Florence;

• Chairman’s Cup: Juergen Beck, Freedom Light Productions;

• President’s Award: Sally Smart, Barbara Kelly and Nell Standridge, founders of the Friends of Delano Park; and

• Extra Mile Award: Officer Wesley Swoopes, Decatur Police Department.