(KNZA)--The Hiawatha Chamber and Visitors Bureau held their annual meeting and dinner Thursday evening at the Klinefelter Barn.  

A highlight of the evening was the presentation of the organization's annual awards, which are voted on by Chamber members.  

Honored as “ Business of the Year” was GN Bank.  

The Brown County Historical Society was recognized as the “ Organization of the Year.”   

The “Volunteer of the Year” award went to Ryan Meininger.

Chamber President Katie Miller reviewed last year's Chamber activities and what's planned this year.

Linda Duesing, Brown County co-chair of the Big Kansas Road Trip Committee, was guest speaker.

The event, which will showcase Brown, Doniphan and Nemaha Counties, is planned for May 7-10 this year.  Organizers say the event could bring a half million dollars of revenue to the area.   

The purpose of the event, which was started by the Inman-based Kansas Sampler Foundation, is to educate Kansans about Kansas and get people hooked on exploring in a way that helps sustain communities.

Members of the current Hiawatha Chamber and Visitors Bureau Board of Directors include:

President - Katie Miller

VP - Joey May

Secretary - Ashley Olson

Treasurer - Debbie Phillips

Administrator - Sarah Kleopfer

Board members-- Lynn Allen, Lacey Conlin, Bonnie Marable and Andy Runer