AP Business

Gov. Nathan Deal announced Thursday that the state’s tourism industry generated $58.9 billion in business sales in 2015, according to the U.S. Travel Association and Tourism Economics, a new record for the total economic impact of tourism in Georgia.

Rushton has named Nicholas Bruner, CPA, as a partner at the Gainesville-based accounting and business consulting firm.

More than 200 volunteers were recently recognized for their service during Northeast Georgia Health System’s (NGHS) annual Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon held at First Baptist Church of Gainesville.

The University of North Georgia raised more than $2.6 million this year for student scholarships, nearly doubling the previous mark at $1.35 million.

The BISSELL Pet Foundation, supported in part by BISSELL Homecare, Inc., has awarded $5,000 to The Dahlonega Lumpkin County Humane Society to support its life-saving efforts.

The spring graduation season kicks off next weekend in Gainesville and Dahlonega as both Brenau University and the University of North Georgia hold commencement exercises.

Sawnee EMC has a new incentive program specifically designed for its members who have an internet-connected HVAC thermostat, commonly referred to as a “smart” thermostat.

Lanier Technical College will celebrate its 50th anniversary June 9.

A metro Atlanta developer has announced plans to build a mixed-use community in the Braselton area that would encompass more than 500 acres on the Hall-Jackson County line.

The annual Spring Chicken Festival was held in downtown Gainesville Saturday.