Amicalola Falls State Park & Lodge offers: 56 Room Hotel • 14 Cabins 24 RV/Tent Sites with Water & Electricity 5 Covered Picnic Shelters Fine Dining at The Maple Restaurant 45’ Vertical Climbing Wall 2 Unique Gift Shops • Miles of Hiking Trails Weddings, receptions & rehearsal dinners (Both indoors or outdoors)
Voted Best Banquet Facilities · Best Photo Opportunity Best Hotel · Best Tourist Attraction · Best Place to Take a Date
Experience the best zip line in Northeast Georgia! 15 Miles from Dawsonville or 19 Miles West of Dahlonega on Hwy. 52 in Dawsonville, GA. For Lodge and Restaurant Information Call 706-265-8888
FROM THE GENERAL MANAGER
It seems like a long time since December, when we asked our readers to nominate the best businesses, nonprofits and individuals that Dawson County has to offer, but the wait was definitely worth it, because the team at the Dawson County News is proud to present the 2019 Best of Dawson Readers’ Choice Award winners. For the fourth year in a row we are pleased to announce the Best of Dawson winners with an exclusive and comprehensive list of the best of the best in our community. As you page through this magazine you will see listings, photos and advertisements featuring those who were voted the most exemplary in their field by the people who know them best. Voter participation was off the charts this year, and we know it’s because the annual competition means a lot to the business owners, clubs and groups that work tirelessly every day to provide excellent service in their vocation. We want to congratulate each and every winner as well as all of those who were nominated for this honor. This year, for the first time, we added another way to recognize winners with our first-annual Winners’ Open House reception. Our presenting sponsor for the
CONTENT
From the General Manager........................................4 Winners’ Award Presentation Photos...........................6 Complete 2019 Best of Dawson WINNERS List............8 Northeast Georgia Health System............................ 29 Most Votes in a Single Category: KG Cleaning Service.............................................. 40 Most Votes in Professionals Category: Sole Photography, Paige Sweany............................. 46
event was Northeast Georgia Health System, and we were thrilled with the turnout of the event, where all of the winners were invited to come socialize and meet other winners as well as be recognized again for their success. While some of those chosen as Best of Dawson have been winners in the past, many are being recognized as winners for the first time. If you don’t see your favorite local business or individual in this year’s list, be sure to nominate them next time and vote to help them win. If you are a business in Dawson County, it’s time to start thinking about the 2020 Best of Dawson nominations and voting. As a business owner, increasing your chances of claiming an award next year can be as simple as utilizing the tools available at the Dawson County News to promote your business in print, online and in social media. Our team is standing by to help you achieve that goal. In the meantime, we hope you will show your appreciation for the superior job done by each of these winners by doing business with them in the year to come, and join us again in congratulating them for their excellence. Brenda Bohn, General Manager
FIT BODY BOOT CAMP Voted Best Fitness Center/Gym
A special congrats to our own ABBEY REDMON Voted Best Personal Trainer
TRY US FOR 3 WEEKS FOR Best of Dawson is a publication of Dawson County News, 30 Shoal Creek Rd., Dawsonville GA. A Metro Market Media property. 706-265-3384 Stephanie Woody Publisher swoody@dawsonnews.com
Allie Dean Editor adean@dawsonnews.com
Brenda Bohn General Manager bbohn@dawsonnews.com
Jessica Taylor Staff Writer jtaylor@dawsonnews.com
Alex Mathison Multimedia Account Executive amathison@dawsonnews.com
Kerri Ivie Creative Services Manager kivie@gainesvilletimes.com
No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording or by an information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from Metro Market Media.
4
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Please visit our website at www.fitbodydawsonville.com to see our full schedule & to register for your free trial!
706.216.8672
Located in Publix Center, Cross Roads, Dawsonville
www.fitbodydawsonville.com dawsonvillefbbc@gmail.com dawsonnews.com
¡Gracias!
THANK YOU!
BEST MEXICAN RESTAURANT & MARGARITAS Señor Fiesta is a locally owned and operated Mexican restaurant that has one goal in mind, and that is customer satisfaction! We serve the best quality food with a wide selection of food and beverages to satisfy every person’s taste. We have a clean and the most modern restaurant possible as we want to meet our customers’ standards and will work hard every day, day in and day out, to uphold our commitment to you. We will always work hard to keep our customers satisfied and our management team will work hard to fix anything that is not up to your standards. We want to say thank you for voting us THE BEST MEXICAN RESTAURANT IN TOWN.
GAINESVILLE
770-534-1122
1943 Jesse Jewell Pkwy. SE Ste. 900, Gainesville, GA 30501
DAWSONVILLE
706-216-5000 12 Dawson Market Way Ste. 300, Dawsonville, GA 30534
Come see us in Gainesville or Dawsonville www.SenorFiesta.com
Senor Fiesta Voted Best... Margarita and Best Mexican Food
Dawsonville Florist Voted Best... Floral Arrangements
Britney Jensen A Touch of Hope Voted Best... Voted Best...Health & Beauty Retail Store, Best Spa Services, Esthetician Best Massage Therapy, Best Massage Therapist - Hope Chism
Harris Family Dentistry Voted Best... Children’s Dentist 6
Lanier Dental Partners Voted Best... Cosmetic Dentistry and Best General Dentistry
My Vape Shack Dawson Voted Best... Vape Shop dawsonnews.com
Thank you for voting us
BEST SELF STORAGE of DAWSON COUNTY!
We love our community and appreciate our customers. It is an honor to serve Dawson County. “WE PRIDE OURSELVES ON EXCELLENT SERVICE” 10 LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU: Dawsonville | Dahlonega Gainesville | Murrayville Alto | Baldwin | Cleveland AUTHORIZED DEALER
706-216-4470
www.byrdsministorage.com
WINNERS
AUTO & TRANSPORTATION
Best Bail Bond Company
Best Cleaning Company
Dawsonville Bonding
KG Cleaning Service
Best Auto Body Shop
Best Bank
Disharoon Automotive
United Community Bank
Best Commercial Real Estate Company
Best Auto Parts Store
Best Banquet Facilities
AutoZone Auto Parts
Amicalola Falls Lodge
Best Auto Repair Shop
Best Beauty & Hair Salon
Tower Auto Repair
Refuge Hair Salon
Best Oil Change
Best Beer/Spirits Selection
Silver City Tire & Automotive Best Small Engine Repair/Sales
Kroger Marketplace
Best Tire Store
Best Boat Services
Best Computer Repair/Services AML Computer Services Best Crafts Store Hobby Lobby Best Customer Service KG Cleaning Service Best Dance Studio
Silver City Tire & Automotive
AristoCraft Boats
Cumming Dance Academy, Dawsonville
Best Towing Service
Best Boutique
Best Dry Cleaners
K&K Towing of Dawsonville
The Purple Corn Boutique
Top Cleaners
Best Used Car Dealership
Best Car Wash
Best Electrical Contractor
BUSINESS Best Accessories Store The Purple Corn Boutique Best Accounting/ Tax Prep
2019
Best Wine Selection
Silver City Tire & Automotive
John Megel Chevrolet
Christine Hinton CPA Best Antique Store Soul Sisters Antiques Best Assisted Living Community North Georgia Assisted Living and Memory Care
8
City Liquor
The Welch Team - Keller Williams Community Partners
North Georgia Premium Car Wash
Carl Pruitt Electric Best Feed & Seed Store
Best Carpet Cleaning KG Cleaning Service
Brooksher Feed & Farm Supply
Best Catering
Best Financial Planner
Chick-fil-A
Yochum Financial Group
Best Cellular Dealer
Best Fitness Center/Gym
AT&T
Dawsonville Fit Body Boot Camp
Best Child Care Center White Oak Learning Academy
Best Floral Arrangements Dawsonville Florist
Best Children’s Clothing Store
Best Furniture Store
Dot Dot Smile - Sandi Ethridge
Soul Sisters Antiques dawsonnews.com
We are so very fortunate to have such wonderful patients! Thank you, Dawson County for voting us
Best Pediatric Practice 300 Dawson Commons Cir. Suite 320 Dawsonville GA 30534 Monday – Friday 8:00 am to 5:30 pm Saturday 8:00 am to 12:00 pm 1200 Bald Ridge Marina Rd Suite 100 Cumming, GA 30041 Monday – Friday 8:00 am to 5:00 pm
Sick Visits Well Checks Lactation Counseling Sports and Camp Physicals Nutrition Counseling Asthma Management
Vaccines Frenotomy Pre-operative Visits Ear Piercing ADHD Management Laboratory Services
www.dawsonpediatrics.com
Best Grading & Hauling Bolton Grading
WINNERS
Best Grocery Store Kroger Marketplace Best Gun Store Dawsonville Gun & Pawn Best Gutter Service Sheffield Gutters Best Hardware Store C&W Hardware True Value Best Health & Beauty Retail Store A Touch of Hope Best Heating/Air Service Elite Heating & Air Best Hobby Store Hobby Lobby Best Home Décor/ Furniture Hobby Lobby Best Home Repair/ Handyman Freedom Painting & Handyman Best Hotel/Motel
2019
Amicalola Falls Lodge
10
Best Insurance Company
Best Landscape and Design Company
Best Printing & Graphics Company
Atlanta Landscape and Fertilization
McEver Signs and Graphics
Best Men’s Clothing Store Burlington Best Nail Salon Moon Nails & Tan Best Nursery/Greenery Leilani’s Gardens Best Outdoor Specialty Store
Best Propane Company Amicalola Propane Best Residential Real Estate Group The Welch Team - Keller Williams Community Partners Best Roofer Pritchett Enterprises Best Self-Storage Facility
Outside World Outfitters
Byrd’s Mini Storage
Best Paint Store
Best Septic Services
Sherwin-Williams Paint Store Best Painting Company Freedom Painting & Handyman Best Pawn Shop Dawsonville Gun & Pawn Best Pest Control Company Duncan Exterminating Best Pet Boarding Country Home Kennels Best Pet Care Whitmire Animal Hospital
Townley Construction Company Best Spa Services A Touch of Hope Best Specialty Retailer Fancy Flea Best Sporting Goods Retailer Outside World Outfitters Best Tanning Services Sun Tan Best Tattoo Shop Gold City Tattoo Company Best Thrift Store
VanKeith Insurance Agency of Dawsonville
Best Place for a Wedding The Barn at Valley Brook Farm
Dawson County Humane Society Resale Shop
Best Jewelry Store
Best Place to Buy Gas
Tripp and Company Jewelers
Kroger Marketplace
Best Travel Agency
Misty Wilkie - Travel Specialist
Best Junk Removal
Best Place to Work
Best Vape Shop
400 Waste and Scrap
Chick-fil-A
My Vape Shack Dawson dawsonnews.com
Kani House Voted Best... Asian Food, Best Fine Dining, Best Sushi
Christine Hinton Voted Best... Accounting/Tax Prep
Tower Auto Repair Voted Best... Auto Repair Shop
Pamela Pilcher Voted Best... Bank Teller
Joey Homans Voted Best... Civil Attorney
United Community Bank Voted Best... Bank dawsonnews.com
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Best Vitamin Store
Best Pastor
Best Teacher
Nature’s Health Store
Tony Holtzclaw, Harmony Baptist Church
Lisa Bessiere, Robinson Elementary School
Best Photo Opportunity
FOOD & BEVERAGE
Amicalola Falls State Park
Best American Food
WINNERS
Best Window Tinting TopLine Tint
Best Place to Take a Date
The Purple Corn Boutique
Amicalola Falls State Park
COMMUNITY Best Art Gallery Outside the Lines! Art Studio Best Charity Event
Best Tourist Attraction
Mountain Moonshine Festival
Amicalola Falls State Park
K.A.R.E. for Kids Best Church
Best Civic Club Rotary Club of Dawson County Best Community Event Mountain Moonshine Festival K.A.R.E. for Kids Best Elected Official
2019
Best Place to Volunteer Good Shepherd Clinic of Dawson County
Harmony Baptist Church
Best Volunteer Gordon Pirkle EDUCATION Best Administrator Damon Gibbs, Superintendent Best Assistant Principal Linda Bearden, Robinson Elementary School Best Paraprofessional
Jeff Johnson
Melanie Wilder, Riverview Elementary School
Best Firefighter
Best Principal
Jeff Banks
Teresa Conowal, Kilough Elementary School
Best Law Enforcement Officer
Best Private School
Randy Harkness
Lighthouse Christian Academy
Best Nonprofit Organization
Best Public School
Good Shepherd Clinic of Dawson County Best Paramedic/EMT Jeff Banks
12
Chick-fil-A
Best Women’s Clothing Store
Black’s Mill Elementary School Best Secretary/ Bookkeeper Jackie Lynn, Black’s Mill Elementary School
Best Appetizer LongHorn Steakhouse Best Asian Food Kani House Best Bagels Panera Bread Best Bar Friends Sports Grill Best Barbeque Big D’s BBQ Best Breakfast Papa’s Place Best Business Lunch LongHorn Steakhouse Best Coffee Dunkin’ Donuts Best Delivery Restaurant Domino’s Pizza Best Dessert Jacki’s Kitchen Best Dinner LongHorn Steakhouse Best Drive Through Chick-fil-A Best Family Restaurant Chick-fil-A dawsonnews.com
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DINNER 5pm - 10pm 5pm - 11pm 2pm - 11pm 2pm - 10pm
YOCHUM FINANCIAL GROUP Scott Yochum | 404.307.4574 | Pepper Pettit
Thank You
for voting us Best Elected Official & Best Law Enforcement Officer!
Best Elected Official
Jeff Johnson
We are proud to serve the Dawson County community and honored to receive this recognition. We appreciate your support and look forward to continuing to serve you! dawsonnews.com
Best Law Enforcement Officer
Randy Harkness
13
Best Fast Food Chick-fil-A
WINNERS
Best Fine Dining Kani House
McDonald’s Best Fun Atmosphere Friends Sports Grill Best Hamburger Dawsonville Pool Room Best Happy Hour Friends Sports Grill Best Health Food Panera Bread
The Varsity Jr. Dawsonville Best Ice Cream Dairy Queen Best Italian Food Brooklyn Joe’s Best Lunch Chick-fil-A Best Margarita Senor Fiesta
Best Salad
Best General Dentistry Lanier Dental Partners Best Hospital Presence
Zaxby’s
Northeast Georgia Health System
Best Sandwiches
Best Massage Therapy
Firehouse Subs
A Touch of Hope
Best Seafood
Best Optometry Practice
Captain D’s
Dawson Eye Group
Best Soup
Best Orthodontics
Panera Bread
Family Orthodontics
Best Sports Bar
Best Pediatrics Practice
Friends Sports Grill
Dawson Pediatrics
Best Steak
Best Pharmacy
LongHorn Steakhouse
Kroger Pharmacy
Best Sushi
Best Urgent Care
Kani House
The Little Clinic
Best Sweet Tea
Best Physical Therapy
Chick-fil-A
Benchmark Physical Therapy
Best Takeout
PROFESSIONALS
Chick-fil-A
Best Accountant/CPA Brad Maple
Best Wings Old Dad’s Wings
Best Artist (nonmusical) John Lundy
MEDICAL Best Children’s Dentist
Best Auto Mechanic
Harris Family Dentistry
David Gee
Best Chiropractor
Best Bank Teller
Senor Fiesta
Annis Family Chiropractic
Pamela Pilcher
Best Pizza
Best Cosmetic Dentistry
Best Barber
MOD Pizza
Lanier Dental Partners
Llissa Jones
Best Place to Buy Meat
Best Family Practice
Best Boss
Ingles
Anderson Family Medicine
Trampas Hansard
Best Martini
2019
Chick-fil-A
Best French Fries
Best Hot Dog
14
Best Place to Eat With Children
LongHorn Steakhouse Best Mexican Food
dawsonnews.com
Friends Sports Grill Voted Best... Bar, Best Fun Atmosphere, Best Happy Hour, Best Sports Bar
Mountain Moonshine Festival/K.A.R.E For Kids Voted Best...Charity Event and Best Community Event
Refuge Hair Salon Voted Best... Beauty and Hair Salon dawsonnews.com
AML Computer Services Voted Best... Computer Repair
Big D’s BBQ Voted Best... BBQ
Jason Glaze Voted Best... Counselor
Papa’s Place Voted Best... Breakfast 15
WINNERS
Best Civil Attorney
Best Jeweler
Best Pet Groomer
Joey Homans
Tripp Brackett
Michelle Ingram
Best Contractor
Best Mail Carrier
Best Photographer
Russell Bottoms
Cory Gee
Paige Sweany, Sole Photography
Best Counselor
Best Massage Therapist
Jason Glaze
Hope Chism
Best Estate Planning/Attorney
Musical Artist or Group
Shelly Martin
Dawson County High School Chamber Singers
Best Esthetician
Best Nail Technician
Britney Jensen
Natalie at Moon Nails & Tan
Best Family Physician
Best Nurse
Dr. Larry Anderson
Sandy Sawyer
Best Hair Stylist
Best Pediatrician
Cherish Gilleland
Renee Waters
Best Insurance Agent
Best Personal Trainer
Phillip Turk
Abbey Redmon
Best Plumber Eric Manning Best Real Estate Agent Tara Bohanan, The Welch Team - Keller Williams Community Partners Best Server Shannon Spry, LongHorn Steakhouse Best Tattoo Artist Robby Ingram Best Veterinarian Dr. Ray Habermann, Foothills Veterinary Clinic
ATTENTION WINNERS! Boss Voted Best
2019
TRAMPAS
16
HANSARD
Best of Dawson award winners can promote their distinction with the purchase of a 9�x12� plaque for only $99! Available through April 30, 2019!
Voted Best V eterina
rian FOOTH ILLS VETER INARY CLINIC
Please contact Brenda Bohn or Alex Mathison at 706-265-3384 for more information.
dawsonnews.com
Soul Sisters Antiques and Décor
“If You’re Not Delighted After a Week of Tanning, We’ll Give You Your Old White Body Back!”
We would like to thank our community for voting us Best Antique Store and Best Furniture Store again this year. We are so blessed to have such amazing customers.
Week of Tanning for
15
$
Any Bed
1 per customer per year. Exp. 7/15/19
BOGO Buy 1 Walk-In
Visit, Get 2nd
40 Hightower Parkway Dawsonville, Georgia 30534 770-871-1631
dawsonnews.com
FREE FREE
Same Bed Value. Exp. 7/15/19
Dawsonville · 706-216-3400 Dahlonega · 706-867-1070 Cleveland · 706-865-1551
TAN
ANY BED
1 per customer per year. Exp. 7/15/19
17
We want to thank all of our wonderful, kind customers for voting us BEST NAIL SALON AND BEST NAIL TECH OF DAWSON COUNTY!
We value our friendships that we have made through the last 21 years with so many. Now Offering S&S Nails
Full Nail Salon
Acrylic, Pink and White Manicure & Pedicures | Massages
Wedding or Birthday Parties are welcome!
MOON NAILS & SPA 706-216-6100
Located on Hwy 53 East in center just before Sonic.
AMICALOLA PROPANE 383 Highway 53 West, Dawsonville, GA • 706-344-1GAS
Thank You
Dawson County! —Joey Homans
Voted Best Civil Attorney Fox Chandler homans hiCks & mCkinnon, llp ATTORNEYS AT LAW
Joseph a. homans 706-265-3090 - 272 Highway 9 South, Dawsonville 18
dawsonnews.com
Eye Care for the Whole Family Dawson Eye Group is a leading provider of eye and vision care in north Georgia. Doctors Kelley and Michael Dasinger, our experienced and compassionate optometrists, specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of a wide array of ocular diseases and conditions. We use state-of-the-art diagnostic technology and vision correction products to provide excellent eye care for all age groups. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff make every effort to create a memorable eye care experience. We look forward to seeing you soon for all of your eye care needs!
706-216-6595 www.dawsoneyegroup.com
dawsonnews.com
Thank you- I love my customers! Serving you for 27 Years. Voted Best Health Food/Vitamin Store Hours Mon-Thur 10-6, Fri 10-5 Sat 11-3 54 Lumpkin Campground Rd S, Ste 130 Dawsonville, GA • 706-216-1035 Melodie Cunningham
19
KG Cleaning Service Voted Best...Carpet Cleaning, Best Cleaning Service, Best Customer Service
Jacki’s Kitchen Voted Best... Dessert
Jeff Johnson Voted Best... Elected Official
Harmony Baptist Church Voted Best... Church
Dr. Larry Anderson Voted Best... Family Physician
Tripp Brackett Voted Best... Jeweler
Rotary of Dawson County Voted Best... Civic Club 20
dawsonnews.com
Thank you Dawson County for Voting Us Best Business Lunch, Best Dinner, Best Steak, Best Fine Dining & Best Martini in Dawson County!
Congrats to our own Shannon Spry for being voted Best Server of Dawson County!
Bring your appetite to LongHorn Steakhouse®. We believe in doing things the right way, the LongHorn® way, serving steaks, chicken and fish that are always fresh, never frozen. And our steaks are legendary, perfectly seasoned and expertly grilled to your liking. We’re fired up about bringing you a better steakhouse experience. 795 Hwy 400 South Dawsonville, GA 30534 (706) 265-2007 Hours: Sun-Thurs 11am-10pm Fri & Sat 11am-11pm
www.LongHornSteakhouse.com
LongHorn Steakhouse®, LongHorn® and You Can’t Fake Steaktm are owned by RARE Hospitality Management, Inc. 2013
! n i a g A
Thank you for voting us #1
VISION Our vision is for all people to live in peace and with purpose.
MISSION Our mission is to glorify God and serve our community by assisting people in finding freedom from their past, peace in their present, and hope for their future.
STRATEGY Our strategy is to create a safe place where people can experience Discipleship Counseling, Professional Coaching, Spiritual Direction, and Effective Training.
200 OLD DAWSON VILLAGE ROAD, SUITE 120, DAWSONVILLE, GA 30534 | 706-265-8128
www.newname.cc dawsonnews.com
21
Chick-fil-A Voted Best... Catering, Best Place to Work, Best American Food, Best Drive Through, Best Family Restaurant, Best Fast Food, Best Lunch, Best Place to Eat with Children, Best Takeout, Best Sweet Tea
Yochum Financial Group Pepper Pettit, Trevor Yochum, Scott Yochum Voted Best...Financial Planning
Randy Harkness Voted Best... Law Enforcement Officer
Northeast Georgia Health System Voted Best... Hospital Presence 22
Natalie Voted Best... Nail Technician
Tripp & Company Jewelers Voted Best... Jewelry Store
Atlanta Landscape and Fertilization Voted Best... Landscape and Design Company dawsonnews.com
706-216-8277
Celebrating 5 Years in the Dawson Community and the 2nd consecutive year as the #1 Vape Store in Dawson County. Again, we thank you for your continued support and bestowing this great honor to us again.
Our normally great selection of House and Premium juices are complimented by a growing selection of Nic-Salt flavors in both House and Premium juices. We continue to offer competitive pricing on both juice and equipment and now we have an extensive selection of CBD products ranging from liquids, flower, bath salts, dog chews and much more. Our same friendly and knowledgeable staff are here 7 days a week to serve you and as always, Students, First Responders and current and former Military receive a 10% discount on every purchase with ID. Check us out on Facebook and Instagram for current deliveries and specials or come see us at 240 Dawson Village Way directly behind O’Reilly Auto Parts just north of Hwy 53 and Georgia 400. Veteran managed and FDA Compliant.
We want to sincerely thank Dawsonville and all the people who voted for Big D’s BBQ as your favorite Takeout & BBQ in Dawson over the past 10 years! Our family and the families of all our employees take great pride striving each and every day to prepare great food and provide great customer service. Without you, we are nothing! Thanks to all of you and your families for supporting us. It is truly an honor to be part of Dawsonville!
Voted Best of Dawson 2009-2019
WE CATER! On-Site Catering for...
Weddings • Corporate Events Reunions • Breakfast Events THREE LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU: GA 400 & Hwy. 53 E Intersection 706-216-6706
dawsonnews.com
Downtown Dawsonville: Hwy. 53 W, just west of Square 706-429-0069
Opening Soon! Big D’s BBQ & Brew 212 Atlanta Road Cumming, Ga. 30040
WWW.MYBIGDSBBQ.COM
23
Look
Leaf for the
At Northeast Georgia Health System (NGHS), our team cares for more than 1 million people across the region through three hospital campuses and a variety of other locations.
Locations convenient to Dawson County include: Hospital - Northeast Georgia Medical Center (NGMC) Gainesville – with services including Heart & Vascular, Cancer Treatment, Orthopedics, Emergency Care and more Medical Plaza 400 – multiple physician offices representing a variety of specialties come together in one building for your convenience in Dawsonville Imaging Center – Dawsonville Northeast Georgia Physicians Group – More than 350 providers represent 30 specialties at more than 65 locations including: Dahlonega – Family Medicine, Internal Medicine and OB/GYN Dawsonville – Family Medicine, General Surgery, Neurology, OB/GYN, Orthopedics and Pediatrics Visit www.ngpg.org to find a provider near you.
NGMC Lumpkin opening July 2019 Visit nghs.com
The Heart Center of NGMC – More than 30 providers at 14 locations including: Dawsonville and Dahlonega Visit www.heartngmc.org to find a provider near you. Urgent Care – seven locations open 7 days a week for the treatment of minor injuries and illnesses with locations in: Dawsonville and Dahlonega Rehabilitation Centers – six locations for physical, speech and occupational therapy including: Dawsonville and Dahlonega
Thank You. with more than 100,000 votes cast by Dawson County News readers, we've been named 2019 Best of Dawson Best Hospital Presence Northeast Georgia Medical Center
www.nghs.com
Moon Nails & Tan Voted Best... Nail Salon
Sandy Sawyer Voted Best... Nurse
Anderson Family Medicine Voted Best... Family Practice
Tony Holtzclaw Voted Best... Pastor
Silver City Tire and Automotive Voted Best... Oil Change, Best Small Engine Repair/Sales, Best Tire Store 26
The Barn at Brook Valley Farm Voted Best...Place for a Wedding
Dawson Eye Group Voted Best... Optometry Practice dawsonnews.com
Thank you for voting us Best Accounting/ Tax Preparation!
A SPECIAL
“We have always exceeded expectations by tailoring our services to client needs and providing the highest level of personalized service. We keep abreast of the latest developments in accounting and tax law and use them to assist our clients in achieving their financial goals”
...to Dawson County for voting Mountain Moonshine Festival BEST COMMUNITY EVENT and BEST CHARITY EVENT of Dawson County.
-Christine Hinton
Services include:
• Tax Preparation and Planning • Small Business Accounting • Payroll
• Part-Time CFO Services • Personal Financial Planning
Christine Hinton Founder & CEO Christine Hinton CPA C: 678-780-5274 F: 678-550-7765 Christine@ChristineHintonCPA.com ChristineHintonCPA.com
It gives us so much pride in being elected for these categories. We succeed because of your kindness and generosity.
Kare for Kids, Inc. “One Child At A Time”
Have a Question about an Accounting or Tax Issue? Ask an Expert.
Dr. Leslie McGuinn Davis | Dr. Lauren Palmer Freitag Thanks for Voting us BEST Cosmetic Dentistry and BEST General Dentistry in Dawson!
Our Services
• Preventive Care • Crowns & Bridges • Whitening • Root Canals • Porcelain Veneers • Dental Implants
Pictured Left to Right: Dr. Leslie McGuinn Davis and Dr. Lauren Palmer Freitag
Smile with Confidence
Call us today to schedule your appointment 706.265.1399 Dawsonville | 770.889.6370 Cumming 2390 Thompson Road, Suite 200, Dawsonville, GA 30534 smiles@lanierdentalpartners.com | info@lanierdentalpartners.com
www.lanierdentalpartners.com
dawsonnews.com
27
“Thank you for voting us #1”
- Johnathan, Owner
(470) 429-9848
toplinetint.com
Proudly Serving Dawson County for Over 19 Years
Dr. Ray Habermann and his friendly and enthusiastic staff welcome you to our clinic.
“WHERE PETS ARE TREATED AS FAMILY” • Vaccinations, Spaying & Neutering • Ultrasonography • In-House Laboratory Services • Chemotherapy • Orthopedic • Laser Surgery
Thank You for Voting Us BEST VETERINARIAN!
706-216-1356
375 Auraria Rd, Dawsonville
(Located just past Ga 400 & Hwy 136 Intersection) 28
dawsonnews.com
Northeast Georgia Health System’s Medical Plaza 400 voted Dawson’s Best Hospital Presence Northeast Georgia Health System (NGHS) cares for more than 1 million people across the region through three hospitals and a variety of outpatient locations. Since 1951, Northeast Georgia Medical Center (NGMC) has been on a mission of improving the health of the community – including Dawson County. Generations of area residents have relied on NGMC Gainesville for its award-winning care and have seen the hospital grow to 556 beds and more than 800 medical staff members representing more than 50 specialties. In April 2013, NGHS brought their services even closer to home when Medical Plaza 400 opened in Dawsonville. The 25,000 square-foot medical office building houses a variety of services including Urgent Care, The Imaging Center, The Heart Center, Northeast Georgia Physicians Group and outpatient labs.
Northeast Georgia Physicians Group’s board-certified physicians serve Dawsonville and its surrounding communities with the highest quality patient care in acute and chronic diseases, minor procedures, occupational medicine and physicals. In addition to their affiliation with NGMC, NGPG’s focus on better access to care, greater patient satisfaction and improved clinical outcomes ensures patients have access to the latest technology and enjoy seamless continuity of care across all NGHS locations. The Imaging Center provides advanced imaging technologies including 3D mammography, MRI and CT, with an onsite ACR board-certified radiologist. Patients enjoy amenities such as warm robes, gourmet refreshments and private waiting areas for men and women in a spa-like atmosphere that has earned national recognition. “We are honored to serve the people
of this region and excited about what’s on the horizon as this area continues to grow,” said Executive Director Jo Brewer. NGHS recently announced plans to offer hospital services beginning Summer 2019 at the former home of Chestatee Regional Hospital in Dahlonega. These services will include an emergency department, along with some inpatient beds, imaging and other services. The new hospital facility will be called Northeast Georgia Medical Center Lumpkin. Planning has also begun for a new replacement hospital facility to sit on 57 acres NGHS already owns along Ga. 400, near the intersection with Hwy. 60. The new facility is tentatively scheduled to open in 2022 and expected to provide emergency services, inpatient medical/surgical care, imaging services and a focus on outpatient surgery.
NGHS celebrates Medical Plaza 400’s 5-year anniversary.
dawsonnews.com
29
Friday, May 4 through Sunday, May 6 so
BLACK FREE
VISIT US DURING OUR GRAND OPENING ® Saturday, May 5 Only Orca Drinkware Get a FREE 5-Gallon Buc AND GET IN ON ALL THE FUN! and receive COME VISIT YOUR While supplies last.
on Op be in enin g Ro hind CuBUY ad T mm ho eGET xa ing us s e!
1 GALLON, 1 GALLON HOMETOWN
FRIDAY
Thank you Dawson County for voting us #1 for
25
%
OFF
all regular priced Best items you can fit inside! C&W Hardware Dawsonville Hardware Store
SALE EasyCare Ultra Premium interior or exterior Paint ®
Good food & service • Families & sports • Cozy Patio • Full bar including draft beer
20% OFF
*
GRAND OPENING
Thank you for voting us Dawsonville’s Best 1500W Electric Stove Hardware Store our first 99.99 year in business! OUR SERVICES
Other exclusions may apply. See store for details. Buy 1 gallon, get the second gallon free. Price of the second gallon must be of equal or lesser value than the first gallon. Limit 5 gallons per coupon. One coupon per household. Not redeemable for cash. Not valid with any other offer or gift cards. Not refundable. Not transferable. Do not duplicate. Void where prohibited. Consumer responsible for all taxes and fees. Coupon valid at participating True Value® stores from 5/4/18 – 5/6/18.
*See store for details and restrictions. Excludes Weber® and YETI® products. Limit 1 bucket per customer per visit.
EVENT
• Best Bar
WI
T 221 651 1 While supplies last.
REGISTE
FANTASTIC
Friday, May 4 through Sunday, May 6 SPIN TOWIN!
• Best Fun Atmosphere
VISIT US DURING OUR GRAND OPENING AND GET IN ON ALL THE FUN!
• Best Sports Bar • Best Happy Hour
BUY 1 GALLON, GET 1 GALLON
FREE
Saturday, May 5 Only
Get a FREE 5-Gallon Bucket ALL WEEKEND and receive
MAY 4 — MAY 6
25 99.99 %
DeWALT® 20V Lithium-Ion Brushless Drill Driver
• FREE Food OFF Cooked on Big Green Egg Find the right products for your project all regular priced Giveaways ® Ritems 211 580 5you While can supplies last. and expertEasyCare advice at True •Value Ultra Premium fit inside! OUTDOOR POWER EQUIPMENT
®
• Weber Gas • Gas Pressu • 22-In. SelfMower
*
• Door Prizes We have everything for any home or garden project! interior or exterior Paint
TV-AD-14476
No purchase necessary. See store for details.
Across from Outlet mall on 400
C&W
837 Hwy 400 South, Ste 175, Dawsonville
www.friendsamericangrill.com
Other exclusions may apply. See store for details. Buy 1 gallon, get the second gallon free. Price of the second gallon must be of equal or lesser value than the first gallon. Limit 5 gallons per coupon. One coupon per household. Not redeemable for cash. Not valid with any other offer or gift cards. Not refundable. Not transferable. Do not duplicate. Void where prohibited. Consumer responsible for all taxes and fees. Coupon valid at participating True Value® stores from 5/4/18 – 5/6/18.
C&W Hardware Hardware Dawsonville OUR Dawsonville True Value®
WIN REGISTER TO
SERVICES
16Moonshiners MoonshinersWay Way• Dawsonville, GA 30534 16 Dawsonville, GA 706-525-5140 30534 Mon. – Fri.: 7 – 7; Sat.: 7 – 6; Sun.: 10 – 5
706-525-5140 facebook.com/cwhardware www.facebook.com/cwhardware SPIN TOWIN!
Thank you Dawson County for voting us Best Florist of 2019!
*See store for details and restrictions. Excludes Weber® and YETI® products. Limit 1 bucket per customer per visit.
FANTASTIC PRIZES!
Sale ends 11/25/2018
©2018 True Value Company LLC
ALL WEEKEND
• Weber Gas Grill • Gas Pressure Washer • 22-In. Self-Propelled Mower
MAY 4 — MAY 6 OUTDOOR POWER EQUIPMENT
• FREE Food Cooked on Big Green Egg • Giveaways • Door Prizes No purchase necessary. See store for details.
We truly appreciate each one of our valued customers & love being a part of this community since 1969.
C&W Hardware Dawsonville True Value®
16 Moonshiners Way • Dawsonville, GA 30534 706-525-5140 Mon. – Fri.: 7 – 7; Sat.: 7 – 6; Sun.: 10 – 5 facebook.com/cwhardware
Dawsonville Florist Gail and Wayne Wright
1131 Hwy 9 South, Dawsonville 706-265-3162
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dawsonnews.com
Thank you to our community for your support and voting us the Best!
We appreciate our customers and we value our high standard of customer service.
LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED We offer all types of mechanical repairs, maintenance services, and YES we still do tires! We are an AAA Approved Auto Center and a NAPA Auto Care Center which gives you a nationwide warranty. We are a proud installer of Jasper engines and transmissions with a 3-year/100,000 mile warranty. Call us today for an appointment!
Monday - Friday 8:00-5:00
www.towerautorepair.com • 706-265-6152 Hwy. 53 & GA 400, Dawsonville
Approved Auto Repair
Thank You for Voting Us Best Landscape and Design Company! We are proud to serve Dawson County! · Weed Control & Fertilization · Pest Control · Landscape Installation · Commercial Mowing Services
ALF Lawn and Pest: Making Your Neighbors Green with Envy Save up to 25% when you bundle your lawn and pest services. Call us today!
(844) 369-TURF (8873) | www.alfga.com dawsonnews.com
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Thank you Dawsonville for voting us Best Spa Services Best Massage Therapy Best Massage Therapist Best Esthetician and Best Health and Beauty Store
HARRIS FAMILY DENTISTRY
We take great pride in caring for our clients. We love and appreciate our community. A Touch of Hope Day Spa is an organic day spa. Our therapists are highly trained in their scope of practice and customize each session to their clients needs.
706-216-6031 • www.dawsonmassage.com 3651 Dawson Forest Rd, Ste 100, Dawsonville, GA
32
Thank you so much for voting us Best of Dawson!! We greatly appreciate the thoughtfulness and trusting of us to handle all your dental needs!!
HARRIS FAMILY DENTISTRY 212 Prominence Court, Dawsonville, GA 30534 harrisfamilydentistry.com
706-216-7777
dawsonnews.com
Duncan Exterminating Voted Best... Pest Control Company
Pritchett Enterprises Voted Best... Roofer
Country Home Kennels Voted Best... Pet Boarding dawsonnews.com
Whitmire Animal Hospital Voted Best... Pet Care
Shannon Spry Voted Best... Server
Dr. Ray Habermann Voted Best... Veterinarian
Benchmark Physical Therapy Dawson Voted Best... Physical Therapy 33
Lighthouse Christian Academy Voted Best... Private School
Nature’s Health Store Voted Best... Vitamin Store
K&K Towing of Dawsonville Voted Best... Towing Service 34
Byrd’s Mini Storage Voted Best... Self - Storage Facility
TopLine Tint Voted Best... Window Tinting
Tara Bohanan Voted Best...Real Estate Agent, The Welch Team - Keller Williams Community Partners
C&W Hardware True Value Voted Best... Hardware Store dawsonnews.com
YO
Tripp & Company
JEWELERS
Dawson County for voting us Best Jewelry Store and Best Jeweler
s
Thank you
h ew er rt N rt o ’s a a N rg i d q u a eo e G lH a d
E
LL VI R T N S E E M EL O R O W WS EA H JE A Y D O G TW N I R RV FO SE
i Br
R U OWN
Friendly and knowledgeable staff with more than 80 years of combined experience. Fine jewelry Store • Custom Design Studio • Full Service Jeweler
Pearls Rock!
Janet, Owner Tripp Brackett and Valerie
Dawson Crossroads Shopping Center 145 Forest Blvd, Suite 310, Dawsonville, Ga 706-265-1030 • TrippandCompanyJewelers.com
Dawson County voted & The Welch Team is proud to announce...
Best Real Estate Agent
706-344-6909 | 706-216-6292
www.welchproperties.com
Thank you Dawson County for Voting Us...
Best Residential & Best Commercial Real Estate Group dawsonnews.com
Tara Bohanan
Call Today 352-804-2261
Exclusive Savings for First Time Home Buyers! 35
Thank you Dawson County!
AUTO · HOME · LIFE · BUSINESS ANNUITY · RENTALS · CHURCH
We are so appreciative of everyone who made this another great year. Thank you for your votes & support! We take excellent care of your pets when you need us. We provide dog boarding and cat boarding services for your beloved furry family members when you’re away from home. We also have dog grooming at our dog salon. Plus, we offer pet daycare for those who need someone to keep their pet company during the day.
Boarding | Daycare | Grooming
Located at 336 Elliott Family Parkway, Dawsonville 706-265-3142 | countryhomekennels.com
Thank you for voting us Best Insurance Company & Best Agent for 4 consecutive years!
131 Prominence Court, Suite 110 Dawsonville, GA 30534 706-429-0172 | www.vankeith.com
Pritchett “Thank You Dawson County and customers for letting us take care of your roofing needs in our community for over 25 years with our family owned and operated business!”
Owner: Charles Pritchett Co-Owner: Stephen Pritchett
327 Collins Road, Dawsonville, GA 30534 • 706-265-2737 36
dawsonnews.com
Get your car ready for Summer Trips! We are experts at: • Major Mechanical • Engine Tune Up • Pre-Purchase Inspection • Engine Diagnostic • We carry all major tire brands
COME SEE US! HOURS
Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday
dawsonnews.com
Closed 8AM–6PM 8AM–6PM 8AM–6PM 8AM–6PM 8AM–6PM Appointment Only
Our customers come by just to say, “Hi!”
Silver City tire
6546 GA-9, Dawsonville, GA 30534 770-887-7625 ...more than a tire store! Locally Owned & Operated
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Thank You to all my loyal customers and friends for voting me
Best Dessert for two consecutive years! It is a pleasure to serve Dawson County as a Made-toOrder Bakery. I feel blessed to be a part of this wonderful community and look forward to fulfilling your dessert needs.
Cakes ¡ Pastries ¡ Candies
Jacki Scarborough
(678) 756-1923 | @jackiskitchen | jackiskitchen@aol.com
Harmony Baptist Church Thank you for voting Harmony Baptist Church Best Church & Pastor Tony Holtzclaw Best Pastor!
Our church family wOuld like tO invite yOu tO jOin us!
Harmony Baptist CHurCH 1575 Harmony Church Rd. Dawsonville, GA 30534 harmonybaptistdawsonville@gmail.com | Pastor Tony Holtzclaw
38
dawsonnews.com
Dawson Pediatrics Voted Best... Pediatrics Practice
Phillip Turk Voted Best... Insurance Agent
Elite Heating & Air, LLC Voted Best... Heating/Air Service
Abbey Redmon Voted Best... Personal Trainer
Fit Body Boot Camp Voted Best... Fitness Center/Gym
The Welch Team - Keller Williams Community Partners Voted Best‌Commercial Real Estate Company and Best Residential Real Estate Group
VanKeith Insurance Agency Voted Best... Insurance Company
dawsonnews.com
39
“Service Beyond Your Expectations” Most votes in a single category: KG Cleaning Service By Allie Dean
For Ken Goines, the true purpose of business is to provide happiness and service. And no one embodies that more on a daily basis than Goines and his small business, KG Cleaning Service. KG Cleaning won the most votes in a single category in this year’s Best of Dawson contest when it swept the Best Carpet Cleaning category. Goines, 30, credits his business’ success with many things, but hard work, God and the support of his family and mentors are the biggest factors in getting him where he is today. Goines opened the business out of his garage on May 17, 2015. He said it was a giant leap of faith, as he had two young kids at home and a wife who was out of work for the summer. But he signed up for HomeAdvisor and started outsmarting the competition by providing free quotes and demonstrations. He hasn’t used the service in two years, as his reputation across the internet has grown to a total of 746 five-star reviews, and zero negative reviews. The first days were hard, but he wouldn’t change them. “Our first job they charged $20 to our account, and we were broke, so broke,” Goines said. “So I went to Walmart and got a stick of gum and got $100 cash back to put gas in the car to get to the estimate. Those were days that were hard but days that I miss too.” The company has now grown to include several more employees, including his wife Bethany. He and Bethany have been married for 11 years and have been together since they were 15. They have two kids: Landon, 6, and Brooklyn, 4. Goines credits much of his success to his wife and her father, Sammy Loggins, the owner of Loggins Hardsurface Flooring. After moving to Dawson County at 16, Goines worked three jobs- working for Loggins during the week, working as 40
a server at Amicalola Falls Lodge at night and doing overnight stocking at Kroger. Eventually he was offered a job as a technician cleaning carpets, and his world changed. ‘I thought ‘this is the best money I’ve ever made,’ and I was good at it, I liked talking to people, making them smile,” Goines said. “So I said ‘this is the trade I have’ and I just made the best of it.” He studied hard, building a life and a career despite an education that stopped at fourth grade. Goines said that when
he started working as a carpet cleaning technician, he listened to all of the books he could find on the service industry and customer service. Goines calls that his college education. “I want to break the cycle of my family, so that’s what I strived to do ever since,” he said. Loggins also helped instill in Goines core values of honesty and integrity. “Every company messes up, but don’t cover it up, don’t make excuses, fix it,” Goines said. “Be honest with peoplethat’s biggest thing to me and anybody that works for me.”
Goines also credits Brad Flack, the owner of Flack’s Flooring, and Chris Gaines, a great friend and business partner, for taking him under their wings. “They helped coach me along when I first opened KG Cleaning Service,” he said. He is also committed to providing excellent customer service in a world where mediocre service has become the norm, with a motto of “Service Beyond Your Expectations.” Goines said one of his biggest goals is to start a boys’ foundation for troubled youth. He also wants to write his own book and conduct seminars, teaching other carpet cleaners about customer service and sales. An active Rotarian, Goines said the club’s motto, “Service above Self,” is an ideal he tries to bring to reality each and every day, whether through his job or his work in the community. Goines is also active in the Dawson County Chamber of Commerce, having won the 2016 New Business of the Year Award, and is a proud graduate of Leadership Dawson. He was also recently awarded the Jim Wallace Volunteer of the Year Award, and his wife was awarded the Linda Williams Ambassador of the Year award, at the annual chamber gala. Last year he opened KG Rug Spa, a luxury service for deep-cleaning area rugs, with partner Gaines, who is also well known for his skills in service and having a true servant’s heart. In whatever he does, Goines knows that God is with him, lining things up along the way. “I’m a Christian and if I give any credit it’d be to God, he’s my business partner,” Goines said. “Since I started I always pray every day for God to bless my customers and help me provide for my family. When I first started I was scared to death, and prayed please God to help me provide for them. And He’s always been there.” dawsonnews.com
Thank you for voting us Best of Dawson!
Best Cleaning Company for 4 years Best Carpet Cleaning for 3 years Best Customer Service for 2 years WOW! We are so grateful and humbled to be voted Best of Dawson again this year! We always want to thank God first and give him the glory! Thank you to a community that we love so much and will continue to proudly serve for many years to come! It is an honor to represent Dawsonville and we will continue to do exceptional work and provide outstanding service to re-define the industry with excellence in every way we can! Family owned and operated. We would like to give a shout out to all the other companies that also worked so hard this year!
“Autograph Your Work With Excellence”
The Purpose of Our Business is to Provide Service and Happiness
COLOSSIANS 3:23-24
Whatever you do, do your work heartily, as for the Lord rather than for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance. It is the Lord Christ whom you serve.
10% OFF ANY SERVICE
FOR VETERANS, FIREFIGHTERS , FIRST RESPONDERS AND LAW ENFORCEMENT
Cleaning Service, Inc.
Experience the KG Standard of Award Winning Service
Expert Carpet Cleaning
www.kgcleaningservice.com /kgcleaningserviceinc 706.525.9102
FINALLY your Beautiful Rugs can have a WORLD-CLASS Luxury Service brought to you by a Highly reputable name you can always count on! Persian, Oriental, and Area Rug Deep Clean and Full Bath Submersion · Pet Accidents/Urine Stain/Odor Removal · Fringe Detailing · Dust/Dander Removall · Custom Cut Rug Padding · Pick Up and Delivered Call (706) 525-1638 for details. www.kgrugspa.com 30 Industrial Park Rd #105, Dawsonville, GA 30534 Nearby Dawsonville locations, near North Ga. Outlet Mall.
Amicalola Falls State Park & Lodge Voted Best...Banquet Facilities, Best Hotel/Motel, Best Photo Opportunity, Best Place to Take a Date, Best Tourist Attraction
Dot Dot Smile - Sandi Ethridge Voted Best... Children’s Clothing Store
Soul Sisters Antiques Voted Best... Antique Store and Best Furniture Store
Annis Family Chiropractic Voted Best... Chiropractor 42
Amicalola Propane Voted Best... Propane Company
Sun Tan Voted Best... Tanning Services
LongHorn Steakhouse Voted Best...Appetizer, Best Dinner, Best Business Lunch, Best Martini, Best Steak dawsonnews.com
The Barn at Valley Brook Farm We want to help you make your dream wedding a reality! Our renovated barn is the perfect venue for your wedding with up to 200 Guests
THE BARN RENTAL FEES AND INFO Reserve The Barn for your Rehearsal & Wedding for a 3 Day period:
The Barn Weekday Special
Here at The Barn, when you book your wedding you get a three day period Friday, Saturday, and Sunday
Weekday weddings for couples wanting a small intimate wedding:
This gives you flexibility when planning for setup, dinner rehearsal, the wedding event and clean-up. Included in the package is the round tables, serving tables, chairs, and may use all the amenities the barn offers. An additional catering service area, along with a a bridal and groom suite.
We offer this package from Sunday at 12:30 p.m to Thursday. Included in the package is the round tables, serving tables, chairs, and may use all the amenities the barn offers. This package is only $500.
Total package only $2,000.
Located at 2839 Grizzle Rd, Dawsonville (Only minutes from Ga. 400) • 770-718-7620 Request your date for reservations at www.thebarnatvalleybrookfarm.com
Thank you Dawson County for voting us The Best again this year.
Voted Best Hair Salon 2012, 2013, 2015, 2017, 2018, and 2019
THANK YOU Dawson County!
locally owned and operated for over 10 years.
We’re 24/7 Reasonable Rates
706-429-0277
Experience a high-end salon atmosphere without all those high-end salon prices. Detailed consultations, experienced stylists, professional products, and a knowledgeable staff will make your visit to Refuge an enjoyable one.
• • • • • •
Accidents/Wrecks We are on our local Dawson Co. Rotation towing companies Dawson County’s ONLY Non-consensual Towing Off road recovery Impound
We all love what we do and it shows!
New clients mention this ad and receive 15% off! M-Th 10-6 Fri 10-5 Sat 10-3 Extended hours available with appointment refugehairsalon.com refugehairsalon@gmail.com 258 Beartooth Pkwy, Suite 120 706-265-8074 Dawsonville (Located off 53 East across from Sonic)
Thank you to all the people of Dawson County for their supporting our effort to help our community. The Rotary Club of Dawson County practices
“Service Above Self”, and without your support, we would never be able to
“Make A Difference” in our community.
a few of the many projects that Rotary participates in: Dawson County Rotary Island at Rock Creek Park Free Community Thanksgiving Dinner Little Library at Rock Creek Park Students of the Month with Dawson County Schools 44
dawsonnews.com
“We love and appreciate our customers. It is a pleasure to serve you and make your experience at Papa’s enjoyable and satisfying.”
Thank you Dawson County! Serving Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Thank you Dawsonville for voting us Best Pest Control Company!
Best Breakfast 2019 DAILY SPECIALS available for Lunch and Dinner
HOURS Mondays – Saturdays: 6:30 am – 9:00 pm Sundays: 6:30 am – 3:00 pm
Family owned and operated since 1981
CALL IN TO-GO ORDERING (With Drive Thru Window)
NEW ONLINE ORDERING AT WWW.PAPASPLACEGA.COM
3651 Dawson Forest Road • 706-265-6194 LOCATED BEHIND OUTLET MALL AT ROUND ABOUT www.papasplacega.com
duncanext.com
At Duncan Exterminating, we are grateful that God has blessed us so richly with a wonderful staff and customers. We hope to be of better service to our fellow man in the years to come.
Annis Family Chiropractic Thank you so much for voting us Best Chiropractor, again!
y udl Pro ing s e rv o u n t y C s o n 19 91 w a D e sinc
( 7 0 6 ) 216 - 4 8 7 5
66 S 400 Center Lane Suite 105 Dawsonville, Georgia 30534 dawsonnews.com
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Most votes in the professional’s category:
Paige Sweany named Best Photographer By Allie Dean
Having fun and adding to an evergrowing collection of community members turned lifelong friends are the two most important aspects of what Paige Sweany does. Then there’s the photography part, of course. Sweany is the owner and operator of Sole Photography, which she operates out of a home studio. Perhaps once most well known for her presence on the sidelines of sporting events, Sweany has been photographing the Dawson County community for seven years full time, and many years prior to that. Since opening the home studio three years ago, Sweany said she is focusing less on athletics and more on family dynamics than ever. Creating a fun atmosphere (one that keeps dads and kids alike engaged) is key, and her creativity and out-of-the-box approach separate her from her fellow photographers. “My goal is I want people to have fun, because really 20 years from now, some of these pictures will be all that’s left,” Sweany said. “To me, that’s why pictures are important.” Transitioning to photography after quitting a 12-year career at Sawnee EMC was a huge leap of faith, but one Sweany said has made her much happier. “I love what I do,” she said. “You get to love on babies, you get to make fun of grumpy husbands, get hugs from snotnosed kids and watch the touchdowns from the kid who has barely played.” Sweany said providing photos for people who otherwise couldn’t afford professional pictures was her original motivation for getting into photography. Sweany was a young mom, and when her daughter was little, she said she would save up all her money to have her daughter’s photo taken at Olan Mills. That was 20 years ago, Sweany said, and the photos weren’t cheap. “When I started the business I really 46
wanted to be able to provide pictures for the young moms as well as the people who were well off,” she said. “I just never wanted a young mom not to have pic-
tures, because I’ve been there.” View Sweany’s photos and get more information at www.solephotography. smugmug.com.
dawsonnews.com