DAWSON LIVING
“Where quality of life matters”
• SCHOOL YEAR A preview of the 2015-16 school year in Dawson County • NEW TO DAWSON COUNTY? This newcomer’s guide will assist you • VOLUNTEER & CONNECT How best to get involved in the community
A publication of 2015 -16
Where Community and Trust Come Together Chyrl Waldrip AVP
Kim Smith
Operations
Mike Underwood EVP
Teresia Grizzle Teller
Brenda Patterson Loan Assistant
706-216-5900
70 Carlisle Road, Dawsonville 770-292-9168 5835 Bethelview Road, Cumming “You’ll notice the difference” MEMBER
FDIC
www.myfoothillsbank.com
LOOKING AHEAD TO A NEW SCHOOL YEAR that allow each student to have a personal identity. Additionally, our students have access to some of the finest educational facilities in the state, all of which have 21st century classrooms. New this year, we are pleased to announce the opening of our new Centralized Registration Center, located in the System’s Technology Training Center. Any student looking to enroll in the school district can now go to the registration center on Allen Street. We hope this will help to streamline and expedite the process of getting students enrolled in school as soon as possible, especially for parents with multiple children to enroll at once. Our schools, students and faculty have been recognized in many ways for outstanding achievement throughout the years. The accomplishments of our students have included multiple Governor’s Office of Student Achievement and Title I Schools of Distinction Awards, and a National Blue Ribbon Award winner. Student achievement and extra/co-curricular participation are extremely high among students of our county. The school system continually seeks to recruit, employ and retain well-qualified teachers and staff. Dawson County can boast of having a certified staff of approximately 300, with more than 75 percent holding a master’s degree and beyond, as well as an average of 16 years experience. We also have a wonderful and dedicated support staff of more than 200 employees. The Dawson County School System looks forward to working with you to continue moving the bar higher for every child in this community. The district appreciates your continued support and involvement as we continue to meet the needs of each of our students. A. Damon Gibbs, EdD School Superintendent
3 SCHOOLS
The Dawson Count y School System’s vision is to be an exemplary school district, with outstanding staff, that prepares students to compete globally. Our laser focus on our mission and our vision has led our school district to make great strides over the years. There is nothing more important to the prosperity of Dawson County than producing college and work ready students. The school system is focused on the future of our young people and showing them the way to contribute as productive members of their community. In 2011, the Dawson County Board of Education made the decision to petition the state to become one of the first 14 charter systems in Georgia. This decision allowed Dawson County to have increased flexibility along with a higher level of accountability. It also allows for greater parental and community input as individuals serve on school and system governance councils. The system is using the charter to focus on technology, leadership, and literacy. The Dawson County School System is comprised of eight schools: four elementary schools, two middle schools, one nontraditional school and one high school. It has been important to our community for us to maintain schools at enrollment levels
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SCHOOLS
Board Members:
SCHOOL SYSTEM LEADERS
Doris Cook dorisc@etowahwater.org
Will Wade, chairman wwade@dawson.k12.ga.us Elaine Wilson, vice-chair wilson3404@windstream.net Roger Slaton roger.slaton.bw7h@statefarm. com
Karen Armstrong karmstrong@dawson.k12. ga.us The Dawson County Board of Education has the duty of ensuring that children in the local school system get the best education possible. The responsibility goes hand in hand with keeping the school district operating in a fiscally and legally sound manner. Furthermore, responsibilities include establishing the system’s annual budget and to secure funding, which is required to operate the schools. The board holds the ultimate authority of decision-making and is the legal governing body of the school system. There are five members that make up the board of education, including a representative from each of the four districts, as well as an at large representative. Members are required to live in the district in which they represent, but are elected by the county at large. Members serve four-year terms, which are staggered, meaning three members are elected during one election and two are elected during the next. The board meets at 5 p.m. on the first Tuesday of each month for regular work sessions and 6:30 p.m. the following Monday for regular voting sessions. The central office is located at 28 Main Street in downtown Dawsonville and can be reached by phone at (706) 265-3246 or online at www.dawsoncountyschools.org.
Since 1964 Serving the propane gas needs of North Georgia for 51 years
A. Damon Gibbs, EdD Superintendent dgibbs@dawson.k12. ga.us
Hershel Bennett Director of Special Education h b e n n e tt @ d aw s o n . k12.ga.us
Mills Fuel Service, Inc.
5765 Dahlonega Hwy, Cumming
770-887-5235
Dawsonville 706-265-3394 • Dahlonega 706-864-5037
www.millsfuel.com
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Lisa Perry Assistant Superintendent of Personnel and Support Services lperry@dawson.k12. ga.us
Rick Brown Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction rbrown@dawson.k12. ga.us
“Caring, Experienced & Certified Staff”
Voted BEST DAYCARE 7 Years!
Lottery Funded Pre-K
Accepts Ages 6 Weeks thru 12 Years Old Transportation Provided To & From All Dawson County Elementary Schools & Chestatee Elementary!
Celebrating 18 Years! Monday - Saturday, 5:30am - 6:30pm 8455 Highway 53 East, Dawsonville, GA
(706) 216-6372
SCHOOLS
NOTE: All Holidays are subject to revisions due to inclement weather
Early Release Day First/Last Day of School Inclement Weather Day Pre/Post Planning/ Prof. Dev. Pro. Dev. (Student Holiday) Student/Staff Holiday
DAWSON COUNTY SCHOOLS 2015-2016 Student Calendar
July 2015 T W T 1 2 5 6 7 8 9 12 13 14 15 16 19 20 21 22 23 26 27 28 29 30 S
STUDENT CALENDAR
S
3-6 Pre-Planning Open House 7 First Day of School
M
August 2015 T W T
M
F 3 10 17 24 31
S 4 11 18 25
F
S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31
S
M
3 4 10 11 17 18 24 25 31
Approved 2/9/2015
January 2016 T W T F 1 5 6 7 8 12 13 14 15 19 20 21 22 26 27 28 29
S 2 9 16 23 30
1 Holiday Break (No School) 4 Professional Dev. 5 Student Return 18 MLK (No School)
18 Days
February 2016 M T W T 1 2 3 4 7 8 9 10 11 14 15 16 17 18 21 22 23 24 25 28 29 S
F 5 12 19 26
S 6 13 20 27
12 Professional Dev. 15 Inclement Weather (*No School) *Subject to change
19 Days 17 Days
September 2015 T W T F 1 2 3 4 6 7 8 9 10 11 13 14 15 16 17 18 20 21 22 23 24 25 27 28 29 30 S
7 Labor Day 21 Early Release/Prof. Dev.
S 7-8 Early Release Parent Conf. 8 End of 1st Nine Weeks 9 Prof. Dev. (No Students)
M
M
4 5 11 12 18 19 25 26
S 5 12 19 26
March 2016 T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 S
M
21 Days
21 Days
October 2015 T W T 1 6 7 8 13 14 15 20 21 22 27 28 29
April 2016 T W T
F 2 9 16 23 30
S 3 10 17 24 31
S
M
F 1 3 4 5 6 7 8 10 11 12 13 14 15 17 18 19 20 21 22 24 25 26 27 28 29
21 Days
11 Early Release/Prof. Dev. 23-27 Thanksgiving Holidays
S 1 8 15 22 29
M 2 9 16 23 30
November 2015 T W T 3 4 5 10 11 12 17 18 19 24 25 26
S
M
18 End of Semester 21-31 Holidays (No School)
6
6 7 13 14 20 21 27 28
Begin Elementary Schools Middle Schools
14 Days End
1 Inclement Weather (*No School) 4-8 Spring Break *Subject to change
15 Days
F 6 13 20 27
S 7 14 21 28
S 1 8 15 22 29
M 2 9 16 23 30
May 2016 T W T F S 3 4 5 6 7 10 11 12 13 14 17 18 19 20 21 24 25 26 27 28 31
16 Days
December 2015 T W T 1 2 3 8 9 10 15 16 17 22 23 24 29 30 31
S 2 9 16 23 30
9 End of 3rd Nine Weeks 9-10 Early Release/ Parent Conf. 11 Prof Dev. (No Students) 25 Inclement Weather Day (*No School)
25 End of 2nd Semester (Last Day) 26-27 Post-Planning 30 Memorial Holiday
18 Days
F 4 11 18 25
S 5 12 19 26
S
M
5 6 12 13 19 20 26 27
June 2016 T W T F S 1 2 3 4 7 8 9 10 11 14 15 16 17 18 21 22 23 24 25 28 29 30
89
91 Earle Release
Total Days 180 Students 190 Staff
Cumming •Dahlonega Dahlonega•••Gainesville Gainesville••Oconee Oconee•••www.ung.edu www.ung.edu Cumming Dahlonega Oconee www.ung.edu Cumming Gainesville Cumming •••Dahlonega • Gainesville • Oconee • www.ung.edu
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SCHOOLS
Black’s Mill Elementary Cindy Kinney 1860 Dawson Forest Road, E (706) 216-3300
SCHOOL INFORMATION
Kilough Elementary Tracy Compton 1063 Kilough Church Road (706) 216-8595
Riverview Elementary Julia Mashburn 370 Dawson Forest Rd W (706) 216-5812
Dawson County High Richard Crumley 1665 Perimeter Road (706) 265-6555
Other school contacts: Hightower Academy Anita Cox, Assistant Principal 175 Tiger Circle (706) 265-1244
Central Registration Office Lisa Miller, District Registrar 517 Allen Street (706) 265-3246, Ext. 1035
Central Office 28 Main Street (706) 265-3246 www.dawsoncoutyschools.org
Robinson Elementary Kim Bennett 1150 Perimeter Road (706) 265-6544
Dawson County Middle Jeff Clapper 332 Hwy. 9 N (706)216-5801
Riverview Middle Randi Sagona 5126 Hwy. 9 S (706) 216-4849
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SYSTEM SEES IMPROVEMENT TO HIGH SCHOOL FACILITIES
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SCHOOLS
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to Dawson Family Physicians!
By David Renner
drenner@dawsonnews.com
Lawrence F. Kulish, MD Now Accepting New Patients! Family Medicine Physicians are trained to care for patients of all ages, from birth to senior adult. Dawson Family Physicians accepts most commercial insurance plans including: Amerigroup, Wellcare, Peach State, Medicare and Blue Cross and Blue Shield. Same day appointments available!
Call today! (706) 265-8439 1078 Lumpkin Campground Rd. S. Dawsonville, GA 30533
Ground has been broken on a new performing arts center at Dawson County High School. Construction and grading began in June for a $13 million, 1,000 seat auditorium that will be adjacent to the high school. The project is part of a $36.5 million education special purpose local option sales tax (ESPLOST). Voters approved a new 5-year Education Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax in March of this year. This is Dawson County’s fifth ESPLOST. The system immediately bonded out $15 million for the center and other projects. The remaining funds from the $15 million bonds will be used for various projects around the system. Other projects for this ESPLOST also include software purchases and a new, lighted tennis court to replace the courts being removed for the performing arts center. According to Dawson County Board of Education ESPLOST Project Manager Scott Morgan, the new tennis courts will have their own outdoor, fully-lit facility with restrooms and raised-style seating. “These are going to be really nice tennis courts,” he said. “I think it’s something the school system will be proud of.” Also as part of the ESPLOST funds, the high school has returfed its football field with NFL-grade materials, as well as added a “cool play” system to the turf that allows the field temperature to be lowered by as much as 20 degrees in the summer. The performing arts center is also being partially funded by a private donation. Acting upon the wishes of the Pauline S. Ivey Revocable Living Trust, Trustee Betty Ann Bagley gave a donation of $400,000 to the board to go toward the system’s art program during the school board’s June 2 meeting. Ivey, a Cumming resident with close Dawson County ties who passed away last year, had the trust created in March of 2012. The money is to be split up, with $300,000 ear earmarked to furnish the performing arts center and $100,000 being split up among the schools for art supplies. All construction, with the exception of the performing arts center and the tennis courts, is estimated to be completed before the start of the 2015-16 school year.
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SCHOOLS
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By Michele Hester
mhester@dawsonnews.com
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A variety of beauty services are available fo r a s n i p o f t h e re ta i l p r i c e a t L a n i e r Te c h n i c a l Co l l e g e’s Sa l o n a n d S p a i n Dawsonville. The salon offers haircuts from $5, color starting at $28 and foils as low as $35. All services are provided by senior level students and the work is closely monitored by the cosmetology instructors. Instructor Jayna Durden oversees the program at the Dawson campus. “It is a wonderful program. They get extensive training. They’re prepared for their state boards,” she said. “They’re prepared for the real salon world, and they leave here with little or no debt, which is impor tant when you’re starting out in the business world.” From greeting the guest and client consultation, to performing services with the most current equipment available and using state of the art software to check the client out at the end of the ser vice, the students gain real-life experience by operating all aspects of a full-service salon. “I’ve always loved to make people feel good about themselves and pamper them and make them relaxed and just have a better day,” said Student Kaysi Keener. “I’ve always been real passionate about makeup, hair and nails.” Manicures, pedicures and facials are also available, along with oxygen therapy and microdermabrasion. Additionally, waxing ser vices, lash and brow tint, and spray tanning are also offered onsite. Currently, the salon and spa is open to the public from 8 a.m. to noon and from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday. “It’s really convenient and I’ve learned a ton,” said Sheets, who is nearing graduation. For more information about the spa and salon services on the Dawsonville campus, call Lanier Tech at (706) 216-5461.
Dawson County Farm Bureau 674 Hwy 53W Dawsonville, Ga
706-265-3350
DAWSON COUNTY WELCOMES YOU 11
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many lakeside communities with seven parks, four of which include boat launches. The southern area has a thriving commercial hub along the Highway 400 corridor with an outlet mall, theatre, shops and restaurants. We also have festivals to celebrate our unique racecar and moonshine history. Dawson County is 60 miles from Atlanta and has seen quick paced growth in the past few years. We remain a sales tax based government. Our property tax base is low compared to surrounding counties and has not changed in the last 11 years. The board of commissioners has taken steps to insure a proper quality of life by strict adherence to a Long Range Land Use Plan. This plan directs development toward a balance between residential construction and low infrastructure high tax dollar businesses. We have combined this plan with transportation improvements, ecological guidelines and a storm water plan. Dawson County Government has made sure that its citizens receive a high quality safety program. Our EMS, fire services and sheriff’s department have very high rankings in the state. We welcome you to a clean, thriving community with idyllic scenery, where the mountains meet the water.
COUNTY
The board of commissioners of Dawson County welcomes you to our county. We know that you will enjoy the excellent quality of life that all of us have come to cherish. What started out as an agriculture community in 1857 has turned into a thriving community that offers many different venues. We have 23,979 acres in the Dawson Forest Wildlife Management Area where horse riding and walking trails are plentiful. There are lots of mountain areas with several private communities such as Big Canoe. Untouched rivers and streams like the Etowah, Chestatee and the Amicalola where you can canoe, raft and fish. Of particular interest is Amicalola Falls with a 729 foot waterfall and accompanying state park and lodge, which is also the beginning approach of the Appalachian Trail. Forty-seven miles of shoreline on Lake Lanier is home to
Mike Berg Chairman Dawson County Board of Commissioners
Chapman hall aDVan Ta GE REal ESTaTE
Larry Ness
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770-634-2468 Cell
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We’re honored to serve you It’s an honor to be recognized as the nation’s leading hospital for maternity and newborn care. Look a little closer and you’ll discover that Northside performs more surgeries and diagnoses and treats more breast and gynecologic cancer than any other hospital in Georgia. While people choose Northside for our expertise, they also know us for our exceptional compassionate care. Visit us online at www.northside.com
James Swafford District 2
Jimmy Hamby District 3
Julie Hughes Nix District 4
Mike Berg Chairman
The Dawson County Board of Commissioners meets at the following times: Voting Session First and third Thursday: 6 p.m. Work Session Second and fourth Thursday: 4 p.m.
COUNTY ADMINISTRATION County Manager
Cindy Campbell is the Dawson County Manager. The county manager is responsible for overseeing management standards and operating procedures of nine administrative departments, reporting to the board of commissioners. (706) 344-3501 Ext. 42236 25 Justice Way, Suite 2236 ccampbell@dawsoncounty.org
Chief Financial Officer
Chief Financial Officer Dena Bosten oversees accounting, purchasing, budgets, grants and payroll. (706) 344-3501, Ext. 42214 25 Justice Way, Suite 2214 Dawsonville, GA 30534 dbosten@dawsoncounty.org
County Clerk
Danielle Yarbrough has served Dawson County since 1999 and assumed the role of county clerk on Jan. 1, 2012. Appointed annually, the county clerk is responsible for keeping records, maintaining and updating county codes, recording official minutes and corresponding on behalf of the board of commissioners. (706) 344-3501, Ext. 42235 25 Justice Way, Suite 2235 Dawsonville, GA 30534 countyclerk@dawsoncounty.org
Planning and Development
Rachel Burton is the county’s planning and development director. The department includes: Planning and zoning, building per mitting and inspections. Contact: Rachel Burton (706) 344-3501, Ext. 42337 25 Justice Way, Suite 2322 Dawsonville, GA 30534 rburton@dawsoncounty.org
Public Works and Community Development
David McKee serves as the director of administration and special projects for Dawson County.
David Headley, as public works director, oversees operations in the following divisions: Roads and bridges, waste and recycling, facilities maintenance, fleet management and engineering.
(706) 344-3501, Ext. 42240 25 Justice Way, Suite 2240 Dawsonville, GA 30534 dmckee@dawsoncounty.org
(706) 344-3501, Ext. 42232 25 Justice Way, Suite 2232 Dawsonville, GA 30534 dheadley@dawsoncounty.org
Administration and Special Projects
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
Sharon Fausett District 1
T h e o ff i c e o f t a x commission has t wo major duties: collect taxes and distribute auto tags. Linda Townley, who is currently ser ving her third term as Dawson C o u n t y Ta x Commissioner, said her staff’s goal is to perform Tax Commissioner their duties efficiently and Linda Townley in a timely manner, while 25 Justice Way, Suite 1222 providing citizens with quality customer service. Dawsonville, GA 30534 Services include Phone: (706) 344-3520 automobile title transfers, Fax: (706) 344-3522 ve h i c l e r e g i s t r a t i o n , issuing disabled parking placards and other motor related services. Townley reminds residents to bring their driver’s license or picture ID with a Dawson County address and an original title, if a title transaction is required, when purchasing auto tags. If renewing or needing new registration, the same identification is required, along with the VIN of the vehicle or a tag number, she said. To obtain a disabled parking permit, a notarized form is required from a doctor. The blank forms can be obtained through the tax commissioner’s office or the doctor’s office. The office is also responsible for billing, collecting and disbursing the property tax payments as prescribed by the laws of the State of Georgia. All transactions can be paid for with cash, check or credit/debit card. If a card is used there is a convenience fee applied. Tag renewals and tax payments can be c o m p l e t e d o n l i n e b y g o i n g t o w w w. dawsoncountytax.com. Residents can also choose to pay their tax bills and automobile tags in person. The tax commissioner’s office is on the first floor of the Dawson County Government Center and is open from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Friday.
COUNTY
COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
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AGRICULTURE IN DAWSON COUNTY
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Agricultural
Article and photography by Michele Hester
La n d sc a p e
Driving Dawson County’s economy Traveling along Ga. 400, the landscape of Dawson County appears to be all about retail. But take nearly any side road headed west toward Dawsonville, and another economic engine will come into view. Agriculture continues to drive the local economy with a more than $56 million annual impact. “Dawson County is still a farming community,” said Extension Agent Clark MacAllister. “A lot of the farming that goes on is not what you think in the traditional sense. We don’t see tractors flying down the fields with row crops.” Instead, it’s rows and rows of chicken houses, with poultry production accounting for nearly 86 percent of the county’s farming industry. A fourth generation farmer and county native, Jason Hamby knew from the time he was a child, watching his grandfather tend the family land, that he would follow those footsteps, despite the warnings that the industry is full of uncertainties. “When I told him I wanted to be a farmer, he told me, ‘Son, you can’t farm with the economy like it is now. You need to get an education,’” Hamby said. So he did just that, and then he brought the knowledge he learned back to Dawsonville, took out a substantial loan at the local bank and invested in his dream. Now, depending on the season, he spends anywhere from 60-100 hours a week raising chickens and cattle, or tending to corn, hay, fescue and wheat fields on the family’s 700-acre farm. “My wife Beth is also a native of Dawson County. We’re real proud of what we do, holding on to our heritage and the ability to feed ourselves, as well as those around us,” he said. “I love Dawson County and I love the opportunities to raise my family here and have a farm, to try to have something to hold on to for my children to have a farm, as well.” Farming has changed monumentally since the family’s forefathers began cultivating the lands decades and decades ago. And with innovations in the industry, as well as the emergence of agri-tourism as a profitable by-product of farming, Hamby said there are limitless possibilities to sustain the trade for future generations. “I see that my children need to be more involved in agri-tourism. I think that’s where the future in the Dawson County area of farming is going to go,” he said. “This is a family farm. We are a true farm, but there are a lot of folks that would like to see how a farm works, like to see what it takes to grow certain things.”
According to Hamby, there is an increasing interest in developing new, unique and creative opportunities in the agricultural community. “I truly believe there will be a huge opportunity for any niche market you can grab ahold of,” he said. “Take Burt’s Pumpkin Farm. We laughed back in school when they said they were going to raise pumpkins.” Now 20 years later, the Burt family is growing and selling 50-70 acres of pumpkins each year to thousands of visitors that travel to Dawsonville from across the state. “I’ve talked to some gentlemen out of Cleveland that are renting little eight by eight pieces of ground,” Hamby said. “They’re taking a field, plowing it, getting it ready and letting someone else come in and just plant their squash or beans or something and get the feel of the dirt and get an idea of what it felt like years ago to actually grow your own food. “To me, that would create a wonderful opportunity.”
Fourth generation farmer Jason Hamby at his chicken farm in western Dawson County.
y e n
f
t y y r e -
Marley and Luke Hamby snap green beans they grew on the family farm in western Dawson County.
AGRICULTURE IN DAWSON COUNTY
n n
Agriculture’s economic impact in Dawson County Ornamental horticulture
$878,750
Fruit and nuts
$29,000
Forestry related
$156,332
Agritourism
$839,500
Poultry and eggs
$48,866,779.59
Livestock and aquaculture $4,689,069 Row and forage crops
$1,027,122
Vegetables
$314,482
Other
$64,290
Total
$56,865,324.59
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HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
COUNTY
David Ralston, R-Blue Ridge, represents Georgia House District 7, which includes Fannin and Gilmer counties, and the northern portion of Dawson County. He has served in the Georgia House of Representatives since 2003 and was elected the 73rd Speaker of the Georgia House of Representative in 2010. Capitol Address 332 State Capitol Atlanta, GA 30334
REPRESENTATIVES
David Ralston, District 7
Kevin Tanner, District 9
SENATE Steve Gooch, R-Dahlonega, represents the 51st District, which includes Dawson, Fannin, Gilmer, Pickens and White counties, as well as parts of Pickens and Union counties, in the Georgia State Senate. He was elected in 2010 and currently serves as Majority Caucus Secretary. CapitolAddress Phone 421-C State Capitol (404) 656-9221 Atlanta, GA 30334 (706) 300-6568 Steve Gooch, District 51
District Address P.O. Box 600 Dahlonega, GA 30533
District Address P.O. Box 188 Blue Ridge, GA 30513 Phone (404) 656-5020, capitol (706) 632-2221, district Kevin Tanner, R-Dawsonville, represents Georgia House District 9, which includes Lumpkin County, most of Dawson County and the northwestern portion of Forsyth County. He was first elected in 2012. His second term began Jan. 1 and expires Dec. 31, 2016. Capitol Address 401-E Coverdell Legislative Office Bldg. Atlanta, GA 30334 District Address P.O. Box 1885 Dawsonville, GA 30534 Phone (404) 656-0152, office (678) 776-5059, cell
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Office Hours: 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Friday 25 Justice Way, Suite 3321 Dawsonville, GA 30534
District Attorney Lee Darragh
PROBATE COURT Office Hours: 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Friday
COURTS
Phone: (706) 344-3620 Fax: (706) 344-3622
COUNTY
DISTRICT ATTORNEY
25 Justice Way, Suite 4332 Dawsonville, GA 30534 Phone: (706) 344-3580 Fax: (706) 265-6155
Probate Court Judge Jennifer Burt
MAGISTRATE COURT Office Hours: 8 a.m.5 p.m. Monday through Friday 25 Justice Way, Suite 1302 Dawsonville, GA 30534 Phone: (706) 344-3510 Fax: (706) 344-351
Magistrate Court Judge Lisa Thurmond
CLERK OF COURTS Office Hours: 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Friday 25 Justice Way, Suite 3201 Dawsonville, GA 30534 Phone: (706) 344-3730 Fax: (706) 265-8780
Clerk of Courts Justin Power
17
COUNTY
There’s always something fun to do in Dawson By Michele Hester
mhester@dawsonnews.com
concession stand. The 20 acre field area next to Cochran Creek also boasts a beautiful view of the Appalachian Mountains. Hiking trails and fall foliage While Amicalola Falls State Park is open year-round, many say the best time to visit is during fall as the leaves begin to turn. The park’s features the tallest cascading waterfall in the southeastern United States. At 729 feet tall, the water fall can also be viewed from the top or bottom of the landmark. For serious hikers, the park also includes an 8.5 mile trail that leads from the park to Springer Mountain, the southern end of the Appalachian Trail.
With more than 47 miles of pristine Lake Lanier shoreline, the tallest waterfall this side of the Mississippi River and an unmatched retail hub, Dawson County is a destination packed with a variety of fun activities that draw locals and tourists to our community throughout the year. Among the most popular attractions in Dawson County are Amicalola Falls State Park, North Georgia Premium Outlets, Lake Lanier and Burt’s Farm. Real estate experts have touted the lake’s rising level as a boost to the local economy, which is fueled by a thriving retail market along the Ga. 400 corridor. Considered a mecca for shoppers, North Georgia Premium Outlets and the surrounding retail businesses pull in an estimated 75 percent of the local tax base from outside Dawson County, officials have said. The 62-acre outdoor, village-type mall draws bargain hunters from across the southeast to shop the mall’s more than 140 high-ned and brand name outlets. “Anytime you can get other people to spend their money here and live somewhere else, where we don’t have to put up the infrastructure in, we’re in a wonderful situation,” said Dawson County Commission Chairman Mike Berg. Dawson Forest Wildlife Management Area and the county’s active and passive parks are also perfect for a variety of outdoor activities. Parks offer abundance in recreation As summer winds down and the cool autumn air moves in, area agri-tourism attractions open for the season. Dawson County is no stranger to the agri-tourism boom that has hit the state of Georgia in the past few years. Locals and visitors come out in full force to appreciate the vibrant leaves, cooler air and natural sights. “Agritourism is extremely vital to our local economy, especially at this time of year when corn mazes and pumpkin patches bring visitors from all over Georgia to our county,” said Christie Haynes, director of tourism development. Boasting numerous corn mazes, pumpkin patches, hiking trails and festivals, the area is teeming with fall activities. Pumpkin farms Both Burt’s Farm and Bradley’s Pumpkin Patch offer hundreds of pumpkins for families to choose from. Burt’s Farm also offers hayrides and sells winter squash, gourds, Indian corn, fall decorations and hay bales. Visitors can indulge with warm, freshly-baked pumpkin pies, candied popcorn and an assortment of other goodies. Bradley’s Pumpkin Patch, named after owner Bradley Weaver, who started selling pumpkins at age five, vends local jellies and jams, wooden toys, gardening books and locally-made quilts out of an old barn. Bradley’s also sells pumpkins, gourds, Indian corn, Ellijay apples, honey, just to name a few. Frasier Fir Christmas trees and live wreaths are also available after Thanksgiving weekend. Corn mazes For those families looking for a challenge, corn mazes offer brainteasers that often bring participants closer together as they work to find their way out. Located off Hwy. 53 East, Uncle Shuck’s Corn Maze has been puzzling families more than 10 years. Uncle Shuck’s also has the added fun of a corn cannon and bonfire area for roasting marshmallows. Buck’s Corn Maze, in northern Dawson County, covers 74 more than 12 acres of land and also offers hayrides and a
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20
Welcome to Dawsonville
CITY
Wi t h s o m a ny places to visit in the state of Georgia, we are proud that you have chosen Dawsonville to make your home. We are an energetic, spirited, active, lively, vital, vigorous, powerful, positive community with all the arts and entertainment that our close proximity to Atlanta has to offer. We have the tallest waterfall east of the Mississippi River, premium outlet shopping, stateof-the-art road race track, while maintaining a beautiful landscape with a quality of life that only God can create. Also, Lake Lanier is just 10 minutes away for the fishing and boating enthusiasts. Dawsonville hosts a number of festivals and events, including the Mountain Moonshine Festival held the fourth weekend in October. The Dawsonville town square comes alive with cars, arts and crafts displays, clogging and other entertainment.
Dawsonville’s also the home of NASCAR Champion Bill Elliott. Stop by the Georgia Racing Hall of Fame Museum to see a large display of racing memorabilia. There are also a number of historic attractions here, like our historic jail and courthouse. Among the first structures built in Dawsonville were a log courthouse and a wooden reinforced jail. The original courthouse was replaced in 1860, by the historic courthouse which still stands in the middle of Dawsonville. The original jail was destroyed by fire soon after it was completed during a failed escape attempt. The county was without a jail until 1881, when the historic jail was completed. The old jail is located west of the courthouse and, along with the historic courthouse, is listed in the National Register of Historic Places. Both the jail and the courthouse have undergone extensive renovation to restore them to their original appearance. According to the 2010 Census, the City of Dawsonville has a population of 2,536 residents. Between 2000 and 2010, the city experienced a population increase of 139 percent. Whether you are a newcomer to Dawsonville, a lifelong resident, or somewhere in between, we are so happy you have made the decision to live, work and/or play in the city.
W. James Grogan Mayor City of Dawsonville
Wishing All Students, Teachers, Administrators, and Their Families a Successful School Year.
Caleb Phillips
Angie Smith
James Grogan Mayor
Jason Power
CITY CITY COUNCIL
CITY COUNCIL
Mike Sosebee The city council meets on the first Monday of each month at 5 p.m. in the Dawsonville Municipal Complex council chambers, and a work session is held at 4 p.m. on the third Monday of each month.
CITY City Clerk
Please Join Us the Last Tuesday of Every Month at 7:00 pm at the Bowen Center for the Arts
Bonnie Warne, City Clerk clerk@dawsonville-ga.gov Sara Beacham, Accounts Payable accounting@dawsonville-ga.gov
Planning and Zoning
Nalita Copeland, Permit Technician permits@dawsonville-ga.gov
Public Works
Gary Barr, Public Works Director director@dawsonville-ga.gov Beverly Banister, Utility Billing Clerk cityhall@dawsonville-ga.gov Russ Chambers, Water and Wastewater Associate maintenance@dawsonville-ga.gov Trampas Hansard, Roads Associate Jacob Barr, Roads Associate roads@dawsonville-ga.gov
Main Line: (706) 265-3256 Office Hours: After Hours Emergency: Monday-Friday (706) 974-7688 8 a.m.–4:30 p.m. (706) 429-6211
21
CITY
YEAR-ROUND FUN TO BE HAD IN DAWSONVILLE By David Renner
22
On top of the municipality functions offered by the city of Dawsonville, festivals, museums and events can be found yearround in this small mountain town. Whether your taste is racing nostalgia and memorabilia, illicit history or rock and roll, Dawsonville has it all. Cultivating history for the future Open year-round, the Georgia Racing Hall of Fame is located in downtown Dawsonville, adjacent to the Dawsonville Municipal Complex. For more than 10 years, the Georgia Racing Hall of Fame has proudly stood watch over this region’s proud history of auto racing. Open since 2002, the museum, originally a tourist attraction called “Thunder Road,” offers displays, pictures, video clips and trophies of prominent racecar drivers, the museum seeks to educate the community on the rich and varied history of racing. Museum entry costs $4 for adults, $3 for seniors and $2 for children (age 7-13). Children six and under are free. The museum is open 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Monday through Saturday, noon to 4 p.m. on Sunday and is located at 415 Hwy. 53 East in Dawsonville. For more information, call (706) 216-7223 or visit www.georgiaracinghof.com. Remembering history can be fun Another long-standing tradition in Dawsonville is the annual Mountain Moonshine Festival. Bringing in easily 100,000 people, the festival pays tribute to the community’s unique moonshine heritage and celebrates Dawsonville as the birthplace of NASCAR, which got its start with moonshiners racing south on Hwy. 9 to escape revenuers charged with shutting down the illegal trade. Those attending can expect to see fast cars, once-illegal whiskey and plenty of shopping opportunities. Proceeds from the festival support K.A.R.E. for Kids’ efforts to provide Christmas and other necessities to Dawson County children in need. Festival rock crowds One newer tradition in Dawsonville is the rock music festival.
Proceeds from the event last year benefited Camp Southern Ground, area musician Zac Brown’s program for kids with autism and ADHD, and the Georgia Racing Hall of Fame. The annual event draws crowds from all around the state for affordable music, food, drink and fun. The event is hit with fans, according to Dawsonville Mayor James Grogan. “I talked to a lot of people that came and everybody thought it was a great event,” he said. “I think anyone would enjoy coming, just to hear the music.” Christmas brings town together Organized by the Dawson County Chamber of Commerce, the annual Christmas parade features floats, groups and individual participants. Awards are given in a variety of categories such as Best of Parade and Most Creative. The city’s annual tree lighting follows the parade at the Dawsonville Municipal Complex where kids can visit with Santa and enjoy live Christmas performances. Dawsonville’s Mayor, James Grogan, promises the event will only get bigger and better each year. “The parade was an absolute blast,” he said. “Everyone was enthusiastic about it. I can’t thank the people that participated enough.” Freedom ‘spark’ing city traditions The city of Dawsonville, in partnership with Atlanta Motorsports Park, offers the fireworks festival Sparks at the Motorsports Park each year. Presented by the Dawsonville Downtown Development Authority, Sparks in the Motorsports Park is expected to become an annual event. The affair offers bike riding, karting, vendors, a triathlon and a run under the fireworks. “Independence Day means that we can raise our children in the way we want them to be, and it just means a great country and basically, freedom to live the way you want to,” said lifelong Dawson County resident Matthew Smallwood. “We’re here to watch the fireworks with my two beautiful daughters and it doesn’t get better than that.”
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24 City to build park CITY
By David Renner One of the city of Dawsonville’s newest projects is what is being called the “Main Street Park.” “The plan is to tur n this land into what we’ve dubbed ‘The Main Street Park’ project,” said Mayor James Grogan. “Within that, we hope to have a small amphitheater, a splash pad and a park area for kids and a walking/running track around the entire facility.” The topic was first broached during an October 2014 meeting, at which time the council gave the mayor power to enter talks with the property owners. The city council voted unanimously in June to buy 14.2 acres bet ween the Dawsonville Municipal Complex and library from for $483,242, or about $34,000 per acre. The park land, which sits behind city hall, would have otherwise been broken up into smaller par ts and sold off individually. “We want the land preserved for the city’s use rather than it be sold off in small chunks and be broken up,” Grogan said. The Main Street Park would include greenspace and an amphitheater, as well as a walking trail around the property. “Currently, when we get ready to have a music festival, we have to get permission to be able to use the land,” Grogan said. “With this new area, we have a lot
of uses for it and we feel like we should own it. That way, we can offer concerts to draw in more people to the city.” Part of the park’s funding will come from a portion of the city’s SPLOST funds. The 1-cent sales tax extension passed by 70.35 percent, or 5,066 votes, to 29.65 percent, or 2,135 votes. The tax is expected to generate an estimated $46 million over the next six years. An agreement would split the funds at a ratio of 85 percent to Dawson County and 15 percent to the city of Dawsonville.
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I JUST MOVED HERE... WHAT DO I NEED TO KNOW? Water and sewer The city of Dawsonville Water and Sewer Department provides both water and sewage services within the Dawsonville city limits and just outside the city to include the Perimeter Road area and public school. Application for service can be made at the Dawsonville Municipal Complex, located at 415 Hwy. 53 East. For more information, call (706) 265-3256. Etowah Water and Sewer Authority serves the Eastern Portion of Dawson County outside of the city limits and Perimeter Road. They also sell water wholesale to the city of Dawsonville. Information can be obtained by calling (706) 216-8863. Natural Gas Hook-up for new residents and/or business for natural gas service is now deregulated. Go online at www.pcs. state.ga.us and choose a provider. Atlanta Gas and Light Company handles hooking up new resident or businesses for natural gas service in limited areas of the county. The customer service department for Atlanta Gas and Light Company can be reached seven days a week, 24 hours a day by calling (800) GAS-LINE. Consumer can call (877) GAS-CHOICE. The AGLC Web site at www.aglc.com also provides deregulation information. Propane Gas Propane Gas is available from local area gas dealers. Companies with offices and facilities in Dawson County include: Amicalola Propane, (706) 344-1427; Ferrellgas, (770) 781-2982; Mark Heard Fuel Company, (706) 2652994; and Mills Fuel Service, (706) 265-3394. Electricity Amicalola Electric Membership Corporation serves the northern part of Dawson County outside of the city limits of Dawsonville. To contact Amicalola EMC, call (706) 253-5200 or (706) 864 7979. Sawnee Electric Membership Corporation serves some southern and western portions of Dawson County. New customers can call (770) 887-2363 for service. Georgia Power Company Serves customers inside the city limits of Dawsonville, as well as the area along Hwy. 9, as far as the river and corridor from Dawsonville north along Hwy. 136 to Dahlonega. For more information on Georgia Power service, call (706) 864-3614 or (888) 660-5890. Phones, television cable and Internet connections Most of Dawson County is served by Windstream communications. Call to Windstream should be directed to (866)445-5880 or (706) 216-2222. Cable television service is also provided by Windstream. Windstream provides Internet access as well. Trash Pickup The City of Dawsonville provides trash pickup inside the city limits. Call city hall at (706) 265-3256 and request pickup. A 95 gallon trash container is provided.
Evans Garbage Service provides pick up services to city water customers, and Advance Disposal Services and AAA Sanitation provided trash pickup within the county to residents outside Dawsonville city limits. For prices and other information, call Evans Garbage at (706) 216-4232, Advance Disposal services at 706-265-3256 or AAA Sanitation at (706)864-4860. Dawson County also has a transfer station located on Burt Creek Road, which accepts household trash and items for recy recycling such as cardboard, plastics, aluminum, paper products and glass. Prices vary for the disposal of household trash only. No commercial waste is accepted. Call (706) 344-3645 for hours and rates.
PUBLIC SAFETY Non-emergency (706) 344-3636 Sheriff’s office 19 Tucker Avenue Dawsonville, GA 30534 General Information Phone: (706) 344-3535 Fax: (706) 344-3537 Sheriff Billy Carlisle c a r lis le @ d aw s o n c o u ntysheriff.org C i v i l , Tra n s p o r t s a n d Warrants Phone: (706) 344-3500 Fax: (706) 531-2785 Major Brandon Branson branson@dawsoncoun tysheriff.org Detention General Information Phone: (706) 344-3535 Ext. 10491 Fax: (706) 344-3550 Inmate Information Phone: (706) 344-3545 Major Jeff Johnson jjohnson@dawsoncount ysheriff.org Investigations Phone: (706) 344-3535 Fax: (706)344-3537 Major Ray Goodie goodie@dawsoncoun tysheriff.org Uniform Patrol Phone: (706) 265-6125 Fax: (706) 344-3540 major Greg Rowan rowan@dawsoncoun tysheriff.org
Emergency Services 393 Memory Lane Dawsonville, GA 30534 Phone: (706) 344-3666 Fax: (706) 344-3669 Office Hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday – Friday Station 1/Headquarters 393 Memory Lane, Dawsonville (706) 344-3666 Station 2 145 Liberty Drive, Dawsonville Station 3 951 Harmony Church Road, Dawsonville Station 4 245 Emma Terrace, Dawsonville Station 5 8573 Kelly Bridge Road, Dawsonville Station 6 2142 Hubbard Road, Dawsonville Station 7 170 Dawson Forest Road West, Dawsonville Station 8 2996 Monument Road, Jasper
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Hours of Operation 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturdays The chamber office is located at 44 Commerce Drive on Hwy. 400 and can be reached at (706) 265-6278 or at www.dawson.org.
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