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2026 Consumer Guide

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Advancing Dermatology Through Medical Excellence At Dermatology Consultants

For more than 20 years in Covington, and for over 85 years as a trusted name in Georgia, Dermatology Consultants has remained committed to one guiding principle: delivering evidence-based dermatological care with precision, compassion, and innovation.

At Dermatology Consultants, board-certified MD’s and Physician Assistants combine advanced technology with clinical expertise to diagnose, treat, and manage a full spectrum of skin conditions for patients of all ages. From routine skin exams and early skin cancer detection to advanced aesthetics and laser treatments performed by our licensed Aestheticians and Laser Technicians, the practice emphasizes thorough evaluation, individualized treatment plans, and long-term patient relationships.

One of the most critical components of dermatologic care is early detection of skin cancer. With skin cancer rates continuing to rise nationwide, proactive screening and timely intervention are more important than ever. Dermatology Consultants offers comprehensive skin cancer detection and treatment services, including Image-Guided Superficial Radiation Therapy (IG-SRT), providing patients with advanced, non-invasive options when appropriate. Their designation as a Skin Cancer Center of Excellence underscores their commitment to the highest clinical standards.

Beyond medical dermatology, the practice also offers advanced

aesthetic and regenerative services rooted in science, not trends. Laser and light therapies, cosmetic injectables, body sculpting, hair restoration, and customized aesthetic treatments are delivered with the same clinical precision and safety protocols as medical procedures. Every aesthetic treatment plan is designed to enhance natural results while preserving long-term skin health.

What truly distinguishes Dermatology Consultants is their comprehensive and customized approach. Rather than addressing isolated concerns, the team evaluates each patient considering medical history, lifestyle and genetics. The result is personalized, results-driven care for the

entire family.

In an era where healthcare can often feel transactional, Dermatology Consultants prioritizes relationships. Their providers take the time to educate patients, explain treatment options, and build trust.

As dermatology continues to evolve with technological advancements and new therapies, Dermatology Consultants remains at the forefront, combining decades of experience with forward-thinking innovation. Whether you are seeking routine skin care, specialized medical treatment, or advanced aesthetic services, Dermatology Consultants delivers the highest standard of dermatologic excellence, right here in Covington.

AUSTIN HARRIS, EDWARD JONES

Helping families navigate the trials and tribulations of finance

For nearly a decade, I have been dedicated to helping families navigate the complexities of wealth management with a personalized approach that aligns with their goals and aspirations. As a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER (CFPÂź), I specialize in crafting strategies that not only preserve and grow wealth but also enhance my clients lifestyles and help them create the legacy they envision.

A Comprehensive Approach to Wealth Management

Families today face a wide range of financial challenges from tax-efficient investing to estate planning and risk management. Many of my clients have complex financial needs, prefer to delegate investment management, and seek strategic solutions to minimize tax burdens. Thats why I take a holistic approach to financial planning, ensuring that every recommendation aligns with their personal and financial objectives.

Before engaging with a prospective client, I conduct an in-depth analysis of their lifestyle, goals, and long-term vision. This deep understanding allows me to develop tailored solutions that address their specific concerns whether its preparing for retirement, optimizing charitable giving, or structuring an estate plan that supports future generations.

Education, Expertise, and Community Involvement

My educational background and professional designations reflect my commitment to excellence in financial planning. I earned a bachelors degree in business from the University of Alabama at Birmingham and continued my ed-

ucation with a masters degree in financial planning. To further enhance my ability to serve clients, I have obtained multiple industry-recognized credentials, including:

CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER (CFP)

Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor (CRPC)

Chartered Retirement Plans Specialist (CRPS)

Accredited Asset Management Specialist(AAMS)

Beyond my practice, I am committed to educating the community on financial matters. If you read The Covington News, you may have come across my monthly columns, where I share insights on key financial and economic topics to help individuals and families make informed decisions.

Recognized Among Georgias Best

In 2023 and 2024, I was honored to be named to the Forbes NextGen Best-In-State Wealth Advisors for Georgia. This recognition reflects my dedication to delivering

outstanding service and creating meaningful financial plans that empower families to achieve their aspirations.

How My Team and I Can Help You

At our firm, we believe that financial planning is more than just numbers, it’s about helping people live the life they envision with confidence and clarity. Whether you are looking to optimize your investments, plan for retirement, or create a lasting legacy, my team and I are here to guide you every step of the way.

Lets start the conversation about how we can help you secure your financial future.

Office: (770) 788-6181

Email:Austin.Harris@edwardjones.com

*Source: Forbes.com (Awarded in 2023, 2024 & 2025. The Forbes ranking of Next-Gen Best-In-State Wealth Advisors is based on various criteria, including industry experience, revenue trends, and client satisfaction.)

J.C. Harwell and Son Funeral Home has served this great community for over 130 years. As times change and our community grows, one thing remains the same the over a century of compassionate services J.C.Harwell and Son Funeral Home has provided to those in need.

We offer services designed to fit your needs; traditional services and those uniquely designed to honor the life lived and the legacy left behind. We honor any existing pre-need that may have been made at another f uneral home. We are proud to be locally owned and operated something other funeral homes may not be able to say.

MEET CASA VOLUNTEER

DWANE FORRESTER

A father and published author with a long career at the Port Authority of Jamaica, Dwane Forrester migrated to the United States with his family in 2019 After settling into his new home and starting work with Home Depot, Dwane felt the urge to do more and have an impact on his community Alcovy CASA volunteering, says Dwane, seemed like something he could do, and something serious he could get involved in.

THE CASA TRAINING

“The preparation enabled us to do the job,” Dwane says of the CASA Volunteer training he went through Dwane, along with other community members, completed a 40-hour training session to learn about CASA roles and responsibilities Throughout the classes, trainees heard from guest speakers, including our local Juvenile Court Judges. “When the Judges explained how important the volunteer role was, and the need for volunteers, I thought, ‘Why not?’ If you can help fulfill needs for families and children, there is an opportunity to make a difference.” He learned that a lot of the children we serve come from families experiencing poverty and how CASA Volunteers make a difference for the children’s best interests.

THE CASA IMPACT

When asked how his CASA experience has affected him, Dwane shared that his biggest realization has been that poverty looks similar, both in Jamaica and here in Newton County “It’s something society has to face,” says Dwane “There is no ideal situation when a family is poor. But poverty doesn’t prevent a loving environment. The family might not have all the resources they need, but the security a child feels when they remain in a loving home with family is important."

THE CASA ROLE

Our CASA Volunteers advocate for the best interest of children experiencing foster care. For Dwane’s first assigned case, best interest meant working closely with Alcovy CASA and DFCS Staff to find a safe family member for the children to live with. While foster and group homes often have additional resources available to them, Dwane acknowledges that as long as a family member is a safe and stable option for a child, we can honor that love and connection the child has to their family The children on his case were able to be safely placed with a family member and found permanency “The children were happy with their final placement,” shared Dwane, and he was pleased with the outcome of the case

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED

We are grateful to Dwane for all the ways he advocates for the best interests of children experiencing foster care, but we need more advocates to be able to serve all of our children! If you are interested in making a difference in the life of a child, please consider volunteering your time or donating to our program through our website, www.AlcovyCASA.org

Alcovy CASA Volunteer Dwane Forrester

UNITED BANK

IDedicated to Supporting Communities Since 1905

n 1905, a group of local Georgia businessmen founded what is now United Bank. Their vision was to create a trusted, convenient financial institution with deep roots in its smalltown community. As United Bank has grown and evolved through the years, we’ve stayed true to this vision. We pride ourselves on personal connections within our communities, employing over 400 people in our network of branches across Middle Georgia. At the same time, we offer all the latest cutting-edge financial solutions. As we have for more than a century, we remain a team united to serve our local customers.

We believe community banking plays a vital role in the strength and sustainability of local economies, particularly when it comes to supporting small businesses. Unlike large national institutions, United Bank is deeply rooted in the towns and cities we serve. Our leadership teams and decision-makers live and work in the same neighborhoods as our customers. That proximity creates more than convenience. It builds understanding, accountability,

and long-term relationships. Small businesses are often described as the backbone of the economy, and for good reason. They create jobs, fuel innovation, and keep dollars circulating within our communities. Starting or expanding a small business requires access to capital. That’s where United Bank can make a meaningful difference. Rather than relying solely on automated underwriting models, we take the time to understand the story behind the numbers. We evaluate character, business plans, and local market knowledge alongside financial statements.

This relationship-based approach is especially important for entrepreneurs who may not fit into a standard lending box.

A new restaurant owner, a contractor expanding their fleet, or a family-owned retail shop upgrading equipment might not have a lengthy credit history or perfect ratios. United Bank can help to structure loans that reflect real-world circumstances, whether through lines of credit, government guaranteed loans,

SBA loans, conventional business loans or commercial real estate loans.

When small businesses succeed, our communities prosper. Storefronts remain occupied, families are employed, and local services expand. United Bank understands that small business loans represent more than financial transactions. They represent dreams, livelihoods, and a commitment to the future of the community. By combining personalized service with responsible lending, United Bank continues to be a trusted partner in small business growth and local economic development. Whether you’re expanding your space, purchasing equipment, or managing cash flow, the right small business loan can help turn big plans into progress. If you are ready to grow your business, talk with one of our lenders. For more information on business loan options or to apply online, visit accessunited.com.

United Bank Member FDIC, Equal Housing Lender, NMLS #413054

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2026 Consumer Guide by The Covington News - Issuu