awesome dawson 2013

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Explore Dawson’s Lakes, Waterfalls and Mountains Everything you need to know about living and working in Dawson County A publication of the Dawson News & Advertiser Dawson THE PREMIER NEWCOMERS GUIDE TO DAWSON COUNTY 2013-2014 Plus: Schools, Government, Festivals and Health Services Directory

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The premier newcomers guide to Dawson County

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Page 1: Awesome Dawson 2013

ExploreDawson’s Lakes,

Waterfalls and Mountains

Everything you need to know about living and working in Dawson County

A publication of the Dawson News & Advertiser

AwesomeDawsonTHE PREMIER NEWCOMERS GUIDE

TO DAWSON COUNTY2013-2014

Plus: Schools, Government, Festivals and Health Services Directory

Page 2: Awesome Dawson 2013

In the midst of the Chattahoochee National

Forest, Amicalola Falls State Park & Lodge

offers hotel rooms, a family restaurant and

meeting facilities surrounded by pristine

rivers, lakes and wooded trails. Within walking

distance from the lodge is the 729-foot falls

the Cherokee Indians named Amicalola,

meaning, “tumbling waters.” With hiking,

biking, canoeing and fi shing, there’s something

for every member of your group or family. Of

course, the greatest natural wonder of them

all may just be enjoying the simple pleasures

of the great outdoors.

Easy to get to. Easy to afford. All of it makes

Amicalola Fall State Park & Lodge the easy

choice for your next getaway or get together.

The only thing better than spending the day at Amicalola is spending the night . . .

418 Amicalola Falls Lodge RdDawsonville, Georgia 30534AmicalolaFalls.com

Visit GeorgiaStateParks.org or call 1.800.864.7275 to make your reservations today.

LIKE US!

In the midst of the Chattahoochee National

Forest, Amicalola Falls State Park & Lodge

offers hotel rooms, a family restaurant and

meeting facilities surrounded by pristine

rivers, lakes and wooded trails. Within walking

distance from the lodge is the 729-foot falls distance from the lodge is the 729-foot falls

the Cherokee Indians named Amicalola,

meaning, “tumbling waters.” With hiking,

biking, canoeing and fi shing, there’s something

for every member of your group or family. Of

course, the greatest natural wonder of them

all may just be enjoying the simple pleasures

of the great outdoors.

Easy to get to. Easy to afford. All of it makes

Amicalola Fall State Park & Lodge the easy

choice for your next getaway or get together.

In the midst of the Chattahoochee

National Forest, Amicalola Falls Lodge

offers motel rooms, a family restaurant

and meeting facilities surrounded by

pristine rivers, lakes and wooded trails.

Within walking distance from the lodge

is the 729-foot falls the Cherokee Indians

named Amicalola, meaning “tumbling

waters”. With hiking, biking, canoeing

���� ��������� �������� ���������� ���� ������

member of your group or family. Of

course, the greatest natural wonder of

them all may just be enjoying the simple

pleasures of the great outdoors.

Easy to get to. Easy to afford. All of makes

Amicalola Falls Lodge the easy choice for

your next getaway or get together.

Visit AmicalolaFalls.com or call 1.800.573.9656 to make your reservations today.

2 | AWESOME DAWSON 2013 | www.dawsonadvertiser.com

Page 3: Awesome Dawson 2013

3

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Locally owned & operatedsince 1977

RXGoodson’sPharmacy

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Full Service BarLunch: Mon. - Fri. 11:30 a.m. - 2 p.m. ; Sat. - Sun. 12 p.m. - 3 p.m.

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Dawsonville, GA. 30534

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State Farm Mutual Insurance Company����������������������������

Auto, Home, Life and More!

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are making accurate and informed choices.

Page 4: Awesome Dawson 2013

Qu

ality S

ervice at a Quality Price

Locally Owned pe

rated

Propane Sales Service & RepairFarm • Home • Commercial

Propane Tanks for Sale or LeaseGas Heaters

Gas Logs Serving Farms, Residential & Commercial Clients

World’s Best Smoker & Grill

706-344-1427383 Hwy. 53 W. • Dawsonville, GA

Open: Mon-Fri. 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. • Sat.: 8 a.m. - 12 p.m.

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ddede

BREAKFAST • LUNCH • DINNER

Home of the World Famous Brownie Sandwich!

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

Voted Best BBQin Dawson County!

TWO LOCATIONS TO BETTER SERVE YOU!• 6566 Hwy. 53 East & GA 400, 706-216-6706 -

Right on the Corner!

• 236 Hwy. 53 West, 706-429-0069Downtown Dawsonville

High-EndSalon Experience

Without TheHigh-End Prices!

Walk-insWelcome

CALL FOR APPOINTMENTS: 706-265-8074258 Beartooth Pkwy. • Suite 120 • Dawsonville, GA

Just past Sonic on the right

Voted Best Hair Salonin 2012!

4 | AWESOME DAWSON 2013 | www.dawsonadvertiser.com

Page 5: Awesome Dawson 2013

5

Welcome to the 2013-14 edition of Awesome Dawson magazine. This special publication is brought to you by the Dawson News & Advertiser, Dawson County’s oldest and most read newspaper. We have been covering news and events here for more than 126 years. That’s right.

As a relative newcomer to Dawson County and an outdoor enthu-siast, I’ve been experiencing all the great things about the area like a wide-eyed child — on foot, on my bicycle, in a canoe, and by car.

This year, we pay homage to our county’s spectacular parks and recreational activities. What makes Dawson County so unique is our geography. There’s nowhere else in North Georgia where you can start your morning with a hike on the Appalachian Trial and then spend your afternoon boating on Lake Lanier.

The crown jewel of Dawson County’s parks is Amicalola Falls. At 729 feet, it is considered the highest set of falls east of the Mississippi River. Up close, the 729-foot drop is actually seven consecutive cascading falls.

If you prefer indoor activities, the North Georgia Premium Outlet Mall will surely delight you. With more than 400 stores, you are certain to fi nd that something special you’ve been looking for.

And, in between our mountains and lakes you can discover what adds to the allure of Dawson County — racing and moonshine. In 2012, the Georgia State Legislature approved on-site tastings of moonshine, which happened to be the same month that the Dawsonville Moonshine Distillery opened for business. How’s that for fortuitous? You can take a free tour of the distillery and sample a moonshine recipe that’s been passed down for seven generations.

What makes the experience especially memorable is that the distillery is literally steps away from the Dawsonville City Hall and Georgia Racing Hall of Fame (GRHOF). Dawsonville is the birthplace of NASCAR, and it all makes sense. The fi rst NASCAR drivers hauled moonshine from our mountains to thirsty patrons in Atlanta starting in the 1930s and 40s. Some of their original cars are on display at the GRHOF as is Bill Elliott’s #9 Ford Thunderbird in which he set the track record for fastest qualifying speed at Talladega at 212.809. The record still stands.

We hope you can get out and explore Dawson County’s incredible scenery and attractions. We think you’ll agree — it’s Awesome!

Kimberly Boim

WELCOMETO

DAWSON

AWESOMEDAWSON

2013-2014

This guide is a publication of the Dawson News & Advertiser, Dawson County’s oldest and most-read newspaper.

Dawson News & Advertiser

EDITOR/PUBLISHER:

Kimberly Boim

NEWS EDITOR: STAFF WRITER:Carly Sharec Angela Williamson

ADVERTISING REP.: Tom Tucker

EXPLORE ...DAWSON HISTORY 6

GOVERNMENT 9

EDUCATION 10

ATTRACTIONS 12

AMICALOLA STATE PARK 14

HUNTING & FISHING 16

PARKS & RECREATION 18

VOLUNTEER 22

IMPORTANT NUMBERS 23

COUNTY MAP 24

CALENDAR OF EVENTS 26

ON THE COVERFausetts Lake located in the northwest corner of Dawson County. Photo by Kimberly Boim

Page 6: Awesome Dawson 2013

E

6 | AWESOME DAWSON 2013 | www.dawsonadvertiser.com

Dawson County’s history is as pure as the illegal liquor that once ran through the area.

EXPLORE OUR HISTORY

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Carl Gerding, Manager499 Hwy. 53 E.Dawsonville, Ga. 30534

(706) 265-4587Fax (770) 234-5212

[email protected]

Finest Qualityat the Lowest Price

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Page 7: Awesome Dawson 2013

7

The region was first settled by the Cherokee Indians, whose spirit remains in name throughout much of the county’s landmarks. The Etowah River’s valley was one of the first areas settled during the time of the American Revolution. Native Americans made

a home on the river banks and utilized the rich, fertile farmland and the strong water power needed to operate good mill sites. They continued to thrive until the discovery of gold in 1829.

When Georgia announced the region as a new territory, the native people were forced to the path leading to the Trail of Tears. For the next 20 years, prospectors mined the area, and later the region was considered part of the first gold rush in America. Many of the local roads, such as Nugget Ridge and Gold Mine Road, carry the legacy of the county’s gold mining days.

In 1857, Georgia’s 118th county seat was formed deriving from parts of Pickens, Forsyth, Lumpkin and Gilmer counties. Dawson County would remain a predominately agricultural area for the first hundred years of its existence. The county lacked sources of mass transportation. However, Highway 9, one of the

hottest highways during the Prohibition Era, ran straight through the heart of Dawson County and was a main artery to Atlanta.

Dawson County was a well-known source of illegal alco-hol. During the Prohibition Era, distillers (moonshiners) saw an increase in demand and began making modifications to the cars that hauled illegal liquor to Atlanta. The cars were modified for speed and to out-maneuver the state revenue agents (revenuers). Moonshiners began placing bets on their cars and drivers (bootleggers). Unsanctioned races began in the corn fields located in the Etowah River’s bottoms and local residents gathered to watch. Soon, the sport of stock car racing was born. Dawson County would soon be the home to many successful drivers including one of the found-ers of NASCAR, Raymond Parks and “Awesome Bill from Dawsonville” Elliott, the 1988 Winston Cup Champion and his son Chase Elliott, now making a name of his own in the business.

The folks of Dawson County embrace our history and there are many opportunities to learn about it through various avenues including the Dawson County Historical and Ge-nealogical Society, the Dawson County Library, the Georgia Racing Hall of Fame and museum, and the Dawsonville Moonshine Distillery.

Unsanctioned races began in the corn fields located in the Etowah River’s bottoms and local residents gathered to

watch. Soon, the sport of stock car racing was born. Dawson County would soon be the home to many successful drivers ...

Page 8: Awesome Dawson 2013

8 | AWESOME DAWSON 2013 | www.dawsonadvertiser.com

Making the World a Brighter Place,

One Child at a Time

5th AnnualMiss KARE

for Kids PageantOctober 2013

Donations needed for DCHS Prom!

���������������������������������������������������All monies raised go directly to helping children in

Dawson County. All members are volunteers.For More Information Please Visit

www.kareforkids.usor call (706) 216-KARE (5273)

46th ANNUALMOUNTAIN

MOONSHINEFESTIVAL

SM

Dawsonville, Ga.

October 25-27, 2013

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5th Annual5th AnnualMiss KARE Miss KARE

for Kids for Kids PageantPageantOctober 2013October 2013

October 25-27, 2013October 25-27, 2013October 25-27, 2013October 25-27, 2013

For registraton information contact:

Nicki Knight [email protected]

EVERLASTING TREASURES PHOTOGRAPHY

March 30th, 2013Annual Easter Egg Hunt

Veterans Memorial Park

SHINE & SWINE March 23, 2013

KARE’s main focus is providing the opportunity for every child in Dawson County to have a wonderful Christmas!

For Christmas 2012, KARE provided presents to more than 700 deserving children! We also provide year-round assistance with winter coats, clothing, shoes, eyeglasses, ����������������������������������������������������

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see school administration.For all donations call KARE for Kids

706-216-KARE (5273)

K I D S A R E R E A L LY E Q UA L

K I D S A R E R E A L LY E Q UA L

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Page 9: Awesome Dawson 2013

9

GOVERNMENT IN DAWSON COUNTY

The governing authority of Dawson County is the Board of Commissioners, a five-member board with four district commissioners and a chair. Commissioners serve four-year terms and are elected on a staggered basis. The com-

missioners hold two voting sessions each month on the first and third Thursdays at 6 p.m. Work sessions are held the second and fourth Thursdays at 4 p.m. All meetings are held in the Assembly Room at the Government Center.

Current commissioners are, from left, Jimmy Hamby (District Three), Gary Pichon (District One), Julie Hughes Nix (District Four), Mike Berg (Commission Chair) and James Swafford (District Two).

For more, visit dawsoncounty.org or call (706) 344-3500.

The governing authority of the city of Dawsonville is the city council, composed of a mayor and four council members. Each council member serves a four-year term. The City Council meets on the first Monday of every month at 5 p.m. at the

Dawsonville Municipal Complex.Council members are, front row, from left, Angie Smith,

Mayor James Grogan, Mike Sosebee, back row, Jason Power and Chris Gaines.

For more, visit dawsonville-ga.gov or call (706) 265-3256.

COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS

DAWSONVILLE CITY COUNCIL

FEED & FARM SUPPLYFamily Owned & Operated

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BROOKSHER DawsonvillePOOLROOM

Home of the World Famous Bully Burger!The Poolroom is famous for Hometown Racing Hero Bill

Elliott and is also famous as owner Gordon Pirkle has a wall to wall nostalgic collection of automobile racing memoribilia.

706-265-2792Sun-Thurs: 10 a.m. -10 p.m.

Fri-Sat: 10 a.m. - 11 p.m.East First St. in Downtown Dawsonville.

Home of the World Famous Bully Burger!

Page 10: Awesome Dawson 2013

10 | AWESOME DAWSON 2013 | www.dawsonadvertiser.com

EDUCATION IN DAWSON COUNTY

DAWSON SCHOOL SYSTEM

LANIER TECHNICAL COLLEGE

The new Dawson campus of Lanier Technical College opened in September 2012. Located at 408 Hwy. 9 N. (next door to Dawson County Middle School), the col-lege offers a wide array of programs in adult education. Classes at the Dawson campus include early childhood

care and education, accounting, dental assisting and business man-agement, among many other programs. For more information, visit laniertech.edu or call (770) 531-6300.

by Keith Porter, Superintendent of Dawson County Schools

The Dawson County School System (DCSS) benefits greatly from a very supportive community. The com-munity and parents have been integral in the growth and prosperity of the educational services provided in Dawson County. These educational services continue

to expand with the opening of the new Dawson Campus of Lanier Technical College.

The DCSS is a system comprised of eight schools: four el-ementary schools, two middle schools, one non-traditional school, and one high school. It has been important to our community for us to maintain schools at enrollments that allow each student to have a personal identity, and we believe that this has been accom-plished. Additionally, students have access to some of the finest educational facilities available in the state.

The DCSS takes pride in being a Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) accredited school system since 1984. This advanced accreditation allows our graduates to more readily enter colleges and universities and is extremely valuable to the growth of the community. The system also has completed

the Charter School process and been designated as one of the first fourteen systems in the state to achieve the charter distinction. The charter allows the system to have increased flexibility along with a higher level of account-ability. It also allows for greater parental and community input as individuals serve on school and system governing councils. We are using the charter to focus on the three tenants of technology,

leadership, and literacy. The schools, students, and faculty have been recognized

in many ways for outstanding achievement through 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 as well. Student achievement and extra/co-curricular participation are extremely high among the students of our county.

Superintendent Keith Porter

Natures Health Store

54 Lumpkin Campground Road���������������������������706-216-1035

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Page 11: Awesome Dawson 2013

11

DAWSON COUNTY LIBRARY

Dawson County is part of the Chestatee Regional Library system that serves our community and Lumpkin County. The mission of the system is to enhance our community’s quality of life by offering lifelong learning opportunities, family and local

history resources, and recreational materials to everyone. And, they have an incredibly knowledgeable and friendly staff ready to help you.

“I’m new to the community, so the library was really helpful,” said resident Lee Gardiner. “The assistants helped me with my resume, which lead to me getting a job. I don’t have a computer or Internet at home, so I like going there for that and to check my emails and Facebook. I also really like to read.”

The library has a current collection of popular materials for users of all ages and interests as well as free public-use comput-ers with high-speed Internet. Patrons enjoy free access to more than 100,000 items including bestsellers, paperbacks, large print editions, eBooks, audio books, and popular DVDs, newspapers, magazines, and video games — just to name a few. Special requests can be submitted to retrieve books from other libraries if they are unavailable in Dawson County. Plus, printing and photocopying are available for 20 cents per page.

The library is located at 342 Allen St., Dawsonville, (706) 344-3690. Hours: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday 10 a.m - 5:30 p.m., Tuesday 11 a.m. - 7 p.m., Friday and Saturday 10 - 3:30 p.m.. Closed Sunday. Email [email protected]

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Page 12: Awesome Dawson 2013

12 | AWESOME DAWSON 2013 | www.dawsonadvertiser.com

ATTRACTIONS IN DAWSON COUNTY

DAWSONVILLE POOL ROOM

The Dawsonville Pool Room was made famous by its owner and legendary racing historian Gordon Pirkle. It offers a family atmosphere and is packed with an interesting collection of history and memo-rabilia on Bill Elliott’s NASCAR career and early

moonshine runners. The menu includes the famous made-from-scratch Bully Burgers and fresh-cut fries. The restaurant is open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

The Pool Room and Pirkle are known throughout the world. The restaurant has been a backdrop for various television shows and videos. and its black-and-white checkered floor has been graced with the likes of celebrities including musicians Roger Daltry of The Who, AC/DC’s lead singer Bryan Johnson, co-median Larry the Cable Guy, cast members of the hit television series “Moonshiners” and, of course, Bill Elliott.

The Pool Room is located in downtown Dawsonville at 78 E. 1st Street (behind the News & Advertiser office). For more information, call (706) 265-2792.

Page 13: Awesome Dawson 2013

13

GEORGIA RACING HALL OF FAME

The beginnings of stock car racing are remembered at the Georgia Racing Hall of Fame, a museum dedicated to Georgia’s racing history stemming from its roots in Dawson County. Complete with authentic and replica cars, trophies, rare photos and artifacts, the museum

offers a mix of past and modern-day Georgia racing history. The museum is open seven days a week and has a gift shop

with assorted hometown souvenirs, officially licensed NAS-CAR diecast and stock-car racing memorabilia.

The Georgia Racing Hall of Fame is located in downtown Dawsonville, in the same building as the Dawsonville City Munic-ipal Complex. For more information, to schedule a tour, or inquire about an event, visit their Facebook page at facebook.com/georgi-aracinghof, or call (706) 216-RACE (7223).

DAWSONVILLE MOONSHINE DISTILLERY

The Dawsonville Moonshine Distillery is keeping spirits alive with the legal production of moonshine. Visitors of the distillery can soak up the history of making moonshine, while witnessing its process through guided tours where they will be treated with

a free tasting. A gift shop with a broad selection of moonshine-in-spired novelties also serves as a museum offering history lessons about families in North Georgia who saw moonshining as a way of life. Although not sold on the premises, the product is available at over 50 liquor retail stores and restaurants across Georgia . The Dawsonville Moonshine Distillery is located inside the City of Dawsonville Municipal Complex and is open Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. until 4 p.m., and Sundays from noon until 4 p.m.

HISTORIC COURTHOUSE

The Dawson County Courthouse is the oldest working courthouse in the state of Georgia, and its history is deep and rich. During the mid-1800s, workers constructed the courthouse which replaced a log structure that had served temporarily as the county’s headquarters. The log structure was built by James Foster for $30, and the benches were made by James Jackson for $1.25.

Plans for a permanent courthouse were drawn up and accepted in May 1858 to construct a building 50’ by 30’ with four gables, and the window sills and steps were to be made of “good plant”. The contract was given to Wesley McGuire, John Hock-enhull and Anderson Wilson.

However, in August 1858, the plans were changed on the recommendation of the grand jury. The new plans called for an enlarged building of 54’ x 38’, two gables, the use of good bricks or other materials, similar to the courthouse in Gainesville, and windowsills were to be made of granite, soapstone or marble.

The courthouse became the center of activity in the county until it deteriorated and was updated in 1984 largely due to the efforts of the Dawson County Women’s Club, Mrs. Stella Bigham, Commissioner Joe Lane Cox (who later became the city’s mayor), Mrs. Norma Glascock, Mrs. Betty Turner, Sheriff Randy Chester, Leo Glascock, and builder Joe Conowal.

The courthouse currently houses the Dawson County public defender’s office and the Dawson County Historical and Genealogy Society. Hours are Wednesday, noon - 5 p.m.

Page 14: Awesome Dawson 2013

14 | AWESOME DAWSON 2013 | www.dawsonadvertiser.com

AMICALOLA FALLS STATE

PARK & LODGE

This ‘crown jewel’ of the southeast is located right here in Dawson County.

Propane Gas TanksGas AppliancesSales & Service

��������������706-265-2994����������770-887-2333

...of today’s propane

This is the picture...

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258 Beartooth Pkwy., Suite 180, Dawsonville, GA���������������������������������������������

Page 15: Awesome Dawson 2013

15

One of the crown jewels of Georgia, and the southeast, is located right in Dawson County — Amicalola Falls State Park. Amicalola Falls is the tallest cascading waterfall in the Southeast, clocking in at 729 feet. There are several options

from which to view the Falls, from an accessible pathway to an ambitious 604-step staircase to the top of the falls.

Many people think simply of hiking or picnicking at the state park, but it’s also an educational resource for children and adults. The visitors center itself is a destination with a small gift shop, several area maps, a taxidermic animal display, and several live snakes on display, including copperheads and rattle-snakes. Behind the visitors center is a small seating area where many live demonstrations are performed.

Visitors may also fish in the reflection pond, which is stocked twice yearly with a selection of trout.

Relax in the Lodge at Amicalola Falls. The lobby and porch offer a breathtaking mountain view, as do the windows lining the dining area, making it a great location to relax with a glass of wine (or maybe hot chocolate on cool fall and spring eve-nings). There is also a gift shop in the Lodge.

Around the lodge is an exercise hiking trail. The paved route provides a way for anyone to enjoy the outdoors and get in a bit of exercise.

LEN FOOTE HIKE INNLen Foote Hike Inn is located in Amicalola Falls and can

only be reached in a five-mile hike from the top of Amicalola Falls. (The trail itself is labeled easy-to-moderate, and usually takes two to four hours to complete.)

As for the inn itself, there are 20 guest rooms and bathroom facilities for both men and women. Family-style breakfasts and dinners are served daily (trail lunches are available upon re-quest). All guests must check in at the visitor’s center by 2 p.m. Reservations are accepted up to 11 months in advance.

While the inn was established for hikers, it’s also a great place to just get away from it all and reconnect with nature. There is a community room for families and friends to hang out, complete with board games and books. The park staff also provides various educational programs, like a session on wild-flowers, or a walk-through of Dawson County history from 200 years ago.

Many people think simply of hiking or picnicking at the state park, but it’s also an educational resource for chil-

dren and adults. The visitor’s center itself is a destination ...

One of the many breathtaking views from inside the park, at the top of the falls.

Page 16: Awesome Dawson 2013

16 | AWESOME DAWSON 2013 | www.dawsonadvertiser.com

Committed to the Perpetuation of theFamily Shooting Sports with theBonding and Values they Instill.

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M-F: 8:00 - 5:00

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HUNTING SCHEDULESDeer and turkey are two of the county’s most hunted big game. The following dates and seasons are tentative and may change. All hunters must possess proper licensing. Visit georgiawildlife.com/hunting/regulations for updated regulations prior to any hunting activities. Turkey Season opens: March 23 (Statewide), Ends: May 15, 2013 Limit: 3 Gobblers per season License Required: Hunting and Big Game Deer Archery Season: September 14 - October 11, 2013 Primitive Weapons Season: October 12 - 18, 2013 Firearms Season: Opens: October 19, 2013 (Statewide), Ends: January 1, 2014 (Northern Zone), January 15, 2014 (Southern Zone) License Required: Hunting and Big Game

FISHINGTrout Fishing: The Amicalola is by far the most popular trout fishing destination, especially if you are concerned about space. There is plenty of public access as it starts within Amicalola Falls State Park and later flows through Dawson Forest WMA. Except during the Delayed Harvest period on the Amicalola, anglers can keep up to eight trout per day.

Fishing on Lake Lanier: Lake Lanier is known as a productive fishing lake. With approximately 39,000 surface acres of water at its full level, many species of fish thrive in the lake. The Corps of Engineers, in conjunction with the Georgia Department of Natural Resources actively manages fish habitat on Lake Lanier. Each year volunteers help build and maintain fish attractors around the lake. The following species are the most common in Lake Lanier: striped bass, spotted and largemouth bass, crappie, walleye, channel catfish and bluegill. More information can be found at gofishgeorgia.com/Fishing/Lanier.

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18 | AWESOME DAWSON 2013 | www.dawsonadvertiser.com

DAWSON PARKS &

RECREATION

With four county-maintained parks, there’s no shortage of space for residents and visitors to enjoy the great ourdoors.

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Rock Creek Sports ComplexRock Creek is home to several ball fields, including soccer,

baseball/softball, and tennis courts. There is also a paved walk-ing trail, outdoor basketball courts, a full-service gym including membership options, and outdoor covered pavilions for picnics or simply for taking a break in the shade!

To get to Rock Creek, take Hwy. 9 S. from downtown Daw-sonville. Rock Creek will be on the right.

Veterans Memorial ParkHome to the county swimming pool, Veterans Memorial Park

was originally known as Dawson County Park, and was re-named in 2007. A walking trail winds around the park, which is home to the Dawson County Senior Center as well as a football field, an indoor gym, and a few other outside ball fields. A me-morial is on display for all of the county’s veterans.

From downtown Dawsonville, take Hwy. 9 N. toward Dahlonega. Veterans Memorial Park will be on the left.

War Hill ParkWar Hill Park consists of 14 primitive campsites, day-use

areas (picnic tables, benches), a bath house (including restrooms and showers) and boat launches (four on-site).

War Hill Park is Dawson County’s access to Lake Lanier, with a small piece of “beach” and some opportunities for walk-ing in the area.

From Ga. 400, take Hwy. 53 E. to War Hill Park Road. Turn left, and follow until it goes into War Hill Park. The host camp-site is on the right as you enter the park.

River ParkRiver Park is located on Hwy. 9 S., near Riverview Middle

School. From River Park, kayakers and others can gain access to Etowah River. Entry into the river is free, but there is a $3 fee for the Kelly Bridge take-out.

River Park is located next to the Rock Creek Sports Complex off of Hwy. 9 S. The driveway is right before the entrance to Riverview Middle School.

Dawson County Parks & Recreation offers a multitude of activities, classes, camps and recreational sports. No matter if physical activity is your top priority, or you are just get-ting started on the path to a healthier living, there are activities available for all ages.

The beach and pier at Lake Lanier, War Hill Park.

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ACTIVITIESClasses offered:

Zumba Fitness, Kindermusik, Swimming, Water Aerobics, Basketball Camp (for boys and girls), Athletic Camp

Important Dates:January

• Spring Sports Online Registration

February• Spring Sports Walk-In Registration (deadline)• United Futbol Academy Soccer Walk-In Registration• Swim Team Registration• Spring Sports Open House at Rock Creek

March• Spring Adult Softball Registration• Spring Sports Opening Day at Rock Creek

April• War Hill Park Campsites Open• Football Online Registration

May• Pool Party Reservations Begin• Football and Cheerleader Walk-In Registration (deadline)• Pool Opens

June• Fall Adult Softball Registration

July• Travel Team Registration• Fall Baseball and T-Ball Online Registration

August• Fall Baseball and T-Ball Walk-In Registration (deadline)• Football Begins• Fall Baseball and T-Ball Open House

September• Last Day for Pool• Fall Baseball & T-Ball Games Begin• Basketball & Wrestling Registration (online and walk-in)

October• Basetball & Wrestling Registration (deadline)• Winter Sports Open House• War Hill Park Campsites Close

December• Instructional League Basketball Begins• Basketball & Wrestling Begins

For information on specific dates and additional classes, visit dawsoncounty.org.

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22 | AWESOME DAWSON 2013 | www.dawsonadvertiser.com

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IMPORTANT NUMBERSDawson County Courthouse

www.dawsoncounty.org(706) 344-3640

Chamber of Commercewww.dawson.org(706) 265-6279

City of Dawsonvillewww.dawsonville-ga.gov

(706) 265-3256

Dawson County School Systemwww.dawsoncountyschools.org

(706) 265-3246

Sheriff’s Office(in case of emergency, dial 911)www.dawsoncountysheriff.org

Tip line: 706-265-4744Office line: 706-344-3535

Post Office(706) 265-2677

Voter Registrar(706) 344-3640

Auto Tag Officewww.dawsoncountytax.com

(706) 344-3520

Driver’s License (DMV)dds.ga.gov

Water & Sewer• City of Dawsonville Water & Sewer (706) 265-3256• Etowah Water & Sewer (706) 216-8474

Health Department(706) 265-2930

Natural Gas (deregulated)• Atlanta Gas Light Companywww.aglc.com

Electricity• Georgia Power (888) 660-5890• Sawnee EMC (800) 635-9131• Amicalola EMC (800) 992-6471

Propane Gas• Amicalola Propane (706) 344-1427• Ferrellgas Gas (706) 864-6151• Mark Heard Fuel Co. (770) 887-5235

Propane Gas (continued)• Mills Fuel Service (706) 864-5037• Folger Gas (706) 265-1495

Phone/TV/Internet• Windstream (866) 961-9463• High-speed Fiber Optics North Georgia Network (706) 754-5323

Trash Pickup• City of Dawsonville (706) 265-3256• Evans Garbage (706) 216-4232• G&G Sanitation (770) 887-6063• AAA Sanitation (706) 864-4860• Landfill (Burt Creek) (706) 344-3645• Wallace 400 Waste Disposal (706) 216-1485

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Community Emergency Response Team Contact: Richard Sims, (770)833-4533 Dawson County 4-H Club Contact: Ian Cowie, (706) 265-2442

Dawson County Adult Education Center Contact: Pat Story, (706) 265-1690

Dawson County Arts Council Contact: Marcia Chelf, (706) 216-2787

Dawson County Chamber of Commerce Contact: Kara Hewatt, (706) 265-6278

Dawson County Family Connection Contact: Nancy Stites, (706) 265-1981

Dawson Historical & Genealogical SocietyContact: Jackie Anderson, (706) 265-3985 Dawson County Humane SocietyContact: Debra Maxwell, (706) 265-9160

Dawson County Kiwanis Club Contact: Becky Holbrook, (706) 265-3514

Dawson County Library Contact: Stacey Leonhardt, (706) 344-3690

Dawson County Ric Rack Contact: Angie McKenzie, (706) 265-1371

Dawson County Rotary ClubContact: Pepper Pettit, (404) 401-8586

Dawson County Senior Center Contact: (706) 344-3700

Dawsonville Lions ClubContact: Marty Horne, (404) 323-9683

Georgia Racing Hall of FameContact: Faye Abercrombie, (706) 216-7223

Hall-Dawson CASA Contact: Connie Stephens, (770) 531-1964

KARE for KidsContact: Calvin Byrd, (706) 216-5273

Keep Dawson County Beautiful Contact: Kristi Hudson, (706) 344-3501

Ninth District Opportunity Contact: Alice Williamson, (706) 265-3744

No One Alone (NOA)Contact: (706) 864-1306 Reading Education Association of Dawson County, Inc. Contact: Sandy Lipkowitz, (706) 579-1771

Safe Kids DawsonContact: Lanier Swafford, (706) 344-3666

United Way for Dawson County Contact: Lindsay Bohannon, (770) 781-4110

Veterans Affairs of Dawson CountyContact: Don Brown, (706) 265-7613

Vietnam Veterans of America, Dawson County Chapter #970Contact: Wayne Watkins, (706) 429-5002

Wee BooksContact: Lionel Graves, (706) 216-0173

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CALENDAR OF ANNUAL EVENTS

If there is one thing Dawson County residents enjoy, it’s community gatherings. The following is a list of annual community events.

JANUARYDawson County Chamber of Commerce Annual Gala Location: TBD Information: dawson.org

FEBRUARYLeap for Literacy hosted by Dawson County WEE Books Location: War Hill Park Information: (706) 216-0713

MARCHShine and Swine Festival hosted by KARE for Kids Location: Georgia Racing Hall of Fame Information: kareforkids.us

Community Easter Egg Hunt hosted by KARE for Kids Location: Veterans Memorial Park Information: kareforkids.us

Moonlight Flight 5K/Fun Run hosted by Five Star NTPLocation: War Hill Park Information: fivestarntp.com

Annual Mountain Moonshine Festival, October

26 | AWESOME DAWSON 2013 | www.dawsonadvertiser.com

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Page 27: Awesome Dawson 2013

CALENDAR OF ANNUAL EVENTS

27

APRIL11th Annual Dogleg Charity Golf Tournament hosted by Dawson County Humane Society Location: Chestatee Golf Club Information: dawsoncountyhumanesociety.org

Relay for Life Dawson County Location: Veterans Memorial Park Information: dawsoncountyrelay.com

MAYSpring Fling Car Show - Art in the Garden Festival Location: Bowen Center for the Arts Information: dawsonarts.org or dawson.org

Georgia Racing Hall of Fame 11th Anniversary Celebration Location: Georgia Racing Hall of Fame Information: facebook.com/georgiaracinghof

Dawson County Memorial Day Celebration Location: Veterans Memorial Park Information: [email protected]

JUNEChamber of Commerce Clay ShootingLocation: War Hill Park Information: dawson.org

Lucky Dog Casino NightLocation: Georgia Racing Hall of Fame Information: dawsoncountyhumanesociety.org

Bootlegger Half Marathon & Four Miler, presented by Five Star NTPLocation: Georgia Racing Hall of FameInformation: fivestarntp.com

JULYDawson Day - Sparks in the ParkLocation: Rock Creek Park Information: dawsoncounty.org

Annual Lumpkin CampmeetingLocation: Lumpkin Campground Information: [email protected]

AUGUSTAnnual Lakewood Speedway Reunion Location: Georgia Racing Hall of Fame Information: facebook.com/georgiaracinghof

SEPTEMBERPOW MIA DayLocation: Veterans Memorial Park Information: [email protected]

OCTOBER46th Annual Mountain Moonshine Festival Location: Downtown Dawsonville & Georgia Racing Hall of Fame Information: kareforkids.us

Trunk or TreatLocation: Rock Creek Park Information: dawsoncounty.org

Chamber of Commerce Business & Consumer Expo Information: dawson.org

NOVEMBERVeterans Day Celebration and ParadeLocation: Throughout Downtown Dawsonville Information: (706) 265-7613

DECEMBERAnnual Tree Lighting and Christmas ParadeLocation: City of Dawsonville Municipal Complex Information: dawsonville-ga.gov

Breakfast with SantaLocation: Rock Creek Park Information: dawsoncounty.org

Taste of Dawson CountyLocation: Dawson County High School Commons Area Information: [email protected]

Historic Lumpkin Campground

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