I lived in Athens for 15 years, and Jefferson for one year. I'd say, for the money, Helen is nice, or the general area. Agree with the Gainesville thing; that city sucks (plus, it's named Gainesville and no self-respecting Dawg would stay there.) Dahlonega is nice, been there several times, very mountainous, beautiful and good people.
"The freedom of individuals to verbally to oppose or to challenge police actions without thereby risking arrest is one of the principal characteristics by which we distinguish a free nation from a police state."