Jea Gackowski, a downtown McDonough business owner, has been named a contest winner and was recently in the filming for the launch of a new hair product line by Monte Durham, of “Say Yes to the Dress,” at Kristin Karl Salon.

  The hair product line is called The Full Monte and was created by Durham. It is currently available for purchase at the salon.

  On November 21, Durham visited the salon and received an honorary key to the city from McDonough Mayor Billy Copeland.

  Durham gave personal consultations to everyone in attendance. He also cut and styled Gackowsk’s hair.

  “I entered to win that contest for my local salon because I love the way she does business and because she is very involved in the community” said Gackowski.

  This was a nationwide contest and this is the first year that the contest has run.

  Salon entries were reviewed, narrowed down to 15 and then five, before Kristin Karl Salon was chosen as the winner.

  “The panel reviewed the different hair salons that entered, looked at each salon’s position in the community and their trainers. They [The Kristin Karl Salon] met all the criteria to win,” said Gackowski. “For [Monte] to have chosen McDonough, it was really an honor. Any salon in America could have entered.”

  A dedicated customer of Kristin Karl Salon for over 30 years, Gackowski praised the salon for their services and friendly staff.

  “Kristin Karl is just that good. They stay up on all the current trends. They are just great people,” said Gackowski.