About The Jenkins County times. (Millen, Ga.) 2023-current | View Entire Issue (Jan. 8, 2025)
Page 2 - Wednesday, January 8, 2025 j enkinscountytimes. com The Jenkins County Times Judge Matt Hube in center with his wife Linda and Judge Gates Peed. Photo by DeWayne Grice Hube Takes Oath as Superior Court Judge -Joe Brady/Editor and Dwayne Grice/ Grice Connect In a "passing of the gavel" ceremony that brought together family, friends, and colleagues, Matt Hube was officially sworn in as the newest Superior Court judge for the Ogeechee Judicial Circuit. Judge F. Gates Peed, whom Hube is succeeding, officiated the event. Judge Peed introduced Hube to the crowd, blending humor with admiration. He highlighted Hube’s journey from growing up in Cobb County to firmly planting roots in Bulloch County, earning his “native” status over the last two decades. Peed reminisced about Hube’s early days clerking for him in the late ‘90s, praising his studious nature and ability to navigate the complexities of the legal world. Peed offered practical advice for Hube’s new role, reminding him that listening is one of the most powerful tools a judge can wield. Hube raised his right hand and solemnly swore to uphold the Constitution of the United States and Georgia, administer justice impartially, and perform his duties to the best of his ability. With that, the gavel was officially passed. In his remarks, Hube couldn’t hide his gratitude. He thanked his parents, who traveled from Alpharetta, and his wife, Linda, and son, Nick, for their unwavering support over the years. “I wouldn’t be here without their love and patience,” he said. Hube also gave a nod to the many local attorneys and judges who mentored him when he first started practicing law. “I learned a lot about what makes a good judge—and thankfully, those who taught me what not to do aren’t here today,” he quipped, showcasing his wit. Hube recently completed an intensive new judge orientation program in Athens, where 24 superior court judges from across Georgia gathered for three and a half days of training. “It was the best training I’ve ever been to,” he said. When asked about Judge Peed’s next steps, Hube explained that Peed will take on senior judge status, filling in as needed across the state. “He’s been a mentor to me, and I know that relationship will continue,” Hube added. Flu Season Hits Georgia Hard: High Influenza Levels Reported -Joe Brady. Editor As flu season intensifies, Georgia is experiencing high levels of influenza activity, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). With nearly 3.1 million flu cases and 1,500 deaths reported nationwide this season, the flu continues to pose a significant public health challenge. Influenza, commonly referred to as the flu, is a highly contagious viral infection that can spread through close contact with an infected person. The flu affects people of all ages but poses a greater risk for children, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems. Flu A and Flu B, the two main types of the virus, share similarities with the common cold and COVID-19, often making initial symptoms hard to distinguish. Key signs include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, and fatigue. Vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent the flu and its complications. Health officials urge everyone over six months of age to get their flu shot annually. “The key to fighting the flu is vaccination,” a CDC spokesperson emphasized. Vaccines can help reduce the severity of illness and prevent the spread of the virus within communities. Antiviral medications like Tamiflu, Relenza, Rapivab, and Xofluza are commonly prescribed to treat flu symptoms. These medications are most effective when taken within one to two days of symptom onset. Since the flu spreads through respiratory droplets, avoiding close contact with infected individuals and staying away from crowded spaces can reduce the risk of transmission. Health officials recommend frequent handwashing, using hand sanitizers, and covering coughs and sneezes to minimize the spread of germs. Children and individuals with autoimmune disorders are particularly vulnerable to severe flu complications. For these groups, early detection and prompt medical care are critical. As flu season continues, public health experts urge Georgians to take precautions to protect themselves and those around them. Staying up to date on vaccinations, maintaining good hygiene practices, and seeking medical care early can make a significant difference in curbing the impact of the flu. For more information about the flu and vaccination locations, visit the CDC’s website or contact your local health department. Photo courtesy of CNN. Daybreak STAY O sweet and do not rise! The light that shines comes from thine eyes; The day breaks not: it is my heart Because that you and I must part. Stay! or else my joys will die 5 And perish in their infancy. English Poet: John Donne Oakhill Church Holds Candlelight Service Oakhill Church joined other churches for a Christmas Eve candlelight service. Cindy Rich is pictured with other families as they celebrate one of the holiest days on the liturgical calendar. Photo by Michelle Finch. Flag Dedication Scarboro Baptist Church Driving down highway 17 in Jenkins County, Georgia, you will pass the historically, rich Scarboro Baptist Church community. The Scarboro Cemetery is close by as well as one of the few flowing wells remaining in Jenkins County. The Scarboro landing on the Ogeechee River is within walking distance to the Church. General Sherman camped along the railroad tracks in sight of the Church. The Scarboro Baptist Church has erected a permanent flagpole in front of the Church. The people traveling Highway 17 will now be greeted by the American Flag, dedicated in remembrance and in honor of our veterans. The Christian Flag flies along with the American Flag and is dedicated to the glory of God. Scarboro Baptist Church believes America is great because of the blessings of Almighty God. God bless America is our prayer. John Waddell, Junior Dailey, Otis Dailey, Terry Hearn JCDC Changes Leadership -Staff Reports Dr. Giovanni R. Shumake has been elected as the new chair of the Jenkins County Democratic Committee for 2025-2027. His leadership begins with the inaugural meeting on Saturday, January 11th, at 9:30 AM at the Jenkins County Senior Citizens Building, located at 998 College Ave, Millen, GA. The meeting will feature Dr. Diane Evans, Chair of the Georgia Association of Democratic Party Chairs (GADCC), as the special guest speaker. Dr. Evans will share her insights and vision for the future of Democratic leadership and activism in Georgia. This gathering marks the start of an exciting new chapter for the county's Democratic leadership, and changemakers throughout the area are encouraged to attend. Refreshments will be provided by I. Rose Catering. [(i)yjiiSMEiiiiii»igaiEiiiimcimi I HEALTH FIRST I
