AMERICUS (September 20, 2010) – Sen. George Hooks (D-Americus) was named the 2010 Legislator of the Year today by the Georgia Rural Health Association (GHRA) for his exemplary leadership in addressing health care needs in rural Georgia.
“There is nothing more important to the health and future of rural Georgia than providing quality health care for our citizens. Rural counties face greater challenges providing timely emergency response than our metropolitan neighbors, and a responsive trauma network is vital to the welfare of area residents,” said Hooks. “I will continue to work with my colleagues in the legislature and our friends at the Georgia Rural Health Association to ensure that rural Georgians have access to the best health care resources.”
Hooks represents a large number of rural hospitals within his 12-county district in southwest Georgia. He was nominated for the award by David Castleberry, CEO of Upson Regional Medical Center in Thomaston. Hooks was honored during GRHA’s Annual Meeting at the Brasstown Valley Resort in Young Harris, where he was recognized for his efforts to address rural health issues during his tenure in the General Assembly.
“Senator Hooks has been a longtime friend of rural communities and rural health care for all of Georgia, and we are proud to have him as our legislator of the year,” said Rita Salain, interim executive director of GHRA.
As the State Senate’s longest serving member, Hooks has earned the title of Dean of the Senate, where he has represented rural Georgia for three decades.
Sen. George Hooks represents the 14th Senate District, which includes Dooly, Macon, Marion, Peach, Schley, Stewart, Sumter, Talbot, Taylor, Upson and Webster counties and portions of Crawford County. He can be reached at his office at 404.656.0065 or by email at george.hooks@senate.ga.gov.
PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Release:
September 20, 2010
For Information Contact:
Raegan Weber, Director
Kallarin Richards, Senior Communications Specialist
kallarin.richards@senate.ga.gov
404.656.0028