SGMC Health welcomes pediatric hospitalist Dr. Jennifer Carbone

SGMC Health is pleased to welcome pediatrician Jennifer Carbone, MD, to the health system. Carbone is a Board-Certified Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatrics and brings a wealth of experience and expertise in pediatric care, specializing in providing compassionate and comprehensive healthcare to children in the hospital setting.

With a background in both inpatient and acute care settings, Carbone is well-equipped to address a wide range of pediatric illnesses and conditions, including pneumonia, asthma, dehydration, infections, injuries, and more, according to a press release from SGMC Health.

“We have seen an increase in pediatric patients over the years and having Dr. Carbone will provide additional support to our team and community physicians,” said Pankaj Agrawal, MD, senior vice president and chief medical officer. “Her specialized skillset will reinforce consistent and quality care for children and adolescents while they are in the hospital.”

Carbone is dedicated to connecting with her young patients and their families on a deeper level, the health system said. “Recognizing that children may not always be able to articulate their symptoms, she pays close attention to their subtle cues, both clinical and social, to ensure their needs are met with empathy and understanding. By actively listening to both patients and parents, Dr. Carbone fosters a collaborative and trusting relationship that forms the foundation for effective care and healing,” the press release said.

“I am thrilled to join the SGMC Health team and to have the opportunity to serve the children of Valdosta and the surrounding communities,” Carbone said. “Everyone at SGMC Health has been incredibly warm and welcoming, and I look forward to contributing to the outstanding level of care that this health system is known for.”

Carbone received her medical degree from St. Matthews University School of Medicine. She went on to complete her pediatric residency training at The Children’s Hospital at SUNY Downstate in Brooklyn, New York.

In her free time, Carbone enjoys farm life, offshore fishing, and adventure travel. She loves spending quality time at home with her family, including her beloved chocolate Labrador, Louie.

To learn more, visit sgmc.org.

Public Works Association honors McBride for environmental concern

The Georgia Chapter of the American Public Works Association (APWA) proudly announces Russell McBride as the recipient of the 2024 Public Works Service and Awareness Award. This prestigious honor recognizes McBride’s outstanding dedication to public service and his remarkable contributions to the City of Valdosta, particularly in environmental stewardship and community involvement, the city said in a press release.

Born and raised in Tewksbury, Massachusetts, McBride’s upbringing in a military family instilled in him a strong sense of duty and service. His 15-year career serving in various operations overseas further honed his leadership skills and instilled in him a profound respect for teamwork and perseverance in the face of adversity.

“Russell McBride’s remarkable contributions to the City of Valdosta exemplify the spirit of public service and civic accountability,” said Richard Hardy, Valdosta city manager. “His steadfast commitment to advancing initiatives for the betterment of our community, has had a profound impact, and we are proud to recognize his outstanding achievements with this well-deserved award.”

Upon retiring from military service in 2015, McBride’s adventurous spirit led him to pursue outdoor activities, including scaling Mt. Fuji and hiking the Appalachian Trail. It was during these explorations that he developed a deep appreciation for the beauty of nature and a heightened awareness of the environmental challenges facing the planet.

McBride’s commitment to environmental stewardship was sparked by a poignant observation of pollution in Sugar Creek, a tributary of the Withlacoochee River. Recognizing the need for a practical solution, he devised the idea of constructing a barrier to contain and remove trash, thus preventing further pollution downstream.

His initiative and resourcefulness led to the implementation of the Watergoat, a robust barrier system designed to trap floating debris in water bodies. With the support of city officials, McBride spearheaded the installation of a Watergoat in Sugar Creek in June 2022 and volunteered to maintain it. Over the past 18 months, he has diligently monitored and cleaned the device.

McBride’s efforts extend beyond his role as a water treatment plant operator; they embody a commitment to safeguarding the environment and enhancing the well-being of his community. His active involvement in river cleanups and community initiatives underscores his passion for making a positive impact and leaving a legacy of environmental stewardship.

In addition to his environmental advocacy, McBride’s exemplary performance as a Class II Water Treatment Plant Operator is characterized by his meticulous attention to detail and unwavering dedication to quality control and public health, the city said. His round-the-clock vigilance ensures the provision of safe and clean water to the residents of Valdosta, even in the face of adverse weather conditions and unforeseen challenges.

Assistant Director of Utilities Jason Barnes remarked, “Russell McBride’s work ethic is unparalleled. He approaches every task with dedication and precision, ensuring that the highest standards of quality are met. His commitment to public service and environmental stewardship is truly inspiring.”

McBride’s remarkable journey from military service to environmental activism exemplifies the transformative power of passion and dedication. His unwavering commitment to excellence, demonstrated through his daily efforts to ensure the safety and well-being of his community, makes him a deserving recipient of the 2024 APWA Public Works Service and Awareness Award.

“I am deeply honored and humbled to receive this prestigious award,” McBride said. “It is truly a testament to the collective efforts of our community in advancing public service and environmental stewardship. I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the betterment of the City of Valdosta, and I look forward to continuing our journey towards a cleaner and healthier environment for future generations.”

McBride will be officially recognized at the awards banquet in Jekyll Island on July 11.