NGCF honors Jacobs Media founder and wife

GAINESVILLE - Jacobs Media founder John W. Jacobs Junior and his wife Martha received the North Georgia Community Foundation's Philanthropist of the Year award Tuesday during a luncheon in their honor at First Baptist Church on Green Street in Gainesville.

According to Foundation President and CEO Jim Mathis they were honored because of their passionate support of many area causes during the Foundation's 25th Anniversary year and the Sixth Annual Philanthropist of the Year Award ceremony.

Those causes include Brenau University, the Northeast Georgia History Center, Riverside Military Academy, Grace Episcopal Church, the Gainesville Kiwanis Club, the University Of Georgia School Of Journalism, the Quinlan Arts Center, the Arts Council, Gainesville Symphony, Good News at Noon, Good News at Noon Clinic, and the Boy Scouts. Foundation Investment Chairman and board member Don Pirkle said he was 'overwhelmed' by the Jacobs' leadership and generosity and unselfish dedication.

"In our 25th anniversary year, we are very proud to recognize Martha and John Jacobs as Philanthropists of the year," Pirkle said.

Board member Dr. Helen Ray said she had a 'love story' to tell about the award recipients.

"We know that Martha and John have acted out of deep love and devotion in all that they have done for their community, their family and for the many institutions they hold dear," Ray said.

Former Brenau University president Dr. Jack Burd recalled Jacobs' leadership as Brenau board chairman that led to a personal friendship.

"John was a quality boss and he and Martha have become true friends," Burd said.

Jacobs wanted to share the honor with contemporaries who served Gainesville in the summer of their youth to make it a better place.

"James A. "Bubba' Dunlap, also James Mathis and of course, Ray McRae; these three, all contemporaries of mine, came back after World War ll," Jacobs said. "They represent that generation that came into our community to carry on the work of our community and make it a better place to live and to work."

Jacobs added to the list the man he called his 'mentor', Charles Thurmond.

"Hopefully these names will not be forgotten in the history of our community," he said. "It's an honor for Martha and me to be a part of this annual recognition, thank you all very much."