On Nov. 28, 2005, San Bernardino County Medical Society Emeritus Board Member Gebre-Christos Gobezie, MD, retired from the board after 22 years of service.

An internist in Barstow, Dr. Gobezie received a resolution from SBCMS acknowledging "his outstanding, unselfish contributions; his leadership; his compassionate efforts to improve the health and well-being of all citizens in our county; and his contributions to public health intervention efforts."

He was also recognized for serving as SBCMS president in 1989 and 25 years as the California Medical Association Delegate representing District 1. His leadership in 1985 as chairman of the SBCMS Membership Committee resulted in the most successful recruitment program in society history, with 152 new members in a 10-month period.

Dr. Gobezie has been exceptionally committed to the medical society. He rarely missed a board meeting, traveling in all kinds of weather from Barstow through the Cajon Pass, a round trip exceeding 140 miles.