New property transfers in Chatham, Bryan and Effingham counties have been added to the database.

Search here by buyer, seller, address, city, zip or month of sale for the latest property transfers. 

All data are public records and are obtained from each county or municipality, unless otherwise sourced. Information fields may vary. 

The Gingy Project, a community service venture founded to honor the memory of Raheem Morris, presented a check in the amount of $700.32 to Reggie Loper, chairperson of The Empty Stocking Fund of Effingham County.

Morris, an Effingham County High School student and member of the ECHS Rebel Regiment, lost his life in a car accident on Dec. 13, 2014 while on his way to audition for District Honor Band. Morris was a gifted musician who not only played bassoon for the school’s elite Wind Ensemble, but was also a member of the Rebel Regiment drumline, playing bass drum for the marching band.

Morris touched many lives not only within the ECHS band family, but outside of the program, as well. Family members, teachers, friends, and other members of our community have all said that Morris was an intelligent, talented, kind and compassionate young man with a wonderful sense of humor, who would often be found with the most shining and beautiful smile on his face.

The Gingy Project is the brainchild of Isabel Johnson, a friend and bandmate of Morris. As the one year anniversary of the teen’s passing approached, Johnson, in an effort to turn something tragic into something meaningful, decided to honor his memory as well as help our local community. That’s when The Gingy Project was born. The project aimed to provide Christmas for local families in need.

Johnson had no difficulty recruiting friends, family, and bandmates to join her in launching the project.

They spent several weeks selling Krispy Kreme doughnuts and collecting donations around the community after school and on weekends. The response to the project has been tremendous, and they collected more than they imagined, thanks to the generosity and support of many.

Those who were fortunate to know Morris know that although his life was cut short, his was a life very well-lived. In his memory, Johnson, along with many of Morris’ other friends and family, plan to continue to lead more community service projects, and by doing so, they hope to share the same compassionate and giving spirit that everyone grew to love about Morris

The Gingy project would like to thank everyone who purchased doughnuts and graciously donated to this project for their generosity.

PROPERTY TRANSFERS

“A little learning is a dangerous thing.”

I’m not sure where I first heard this famous quotation.

It could have been in Mrs. Jackson’s high school English class, where most of us had our first encounter with the poet Alexander Pope.

But I always associate the saying with my father’s friend Nolen Brunson, shaking his head about somebody’s uninformed and incorrect (but very confident) legal opinion about something or another.

As a beginning psychology student, I had a lot of confident opinions. Not necessarily uninformed and incorrect, but definitely limited.

For example, every Christmas when we were young, we had a live tree in the living room.

The entire family would go out into the woods with our neighbors and chop down a cedar, or we’d go to the Optimist club lot and select a balsam pine or other sort of fir, and we’d haul it home and set it up in the living room.

But before we could even pull the decorations out of the closet, my father would lie down on the couch with a headache.

This happened year after year.

When we kids were little, we didn’t give it much thought. We were too excited to pay a lot of attention to grownups’ aches and pains, since they seemed to have more than kids did, in general.

But when I started studying psychology in my late teens, I suddenly became the family expert. The older generations in the family, to their credit, didn’t always agree with my self-assessment.

And as this self-proclaimed expert, with a semester or two of psychology under my belt, I took a long and critical look at my poor dad as he grabbed his aspirin bottle and headed for the sofa.

I concluded that the poor fellow must have had some traumatic experience with a Christmas tree when he was a kid.

Maybe his parents always fought over whether to get a cedar or balsam fir. Or where to put the thing. Maybe he got too excited and knocked it over and got a spanking.

Maybe it was even worse, so awful he had blocked the entire memory and had no idea why he felt so bad every time we decked the halls.

Well, at least I was right about him having no idea why.

He didn’t figure it out until years later, when his doctor discovered he was allergic to horses and dogs.

And aspirin.

And a lot of trees.

Most psychologists today agree that human behavior is the result of biological, psychological and social influences in combination. Sometimes, one of those types of influences can play a larger role than the others.

In the case of my father’s Yuletide headaches, biology was the primary culprit. Maybe even the only culprit.

My parents bought an artificial tree before the next Christmas, and my father never had any more tree-trimming headaches for the rest of his life. He actually enjoyed decorating the thing.

And to his credit, he cut his kid some slack for practicing therapy on a family member, without a license.

Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good night!

Julia Cochran is a licensed professional counselor in Rincon and a psychology instructor at Armstrong State University. She can be reached at 912-772-3072 or by email at JCochranPhD@GileadCounseling.com. Any opinions expressed here are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Armstrong State University.

Family is home and we are enjoying their company. But, while you have those extra hands around make sure to get some free labor out of them! Although it is unseasonably warm, if you want to move any old shrubs the time to do so is fast approaching.

January and February are considered the best months to move healthy but overgrown shrubs in the landscape. Moving a plant during dormancy will cause the least harm. When we move plants to new locations, we are cutting off a good chunk of their feeder roots. By doing this in January or

February, the shrubs are not as affected by the sudden loss of roots. They have time to grow new roots as spring progresses.

Before you start to dig up your shrub, it is recommended that you cut the limbs back on the shrub by at least one-third. This will help to lower to total leaf area that the shrub’s roots will have to support during recovery. This should increase the plant’s survival chances after transplanting.

When digging out your shrub, try to save as much of the existing root system as possible. Again, more roots will increase the chance of survival. Dig a trench all the way around the shrub.

Carefully trench out underneath the shrub until it is free from the surrounding soil. Lift up the root ball and slide a large piece of burlap or a plastic tarp underneath. This will make it easy for two people to transport the shrub to its new location.

Shrubs often change their growth patterns when exposed to different light situations. To help avoid this, tie a piece of string or flagging tape to the side of the shrub that faces north. This will help you properly align the tree in its new planting hole and retain its original growth form.

Your new planting hole will need to be at least 2-3 times as wide as your shrub’s root ball. Make sure the planting hole is the same depth as the root ball. Planting the shrub too deeply will harm the plant. To be on the safe side, plant your shrub and inch or two higher than before to allow for soil settling.

Add a 3-inch layer of mulch on top of your new planting hole. Be sure not to pile the mulch up around the base of the shrub. This will hold excess moisture on the base of the shrub and make it susceptible to insect and disease infestation. Water the shrub thoroughly after planting. Irrigate deeply and infrequently if no rain is in the forecast.

For more information or questions, please contact Effingham Ag Agent, Sam Ingram at 754-8040 or singram@uga.edu

CRIME ROUNDUP

Dec. 12: A woman in the process of getting a divorce said her husband has been coming into the house through the dog door and taking things from inside the home while she is gone or sleeping. The man does not have a key to the home. Items she said he has taken include $150 in cash, two security cameras, a DVR and a Nitendo Wii game system. Rincon area.

Dec. 14: A woman reported a 4-foot microwave stand and entertainment center had been damaged. McCall Road.

Talking bad

Dec. 15: A man said he’d been receiving harassing phone calls and texts from his step-brother. The calls and texts included derogatory comments about the man’s deceased mother. The men do not have the same mother. Bloomingdale address.

Dec. 15: A driver of a vehicle that crashed on Ga. 30 near Jabez Road was cited for driving with a suspended license. She was taken to the jail for booking and processing.

Dec. 15: Two women plugged their camper into a power source without paying any rental fees. The landlord reported the women had asked about renting a lot and had been told the costs and that they would have to contact Georgia Power for electricity.

The landlord saw the camper plugged into power without paying rent or contacting Georgia Power. When he knocked on their door he could hear a dog barking.

The deputy reported he got no answer when he knocked on the camper door either, only hearing a dog barking. Bloomingdale address.

Dec. 16: A Guyton man said his sister’s boyfriend threatened him following an argument the two were having about the man’s mother. The boyfriend later called his girlfriend and said he was going to shoot up and blow up their house, the man said. Stagefield Drive, Guyton.

Dec. 16: A man reported two concrete saws were stolen from his front porch. Goshen Road, Rincon.

Don’t interrupt

Dec. 17: A married couple argued over a phone call. The wife said she was talking on the phone with the mortgage company and her husband was asking questions while she was trying to hear the conversation. She motioned for him to be quiet and then the phone went dead. Annoyed, she threw a Pepsi bottle at him. She began yelling at her husband and he told her to shut up. She then threatened to slap him and he grabbed her by the wrists. No visible marks were on either party.

While the husband was gathering his belongings, the wife was taking things out of his truck, being “loud and hysterical,” the entire time, the deputy said.

The deputy said the husband was calm and collected during the same time. The husband then left. Guyton area. Dec. 17: An ex-boyfriend sent bloody pictures by text of him cutting his wrist to his ex-girlfriend. The woman had been granted a temporary protective order against the ex earlier in the month. Rincon.

Dec. 17: A man who had been fired was reported to have threatened to remove items from his employer’s truck. Barrister Circle, Guyton.

Don’t call back

Dec. 18: A woman and her new husband reported harassing and threatening phone calls and texts had been made to both of them from the woman’s ex-husband. The ex-husband said he was going to kill them both, the woman said. Eden area.

Dec. 18: A Sandhill Road resident reported someone had cut the rear tires of his truck.

Dec. 18: A black Labrador was reported to have bitten a male juvenile on the leg. The animal showed no signs of aggression towards the deputy and was impounded without incident The dog is in quarantine. No owner of the Labrador has been found. Dailey Drive, Guyton.

Dec. 18: A baby sitter reported an unwanted person at the home. The person was the landlord of the property and said he had scheduled this time with the tenant to repair the stove and dryer.

Dec. 18: A utility trailer was reported stolen from a home on Zeigler Road.

Watch your wheels

Dec. 19: A man said his neighbors are driving and parking over his flower bed. The man said he spent $80 on dirt for the flower bed near his driveway. Eden area.

Dec. 19: A woman reported she found the front door open to her recently deceased mother’s house on Blandford Road.

The woman said nothing appeared to be missing or moved but she noticed all the windows were closed, but unlocked. She also said some of the windows had stress cracks in the plastic locks, maybe from someone pulling on them hard. The garage door lock was now also not working.

Dec. 19: A man said a male pit bull came into his yard and attacked his dog. The dog’s back leg was injured in the attack. The pit bull’s owner said a juvenile at the home had let her dog out. She said the pit bull was up to date on shots, but couldn’t provide any proof. Shari Drive, Guyton.

Dec. 19: A man threatened on Dec. 17 to burn down a home he rented with his girlfriend. The couple also have a two-year-old child who lives in the home. The man threatened to take the child, the woman told deputies. The man returned the day after the threats, got his belongings and behaved with a “civil attitude.” Guyton area.

Dec. 19: Deputies were called to a home twice in one night for an arguing couple. The woman said the man was cheating on her and they were arguing about it. On the second visit by deputies, the woman said the man had taken her car keys and wouldn’t let her leave. The deputy found her keys on the grill next to her car. The car wouldn’t start. The man left the home, walking to his mother’s house. Springfield area

Wet nap

Dec. 20: A woman said her husband poured a beer on her head while she was sleeping on the coach. The deputy was responding to a 911 hang-up. The man left before the deputy arrived. Guyton area.

Dec. 20: A pizza shop employee told deputies her landlord was continuously calling and texting her while she was at work. The employee told the landlord that she was at work and could not be on her phone. The landlord was telling her she had to leave her residence. Rincon area.

Dec. 20: A man reported his neighbor’s pit bull attacked his dog, a black Labrador. The man said it had happened several times. The man’s lab had cut marks on its face. Bloomingdale address.

Dec. 20: A deputy responded to a domestic violence report involving a man and woman. The female involved in the argument was intoxicated. The woman told the deputy she couldn’t remember what they were arguing about. Sixth Street, Guyton.

Dec. 21: A guest of a Ga. 21 motel knocked a bell from the hotel desk to the floor during an argument with the motel owner. The guest wanted to check out early, but was charged for another day. Posted motel policy stated guests will be charged who stay from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. The guest was trying to check out after 11 a.m. without charge.

The guest claimed a call he made to 911 the night before complaining about a “possible” argument between motel family members next door to his room, led the owner to add the day to his bill.

The motel owner said the man threatened to call immigration about his family members and said “I’ll come back for you,” while making a neck-slicing gesture with his hand.

The guest was given a criminal trespass warning. Rincon area.

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Manna House

Manna House Food Pantry and Thrift Store hours are Monday, noon-3 p.m., and Thursday, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. It is closed all other days. The thrift store is open to the public. Donations are always appreciated and can be dropped off at any time. Manna House is located at 1210 Patriot Park Drive, across from the Effingham YMCA. For more information, call 826-2037 or 665-1985.

Camp Davis 2073

Camp Davis No. 2073 meets the second Tuesday of every month at 7 p.m. in the former Boy Scout hut down the hill from the Effingham Historical Society, formerly the old county jail in Springfield. Call Gill Zeigler for more information at 655-8112.

County Commission

The Effingham County Board of Commissioners meets at 5 p.m. the first and third Tuesdays of the month in Commission Chambers at the Administrative Office Complex, 601 N. Laurel St., Springfield. For a complete agenda, go to effinghamcounty.org.

Bingo

The Rincon Recreation Department sponsors bingo for senior citizens at 8:30 a.m. every Monday at the Vernon C. Hinely Community Center at Ninth Street and Ga. 21. For information, call 826-0238.

Weight loss

Coastal Champions Weight Loss Surgery Support Group meets from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. the third Thursday of the month at Rincon Recovery Resources, 613 Towne Park Drive West, Suite 103, Rincon. For information, call Anisa Grantham at 507-8734.

Foster home volunteers

Foster home volunteers are needed for abandoned or neglected dachshunds. The housing is needed for two weeks to two months. Foster volunteers are to provide food and a safe and loving environment. Dachshund Rescue of North America will approve and pay for needed vetting. Call Ellen Hatcher at 912-398-1892 or email ellenwh@bellsouth.net to learn more about this experience. Dachshund Rescue of North America is a 501(c)(3) organization that has been rehabilitating and rehoming abandoned or neglected dachshunds for more than 13 years. Learn more at www.drna.org.

American Legion

American Legion post #209 meets the second Thursday of every month at 6:30 p.m. for dinner with a meeting following. The meetings are held at 941 S. Laurel St. in Springfield. For more information, call Tommy Pierce at 912-663-3562.

Alzheimer’s Association Support Group

The Effingham County Alzheimer’s Caregiver Support Group meets at 10:30 a.m. on the second Tuesday of the month at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, located at 155 Goshen Road, Rincon. For more information, call 800-272-3900.

Auxiliary volunteers

The Effingham Hospital Auxiliary is in need of volunteers in the beauty shop from 8 a.m.-noon Wednesdays in the Extended Care Center. Call Jackie Dyches at 754-4251.

Medicare

The Coastal Georgia Regional Development Center is seeking volunteers to help counsel Medicare beneficiaries about their health coverage and options. Volunteers are also needed to assist with the GeorgiaCares SMP project to promote consumer awareness and prevent fraud. For more information, call 264-7363 ext. 239, or 800-669-8387.

Seniors

Rincon Senior Support Group meets 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesdays at Vernon C. Hinely Community Center, Ga. 21 and Ninth Street in Rincon. For senior citizens 55 or older. Call 826-4000.

Civil Air Patrol

The Civil Air Patrol squadron meets Mondays from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. in building 200 at Ephesus Church/Effingham Christian School, 226 Goshen Road, Rincon. The organization is for youth, ages 12 to 18 and for adults. It has three programs: emergency services, aerospace education and the cadet leadership program. The Effingham Cadet Squadron is actively recruiting both cadets ages 12 to adult and has several staff positions available. For more information, go to www.ga453.org or call Richard Bush at 912-429-8050.

County planning board

The Effingham County Planning Board meets at 7 p.m. the fourth Monday of the month in Commission Chambers at the County Administrative Complex, 601 N. Laurel St., Springfield. Agendas and minutes can be found at effinghamcounty.org. For information, call 754-2105.

Elections board

The Effingham County Board of Elections and Registration meets at 8:30 a.m. the second Monday of the month in the conference room at the elections office, 284 Ga. 119 S., Springfield. Agendas and minutes of past meetings are not currently available online. For information, go to effinghamcounty.org or call 754-8030.

Hospital board

The Effingham Hospital Authority meets at 7:15 p.m. the first Tuesday of the month in the Community Room at Effingham Hospital, 459 Ga. 119 S., Springfield. Agendas and minutes of past meetings are not available online. For information, go to effinghamhealth.org or call administration at 754-0160.

Tax board

The Effingham County Board of Tax Assessors meets at 4:30 p.m. on the first Monday of the month in Commission Chambers at the County Administrative Complex, 601 N. Laurel St., Springfield. Agendas can be found at effinghamcounty.org.

IDA board

The Effingham County Industrial Development Authority board of directors meets at 6 p.m. the third Thursday of the month in the conference room at the Welcome Center, 520 W. Third St., Springfield. Agendas and minutes of past meetings are not currently available online. For information, go to effinghamindustry.com or call 754-3301.

Guyton council

The Guyton City Council meets at 7 p.m. the second Tuesday of the month and at 8 a.m. the fourth Tuesday of the month at City Hall, 310 Central Blvd., Guyton. Agendas and minutes of past meetings are not currently available online. For information, go to cityofguyton.com or call City Hall at 722-3353.

Springfield council

The Springfield City Council meets at 6 p.m. the second Tuesday of the month in Council Chambers at City Hall, 130 S. Laurel St., Springfield. Agendas and minutes of past meetings can be found at cityofspringfield.com. For information, call City Hall at 754-6666.

Rincon council

The Rincon City Council meets at 7 p.m. the second and fourth Mondays of the month in Council Chambers at the police department, 107 W. 17th St., Rincon. Agendas and minutes of past meetings are not currently available online. For information, go to cityofrincon.com or call City Hall at 826-5745.

Effingham Tennis League

People of all ages and abilities are invited to join the Effingham Tennis League. Adults and teens may join the singles and/or doubles ladder at www.globaltennisnetwork.com and it’s free. SATA kids clinic for grades kindergarten to eighth-grade is $50 per six-week session, playing Tuesdays 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Patriots Park behind the Rincon YMCA. Info: 912-656-4430.

United Way Yoga

Dr. Jack Heneisen and the United Way are holding free yoga classes each Monday at 6:30 p.m. The classes are held at the United Way Effingham Service Center located at 711 Zitterour Road, Rincon. Participants should wear comfortable loose-fitting clothes and bring a mat or towel for floor exercises.

Senior movie day

A movie is shown for senior citizens at 9:30 a.m. each Thursday in the Anderson Recreation Building (formerly the Rincon Lions Club) on Lexington Avenue.

Seniors
Rincon

Senior Support Group meets 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesdays at Vernon C. Hinely Community Center, Ga. 21 and Ninth Street in Rincon. For senior citizens 55 or older. Fellowship and activities. Call 826-4000.

Asperger’s syndrome

A support group for people with Asperger’s syndrome, their friends, family and caregivers, meets monthly at Effingham Baptist Church, 1007 N. Columbia Ave., Rincon. For information, call Patrick Bowers at 346-4912 or email pb4asp@yahoo.com.

The Rosebuds

An Effingham County daytime breast cancer support group meets the fourth Wednesday of every month at 11 a.m. at Effingham Hospital’s Community Room, 459 Ga. 119 South, Springfield. For information, call 754-9100.

High blood pressure

The Community Cardiovascular Council’s Blood Pressure Clinic offers help to people trying to control high blood pressure. If you need help controlling it and purchasing medications, make a free appointment to see if you qualify for services. Call the Rincon clinic, 826-2608, or the Savannah clinic, 232-6624.Effingham Hospital

Auxiliary

The Effingham Hospital Auxiliary offers an opportunity to serve the hospital and the community through volunteer service. The auxiliary provides support to patients, families and visitors. It also raises funds to support special projects that benefit the hospital and the community. Call Effingham Hospital Auxiliary President Brenda Rabon at 912-346-9536.

Hands On Savannah

A service of the United Way of the Coastal Empire, recruits and refers volunteers to area nonprofits. Hands On Savannah/Volunteer Center can match volunteer interests with community needs. To browse volunteer options, go to handsonsavannah.org, call 2-1-1 or 651-7726 between 9 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Monday-Friday, or email volunteer@uwce.org.

CASA

Court Appointed Special Advocates is looking for volunteers to advocate for the best interest of abused and neglected children in Bulloch, Effingham, Screven and Jenkins counties. For information, call Carolyn Fields at 912-764-4849.

Volunteers needed

The Faith Equestrian Therapeutic Center in Guyton provides equine-assisted riding and educational activity programs for children and adults with special challenges. The center has many volunteer opportunities for anyone committed to offering their time and talents to help others. Call 728-3728 or go to faithetc.org for information.

Meals on Wheels

The Effingham County Senior Citizens Center, 128 Stillwell Road, Springfield, needs volunteers to deliver meals to the homebound elderly in the county. Mileage is paid. Call Margaret Moore at 754-2138.

Medicare

The Coastal Georgia Regional Development Center is seeking volunteers to help counsel Medicare beneficiaries about their health coverage and options. Volunteers are also needed to assist with the GeorgiaCares SMP project to promote consumer awareness and prevent fraud. Volunteers will receive free in-depth training. Requires at least four hours per month. For more information, call 264-7363 ext. 239, or 800-669-8387.

Hunting-fishing club

The Georgia Hunting and Fishing Federation, Effingham Chapter, meets at 7 p.m. the second Thursday of every month in the Effingham County Recreation Department on Ga. 119 in Springfield. If you need information about the meeting or becoming a member, call 912-661-1111. Membership is $25 per year.

GED classes

Savannah Technical College offers day and evening GED classes in Rincon at Savannah Technical College Effingham Campus, 2890 Ga. 21 S. Call John Seaman or Alethia Bradshaw-Scott at 754-2876.

Effingham Rotary

The Rotary Club of Effingham meets at 12:30 p.m. every Thursday at St. John’s Lutheran Church, Ga. 21 and Seventh Street in Rincon. For information, call Talbert Edenfield at 772-5022 or go to myrotaryclub.com.

Sons of Confederate Veterans

Camp Davis No. 2073 meets the second Tuesday of every month in the former Boy Scouts hut down the hill from the Effingham Historical Society, formerly the old county jail in Springfield. Meeting and program at 7 p.m. Call Mitchell Ambrose at 429-3446.

UDC

United Daughters of the Confederacy Effingham County Hussars Chapter 2285 meets the last Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. in the Community Room at Effingham Hospital. Call 772-3340.

Experimental Aircraft

Effingham County Chapter 330 of the Experimental Aircraft Association meets at 11 a.m. the third Saturday of every month at The Briar Patch Airfield in Springfield. Meetings open with a short business session, followed by lunch. Cost is $5. Members and visitors may drive or fly. Go to eaa.org for more information.

SUPPORT GROUPS

Special-needs support

Effingham County Navigator Team is a support group and recreational program for children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Meetings are held every 2nd Tuesday of the month at The Learning Treehouse in Rincon at 250 Goshen Road at 6:30 p.m. Everyone is welcome. For more information please call Pauline Shaw at 912-659-9855, email us at effinghamcountynavigators@comcast.net and visit at effinghamcountynavigatorteam.com.

Special-needs children

A support group for parents and guardians of children with challenging behaviors meets at the United Way Effingham Service Center, 711 Zitterour Drive, Rincon. For information, call Katie McGrory at 441-1435 or email kateemac1@msn.com. Child care may be available.

Alzheimer’s support

The Alzheimer’s Association conducts a support group in Effingham County at 10:30 a.m. the second Tuesday of the month at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, 155 Goshen Road, Rincon. For information, call Jenny House at 912-920-2231 or email jenny.house@alz.org.

Special-needs support

The Effingham County Navigator Team, a support group for parents and caregivers of special needs children, ages newborn to 26 years, meets at 6:30 p.m. the second Tuesday of the month in the Blandford Elementary School media center. For information, call Pauline Shaw at 912-295-5460 or email effingham@p2pga.org.

Bereavement counseling

Hospice Savannah’s Full Circle has opened an office in the United Way Effingham Service Center, 711 Zitterour Drive, Rincon. Bereavement counselor Barbara Moss holds office hours 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesdays to counsel children or adults, individually or in group sessions, and plans to offer workshops and presentations on coping with grief during the holidays. The counseling is offered free of charge as a community service. To schedule an appointment, call 629-1089.

NA of Effingham
Narcotics Anonymous groups meet at 7:30 p.m. Sundays, Tuesdays and Thursdays at the Beulah House, 407 Church St., Guyton. Meetings are also at 7:30 p.m. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at Freedom Christian Center, 409 S. Laurel St., Springfield.

Seniors

Rincon Senior Support Group meets 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesdays at Vernon C. Hinely Community Center, Ga. 21 and Ninth Street in Rincon. For senior citizens 55 or older. Fellowship and activities. Call 826-4000.

Asperger’s syndrome

A support group for people with Asperger’s syndrome, their friends, family and caregivers, meets monthly at Effingham Baptist Church, 1007 N. Columbia Ave., Rincon. For information, call Patrick Bowers at 346-4912 or email pb4asp@yahoo.com.

Holy Trinity Lutheran Church

Holy Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church, 303 N. Laurel St. in Springfield, celebrates with worship services every Sunday at 11 a.m. Sunday School is held at 9:45 a.m. Holy Trinity is a member of Lutheran Congregations in Mission for Christ.

Tabernacle of Faith

A breakfast fellowship will be held every Wednesday at 8 a.m. at Tabernacle of Faith, located at 540 W. Seventh St. in Rincon. For more information, call 713-3783.

St. John’s Lutheran Church

St. John’s, 301 N. Columbia Ave., Rincon, welcomes the community to share in God’s grace in church services at 10 a.m. and Sunday School at 9 a.m.

St. Boniface Church Mass

St. Boniface Church, 1952 Ga. 21 South, Springfield, conducts Mass at 5 p.m. Saturdays and 8:30 and 11 a.m. Sundays. Call 912-754-7473 or go to sbcatholic.com.

Jesus Christ Ministries International

Jesus Christ Ministries International currently meets every Sunday at 12:30 p.m. at the Country Inn & Suites on Ga. 21 in Port Wentworth, and on Wednesdays at 7 p.m. in Rincon at the Pastor’s home for midweek Bible study. An anointed end time teaching ministry filled with revelation and the healing love of God.  Headquartered  in Rincon. Pastor Anthony Murray is also dean and chancellor of Christian Life School of Ministry. For more information, visit www.itsakingdomthing.net or call 912-826-0737.

Pierogi sale

St. Mary Magdalene Church, 1625 Fort Howard Road, Rincon, has a pierogi and bake sale from 10 a.m.-noon the first Saturday of the month. Info: 912-826-5176.

New ministry

Shepherds of Grace Church meets at 10:45 a.m. Sundays and at 7 p.m. Wednesdays at the Habitat for Humanity ReStore, 3605 Ga. 21 N., Rincon. For information, go to shepherdsofgrace.org or call Charles and Shirley Malphus at 912-663-6814.

Recovery ministry

First Baptist Church of Springfield offers a free Scripture-based recovery ministry based on the 12 steps. The program meets at 7 p.m. Mondays in the chapel, 1435 Ga. 119 N., Springfield. All are welcome. For information, go to fbc-springfield.org or call the church office at 912-754-3443.

St. Boniface Church Mass

St. Boniface Church, 1952 Ga. 21 South, Springfield, conducts Mass at 5 p.m. Saturdays and 8:30 and 11 a.m. Sundays. Call 912-754-7473 or go to sbcatholic.com.

Recovery ministry

First Baptist Church of Springfield offers a free Scripture-based recovery ministry based on the 12 steps. The program meets at 7 p.m. Mondays in the chapel, 1435 Ga. 119 N., Springfield. All are welcome. For information, go to fbc-springfield.org or call the church office at 912-754-3443.

St. Mary Magdalene Church

St. Mary Magdalene Orthodox Church, 1625 Fort Howard Road, Rincon, meets at 6 p.m. Saturdays (except the first) for Great Vespers. Sunday service schedule: Matins at 8:15 a.m., Hours at 9 a.m., Divine Liturgy at 9:30 and fellowship meal at 11 a.m. For information, go to stmarymagdalenerincon.org or call 912-826-5176.

Med Bank

Med Bank, a volunteer organization, invites anyone in Effingham County who lacks insurance for needed prescription medications to come in and begin the process to obtain free medicine through pharmaceutical companies’ programs. The clinic is held in the reception area of St. Luke Episcopal Church in Rincon, 155 Goshen Road, from 3-5 p.m. Wednesdays. Patients are asked to come with proof of income such as their latest tax return or last three paycheck stubs; medications lists; and physician information, if possible. For more information, contact executive director Liz Longshore at 912-373-6369.

Hwy. 30 Church of Christ

The Highway 30 Church of Christ meeting times are Sundays at 9:30 a.m. for Bible classes, 10:30 a.m. for worship, and 6 p.m. for evening worship. Bible classes are also held Wednesdays at 7 p.m. The Highway 30 church is located at 1952 Noel C. Conaway Road (Ga. 30), Guyton, GA 31312. Contact the church at 912-728-3819 or go to www.highway30cofc.truepath.com.

St. Luke’s services

The Rev. David Rose, vicar of St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, 155 Goshen Road, Rincon, invites everyone to share in services at 9:30 a.m. Sundays and adult Bible study at 11 a.m. Prayers for Healing services are 6 p.m. Wednesdays. Office hours are Monday, Wednesday and Thursday. For pastoral care, the Rev. Rose can be reached at or 826-3332. Go to stlukesrincon.com.

Grace Community Awana

The Awana children’s program meets every Wednesday at Grace Community Church, 1094 Goshen Road in Rincon. Children ages 3 years through fifth grade are invited. For information, call 912-826-4204.

The Body

 First Baptist Church of Rincon hosts a weekly interactive worship experience for young adults (college age and 20-somethings) at 7 p.m. on Thursdays. “The Body” meets in the white building across the street from the Youth Center on Richland Avenue. Call 912-826-5536 for information.

Crossroads Church

Crossroads Church meets Sundays at the Savannah Baptist Assembly, 930 Honey Ridge Road in Guyton. Coffee and goodies start at 9:30 a.m. with music and message beginning at 10 a.m. Go to crossroadschurcheff.org.

Lighthouse Church

The Lighthouse Church meets every Sunday at 10 a.m. at the Effingham YMCA, 1224 Patriot Drive, Rincon. “The Lighthouse” is a church where the Bible is preached, God is exalted and the love of Jesus Christ is the theme. For information, call the Rev. Rick West at 656-6242.

Awana at Pineora Baptist

The Awana children’s program is every Wednesday at Pineora Baptist Church, 131 Elkins St., Guyton. A meal will be served at 6:15 p.m. Call 772-3044.

Youth fellowship

A youth fellowship gathering is held 1-3 p.m. every Saturday at the House of Prayer of Rincon on Fort Howard Road. Call 826-2570.

Crossroads 2 Recovery

Crossroads Church in Guyton offers a free Scripture-based recovery ministry based on 12 steps at 7 p.m. Tuesdays at Savannah Baptist Assembly, 930 Honey Ridge Road, Guyton. For information, go to crossroadschurcheff.org or call the Rev. George Pabst at 441-0004.

Overcoming by Faith

Overcoming by Faith meets for worship at 1:30 p.m. Sundays and 7 p.m. Thursdays at the Banquet Room, 135 Goshen Road Ext. For information, call 927-8601.

James M. “Jim” Bullard Jr.

Rincon – James M. “Jim” Bullard, Jr., 80, passed away Saturday, Dec. 26, 2015 at Hospice Savannah. He was a devoted husband and father and he adored his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

The Edison, Ga. native was retired from Union Camp after 41 years. He enjoyed camping, gardening, and meeting friends at Krystal for breakfast. He was a member of First Baptist Church of Rincon and the Brotherhood Sunday School Class.

He was preceded in death by his parents, James M. Bullard Sr. and Simmie Lee Manry Bullard; his first wife, Ruth W. Bullard; three sisters, Jean, Peggy, and Claire.

Survivors include his wife, Wilma Faulk Bullard of Rincon; children, Debbie (Tommy) Snooks of Springfield, Linda (Parker) Rahn of Rincon, Terri (Darryl) Grondines of Trussville, Ala,, Marlene (Gary) Enos of Woodbine, and Carol (Steven) Oglesby of Springfield; 18 grandchildren; 8 great-grandchildren; brother, Jerry (Jean) Bullard of Albany; and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services were held on Dec. 28 at First Baptist Church of Rincon.

Interment followed in Rincon Cemetery.

Remembrances may be given to Hospice Savannah, P.O. Box 13190, Savannah, GA 31416 or charity of your choice.

Thomas C. Strickland & Sons Funeral Home, Effingham Chapel was in charge of arrangements.

Melissa Blackstock Oglesby

Springfield – Melissa Blackstock Oglesby, 45, passed away Dec. 25, 2015.

The South Carolina native was formerly employed at the Springfield Post Office for over 10 years and did title work for numerous companies.

Survivors include her husband, Kevin Oglesby of Charleston, S.C.; children, Jeffrey Jerald of Fort Bragg, N.C. and Heather Calo (Tony) of Miami, Fla.; granddaughter, Kloe Calo; her mother, Lois Courchene (Don); siblings, Rodman Deason, Marcus Deason, Bridget Lariscy, Eddie Blackstock, Priscilla Campbell, and Brigitte Moreau; and a number of nieces and nephews.

Funeral services were held on Dec. 28 in the funeral home chapel.

Interment followed in Effingham Memorial Gardens.

Thomas C. Strickland & Sons Funeral Home, Effingham Chapel was in charge of arrangements.

ALL-GREATER SAVANNAH FOOTBALL TEAM AND HONORABLE MENTIONS

Several local players were named to the All-Greater Savannah Football second defensive team and received honorable mentions.

DEFENSE

Second team members are: DL-Danny Doe, Effingham County, DL-Timell Jackson, South Effingham, LB-Mackenzy Newbill, South Effingham, and DB-Demonte Lee, Effingham County.

Honorable mentions went to: Effingham County — Dusty Baker, Daulton Harris, Rashaud Roper, Jake Dangerfield; South Effingham — Travis Simmons, Timmy Signal, Nick Reno, Sheldon Froelich, Trent Zeigler, Kareem Taylor.

Several local players were named to the All-Greater Savannah Football first and second offensive team.

ALL-GREATER SAVANNAH FOOTBALL TEAM OFFENSE: Effingham

TYLER PULLUM, sr., South Effingham QB

Pullum earned All-Region 3-AAAAA first-team honors after completing 121 of 200 passes for 1,665 yards with 15 scoring passes and 10 interceptions. He also ran for 244 yards and a pair of scores. He completed 8 of 8 passes for 243 yards and four scores against Bradwell Institute.

PATRICK BROWN, sr., South Effingham, RB

Brown rushed for 1,624 yards and 13 touchdowns in 11 games. He had 15 catches for 166 yards and a score and added 517 yards on kick returns. Brown earned All-Region 3-AAAAA honors and had 257 yards rushing against Jenkins and 327 yards against Richmond Hill.

DEMARIO GANT, soph., Effingham County, WR

The sophomore earned All-Region 3-AAAAA first-team honors with 34 catches for 579 yards and seven touchdowns, averaging 17 yards a catch. He had eight catches for 151 yards and a score in a loss to South Effingham and four catches for 144 yards and a TD in a loss to Glynn Academy.

TI’KE MYDELL, sr., South Effingham, OL

Mydell earned All-Region 3-AAAAA honors after leading a unit that averaged 200 yards rushing and 151 yards passing per game. The Mustangs reached the playoffs playing in one of the toughest regions in the state.

PHILLIP BROWN, sr., Effingham County, Athlete

Brown was a first-team All-Region 3-AAAAA pick as an athlete. The Rebel quarterback rushed for 757 yards and nine touchdowns and threw for 1,042 yards with 12 touchdowns and just one interception.

SECOND TEAM

WR-Marcus Boyd, South Effingham and OL-Brant Huff, Effingham County.

HOW THEY WERE CHOSEN

Players were selected from Bryan, Chatham, Effingham and Liberty counties. Selections were based on regular season and postseason games and a survey of area coaches.

SEHS BOYS BASKETBALL

5 p.m. Jan. 2 at Benedictine

7:30 p.m. Jan. 5 at Glynn Academy

7:30 p.m. Jan. 8 at home versus Coffee County

SEHS GIRLS BASKETBALL

6 p.m. Jan. 5 at Glynn Academy

6 p.m. Jan. 8 at home versus Coffee County

6 p.m. Jan. 12 at home versus Windsor Forest

ECHS BOYS BASKETBALL

7:30 p.m. Jan. 2 at Beach

7:30 p.m. Jan. 8 at home versus Camden County

7:30 p.m. Jan. 9 at Coffee County

ECHS GIRLS BASKETBALL

6 p.m. Jan. 8 at home versus Camden County

6 p.m. Jan. 9 at Coffee County

6:30 p.m. Jan. 15 at Glynn Academy

LOOKING BACK

Dec. 31, 1838

The legislature incorporated Springfield on this date.

Source: Carl Vinson Institute of Government

December 3l, 1851

The U.S. Post Office established a post office at Guyton.

Source: www.effga.com

Jan. 2, 1779

The town of Ebenezer was captured on this date during the Revolutionary War by British Col. Archibald Campbell. Ebenezer was occupied by the British until early in 1782. During this period, Jerusalem Church was used as a hospital for sick and wounded soldiers, and later as a stable for cavalry horses. Ebenezer became a thoroughfare for British troops passing from Augusta to Savannah. By July 1782, Ebenezer was once more in the hands of the Continentals and served as the headquarters of Gen. Anthony Wayne. The Georgia legislature assembled there that year, and Ebenezer became for a short time the capital of Georgia.

Source: Effingham County State Historical Marker

It’s that time of year again. The dawning of a new year holds out the promise of a fresh start, the chance to recalibrate one’s self into a more positive direction.

Of course, it doesn’t always work out. The force of our true nature, the mastery of the routine we have fallen into, is usually stronger than our will to adjust. So, yes, the vast majority of resolutions quickly fall by the wayside. But that doesn’t mean they’re not worth a try.

All resolutions are related, a struggle to make yourself a better and more effective person. But I do see them falling into three broad categories.

The first is self-improvement. The most common one in this category is diet and exercise, the desire to lose weight and become more fit. This is a laudable goal, and something I recommit to every year. After the indulgences of the Christmas season, I know I am certainly ready! I often have pretty good luck with this one, at least for a few months. I find it easier to make these sacrifices and changes during my long tax season. I do wish some of the changes would take place year round -- then I wouldn’t have to keep losing the same 20 to 25 pounds year after year. But I have to think, what would things be like if I didn’t at least try?

Others may dedicate to improving themselves at their job, with specific goals of raises and/or promotions. Some may have more artistic or constructive goals in mind -- achieving a certain chair in band, finishing a home improvement project, breaking a personal sports record. For me, I want 2016 to be the year I get published, even if I have to self-publish. I want to go to a book signing event with a real book in hand.

The second is conquering an addiction. These can be any number of things that people feel life would be better if they could eliminate or control. These are beyond the simple addictions to foods and coffee, and enter the more perilous territory of tobacco, alcohol, drugs, gambling, destructive-level obsessive/compulsive behaviors, etc. These are things that take hold of you, and may require more than just simple resolution. They require help and understanding from others.

I have nothing in this category, other than my love of sugar/sweet and two to three cups a day of caffeine laden coffee. I grew up in an environment that was free from tobacco and alcohol, but not in a preachy/condemnatory way. It always surprises me how much drinking there is in TV and movies, and how something that can be so dangerous is actually portrayed as normal. Even though I have not personally gone through it, I have seen others struggle with these addictions, and they have all my support and prayers in dealing with them. Even if their resolutions to change do not take hold, we should respect that at least they recognize they have a problem and are taking steps to resolve it.

The third is resolving to do more to help others. It could be in time devoted to charitable causes, helping with family obligations more, or even being more polite with people you meet everyday. It could be at church, work, shopping or everyone everywhere. Showing generosity and kindness is a central tenet of my faith, but it’s not one I always live up to. Sometimes my innate shyness interferes with taking the initiatives I should be taking up more often.

I am going to try to increase my involvement in charitable work. My church is very good at doing projects they call “the hands and feet of Christ,” letting the spirit move you to help others and do your small part in making this world a better place.

Whether they last a few days or a full year, the new year is a good place to take stock and consider. What can I do to improve myself? What addictions can I break? And what can I do to help make this a better world for everyone?

Here’s to the promise of a healthier, better, kinder 2016!

T. M. Strait (Tom) is a CPA, actor, blogger and an enthusiastic storyteller.

“President Obama is right; ISIS is in control. They control much of the Middle East. Good going Mr. President.”

“I am 71 years old and I have never had a problem with law enforcement. But I respect the law and have never had a drop of liquor. Maybe there’s a connection.”

Contribute to Vox Populi by calling 912-525-0VOX (0869) or emailing us at vox@savannahnow.com. Be sure to mention Effingham County in your call or write Effingham Vox Populi in the email subject field. Not all responses are used.

The only requirements for having your name on a brick in Guyton’s Memory Garden are having a tie to the city and $35 to pay for engraving.

That means the people honored there are dead and alive, well-known and not.

The garden that was dedicated recently is at the end of the walking trail, in the northern part of the city, on Ga. 17.

About 50 bricks already have names on them, including the names of all of the city’s elected officers, mayors and moderators of the Pilgrim Missionary Society.

“My name is on there,” said Pearl Boynes, president of the Guyton Historic Preservation Commission, which set up the garden.

She bought a brick for her mother, who passed away in 2014 at the age of 97. She said her mother was born in Guyton, but left in her early 40s to move to New York.

One member of the commission bought a brick with his children’s names.

Boynes said volunteers have been working on the project for several years.

“It looks like it just came up overnight, but it didn’t,” she said. “We had no idea what we were undertaking.”

They hired a mason, Marvin Scott of Clyo, to set up a square with low walls, where the bricks can be easily placed and removed.

People who want to buy a brick can fill out a form and pay their money at City Hall. Volunteers lug the bricks back and forth from Oglethorpe Marble and Granite in Savannah, where they are engraved.

“When we get three or four, we take them in,” she said.

The garden has a slogan: “Some were born here. Some died here. All are honored here.”

2015: YEAR IN REVIEW

It’s time again to look back over 2015 at the events that shaped the year.

Hear we’ve chosen stories that had the most impact -- or received the most attention.

1. Tarot Cards

In one of the strangest stories of the year, Effingham Now learned the Fool and Death cards from a Tarot Card deck, were front and center.

School Superintendent Randy Shearouse received the Fool and Death cards earlier in the year from Jimmy Helmly, recently retired school system staffer husband of board member, Beth Helmly.

Shearouse wondered what message the cards were sending, when the board member voted against renewing Shearouse’s contract.

Beth Helmly, a retired principal with the school system, said Monday that her vote not to renew Shearouse’s contract had nothing to do with her husband or the cards.

“My vote had to do with personnel and operational decisions made by Dr. Shearouse,” she wrote in an email. “Dr. Shearouse, in bringing up the Tarot cards, is attempting to draw attention away from the real reasons that I voted not to rehire. Putting the blame on me means that he does not have to look at the real issues that lie with his administration.”

Jimmy Helmly said that he gave the Tarot cards to Shearouse and said he meant to inspire him to think about change and the way things were being done in the school system.

He likened sending the cards to sending an email in anger.

“I sent him the Tarot cards,” he said. “I guess I was a damn fool.”

Helmly said he urged Shearouse to look up what the cards meant. He said the “death” card doesn’t mean you’re wishing someone would die, but means that change is in the air.

The “fool” card referred to making foolish decisions, he said. Jimmy Helmly, who worked for the Effingham school system for 34 years, questioned how the transportation department was run.

2. Hot ride

Rincon’s Fire Chief Corey Rahn made the news for his driving, not his firefighting skills, in April.

Rushing through Port Wentworth to get to an Effingham accident scene after a shopping trip to Pooler, Rahn had Port Wentworth police on his trail.

Rahn received three citations - including reckless driving, failure to exercise due care and failure to yield to an emergency vehicle - after a Port Wentworth police officer spotted Rahn weaving in and out of traffic and forcing other vehicles to the side of the road.

“The driver gave no consideration for the safety of himself, or the safety of the motoring public,” the officer reported.

But Rahn, who failed to stop for the officer as the pursuit continued into Effingham County, could be heard on an interview video telling Port Wentworth police he was trying to get to an accident involving a gasoline spill and an entrapment.

“I thought you were a Rincon officer behind me and we were going to the same place until I got between McCall and Chimney Road,” Rahn said.

A second Port Wentworth officer, who had also been involved in the pursuit, was ready to arrest Rahn when they all arrived at the accident site, according to police video. An officer can be heard yelling, “He’s going to jail,” on the video.

Rahn was picking up an air conditioner in Pooler when a call came that a garbage truck had rear-ended a gas truck at the Ga. 21 railroad tracks near Patriot Drive. A Port Wentworth police officer, who was parked at Wendy’s near the Ga. 21 and Interstate 95 interchange, reported he was “amazed” to see a red pickup with an amber and white mini-light bar - emergency fire vehicle lights are red - which turned out to be Rahn’s personal vehicle.

Port Wentworth police reported they didn’t know Rahn was heading to an emergency. Port Wentworth officers said they checked with Effingham dispatch and were told they had no one responding to an incident.

The case is ongoing and will be heard in State Court in Chatham County.

3. Rebels without a cause?

Race relations in Effingham County got attention in August when the local chapter of the NAACP made a request of the school board.

A public meeting with the board turned downright nasty when NAACP members asked for the removal Confederate symbols from Effingham County High school.

The majority of the 530-plus people who attended that Board of Education meeting supported keeping the symbols at ECHS.

The Effingham NAACP was accused of having “outside” agitators making the symbols an issue.

Students frequently fly Confederate flags at sporting events and the school band plays “Dixie.”

Many in the crowd, along with school officials, said students get along great and the symbols aren’t a problem.

Little movement has been made on the issue. The NAACP has said the requests aren’t going away.

4. Big Business

The largest energy infrastructure company in North America, Kinder Morgan, came calling in Georgia big time this year. Efforts to build a $1 billion petroleum pipeline through Georgia garnered headlines for most of the year.

The process got a bumpy start when they applied for a certificate of need from the Georgia DOT, in order to use eminent domain to condemn private land if needed for the pipeline.

A pipeline carrying gasoline, diesel and ethanol, as this one proposes, must first get that DOT approval and then another go-ahead from the state Environmental Protection Division before it can force the sale of easements from unwilling sellers.

Public open houses on the pipeline were irregular to say the least -- held by Kinder Morgan and its Atlanta-based attorneys at King and Spalding rather than by the state Department of Transportation.

After public outcry and a consultation with the Georgia attorney general’s office, the DOT announced it would conduct one public hearing, the minimum required by law. That meeting was held in Richmond Hill.

Getting a straight answer — or a map of the proposed route — was an unnecessary hurdle for Effingham Now. Kinder Morgan’s possible use of eminent domain to condemn land made the maps even more crucial for release. Kinder Morgan did then hold a public meeting in Effingham County on March 31, and displayed two large books with aerial maps showing particular parcels that might be affected.

They balked at their release by the county shortly after to Effingham Now, however, stating, “We don’t feel it is beneficial to release maps for public viewing without the context of a representative explaining the particulars,” said Melissa Ruiz, of media relations for Kinder Morgan, in an email. The county released the maps when David E. Hudson, attorney for the newspaper and the Georgia Press Association, said Kinder Morgan and Effingham County’s reasons for keeping the newspaper and the public from having access to the maps was “bogus.”

Kinder Morgan has thrown some cash around, as one suspects, to build good will.

South Effingham High School Athletics was awarded $90,000 over two years for a “platinum sponsorship,” of the Mustangs. The sponsorship spells out where 13 banners, signs and painted logos will appear.

DOT denied the permit eventually. Kinder Morgan has appealed and said the pipeline is coming through Georgia, with or without, eminent domain.

5. Problems at the prison

Prison troubles came to light late in the year, when emails and letters were sent to Effingham Now and our sister publication, Savannah Morning News, detailing issues at the prison.

From cooling problems to work detail inmates coming back to the prison drunk, the problems led the county to hire a “fixer” to take over as warden.

6. Play ball

2015 has been a good year for recreation news in Effingham County.

The county bought most of the land for a new recreation complex in December of 2014, but planning took off for the site in 2015. County commissioners approved the layout for the $19.2 million central recreation complex on Ga. 21 and told consultants to start work on schematics and a detailed budget.

The complex on the west side of the highway, just south of Springfield, eventually will have 11 baseball fields, four multi-purpose fields and a two-court gymnasium.

In addition to restrooms and parking, the plan calls for a 12-space RV campground, five picnic shelters, walking trails, covered bleachers, batting cages, three playgrounds, park space, a pond, splash pad, skate park and dog park.

Some empty space is left on Ga. 21 for the county to sell to commercial developers.

The county also celebrated the 40th anniversary of the Recreation Department in November.

7. Retail in Rincon

Construction of a new, much larger Kroger, complete with gasoline services, made interest in retail space in Rincon strong. Nine new tenants have been lined up to fill 12,600 square feet of space that is being added to the new Kroger shopping center on Ga. 21.

8. Order in the court

Effingham County commissioners voted unanimously to pay $7 million to settle the Old Augusta water and sewer lawsuit in exchange for 472 acres of land.

The lawsuit filed in December 2010 by Old Augusta Development Group had been scheduled to go to trial the next week.

Commission Chairman Wendall Kessler said the county didn’t have insurance to pay a breach of contract claim and traded an “unknown for a known” in settling the lawsuit.

Kessler said the plaintiffs originally asked for $50 million but after negotiations settled for $7 million in exchange for the land.

Court records indicate the plaintiffs paid $7.5 million for the land in July 2005. The property is known as the “Grandview tract” and is east of Rincon and adjacent to Old Augusta and Fort Howard roads.

Commissioners agreed in June to settle a similar lawsuit, paying $325,000 and 2 acres of land to bankruptcy trustee Benjamin R. Roach on behalf of Darrell Trent Morgan, who owned another portion of the Grandview tract.

9. Transformed

Georgia Transformer celebrated its reopening with a ribbon cutting at the Rincon transformer plant in September. The manufacturing plant, formerly known as EFACEC, is now owned by Caravels LLC, a private investment company, with a strategic alliance with Virginia Transformer Corp.

Caravels bought the facility in late 2014.

The plant specializes in making large, energy-efficient transformers, competing with those made in Korea, China and Japan.

A large group of guests that included State Sen. Jack Hill, U.S. Rep. Buddy Carter, local elected officials, Georgia Transformer employees, Georgia Transformer customers and vendors, were treated to a catered reception and a tour of the 250,000 square foot plant.

10. No full moon

Another year, and still no studio.

Despite the lack of construction, Moon River studios continued in headlines here for another year.

In November, the company reported to the Securities and Exchange Commission that its two-picture deal with Director Penny Marshall had been canceled. Those filings also said Moon River was settling a lawsuit by Mammoth Corp. of Lake Zurich, Ill., spelling out how it will pay Mammoth $140,000 by May.

The Effingham County Industrial Development Authority (IDA) cut Moon River Studios from 1,560 acres to 51 acres on property the IDA owns at Old River Road and Interstate 16 in October.

The new deal with the IDA calls for Moon River to invest at least $10 million in capital and create 250 full-time jobs within five years.

Moon River has previously reported to the SEC that it is in default on a $600,000 note owed to AppleBox, a film production equipment company.

In September, FONU2, Inc., the parent firm of Moon River Studios, announced that it signed a letter of intent to acquire the assets of SouthEast Props in Wilmington, N.C.

SouthEast Props is a set decoration and prop rental house that serves the East Coast film and television industry. Plans call for the company’s assets to be relocated to Effingham County, according to the announcement.

Moon River Studios announced in October it would make a documentary on legendary singer James Brown.

An Effingham County High School junior has been identified as the single fatality in a wreck on Dec. 29.

Karen Yun, 17, was killed when the van she was driving was struck by a semi-truck at the intersection of Fort Howard and Old Augusta Roads.

Georgia State Trooper First Class Dan Chernich said Yun failed to yield coming on to Old Augusta from Fort Howard Road.

No charges will be filed in the accident.

Effingham County Coroner David Exley said Yun was pronounced dead at the scene.

“The impact from the truck was to the doorway of the van she was driving,” Exley said.

Yun worked at Rincon restaurant, China Delight, with her aunt and uncle.

Survivors include her mother and step-father, Mei Wang and Chen Yi Yong; twin sister, Susan Yun; and brother, Tony Li.

PROPERTY TRANSFERS

Chris W Harris to Joshua D. Keeney1012 Ash Street EXTSPRINGFIELD3132978900.00Steven M Parker to Nationstar Mortgage LLC532 Shearhouse RoadGUYTON3131243912.00Nationstar Mortgage LLC to Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation532 Shearhouse RoadGUYTON3131243912.00COREY E. KESSLER to NATHAN A. CRAMER26 LAUREN WAYRINCON31326135000.00ALEXANDRE B. DASILVA to JORGE D. CARRASQUILLO3485 HIGHWAY 17 SGUYTON31312199000.00JORGE D. CARRASQUILLO to JORGE D. CARRASQUILLO and ANGELINA CARRASQUILLO 3485 HIGHWAY 17 SGUYTON313120.00WR ENTERPRISES, LLC to JAMES BRYAN JACKSON and ALLISON COLBY JACKSON 157 BLANFORD XINGRINCON31326291207.00MERLE W. MURRAY to J. W. MURRAYOLD AUGUSTA ROAD SCLYO0.00RICHARD L. FORTNER to ANGELA MARIE FABIAN AND THE GRANTOR, RICHARD L. FORTNER TO RESERVE A LIFE ESTATE204 RIVER OAK DRCLYO0.00YAUN CONSULTING, LLC to BRANDON C SPINKS and JAMES H SPINKS 267 BARRISTER CIRGUYTON31312129900.00Jill Clayton to 1671 Midland Trust1671 Midland RoadGUYTON313120.001671 Midland Trust to Diana R. Hathaway1671 Midland RoadGUYTON3131274900.00Susan Beth Ritter Lanier to Jurgen Samuel Houston and Jesse Lynn Houston 279 Hester RDGUYTON3131285000.00PennyMac Corporation to Cheryl Hamilton and Alan Ray Sparks 506 E Williams STRINCON3132620000.00Clover Pointe Development, LLC to Faircloth Homes of Savannah, Inc.147 Clover Pointe CIRGUYTON3131240000.00KAREN J. DEWEY to JOHN HENRY FORT, JR. and SHANNON DARLENE FORT 136 THOMPSON STSPRINGFIELD130000.00Clover Pointe Development, LLC to Faircloth Homes of Savannah, Inc.151 Clover Pointe CIRGUYTON3131240000.00Clover Pointe Development, LLC to Faircloth Homes of Savannah, Inc.149 Clover Pointe CIRGUYTON3131240000.00Clover Pointe Development LLC to Faircloth Homes of Savannah, Inc.145 Clover Pointe CIRGUYTON3131240000.00W. Carswell Rahn, LLC, W. Barnard Rahn, LLC, F. Parker Rahn, LLC to Elbow Cay Land Holdings, LLC439 Shadowbrook CIRSPRINGFIELD3132925000.00Pamela White Ryals to Corey Alan Cardarelli and Candy L. Cardarelli 0 Zittrauer RDCLYO63200.00BEACON BUILDERS, INC. to JOEY A. STRICKLAND and CHELSEA R. STRICKLAND 106 DEL MAR CTRINCON31326230900.00Kevin Kirsch New Homes, Inc. to Jason P. Gee173 Blackwater WAYSPRINGFIELD31329146450.00Faircloth Homes of Savannah, Inc. to Steve C. Cottrell, IV and Keleigh L. Cottrell 112 Saddleclub WAYGUYTON31312291300.00Clover Pointe Development, LLC to Faircloth Homes of Savannah, Inc.153 Clover Pointe CIRGUYTON3131240000.00Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation to David W Frizzell571 Wallace RDSPRINGFIELD313294900.00Charles Martin to Martin Properties, LLC108 Tolliver LNRINCON3132615000.00Lamar Smith Signature Homes, LLC to Sanford R. Griffin and Gwenolyn S. Griffin 414 Plantation PLRINCON31326289710.00C. L. Greer Enterprises, Inc. to Jason T. Belcourt108 Gentry DRGUYTON31312172000.00FROB Construction, LLC to Jonathan H. Reuter103 Rogers DRRINCON31326157000.00Mark S Bryant to Southern Yankee Realty Investment Corp.105 Linton LNGUYTON3131211000.00

BOYS BASKETBALL

South Effingham 54,

Benedictine 56

Travis Simmons 19

Ben Brennen 11

Derrick Newberry 9

Turner Davis 7

Glenn Steal 5

Amai Gaines 3

Quarter Scores:

SEHS 12, 26, 38, 54

Benedictine 11, 33, 47, 56

GIRLS BASKETBALL

Lady Stangs beat SCD 45-36

Faith Harris 11

Mallori Jenkins 11

Cheyenne Boswel 7

Shae Leverett 5

Jordan Bisard 4

Jillian Pelote 4

Diera Newberry 3

South Effingham 52,

Savannah Christian 19

The Lady Stangs are now 14-0 for the season.

Faith Harris 15

Jillian Pelote 8

Shae Leverett 8

Mallori Jenkins 7

Cheyenne Boswell 6

Jayde Goldwire 6

Teonna Hayes 1

Diera Newberry 1

EFFINGHAM COUNTY RECREATION AND PARKS HOLD PRE-SEASON TOURNAMENTS

Effingham County Recreation and Parks hosted its annual pre-season basketball tournaments for all youth leagues on Dec. 28-30. There were 57 teams who participated through eight age divisions; Mighty Minis, ages 5-6; Flea Boys and Girls, ages 7-8; Mite Boys and Girls, ages 9-10; Midget Boys, ages 11-12; Junior Boys, ages 13-14 and senior boys, ages 15-17.