An Effingham County Superior Court jury found Robbie Stone not guilty of all charges today except reckless driving in a wreck that killed two people.

The jury deliberated less than two hours before returning the verdict. Judge John R. Turner said sentencing will be next Thursday.

Assistant District Attorney Brian Deal said reckless driving is a misdemeanor that carries a maximum sentence of 12 months in jail.

Stone was charged with two counts of homicide by vehicle, three counts of serious injury by vehicle, reckless driving and weaving over roadway.

He had faced a maximum of 76 years in jail for all the charges. 

Stone testified today that he had to pull a drunken passenger back into the vehicle before the crash in which the passenger and another person were killed.

“We were just having a good time, man, we were all laughing,” Stone testified.

Stone, 21, was the driver in the June 27, 2010, crash on Stillwell-Clyo Road. 

“Neal was having the time of his life,” Stone said of passenger William Neal Morgan, who was one of the two people who died in the crash. ““I’m not saying (Neal) grabbed the wheel and caused the accident,” Stone said. “It was hectic.”

Testimony indicated that speed was not a factor in the single-vehicle crash early on a Sunday morning. Witnesses also said Stone was not impaired by alcohol or drugs.

All six people were thrown from the vehicle when it overturned several times.

Stone testified this morning that he was the designated driver, taking five other teenagers from one party to another.

Stone admitted that he was the one who allowed that many people to pack into the 2000 Chevrolet Tracker. A seventh person rode on the spare wheel of the open-top vehicle for a short time at the start of the ride, before leaving the vehicle safely.

On cross examination, Stone said he can’t explain testimony from two witnesses who said he was “driving crazy” before the crash.

Stone cried when he recounted Neal’s family meeting him with “open arms” after the accident.

Whitney Jade Newman, 17, died at the scene. Morgan, 17, died in a hospital three days later from injuries received in the wreck.

A jury on Friday found an Effingham County man not guilty of two counts of homicide by vehicle in the 2010 deaths of two teenagers.

The jury did find Robert Patrick Stone, 21, guilty of the misdemeanor of reckless driving.

Stone had also been indicted on three counts of serious injury by vehicle and weaving over roadway for a total of seven charges.

Stone was the driver of a 2000 Chevrolet Tracker carrying five passengers in the early morning hours of June 27, 2010. Stone lost control of the vehicle on Stillwell-Clyo Road. It flipped and ejected all the occupants. The car did not have a roof.

Killed in the accident were Whitney Jade Newman, 17, who died at the scene of the crash and William Neal Morgan, 17, who died in a hospital three days later from injuries received in the wreck.

Prosecutor Brian Deal told the jury that Stone’s reckless driving caused him to lose control of the car.

Stone’s defense argued that the wreck was a “horrible accident” and Morgan’s behavior in the car likely led to the wreck.

Stone testified Friday that Morgan had been drinking Bud Light all day and was drunk when Stone agreed to be a designated driver and drive the two to a party.

Stone tested negative for alcohol and drugs after the wreck.

Stone and Morgan were giving Newman and three other girls a ride from that party to Morgan’s river house when the crash occurred about 2:45 a.m. on June 27.

Lindsay Morgan Buchanan, 17 at the time of accident, was one of four females in the back of the four-seat vehicle.

Buchanan testified Thursday that Stone was “driving crazy” before the accident.

She also testified that Morgan was hanging out the window and on the windshield and was acting a little wild.

Amanda Duff, another passenger, testified Friday that Stone’s driving at first was fine.

“As soon as Neal started trying to crawl out of the window we started swerving a bit,” Duff said.

The fourth female passenger, Kristin Westenbarger, who was then 16, testified she saw Stone deliberately moving his hands back and forth on the steering wheel.

“At first it was okay (Stone’s driving),” she said. “After a while it progressed from all cutting up and joking around to swerving back and forth, trying to scare us I guess.”

Stone testified that he had to grab Morgan when he stood up and was lying on the windshield.

Stone said he then felt a big jerk on his left.

Stone’s attorney, Michael Classens, told jurors in his closing statement that the jerk Stone said he felt could have come from the left rear tire blowing out.

Classens pointed to tire pressure testing done after the car had been towed from the scene that showed zero pressure in the left rear tire. He also noted there were marks on the tire that he believed would come from a flat tire’s wheel scraping the road.

Classens also said his client was leaning over to grab Morgan when he lost control of the car.

Classens also told jurors the Tracker rolled over more than any car of its type made in 2000 and that the other three tires were the incorrect size and were all overinflated. He also said the car was carrying more weight than the maximum allowed.

Prosecutor Brian Deal told jurors in his closing argument that several witnesses had testified that Morgan’s behavior was independent of Stone’s driving.

Deal also said there was no evidence presented by the Georgia State Patrol that the tires or weight carried in the vehicle contributed to the wreck.

“This was no accident,” said Deal. “These people put their lives in his hands. They trusted him and he violated that trust.”

Sentencing for Stone will held on March 14. The maximum sentence for reckless driving is 12 months in jail.

The delay will allow for the victims' families to make statements at the sentencing hearing.

Robert Stone’s mother was thankful for the verdict.

“To God be the glory,” she said. “He’s free.”

Law enforcement in Chatham and Effingham counties are searching for a 27-year-old man suspected of shooting his girlfriend early Saturday morning at a Savannah apartment complex.

Cori Rayshan Hines, of Rincon, is wanted by Savannah-Chatham police on an aggravated assault warrant stemming from the about 2:30 a.m. shooting at an apartment at the Oaks at Brandlewood Apartments, in the 5100 block of Garrad Avenue, said Julian Miller, Savannah-Chatham police spokesman.

The victim was treated for her injuries at Memorial University Medical Center and released.

After the incident that followed a confrontation, Miller said, Hines fled the apartment complex in a black Toyota Camry.

Rincon police were advised a few hours later the vehicle was spotted in the Effingham Parc Apartments complex at Town Park Road, Miller said. Witnesses advised investigators Hines was in an apartment in the complex that he shares with another woman.

About 6 a.m. Saturday Rincon Police, Effingham County Sheriff’s Office deputies, and the Savannah-Chatham SWAT team responded to the apartment complex, said David Ehsanipoor, ECSO spokesman.

During a search several hours later law enforcement officers were not able to locate Hines inside the apartment and determined he’d fled the area, Ehsanipoor said.

The suspect was last seen wearing a red T-shirt and blue jeans and is considered by law enforcement to be armed and dangerous.

Anyone with information on the case is asked to call Crimestoppers at 912-234-2020 or text CRIMES (274637). In the body type, include “CStop2020” plus the tip. Tipsters remain anonymous and may qualify for a cash reward.

A confidential Tip Line also is open directly to investigators at 912-525-3124. Callers preferring to speak directly to the detectives without reward potential can arrange private discussions.

Interim City Manager Wesley Corbitt was chosen unanimously tonight as city manager.

Corbitt was appointed as interim manager after the resignation of Michael Phillips in August 2011. He was finance director for Rincon before he was named interim city manager.

Phillips was hired in April 2009 to replace Donald Toms, who resigned in December 2008. Phillips was the city’s fourth city manager since 2006.

LAUREL:

A belated laurel goes to both the boys and girls basketball teams of Effingham County High School.

Both teams gave us all a thrilling ride to the final four, and we are grateful.

While the results were not what was hoped, both teams have lots to be proud of, and they should shake off any disappointment and look at what they’ve accomplished.

LAUREL:

For two weekends in a row some of the most talented students at South Effingham High School showed off their skills to the delight of audiences. The fashion show held on Feb. 23 was remarkable for the level of creativity on display. The talent show on March 1 was another fine example of the many talented students at the school. Congratulations to them all — and the teachers that inspire and guide them.

LAUREL:

A congratulatory laurel goes to Wesley Corbitt for being chosen as Rincon city manager. Corbitt may not have been the candidate with the most city administration experience, but he was the one with most heart for Rincon. Corbitt has plenty of smarts and will serve the city well.

LAUREL:

We’re glad to hear some good news from the board of education this week (see story on page 1). It appears the board won’t need a property tax increase partially due to collections of past due taxes. Increased state funding will also be a boost to the budget. That’s the kind of news we are glad to hear — and pass along.

LAUREL:

A laurel goes to the Effingham County Chamber of Commerce and Rick Lott for the Taste of Effingham held on March 7. The event just gets better each year. The success is in large part due to Lott’s hard work. Good job.

Students in the five Career Technical Student Organizations (CTSO) at Effingham County High School collected more than 1,500 cans of food that will be taken to the regional food bank in Macon.

During the Georgia FFA state convention, thousands of students from across state are challenged to bring in cans for the Million Can Challenge.

The five CTSOs at Effingham High — FFA, Skills USA, HOSA, FCCLA and FBLA — are being honored as part of Career, Technical and Agricultural Education month in Georgia.

In addition to personal growth, CTSOs also focus on helping the community. Activities include serving Thanksgiving dinner, adopting a needy family at Christmas, beautifying the school and community, helping with pet adoption fairs, raising awareness of illnesses or diseases, and collecting jackets and blankets in the winter.

A number of the students are advancing to state competitions.

ECHS Skills USA will take the following students to the Skills USA Georgia State Leadership Conference in Atlanta on March 21-23: tactical team — Maygen Pritchard, Jacob Dasher, Allan Clairmont, Austin Murray, Dylan Jackson and Brandon Salisbury; criminal justice — Shelby Carpenter; computer maintenance technology — Jordan Pickard; computer programming — Raoul Rego; broadcast journalism — Patrick Fagin, Amira Williams and Kailyn Mikulksky; and video production — Tyler Ziegler and Rachel Shey.

The ECHS FFA chapter is looking forward to the State FFA Convention in Macon on April 25-27. The following students are commended for their hard work and dedication.

Tractor Driving — Dalton Shelton, advanced to state competition; EMC wiring — Lawton Roraback; floral design — Ryley Flathman; agricultural mechanics — Justin Hinely, Marcus Taylor, Zac Odom and Lawton Roraback, advanced to state competition; horse evaluation — Lindsay Alvarez, Stephanie Edwards, Ryley Flathman and C.J. Hucks; job interview — Rajvi Dave; dairy cattle evaluation — Leslie Hutsell, Julia Gonzalez and Kaylee Snyder; FFA quiz — Harrison Joyner; wildlife management — Julia Gonzalez, Kelsie Bennett, Bo Newsome and Steven Kulp; parliamentary procedure — Leslie Hutsell, Taylor Johnson, Bayley Morgan, Abby Hutsell, Ryley Flathman and Lindsay Alvarez; agricultural sales — Annah Shearouse, Sophie Usher and Kaelyn Decker; floriculture — Ryley Flathman, C.J. Hucks and Melissa Turcotte; livestock evaluation — Kaylee Snyder, Julia Gonzalez and Austin Dixon, advanced to state competition; and poultry evaluation — Rajvi Dave, Zachary Snow, Kieffer Shearouse, Wyatt Dyches, David Vickery, Courtney Beasley and Trent Dickerson, advanced to state competition.

FCCLA STAR events Region 9 students are: illustrated talk — Phoenix Truitt won gold and advances to state; food innovations — Kalonna Brown, James McDonald and Drashti Patel won gold and advance to state; life event planning — Joanne Sincavage and Andrew Thompson won silver and advance to state; nutrition and wellness — Natalyn Harris won bronze; and Hannah Flewallen is competing in advocacy at state.

FBLA is taking three students to state next week March 15-17. Hannah Boyd placed first in business communication and first in job interview. Rajvi Dave placed eighth in Accounting I. Alexa Daughtry is competing in sports management.

The 2013 legislative session of the Georgia General Assembly officially completed Crossover Day on Thursday, and this day marks the 30th day of our 40 day session. The bills that survived Crossover Day in the House will now travel to the Senate for their counsel and consideration.

One of the bills passed this week would help veterans find jobs after returning home from serving our country. House Bill 188 creates the potential for newly honorable discharged veterans who have received training in certain specialized skilled trades to receive an initial professional license from the Secretary of State. The bill does this by creating a committee that would identify military jobs with requirements that meet or exceed Georgia requirements for certification in skilled trades applicable to HVAC, plumbing, electrical contracting, utility foreman or residential light commercial contracting. If their research shows it is appropriate, the committee could allow an exemption from some Georgia requirements for veterans with these skills. The committee could also certify military spouses living in Georgia who have a skilled trade certification from another state if the committee determines that the other state’s requirements meet or exceed Georgia’s requirements. This will help our state fill the 60,000 vacancies in these skilled trades expected over the next seven years and reduce the number of unemployed veterans in Georgia.

The HOPE Scholarship and Grant Program is one of our greatest assets in Georgia that assists students with their higher education costs. Changes being proposed to the HOPE Grant (that relates only to technical colleges) will continue to provide educational opportunities for our students. This legislation would change the eligibility requirements to qualify for the HOPE Grant Program for technical colleges from 3.0 grade-point average to a 2.0 GPA. Approximately 9,000 technical college students lost the HOPE Grant last year because they could not maintain the GPA requirement. Our goal is to help students attain technical training and degrees so they can become a successful part of our workforce.

One of the most debated bills on Crossover Day, House Bill 512, passed the House and now goes to the Senate would allow licensed weapons holders who have gone through the process of finger printing, a background check and a mental health inquiry to obtain a Georgia Weapons License (GWL) to carry their firearms in more places in Georgia than currently allowed by state law. This bill, known as the Safe Carry Protection Act, would allow property owners — not the government — to decide whether a licensed weapon holder may carry a gun in their places of worship and establishments that primarily serve alcoholic beverages. The bill would also allow GWL holders to carry their firearm in a government building that is not afforded the protection of security services at the entrances or exits of the premises. Additionally, HB 512 would allow gun owners to carry their firearms on most areas of public college campuses, but would not allow weapons in residence halls or competitive sporting events. HB 512 would also give each local Board of Education the option to designate one or more administrators to possess a weapon in a school safety zone.

If you would like to reach me, please call me at 404-656-5099 or write to me at: State Rep. Jon Burns, 18 Capitol Square, 228 State Capitol, Atlanta, GA 30334 or e-mail me at jon.burns@house.ga.gov.

Effingham County Democratic Committee

The Effingham County Democratic Committee will meet on March 21 at 6 p.m. in the Recreation Bldg. on Ga. 119. This is a temporary location while the hospital community room is being renovated. New officers will be introduced. For more information, call Chair Jack Garvin 429-1990.

Play to benefit the Mars Theater

The play, “Twelve Angry Jurors,” will be performed at the old Effingham County Courthouse in Springfield at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, March 16, with proceeds benefiting the renovation of Springfield’s Mars Theater. Tickets are $13. For tickets or more information, contact the chamber of commerce at 754-3301 or Gussie Nease at 658-5053.

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.

• American Legion Auxiliary, Post 209 for Effingham and Springfield, holds bingo at 6:30 p.m. the fourth Friday of each month at the Legion Hall, 941 S. Laurel St., Springfield. Proceeds go to help veterans and their families. For information, contact Thelma Pierce at 754-2442.

Bike ride to benefit Mars Theater

The third annual bike ride to benefit the renovation of Mars Theater in Springfield will be on Saturday, April 20. For more information, call Gussie Nease at 912-658-5053.

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 5:30-7 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.

Auxiliary volunteers needed

The Effingham Hospital Auxiliary is in need of volunteers in the beauty shop from 8 a.m.-noon Wednesdays in the Extended Care Center. You do not need to be a hairdresser to apply, just have a compassionate heart. Perfect for retired hairdressers. Call Brenda Rabun at 346-9536 or email rabonbk@gmail.com.

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. The group is open to family caregivers. It provides education and support. These meetings usually run one hour in length. For more information, call 1-800-272-3900.

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.

Start Smart Child and Adult Care Food Program

The Start Smart Learning Center at 250 Chimney Road in Rincon is a sponsor of the U.S. Department of Agriculture-funded Child and Adult Care Food Program. The same meals will be available at no separate charge to enrolled participants without regard to race, color, national origin, sex, age or disability. Contact Jeanne Hamiliton at 912-826-0062 for more information.

American Red Cross

The Southeast Georgia Chapter of the American Red Cross is seeking volunteers for their Disaster Action Teams. Volunteers are needed to provide emergency assistance to victims of disasters and preparedness education to the community. Orientation is required. For information, call 912-651-5351 or email mckinneyj@savannahredcross.org.

Civil Air Patrol

The Civil Air Patrol squadron meets Mondays from 6:30 p.m.–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 have several staff positions available. For more information go to www.ga453.org or call Squadron Commander Captain Richard Bush at 912-429-8050.

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.

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.

Effingham Now

School board

The Effingham County Board of Education meets at 2 p.m. the first Wednesday and at 7 p.m. the third Thursday of the month in the conference room at the Central Office Complex, 405 N. Ash St., Springfield. Agendas and minutes of past meetings can be found at effinghamschools.com. For information, call 754-6491.

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.

Tax board

The Effingham County Board of Tax Assessors meets 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.

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.

IDA board

The Effingham County Industrial Development Authority board of directors meets at 8 a.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.

Weight loss

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

Seniors

Rincon Senior Support Group meets 5-8 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.

Clyo school 1961-1966

Contact information is being sought for those who attended Clyo School from 1961-1966 for a possible 50-year reunion. Students of the former school are asked to contact Louise Bazemore after 9 p.m. at 912-659-9513.

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.

Hospice

Seeking volunteers to play music to patients, visit patients in their homes and nursing homes (Chatham, Bryan, Effingham, Liberty and Long counties), assist staff and families in Hospice House in Savannah or help in the offices on Chatham Parkway. Training is offered the second Monday and Tuesday of every month. Call 355-2289.

LifeLink

LifeLink of Georgia, the local agency that coordinates organ and tissue donations for the state, seeks volunteers to assist with programs pertaining to organ and tissue donation and transplantation. Volunteer activities include public speaking, staffing information tables and more. Potential volunteers include transplant recipients and their families, patients waiting for transplants, donor families or anyone interested in organ, tissue donation. Volunteers trained by LifeLink staff. Call Tracy Gay at 800-365-2066 or 341-0000.

AARP instructors needed

Additional volunteers are needed to teach the AARP Senior Drivers Safety Program (55 ALIVE) classes. The area to cover is Chatham, Bryan and Effingham counties. Call 598-1011.

Mentors needed

Effingham Family Connection and Communities in Schools, in partnership with the Effingham County school system, has students who are in need of mentors; to talk, help with homework or listen to music. Mentors are needed to commit one hour per week. Background check required. For information, call Cathy Zipperer at Effingham County High at 754-6404, ext. 1237; or Erin Woodcock at South Effingham High at 728-7511, ext. 1372.

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.

Rincon MOPS

Rincon Mops (Mothers of Preschoolers) invites moms to come for brunch, crafts, encouragement and friendships with other moms. All mothers of children from birth to kindergarten are invited to attend. Childcare is provided with crafts, games and snacks while moms meet. The next meeting is Tuesday, Jan. 10 from 9 to 11:30 a.m. at First Baptist Church of Rincon (Memorial Chapel in back). Rincon MOPS is part of MOPS International.

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.

Special-needs support

The Effingham County Navigator Team, a support group for families of children with special needs, meets at 6:30 p.m. the second Tuesday of the month at The Learning Treehouse, 250 Goshen Road, Rincon. For information, contact Pauline Shaw at effingham@p2pga.org or call 912-295-5460.

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.-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.

Weight loss

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

Seniors

Rincon Senior Support Group meets 5-8 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.

Easter Egg Hunt

An Easter Egg Hunt and picnic will be held on March 30 at 10 a.m. at Rincon United Methodist Church. The event will be held at Cowart’s Retreat site, 365 Bunyan Kessler Road, just off Fort Howard Road. Infants thru 5th grade will hunt for eggs, plus games and activities for all. A picnic of grilled chicken, sides and drinks will be provided. Bring chairs or blankets. Have pictures made. There is no charge, this is a gift to the community. Call 826-5796 for information and directions.

Bible Lutheran Church Open House April 7

Bible Lutheran Church is planning a drop in reception and open house on April 7, from 3 – 5 p.m. There will be a short service of thanksgiving at 3 p.m. to kick off the afternoon. The public is invited. The church is located at 812 Blue Jay Road in Rincon. Sunday School for all ages starts each Sunday at 8:45 a.m. followed by worship service with Holy Communion at 10 a.m. Info: 826-2710.

Zion Lutheran Church Lent Services

The congregation of Zion Lutheran Church invites the community to a “High Carb, Multisensory Lenten Experience — Bread for the Journey” on Sunday evenings at 5:30 p.m. until March 17 at Zion Lutheran Church, 121 Noel C. Conaway Road, south of Guyton. There will be a light meal and fellowship following the service in the Fellowship Hall. Info: 728-3430.

Holy Trinity Lutheran Church

Holy Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church, 303 North Laurel Street 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.

During Lenten season there is a weekly service at 7 p.m. on Wednesdays from through March 20.

Jerusalem Evangelical Lutheran Church

Jerusalem Evangelical Lutheran Church, 2966 Ebenezer Road, located on the Savannah River at the end of Ebenezer Road, has Sunday school for adults and children each Sunday at 9:45 a.m. Worship service with Holy Communion follows at 11 a.m. A nursery is provided for children of all ages. Contact the church at 754-3915 if you have questions or need assistance.

Zion Lutheran Church

Zion Lutheran Church - ELCA, is located at the intersection of Ga. Hwy 17 and 30, at 121 Noel C. Conaway Rd. south of Guyton. Worship begins at 11 a.m. on Sundays. Sunday School for all ages is at 9:45 a.m. For more information call 728-3430.

Bible Lutheran Church

Bible Lutheran Church is located at 812 Blue Jay Road in Rincon. Sunday School for all ages starts each Sunday at 8:45 a.m. followed by worship service with Holy Communion at 10 a.m. For more information contact Pastor Andy Krey at 826-0206.

Bethel Lutheran Church

This historic Lutheran congregation invites you to worship service at 11 a.m. Sunday mornings. Sunday School for all ages begins at 9:45 a.m. Bethel is at 1984 Ga. 21 N., two miles north of Ga. 119 in Springfield. The Rev. Bob LeFavi is available for pastoral care or any questions at 912-667-1480.

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.

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.

Liberty Christian Fellowship

Liberty Christian Fellowship, 302 Church St., Guyton, meets at 10:30 a.m. Sundays and 7 p.m. Wednesdays. The Rev. Scott Stringer is the pastor. For information, call 912-772-5522.

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. John’s Lutheran Church

St. John’s, 301 N. Columbia Ave., Rincon, welcomes the community to share in God’s grace during Sunday school at 10 a.m. and church services at 11 a.m.

Med Bank

Med Bank, a volunteer organization, inviting 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

Highway 30 Church of Christ, 1952 Noel C. Conaway Road, meets at 9:30 a.m. Sundays for Bible study, 10:30 a.m. for morning worship and 6 p.m. for evening worship. Bible study also at 7 p.m. Wednesdays. For information, call 912-728-3819 or go to highway30cofc.truepath.com.

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.

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.

St. Luke’s services

The Rev. Liam Collins, 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. Liam can be reached at 912-398-6859 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.

April Leigh Hayslip Smith

MARLOW — April Leigh Hayslip Smith, 42, passed away Wed., March 6, 2013 at her residence.

The Chatham County native was a homemaker and was preceded in death by her brother, Paul Hayslip.

Survivors include her husband, Robbie Smith; sons, Robert and Ryan Smith; mother, Jo Morgan of Statesboro; father, Billy Hayslip of Tybee Island; brother, Glenn Hayslip of Mobile, Ala.; and several nephews.

Funeral services were held Friday, March 8 in the funeral home chapel.

Interment followed in Marlow Cemetery.

Remembrances may be given to Hospice Savannah, P.O. Box 13190, Savannah, GA 31416 or Curtis and Elizabeth Anderson Cancer Institute, 4700 Waters Ave., Savannah, GA 31404.

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

John Edward Dickey Jr.

GARDEN CITY — John Edward Dickey Jr., 84, passed away Monday, March 11, 2013 at Memorial Health.

The Screven County native was retired from D & D Express and served in the U.S. Air Force. He was preceded in death by his parents, John Edward Dickey Sr. and Floy Bragg Dickey; and wife, Elmira Finch Dickey.

Survivors include his children, Kenneth (Sandra) Dickey of Statesboro, Joy Dickey (Ray) Smith of Richmond Hill, George Dickey of Guyton, and Raymond (Stacey) Dickey of Rincon; 7 grandchildren, Kimberly Joy Rollins, Connie L. Smith, Dean Dickey, Timmy Dickey, Jennifer Scholl, Ronnie Dickey, and Ryan Dickey; 8 great-grandchildren; brother, Jimmy Dickey of Pembroke; sister, Mary Sharpe of Eden.

Funeral services will be held today, March 14 at 11 a.m. Thursday in the chapel.

Graveside services will be held at 3 p.m. today in the Portal Cemetery.

Thomas C. Strickland & Sons Funeral Home is in charge of arrangement.s

Norma June Hanberry Jeffers

CLYO — Norma June Hanberry Jeffers, 75, passed away Saturday, March 9, 2013 at Ogeechee Area Hospice.

The Effingham County native was a member of Wingard Memorial Lutheran Church and the Clyo Homemakers. She was a homemaker. She was preceded in death by her parents, Henry Theodore Hanberry and Lottie Belle Porterfield; husband, David Eugene Jeffers; and son, David Eugene Jeffers Jr.

Survivors include her children, Michael B. Jeffers (Debbie) of Olathe, Kan., Reginald T. Jeffers of Charlotte, N.C., and Holly A. Jeffers of Clyo; daughter-in-law, Dawn Jeffers of Suwanee, Ga.; 11 grandchildren; 9 great-grandchildren; brothers, Donald Hanberry of Atlanta and Billy Hanberry of Clyo; and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services were held on March 13 at Wingard Memorial Lutheran Church. Interment followed in Cedar Grove Cemetery.

Remembrances may be given to Ogeechee Area Hospice, P.O. Box 531, Statesboro, GA 30459.

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

Phillip Nelson Hales

GUYTON — Phillip Nelson Hales, 74, passed away Friday, March 8, 2013 at Effingham Hospital after a long battle with COPD.

Nelson was a retired meat cutter of over 44 years in Effingham County. He was a member of New Providence Baptist Church and served in the U.S. Navy. He loved fishing and hunting and was a member of McLaws Hunting Club. He could often be found sitting in Mack’s Service Station or on the banks of the Ogeechee River making others laugh and sharing tales of hunting and fishing. He loved his family most of all and was delighted by his grandson, Ernie Sims, and granddaughter, Chloe Carson.

Nelson was preceded in death by his parents, Phillip Braxton Hales and Elizabeth Elam Hales of Pineora; sisters, Sandra Fisher, Harriette Cash; and brother, Gary Hales.

Survivors include his wife, Rachel Norton Hales; daughters, Angela Hales Burns of Savannah and Holly Hales Carson (Donovan) of Camas, Wash.; sister, Jessica “Bootsie” Rahn (Bobby) of Villa Rica; 2 brothers-in-law, Bill Cash and Bob Fisher; a sister-in-law, Juanita Hales; a number of nieces and nephews; and his dog, Dixie.

Funeral services were held on March 11 in the funeral home chapel. Interment followed in Guyton Cemetery.

Remembrances may be given to ogeecheeriverkeeper.org or American Heart & Stroke Association, pdx.heartwalk.org in support of his daughter, Holly Hales Carson’s participation in the 2013 Heart & Stroke Walk.

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

About 450 people attended the third annual Taste of Effingham sponsored by the chamber of commerce.

More than a dozen restaurants prepared food in the county recreation department gym on Ga. 119 in Springfield on March 7. A variety of foods were available, ranging from barbecue to German dishes to sandwiches and desserts.

A number of items were auctioned, including weekend stays in Atlanta and Daytona Beach.

Harry O’Donoghue sang Irish folks songs and the Irish Dancers of Savannah performed.

SCHOOL BOARD APPRECIATION WEEK SLATED

The Effingham County School System is joining in a statewide celebration to salute the efforts of local school board members.

The week of March 18-22 is School Board Appreciation Week in Georgia.

“Citizens elect board members to represent the community’s voice on education matters and to set the vision for the school district,” said Superintendent Randy Shearouse. “Our board spends countless hours fulfilling its responsibilities and working together to continually improve our education system.”

Effingham school board members and their start dates are: District 1, Charles E. Tomberlin, Jan.1, 2007; District 2, Troy K. Alford, vice chair, Jan. 1, 2005; District 3, F. Lamar Allen, board chair, Jan. 1, 2005; District 4, Mose Mock, Jan. 1, 2011; and District 5, Vickie Decker, Aug. 6, 2008.

As constitutional officers of Georgia, school board members are responsible for setting educational policies, employing school personnel, providing buildings and equipment, operating a transportation system and disbursing school funds.

As community leaders, school board members serve as advocates for the children in local public schools and must study, evaluate and decide what actions are in the best interest of those students.

The Georgia School Boards Association (GSBA) sponsors the celebration. For more information, go to gsba.com.

Special to Effingham Now

The Effingham County school system doesn't plan to raise property taxes this year.

Early budget estimates for the 2013-2014 fiscal year call for $80.8 million in revenue and $82.6 million in expenses, for a deficit of $1.8 million.

The school board hopes to bridge the gap with higher than expected property tax collections.

“The good news is that we did overcollect last year on taxes,” Superintendent Randy Shearouse said at the school board's March 6 meeting. “That along with anticipation of overcollecting this year will help.”

The “overcollections” are from collecting more in delinquent taxes than was anticipated or budgeted, said Assistant Superintendent Greg Arnsdorff.

Part of that is because of tax sales the county is holding to collect back taxes, school officials said.

Shearouse said he hopes there won’t be any calendar reduction days needed, either.

Early budget figures include four positions to be eliminated, at a cost of $70,000 each.

Increases in health insurance costs “are killing us,” costing an estimated $542,000 more in the next fiscal year, he said.

But overall, the district has been able to keep its expenses in check.

The deficit originally was estimated at $3 million, but that has been whittled down to $1.8 million, Shearouse said.

The district is faring a bit better this year because of money from the state, Shearouse said. Gov. Nathan Deal is proposing a $40 million increase in equalization funds, which Shearouse estimates would mean about $400,000 to the school district. 

And the governor also wants to fully fund the Quality Basic Education midterm allotment, which would mean another boost to the district’s funds.

Shearouse said he’ll know more in mid-April about how much state funds the district will receive. Sales tax collections have been fair. In January, the district collected $658,400 – slightly more than the $650,000 that was budgeted, said Finance Director Ron Wilson.

In February, a short month, $616,800 was collected, he said. “It’s not as high as it used to be, but it’s still coming back at a steady pace,” Wilson said.

This fiscal year the school board raised the millage rate 10 percent.

Meanwhile, the school board agreed on March 6 to purchase six regular and two special-ed Thomas school buses, at a total cost to the county of $457,000.

Thomas was the low bidder, coming in at $83,000 each for the six 72-seat regular buses and $93,700 each for the two special-ed 66-seat buses. The county received $228,700 from the state to purchase new buses.

Title I Awards

Also at the school board meeting, four schools were awarded certificates from the Georgia Department of Education for being the highest-performing or highest-progress Title I schools in the state.

The highest-performing schools are Marlow, Blandford and Rincon elementary schools. Highest-progress schools are Marlow Elementary and Effingham County Middle.

A highest-performing school is among the 5 percent of Title I schools in the state that have the highest absolute performance over three years for the “all students” group on the statewide assessments.

A highest-performing school must have made Adequate Yearly Progress for the “all students” group and all of its subgroups in 2011. A school may not be classified as a highest-performing school if it has significant achievement gaps across subgroups that are not closing.

A high-progress school is among the 10 percent of Title I schools in the state that are making the most progress in improving the performance of the “all students” group over three years on the statewide assessments.

A school may not be classified as a high-progress school if it has significant achievement gaps across subgroups that are not closing.

Title I schools receive federal funds because they have a high number of students living in poverty.

Ramona Kessler, instructional supervisor at Rincon Elementary School, said the award came with a $10,000 check, which will be used to purchase 30 Chromebooks and a charging/storage cart.

Harriett Snooks, principal of Blandford Elementary School, said much of the $10,000 her school received was spent on guided reading books for teachers to use in small group reading instruction.

Billy Hughes, principal of Effingham County Middle School, said his school received $3,000, which it used for supplemental teaching materials.

Marlow did not receive any money because it is no longer a Title I school.

Council considers raising their retirement pay by 150 percent

Rincon City Council members unanimously chose Wesley Corbitt as city manager Monday night.

Corbitt, of Guyton, was appointed as interim city manager after the resignation of Michael Phillips in August 2011. He was finance director for Rincon before that.

The other two finalists for the job were Karen Degges of Baldwin, Ga., and MarRonde A. Lumpkin-Lotson of Savannah.

Degges is the former city administrator of Baldwin, Ga., which is northeast of Gainesville, Ga.

Lumpkin-Lotson is administrator for international affairs and governmental relations for the City of Savannah.

Phillips was hired in April 2009 to replace Donald Toms, who resigned in December 2008. Phillips was the city’s fourth city manager since 2006.

Meanwhile, City Council members delayed a decision on whether to raise their monthly retirement benefits by 150 percent for each year served, from $10 to $25.

Reese Browher said the council wants to include five past elected officials in the change. The issue was tabled until the council’s next meeting, on March 25, so the former members could be added.

The number of years the council members have served: Paul Wendelken, 18; Frank Owens, 17; Levi Scott, 16; Browher, 13; Mayor Ken Lee, eight; Scott Morgan, eight; and James Dasher, two.

Rincon City Council members gave themselves a 61 percent raise in December 2011.

Also on Monday night, Council members postponed action on a request from Browher to add the phrase “In God We Trust” to the city’s flag and seal.

“It’s something I feel strongly about,” Browher said. He noted the phrase is on federal currency and the state flag.

The city seal has the word “SEAL” on it, broken up with a tree in the middle. Browher said the “SE” and “AL” looks like a Latin phrase and is confusing.

The council tabled the issue because two members were absent when it was brought up — Owens and Morgan — and they wanted everyone to be present when it was considered.

Also on Monday night, council members approved a site plan and development agreement for a new Dollar General store on the east side of Ga. 21.

Steve Hufstetler, president of Teramore Development, said the goal is to have the concrete building done and turned over to Dollar General in May. Teramore is based in Thomasville.

Also at Monday's meeting, float winners from the July Fourth parade were given trophies.

A large crowd turned out Saturday to meet cast members of the History channel’s “Swamp People” at the Effingham County High School track.

The event was hosted by Marlow Elementary School PTO. It was held at the high school to accomodate the expected large crowd.

Theresa Edwards, Willie and Junior Edwards form the Swamp People signed autographs and posed for pictures.

Trapper Jack Douglas also brought an alligator and the Georgia Southern Wildlife Education Center exhibited a variety of wildlife.

Auction benefits young farmers

The annual auction to raise funds for the Lloyd Arnsdorff Memorial Scholarship fund is scheduled for Thursday, March 21.

A live auction and silent auction, including more than 200 items, will be held at 6 p.m. in the Effingham County High cafeteria.

The cost to attend is $10 and includes a rib-eye steak dinner. No reservations are needed.

The auction supports scholarships for graduating seniors at Effingham County High School and South Effingham High School who are members of the FFA and plan to pursue higher education.

The Effingham County Young Farmers are sponsoring the event to promote agriculture and to help further the education of students in Effingham County.

“We invite everyone to come, enjoy a great meal and bid high on all the items,” said Freddie Waltz, Young Farmer agriculture teacher at Effingham County High School.

March 7: A driver doing 74 mph in a 50 mph zone on Old River Road was arrested for speeding, driving with a suspended license and driving without registration or a license plate.

March 8: A woman said another woman took a puppy from her house and lied about it, saying she found it in the Kroger parking lot. Palmetto Drive in the Rincon area.

March 8: A male chow/husky mix bit a boy on Southern Charm Way in the Guyton area. He had two small cuts above his eyebrow.

March 8: A woman said her bank card was used, fraudulently, to take $300 in cash at a Walmart in Texas. Braves Field Drive in the Rincon area.

March 8: A Springfield man was treated for a dog bite. He refused to say whose dog bit him or a location. He said he didn’t want to get the animal or owner in trouble.

March 9: A deputy investigated a car stopped on the shoulder on Rincon-Stillwell Road with the door ajar. The driver was arrested for open container of alcohol, driving with a suspended license and driving under the influence refusal, second offense.

March 9: Someone stole a new battery from a lawn tractor on Old Augusta Road. It was valued at $40.

March 9: Sleeping bag found on railroad tracks behind Westwood subdivision, on McCall Road. The train stopped and deputies searched, but there was no evidence that anyone was hurt.

March 10: SUV stopped for failure to maintain lane on Reedsville Road in the Clyo area. Driver was arrested for failure to maintain lane, possession of controlled substances, driving under the influence and drugs not kept in original container.

March 10: A man said a Great Dane bit him on the forearm. He said the dog had threatened him earlier as he was jogging by the house. He returned to the house to speak to the owner about the dog threatening him when he was bitten. Gracen Road in the Guyton area.

— G.G. Rigsby

United Way earns top ratings

United Way of the Coastal Empire has earned Charity Navigator’s highest level four-star rating for sound fiscal management and commitment to accountability for the fifth consecutive year.

Charity Navigator is an independent charity evaluator, works to advance a more efficient and responsive philanthropic marketplace by evaluating the financial health and accountability and transparency of America’s largest charities.

Receiving four out of a possible four stars indicates that United Way of the Coastal Empire adheres to good governance and other best practices and consistently executes its mission in a fiscally responsible way, officials said. This designation from Charity Navigator differentiates United Way of the Coastal Empire from its peers and demonstrates to the public it is worthy of their trust.

“Our United Way is honored to be recognized for this national distinction,” said Gregg Schroeder, president and CEO of United Way of the Coastal Empire. “The high standards established by our Board of Directors and carried by the professional staff within the organization makes this award very noteworthy, especially as we celebrate our 75th year of improving lives in our community.”

To view United Way’s complete Charity Navigator profile, please visit www.charitynavigator.org.

A missing 5-year old boy has been found safe.

The child went missing this afternoon from Magnolia Place Shopping Center on Ga. 21 from in front of the New Wonder Grocery Store.

More details expected tomorrow morning

Effingham County is going to be getting a "large movie studio."

That's according to Rick Lott, the executive director of the Effingham County Chamber of Commerce.

"That's all I'm at liberty to say," Lott said this afternoon.

The Industrial Development Authority has a special meeting scheduled for 8 a.m. tomorrow morning, to consider the "Project Magnolia memorandum of understanding."

John Henry, chief executive officer of the IDA, said he "cannot confirm nor deny" reports that the deal concerns a movie studio.

IDA Board Member Charles Hinely said he knows Project Magnolia is "a big project" and that it's at the IDA's property on Interstate 16.

But he said he has not been told what type of business the project concerns. "We're not told until we make a decision," he said.