By allowing ads to appear on this site, you support the local businesses who, in turn, support great journalism.
4-Hers are on target with their goals
photo 4
Nineteen 4-Hers received their hunter safety certifications. - photo by Photo provided

A group of 4-H’ers assembled recently at the Mary Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources Education Center with one aim in mind — to pass a test in the Georgia Department of Natural Resources hunter safety course.

For two days, 4-H’ers educated themselves on such topics as ammunition, firearm cleaning and storing, basic shooting and hunting skills, and ethical and responsible hunting practices, as well as understanding wildlife conservation management.

After a time of “hands-on” learning with guns created just for training purposes, the 4-H’ers were equipped with knowledge of how to load and carry the guns. Game warden Jordan Crawford, a Master 4-H’er himself, dropped by the center to encourage the future hunters to obey laws and safety tips at all times.

The 4-H’ers fared well on the written test, as all 19 students received their hunter safety certification.

Instructors for the course were Gail Westcot and C.J. Pinson.

Students earning their hunter safety certification were Chapman Bennett, Raistlin Blanchard, Shelby Calhoun, Katie Howard, Taylor Howard, Emily Jarriel, Luke Jenkins, Candace Kieffer, Morgan Kieffer, Bryan Kieffer, Graham Metzger, Laura Grace Molina, Jordan Muthersbaugh, Emma Strickland, Joshua Strickland, Samuel Strickland, Carlyn Waldhour, Jenna Wells and Logan Westgate.

Effingham School Board Approves $203M budget with Potential Property Tax Increase
2026 budget
This chart illustrates how the Effingham County School District’s $203 million general fund is allocated for fiscal year 2026, including spending on salaries, benefits, transportation, health services, and safety and security. (Courtesy of Effingham School District)
The Effingham County Board of Education approved a $203 million fiscal year 2026 budget Thursday night, reflecting an 11% increase over last year. The rise is largely due to an $8 million spike in health and retirement benefit costs for employees. To help cover the shortfall, the district may raise the property tax millage rate, potentially increasing homeowners’ taxes by up to 12 percent.
Keep reading for free
Enter your email address to continue reading.