RINCON, Ga. — As 2025 winds down, we dug into the numbers to see what had Effingham scrolling, clicking, sharing — and sometimes arguing — the most on Facebook. From Jan. 1 through Dec. 1, the Herald’s posts racked up an incredible 5.58 million views, a testament to how closely our community follows local news. From big breaking updates to feel-good moments, these were the stories that stopped your scroll and sparked conversations all year long. Here are the Herald’s top 10 Facebook posts of 2025. Let’s count them down.
10. Rincon Restaurant Steps Up
90,383 views
Posted Aug. 27
When the International Paper mill closures in Savannah and Riceboro left about 1,100 employees facing uncertain times, Tin Fin restaurant owner Shaunda Clark decided to act. The small mom-and-pop eatery pledged to give away 50 free chicken finger family meals, complete with sides, salad, cookies, and sweet tea, to families affected by the closures. Clark invited local partners and sponsors to join the effort, creating a ripple of community support. The post drew widespread appreciation and excitement from readers, celebrating the restaurant’s generosity and dedication to helping neighbors in a tough moment.
9. ICE Encounter Leaves Mom Seeking Emergency Care
90,676 views
Posted Nov. 13
A Rincon couple, Aide Aguirre, a U.S. citizen, and her husband Jose Francisco, a legal green card holder, described a frightening roadside encounter with federal ICE agents. The post sparked 789 comments as readers discussed racial profiling, law enforcement authority, and community safety.
8. Crowning the Night!
92,367 views
Posted Sept. 12
It seemed the entire county fell in love with Effingham County’s Homecoming Queen Kamia Griffin and her court. The post celebrated a joyful night for the Rebels and was a hit with readers, generating 80 comments and 560 heart emojis.
7. Honoring a Local Hero
95,028 views
Posted Oct. 1
The community paid tribute to Marine veteran Floyd Crespo, 42, who was killed while lifting a semi-truck in Hilton Head, S.C. A procession escorted his casket through Effingham, and the post resonated deeply with readers, honoring his service and sacrifice.6. Effingham County Commissioners Recommend Ending Library Partnership
110,859 views
Posted Oct. 7
It seemed like the entire county was talking about Effingham County commissioners recommending that the county end its more than 80-year partnership with Live Oak Public Libraries and remove Library Board Chair Erica Biezenbos. The recommendation sparked debate over finances, library services, and governance, drawing widespread reader engagement. The Library Board later agreed with the recommendation, voting to leave Live Oak for the Statesboro Regional Public Libraries system by June 30, 2026.5. Safer Schools
114,418 views
Posted Aug. 4
As Effingham County students headed back to class, the district rolled out a sharpened focus on school safety, including high-tech security upgrades and continued investment in campus protection. Among the most visible changes were OpenGate weapons detection systems, crisis alert badges, upgraded access controls, and strong law enforcement partnerships. The post highlighted the district’s commitment to keeping students and staff safe.4. Tragic Crash in Guyton
118,672 views
Posted Oct. 14
The community mourned Franklin Ross, 58, who died after being struck by a pickup truck while riding his three-wheeled pedal cycle on Honey Ridge Road. Investigators said sunlight may have been a factor. The post sparked an outpouring of grief and memories, generating 101 comments, including heartfelt tributes like one from Thomas Beacham: “I grew up with Frank… even in his worst, he was still a good man. Gonna miss you, old friend.”
3. Stuck on Blue Jay Road? You’re Not Alone
128,505 views
Posted Sept. 8
Drivers across Effingham County know the struggle of Blue Jay Road’s notorious congestion, where cars stretch for hundreds of yards and wait through multiple signal cycles just to turn. County Manager Tim Callanan says addressing these backups has become a top priority, with the county earmarking $192 million in transportation sales tax funds for road and traffic improvements starting in 2026. A graphic outlining 10 planned improvements accompanied the article and sparked 100 comments, many debating the effectiveness of roundabouts as a traffic solution.2. Fiancée, 22, Killed in Rincon Crash
251,931 views
Posted Oct. 10
The community mourned Cindy Chavez, 22, who was killed in a tragic crash on Highway 21 when her vehicle, turning left from 4th Street, was struck by a northbound pickup. Chavez, who had only lived in Effingham County for a few weeks, was engaged and full of promise. The post sparked an outpouring of sympathy and concern, reflecting the heartbreak and support from local readers.
