SPRINGFIELD — Georgia Farm Bureau-Effingham County found a tasty way to honor emergency personnel while also highlighting local agricultural products.
It hosted the initial Farm Bureau First Responders Appreciation Cookout on Thursday at the Effingham County Fairgrounds. Agencies from Rincon, Guyton and Springfield were invited, including the Georgia State Patrol.
"That's exactly what we wanted," Georgia Farm Bureau Office Manager/County Coordinator Meghan Crosby said as a parade of emergency vehicles arrived. "We want them all to attend — everyone throughout the county."
FFA members from Effingham County and South Effingham high schools served the first responders hamburgers, hot dogs, baked beans and potato salad and ice cream prepared by Farm Bureau volunteers. Chips were also available.
"This is one of my first events for promoting agriculture in the community," said Crosby, a newcomer to her job. "We would like for it to become an annual event."
Crosby said Thursday was selected for the event because June is National Dairy Month and National Beef Month ended less than three weeks ago.
"We're having all-beef hot dogs and hamburgers, and the ice cream takes care of the dairy," she said.

See the June 20 edition of the Effingham Herald for more details.