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New slate of county commissioners sworn into office
Damon Rahn and Judge Zittrauer
County Commission Chairman-elect Damon Rahn takes the oath of office and loyalty oath from Judge David Zittrauer Dec. 12 in the County Commission chambers in Springfield. (Photos by Barbara Augsdorfer/Effingham Herald.)

By Barbara Augsdorfer, editor for the Effingham Herald

Two new -- and one re-elected -- county commissioners were sworn into office Thursday, Dec. 12 in the commission chambers of the County Administration Building in Springfield.

Effingham County Probate Judge David Zittrauer administered the oaths of office to the new and returning commissioners.

County Commission Chairman-elect Damon Rahn, District 4 Commissioner-elect Beth Helmly, and District 1 Commissioner Forrest Floyd, who was re-elected to his post, all took their oaths of office and loyalty oaths. Helmly held onto a Bible while taking her oaths.

Before administering the oaths to Helmly, Judge Zittrauer said, “This is a great honor for me. Ms. Helmly was the assistant principal at the (Effingham County) High School when I was a student.”

The new slate of commissioners will preside over their first meeting Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2025.

Effingham High School Band to Perform at NYC St. Patrick’s Day Parade
St. Patty's Day
Effingham County High School band members are preparing to represent their school and community on a national stage in New York City next March. (Courtesy of Effingham County High School)
The Effingham County High School marching band has been invited to perform in New York City’s historic 2026 St. Patrick’s Day Parade. This prestigious opportunity marks the band’s largest performance to date, showcasing their talents on a national stage.
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