By Barbara Augsdorfer, Editor for the Effingham Herald
Effingham County Schools celebrated the ribbon cutting for its new show arena at the Honey Ridge Agricenter Aug. 23. In addition to FFA students, ag teachers and school district staff, Deputy School Superintendent of Georgia Dr. Barbara Wall and Commissioner of Agriculture Tyler Harper shared remarks.
“Agriculture is national security,” Harper said. “Providing for us every single day.” He added that without agriculture and becoming dependent on other sources, “We become less safe as a nation, and less safe as a community.
“These types of investments ensure that young men and women live out their version of the American dream, ensure that our community, our state, and our nation continue to be the best place to live, to worship, to raise a family,” Harper added.
The new show arena was built in roughly 14 months – the groundbreaking took place in June 2023. The $5.31 million project was financed through Education Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (ESPLOST) funds, according to Superintendent Dr. Yancy Ford.
The arena is a continuation of the farm’s purpose for the students of Effingham County.
“Mr. Sam (Zemurray), could have sold this property to anybody. It could have been a subdivision or a warehouse. But he had a vision,” Dr. Ford said, recalling the farm’s original owner. “He approached the school board. And he’s smiling down on us from Heaven because we’re doing what’s best for the boys and girls of Effingham County.”
Several speakers touched on some of the benefits of students becoming involved in ag, 4-H, FFA. In addition to learning how to care for and show animals or growing crops, they don’t necessarily get pinned into an ag career.
“It’s an experience that prepares students for workplace success,” said Dr. Wall. “Effingham County’s CTAE and ag students have a 98% graduation rate. I just know there are going to be so many great events happening here, new experiences, and wonderful memories.”
“This new ag arena is a testament to us fulfilling our promise to Mr. Zemurray. He wanted us to continue to do things that serves the kids and gives them opportunities,” Dr. Ford continued.
And even with all the growth Effingham County is seeing, Dr. Ford added, “Ag is still very strong in Effingham County. Farming is strong in Effingham County.”
Ford added that while many people may think of farming as just animals and crops, there are so many other life skills that students learn hands on.
“It’s the leadership skills the kids are able to gain by being a part of ag or 4H or FFA is just tremendous,” Dr. Ford continued. “And a testament to our school board for committing to this.”
In addition to the show ring, the new facility has numerous pens for animals, including a separate set of pens for pigs; and a holding pen for animals who have been shown and are awaiting their ribbons, if they win.
The building also has an indoor room that can be rented out for private gatherings; large restrooms, and a concession stand.
The first shows at the new arena are scheduled for Sept. 6 and Sept. 7. Lambs will be shown beginning at 6 p.m. on Sept. 6; and goats will be shown beginning at 9 a.m. on Sept. 7. Both events are free and open to the public.
The Honey Ridge Agricenter is located at 477 Honey Ridge Rd., Guyton.
