The Long County Christmas Parade on Saturday in Ludowici attracted 24 entries, ranging from beauty queens showing off their crowns to churches recreating the birth of Jesus Christ.
A New Beginning Church won first place with its “Good Tidings of Great Joy”-themed entry. The Ludowici Bank’s “Island of Misfit Toys” was runner-up. Third place went to Ludowici Unity Methodist Church’s “Jesus Gave His Life, You Can Give Your Heart.”
Also making a stop in Long County, with a little help from the Ludowici/Long County Volunteer Fire Department, were Santa and Mrs. Claus.
Other floats in the parade included Danny Norman’s “Christmas Train,” “First Baptist Church’s Fisher of Men,” the Wildlife Festival’s “Duck Dynasty Christmas,” Kadee’s Korner’s “I’m Dreaming of a White Christmas,” Calvary Baptist Church’s “Silent Night” and Fort Stewart’s 3rd Sustainment Brigade command team.
The grand marshal was longtime resident Sarah M. Johnston, 98. She was born on April 8, 1915, in Warren County. She came to Long County in 1920 and married Thomas Johnston in 1933. The couple had four children: Sarah Mauldin, Thomas Johnston Jr., Clyde Johnston and Mary Ann Odum. Thomas and Mary Ann accompanied her in the parade.
The parade was organized by the Long County Chamber of Commerce and the emcees were Tammy Ballance and Charlie Smith.