Arnold, Stafford and Randolph hosted a Law Day celebration May 1 at their Ludowici office.

The event began with partner Jeffrey Arnold, who also is the state court judge for Long County, welcoming the crowd of about 50 people and then telling them a little history on the day.

“President Dwight Eisenhower established the first Law Day in 1958 to mark the nation’s commitment to the rule of law,” Arnold said. “In 1961, Congress issued a joint resolution designating May 1 as the official date for celebrating the day. Every president since then has issued a Law Day proclamation on May 1 … The theme this year for Law Day is ‘No Courts, No Justice, No Freedom.’”

Noting the Long County Courthouse has been open for 86 years, he said, “Our courthouse has heard numerous cases. It is my personal hope that its doors remain open to hear many more.”

James Wasden said he appreciated Arnold’s sentiment and having a community gathering.

“I support anything that brings the community together,” Wasden said. “We’ve grown so much, and we need input not only from the people who have been over here all of their lives, but also from the ones who came over here in recent years.”

Linda Futch, grandmother of Ludowici Police Department Chief T.J. Gaskin, spoke of teaching young people respect for the law.

“It’s very important to get the message out to our kids to obey and respect the law,” she said. “It also can help when younger people are the one passing this message on because the kids can relate to them easier.”

Long County Commission Chairman Bobby Walker said, “It is good having something like this, letting people know about Law Day. … Judge Arnold and the rest of the firm has become a real asset in Long County.”

There also was entertainment and a barbecue meal.