Long County held its National Night Out on Aug. 14 with a large crowd on hand to enjoy the evening.

The annual event, which is designed to bring citizens and law enforcement together, was sponsored by the Long County Sheriff’s Office.  

The night began with emcee Charlie Smith welcoming all and telling the crowd about the importance of law enforcement and other public-safety workers. Pastor Tom Gardner of A New Beginning Church gave the invocation and thanked all first responders who serve in Long County and Ludowici.

Long County Clerk of Courts Sherry Long then sang the national anthem, followed by Sheriff Craig Nobles discussing the history of the event and how law enforcement and the public need to join forces to fight crime.

“We all need to work together. Keep an eye on your neighborhoods. If you see some suspicious activity going on, call us or call the Ludowici Police Department to report it,” he said.

Nobles also told the crowd that the majority of the crimes committed in Long County and across the nation are linked to drug abuse. He said most people are not aware that prescription abuse is the No. 1 drug problem in the nation.

“Tonight, we are bringing together our law enforcement and our citizens under positive circumstances,” the sheriff said.    

Throughout the night, there was something to do for everyone. Activities included face painting, corn hole, a fire-safety/smoke house and a Kid’s Land. There also was free food, including hot dogs, hamburgers, pizza, snow cones and ice cream.

A highlight of the night was a K-9 demonstration by the LCSO showing how law-enforcement dogs can disable an attacker who has a firearm.

Other agencies attending the event included the Ludowici Police Department, Ludowici/Long County Fire Department, Jesup Fire Department, Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Long State Prison, Excelsior Ambulance Service, Georgia State Patrol and Georgia Forestry Commission.

“This event is growing every year, and I think it will continue to grow, but its success is only because of the many, many sponsors and supporters,” Nobles said. “I personally want to thank every one of these people and organizations because without them, we wouldn’t be able to do this.”