Justin Hall, regional correspondent
The Long County Public Library was overflowing with activity this past Monday, June 30th and Tuesday, July 1, 2025.
On Monday, June 30th, the library hosted their Messtival event where kids could come out and have all sorts of messy fun.
There were a series of walls in which kids squirted paint guns and filled them up with an assortment of colors. Other activities included the Messy Colorful Explosion Experiment where kids could fill cups with vinegar and combine them with various colors and watch the ingredients flow out of their cups. There was also chalk for the kids to draw on the sidewalks.
And on Tuesday, July 1st, the 3rd ID Band out of Ft. Stewart came to play a series of patriotic songs and showcase their instruments.
The lineup for the songs included "God Bless the USA," "God Bless America," the George M. Cohan Medley and "The Thunderers."
Specialist Emily Swan spoke on behalf of the 3rd ID Band about the opportunity to come play for Long County with the 4th of July right around the corner.
"There's no better place to be celebrating America's birthday," Specialist Swan said. "Any time we can get out and play for the community is a great day for us."
Mayor Jim Fuller also spoke as the City Council donated to help fund some of the activities the library is able to do during the summertime. Mayor Fuller gave full credit to those at the library for their hard work and dedication.
"The real stars are Tammy and her group," Mayor Fuller said. "If there's a better staff in Georgia, I'd like to meet them."
The Center for Wildlife Education at Georgia Southern University also came for their fourth year to show some of the different creatures such as the Red Tailed Owl and the Great Horned Owl.
Wayne Paulk, Curator, was excited to show these various birds and hopes that kids can have a better understanding of these species.
"We hope they enjoy the animals they see and gain a little more appreciation for the native wildlife," Paulk said.
A planetarium was also there so kids could go in and look at a display of fireworks