By THÉRÈSE MARGOLIS

Organizers at the American Benevolent Society (ABS) were expecting a small turnout for the U.S. Independence Day open house picnic on Monday, July 4, but were pleasantly surprised when more than 100 people showed up at Christ Church Parish for the event.

The holiday picnic included all the Fourth of July favorites, from smoked hotdogs and sloppy joe sandwiches to fresh potato salad and homemade slaw. Live guitar music and a fund-raising raffle with goodies like single malt scotch and American flags added to the fun, and the celebration lasted the entire afternoon.

“We are so happy that we had such a positive response to this event,” said ABS executive director Aliki Elias.

“I think that is served as a double celebration, commemorating both the 246th anniversary of U.S. independence, and a chance for many of our members and their friends and family to get together and see each other after having been cooped in so long because of the covid-19 pandemic.”

Founded in 1868, the American Benevolent Society is a nonprofit organization that provides charitable assistance to both U.S. and Mexican nationals during periods of personal distress or financial need.