By MILDRED BROWDER-HUGHES
Correspondent
JOHNSONVILLE — One of the biggest of all holiday parties was held on Saturday night at the country home of Benjie and Deloris Tanner near Johnsonville.
Approximately 200 people came to share joy and good will as they enjoyed refreshments from a smorgasbord laden with holiday goodies. The piece de resistance was the two large pots of hot chocolate with marshmallows and peppermint candy sticks for stirrers. All ended in a magnificent fireworks display.
The Tanners have been hosting such a party for 20 plus years. Benjie, who it is said enjoys the party more than anyone, said it began with just him, Deloris and their son, Michael, when he was little. Over the years it grew to include friends of Michael, other family members and friends, church family and on and on until it has reached this large assemblage.
For many years they also hosted a Fourth of July party and Fireworks Display, but that outgrew their capabilities, coupled with the heat of summer. That party was canceled and they now just concentrate on the Christmas party.
Deloris, the perfect hostess, who didn’t seem the least bit ruffled to have that many people, including many children, in her home, said, “Benjie just loves people.”
It was noted that some folks didn’t get out of their vehicles. Instead, they just parked beside the road where they could watch the brilliant fireworks. She said Benjie was disturbed. He wants everyone to get out, mingle, and become part of the crowd that came from points throughout the state.
Benjie has four other men who assist him in handling the fireworks. He said the first requirement is safety. He is not required to have license because of the type fireworks he uses for the display which lasted more than 35 minutes Saturday night.
He said, “This is mine and Deloris’ gift to the community, family and friends. We will continue to do this every year for just as long as we are able.”
Their three grandchildren, two boys and a girl, managed to sit in a prime location with Deloris for the duration of the display for the very first time, she said.
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