The idea conceived in the hearts of president Shirley Carey and the members of the First Missionary Baptist Church Women of Vision Ministry several months ago, finally gave birth on May 5.
At 9:20 a.m., after a hearty bon voyage and prayer by Pastor Charles S. Boyd Sr., Eddie Bivens, Elfreda Boyd, Shirley Carey, Myrtle Curry, Bessie Lancelin, Ernestine Murphy, Liney Riggins, Marva Thomas, Gloria Turntine, Jeletha Watley and Toni Watley boarded the church van, to be chauffeured by the Rev. Gregory Walker, for a day of leisure with some very spry and spunky ‘young-at-heart’ seniors. The objective on this perfectly sun-shiny day was simply to provide a sensational shopping, fellowship and treat for some sensational seniors.
At the group’s first stop, Little Rock River and Farmer’s Markets, they found a rich assortment of fresh fruits and vegetables and an array of vendors peddling items such as clothes, jewelry, artwork and more. The group welcomed the crisp morning breeze as they meandered leisurely from one stand to another checking out the merchants’ commodities.
The group then boarded the van feeling exhilarated from the experience and headed to McCain Mall in North Little Rock.
The short stay at the mall was very productive, according to a spokesman. Almost everyone returned to the van with packages, but Jeletha Watley was the one that struck gold at JCPenney. She came back loaded down with fashionable goodies. The mall was great but it just wasn’t quite enough, the spokesman said, so they headed for Burlington Coat Factory. That was where the real shoppers showed their true colors. There were bargains galore and everyone took advantage of the sales, even Walker.
By then, it was close to lunchtime so the group cruised back to Little Rock where they dined scrumptiously at BRAVO Cucina Italiana Restaurant, a charming first class bistro located on the Promenade off Chenal. The restaurant had a delightful ambiance, the food was delectable and the service by Rebecca was impeccable. The group agreed that it was Italian cuisine at its best.
After such a luscious meal, the group thought it would be nice to shake some off before heading home, so they stopped at Hobby Lobby to look for some household bargains. The visit was brief but fruitful. At 5 p.m., they arrived back at the church safe and sound. The group was loaded with bargains, but more importantly, with joyful spirits and unforgettable memories of a day well spent, the spokesman said. So much so, the ladies were already asking for the date of the next shopping spree. The spokesman said they found great pleasure in serving the seniors.