Can you think of a better way to spend these cold winter days than take a cruise to some warm islands, leave your problems behind for a few days, and just relax and let someone else cook and clean for you! That’s what a local group of friends and neighbors in our community did last week. Ray and Patti Warren, Willie Ruth and Johnny Harriett, Nina Gray McKenzie, Ada Mlincek, Betty Jean and Stewart King, James Hobbs, Nicky Howard, Debbie Daughtry, Becky Jackson Debbie Brewer and Beverly Naylor all boarded the Carnival Fantasy in Charleston, S.C. and set sail to the Bahamas. While aboard the Fantasy, everyone enjoyed the delicious melt in your mouth meals with decadent desserts and a there lots of choices. Since every floor had a dining room, a buffet line or some place to eat including room service, there was no reason for anyone to be the least bit hungry day or night. If you wanted a professional photograph or souvenir, photographers were everywhere. Various forms of entertainment and and relaxation included the great shows, dance lessons and dance contests, piano players, bands, discos, karaoke, sun-bathing and swimming pools, a water slide, video arcade, a casino, putt-putt golf, bingo, a gym, beauty and barber shop, spa treatments, library, and even a place to shop on board. As usual, Debbie Brewer was lucky in the casino. Even though the week was late January, the weather was so warm and beautiful that it allowed the guests to enjoy both poolside activities as well as excursions at Freeport and Nassau. While docked at Freeport, Ray and Patti enjoyed the glass bottom boat and seeing the fish with vibrant blue and yellow colors. If you are interested in bargaining for a deal, the Nassau Straw Marketplace is the place to go. You’ll find ladies that are eager to make a sale with their hand-made goods. They will also sing Christian hymns and carols. Beverly sang some of her favorites right along with them. Some of the group enjoyed eating lunch at a Nassau restaurant, Senor Frog. The tours provided a close up view of the drastic differences between the extremely pool who live in Nassau and the extremely wealthy who live only a few minutes away on Paradise Island. The living conditions of the very poor are heartwrenching and the living conditions of the wealthy are unbelievably fabulous. Willie Ruth especially enjoyed the fellowship and the opportunity to spend quality time with her family. Debbie and Becky agreed that everyone had a great time, and all of the travelers thought it was a wonderful get-away. Some members of the group of 14 have already started saving for another cruise, while some of the others have started a 17 day diet.

A sentimental service was held at Oak Grove OFWB last Sunday, Jan. 23. It was a farewell service for the Rev. Roger Hill who had previously resigned. He, along with his wife, Ginger, and his son Spencer will be greatly missed. He was divinely loved and appreciated by his congregants. Subsequently, the church was filled to capacity as a token of love and appreciation for his spiritual guidance and for excellent leadership. A scrapbook of personal memories was presented to him as the conclusion of the magnificent lunch was served in the fellowship hall. It was spearheaded by Charlotte Hudson, president of the Women’s Auxiliary and her family. Beautiful flower arrangements graced each table in the dining area. The successful event was accomplished as a result of the unlimited planning and dedication of many participants.

Marshall and Chancer Thornton attended a sweet potato convention in Alabama last week. It was very informative for all attendees.

Eldrige Williford was excited when approximately 50 of his friends and relatives met at Eddie’s Restaurant last Monday night to celebrate his 86th birthday. He received myriads of hugs, cards, gifts, and best wishes from his beloved family members in addition to his church and fraternal brothers. After Bob Hudson gave a profound belssing, each guest enjoyed a pre-selected hot entree which was followed by a decadent dessert of birthday cake topped with ice cream. Wanda Warren, daughter of the honoree, presided and introduced the attendees. It was a festive occassion for all the participants.

Our deep sympathy is extended to the family of Bobby Lee, who passed away last week. He was noted for growing his fresh vegetables which many of us enjoyed. His close neighbors called him shining light for his kind deeds to all who knew him.

The Margaret and late Aaron Crumpler family added a great-grandson to its family last Friday, Jan. 29. He is the son of of Nakishia and Ashley Wynn. Our community extends its love and get-well wishes to Mary Sue Warren, Berniece Godwin, Rometta Warren and Ann Hope, recent hospital patients.