Browning Masonic Community residents “meant business” when it came to opening a campus gift shop.
“Trifles and Treasures” is opening just in time for the holiday season in the main building of the Waterville campus, located at 8883 Browning Drive. But it won’t be put into storage with the trees and tinsel once the season ends; this will be a year-round place for residents, staff and visitors to use and enjoy.
The idea was proposed at a resident council meeting last summer and a committee of six Browning residents was formed. Retired pastor Virgil Winfrey was one of the residents who took charge of the project. The experience of putting together a similar store at a previous retirement center was the catalyst.
Chuck Lucas handled the business end, traveling to Springfield Masonic Community to see its gift shop and to meet with staff member Grace Brown, who runs the shop.
Things really got rolling in October. A former office was painted and converted into the new store. A 4 by 6 foot showcase was the first big item donated.
Items for sale at “Trifles and Treasures” will be donated, such as crafts the residents have created. Virgil said they’ve already received $25 for items in just the first two days. The committee will determine what additional items the store will carry.
The vision is to eventually handle items as diverse as toiletries, snacks and jewelry. This could prove convenient for residents who may not be able to get to a store to buy a toothbrush or similar necessity. It will also be a nice place to pick up a gift.
“I hope it will be a good place to get people out, especially at night,” said Virgil.
Those coming to lodge or one of the many programs at Browning such as the Browning Brunch Bunch, Lunch and Learn or No Limits series may also enjoy the store.
The store will be open Mondays, Tuesday, Thursdays and Fridays, from 12:30 p.m. until about 3:30 p.m. but hours may expand during other campus activities. For more information, call Browning Masonic Community at (866) 878-4055.
