By Felix Hoover

For YourNewsColumbus.com

 

The annual Light up the Night & Festival of Gifts program at the King Arts Complex sets the mood for the season and offers vendors a chance to sell crafts, sweets and other holiday fare.

Children seized the occasion to pose for photographs with Kente Claus, otherwise known as Randy Burley, and his charming elf assistant, Maria Smallwood, 11. In her fourth year as chief elf, Maria passed out candy canes.

This year’s highlight was a special tribute to another prominent figure known for a big heart, warm smile and ability to connect with people of all ages, State Rep. Joyce Beatty, who winds up her stint in the General Assembly at the end of the year because of term limits.

Her predecessor and husband, Otto Beatty Jr., and her successor, Carlton Weddington , were in attendance at the festival, which took place on Friday, Dec. 12.

The Beattys have shown Santalike generosity, not only as sponsors of the event, but also in attracting private and public funds in support of the arts complex and the neighborhood.

After a quick duck outside for the lighting of trees and other fixtures at Mayme Moore Park, adjacent to the complex, the crowd went back inside for hot chocolate and cider.

A station was set up for children to make greeting cards. Rahel Chevers, 11, figured the most esthetic placement of a kente cloth tree for the cover of one of her creations. Trent Richardson, 5, “had to make zigzag lines” to shape an evergreen on his masterpiece, while brother Tyler favored shiny heart stickers on his.

The Nia Performing Arts treated the audience to a sample of Black Nativity.

This year’s production is being presented by the King Arts Complex and Nia, beginning with a preview at 7 p.m. Dec. 18 in the theater, 867 Mount Vernon Ave.

For additional information, see Upcoming Events at www.YourNewsColumbus.com or www.thekingartscomplex.com.