By Yolanda Melton
Contributing Writer
In past years, the Heritage Cultural Festival was observed with a parade only, but this year the Educational Cultural Complex (ECC) and Mountain View Beckworth Library helped to host the first park gathering on their shared grounds on Saturday, February 22 for a day of motivational speaking, unity, and of course, good music in observance of Black History Month.
Opening prayer by Elder Randele, followed by the singing of “Lift Every Voice and Sing” put a lot of positive vibes in the air, as did the powerful words spoken by both Pastor Kim Curtis and motivational speaker Cydanni Steele.
The stage was then turned up and turned out when St. Stephen’s Cathedral Youth Gospel Mime team, Truth, blew everyone away with their artistic and uplifting praise dances set to Kirk Franklin tunes.
However, even with the excellent setup and sun shining there wasn’t as big of a turn out as would have been expected for an event of this scale. Having only three weeks to put together the entire celebration, organizer Theo Sudduth remained in good spirits. “I believe in this…if a few show up that’s enough; if two people show up that’s enough because I’ve done my best. I’m not disappointed at all. I feel that if you do something for the community, God will take care of everything else,” said Sudduth. That’s how to turn a perceived negative situation into a positive one.
Sudduth stated that part of the proceeds from the festival will go towards Lincoln High School’s football team. He also expressed a desire to make the festival an annual affair, and hopes for better attendance next year.
