By ANDREA HALL
Lifestyles Editor
They may not play music, but this year’s selection for the annual Christmas card sale from Life Help Industries will say “Happy Holidays” in true Mississippi style.
For the first time, the center has decided to reprint the designs of three cards that were sold in the 1970s along with three new designs.
“We have never reproduced a design from an old card before,” said Becky Williamson, manager of the silk screen-program. “A lot of people haven’t been here in a while, and it was a chance to show off our community and promote our artists.”
The vintage cards include a design of the Riverfront in Greenwood from African-American photographer Rosie Sanders, who had a studio on Carrollton Avenue, and a catfish-inspired holiday greeting.
“We wanted to put in our industry,” Williamson said. “It is an important part of our community.”
And the printing press is already rolling in preparation for the annual card sale, which will take place during Life Help’s open house from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Nov. 8.
Life Help Industries’ Christmas card program began in 1977 as a way to provide vocational opportunities to developmentally disabled individuals.
Each year around the beginning of fall, the group sends notices out to schools and media outlets looking for local artists to submit their designs for the cards. There are five levels of competition for ages 3 to 6, 7 to 10, 11 to 15, 16 to 18 and adult. Participants are limited to the use of three colors when designing their cards.
Each winner receives a complimentary package of cards featuring their design, and they will be presented as a special guest during the open house.
After the winning designs are chosen, Life Help’s participants get to work to help create the silk-screened cards that will be sold to the public.
“Everyone is involved, from printing the cards to passing and placing them on the drying rack,” Williamson said.
Six different Christmas card designs are available for sale this year. The cards come in packages of 10. There also will be holiday aprons and T-shirts that have been silk-screened at the center and monogrammed notecards for sale.
These items make great Christmas gifts and also are a good way to support Life Help.
“This is a fundraiser for Life Help. It is very fun, and it’s a way to get everyone involved with the holidays,” Williamson said. “We appreciate the community’s generosity and support.”
Those who wish to purchase cards but will be unable to attend the open house may buy them from Life Help at any time. The center is open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday.
For more information or to purchase a package of Christmas cards, call Life Help at 453-5403.
