Panel Discussion, featuring representatives from CCA and the local community

Wanda Evelyn, chair of the Center for Community Arts (CCA) History Committee and CCA Executive Director Bernadette Matthews (center) were congratulated by Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities (MAC) Director Michael Zuckerman (left) and Cape May Mayor Ed Mahaney, at the reception Jan. 21 at the Carriage House Gallery to open the CCA exhibit, "Celebrating Community Service: Black Fraternal, Social and Civic Organizations of Cape May County."

This exhibit explores the significance of black fraternal, social and civic organizations in African American social life, featuring such organizations as the GEMS (Gracious, Enthusiastic, Matron Service) of Cape May County, Inc., who in their 20-year history provided $50,000 in scholarships to over 75 Cape May County students; the Prince Hall Masons, the oldest black fraternal organization in the United States dating back to the American Revolution; the Eastern Stars; and the Black USO, among others. These organizations have emerged with the sole purpose of enhancing the lives of African Americans; the exhibit focuses on the black organizations of Cape May County. The public is invited to a free panel discussion at the Carriage House Gallery, 1048 Washington St., Cape May, on Feb. 17 at 4 p.m., which will include representatives from CCA and the local community. The exhibit will be open Saturdays, Jan. 19 through March 16, Feb. 17 and daily, March 22 through April 14 (except Easter Sunday, March 31). Hours vary.

The exhibit is sponsored by CCA, in association with MAC. For information on hours, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278. For information on the exhibit, call 609-884-7525 or see www.CenterforCommunityArts.org.