Cape Girardeau has a talented pool of local artists. Galleries are regularly open to the public to enjoy various works, including during the First Friday with the Arts in downtown Cape Girardeau.

The Arts Council recognizes individuals each year who make a valuable contribution with their talents and service.

The council held its annual reception Friday and honored Judy Barks-Westrich with the Otto F. Dingeldein Award for lifetime achievement in the arts. Jeanie Eddleman was recognized with the Friend of the Arts Award.

Westrich runs The Artist Studio, a place where she showcases various pieces and teaches papermaking, weaving, printmaking and painting with acrylic and watercolors. She taught art at Cape Girardeau and Sikeston, Missouri, public schools for 39 years.

Like Westrich, Eddleman taught for 27 years in Zalma and continues a lifelong appreciation and ability to draw. Much of her work involves drawing historic buildings.

Congratulations to both ladies on the awards.

Thank you to all the local artists who share their work with us on a regular basis.

The Arts Council also announced an important development as its gala. The council's new home will be at 16 N. Spanish St. Murielle Gaither, the Arts Council executive director, said this is the first time the group will have a permanent home.

A capital campaign will begin, and the soft opening of the facility is scheduled for May.

Congratulations to the Arts Council.