2 Whitesboro Groups to Hold Black History Gala on March 15
AC JosepH Media
WHITESBORO — The Whitesboro Historical Foundation and the Whitesboro Historic
Preservation Project announced the inaugural Whitesboro Black History Gala at Cape May’s Congress Hall from 5-9 p.m. on March 15.
Organizers said the evening will be dedicated to honoring the rich history and promising the future of Whitesboro. The event will feature live music, performances, and the recognition of individuals who have made a significant impact on the Whitesboro community.
“The Whitesboro Black History Gala is more than an event—it is a celebration of resilience, culture, and community,” said Shirley Green, executive director of the Whitesboro Historical Foundation. “We are thrilled to share this inaugural occasion with supporters, community members, and friends who are dedicated to preserving our past and shaping our future.”
As a highlight of the evening, the Whitesboro Historical Foundation and the Whitesboro Historic Preservation Project will honor an outstanding group of individuals whose dedication to community service, cultural preservation, and advocacy has left a lasting impact.
*Audry Green, the past president of Yohauns Construction Company and a Whitesboro Real
Estate Investor will receive the Samuel H. Vick Award for his leadership in preserving Whitesboro’s rich history.
*State Sen. Britnee Timberlake, co-founder of the Essex Community Land Trust Inc., will be recognized with the Congressman George H. White Award for her commitment to widespread community empowerment.
*Bobby Harrison, founder of Green Forest Alkaline Water earns the Reverend J.W. Fishburn Award for his unwavering dedication to social justice.
*Karen Calloway Williams, a renowned Broadway tap dancer, and instructor will be honored with the Paul Lawrence Dunbar Award for her contributions to the arts.
*Felicia Smith, past host of Wildwood’s “Just Between Us” TV show on Channel 13, will also
be honored with the Paul Lawrence Dunbar Award for her contributions to the arts.
*Michelle Arlayne Robinson, research assistant at the Whitesboro Historical Foundation, and Michelle Brown, longtime board member, will receive the Noah Cherry and Aletha Gibbs Awards respectively for their efforts in community engagement.
*Minister Elorm Ocansey, principal of the Elorm Ocansey Ministry Foundation, will be celebrated with the Booker T. Washington Award for his dedication to neighborhood revitalization and faith-based social change.
*Theodore Bryan, the Whitesboro Historical Foundation’s longtime George H. White impersonator will receive the Wiley H. Bates Award for his advocacy in historic preservation.
*The Ernest Cherry Award will be presented to a surprise awardee for their years of advocating for fair housing, education, and civil rights in Whitesboro.
*Adina Khan, past assistant curator of the Whitesboro Historical Foundation will be presented with the Whitesboro Historical Foundation Award for her unwavering support of the foundation’s mission. Each honoree embodies the spirit of resilience and excellence that this gala seeks to celebrate.
“Congress Hall and Cape Resorts are honored to host the Inaugural Black History
Gala,” said Curtis Bashaw, founder and managing partner of Cape Resorts, “Whitesboro
has played an important role in the development of Cape May County as one of our
nation’s oldest resort regions. The preservation of our communities and landmarks is
essential to making sure that the past informs our future.”
Ocansey, a founding member of the Whitesboro Historic Preservation
Project, emphasized the significance of the evening.
“Whitesboro’s legacy is deeply rooted in strength and perseverance. This gala is an opportunity to highlight the incredible contributions of our supporters while advancing the campaigns and
programs that will sustain Whitesboro for generations to come.”
The proceeds from the Whitesboro Black History Gala will directly support the
preservation of Whitesboro’s legacy and the implementation of its neighborhood
revitalization plan. By attending or sponsoring this event, you contribute to sustaining a
historic community and ensuring its continued growth and prosperity.
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