"The public is cordially invited to join the members of the Artists League of the Sandhills for their 17th -annual art exhibit and sale at a wine and cheese reception Friday, Nov. 11, from 6 to 8 p.m.," says a spokes-man for that group.

There will be a special -section in the exhibit featuring paintings that showcase the character and beauty of the United States. Members have been requested to include with their entries one painting that "celebrates America." This painting may be a landscape, seascape, abstract or still life in the medium of their choice.

The exhibit opens on Friday and continues Saturday, Nov. 12, and Sunday, Nov. 13, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Exchange Street Gallery in Aberdeen. Meet the artists as they paint in their studios throughout the weekend. The show and sale will remain open through Wednesday, Dec. 28, with gallery hours from noon to 3 p.m. Monday through Saturday.

"This is an ideal opportunity to acquire the perfect piece of art for personal enjoyment or as a gift for the approaching holiday season," says the spokesman. "With approximately 500 works of art created by local professional and amateur artists, you may choose from oils, watercolors, acrylics, -pastels, colored pencils and mixed media in a variety of sizes and prices."

K.C. Sorvari, currently serving as president of the league, moved to Aberdeen seven years ago after -retiring as director of the law library at Campbell University. Her charming watercolor of "The Country Bookshop" in downtown Southern Pines has been selected for the formal invitation for the exhibit.

Deane Billings and Eileen Strickland, who tied for the People's Choice Award last year, have both donated -original paintings to be raffled during the opening weekend.

Billings' captivating giraffe watercolor is titled "Mrs. August and Child" and Strickland's oil "Red Wine" is a lovely still life.

Tickets are for sale from ALS members or at the League. A book of six tickets is available for $5 or $1 per individual ticket. There will be a separate drawing for each painting. The raffle winners will be announced on Sunday, Nov. 13, at 3 p.m. Ticket holders need not be present to win.

The Artists League is located at 129 Exchange St. in downtown Aberdeen in an old restored railroad warehouse building.

Classes and workshops are open to members and nonmembers.

Workshops feature nationally recognized instructors in various mediums, and classes are given by prominent local and regional artists.

The League is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday.

For more information on the exhibit, workshops or classes, call (910) 944-3979 or visit www.artistleague.org.