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Film Festival Starts TONIGHT - Weekly Email

07/13/2022 03:16:25 PM

Jul13

Jewish Community of Greater Stowe

Pay Your Dues Here

Stowe Jewish Film Festival 2022 The Jewish Experience starts TONIGHT at 7:00PM!!

FEATURE FILM: Yerusalem at Spruce Peak Performing Arts Center
The Incredible Story of Ethiopian Jewry traces the dramatic journey of this people who struggled to find their way back to the heart of the Jewish people after centuries of isolation.
Film Sponsors: Cushman Design Group and Well Heeled

Arrive Early, Parking is in the Mansfield lots and take a shuttle to SPPAC.

HIGHLIGHT

Yeshiva (Jewish Learning) for a Day Monday, July 18, 2022

Have you ever wondered what happens at traditional Jewish schools of learning (yeshivas) across the world, but were too intimidated to find out? Come to this accessible, modern remaking of yeshiva for a day. We’ll spend our time praying, eating, and learning from our new Siddur Lev Shalem prayer book.

REGISTER TODAY

RABBI'S CORNER

SAVE THE DATE
The Michael Heitner Z”L Scholar-In-Residence Shabbat

with Rabbi Sid Schwarz

August 19-20
REGISTER & LEARN MORE

EDUCATION

Emma Schaffer’s Bat Mitzvah Ceremony and Shabbat Morning Torah Service
July 16 at 10:00am

Join us for Emma's bat mitzvah ceremony as she is called to the Torah as a bat mitzvah. Emma and her family are excited to celebrate.

READ MORE ABOUT EMMA

JCOGS ♥ VOLUNTEERS

Thank you to Debby Sherman, Lynne Gedanken, Cyndy Wyatt, Hersh Schwartz, Lis Erickson, Amy Wenger, Steve Levine, Irwin Tauben, and Judith Wine for all your hard work in creating a sizzlin' BBQ event.

To Matt Yoskowitz and the endowment committee Sara Tauben, Diana Lloyd, Jordy Hershman Priscilla Minkin, Art Dorfman, Ron Feinstein, Jonathan Freedman, and Howard Goldstein for creating a moving presentation about JCOGS's past, present, and future.

SIMCHAS

Bob and Joan Katz on the engagement of their granddaughter.

Hinda Miller for her induction into the National Inventors Hall of Fame for inventing the 1st sports bra in 1970.

UPCOMING EVENTS

SJFF: Yerusalem: The Incredible Story of Ethiopian Jewry traces the dramatic journey of this people who struggled to find their way back to the heart of the Jewish people after centuries of isolation. - Wednesday, July 13 7:00pm-8:00pm
at Spruce Peak Performing Arts Center

Shmitta Musical Shabbat - IN PERSON + ON LINE: Join us in the tent for an uplifting musical service to welcome in Shabbat in community, followed by a delicious Oneg sponsored by Emma Schaffer.
- Friday, July 15 6:00pm-7:00pm

Vegan Oneg sponsored by Emma Schaffer in celebration of her Bat Mitzvah: Friday, July 15 7:00pm-8:00pm

Emma Schaffer’s Bat Mitzvah Ceremony and Shabbat Morning Torah Service: Join us for Emma's bat mitzvah ceremony as she is called to the Torah as a bat mitzvah. Emma and her family are excited to celebrate . - Saturday, July 16 10:00am-12:00pm

Yeshiva (Jewish Learning) for a Day: Have you ever wondered what happens at traditional Jewish schools of learning (yeshivas) across the world, but were too intimidated to find out? Come to this accessible, modern remaking of yeshiva for a day. We’ll spend our time praying, eating, and learning from our new Siddur Lev Shalem prayer book. - Monday, July 18 9:30am-1:30pm

SJFF: Unraveling: “Did Pancho Villa really try to kill my grandfather?” While attempting to unravel a family mystery, the filmmaker reveals a dynamic story of borderland relations between a Texas Jewish merchant family and their Mexican neighbors at the beginning of the 20th century.

(Note: dinner can be ordered and delivered to your seat.) - Thursday, July 21 7:00pm-8:00pm at The Big Picture in Waitsfield

SJFF: The Missing Tale: A sensitive and intimate portrait of the few remaining members of the ancient Jewish community of Cochin, India. July 27 at 7:00pm at The Spruce Peak Performing Arts Center

Mamboniks Ahora!: A wonderfully entertaining story about the irresistible appeal of music and dance. - Sunday, July 31 7:00pm-9:00pm at JCOGS

Musical Shabbat - IN PERSON + ONLINE: Join us in the sanctuary for an uplifting musical service to welcome in Shabbat in community, followed by a delicious Oneg. - Friday, August 5 6:00pm-7:00pm

Sponsored Oneg by the Murphy Family : Friday, August 5 7:00pm-8:00pm

Gavin and Lily's B'nai Mitzvah Ceremony and Shabbat Morning Torah Service - IN PERSON + ONLINE: Saturday, August 6 1:30pm-3:30pm

Musical Shabbat - IN PERSON + ONLINE: Join us in the sanctuary for an uplifting musical service to welcome in Shabbat in community, followed by a delicious Oneg. - Friday, August 12 6:00pm-7:00pm

Aiden's bar mitzvah ceremony and Shabbat morning Torah service - IN PERSON + ONLINE: Saturday, August 13 10:00am-12:00pm

Capernaum: How a Galilean Jewish Village Became a Christian Pilgrimage Site: Join Daniel Ehrlich, Keshet's Educational Director to virtually visit this site in Northern Israel and to gain insight into the Jewish context of the foundational stories of Christianity. Get to know this Jewish community of the Second Temple period and better understand how the story of Jesus and his followers is part of the saga of the Jewish People of the Second Temple period. It is a 40-45 minute learning session combining Powerpoint with maps, texts and timelines and video with live narration and teaching followed by Q&A. - Sunday, August 14 11:15am-1:00pm

2022 Summer Series: Book Discussion: 2022 Summer Series: Book Discussion with author and storyteller Toby Israel - Tuesday, August 16 6:30pm-8:00pm

Musical Shabbat with the JCOGS Band + Dinner Talk with Rabbi Sid Schwarz: An uplifting musical service with the JCOGS Band to welcome in Shabbat in community, followed by a special oneg dinner, and talk and discussion with Rabbi Sid Schwarz. - Friday, August 19 6:00pm-8:30pm

What is Prayer? Talk Back and Text Study: Saturday, August 20 11:45am-12:30pm

Davenning Out of the Box: A prayer service like no other, followed by a talk back, text study, and catered oneg lunch with The Bagel. - Saturday, August 20 10:00am-11:30am

YAHRZEITS

July 10 - July 16, 2022
To be read at Services on July 15, 2022

Selma Wolkowitz Rabinowitz aunt of Amy Wolk Murphy
Robert Schwartz father of Harold Schwartz
Richard Aronsohn brother of Joan Katz
Rebecca Savage grandmother of Linda Zamvil
Gary Jacobson late husband of Wendy Jacobson
Ben Rous father of Dr. Gretchen Rous Besser
Adele Dananberg mother of Howie Dananberg

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Loss and affirming life

07/08/2022 02:55:55 PM

Jul8

Jewish Community of Greater Stowe

Dear JCOGS family,

In this week’s Torah portion/parashat Chukat, we confront loss over and over again, where Torah mirrors the experience of life and the inevitability of death.

The loss centres around the siblings Miriam, Moses, and Aaron. Miriam the Prophetess dies at the outset of this Torah portion. The loss of one of our great sages. Miriam is the Israelites’ miraculous bearer of water, so there is no water for the people when she passes away. The loss of their life source and basic needs. The Israelites cry out for help, and Moses strikes the rock to bring forth water. But in so doing, betraying G-d’s command, Moses himself loses the right to take the people into the Promised Land. The loss of our central leader’s mission. Later, the High Priest Aaron dies and is buried and the people mourn his death for 30 days. The loss of holy authority.

We also learn in depth how touching a dead person’s body or even being in the same room as them makes someone ritually impure for seven days. The loss of loved ones and of connection to community.

Finally, we learn of war against neighbouring armies and the loss of life there, as our ancestors were victorious in these fights against great nations, yet too much blood was spilled. The great losses on the battlefield.

I’ve recently begun reading a book recommended by one of our members, The Beauty of What Remains by Rabbi Steve Leder, which I hope to bring to JCOGS as a community reading. In it, the author writes: “Yes, death is sad, serious, and heavy. But life is not always thus. Death is an opportunity to reaffirm the blessing of life.”

While Torah touches on stories of death and loss, Torah is always about life. Death and loss are ultimately reminders of what we wish to affirm. About what we are to do with this one precious life we have been given. About the beauty that remains here and now.

After these two plus years of great loss and burden on our community and our world, after perpetual losses seen and felt in these tumultuous times, we must affirm life in spite of it all.

I hope you will join me for this Sunday’s BBQ, as well as the launch of the Stowe Jewish Film Festival this Wednesday, as our JCOGS community creates opportunities for each of us to embrace life.

Tihiyu bri’im, be well. Shabbat Shalom,

Rabbi David

Announcements and Upcoming Events

TONIGHT Musical Shabbat with the JCOGS Band Plus Special Oneg: Join us in the tent for an uplifting musical service to welcome in Shabbat in community, followed by a delicious Oneg. - Friday, July 8 6:00pm-7:00pm

Annual BBQ: Come to the annual BBQ and schmooze with your JCOGS friends and celebrate where we are and where we're going as a joyful and vibrant community. Food and drinks served at The Nosh. - Sunday, July 10 4:30pm-6:30pm

SJFF: Yerusalem: The Incredible Story of Ethiopian Jewry traces the dramatic journey of this people who struggled to find their way back to the heart of the Jewish people after centuries of isolation. - Wednesday, July 13 7:00pm-8:00pm

Vegan Oneg sponsored by Emma Schaffer in celebration of her Bat Mitzvah: Friday, July 15 7:00pm-8:00pm

Shmitta Musical Shabbat - IN PERSON + ON LINE: Join us in the tent for an uplifting musical service to welcome in Shabbat in community, followed by a delicious Oneg. - Friday, July 15 6:00pm-7:00pm

Emma Schaffer’s Bat Mitzvah Ceremony and Shabbat Morning Torah Service: Saturday, July 16 10:00am-12:00pm

Yeshiva (Jewish Learning) for a Day: Have you ever wondered what happens at traditional Jewish schools of learning (yeshivas) across the world, but were too intimidated to find out? Come to this accessible, modern remaking of yeshiva for a day. We’ll spend our time praying, eating, and learning from our new Siddur Lev Shalem prayer book. - Monday, July 18 9:30am-1:30pm

SJFF: Unraveling: “Did Pancho Villa really try to kill my grandfather?” While attempting to unravel a family mystery, the filmmaker reveals a dynamic story of borderland relations between a Texas Jewish merchant family and their Mexican neighbors at the beginning of the 20th century. - Thursday, July 21 7:00pm-8:00pm

SJFF: The Missing Tale: A sensitive and intimate portrait of the few remaining members of the ancient Jewish community of Cochin, India. Film Sponsors: The Bagel and Stowe Country Homes - Wednesday, July 27 7:00pm-8:00pm

Mamboniks Ahora!: A wonderfully entertaining story about the irresistible appeal of music and dance. - Sunday, July 31 7:00pm-9:00pm

Join Our Mailing List

BBQ Menu - Weekly Email

07/06/2022 01:07:57 PM

Jul6

Jewish Community of Greater Stowe

Pay Your Dues

JCOGS Annual BBQ
Sunday, July 10, 2022 | 4:30 PM - 6:30 PM

Come to the annual BBQ and schmooze with your JCOGS friends and celebrate where we are and where we're going as a joyful and vibrant community. Food and drinks served at The Nosh.
All food is kosher prepared in the kosher kitchen. Vegan options available.

BBQ MENU

$25 / adult | $10 / children 7-12 | Free / 0-7
Register here.

Highlight

Stowe Jewish Film Festival Summer 2022

Stowe Jewish Film Festival 2022 The Jewish Experience: a multiplicity of cultures, languages, countries, traditions and colors. Patterns of immigration have taken Jews all over the world, melding and merging, creating hybrid cultures and complex identities.

FILM SCHEDULE
July 13, 7:00 pm - Yerusalem at Spruce Peak Performing Arts Center
July 21, 7:00 pm - Unraveling at Big Picture Theater, Waitsfield
July 27, 7:00 pm - The Missing Tale at Spruce Peak Performing Arts Center
July 31, 6:30 pm - Mamboniks Ahora! at JCOGS

BUY TICKETS
Click Here to Buy Individual Tickets

Rabbi's Corner

Yeshiva (Jewish Learning) for a Day
Monday, July 18, 2022 | 9:30 AM - 1:30 PM JCOGS

JCOGS ♥ Volunteers

Amy Wenger, Irwin Tauben, Deborah Black & Miche Kabay
for assisting with Oneg clean up on Friday.

Lori Gottlieb for serving on the education committee.

Shelly Citron and Molly for being superb Mitzvah buddies to fellow Mitzvah families.

Announcements & Upcoming Events

Musical Shabbat with the JCOGS Band Plus Special Oneg: Join us in the sanctuary for an uplifting musical service to welcome in Shabbat in community, followed by a delicious Oneg. - Friday, July 8 6:00pm-7:00pm

Annual BBQ: Come to the annual BBQ and schmooze with your JCOGS friends and celebrate where we are and where we're going as a joyful and vibrant community. Food and drinks served at The Nosh.
- Sunday, July 10 4:30pm-6:30pm

SJFF: Yerusalem : The Incredible Story of Ethiopian Jewry traces the dramatic journey of this people who struggled to find their way back to the heart of the Jewish people after centuries of isolation. - Wednesday, July 13 7:00pm-8:00pm

Vegan Oneg sponsored by Emma Schaffer in celebration of her Bat Mitzvah: Friday, July 15 7:00pm-8:00pm

Musical Shabbat - IN PERSON + ONLINE:Join us in the sanctuary for an uplifting musical service to welcome in Shabbat in community, followed by a delicious Oneg. - Friday, July 15 6:00pm-7:00pm

Emma Schaffer’s Bat Mitzvah Ceremony and Shabbat Morning Torah Service: Saturday, July 16 10:00am-12:00pm

Yeshiva (Jewish Learning) for a Day: Have you ever wondered what happens at traditional Jewish schools of learning (yeshivas) across the world, but were too intimidated to find out? Come to this accessible, modern remaking of yeshiva for a day. We’ll spend our time praying, eating, and learning from our new Siddur Lev Shalem prayer book. - Monday, July 18 9:30am-1:30pm

SJFF: Unraveling: “Did Pancho Villa really try to kill my grandfather?” While attempting to unravel a family mystery, the filmmaker reveals a dynamic story of borderland relations between a Texas Jewish merchant family and their Mexican neighbors at the beginning of the 20th century. - Thursday, July 21 7:00pm-8:00pm

SJFF: The Missing Tale: A sensitive and intimate portrait of the few remaining members of the ancient Jewish community of Cochin, India. Film Sponsors: The Bagel and Stowe Country Homes - Wednesday, July 27 7:00pm-8:00pm

Mamboniks Ahora!: A wonderfully entertaining story about the irresistible appeal of music and dance. - Sunday, July 31 7:00pm-9:00pm

Yahrzeits July 3 - July 9, 2022
To be read at Services on July 8, 2022

Yahrzeits

Sunday
Robert Deckelbaum
Freda Rosner Finkelstein

Monday
Amanda S. Fenlon

Tuesday
Milton Peshkin
Michael Scott Cohen

Wednesday
Barbara J. Kole
Philip Zell
Barbara J. Kole

Thursday
Catherine Gellis
Nathan Nash
Francis "Frank" Castagna

Friday
Ruth Moskowitz
Carol Good
Adele Dananberg

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we are hiring a teaching assistant

07/04/2022 04:42:16 PM

Jul4

We are seeking a kind, creative, and mature assistant teacher for the Olam Chesed Program on Tuesdays at Beth Jacob Synagogue in Montpelier. Olam Chesed is managed by the Jewish Community of Greater Stowe (JCOGS).

Program Description: Olam Chesed will run on Tuesday afternoons, during which time the students will engage in tefillah/prayer time, kehillah/group learning, and chai/Jewish life lessons.

Responsibilities will include but are not limited to:

Assist with set-up and break-down including space arrangement and materials organization
Welcome students and assist with parent pick-up
Set up and serve snack
Work with individual students or small groups of students at specific times during the program
Teach components of lessons during tefillah, kehillah, and chai (lesson plans provided)
Participate in two Friday night and one Saturday morning family programs

Qualifications:

Age 16 & up
Knowledge of Hebrew: facility reading/chanting prayers
Familiarity with Jewish ritual and tradition
Skill to engage and lead small groups of students, including handling discipline under the guidance of the director
Capacity to provide support and assistance to individual students

Completion of JCOGS Mitzvah program (with strong attendance) or equivalent b’nei mitzvah prep program - as determined by director
Previous work with children—babysitting, tutoring, camp counselor—preferred but not necessary

Ability to take direction, work independently, implement lesson plans, and give feedback to the director

Compensation: $20/hour x 3 hours for program plus $20 per hour for staff meetings and trainings

Please send resume and letter of interest to Beth Liberman, director of education at beth.liberman@jcogs.org.

Brunch: the best meal of Shabbat

07/01/2022 03:04:08 PM

Jul1

Jewish Community of Greater Stowe

Dear JCOGS family,

Pancakes and waffles (regular and gluten-free/vegan), quiche, cheese platter, fresh berries, kale salad, compote, coffee, and plenty of maple syrup! Alison and I are hosting Shabbat brunch tomorrow/Saturday, July 2 at our home from 10:30am-1pm. A casual affair for all-ages, show up anytime, and bring anyone else along, with seating indoors and out on the porch. RSVP for our address.

“Oneg” means joy in Hebrew. We speak of “oneg Shabbat,” the joy of Shabbat, generally, but almost always it is referring specifically to food. Sometimes the way to the heart is through the kishkes, the Yiddish expression for intestines. One of the great joys of Shabbat is delighting in food and each other’s company.

I hope you will join us.

Tihiyu bri’im, be well. Shabbat Shalom,

Rabbi David

P.S. The annual JCOGS BBQ is only a week from Sunday, July 10 @ 4:30pm. This one sold out last year, so get your tickets soon here.

Announcements and Upcoming Events

TONIGHT Musical Shabbat - IN PERSON + ONLINE: Join us in the sanctuary for an uplifting musical service to welcome in Shabbat in community, followed by a delicious Oneg. - Friday, July 1 6:00pm-7:00pm

Shabbos Brunch: Hosted by Rabbi David and Alison Link: Join us in our home for a nosh of delicious brunch foods and good company for a relaxing, casual Shabbat hangout. Outdoor covered space available for eating, as well. Rain or shine. Get to know other families and folks and make some new friends. All are welcome, all-ages. Feel free to bring anyone along. - Saturday, July 2 10:30am-1:00pm

Musical Shabbat with the JCOGS Band Plus Special Oneg: Join us in the sanctuary for an uplifting musical service to welcome in Shabbat in community, followed by a delicious Oneg. - Friday, July 8 6:00pm-7:00pm

Annual BBQ: Come to the annual BBQ and schmooze with your JCOGS friends and celebrate where we are and where we're going as a joyful and vibrant community. Food and drinks served at The Nosh.
- Sunday, July 10 4:30pm-6:30pm

SJFF: Yerusalem : The Incredible Story of Ethiopian Jewry traces the dramatic journey of this people who struggled to find their way back to the heart of the Jewish people after centuries of isolation. - Wednesday, July 13 7:00pm-8:00pm

Vegan Oneg sponsored by Emma Schaffer in celebration of her Bat Mitzvah: Friday, July 15 7:00pm-8:00pm

Musical Shabbat - IN PERSON + ONLINE: Join us in the sanctuary for an uplifting musical service to welcome in Shabbat in community, followed by a delicious Oneg. - Friday, July 15 6:00pm-7:00pm

Emma Schaffer’s Bat Mitzvah Ceremony and Shabbat Morning Torah Service: Saturday, July 16 10:00am-12:00pm

Yeshiva (Jewish Learning) for a Day: Have you ever wondered what happens at traditional Jewish schools of learning (yeshivas) across the world, but were too intimidated to find out? Come to this accessible, modern remaking of yeshiva for a day. We’ll spend our time praying, eating, and learning from our new Siddur Lev Shalem prayer book. - Monday, July 18 9:30am-1:30pm

SJFF: Unraveling: “Did Pancho Villa really try to kill my grandfather?” While attempting to unravel a family mystery, the filmmaker reveals a dynamic story of borderland relations between a Texas Jewish merchant family and their Mexican neighbors at the beginning of the 20th century. - Thursday, July 21 7:00pm-8:00pm

SJFF: The Missing Tale: A sensitive and intimate portrait of the few remaining members of the ancient Jewish community of Cochin, India.Film Sponsors: The Bagel and Stowe Country Homes - Wednesday, July 27 7:00pm-8:00pm

Mamboniks Ahora!: A wonderfully entertaining story about the irresistible appeal of music and dance. - Sunday, July 31 7:00pm-9:00pm

Join Our Mailing List

Annual BBQ - Weekly Email

06/29/2022 02:38:55 PM

Jun29

Jewish Community of Greater Stowe

Dedicate A New Prayer Book Now

JCOGS Annual BBQ
Sunday, July 10, 2022 | 4:30 PM - 6:30 PM

Come to the annual BBQ and schmooze with your JCOGS friends and celebrate where we are and where we're going as a joyful and vibrant community. Food and drinks served at The Nosh.
$25 / adult | $10 / children 7-12 | Free / 0-7
Register here.

Highlight

Stowe Jewish Film Festival Summer 2022

Rabbi's Corner

Shabbos Brunch: Hosted by Rabbi David and Alison Link
Saturday, July 2, 2022 | 10:30 AM - 1:00 PM

Join us in our home for a nosh of delicious brunch foods and good company for a relaxing, casual Shabbat hangout. Outdoor covered space available for eating, as well. Rain or shine. Get to know other families and folks and make some new friends. All are welcome, all-ages. Feel free to bring anyone along. Register here.

JCOGS ♥ Volunteers

Brian Leven for his masterful MC-ing of the Summer Series: Talent in the Tent open mic night, and Lis Erickson, Rachel Funk, Adar, Yonah, Steve Schneps, and Joel Miller for performing.

Claudia Woodward for her many years serving on the education committee.

Simchah

David and Katrine Wolfgang for the marriage of their daughter Taylor Wolfgang to Nathaniel Sugiyama this past Sunday.

Community

COVID Vaccine Clinics for 6 months to 5 years old for WIC participants. 9AM-3PM by appointment only. Call 802-888-7447 to schedule. 63 Professional Drive, Morrisville.

6/28, Pfizer
6/30, Moderna
7/5, Moderna
7/6, Pfizer

Announcements & Upcoming Events

Musical Shabbat - IN PERSON + ONLINE: Join us in the sanctuary for an uplifting musical service to welcome in Shabbat in community, followed by a delicious Oneg. - Friday, July 1 6:00pm-7:00pm

Shabbos Brunch: Hosted by Rabbi David and Alison Link: Join us in our home for a nosh of delicious brunch foods and good company for a relaxing, casual Shabbat hangout. Outdoor covered space available for eating, as well. Rain or shine. Get to know other families and folks and make some new friends. All are welcome, all-ages. Feel free to bring anyone along. - Saturday, July 2 10:30am-1:00pm

Musical Shabbat - IN PERSON + ONLINE: Join us in the sanctuary for an uplifting musical service to welcome in Shabbat in community, followed by a delicious Oneg sponsored by Todd & Monika Sherman. - Friday, July 8 6:00pm-7:00pm

Annual BBQ: Come to the annual BBQ and schmooze with your JCOGS friends and celebrate where we are and where we're going as a joyful and vibrant community. Food and drinks served at The Nosh.
- Sunday, July 10 4:30pm-6:30pm

Vegan Oneg sponsored by Emma Schaffer in celebration of her Bat Mitzvah: Friday, July 15 7:00pm-8:00pm

Musical Shabbat - IN PERSON + ONLINE: Join us in the sanctuary for an uplifting musical service to welcome in Shabbat in community, followed by a delicious Oneg. - Friday, July 15 6:00pm-7:00pm

Emma Schaffer’s Bat Mitzvah Ceremony and Shabbat Morning Torah Service: Saturday, July 16 10:00am-12:00pm

Yeshiva for a Day: Have you ever wondered what happens at traditional Jewish schools of learning (yeshivas) across the world, but were too intimidated to find out? Come to this accessible, modern remaking of yeshiva for a day. We’ll spend our time praying, eating, and learning from our new Siddur Lev Shalem prayer book. - Monday, July 18 9:00am-12:00pm

Yahrzeits June 26 - July 2, 2022
To be read at Services on July 1, 2022

Yahrzeits

Sunday
Max Allen

Monday
Leonard Rosenthal

Tuesday
Neil Shapiro

Friday
Pearl Meshnick

Shabbat
Theodore Kole
Rose Aline Bernat

Join Our Mailing List

Something to celebrate

06/24/2022 10:54:23 AM

Jun24

Jewish Community of Greater Stowe

Dear JCOGS family,

When the 12 spies were sent to look at the Land of Israel and report back to the Israelites what they saw, 10 of them came back with a troubling, fearful report that they would never be able to conquer the land. But two of the spies, Caleb and Joshua, stood against the others to proclaim that “the land… is an exceedingly good land.” Rabbi Tobie Weisman, executive director of Jewish Communities of Vermont, wrote: “It takes so much courage and stamina to stand up against negativity and fear and keep a positive outlook. This is our Jewish heritage and what has kept the Jewish people thriving and growing despite so much negativity and hostility surrounding us throughout history.”

Amidst all that swirls around us in the world, there is so much to be grateful for. So much to celebrate! This weekend alone, we celebrate Shabbat tonight, two Mitzvah ceremonies tomorrow, and a wedding under the chuppah on Sunday.

And we top it off with an Open Mic this Sunday at 6pm, as we kick off a NEW Summer Series: Talent in the Tent, showing off the talent from within members of our JCOGS community. Talented singer/musician Brian Leven will serenade and MC. Come show off your inner schtick and step up to the mic for a fun evening. Or just sit back and enjoy an evening of entertainment, local beer, and light snacks provided at “The Nosh”.

And here’s something else to celebrate, this article called “Magnetic North” in Tablet Magazine that features JCOGS, and how Jewish communities in northern New England’s small towns find ways to attract more participants from diverse backgrounds.

There’s an expression in Yiddish “oif simchas” that we say when we meet someone at a sad occasion. It means “may we meet only on happy occasions.”
As Rabbi Tobie said: “May we follow the example of Caleb and Joshua and bring light and a positive outlook to all those around us, including ourselves.” And may we only meet oif simchas!

Tihiyu bri’im, be well. Shabbat Shalom,

Rabbi David

Announcements and Upcoming Events

TONIGHT Musical Shabbat - IN PERSON + ONLINE: Join us in the sanctuary for an uplifting musical service to welcome in Shabbat in community, followed by a delicious Oneg. - Friday, June 24 6:00pm-7:00pm

Manny Fliegelman's Bar Mitzvah Ceremony and Shabbat Morning Torah service - IN PERSON + ONLINE: Saturday, June 25 10:00am-12:00pm

Violet Clarkin's Bat Mitzvah Ceremony and Shabbat Afternoon Torah Service - IN PERSON + ONLINE: Saturday, June 25 4:00pm-5:30pm

Open Mic with Singer/Musician BRIAN LEVEN - IN PERSON: Show off your inner schtick and step up to the mic for a fun evening. Bring your instruments and talent for an evening of entertainment, local beer and light snacks provided by “The Nosh”. - Sunday, June 26 6:00pm-8:00pm

Musical Shabbat - IN PERSON + ONLINE: Join us in the sanctuary for an uplifting musical service to welcome in Shabbat in community, followed by a delicious Oneg. - Friday, July 1 6:00pm-7:00pm

Shabbos Brunch: Hosted by Rabbi David and Alison Link: Join us in our home for a nosh of delicious brunch foods and good company for a relaxing, casual Shabbat hangout. Outdoor covered space available for eating, as well. Rain or shine. Get to know other families and folks and make some new friends. All are welcome, all-ages. Feel free to bring anyone along. - Saturday, July 2 10:30am-1:00pm

Musical Shabbat - IN PERSON + ONLINE: Join us in the sanctuary for an uplifting musical service to welcome in Shabbat in community, followed by a delicious Oneg. - Friday, July 8 6:00pm-7:00pm

Annual BBQ: Come to the annual BBQ and schmooze with your JCOGS friends and celebrate where we are and where we're going as a joyful and vibrant community. Food and drinks served at The Nosh.
- Sunday, July 10 4:30pm-6:30pm

Musical Shabbat - IN PERSON + ONLINE: Join us in the sanctuary for an uplifting musical service to welcome in Shabbat in community, followed by a delicious Oneg. - Friday, July 15 6:00pm-7:00pm

Emma's Bat Mitzvah Ceremony and Shabbat Morning Torah Service: Saturday, July 16 10:00am-12:00pm

Join Our Mailing List

Summer Series: Talent in the Tent - Weekly Email

06/22/2022 02:09:39 PM

Jun22

Jewish Community of Greater Stowe

Dedicate A New Prayer Book Now

Open Mic with Singer/Musician BRIAN LEVEN - IN PERSON
Sunday, June 26, 2022 | 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
1189 Cape Code Road Stowe Vermont 05672

Show off your inner schtick and step up to the mic for a fun evening. Bring your instruments and talent for an evening of entertainment, local beer and light snacks provided at “The Nosh”. Entry is free, register here.

Highlight

Save the Date for the Annual BBQ
Sunday, July 10, 2022 | 4:30 PM - 6:30 PM

Come to the annual BBQ and schmooze with your JCOGS friends and celebrate where we are and where we're going as a joyful and vibrant community. Food and drinks served at The Nosh.

So much fun to be had!
$25 / adult | $10 / children 7-12 | Free / 0-7
Register here.

Rabbi's Corner

Shabbos Brunch: Hosted by Rabbi David and Alison Link
Saturday, July 2, 2022 | 10:30 AM - 1:00 PM

Education

Manny Fliegelman's Bar Mitzvah Ceremony and Shabbat Morning Torah service - IN PERSON + ONLINE
Saturday, June 25, 2022 | 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Violet Clarkin's Bat Mitzvah Ceremony and Shabbat Afternoon Torah Service - IN PERSON + ONLINE
Saturday, June 25, 2022 | 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM

JCOGS ♥ Volunteers

Priscilla Minkin, Mark Nash, and Patti Rubin for updating the community on the chesed committee mission and initiatives.

The Sherman family for sponsoring the Friday night oneg and Saturday afternoon kiddush.

Community

Vaccines for children

Ages 6 months-5 years: COVID-19 vaccines will be available to these young children soon. Most vaccines for this age group will be given at pediatricians’ offices and other health care practices, with limited availability at pharmacies or pop-up-type clinics.
Ages 5-11 years: Boosters are now recommended for children ages 5-11 who completed their vaccination at least 5 months ago.
More information on vaccines for children here.

Walk-in COVID vaccination clinics:

63 Professional Drive, Morrisville
Mondays, June 20 & 27 and July 11
12:30 - 4
All vaccines and boosters for all age groups over 5 years old.

Announcements & Upcoming Events

TONIGHT Mitzvah Cohort Informational Meeting: Parents and students of the 2022-23 Mitzvah cohort gather to learn about this year's program, meet one another, and ask questions of Rabbi David, Beth, and Alison. - Wednesday, June 22 6:30pm-7:30pm

Musical Shabbat - IN PERSON + ONLINE: Join us in the sanctuary for an uplifting musical service to welcome in Shabbat in community, followed by a delicious Oneg. - Friday, June 24 6:00pm-7:00pm

Violet Clarkin's Bat Mitzvah Ceremony and Shabbat Afternoon Torah Service - IN PERSON + ONLINE: Saturday, June 25 4:00pm-5:30pm

Manny Fliegelman's Bar Mitzvah Ceremony and Shabbat Morning Torah service - IN PERSON + ONLINE: Saturday, June 25 10:00am-12:00pm

Open Mic with Singer/Musician BRIAN LEVEN - IN PERSON: Show off your inner schtick and step up to the mic for a fun evening. Bring your instruments and talent for an evening of entertainment, local beer and light snacks provided by “The Nosh”. - Sunday, June 26 6:00pm-8:00pm

Shabbos Brunch: Hosted by Rabbi David and Alison Link: Join us in our home for a nosh of delicious brunch foods and good company for a relaxing, casual Shabbat hangout. Outdoor covered space available for eating, as well. Rain or shine. Get to know other families and folks and make some new friends. All are welcome, all-ages. Feel free to bring anyone along. - Saturday, July 2 10:30am-1:00pm

Save the Date for the Annual BBQ: Come to the annual BBQ and schmooze with your JCOGS friends and celebrate where we are and where we're going as a joyful and vibrant community. Food and drinks served at The Nosh.
- Sunday, July 10 4:30pm-6:30pm

Emma's Bat Mitzvah Ceremony and Shabbat Morning Torah Service: Saturday, July 16 10:00am-12:00pm

Yahrzeits June 19 - June 25, 2022
To be read at Services on June 24, 2022

Yahrzeits

Sunday
Norman Gershman

Tuesday
Stan Needleman

Friday
Augusta Oppenheim
Rae Fainsilber

Shabbat
Stella Kurland Wise
Morris Rubinstein

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Summer fun

06/17/2022 02:10:39 PM

Jun17

Jewish Community of Greater Stowe

Dear JCOGS friends,

Daylight hours are increasing, as the “longest day of the year” is coming up soon. Of course, the Jewish day begins and ends with sunset, so it’s always the same length. Still, it sure is nice to wake up to the sound of birds chirping, mountains shimmering in shades of green, and summer plans on the horizon. Ah, Vermont at its finest.

Another indication that summer is here is how familiar faces re-enter our holy community. Welcome back to all you snowbirds! We missed you. It has been a joy to welcome you back with open arms.

JCOGS will surely be at its finest this summer. Here’s a short list of things to look forward to:

Torah on Tap @ Ranch Camp: Hot Topics this Monday at 7pm, where we’ll explore the controversial topic of gun reform, while noshing and making a l’chayim.
A NEW Summer Series: Talent in the Tent kicks off with our own talent from within, JCOGS member Brian Leven leading an Open Mic on Sunday, July 26 @ 6pm. Show off your inner schtick and step up to the mic for a fun evening.
Alison and I host Shabbat brunch on Saturday, July 2 at our home. Something you didn’t know about me: I make a mean pancake and waffle. Maple syrup is a must.
The annual JCOGS BBQ will be on Sunday, July 10 @ 4:30pm. This one sold out last year, so get your tickets soon.
The Stowe Jewish Film Festival moves from all-online to hybrid this year. Such good films planned, plus a blow out Mambo event on Sunday, July 31.
Looking ahead, Rabbi Sid Schwarz, named by Newsweek as one of the 50 most influential rabbis in North America, will be at JCOGS on August 19-20 for the Michael Heitner z”l Scholar-in-Residence Shabbaton. Put that date in your calendar now, as this is a must.

What a summer of great fun, learning, and community!

Tihiyu bri’im, be well. Shabbat Shalom,

Rabbi David

Announcements and Upcoming Events

Tonight Musical Shabbat - IN PERSON + ONLINE: Join us in the sanctuary for an uplifting musical service to welcome in Shabbat in community, followed by a delicious Oneg. - Friday, June 17 6:00pm-7:00pm

Tonight Oneg Sponsored by Todd & Monika Sherman: Friday, June 17 7:15pm-8:00pm

Ben Sherman's Bar Mitzvah Ceremony and Shabbat Morning Torah Service - IN PERSON + ONLINE: Saturday, June 18 10:00am-12:00pm

Torah on Tap at Ranch Camp: Hot Topics with Rabbi David: Come make some sense of this crazy world, while grabbing a drink and nosh with your rabbi. We’ll enjoy some Jewish wisdom and tasty grub. First round and appetizers are on Rabbi David. This week's topic: Gun reform. Please register if possible. - Monday, June 20 7:00pm-8:30pm

Violet Clarkin's Bat Mitzvah Ceremony and Shabbat Afternoon Torah Service - IN PERSON + ONLINE: Saturday, June 25 4:00pm-5:30pm

Manny Fliegelman's Bar Mitzvah Ceremony and Shabbat morning Torah service - IN PERSON + ONLINE: Saturday, June 25 10:00am-12:00pm

Open Mic with Singer/Musician BRIAN LEVEN - IN PERSON: Show off your inner schtick and step up to the mic for a fun evening. Bring your instruments and talent for an evening of entertainment, local beer and light snacks provided by “The Nosh”. - Sunday, June 26 6:00pm-8:00pm

Shabbos Brunch: Hosted by Rabbi David and Alison Link: Join us in our home for a nosh of delicious brunch foods and good company for a relaxing, casual Shabbat afternoon. Outdoor covered space available for eating, as well. Rain or shine. Get to know other families and folks and make some new friends. All are welcome, all-ages. Feel free to bring anyone along. - Saturday, July 2 10:30am-1:00pm

Save the Date for the Annual BBQ: Come to the annual BBQ and schmooze with your JCOGS friends and celebrate where we are and where we're going as a joyful and vibrant community. Food and drinks served at The Nosh.
- Sunday, July 10 4:30pm-6:30pm

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Living our future, now

06/03/2022 03:07:38 PM

Jun3

Jewish Community of Greater Stowe

Dear JCOGS family,

Last night, I had the great pleasure of performing some music at my rabbinical school Hebrew College’s centennial celebration. 100 years of institutional life and impact on the Jewish community. One of the night’s honourees was our own JCOGS member Deborah Feinstein. As a Hebrew College board member, she was honoured for her tremendous efforts in bringing the college’s art to life through exquisite gallery curation, as well as her commitment to their new campus and the uplifting of legacy giving. But most of all, she was honoured because she is a true model for life-long Jewish learning, making the Torah a living, breathing practice through her continuous commitment to study. Mazel tov Deborah!

This seminal event in my alma mater's history got me thinking about JCOGS’s long-term legacy. What does our future hold? What course are we charting?

As we come out of the more acute parts of the pandemic, I believe we are beginning to see in some meaningful ways how we are already living the future we want right now, and three upcoming events are a testament to these communal hopes and dreams:

Our future looks like a community deeply engaged in Jewish learning and prayer life. This Saturday evening at the beginning of the holiday of Shavuot, we celebrate the adoption of our new prayer book, Siddur Lev Shalem. A few of the members from the first Foundations for a Thoughtful Judaism class will be offering their insights on prayers within the new siddur. Susan Bauchner, Hillel Becker, Howard Brown, and Barbara Segal will each offer something unique to this evening of learning and prayer, to go along with the exquisitely delicious cheesy delights at The Nosh. I hope you will join us in person starting at 6:45pm for schmoozing and food (with an online option at 7:30pm).

Our future looks like strong interfaith relationships, as well as meaningful connections to Israel. After the Shavuot holiday, we set sail to Israel with our Christian Stowe neighbours. On Thursday evening, we gather at St. John’s in the Mountains for Israeli food and an info session about the upcoming April 2023 interfaith trip with the phenomenal tour guide Danny Ehrlich of Keshet Educational Tours. If you are even a touch interested in what this once in a lifetime trip could mean for you, join us.

Our future looks like engaged membership. On Sunday, June 12, we gather for our annual meeting with bagels at 9:30am, and the meeting in person and online at 10am (RSVP requested, as we make sure to have a quorum). Find out what your board is up to. Find out what they care about. Let them know what you care about for JCOGS’s present and future.

Come be a part of JCOGS’s future now so that we might one day look back and celebrate our own centennial.

Tihiyu bri’im, be well. Shabbat Shalom,

Rabbi David

Announcements and Upcoming Events

TONGIHT Musical Shabbat - IN PERSON + ONLINE: Join us in the sanctuary for an uplifting musical service to welcome in Shabbat in community, followed by a delicious Oneg. - Friday, June 3 6:00pm-7:00pm

Kodesh l’Kodesh: from holy to holy, Shavuot learning to welcome our new prayer book Saturday, June 4, 6:45-8:45 p.m. IN PERSON + ONLINE: Saturday, June 4 6:45pm-8:45pm

Shavuot on the Mountain IN PERSON: Join JCOGS and Living Tree Alliance as we return to our annual pilgrimage to the chapel on Mt. Mansfield in celebration of receiving the Torah at Sinai. - Sunday, June 5 10:00am-1:00pm

Israeli Food & Info Session for the Greater Stowe Holy Land Interfaith Journey to Israel : Join us in person at St. John’s in the Mountains or online for an evening of locally catered Israeli food and a program to learn more about the trip from the organizers, including special speaker Danny Ehrlich from Keshet Educational Tours. Food at 6pm, followed by program from 6:30-7:30pm (available online at 6:30pm). - Thursday, June 9 6:00pm-7:30pm

Musical Shabbat with the JCOGS Band Plus Special Oneg: Friday, June 10 6:00pm-7:30pm

JCOGS Annual Meeting: This important event allows for open dialogue and communication between the board and congregation. A quorum is required.
Click below to register. Bagels and schmear will be served starting at 9:30. - Sunday, June 12 10:00am-12:00pm

Chesed Meeting - Tent & Zoom: Thursday, June 16 6:30pm-8:00pm

Ben Sherman's Bar Mitzvah Ceremony and Shabbat Morning Torah service - IN PERSON + ONLINE: Saturday, June 18 10:00am-12:00pm

Violet Clarkin's Bat Mitzvah ceremony and Shabbat afternoon Torah service - IN PERSON + ONLINE: Saturday, June 25 5:00pm-7:00pm

Manny Fliegelman's Bar Mitzvah Ceremony and Shabbat morning Torah service - IN PERSON + ONLINE: Saturday, June 25 10:00am-12:00pm

Annual BBQ: Sunday, July 10 5:00pm

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Bitterly she weeps…

05/26/2022 12:26:53 PM

May26

Jewish Community of Greater Stowe

“Bitterly she weeps in the night, her cheeks wet with tears. There is none to comfort her, of all her friends.” Eichah/Lamentations 1:2

Dear JCOGS family,

We weep and cry with the mourners and families.

First, 10 Black people gunned down in a supermarket in Buffalo, New York. Now 2 teachers and 19 children gunned down in an elementary school in Uvalde, Texas. 119 school shootings since 2018, 27 just this year. Over 200 total mass shootings this year thus far. And, too, the unrelenting daily homicidal gun violence on our streets and the less visible suicides in our homes.

I spoke to a child Holocaust survivor yesterday who had only slept two hours the night before, tormented by the Texas shooting of innocent children. I asked her, in her many years of experience, what she thought of the world we live in today. This woman who has lived through such horror said the world feels less stable, less safe, more broken than ever before.

At my rabbinical school ordination, one of the great contemporary rabbis Zalman Schachter-Shalomi addressed the graduates, saying: “There is nowhere in the world that G-d’s presence on earth, the Shekhinah, can find a resting place because the world is so broken.”

When the world is broken, our hearts can grow paralyzed by all that we see around us. But we must never let ourselves be so numb. We must never let the bitterness stop our tears. Reb Zalman would pray each night that the Shekhinah might find a safe place on earth.

Beyond prayers, perhaps you must now talk to your children about this because they heard the recent news. Here is one resource to support you. Perhaps your tears or sorrow will lead to a rage that calls for action. Here are two ways to demand change and make a difference. Perhaps you are looking for a way beyond the political stalemate of inaction on guns. I found this one article seeking practical, political compromises moving.

Ryan Heraty, superintendent of the Lamoille South Unified Union, wrote: “One thing that is more clear than ever is that we need to wrap our arms around the children in our schools that feel disconnected, withdrawn, or socially isolated.” More mental health professionals in schools. Gun safety initiatives. Attending situational awareness and emergency protocol security trainings. Developing empathy within ourselves, our schools, and our society. I am no expert, yet it is clear that there are many things we each must and can do to better prevent future shootings. It takes all of us.

When might our world be less broken that the Shekhinah may dwell among us? I pray that we stop the scourge of shootings all across this great land, so that we might no longer need to cry so bitterly, so that G-d’s presence may finally be among us, speedily and soon.

Tihiyu bri’im, stay safe, be well.

Rabbi David

JCOGS Website

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Message from JCOGS President

05/23/2022 06:47:10 PM

May23

Jewish Community of Greater Stowe

Dear JCOGS Community,

As the JCOGS 21-22 year comes to a close, I would like to follow up on my Kol Nidrei address and what we have planned programmatically and fiscally going forward. But first a few reminders through the end of next month:

We have a very exciting and informative program thisWednesday at 7pm by Efficiency VT and the Stowe Electric Department.
We have a Shavuot program on June 4 to inaugurate our new Lev Shalem Siddur prayer book.
You are invited to attend the Annual Meeting on Sunday, June 12 at 10am. This important event allows for open dialogue and communication between the board and congregation. A quorum is required.
Click here to register. Bagels and schmear will be served starting at 9:30.

Now for the nitty gritty. This coming year we are losing our extremely generous benefactor, who has subsidized our budget in the range of $175,000/year. Our endowment campaign is still in mid-process, and about one million dollars short of our goal to make up for this loss of subsidy. So what do we do? We increase our membership base, we retain members, we modestly increase dues (which continue to be extremely low compared to other local and U.S. and Canadian synagogues), and we increase JCOGS community donations and contributions to appeals and funds.

I sent out a survey a month or so ago asking for what programs you would like to have offered at JCOGS. Programming whether it be religious, cultural, or social is what gets and keeps members—it is what we do and shows our members and the community who we are. What an exciting summer line up we have and I promise this will continue through the year. We will be offering a “Summer Series” directly based on your responses to the survey. The Stowe Jewish Film Festival is back live and bigger and better than ever, the board sponsored BBQ is on July 10, and we have a Shabbat weekend with Rabbi Sid Schwarz August 19-20.

New this year, we will be invoicing memberships as is done at most other synagogues, so look for your invoices coming via email and snail mail at the end of June. The invoices will have Yahrzeits noted on them and Yizkor Book donations will be included. On a personal note I, by traditional practice, only have one Yahrzeit, my first wife who died of breast cancer almost 17 years ago. But in speaking with Rabbi David, we can honor the memory of anyone we want with a Yahrzeit. Just this past week, I added the Yahrzeits of all my grandparents as I came to the realization that when my parents pass (now age 92 and 95, may they live long, healthy lives), their parents will not be remembered by anybody in my family. Actually with that said, I will also add my Aunt Evelyn who has no one else to remember her. There will also be lines for the Benefactor Appeal (with last year's donation noted with our hope that you will give more this year) and the Tzedakah Fund. We will also be including a line item on the invoice to commit to sponsoring an Oneg (a rollout from my Kol Nidrei address of “Adopt a Friday Night” program).

Our goal for dues and membership is an increase of 20% more than last year. My goal for all donations through Appeals, Yahrzeit/Yizkor, donations for onegs, fundraisers and Tzedakah is a total of $135,000. With a fundraising thermometer on the JCOGS website and on emails, we will be kept up to date on our progress in reaching this goal, and thus, we sustain our JCOGS present as we build an endowment that carries us forward in the future.

Rabbi David and the JCOGS Board are constantly working to make your Jewish Community a welcoming and all-inclusive place. JCOGS will flourish and grow as it strives to meet the needs of all members - whether it be religious, cultural, culinary, social, or just being around other Jews.

Steve Levine
President

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Jewish Community of Greater Stowe
1189 Cape Cod Road
Stowe, VT 05672

Back in the tent...

05/20/2022 02:46:11 PM

May20

Jewish Community of Greater Stowe

Dear JCOGS family,

Tonight, with the warmer weather, we will pray again out in the tent. When the weather is nice, the consensus among attendees has been how lovely it is to be out in nature. Truly a Vermont way to pray! Please join us at 6p.m., followed by a delicious outdoor oneg. When the weather cooperates, we’ll plan to be out there for the coming warm seasons.

On Wednesday at 7p.m., our JCOGS green team is hosting Efficiency Vermont and the Stowe Electric Department, in person and online, to help our members and the broader community improve their home energy efficiency. RSVP HERE.

Gaining any traction on combating the climate crisis can feel defeating. The greatest existential issue of our time, and not enough is being done. But each of us can make a difference. If you own a home, please come to learn how to stay warmer in the winter, cooler in the summer, and save money.

As Rabbi Tarfon famously said: “We are not required to finish the work, yet neither are we free to desist from it.” Weather permitting…

Tihiyu bri’im, be well. Shabbat Shalom,

Rabbi David

Announcements and Upcoming Events

TODAY Musical Shabbat - IN PERSON + ONLINE: Join us in the sanctuary for an uplifting musical service to welcome in Shabbat in community, followed by a delicious Oneg. - Friday, May 20 6:00pm-7:00pm

Save Money and the Climate: Home Energy Efficiency Presentation – IN-PERSON and ONLINE: Stay warmer in the winter, cooler in the summer and save money. Your JCOGS Green Team invites you to learn better ways to save money on fuel bills while making a contribution to address climate change. At this evening event, Efficiency Vermont and the Stowe Electric Department will provide you with all the information you need and more on how to improve your home’s energy efficiency. - Wednesday, May 25 7:00pm-8:30pm

Musical Shabbat - IN PERSON + ONLINE: Join us in the sanctuary for an uplifting musical service to welcome in Shabbat in community, followed by a delicious Oneg. - Friday, May 27 6:00pm-7:00pm

Zeke's bar mitzvah ceremony and Shabbat Morning Torah service - IN PERSON + ONLINE: Saturday, May 28 10:00am-12:00pm

Stowe Art Wine & Food Fundraiser- Copley Hospital Fundraiser: Thursday, June 2 5:00pm-9:00pm

Musical Shabbat - IN PERSON + ONLINE: Join us in the sanctuary for an uplifting musical service to welcome in Shabbat in community, followed by a delicious Oneg. - Friday, June 3 6:00pm-7:00pm

Kodesh l’Kodesh: from holy to holy, Shavuot learning to welcome our new prayer book Saturday, June 4, 6:45-8:45 p.m. IN PERSON + ONLINE:Come join us in the JCOGS tent to nosh, schmooze, pray, and learn as we celebrate Shavuot and welcome our new prayer book, Siddur Lev Shalem. Dairy desserts provided at The Nosh compliments of our JCOGS Board. All are encouraged to purchase copies of Siddur Lev Shalem for JCOGS or for your home use, whether attending this event or not. Saturday, June 4 6:45pm-8:45pm

Shavuot on the Mountain IN PERSON: Join JCOGS and Living Tree Alliance as we return to our annual pilgrimage to the chapel on Mt. Mansfield in celebration of receiving the Torah at Sinai. - Sunday, June 5 10:00am-1:00pm

JCOGS Annual Meeting: Sunday, June 12 10:00am-12:00pm

Chesed Meeting - Tent & Zoom: Thursday, June 16 6:30pm-8:00pm

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Buffalo and beyond

05/16/2022 08:13:11 PM

May16

Jewish Community of Greater Stowe

Dear JCOGS family,

As you likely now know, another horrific event occurred this weekend as a lone gunman opened fire outside of a grocery store in Buffalo, NY, killing 10 and injuring 3 people. His motivations grew out of racist and antisemitic hate. He chose the location because he believed a high percentage of Black people live there.

Markings on the perpetrator’s gun were white supremacist in nature, including a reference to the slogan: “We must secure the existence of our people and a future for white children.” In a manifesto he wrote, he called for a war against Jews: “But by their Jewish ways, they turn us against each other. When you realize this you will know that the Jews are the biggest problem the Western world has ever had. They must be called out and killed, if they are lucky they will be exiled.”

Once again, we send our prayers to the families of the bereaved, who died tragically and too soon.

Once again, we send our prayers to those who were injured and in need of healing.

Once again, we must stay vigilant in the face of extremists of all kinds, staying watchful and aware.

Since the incident, I have been receiving regular reports from the ADL, one of the foremost organizations fighting antisemitism, hate, racism, and bigotry of all kinds. I have found these emails to be comforting knowing that there are organizations doing ongoing work to uproot hate from our society.

The ADL has joined other leading social justice organizations in calling for President Biden to convene a summit on hate and extremism and to develop a plan to combat hate crimes, white supremacy, and violent extremism.

You can add your voice HERE to this ADL call and also join their newsletter to learn more about their work.

Tihiyu bri’im, may we all be safe and secure.

Rabbi David

JCOGS Website

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A new prayer book, from holy to holy

05/13/2022 01:02:41 PM

May13

Jewish Community of Greater Stowe

Dear JCOGS family,

After extensive review and learning, special Shabbat services with significant participation, and surveying and talking with community members, the board approved the adoption of Siddur Lev Shalem, a new Shabbat and festivals prayer book for JCOGS. Lev Shalem means “a whole heart.” I offer some wholehearted gratitude to our ritual team Willa Bruckner, Susan Bauchner, and Aron Temkin for all of their efforts.

Every once in a while, Jews agree with each other. (Two Jews, three opinions, after all). Eight years ago, JCOGS adopted the High Holy Day Mahzor Lev Shalem, the sister prayer book to the Shabbat and festival version. The community’s decision to adopt the new prayer book is based especially on the overwhelming feedback from our community that the experience of the High Holy Days has been enriched over these years thanks to that prayer book.

Services will continue to be musical, contemplative, traditional, and creative with this siddur. Yet, this change signals a new era of prayer and ritual life at JCOGS for our Shabbat and festivals with access to deeper, richer content.

With its full Hebrew text and lyrical translation, historical and linguistic reflections, and contemporary poetry, we know how inspiring it is to experience prayer through this book. It also offers more transliteration (Hebrew written in English characters), so that those who do not read Hebrew (yet) can more freely join in services.

The siddur speaks to the heart, mind, and soul of those more traditionally-minded and those more creatively-oriented. As one member wrote, the prayer book offers “many paths to access our inner voice.”

As we welcome this new siddur into our congregation, the board and I invite you to consider purchasing one or more copies for JCOGS and/or for your home use. At $36 each, you can dedicate these copies in honour or in memory of beloved family, friends, or community members. The siddur can be ordered by clicking HERE.

We also invite you to our siddur launch, taking place on the holiday of Shavuot, as we celebrate the giving of the Torah, where it is traditional on Erev Shavuot to gather together to study, schmooze and… to eat cheesy desserts and other lite bites! Entitled “Kodesh l’Kodesh: from holy to holy”, please join us Saturday eve, June 4 at 6:45pm as we move to deeper levels of holiness as a community. All are encouraged to purchase copies of Siddur Lev Shalem, whether attending this event or not.

Tihiyu bri’im, be well. Shabbat Shalom,

Rabbi David

P.S. Stay tuned for more information about the cultural, educational, and fun programming we are planning for the summer, with guest lecturers, musical performances, book readings, the film festival, and more.

Announcements and Upcoming Events

TODAY Musical Shabbat - IN PERSON + ONLINE: Join us in the sanctuary for an uplifting musical service to welcome in Shabbat in community, followed by a delicious Oneg. - Friday, May 13 6:00pm-7:00pm

Young families say "Todah!" with K&G IN PERSON : Join Rabbi David and special friends for this joyous end-of-year celebration of gratitude in the JCOGS garden! Bring your favorite stuffies to dance with Shabbasaurus. We'll be planting in garden so dress for getting your hands in the soil! - Saturday, May 14 9:30am-11:00am

Save Money and the Climate: Home Energy Efficiency Presentation – IN-PERSON and ONLINE: Stay warmer in the winter, cooler in the summer and save money. The JCOGS Green Team invites you to learn better ways to keep your home warm while making a contribution to address climate change. At this evening event, Efficiency Vermont and the Stowe Electric Department will provide you with all the information you need and more on how to improve your home’s energy efficiency. They’ll touch on everything from simple weather-stripping and insulation, to adding a heat pump or advanced wood heater to your home, to rebate programs that will make your projects financially viable. Maybe you don’t have to wear four layers and a hat in your house all winter . . . ! - Wednesday, May 25 7:00pm-8:30pm

Zeke's bar mitzvah ceremony and Shabbat Morning Torah service - IN PERSON + ONLINE: Saturday, May 28 10:00am-12:00pm

Stowe Art Wine & Food Fundraiser- Copley Hospital Fundraiser: Thursday, June 2 5:00pm-9:00pm

Kodesh l’Kodesh: from holy to holy, Shavuot learning to welcome our new prayer book Saturday, June 4, 6:45-8:45 p.m. IN PERSON + ONLINE: Saturday, June 4 6:45pm-8:45pm

Shavuot on the Mountain IN PERSON: Join JCOGS and Living Tree Alliance as we return to our annual pilgrimage to the chapel on Mt. Mansfield in celebration of receiving the Torah at Sinai. - Sunday, June 5 10:00am-1:00pm

JCOGS Annual Meeting: Sunday, June 12 10:00am-12:00pm

Chesed Meeting - Tent & Zoom: Thursday, June 16 6:30pm-8:00pm

Join Our Mailing List

Abortion as a right

05/06/2022 05:40:55 PM

May6

Jewish Community of Greater Stowe

Dear JCOGS family,

Pre-pandemic, a few of us began arriving at the Green Mountain Inn’s The Whip restaurant for another edition of JCOGS’s Torah on Tap: Hot Topics. That month’s topic: the Jewish view of abortion. Then more people started arriving, then others, trickling in, until at last we were the largest table at the restaurant (I think the largest table I’ve ever sat at), pulling chairs in to make room for more. It became the most well attended Torah on Tap of the series, a sign that the topic brings with it a fraught, but eager desire to learn and discuss.

This week, a leaked document from the U.S. Supreme Court showed that the current majority of justices are likely to soon overturn Roe v. Wade, the 1973 landmark decision that protects a pregnant woman's liberty to choose to have an abortion without excessive government restriction.

Judaism’s view of abortion is more nuanced than some other religions. For thousands of years, abortion has always been legal in Judaism in certain circumstances, particularly if the woman’s life is in danger. But not in all cases, traditionally. At that Torah on Tap, we discussed some of those traditional nuances. Yet, sociologically and around that large table that day, it became clear of the consensus, which is captured in a 2015 Pew Research Forum survey, where the vast majority (83%) of American Jews support a woman’s legal right to choose to abort “in all/most cases”—that’s more than any other religious group. If you want a basic, but substantive nuanced primer on the Jewish response to abortion, click here.

In Judaism, the body is considered a sacred gift from G-d. Abortion should never be taken lightly, but the truth is that it rarely, if ever, is taken lightly. It is my personal religious and moral belief that a woman has a sacred right to make that final decision. Not the government. G-d willing, she gets to make that decision with support from medical professionals, from counselors, from her clergy, from family members, and ultimately, from her Jewish and wider society.

In the words of Rabbi Jan Salzman: “The Jewish tradition allows for abortion, primarily because it values the person who is already alive and because of the reasoning that life doesn't begin until a child can exist outside of its mother's body. Each of us is a face of G-d and our tradition demands that we treat each other that way.”

To the women and non-binary folks who are directly impacted by this decision to legislate your bodies, you have my support and love.

Tihiyu bri’im, be well. Shabbat Shalom,

Rabbi David
P.S. Please join us tonight at 6pm and tomorrow at 10am for some very special Shabbat services.

Announcements and Upcoming Events

TODAY Family & Friends Friday IN PERSON + ONLINE: Our regular Friday night minyan welcomes Olam Chesed families to celebrate the mitzvah of keeping and remembering Shabbat and the joy of being in community. Join us to celebrate the end of a wonderful year of SHALOM. - Friday, May 6 6:00pm-7:00pm

Mitzvah Shabbat and 13 mitzvah challenge presentation IN PERSON + ONLINE: Join us in the sanctuary for this monthly Shabbat morning practice of community Torah reading, prayer, and meditation. - Saturday, May 7 10:00am-11:30am

Musical Shabbat - IN PERSON + ONLINE: Join us in the sanctuary for an uplifting musical service to welcome in Shabbat in community, followed by a delicious Oneg. - Friday, May 13 6:00pm-7:00pm

Young families say "Todah!" with K&G IN PERSON : Join Rabbi David and special friends for this joyous end-of-year celebration of gratitude in the JCOGS garden! Bring your favorite stuffies to dance with Shabbasaurus. We'll be planting in garden so dress for getting your hands in the soil! - Saturday, May 14 9:30am-11:00am

Save Money and the Climate: Home Energy Efficiency Presentation – IN-PERSON and ONLINE: Stay warmer in the winter, cooler in the summer and save money. The JCOGS Green Team invites you to learn better ways to keep your home warm while making a contribution to address climate change. At this evening event, Efficiency Vermont and the Stowe Electric Department will provide you with all the information you need and more on how to improve your home’s energy efficiency. They’ll touch on everything from simple weather-stripping and insulation, to adding a heat pump or advanced wood heater to your home, to rebate programs that will make your projects financially viable. Maybe you don’t have to wear four layers and a hat in your house all winter . . . ! - Wednesday, May 25 7:00pm-8:30pm

Zeke's bar mitzvah ceremony and Shabbat Morning Torah service - IN PERSON + ONLINE: Saturday, May 28 10:00am-12:00pm

Kodesh l’Kodesh: from holy to holy, Shavuot learning to welcome our new prayer book Saturday, June 4, 6:30-8 p.m. IN PERSON + ONLINE: Saturday, June 4 6:30pm-8:30pm

Shavuot on the Mountain IN PERSON: Join JCOGS and Living Tree Alliance as we return to our annual pilgrimage to the chapel on Mt. Mansfield in celebration of recieiving the Torah at Sinai. - Sunday, June 5 10:00am-1:00pm

JCOGS Annual Meeting: Sunday, June 12 10:00am-12:00pm

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Celebrating our families

04/29/2022 03:04:11 PM

Apr29

Jewish Community of Greater Stowe

Dear JCOGS family,

As we come to the conclusion of another educational year at our Olam Chesed Education Center, we find pride in the many accomplishments of our students, from advancing their Hebrew skills, to delving into deep topics like this past week’s Yom HaShoah Holocaust Remembrance.

I share some powerful news with you that Beth Liberman has come out of a successful surgery, and is now on the slow path to recovery, still in NYC. Beth literally embodies our passion for educating our youth at JCOGS, and we pray for her refuah sheleyma, her complete and speedy healing.

This Shabbat, we mark the journey of an incredible 11 B’nei Mitzvah celebrations in the coming months. Each family that we will celebrate during their upcoming simchas has a unique story to share and connection to JCOGS. Tomorrow, Etta Lamberg will lead prayers and give a potent d’var Torah/sermon, as we celebrate with this new interfaith family to JCOGS, recent “COVID transplants” to Stowe.

Next Shabbat, we also celebrate families. Friday, May 6 at 6pm, our Olam Chesed families and the wider congregation will join together for Family & Friends Friday, where the youth will help lead prayers and show off their beautiful artwork of shalom, our theme of the year.

Then get ready for Shabbat morning, May 7, from 10am-Noon, as our current Mitzvah cohort shows off their mad prayer skills and presents about the many mitzvot they have been doing this year. We will also celebrate the 2019-2021 Mitzvah classes that met too often on Zoom and braved pandemic restrictions—who will receive a special aliyah to come to the Torah. Finally, we will say l’hitraot to the generous, patient, learned, and phenomenal Amy Rosenthal as she steps away from her role as Mitzvah coordinator to leave room for new leadership. Food will be served!

As we build a multi-generational community, I truly hope that you will take the time to attend one or all of these services, in order to see, support, and celebrate these families. What could be more important for the future of our community?

Tihiyu bri’im. Be well and Shabbat Shalom,

Rabbi David

Announcements and Upcoming Events

TODAY Musical Shabbat - IN PERSON + ONLINE: Join us in the Sanctuary for an uplifting musical service to welcome in Shabbat in community, followed by a delicious Oneg. - Friday, April 29 6:00pm-7:00pm

Etta's bat mitzvah ceremony and Shabbat Afternoon Torah Service - IN PERSON + ONLINE: Saturday, April 30 4:00pm-6:00pm

Mitzvah class IN PERSON ONLY: Mitzvah class - Saturday, April 30 10:00am-12:00pm

Foundations for a Thoughtful Judaism - ONLINE ONLY for those preregistered: A new limmud/learning opportunity at JCOGS, come explore this new, cutting-edge curriculum from the renowned Shalom Hartman Institute. - Monday, May 2 5:30pm-7:00pm

Olam Chesed Wednesday Program IN PERSON ONLY: May the Fourth be with you! - Wednesday, May 4 4:00pm-6:00pm

Family & Friends Friday IN PERSON + ONLINE: Our regular Friday night minyan welcomes Olam Chesed families to celebrate the mitzvah of keeping and remembering Shabbat and the joy of being in community. Join us to celebrate the end of a wonderful year of SHALOM. - Friday, May 6 6:00pm-7:00pm

Mitzvah Shabbat and 13 mitzvah challenge presentation IN PERSON + ONLINE: Join us in the sanctuary for this monthly Shabbat morning practice of community Torah reading, prayer, and meditation. - Saturday, May 7 10:00am-11:30am

Mitzvah class IN PERSON ONLY: Mitzvah class - Saturday, May 7 10:00am-12:00pm

Musical Shabbat - IN PERSON + ONLINE: Join us in the sanctuary for an uplifting musical service to welcome in Shabbat in community, followed by a delicious Oneg. - Friday, May 13 6:00pm-7:00pm

Young families say "Todah!" with K&G IN PERSON : Join Rabbi David and special friends for this joyous end-of-year celebration of gratitude in the JCOGS garden! Bring your favorite stuffies to dance with Shabbasaurus. We'll be planting in garden so dress for getting your hands in the soil! - Saturday, May 14 9:30am-11:00am

Weatherization/Energy Efficiency Presentation – IN-PERSON and ONLINE presentation: Stay warmer in the winter, cooler in the summer and save money. The JCOGS Green Team invites you to learn better ways to keep your home warm while making a contribution to address climate change. At this evening event, Efficiency Vermont and the Stowe Electric Department will provide you with all the information you need and more on how to improve your home’s energy efficiency. They’ll touch on everything from simple weather-stripping and insulation, to adding a heat pump or advanced wood heater to your home, to rebate programs that will make your projects financially viable. Maybe you don’t have to wear four layers and a hat in your house all winter . . . ! - Wednesday, May 25 7:00pm-8:30pm

Zeke's bar mitzvah ceremony and Shabbat Morning Torah service - IN PERSON + ONLINE: Saturday, May 28 10:00am-12:00pm

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Message from JCOGS President

04/25/2022 06:00:42 AM

Apr25

Jewish Community of Greater Stowe

Please join us on Wednesday, April 27, 2022 from 6:30pm - 8:30pm at this year’s Annual Gathering for Holocaust Remembrance. Together we will honor the memory of those who perished at the hands of evil and pay tribute to those who survived and have made a better world for us all. Click here for more details and to register for the zoom link.

Dear JCOGS members,

Here I sit, looking over at Mt. Mansfield, still covered with snow, lamenting on in my view one of the worst ski seasons in my 60+ years of skiing. But I am still so grateful for living and working in this most beautiful place (and one of the safest we just learned to avoid the most detrimental impacts of climate change).

For those of us who live here year round, we are thankful for the end of mud season and the first glimpses of spring. For those who will join us for the summer, I can say things in the greater Stowe community and JCOGS are back to normal (what is normal anyway). We celebrated Purim in great style (if you haven’t seen the video, view it here), and Passover brought us together for a 60-person strong 2nd night Seder.

The JCOGS Board has updated our Covid protocol to be as least restrictive for the congregation at large, but most protective for those at risk - details are on the website. We have polled the congregation for programming ideas and the board and Rabbi David are working hard to offer programming to engage more of you. The Stowe Jewish Film Festival is just about ready to announce a very exciting festival—with a very big something new.

I tested positive for Covid-19 on Erev Pesach and was unable to join friends and family and JCOGS for the Seders. Fortunately my symptoms were short-lived and mild and I already feel 100%—may all be so lucky and blessed.

I wish all the JCOGS community a happy and thoughtful Pesach.

I look forward to seeing all of you soon.

Steve

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Message from JCOGS President

04/20/2022 10:01:26 AM

Apr20

Jewish Community of Greater Stowe

Dear JCOGS members,

Here I sit, looking over at Mt. Mansfield, still covered with snow, lamenting on in my view one of the worst ski seasons in my 60+ years of skiing. But I am still so grateful for living and working in this most beautiful place (and one of the safest we just learned to avoid the most detrimental impacts of climate change).

For those of us who live here year round, we are thankful for the end of mud season and the first glimpses of spring. For those who will join us for the summer, I can say things in the greater Stowe community and JCOGS are back to normal (what is normal anyway). We celebrated Purim in great style (if you haven’t seen the video, view it here), and Passover brought us together for a 60-person strong 2nd night Seder.

The JCOGS Board has updated our Covid protocol to be as least restrictive for the congregation at large, but most protective for those at risk - details are on the website. We have polled the congregation for programming ideas and the board and Rabbi David are working hard to offer programming to engage more of you. The Stowe Jewish Film Festival is just about ready to announce a very exciting festival—with a very big something new.

I tested positive for Covid-19 on Erev Pesach and was unable to join friends and family and JCOGS for the Seders. Fortunately my symptoms were short-lived and mild and I already feel 100%—may all be so lucky and blessed.

I wish all the JCOGS community a happy and thoughtful Pesach.

I look forward to seeing all of you soon.

Steve

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Next year in Jerusalem, really!

04/15/2022 09:04:26 AM

Apr15

Jewish Community of Greater Stowe

Dear JCOGS family,

At the climax of the Passover Seder, we sing the words: “HaShanah Ha’Ba’ah
B'yerushalayim. Next year in Jerusalem.” When we say these words,
we mean a great many things—of homeland, of aspiration, of hope even in the
struggle for true redemption.

What if these words were truly meant in the most concrete of meanings: to
celebrate life, food, freedom, and more in Jerusalem itself—next year?
Well, why not?!

Will you join JCOGS members next April 2023 and our interfaith neighbours
for the trip of a lifetime to Israel? Read more details below in a special letter from
the three sponsoring clergy.

Make it a reality: NEXT YEAR IN JERUSALEM!

Chag sameach, a zissen Pesach, happy Passover to you and yours! And
Shabbat Shalom,

Rabbi David

_____________________________________________________________

Dear beloved faith communities,

We are delighted and moved to share some big news with you: the first-ever
greater Stowe Holy Land interfaith journey to Israel!

This unprecedented trip for our community will take place April 16-24, 2023
(just one year from now) for eight days of touring Israel, plus a two-day optional
extension to visit Petra, Jordan.

We will sightsee the important Jewish sites: picture yourself at Shabbat services
at the Kotel/Western Wall, touring the ancient architecture and contemporary art
in Tzfat/Safed, and experiencing a somber visit to the Yad Vashem Holocaust
Memorial. In addition to many more Jewish locations, we will sightsee the
important Christian religious sites: Bethlehem, Nazareth, the Garden Tomb in
Jerusalem, and the shared historical sites on the Kinneret/the Sea of Galilee.

At the heart of this tour is the opportunity for meaningful connection and learning
and relationship-building. In addition to the local friendships you will make,
you have the chance to meet directly with Ahmadiyyan Muslims, Ethiopian Jews,
Israeli Arab Christians, observant Jews for a home hospitality Shabbat meal,
and Israelis and Palestinians taking important steps towards peace and
reconciliation.

And of course, there’s the delicious food at the outdoor markets and in Bedouin
tents in the desert, and great fun in cosmopolitan Tel Aviv on the beautiful
mediterranean.

For a land price of only $2,990.

Please check out the full itinerary and pricing HERE for this adult and teen focused
trip, and register without any financial commitment now.

Or join us in person at St. John’s on Thursday, June 9, 6-7:30pm for an evening of
locally catered Israeli food for a program to learn more about the trip, available
online also from 6:30-7:30pm. Or be in touch with any of us with more questions.

A happy and meaningful Passover and Easter to you all!

Rabbi David Fainsilber, Jewish Community of Greater Stowe, rabbidavid@jcogs.org

Rev. Dan Haugh, Stowe Community Church, dan@stowechurch.org

Rev. Dr. Rick Swanson, St. John’s in the Mountains Episcopal Church, rick@stjohnsinthemountains.org

Announcements and Upcoming Events

Erev Passover - No Shabbat Service: Friday, April 15

Annual 2nd night Passover Seder - IN PERSON: All are encouraged to attend this in person, interactive, participatory, and delicious seder, led by Rabbi David, and catered by Chef Nadav. Passover resources for youth will be provided, and childminding for children under 7. Saturday, April 16 5:30pm-8:00pm

NO Olam Chesed Wednesday Program: Happy Spring Break! No class today. - Wednesday, April 20 4:00pm-6:00pm

Musical Shabbat - IN PERSON + ONLINE: Join us in the sanctuary for an uplifting musical service to welcome in Shabbat in community, followed by a delicious Oneg. - Friday, April 22 6:00pm-7:00pm

Annual Gathering for Holocaust Remembrance - IN PERSON + ONLINE: Please join us at this year’s gathering in observance of Yom HaShoah (Holocaust Remembrance Day). Co-sponsored by the Greater Stowe Interfaith Coalition, Stowe Jewish Film Festival, and Vermont Holocaust Memorial. - Wednesday, April 27 6:30pm-8:30pm

Etta's bat mitzvah ceremony and Shabbat Afternoon Torah Service - IN PERSON + ONLINE:Saturday, April 30 4:00pm-6:00pm

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Olam Chesed is springing into the End of year

04/13/2022 12:03:31 PM

Apr13

At Olam Chesed we're together and enjoying spring! We've had such a wonderful, rich, and beautiful year exploring the concept of shalom. It's so much more than "peace" "hello" and "goodbye".

It's been just fantastic to be back at JCOGS making, doing, thinking, praying, and being Jewish together. Here's a snapshot of some of the things we've been up to this spring: learning about Moses and Miriam; writing shalom poems and turning them into prayer flags; preparing for Pesach by cleaning out chametz and making Miriam's cups; exploring the four quarters of Jerusalem and why it is considered to be "the city of peace" and why we say l'shanah haba'ah b'yerushalayim/next year in Jerusalem.
Be sure to join us on Friday, May 6th for Family & Friends Friday, our end of year celebration to see what we've created all year!

There are only two more sessions after today:

April 27th we honor Yom haShoah, Holocaust Rememberance Day, with a poignant short film and meaningful, age-appropriate tekes/ceremony
May 4th we celebrate Yom haAtzmaut, Israeli Independence Day, with a special program taught by Chef Nadav (yup, we'll be eating what we create!)

This one’s for the young (at ❤️)

04/08/2022 01:27:41 PM

Apr8

Jewish Community of Greater Stowe

Dear JCOGS family,

Sometimes in your life, you experience a piece of art or music or a film that inspires you so much, you better understand the expression “more than the sum of its parts”. Form meets function and the message of the piece comes vibrantly alive.

At least for those young at ❤️, Anna Sobel’s Animal Torah is one of those pieces of art—an album of stories for each parashah from the book of Genesis, as told through the perspective of animals who were there. I can’t help but shamelessly admit that when we play the CD in the car, I end up listening just as intently as our kids. Anna’s combination of voices, music, and charisma shines through as she retells stories in modern midrashic form, like the rabbinic stories of yore. Now, Animal Torah 2 with its retelling of Exodus launches just in time for Passover.

This Saturday and Sunday, our JCOGS Olam Chesed Education Center is bringing Anna IN PERSON to celebrate the launch of Animal Torah 2 with some clever puppeted storytelling. Both at 10am, on Saturday at JCOGS and Sunday at the Montpelier Rec Field, come join Anna, Beth, and myself for Passover Palooza.

Every family who comes gets a FREE copy of the album. Here’s a teaser to listen to. For the young and young at heart…

Tihiyu bri’im, be well. Shabbat Shalom,

Rabbi David

PS It’s still not too late to sign up for the annual 2nd night Seder at JCOGS… but please do so soon!

Announcements and Upcoming Events

Musical Shabbat - IN PERSON + ONLINE: Join us in the sanctuary for an uplifting musical service to welcome in Shabbat in community, followed by a delicious Oneg. Friday, April 8 6:00pm-7:00pm

Mitzvah class IN PERSON ONLY: Mitzvah class - Saturday, April 9 10:00am-12:00pm

Passover Palooza with Animal Torah 2! IN PERSON ONLY: Get ready for Passover with fun, crafts, and a clever puppet show celebrating the launch of Anna Sobel's fantastic CD Animal Torah 2: animals tell the Exodus story from their perspective. - Saturday, April 9 10:00am-11:30am at JCOGS. Sunday, April 10 10:am-11:30am at Montpelier.

Foundations for a Thoughtful Judaism - ONLINE ONLY for those preregistered: A new limmud/learning opportunity at JCOGS, come explore this new, cutting-edge curriculum from the renowned Shalom Hartman Institute. Monday, April 11 5:30pm-7:00pm

Olam Chesed Wednesday Program IN PERSON ONLY: Wednesday, April 13 4:00pm-6:00pm

Erev Passover - No Shabbat Service: Friday, April 15

Annual 2nd night Passover Seder - IN PERSON: All are encouraged to attend this in person, interactive, participatory, and delicious seder, led by Rabbi David, and catered by Chef Nadav. Passover resources for youth will be provided, and childminding for children under 7. Saturday, April 16 5:30pm-8:00pm

NO Olam Chesed Wednesday Program: Happy Spring Break! No class today. - Wednesday, April 20 4:00pm-6:00pm

Musical Shabbat - IN PERSON + ONLINE: Join us in the sanctuary for an uplifting musical service to welcome in Shabbat in community, followed by a delicious Oneg. - Friday, April 22 6:00pm-7:00pm

Annual Gathering for Holocaust Remembrance - IN PERSON + ONLINE: Please join us at this year’s gathering in observance of Yom HaShoah (Holocaust Remembrance Day). Co-sponsored by the Greater Stowe Interfaith Coalition, Stowe Jewish Film Festival, and Vermont Holocaust Memorial. - Wednesday, April 27 6:30pm-8:30pm

Etta's bat mitzvah ceremony and Shabbat Afternoon Torah Service - IN PERSON + ONLINE:Saturday, April 30 4:00pm-6:00pm

Join Our Mailing List

PURIM 5782 - HOW GOOD TO BE TOGETHER AGAIN!

03/28/2022 11:11:07 AM

Mar28

Two years ago, just an hour before the Olam Chesed Purim festival was set to begin, the W.H.O. declared a world-wide pandemic. We partied with an abundance of joy ... and then shut the doors. Fast forward to Purim 5782 and WE...ARE...BACK! The social hall was filled with games and giggles, glittery costumes and grease paint, and a giant roaming Coronavirus apologizing for the headache he'd caused us all We enjoyed treasured traditions such as the goofy spiel put on by a gaggle of giddy parents and yummy hamantaschen, but we also began an amazing NEW tradition: reading from the exquisite new Megillah gifted to us in memory of Michael Heitner, z"l. Not one reader, but several, especially the stars of the day, our Olam Chesed kids who rose to the challenge posed by Rabbi David and chanted so beautifully! More than that, they were super proud :)

Watch the Video

Housing & homelessness

03/25/2022 01:05:53 PM

Mar25

Jewish Community of Greater Stowe

Dear JCOGS family,

This year, our congregation has been focused on housing insecurity and homelessness, two of the most pressing issues our local neighbours face. This Wednesday, March 30, from 6:30-8PM, spearheaded by faith communities, JCOGS is hosting an unprecedented event in our area: a Passover/Easter Interfaith Teach In on Housing and Homelessness. The event is offered both in person (with a smorgasbord of desserts to follow!), as well as online.

When religious traditions are at their best, they centre storytelling, especially from those marginalized and most impacted. That’s why when we tell the story of Passover, we storytell from the perspective of our ancestors experiencing slavery who forged forward in spite of Pharaoh’s oppression.

On Wednesday evening, you will hear directly from a number of speakers who have experienced what it is like to live without a proper or consistent roof over their heads. Some of those people we will hear from are now the change agents in our community who are having an impact on the housing crisis. The keynote speaker is Will Eberle, field director for the agency of human services. If you have not yet heard Will speak, you are in for something truly inspiring.

Have a look at some moving quotes about housing from those on our JCOGS housing task force. And if you are looking for what you can do right now, look at this important resource.

Tihiyu bri’im, be well. Shabbat Shalom,

Rabbi David

Quotes from our JCOGS housing task force:

“Housing is such an important issue—the thought of not having a home, it seems not believable and an unacceptable condition for people to experience living in a community that has resources.” - Task force member Amy Simms Hoskins

“Homelessness and houselessness are such basic needs. I can't even fathom not having a safe and warm place to live during our harsh winters or for that matter any other time of the year. Joining the Housing Task Force has been a great learning experience and every little bit we can do together to make change helps the cause.” - Task force chair Judith Wine

Announcements and Upcoming Events

Musical Shabbat - IN PERSON + ONLINE: Join us for an uplifting musical service to welcome in Shabbat in community, followed by a delicious oneg. - Friday, March 25 6:00pm-7:00pm

Mitzvah class IN PERSON ONLY: Mitzvah class - Saturday, March 26 10:00am-12:00pm

Teen Tzedakah Team - ONLINE: Ateed teens continue the conversation about tzedakah and decide on dispersal of JCOGS funds to organizations doing the work they want to support. - Saturday, March 26 7:00pm-8:00pm

Passover/Easter Interfaith Teach In on Housing and Homelessness - IN PERSON at JCOGS + ONLINE: Housing insecurity and homelessness are two of the most pressing issues our local neighbors face. Come learn about the region’s complex housing issues and solutions happening now to ensure vibrant, healthy communities where everyone’s housing needs are met. Hosted by Lamoille’s faith communities.
- Wednesday, March 30 6:30pm-8:00pm

Olam Chesed Wednesday Program IN PERSON ONLY: Wednesday, March 30 4:00pm-6:00pm

Shabbat Service - ONLINE - no service at JCOGS: Friday, April 1. Feel free to join Services online at Ruach Hamaqom of Burlington; Ohavi Zedek of Burlington; and Temple Sinai of South Burlington. Please click here for more information.

Passover Palooza with Animal Torah 2! IN PERSON ONLY: Get ready for Passover with fun, crafts, and a clever puppet show celebrating the launch of Anna Sobel's fantastic CD Animal Torah 2: animals tell the Exodus story from their perspective. - Saturday, April 9 10:00am-11:30am at JCOGS; Sunday, April 10 10:30am-12:00pm in Montpelier.

Foundations for a Thoughtful Judaism - ONLINE ONLY for those preregistered: A new limmud/learning opportunity at JCOGS, come explore this new, cutting-edge curriculum from the renowned Shalom Hartman Institute. - Monday, April 11 5:30pm-7:00pm

Annual 2nd night Passover Seder - IN PERSON: All are encouraged to attend this in person, interactive, participatory, and delicious seder, led by Rabbi David, and catered by Chef Nadav. Passover resources for youth will be provided, and childminding for children under 7. - Reservations required. Adults $25/Teens $15/Children 8-12 $10/Children under 7 Free. Saturday, April 16 5:30pm-8:00pm

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Got A Minute? JCOGS Wants To Hear From You

03/25/2022 09:21:10 AM

Mar25

Jewish Community of Greater Stowe

Dear Members

As we prepare for the upcoming membership renewal we are looking to our members, both past and present, to participate in a brief online survey. We would like to have a better understanding of the demographics of our membership community. More importantly we want to engage with our members to increase involvement in programs. Your participation in this survey will help guide the future of JCOGS. We encourage you all to take a few minutes to share your thoughts.

LINK TO SURVEY

We are taking this survey very seriously and to avoid an annoying follow up phone call please complete and return by April 10th.

Happy mud season
Steve Levine

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Purim for Ukraine

03/17/2022 05:14:39 PM

Mar17

Jewish Community of Greater Stowe

Dear JCOGS family,

We live in a topsy turvy world. Two years ago, the day after Purim, we shut our JCOGS doors to the emerging pandemic. Three weeks ago, the Russian army invaded Ukraine.

There are many lessons of Purim, but one lesson rises above them all: we have personal agency and responsibility to save lives. When Moses said to God: “Who am I that I should go to Pharaoh and free the Israelites from Egypt?” God responded: “I will be with you.” (Exodus 3:11-12). Moses had the assurance that God will support him. But Purim has a different story, where God is not mentioned once in the entire book (which is one of the reasons that the book almost didn’t make it into our canon).

When Queen Esther first refused to help save the Jews from Haman’s evil plot, Mordechai beseeches her, first calling on reason: “Do not imagine that you, of all the Jews, will escape with your life…” and then with motivation: “perhaps you have attained to royal position for just such a crisis.” Esther then embraces her personal agency and sense of responsibility, responding: “I shall go to the king, though it is contrary to the law; and if I am to perish, I shall perish!” (Esther 4:13-16)

There is a need right now and we have some agency to help. We cannot personally end the war ourselves, but the Ukrainian people need our support. One of the most critical needs right now is specific medical supplies, which are running out in Ukraine, while many can easily be found at our local pharmacies. We are doing a THREE DAY ONLY Purim collection for Ukrainians, in conjunction with a generous donation from Copley Hospital, all of which will be shipped to Ukrainians in need with the help of our members. In this way, JCOGS is fulfilling the Purim specific mitzvah of matanot laevyonim, gifts for those in need.

Drop off at JCOGS can take place when you come to our Purim party tomorrow, or anytime until Sunday morning at 10am (at the latest) outside the JCOGS building in the box provided. Items include:

Ibuprofen, Aspirin, or Acetaminophen, antibacterial cream or triple antibiotic ointment, antiseptic wipes, Band-Aids - all sizes, disposable gloves, plastic cling wrap, anti-diarrheal medicine, Hydrocortisone cream (1%), ACE bandages (4"), saline eye drops.

We tell the story of Queen Esther’s bravery every year because it makes a difference to bear witness to such courage, just as we have borne witness to President Zelensky and the Ukrainian people standing up to Russian forces.

Tomorrow/Friday night at 6p.m., in person and online, we are reading from an actual Megillat Esther, the hand-scribed scroll that contains the story. Our new and first-ever JCOGS Megillah was donated in memory of Michael Heitner z”l, an early and devoted member of JCOGS and lover of all things Vermont. In addition, the bodacious band Brass Balagan is coming to play. Have you ever wanted to hear Shalom Aleichem played by 12 brass-instrument-wielding Vermonters? There will also be hamantaschen and a locally-grown Purim shpiel!

And this is also an opportunity to meet our new Director of Operations, Alison Kaminer, who will try to outdo me for the best costume of the night. Come meet Alison! And have a l’chayim with your rabbi.

We are packing a lot into Purim, but most importantly, we must always use our personal agency to help save lives.

Tihiyu bri’im, be well. Purim Sameach! And Shalom Shabbat.

Rabbi David

Announcements and Upcoming Events

Purim Shabbat Party + Brass Balagan Band - IN PERSON + ONLINE: An epic night of Purim pandemonium with the bodacious band Brass Balagan, including reading from the new JCOGS holy scroll Megillah. THE party to end all pandemic parties (and maybe even end the pandemic) Friday, March 18 6:00pm-7:30pm

Ski Ride Purim - IN PERSON: SOLD OUT. An on-mountain, in costume ski & snowboard day at Smugglers’ Notch, plus delicious kosher lunch, live music, warm drinks, and activities. Friday, March 18 9:00am-2:00pm

Mitzvah class IN PERSON ONLY: Mitzvah class - Saturday, March 19 10:00am-12:00pm

Olam Chesed Wednesday Program: Wednesday, March 23 4:00pm-6:00pm

Musical Shabbat - IN PERSON + ONLINE: Join us for an uplifting musical service to welcome in Shabbat in community. Friday, March 25 6:00pm-7:00pm

Teen Tzedakah Team - ONLINE: Ateed teens continue the conversation about tzedakah and decide on dispersal of JCOGS funds to organizations doing the work they want to support. Saturday, March 26 7:00pm-8:00pm

Passover/Easter Interfaith Teach In on Housing and Homelessness - IN PERSON at JCOGS + ONLINE: Housing insecurity and homelessness are two of the most pressing issues our local neighbors face. Come learn about the region’s complex housing issues and solutions happening now to ensure vibrant, healthy communities where everyone’s housing needs are met. Hosted by Lamoille’s faith communities. Wednesday, March 30 6:30pm-8:00pm

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COVID protocols update

03/11/2022 12:18:54 PM

Mar11

Jewish Community of Greater Stowe

Dear JCOGS community,

As we begin to feel the first hints of spring we are also able to see the beginning of the end of the COVID-19 pandemic. It has been a long two years and we all are ready to reconnect to our communities in ways we have not been able to in quite some time.

In this light, we have been able to make some significant changes to our COVID policies that reflect our local COVID risk level and the guidance from the CDC and the Vermont Department of Health. We will still be requiring vaccination for all adults that enter our building, but have made changes to our policies on masking, food, and children. Please see our changes below.

We understand that although many individuals are ready to embrace these changes with joy, we also recognize that these changes may bring feelings of apprehension and fear for others. Everyone in our community has differing health factors, feelings, and needs to feel safe. We hope that our congregants continue to connect in ways that are best for them. Let's please support and care for each other as we move forward.

Please feel free to ask questions to our health officer, Amy Wenger (amy.wenger@jcogs.com) or our president Steve Levine for any clarification as needed.

May brighter days be ahead,

Steve Levine, president
Amy Wenger, health officer
Rabbi David Fainsilber

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Introducing Alison Kaminer, JCOGS Director of Operations

03/07/2022 06:00:24 AM

Mar7

Jewish Community of Greater Stowe

Dear JCOGS community,

In November I shared that the JCOGS board unanimously voted to pursue the hiring of a full-time executive administrator to improve programming, support staff, better manage our finances, operate our building and grounds, and serve our membership and community. After undertaking a thorough application and interview process involving numerous candidates, I am thrilled to welcome Alison Kaminer to JCOGS as our Director of Operations.

Alison brings over 15 years of experience in operations management developing operational policies and procedures, providing project oversight and handling digital communications, staff training and support. As a level three PSIA certified ski instructor, Alison could most recently be found at Stowe mountain supervising the ski school staff. Alison has a deep connection with the Jewish community and attended Solomon Schechter Hebrew Day School. She is a member of JCOGS and lives in Stowe with her children Samson, Rueben, and Solomon.

I would like to thank members of the board staffing task force: Rabbi David, Lis Erickson, Lynne Gedanken, Harold Schwartz, and especially Cyndy Wyatt, who worked tirelessly throughout the months-long hiring process. I look forward to each of you meeting Alison and invite you to attend services on March 18th where you will have the opportunity to do so in person.

Steven Levine
President

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Ukraine

03/04/2022 01:09:25 PM

Mar4

Jewish Community of Greater Stowe

Dear JCOGS family,

My grandparents on my mother’s side were from Ukraine. So many of us have past and present connections with Ukraine and its people, including the significant Jewish population there now. Here we are again, with Russian tyranny and aggression that our people experienced not so long ago. 1,000,000 refugees in one week. It was once us. It is still us. This is personal.

We offer special prayers to the Ukrainian people. To those praying that their lives are not taken, hiding in bunkers or fleeing from Ukraine in the midst of war. To those who have taken up arms against the Russian despots, may they be successful. To Russian citizens who are standing up in protest despite the possibility of severe persecution. To world leaders, may they have the united wisdom to defend democracy from authoritarianism.

And we offer our support. There are many ways you can support Ukrainians, Jewish and non-Jewish. You can donate to the following organizations who are providing humanitarian relief to the refugees and people who remain in Ukraine:
HIAS, International Rescue Committee, International Committee of the Red Cross, and the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee.

There is an acute need to support Ukraine right now. And there is equally a need to offer ongoing support to the millions of refugees worldwide, including the many who have made Vermont their new home.

Tonight at 6p.m. we gather in person and online as JCOGS joins with Jewish communities around the U.S. to mark Refugee Shabbat and support for Ukraine. Dinah Yessne from the Central Vermont Refugee Action Network will speak about the local opportunities for assisting refugees and asylum seekers. Here are some ways you can get involved now:

Volunteer locally – from transportation to housing, tutoring and mentoring, contact U.S. Committee for Refugees and Immigrants Vermont (USCRI) at volunteer@uscrivt.org and the Central Vermont Refugee Action Network (CVRAN) at cvran.org/volunteer/.
Donate air miles at miles4migrants.org or funds to HIAS, International Rescue Committee, USCRI VT, and CVRAN.
Get educated with HIAS’s list of resources or sign up for HIAS’s newsletter.
Advocate by easily sending a message to the current U.S. administration and/or your members of Congress.

After the Russian military bombed Babi Yar Holocaust memorial site in Kyiv this week, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, a Jew, appealed directly to us: “I am now addressing all the Jews of the world. Don’t you see what is happening? That is why it is important that millions of Jews around the world do not remain silent right now.”

Let us not remain silent. Let us focus on what we can do now.

Tihiyu bri’im, stay safe, be well. Shabbat Shalom,

Rabbi David

Announcements and Upcoming Events

Refugee Shabbat - IN PERSON + ONLINE: Come together as JCOGS joins with Jewish communities around the country to celebrate Refugee Shabbat - Friday, March 4 6:00pm-7:00pm

Community Shabbat Torah Service and Kara's bat mitzvah ceremony - IN PERSON + ONLINE: Saturday, March 5 10:00am-12:00pm

Foundations for a Thoughtful Judaism - ONLINE ONLY for those preregistered: A new limmud/learning opportunity at JCOGS, come explore this new, cutting-edge curriculum from the renowned Shalom Hartman Institute. - Monday, March 7 5:30pm-7:00pm

Olam Chesed Wednesday Program: Wednesday, March 9 4:00pm-6:00pm

Save money & the climate: Practical energy efficiency for your home – ONLINE presentation: Stay warmer in the winter, cooler in the summer and save money - Thursday, March 10 7:00pm-8:30pm

Shmitta Musical Shabbat and discussion - IN PERSON + ONLINE: This Shabbat, we focus on the Biblical seven year cycle known as Shmitta. - Friday, March 11 6:00pm-7:00pm

Hadassah Shabbat Across the Regions - ONLINE: Saturday, March 12 6:45pm-7:00pm

Kinderlach & Gesher Purim-y Winter Play in Waterbury! IN PERSON: Young families from JCOGS & Beth Jacob gather at the Waterbury Reservoir for a Shabbat morning of sparkling winter pre-Purim play: sledding, sugar on snow, hot cocoa and of course, Tzipi and Shabbasaurus will get us up and dancing! - Saturday, March 12 9:30am-11:00am

Olam Chesed PuRiM! IN PERSON ONLY: Come awaken all your senses with this family-fun Purim festival of storytelling and joy! Over a dozen readers of all ages will be reading from our beautiful new Megillah, a gift in memory of Michael Heitner z”l. Delight in a silly Purim spiel, delicious hamantaschen, and making shaloch manos for our neighbors in need.
- Wednesday, March 16 4:00pm-6:00pm

Purim Shabbat Party + Brass Balagan Band - IN PERSON + ONLINE: An epic night of Purim pandemonium with the bodacious band Brass Balagan, including reading from the new JCOGS holy scroll Megillah. THE party to end all pandemic parties (and maybe even end the pandemic).
- Friday, March 18 6:00pm-7:30pm

Ski Ride Purim - IN PERSON: An on-mountain, in costume ski & snowboard day at Smugglers’ Notch, plus delicious kosher lunch, live music, warm drinks, and activities. All only $36! - Friday, March 18 9:00am-2:00pm

Musical Shabbat - IN PERSON + ONLINE: Join us for an uplifting musical service to welcome in Shabbat in community. - Friday, March 25 6:00pm-7:00pm

Passover/Easter Interfaith teach in - IN PERSON + ONLINE: Come hear the stories of those directly impacted, alongside housing and homelessness experts, clergy, and community members who share a vision of basic needs and dignity for all - Wednesday, March 30 6:30pm-8:00pm

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March is appeal-ing

03/01/2022 06:00:24 AM

Mar1

Jewish Community of Greater Stowe

From your JCOGS President,

It has been exactly one year since I began my tenure as JCOGS President and exactly one year since my first communique as President. I introduced myself and acknowledged that I had not met many of you as a result of the pandemic. As you know we have been on and off between Zoom only and hybrid events for the last year. I have met and spoken with many of you and you have read my letters to the JCOGS community and listened to me speak at the annual meeting and my Kol Nidre address. As JCOGS and the world begin to move out of the pandemic (G-d willing) and as we resume a more normal existence, I truly look forward to meeting and greeting all of you.

I have picked one goal for the next year and beyond of my Presidency - GROWTH. What an all encompassing goal. From an organizational viewpoint that would mean more members and increased financial support. It is the responsibility of the JCOGS Board and myself to foster growth - to attract new members and to engage current members. There are three ways to that end. The Rabbi, programming, and education - particularly of our youth. We are so blessed to have Rabbi David - never complacent in anything he does - always looking for and introducing new ideas, initiatives, programs and (to my chagrin) new melodies. JCOGS must offer programming that appeals to all members. The Board will be reaching out to all of you to find out what you would like to offer such that each and every one of you wants to be more involved with JCOGS.

Last but certainly not least is the education of our youth. JCOGS has a dynamic educational program for our youth - our future. Our program continues to grow and with this is the need for increased financial aid. The young families that take part in our educational offerings are those who make this area their primary and sole residence. Most have two working parents and as we all know living and raising a family in this area particulary is quite costly.

This year's March Appeal, as was last year's, is to fund the financial aid line on the educational programs budget. Last year a very generous donor matched 2:1 the community's donations resulting in a total of $16000 dollar. This year we do not have that generous donor but the financial aid line remains - $10,000 dollars.

We need that financial aid money, because more families than ever are struggling this year and more families than ever are engaging with JCOGS. It’s critical that we continue to make JCOGS membership and our school accessible to every family, even those who cannot pay the full amount. Please give generously so we can grow our educational program for our future - our children.

I remain extremely grateful for the support you, the JCOGS community, have given to the JCOGS board and myself this past year. Please dig deeper in your time, involvement, and treasure in helping us GROW.

Sincerely,
Steve Levine
President