With gratitude to Acabay, Inc., The Graddock Group at Morgan Stanley, Pall Spera Company Realtors, and many generous sponsors, JCOGS proudly presents a series of cultural programs throughout central Vermont in July and August 2023.
Summer Stars: A Celebration of Culture and Community features live music, stand up comedy, and the Stowe Jewish Film Festival, with events to be held in Stowe, Montpelier and the Mad River Valley. Proceeds benefit JCOGS’ mission to build Jewish and interfaith community throughout the region.
Performing on August 5 at the Spruce Peak Performing Arts Center are celebrated folk fusion band Nefesh Mountain, and stand up comic and “Dry Bar Comedy” writer, Moody McCarthy.
Summer Stars Chair Sara Tauben said the festival was designed to strengthen connections through rich cultural offerings. “Arts and culture have the unique capacity to bring people together in shared experiences.”
Enjoy the sweet sounds of soul-stirring, toe-tapping, spirit-lifting Nefesh Mountain, a bluegrass Americana band with Jewish roots. Husband-and-wife team Doni Zasloff and Eric Lindberg are the heart of this eclectic quintet. The band has been called “A master class in string music!” by Rolling Stone, “Arguably some of the best bluegrass ever made,” by American Songwriter, and “Infectious, exuberant and infused with pure melodic prowess,” by Bluegrass Today.
"Seeing Nefesh Mountain in concert is a phenomenal musical experience with some of the top bluegrass musicians in the world,” said Rabbi David Fainsilber. “Their enchanting charisma and spirit will move you to laughter and tears. I can guarantee you will leave the experience happier and more joyful. Isn't that what we all need more of?”
Experience a “Taste of Nefesh Mountain” on Friday, August 4 at shabbat services at JCOGS as Doni and Eric join Rabbi David as his special guests.
The Spruce Peak concert opens with laughs courtesy of Moody McCarthy, a New York comedian who has performed on Jimmy Kimmel Live, Conan, and twice on the Letterman Show. Described as smart, original and universal, Moody can be seen in North America’s top clubs and heard on Sirius/XM radio.
“The film festival strives to cultivate and champion the films of emerging and award-winning filmmakers on a national and international compass,” said Patti Rubin, one of the festival’s volunteer organizers. Rabbi David added, “The 2023 Summer Stars series is going to help create an unforgettable summer season.” So get your tickets and bring your friends!
Make a positive difference in the community by becoming a Summer Stars Patron. Receive preferred seating and written acknowledgement of your contribution.
Celebration Patron $500—includes 4 tickets to all events, reserved seating at the concert, and an acknowledgement letter.
Patron $240—includes 2 tickets for all events, reserved seating at the concert and an acknowledgement letter.
Friend $120—includes 1 ticket for all events, reserved seating at the concert and an acknowledgement letter.
Special thanks to these generous sponsors for making Summer Stars come to life!
Celebration Sponsors Acabay, Inc., The Graddock Group at Morgan Stanley, Pall Spera Company Realtors
Celebration Supporters Edward Jones - Caren Merson, Topnotch Resort, Union Bank
Celebration Friends The Alchemist, Brenna B Interiors, Church Mutual, Edelweiss Mountain Deli, Green Mountain Gastroenterology, Hickok & Boardman Insurance Group, LandVest - Christie’s International Realty, and System Integrators
Film Festival Media Sponsor Vermont Public
Film Festival Sponsor Wine Vault
Film Sponsors Coldwell Banker, Cushman Design Group, Dr Jeff and Tina Glosser, Loomis Property Management, NJoy Weddings and Events, RK Miles, Smith MacDonald Real Estate, Stowe Country Homes, UPS Store, Well Heeled
Film Festival Community Sponsor Jewish Communities of Vermont and The Covenant Foundation