May Brings COTA Closer

The Celebration of the Arts (COTA) held its monthly general meeting on Monday May 14th to plan their 35th Annual Jazz and Arts Festival to be held September 7th - 9th. The meeting took place at The Deer Head Inn in Delaware Water Gap, PA. The pleasant sensation of reconnecting with friends made during previous festivals combined with the excitement of making new acquaintances combined as they often do whenever a meeting occurs. This month was no different.

However, as with all gatherings of friends whose duration lasts for decades, the May 14th meeting experienced a sadness which touched the heart. Robert Doney was a very special friend of COTA whose creativity could not only be seen in the works he displayed in his booth year after year but also on several COTA posters and Tee Shirts which featured his designs. The beauty in his art was also felt in the joyous conversations he held with those he came in contact with from which many found themselves enhanced by the words and concepts they exchanged.

It was with great sadness the announcement of Robert Doney’s recent passing on Monday May 7th came to the gathering. Many half listened to the words being spoken while personal memories vied for their attentions. As the announcement drew to a close, there was a spontaneous moment of silence as if each person stopped to quiet their heart so they could hear their friend say good bye.

Soon after these fond farewells concluded, the meeting moved to continue providing an opportunity for those who wish to enhance their love for jazz and the festival to participate in a variety of aspects connected to the annual event. A renewed Clarion Call was sounded to encourage members of the public to become gate workers, security, stage crew, and others to participate in the joys of being a part of this year’s festival. There were also some announcements regarding the 35th Annual Jazz and Arts Festival as there will be a special recognition of The COTA Festival Orchestra as it celebrates its 20th year of existence taking place during the festival. You’ll find more photographs taken during the meeting in The COTA Meetings 2012 Gallery at www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150798121170421.468319.636000420&type=1&l=1ee42dedac.

The mission of The Celebration of the Arts (COTA) is to present and to support the art of jazz in all its forms and historical breadth through youth education, performing arts presentations, scholarship opportunities, and community outreach throughout the Pocono area. It’s next general meeting is scheduled to be held at The Deer Head Inn in Delaware Water Gap on Monday June 11th beginning at 7:30pm. The public is invited and encouraged to attend as all ideas are welcomed. Please Explore The Celebration of the Arts Website at www.cotajazz.org or call 570-424-2210 to learn how you can become a volunteer and to learn for more information all about COTA has to offer.