Musical benefit includes dining, too

Sparta — A gala to benefit the Sussex County Arts and Heritage Council — An Evening with the Stars — will include dining, song and a silent auction, all held on Saturday, Sept. 24, at the Lake Mohawk Golf Club. This year the annual fundraiser is also part of a series of events being held in conjunction with the Arts Council’s showing of the Smithsonian Institution’s traveling exhibit New Harmonies: Celebrating American Roots Music, an interactive exhibition that traces America’s musical history. In keeping with this historical theme, the local a cappella group Zephyr Vocal Ensemble will present a program of early American music: Billings’ hymns, sacred harp, spirituals and temperance movement songs have been added to an already eclectic repertoire. The ensemble was founded in 2010 by Vernon resident Cherwyn Ambuter. The silent auction will include a diverse selection of items donated by patrons, including fine art and high quality crafts. Evening with the Stars will be held from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Reservations can be made by calling the Council at 973-383-0027, by going to their Web site www.scahc.org and clicking on Events or by going to http://wvweveningwiththestars.eventbrite.com. This year marks the 40th anniversary of the Sussex County Arts and Heritage Council. The Council is located at 133 Spring Street in Newton.