JVS Community Shabbat Dinner: Celebrating Tu B’Shvat 2025

Last Friday night, we had the most amazing three-course dinner, all thanks to the JVS chefs and volunteers. It was a proper treat, especially because it was all about Tu Bishvat – the Jewish New Year of the Trees. The meal was packed with fresh and seasonal veggies, celebrating everything nature has to offer. You could really taste the thoughtfulness behind it all. But the night wasn’t just about the food (though it was top-notch). It was also a chance to think about our responsibility to the planet. Rabbi Jeff Newman, a proper legend, joined us as our guest speaker. He’s been fighting for sustainability and social justice for years, even getting arrested at 77 during the Extinction Rebellion protests in 2019. As we ate, we got talking about Jewish traditions, climate change, and what we can do to protect the Earth. The evening was full of great vibes, lots of meaningful conversation, and a real sense of community. We all left not just full, but genuinely inspired. It was a powerful reminder that our actions matter, for the planet and for each other.