The Jewish New Year for the Trees

According to My Jewish Learning, today the Jewish holiday of Tu B’Shvat “is an opportunity to raise awareness about and to care for the environment through the teaching of Jewish sources celebrating nature. It is also a day to focus on the environmental sensitivity of the Jewish tradition by planting trees wherever Jews may live.”
Here’s what we’ve got planned for February 9-14
All week in the lobby
Back by popular demand, Collier’s Nursery will again install a jungle’s-worth of greenery in the lobby. As a special bonus, each plant will be available for purchase. Plus free nature posters from Alabama Legacy available all week!
SUNDAY, February 9, 9:45-10:45 a.m.: Nature hike with Terri Heiman
Join Terri Heiman on a nature hike through our beautiful five miles of trails. All participants should dress appropriately for the weather and be able to walk up and down hills on uneven terrain. Meet in the lobby.
MONDAY, February 10, 11 a.m.-noon: Alabama Wildlife Center presents ‘Birds of Prey’
Alabama Wildlife will bring their “Birds of Prey” program to The J. Attendees will learn the basics of raptor biology, behavior, training, and conservation. Additionally, you’ll learn many interesting facts about these large birds and will also get to meet at least three glove-trained raptors up close and personal. Open to the public (RSVP and please show ID at the door).
TUESDAY, February 11, 12:30-1:30 p.m.: ‘Questions With the Rabbi’ focuses on Jewish mysticism
Vegetarian kosher lunch provided, RSVP appreciated
Do you want to learn about the connection between tikkun olam or Tu B’Shvat and Jewish mysticism? Or maybe you just want to hear Rabbi Freidman share his vast wisdom on just about anything Jewish? Bring your own questions or simply be open to wherever the conversation flows.
WEDNESDAY, February 12, 3-6 p.m.: Pop-up farmers market with Ireland Farms
Pepper Place Market regular Ireland Farms will stage a pop-up market under our portico so that you can get your fresh veggies for celebrating the seven species of Tu B’Shvat — ‘Bama style!
THURSDAY, February 13, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.: ‘Planting for Pollinators’ presentation + seed swap
Vegetarian lunch provided, RSVP appreciated
Dana Hazen, the director of planning, building, and sustainability for the City of Mountain Brook, will talk about planting for pollinators. Dana’s comprehensive talk will cover the distinction between native plants and introduced plants, examples of invasive plant species, keystone species and why they are important, what Mountain Brook is doing as a Bee City USA affiliate, how your community can get involved, and what each of us can do to support ecological biodiversity in our yards and workplaces.
FRIDAY, February 14: Community campus cleanup (volunteer!)
What better way to celebrate the Jewish Birthday of the Trees than with a mitzvah project? Sign up to join us as we clean up around our Montclair Campus and spend time together in the great outdoors. Collection materials provided by the City of Birmingham.