Seniors Gather at YJCC to Celebrate the Environment

Seniors gathered at the  in Washington Township Thursday afternoon for a Tu B'shevat seder, which celebrates the New Year for Trees in the Jewish culture.

Paul Kaufman of Bergenfield led the seniors in the event, talking about the holiday and explaining that while they were celebrating in the Jewish tradition, many religions revere the environment and teach followers to cherish what nature has to offer.

Kaufman said environmental protection is critical. "Our environment is under a lot of stress right now," he said.

While seniors may think they can't do much on a national level, Kaufman said every little bit helps. He encouraged everyone in attendance to watch what they buy and get involved politically by telling legislators open space is important and voting for people who share their environmental ideals.

"We need to be cognizant of the environment and do better for our children and grandchildren," he said.

Kaufman works for GreenFaith, an organziation that advocates for environmental preservation with people from all different religions. He said he has volunteered at the YJCC for its Tu B'shevat seder for several years.

 YJCC Senior Adult Director Devra Kanter said the gathering is important for the seniors. "I think it's a time of renewal and a holiday that gives us insight into the beauty of what's to come for next season," she said.

Tu B'shevat, which Kaufman said was not celebrated in the United States until the late 1970s when the environmental movement became more prominent, recognizes the spring in Israel.

During Thursday's celebration, seniors ate a variety of fruits and nuts which symbolized spring renewal.

Isabel Kurlan of Paramus said she attends the YJCC events often. When asked about the Tu B'shevat, she said, "I love it."

But she said the programs offer more than what can be seen on the surface. "When we come here for lunch, it's more than lunch," she said. "It's like one big family."

Naomi Field of Paramus agreed. "I'm here all the time," she said.

The Bergen County YJCC offers hot, kosher lunches twice a week for seniors in the county. There are also special programs scheduled periodically.

Upcoming events include a speaker for Purim March 22 at 1 p.m. and a Passover model seder funded by the Saddle River Valley Jewish Community Organization April 12 at 11:30 a.m.

For more information, call Kanter at 201-666-6610, ext. 263 or e-mail her at dkanter@yjcc.org.