Montefiore answers seniors' questions

Phone hours for Montefiore Senior Resource Center in San Francisco are 9 a.m. to noon Monday through Friday.

Trained volunteers are on duty to offer seniors information about housing, finances, health and social activities. The number is (415) 292-1261.

Hebrew, Kaballah begin at JCC of S.F.

Part one of a two-part introductory series on the fundamentals of Hebrew begins at 7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 8 at Jewish Community Center of San Francisco, 3200 California St. Part two follows at 8:30 p.m. Cost for either class is $55 for members, $75 for non-members.

Also beginning on Feb. 8 at 7:30 p.m. is "Introduction to Kaballah and Jewish Mysticism." It continues through March 14. Cost is $35 for members, $55 for non-members.

Finally, a course titled "Women on the Biblical Road" begins at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 6 and continues through March 5. Cost is $25 for members and seniors and $35 for non-members. For information, call (415) 346-6040.

Israel seeks funds for tree-planting

Israelis observe Tu B'Shevat, which begins at sundown Sunday, Feb. 4, by planting trees. Jews throughout the world contribute to the Jewish National Fund on Tu B'Shevat so that Israel's eco-building continues year-round.

Last July's forest fire — the worst in Israel's history, consuming 2 million trees — heightens JNF's mission.

"Now more than ever, we must plant trees in Israel," said JNF regional president John Rothman. "Last summer's devastating fire…requires that we raise $20 million to restore the land. Now is the time for all of us to redouble our efforts and contribute to make the dream a reality."

For information or to contribute, call (415) 788-3300.