Spark Newton sponsoring Black History Month events

Spark Newton, the arts and culture advocacy group formerly known as Newton Community Pride, is having three events to celebrate Black History Month.

On Feb. 7 at 7:30 p.m., you can enjoy a jazz concert with George W. Russell Jr. & Friends at the War Memorial Auditorium at Newton City Hall. Jazz pianist and composer George W. Russell Jr. will fill the hall with a soulful celebration of Black musical heritage.

On Feb. 8 at 1 p.m., there’s a screening of “Sinners” at the West Newton Cinema. “Sinners” is a 2025 musical horror movie that blends themes of identity, justice and community with a tale about vampires accompanied by music. There will be a panel discussion after the film, featuring a musical consultant with the film. The cinema requires the purchase of a film ticket, and the panel discussion is supported and sponsored by Spark Newton.

On Feb. 28 at 1 p.m., Newtonville Books will have storytime featuring Stefanie Foster Brown and her picture book, “My heart speaks Kriolu.” Guests will learn about Cape Verdean culture and engage in a creative activity making mini cavaquinhos (guitars).

For more information, visit sparknewton.org.

February break is coming: NCE has you covered

It’s almost time for NPS students to take a February vacation, and that means thousands of kids with time on their hands.

Newton Community Education, which has been undergoing an impressive turnaround under Director Kate Carpenter since almost being shuttered last year, is expanding its offerings this year and has a lot of fun activities and classes for February vacation.

Launched more than 30 years ago, NCE provides academics, enrichment courses and other services to kids and adults in Newton, funded by fees. And during vacations, they provide ways to keep the kids active and engaged.

Check out what they have to offer, and while you’re on their site, check out their summer camps and courses too.

Student tests positive for STI, teacher put on leave

A teacher at the Solomon Schechter Day School is on leave after a student tested positive for an STI and said that teacher touched them inappropriately, the Boston Globe is reporting.

The student reportedly tested positive for the STI in October. Other students have come forward saying the teacher touched them inappropriately, too.

No criminal charges have been filed as if yet.

Read the whole story here.

‘Not Your Bubbe’s Seder’ coming next month

Hadassah Boston, is hosting its signature fundraising event next month, “Not Your Bubbe’s Seder,” on Sunday, March 22, at Temple Emanuel, 385 Ward St., as well as online.

The hybrid event, led by Cantorial Soloist Anne Kalis, will gather 225 women in person as well as a global audience, with a goal to raise $55,000 to benefit a Youth Aliyah village in Israel, providing resources, education and sanctuary for at-risk youth.

The afternoon will feature comedian Jamie Denbo, Hadassah National Youth Aliyah Chair Michele Rubin and Cantor Jeri Robins.

Tickets for both the in-person experience in Newton and the virtual livestream are available now. Supporters can purchase tickets or make a donation directly here Hadassah The Womens Zionist Organization Of America – HNE: Hadassah Boston Not Your Bubbe’s Seder 2026.