GREETINGS FROM BGU CANADA
We begin the July edition of BGU Canada's eConnect by welcoming some new regional board members. In Winnipeg we welcome Jessica Cogan and Karla Berbrayer. In Toronto, we say hello to David Ehrlich, Michael Sherman and Len Goodman. And in Montreal, Dania Besnos joins the Board. We are pleased to have all of you join the BGU Canada family in your respective cities and we thank you for your commitment to Israel's future in the Negev.
These have been busy weeks for BGU Canada. Professor Paula Kabalo, the former director of the Ben-Gurion Research Institute for the Study of Israel and Zionism at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, visited Montreal for an intimate gathering late last month. Earlier this week she was in Edmonton. At both events, Professor Kabalo spoke about her fascinating research.
Montreal wrapped up its annual gala event last month while Toronto launched "The Future is Now Gala" sponsorship sales. Plus, we now know who will moderate our fireside chat. She's a big deal! Scroll down to find out who she is.
We begin this edition with the story of two BGU students who chose to tie the knot at the university recently.
Enjoy the read.
MAZAL TOV!
BGU Students make headlines with campus wedding
Students Meir Shmuel and Gali Bar-Sela tied the knot at the Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, creating an unforgettable experience. Read all about it in the Jerusalem Post article below.
BGU Professor Paula Kabalo visits Montreal & Edmonton
Toronto:
On June 22, 2023, the Montreal Chapter was thrilled to host Professor Paula Kabalo of the Ben-Gurion Research Institute at BGU. Paula shared her most recent research which looks at correspondence between David Ben-Gurion and new immigrants during the first decade of the State. A special thank you to Consul General, Paul Hirschson for attending and to Marilyn Takefman and Ted Goloff for welcoming us in their home.
On Tuesday July 4th, BGU Canada held its first event in Edmonton, Alberta also with special guest Professor Kabalo. She was joined by B.C. and Alberta Executive Director David Berson. They were warmly welcomed with a tasty lunch served at the Jewish Seniors Drop-in Centre. Professor Kabalo presented a stimulating talk titled "What Would David Ben-Gurion Say? " An audience of 35 participants listened and engaged with Paula for more than two hours learning about such issues as the draft of Israel’s Ultra-Orthodox, the integration of new immigrants and David Ben-Gurion’s “Melting Pot” policy. She also spoke about how Israel’s first Prime Minister saw a future for renewable energy emanating from the sun and the lack of water in the Negev desert. We can’t wait for our next visit to Edmonton as many people are keen to learn more about the legacy of David Ben-Gurion.
Watch now! BGU Canada friend and donor, Regina Boxer, knighted in a special ceremony
On Thursday, May 18th, Regina Renee Franco Boxer, one of BGU Canada Vancouver’s lifelong leaders and a BGU Board of Governors member, was invested into the Yitzhak Navon Order of the Knights of Ladino at BGU. B.C. and Alberta Executive Director, David Berson, was invited to introduce Regina at this special event.
Watch the ceremony in the video below.
EVENTS
Montreal:
Last month, we gathered at Congregation Shaar Hashomayim in Westmount for the 2023 Montreal Main Event. We raised $400,000 for the “Beit Mark” Student Residence in honour of our dear friend, Mark Mendelson z”l.
The photos from the gala are now up on our website. Click the button below to view the pictures and scroll down to the gallery.
Toronto:
ANNOUNCING LISA LAFLAMME AS MODERATOR FOR FIRESIDE CHAT WITH CNN'S ANDERSON COOPER
Last month, BGU Canada in Toronto announced that CNN's award-winning journalist Anderson Cooper will headline "The Future is Now Gala" on Sunday, December 3, 2023. We are now thrilled to share, that joining the conversation at the gala as moderator will be renowned Canadian broadcaster Lisa LaFlamme!
We look forward to an engaging and enticing conversation. Sponsorships are now available! A photo opportunity is included for $10k+ sponsors.
BGU - IN THE NEWS
Ben-Gurion University receives $18-million
for computer science building
An $18 million lead grant from the Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust will support the construction of the state-of-the-art Helmsley Computer Science Building on the new North Campus of Ben-Gurion University of the Negev in Beersheva. The computer-science department is one of the university’s largest departments and a key engine of future growth.
Solar cells can now withstand high temperatures
miragenews.com
A natural molecule in toothpastes and mouthwash could help preventn plaque and cavaties
The Jerusalem Post
