Ben Docktor Award Recipients
Since its inception in 1993, this Award has been presented by B’nai Brith Calgary Lodge to individuals who have contributed to fostering the growth and development of both our local Jewish Community and the Calgary community at large with high principles of ethics, compassion, kindness, and harmony.
The Ben Docktor Award Of Excellence Recipients
2025
Dr. Robert Barsky
Dr. Robert Barsky
Dr. Robert Barsky has had a profound impact on the B’nai Brith Calgary Lodge #816, and his community at large. Robert has been a member of the Calgary Lodge since 1999, and served as Vice President from 1999 to 2005. In 2006, Robert became President and served a total of 17 years, thus making him the longest serving President of the B’nai Brith Calgary Lodge. During this time, he oversaw all of the operations including administrative, financial, fundraising, and community relations. Robert was also a frequent volunteer for the Calgary Interfaith Food Bank, as well as a member of the Calgary Community Jewish Council from 2004 to 2010.
Robert was born and raised in Prince Albert, Saskatchewan, where his father Harold Barsky z’l served as President of B’nai Brith. Robert attended the University of Saskatchewan where he studied dentistry. He completed his specialty training in Pediatric Dentistry at the University of Toronto. Robert moved to Calgary in 1986 with his wife Marcie, and they raised their three children Rachel, Joshua, and Genna. He is also a proud grandfather to 4 grandchildren – Isaac, Nora, Eva and Max.
In addition to his private dentistry practice, Robert was a member of the Division of Pediatric Dentistry at the Alberta Children’s Hospital, where he provided surgical care and on-call service. Robert served as a Councillor for the Royal College of Dentists of Canada, and President of the Alberta Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. He was also the Parliamentarian for the Canadian Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. Professionally Robert was honoured with the Lifetime Achievement Award in 2024 by the Alberta Society Dental Specialists (ASDS).
Under his leadership and guidance, B’nai Brith Calgary Lodge #816 was able to contribute financially to more than 80 charities and organizations over the years. Whether it was his work supporting pediatric dentistry throughout Canada, or his community involvement in Calgary and Alberta, Robert has selflessly devoted much of his time throughout the years supporting others in need.
Robert has led his community with an immense amount of integrity. He has a phenomenal work ethic, strong moral principles, and leadership abilities. Robert has always used his voice to advocate for the wellbeing of others. The level of commitment and forthrightness that Robert put into his role as President is beyond measure. He has always shown the same commitment to his family, his profession, and his community. We are honoured to present the Ben Docktor Award of Excellence to Dr. Robert Barsky this year.
2024
Rebbetzin Rochel L. & Rabbi Menachem M. Matusof
Rebbetzin Rochel & Rabbi Menachem Matusof
Following the leadership and guidance of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson, (affectionately known as The Rebbe), Rabbi and Rebbetzin Matusof are the founders and directors of Chabad Lubavitch of Alberta since 1988.
Chabad Lubavitch of Alberta is part of the worldwide Chabad Lubavitch movement. The goal of Chabad Lubavitch is to provide access and knowledge of Judaism to anyone interested, and to provide guidance and support to all people no matter their background or affiliation. There is no membership required as Chabad Alberta welcomes all.
Rabbi Menachem Mendel Matusof
- Born and raised in Casablanca, Morocco.
- Parents were directors of Chabad Lubavitch of Morocco for 42 years.
- Was raised in a home where the father was a leading spiritual leader of 300,000 Moroccan Jewry along side of mother who was a tremendous influence on thousands of homes and administrator of the Lubavitch High School for girls in Casablanca.
- At the age of 15, Rabbi Matusof continued his studies in a Yeshiva Rabbinic School in Brooklyn NY and was ordained as Rabbi at the very early age of 20.
- In his teenage years, he also was involved in outreach work and teaching children, youth, and young adults. He pioneered, administered and was part of day camps in Morocco, France and Canada.
- At the age of twelve he was teaching a young couple lessons in Education of children.
- Rabbi Matusof is ordained as a Shochet – Ritual Slaughter of chicken, is an active member and participants in many boards, committees and organizations, constantly being contacted for consultation and advice, was an active member of the Canadian national board of clergies for inmates representing the Jewish inmates in Alberta and Saskatchewan, and a member on the international board of the Moshiach Campaign, a project of Lubavitch World Headquarters.
- Reaching out to youth and adults nationally and internationally, Rabbi Matusof lectures and counsels with passion.
- He continued his Rabbinic studies at the Central Rabbinical College Lubavitch in New York until he married Rochel.
- In 2014 Rabbi Matusof was invited to accompany the Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper in his official visit to Israel.
- In 2019, Rabbi Matusof was honoured to provide the blessing at the invocation ceremony of Alberta Premier Jason Kenney.
Rebbetzin Rochel Leah Matusof (nee Zaltzman)
- Born in Russia to a Chassidic Rabbinic family - community leaders who directed Jewish schools underground, keeping Jewish tradition alive under the Communist regime.
- From a young age, she learned the importance of family, charity, and self-sacrifice for humane and Jewish causes. Those traits followed her to Israel and then to California where she continued her studies.
- In her teenage years, she ran several summer camps in California and led a group of young women to establish and strengthen a high school in Tsfat Israel.
- In addition to her role as Co-Director of Chabad Lubavitch of Alberta, she also oversees and directs valuable outreach programs such as the Friendship Circle of Calgary which provides support for special needs children and their families, established and directed Camp Gan Israel summer and winter day camps for over thirty years in Calgary, ample counselling and guidance, and providing meals for those in need.
- Rebbetzin Matusof is involved with the women’s community mikvah (ritual bath) and sat on the Board for Chevra Kadisha of Calgary (Jewish Burial Society) for many years.
- One of her most recent and growing educational programs is the weekly Feminine Conversations program which provides discussions according to Kabbalah and Chassidic philosophy and Community Women’s Programs such as challah bakes, and more.
The Matusofs
Married in 1986, as young newlyweds, they moved to Palm Springs, California, where they worked with the same movement, as teachers and Program Directors of Chabad Lubavitch in Palm Springs.
They moved to Calgary in 1988 and founded Chabad Lubavitch of Alberta. Following the success of the Calgary-based Alberta headquarters, they opened up a branch in Edmonton in 1992. In 2011, they played a key role in opening up a branch of the organization in Saskatoon.
Providing guidance, inspiration and leadership to the community for thirty-five years has been the life’s work of Rabbi and Rebbetzin Matusof. They have developed a passion for counselling and helping individuals in need. A large portion of their time is spent in this field.
While running a non-profit has its challenges, Rabbi and Rebbetzin Matusof have become skilled small business operators resulting in over 35 years of successful operation. Chabad Alberta has an annual budget of $2 million.
On an annual basis, Rabbi and Rebbetzin Matusof oversee and manage close to fifty full and part-time staff including sixteen clergy. They oversee every aspect of the operation from accounting to human resources.
The business part of the operation now includes the latest office technology, an advanced security and video system, a publication centre, a sophisticated website offering online registration and payment and extensive use of social media platforms to communicate with staff, members of the community and the public at large.
Starting from a home office in Oakridge, to a two-acre campus near Chinook Centre, Chabad Alberta continues to grow.
In 2023, they expanded and opened of a new branch here in Alberta - Chabad of the Canadian Rockies - based in Canmore.
Chabad’s importance to Alberta’s Jewish community was recognized when, amongst other plaques and recognitions, in 2005 Rabbi Matusof received the Alberta Centennial Award, and in 2013 Alberta Lieutenant Governor Donald Ethel awarded him the Queen’s Jubilee Medal.
In 2022, Chabad Alberta was once again honoured as Rabbi Matusof received the Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee Medal awarded to him by Premier Jason Kenney for Chabad’s dedicated service to their peers, to their community, to Alberta and to Canada.
Their efforts have made Chabad Alberta one of the leading and most important Jewish organizations in the province.
2022
Max Lipsman
Max Lipsman
Max is a long-serving and much-admired Jewish communal professional and volunteer, who received the 2022 Ben Docktor Award of Excellence for his outstanding contributions to Jewish life in Calgary.
Born and raised in Montreal, Max Lipsman—the son of Holocaust survivors—moved to Calgary in 1981 to settle in the hometown of his wife, Rochelle, with whom he raised two daughters, Simmy and Kyla.
A graduate of Montreal’s Loyola College (now Concordia University), where he earned a degree in political science and sociology, and McGill University, where he earned his degree in social work, Lipsman served as program director, teens and adults, at the YM-YWHA in Montreal. In Calgary, he worked for Alberta Family and Social Services in foster care and then at the Calgary Correctional Centre (Spy Hill) and the Calgary Remand Centre where, among other responsibilities, he counselled inmates.
With the exception of a subsequent stint as director of recreation and leisure services at the Vocational and Rehabilitation Research Institute (VRRI) during the 1990s, Max has continuously served as a professional within the Jewish community. Most recently, he was executive director at Beth Tzedec Congregation (2010 – 2021); he continues to manage the Beth Tzedec Memorial Park.
As director of health, physical education, recreation and aquatics and, later, assistant director of the Calgary Jewish Centre (now Paperny Family JCC) from the mid-1980s through the early 1990s, Max mentored the generation of community leaders who today run many of Jewish Calgary’s core Jewish institutions.
From 1999 through 2010, he helped to raise another generation of Jewish kids as a respected and much-loved Camp BB Director. He was instrumental in raising more than $1.5 million toward facility expansion and replacement. Displaying remarkable fortitude, Max deftly guided his staff and campers when a tornado hit Pine Lake in July of 2000. There were 12 fatalities and numerous casualties on that black Friday, but the camp community was blessedly spared.
In addition to his professional accomplishments, Max is worth his weight in gold as a community volunteer. He led six cohorts of high school students to Poland and Israel on the March of the Living and spent three decades sensitively and discretely assisting individuals and families applying for bursaries so that they could participate fully in Jewish life. He is currently taking a course in preparation for a new volunteer role with the Calgary Youth Justice Program.
Devoted to leadership development, inclusion and diversity, Max Lipsman—a proud member of Calgary B’nai Brith Lodge #816 for at least 18 years—has made the Calgary Jewish community a warm and welcoming place for more than four decades…and counting!
2020
Richard Bronstein
Richard Bronstein
Richard Bronstein was born November 2, 1944 in a refugee camp in Austria, where his parents fled after their families were killed in Poland.
The family emigrated to Canada in 1948, becoming agricultural workers at a large farm in Brooks, Alberta that was owned by Harry Veiner, the colourful mayor of Medicine Hat.
Richard worked for a few years after high school and eventually attended Mount Royal College in Calgary where he graduated with a diploma in journalism in 1966, followed by a Bachelor of Arts degree in political science at San Jose State University in California.
He returned to Calgary in 1968 and worked as a reporter first for the Calgary Albertan newspaper and later for CBC Radio in Calgary. In 1970 Richard joined a new radio program in Toronto called As It Happens and quickly rose to become senior producer in charge of all content of this five-nights-a-week news show with host Barbara Frum.
That was followed by the launch of the Sunday Morning weekly program on CBC Radio and The Journal on CBC Television.
Married at this time to Judy Shapiro, also a CBC producer, and with four-year-old Noa in tow, the family moved to Israel between 1986 and 1990 where Richard worked as a sub-editor at the Jerusalem Post before becoming CBC Middle East producer in Jerusalem. A second daughter, Talia, was born in Jerusalem.
Richard and his family returned to Calgary in 1990 when they started the Jewish Free Press newspaper with Judy as editor for the first number of years and Richard taking on the helm for the past 15 years.
2019
Stuart Myron
Stuart Myron
It is with great pleasure that we present Stuart Myron as this year’s recipient of the Ben Docktor Award of Excellence. Stuart is the epitome of a committed volunteer. A review of his resumé quickly reveals a proven leader, team player and mentor. Those who have worked alongside Stuart attest to his analytical and rational decision making skills, and his profound attention to detail.
Professionally, Stuart built a successful career in commercial real estate including acquisitions and dispositions, brokerage, development, and property management. He has been an executive in a national real estate corporation and he has been recognized both nationally and locally for his projects and expertise.
Stuart was born and raised in London, Ontario. Educated in business in Eastern Canada, he came to Calgary in 1984 where he has made a life with his wife, Elaine, and two sons, Ian and Adam.
Stuart is a Director of the Beth Tzedec Synagogue, having served the agency for over twenty years running, including serving terms as President, Vice President, and Treasurer. During his tenure, he worked on several significant financial, strategic, and ritual initiatives. He was recognized by Beth Tzedec for this service with the Yasher Koach Award in 2016.
He has also served on the board of the Jewish Community Foundation of Calgary (JCFC) for the last seven years and is currently serving as its Chair. He is one of the drivers behind The Teen Philanthropy Program (Dorshei Tzedec), which brought him and the JCFC into partnership with Calgary B’nai Brith. This program is focused on teaching adolescents about philanthropy, including raising money and allocating resources to needed areas. The long range aim is to help prepare young people for future leadership roles in the community. Stuart is also leading another initiative, the Life & Legacy program, which is focused on developing sustainable sources of funding for our local Jewish agencies in the years to come. These involvements bring to light Stuart’s foresight in cultivating the future health of the community.
Stuart was recognized by Calgary Jewish Federation for his efforts with the Shem Tov Award in 2011 for service to the Beth Tzedec Synagogue, and again in 2015 for his work with the JCFC.
Stuart has also combined a little play in his volunteer activities. He served with the Calgary Basketball Officials Association from 1993 to 2001 as both an executive and a referee, and was a Boy Scout Leader from 1992 to 1997.
2018
Darrel Janz
Darrel Janz
Darrell Janz is synonymous with Calgary having been the face of the city as anchor of CTV News Calgary for more than 40 years. Still, DJ (as so many of his friends call him) was born and raised on a farm in rural Saskatchewan, and began his broadcasting career at a radio station in Altona, Manitoba. After working in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan and Montreal, Darrell returned west of the city. That would embrace him for the rest of his career.
In addition to his anchoring duties, Darrell taught journalism. First at the southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT) for a dozen years, and then at Mount Royal University for 15 years.
Darrell continues to teach young reporters and producers. On a more casual, but equally committed basis at CTV. And whenever he speaks to aspiring broadcasters. He is eager to help and is always encouraging to younger journalists.
No one can recall Darrell ever saying no to a request for help, whether it's for an opinion on presentation or for advice on how to write a script, or for tips on how to conduct an interview.
“No, I can't.” Is something Darrell never says, part of what makes Darryl legend is his vast kindness and generosity in all things.
He is a star but he has never acted like one. He always takes pains to make others feel special. Not surprisingly, Darrell hosts a regular feature on CTV Calgary called inspired celebrating the lives of calgarians who make a difference.
Darrell is a member of the Canadian Broadcasting Hall of Fame. He received the community advocate award from the City of Calgary for his volunteer work with Easter Seals this, the Heart and Stroke Foundation, to name a team but a few of the organizations he helps. Darrell has been singing most of his life with his family church choirs and choral groups. He has entertained many at countless charity events with his amazing baritone voice. Darrell is a tireless MC having volunteered at countless charity events or his career, including our very own but I prefer dinners.
Perhaps his only flaw is his penchant to hide his light under a bushel. But we can, we can see through the foliage. And we now know how Darryl’s life has always been about helping others in our community.
2017
Bruce Libin
Bruce Libin
Bruce is the third is the children of the fourth generation to volunteer time, energy and passion to the Jewish community of Calgary. Bruce and Carolyn herself a dedicated volunteer in the Jewish and general communities, are delighted to see their five grandchildren enjoying doing mitzvahs and singing in nursing homes. Plant planting potatoes and community gardens and raising and donating funds and toys to the Children's Hospital.
Since being a leader in the B'nai Brith youth organization as a teen, Bruce has been involved in the Jewish community. He was the first chair of the Jewish Calgary Jewish center when it opened in 1979 and served as the president of the Calgary Jewish Community Council, chaired for several years. The United Jewish appeal campaign chaired the Israeli bonds campaign and served on the board of several local, national and international organizations in and for the Jewish community. In addition, he was the chair of the board of SAIT, and was on the boards of Calgary health region Calgary health trust, and the United Way of Calgary, among others. He is currently the president and chair of the Calgary Jewish Federation.
Bruce has been recognized for his community involvement with Canada, one to five metals, and an honorary degree from SAIT. He also has the Queen's counsel designation.
2016
David Brodsky
David Brodsky
Calgary B'nai Brith is pleased to present its Ben Docktor Award for 2016 to David Brodsky. This award is given annually to an individual who exemplifies the ideals of B'nai Brith: Benevolence, Brotherly Love and Harmony.
David was born in Calgary sixty-one years ago and lived in this community his entire life. He was a graduate of the I.L Peretz School, which is now part of the Calgary Jewish Academy. David has served on the boards of several organizations in the Jewish community, including the Calgary Jewish Academy and the Calgary Jewish Family Loan Association. He is a past president of the latter organization.
David has been a member of the Calgary B'nai Brith for twenty years. For the past several years, he has been a member of the Lodge executive, serving as coordinator of our fundraising casino. Dinner patrons who belong to organizations that host casinos may recognize David as he has been a casino advisor for many years, which has raised millions of dollars for local community organizations.
David is married with three children. He is particularly thrilled to be a brand new grandfather.
2015
Harold Lipton
Harold Lipton
Harold was born and raised in Calgary into a family committed to community service. “My late parents and grandmother, of blessed memory, set a clear example for my brothers and me of the importance of giving back to one’s community. They were always involved in organizational work, attended meetings, fundraisers, and so on”.
Harold was involved from an early age in community work. He has been a volunteer member, and served on the boards and executives of multiple organizations, including: B’nai Brith Youth Organization, Shaarey Tzedec Synagogue, Congregation House of Jacob Mikveh Israel, Calgary Jewish Academy, Calgary Jewish Centre, Chevra Kadisha of Calgary, and Calgary B’nai Brith Lodge #816.
Harold was trained as a psychologist at the University of Calgary and the University of British Columbia. He worked in the children’s mental health field in Calgary for thirty six years before retiring in June 2014.
Harold has been married for over thirty six years to the former Saundra Sherman, who is also active in the local community. They have two sons and daughters-in-law (Michael and Tami, and Tevie and Alex), a daughter (Debra), and most recently, a granddaughter (Hailey). “My wife and I both feel an obligation to ensure that our children and grand children inherit a community that is vibrant and able to meet the needs of a young family as well as those less fortunate. At the same time, we are hoping that our children learn the importance of giving back to the community for the benefit of future generations”.
Harold has been a member of Calgary B’nai Brith Lodge #816 for ten years. He has been particularly proud to work with other Lodge members in the significant support provided by Calgary B’nai Brith to the organizations in the community. This includes helping those less advantaged, the elderly, young people, families of those serving in the military, and other organizations meeting the needs of the Jewish community.
2013
Lee Richardson
Lee Richardson
The Ben Docktor Award recognizes the individual who gives outstanding support to the community as well as tonight's dinner. The unanimous choice for this year's honoree is Lee Richardson.
Lee Richardson was born in North Battleford Saskatchewan on October 31, 1947. He attended the University of Alberta, the University of Calgary, and Oxford University. Lee first entered federal politics by working on Parliament Hill as an executive assistant to Prime Minister John Diefenbaker from 1972 to 1974. He later served as executive director to Alberta Premier Peter Lougheed from 1974 to 1983. In 1983 Lee returned to Ottawa and worked for the newly elected Progressive Conservative leader Brian Mulroney. Lee served as Mulroney's deputy chief of staff and special advisor on Western Affairs between 1984 to 1988. Lee served in that role until he was first elected to the House of Commons in 1988 as a Progressive Conservative for the riding of Calgary Southeast, and from 2004 to 2012 in Calgary Centre. Lee was instrumental in relocating the National Energy Board to Calgary and placing the Calgary International Airport under local authority. Lee announced his resignation from the House of Commons on May 30, 2012, in order to accept a job working for Alberta Premier Alison Redford.
Lee served on the board of directors for the 1988 Winter Olympics; on the board of Southminster United Church and continues to serve as a Calgary Homeless Foundation board member. He was Chair of the Advisory Board to the University of Calgary Institute for the Humanities and was on the faculty of the Banff Centre for Management for ten years. Lee serves on the Calgary Exhibition and Stampede Board of Directors and is a Calgary Flames Ambassador. He received the Queen Elizabeth II Silver Jubilee Medal in 1977 "in recognition of significant contribution to compatriots, community and to Canada;" the 125th Anniversary of the Confederation of Canada Medal in 1992, the Alberta Centennial Medal in 2005, and the Diamond Jubilee Medal in 2012.
For almost 10 years now, Le has been an invaluable resource for our B'nai Brith Dinner. Whether it assisting with our programing, securing our honorees, making contact with both the Prime Minister's Office or the Office of the Premier, or he personal efforts to support and promote the event, Lee can always be counted on to come through when all other avenues were closed.
Lee married Susan Reece in 1971. They had three children; Michael, Jill, and Jane, and a grandson, Augustus. Lee lost Susan to cancer in 1999.
Licia Corbella in a June 2012 Calgary Herald article titled, "Lee Richardson Deserving of the Love He Receives," summed it up best...
"And thanks to Lee's exemplary service, civility and kindness, it appears many love him right back."
2012
Gary Gelfand
Gary Gelfand
The Ben Docktor Award, formerly given to a B’nai Brith Calgary Lodge #816 member for service, has been redesignated to honour someone who has given outstanding service to the Calgary Jewish Community. The unanimous selection for this year is Dr. Gary Gelfand.
Gary was born in Calgary, the son of Phyllis and Sydney Gelfand, a past president of B’nai Brith, and was raised in Calgary with brothers, Lewis and Joel, and sister Roberta. He attended the Universities of Calgary, Alberta, Toronto and British Columbia for 17 years, completing a multitude of degrees and was clearly a slow learner. Upon completing training as a Thoracic Surgeon, he entered practice in Calgary in 1993 and is based at the Foothills Hospital and University of Calgary. Most importantly he has been incredibly fortunate to be married to Jamie since 1989 and is the proud father of Aaron, Sydney and Michael.
Gary has always been proud of being a member and supporter of the Calgary Jewish Community. He was very active with Akiva Academy for many years where he was honoured to be president. In addition, he has served on Community Council and is currently on the executive of the Calgary Chapter of Weizmann Canada. He is a long-time member of House of Jacob Mikveh Israel. Professionally, Gary was head of the Division of Thoracic Surgery at the University of Calgary from 1998 until 2012 and the president of the Canadian Association of Thoracic Surgeons from 2008 to 2010. Gary is most passionate about family but has many outside interests.
Please join us in congratulating Gary as the recipient of the Ben Docktor Award of Excellence this year.
2011
Nelson Halpern
Nelson Halpern
Nelson was born in Edmonton but grew up in Calgary with his two sisters in a traditional Jewish home. He became a Chartered Accountant in 1985 and continues to practice in the firm Kahn Halpern Marshall Chartered Accountants. Nelson has been married to his wife, Debbie, for twenty-eight years and together they have raised three children, Alex (now married and living in Montreal), Lisa and Joanna.
Nelson is being recognized for his long and extensive contributions to the Calgary Jewish Community. He began this journey in 1985 when he became active in the House of Jacob Mikveh Israel Synagogue (HOJMI) and its affiliate Akiva Academy. Nelson became president of the school in 1989 when his son enrolled. He was instrumental in helping the school relocate to its current home on Haddon Road.
After first serving as treasurer of HOJMI, Nelson was elected synagogue president in 1993. He was active in helping the community fundraise and then build the community mikveh (ritual bath) in 1997. In 1998, he again became president of HOJMI for another term.
In 2001, Neslon reassumed the role as president of Akiva Academy, helping the school navigate its way through a very difficult journey. In 2010, Nelson took on the co-presidency of HOJMI for a third time where he continues to serve.
Nelson’s volunteer work was not confined to school and synagogue. He joined the board of directors of Calgary Jewish Community Council in 1989 where he continues to work. He was the founding chair of the joint Calgary Jewish Community Council – Calgary Jewish Centre finance and audit committee where he served until 2003. He received the Cheryl Shore Emerging Leadership Award in 2002. Between 2004 and 2007, Nelson served as president of the Calgary Jewish Community Council and is still a member of its successor body, Calgary Jewish Federation.
Nelson became a member of the board of United Israel Appeal in 2004. This is the national body that administers United Jewish Appeal funds designated for use in Israel. He became an executive member in 2008 and is still a board member. He served on the Program and Services Committee between 2006 and 2008, and in 2008, became a member of UIA’s budget and finance committee and the Canada Israel Jewish Advocacy Committee’s audit committee.
Professionally, Nelson was honoured in 2004 with a Distinguished Service Award by the Institute of Chartered Accounts of Alberta for outstanding service to the profession. Nelson has been a member of Calgary B’nai Brith Lodge #816 for the past twenty-five years.
2011
Gordon Hoffman Q.C.
Gordon Hoffman Q.C.
The Ben Docktor Award of Excellence is presented to an individual who has contributed to fostering the growth and development of our Annual Gentlemen’s Dinner, and someone who exemplifies B’nai Brith’s principles of benevolence, brotherly love and harmony in the community.
Gordon was born on January 15, 1946. He is married to Eva, and they are the proud parents of J.J. and Tiffany. Gordon earned his B.A., his M.Ed., and his LLB at the University of Alberta. He was granted the Law Wives Award in 1971, (Highest standing Completion First Year Law), and received his Queen’s Counsel appointment in 2000. Gordon is a partner at Hoffman and Dorchick, specializing in Personal Injury, Real Estate and Corporate Law.
Over and above his dedication to his practice, Gordon’s commitment to community service has made him a major philanthropist. In the past five years, he has been honoured for his contributions to: The Learning Disabilities Association of Alberta; The Gordon Hoffman Charity Golf Classic; Child Find Alberta; Western Legacy Award; JNF Negev Gala; The Wild Rose Foundation; The Summit Foundation; Volunteer Calgary; Legal Archives Society of Alberta; Alberta Civil Trial Lawyers Association; and Calgary Chabad.
Between 1998 and 2005 Gordon’s community work included The Calgary Jewish Centre, The Alberta Branch of The Canadian Bar Association, The Law Society of Alberta, The University of Calgary Alumni Association, B’nai Brith Calgary, The City of Calgary and The Province of Alberta. Gordon is also Founder, President, and Director of Project Warmth Society of Alberta, and Kids’ Koats, The HDD Charitable Foundation, Operation Kickstart Society of Alberta, and the Alberta Champions Society. Gordon has sat on more than 100 volunteer boards. In his spare time he is a student of the Korean Martial Arts School, a Hap-Ki-Do Black Belt, a Second Degree Dan, and a part time mystery crime writer.
Gordon’s passion for serving those in need, his guidance, counsel and selfless dedication for community service is truly remarkable. We are honoured and privileged to have Gordon as a member of B’nai Brith Calgary Lodge #816, and this year’s recipient of the Ben Docktor Award of Excellence.
2009
Lou Pomerance
Lou Pomerance
Lou is 78 years young, having been born in Montreal in 1931. He moved to Calgary in 1939 and became involved in several organizations, including Young Judeans, ASA and B’nai Brith Young Men. He joined B’nai Brith Calgary Lodge #816 in 1954, 55 years ago, and has been a dedicated member ever since. Lou was President of the Calgary Lodge from 1977 to 1980. He has been Master of Ceremonies of our Annual Gentlemen’s Dinner for many years. He was our well-deserved Dinner Honouree in 1993. His sense of humour is well known and he always lighted up the proceedings with some of his seemingly endless whit and repertoire of jokes. If a job needs doing, from selling advertising in the Program, to selling tickets, to volunteering at the door, Lou is always the first in line to lend both hands.
Lou has also been active in general community, having served on the Calgary Tourist and Convention Bureau for twenty-five years. Many of you will know him from Western Outfitters Ltd., which he operated on 8th Avenue for fifty years and as a long-time member of Rotary. Lou volunteers at the Calgary Inter-faith Food Band and the Feed the Hungry Project on a regular basis. He is a member of the Board of Directors at the Beth Tzedec Synagogue. Lou believes very strongly in volunteering and is the first one to canvass or work a charity casino. He believes helping others gives you great peace of mind and great satisfaction having helped others less fortunate than yourself. Lou’s motto is:
“Keeping busy keeps you young and volunteering is the rent you pay for being on earth.”
Lou and Edith have been happily married for fifty-five years, have three children and five grandchildren.
2008
Rudy Berger
Rudy Berger
Rudy, at age 81, has been a member of the B’nai Brith Calgary Lodge #816 for over 50 years. Rudy was President of B’nai Brith Calgary between 1996 and 1999 and a previous Dinner honouree in 2001. Over the years Rudy has been instrumental in the success and growth of our Gentlemen’s Dinner overseeing many of the sub-committees which are required to produce tonight’s event. Rudy remains active as a full-time member of the Dinner Committee, where his wealth of knowledge and experience continues to guide our Dinner Executive.
Rudy is happily married to Jeanette and they both enjoy cross country skiing, golfing, dancing, and walking. Rudy was born and educated in Calgary and graduated from Western Canada High School. He subsequently attended the University of Toronto, McGill, and the University of Calgary and the Holiday Inn University as part of his career in the Hospitality industry. Rudy started his career at the Calgary Stampede where he operated a major food concession which led to a successful career in restaurant management, then in turn to a career in hotel management. This included managing hotels in Toronto, Montreal, Atalanta, Medicine Hat, and Calgary. Rudy was a past President of the Montreal Hotel Association.
Rudy retired in 1988 but remains a committed community volunteer. He was fundraising Chairman of the Beth Tzedec Synagogue, where bingos and casinos were his primary responsibility. Rudy is a past President of the Blackfoot Bingo Association, and sits on the board of two Condominium Associations. Rudy is a member of the Chevra Kadisha and an associate member of the Jewish War Veterans of Canada, Calgary Post.
Rudy is a regular participant at the B’nai Brith and Jewish Family Service Shabbat Program at the Beverly Centre, the B’nai Brith Monthly service project at the Inter-Faith Food Bank, as well Rudy personally heads up the B’nai Brith gift basket program to the Calgary Police and Fire Halls on Christmas day.
2007
Ken King
Ken King
Ken has a big heart, a strong handshake, and a soft spot for Calgary, the Calgary Flames and their fans.
President and Chief Executive Officer of the Flames since summer 2001, Ken puts his family first.
Born and raised in Handley, Saskatchewan, King launched a 30-year career in the newspaper business that included senior executive positions in Canada’s leading newspapers including President and Publisher of the Calgary Sun and Calgary Herald.
During his newspaper career in Calgary, King was acknowledged for his innovative marketing, establishment of healthy corporate relationships, spirited community leadership and appreciable growth for the newspapers.
King is a strong believer in contributing to the community and he spends an enormous amount of time with community efforts. His current involvement spans numerous organizations, including co-chair of REACH (a $300 million medical fundraising initiative), the Calgary Committee to End Homelessness, the Calgary Sport Tourism Authority, the Calgary Exhibition & Stampede, Borden Ladner Gervais CIAU Athlete of the Year Awards Committee and the Rotary Club of Calgary.
Previous support and commitment involved the Calgary Prostate Cancer Centre, Calgary Philharmonic Society, No Ka Oi Ranch Foundation, and past chairman of the Calgary Chamber of Commerce.
In 2005, King received an Alberta Centennial Medal for outstanding contributions to the province of Alberta. Other awards include the Queen’s Golden Jubilee Medal for community service and the commemorative medal for the 125th Anniversary of the Confederation of Canada. In 1991, he was honoured as B’nai Brith Man of the Year, and has been a valued advisor to our Dinner planning committee in recent years.
2006
Jason Kenney
Jason Kenney
We are proud to announce the 2006 recipient of the Ben Docktor Award is Mr. Jason Kenney, M.P. for Calgary Southeast. Jason Kenney was first elected to Parliament in 1997 and has been re-elected three times. He served in the Official Opposition Shadow Cabinet as Finance Critic, Foreign Affairs Critic for Canada-US relations and as Opposition Deputy House leader. Jason now serves as Parliamentary Secretary to the P.M.
Mr. Kenney has been named one of Canada’s “100 Leaders of the Future” by Maclean’s magazine, “one of Canada’s leading conservative activists by the Globe & Mail”, and “one of 21 Canadians to watch in the 21st century” by the Financial Post Magazine. Not only has Jason demonstrated his leadership on both sides of the House, but he has also been a dedicated champion of the founding principles of B’nai Brith which include “benevolence, brotherly love and harmony” on issues of local, national, and international importance.
Congratulations Mr. Kenney and thank you for your continued support of the B’nai Brith Calgary Lodge #816 and our community at large.
2005
Paul Jackson
Paul Jackson
We are proud to announce the 2005 recipient of the Ben Docktor Award is Mr. Paul Jackson. Paul is an honorary member of B’nai Brith Calgary Lodge #816 who has worked tirelessly over the years to promote not only our Annual Gentlemen’s Dinner, but also our founding principles of benevolence, brotherly love and harmony through his dedication to the Community at large and “the pen” as an award-winning journalist with the Calgary Sun.
Congratulations Paul and Thank You for the continued support of B’nai Brith Calgary Lodge #816 and our Annual Dinner.
Honourees & Sponsors
See the established history of honourees from B’nai Brith Calgary Lodge #816 along with a list of our 2020 sponsors.
Become a Sponsor
Sponsoring Calgary B’nai Brith Lodge 816 shows that your company stands up for human rights, supports the ill or disadvantaged, and understands the importance of programming for children, youth, and seniors.
Become a Member of B'nai Brith Calgary.
Our 2024 Platinum Sponsors
We look forward to announcing our 2024 Sponsors.
