Spuds and Suds Stampede Breakfast is always a stompin good time

by AJNews staff

(AJNews) – The Jewish community had a boot stompin’ good time once again this year at the Spuds and Suds Stampede Breakfast, held at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in downtown Calgary. The event brought elected politicians, staffers, academics, Rabbis and other professional and lay community leaders together for a fabulous meet and greet on July 7.

Spuds and Suds was a collaboration of the Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs (CIJA), Canadian Jewish Political Affairs Committee (CJPAC), Calgary Jewish Federation, and for the second year, the Jewish Federation of Edmonton. The annual event is an opportunity for Jewish community leaders – including representatives from Hillel and JAC (Jewish Adult Calgary) – to schmooze with local, provincial and federal leaders and leadership candidates from across the political spectrum, in addition to building meaningful connections with one another and our community. Everyone enjoyed Stampede fare with a Jewish twist, including mini latkes and lox, and entertainment by the Calgary Police Pipe Band and the Calgary Fiddlers.

Under the helm of Calgary Jewish Federation CEO Adam Silver, a wide range of community professionals and volunteers enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere to network and celebrate in the true spirit of Stampede. Jewish Federation of Edmonton CEO Stacey Leavitt-Wright headed up a group of Federation leaders and volunteers who travelled from Edmonton for their second time as event co-sponsors.

Attendees got to say shalom to Alberta Premier Danielle Smith, Alberta NDP Caucus Chair Joe Ceci, Calgary Mayor Jyoti Gondek, Calgary and Edmonton City Councillors, Alberta MLAs and MPs from Alberta and beyond.  Click here and here to view the Federations’ photo galleries.

There were a lot of familiar faces at the event but some new ones as well. “It was a younger demographic this year, as seasoned politicians step away and young, eager changemakers make the move to fill their shoes,” remarked CJF Director of Engagement Programs Danielle Braitman.

For Jacqueline Medalye Jewish Federation of Edmonton Associate Director, Next Generation Leadership & Advocacy highlights included the opportunity for Jewish community members to meet with Premier Danielle Smith. “Despite her exceptionally busy schedule, she made it a priority to attend,” said Medalye.

“We also had the opportunity to take the bus down together and have engaging conversations with each other, the opportunity to congratulate MLAs in person post-election, and the opportunity to meet with allied communities, and industry in a relaxed and fun setting with great food and entertainment. And of course, the chance to exchange our city clothes for cowboy/cowgirl gear for the day.”

The two Alberta CEOs – Leavitt-Wright and Silver – joined members of the community at the NDP Stampede breakfast earlier that same day, where they schmoozed with several additional politicians including Alberta Opposition Leader Rachel Notley.