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15-year-old Mitchell Brown’s Holocaust poem

15-year-old Mitchell Brown

Introduction: We received a call from subscriber Joe Brown in Toronto, who was very proud of his 15-year-old grandson Mitchell, for having composed a Holocaust-themed poem. Joe sent us the poem and, although I said to him that I wasn’t sure we had enough space to print it in its entirety in the newspaper, I assured Joe we would post it to our website.
But, I told Joe I wanted to know more about Mitchell, so he contacted Mitchell and asked him to get in touch with me.

When I spoke with Mitchell, I asked him to describe how he had come to write his poem. What follows is the explanation Mitchell sent us.
“My name is Mitchell Brown and I’ve always had a passion for writing. Through my schooling, my teachers have encouraged me to begin to share my writing with other readers and use my words to spread meaning. So, I decided to take a plain old school assignment in history class and share powerful emotions and words on a very serious and difficult topic. The result was my Holocaust poem titled “A Mothers Nightmare in Auschwitz Death Camp.” I decided to make this poem a reflective piece to commemorate the victims of the Holocaust. I feel so disappointed when peers my age have little knowledge of the tragedies of the Holocaust, and I feel that it is the job of the youth to have a voice and spread awareness on important topics such as the Holocaust. I’ve learned throughout my writing the most powerful tool to spread messages and share emotions is through words. My poem follows a mother and her two children as they enter Auschwitz death camp, a common narrative that too many innocent Jewish families underwent. The poem captures the emotions and thoughts that this family experienced.”

“A Mother’s Nightmare in Auschwitz Death Camp”

By Mitchell Brown 
 
Hilda felt confusion 
Where are we she wondered 
Why are we here she pondered  
She and her two boys exited the cattle car  
Why are we being grouped up 
 
A menacing building appeared in front of Hilda 
A large factory she thought as big as a city 
A huge city 
With the words Arbeit Macht frei 
She knows that means work sets you free 
Am I working 
Why do I need to be set free 
She asked questions  
She thought the worse 
Her heart was pounding  
The ground she stood on felt rock hard like stone 
Scared and numb she felt 
Cold and anxious  
 
Screams so loud  
It looked like a place from a nightmare 
What they are creating in this factory  
Smog coming from the building  
Deep earthy stench pumping out of the building ahead of her 
Clouds of burnt smog 
Hilda had never smelt this type of smog before 
It confused her and her children 
 
Large hoards of people were being pushed 
Separated like cattle at a farm 
Nazi soldiers yelling with authority  
Humans everywhere 
 
She felt like an animal 
What is this smog why is it so cloudy  
The smog smelt as burned as a campfire 
Why does it smell like that 
Hilda’s young boys hated the stench 
It must be smog from a factory my children 
 
We are here to help out at this factory  
Hilda repeated to her children 
Natural intuition

Something isn’t right here 
 
Why are my children here 
Tattoos 
Scary strong Nazi men 
Giving tattoos  
Numbers 
Are we humans 
Why am I number 
Why are my children a different number than me 
 
I want them to know my name 
Not a number 
I feel so scared 
I want to be a human 
 
Is this a factory  
What are they making 
Are they burning something 
Why am I labeled with a number 
93102 
What does this mean 
 
If so what 
What are they burning 
Getting nervous and her heart is thudding  
Calm down Hilda 
Take a deep breath 
You will be back home soon 
In your warm comfortable safe town soon 
 
Come now boys don’t be scared 
Hilda calmed her children 
With her soft Mothers voice 
You will be safe in my arms 
 
Soldiers were separating family taking kids away from parents 
Like robots systematically dismantling families with no remorse 
Like water and oil 
Children and parents apart far apart  
 
The boys are gone 
Where did they go 
A soldier took all the children  
Where are my children 
Her throat was pulsing   
 
Hilda cried  
Hilda was grabbed by a soldier 
She shouted to the soldier 
Where are my children 
No response 
 
Hilda never seen her two children ever again 
 
Four weeks later 
Skinny and weak 
Hungry and scared 
Dirty and sore 
Soldiers are moving us like farm animals 
Hordes of crowds 
Numbers all have numbers 
All in pajamas 
 
Nazis said we are going to bathe 
Hilda needed it she was weak and dirty 
A crowd of 700 people were shoved into a dark cold room with no windows or light 
Shower time shouted a German soldier 
All naked 
 
She and 700 other frail and malnourished numbered people were here 
Door locked 
No escape she thought 
All had numbers on their wrist  
Why are we numbers 
A shower with numbers 
Strange and unknown 
 
Scratch marks on the walls of this shower room 
Hilda was crammed 
Where is the water for this shower  
Why are we all naked and packed like sardines  
I’m scared 
Help me god please 
Crammed into this dark cold terrifying room 
She felt numb and fearful 
Desensitized and anesthetized 
 
All she could think about was her children she had not seen them for 4 weeks 
Their gentle smile 
Where are they 
She questioned 
Where did they take the children 
I love them 
I want sympathy 
Relief and reassurance 
 
Her last thought in her mind was her two beautiful children 
There short brown hair and green eyes  
Their tender and humane skin  
They’re comforting and cheerful voices 
 
I can’t escape this 
 
Thud 
A mechanism clicked and vents above opened  
People were screaming in terror 
Scratching on the walls for freedom like nails on a chalkboard 
I want to be a human again 
This isn’t a shower 
Good night my dearest children she thought 
I’ll see you guys soon 
I love you 
 
Auschwitz Death Camp is responsible for 1.1 million deaths out of the 11 million victims of the Holocaust. 
We must never forget the atrocities of the Holocaust. 
We vow never again. 
 
Good night my dearest children she thought
I’ll see you guys soon
I love you

Auschwitz Death Camp is responsible for 1.1 million deaths out of the 11 million victims of the Holocaust.
We must never forget the atrocities of the Holocaust.
We vow never again.
­

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BlackRock applies for ETF plan; XRP price could rise by 200%, potentially becoming the best-yielding investment in 2026.

Recently, global asset management giant BlackRock officially submitted its application for an XRP ETF, a piece of news that quickly sparked heated discussions in the cryptocurrency market. Analysts predict that if approval goes smoothly, the price of XRP could rise by as much as 200% in the short term, becoming a potentially top-yielding investment in 2026.

ETF applications may trigger a large influx of funds.

As one of the world’s largest asset managers, BlackRock’s XRP ETF is expected to attract significant attention from institutional and qualified investors. After the ETF’s listing, traditional funding channels will find it easier to access the XRP market, providing substantial liquidity support.

Historical data shows that similar cryptocurrency ETF listings are often accompanied by significant short-term market rallies. Following BlackRock’s application announcement, XRP prices have shown signs of recovery, and investor confidence has clearly strengthened.

CryptoEasily helps XRP holders achieve steady returns.

With its price potential widely viewed favorably, CryptoEasily’s cloud mining and digital asset management platform offers XRP holders a stable passive income opportunity. Users do not need complicated technical operations; they can receive daily earnings updates and achieve steady asset appreciation through the platform’s intelligent computing power scheduling system.

The platform stated that its revenue model, while ensuring compliance and security, takes into account market volatility and long-term sustainability, allowing investors to enjoy the benefits of market growth while also obtaining a stable cash flow.

CryptoEasily is a regulated cloud mining platform.

As the crypto industry rapidly develops, security and compliance have become core concerns for investors. CryptoEasily emphasizes that the platform adheres to compliance, security, and transparency principles and undergoes regular financial and security audits by third-party institutions. Its security infrastructure includes platform operations that comply with the European MiCA and MiFID II regulatory frameworks, annual financial and security audits conducted by PwC, and digital asset custody insurance provided by Lloyd’s of London.

At the technical level, the platform employs multiple security mechanisms, including bank-grade firewalls, cloud security authentication, multi-signature cold wallets, and an asset isolation system. This rigorous compliance system provides excellent security for users worldwide.

Its core advantages include:

● Zero-barrier entry: No need to buy mining machines or build a mining farm, even beginners can easily get started.

●Automated mining: The system runs 24/7, and profits are automatically settled daily.

● Flexible asset management: Earnings can be withdrawn or reinvested at any time, supporting multiple mainstream cryptocurrencies.

●Low correlation with price fluctuations: Even during short-term market downturns, cash flow remains stable.

CryptoEasily CEO Oliver Bruno Benquet stated:

“We always adhere to the principle of compliance first, especially in markets with mature regulatory systems, to provide users with a safer, more transparent and sustainable way to participate in digital assets.”

How to join CryptoEasily

Step 1: Register an account

Visit the official website: https://cryptoeasily.com

Enter your email address and password to create an account and receive a $15 bonus upon registration. You’ll also receive a $0.60 bonus for daily logins.

Step 2: Deposit crypto assets

Go to the platform’s deposit page and deposit mainstream crypto assets, including: BTC, USDT, ETH, LTC, USDC, XRP, and BCH.

Step 3: Select and purchase a mining contract that suits your needs.

CryptoEasily offers a variety of contracts to meet the needs of different budgets and goals. Whether you are looking for short-term gains or long-term returns, CryptoEasily has the right option for you.

Common contract examples:

Entry contract: $100 — 2-day cycle — Total profit approximately $108

Stable contract: $1000 — 10-day cycle — Total profit approximately $1145

Professional Contract: $6,000 — 20-day cycle — Total profit approximately $7,920

Premium Contract: $25,000 — 30-day cycle — Total profit approximately $37,900

For contract details, please visit the official website.

After purchasing the contract and it takes effect, the system will automatically calculate your earnings every 24 hours, allowing you to easily obtain stable passive income.

Invite your friends and enjoy double the benefits

Invite new users to join and purchase a contract to earn a lifetime 5% commission reward. All referral relationships are permanent, commissions are credited instantly, and you can easily build a “digital wealth network”.

Summarize

BlackRock’s application for an XRP ETF has injected strong positive momentum into the crypto market, with XRP prices poised for a significant surge and becoming a potential high-yield investment in 2026. Meanwhile, through the CryptoEasily platform, investors can steadily generate passive income in volatile markets, achieving double asset growth. This provides an innovative and sustainable investment path for long-term investors.

If you’re looking to earn daily automatic income, independent of market fluctuations, and build a stable, long-term passive income, then joining CryptoEasily now is an excellent opportunity.

Official website: https://cryptoeasily.com

App download: https://cryptoeasily.com/xml/index.html#/app

Customer service email: info@CryptoEasily.com

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Digital entertainment options continue expanding for the local community

For decades, the rhythm of life in Winnipeg has been dictated by the seasons. When the deep freeze sets in and the sidewalks become treacherous with ice, the natural tendency for many residents—especially the older generation—has been to retreat indoors. In the past, this seasonal hibernation often came at the cost of social connection, limiting interactions to telephone calls or the occasional brave venture out for essential errands. 

However, the landscape of leisure and community engagement has undergone a radical transformation in recent years, driven by the rapid adoption of digital tools.

Virtual gatherings replace traditional community center meetups

The transition from physical meeting spaces to digital platforms has been one of the most significant changes in local community life. Where weekly schedules once revolved around driving to a community center for coffee and conversation, many seniors now log in from the comfort of their favorite armchairs. 

This shift has democratized access to socialization, particularly for those with mobility issues or those who no longer drive. Programs that were once limited by the physical capacity of a room or the ability of attendees to travel are now accessible to anyone with an internet connection.

Established organizations have pivoted to meet this digital demand with impressive results. The Jewish Federation’s digital outreach has seen substantial engagement, with their “Federation Flash” e-publications exceeding industry standards for open rates. This indicates a community that is hungry for information and connection, regardless of the medium.  

Online gaming provides accessible leisure for homebound adults

While communication and culture are vital, the need for pure recreation and mental stimulation cannot be overlooked. Long winter evenings require accessible forms of entertainment that keep the mind active and engaged. 

For many older adults, the digital realm has replaced the physical card table or the printed crossword puzzle. Tablets and computers now host a vast array of brain-training apps, digital jigsaw puzzles, and strategy games that offer both solitary and social play options.

The variety of available digital diversions is vast, catering to every level of technical proficiency and interest. Some residents prefer the quiet concentration of Sudoku apps or word searches that help maintain cognitive sharpness. Others gravitate towards more dynamic experiences. For those seeking a bit of thrill from the comfort of home, exploring regulated entertainment options like Canadian real money slots has become another facet of the digital leisure mix. These platforms offer a modern twist on traditional pastimes, accessible without the need to travel to a physical venue.

However, the primary driver for most digital gaming adoption remains cognitive health and stress relief. Strategy games that require planning and memory are particularly popular, often recommended as a way to keep neural pathways active.  

Streaming services bring Israeli culture to Winnipeg living rooms

Beyond simple socialization and entertainment, technology has opened new avenues for cultural enrichment and education. For many in the community, staying connected to Jewish heritage and Israeli culture is a priority, yet travel is not always feasible. 

Streaming technology has bridged this gap, bringing the sights and sounds of Israel directly into Winnipeg homes. Through virtual tours, livestreamed lectures, and interactive cultural programs, residents can experience a sense of global connection that was previously difficult to maintain without hopping on a plane.

Local programming has adapted to facilitate this cultural exchange. Events that might have previously been attended by a handful of people in a lecture hall are now broadcast to hundreds. For instance, the community has seen successful implementation of educational sessions like the “Lunch and Learn” programs, which cover vital topics such as accessibility standards for Jewish organizations. 

By leveraging video conferencing, organizers can bring in expert speakers from around the world—including Israeli emissaries—to engage with local seniors at centers like Gwen Secter, creating a rich tapestry of global dialogue.

Balancing digital engagement with face-to-face connection

As the community embraces these digital tools, the conversation is shifting toward finding the right balance between screen time and face time. The demographics of the community make this balance critical. Recent data highlights that 23.6% of Jewish Winnipeggers are over the age of 65, a statistic that underscores the importance of accessible technology. For this significant portion of the population, digital tools are not just toys but essential lifelines that mitigate the risks of loneliness associated with aging in place.

Looking ahead, the goal for local organizations is to integrate these digital successes into a cohesive strategy. The ideal scenario involves using technology to facilitate eventual in-person connections—using an app to organize a meetup, or a Zoom call to plan a community dinner. 

As Winnipeg moves forward, the lessons learned during the winters of isolation will likely result in a more inclusive, connected, and technologically savvy community that values every interaction, whether it happens across a table or across a screen.

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Susan Silverman: diversification personified

By GERRY POSNER I recently had the good fortune to meet, by accident, a woman I knew from my past, that is my ancient past. Her name is Susan Silverman. Reconnecting with her was a real treat. The treat became even better when I was able to learn about her life story.

From the south end of Winnipeg beginning on Ash Street and later to 616 Waverley Street – I can still picture the house in my mind – and then onward and upwards, Susan has had quite a life. The middle daughter (sisters Adrienne and Jo-Anne) of Bernie Silverman and Celia (Goldstein), Susan was a student at River Heights, Montrose and then Kelvin High School. She had the good fortune to be exposed to music early in her life as her father was (aside from being a well known businessman) – an accomplished jazz pianist. He often hosted jam sessions with talented Black musicians. As well, Susan could relate to the visual arts as her mother became a sculptor and later, a painter.

When Susan was seven, she (and a class of 20 others), did three grades in two years. The result was that that she entered the University of Manitoba at the tender age of 16 – something that could not happen today. What she gained the most, as she looks back on those years, were the connections she made and friendships formed, many of which survive and thrive to this day. She was a part of the era of fraternity formals, guys in tuxedos and gals in fancy “ cocktail dresses,” adorned with bouffant hair-dos and wrist corsages.

Upon graduation, Susan’s wanderlust took her to London, England. That move ignited in her a love of travel – which remains to this day. But that first foray into international travel lasted a short time and soon she was back in Winnipeg working for the Children’s Aid Society. That job allowed her to save some money and soon she was off to Montreal. It was there, along with her roommate, the former Diane Unrode, that she enjoyed a busy social life and a place for her to take up skiing. She had the good fortune of landing a significant job as an executive with an international chemical company that allowed her to travel the world as in Japan, Hong Kong, New Zealand, Australia, Mexico, the Netherlands and even the USA. Not a bad gig.
In 1983, her company relocated to Toronto. She ended up working for companies in the forest products industry as well the construction technology industry. After a long stint in the corporate world, Susan began her own company called “The Resourceful Group,” providing human resource and management consulting services to smaller enterprises. Along the way, she served on a variety of boards of directors for both profit and non-profit sectors.

Even with all that, Susan was really just beginning. Upon her retirement in 2006, she began a life of volunteering. That role included many areas, from mentoring new Canadians in English conversation through JIAS (Jewish Immigrant Aid Services) to visiting patients at a Toronto rehabilitation hospital, to conducting minyan and shiva services. Few people volunteer in such diverse ways. She is even a frequent contributor to the National Post Letters section, usually with respect to the defence of Israel
and Jewish causes.

The stars aligned on New Year’s Eve, 1986, when she met her soon to be husband, Murray Leiter, an ex- Montrealer. Now married for 36 plus years, they have been blessed with a love of travel and adventure. In the early 1990s they moved to Oakville and joined the Temple Shaarei Beth -El Congregation. They soon were involved in synagogue life, making life long friends there. Susan and Murray joined the choir, then Susan took the next step and became a Bat Mitzvah. Too bad there is no recording of that moment. Later, when they returned to Toronto, they joined Temple Emanu-el and soon sang in that choir as well.

What has inspired both Susan and Murray to this day is the concept of Tikkun Olam. Serving as faith visitors at North York General Hospital and St. John’s Rehab respectively is just one of the many volunteer activities that has enriched both of their lives and indeed the lives of the people they have assisted and continue to assist.

Another integral aspect of Susan’s life has been her annual returns to Winnipeg. She makes certain to visit her parents, grandparents, and other family members at the Shaarey Zedek Cemetery. She also gets to spend time with her cousins, Hilllaine and Richard Kroft and friends, Michie end Billy Silverberg, Roz and Mickey Rosenberg, as well as her former brother-in-law Hy Dashevsky and his wife Esther. She says about her time with her friends: “how lucky we are to experience the extraordinary Winnipeg hospitality.”
Her Winnipeg time always includes requisite stops at the Pancake House, Tre Visi Cafe and Assiniboine Park. Even 60 plus years away from the “‘peg,” Susan feels privileged to have grown up in such a vibrant Jewish community. The city will always have a special place in her heart. Moreover, she seems to have made a Winnipegger out of her husband. That would be a new definition of Grow Winnipeg.

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