Features
How Norman Stein, a long-time teacher in Winnipeg Jewish schools transitioned into an enventful career in the music business
By BERNIE BELLAN
In May 2021 I began what was supposed to have been a two-part story about the life of a man, Norman Stein, who left an indelible impression on so many Jewish students during his teaching career in the Jewish school system, which began in the 1950s and ended in 1967.
But – I’ve long been a procrastinator; it’s taken me over two years to return to Stein’s story.
Now 91, Stein left Winnipeg many years ago, but he still recalls his years teaching here – at the Talmud Torah, Joseph Wolinsky Collegiate, and the Rosh Pina Hebrew School, with great fondness.
When I published that initial story about Stein’s teaching career, which I began by delving into his childhood growing up first on Pritchard Avenue, later on Redwood, and finally on St. Anthony, I attempted to transcribe a line in Yiddish that I had recorded Stein as saying, but I mangled that line.
Here again is the anecdote Stein related about one time when he had wandered off on a Friday evening into the Ukrainian Labour Temple on the corner of Burrows and McGregor:
“Anyway, one Erev Shabbes – I was three or four, I snuck into the theatre and the manager asked me who I was looking for?
“I told him I was looking for my mommy. He said, ‘You just sit here’, and the next thing I know I’m watching the Priscilla Lane sisters playing tennis in their white shorts. I remembered that.
“The manager called me out and said, ‘Your mother’s here now.’ And I wondered, how could that be? because my mother doesn’t even know I’m here. I go out and there’s my mother and Mrs. Rubinfield, who ran a grocery store a few doors down, and had a pay phone – which they avoided using on Shabbes – but they called the police and the police asked, ‘Is there a favourite place he likes to go?’ and my mother said I like to go to the movies, so the police said: Maybe he went to the Labour Temple.’”
As Stein explained what happened next, when he was confronted outside the Labour Temple by his mother, Mrs. Rubinfield, and a “Bobby” who was with them, in addition to being scolded for wandering into the movie theatre, the Bobby added: “And you didn’t even pay”, to which, Stein said he answered (and remember, this is a four-year-old) – and this is the line I got completely wrong: “M’tur nisht trugen kein gelt oif Shabbes” – “You mustn’t carry any money on Shabbes.”
It may have taken me 26 months for me to correct that adulteration of the Yiddish language, but when I contacted Stein again recently to ask him whether he’d be willing to continue with the story of his Winnipeg years, the first thing he told me is how miserably I had failed in trying to transcribe that line.
Despite that very grave error, however, Stein did tell me that he quite enjoyed the May 2021 interview piece. I told him that piece also evoked a very strong and warm response from many of his former students and that many of them had told me they were very much looking forward to the sequel.
I ended the first part of my story about Stein by noting that, in 1966, he was involved in a very serious car accident when his car was rear ended by a truck. He said, “That’s a period I don’t remember well… I was in a coma for some time. I was a nervous wreck. My doctor suggested I go to some place relaxing, so I went to Hollywood.”
Thus began the next chapter of Norman Stein’s life, which we now take up here:
Stein was working for RCA Records in the A&R (artists & repertoire) department. One day a young, barefoot Black girl came in with a demo tape. She said her name was Natalie Cole (daughter of Nat King Cole).
Stein asked her why she didn’t take her demo tape to Capitol Records, since that’s where Nat King Cole had a recording contract? “She said she didn’t want to be attached to his apron strings,” Stein explained.
Apparently though, Natalie Cole was upset with Stein “and she stormed out of there.” I asked Stein whether there were any other memorable moments from his time in California, and he mentioned that he was still in the United States during the time of the Six-Day War in June 1967.
“The Israeli Philharmonic was touring in the States at the time and I did some PR for them. There was a celebratory concert at the Hollywood Bowl and the guest artist was Jack Benny.”
While he was still in California, Rabbi Witty, who was the then-principal of the Talmud Torah and Joseph Wolinsky Collegiate had phoned Stein and had asked him whether he would be prepared to resume teaching the humanities courses that he had taught to students in Grades 7-12 at JWC for years, including courses in the history of music and the history of art, philosophy, and library science.
I remember taking Stein’s course on the history of art. Part of the course was devoted to a study of architecture. Stein recalled how enthusiastic so many of the students in my particular class were when he gave us an assignment to “take photographs of sites in Winnipeg that would be comparable to some in Ancient Greece by the way they photographed.”
Stein did resume teaching those courses in the fall of 1967, but when he asked to take a leave of absence to attend various music conventions, Tamara Wiseman, who was the vice-principal of the Talmud Torah at the time thought that “it wasn’t fair to the students that I had to leave town to go to conventions to pursue a career in music,” and without even being given a chance to say good bye to his students, Stein was told that he should just “leave.”
I said to Stein that I had heard from someone by the name of John Einarson, who is arguably Manitoba’s foremost music historian – and who gave a brilliant presentation during a recent Jewish Heritage Centre event titled “The Soundtracks of our Lives” about Jewish musicians in Winnipeg through the years, that Einarson had worked for Stein at a time when Stein was selling records out of the back of Strain’s Camera Store on Portage Avenue.
I asked Stein whether he began doing that around the time his teaching career ended (in 1967)?
“We couldn’t get into Polo Park (because Polo Park wouldn’t allow a record store at that time) so we opened in the back of Strain’s (which was owned by the late Manny Wiseman. One of Manny Wiseman’s sons, Bob, went on to become one of the founding members of Blue Rodeo.)
“People were only going up to the camera department and we rarely got anyone coming into our section,” Stein observed.
In 1969, Stein made the move that was eventually to lead to a 10-year period when he achieved his greatest recognition in Winnipeg – with the opening of the famed Opus 69 record store.
“There was space above Clifford’s Ladies Wear “(at 412 Portage Avenue, the corner of Kennedy and Portage), Stein continued. (Cliffords was owned by Johnny Pollock. One of Pollocks’ sons, Harold, went on to become a renowned classical guitarist.)
Thus began Opus 69. Around the same time Stein became host of a nightly program on CKY FM called “Now Flower.” Randy Moffat was the owner of CKY at the time and he was so impressed with the program – and the number of different recordings that Stein was able to play that CKY “even put a console in Opus 69 with live broadcasting by a DJ between noon and 6 pm.”
I remarked that I remember well that second floor location for Opus 69 and how popular it was.
Stein suggested “that small location became the most popular record store in Winnipeg.”
In a 2016 article for the Free Press, John Einarson wrote about the huge impression Opus 69 made on music fans in Winnipeg when it first opened: “Once Opus 69 opened in the spring of 1969 on Kennedy Street just south of Portage, above an optometrist’s shop, it became my destination for music. Opus 69 specialized almost exclusively in rock music and had the most extensive selection in the city, including imported recordings, as well as listening stations to sample before you purchased.
“I remember the first time my friend and I did that, never having used headphones before,” recalls Grant Edwards.“We were busy yelling to each other until one of the workers asked us to please stop yelling as no one else in the store was listening to headphones.”
Unfortunately, while owner Norman Stein had great taste in records, his business acumen was wanting, and when Opus 69 moved to the more spacious ground-floor store on Kennedy north of Portage in the early ’70s it was under new ownership. However, it continued to boast a wide selection and knowledgeable staff.”
Around the same time that Stein was running Opus 69 he also had a company called “Campus Records Distributors,” which sold records to university bookstores across Canada. Campus Records was eventually bought by Deutsche Grammaphone.
As John Einarson noted, “Opus 69 moved to a new location on Kennedy Street (across from what used to be the Town and Country), but by the early 1970s Norman Stein was no longer the owner.” (He told me, during our interview, that he didn’t want to get into what happened with the business. Suffice to say that, by 1979, Opus was in receivership. Stein had long been out of the picture when that happened.)
Stein said that he remained in Winnipeg with his ailing mother until she passed, in 1980. Shortly thereafter, he moved to Vancouver. He did talk about his career in Vancouver, but I said to him that I preferred to keep the focus on Winnipeg.
Before our conversation ended though, Stein said he wanted to tell me one more story from his childhood – when he was about four. The story had to do with the quaint Jewish custom of “shlogn kapores,” during which on Erev Yom Kippur a chicken (or a rooster) is waved over one’s head and one’s sins are transferred to said chicken or rooster.
Here’s how Stein described how the ritual was practiced in his home – and what happened one year: “You have a tablecloth over a table, you take the live rooster and swing it around your head and say certain prayers from a Siddur (prayer book). When you do that you put the live rooster under the table, then you take it to the shochet for Yom Tov.
“Well, this rooster kept pecking at my wrists and hurting me but I was holding on tight, so I threw the rooster under the table. When I pulled it out, it had a limp neck. It was dead. I bawled my head off because it meant the rooster could not have absorbed all my sins. My mother was upset because she didn’t have a tarnigol (Hebrew for rooster) for Yom Tov.”
I asked: “Because it wasn’t slaughtered properly?”
Stein replied: “How could it be slaughtered? I choked it to death. It had an overdose of sins!”
I said to him that so many of his former students offered reminiscences, both in our newspaper and in the Facebook group “1950s and 60s Winnipeg Jewish Students”, about his having been their teacher, that I wondered whether he would be amenable to hearing from former students.
I mentioned to him that one of the contributors to that Facebook group was David Steinberg. I asked Stein whether he had ever had Steinberg as a student? That led him to tell this story:
“When I was teaching in the Rosh Pina Hebrew School the synagogue youth group had socials and David performed his jokes on stage. As I was teaching him, he knew, as an opportunist, that I had some connections with Chicago. He wanted to go to Second City – the famous comedy thing. He could not get in, but he could if he was a yeshiva student. So I wrote a letter to the yeshiva on his behalf and he got accepted into the Hebrew Theological College (from where Stein had also graduated) and, after that the Rosh Yeshiva said to me: ’So where is your David Steinberg?’ He disappeared after a while and Second City had rented in the Jewish community centre across the street from the yeshiva. I never saw him again until one year – it was around 1970, I went to Greenwich Village and saw a poster for a folk music group. At the bottom it said ‘opening act: David Steinberg.’
“A door opened and who comes out but David Steinberg? I said ‘Dudi?’ and he said, ‘Uh, your face is a little familiar…Oh yes, Norman, here’s my business card and we’ll have coffee in my private apartment ….and I never went to his apartment.”
I asked Stein whethe he would be amenable to my putting his phone number into this article so that former students could get in touch with him.
Although each time I’ve phoned Stein, we’ve had very pleasant conversations, I’m not sure whether he would have the stamina to engage in phone convesations on a regular basis with former students. Still, if he’s tired or preoccupied doing something else, I’m sure he would let anyone know. And, even though he says he has trouble remembering things, I certainly didn’t find that to be the case. Stein did say that he wouldn’t have any objection to my putting his phone number into this article, so here it is: 1-604-269-0961. Remember, he’s in Vancouver, so bear in mind the time zone that he’s in if you do plan on calling him.
Features
From Art to Diplomacy: How Jewish Leaders and Thinkers Shaped History and Modernity
In this article, we delve into the impact of Jewish public figures on the global stage, exploring their role in shaping political landscapes and cultural events
The Impact of Jewish Public Figures on World Politics and Culture
From prominent politicians to renowned artists, Jews have made significant contributions that have shaped our world.
With their diverse backgrounds and experiences, Jewish public figures have played a key role in promoting social change, advocating for human rights, and shaping cultural narratives. Their influence can be seen in a variety of fields, such as literature, art, music, and film, where Jewish artists have left an indelible mark on creativity and expression.
By exploring the contributions of Jewish public figures, together with the plinko game team, we aim to shed light on the enormous impact they have had on shaping our world.
Historical Background: The Role of Jewish Intellectuals and Leaders Throughout History
The historical narrative of Jewish intellectuals and leaders is rich and complex, woven into the fabric of many societies across the globe. From ancient times, Jews have contributed to various fields, including philosophy, science, and politics. Figures such as Maimonides and Spinoza have significantly influenced Western thought through their philosophical writings. These intellectuals not only shaped Jewish culture but also left a lasting mark on global intellectual history, challenging prevailing norms and encouraging critical thinking.
The struggle for social justice and human rights has often found expression through Jewish leaders. Throughout history, Jews have faced persecution and discrimination, which has fueled their commitment to advocating for justice. The Jewish experience of diaspora has led to a unique perspective on oppression and resilience, enabling Jewish leaders to become champions for the marginalized. Their contributions to movements for civil rights and social justice have been instrumental in shaping contemporary political landscapes, particularly in the United States and Europe.
Moreover, the integration of Jewish intellectuals into broader societal frameworks has fostered cross-cultural dialogues. Jewish figures have often acted as bridges between cultures, promoting understanding and collaboration. This historical backdrop sets the stage for examining the specific contributions of contemporary Jewish public figures in politics and culture, highlighting how their legacy continues to influence the world today.
Jewish Public Figures in Politics: Notable Examples and Their Impact on Global Affairs
Jewish politicians have played pivotal roles in shaping global politics, often taking on leadership positions that have allowed them to influence significant policy decisions.
One notable example is Henry Kissinger, who served as the United States Secretary of State and National Security Advisor. Kissinger’s approach to foreign policy, particularly during the Cold War, emphasized diplomacy and realpolitik. His efforts in negotiating peace agreements, such as the Paris Peace Accords, demonstrate the power of Jewish public figures in navigating complex international relations.
Another influential figure is Ruth Bader Ginsburg, the late Supreme Court Justice known for her staunch advocacy for gender equality and civil rights. Ginsburg’s legal opinions and dissents have had a profound impact on American jurisprudence, often pushing the boundaries of what is considered constitutional. Her legacy as a champion for women’s rights and social justice continues to inspire generations, illustrating the power of Jewish individuals to drive change within the legal and political arenas.
Additionally, figures like Benjamin Netanyahu have made significant contributions to political discourse on a global scale. As the Prime Minister of Israel, Netanyahu has been at the helm during crucial moments in Israeli history, navigating the complexities of Middle Eastern politics. His approach to security and foreign policy has sparked both support and controversy, reflecting the intricate dynamics of Jewish leadership in geopolitics. These examples underscore the diverse roles Jewish public figures have played in influencing global affairs, shaping policies that resonate far beyond their immediate contexts.
Jewish Public Figures in Culture: Contributions to Art, Literature, Music, and Entertainment
The cultural contributions of Jewish public figures are equally profound, spanning various artistic fields and leaving an indelible mark on global culture. In literature, authors like Philip Roth and Elie Wiesel have explored themes of identity, memory, and the human condition through their poignant narratives. Roth’s exploration of Jewish identity in America challenged stereotypes and opened dialogues about cultural belonging, while Wiesel’s memoirs on the Holocaust serve as powerful reminders of resilience and the importance of remembrance.
In the realm of music, Jewish artists have made significant contributions that transcend genres. From the classical compositions of Leonard Bernstein to the revolutionary sounds of Bob Dylan, Jewish musicians have shaped the musical landscape. Bernstein’s work in classical music and Broadway has left a legacy of artistic excellence, while Dylan’s lyrics reflect a deep engagement with social issues and human emotions. These artists not only entertain but also provoke thought and inspire social change through their craft.
Furthermore, the film industry has been significantly influenced by Jewish filmmakers and actors, with figures like Steven Spielberg and Natalie Portman leading the charge. Spielberg’s films often address complex moral dilemmas and historical narratives, while Portman’s work as an actress and director champions diverse stories and perspectives. Through their storytelling, these artists contribute to cultural discourse, emphasizing the importance of empathy and understanding in an increasingly divided world. The influence of Jewish public figures in culture is a testament to their creativity and commitment to social issues, enriching the global cultural landscape.
Controversies and Criticisms: Examining the Debates Surrounding Jewish Influence
Despite the significant contributions of Jewish public figures, their influence has not been without controversy. Debates surrounding Jewish influence often arise, particularly in the context of politics and media. Critics sometimes allege that Jewish individuals hold disproportionate power in various sectors, leading to accusations of conspiracy and manipulation. These narratives can perpetuate harmful stereotypes and contribute to anti-Semitic sentiment, highlighting the need for critical examination of such claims.
It is essential to differentiate between legitimate discussions about influence and the perpetuation of conspiracy theories that seek to scapegoat Jewish communities. Many Jewish public figures have risen to prominence through hard work, talent, and advocacy, rather than through nefarious means. Acknowledging their contributions while recognizing the complexities of their influence can foster nuanced discussions that combat anti-Semitism and promote understanding.
Moreover, the portrayal of Jewish individuals in media and popular culture can contribute to the reinforcement of stereotypes. It is crucial to critically engage with these representations and advocate for more diverse and accurate portrayals of Jewish life. Through education and dialogue, society can challenge misconceptions and celebrate the multifaceted contributions of Jewish public figures to politics, culture, and beyond.
The Jewish Diaspora and Its Impact on Global Networks
The Jewish diaspora has created a rich tapestry of experiences and connections that have influenced global networks. Historically, Jews have migrated to various regions, often forming tight-knit communities that have contributed to local cultures while maintaining their unique identity. This ability to adapt and thrive in diverse environments has enabled Jewish individuals to forge important connections across borders, creating a network of influence that extends beyond geographical boundaries.
The diaspora has facilitated the exchange of ideas, fostering a global dialogue that has enriched cultural and political landscapes. Jewish communities around the world often engage in philanthropy and social activism, addressing pressing issues such as poverty, education, and human rights. Organizations like the Jewish Federation and various international NGOs reflect the commitment of the Jewish diaspora to contribute positively to society, promoting social justice and intercultural understanding.
Furthermore, the interconnectedness of the Jewish diaspora has allowed for a robust exchange of knowledge and resources. Jewish public figures often draw on their diverse backgrounds and experiences, leveraging their networks to advocate for change on a global scale. This collaborative approach underscores the importance of community and solidarity in addressing complex challenges, highlighting the enduring influence of the Jewish diaspora in shaping global networks.
Case Studies: Examining Specific Individuals and Their Contributions
To illustrate the profound influence of Jewish public figures, we can examine specific case studies that highlight their contributions across various domains. One notable example is the late Shimon Peres, who served as the President and Prime Minister of Israel. Peres was a visionary leader known for his efforts in promoting peace in the Middle East. His role in the Oslo Accords exemplifies the potential for dialogue and compromise in resolving longstanding conflicts.
In the realm of art, Marc Chagall stands out as a revolutionary painter whose works encapsulate the essence of Jewish identity and culture. Chagall’s unique style, characterized by vibrant colors and dreamlike imagery, reflects his experiences as a Jewish artist navigating the complexities of the 20th century. His contributions to modern art have influenced generations of artists and continue to resonate in contemporary creative expressions.
Another significant figure is Ruth Messinger, a prominent advocate for social justice and former president of American Jewish World Service. Messinger’s work in international development highlights the intersection of Jewish values and global humanitarian efforts. Through her leadership, she has raised awareness about issues such as poverty and human rights, demonstrating the capacity of Jewish public figures to effect change on a global scale. These case studies underscore the diverse contributions of Jewish individuals, illustrating how their legacies continue to shape our world today.
The Power of Jewish Organizations and Lobbying Groups
Jewish organizations and lobbying groups have played a vital role in advocating for Jewish interests and promoting social change. Organizations such as the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) and the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) have been instrumental in shaping public policy and fostering community engagement. These organizations work tirelessly to combat anti-Semitism, promote civil rights, and strengthen ties between Israel and the United States.
The influence of Jewish lobbying groups extends beyond domestic politics, impacting international relations as well. AIPAC, for instance, has been a significant player in advocating for strong U.S.-Israel relations, leveraging political connections to promote policies that align with Jewish interests. The effectiveness of these organizations highlights the importance of collective action and advocacy in achieving political goals and addressing pressing social issues.
Moreover, Jewish organizations often serve as platforms for community engagement and activism. They provide resources for education, cultural programming, and social services, fostering a sense of community and belonging among Jewish individuals. By mobilizing collective resources and voices, these organizations play a crucial role in amplifying the contributions of Jewish public figures and advocating for diverse perspectives within the broader societal context.
Debunking Myths and Stereotypes: Separating Fact from Fiction
Addressing the myths and stereotypes surrounding Jewish influence is essential for fostering a more accurate understanding of their contributions. Misconceptions about Jewish individuals often stem from historical prejudices and societal biases, which can distort perceptions and promote harmful narratives. It is crucial to engage in open conversations that challenge these stereotypes and promote a more nuanced understanding of Jewish identity and influence.
Many myths surrounding Jewish individuals are rooted in conspiratorial thinking, suggesting that Jews exert undue control over various sectors, including finance, media, and politics. These narratives often lack empirical evidence and serve to scapegoat Jewish communities for broader societal issues. By critically examining these claims and promoting factual information, we can combat anti-Semitism and foster a more inclusive dialogue about the contributions of Jewish public figures.
Education plays a vital role in debunking myths and stereotypes. By promoting awareness of Jewish history, culture, and achievements, we can cultivate understanding and empathy. Initiatives that celebrate Jewish contributions to society can help counteract negative narratives and highlight the diverse perspectives within the Jewish community. Ultimately, fostering a culture of dialogue and education is essential for promoting inclusivity and understanding in our increasingly interconnected world.
Conclusion
The influence of Jewish public figures on global politics and culture is a testament to their resilience, creativity, and commitment to social justice. From shaping political landscapes to enriching cultural narratives, Jewish individuals have made significant contributions that continue to resonate today. Their diverse backgrounds and experiences have enabled them to navigate complex societal challenges, advocating for change and promoting understanding across cultures.
As we reflect on the ongoing influence of Jewish public figures, it is crucial to recognize the importance of diverse perspectives in shaping our world. The contributions of Jewish individuals serve as a reminder of the power of collaboration and collective action in addressing pressing issues. By embracing diversity and promoting dialogue, we can foster a more inclusive society that values the contributions of all individuals, regardless of their background.
In conclusion, the legacy of Jewish public figures is multifaceted and enduring. Their impact on global politics and culture underscores the importance of recognizing and celebrating diverse voices. By continuing to explore and appreciate these contributions, we can foster a deeper understanding of our shared human experience and work towards a more just and equitable world for all.
Features
“Also Here” – a granddaughter tells her grandmother’s story of surviving the Holocaust
By JULIE KIRSH, Former Sun Media News Research Director
(Exclusive to jewishpostandnews.ca)
My youngest daughter, who experiences frequent backaches and headaches, feels that the trauma of her survivor grandparents has been passed down to her. Some third generation Holocaust literature supports this thesis.
Brooke Randel’s recently published “Also Here, Love, Literacy and the Legacy of the Holocaust,” is a biography that feature Randel’s Bubbie and their close, though not always easy relationship.
Bubbie was illiterate and her granddaughter worked for an ad agency as a copywriter. Bubbie wanted her story told. However, she had no way to tell her story. In “Also Here,” Randel has fulfilled her grandmother’s wishes by putting Bubbie’s thoughts to paper.
The reader learns that Bubbie is always on the go. In her Florida condo, she shops, cooks, visits friends, plays cards, and does laps around the pool. “A woman who survives stays surviving.” However, at night when her hands were still, she was surrounded by the memories of the war and her lost family. Bubbie asked herself the eternal question of survivors: “Ehy did she survive when so many didn’t?”
The author’s ancestral family moved to Sighet in Romania which then became part of Hungary. Eli Wiesel, in his acclaimed book, “Night”, paints a vivid picture of the Jews of Sighet, 14,000 mostly religious souls. When Bubbie was six years old, the family suffered a tragedy. Bubbie’s father, the patriarch, died of prostate cancer. Her mother resorted to work as a travelling merchant. The two older siblings went to jobs in Budapest. Everyone had a role to play. Perhaps school was not a part of Bubbie’s upbringing or she had a learning disability, according to the author. In any case, Bubbie was permanently illiterate.
In order to discover Bubbie’s Holocaust story, the author sits with her grandmother and hears the words so that she, the wordsmith, can transcribe them. Providing an historical context, we know that the Nazis formalized their plans at the Wannsee Conference. “Evict, rob, deport, kill” were the words used, buried in obscure bureaucracy. “Words could lead the way to genocide and silence could let it happen.”
In a poignant chapter, the reader hears Bubbie’s words as she relives the road to Auschwitz in her head, telling her granddaughter what happened. In April 1945, 60,000 prisoners, including Bubbie and her sister were held in Bergen-Belsen. They had travelled by foot and boxcar from Auschwitz, covering more than 280 miles to get there. No food, no water, no clothes, no shoes and the winter was particularly bitter that year. In Bergen-Belsen there was typhus, tuberculosis, typhoid fever and dysentery. Anne Frank and her sister Margot were taken and died there.
After the war, Bubbie married at 17 years of age to an older man. This was a typical rushed, survivor’s marriage. My own parents were 20 years apart. They would not have been a match before the war. Bubbie and her husband fought constantly. She was a go-getter with a good job. He was depressed and unsuccessful in his business attempts.
In trying to understand her Bubbie, the author refers to an Israeli study: Female survivors had high levels of avoidance behavior, intrusive thoughts, and an unresolved state of mind. Bubbie grew up in chaos before the war and in the camps. Logic was thrown out the window. She was scattered and impulsive.
From Windsor to Detroit, Bubbie and her family of three children and a sad husband tried to make a better life. However, post-traumatic stress was their constant companion.
In my own Holocaust survivor family, food was all important and came with certain rules set by my father. The chicken soup had to be boiling hot. Onions were to be feared and the plentiful food had to be cooked and served only by my mother’s hands. Restaurant food was considered suspicious, so we didn’t go out to eat very often.
Bubbie also exhibited a survivor’s anxiety around food. It was not to be wasted. She cooked constantly and fed her family delicious food. Without a language of words, Bubbie retained all the recipes in her head. What Bubbie did not have was the ability to read. All efforts to confront her illiteracy came to naught. Her granddaughter learned to see Bubbie differently from other people. In doing so, she unknowingly gained skills that her grandmother had: adaptation, creativity, stealth, and care. Bubbie taught her granddaughter to listen to the chaotic jumble of her memories and eventually the author learned how to write this book.
Being part of the third generation is not the experience of survival but an echo of survival. Bubbie’s journey and her very different American grandchildren emphasized their separateness.
This book could not have been written without the acceptance of that separateness and a willingness to listen to what could not be said.
“Also Here”
by Brooke Randel
published by Tortoise Books, 2024
Features
LUCKY STREAK: Real Stories of Gamblers Who Won Big!
Gambling has long been associated with excitement, thrill, and the possibility of changing one’s life overnight. From the bright lights of Las Vegas to the virtual casinos that now dominate the online world, the dream of hitting it big is what drives millions to try their luck. But what happens when that dream becomes a reality? What are the real stories behind those who walked away with life-altering sums? In this article, we will explore some incredible real-life stories of gamblers who hit it big, the strategies they used, and what we can learn from their experiences.
The Temptation of a Big Win
The concept of winning a massive amount in a casino — whether it’s a jackpot or a series of successful bets — has a unique appeal. It’s the ultimate form of gambling fantasy: the idea that with just one lucky spin, a single bet could lead to instant wealth. But what drives gamblers to take that leap, knowing the odds are always stacked against them?
For some, it’s the thrill of the gamble itself — the excitement of taking a risk. For others, it’s the hope of financial freedom or a chance to live a life they never imagined. While the vast majority of gamblers don’t hit it big, a small group of lucky ones find themselves with wins so big, it changes everything.
Big Wins and What They Mean
It’s one thing to win a few hundred dollars, but it’s entirely different when a single game or bet leads to a life-changing payout. These big wins don’t just alter the gambler’s financial state — they often have emotional and psychological impacts as well.
In the online casino world, players are often drawn to the charm of huge jackpots, massive bonuses, and the promise of easy winnings. For those looking to try their luck, online casinos in Canada offer a wide range of exciting opportunities to chase that life-changing win. Yet, as enticing as it may seem, winning big is never guaranteed. That’s why it’s all the more incredible when it does happen. From progressive jackpots to skill-based games like poker, each big win comes with its own backstory, often involving a combination of strategy, timing, and, of course, luck.
Real Stories of Gamblers Who Won Big
While the odds may be slim, the stories of those who have beaten them are inspiring and thrilling. These are the stories of people who placed their bets and walked away with incredible sums of money. Here are a few noteworthy accounts.
The Poker Pro Who Struck Gold
A Canadian gambler, Alex Turner, had been playing poker for years before his life was turned upside down. He wasn’t one of those high-rolling poker pros you see on TV, but a determined player who spent hours refining his skills online. One evening, while playing at an online poker table at a reputable site, Alex went on an unprecedented streak. After several hours of strategic betting and bluffing, he found himself holding the winning hand in a high-stakes tournament.
“I was just in the zone,” Alex recalls. “I didn’t even realize how big the pot had gotten until the final hand was dealt. That’s when the realization hit — I had just won over $1.5 million.”
Alex’s win didn’t just make headlines, it reshaped his life. He went on to pursue poker professionally, entering larger tournaments and continuing his success.
The Jackpot Winner at an Online Slot
Then there’s the story of Sarah, a stay-at-home mom from Ontario, who stumbled upon one of the largest online slot jackpots ever won in the country. Sarah had been playing a progressive jackpot slot on her favorite online casino, never imagining that her modest bet would change everything.
“I had just played a few spins, really just testing the waters. I was about to log off when the jackpot symbols appeared,” Sarah recounts, her voice still filled with disbelief. “It wasn’t until the casino’s customer support team called me that I knew I had hit it. They had to confirm it for me. I won $4.2 million.”
Sarah’s story is one that resonates with many. She wasn’t a seasoned gambler or someone who spent hours on end strategizing. She was an everyday person who, through sheer luck, hit the jackpot.
Her win not only gave her financial freedom but also the opportunity to live life on her own terms. Sarah now speaks openly about responsible gambling, sharing her story to encourage others to enjoy the excitement of gaming without losing control.
Interview with a Big Winner
To gain deeper insight into what it’s like to win big, we had the chance to speak with Sarah (from the slot jackpot story) about her experience and what it felt like to hit the jackpot.
Q: Sarah, you hit a massive jackpot. What went through your mind when you saw the winning combination?
A: Honestly, I didn’t believe it at first. I thought there had been some kind of mistake, and when I realized it was real, it felt surreal. My heart was racing. I’ve played those slots for years and never imagined something like this would happen to me.
Q: How did your life change after that big win?
A: Well, it was life-changing in so many ways. First, I paid off all my debts, which was a huge weight off my shoulders. Then, I bought my dream house. But beyond the material things, I felt a sense of freedom I’d never had before. I didn’t have to worry about money anymore, which is a huge relief.
Q: What advice would you give to others who dream of winning big like you?
A: The main thing I’d say is don’t get caught up in the idea of winning big. Just enjoy the experience for what it is. If you’re lucky enough to win, that’s great — but the journey itself can be just as rewarding. And always, always gamble responsibly.
The Role of Online Casinos in Big Wins
The rise of online casinos has made it easier than ever for players to access their favorite games and, in some cases, win big. Platforms like 50 Crowns Casino, Spinanga Casino, and Sushi Casino are offering players the chance to experience exciting gameplay and jackpots from the comfort of their own homes.
With the growth of the online gambling industry, it’s essential for players to choose platforms that operate within a secure and regulated environment. In Canada, where the gambling market continues to expand, understanding the legal framework is crucial. Ontario, for instance, has introduced a regulated gambling market, ensuring players have access to safe and trustworthy platforms. According to Statista, the evolving landscape of Canada’s gambling industry highlights the importance of regulation in providing a secure experience for players while holding operators accountable.
What You Can Learn from These Big Wins
The most important takeaway from these big win stories is that gambling is as much about luck as it is about strategy, timing, and mindset. For some, like Michael the sports bettor, success came from studying the game and understanding the statistics. For others, like Sarah, it was pure luck. Regardless, every gambler’s journey is unique, and the key is to enjoy the process rather than chase the impossible dream of instant wealth.
While these big wins are thrilling, they are also reminders of the importance of responsibility. Enjoy gambling, but always keep in mind that the most rewarding part of it all is the entertainment value — not necessarily the potential for a life-changing payout.
The Dream of a Big Win
The temptation of striking it big remains a major part of the gambling experience, but the real takeaway is the thrill, the stories, and the people who make it all possible. Whether it’s through a high-stakes poker win, a lucky slot spin, or a series of strategic sports bets, the gamblers who won big have one thing in common: they embraced the excitement and risk of the game, and sometimes, the stars aligned in their favor. Just remember, while chasing big wins can be fun, it’s important to play responsibly and enjoy the game for what it is — a chance to experience the excitement of winning big, even if that means winning small.