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Eclectic Nathan Zassman always on lookout for new challenges, new fields to conquer

Nathan Zassman

By MYRON LOVE Aviva Natural Health Solutions on St. James Street is not your typical health food store just as Aviva’s founder, Nathan Zassman, is not your typical entrepreneur.

“What is unique about Aviva is that we take a holistic approach to achieving optimum health through a healthy lifestyle,” Zassman says. “I do a tremendous amount of research in a constant quest for finding solutions to people’s health problems. Many of our products were discovered from research I’ve done working to resolve my own health issues.”

As an example, he cites a brand of footwear from Switzerland, kybun, which was recommended after he tore up some knee ligaments four years ago. Doctors told him he would have to have both knees replaced. He tried the shoes – which claim to repair cartilage and, after ten days, he was walking without pain, after having had to use a walker.

“A physiotherapist who shops here was amazed,” Zassman says. “As a result of my own experience, I can advise people about how properly designed footwear can eliminate knee, hip and back pain.”

At Aviva, Zassman focuses on promoting healthy eating (through food products, healthy food preparation, and dietary supplements) and liquids (as in water filtration systems). A healthy living space requires clean air, for which he recommends air purifiers and humidifiers that can improve any environment. He promotes the importance of getting a good night’s sleep (with organic latex mattresses and coverings that facilitate healing while reducing the time it takes to fall asleep), sitting on active health-promoting chairs, and wearing therapeutic footwear.

One of Aviva’s air purifier brands – Blueair – from Sweden – was recently featured on CBC’s Marketplace – which tremendously boosted Aviva’s sales of the products.“We sold more than 300 units in just two weeks after the Marketplace feature,” he reports, and Aviva continues to sell them in large numbers.“We sell our products worldwide, through our website avivahealth.com.”

Aviva’s eclectic mix of products closely mirrors Zassman’s own lifetime of careers and pursuits. The lifestyle guru began life in Beverly, Massachusetts, which is about 20 miles northeast of Boston. In high school and beyond, he studied trombone and voice at both the prestigious Manhattan School of Music in New York City, and, later, at the American Conservatory of Music in Chicago. He was performing regular concerts in Carnegie Hall with the American Symphony Orchestra when he was only 19 years of age.

In Chicago he performed in the Chicago Civic Orchestra, the training orchestra of the Chicago Symphony, and was a member and soloist with the North Side Symphony of Chicago. Nathan’s first experience as an entrepreneur also occurred in Chicago, when he founded The Zassman Brassmen, a brass quintet that performed educational concerts in schools, as well as formal concert performances.

In 1974, after six of years of study in Chicago with the famous brass pedagogue Arnold Jacobs, Zassman won the audition for second trombone in the Winnipeg Symphony. In addition to his role as a trombonist with the WSO, he joined the faculty of the University of Manitoba, teaching the brass instruments, conducting brass ensembles, and teaching “Brass Techniques” at the Faculty of Education, outlining the basics of all the brass instruments to music education students.

But Zassman has never been defined by just one category. Concurrent with his career in music, he trained as a professional photographer at the Winona School of Professional Photography in Indiana, earning 20 diplomas and Certificates of Merit in a wide range of photographic disciplines. “I became interested in photography while in Chicago,” he recalls, “and spent my summers studying at the best schools and with famous photographers, to refine and improve my craft. I approached photography the same way I did music, seeking out the finest photographers who shared their unique techniques, either privately, or through classes.”

While in Chicago, Zassman developed an interest in Eastern philosophy, studying yoga and astrology at the College of Occult Studies in Chicago. In Winnipeg, he later founded Celestial Interface, producing astrological birth charts for those interested in learning how astrology can improve their lives. He was also appointed CBC Official Photographer, appearing on about a dozen radio and TV spots with CBC Radio and Television, preparing and discussing astrological birth charts on political candidates running for local and national elections.

Zassman founded a photography business specializing in architectural, portrait and commercial photography, creating magazine covers and illustrations for local and national magazines. He also became the Winnipeg Symphony’s official photographer, doing portraits of all the musicians for the symphony programs, as well as taking the annual photo of the orchestra. For many years he taught photography at a school he founded in Winnipeg while the symphony was in session from September to May, and taught professional photographic techniques at the Winona School of Professional Photography, the University of Saskatchewan Department of Art, and the Saskatchewan School of the Arts during the summer months. Zassman also founded The Heliograph Gallery, the first gallery that specialized in photography in Winnipeg.

Now, one would think that teaching photography, performing with the Winnipeg symphony and teaching at the University of Manitoba School of Music would be more than enough to keep someone busy, but Nathan Zassman is a cut above average. He further added businessman to his resumé when he got into computer sales on the ground floor in 1982.

“I had always been interested in cooking and nutrition,” he recalls. “In the early 1980s, I was hired by a local book publisher to write a cookbook with an original idea. I was planning to write the book on my IBM typewriter, but a friend recommended I use a word processor, as he told me that no one used a typewriter anymore for writing.”

One of Nathan’s photography students worked for a local company, Westsun Media. They were selling the Kaypro, which had been rated the best value brand of computer that could be used as a word processor. Nathan purchased a Kaypro with two floppy disk drives for $4000, and couldn’t believe the freedom it provided, allowing him to edit his work, and even check his spelling.

Zassman was so enthused with his computer that he encouraged all his friends to buy one as well. “I was sending so many customers to Westsun to buy a Kaypro computer that I asked the owner, Marc Raymond, if he would allow me trade mine in for a new model with a built in hard drive, which was revolutionary at the time for a portable computer. Marc acknowledged that all his sales were thanks to Nathan and offered him the job as sales manager for the computer division of Westsun. After a short time, Nathan decided he should start his own business and left Westsun.

Thus, in 1982, the musician became a businessman with the founding of Aries Microsystems. “Our business grew rapidly,” Zassman recalls. “By 1986, Aries ranked as the fastest-growing business in Manitoba.” But in 1988 he found that the added responsibilities of running a computer business were interfering with his musical career, so he decided to sell Aries to one of his employees. However, Zassman retained his passion for computers and after his three year non-competition clause from the sale of Aries came to an end, in 1991 he started a second computer company – Opus Computer Solutions.

Zassman retired from the WSO in 1995 to devote himself full time to his new company. “In 1997, I bought the former Winestock’s Wholesale building at 52 Adelaide in the Exchange District and moved my computer business into the downtown marketplace area,” he recalls. “In 2001, I decided to set up a gym on the third level for my computer technicians. I wanted to encourage my technicians to include exercise in their lifestyle. I did my research and bought the best fitness equipment available.”

After a short time, he decided to also sell the fitness lines he purchased for the Opus gym, and Aviva Natural Health Solutions was born.

Zassman then went to the United States, studying Nutritional Therapy in Medical Practice with Jonathan Wright, M.D., and Alan Gaby, M.D., and obtaining certificates in 2003 and 2007. By 2005, Aviva was bringing in enough revenue to stand on its own, so Zassman sold Opus Computer Solutions in 2007 to focus entirely on his new venture.

“I seem to change careers every 20 years or so,” he says.

He moved Aviva to its current location, at 1224 St. James Street, in 2010. And, while still very active in the operations of Aviva, true to form Zassman continues to grow and explore other fields. A bass/baritone, he’s returned to singing and was studying with Mel Braun at the University of Manitoba, as well as singing in two choirs – until Covid forced a pause. On top of all that, a few years ago, began taking acting classes with the Prairie Theatre Exchange. He became a member of Shoestring Players, and has appeared in three plays so far.

He continues to indulge his passion for healthy cooking and baking bread. While running Opus, he became well known for offering his customers and staff free loaves of bread, made from freshly ground organic grain, and is still doing so at Aviva. These days though, he concentrates on sourdough bread. He offers his starter to anyone interested in baking sourdough bread, for free.

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Features

Staying Safe Online: How to Verify Phone Numbers and Emails in a Digital World

In today’s connected world, communication happens instantly. Whether through phone calls, text messages, or email, we receive information faster than ever before. While this connectivity brings convenience, it also increases exposure to scams, fraud, and misinformation. Communities that value strong social ties, philanthropy, education, and global connection—such as Jewish communities worldwide—are particularly active online, making digital awareness essential.

One practical way to stay safe is by verifying unknown phone numbers and email addresses before responding. Modern lookup tools now make this process quick and accessible.


Why Phone and Email Verification Matters

The Rise of Digital Fraud

Across North America and beyond, online fraud has become more sophisticated. Scam calls may impersonate:

  • Charitable organizations
  • Financial institutions
  • Government agencies
  • Community leaders
  • Family members in distress

Similarly, phishing emails often appear legitimate at first glance, using familiar names or logos to gain trust.

Before replying, donating, clicking links, or sharing sensitive information, verification can prevent costly mistakes.


Common Scenarios Where Verification Helps

1. Unknown Calls Requesting Donations

Many people are generous and active in charitable giving. Unfortunately, scammers sometimes exploit this generosity. If you receive a call asking for contributions to a cause, verifying the phone number can help confirm legitimacy.

2. Suspicious Emails About Account Access

Emails claiming urgent action is required—such as password resets or banking alerts—are common phishing tactics. Looking up the sender’s email can reveal whether it is associated with known fraud reports.

3. Online Marketplace Transactions

When buying or selling items online, verifying the contact details of the other party reduces the risk of fraud.

4. Reconnecting with Old Contacts

Sometimes you receive a message from someone claiming to be an old friend, colleague, or distant relative. A quick lookup can confirm whether the contact information aligns with public records.


Introducing ClarityCheck

One of the tools designed to simplify this process is ClarityCheck. The platform allows users to search for information associated with phone numbers and email addresses, helping individuals make informed decisions before responding.

What Makes ClarityCheck Useful?

Quick Searches

Users can enter:

  • A phone number
  • An email address

The system then aggregates publicly available data and digital signals connected to that contact detail.

Easy-to-Understand Results

Rather than overwhelming users with technical data, the platform presents results in a structured format, making it easier to interpret findings.

Privacy-Conscious Approach

The service focuses on organizing publicly accessible information, helping users assess risk without intrusive methods.


How Phone Number Lookup Works

When a phone number is entered into a lookup service, several types of information may be identified:

Data CategoryPossible Insights
Carrier InformationType of line (mobile, landline, VoIP)
Geographic IndicatorsArea code origin
Spam ReportsPrevious complaints or flags
Digital FootprintPublic listings linked to the number

This information can help users determine whether a number is likely legitimate or potentially fraudulent.

For example, a donation request from a number flagged repeatedly for spam activity would be a clear warning sign.


How Email Lookup Enhances Security

Email addresses often reveal patterns that help identify risk.

Key Signals in Email Verification

  • Domain age and reputation
  • Presence in public databases
  • Links to known scam reports
  • Associated online profiles

For instance, an email claiming to represent a large institution but using a newly created domain may warrant caution.

Verification adds a layer of confidence before you respond.


Community Safety and Digital Responsibility

Strong communities rely on trust. However, trust must be balanced with vigilance in digital spaces.

Protecting Elders and Vulnerable Individuals

Older adults are often targeted by phone and email scams. Sharing tools and knowledge about verification can significantly reduce risk.

Encouraging family members to:

  • Verify unknown callers
  • Avoid sharing financial details immediately
  • Consult trusted relatives before responding

can prevent emotional and financial harm.


Practical Steps Before Responding to Unknown Contacts

Here is a simple checklist:

  1. Do not click links immediately.
  2. Avoid sharing personal information.
  3. Verify the phone number or email address.
  4. Contact the organization directly using official channels.
  5. Report suspicious activity when necessary.

Verification tools like ClarityCheck fit naturally into step three of this process.


Benefits Beyond Fraud Prevention

While safety is the primary goal, phone and email lookup services can also offer other advantages.

Reconnecting with Confidence

In globally connected communities with family members across countries, unexpected messages are common. A lookup can confirm whether a contact aligns with publicly available information before continuing the conversation.

Professional Due Diligence

For professionals—whether in law, business, education, or nonprofit leadership—validating contact information before engaging in partnerships or transactions adds credibility and reduces risk.

Supporting Charitable Integrity

Legitimate charitable organizations depend on trust. When individuals verify contacts, it discourages impersonation scams that damage the reputation of authentic nonprofits.


Digital Awareness in 2026 and Beyond

As artificial intelligence tools become more advanced, scam attempts may look increasingly realistic. Voice cloning, AI-generated emails, and automated phishing campaigns are becoming more common.

Verification tools help counteract these threats by:

  • Identifying patterns linked to fraudulent activity
  • Aggregating public signals into accessible reports
  • Providing clarity before emotional decisions are made

Digital literacy is no longer optional—it is part of responsible community engagement.


Frequently Asked Questions

Is it legal to look up phone numbers and emails?

Yes, when using services that rely on publicly available information and comply with data protection regulations.

Can lookup tools guarantee accuracy?

No tool guarantees 100% accuracy. Results should be used as guidance, combined with personal judgment.

Should verification replace common sense?

Absolutely not. It should complement cautious behavior and independent confirmation.


Final Thoughts

Community strength is built on trust, generosity, and connection. In a digital era, protecting those values requires thoughtful use of technology.

Verifying unknown phone numbers and email addresses before responding is a simple but powerful step. Whether preventing fraud, safeguarding charitable giving, or reconnecting with old contacts, tools like ClarityCheck help individuals move forward with greater confidence.

Digital awareness is not about suspicion—it is about clarity.

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Features

Methods of Using Blockchain on Gambling Sites: Explained by Robocat Casino

The world of online gambling is changing and chasing new tools to entertain visitors. Players demand more transparency, faster payouts, and complete control over their money, making traditional casinos seem outdated. Modern websites like Robocat Casino utilize blockchain technology, which is the digital foundation for everything from crypto transactions to provably fair games. If you’re unfamiliar with how casinos use blockchain, we’ll cover it below.

What is Blockchain in a Casino?

Blockchain is a system that records data in a way that cannot be altered. The technology operates using a decentralized ledger shared across multiple computers. Every transaction is recorded in the ledger, which is regularly updated and accessible to all participants.

These properties are useful for gambling sites like Robocat Casino. The digital ledger processes every bet and prevents alteration. As a result, every action is transparent, and players have no doubt about the website’s integrity.

All transactions occur on a decentralized ledger, so there is no central authority that could interfere. This ensures complete anonymity. This privacy has led to an increasing number of players choosing to bet at crypto casinos.

How is This Technology Used in Gambling?

There are several ways users might encounter blockchain technology at sites like Robocat Casino.

  • Provably fair games. Traditional online casinos have always been criticized for their fairness, as players doubt whether the odds are truly in their favor. Blockchain technology eliminates this uncertainty. Systems with provably fair games use cryptographic algorithms and publicly accessible hashes to control the outcome of each spin or draw. This limits backend manipulation and ensures transparency between the website and the user.
  • Greater anonymity and lower KYC (know your customer) requirements. Not all crypto casinos eliminate the KYC process, but many are more lenient than casinos that exclusively accept fiat transactions. Some sites allow you to play with just a wallet address, without the need for identification documents.
  • Cryptocurrency deposits and withdrawals. With blockchain technology, you can forget about the five-day wait for funds to appear in your gaming account. When working with cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin or Ethereum, deposits and withdrawals are almost instantaneous. Interacting with cryptocurrency goes beyond speed. It offers low transaction fees and 24/7 global availability.
  • Smart contracts. These are self-executing contracts based on the blockchain. In casinos, they can automate everything from loyalty bonuses to jackpot payouts. Such procedures require no human intervention, eliminating the risk of errors.
  • Tokenized loyalty systems. Casinos can issue their own tokens as rewards. This is a cryptocurrency that can be sold or spent on the website. This approach creates real economic value for loyalty programs and motivates users to choose the casino.

The evolution of blockchain will lead to an expanded role at Robocat Casino and other gambling websites. Experts expect the use of decentralized applications (dApps) to increase. These operate on blockchain networks, rather than on a single server, and ensure complete decentralization of casinos. The absence of intermediaries or regulatory bodies will provide players with greater transparency.

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Features

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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