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JNF Manitoba/Saskatchewan president Nola Lazar slated to be next president of Mercaz Canada

Nola Lazar

By MYRON LOVE
These are challenging times that we live in – but Nola Lazar, the current president of JNF Manitoba/Saskatchewan has proven over the years that she is up to the challenge. If the presidency of the local Jewish National Fund operation is not enough heavy lifting, she is also slated to be stepping into the same position on a national level with Mercaz Canada – the Zionist voice of Conservative Judaism in Canada – as soon as her term as JNF president here comes to a close.

Masorti Judaism – the Conservative Movement in Israel – is Israel’s fastest growing religious movement. Mercaz Canada is affiliated with Masorti/Conservative Judaism which, in Israel, offers a third choice between ultraOrthodoxy and a secular life. MERCAZ-Canada and the Canadian Foundation for Masorti Judaism work in cooperation to foster and strengthen Masorti/Conservative Judaism in Israel, based on the ideals of tradition and tolerance, study and spirituality, and social action and love of Israel. They promote and support Israel education and programs, and represent the interests of Masorti/Conservative Judaism in the World Zionist Organization and Jewish Agency for Israel.
Lazar has taken inspiration for her leadership roles in the community from her mother Rae. “My mother always seemed to be having meetings at our house,” recalls Lazar, who was the second youngest of eight children born to Rae and the late Cecil Shnier. “Because there were so many of us children, it seemed to be easier to hold meetings at our place”.
Her mother, Lazar recalls, served as president of Hadassah WIZO in Winnipeg as well as being involved in organizing the annual Angel’s Ball and volunteering at Hadassah’s Opportunity store and the Golden Age Club and many other organizations.
“Wherever she’d go as a volunteer, she would take some of us kids with her,” Lazar says. “She was always involved.”

While Nola is trained as an interior designer, she married at a relatively young age – to Matthew – and raised her own family of four (two of whom have made aliyah). Her own service to the community over these past 25 years has largely been through her synagogue involvement.
In the 1990s she was invited to become a board member of the Beth Israel Congregation, where she served two terms. In that role, she was involved in the merger of the Beth Israel with the Rosh Pina and Bnay Abraham Synagogues to form Congregation Etz Chayim. She subsequently served an additional two terms on the board of the new congregation and was involved with youth programming at the shul. In addition, she volunteered at the Gray Academy while her children were attending the school. “All of our children are graduates of Gray Academy,” she says with pride.
Lazar was invited to join the JNF Manitoba/Saskatchewan board five years ago. “Karla Berbrayer was president of the board at the time and was looking to expand the board membership with people who had connections with Israel,” Lazar says. “We had children living in Israel and had visited several times.”
As the current president, she was inaugurated at the Negev Gala in 2019, succeeding Jessica Cogan.
The local JNF received quite a surprise last fall when longtime executive director Ariel Karabelnicoff announced that he was leaving to take up a position in Toronto with the Israel Bonds organization. “It was a real shock,” says Lazar of Karabelincoff’s departure. “We miss him and wish him well.
“It has been a smooth transition though. David Greaves, our new executive director, knows the community well and has a lot of connections.”
She reports that, despite the limitations on fundraising imposed by the Covid situation, the JNF is doing well under Greaves’ leadership. “JNF has been keeping busy. While we weren’t able to conduct our annual High Holiday campaign in person this year,” she notes, “we are thankful to both the Shaarey Zedek and Etz Chayim for their help this year. They included our link on their webpages and the rabbis directed people to our link during their sermons. The community support for Israel has been amazing.
“Even with Covid, David and his staff have managed to maintain our fundraising numbers close to what we have done in the past. On November 15 we are holding a ‘Night of 100 Dinners’ with video entertainment by Yidlife Crisis. Our Negev Gala honouring Ted Lyons has been rescheduled to May 19 2020.”

Lazar’s introduction to Mercaz Canada also came about through her synagogue involvement. She points out that all Conservative synagogue members are also eligible to join Mercaz. The organization has long been centered in Toronto, she notes because, in Toronto, several Conservative synagogues make membership in Mercaz Canada an automatic part of membership, whereas in Winnipeg, membership is optional. Thus, there were fewer members in our community.
“Marion Mayman, the president at that time, felt that Mercaz Canada was too Torontocentric,” Lazar recalls. “She wanted a board that reflected more of our country, and was looking to recruit Western Canadians. Matthew and I had already joined Mercaz when Marion phoned me to ask me to join the board. However, I am not the kind of person who joins a board without participating, and because I got involved, I became vocal, and before long, I was moving up the ranks.”
Most of the meetings that she has been involved in have been over the phone. “I still haven’t met all of the board members in person,” Lazar says. “The nice thing about Zoom is I am getting to see board members from across the country.”
The organization’s vice-president since July of last year, she reports that the current president of Mercaz, Stan Greenspan, will stay in his position until her term with the JNF in Winnipeg is over.
She concedes that there will be some challenges leading the organization from Winnipeg, but, she says, “we will make it work.”
She adds that she has already learned a lot from Mercaz executive director Rabbi Jennifer Gorman and current president Stan Greenspan. “They are both very knowledgeable,” Lazar says. “I love learning from them.”
Coming up for Nola Lazar on the Mercaz menu are preparations for the World Zionist Congress scheduled for October 20-22 via Zoom from Israel. She is a voting delegate.
“At the Congress, we debate various topics of relevance to the Jewish world,” she notes. “I will be spending a lot of time over the next few days on the phone and on Zoom meeting with Mercaz Canada and Canadian Zionist Federation representatives. We will be having orientation meetings and strategy meetings. I find it all very fascinating”

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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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